"I would give Zarasszia a try, but I have a loathing for what Quasziel not only said but what he did. I would never trust a being such as him. He sewed his own fate." Mingzhu shakes her head.
T’kharr says, “Exactly.” Agreeing with her.
"I only have one scroll, so I could only call one of them anyways. It's... mostly a question if you want me to try it, even if it's not likely to work." Silgara says, "But we'd better decide soon."
T’kharr nods, “Go for it, unless anyone objects. It’s not like we'd be doing planar binding to anything else...?"
Silgara nods, drawing a binding circle, and attempts the casting... "Seldarine, I can't believe I'm actually attempting to summon a demon..." Xrochdyr seems to nod in respect to the decision. They all watch as she casts the spell. T'kharr leans on her staff, watching carefully as Silgara performs the rite. Nothing happens. Silgara sighs, looking down at the very basic binding circle. "It... it didn't work, I'm sorry."
"Well, it was worth a shot at least. Reckon whoever created the shadow isle plugged up that hole real tight, not your fault in any case." T’kharr responds.
Xrochdyr hisses, flexing his claws, then a sigh ... "That means Neravithox likely has her and bound her...." He looks aside... "No, it would have worked, unless she had either fled to the Scriptorium, which is under a dimensional lock, or Neravithox bound her, in which case she could not be called."
T’kharr rubs her muzzle. “Fair enough. In any case, we await the arrival of Kastelli and the pirate with the boats of commoners?”
Mingzhu looks to the distant the village. “I must go see if the old woman is still alive, and if she is what I may do for her.” She heads for the old woman’s home.
T’kharr nods, “if you wish, for sure. Well, commoners and spirit?”
Xrochdyr looks over "I ...." A sigh "There's probably a lot we need to talk about, but... just.... Why pick me? Why rescue me? I know that was a sadistic choice forced on you, and I shouldn't judge you for it. But... hssskh, I'm a /devil/, why save me??"
"Because you yourself said you have more work to do to redeem yourself from your past, souls to free from contract. That, you know the most about Lejargamael’s operation, and this is a place you can redeem yourself in without being judged by folk who know you not." T’kharr says firmly.
Balan also answers him, “I believe you are on a path to save yourself in your changed nature.”
Xrochdyr sighs, a nod. "Motives can end up blending together..." He turns away, his tail lashing some, then he breathes a sigh, "All of us there were. But I was the only one who was given a chance..." He flexes his wings, then tries to stand up straight "Right, you need what I know regarding Lejargamael. While I do know his operations well, I'm not fully aware of what you've been doing and how you've run into him. So, we should compare notes and figure out our next move."
Zsikhou follows Mingzhu, simply remaining silent, but watching. Silgara looks over at Balan and T'Kharr, probably still reluctant to share much with Xrochdyr. Mingzhu looks over at the kobold, "If I ever become like that angel kill me. swiftly and silently." Nor'vee also looks a little, off, he goes to excuse himself and moves elsewhere on the ship.
Zsikhou nods to Mingzhu. "Of course." He says it like that's normal for him.
Xrochdyr looks at T'Kharr and Balan. "Well, how has your group ended up intersecting with Lejargamael or his schemes, then?"
Mingzhu makes her way back to the group after her funeral services. Zsikhou follows her.
Xrochdyr looks at Mingzhu, a nod "Right... you're back now..." He looks over, as if wondering if there's a table or some kind of meeting or war room to discuss things "Right, now that you're back, let’s get this meeting in order then. I expect that your group's next priority is to take out Lejargamael. Now while I know of his operations from Baator, I don't know what it is your group has been doing or how it ended up intersecting with his operations. So, what do you know so far. I should be able to fill in the blanks."
The shamaness sighs, "My first priority is to wait on this island to see if the villagers and the spirit make it back then to heal the spirit if I can."
"Aye, we can turn our attention towards Lejargamael's schemes once the island is starting to heal." T’kharr agrees.
"Staying here won't help the villagers get back. In fact, if we rushed back to try to assist, that might draw Neravithox's notice. The best hope for the villagers is to lay low and let Kastelli and Jalyndae handle their parts of the plan." Xrochdyr says, then shakes his head "Besides, if we have spare time, we might as well discuss our next steps or figure out where he's been hiding."
"That is a good point." T’kharr looks to Balan to see if he has anything he wants to share on the topic of Lejargamael's scheming.
"If any of you can cast the Sending spell, it might be best to try that to Kastelli or Jalyndae after we've given them enough time to reasonably escape." Xrochdyr says, then he looks at Balan.
“I am not able to cast such spells. On the thought of the other I feel that he may be hiding in plain view and will be hard to actually find.” Balan replies.
"That is fine Xrochdyr, but I must know that the villagers and spirit are safe and will come back. This is the essence of my duty as a communal shamaness. I must rest but I can make a sending in several different ways. in dreams or through an animal.” Mingzhu asserts.
Xrochdyr looks over. "I don't recommend an animal. That could get intercepted. Dreaming may not work on planar beings."
"The arcane Sending spell may be for the best." T’kharr says looking to Silgara.
Silgara looks over. "I'm afraid I don't know the sending spell. It allows sending a 25-word message, and a response, instantaneously. But wait, can you cast it, T'Kharr?"
"Ah! Yes. I could, I'd have to rest and pray for it, but we have time to do that, at least." T’kharr responds.
Balan says, “That will take time, but it could be tried.” As he looks at the maps.
Mingzhu looks up contemplating, “I also have scrying now.”
"Well, before we do that, I think it prudent to go over what we know about Lejargamael's operations." Xrochdyr huffs, "You did bring me exactly for that, after all. Well, unless you want to discuss how much you're comfortable sharing with me. If that's the case, I can excuse myself." Silgara looks over. Fwangzhu is sitting in a corner, tired. Zsikhou is also watching from a distance.
Mingzhu speaks up after hearing that, “As far as I am concerned, you have earned our trust through your actions Xrochdyr. I do not know of all these western concepts like devils and angels, but I have seen enough to know you are honorable and care for mortals now.”
Xrochdyr winces some at that, hissing "We have... mutual goals. Let’s start from there at least..."
Balan smiles, “Aye, that is best to stay on the path.”
Silgara looks over. "Maybe we should give them some baseline information, what our own investigations have uncovered about the Falxugon. Do you want me to go ahead...?"
"Aye. That's probably where we should start." T’kharr agrees.
Silgara nods, "Right... here's what we know so far. We have been dealing with several trading companies. The Azure Winds, Golden Sails, Diamond Industries, and more recently, the Fated Winds. We also know that there is a Falxugon that's in charge of one of these companies. And that the same Falxugon is in partnership with an Arcanaloth and Glabrezu for some scheme."
“Now that the Glabrezu is banished there are only 2.” Mingzhu adds.
"Maybe... we've been investigating them and dealing with trading company problems for a while now." Silgara looks around the room. "We have reasons to suspect each of them. So maybe we should start with this..." She looks to T'Kharr, Mingzhu, and Balan. "Which company do each of you think is the one compromised, and why?"
Balan says, “We know that the Fated Winds has been working with the corsairs.”
"That, but weren't we told about the Falxugon situation before the Fated Winds came into the picture...?” T’kharr asks.
“Aye we were, yes.” Balan admits.
Xrochdyr considers, thinking., before saying. "It's not the Fated Winds you're looking for in this case."
Zsikhou looks over to the Abishai "How do you know that?"
Xrochdyr shakes his head. "I'm aware of what they're involved in, and with. That particular company has other backers, Zhentarim. And they deal with other dark powers. Suffice it to say, even one of Lejargamael's means and resources couldn’t co-opt a company like that so easily. Others would take notice of the attempt. So whatever nasty things they're involved in, it's not Lejargamael who's responsible for that one."
Mingzhu surmises, “The diamond industries owner has extended family. I do not think this Falxugon would be there.”
Silgara sighs, "Well, if Xrochdyr is correct, that means we have three suspects to go through. So, who do you believe is the culprit and why, then?"
"Fair enough, and a notable point -- Samael is a showman, but that does weigh against him being it." T’kharr suggest more than asks.
Mingzhu looks around and comments, “There is one owner that we have never seen.”
Xrochdyr raises an eye ridge "Lejargamael is an irritable showman too. Loves his damned drama and making a show of everything."
Xrochdyr raises an eye ridge. "Lejargamael is an irritable showman too. Loves his damned drama and making a show of everything."
Balan nods, “I do not think the Azure Winds would be the one. I have spoken with the seer many times.”
A seer that somehow bypasses the laws of both my shamanism and Silgara’s magic. I should say laws of magic.” Mingzhu says as she looks at him. Xrochdyr listens along, considering.
“The seer had helped steer our travels to be safer and has also given us direction to eliminate the evils.” Balan retorts.
Mingzhu nods, “Yes, but was she doing it to benefit herself and her owner’s interests?”
"Could just be mortal greed rather than being involved with baatezu. Do you have further proof? Or clues?" Xrochdyr looks at Mingzhu.
“Other than the way no one can tell how the seer gets her readings....no we do not. not that I know.” Mingzhu admits. Xrochdyr nods, continues listening.
"Well, what else have we seen from these trading companies?" Silgara asks, "We've dealt a lot with them so far. It's time to put the pieces together and... hopefully something will make sense."
Zsikhou moves forward. "For example, we do know that the Golden Sails had some dealings with the Yakuza in Suduzki."
Silgara looks over at the others. "Well, what do you think? Pick a company, list the evidence against them, and say why you think they're the top suspect, then?" Silgara sees about getting some paper, almost like trying to put together a theory board of some kind.
"Can this Falxugon kill someone and take their identity?" Mingzhu asks.
"They could, yes." Xrochdyr nods, "Probably by having a Dogai (assassin devil) do the murder itself, but semantics."
“We know that a trading company helped the pirates take down one of the Daimyos ships. Would that be in all the paperwork we took?” Mingzhu asks. Then she adds, “I searched the battle wreckage for clues but found none.”
Silgara nods, considering, pouring over some of the logbooks taken from the Corsairs. "Mostly shows logistical and resource inputs, I can try to make a comparison. I expect something like that isn't going to be directly in their ledger markers, though. I might need to do some assessments. I'll see what I can find." Mingzhu gives her a nod.
"That would be good, yes, would be a major lead." T’kharr adds.
Xrochdyr looks over. "You said the Falxugon was 'leading' the company. What can you tell me about the leaders of each of the suspects? And for now, which company do each of you think is the most suspect and why?"
"I can tell you offhand that Samael's a showman, although he's willing to give me some respect, which is quite unusual for a Westerner given who I am." T’kharr insists.
Mingzhu adds, “He also likes to display his opulence.”
"Aye, always seen clad in finery." T’kharr agrees. Xrochdyr nods, listening...
"Admittedly, that's likely true of most who lead merchant companies, liking to appear expensive and powerful, but... go on, please." Silgara nods.
“The golden sails is led by a faceless person we have never seen who uses their seer as their front woman. The seer uses magic no one can figure out.” Mingzhu states. Silgara looks up, raising an eyebrow.
“That would be a point, yes.” T’kharr backs.
"I thought we did see her? Saruma? During one of Hattori's public arguments?" Silgara interjects,
"We've never spoken with her, but I recall we have seen her."
Mingzhu thinks a long time " What Silgara says might be true but as she said none of us have spoken to her so have no gage on her."
Xrochdyr looks over, considering, then shakes his head. "Golden Sails isn't the one you're looking for, then."
"Interesting. I know we've dealt with the Azure Winds a bunch, never really noticed anything odd-off about them though." T’kharr says rather surprised.
Fwangzhu stands up, snarling, "What about that Warlock of theirs that attacked Golamaru? And that their blast globes ended up in the hands of an Oni Warlord?"
"The blast globes incident I recall, at least..." T’kharr remembers as she looks to see if anybody else in the party recalls what Fwangzhu might be going on about, with the warlock and Golamaru.
Zsikhou looks to Xrochdyr. "Hold on, how do you know the Golden Sails and Saruma are exonerated?"
Xrochdyr looks to Zsikhou "While Falxugons are perfectly capable of appearing as a female mortal, Lejargamael is too proud and chauvinistic to ever do so. If a woman is leading the Golden Sails, then Lejargamael isn't the one in charge."
T’kharr says, “Noted that Lejargamael is a chauvinist.”
“We also know that Azure Winds is willing to trade with Yakuza perhaps for slaves however we do not specifically know that.” Mingzhu says.
Zsikhou raises an eye ridge, looking at Mingzhu. "It was the Golden Sails who were willing to trade with the Yakuza."
Mingzhu furrows her brows, “My mistake.”
Silgara looks over. "There was that time we interrogated the person in the Azure Winds brig, he revealed he was contacted by an imp, a kind of devil."
“Right.” T’kharr says as she remembers. "He seemed to be part of a faction attempting a hostile takeover of the company that failed at such though."
Silgara nods, "And of course, there were other instances of suspicion from Diamond Industries too. Rynard and Sebastian, and their supplies being held by the follower of the Horsemen of Plague."
"Indeed so, I still remember the crab scene." T’kharr almost laughs.
Mingzhu shakes her head, “But those could have been stolen or planted, again no hard evidence.”
Silgara nods to that. "Well, if Xrochdyr's intelligence is accurate, we're down to two suspects now."
"I also know that his operations go through Dis, the second layer of Baator. He's got a portal network of sorts that allows him to manage multiple places on the Prime more easily. If I recall correctly, he does have an operation in Cormyr as well. Even owns a Theater there, likes to influence things through culture." Xrochdyr huffs.
"That'd lean towards Samael then, unless you think the Azure Winds'd have operations that far West?" T’kharr surmises.
"The Azure Winds are a Zakharan company, that's geographically South of both the west and East, here." Silgara mentions.
"Right. Just not sure if them or Diamond Industries would be more likely to have their fingers in such an operation." T’kharr muses.
Xrochdyr considers... "I don't believe Lejargamael has extended his operations to Zakhara."
"Noted. That'd leave us with Diamond Industries by elimination then, if your evidence is accurate?" T’kharr says.
"Efreeti have more of a say in things there than baatezu do" Xrochdyr considers, "If you're sure enough about this, then... I expect our next step would be to enter whatever base of operations they have and potentially look for an infernal portal of some kind."
Mingzhu asks, “What would one look like?”
"An Efreeti? They are genies of fire, looking like a big, flaming man, sometimes their lower body is just a cloud of fire, but they're visibly red skinned and horned." Xrochdyr says.
Mingzhu looks at him weirdly. “I meant the portal. "Also, besides what this portal looks like do these Falxugon have any flaws we can take advantage of?"
"Ah..." Xrochdyr considers, "Probably a teleportation or gate circle. But it would likely be well hidden. Possibly under illusion magic."
"Well, we've already discussed a few. Chauvinistic, proud to a fault, showman who loves drama and theatrics..." T’kharr answers Mingzhu's question regarding the Falxugon. "But yes, do continue.” Letting Xrochdyr have the floor back.
Xrochdyr looks at Mingzhu. "They're experts in manipulation and deception. And I've mentioned the Refuge of the Damned before. However, that Refuge won't protect them from other planar beings not summoned, so I would be able to best them in battle easily if I got my claws on them."
"That's a good point. It wouldn't protect them from Kastelli, either, if she winds up traveling with us in the future, no?" T’kharr asks.
"But I expect the difficult part about dealing with Lejargamael will be pinning him down. He'll be careful about engaging in situations where he isn't at an advantage." Xrochdyr says.
"Aye, would be consistent.” T’kharr comments.
Xrochdyr nods, "No... it wouldn't protect him from Jalyndae, Kastelli, or Quasziel or Zarasszia either."
"Before we start fighting Samuael, we need to know for sure he is the yokai in question." Mingzhu firmly says.
Silgara considers, a sigh "We'll need to plan this carefully if we do go through with this. The social consequences if we are wrong would be disastrous..." She nods.
"Exactly." T’kharr gives a slow nod to Silgara.
"I can distract him while everyone else investigates for this portal, I think. That is if he is as chauvinistic as you claim."
"Right, sounds like you've got a lot to plan as well." Xrochdyr considers, "If you want to adjourn to rest, and... decide where to go next, feel free." T’kharr snickers with a grin on her muzzle. "Chauvinistic as is he would consider becoming a female mortal beneath him, but don't expect him to go ogling you. He views mortals as commodities, not as equals, or even partners in that aspect." Xrochdyr continues.
"Aye, we've got a lot to do ahead of us, between this isle, returning to the situation with the pirates, and figuring out how we can out-fox a devil." T’kharr says.
Silgara nods. "For now, maybe we should get some rest. It's... been a long day..." Mingzhu just nods in agreement with that.
"Aye, I'll pray for the Sending, and we can send it when the party's awake and reassembled." T’kharr states. They all go to rest and relax the rest of the night.
She Came from the Sea: Book 2
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Winterhawk99
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Winterhawk99
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Re: She Came from the Sea: Book 2
As they rest Mingzhu knocks on Silgara’s door. She hears, “Come in.” Opens the door to find Silgara is going over some notes, studying, she looks up as Mingzhu approaches and sits down across from her. “Would you like to talk about it? What the demon said about your family?”
Silgara sighs, "I figured this would come up... but it likely is a going concern that risks the safety of the rest of you. What do you want to know?"
"I think we all accept risks, Silgara. Look at what we do facing such horrors for the betterment of the common people and the authorities...... You do not need to speak about it if you do not wish too. It is your family. However, sometimes talking to someone about it helps the struggles inside your own spirit."
"It's not a matter of a struggle of spirit. I already know where I and they stand." Silgara says, though her tone suggests this is a very sore topic. "But the Glabrezu was right. My family has ended up murdering other non-elves who I got close with..." She heaves a sigh, "I rather doubt you've heard of the Eldreth Veluuthra, or are too familiar with elven culture, but... maybe some background would help with understanding..." She pauses, then speaks.
"My people tend to be very insular. We're long lived but also tend to look down on others. Viewing ourselves as intellectually and morally superior. That leads to arrogance. Which leads to devaluing their lives... which can in turn… lead to more extreme elements who believe that those considered 'lesser' are unworthy of life and deserve to be purged." Silgara shakes her head. "It's not what the Seldarine teaches, but... some of the Elven people have taken this interpretation. My family included. When I left on my Sojourn, it was in part to see the world, but in large part because I wanted nothing to do with what they were doing." Silgara says... "And also, another thing... those of the elven people are forbidden from killing one another. To do so would have the one who does so branded N'Tel'Quessir, effectively removed from the Elven people forever." She says, shaking her head "So there is little I can actually do to stop their atrocities."
"What is this Sojourn you speak of?"
She looks at Mingzhu. "It's... they view humans like a farmer would view rats. Vermin only fit to be exterminated. Sometimes to be used, but usually only fit to be purged." She says bitterly, then a huff, "Sorry, that comparison is probably offensive to Nor'vee."
"It’s alright the more venom you draw out of yourself the better and faster you heal."
"I don't know if I'm healing from this one any time soon. Unfortunately, I have no solutions. Neither does the rest of the Seldarine. The most they do to the Eldreth Veluuthra is treat them like a child having a tantrum, look down on them and tell them to snap out of it. As if that stops a murderer from being a murderer." She says; her tone is quite bitter.
Mingzhu nods and thinks awhile on it. She finally looks out a portal saying, "Silgara We are your friends now and accept the risks as all your friends before. It is the choice we made. Do not worry for us. And besides, as you know we are very hard to kill. As far as your own turmoil patience and wisdom will eventually come to light and you will be able to deal with your family.......in time I think."
Silgara shakes her head "Some problems... they don't go away so easily, and you just have to live with them. It also worries me that... if they came to attack you, I wouldn't be able to come to your aid, not without being branded N’Tel’Quessir..."
Mingzhu nods, “Well at least I will understand why.”
Silgara shakes her head, "I still wouldn't like it... standing idle while they do such evils... the demon was right about that part at least... they really don't do anything of note to stop the Eldreth Veluuthra..." She sighs heavily.
"For now, I do not think you need worry about that, Silgara. We are far, far away from your family. It gives you time to resolve these issues of yours and you are certainly welcome to come to me if you have doubts. As far as our team. We will see it out if something like that happens. All our company are talented individuals, all of us mortal and have our frailties but we are a competent group. you need no fear."
Silgara nods... "I ... I hope you're right. I truly do. But that's what I said every other time. Still, thank you..." She sighs "I should probably finish up studying these new spells, unless you need anything else?" Mingzhu makes her adieus and goes back to rest.
At about the same time T’kharr goes to meet Fwangzhu. The badger looks over to T'Kharr, there's a stare and the beginning of a snarl, but he says nothing for now. T'kharr inquires with Fwangzhu briefly before they rest "Say, do you recall more about the warlock and Golamaru? I'm sadly drawing a bit of a blank on that....been some time, for sure."
Fwangzhu huffs "Remember that Zakharan fucker who was with the Horseman and Oni when they attacked Golamaru? We had that Zander fellow and the Kami stab him to death."
"Oh, yeah. Them. I didn't think anything of it at the time, certainly wasn't thinking of them having Azure Winds ties...." furrows her brow, if she can pull that off
Fwangzhu huffs, "The official line from the Azure Winds guys is that they were a wanted criminal or some shit. Had an inside guy get the blast globes for the Oni Warlord's use. Course, that could be obfuscation on their part. Or just incompetence. I don't know."
T’kharr nods, "Thanks for the memory jogger on that one at least."
Fwangzhu huffs "Right, you need anything else then?"
"That's about it, I won't keep you from your rest." Fwangzhu snorts, then turns away to see Balan working with his jeweling kit near the bow. Later, Fwangzhu and Zsikhou end up spending some time on deck together looking up at the sky.
"Can't believe we survived another one of those islands..." Fwangzhu huffs.
Zsikhou looks out to sea and sky, "Our duty isn't done yet, though..."
"Yeah, got a lot more fuckers to axe... can't believe I'm stuck doing it here, though." Fwangzhu huffs.
Zsikhou looks to Fwangzhu, then out to sea. "I don't have anything else but this task, now. But I will see it through."
“You both have friends with you. That is something else.” Balan heads below deck
Fwangzhu looks over to Balan. "Friends, really?" He huffs, then looks back to sea. "Sometimes I don't even know why I'm with this shipwreck... whatever, we got things to do." Fwangzhu snorts.
Balan laughs heartily and calls back, “Don’t make me get the barrel out.”
Fwangzhu snarls at Balan, "Don't push it." The Dragonborn chuckles playfully, disappearing.
Zsikhou looks over. "We'd better get everyone assembled and plan our next moves." Silgara, Xrochdyr, and Nor'vee go to the meeting room.
Silgara looks over to Balan. "I ... we should wait for Mingzhu and T'Kharr to assemble here too." Mingzhu eventually comes in after he meditations are over.
T'kharr joins the others after she breaks her fast and meditates for the day. "I have a Sending prayer ready as well in case we need another."
Silgara nods, "Well, whenever you're ready, then."
“It seems we are ready then, but we must choose our words carefully, so we do not overextend the spell.” Balan insists.
"Aye, a fair point." T’kharr remarks.
"Twenty-Five Words, best make it count." Silgara nods "Well, whenever you're ready." Mingzhu looks between Balan and T’kharr.
Balan counts the shape of the message in his head, keeping the spell’s limits in mind.
“We should ask short questions that can be answered easily.”
T’Kharr considers it, then offers, “I think, ‘We can see the stars now. Can you see stars from on deck?’ is good enough. Tells us what we need to know without tipping too much off or being too hard to answer, no?”
Silgara lifts her hand slightly. “You can be more specific, and you don’t need to worry about it being intercepted. That spell is sent directly to the receiver, and the response directly back.”
T’Kharr adjusts the wording. “‘We can see the stars now. Do you have the spirit and residents with you, and can you see stars from on deck?’ Unless that’s too many words…”
Balan counts on his fingers. “Should be fine.”
T’Kharr keeps counting under her breath. “Or would require too much of a response… I think we go with that unless anyone objects?”
Silgara gives a small shrug. “Sounds good enough.”
Mingzhu speaks up, wanting the question broadened. “I would add any others.”
T’Kharr tests the wording aloud. “‘Spirit, residents, or others?’”
She corrects herself almost immediately. “Err, residents.”
Mingzhu nods, clarifying what she means. “Well, any others meaning other than villagers or the spirit.”
Xrochdyr keeps quiet, letting them deliberate for now. Nor’vee looks over, his voice small. “Just… um… make sure Kastelli is okay?”
T’Kharr settles on the recipient. “I think we send the message to Kastelli.” Nor’vee nods.
Zsikhou looks between them. “Well, get it done, then.”
T’Kharr glances at Silgara. “You want to give it a shot first, or would you rather I did?”
Silgara looks over to T’Kharr. “Go ahead. I… studied different spells.”
T’Kharr focuses briefly and bows her head in prayer, sending the message off to Kastelli. The spell carries her chosen words across the distance. “We can see the stars now. Do you have the spirit, residents, or others with you, and can you see stars from on deck?”
The casting takes ten minutes. After a while, only T’Kharr hears Kastelli’s reply. “Mortals rescued. Spirit taken by Neravithox. Mortals said there were others sold to Yakuza on Shenyaku. Sailing to Tzukine now. May be a few days.”
T’Kharr relays the message verbatim to the party with a sigh. “Apparently Neravithox got to the spirit before Kastelli could. Good news is that Tzukine’s people are on their way by boat. May be a few days’ sail out still, though.”
Silgara frowns at the wording. “From the wording, well, I doubt all of Tzukine’s people were on that island. Looks like the rest are on Shenyaku.”
Mingzhu considers that. “What do we know about Shenyaku?”
Silgara answers from what Kanako had told them. “From what Kanako told us, it’s one of the islands she thought might have given us a lead. It’s in Daimyo Zuodong’s territory. It’s apparently got extensive mines and a metal-working trade. Smaller for sure than Kurozhan, more village like. She didn’t mention Yakuza being there, though.”
Mingzhu lays out the choice before them. “So, we go back and try to save the spirit, or try to save the people from Shenyaku?”
T’Kharr does not look convinced that chasing the spirit is the best choice. “I don’t think going after the spirit would be wise at this point. Neravithox is likely keeping them under much greater lock and key than before.”
Xrochdyr shakes his head. “I don’t advise going after the spirit. Neravithox likely isn’t going to keep them in the Scriptorium but will take them elsewhere that is secure. He cannot move freely in the Prime; too many other forces would move against him if he were to make his presence known. So, he’s going to be careful showing his hand here.” He then nods to T’Kharr. “Very likely, along with Quasziel and Zarasszia, no doubt…” His claws flex slightly. “Going after Lejargamael is an option, though.”
Mingzhu answers without hesitation. “I think the villagers should come first.”
T’Kharr agrees. “I think we hit Shenyaku first. Lejargamael is going to have to slow-simmer instead of being boiled.”
Silgara nods. “I can set a course for Shenyaku then, if that’s our decision.” Mingzhu nods.
Silgara turns toward the way out. “I’ll go get a course charted then. Though one other consideration, if we can’t hide what Xrochdyr is, we might be able to keep him on the ship, with someone else guarding. But I won’t be able to shrink the ship while someone is on it. Anyways, I’ll set a course.” With that decided, Silgara moves off to steer the ship. The voyage takes about a day. With no further delays, the party eventually finds its way over to Shenyaku.
Silgara sighs, "I figured this would come up... but it likely is a going concern that risks the safety of the rest of you. What do you want to know?"
"I think we all accept risks, Silgara. Look at what we do facing such horrors for the betterment of the common people and the authorities...... You do not need to speak about it if you do not wish too. It is your family. However, sometimes talking to someone about it helps the struggles inside your own spirit."
"It's not a matter of a struggle of spirit. I already know where I and they stand." Silgara says, though her tone suggests this is a very sore topic. "But the Glabrezu was right. My family has ended up murdering other non-elves who I got close with..." She heaves a sigh, "I rather doubt you've heard of the Eldreth Veluuthra, or are too familiar with elven culture, but... maybe some background would help with understanding..." She pauses, then speaks.
"My people tend to be very insular. We're long lived but also tend to look down on others. Viewing ourselves as intellectually and morally superior. That leads to arrogance. Which leads to devaluing their lives... which can in turn… lead to more extreme elements who believe that those considered 'lesser' are unworthy of life and deserve to be purged." Silgara shakes her head. "It's not what the Seldarine teaches, but... some of the Elven people have taken this interpretation. My family included. When I left on my Sojourn, it was in part to see the world, but in large part because I wanted nothing to do with what they were doing." Silgara says... "And also, another thing... those of the elven people are forbidden from killing one another. To do so would have the one who does so branded N'Tel'Quessir, effectively removed from the Elven people forever." She says, shaking her head "So there is little I can actually do to stop their atrocities."
"What is this Sojourn you speak of?"
She looks at Mingzhu. "It's... they view humans like a farmer would view rats. Vermin only fit to be exterminated. Sometimes to be used, but usually only fit to be purged." She says bitterly, then a huff, "Sorry, that comparison is probably offensive to Nor'vee."
"It’s alright the more venom you draw out of yourself the better and faster you heal."
"I don't know if I'm healing from this one any time soon. Unfortunately, I have no solutions. Neither does the rest of the Seldarine. The most they do to the Eldreth Veluuthra is treat them like a child having a tantrum, look down on them and tell them to snap out of it. As if that stops a murderer from being a murderer." She says; her tone is quite bitter.
Mingzhu nods and thinks awhile on it. She finally looks out a portal saying, "Silgara We are your friends now and accept the risks as all your friends before. It is the choice we made. Do not worry for us. And besides, as you know we are very hard to kill. As far as your own turmoil patience and wisdom will eventually come to light and you will be able to deal with your family.......in time I think."
Silgara shakes her head "Some problems... they don't go away so easily, and you just have to live with them. It also worries me that... if they came to attack you, I wouldn't be able to come to your aid, not without being branded N’Tel’Quessir..."
Mingzhu nods, “Well at least I will understand why.”
Silgara shakes her head, "I still wouldn't like it... standing idle while they do such evils... the demon was right about that part at least... they really don't do anything of note to stop the Eldreth Veluuthra..." She sighs heavily.
"For now, I do not think you need worry about that, Silgara. We are far, far away from your family. It gives you time to resolve these issues of yours and you are certainly welcome to come to me if you have doubts. As far as our team. We will see it out if something like that happens. All our company are talented individuals, all of us mortal and have our frailties but we are a competent group. you need no fear."
Silgara nods... "I ... I hope you're right. I truly do. But that's what I said every other time. Still, thank you..." She sighs "I should probably finish up studying these new spells, unless you need anything else?" Mingzhu makes her adieus and goes back to rest.
At about the same time T’kharr goes to meet Fwangzhu. The badger looks over to T'Kharr, there's a stare and the beginning of a snarl, but he says nothing for now. T'kharr inquires with Fwangzhu briefly before they rest "Say, do you recall more about the warlock and Golamaru? I'm sadly drawing a bit of a blank on that....been some time, for sure."
Fwangzhu huffs "Remember that Zakharan fucker who was with the Horseman and Oni when they attacked Golamaru? We had that Zander fellow and the Kami stab him to death."
"Oh, yeah. Them. I didn't think anything of it at the time, certainly wasn't thinking of them having Azure Winds ties...." furrows her brow, if she can pull that off
Fwangzhu huffs, "The official line from the Azure Winds guys is that they were a wanted criminal or some shit. Had an inside guy get the blast globes for the Oni Warlord's use. Course, that could be obfuscation on their part. Or just incompetence. I don't know."
T’kharr nods, "Thanks for the memory jogger on that one at least."
Fwangzhu huffs "Right, you need anything else then?"
"That's about it, I won't keep you from your rest." Fwangzhu snorts, then turns away to see Balan working with his jeweling kit near the bow. Later, Fwangzhu and Zsikhou end up spending some time on deck together looking up at the sky.
"Can't believe we survived another one of those islands..." Fwangzhu huffs.
Zsikhou looks out to sea and sky, "Our duty isn't done yet, though..."
"Yeah, got a lot more fuckers to axe... can't believe I'm stuck doing it here, though." Fwangzhu huffs.
Zsikhou looks to Fwangzhu, then out to sea. "I don't have anything else but this task, now. But I will see it through."
“You both have friends with you. That is something else.” Balan heads below deck
Fwangzhu looks over to Balan. "Friends, really?" He huffs, then looks back to sea. "Sometimes I don't even know why I'm with this shipwreck... whatever, we got things to do." Fwangzhu snorts.
Balan laughs heartily and calls back, “Don’t make me get the barrel out.”
Fwangzhu snarls at Balan, "Don't push it." The Dragonborn chuckles playfully, disappearing.
Zsikhou looks over. "We'd better get everyone assembled and plan our next moves." Silgara, Xrochdyr, and Nor'vee go to the meeting room.
Silgara looks over to Balan. "I ... we should wait for Mingzhu and T'Kharr to assemble here too." Mingzhu eventually comes in after he meditations are over.
T'kharr joins the others after she breaks her fast and meditates for the day. "I have a Sending prayer ready as well in case we need another."
Silgara nods, "Well, whenever you're ready, then."
“It seems we are ready then, but we must choose our words carefully, so we do not overextend the spell.” Balan insists.
"Aye, a fair point." T’kharr remarks.
"Twenty-Five Words, best make it count." Silgara nods "Well, whenever you're ready." Mingzhu looks between Balan and T’kharr.
Balan counts the shape of the message in his head, keeping the spell’s limits in mind.
“We should ask short questions that can be answered easily.”
T’Kharr considers it, then offers, “I think, ‘We can see the stars now. Can you see stars from on deck?’ is good enough. Tells us what we need to know without tipping too much off or being too hard to answer, no?”
Silgara lifts her hand slightly. “You can be more specific, and you don’t need to worry about it being intercepted. That spell is sent directly to the receiver, and the response directly back.”
T’Kharr adjusts the wording. “‘We can see the stars now. Do you have the spirit and residents with you, and can you see stars from on deck?’ Unless that’s too many words…”
Balan counts on his fingers. “Should be fine.”
T’Kharr keeps counting under her breath. “Or would require too much of a response… I think we go with that unless anyone objects?”
Silgara gives a small shrug. “Sounds good enough.”
Mingzhu speaks up, wanting the question broadened. “I would add any others.”
T’Kharr tests the wording aloud. “‘Spirit, residents, or others?’”
She corrects herself almost immediately. “Err, residents.”
Mingzhu nods, clarifying what she means. “Well, any others meaning other than villagers or the spirit.”
Xrochdyr keeps quiet, letting them deliberate for now. Nor’vee looks over, his voice small. “Just… um… make sure Kastelli is okay?”
T’Kharr settles on the recipient. “I think we send the message to Kastelli.” Nor’vee nods.
Zsikhou looks between them. “Well, get it done, then.”
T’Kharr glances at Silgara. “You want to give it a shot first, or would you rather I did?”
Silgara looks over to T’Kharr. “Go ahead. I… studied different spells.”
T’Kharr focuses briefly and bows her head in prayer, sending the message off to Kastelli. The spell carries her chosen words across the distance. “We can see the stars now. Do you have the spirit, residents, or others with you, and can you see stars from on deck?”
The casting takes ten minutes. After a while, only T’Kharr hears Kastelli’s reply. “Mortals rescued. Spirit taken by Neravithox. Mortals said there were others sold to Yakuza on Shenyaku. Sailing to Tzukine now. May be a few days.”
T’Kharr relays the message verbatim to the party with a sigh. “Apparently Neravithox got to the spirit before Kastelli could. Good news is that Tzukine’s people are on their way by boat. May be a few days’ sail out still, though.”
Silgara frowns at the wording. “From the wording, well, I doubt all of Tzukine’s people were on that island. Looks like the rest are on Shenyaku.”
Mingzhu considers that. “What do we know about Shenyaku?”
Silgara answers from what Kanako had told them. “From what Kanako told us, it’s one of the islands she thought might have given us a lead. It’s in Daimyo Zuodong’s territory. It’s apparently got extensive mines and a metal-working trade. Smaller for sure than Kurozhan, more village like. She didn’t mention Yakuza being there, though.”
Mingzhu lays out the choice before them. “So, we go back and try to save the spirit, or try to save the people from Shenyaku?”
T’Kharr does not look convinced that chasing the spirit is the best choice. “I don’t think going after the spirit would be wise at this point. Neravithox is likely keeping them under much greater lock and key than before.”
Xrochdyr shakes his head. “I don’t advise going after the spirit. Neravithox likely isn’t going to keep them in the Scriptorium but will take them elsewhere that is secure. He cannot move freely in the Prime; too many other forces would move against him if he were to make his presence known. So, he’s going to be careful showing his hand here.” He then nods to T’Kharr. “Very likely, along with Quasziel and Zarasszia, no doubt…” His claws flex slightly. “Going after Lejargamael is an option, though.”
Mingzhu answers without hesitation. “I think the villagers should come first.”
T’Kharr agrees. “I think we hit Shenyaku first. Lejargamael is going to have to slow-simmer instead of being boiled.”
Silgara nods. “I can set a course for Shenyaku then, if that’s our decision.” Mingzhu nods.
Silgara turns toward the way out. “I’ll go get a course charted then. Though one other consideration, if we can’t hide what Xrochdyr is, we might be able to keep him on the ship, with someone else guarding. But I won’t be able to shrink the ship while someone is on it. Anyways, I’ll set a course.” With that decided, Silgara moves off to steer the ship. The voyage takes about a day. With no further delays, the party eventually finds its way over to Shenyaku.
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Winterhawk99
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Re: She Came from the Sea: Book 2
Silgara looks aside, most of your party is up and about, though Xrochdyr remains below deck "Right, I do see a dock from here. How should we approach?" Nor'vee seems to have something on his mind, possibly seeming morose, but stays quiet...
Mingzhu shakes her head. “Would there be any reason not to dock like normal Silgara?”
"I guess not. I'll take us in." Silgara goes to sail the boat onwards "Speaking of which..." She looks around before looking at Mingzhu, noting that Xrochdyr is below deck while the rest of the party is still above deck "About Xrochdyr, how much do you think we can really trust him...?"
“I am unsure, to tell you the truth. Though I did trust him more than that angel.”
"I think that the Celestial set a rather low bar."
Mingzhu pulls out the scale and looks at it while saying, “That is why I have his scale. It is something I may be able to use in the future if he bites us. I can scry him.”
"Aye, the Celestial left the bar on the floor." T’kharr sighs with a shake of her furred head.
“Yes, he did at that.” Mingzhu agrees. “As far as Zarasszia, I could not trust one of such uncaring merit. I think of the three this devil was the best of them. He now carries feelings for the mortals who’s souls he stole and at least and looks to help the welfare of the group he is with.”
Nor'vee looks over to Mingzhu "Zarasszia... was like she was broken. Like someone who was struggling to come up with a new identity after losing her old one."
“Yes, but without empathy for others how can one make good choices? if life has no bearing on the future as she thinks how can one manage the best for a group.” Mingzhu explains.
"You don't think that she wasn't growing that? Or struggling with it? Back in the mirror puzzle? Or even..." Nor'vee stops himself, looking aside.
Mingzhu replies, “Yes, Nor’vee, she did struggle but how long does one need to take months, years.......centuries. We simply did not have the time to wait.”
"Likely a long time for a Yokai. Will also likely take the Yokai we're with just as long." Nor'vee's tail lashes in an irritated huff. "She knew what she didn't want at least. She didn't want to be a bad demon." A pause. "Whatever. Choice made already."
Zsikhou looks over. "I expect their value either way is purely tactical. Maybe she knew something of note regarding Zuodong's court, but I expect the other's information on Lejargamael will be more useful now."
“The devil was our best option. If I could save the demon I would have. Perhaps when we go back, we will or we may meet again.” Mingzhu says but hesitates while she does.
"I'm not inclined to trust that either of their attempts at reform are genuine." Zsikhou says.
"Whatever. Focus on the now." Fwangzhu huffs.
“I am fairly sure we will find out the devil's intentions soon enough. Mingzhu replies to Zsikhou.
"He definitely wants to take Lejargamael down, I think he's being honest in that regard at least. What he intends after that..." Silgara pauses, letting the thought hang then looks out to the approaching dock. "Right, I expect taking him through town may cause... complications. Unless you all are okay with risking it. So, what's the plan then?"
“I will change into my diplomatic dress and look around. Perhaps measure the scale of what we are getting into.” Mingzhu goes down to her room and changes.
"Aye, I think we leave him below decks for now whilst we scout things out. Unless you think there are others in the party that need to stay back as well?" T’kharr says to Mingzhu mostly as the shamaness passes her.
As they make Their preparations, the dock approaches. It's decently sized, this place looks to be about as large as Port Ginji from first look, there's a semi-extensive dock, a dock market, and there's a decent sized village further in. Most of the architecture is functional with little decoration. It seems more populated like a larger village, though hasn't undergone more significant urbanization. Silgara looks over to T'Kharr. "It may be prudent to have someone guard the boat to make sure no one ends up... finding him." As Mingzhu comes back on deck.
Mingzhu looks at the group. “Fwangzhu or Nor’vee can do that.”
Zsikhou looks at Mingzhu. "Right, which one, then?"
"Which one of you would like to guard the ship." Mingzhu looks at the two. Fwangzhu and Nor'vee both give a non-committal shrug. “Fwangzhu can guard Nor'vee can come with us. We may need to find where the slaves when to though I would most likely figure the mines.”
Fwangzhu growls, then shrugs, "Whatever. Don't screw it up."
Mingzhu centers her attention on the Nezumi. “Nor'vee can you quietly scout out the mines and tell us what they are like and if the people enslaved here from Tzukine are working them?
"Nor'vee can try to find out. Not sure how to differentiate one human villager from another but will try." Nor'vee nods.
Mingzhu smiles, "If you can talk to them ask. and ask about their guardian spirit. then you will know."
Nor'vee shrugs "Can try it at least..." He heads off.
Mingzhu then looks around to the rest of her companions. “Well let's go into the village and see what it’s like. Shall we?”
Beyond the docks, there's a market stand. There are some taverns around. Shenyaku near the docks looks more urbanized, but nearly immediately around it, it has a kind of rural look to it that would be more reminiscent of a smaller village, but more expansive. However, there are some more notably larger buildings throughout. Mingzhu looks around for a shrine or temple but doesn’t find one. She heads for the Elder’s residence.
The Elder's home looks normal on the outside, but on the inside, it looks rather opulent. A lot of expensive furniture, it looks like he's quite well off. He looks up to Mingzhu as she enters. She looks around, noting everything, then bows. “Community shamaness Mingzhu, Elder.”
The elder looks up as she says that, with a heavy sigh. "Oh great. Well, what do you want? If you're going to lambast me for not being pious or righteous enough, I already know, and I don't care."
“My concerns are more mundane elder how do the people and spirits fair on the island?”
"My people are well off, thank you very much. As for spirits, if you drink enough, you might see some. Honestly that isn't my problem though." The elder shrugs.
“I am investigating a regional problem elder. Perhaps you may be able to help me?”
"I might. I might not. So what problem are you investigating, then?" The elder looks to Mingzhu skeptically.
“A spirit on an island called Tzukine battled something. Something of darkness. The spirit is missing though I feel it is not dead. Furthermore, the people of the island were raided by some very evil pirates and taken as slaves. I am searching for the spirit and the people of the island. Would you perhaps know anything about this or point me in a good direction.”
The elder rolls his eyes. "Tzukine? Why would I care about what goes on there? It's not like there was profitable trade with them for a while. Well, they can have their spirits. I honestly couldn't care less." Mingzhu thinks about it for a while bows and takes her leave respectfully. The Elders waves her off. She returns to the group.
Seeing the look on Mingzhu’s face when she returns, T’kharr asks, “Elder not very helpful I take it?"
"He was not and he is smart enough to not leave any hints if he knows about Tzukine or not. Though he seems well an older version of the elder of Sudoku. His office is very opulent whether the common person is very well off here we will see in due time."
Silgara raises an eyebrow. "How so? ..."
"If he does not know nothing will happen but if he is involved, I suspect our group with be targeted now which will also tell us something about him. I told him I was investigating the disappearance of the spirit and the slavery of the citizens of Tzukine. I set a test up for him in other words. I have done my part. T'kharr, Balan lead on."
Zsikhou raises an eye ridge, then nods. "To the inn I reckon then, no?" T’kharr suggests.
Silgara shrugs, "I guess it's a good a place to try as any. Shall we?" Mingzhu shrugs and follows along. Snout following behind her.
Mingzhu shakes her head. “Would there be any reason not to dock like normal Silgara?”
"I guess not. I'll take us in." Silgara goes to sail the boat onwards "Speaking of which..." She looks around before looking at Mingzhu, noting that Xrochdyr is below deck while the rest of the party is still above deck "About Xrochdyr, how much do you think we can really trust him...?"
“I am unsure, to tell you the truth. Though I did trust him more than that angel.”
"I think that the Celestial set a rather low bar."
Mingzhu pulls out the scale and looks at it while saying, “That is why I have his scale. It is something I may be able to use in the future if he bites us. I can scry him.”
"Aye, the Celestial left the bar on the floor." T’kharr sighs with a shake of her furred head.
“Yes, he did at that.” Mingzhu agrees. “As far as Zarasszia, I could not trust one of such uncaring merit. I think of the three this devil was the best of them. He now carries feelings for the mortals who’s souls he stole and at least and looks to help the welfare of the group he is with.”
Nor'vee looks over to Mingzhu "Zarasszia... was like she was broken. Like someone who was struggling to come up with a new identity after losing her old one."
“Yes, but without empathy for others how can one make good choices? if life has no bearing on the future as she thinks how can one manage the best for a group.” Mingzhu explains.
"You don't think that she wasn't growing that? Or struggling with it? Back in the mirror puzzle? Or even..." Nor'vee stops himself, looking aside.
Mingzhu replies, “Yes, Nor’vee, she did struggle but how long does one need to take months, years.......centuries. We simply did not have the time to wait.”
"Likely a long time for a Yokai. Will also likely take the Yokai we're with just as long." Nor'vee's tail lashes in an irritated huff. "She knew what she didn't want at least. She didn't want to be a bad demon." A pause. "Whatever. Choice made already."
Zsikhou looks over. "I expect their value either way is purely tactical. Maybe she knew something of note regarding Zuodong's court, but I expect the other's information on Lejargamael will be more useful now."
“The devil was our best option. If I could save the demon I would have. Perhaps when we go back, we will or we may meet again.” Mingzhu says but hesitates while she does.
"I'm not inclined to trust that either of their attempts at reform are genuine." Zsikhou says.
"Whatever. Focus on the now." Fwangzhu huffs.
“I am fairly sure we will find out the devil's intentions soon enough. Mingzhu replies to Zsikhou.
"He definitely wants to take Lejargamael down, I think he's being honest in that regard at least. What he intends after that..." Silgara pauses, letting the thought hang then looks out to the approaching dock. "Right, I expect taking him through town may cause... complications. Unless you all are okay with risking it. So, what's the plan then?"
“I will change into my diplomatic dress and look around. Perhaps measure the scale of what we are getting into.” Mingzhu goes down to her room and changes.
"Aye, I think we leave him below decks for now whilst we scout things out. Unless you think there are others in the party that need to stay back as well?" T’kharr says to Mingzhu mostly as the shamaness passes her.
As they make Their preparations, the dock approaches. It's decently sized, this place looks to be about as large as Port Ginji from first look, there's a semi-extensive dock, a dock market, and there's a decent sized village further in. Most of the architecture is functional with little decoration. It seems more populated like a larger village, though hasn't undergone more significant urbanization. Silgara looks over to T'Kharr. "It may be prudent to have someone guard the boat to make sure no one ends up... finding him." As Mingzhu comes back on deck.
Mingzhu looks at the group. “Fwangzhu or Nor’vee can do that.”
Zsikhou looks at Mingzhu. "Right, which one, then?"
"Which one of you would like to guard the ship." Mingzhu looks at the two. Fwangzhu and Nor'vee both give a non-committal shrug. “Fwangzhu can guard Nor'vee can come with us. We may need to find where the slaves when to though I would most likely figure the mines.”
Fwangzhu growls, then shrugs, "Whatever. Don't screw it up."
Mingzhu centers her attention on the Nezumi. “Nor'vee can you quietly scout out the mines and tell us what they are like and if the people enslaved here from Tzukine are working them?
"Nor'vee can try to find out. Not sure how to differentiate one human villager from another but will try." Nor'vee nods.
Mingzhu smiles, "If you can talk to them ask. and ask about their guardian spirit. then you will know."
Nor'vee shrugs "Can try it at least..." He heads off.
Mingzhu then looks around to the rest of her companions. “Well let's go into the village and see what it’s like. Shall we?”
Beyond the docks, there's a market stand. There are some taverns around. Shenyaku near the docks looks more urbanized, but nearly immediately around it, it has a kind of rural look to it that would be more reminiscent of a smaller village, but more expansive. However, there are some more notably larger buildings throughout. Mingzhu looks around for a shrine or temple but doesn’t find one. She heads for the Elder’s residence.
The Elder's home looks normal on the outside, but on the inside, it looks rather opulent. A lot of expensive furniture, it looks like he's quite well off. He looks up to Mingzhu as she enters. She looks around, noting everything, then bows. “Community shamaness Mingzhu, Elder.”
The elder looks up as she says that, with a heavy sigh. "Oh great. Well, what do you want? If you're going to lambast me for not being pious or righteous enough, I already know, and I don't care."
“My concerns are more mundane elder how do the people and spirits fair on the island?”
"My people are well off, thank you very much. As for spirits, if you drink enough, you might see some. Honestly that isn't my problem though." The elder shrugs.
“I am investigating a regional problem elder. Perhaps you may be able to help me?”
"I might. I might not. So what problem are you investigating, then?" The elder looks to Mingzhu skeptically.
“A spirit on an island called Tzukine battled something. Something of darkness. The spirit is missing though I feel it is not dead. Furthermore, the people of the island were raided by some very evil pirates and taken as slaves. I am searching for the spirit and the people of the island. Would you perhaps know anything about this or point me in a good direction.”
The elder rolls his eyes. "Tzukine? Why would I care about what goes on there? It's not like there was profitable trade with them for a while. Well, they can have their spirits. I honestly couldn't care less." Mingzhu thinks about it for a while bows and takes her leave respectfully. The Elders waves her off. She returns to the group.
Seeing the look on Mingzhu’s face when she returns, T’kharr asks, “Elder not very helpful I take it?"
"He was not and he is smart enough to not leave any hints if he knows about Tzukine or not. Though he seems well an older version of the elder of Sudoku. His office is very opulent whether the common person is very well off here we will see in due time."
Silgara raises an eyebrow. "How so? ..."
"If he does not know nothing will happen but if he is involved, I suspect our group with be targeted now which will also tell us something about him. I told him I was investigating the disappearance of the spirit and the slavery of the citizens of Tzukine. I set a test up for him in other words. I have done my part. T'kharr, Balan lead on."
Zsikhou raises an eye ridge, then nods. "To the inn I reckon then, no?" T’kharr suggests.
Silgara shrugs, "I guess it's a good a place to try as any. Shall we?" Mingzhu shrugs and follows along. Snout following behind her.
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Winterhawk99
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Re: She Came from the Sea: Book 2
There’s a tavern down the road by the docks. It seems like one of the more common stops for both sailors and villagers. It looks reasonably active. T'kharr walks in, looking around as the rest of the party who went ashore follows her up. It’s pretty active here, though it does look like the barkeep is open. There are some unoccupied tables. They all sit down at a large table. The gnoll orders tea for herself, Mingzhu, and Zsikhou, along with whatever Balan and Silgara wish to drink. Silgara also orders tea. The barkeep gets them. Balan orders a bottle of sake but doesn’t drink it. He asks, “Are we to sit and listen or do we have plans.”
"Thinking we sit and listen for now, take in what's going on before we do anything in particular." T’kharr says as she sips her tea.
They sit for 4 hours listening while making small talk. Balan hears plenty, but plenty come and go. Mine workers, rice farmers, dockworkers, sailors, mostly mundane and day-to-day complaints though, nothing too suspicious. Though some make mention of wanting to spend time at the 'vice club' later. Seems they don't bother disguising that it's a raunchy and shady nightclub.
Despite the grousing, they do seem to be at least relatively well off, with most of the complaints being just the regular grousing. Boss being a jerk, etc. Though it does seem that numbers wise, this town does have a lot of people who work in the various mines. There's more than one, at least. Balan relays the information to the group.
T’kharr nods. “Good to know. Reckon we know who can scout it out too.
After a long time and several pots of tea, someone gets up from the bar. He comes and sits by their group right beside Silgara. He is an elf with hair that is hued somewhere between blue and purple. They wear a purple outfit with some blue and black lines, and have a purple cloak, before settling in, then they look over to Silgara with a smug smile. "Why hello there. You truly have been wandering far, far away. And look at the company you're traveling with." They tsk, almost as if mocking disapproval, with a smug smile to their features. Silgara nearly jolts out of her seat, before turning her head to glare daggers at the other elf. Balan also looks over at him.
"Of all of the people I could run into. It just had to be ‘You’, Moonsinger. Don't bother telling me what you're doing here. I know you won't say anything true or give a straight answer." Silgara is practically seething, having gone from relaxed to the level of tension she reserves for combat in a near instant. The gnoll sips her tea, her furred head pivoting to the other elf as well, looking them him over with a scrutinizing eye.
"You know what happened every other time you spent time with others. Especially of such sorts. Really Silgara, you know where you belong. There is no resisting it. And the more you fight back against it, the more harm you end up doing. There is nothing you can do but to give in. Or you will not and end up suffering for it." The other elf just keeps giving that smug smile.
Silgara rolls her eyes. "Oh, stop it with that nonsense already, Moonsinger. I'm fully aware of what you are about and what you do. Anyone with any degree of sense would know better, much less anyone with any degree of familiarity with you."
Mingzhu speaks up, “Excuse me, who are you?”
Moonsinger at least seems to focus solely on Silgara, though seems to at least notice the others "Really now, Silgara. You say the most hurtful things. Don't you know what sorrow and despair you inflict on your own people? How much woe you bring to those who should be closest to you?"
Mingzhu casts Discern Lies quietly.
Silgara sneers at Moonsinger at that. "Cut it out, Moonsinger. I'm ‘Fully’ aware that you are just making excuses, that the only thing you want to do out of some demented desire is bring misery and pain to everyone around you. Seldarine knows how you are even considered part of the people when you have clearly forsaken everything our people are supposed to stand for."
Mingzhu speaks up again, “Silgara who is this dyed elf?” Balan meanwhile wraps his fingers around the still full sake bottle he bought.
Silgara looks over to Mingzhu "Liuirael Moonsinger. An ironic name for them, given they're a follower of the Nightsinger."
“What is the Nightsinger? Some kind of spirit?” Mingzhu asks.
"Sounds like a topic for another time." T’kharr tells Mingzhu.
Moonsinger looks to Silgara. "Oh how you would make such judgements on your cousins, truly, you bring such woe to your own people. And the company you keep. How do you think your family would react in seeing that you've stooped to keeping company with actual monsters over your own people? But perhaps this can be rectified. I am sure there is something, anything you can do to help heal your family you have most cruelly harmed."
Mingzhu persistent as every says, “From what I understand her family is a bunch of evil human haters.”
Silgara snaps, "Moonsinger just ‘Shut Up’. You are not actually full of woe, any more than your self-inflicted nonsense. I am fully aware of what you do. I really, really don't have time or care for your nonsense now."
Moonsinger just gives a smug smile. "Imagine that you travel with a kobold, known for raiding and eating people, a gnoll, also a savage monster known for eating people, and another scaly monster as well. Truly, you could do so much better by getting rid of such company. You know it would cause you less pain if you did so now than for all of the other suffering that would happen because you did not."
Moonsinger is definitely armed, seems like he has a shield on his back, a bow, and an elven blade, possibly more that are concealed.
Mingzhu concentrates on the pair trying to tell if one is lying or not. She clearly sees Moonsinger is trying to bait and gaslight her and not being genuine with her friend. She says, “He’s lying Silgara. His aura tells it all.”
Silgara narrows her eyes. "I know where this is going, Moonsinger. The part where you tell me to go murder people or you will go out and commit your own murders and then blame me for your actions, only that you would have done such things anyways even if I had acceded to your demands, so quite frankly Moonsinger, there's no point in trying to reason with you." She then turns to Mingzhu. “Pretty much describes Moonsinger, he's rarely ever genuine. The only time they are is when they're being utterly horrible."
T’kharr also comments, “You realize you just called a paladin of the Platinum a 'scaly monster', riiiight?" She tilts her head towards the elf, trying to give him an idea of just who the freak he's trying to impugn with his words.
Moonsinger scowls at hearing they're a paladin. "Ah yes, a paladin. So self-righteous. So insistent on bringing their odious light where it is not wanted. They are truly the worst. As are you. I can see who you follow. Your kind are supposed to raid and pillage and slaughter. But you instead ease suffering. You are an aberration and monster that should not exist." Moonsinger at least seems to be speaking genuinely now. Mingzhu yawns bored with the elf’s rhetoric.
"Perhaps you should do such things. Or there will be even greater suffering if you do not." Moonsinger gives a dark smile towards T'Kharr. The grip on Balan’s sake bottle tightens. Zsikhou notices, his hand stops gripping his tea, and he fingers his weapon-bracer..., ready to jump into action if needed.
Moonsinger looks to Balan. "Go on. Show us all your righteous wrath. Your odious light. And you should suffer for it. And you deserve it."
Silgara just rubs her face, then looks aside. "Moonsinger is always like this. Whatever Moonsinger."
"He seems like a very small and malicious elf. Is he part fey?” Mingzhu asks.
Moonsinger looks over to Silgara. "There are always innocents who can be hurt. And will. But if you want to let them, be hurt because of your own choices and what they lead to, that is your fault indeed. All elves can trace their heritage to the fey, distantly, but no, Moonsinger is no more ‘fey touched’ than other moon elves." Silgara says.
Mingzhu can tell he is definitely gaslighting her now. She again speaks up. “The little elf is lying to you.”
"I'm aware. Moonsinger is always like this." Silgara replies.
"Should I call his ancestors to correct him?” Mingzhu asks.
Balan snickers speaking low, “You are a piece of work are you not trying to cause chaos and anger amongst people who have traveled together well....Perhaps I break your fingers for speaking poorly of religion.”
"You know what will happen to this person there if she does not stop, don't you? Go on, stop her, Silgara." Moonsinger smugly smiles, his voice more toned with a more overt threat.
"You understand not what suffering is and where it comes from." T'kharr shoots a 'you flipped my "bozo" switch' look at Moonsinger, then chuckles to Mingzhu. "If you think you can reach an ancestral elven spirit from here, go ahead, unless Silgara thinks poorly of it"
Moonsinger looks to T'Kharr. "Perhaps what you need is to feel every bit of pain and despair that I have felt, and you would deserve it all." They then look to Balan "And you definitely deserve worse. Oh, how you paladins and your thuggish and crude methods of forcing your odious light where it is not wanted. You should not act as you do against that which you do. But you will anyways. So, you will suffer for it."
Mingzhu casts Ancestral Vengeance saying, “Thank you.” And smiles while she’s doing it.
"But perhaps I will be off. And there will be suffering. And it will be your fault for it. Because you could not stop your odious light. That you could ..."
T’kharr nearly shouts, “despair serves upon yourself by your own choice of deity, sir.”
Moonsinger notes that Mingzhu is casting but Balan is quicker. He breaks the bottle over the elf’s head. Moonsinger seems to disappear. T'kharr mutters "Coward. Hope he gets a good awakening for that one." then moves to shield Mingzhu from any attempt by Moonsinger to attack her, readying a grab for if he attacks.
Mingzhu finishes her spell saying, “After all. He welcomed it.” Silgara is caught by surprise. There is a step heard as the Spell hits the elf while invisible.
Zsikhou looks around. He hears Moonsinger’s position and attacks him. Balan cant seem to spot the elf.
Moonsinger appears behind Mingzhu and attacks her. He stabs her 4 times as she’s in her diplomatic dress and has no armor. She slumps over on the table apparently dead. "Mingzhu!" Silgara gasps, eyes widening, Zsikhou growls. T’kharr immediately casts Cure Critical Wounds on the shamaness before her heart stops. Zsikhou goes to attack Moonsinger again. Nicking him in the face. Balan draws his sword and swings at Moonsinger, but the elf dodges it both times.
He smirks to Silgara "Go on, maybe if you kill the kobold, I will spare the others," Then Moonsinger goes to hide in plain sight again... T’kharr tries a Detect Magic spell to see if she can track him through any enchanted equipment, he might have on him.
Silgara moves over to Mingzhu. "Damnit, I ..." She casts mage armor on T'Kharr "We need to retreat, now! Balan get close!" Zsikhou looks around.
T’kharr says, “I’m not leaving Mingzhu behind!”
Zsikhou can’t pinpoint Moonsinger’s location, so he casts Invisibility on himself while Silgara replies, “We won’t be!” Balan preforms a Lay on Hands on the shamaness. She’s breathing but doesn’t move. Moonsinger decloaks and attacks Balan. His blades only bounce off the Dragonborn’s armor. T'kharr takes full advantage of Moonsinger coming out of hiding, casting Command on him. "Yield!"
Silgara moves over to Mingzhu, goes to cast dimension door to get T'Kharr, Mingzhu, and Balan out of there but T'kharr moves in position to deal with the guy. "Balan, I'll need your help, grab him when you get the chance." Meanwhile Zsikhou stabs him two more times.
T’kharr says, “Balan, get him wrestled down, hogtie him if you can." He gladly obliges. T’kharr helps him. The pair search the elf quickly and take two daggers. Zsikhou looks like they want to stab Moonsinger some more but don't risk it with the grappling. T’kharr then says to the Moonsinger, “Now, listen up. You have two choices. Either you get to explain how much of a screwup you are to the village elder, including everything about your damning choice of faith, or you get to deal with the kami here. And yes, I said kami, not kobold."
Zsikhou looks over. "Doubt I should give this one the option of going to the elder"
That is when Moonsinger smirks, then… "Do you really think you have won? That anything you do will matter? It will not. It does not."
Silgara looks over "Wait! Look out! They're..." Moonsinger tries to cast Dimension Door. T’kharr puts a wicked bite into his shoulder but he manages to maintain focus on the spell despite T’kharr diving in and chomping him pretty good and not letting go either. Balan knocks him over the head and this time the spell fizzles. Zsikhou narrows his eyes and rushes in to attack Moonsinger, with full lethal force. He doesn’t waist time. He cuts the elf’s throat before anyone can do anything about it.
Seems that that fight has caught the attention of the bar patrons, a lot of them are moving away, muttering to themselves... even the bartender looks rattled. Despite not having really participated in the fight, Silgara's quite hyperventilating, panting heavily, clearly still in shock.
"Apologies, but that was...well, a very special level of arsehole that well, you probably don’t' want around town in any case. He was, operative word, a known worshipper of one of the darkest gods in the West." T’kharr says.
Zsikhou flexes his claws, then stabs Moonsinger's throat again, just to make sure they're dead, then moves over to Mingzhu.
"I .... I..." Silgara looks over, stunned, then looks at Mingzhu "We need to get her to a place to rest..."
"Heal... something..." Silgara still looks rather rattled.
"And I gave him the chance to go quietly, with the only further damage being his pride and standing. He decided to try to flee by way of magic instead." T’kharr states.
"Honestly, I would say it's a good thing they were killed now. Moonsinger was the type who would have abused any opening to cause harm. There's no point in sparing someone like them." Silgara shakes her head.
"Aye, let’s get Mingzhu back to the boat" T’kharr scoops her up gently. "And the rest of us as well. And yes, a fair point -- the man didn't deserve the modicum of grace I tried to give him."
"I've known them for many years. I can confidently say that no, they don't. Let’s get moving." Silgara sighs.
"Unable to recognize a grace unearned." T’kharr mutters heading out.
"Thinking we sit and listen for now, take in what's going on before we do anything in particular." T’kharr says as she sips her tea.
They sit for 4 hours listening while making small talk. Balan hears plenty, but plenty come and go. Mine workers, rice farmers, dockworkers, sailors, mostly mundane and day-to-day complaints though, nothing too suspicious. Though some make mention of wanting to spend time at the 'vice club' later. Seems they don't bother disguising that it's a raunchy and shady nightclub.
Despite the grousing, they do seem to be at least relatively well off, with most of the complaints being just the regular grousing. Boss being a jerk, etc. Though it does seem that numbers wise, this town does have a lot of people who work in the various mines. There's more than one, at least. Balan relays the information to the group.
T’kharr nods. “Good to know. Reckon we know who can scout it out too.
After a long time and several pots of tea, someone gets up from the bar. He comes and sits by their group right beside Silgara. He is an elf with hair that is hued somewhere between blue and purple. They wear a purple outfit with some blue and black lines, and have a purple cloak, before settling in, then they look over to Silgara with a smug smile. "Why hello there. You truly have been wandering far, far away. And look at the company you're traveling with." They tsk, almost as if mocking disapproval, with a smug smile to their features. Silgara nearly jolts out of her seat, before turning her head to glare daggers at the other elf. Balan also looks over at him.
"Of all of the people I could run into. It just had to be ‘You’, Moonsinger. Don't bother telling me what you're doing here. I know you won't say anything true or give a straight answer." Silgara is practically seething, having gone from relaxed to the level of tension she reserves for combat in a near instant. The gnoll sips her tea, her furred head pivoting to the other elf as well, looking them him over with a scrutinizing eye.
"You know what happened every other time you spent time with others. Especially of such sorts. Really Silgara, you know where you belong. There is no resisting it. And the more you fight back against it, the more harm you end up doing. There is nothing you can do but to give in. Or you will not and end up suffering for it." The other elf just keeps giving that smug smile.
Silgara rolls her eyes. "Oh, stop it with that nonsense already, Moonsinger. I'm fully aware of what you are about and what you do. Anyone with any degree of sense would know better, much less anyone with any degree of familiarity with you."
Mingzhu speaks up, “Excuse me, who are you?”
Moonsinger at least seems to focus solely on Silgara, though seems to at least notice the others "Really now, Silgara. You say the most hurtful things. Don't you know what sorrow and despair you inflict on your own people? How much woe you bring to those who should be closest to you?"
Mingzhu casts Discern Lies quietly.
Silgara sneers at Moonsinger at that. "Cut it out, Moonsinger. I'm ‘Fully’ aware that you are just making excuses, that the only thing you want to do out of some demented desire is bring misery and pain to everyone around you. Seldarine knows how you are even considered part of the people when you have clearly forsaken everything our people are supposed to stand for."
Mingzhu speaks up again, “Silgara who is this dyed elf?” Balan meanwhile wraps his fingers around the still full sake bottle he bought.
Silgara looks over to Mingzhu "Liuirael Moonsinger. An ironic name for them, given they're a follower of the Nightsinger."
“What is the Nightsinger? Some kind of spirit?” Mingzhu asks.
"Sounds like a topic for another time." T’kharr tells Mingzhu.
Moonsinger looks to Silgara. "Oh how you would make such judgements on your cousins, truly, you bring such woe to your own people. And the company you keep. How do you think your family would react in seeing that you've stooped to keeping company with actual monsters over your own people? But perhaps this can be rectified. I am sure there is something, anything you can do to help heal your family you have most cruelly harmed."
Mingzhu persistent as every says, “From what I understand her family is a bunch of evil human haters.”
Silgara snaps, "Moonsinger just ‘Shut Up’. You are not actually full of woe, any more than your self-inflicted nonsense. I am fully aware of what you do. I really, really don't have time or care for your nonsense now."
Moonsinger just gives a smug smile. "Imagine that you travel with a kobold, known for raiding and eating people, a gnoll, also a savage monster known for eating people, and another scaly monster as well. Truly, you could do so much better by getting rid of such company. You know it would cause you less pain if you did so now than for all of the other suffering that would happen because you did not."
Moonsinger is definitely armed, seems like he has a shield on his back, a bow, and an elven blade, possibly more that are concealed.
Mingzhu concentrates on the pair trying to tell if one is lying or not. She clearly sees Moonsinger is trying to bait and gaslight her and not being genuine with her friend. She says, “He’s lying Silgara. His aura tells it all.”
Silgara narrows her eyes. "I know where this is going, Moonsinger. The part where you tell me to go murder people or you will go out and commit your own murders and then blame me for your actions, only that you would have done such things anyways even if I had acceded to your demands, so quite frankly Moonsinger, there's no point in trying to reason with you." She then turns to Mingzhu. “Pretty much describes Moonsinger, he's rarely ever genuine. The only time they are is when they're being utterly horrible."
T’kharr also comments, “You realize you just called a paladin of the Platinum a 'scaly monster', riiiight?" She tilts her head towards the elf, trying to give him an idea of just who the freak he's trying to impugn with his words.
Moonsinger scowls at hearing they're a paladin. "Ah yes, a paladin. So self-righteous. So insistent on bringing their odious light where it is not wanted. They are truly the worst. As are you. I can see who you follow. Your kind are supposed to raid and pillage and slaughter. But you instead ease suffering. You are an aberration and monster that should not exist." Moonsinger at least seems to be speaking genuinely now. Mingzhu yawns bored with the elf’s rhetoric.
"Perhaps you should do such things. Or there will be even greater suffering if you do not." Moonsinger gives a dark smile towards T'Kharr. The grip on Balan’s sake bottle tightens. Zsikhou notices, his hand stops gripping his tea, and he fingers his weapon-bracer..., ready to jump into action if needed.
Moonsinger looks to Balan. "Go on. Show us all your righteous wrath. Your odious light. And you should suffer for it. And you deserve it."
Silgara just rubs her face, then looks aside. "Moonsinger is always like this. Whatever Moonsinger."
"He seems like a very small and malicious elf. Is he part fey?” Mingzhu asks.
Moonsinger looks over to Silgara. "There are always innocents who can be hurt. And will. But if you want to let them, be hurt because of your own choices and what they lead to, that is your fault indeed. All elves can trace their heritage to the fey, distantly, but no, Moonsinger is no more ‘fey touched’ than other moon elves." Silgara says.
Mingzhu can tell he is definitely gaslighting her now. She again speaks up. “The little elf is lying to you.”
"I'm aware. Moonsinger is always like this." Silgara replies.
"Should I call his ancestors to correct him?” Mingzhu asks.
Balan snickers speaking low, “You are a piece of work are you not trying to cause chaos and anger amongst people who have traveled together well....Perhaps I break your fingers for speaking poorly of religion.”
"You know what will happen to this person there if she does not stop, don't you? Go on, stop her, Silgara." Moonsinger smugly smiles, his voice more toned with a more overt threat.
"You understand not what suffering is and where it comes from." T'kharr shoots a 'you flipped my "bozo" switch' look at Moonsinger, then chuckles to Mingzhu. "If you think you can reach an ancestral elven spirit from here, go ahead, unless Silgara thinks poorly of it"
Moonsinger looks to T'Kharr. "Perhaps what you need is to feel every bit of pain and despair that I have felt, and you would deserve it all." They then look to Balan "And you definitely deserve worse. Oh, how you paladins and your thuggish and crude methods of forcing your odious light where it is not wanted. You should not act as you do against that which you do. But you will anyways. So, you will suffer for it."
Mingzhu casts Ancestral Vengeance saying, “Thank you.” And smiles while she’s doing it.
"But perhaps I will be off. And there will be suffering. And it will be your fault for it. Because you could not stop your odious light. That you could ..."
T’kharr nearly shouts, “despair serves upon yourself by your own choice of deity, sir.”
Moonsinger notes that Mingzhu is casting but Balan is quicker. He breaks the bottle over the elf’s head. Moonsinger seems to disappear. T'kharr mutters "Coward. Hope he gets a good awakening for that one." then moves to shield Mingzhu from any attempt by Moonsinger to attack her, readying a grab for if he attacks.
Mingzhu finishes her spell saying, “After all. He welcomed it.” Silgara is caught by surprise. There is a step heard as the Spell hits the elf while invisible.
Zsikhou looks around. He hears Moonsinger’s position and attacks him. Balan cant seem to spot the elf.
Moonsinger appears behind Mingzhu and attacks her. He stabs her 4 times as she’s in her diplomatic dress and has no armor. She slumps over on the table apparently dead. "Mingzhu!" Silgara gasps, eyes widening, Zsikhou growls. T’kharr immediately casts Cure Critical Wounds on the shamaness before her heart stops. Zsikhou goes to attack Moonsinger again. Nicking him in the face. Balan draws his sword and swings at Moonsinger, but the elf dodges it both times.
He smirks to Silgara "Go on, maybe if you kill the kobold, I will spare the others," Then Moonsinger goes to hide in plain sight again... T’kharr tries a Detect Magic spell to see if she can track him through any enchanted equipment, he might have on him.
Silgara moves over to Mingzhu. "Damnit, I ..." She casts mage armor on T'Kharr "We need to retreat, now! Balan get close!" Zsikhou looks around.
T’kharr says, “I’m not leaving Mingzhu behind!”
Zsikhou can’t pinpoint Moonsinger’s location, so he casts Invisibility on himself while Silgara replies, “We won’t be!” Balan preforms a Lay on Hands on the shamaness. She’s breathing but doesn’t move. Moonsinger decloaks and attacks Balan. His blades only bounce off the Dragonborn’s armor. T'kharr takes full advantage of Moonsinger coming out of hiding, casting Command on him. "Yield!"
Silgara moves over to Mingzhu, goes to cast dimension door to get T'Kharr, Mingzhu, and Balan out of there but T'kharr moves in position to deal with the guy. "Balan, I'll need your help, grab him when you get the chance." Meanwhile Zsikhou stabs him two more times.
T’kharr says, “Balan, get him wrestled down, hogtie him if you can." He gladly obliges. T’kharr helps him. The pair search the elf quickly and take two daggers. Zsikhou looks like they want to stab Moonsinger some more but don't risk it with the grappling. T’kharr then says to the Moonsinger, “Now, listen up. You have two choices. Either you get to explain how much of a screwup you are to the village elder, including everything about your damning choice of faith, or you get to deal with the kami here. And yes, I said kami, not kobold."
Zsikhou looks over. "Doubt I should give this one the option of going to the elder"
That is when Moonsinger smirks, then… "Do you really think you have won? That anything you do will matter? It will not. It does not."
Silgara looks over "Wait! Look out! They're..." Moonsinger tries to cast Dimension Door. T’kharr puts a wicked bite into his shoulder but he manages to maintain focus on the spell despite T’kharr diving in and chomping him pretty good and not letting go either. Balan knocks him over the head and this time the spell fizzles. Zsikhou narrows his eyes and rushes in to attack Moonsinger, with full lethal force. He doesn’t waist time. He cuts the elf’s throat before anyone can do anything about it.
Seems that that fight has caught the attention of the bar patrons, a lot of them are moving away, muttering to themselves... even the bartender looks rattled. Despite not having really participated in the fight, Silgara's quite hyperventilating, panting heavily, clearly still in shock.
"Apologies, but that was...well, a very special level of arsehole that well, you probably don’t' want around town in any case. He was, operative word, a known worshipper of one of the darkest gods in the West." T’kharr says.
Zsikhou flexes his claws, then stabs Moonsinger's throat again, just to make sure they're dead, then moves over to Mingzhu.
"I .... I..." Silgara looks over, stunned, then looks at Mingzhu "We need to get her to a place to rest..."
"Heal... something..." Silgara still looks rather rattled.
"And I gave him the chance to go quietly, with the only further damage being his pride and standing. He decided to try to flee by way of magic instead." T’kharr states.
"Honestly, I would say it's a good thing they were killed now. Moonsinger was the type who would have abused any opening to cause harm. There's no point in sparing someone like them." Silgara shakes her head.
"Aye, let’s get Mingzhu back to the boat" T’kharr scoops her up gently. "And the rest of us as well. And yes, a fair point -- the man didn't deserve the modicum of grace I tried to give him."
"I've known them for many years. I can confidently say that no, they don't. Let’s get moving." Silgara sighs.
"Unable to recognize a grace unearned." T’kharr mutters heading out.
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Re: She Came from the Sea: Book 2
Back on the island, Zarasszia strides out of the room, face dispassionate. She moves over, watching the scenes of battle and carnage. She looks down the stairs as though unbothered by it all. She hears movement coming. She moves towards Ceraviyearnis’ chamber. It isn’t long before the Arcanaloth, Neravithox, as well as a retinue of Yulgoloth with him. Some Mezzoloth and Piscoloth, move in as well. She turns and approaches the Arcanaloth, then gives a slight curtsy. “Milord Neravithox.”
Neravithox looks over to her, eyes narrowing. “One of Ceraviyearnis’ Succubi. Zarasszia, if I am not mistaken.”
“I am gratified that you remember me, Lord Neravithox.” Zarasszia dips her head, her voice still monotones, though the Arcanaloth seems to take note.
Some of the Yulgoloth go to inspect Ceraviyearnis’ corpse, and of the Vrocks. Neravithox only focuses on Ceraviyearnis, before looking back to Zarasszia. “Explain what happened here, Succubus.”
Zarasszia just keeps looking at Neravithox, still that dispassionate gaze, though has that confidant poise a succubus has under it. “I am afraid I was not present for the battle, milord. But I believe there was a strike team of beings from the upper planes who staged a decapitation strike against Lord Ceraviyearnis. After that, they all quickly fled. I believe they have already escaped this island now and have likely returned to the upper planes.”
Neravithox narrows his eyes, then looks around again, then back to Zarasszia. “Unfortunate.”
Zarasszia nods. “Indeed. A setback. One I am sure you can overcome. If it helps, I am sure we can find some ways to make this setback, more palatable.” Zarasszia forces a smile.
Neravithox walks around some more, then intones a spell. Casting Greater Planar Binding on Zarasszia, freezing her on the spot. “Yet you are lying to me, Succubus.” He moves closer. “It is noted that you have not fully abandoned your deceptive nature. And yet you did so in an attempt to protect whomever had killed Ceraviyearnis. Compatriots of yours no doubt. I have enough knowledge of the surrounding circumstances to figure out what had happened.” Zarasszia reels back as if struck, but the binding is firm, she’s forced to kneel. “Not a total loss at least, you will be an interesting study subject, Succubus.” Neravithox waves some commands to his Yulgoloth. “Secure her and take her away.” He looks off. “I have an old nuisance to catch up with.” Neravithox departs, a pair of Mezzoloth go to haul the helpless Succubus away.
Quasziel is flying around, attempting to fly towards the exit of the isle. One of the chimes recovered, the Celestial flying to the edge, at least until a teleport spell is discharged near him. A pair of Nycaloth and a flying Neravithox approach.
Quasziel is flying around, attempting to fly towards the exit of the isle. One of the chimes recovered, the Celestial flying to the edge, at least until a teleport spell is discharged near him. A pair of Nycaloth and a flying Neravithox approach.
“Quasziel. For the first time since you began your crusade against me, you have actually managed to set back my plans to a non-insignificant degree. I am sure you are proud of yourself.” The Arcanaloth says, spell at the ready in case Quasziel decides to fight this out, but he has his Nycaloth cover him.
Quasziel gets his great sword out. “Yes. I have successfully slain your ally Ceraviyearnis. I know what your plans are. I know what you are attempting will sunder the realms, the mortal world and the multiverse, and that you must be stopped.”
“It doesn’t escape me that you are taking credit for this. How much truly was your contribution and how much was it the contributions of others? Yet the fact that you are here, alone, attempting to flee tells me much.” Neravithox says, though there’s something of a smirk to it.
“It will not matter. You will fall before the righteous and your plans will come to naught.” Quasziel says, in turn, defiant.
“And yet if you had all of your powers you could have casted Plane Shift to have escaped this place. The fact that you have not suggests to me that you have lost that, as you have lost some of your connection to Mount Celestia. And I cannot help but think on the irony of this situation. How you have often used and then abandoned mortals in your crusade against me, and I cannot help but get the feeling that any mortal allies you may have had recently have abandoned you to the same. Irony, really.” Neravithox’s smirk deepens. “You can deny it as much as you like, but you started to reflect my methods in your crusade, didn’t you? How keeping fully to righteousness had gotten you nowhere. You came to the conclusion that doing evils was necessary in order to pursue the greater good. And despite all you have done, you must continue to convince yourself that what you do is worth it in the end. That whatever you do has righteous purpose-”
“Silence, Neravithox! Your taunts mean nothing. We shall settle this with spell and steel.” Quasziel seethes.
“And there I see I have touched a nerve.” Neravithox chuckles. “But you know I am right, Quasziel. I can see it, deep down, you believe it, but you also desperately cannot believe it, because acknowledging it would break you completely. And then you would have nothing. But I can see the cracks have already formed. You’ve already let the darkness in, even if the radiant exterior has not broken yet. But it is breaking.”
“No. You do not understand. You only think you do, Neravithox, but you do not.” Quasziel says defiantly.
“My understanding on this matter is entirely clear, Deva.” Neravithox replies. “The root of your fall began before you ever made your first, unforgivable move. You’ve become fascinating. I will have to see where this goes. I am sure with the right circumstances…”
“Enough! You will not waste time with this. I shall silence you here and now and bring judgement upon you that you have too long evaded.” Quasziel replies.
“There are a few problems with that supposition. The first of course…” Neravithox intones a greater planar binding while the two Nycaloth go to strike and grapple. Quasziel attempts to fly forth and strike, and he does get a hit on one of the Nycaloth, but they quickly overwhelm him, and he is bound. “Is that you know that you are not strong enough to defeat me alone. That is why you started going for alternative methods, isn’t it? It’s a connection that is certainly worth exploring.” The Arcanaloth smirks, before he and his retinue take the captive Celestial away.
Neravithox looks over to her, eyes narrowing. “One of Ceraviyearnis’ Succubi. Zarasszia, if I am not mistaken.”
“I am gratified that you remember me, Lord Neravithox.” Zarasszia dips her head, her voice still monotones, though the Arcanaloth seems to take note.
Some of the Yulgoloth go to inspect Ceraviyearnis’ corpse, and of the Vrocks. Neravithox only focuses on Ceraviyearnis, before looking back to Zarasszia. “Explain what happened here, Succubus.”
Zarasszia just keeps looking at Neravithox, still that dispassionate gaze, though has that confidant poise a succubus has under it. “I am afraid I was not present for the battle, milord. But I believe there was a strike team of beings from the upper planes who staged a decapitation strike against Lord Ceraviyearnis. After that, they all quickly fled. I believe they have already escaped this island now and have likely returned to the upper planes.”
Neravithox narrows his eyes, then looks around again, then back to Zarasszia. “Unfortunate.”
Zarasszia nods. “Indeed. A setback. One I am sure you can overcome. If it helps, I am sure we can find some ways to make this setback, more palatable.” Zarasszia forces a smile.
Neravithox walks around some more, then intones a spell. Casting Greater Planar Binding on Zarasszia, freezing her on the spot. “Yet you are lying to me, Succubus.” He moves closer. “It is noted that you have not fully abandoned your deceptive nature. And yet you did so in an attempt to protect whomever had killed Ceraviyearnis. Compatriots of yours no doubt. I have enough knowledge of the surrounding circumstances to figure out what had happened.” Zarasszia reels back as if struck, but the binding is firm, she’s forced to kneel. “Not a total loss at least, you will be an interesting study subject, Succubus.” Neravithox waves some commands to his Yulgoloth. “Secure her and take her away.” He looks off. “I have an old nuisance to catch up with.” Neravithox departs, a pair of Mezzoloth go to haul the helpless Succubus away.
Quasziel is flying around, attempting to fly towards the exit of the isle. One of the chimes recovered, the Celestial flying to the edge, at least until a teleport spell is discharged near him. A pair of Nycaloth and a flying Neravithox approach.
Quasziel is flying around, attempting to fly towards the exit of the isle. One of the chimes recovered, the Celestial flying to the edge, at least until a teleport spell is discharged near him. A pair of Nycaloth and a flying Neravithox approach.
“Quasziel. For the first time since you began your crusade against me, you have actually managed to set back my plans to a non-insignificant degree. I am sure you are proud of yourself.” The Arcanaloth says, spell at the ready in case Quasziel decides to fight this out, but he has his Nycaloth cover him.
Quasziel gets his great sword out. “Yes. I have successfully slain your ally Ceraviyearnis. I know what your plans are. I know what you are attempting will sunder the realms, the mortal world and the multiverse, and that you must be stopped.”
“It doesn’t escape me that you are taking credit for this. How much truly was your contribution and how much was it the contributions of others? Yet the fact that you are here, alone, attempting to flee tells me much.” Neravithox says, though there’s something of a smirk to it.
“It will not matter. You will fall before the righteous and your plans will come to naught.” Quasziel says, in turn, defiant.
“And yet if you had all of your powers you could have casted Plane Shift to have escaped this place. The fact that you have not suggests to me that you have lost that, as you have lost some of your connection to Mount Celestia. And I cannot help but think on the irony of this situation. How you have often used and then abandoned mortals in your crusade against me, and I cannot help but get the feeling that any mortal allies you may have had recently have abandoned you to the same. Irony, really.” Neravithox’s smirk deepens. “You can deny it as much as you like, but you started to reflect my methods in your crusade, didn’t you? How keeping fully to righteousness had gotten you nowhere. You came to the conclusion that doing evils was necessary in order to pursue the greater good. And despite all you have done, you must continue to convince yourself that what you do is worth it in the end. That whatever you do has righteous purpose-”
“Silence, Neravithox! Your taunts mean nothing. We shall settle this with spell and steel.” Quasziel seethes.
“And there I see I have touched a nerve.” Neravithox chuckles. “But you know I am right, Quasziel. I can see it, deep down, you believe it, but you also desperately cannot believe it, because acknowledging it would break you completely. And then you would have nothing. But I can see the cracks have already formed. You’ve already let the darkness in, even if the radiant exterior has not broken yet. But it is breaking.”
“No. You do not understand. You only think you do, Neravithox, but you do not.” Quasziel says defiantly.
“My understanding on this matter is entirely clear, Deva.” Neravithox replies. “The root of your fall began before you ever made your first, unforgivable move. You’ve become fascinating. I will have to see where this goes. I am sure with the right circumstances…”
“Enough! You will not waste time with this. I shall silence you here and now and bring judgement upon you that you have too long evaded.” Quasziel replies.
“There are a few problems with that supposition. The first of course…” Neravithox intones a greater planar binding while the two Nycaloth go to strike and grapple. Quasziel attempts to fly forth and strike, and he does get a hit on one of the Nycaloth, but they quickly overwhelm him, and he is bound. “Is that you know that you are not strong enough to defeat me alone. That is why you started going for alternative methods, isn’t it? It’s a connection that is certainly worth exploring.” The Arcanaloth smirks, before he and his retinue take the captive Celestial away.
-
Winterhawk99
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Re: She Came from the Sea: Book 2
The party returns to the boat, Fwangzhu and Xrochdyr are both below deck. Fwangzhu seems to hear it and rises up top. He looks over, noting the missing Nor'vee and that Balan is carrying Mingzhu back. Fwangzhu looks over to T'Kharr "Okay, I can't wait to hear about how you fucked it up. What happened?" Balan shrugs and points to Mingzhu. Fwangzhu snarls "I have eyes you know! Well, whatever, get her below deck to recover or whatever." The dragonborn hands him the bloodied sake bottle and brings the Shamaness down to her bed.
T’kharr goes down with him, “Wasn't really any of our faults I reckon...some bloody sneaky backstabber of an elf had a hard-on for hating on Silgara." She sighs, "We won't have to worry about his shady arse any longer, at least, though."
Silgara sighs, "It... admittedly, their presence does make things more complicated, but yes, I knew them, they knew me. They were specifically after me, I reckon. It means my family likely sent Moonsinger to find me." She frowns.
Xrochdyr is in a room below deck. Zsikhou stays with Mingzhu. A sharp frown crosses T’kharr’s muzzle upon hearing that. She reaches out to hug Silgara now that Mingzhu is safely ensconced in a bed to recover. Balan replies, “Aye, well that one found you and paid the price.
Silgara finds the hug most awkward, a blink, but speaks after the hug is over. "I … probably. I do hope my family won't find a way to return them. She rubs her face "All the same it's... no, I'm glad you were there to help. Knowing Moonsinger, they would have tried to engineer a situation where I would have had to attack them to stop them, which is something that would have branded me N’Tel’Quessir, So... thank you. I'm sorry I had you dragged into that. I suppose if you want to ask anything, well..." Silgara sighs, "Unfortunately being around me is likely to invite danger from my family, I had hoped being here, I would be away from their reach and view. Maybe with Moonsinger dead, I'll be away from them for a bit longer. Regardless, I know we have other matters to tend to. I'll do everything I can to help see them through." T’kharr lets go of her after a bit.
Zsikhou stays with Mingzhu. though he very much wanted a hug too
"Once Mingzhu awakens, let’s go through the spoils from the last couple of battles and see what else folks want, I reckon we'll be selling off the rest." T’kharr states going back to the business at hand.
Silgara nods, "Fair, good idea..." After about an hour, however... Fwangzhu looks over at T'Kharr and Balan, snarling, "Hey you lot! Got some of the guard coming near our ship. Whatever you lot got involved in, looks like they're pretty pissed off."
Silgara sighs "Oh great... Moonsinger still manages to torment me from beyond the grave. Just like them… Sharran.”
T'kharr heads out on deck to address the guards. "Is this in reference to the dustup in the tavern involving that Moonsinger figure?"
"Yeah, it's about you freaks coming in and murdering someone in broad daylight! Who do you lot think you are?" The Guard sneers over at T'Kharr.
"I gave him the chance for mercy. He refused it." T’kharr says with resolve.
"You mean after you and your lot attacked him? Some mercy." The guard sneers. There's two guards at the man's flanks, though the one in question has some slightly better-looking armor. "You came and murdered someone in our village. Quite frankly, they were some foreigner we don't care about. But then again, so are you. And you were causing trouble. So, what are you going to do about it?" The Guard takes a step towards T'Kharr.
"I'm glad you don't care about him, because taking his side in the matter...well, suffice it to say Moonsinger worshipped one of the darkest gods in the West." T’kharr gives them a soft frown, "He was bent on provocation, and was twisting words, speaking the lies of a god I reckon none of you would want anything to do with."
"Yeah, yeah, whatever. No one cares. Take your foreigner gods and do whatever you want with them off our land." The guard rolls his eyes "But you lot brought your problems and made them ours. We're not a battleground for you zealots to go and murder each other. Quite frankly, maybe I should have whomever started that fight hanged for good measure." The guard sneers.
"He's the one who was the source of it all." T’kharr scoffs then looks back to see if any of her party mates are going to join her on deck. Only Balan has joined her.
"From what the witnesses said? It was you lot that started the fight. And then you killed him. Her. Whatever." The guard huffs, "And then took their things too... That's murder and robbery."
Balan decides to speak up, “Aye he provoked and talked ill of one of your gods then decided he was going to kill our shamaness, so I say they got what came to them.”
The guard looks over to Balan "I don't care who talks ill of the gods around here." He says with a snort "From what we heard, it was you lot that attacked and murdered someone. So, unless you're going to give up some recompense, I want you and your lot off this island within the hour."
Fwangzhu snarls and mutters something about, 'bastard wants a bribe'.
Balan huffs out a little smoke. “We see it as; we did you a favor and your wanting to be paid off.”
"You didn't do us any favor; you flat out murdered someone in front of how many patrons?" The guard snorts, "If you're gonna be unreasonable, what I'm going to do is issue a fine, and tell you lot to get out and not come back."
“Perhaps we can come to an agreement that doesn’t involve with leaving or paying a fine.” Balan insists.
“Yeah? …" The Guard looks over skeptically.
"If you folks have some...other sort of problem we might be able to solve for you...perhaps we could repay in-kind?" T’kharr asks.
Balan smiles and chuckles, “Aye we are quite good at removing problems as it seems...and creating them as well.”
"What, you lot want to go kill someone for us so we can call it even?" The guardsman sneers ,"Right now the only problem we had to deal with for a while is /you/ lot. So, nothing on our plates there." Silgara looks over, raising an eyebrow, perhaps seeming to deduce something, but keeps quiet. Fwangzhu also seems either uncaring or just hanging in the back. Though does look ready to maul or snarl at the guards if things get bad.
“Makes me wonder what happened to the last guards that tried to kick us out of a town.” Balan smirks and laughs.
"That's how you want to play it, tough guy?" The Guard looks over. "Fine. Whatever. Get your lot outta here. You got an hour and don't try anything funny. We're watching." The Guard huffs, then moves off, his fellows exit, but they remain on the docking ramp, watching you.
Fwangzhu snarls at T'Kharr and Balan. "Wow; That was record time! So, what the fuck happened?" Balan just steps below deck to go check on Mingzhu.
Silgara sighs, looking at Fwangzhu, "Unfortunately, someone from my own past made it clear they were going to cause trouble. Mingzhu was the first to strike, but they killed Moonsinger. Let me be clear, Moonsinger is an utter deplorable wretch who would have been a danger to any innocents here, so I cannot help but support the decision, despite how this politically did not work for us."
Fwangzhu snarls, "Nor'vee hasn't returned."
"Aye, it also shows what sort of lot they cast in with as a policy, if they can't be arced to recognize that someone who worships the Nightsinger in such a way would have been a threat to the entire village." T’kharr remarks.
"Who the fuck is the Nightsinger?" Fwangzhu looks over.
Silgara sighs, "Keep in mind these people here are not well versed in the ways of those outside Kara-Tur, I doubt many of them care to."
"One of the darkest gods in the Western world, basically the antithesis of the Western moon goddess Selune if that helps you get an idea." T’kharr explains.
"Though from what we have heard of how Zuodong's domain is run..." Silgara muses.
Fwangzhu huffs, "Okay, so a bastard Foreigner God. But I've never heard of your Selune until now either."
"Aye...would be in character for them to at least let themselves be deceived by the dark words from the tongue of someone such as Moonsinger, if not shelter them outright." T’kharr remarks to Silgara. Then asks, "Got a Sending you can cast?" to Silgara "We'll need to pick Nor'vee up somehow."
"Keep in mind we did here there were Yakuza present here." Silgara says, "If they're in their pockets, they wouldn't want us investigating matters. Though maybe they don't know we're looking into that. It's entirely plausible they just think we spontaneously committed a murder here." Then she shakes her head "I'm afraid I don't." in response to T’kharr’s Question.
T’kharr frowns softly, "We'll have to cast off for a bit then and see about picking up Nor'vee at night, somewhere out of sight. I can get a Sending prayer prepared once I rest and pray again."
Silgara nods "I'd better go have us cast off then. Fortunately, this island isn't as heavily populated at Kurozhan, so we should be able to find somewhere to dock, hopefully, without being seen."
"Aye or at least be within swimming distance of the shore." T’kharr affirms.
Silgara goes to move the boat off, a heavy sigh, "We'll need some time for Mingzhu to recover as well."
“Right.” T’kharr remembers.
Fwangzhu snorts, "Those guards wanted us to bribe them. Not surprised they ran us off. They had enough legal standing to get away with." He snarls, "This better not get in the way of rescuing Tzukine’s people."
"I'm pretty sure we can find a way even with the challenges the Moonsinger encounter has given us." T’kharr snorts.
Silgara sighs, "I do have to apologize for that. Moonsinger, well, they were after me, in a fashion."
"Aye, and in a way that was worse than a straight-up assassin, even....with someone who's just trying to kill you, the law generally will be on your side. Someone trying to manipulate and twist like that, though..." T’kharr sighs and rubs her forehead.
Moonsinger I'm afraid was quite good at that." Silgara frowns, "They were likely going to resort to outright murder later, but not in a way that can be easily proven. They also seem to know to go after those most innocent while leaving the corrupt alive."
"Feh. Good riddance then." Fwangzhu snorts.
Silgara looks aside at T'Kharr. "I can try to take us around the island to scope for a good landing zone."
“That would be a good idea.” The gnoll responds. Silgara turns the ship and heads to the other side of the island.
T’kharr goes down with him, “Wasn't really any of our faults I reckon...some bloody sneaky backstabber of an elf had a hard-on for hating on Silgara." She sighs, "We won't have to worry about his shady arse any longer, at least, though."
Silgara sighs, "It... admittedly, their presence does make things more complicated, but yes, I knew them, they knew me. They were specifically after me, I reckon. It means my family likely sent Moonsinger to find me." She frowns.
Xrochdyr is in a room below deck. Zsikhou stays with Mingzhu. A sharp frown crosses T’kharr’s muzzle upon hearing that. She reaches out to hug Silgara now that Mingzhu is safely ensconced in a bed to recover. Balan replies, “Aye, well that one found you and paid the price.
Silgara finds the hug most awkward, a blink, but speaks after the hug is over. "I … probably. I do hope my family won't find a way to return them. She rubs her face "All the same it's... no, I'm glad you were there to help. Knowing Moonsinger, they would have tried to engineer a situation where I would have had to attack them to stop them, which is something that would have branded me N’Tel’Quessir, So... thank you. I'm sorry I had you dragged into that. I suppose if you want to ask anything, well..." Silgara sighs, "Unfortunately being around me is likely to invite danger from my family, I had hoped being here, I would be away from their reach and view. Maybe with Moonsinger dead, I'll be away from them for a bit longer. Regardless, I know we have other matters to tend to. I'll do everything I can to help see them through." T’kharr lets go of her after a bit.
Zsikhou stays with Mingzhu. though he very much wanted a hug too
"Once Mingzhu awakens, let’s go through the spoils from the last couple of battles and see what else folks want, I reckon we'll be selling off the rest." T’kharr states going back to the business at hand.
Silgara nods, "Fair, good idea..." After about an hour, however... Fwangzhu looks over at T'Kharr and Balan, snarling, "Hey you lot! Got some of the guard coming near our ship. Whatever you lot got involved in, looks like they're pretty pissed off."
Silgara sighs "Oh great... Moonsinger still manages to torment me from beyond the grave. Just like them… Sharran.”
T'kharr heads out on deck to address the guards. "Is this in reference to the dustup in the tavern involving that Moonsinger figure?"
"Yeah, it's about you freaks coming in and murdering someone in broad daylight! Who do you lot think you are?" The Guard sneers over at T'Kharr.
"I gave him the chance for mercy. He refused it." T’kharr says with resolve.
"You mean after you and your lot attacked him? Some mercy." The guard sneers. There's two guards at the man's flanks, though the one in question has some slightly better-looking armor. "You came and murdered someone in our village. Quite frankly, they were some foreigner we don't care about. But then again, so are you. And you were causing trouble. So, what are you going to do about it?" The Guard takes a step towards T'Kharr.
"I'm glad you don't care about him, because taking his side in the matter...well, suffice it to say Moonsinger worshipped one of the darkest gods in the West." T’kharr gives them a soft frown, "He was bent on provocation, and was twisting words, speaking the lies of a god I reckon none of you would want anything to do with."
"Yeah, yeah, whatever. No one cares. Take your foreigner gods and do whatever you want with them off our land." The guard rolls his eyes "But you lot brought your problems and made them ours. We're not a battleground for you zealots to go and murder each other. Quite frankly, maybe I should have whomever started that fight hanged for good measure." The guard sneers.
"He's the one who was the source of it all." T’kharr scoffs then looks back to see if any of her party mates are going to join her on deck. Only Balan has joined her.
"From what the witnesses said? It was you lot that started the fight. And then you killed him. Her. Whatever." The guard huffs, "And then took their things too... That's murder and robbery."
Balan decides to speak up, “Aye he provoked and talked ill of one of your gods then decided he was going to kill our shamaness, so I say they got what came to them.”
The guard looks over to Balan "I don't care who talks ill of the gods around here." He says with a snort "From what we heard, it was you lot that attacked and murdered someone. So, unless you're going to give up some recompense, I want you and your lot off this island within the hour."
Fwangzhu snarls and mutters something about, 'bastard wants a bribe'.
Balan huffs out a little smoke. “We see it as; we did you a favor and your wanting to be paid off.”
"You didn't do us any favor; you flat out murdered someone in front of how many patrons?" The guard snorts, "If you're gonna be unreasonable, what I'm going to do is issue a fine, and tell you lot to get out and not come back."
“Perhaps we can come to an agreement that doesn’t involve with leaving or paying a fine.” Balan insists.
“Yeah? …" The Guard looks over skeptically.
"If you folks have some...other sort of problem we might be able to solve for you...perhaps we could repay in-kind?" T’kharr asks.
Balan smiles and chuckles, “Aye we are quite good at removing problems as it seems...and creating them as well.”
"What, you lot want to go kill someone for us so we can call it even?" The guardsman sneers ,"Right now the only problem we had to deal with for a while is /you/ lot. So, nothing on our plates there." Silgara looks over, raising an eyebrow, perhaps seeming to deduce something, but keeps quiet. Fwangzhu also seems either uncaring or just hanging in the back. Though does look ready to maul or snarl at the guards if things get bad.
“Makes me wonder what happened to the last guards that tried to kick us out of a town.” Balan smirks and laughs.
"That's how you want to play it, tough guy?" The Guard looks over. "Fine. Whatever. Get your lot outta here. You got an hour and don't try anything funny. We're watching." The Guard huffs, then moves off, his fellows exit, but they remain on the docking ramp, watching you.
Fwangzhu snarls at T'Kharr and Balan. "Wow; That was record time! So, what the fuck happened?" Balan just steps below deck to go check on Mingzhu.
Silgara sighs, looking at Fwangzhu, "Unfortunately, someone from my own past made it clear they were going to cause trouble. Mingzhu was the first to strike, but they killed Moonsinger. Let me be clear, Moonsinger is an utter deplorable wretch who would have been a danger to any innocents here, so I cannot help but support the decision, despite how this politically did not work for us."
Fwangzhu snarls, "Nor'vee hasn't returned."
"Aye, it also shows what sort of lot they cast in with as a policy, if they can't be arced to recognize that someone who worships the Nightsinger in such a way would have been a threat to the entire village." T’kharr remarks.
"Who the fuck is the Nightsinger?" Fwangzhu looks over.
Silgara sighs, "Keep in mind these people here are not well versed in the ways of those outside Kara-Tur, I doubt many of them care to."
"One of the darkest gods in the Western world, basically the antithesis of the Western moon goddess Selune if that helps you get an idea." T’kharr explains.
"Though from what we have heard of how Zuodong's domain is run..." Silgara muses.
Fwangzhu huffs, "Okay, so a bastard Foreigner God. But I've never heard of your Selune until now either."
"Aye...would be in character for them to at least let themselves be deceived by the dark words from the tongue of someone such as Moonsinger, if not shelter them outright." T’kharr remarks to Silgara. Then asks, "Got a Sending you can cast?" to Silgara "We'll need to pick Nor'vee up somehow."
"Keep in mind we did here there were Yakuza present here." Silgara says, "If they're in their pockets, they wouldn't want us investigating matters. Though maybe they don't know we're looking into that. It's entirely plausible they just think we spontaneously committed a murder here." Then she shakes her head "I'm afraid I don't." in response to T’kharr’s Question.
T’kharr frowns softly, "We'll have to cast off for a bit then and see about picking up Nor'vee at night, somewhere out of sight. I can get a Sending prayer prepared once I rest and pray again."
Silgara nods "I'd better go have us cast off then. Fortunately, this island isn't as heavily populated at Kurozhan, so we should be able to find somewhere to dock, hopefully, without being seen."
"Aye or at least be within swimming distance of the shore." T’kharr affirms.
Silgara goes to move the boat off, a heavy sigh, "We'll need some time for Mingzhu to recover as well."
“Right.” T’kharr remembers.
Fwangzhu snorts, "Those guards wanted us to bribe them. Not surprised they ran us off. They had enough legal standing to get away with." He snarls, "This better not get in the way of rescuing Tzukine’s people."
"I'm pretty sure we can find a way even with the challenges the Moonsinger encounter has given us." T’kharr snorts.
Silgara sighs, "I do have to apologize for that. Moonsinger, well, they were after me, in a fashion."
"Aye, and in a way that was worse than a straight-up assassin, even....with someone who's just trying to kill you, the law generally will be on your side. Someone trying to manipulate and twist like that, though..." T’kharr sighs and rubs her forehead.
Moonsinger I'm afraid was quite good at that." Silgara frowns, "They were likely going to resort to outright murder later, but not in a way that can be easily proven. They also seem to know to go after those most innocent while leaving the corrupt alive."
"Feh. Good riddance then." Fwangzhu snorts.
Silgara looks aside at T'Kharr. "I can try to take us around the island to scope for a good landing zone."
“That would be a good idea.” The gnoll responds. Silgara turns the ship and heads to the other side of the island.
-
Winterhawk99
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Re: She Came from the Sea: Book 2
In the morning Mingzhu wakes up and sits still woozy from her multiple stab wounds. Balan who has been keeping watch beside her says, “Welcome back.”
Mingzhu looks down. "What happened? I saw that elf attacking Silgara and taunted him about his ancestors. He said bring it. So, I did. That’s all I remember."
"They hit you pretty hard." Zsikhou hisses, "They had Shinobi like training, if this one isn't mistaken."
“Short story is he’s no longer alive....bad part we're kicked off the island.” Balan adds.
T'kharr pokes her head below deck, addressing Zsikhou's statement with a nod, "Something like that, aye, would be consistent with their faith, as dark as it is."
Zsikhou huffs, "Well, regardless, we'll need a new plan. Or possibly to change focus. So, what's our call then?"
"I'm going to put together a Sending to recall Nor'vee to a point where we can pick him up discreetly come tonight." As she enters the room. Zsikhou nods.
Mingzhu looks like she’s trying to remember something squinting her eyes. “I was just protecting my friend.”
"Silgara explained a few things to us while you were out. From what we had heard, their execution was entirely warranted." Zsikhou nods, "Even if it wasn't a politically expedient move, if we hadn't killed them, they would likely have been a problem elsewise. Speaking of which, we might need to meet her at the map room if you are all ready to do this." He nods.
Mingzhu gets up slowly. T’kharr helps her over to the map room. They assemble in the galley. Silgara and Xrochdyr seem to be poring over the maps. Fwangzhu is also there looking over the map. Silgara looks over to Mingzhu, breathing out a sigh of relief, "I'm glad you're awake, I was quite worried after you were attacked by Moonsinger." She sighs, "I apologize for freezing in that battle."
Mingzhu tries to smile but doesn’t pull it off well, "We spoke of it before. I understand."
"I'm just glad nobody has to worry about him any longer." T’kharr explains.
Xrochdyr huffs, a nod … "Unless someone resurrects them." He hisses, "I've seen several souls of Sharrans come through Baator. They're often an extremely demented bunch."
"I doubt anyone there cares for him enough to do so. And yes...that'd be consistent with everything I've read about the Nightsinger's followers."
"Regardless, we should focus and plan our next moves." Xrochdyr says, Silgara nods, looking over the map.
"Once the recovery's done, lets land somewhere else we can trade and clean up the pile of junk we've accumulated, no? Beyond that, we can go off Nor'vee's scouting once we recover him. Balan, do you want to spread out the things we brought back from the last shadow isle?" T’kharr says.
"We docked near the southeast. That's where the port district is. Most of the western coastline is fishing village, from what Fwangzhu told me. The southeastern part is more the trades district. Further north of there is their farming district, that's where their rice crops are. Northwest of the port is where the mines are. North of there and towards the north and northeast of the isle, is apparently a volcanic mountain, and is from what we know, largely uninhabited." Silgara says, "I think that trading /here/ is off the table." She muses "We could go back to Kurozhan, or someone in Kaluso's domain, either Port Ginji or Zalusu would have the port and merchant facilities necessary for what we have. Landing on the north or northeast of the isle would be difficult. There's a lot of mountain formations there."
"Returning to Kurozhan would be the simplest when it comes to trade." T’kharr says, "And I think the folks there probably want to hear back from us regarding that shadow-island mission no? As to where to land for the recovery...northwest I think."
"I wouldn't say we really have any allies there, besides maybe Captain Manishpral." Silgara says. "Minister Quin aided us but I don't trust him one bit." She looks over the map. “Between the mountain range and the fishing village section then. Let’s just hope there's enough cover there. for the extraction."
Fwangzhu snorts, "Are we chickening out and just picking up Nor'vee, or are we going in to get Tzukine's people out of here, wherever they are?"
"I think we deal with the trading matters, then circle back here depending on what Nor'vee reports." T’kharr insists.
Silgara looks over, "Travel to Kurozhan or Zalusu would take a day, likely. And a day back. Are you sure we want to leave him here all that time?"
T’kharr shakes her head. "No. The plan's to pick him up, then trade, then return here."
Silgara nods, "Right, I'll plot a course."
Fwangzhu snarls, "What the fuck? Are we just going to leave those people there? We're not in a hurry to sell shit."
"I think that jumping right into a full-scale rescue op would be unwise, unless you folks think we've cast off for long enough that people have let their guard down?" T’kharr states rather emphatically.
"We were gone for about nine hours now, I think." Silgara says, "Obviously we can't go back to the port, but they may not expect us to go elsewhere."
Mingzhu looks at the maps and says, “I rescued Zsikhou under worse circumstances.”
Fwangzhu snorts, "I for one don't want to leave those people in the lurch any longer than they have to."
"Look, Nor'vee can handle himself, he's a survivor. Tzukine's people though? They can't."
"Anyway, all of this is subject to change based on what we find out from Nor'vee." T’kharr says.
Mingzhu looks up as if pleading with the gods, “Fwangzhu is right. We still have much unfinished business with the spirit and with the people of Tzukine."
"Cast your spell to talk to a spirit if it'll help us find them then." Fwangzhu snorts.
"Right then, I'll plot a course." Silgara says, "Northwest of the island."
“Aye.” T’kharr remarks.
Xrochdyr looks over. "One other consideration. I am capable of flying, so mountainous terrain won't be a problem for me. Of course, I know we shouldn't let other mortals see me with you at this time."
Mingzhu asks, “What questions do you want to ask? I have 4.”
"Like where those people are. Reference the map if we have to. We know the Yakuza have them. They had to get in somehow." Fwangzhu snorts.
"Should we ask of the spirit of Tzukine?"
"I might not be able to penetrate the barrier to the island, T'kharr, and we already know the spirit has been broken. we also know where it is."
“Fair enough.” T’kharr nods.
"You want me to find the people of Tzukine on this island. Is that correct?" Mingzhu states more than asks.
"That's what we're here for, aren't we?" Fwangzhu snorts.
"I expect Neravithox has that particular spirit bound quite heavily. I expect summoning spells will not work." Xrochdyr says, "We'd have to rely on another source, however your magic works."
Mingzhu goes into a lotus position meditating. After 10 minutes go by, she casts Trance then Commune with sprits. A spirit is called. Thankfully, it is uncorrupted. "Spirit are there people of Tzukine on this island?"
“Yes.”
“Are they forced to work the mines?”
“Yes.”
"Are they enslaved?"
“Yes.”
“Are they working the mines at night?”
“Yes.” The spirit fades.
She looks up at them, "There are people of Tzukine here on the island. They are enslaved and working the mines and they are at the mines working at night."
Silgara nods... "How many castings of that spell do you have ready?"
"Only one Silgara. I will be able to do it again tomorrow."
Silgara nods, "I guess we'll need to find them on our own then." She looks to T'Kharr "Can you cast your sending to Nor'vee, then?"
“Aye.” T’kharr casts Sending Nor'vee, sending him a message to return to a spot on the northwest coast, where the ship will be waiting.
A reply comes back to T’kharr. "Nor'vee coming. Nor'vee found several mines there. Wouldn't let Nor'vee in! Accused Nor'vee of spreading plague! Stupid Cheeseheads! Heading over."
After a moment T’kharr says. “He found the minds, but they think Nor’vee is some sort of plague-rat.”
Silgara lets out a sigh "Does that often happen to his people?" Okay, taking us in, then. Let’s hope this works." She nods, going to top deck to pilot the ship.
Mingzhu responds to her. “Yes.”
It takes about two hours of sailing around the island, sailing near the heavy rock faces. Eventually, you do come to the shoreline, albeit it's a pretty rocky outcropping. "We'll have to go in ourselves at night and try to spirit Tzukine's people away if we want to do this. And yes, the plague is...ill-understood by the furless. Hopefully Nor'vee can give us a better lay of the land regarding guards and such."
Fwangzhu huffs. The ship eventually sails around. Nor'vee manages to meet them at the shoreline. Thankfully close to the mountains, there doesn't seem to be anyone watching right now.
T’kharr pulls Nor'vee back onboard. "Good to see you back, sorry to have to recall you, there was a dust-up in town with the rest of us, suffice it to say. Perhaps you can head below deck and give us a more detailed report on the mines and how they have them guarded?"
"Nor'vee can tell! Guards tried to chase Nor'vee off!" He squeaks irritably.
"Aye, makes me want to curse them with fur." T’kharr sighs as she goes below-deck with Nor'vee.
Nor'vee huffs, then looks over. "Dust-up in town? What happened?"
"Someone from Silgara's past...a very dark and manipulative figure...came after us in the tavern. They're no more, but that got us run out of town all the same."
"Right, where to next then?" Nor'vee squeaks.
"We free the people of Tzukine." Mingzhu states flatly.
"Let’s get the mines on the map, and were you able to get any details of the guard arrangements?" T’kharr questions
"Nor'vee saw about three different mines, couldn't really get inside though." He squeaks.
Fwangzhu huffs "So we don't know which mine they're in, then?".
Xrochdyr hisses. "Could be none of them, as well."
"Aye, we could see about Mingzhu getting us a better lead once we all rest again though." T’kharr nods.
Fwangzhu growls, "Do we really want to wait that long?"
"If you think we can afford to wade through all three mines and whatever guards may be there..." T’kharr gives a look to Nor'vee "Just how heavily guarded are these mines, at least on the surface?"
"Wasn't too heavily guarded, mostly just the miners, though some ran to get guards when Nor'vee showed up and started asking questions." Nor'vee squeaks.
"Interesting. Seems like they've got a mixed lot, or at least flipped some of those they took from Tzukine? Anyway, if it's not heavily guarded....other big thing is we'll need to know is if they're running the mines in shifts..." T’kharr theorizes.
Mingzhu shrugs, “If they are mining at night, they will be in shifts.”
"Or it could be one that Nor'vee hadn't found." Xrochdyr says, "If they're running a slavery operation, they're probably not going to be open about it."
"That's possible as well. All the more reason to see about being well-rested and having Mingzhu commune with the spirits again." T’kharr nods. Fwangzhu grumbles.
"I'll take us away from the shoreline then." Silgara says, piloting the boat away. The companions take the afternoon of and sleep the night away. Mingzhu still weak from her ordeal goes quietly to her room as soon as they drop anchor. She takes a long sleep.
Mingzhu looks down. "What happened? I saw that elf attacking Silgara and taunted him about his ancestors. He said bring it. So, I did. That’s all I remember."
"They hit you pretty hard." Zsikhou hisses, "They had Shinobi like training, if this one isn't mistaken."
“Short story is he’s no longer alive....bad part we're kicked off the island.” Balan adds.
T'kharr pokes her head below deck, addressing Zsikhou's statement with a nod, "Something like that, aye, would be consistent with their faith, as dark as it is."
Zsikhou huffs, "Well, regardless, we'll need a new plan. Or possibly to change focus. So, what's our call then?"
"I'm going to put together a Sending to recall Nor'vee to a point where we can pick him up discreetly come tonight." As she enters the room. Zsikhou nods.
Mingzhu looks like she’s trying to remember something squinting her eyes. “I was just protecting my friend.”
"Silgara explained a few things to us while you were out. From what we had heard, their execution was entirely warranted." Zsikhou nods, "Even if it wasn't a politically expedient move, if we hadn't killed them, they would likely have been a problem elsewise. Speaking of which, we might need to meet her at the map room if you are all ready to do this." He nods.
Mingzhu gets up slowly. T’kharr helps her over to the map room. They assemble in the galley. Silgara and Xrochdyr seem to be poring over the maps. Fwangzhu is also there looking over the map. Silgara looks over to Mingzhu, breathing out a sigh of relief, "I'm glad you're awake, I was quite worried after you were attacked by Moonsinger." She sighs, "I apologize for freezing in that battle."
Mingzhu tries to smile but doesn’t pull it off well, "We spoke of it before. I understand."
"I'm just glad nobody has to worry about him any longer." T’kharr explains.
Xrochdyr huffs, a nod … "Unless someone resurrects them." He hisses, "I've seen several souls of Sharrans come through Baator. They're often an extremely demented bunch."
"I doubt anyone there cares for him enough to do so. And yes...that'd be consistent with everything I've read about the Nightsinger's followers."
"Regardless, we should focus and plan our next moves." Xrochdyr says, Silgara nods, looking over the map.
"Once the recovery's done, lets land somewhere else we can trade and clean up the pile of junk we've accumulated, no? Beyond that, we can go off Nor'vee's scouting once we recover him. Balan, do you want to spread out the things we brought back from the last shadow isle?" T’kharr says.
"We docked near the southeast. That's where the port district is. Most of the western coastline is fishing village, from what Fwangzhu told me. The southeastern part is more the trades district. Further north of there is their farming district, that's where their rice crops are. Northwest of the port is where the mines are. North of there and towards the north and northeast of the isle, is apparently a volcanic mountain, and is from what we know, largely uninhabited." Silgara says, "I think that trading /here/ is off the table." She muses "We could go back to Kurozhan, or someone in Kaluso's domain, either Port Ginji or Zalusu would have the port and merchant facilities necessary for what we have. Landing on the north or northeast of the isle would be difficult. There's a lot of mountain formations there."
"Returning to Kurozhan would be the simplest when it comes to trade." T’kharr says, "And I think the folks there probably want to hear back from us regarding that shadow-island mission no? As to where to land for the recovery...northwest I think."
"I wouldn't say we really have any allies there, besides maybe Captain Manishpral." Silgara says. "Minister Quin aided us but I don't trust him one bit." She looks over the map. “Between the mountain range and the fishing village section then. Let’s just hope there's enough cover there. for the extraction."
Fwangzhu snorts, "Are we chickening out and just picking up Nor'vee, or are we going in to get Tzukine's people out of here, wherever they are?"
"I think we deal with the trading matters, then circle back here depending on what Nor'vee reports." T’kharr insists.
Silgara looks over, "Travel to Kurozhan or Zalusu would take a day, likely. And a day back. Are you sure we want to leave him here all that time?"
T’kharr shakes her head. "No. The plan's to pick him up, then trade, then return here."
Silgara nods, "Right, I'll plot a course."
Fwangzhu snarls, "What the fuck? Are we just going to leave those people there? We're not in a hurry to sell shit."
"I think that jumping right into a full-scale rescue op would be unwise, unless you folks think we've cast off for long enough that people have let their guard down?" T’kharr states rather emphatically.
"We were gone for about nine hours now, I think." Silgara says, "Obviously we can't go back to the port, but they may not expect us to go elsewhere."
Mingzhu looks at the maps and says, “I rescued Zsikhou under worse circumstances.”
Fwangzhu snorts, "I for one don't want to leave those people in the lurch any longer than they have to."
"Look, Nor'vee can handle himself, he's a survivor. Tzukine's people though? They can't."
"Anyway, all of this is subject to change based on what we find out from Nor'vee." T’kharr says.
Mingzhu looks up as if pleading with the gods, “Fwangzhu is right. We still have much unfinished business with the spirit and with the people of Tzukine."
"Cast your spell to talk to a spirit if it'll help us find them then." Fwangzhu snorts.
"Right then, I'll plot a course." Silgara says, "Northwest of the island."
“Aye.” T’kharr remarks.
Xrochdyr looks over. "One other consideration. I am capable of flying, so mountainous terrain won't be a problem for me. Of course, I know we shouldn't let other mortals see me with you at this time."
Mingzhu asks, “What questions do you want to ask? I have 4.”
"Like where those people are. Reference the map if we have to. We know the Yakuza have them. They had to get in somehow." Fwangzhu snorts.
"Should we ask of the spirit of Tzukine?"
"I might not be able to penetrate the barrier to the island, T'kharr, and we already know the spirit has been broken. we also know where it is."
“Fair enough.” T’kharr nods.
"You want me to find the people of Tzukine on this island. Is that correct?" Mingzhu states more than asks.
"That's what we're here for, aren't we?" Fwangzhu snorts.
"I expect Neravithox has that particular spirit bound quite heavily. I expect summoning spells will not work." Xrochdyr says, "We'd have to rely on another source, however your magic works."
Mingzhu goes into a lotus position meditating. After 10 minutes go by, she casts Trance then Commune with sprits. A spirit is called. Thankfully, it is uncorrupted. "Spirit are there people of Tzukine on this island?"
“Yes.”
“Are they forced to work the mines?”
“Yes.”
"Are they enslaved?"
“Yes.”
“Are they working the mines at night?”
“Yes.” The spirit fades.
She looks up at them, "There are people of Tzukine here on the island. They are enslaved and working the mines and they are at the mines working at night."
Silgara nods... "How many castings of that spell do you have ready?"
"Only one Silgara. I will be able to do it again tomorrow."
Silgara nods, "I guess we'll need to find them on our own then." She looks to T'Kharr "Can you cast your sending to Nor'vee, then?"
“Aye.” T’kharr casts Sending Nor'vee, sending him a message to return to a spot on the northwest coast, where the ship will be waiting.
A reply comes back to T’kharr. "Nor'vee coming. Nor'vee found several mines there. Wouldn't let Nor'vee in! Accused Nor'vee of spreading plague! Stupid Cheeseheads! Heading over."
After a moment T’kharr says. “He found the minds, but they think Nor’vee is some sort of plague-rat.”
Silgara lets out a sigh "Does that often happen to his people?" Okay, taking us in, then. Let’s hope this works." She nods, going to top deck to pilot the ship.
Mingzhu responds to her. “Yes.”
It takes about two hours of sailing around the island, sailing near the heavy rock faces. Eventually, you do come to the shoreline, albeit it's a pretty rocky outcropping. "We'll have to go in ourselves at night and try to spirit Tzukine's people away if we want to do this. And yes, the plague is...ill-understood by the furless. Hopefully Nor'vee can give us a better lay of the land regarding guards and such."
Fwangzhu huffs. The ship eventually sails around. Nor'vee manages to meet them at the shoreline. Thankfully close to the mountains, there doesn't seem to be anyone watching right now.
T’kharr pulls Nor'vee back onboard. "Good to see you back, sorry to have to recall you, there was a dust-up in town with the rest of us, suffice it to say. Perhaps you can head below deck and give us a more detailed report on the mines and how they have them guarded?"
"Nor'vee can tell! Guards tried to chase Nor'vee off!" He squeaks irritably.
"Aye, makes me want to curse them with fur." T’kharr sighs as she goes below-deck with Nor'vee.
Nor'vee huffs, then looks over. "Dust-up in town? What happened?"
"Someone from Silgara's past...a very dark and manipulative figure...came after us in the tavern. They're no more, but that got us run out of town all the same."
"Right, where to next then?" Nor'vee squeaks.
"We free the people of Tzukine." Mingzhu states flatly.
"Let’s get the mines on the map, and were you able to get any details of the guard arrangements?" T’kharr questions
"Nor'vee saw about three different mines, couldn't really get inside though." He squeaks.
Fwangzhu huffs "So we don't know which mine they're in, then?".
Xrochdyr hisses. "Could be none of them, as well."
"Aye, we could see about Mingzhu getting us a better lead once we all rest again though." T’kharr nods.
Fwangzhu growls, "Do we really want to wait that long?"
"If you think we can afford to wade through all three mines and whatever guards may be there..." T’kharr gives a look to Nor'vee "Just how heavily guarded are these mines, at least on the surface?"
"Wasn't too heavily guarded, mostly just the miners, though some ran to get guards when Nor'vee showed up and started asking questions." Nor'vee squeaks.
"Interesting. Seems like they've got a mixed lot, or at least flipped some of those they took from Tzukine? Anyway, if it's not heavily guarded....other big thing is we'll need to know is if they're running the mines in shifts..." T’kharr theorizes.
Mingzhu shrugs, “If they are mining at night, they will be in shifts.”
"Or it could be one that Nor'vee hadn't found." Xrochdyr says, "If they're running a slavery operation, they're probably not going to be open about it."
"That's possible as well. All the more reason to see about being well-rested and having Mingzhu commune with the spirits again." T’kharr nods. Fwangzhu grumbles.
"I'll take us away from the shoreline then." Silgara says, piloting the boat away. The companions take the afternoon of and sleep the night away. Mingzhu still weak from her ordeal goes quietly to her room as soon as they drop anchor. She takes a long sleep.
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Winterhawk99
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Re: She Came from the Sea: Book 2
Nor’vee stares at Xrochdyr. “In Nor’vee’s experience, Yokai are always dangerous to work with.”
Xrochdyr studies Nor'vee, a chuckle at that. "Probably. The thing is that most planar beings operate at a level which most mortals don't comprehend. And even for the learned, there are always factors that are unknown, obscure, or difficult to comprehend."
Nor'vee narrows his eyes. "Us Dark hunters have studied Yokai extensively."
Xrochdyr shrugs. "And yet I can guarantee you there are always sections that are not known. And in the case of infernal law, knowing how it is actually applied is another topic too. Like for instance, do you know what the laws and subsections regarding manifested assent are?"
Nor'vee raises an eyebrow. "Never heard of manifested assent. Never came up. Most of my people know enough about not dealing with Yokai like you for it to not come up."
Xrochdyr grunts a moment and says, “Perhaps wise, because you're always on the back foot unless you do know the ins and outs of it. When dealing with a planar being? You're always at a disadvantage. It's by design."
Fwangzhu takes a +2 cloak of resistance from the pile of treasure they collected. T’kharr claims the +3 bracers of armor, putting her old +2 set in the pile for anyone to use if they want them. Xrochdyr grabs up a +1 ring of protection. T’kharr looks over everything and comments, “I take it nobody wishes second rank bracers of armor, a light crossbow, the headband of intellect, or the daggers? Also, who wants custody of Black Rackham's pistol and its associated accessories?"
Silgara examines the pistol with keen interest. "I wonder where he got that thing? Looks... gnomish? But do any of us know how to operate it?"
T’kharr gently takes it from her and turns it over. “They operate much like a crossbow, except for the loading process being rather different from my limited readings on the subject."
Silgara turns toward Mingzhu. "Could you use the crossbow? Or you for that matter?" as her eyes then meet T’kharr’s.
Xrochdyr lets out a rough breath, "I can use it if no one else wants it, in case I need a ranged weapon I guess"
T’kharr shakes her head. “Crossbows are not my suit as far as ranged weapons go. I can shoot one if I have to, but I wouldn't carry it, and sure, the crossbow's yours then."
"Unless it would be more suited for the Shamaness," Xrochdyr suggests.
Zsikhou answers flatly. "Could use it too, admittedly, for longer ranged foes."
Mingzhu catalogs the rest of the pile for sale. She then arranges it neatly in the hold for when they sail to a good merchant port now that everyone has taken what they wanted. She herself took nothing. Nothing truly interested her. Afterward the everyone rests as they sail from the island.
During the rest Nor’vee and Xrochdyr end up bantering on deck. Nor’vee approaches Xrochdyr. “Hrm, yokai, Nor’vee has some questions for you. Nor’vee wants to know about the Yokai known as ‘Rakshasa’.”
“If you want to know how to kill them, a blessed crossbow bolt through the heart will do the trick.” Xrochdyr replies. “Piercing holy weapons if you face them in battle are most effective. They also typically have potent enchantment and illusion magic, as well as other innate sorcery, such as innate shape changing abilities. But I expect more pertinent will be what they are often like. Rakshasa tend to infiltrate mortal societies, where they scheme to find their way into positions of power, nobility, and influence. They are natural hedonists, who enjoy bossing slaves and servants around and having their every whim satisfied.”
Nor’vee takes note. ““Good to know, anything else? Sounds just like CAT!”
“They may have originally been a manifestation of mortal beliefs regarding the worst of feline behavior. Despite this, they actually do have ordered societies among the outer planes, particularly in Acheron, and are more disposed towards order than chaos, even if corrupted like the Baatezu, though they are not Baatezu. Typically, their holdings are ruled over by a Maharajah, who have several Rajahs who answer to them. You don’t see many in Baator, but I have seen Rakshasa slave traders stop by Dis before.”
Nor’vee just looks along, listening, before speaking “Fits stupid CAT Yokai to make willing slaves out of cheesehead humans, JUST LIKE NORMAL CAT!”
“I would caution one thing out of this, even though I don’t know the full context.” Xrochdyr flexes his claws, clicking his tongue. “While fiendish manipulations, and Rakshasa are similar enough, does exist, a lot of those portions of evil and cruelty already exist within mortal hearts already. I have the feeling that whatever situation you are dealing with involving a Rakshasa, it won’t be so simply solved by just killing them. Of course, you probably should. Fixing the underlying problems will likely be harder than just shooting them away.” Xrochdyr explains. Nor’vee glares, as if having a nerve struck, his front rodent teeth showing, but turns away and goes silent. Xrochdyr watches as he goes.
Later that night Xrochdyr comes up on deck and sees Silgara at the wheel. She notes the movement and the form as he walks over. He comments in a soft voice, “It’s pretty clear that… whatever happened with this Moonsinger has rattled you.”
Silgara snaps, “I do not need the comfort, support, or advice of a /devil/ of all things for this. It’s… a family matter. Leave it be.”
Xrochdyr just keeps watching, unfazed by the outburst, he just pauses, thinking things through. “Whatever corruption or misdeeds they have stained their souls with, you aren’t condemned because of it. The planes don’t recognize family in regard to assessing a mortal’s soul.”
Silgara glares at Xrochdyr. “Then perhaps you don’t understand something like this. Leave it be.”
Xrochdyr’s gaze lingers on Silgara for a time. “Maybe not, but I can tell when a source of stress is affecting a team member. Personal matters do come up, even for Baatezu. If you don’t feel comfortable speaking about it with me, that’s understandable.”
“Why? Don’t tell me you actually care.”
Xrochdyr looks away a time, it takes him some time before he can respond. “I…” There’s a pause. “Would prefer you have a clear mind for what is needed ahead.”
Silgara snorts, “Of course it’s that. Just… leave it be, devil.” Xrochdyr turns and walks away.
In the early hours T’kharr also approaches Silgara: A soft frown on her muzzle. “Did you wish to talk at all about the Moonsinger situation?"
Silgara sighs and looks down a moment trying to come up with an answer. Finally, she does and looks back up at the gnoll. "If you want... it was a situation that put the rest of you in danger after all." She sighs, leaning back, sitting in a chair. I suppose it bothers me that... that an elf like Moonsinger is still considered part of the elven people despite all they did. And if I were to have killed them, I'd be forever banished from them. It's not like their proclivities were unknown. My family kept in contact with them. Always with excuses, but they were happy to help with doing horrible things to non-elves." She shakes her head.
T’Kharr listens for a bit, then says, "That is a deep puzzle indeed...how one deals with those who only understand the language of violence when one is forbidden themselves from employing, or ordering the employment, of violence upon them."
"To the elven people, the lives of our own are sacred." She shakes her head. "Perhaps we learned the lessons of the Crown Wars too well. Or not enough. Regardless, it is something I am quite familiar with. As long as one stays within the guidelines of the Seldarine, and I know there are evils that would see one branded as N'Tel'Quessir, they can do much evil and our people would do nothing, or at least nothing effective to stop them." She sighs heavily, "It's how the Eldreth Veluuthra have come to be so prevalent as they are."
"Aye, I have read of the Eldreth and their ways before."
"My immediate family is involved. I'm... unfortunately quite familiar." She frowns. "And they've attempted to curtail my mingling with non-elves by murdering those I spend time around."
"Talk about having a bunch of ungrateful sods for a family." The frown on her muzzle deepens.
"They'd rather I be helping them 'purge the lesser races." Silgara says it with a notable seething, "But I've learned there's nothing I can do to correct their course or that they will ever listen to me. And the worst part is they actually care for me in their own, sick, twisted way, like they want me to be part of the family and involved in their heinous actions. I don't have a solution to this problem... I ..." She lets out a breath, "When you killed Moonsinger, it was the first time I've seen anyone in my company able to stand up to any of them, or their associates. I'm afraid the others are even worse, but... thank you. It's a relief that Moonsinger is dead. And I don't care if the Seldarine frowns on me for saying that." She even manages to smile. Troubled as it appears. "So... thank you."
"I wasn't going to let someone like that simply run roughshod over us. Those sorts of folks...their deception makes them weak of mind, weak of will, unable to escape their own lies and see what stands before them."
"Well, you definitely helped prove that. I'm afraid the rest of my family, if they come looking for me, will likely be stronger. But... maybe you can manage. For now, though, well, I'll do what I can to help with the problems here. Come what may."
"Aye, and it's not like I'm going to stop training either. I wonder perhaps...if you could find allies among your own People, in further-flung parts of the world? Elves do seem to make it quite far and wide..."
"I don't think they'd help in this matter. Any of our people know that to strike down another of our own would be branded N'Tel'Quessir, and quite frankly, censure does not do much to curtail the Eldreth Veluuthra. But maybe I'll come up with a better plan later."
"Perhaps. I reckon we should keep our eyes peeled for potential allies in this battle in any case."
Silgara nods. "Agreed. Not sure where we'd get them here, unless we somehow made friends with the emperor’s court. Convincing them that the problems are real is going to be difficult though."
"Doesn't mean we have to stoop or grovel, but if we can find folks who understand your predicament and can aid us, that would be useful all the same."
"For now, I think our fight against Lejargamael and Neravithox takes precedence in import."
“Indeed,” T’kharr exclaims.
"Was there ought else you'd like to discuss, then?" Silgara asks as she checks the heading.
"Hm. The matter of who wants to try to figure out how to work Black Rackham's handgun, at some point. Doesn't have to be now, but that is a fairly nasty weapon, and I'm not exactly keen on selling it off to get dropped right into the hands of the highest bidder"
"Hrm... the ... ah, right, his ranged weapon. It looks gnomish in origin. I wonder how he got that... Hrm, if I knew a gnomish artificer or cleric of Gond, I'd recommend going to them about it. I think the gnomes of Lantan tinker with such weaponry, but it's as far as I know experimental and still in development. But I don't know where we'd find a gnomish artificer around here, admittedly."
"Right. That is something we can keep an eye out for as well. Even if they aren't a gnome, an artificer or other similar sort might be able to tell us a thing or two about it"
"I don't think we've met anyone with that kind of expertise, unless the trading companies have someone."
"That's where I'd expect to find it." T’kharr assures.
"Probably more the westerners than the Zakharans, admittedly. The other thing is that I don't know how easy it will be to get whatever is required to make it fire. It doesn't use arrows or bolts." The elf thinks a moment then says, “Well, we can keep an eye out for one, then." She nods "Hrm, was there anything else?"
"I think that's about it. Thinking Zsikhou might want the crossbow from the big pile unless someone else already took it and also want Balan to have a last look at it as well before we set it aside to sell it."
"I think Xrochdyr did, well, I suppose Zsikhou could use it, but Zsikhou has that shuriken… Ah, was there ought else?"
"Hm. I don't think so, until we start getting together as a group to plan the upcoming rescue mission."
"Of course. Ah, I hope Mingzhu prepares multiple castings of her spell. Otherwise, we'd have to scout on foot. Or wings I guess, if we want to risk Xrochdyr flying for aerial reconnaissance. Or myself. I learned the Overland Flight spell. If we don't want to risk reconnaissance, I suppose we should check to see if Mingzhu's preparations are ready". Silgara mentions.
"That's good to know, I have flight magic as well if that is helpful, and yes...let’s check to see if Mingzhu's preparations are ready."
Silgara locks the wheel. They go to Mingzhu’s cabin.
Xrochdyr studies Nor'vee, a chuckle at that. "Probably. The thing is that most planar beings operate at a level which most mortals don't comprehend. And even for the learned, there are always factors that are unknown, obscure, or difficult to comprehend."
Nor'vee narrows his eyes. "Us Dark hunters have studied Yokai extensively."
Xrochdyr shrugs. "And yet I can guarantee you there are always sections that are not known. And in the case of infernal law, knowing how it is actually applied is another topic too. Like for instance, do you know what the laws and subsections regarding manifested assent are?"
Nor'vee raises an eyebrow. "Never heard of manifested assent. Never came up. Most of my people know enough about not dealing with Yokai like you for it to not come up."
Xrochdyr grunts a moment and says, “Perhaps wise, because you're always on the back foot unless you do know the ins and outs of it. When dealing with a planar being? You're always at a disadvantage. It's by design."
Fwangzhu takes a +2 cloak of resistance from the pile of treasure they collected. T’kharr claims the +3 bracers of armor, putting her old +2 set in the pile for anyone to use if they want them. Xrochdyr grabs up a +1 ring of protection. T’kharr looks over everything and comments, “I take it nobody wishes second rank bracers of armor, a light crossbow, the headband of intellect, or the daggers? Also, who wants custody of Black Rackham's pistol and its associated accessories?"
Silgara examines the pistol with keen interest. "I wonder where he got that thing? Looks... gnomish? But do any of us know how to operate it?"
T’kharr gently takes it from her and turns it over. “They operate much like a crossbow, except for the loading process being rather different from my limited readings on the subject."
Silgara turns toward Mingzhu. "Could you use the crossbow? Or you for that matter?" as her eyes then meet T’kharr’s.
Xrochdyr lets out a rough breath, "I can use it if no one else wants it, in case I need a ranged weapon I guess"
T’kharr shakes her head. “Crossbows are not my suit as far as ranged weapons go. I can shoot one if I have to, but I wouldn't carry it, and sure, the crossbow's yours then."
"Unless it would be more suited for the Shamaness," Xrochdyr suggests.
Zsikhou answers flatly. "Could use it too, admittedly, for longer ranged foes."
Mingzhu catalogs the rest of the pile for sale. She then arranges it neatly in the hold for when they sail to a good merchant port now that everyone has taken what they wanted. She herself took nothing. Nothing truly interested her. Afterward the everyone rests as they sail from the island.
During the rest Nor’vee and Xrochdyr end up bantering on deck. Nor’vee approaches Xrochdyr. “Hrm, yokai, Nor’vee has some questions for you. Nor’vee wants to know about the Yokai known as ‘Rakshasa’.”
“If you want to know how to kill them, a blessed crossbow bolt through the heart will do the trick.” Xrochdyr replies. “Piercing holy weapons if you face them in battle are most effective. They also typically have potent enchantment and illusion magic, as well as other innate sorcery, such as innate shape changing abilities. But I expect more pertinent will be what they are often like. Rakshasa tend to infiltrate mortal societies, where they scheme to find their way into positions of power, nobility, and influence. They are natural hedonists, who enjoy bossing slaves and servants around and having their every whim satisfied.”
Nor’vee takes note. ““Good to know, anything else? Sounds just like CAT!”
“They may have originally been a manifestation of mortal beliefs regarding the worst of feline behavior. Despite this, they actually do have ordered societies among the outer planes, particularly in Acheron, and are more disposed towards order than chaos, even if corrupted like the Baatezu, though they are not Baatezu. Typically, their holdings are ruled over by a Maharajah, who have several Rajahs who answer to them. You don’t see many in Baator, but I have seen Rakshasa slave traders stop by Dis before.”
Nor’vee just looks along, listening, before speaking “Fits stupid CAT Yokai to make willing slaves out of cheesehead humans, JUST LIKE NORMAL CAT!”
“I would caution one thing out of this, even though I don’t know the full context.” Xrochdyr flexes his claws, clicking his tongue. “While fiendish manipulations, and Rakshasa are similar enough, does exist, a lot of those portions of evil and cruelty already exist within mortal hearts already. I have the feeling that whatever situation you are dealing with involving a Rakshasa, it won’t be so simply solved by just killing them. Of course, you probably should. Fixing the underlying problems will likely be harder than just shooting them away.” Xrochdyr explains. Nor’vee glares, as if having a nerve struck, his front rodent teeth showing, but turns away and goes silent. Xrochdyr watches as he goes.
Later that night Xrochdyr comes up on deck and sees Silgara at the wheel. She notes the movement and the form as he walks over. He comments in a soft voice, “It’s pretty clear that… whatever happened with this Moonsinger has rattled you.”
Silgara snaps, “I do not need the comfort, support, or advice of a /devil/ of all things for this. It’s… a family matter. Leave it be.”
Xrochdyr just keeps watching, unfazed by the outburst, he just pauses, thinking things through. “Whatever corruption or misdeeds they have stained their souls with, you aren’t condemned because of it. The planes don’t recognize family in regard to assessing a mortal’s soul.”
Silgara glares at Xrochdyr. “Then perhaps you don’t understand something like this. Leave it be.”
Xrochdyr’s gaze lingers on Silgara for a time. “Maybe not, but I can tell when a source of stress is affecting a team member. Personal matters do come up, even for Baatezu. If you don’t feel comfortable speaking about it with me, that’s understandable.”
“Why? Don’t tell me you actually care.”
Xrochdyr looks away a time, it takes him some time before he can respond. “I…” There’s a pause. “Would prefer you have a clear mind for what is needed ahead.”
Silgara snorts, “Of course it’s that. Just… leave it be, devil.” Xrochdyr turns and walks away.
In the early hours T’kharr also approaches Silgara: A soft frown on her muzzle. “Did you wish to talk at all about the Moonsinger situation?"
Silgara sighs and looks down a moment trying to come up with an answer. Finally, she does and looks back up at the gnoll. "If you want... it was a situation that put the rest of you in danger after all." She sighs, leaning back, sitting in a chair. I suppose it bothers me that... that an elf like Moonsinger is still considered part of the elven people despite all they did. And if I were to have killed them, I'd be forever banished from them. It's not like their proclivities were unknown. My family kept in contact with them. Always with excuses, but they were happy to help with doing horrible things to non-elves." She shakes her head.
T’Kharr listens for a bit, then says, "That is a deep puzzle indeed...how one deals with those who only understand the language of violence when one is forbidden themselves from employing, or ordering the employment, of violence upon them."
"To the elven people, the lives of our own are sacred." She shakes her head. "Perhaps we learned the lessons of the Crown Wars too well. Or not enough. Regardless, it is something I am quite familiar with. As long as one stays within the guidelines of the Seldarine, and I know there are evils that would see one branded as N'Tel'Quessir, they can do much evil and our people would do nothing, or at least nothing effective to stop them." She sighs heavily, "It's how the Eldreth Veluuthra have come to be so prevalent as they are."
"Aye, I have read of the Eldreth and their ways before."
"My immediate family is involved. I'm... unfortunately quite familiar." She frowns. "And they've attempted to curtail my mingling with non-elves by murdering those I spend time around."
"Talk about having a bunch of ungrateful sods for a family." The frown on her muzzle deepens.
"They'd rather I be helping them 'purge the lesser races." Silgara says it with a notable seething, "But I've learned there's nothing I can do to correct their course or that they will ever listen to me. And the worst part is they actually care for me in their own, sick, twisted way, like they want me to be part of the family and involved in their heinous actions. I don't have a solution to this problem... I ..." She lets out a breath, "When you killed Moonsinger, it was the first time I've seen anyone in my company able to stand up to any of them, or their associates. I'm afraid the others are even worse, but... thank you. It's a relief that Moonsinger is dead. And I don't care if the Seldarine frowns on me for saying that." She even manages to smile. Troubled as it appears. "So... thank you."
"I wasn't going to let someone like that simply run roughshod over us. Those sorts of folks...their deception makes them weak of mind, weak of will, unable to escape their own lies and see what stands before them."
"Well, you definitely helped prove that. I'm afraid the rest of my family, if they come looking for me, will likely be stronger. But... maybe you can manage. For now, though, well, I'll do what I can to help with the problems here. Come what may."
"Aye, and it's not like I'm going to stop training either. I wonder perhaps...if you could find allies among your own People, in further-flung parts of the world? Elves do seem to make it quite far and wide..."
"I don't think they'd help in this matter. Any of our people know that to strike down another of our own would be branded N'Tel'Quessir, and quite frankly, censure does not do much to curtail the Eldreth Veluuthra. But maybe I'll come up with a better plan later."
"Perhaps. I reckon we should keep our eyes peeled for potential allies in this battle in any case."
Silgara nods. "Agreed. Not sure where we'd get them here, unless we somehow made friends with the emperor’s court. Convincing them that the problems are real is going to be difficult though."
"Doesn't mean we have to stoop or grovel, but if we can find folks who understand your predicament and can aid us, that would be useful all the same."
"For now, I think our fight against Lejargamael and Neravithox takes precedence in import."
“Indeed,” T’kharr exclaims.
"Was there ought else you'd like to discuss, then?" Silgara asks as she checks the heading.
"Hm. The matter of who wants to try to figure out how to work Black Rackham's handgun, at some point. Doesn't have to be now, but that is a fairly nasty weapon, and I'm not exactly keen on selling it off to get dropped right into the hands of the highest bidder"
"Hrm... the ... ah, right, his ranged weapon. It looks gnomish in origin. I wonder how he got that... Hrm, if I knew a gnomish artificer or cleric of Gond, I'd recommend going to them about it. I think the gnomes of Lantan tinker with such weaponry, but it's as far as I know experimental and still in development. But I don't know where we'd find a gnomish artificer around here, admittedly."
"Right. That is something we can keep an eye out for as well. Even if they aren't a gnome, an artificer or other similar sort might be able to tell us a thing or two about it"
"I don't think we've met anyone with that kind of expertise, unless the trading companies have someone."
"That's where I'd expect to find it." T’kharr assures.
"Probably more the westerners than the Zakharans, admittedly. The other thing is that I don't know how easy it will be to get whatever is required to make it fire. It doesn't use arrows or bolts." The elf thinks a moment then says, “Well, we can keep an eye out for one, then." She nods "Hrm, was there anything else?"
"I think that's about it. Thinking Zsikhou might want the crossbow from the big pile unless someone else already took it and also want Balan to have a last look at it as well before we set it aside to sell it."
"I think Xrochdyr did, well, I suppose Zsikhou could use it, but Zsikhou has that shuriken… Ah, was there ought else?"
"Hm. I don't think so, until we start getting together as a group to plan the upcoming rescue mission."
"Of course. Ah, I hope Mingzhu prepares multiple castings of her spell. Otherwise, we'd have to scout on foot. Or wings I guess, if we want to risk Xrochdyr flying for aerial reconnaissance. Or myself. I learned the Overland Flight spell. If we don't want to risk reconnaissance, I suppose we should check to see if Mingzhu's preparations are ready". Silgara mentions.
"That's good to know, I have flight magic as well if that is helpful, and yes...let’s check to see if Mingzhu's preparations are ready."
Silgara locks the wheel. They go to Mingzhu’s cabin.