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Jaden has connected.
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Brian:
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Cool. Didn't know if you were ready or
just loggin on
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Brian:
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alright. Do you need any recap?
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Jaden:
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No, I think I'm good
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Brian:
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Alright then. Are you up to anything
in your room?
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Jaden:
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He'd probably be writing a letter to
send back home
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Jaden:
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Assuming he could write of course
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Jaden:
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And the materials would be allowed him
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Brian:
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The materials are allowed you, and you
can read apparently (you read Aema's letter)
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Jaden:
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When he'd finish with that, if he
wasn't interrupted, he'd want to see if he could get some form of
funds sent to his family
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Jaden:
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As clearly he's not making barrels
anymore, and they'd need money to live
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Brian:
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Alright, do you seek out someone in
particular, or just wander down the hall?
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Jaden:
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I'd probably be looking for a steward
or the person I interacted with before, but other than that he'd
probably ask a maid or anyone he randomly met where he could find
someone like that
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Hand-maiden:
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Hmm, I don't know who would do that
for you...
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Hand-maiden:
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Do you know a knight or something?
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Jaden:
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Refresh my memory, I forgot to take
notes last time, who was it I originally talked with and then the
person I met in the hallway?
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Brian:
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I'll just reveal tokens for ya
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Brian:
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Eldati was the priest you met first,
Sir Eryson you met in the hall.
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Artyom Cooper:
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I originally spoke with Eldati the
priestess I believe, but I also later talked to Sir Eryson, though
I don't know if they'd be the ones that could help with this
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Hand-maiden:
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Well they're both rich, I'll tell you
that.
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Hand-maiden:
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*leans in and giggles* Some say richer
than the king.
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Artyom Cooper:
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Is that so?
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Hand-maiden:
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Where do you think all the donations
go? Our lord doesn't buy things...
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Artyom Cooper:
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I suppose so. Then, who does handle
the money usually? I'd imagine they'd be the person to go to
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Hand-maiden:
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The minister of treasure? That would
be lord Phinras. He has an office outside the palace.
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Hand-maiden:
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I don't know just where, but I know a
page who does.
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Hand-maiden:
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Who are you, again?
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Artyom Cooper:
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Artyom Cooper, I've only recently
arrived here
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Artyom Cooper:
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Would you mind showing me to this page
so I may meet with him?
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Hand-maiden:
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I think he's at the training grounds
just about now...
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Brian:
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she motions down the hall
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Guard:
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Good day my lady, my lord.
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Guard:
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Afraid I can't let you pass. King's
orders.
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Artyom Cooper:
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Oh? I'd planned on seeing Lord Phinras
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Artyom Cooper:
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Is there a way I could send a message
to him?
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Guard:
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Should the king allow it.
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Brian:
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The maiden looks at you with
suspicion...
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Artyom Cooper:
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Ah. Is there a way I could gain an
audience with the king or correspond with him in some other way to
gain this permission?
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Guard:
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They don't just let anyone talk to the
king. Sir Eryson is in charge of you, ain't he?
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Artyom Cooper:
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I've not really been told much.
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Artyom Cooper:
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As of now I don't know who's in charge
of me
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Hand-maiden:
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I'm sorry...my lord. I don't think
this is good buisness for a lady.
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Hand-maiden:
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Good day to you both.
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Artyom Cooper:
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Good day
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Brian:
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she scurries out of the castle.
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Guard:
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Not the best with the ladies I see?
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Artyom Cooper:
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I'm not here for ladies, I'm here for
my job, whatever that may be
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Artyom Cooper:
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Where can I find Sir Eryson?
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Adam has connected.
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Guard:
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He's in the training grounds, outside
the castle.
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Adam is disconnected.
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Artyom Cooper:
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So, may I exit to meet with him then?
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Guard:
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No.
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Guard:
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I'm sure he'll visit soon enough.
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Artyom Cooper:
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So, is there anything I can do until
he comes by?
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Guard:
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...do you like to whittle?
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Artyom Cooper:
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How did you know?
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Guard:
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Just a guess, I swear it.
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Guard:
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There's enough spies in this castle
with me minding my own buisness.
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Artyom Cooper:
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I suppose so. I'll be headed back to
my room then
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Brian:
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so you head back empty-handed?
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Brian:
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It's mere moments before you hear a
knock on the door.
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Jaden:
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I answer quickly, excited to finally
possibly get some answers
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Artyom Cooper:
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Hello? Who is it?
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Eldati:
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Eldati.
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Eldati:
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May I come in?
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Artyom Cooper:
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Ah yes, please do, it's not much, but
I take what I can get
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Eldati:
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*closes the door behind her* Trying to
sneak out I hear?
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Artyom Cooper:
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No, I wanted to see if I could send
some money back to my family back home
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Artyom Cooper:
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After all, if there's no barrels to
sell there's no money to eat with
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Eldati:
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I see.
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Eldati:
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This is certainly something we need to
address. Consider it done.
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Brian:
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She looks out the doorway again, as if
to check behind her, despite the door being closed.
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Eldati:
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But I need to ask that you be more
careful. Most in the castle don't know why you're here, and I'm
sure some wouldn't feel too safe knowing about your gifts...
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Artyom Cooper:
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By gifts I'm assuming you aren't
speaking about my extreme skill in making barrels.
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Artyom Cooper:
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Yes, I see your point, I know how to
keep things under wraps
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Brian:
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she takes a seat at your desk
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Eldati:
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I'm going to be frank with you. There
are those amoung the knighthood that don't want to keep Aema alive
in the prison. Too much danger for them.
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Eldati:
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And that's with the secret pretty well
kept. The last thing we need to do is feed the fire.
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Artyom Cooper:
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As far as anyone knows I've only
recently arrived here and I whittle, and my name is Artyom Cooper
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Artyom Cooper:
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It would be easier to make up a story
though if I had some information about why I was actually here
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Eldati:
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Well, there's the thing...
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Eldati:
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The king ordered you here, and he
chose to keep his mouth shut about why. If I made up a story, and
the king didn't like it...
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Brian:
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she starts to pick up a pen and move
it across her neck, but stops, as if deciding it was too over the
top a gesture.
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Artyom Cooper:
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Yes, I understand
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Artyom Cooper:
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Perhaps if there wasn't as much a
problem with loose lips in the castle you wouldn't have to worry
so much
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Eldati:
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Perhaps if there weren't such a
problem with gold, you mean.
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Eldati:
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Smart people don't tell secrets if
there isn't money to be made. And when they turn from the gods,
guess what god they turn to?
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Artyom Cooper:
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The god with an "L" between the "O"
and the "D"
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Eldati:
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I...never thought of that.
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Eldati:
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You're quick. That will serve you well.
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Eldati:
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I should be going now, before someone
wonders why I spend so much time with my new guest. I will see to
your family, but any other requests?
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Artyom Cooper:
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There's a letter at my desk,
explaining that I'm in the capitol working, if you could send that
to them as well, that would alleviate their worries, I'm sure.
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Artyom Cooper:
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Don't worry, I haven't told them I'm
in the castle, nor have I told them specifically why I'm here
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Artyom Cooper:
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I hope they assume I'm making barrels
for the wine harvest or something
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Eldati:
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I'll have it sent by one of my finest.
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Eldati:
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Lord's blessings.
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Jaden:
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I nod at her as she does
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Jaden:
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Then probably try to take a nap or go
over the things I've learned in my head
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Brian:
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You are sadly awoken, by yet another
knock
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Jaden:
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He heads to the door groggily
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Artyom Cooper:
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Whosthere?
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Guard:
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You're a lucky man!
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Artyom Cooper:
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Hm?
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Guard:
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The lord commander told me to escort
you to him in the training grounds, and that if the king didn't
like it it would be his head not mine!
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Guard:
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And that's good enough for me.
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Jaden:
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I shake the sleep from my eyes
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Artyom Cooper:
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Lead the way then
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Brian:
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it's not too much of a walk to the
training grounds, which is a suprisingly small plod of dirt behind
the castle. You and Aema practiced in better conditions than
this...
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Sir Eryson:
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Well if it isn't the chosen one!
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Jaden:
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I glance at the guard and back at Sir
Eryson and raise an eyebrow in the "Should you be saying that in
front of him?" sort of eyebrow arch
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Sir Eryson:
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*chuckles* The high preistess doesn't
take a body guard who isn't a brilliant swordsman, does she?
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Artyom Cooper:
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I suppose she wouldn't
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Artyom Cooper:
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What did you need me for?
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Sir Eryson:
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I want to see how good her taste is.
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Brian:
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he lifts one of the many wooden swords
laying around off the ground.
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Brian:
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the guard then heads off
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Sir Eryson:
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Well?
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Artyom Cooper:
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I have no experience with the sword, I
have no doubts you would win if I were restricted to that alone
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Sir Eryson:
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...a bowman then?
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Artyom Cooper:
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I've used a short bow in the past for
hunting, and crossbows are simple enough I know how to work them
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Artyom Cooper:
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But I can't say I'm especially good
with those either
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Sir Eryson:
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Interesing...
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Sir Eryson:
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*steps closer* A spearman then?
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Artyom Cooper:
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If I could be considered for any
position in the army it would be that of a scout sir, my combat
skills are very weak
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Brian:
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he steps closer yet again.
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Artyom Cooper:
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Though my eyes are sharp and I can
travel by night, and I can navigate woods with ease
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Sir Eryson:
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Then what...
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Sir Eryson:
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Is all the buzz about!
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Brian:
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Without warning, he swings at your
waist
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* Brian rolls: 1d20+8 => 20 + 8 = 28
* Brian rolls: 1d6-1 => 6 - 1 = 5
* Brian rolls: 1d6-1 => 2 - 1 = 1
* Brian rolls: 1d20+1 => 7 + 1 = 8
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Jaden:
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Well 9 is 10 + Toughness for me
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Brian:
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You bend over in pain, but nothing
seems broken. The lord commander steps back and laughs
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Sir Eryson:
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A man shows his true strength in
danger. You showed me nothing.
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Artyom Cooper:
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Maybe hiding my true strength is my
strength?
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Artyom Cooper:
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I'm a perfect bluff
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Artyom Cooper:
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Why else would a peasant be brought in?
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Artyom Cooper:
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It might be that there needs to be
something to talk about to root out those who'd talk about it
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Brian:
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What is your int+charm? I'm going to
count that classic misdirection as a deciet attempt.
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Sir Eryson:
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An interesting idea...
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Sir Eryson:
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Do you know where I could get someone
like you?
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Artyom Cooper:
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I'm the only me I know of sir, there
are none others like it, but I imagine any peasant would do if you
just wanted to stir up talk
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Artyom Cooper:
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Bring them in and don't tell anyone
why and I'm sure rumors would abound in less than a week
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Sir Eryson:
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How much were you paid to play the
fool?
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Artyom Cooper:
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That would be unwise for me to say
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Sir Eryson:
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Well, you do realize you already said
too much. You told me that our lord above can't even keep the
little priests from chatting, something I'm sure the crown would
like to know if Eldati wants to hide it...
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Artyom Cooper:
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And maybe I've been paid to tell you
that exact piece of information
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Artyom Cooper:
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And now I also know that you're
suspicious of Eldati
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Sir Eryson:
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Well anyone could have told you that.
I don't trust anyone who claims duty only to a god that she just
happens to be the most trustworthy voice of. I've said that to her
face, in front of the king.
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Sir Eryson:
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I like you though, you know that?
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Jaden:
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rubs the spot where the sword hit
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Artyom Cooper:
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You've got a funny way of showing it
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Sir Eryson:
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Would you rather I be smooth?
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Sir Eryson:
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There's plenty of smooth talkers high
up, young fool. It's the assholes who are the only ones you can
really trust.
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Sir Eryson:
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Well, if you aren't going to spar with
me, I guess I should take you home, hmm?
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Artyom Cooper:
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If you think we're done here then you
may gladly take me back to my room
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Brian:
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with a smirk he leads the way
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Sir Eryson:
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This is your room, right?
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Artyom Cooper:
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It is
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Artyom Cooper:
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The door is closed most of the time,
but I'd be willing to talk if you could give me a few pointers on
who's an asshole around here or not
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Jaden:
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With that, I turn to leave
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Brian:
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he doesn't say anything to stop you,
and instead turns around without a word.
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Jaden:
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And with that he goes back in the room
to think about what he's done
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Brian:
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After you go into timeout for what
somebody else did, do you just sleep?
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Jaden:
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I think I'll be awake
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Jaden:
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Just in a sort of meditative stance
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Jaden:
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Unless it's night time
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Jaden:
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No problem, take what time you need
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Brian:
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Most of the next day passes in sheer
bordem, which isn't the worst thing, but then a page summons you
to the chapel.
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Jaden:
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I go to the chapel
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Eldati:
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How have you been?
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Artyom Cooper:
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I've been fine
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Artyom Cooper:
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Though I can say I don't like this
amount of attention following me around the castle
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Eldati:
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Well, that's what happens when the
king starts doing strange things.
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Eldati:
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This would be a good time to take a
prayer if you haven't today. I'll be seeing a certain sir Ephnyr
soon here, and I want you in attendance.
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Eldati:
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It concerns events near your hometown,
and your powers might help you see things I cannot.
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Artyom Cooper:
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What is this Sir Ephnyr like?
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Artyom Cooper:
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Have you dealt with him in the past?
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Eldati:
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Never. I normally don't deal with
knights outside the Order of Blood.
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Artyom Cooper:
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I've had very few dealings with
knights myself
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Artyom Cooper:
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Does he have a high status?
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Eldati:
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No. He's spent a lot of time in the
south, doing quests for peasants.
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Eldati:
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But he reports he's seen concerning
things. Things that may indicate an upset amoung the gods.
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Artyom Cooper:
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That is very concerning
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Artyom Cooper:
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Then again, I suppose my existence is
an upset among the gods as well
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Eldati:
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Is it, or is it a righting?
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Eldati:
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Or...perhaps an upset to one is
progress to another?
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Artyom Cooper:
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And then if that is true, perhaps
there is a war brewing among the gods
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Adam has connected.
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Eldati:
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Do you ever ponder why we have so many
gods? Gods of life and death, law and chaos?
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Eldati:
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And why one never just cut another's
head off?
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Artyom Cooper:
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Because there was balance I imagine
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Artyom Cooper:
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Law was as powerful as Chaos, Life was
as strong as Death
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Artyom Cooper:
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It would be mutually assured
destruction to challenge one another
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Artyom Cooper:
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Wouldn't it?
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Eldati:
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Then why is there word that the orcs
of the east betrayed a god and tried to slay him?
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Eldati:
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Why are there rumors that Nerul
attempted to kill all elves within his domain?
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Artyom Cooper:
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Maybe there is an imbalance now
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Artyom Cooper:
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Maybe that is why there are rumors of
Nerul and word from the orcs
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They go to Eladi's chapel, and Cerim and Ephnyr approach the entrance
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priest:
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My Lady, Sir Ephnyr and his...
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priest:
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...Squire?
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Artyom Cooper:
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Ahem
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Sir Ephnyr:
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Just a companion.
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Jaden:
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I go quiet and give a glance to
Eldati, indicating the current conversation is over
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Sir Ephnyr:
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You requested us, your holiness?
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Eldati:
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I did, sir Ephnyr. And... who are you?
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Cerim Potter:
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I am Lieutenant Cerim Potter of the
Tinsboro Guard.
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Brian:
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You recognize the man, now that you
think about it, but it took until he said Tinsboro.
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Eldati:
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Never heard of a Lieutenant before. Is
that what humans call knights?
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Cerim Potter:
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Not exactly. I lead a squad of militia
men to defend our town from criminals and the like.
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Jaden:
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I have a vague recollection of this
man and his militia, though I haven't interacted with him much in
the past
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Eldati:
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Hmm, a common born then?
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Cerim Potter:
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I'm afraid so, priestess. Still,
nobility is not a requirement for pride.
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Eldati:
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Nor should it be. Do I look like a
knight to you?
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Cerim Potter:
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A knight, no. Nobility? If your beauty
is any indication, then I would say so.
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Artyom Cooper:
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If I may remind you, priestess. It
might be best to deal with the matter at hand. Sir Ephnyr has been
waiting.
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Eldati:
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I want both of their testimonies,
actually.
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Eldati:
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Lieutenant, let us start with you.
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Cerim Potter:
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What's this all about?
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Eldati:
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What were these creatures you saw?
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Cerim Potter:
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Creatures? You mean the walking bones
of the dead?
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Eldati:
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Were they? I had heard tales of such
beings lurking about, but I wanted to hear it directly before I
believed such concerning news.
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Cerim Potter:
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Sir Ephnyr can vouch for their
authenticity.
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Sir Ephnyr:
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I can, my lady. We fought them
together.
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Sir Ephnyr:
|
And he only saw the last of them. on
the way back from the village of Ensiph, I encountered many.
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Sir Ephnyr:
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The town there was raided by its own
graveyard.
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Eldati:
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Did...anything else happen?
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Eldati:
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Did you see a priest summon the beasts
or something?
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Sir Ephnyr:
|
I have my suspicions on the church of
Nerul, for obvious reasons. I left my man-at-arms to look into the
matter, and I intend to return to him as soon as I can.
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Sir Ephnyr:
|
A more immediate quest held me up in
the last few days.
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Brian:
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Eldati, who had been perfectly serene
before, suddenly looks shocked
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Eldati:
|
More immediate than an angry god?
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Cerim Potter:
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*mutters under breath*
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Sir Ephnyr:
|
I took pains to inform you as soon as
I could. I wished to speak to you sooner, but you are hard to get
a hold of, being so high and noble.
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Cerim Potter: (( Is that sass? ))
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Brian:
|
he wasn't trying ot make it sound that
way, but it might have been in his heart of hearts...
|
|
Brian:
|
actually, yeah, you both sense that
|
Cerim Potter: (( wouldn't put it past him. ))
|
Jaden:
|
My gaze towards the two in the room
begins to wander, though you get the feeling I'm still paying
close attention
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
Well I trust then that we will see
what your little side kick will get a visit very soon.
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
I will send one of my own to aid you
in getting to the root of this matter.
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
Speak to your commanders about getting
knights to assist you, and to talk to me if they don't belive...
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
Actually, nevermind. I can send the
order of blood to aid you.
|
|
|
Sir Ephnyr:
|
You have my word, my lady.
|
|
Brian:
|
Ephnyr turns and leaves in haste.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
I'm glad to have finally found you,
Artyom. Your sister was worried.
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
I'm sure she was
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
I've come to bring you and the Smith
girl home.
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
Sadly I can't go, I'm on business here
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
A letter explaining the situation
should arrive soon
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
I see. And the Smith girl?
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
She is here on the same business
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
And what business would that be?
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
It might just relate to this issue, in
fact. Looks like a whole village got caught up in this mess.
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
Eloping
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
Personal business
|
|
Brian:
|
Eldati glares at you.
|
Cerim Potter: (( glares at who? ))
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
What does a young couple running off
together have to do with your skeleton problem?
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
Some matters are private, Lieutenant.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
So be it. I suppose I cannot force you
to return, but now that I at least know where you are, then my
mission is complete. I will return to Tinsboro and alert your
family.
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
Thank you
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
Next time leave a note, please.
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
Ah, we left too quickly for that, I
did send a letter though
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
It should be arriving shortly
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
Farewell, Artyom, High Priestess.
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
I don't suppose you want to aid us in
this quest? Clearly you are skilled against these creatures...
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
I thought the matter was private.
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
That is largely because of this danger
we are facing. The boy's involvement is why he came to me, after
all.
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
Lieutentants look after their
citizens, no?
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
Are you saying Tinsboro isn't safe?
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
Two of her villagers aren't.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
Through their own youthful
recklessness, no doubt.
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
Is that what brought you here?
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
Or was it monsters?
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
I came here to find an eloped couple.
The monsters were but a bump in the road.
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
Then to home it is for you?
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
What of these monsters?
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
What of them? They are dangerous, and
more importantly they are a troubling omen. Someone needs to go
forth and see that they are dealt with, and learned about.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
And you would send a cooper and a
smith?
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
And if I remember correctly Ensiph
isn't too far from Tinsboro, perhaps Tinsboro's will be the next
graveyard to rise up
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
A cooper and a guard. And I don't
expect the cooper to fight.
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
I'm not a fighting man, but I've got
skills suited for a scout from my time spent in the woods around
Tinsboro
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
Hm. I can't very well let Emita's
brother go get himself killed.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
I suppose you have a plan, priestess?
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
Not at the moment, to be entirely
honest with you. I didn't expect the situation to be so grave
before it reached my ears.
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
And you may need to do a lot of
thinking on the road besides. But I trust Mr. Cooper, I trust the
Order of Blood, and this knight friend of yours seems to be a
smart man.
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
And what I know for sure, is that the
church must act before angry villagers do.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
So you're getting Sir Ephnyr involved.
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
It's his man-at-arms who has been
gathering information.
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
Why wouldn't he be involved?
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
I don't mean to question your
judgement, priestess.
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
I am glad to hear it, but I would love
to question yours.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
Then by all means. I would love to
hear your wisdom.
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
Do you think the knighthood can't be
trusted with this task?
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
Quite the contrary. I have the utmost
respect for the knighthood.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
Surely one knight has the strength to
quash the graveyards of a dozen towns.
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
I fear in this one the dead may
outnumber the living
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
And if the dead are attacking, we may
be at a severe disadvantage
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
And that may not be the end of our
worries...
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
What do you know about the orcs?
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
They tried to slay a god recently,
from what I hear, though I imagine it didn't succeed
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
I know they were exiled years ago.
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
A human generation ago. They were led
by a Kordite of all people, but it was the faith of the god of the
dead that dominated in time, according to the few traders who
interact with such creatures.
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
I am amoung the few in this castle who
think that the Nerulians of the east pose no threat to us, but
that doesn't mean that a few haven't wanded to their old home to
cause evil.
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
Or maybe it's nothing to do with that
at all. Perhaps the other faiths want to try their own hand on the
throne. If that's the case, refer them to me, and I can tell them
it's too much work, alright?
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
So it's the orcs who have learned to
raise the dead?
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
I can't claim to know. But you will
need to keep your eyes open, you hear?
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
But I think that's enough for now. I
will need to inform the king himself about this.
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
Brother Elwin!
|
|
|
priest:
|
Aye?
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
See the Lieutenant to his quarters.
|
|
|
priest:
|
Aye, my lady.
|
|
Brian:
|
the priest gestures
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
Anything else you need, Artyom? It
might be a while talking with the king.
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
No, I'm fine, I believe I've got to
examine what I've learned here
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
Anything you'd like to speak to me
about?
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
Yes, once I've collected my thoughts.
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
Oh no, that's a bad sign
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
Right now, I'm just angry nobody told
me about this earlier, and angry is a good way to get what you
want from his majesty.
|
|
Brian:
|
she winks and heads off.
|
|
Jaden:
|
I go back to my room
|
|
Brian:
|
Any antics from either of you two?
|
|
Jaden:
|
I'm clearly up to no good, that is if
anyone could see me
|
|
Jaden:
|
No, I'm just thinking
|
Cerim Potter: (( whenever I can check in with
Emita. ))
|
Brian:
|
hmm, do we want to do this secretly?
|
Cerim Potter: (( do you feel lucky, punk? ))
|
Brian:
|
Do you think you're dropping any
spoilers? I don't think I am.
|
|
Jaden:
|
I can leave if you'd like me to
|
Cerim Potter: (( I don't know what he knows? ))
|
Jaden:
|
Just message me when you want me to
come back
|
|
Brian:
|
ehh, fine. I'll call you back in time.
You can always read the full story once I publish it after the
campaign
|
Cerim Potter: (( this shouldn't take long. ))
Jaden is disconnected.
|
Brian:
|
You rin into Emita a bit outside the
castle, buying some fruit.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
Emita!
|
|
Emita:
|
Cerim?
|
|
|
Emita:
|
What is it?
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
I found Artyom.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
What?
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Where?
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
He was speaking with the High
Priestess.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
What...
|
|
|
Emita:
|
What did he do?
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
He wouldn't say. Apparently the two of
them running off has something to do with the sk- I mean... he
said he wasn't coming home.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Like...a good not coming home?
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Or like a "I'm in trouble" not coming
home?
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
He said that he sent a letter home
explaining everything.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
I guess we left too quickly to catch
it.
|
|
Brian:
|
She laughs a far more stress-free
laugh than you've heard from her in a while.
|
Cerim Potter: (( feelsgoodman.jpg ))
|
|
Emita:
|
Bet it's full of dumb excuses.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Where's Aema?
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
I didn't see her. He said they were
together, so she can't be far.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Ok.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
But did he seem alright?
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Nothing, concerning going on?
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
Does he ever seem alright?
|
|
Brian:
|
what's your int+charm?
|
Cerim Potter: (( +2 ))
|
|
Emita:
|
Yeah, when he had to run off in the
woods and do random "chores"!
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
"chores", "chasing skirt" What's the
difference?
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Do you know where he's staying? I want
to talk to him as soon as I can.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
So you can give him a black eye?
|
|
|
Emita:
|
...maybe
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
Luckily for him, I don't know where
he's staying.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Bullshit
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
I wouldn't lie to you.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
er..
|
|
|
Emita:
|
You would. You'd totally lie if it's
what you thought I wanted to hear.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
If I would tell you what you want to
hear, then why would I withhold his location from you?
|
|
|
Emita:
|
You know what? Good point.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
I'll just have to twist Ephnyr's arm
for it.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
What makes you think he knows?
|
|
|
Emita:
|
He knows a lot of stuff. *leans in*
and he tells me all of it.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Like how you two are going off on a
quest?
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
Wait, so you already knew about Artyom?
|
|
|
Emita:
|
He didn't tell me about Artyom. Was he
there when you found him?
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
Yes, it was the priestess who gave us
the... quest. I guess Sir Ephnyr didn't tell you everything.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Ok, he would have told me if he found
my brother. Did he say who he was?
|
|
|
Emita:
|
It's not like Ephnyr knows what Arty
looks like...
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
The only reason we went there was
because we heard Artyom was there.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
It seems strange that he wouldn't tell
you something so important.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Yeah, it does...
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
You've been... spending a lot of time
with him?
|
|
|
Emita:
|
I mean, yeah.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
I know he was kind of an idiot before,
but he's a really noble man.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
I'm aware of his blood.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
I'm also aware of his actions.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
One of them is noble, certainly.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
You sure you're not just judging the
man too fast cause you don't want to like him?
|
|
|
Emita:
|
You should have seen him with the
commoners. He treats people so much better than any knight I've
ever seen.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
I think you underestimate how excited
I was to first lay my eyes on him. To be joined by a real knight
in battle? There is scant few I have wished for greater.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
I want to like him for the sake of
every knight and every common boy who plays with a stick in the
woods.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Well, maybe you will finally get a
chance. Please, give him a second chance, I swear he's a safe guy.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Do it for me at least?
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
For you? What choice do I have, in
that case?
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Nobody can tell you what to think.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Look, just be safe, ok?
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
I will.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
I guess you don't need to stay here
any longer.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
I'm not leaving until I found Arty.
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
Alright. I'll make sure you two get
reunited once more. I'll leave out the black eye when I mention
you.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Thanks.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Thanks for everything. Did I ever say
that when we first went out here?
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
No thanks necessary, my lady. *bows*
|
|
|
Emita:
|
And Cerim?
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
Mm?
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Keep the knight away from ale, would
ya?
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
I'll do what I can.
|
Jaden has connected.
|
Brian:
|
Alright, time to skip to the start of
our quest?
|
Cerim Potter: (( Is that the next time I see
Artyom? ))
|
Brian:
|
yes. You aren't normally allowed in
the same part of the castle that he seems to spend all his time
in...
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
...I wish I could give you more clear
instructions. I wish I could promise victory, or that this shall
be the end of the matter. But the truth is, I cannot. I am sending
you to be the spear and torch of our lord, illuminating and
protecting in dark woods of unknown evil. But what I can say is
that our lord watches over us all, and the day you doubt that, you
fail.
|
|
Brian:
|
Ephnyr, who is late to the rally,
comes out of the castle now
|
Cerim Potter: (( hungover, no doubt. ))
|
|
Eldati:
|
There you are! Starting to get
concerned.
|
|
|
Sir Ephnyr:
|
*quite sober and perky, thank you very
much* I'm sorry my lady. I had one knightly vow to uphold before I
left.
|
|
Brian:
|
he takes his place at your sides, and Emita emerges.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Arty?
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
Eh, hello
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Where have you been this whole time?
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
It was a matter of business
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Well, you're coming back soon, right?
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
I'm not sure if I can
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Well keep in mind that if you don't,
I'm killing all the rest of these knights, you got that?
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
Remember what I said about empty
threats, sister
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Just promise you will try to be safe?
|
|
|
Artyom Cooper:
|
I will, but I fear I may have to stay
here for a bit longer
|
|
|
Eldati:
|
He does a great service to our
kingdom. I'm sure he will be rewarded with good health.
|
|
Brian:
|
Emita looks at her, but doesn't seem
consoled.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
Ohh, and Cerim?
|
|
|
Cerim Potter:
|
Yes, Emita?
|
|
Brian:
|
Emita walks up to him, leans in, and
whispers something the rest can't hear.
|
|
|
Emita:
|
I read the offical summons. Why did you lie to me?
|
|
Brian:
|
Then she walks back to the castle.
|
Cerim Potter: (( /w command helps ))
|
Brian:
|
Alright, this is actually all I had
planned. If anybody had stuff in mind they wanted to do during the
first part of the journey we can keep going, otherwise this is a
good breaking point.
|
|
Jaden:
|
I'm fine stopping here
|
Cerim Potter: (( I've got nothing to do before
the quest. ))
|
Brian:
|
Cool. Another happy session, this time
with literally no non-secret rolls
|