The drive into the City of Pasiap's Resolve is not exactly a direct one. The Freerunners have their own protocols concerning covert entry in and out of the city. Perian can see that they are an efficient team, advantaged by the fact they are comfortable working with one another and adapting to a wide range of scenarios with little direction, allowing them to split quickly and efficiently into small working groups. They are nowhere as rigid as the Peace Corps, yet their inventiveness and flexibility as a team contributes greatly to their survival.

That is not to say that the journey goes completely without trouble. At most, the Freerunners have approximations of the patrol schedules. Now and then there are discrepancies thrown in, and people can be caught -- and likely as not in these trying times, arrested on sight if they are associated with Free. So they move carefully. The teams on foot now and then draw off suspicious patrollers (particularly the insidious little sentries, the Spider-Eyes) while the vehicles move at an unhurried pace along the regular shipping lanes, passing successive checkpoints with various documents (seemingly authentic) and false pleasantries (it seems the driver, Crow, is at least known in these parts).

Perian, fortunately, is not 'wanted' enough that he needs to hide, and remains in the passenger seat with the driver. Volya and the others remain with the cargo, fitted in cramped spaces while Crow schmoozes with the guards and reassures them that everything is as it should be. Once, a stubborn guard captain insists on checking the cargo, something he quickly regrets when he opens the first barrel of fermenting pickles and is nearly knocked out by the scent.

And so it goes, until they reach the outskirts of the city itself. Pasiap's Resolve is actually walled, along the entire perimeter, though there are hovels and tents pitched on the outside, occupied by the dregs of society. Crowther stops the gliding caravan at one point, handing down a quarter-obol of jade to a kid who runs ahead. "He's got our number," says the driver, and they continue on, making it through the gate in record time (with a nod from the guard on duty, who was just recently informed of their coming.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:35, Thu 25 June 2009.

By the time the Freerunners and Perian enter the city, most of the team has already been accounted for. Rather than gather together (and thus arouse suspicion) the team proceeds to blend into the crowd. Most of the beasts of course wear hoods, keep out of the way, or stay in the caravans. Volya chooses to stay along, but due to her wolf-side has to be more covert about it; she leaves behind all but a single weapon, a sword she places at her belt, dons a coat to cover her lamellar and a hooded cloak with a wide cowl to hide her features in its depths. Some pinch of Essence, as well, a trick she learned from Free to disguise the beast in her. Even so, it's not flawless, but "I'll be damned if I can't walk around in my home city," she says stubbornly.

The meeting with Kigal Alivia obviously avoids the Peace Force buildings by a wide berth. Besides Volya, Perian is accompanied by Agomir the blacksmith, and two humans out of the sniper team, a twin pair going by the code names Random and Camilla. Volya and Agomir, who are most familiar with the city, lead the way through the streets of Pasiap's Resolve. It's not the first time Perian has been here, but nonetheless it's a sight to see -- not quite thriving, and much dirtier than the cities of Fire and up, but nonetheless thronging with a variety of people. Laborers from the Conclaves usually leave their families in the bigger City while they work out in the mining camps and refineries, and those fortunate enough to earn a license open up businesses in the vicinity. They're limited in scope, as the Council law restricts or outright prohibits many items, but then again this just means that the black market is all the more healthy.

The saying around the city is that the black marketers are like weeds... no matter how hard you stamp them out they always find a way to grow back.

One such 'weed' operates with a licensed tavern as a front, known as the Last/Lost Literate. It's an old establishment, one that sprung up long enough ago that people can no longer decide for certain if it's "Last" or "Lost". So now it goes by both. As taverns go, it is a clean and well-maintained establishment, as Perian can see when Volya and Agomir step through the door with him into the warmly lit common room, the two snipers (currently carrying no obvious arms) trailing behind.

[Private to Kares Perian: ok, first of all, apologies for the HUGE amounts of text, but this is the first time I'm introducing the City and the Freerunners' operations so I went all out a bit. And skipped ahead of stuff that could have been difficult or dangerous, but we'll just assume for now they performed wonderfully.

Next, I'll tell you a bit of what to expect in the next few posts. You'll need to make contact with the owner of the establishment. He'll be at the bar, of course. Volya would have told you that his trade is in selling booze with hard jade (rather than the voucher system) and restricted/forbidden books, and he's a Freerunner contact. An odd combination, but the man's a literary aficionado AND a criminal! I'll be having another person play him to lighten my load which is why I've not introduced the guy yet.

Anyway, he's just the frontman. Kigal Alivia is actually in the back room. Heh, your classic clandestine bar meeting. Hopefully with some social opportunities for you.]

Perian walks into the Last Literate without a hint of nervousness, acting as though he belongs there, and so utterly convinced of the fact that no further disguise is necessary. A friendly smile and companionable features ensure that any attention focused on his group falls on him, and he seems too innocuous a fellow to pose any real threat.

All of which is true - Perian harbours no ill will for the tavern goers, or even a passing Peace Forcer. After all, they will all be shown the path to Freedom soon enough, and until then they are, if not innocent, at least unopposed.

After shaking his head briefly, noting that the time has spent with Free has him woolgathering at the most inopportune times, Perian heads for the bar. He has the bearing of one who intends to have a drink, and is in no mood to deal with fools until suitably lubricated. Since it is an attitude shared by many of those fortunate enough to partake of the Lost Literate's beverages, his path is not overly obstructed.

[Private to GM: No problem! Introducing the land is good for me too. And if you want to assign motes spent / wounds taken / supplies used for getting here after the fact, feel free. Perian could have done some Charm enhanced convincing, if needed.

By making sure that he is the most interesting person of the group, even if not overly memorable, Perian is doing his best to draw eyes away from Volya. No reason to stare at her when Perian is there, after all.

I'm ready to go ahead whenever your assistant with the NPC is - or I can wait, as is convenient.]

Perian's assessment of the patrons' attitudes does in fact prove correct, and his path to the bar goes completely unobstructed. Apparently, customers within the establishment have a tendency to keep to their own affairs, as the Solar's approach does not even seem to raise many heads along the way. Perhaps this is the reason why patrons stubbornly still cling to this old establishment, in fact.

Upon arrival at the bar, Perian can easily find a seat at an unoccupied stool. From this position, one can clearly hear music being played - a sparse piano piece with a refined, lounge feel to it, the perfect backdrop for the type of establishment the Literate strives to be. The sound is neither loud nor obtrusive, and yet provides a pleasant shield for otherwise naked conversation.

Two people seem to be minding the bar at the moment. One of them is a tall, attractive woman with short red hair and amber eyes. She wears a white dress shirt under a wine red vest and matching suit pants, as well as black gloves and a bow tie. Currently, the woman is speaking to one of the patrons while serving him a drink, her expression the epitome of calmness and professionalism. Perian does note that once in a while, she does cast a glance towards the main room, scanning the entire perimeter with a short gaze before returning her attention to her work.

Alongside her, a man also offers some drinks and exchanges words with different patrons, some of them seemingly offering compliments and goodwills as well as engaging in more serious conversation. The man seems to be almost in his thirties, with slicked back dark brown hair and long, expertly trimmed sideburns tapering to a sharp point, accenting his angular features. He is dressed impeccably, with a high collared ivory shirt with billowing sleeves and adjusted wrists, a forest green vest with delicate dark green ivory work, matching forest green pants and polished shoes. The man has a short scar on his left eyebrow, and as he turns to speak to customers, Perian realizes he wears a silver filigreed earring in his left ear.

The man glances sideways and, catching sight of the new arrival, takes a step towards Perian's seat while working on cleaning a short rounded glass. "Pleasant evening to you, sir, and welcome to the Last Literate." The man utters, his tone rich and pleasant enough but still carrying a certain edge in it. The man lifts the glass he is inspecting upwards, inspecting its cleanliness through a nearby light. "What would be your poison, sir?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:55, Fri 26 June 2009.

Perian settles comfortably on his stool, and nods in the man's direction. "Glad to be here, with business as it is. What do you have? Never mind. Something with a bit of kick to it." As he reaches towards the bar, there is a fleck of jade between Perian's fingers, suggesting that he's willing to pay.

"The Last Literate, eh?" Perian says softly when the bartender draws close. "Brings some of the old stories and verses to mind, the name does. How did that verse go? Let me think."

"Words alone remain
Of graceful perfumed beauty
Yet I shall not yield"

With a lopsided smile, Perian shift his attention to his hands on the countertop. "At least, that's how I think it went. What do you think?" Having recited a goodly portion of what he can remember from his earlier browsing of the works of Lady Aoi, Perian waits for the man opposite him to respond.

While Perian deals personally with the man at the bar, Random and Camilla step in casually, finding themselves seating among the tables of the common room. They choose corners with as little obstruction as possible to maximize their view of the area.

Volya remains closer to Perian, though says nothing, wrapped up in her hood and scarf as she is. She stays out of the way, finding a nearby wall to lean against, her arms crossed in an outwardly relaxed stance. Agomir is the only one that takes on a position of obvious bodyguard, his stature impressive enough to keep most overyl curious folk from edging closer to listen into the exchange.

A male and female couple get up from one of the central tables and step outside, the man holding the woman's waist protectively. They aren't the only ones who decide to leave. A short statured man in a cloak decides to make himself scarce as well. After a moment, Camilla also slips out.

---

OOC: just some NPC posing while we wait for Loremaster. :)

"Then a kick it is." The man answers, grabbing one of the many attractive - and expensive-looking - bottles from behind the bar. Expertly, he drops three ice cubes in a short, carved glass, causing a pleasant tingling sound to arise. In the same motion, he deftly flicks open the bottle, and pours a deep amber liquid within the glass. He does not touch the drink anymore, instead popping the bottle closed once more, and nods towards Perian. "One something with a bit of a kick served, sir." He says with a deadpan tone.

At the recitation, the man's expression turns slightly pensive, and he nods appreciatively once the verses are completed. Although his expression remains one of perfect professionalism, he does seem interested in the things Perian has to say, at the very least. "I do think that is correct, sir." He says, shifting his footing to indicate the spot across Perian as his new position behind the bar, thus subtly signaling to the other patrons that he is now engaged in conversation.

"Unfortunately, just like the name indicates, the true aficionado of the verse and prose is a dying animal. Many would much rather spend some time in a loud and busy tavern rather than in an establishment such as this one, I am afraid." The man leans back, flipping a white towel over his left shoulder, before addressing the man across him once more. "But is is always a pleasure to meet one who is familiar with the works of Lady Aoi. I do not recall seeing you here before either, sir. If I may be so bold, could I ask how you came to find our humble establishment?"

Perian picks up the glass, begins with a small sip, then empties the glass in one quick motion. "Not bad," he states, as liquid fire tries to burn its way down his throat, and meets its match.

"Well, I can't say that I've had the free time to learn much of either," Perian confesses, "Though I'm told I have something of a knack for telling tales, which I picked up when I was younger, running around and getting into trouble. Though I've recently come by some of Lady Aoi's works, and been quite inspired."

Perian shifts forwards over the counter, bending towards the man opposite him. "As to finding this place, why a reliable colleague of mine mentioned it, as a locale where one could do discrete business, and find friendly, peaceful folk with whom to drink and talk about things. Literature, alcohol, and sometimes more. I'm glad to see that's the case."

Edited: typo!
This message was last edited by the player at 07:14, Thu 02 July 2009.

The man at the bar listens intently, although his expression does not change. At the end of the statement, he nods in assent, and stands straight once more. If he caught the message embedded into Perian's speech, he does not show any signs of understanding or even acknowledgment... At least at first."That is a good thing to hear. Even if we do not see our customers for a while, they do remain our customers, you see. Our establishment likes to prize itself on not only accommodating patrons, but also on building links with them. And thus, it is always a pleasure to hear about some of our old contacts, even if it is through new faces."

The man pauses for a time, grabbing the white cloth on his shoulder before he speaks again. "If you are a friend of a previous patron, however, perhaps you would not be adverse to a conversation with me, if I may be so bold." He tilts his head to one side, gazing at Perian carefully. "As I said, we do prize ourselves on forging links with our patrons, and usually offer like-minded individuals to join our little... Well, 'gentleman's club' I would say is an appropriate term. I am usually the one to do the introductions when one is inclined to do so."

"Of course, feel free to turn down the offer and tell me to run along - I shall not take offense to it. But should you wish to become a part of our regular clientele, and would wish to join us or at least see what it entails, feel very welcome to do so. I will gladly take you through the necessary procedures."

"Why, certainly!" Perian replies with evident enthusiasm. "Making new contacts and friends is always worthwhile, and renewing old bonds even more so." Moving so that he is partway out of his seat, he casually looks about the room, eyes flickering over his associates and spending a bit more time on anyone else. Though he does not expect trouble, Perian has had it hammered into him that it never hurts to pay attention.

Finally, he leaves his seat completely, and directs a friendly, open smile at the more reserved bartender. "Well, first things first. This," he sets a few bits of jade coinage, a recent Freerunner sigil scratched lightly on one bit, "Should cover the drink. With that out of the way, I am entirely at your disposal, for conversation or other procedures."

"Glad to see you agree, sir." The man says, lying down his towel on one of the shelves below the bar, and quickly signaling to the woman tending the bar alongside him. "Lena, I will go and introduce this gentleman to our establishment and its cogs and gears. The bar and front area are in your hands in my absence. Do make certain everything runs smoothly and everyone gets along, yes?" The red head does not reply, but the expression on her features and the sharp nod she gives say it all - there is no word in her vocabulary for failure.

Without even a second glance - perhaps a testament to the confidence he places in the woman at the bar - the handsome man gestures in Perian's direction. He steps out of the bar area with a certain sense of quiet grace, then starts to make his way across the labyrinthine arrangement of tables and wine red velvet chairs, leading the Exalt towards the back of the establishment, until they finally reach the room's far perimeter. At the back wall, a lit fireplace sends fragments of crimson and amber across the room, its natural light giving the whole area a warm, inviting and somewhat mysterious aura. On the wall proper, Perian can immediately identify a few portraits, although the figures on them are unknown. Their modes of dress suggest they are from a time long ago, or perhaps even from somewhere other than the Coils Proper.

Due to clever design and ingenious architecture, it is easy to miss the heavy-set, dark wood door close to the fireplace; somehow, the eye is attracted by various things around it, resulting in the door itself becoming rather forgettable. If Perian's guide had not started to fiddle with it, silently unlocking it with a silver key hanging from a chain around his neck, the Solar might have missed it altogether... Or at least, at first glance. Once the door is unlocked, the man signals for Perian and a single escort to follow.

Inside, the handsome man exchanges a few whispered words with what seems to be a servant or butler, waiting at the ready by the door. With a short, graceful nod, the butler acquiesces to whatever has been said, and heads away from the door to another side room. Once Perian is inside, the door closes behind him, and his host gestures to the room ahead. It is a cozy yet luxurious private boudoir, with chairs in the same motif as the main room set around a carefully carved lacquered table with elegant, curving legs. Many different bookshelves line the back wall, the shelves closer to the side walls embraced by plush wine red draperies. A smaller bar adorns the right side of the room, its stock not nearly as impressive as the front bar in terms of bottle amounts, but no doubt surpassing it in term of drink quality.

"Normally, there is a test to be granted access here." says the man, stepping slightly to Perian's side. "But my evaluation is that you pass it nonetheless. Let us say our talk revealed what I wished to know in that regard."

The man passes Perian and gestures towards the comfortable-looking seats with a broad gesture. "Do make yourself comfortable, sir." He says, as he heads towards the bar. "It should not be too long." What should not be too long, he never does specify. But within a moment, he is at the post behind the bar, manning it much like he has with the front counter. "If you fancy a book or another drink as well, feel free. You will be finding what it is you sought in just a moment."
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:58, Sat 04 July 2009.

A small, silent exchange passes between Volya and Agomir concerning which of the two of them will remain outside. Finally, Agomir defers to the wolf-woman, settles himself contentedly on a barstool, and starts to engage the front room bartender in what seems to be light, casual conversation. The broad-shouldered ex-blacksmith with bright red hair is definitely unusual among the average clientele of the Literate, but he and Lena seem to know each other comfortably by name.

Camilla has yet to return, but Random stays in his vantage point, keeping an eye on the common room and the tavern entrance while he nurses his ale. No one seems willing to join the young man at his corner table, which suits the blue-haired Freerunner just fine.

Volya steps through the door into the backroom, joining Perian before the door shuts securely behind them. She takes care to walk slightly behind the Solar, for now acknowledging that this particular aspect of their mission is more Perian's specialty than her own. Despite her gruff mannerisms and primarily martial training, though, Volya is not necessarily a liability to Perian. She may have limited knowledge about high society etiquette, or the difference between a Ledaal Milena Elemental Cycle original and an Immaculate copy altered for non-secular use, but she does seem more than capable of understanding when a situation needs finesse rather than force.

Perian follows his host without any betraying signs of worry, pausing at suitable moments to indicate his appreciation for the quality of the locale and its contents. "It is always a pleasure to deal with men of good taste, in furnishings as in acquaintances," he murmurs in response to the man's welcome.

"Having partaken of the first of your wares, I would be an ungracious guest not to essay the other," he replies, and moves towards the bookshelves, looking at the trove of accumulated works with respect for both their commercial value in the District, and their contents.

Carefully, he passes a hand over the accumulated tomes, surveying titles and the state of each, pausing from time to time as a name draws his attention. Finally, the text he selects isn't one of the better known and carefully preserved rarities, but Travels and Tales an assuredly apocryphal collection of stories and descriptions of strange lands within Five Coils. Or perhaps outside.

"Right away, sir." The man at the bar responds, immediately getting to work at preparing another drink - this time a rich, ruby-colored liquid with accents of rust hues, which spills gracefully from an ornate bottle into a crystal snifter. Obviously, this sort of drink is not readily available at the front... And if it was, it would be at a very hefty cost.

Once the snifter has been half-filled, the man walks over to the ornate table, and deposits the drink in front of one of the seats without a prompt. He stands there for a moment, not wishing to disturb Perian's book selecting. When it is done, the man inclines his head gracefully, taking a step back. "Do make yourself at home. You will be attended to in just a moment - please excuse the delay." With that, he bows, then respectfully leaves Perian to his book and drink, retracting to his position behind the bar.

Travels and Tales, a strange collection of stories from apparently fictional locations, seems to have been penned by someone called The Gray Wanderer. The locales it depicts are varied and numerous, and most of them share a common trait - they all seem to be locations sitting under the open sky, away from the floors and walls of Five Coils. The locales are depicted with much beauty and grace, but with a distinct tint of wistfulness - from the melancholy rain in deep jungles of lush and green vegetation, to the faded hue of a majestic ruined city of crystal when the sun disappears behind the horizon.

The Wanderer's journey finally comes to a place Perian can identify as Five Coils through the last chapters of the book - particularly the somewhat stylized rendition of what can be construed to be the Earth District. The tone and the way the tome is written makes it difficult for one to take it as anything but a work of fiction - and yet, despite the lack of names (perhaps due to censorship?) or even cardinal directions, the feelings behind the recollections are so vivid that for a moment, Perian can actually wonder whether the Travels actually took place, sometime in the distant past...

[Private to Kares Perian: The book actually depicts many real Creation locales like Halta, the Coral Archipelago, Chiaroscuro, and many many others, but no names are ever given. Perian, having never been to the surface either, would not know of these locales, but this should still give you an idea of what is described inside.]

While Perian is engrossed in his book and drink, and Volya does her best not to twitch her tail in restlessness (now and then eyeing the books on display, particularly what appears to be a 'Shogunate war treatise'), the side door finally swings open. The butler, an unassuming man with dark brown hair greying at temples and clad in a formal tailored suit, steps out to guide another pair of individuals to the table.

One of the pair wears a blue woolen cloak with graceful white scrollwork embroidery around the edges. The voluminous overgarment parts now and then to reveal fitted dark blue pants and laced up boots of a solid brown, white sleeves with ornate, sculpted bracers of blue jade, and a scabbard holding what is likely a daiklave with a silk wrapped hilt.

The cloaked one's companion is a man in a deep violet, long-sleeved damask coat and dark pants. He has jet black hair worn in a top knot jutting up from the back of his head. He carries no obvious weapons and seems to defer to the one in blue, who approaches the table undauntedly, pulling down the cloak hood fully. She is an attractive woman with pale brown hair, azure blue eyes and a fair complexion. "I hope you've not waited long," the woman says carefully, her eyes shifting from Perian to Volya. She speaks in High Realm, and repeats in Low only if she gets some sign of a lack of understanding. "If it is any assurance, I have waited even longer. If only because I have been reluctant to have this meeting in the first place, and my heart has been in conflict. Yet here I am, and here you are."

Apparently wanting to get to the point, the woman takes the seat across from Perian. Volya and the man in violet are both still standing, and eye each other quietly for a moment. Not hostile, not challenging, though still sizing one another up. "I am Kigal Alivia," she introduces herself, then gestures to the man, "and this is Najalin Verad. To whom may I be speaking?"

When the newcomers arrive, Perian sets aside the book that has been drawing ever more of his attention with a pang of regret. He rises, greets them with a motion partway between a nod and a bow, and settles into his chair while the woman opposite him does the same.

"I am Kares Perian," he replies calmly, "My companion is Mori Volya." After a beat, he adds, "Though the latter is likely no great surprise."

Gesturing expansively at the room around them, Perian continues. "First, a gesture of respect, for yourself and our host." Moving slowly, he sets the simple box containing the inkbrush on the table, where the woman opposite him can reach it easily if she so wishes. "A token of the weight we set on your regard, and of what may come."

After a moment for Kigal Alivia to respond to the gift as she sees fit, he finishes. "I appreciate the risk you're taking in coming here, so I'll do my best to be frank and to the point. Unrest is rising in Paisap's Resolve - because the higher Districts do not value, do not understand the people of Earth. Yes, we've been taking advantage of it, but that isn't the point. The people are the point. They want more, they deserve more, they need more, and we think you realize this."

"So we are here, to talk, to see how we might act together to shape the change that is coming, so that it will be for the best."

"At least, that's my view of the matter. What do you say?"

Alivia nods in greeting to Volya, as well, and smiles graciously enough at the offering of a gift. She seems a little bit surprised. Perhaps she hadn't expected the Freerunners to be so mindful of etiquette?

She has Verad step forward and open the box for her. He does so silently and without complaint, revealing within the antique calligraphy brush with silver bristles that Perian had Riven Shard prepare earlier. After handling the brush, the silent man finally hands it over to Alivia, who examines it closely. "Why, this is... I am certain there must be an orichalcum core in this brush. Quite the gift, and I thank you, though it remains to be seen what I can do for you." The brush goes back into the box, and into Verad's hands, for a time.

"Perian, I have become aware of the unrest in the City, and how it has grown in recent times. I know that Water District has become incommunicado, and several of the, ah, Collared have gone free, or missing. And after the Freerunner's strike on the Shrine of Mela -- and another shrine in B25, I hear -- it seems many citizens have become inspired to take the law into their own hands, or ignore it altogether."

Alivia exhales sharply, leaning back in her chair. "I am not completely satisfied with the decisions of the Council, the treatment of the citizens, the corruption among my peers. Nor am I particularly supportive of the enslavement of An... of... Celestials," she corrects hastily. "There's plenty that I have in common with your organization in terms of ideology. Plenty of doubt that has led me in the past to discreetly offer support to the Freerunners."

"Before I can tell you truthfully I wish to help you now, I need to voice a few concerns. And before that, I need to know exactly what Free intends to accomplish in these tumultuous times. So let us start with that." She gestures to Perian, a signal that the negotiation is to begin, perhaps.

[Private to Kares Perian: I'm not going to roll Join Debate or anything like that. For now we'll just RP this out, and if I feel a roll is needed, I'll do the roll and judge stunt. Or, if you wish you can roll what you feel is the most appropriate combination for your post (I will correct if I think otherwise)

You can of course also try to roll to see if you can assess her emotions/motivations, too.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:02, Thu 09 July 2009.

"It isn't a matter of doing things for me, or Free," Perian interjects softly. "Just of doing what is right. That, at least, is one truth that remains."

Once Alivia has presented her position, Perian leans forwards, catching her eyes, his words intent and animated. "What does Free want? Freedom - which does not answer your question. Now, I won't go so far as to say that I'm familiar with Free's thoughts, but I understand him, and my companions."

Perian's voice takes on a rhythm and cadence suited to reciting an epic, as he launches into his explanation.

"Water has been awakened already, to follow its own path, where all within it may seek their own destinies. They dream of life within the Coils, and without, of peace, properity, and justice. Because they dream, because the Celestials walked there, their destruction was prescribed."

"And yet, they live for now, and seek freedom in their own ways."

"Now, a wave of change is lapping at the edge of Earth, and it will not be stopped. Whether destruction or renewal, death or freedom, follow is up to us. The people, whatever affiliations we may belong to. Faced with this choice, the Runners will do what they always chose to before - seek freedom, for themselves and others."

With a half apologetic smile, Perian's tones become conversational once more. "I beg your pardon. Old habits... Still, the point remains. The free Celestials pose too much of a threat to the current order for them to be allowed to live, or escape. And that same corrupt leadership will not hesitate to sacrifice the entire District if it means they can remove them, us."

"So we are going to fight. We need to reach the Gatekeeper, or Earth will be decimated and broken, at best."

"We want to save the people of Paisap's Resolve, of Earth, as much as possible. The dead don't have choices, are not free. For that, they need to be resolute, ready to defend themselves - and they will have to."

"We plan to do what we can to help them face off against the first wave of killers from the higher Districts. With your help, they'll be organized, innocents will be away from the frontlines, and we can direct the invading troops, force them to go where they will do the least harm."

"Without it, we will still fight, and likely die, to give them a chance."

[Private to GM: Rolled 1 success on reading mindset, so probably nothing.]
This message was last edited by the player at 08:21, Thu 09 July 2009.

"What you have posed seems very, very enticing. I am impressed." Kigal Alivia appears intrigued by Perian; it is after all the first time they've met, though not the first time she's dealt with the 'Runners. "I see that Free is very intent on gaining my support, sending a skilled negotiator my way this time. I mean no offense of course," she says with a small nod to Volya, though it's quite clear she thinks of Perian as the superior at the moment.

"I can believe that the Council may attempt to contain the Celestials in a way that would endanger the citizens. From our childrens' stories onward we are warned against the Celestials' power. 'They are the Ruiners who forced us underground, and now they are here with us, in our own sanctuary, running free and wreaking havoc on the society we built.' And so on. Even among the common folk there are many who are afraid of the Celestials. It is only in recent times that the balance has swayed. For many of us it has been a slow realization of which of the evils are lesser: the Council, or the Anathema."

Alivia rests her hands on the table, palms down, gazing intently at the man across from her. "You speak of doing what is 'right'. In this case, 'right' essentially asks me, and my soldiers, to openly betray our fellow Dragon-blooded and take up arms against them, should they unfairly seek harm to the populace. In the past, we have only been kind enough to look the other way, as the Freerunners have done their business. Now, we are at the point of open rebellion."

"There are a few issues in this case -- besides my dilemma of loyalty, which we will address. First of all, the matter of manpower and resources. My official rank is as a Talonlord. I may be able to arrange for the people to be armed, but my unit alone will not avail against the best the Fire District can send at us. Therefore a reassurance of greater numbers from the Freerunners or elsewhere is necessary."

"Second, the matter of securing the Earth District before one can use it as a base against Fire District attack. Control of the Gatekeeper will swing things sharply in your favor, but what of the other major opposition the Freerunner-Celestial agenda will encounter, the Immaculate Monks? The Philosophy still holds sway upon much of the populace. What is being done to address how they will impact your plans?"

"Lastly, assuming you do succeed in an Earth District takeover. What do you and your people intend to do with it afterward? By then you will have dissolved what hierarchy of order has been in place. Will those that wish to seek Freedom above, simply leave the Earth District to repair itself? Will the District thereafter be run by Celestial dictators, or rebels ill-suited for governance?"

"I am no stranger to the desire to reach for the sky," the Dragon-blooded in blue finally winds down to a conclusion. "But there must also be thought placed into what is left behind. What have you to say to this?"

[Private to Kares Perian: Nothing on her emotions/motivations, yeah. As for the speech you gave, I made a roll initially, but decided it was awkward, as I already know in my mind what Alivia would find appealing or not. You happened to hit upon her first point of contention before I even had her say it, that being that the Freerunners actually gave a damn about the fate of the citizens and not just their agenda. Therefore, I'll just assume that you 'passed' with that first post, equivalent to ticking off a WP from her.

This post gives you multiple points to 'attack' from, therefore giving you a chance for what I suppose amounts to a 'social flurry'. Again, though, being a flexible ST I am going to rule more by what you write than what dice say, unless I feel it's ambivalent enough that dice alone would decide it. :)]
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:50, Thu 09 July 2009.

"No offense taken - and if all goes well, we will work together in the future, so working out any friction early is for the best. And I suppose I am a negotiator, at that." Perian replies amiably, then focuses on Alivia's issues and opinions.

"Among the miners of this District, there are those who are brave, foolish, adventurous. They seek the deepest shafts, travel for days on end in parts that have not been visited before, vanish for days, weeks and more. They'll tell you they are looking for a perfect lode, seeking solitude or some other tale. And yet, they come back, once the urge to discover new places has been satisfied."

"They have homes here, however far they might travel. As do we. They care for their folk, even when they can't bear their company. And so do we. They want the freedom to discover their own paths, to try for their own dream. And we do too."

After a quiet moment for Perian to regain his composure, he continues.

"The core 'Runners, those you hear about in the city, those who raid and show that freedom is possible... are by no means all there is. After all,"<Yellow> Perian smiles briefly, <Yellow>"Some of them could be negotiators, for instance."

"When Earth shakes off its shackles and becomes free, I expect the people will do their best to set their own fates. We'll be there, to try and make it a better place. But Free is not a ruler, and as you pointed out so well, the 'Runners are malcontents, not power seekers."

"For authority and leadership, I expect your people might well end up in a position to take the reins. We don't mind - so long as the people are treated well, and free to make their own way, we'll even help as we can. We care about the people, enough to know that our way of life isn't the one they'd choose - and we won't force them to change."

"Mistrust me if you wish, consider me Anathema, reject what I believe is true. I will not hate you for it - that is your free choice, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Though I will try to convince you of my views, as you might of yours. And even if you will not listen, I will try to help you attain what freedom and peace is possible."

"Not for fame. Not for power. Not even to prove that the tales about me are wrong. Simply because it's the right thing to do."

Again, Perian pauses, visibly relaxing himself after growing overly intent on his words.

"If I'm not careful, I'll end up a speechwriter rather than anything else. Well, then. All that remains is military matters - and loyalty."

"Here, and now, the 'Runners are done with hiding. Earth is home to enough of our numbers that we won't let it fall if we have anything to say about it. So we'll fight, welcome those who want to stand for the District, and try to protect those who can't."

"I don't know what forces the freed Celestials have, but I expect they'll have the backing of Water - which has more than its share of people who know their way in a brawl. All I can tell you about them for sure is that their allies are a match for a fair number of 'Runners, and expecting a fight."

"Even then, the militant incarnation of the Immaculate philosophy poses a risk, as the longer the Gatekeeper is in their hands, the more power they can bring to bear. We are aware of this, and plan a surgical strike, to reach it before it is too late. I cannot give you any details until you commit to us, for obvious reasons. Suffice to say, the Celestials will also have a part in this. Again, a small force, applied where it is needed, means that we will deal mainly with those who wish to see Earth ended. The philosophers are free to talk all they want - once their lives are protected."

Perian straightens, and stares directly into the Dragonblood's eyes.

"To summarize, in the order of your points. We will bring all we can to the table, because Earth matters to us, above and beyond considerations of long term freedom. We will strike to reach the Gatekeeper as soon as we can, to minimize the Fire forces that can reach Earth - this should help with loyalty, as well. When we succeed, the 'Runners intend to leave the people of Earth free to choose their path. Those who continue to believe in Anathema and the Immaculate path will be free to do so. But we will not let them enslave others, or revel in corruption and unjust power. If you wish to help or guide this process, you are free to do so."

He finishes his speech, stating at last, "The freedom we seek is that to be, to create, to travel, to learn, as we desire. We've seen enough destruction and corruption that we will do wat we can to stop it. Much as you have, I suspect."

Alivia lets Perian talk, hardly interjecting. She purses her lips or tilts her head thoughtfully at times but is more or less a rapt listener.

"Truly?" she says, tapping her fingernails on the table, at the tail end of Perian's summary of points. "You are to tell me for absolute certain that Free, the Freerunners and the Celestials with them have absolutely no desire to rule here, and would happily offer it to me, or anyone like me who would rule in such a way that considers the rights and freedoms of the populace? Honestly... I will have to see it for myself."

"I am not a governor, though. If it came to pass, I would not be my own first choice. There may be others... but..." The dragon-blood takes a deep breath that is almost a sigh, rubbing her head just above the bridge of her nose. "That all assumes you will even succeed. Though with the Celestials, the entire might of the Freerunners, any other allies you may draw to your side..." Perian notices she does not include herself in that just yet. "And the Gatekeeper of Earth to block the Fire District from sending more troops, you just may have a chance."

"One thing I object to, is the idea that the freedom you fight for can be achieved without significant change. To achieve it, you will have to challenge the beliefs that have held the Coils together for so long, and the organizations that enforce and protect them. The monks, who truly believe the Anathema are Creation's Destroyers, will stand in your way. The soldiers, who fight their hardest out of pride for their home and all it represents, will stand in your way. The engineers, who coerce Celestial crafters to design advanced weapons of war to destroy the Destroyers, will stand in your way. The innovators in Wood District that experiment with genetics and sorcery, stealing Celestial memories and magic so they may harness greater levels of power, will stand in your way. And the Council, who controls truth and information, who wishes to emerge back to the surface triumphantly, taking back the Realm and their divine right to rule Creation -- they, too, will stand in your way."

"The peace you create, will not be the peace the Council wished. It will not be the peace the Immaculate Philosophy supports. The Gatekeeper of Earth may be willing to support you, and the mistreated workers of Earth certainly have a case to do so as well... but the majority of Dragon-blooded of Coils, as well as the mortals who benefit from and believe in their rulers, will want to go to war with you. That conflict, and the truths it may well reveal, will alter the face of Coils whether you want it to or not."

Alivia smiles sadly, and a touch apologetically. Her hands, resting on the table again, almost look as if they are trembling. "You can see I have thought this out a great deal. But I am not saying all this as an outright refusal to your request. I want to know whether you understand as well as I do what is at stake, before I help you destroy the foundations of Coils and build them back up again."

"I could say that, but then, were I other than I am, I could tell you any number of convenient lies for the sake of my personal comfort. And we would not be here."

"Free is sufficiently himself that I can assure you that he has no intention of ruling, or trying to. At some level, he is aware of his limits, and he does not tolerate hypocrisy. As a group, the 'Runners do not intend to rule, nor does Free. As individuals... people are people, whatever alleigeance they swear to."

"Next, myself. I do not know how to rule. I can lead, I can listen, I can tell tales about thw world within the Coils and beyond. But not rule. Insofar as I have a goal, beyond freedom, I want my insights to be understood. And the situation before us shows that the best way for me to teach is by example."

"So, if you do not trust me - follow me. Guard me, or against me, if the Immaculate philosophy as it is taught here contains a grain of truth. I can't offer you more reassurance than that."

"And the other Celestials... I do not know them. I cannot speak for them, but I know the same things you do, and have reached similar conclusions. They could have fled, hidden, ignored the fate of the people in their path. They have not. In that, at least, they are better than the current order. From our common traits, I can hope to influence them in turn, if things go for the worst."

"And if you do not trust them afterwards... trust me. Or follow me to reach them, and me, as you will."

"And why am *I* trusting you, you might, and should ask? Because I think change is possible. Because I am not convinced that my insight is the truth. Because I believe the same things matter to both of us."

Perian smiles grimly, fully aware of the irony of trusting his fate to the hands that have betrayed it in ages past - and imprisoned it far more recently.

"As to change, and war... I think that change was inevitable, even if the Celestials were not free, even if Free were absent. The people, and the Coils themselves, cannot be abused and exploited forever. This way, there is a chance that things may be better, that there *is* a future. Rather than wrap ourselves into ever narrowing circles in the dark, hoping that the end will strike later rather than sooner."

"I do not *want* war. I do not think that Earth, Water, or even Fire, Wood, and Air have any idea of what will follow. I know that the people above us live for more than destruction - however corrupt the Immaculate Philosophy has become, it is not void of virtues."

"But the facts remain. Coils has to change, if it is to become what it can be - or even simply survive. I have been in the mines that fuel Coils. I have spoken to those who know this place better than we can imagine. And they are afraid. So what choices did I have? To allow the corrupton to continue, until there is nothing left? I can't. To seek the sky and abandon the Coils to those who cannot imagine otherwise. I won't. To try for change, for hope, despite the odds. No choice, really."

"And if I am hated for it, at least it will be for the things I have done, for the future I have helped make possible - rather than a senseless terror, wrought by the Immaculates, which seems to pervert all it touches."

Alivia's expression hardly changes as Perian speaks of trustworthiness, change and conflict, though her hands gradually stop trembling and her posture becomes more certain, more resolute. She straightens in her chair, formulating her reply carefully.

"Perian, you are correct that I cannot judge a person simply by the words they speak. Your motives are inscrutable to me, though you speak well and believably on the surface. That said... here is as far as I am willing to go right now."

"You will take Najalin Verad with you." The dark-haired man, still holding the calligraphy box, inclines his head tersely. "Verad is my most trusted colleague. He will be on hand at all times to observe the actions and behavior of yourself and the Freerunners. He is discreet and will not interfere in what you do, merely report it to me."

"I, unfortunately, cannot come with you right at this moment. As you may understand, I am in an awkward situation at the moment, and do not wish to arouse further suspicion. And I have still not made a final decision, though I will say that it leans in your favor. Therefore I will judge your situation from afar, and assess which local Peace Forcers I believe will be most sympathetic to a shift in ideology and policy, those who do not believe blindly in the Philosophy or the right of the Council."

"Now, to address your last statements, I do not think anyone truly wants war just for the sake of doing so. However, people will fight to protect what is theirs. Whether it is futile, or unnecessary, does not apply when it comes to having one's core beliefs threatened. If I thought there were some way to avoid conflict, I would suggest it. But for many Terrestrials, even ordinary citizens, those beliefs are deeply ingrained."

"The Immaculate Order is much, much older than the Coils. The Philosophy has been the foundation of society since the time of the Scarlet Dynasty. It places the Terrestrials as mortals' rightful guides and rulers, and demonizes the Celestials as harbingers of despair and ruin. And the ruin of the Dynasty, the cataclysm that led to the Descent, has etched that belief indelibly into our minds. The fear that the 'Anathema' destroyed not one age, but two, has turned us into a people for whom the 'end justifies the means' -- and, I believe, paved the path to corruption."

"I do want to believe that this path can be altered, Kares Perian," Alivia says, starting to drawing up her hood as if she means to leave soon. "But it's not something that can happen instantaneously. I hope you understand that I will need more time."

[Private to Kares Perian: This isn't necessarily the end. You could try to make a case that there isn't really more time to be had, for example. Or that this isn't a time to be indecisive! Even so, she will still need some time to put together troops, but what you say here may determine whether she will do it asap, or vacillate for days.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:58, Sat 11 July 2009.

"I am not sure you understand, Kigal Alivia," Perian replies as he continues to stare at the Dragonblood.

"Scant days ago, the Coils were as they had always been, slowly falling to corruption and sectarian hatred while those who saw what was happening were either unable or unwilling to act. For the best of reasons, of course - the people are not ready, it's too expensive, the time isn't right, what if there is retaliation, there are other matters to deal with, it isn't within my purview, they might deserve better but the ones I met had to be put down... and so on. The endless thread of excuses and distractions that is what the Immaculate order relies on to retain control and justify its excesses."

"Even the 'Runners are prone to this - focus too much on surviving day to day, succumb to the temptation of force when the people opposite you simply won't listen or understand, play at opposing a notably corrupt commander... But we have Free, who at times seems ot exist to challenge our perceptions and habits, so perhaps we were not falling."

He makes as if to rise, to empathise his words, then settles down.

"And then, things changed. At once. The largest outbreak of Celestials ever, threatening to take over Water."

"And changed again, the cold choice to sacrifice the entire District, rather than risk challenging the comfortable, corrupted, way things were. A decision made in hours, a doom that would take scarcely more time to be complete."

"And changed again, in minutes, when the Celestials brought over the Gatekeeper and allowed Water to continue asit freely chose."

"And changed again, when the threat of Celestials caring for people rather than being maddened killers forced itself into the awareness of the leaders of the higher Districts. So now Earth must be isolated, cleansed, scourged - before the taint of truth is spread."

"And is changing even now, when the 'Runners join the conflict, giving the Celestials a chance to reach above Earth, to make this be more than 'the first great atrocity that marked the visible downfall of the Coils'. If any historian lives to record what follows, that is."

Perian gazes directly into Alivia's eyes once more, naked truth and honesty n his words.

"What trend do you see in all these changes? Not the obvious - Celestials bring new things wherever they go. No. The lesson to learn here is that the changes that occur are *fast* and ever more far reaching. And that the only ones who stand a chance of benefitting from, or guiding, them are those who are commited to their cause."

"So if you wait for the time to be right, the changes will happen before you are ready. Perhaps, if you wait, the problem will vanish. The Celestials and 'Runners mostly dead and in hiding, your firm command praised by the higher levels, a chance to run the District in a more just manner... But you don't believe that, or you would not be here."

He gestures in Verad's direction, and goes on.

"I'll accept your companion's company and investigation. Because I believe this has to be done, and am staking everything I have on it anyway. I have made my choice - I am trusting you, though you merely 'lean in my favor'. If I could, I would give you all the time you need to decide, so that we might meet as allies, or even foes, with clear hearts and minds."

"But the changes are happening too fast to make this possible - once the melee has begun, any arrows still in your quiver are so many wasted lives, as a drill instructor of my acquaintance is fond of saying. You need time, you say. To rally your men, find others who will side with you, and prepare, yes."

"To decide which side you will be on, or wait to see how the conflict goes... No. It is already too late, almost."

"Again, unlike the Immaculates, I'll be as direct as I can. You have met me, there are many things I know which would be useful to your superiors. If we part without shedding blood, you may as well condemn yourself in their eyes - for honor, for a lack of cruelty, for caring."

"If we part and I do not know that I can rely on you when needed - as close to now as can be managed - we will have to act without your help. And the death and destruction will be the greater for it."

"This middle road you walk, of conversing with each and holding your own counsel, is wise. But there is no time for wisdom left."

Perian rises in turn, and nods in Verad's direction. "Even so, the choice is yours. Assuming we do not come to blows, Verad is welcome to join me, and I'll try to do things your way - unlike the Order, I seek to convince, not compel. And to warn, even when such is not welcome."

After a moment's consideration, he adds. "You say that you have no idea what I truly am, and so whether I can be trusted. Perhaps - but you know of my companion, at least, and can understand her, I trust."

"Volya, please tell Kigal Alivia what you think. Have I lied about the 'Runners plans and long term intentions?"

Once the Freerunner has had her say, he asks another question. "In the time you've known me, or known of me. Have I ever dealt unfairly with you or gone back on my word?"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:35, Tue 14 July 2009.

Volya has been listening all along, having finally given in to the desire to sit during the storm of words Perian and Alivia have thrown toward one another. Perched in an adjacent chair, she has since lowered her hood, revealing her half-canine nature. The only witnesses now are the speakers, Verad, and the barkeep; even the butler has withdrawn, discreetly, to the side hall.

She clears her throat, gruffly, and begins to speak.

"Kigal Alivia and I, we've not personally met often," the Freerunner leader starts. Her High Realm is a little out of practice, and wavers on formality, but is easy enough to follow, despite the obvious low-born accent. "But I've been Free's Sector 1 authority for some time. Indirectly or not, Talonlord, you've worked with the Freerunners through me, or my people, the Mori Freerunners. Our attention to remaining discreet and professional, I hope, has satisfied so far. We're proud of that."

"I've also spent some time working with Perian himself. He's been with the Freerunners for a couple years now. He's a level-headed and straightforward man. He won't mince words and doesn't waste time with unnecessary deception. 'Specially not about the Freerunner agenda. The Boss trusts Perian implictly to serve as his Face, and to express our intentions as an organization. We really aren't a group with ambitions to rule. We want to guide the Coils into fairer and more capable hands, and empower the people to make choices about that governance. Part of the process... maybe the most painful... is revealing the truth for what it is."

She pauses, at Perian's last question of her, and shakes her head. "Heh. Perian's gone through great lengths to treat everyone around him fairly. And keep in mind that he is not one with a great amount of seniority among us. He's reached the prominence he has as one of us, because he worked at it. Cracked many a skeptic, over time. His negotations make us healthier and stronger, provided us with much needed resources. He did not have to help us. We helped his liberation, but as always the Freerunners gave him choice, and he remained by his own will. He wants to support what we are trying to do -- and he wants to include you, too. If you'll let us."

[Private to Kares Perian: And that's.. part 1 of 2 of my NPC posts. Possibly more than 2, depending. If I don't get to Alivia before bed I'll do so when I wake!]
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:10, Wed 15 July 2009.

Alivia pauses in raising her hood, riveted to her seat by Perian's words. More than once she opens her mouth -- perhaps in protest, perhaps to interject, but the man is caught up in his purpose, in shaping the message that he must bring to her, and make clear.

In the end she just lets him talk. He and Volya have her entire attention, though now and then she glances at Verad, who returns a terse nod of affirmation nearly every time. Other times he pauses to touch his earpiece communicator (a very discreet thing, blue jade shell clasped onto the ear) as if listening in on something. Toward the end of Volya's speech, the dark-haired man bows apologetically and steps away to a corner of the room, standing with his head bowed and turned toward the wall, away from the prying eyes of those who may read his lips as he returns communication.

Alivia's eyes follow Verad for only a split second, returning to Volya's face, then back to Perian's. The bartender quietly and discreetly busies himself cleaning glasses and rearranging bottles at the bar, hardly making a sound. No one else speaks now, and the air is tense and expectant as the Dragon-blood attempts to gather her thoughts, and her words.

"I've heard you out to the end. Your words are powerful ones. Let me first clarify that the leaders of the upper districts do not fear the 'truth' that the Celestials can be kind, and not monsters. No, I think that they fear their 'kindness' as another form of control -- a way for the Celestials to fool the citizens into supporting them, gain a foothold in the Coils and use it for their own calamitous ends. Paranoia, I think, is the true enemy that divides the Terrestrial from the Celestial. For who determines the truth, but the victor?"

"You are right; I am not here to earn praise and accolades by hindering your plans. My desire to aid the Freerunners in the past is because I suspect something rotten has taken root in the leadership of Coils. It is a corruption that is not always easy to see, for it had its roots in what, to all records and recollections, was a genuine desire to protect the people of the fallen Dynasty. A people who lost everything they had to Anathema conquerors, and aspired to build an even greater power, to rise up and take back what they lost one day. Every advancement Five Coils has made thus far has been for this. Every Peace Officer and Legionnaire knows this."

"Only now... as we face our own sin, the Collared ones whom we have exploited for that power, now freed from their shackles, do we begin to split between those who doubt the price is worth the cause, and those who believe all the stronger for it. Yet I, despite being a doubter, must give pause when I am told this is 'no time for wisdom.' It may be true, but to base such a momentous decision on a leap of faith?! I..." A sudden, sharp breath, and she holds her tongue for a moment, calming herself visibly.

"I can walk away from here, and go back to work. The people in this room are the only ones who know for certain I have come to this meeting. Unless the Freerunners betray me -- which, I must add, would ruin any chance you may have had to win my trust -- no one of importance will be the better for it. And so we get to the crux of what you ask me. Can I live with what will happen if I take my time while the events of this District careen toward their climax?"

Another breath in, another breath out. Alivia wrings her hands, and gazes up at the ceiling as if in supplication. In that vulnerable moment, Verad returns from his conference with the communicator and returns quietly to her side, brushing her shoulder with the barest of touches.

"No. No. I can't live with being a fencesitter. So there you have it. I will do my best to expedite the process of recruiting those who will be likely to help your cause. But with these conditions: One, you will still bring Verad with you, while I do what I must. Two, my people will not be pulled into a Celestial versus Terrestrial war. I don't believe in them as better rulers, I only believe the current regime can change. If we deploy, it will be for that purpose, and to protect the citizens from becoming unnecessary victims. Three, understand that I can withdraw my support at any time, should the Freerunners or their Celestial allies reveal their own brand of corruption, cruelty or blind ambition. I will hold you accountable, Perian. I will make sure you die if you have misled me."

"Excuse me." Verad bends to whisper something in the Dragon-blood's ear. Whatever it is, it makes Alivia's blue eyes go wide.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:57, Thu 16 July 2009.

"Thank you," Perian replies seriously, almost willing her to understand the respect and appreciation he feels for Alivia's reply and honesty both. He does not smile, or truly relax, but a flicker of relief passes on his features.

"I never considered betrayal, nor would the 'Runners have approved of any foolosh enough to try - but let the past be past. Again, Kigal Alivia, my thanks. For making your choice, and, I believe, the right one. From this moment, for me, we begin anew - in my eyes, for my self, whatever happened before is just the past, redeemed. If there is anything to it."

Still intent on his Dragonblood counterpart, he answers her conditions.

"Verad's presence was never a condition for your support. He is more welcome now than before, is all."

"The 'Runners, and I, want the people of the Coils to be free - free to choose their own ways, their own futures... But I forget myself. We will only call upon your aid in seeing to the safety of the District, or the Coils. We shall do our best to protect the people of Pasiap's Resolve in the coming conflict - and if we seek power, it will be by peaceful means."

"Though I cannot promise that certain egregiously corrupt administrators, or their property, will be left untouched. Nor will we come fully out of hiding. Habit, safety, comfort - but I am belabouring the obvious."

Perian takes a deep breath, then another, and adresses at last the main point of Alivia's conditions.

"As to your last... I can speak for the 'Runners, and myself. On their account, I'd accept cheerfully and without hesitation. I do not know the other Celestials, to swear for them so readily."

"Still, if they are as the Immaculates taught they would be, then I hope you will give me a chance to stop them before seeking my own end."

"But nevermind. I accept and understand your conditions, Kigal Alivia, and will do my best to live up to their spirit as well as their letter - because your own spirit and care are another part of the foundation on which the future will be built."

As Alivia reacts to Verad's words, Perian leans forwards. "Now that the formalities are dealt with. Is there anything we might do to aid you? I'd venture you've received bad news, though I do not know what it is."
This message was last edited by the player at 09:38, Fri 17 July 2009.

"Do not thank me yet," Alivia says seriously, raising her eyebrows as she rises from her chair, finally replacing her hood. "Not until we learn just how much help I will be to you. For now, we have a tentative alliance, but there is room for growth. Trust is something to be earned and cultivated, on both sides of the table." She extends a hand to Perian, shaking his hand with a sure, firm grip, then reclaims the calligraphy box that Verad has been holding for her thus far.

"I am, admittedly, relieved you are reluctant to swear your life for the Celestials. You have yet to be certain of an alliance with them, and have come to me first. That too weighs in your favor. Very well, we will burn that bridge when we get to it." [Private to Kares Perian: an unexpected but welcome advantage to you doing some solo diplomacy before meeting the Celestials!]

Finally, on the matter of the news she recently heard, Alivia hesitates only minutely before delegating to her companion. "Verad?"

The dark haired man in violet nods and speaks aloud for the first time, his tone deferential, though not meek. "Very well, Talonlord. Two emergency reports have surfaced on the Peace Force channels, the first originating in Floor B25. There have been multiple breaches into the bottom floor of the Earth District, Inner Temple. Reports state Orichalcum Alert, as well as demon involvement."

"The second report involves recent unrest in Pasiap's Resolve, Sectors 4 and 5. The industrial center of South Sector 5 has now been flagged as a riot zone, and the Elite Peace Force unit Burning Feather is being deployed to neutralize the situation."

"So in other words," Alivia picks up from there, "Your ... potential Celestial allies are already launching an assault on the Immaculate's major stronghold in the district. I assume you had no knowledge of this, or that it would occur during our talk?" The Dragon-blood glances at Perian, her eyes not accusatory, but nonetheless scrutinizing.

"As for the... other situation. If Burning Feather will be there, that likely means they will be using the swiftest method possible to put an end to things. I can think of a few things that may mean and none of them will be kind. Where were you intending to head after this meeting?"

[Private to Kares Perian: tenses changed slightly so we can be more fluid with time here.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:43, Fri 17 July 2009.

Volya gets to her feet too, once Alivia does. She grits her fangs at the latest developments reported by Verad, obviously troubled. "We're expected in Sector 3. Supposedly some ex-Immaculates want a crack at helping the 'Runners. And that mess in Sector 5? My cousin is there. Freyr Irjin, pack leader of Edgestrider Sept. They'd be the first of the 'Runners to have to deal with Burning Feather... but the Boss also tasked him to arrange a meeting with some Celestial folk. No idea whether they're the same ones now shakin' things up in the Temple."

"Looks like we're all spreading ourselves thin." She shrugs helplessly, and then shrugs again just to stretch her muscles, more than ready to get a move on again. "If you'll excuse me -- gotta make sure Camilla got back safely. If she ran off, it's likely because she suspected an informer. Pretty sure you won't want your precious secrecy compromised on top of everything else, Talonlord."

In her usual brusque manner, Volya nods quickly, and starts for the door to the common room without another word.

[Private to Kares Perian: Oh yeah. I should add, I'm not forcing you to go to Sector 3 if you decide you want to try to head somewhere else. Volya saying that was just a reminder that that's where you were originally going next. :)]
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:28, Fri 17 July 2009.

"If we knew when they would strike, we'd have tried to obtain your support sooner, so we could all be ready on time. Trouble in the city was inevitable, and anticipated - by us and yourself both. Trouble two floors down was not part of our plans, I don't think we have much, if any people there to exploit it."

"No, this is another of those quick moment of change, catching us before we are ready - and we have no choice but to step into it, and try to shape it into something better. To the best of my knowledge, the Celestials aim to reach Pasiap, so an attack upon the stronghold defending the Gatekeeper is no great surprise."

Perian nods at Volya's words, and adresses the Peace Force members.

"From your worries, I would guess that my own duties are the more urgent now. If Burning Feather only has to deal with a civilian uprising, and can apply all the force it can summon there, it will be a bloodbath. So, in the short term, forcing them to split up and thus give their foes a chance seems essential - and more allies can only help. In the medium term, we will need to reach the Gatekeeper or even that will not suffice."

He pauses, for Alivia to consider his words, then concludes. "But you are more familiar with the forces and weapons involved than I am. As an ally, would you suggest acting otherwise? I confess that from necessity my martial skills are limited to the here and now, rather than the march of armies."

"Whatever is done, I shall need to leave, and soon. If there are informers about, then matters are even more urgent."

[Private to GM: Sector 3 was my next step, yes. Unless you want to combine threads sooner, in which case Perian will listen to Volya or Alivia suggesting haste is more critical.

I also hoped to have a scene or two during which to perform a prayer for overall luck, success, and so forth. Which is why I wanted the wine. But the timing on that is completely fluid.]

"No... I think your assessment is closest to the truth right now," Kigal Alivia replies, nodding quickly to Perian. "I don't know how many you brought with you, but Winglord Jedevra would be accompanied by a small army of well-equipped troops. If you trust your abilities as a negotiatior enough to attract more allies to the fold in a timely manner, by all means, do so."

"I agree, we must part ways. I don't think we will have more than a few hours to do what we must. I will communicate through Verad about where we will convene next."

Verad stays with Perian, bowing his head in acquiescence (not saluting. An interesting difference.) "Good luck, Talonlord."

"And good luck to both of you," the Peace Force officer adds belatedly, starting to head for the side door she came from. She would have stepped through, if not for Volya, bursting back in from the common room with a young green-haired woman in a grey cloak.

"Wait -- Kigal Alivia, hold. Camilla wasn't able to capture the informer. Your planned mode of exit may have been compromised." Volya explains the situation outside, while the bartender hefts what looks to be a small essence cannon from behind the bar without a word. "There's uniformed men coming into the common room, asking for you. Perian... I think we'll have to either go out the back and take care of who might be waiting there, make them think she ran off. Or try to convince 'em out front to back off."

Volya signals Camilla, who promptly removes her cloak and hands it to Alivia, revealing herself armed with a repeating crossbow, a breastplate and a small sword. "You might want to exchange cloaks," the young sniper says quietly.

[Private to Kares Perian: Tying up some loose ends, which I didn't get to play with as much due to wanting to speed up a bit. I'll leave it up to you how much you want to be involved in Alivia's escape; otherwise, I can just take care of most of it in narrative and we can move to the next scene. (Which will be your chance for prayer, hopefully.)]
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:50, Sat 18 July 2009.

"Facing them would probably wreck this place, and I'd prefer not to see so much of the past be lost. We move. Although... A diversion is definitely in order, and I think I know exactly how to pull it off."

He pauses for a moment, then adresses Verad. "How recognisable are you? They may be looking for you as well, which could cause as much trouble."

He shrugs off his cloak, ready to offer it to his new companion. "Use this is you need it."

Next, he turns towards Volya, and quickly outlines his plan. "We actually have an interesting opportunity here, if we work it right. I'll head out front and keep them focused on me, and what I'm saying, leading them out. Use the time that earns you to move the more fragile people away, and Alivia. Once we're clear, hit the men with something disabling. Casualties are not optimal, we want them stirred up and confused, not out for random retribution."

"This should allow us to get our people out, minimize structural damage, and distract whatever forces are nearby. If they expect an uprising or attack here, they'll have to send troops, whether something happens or not."

Before setting forth, he glances at Alivia. "We can do our part, here - keeping the troops occupied and hammer them once we're clear. Unless, as an ally, you'd prefer to simply break through and risk revealing yourself?"

[Private to GM: Mechanicaly, I intend to use Respect Commanding Attitude, meaning that they have to pay attention to me so long as they are not attacked.

Which lets everyone else get away, ideally. Then the 'Runners drop something painful and debilitating on troops (and I can soak it if too close, so it's not an issue), and suddenly it looks like a 'Runner raid, or uprising, on a completely new front. All the hurt (but alive) trops ensure that word spreads - and it'll be about getting attacked, not about looking for Alivia. I hope.]

Camilla and Alivia trade cloaks, the Peace Force officer relinquishing hers without complaint. The Dragon-blood sighs heavily, donning the darker, less ornate garment. "That may be Mnemon Daigal. Local forces. He has been a thorn on my side lately, but his investigation on me thus far has been purely unofficial. You may be able to use that fact to your advantage."

Volya listens to Perian's plan, then gives a first, tentative nod. "Heh, if you're confident you can get their notice, I'll trust your judgment on that. I've seen what you can do. I'm also fine with getting Alivia out. Our supporting teams should be converging discreetly at the exits already."

"But, staging an attack? We shouldn't need to do that until absolutely necessary. The problem here isn't just casualties or book-burnings. Truthfully, the less heat we can bring onto the Literate, the better. Alivia's not the only one we've got to protect."

"If I may suggest," the green-haired sniper says carefully, "I think all we need to do is convince the local militia that they are mistaken that Alivia was here." She fits the cloak over her head; the garment is somewhat large on her, and just barely brushes the ground rather than remaining at ankle length.

Verad accepts Perian's cloak, as well. "I will go with Volya and Talonlord Alivia, and reconvene with you when we have exited quietly," he says to Perian, his face a mask of calm.

Unless Perian has any last comments, Alivia, Verad and Volya head toward the back exit, while Camilla (in Alivia's cloak) accompanies Perian back to the common room. There are five men there in the white uniform of the Earth District Peace Force, one of whom wears the insignia of a Captain, or Scalelord. The squad leader is currently addressing Lena, the red-haired bartender at the front, and bombarding her with questions. The other four are keeping watch on the patrons, keeping them from leaving prematurely.

The other two Freerunners that came to the Literate with Perian, Agomir and Random, are there feigning the attitude of concerned patrons.

"Good point. Quiet convincing it is, then. Probably safer, too." Perian nods self deprecatingly. "Which just goes to show that I can learn, and certainly need to."

He sets down his book on the table with an appologetic glance in the bartender's direction. "A fine read, one I'd love to pursue on another occasion. I'm afraid I don't have the time to reshelve it properly."

Before stepping into the common room, he speaks to Camilla, "Thanks for the suggestion - you may have to play the part of the person they thought they were following."


When he walks out, Perian's posture shifts into something more relaxed, deeply content at some inner level. Without seeming to notice the Peace Forcers, he heads casually for the door, only to be brought short when a soldier steps in his way.

"Well, now," he queries, matching the tones of some of the more unbearable and spoiled brats of the more fortunate merchants of Pasiap's Resolve, "What is the meaning of this, may I ask?"

[Private to GM: Playing the traditional 'foppish dandy' part that is called for under these circumstances. Perhaps a tale of forbidden (or at least embarassing) love?

Curses! Perian isn't that good at Manipulation. Ah well, that's what essence is for.]

"I believe I can manage," says Camilla before she follows Perian to the common room, unsmiling, unboastful, purely matter-of-fact. "I am not unfamiliar with the theater arts."

The bartender, still holding his 'essence shotgun' firmly in hand, simply gives Perian a polite, but grateful nod. "Your patronage is appreciated. Let's hope there will be 'another time.'"

Volya is off on her own adventure with Alivia, while Perian plays the fop with the maiden Damia at his side. The young woman puts on her most haughty and unsatisfied expression as they are beset upon by the 'uncouth' soldier. "Soran, who is this? Why is he looking at me like this?" Camilla normally speaks with little inflection, encouraging others to overlook her, but in this 'alternate persona' one can almost hear the pout in her voice, the entitlement issues!

"We are looking for an alleged traitor to the Peace Forces and the Council," the soldier says sternly. The older man with the Scalelord insignia suddenly breaks off his conversation with Lena and strides over to the 'couple'. As soon as his back is turned, the athletic bartender heaves a sigh of relief. "That cloak. Who gave it to you?" the Scalelord demands without any pretense of manners. "What are your names?"

---

OOC: ok, give it your best shot (and roll) Perian, and Camilla will do her best to follow along.

Perian peers quizically at the soldier, then blinks as his words register. "Very good. Carry on." He turns towards Camilla and does his best to reassure her. "Damia, my dear, the man is a soldier. He probably can't help it, and appears to be busy with some folderol of utmost importance to his sort. We'll just let him do his work and be off, shall we?" A step forward is interrupted by the immobile Peace Forcer who neither backs off nor moves to the side.

"Now, then, my good fellow," Perian begins, building himself up to righteous outrage at being disturbed by the agents of the law who should, by all rights, be on his side. Then the Scalelord steps up, and he deflates in the face of authority.

"Soran, er, sir? My charming companion is, of course, Damia. And yourself?" The gravity of his situation dawns upon Perian when the officer ignores his attempt at ingratiating himself and quesitons him about the cloak.

"Oh, er. A very fine cloak it is indeed, sir. Why, I'm sure that if you find it of such interest, I'll be most glad to give it to you. It is a very fine cloak, and surely one that is most suited to one of your stature and importance. No?" He quails nervously under the Scalelord's gaze.

"But it's mine! You just bought it for me!" Camilla interjects, grasping the fabric possessively.

"Now, now, Damia. If the noble, just, and righteous officer wants a cloak of such excellent manufacture, then surely it's no trouble for we simple folk to indulge his desires. Besides, I'll buy you another one."

"From the same place? The cloak with the ruffles and silk?"

"Oh, very well, but only if the officer insists." Perian assents, then adds, as an aside to the officer, "Charming girl, very enthusiastic, you know. But best kept happy, as she's got a temper, and we aren't really supposed to be seeing one another. The woman who sold me this cloak gave me a great deal, but I'll have trouble affording another at full price. Are you sure some scrip, or maybe jade, wouldn't do instead?"

---

OOC: 7 successes on Manipulation + Perform (6 personal motes spent on First Excellency). 11/17 personal.

[Private to GM: Being in character. Also, suggesting that Alivia might have sold her cloak to some harmless spoiled brats as a decoy.]
This message was last edited by the player at 05:18, Sat 25 July 2009.

"Scalelord Mnemon Daigal, Sector 1 Peace Force. But 'sir' is fine from you," Daigal says with a frown, and listens impatiently as 'Soran' gives his story, and 'Damia' whines and grouses about having to give her favorite cloak to soldiers (which is of course silly; the girl has a favorite piece of clothing every day.)

Finally Daigal waves his hand, obviously vexed at being delayed in his task by these loquacious and rather shallow individuals. "Look, forget the cloak! I don't want it. I'm looking for the woman who wore it, or one like it. Kigal Alivia."

He demands Damia remove the cloak and subject herself to a search along with Soran. Camilla, in her current role, squirms and huffs about at the very thought of having to be 'strip-searched', though that's not what actually happens. Their belongings are examined, and Camilla in particular is examined closely, her features scrutinized carefully, and -- when they are discovered -- her weapons as well. "Why is a lady like you carrying so many armaments?" Daigal says suspiciously, to which 'Damia' answers, "A lady needs to have protection nowadays! There are ruffians out there, everywhere!"

Then the Earth Aspect's expression grows serious and intent as he crosses his arms carefully. "I know the both of you are associated with the Freerunners. That alone would be enough grounds for me to arrest you." He leans closer, taking on a conspiratorial tone. "However... if you truly met with Kigal Alivia, and can testify to that effect, I can get you a light sentence. How about it?" [Private to Kares Perian: +2 stunt for you. Now, your Manip. did work, he does believe pretty thoroughly that you're a fop and you're seeing a petulant mistress. However he's desperate to find an Alivia connection here, so he used Revelation of Associates Hunch, a DB Investigation Charm. Basically it lets him know your most important allies, connections and employers.

Fortunately since you JUST met Alivia and you're not totally certain she's a permanent ally, he didn't sense anything about her, but he did find out you're working for Free! That is an entirely different problem. Of course there could be ways you can explain why you're working closely with Free that won't necessarily incriminate you, but the tough part will be trying to word it in a way that is 'the truth as you know it'. Or you could turn the tables on him, since he's basically asking you for dirt on a colleague... anyway, whether you try more smooth social skills or decide it's not worth it and just try to get the heck out, we should finish it off shortly.]

Perhaps sensing that the conversation is getting a little 'uncomfortable,' Agomir gives a discreet signal to Perian from behind Daigal's back. Lena, too, looks prepared -- they're basically saying that they'll fight if they have to, so that Perian can get out.

"Who? Well, now that I think of it, that woman didn't look like an ordinary seamstress. Do you think I might have been involved in trading in illegal goods? How exciting! Did you hear that, Damia? The Scalelord Mnemon Daigal needs my help to stamp the trade in contraband cloaks into the ground." Awed by authority and attention, Perian babbles enthusiastically once he has figured out what the Peace Force officer is after.

When Daigal reveals his affiliations, Perian's expression and self assurance collapse. He replies softly at first, but soon his voice rises to petulant whine that is audible throughout the common room. Obviously, any efforts at subtlety or discretion involving him are doomed to failure in this busy locale.

"It's not fair! Do you have any idea how tiny the stipend my parents give me is? Why, if I were to try and live on it, I'd have to cut back horribly on my food and clothing, all my friends would abandon me, and that's just for starters. It would be awful, simply awful, I tell you. Er, sir." As he speaks of all the delights he'd lose under such circumstances, he gazes forlornly at the bottles displayed inside the Literate, at Damia's fine features, at his own clothing. Then, with some envy, at the martial figure before him.

"So what if tell people where they can get food, weapons, and things like that. It means I get to live in the manner to which I have become accustomed, and," Perian's voice lowers just enough for those listening to to have to strain somewhat to hear it, making his words all the more interesting, "Bad boys have a lot of success with the ladies. Maybe you should try that to catch the girl you're after? I mean, I'm sure pulling out all the stops is a great way to make her feel wanted, but there is such a thing being too ostentatious."

Faltering before the Scalelord's cold gaze, Perian meanders back towards the topic at hand. "Well. Um. I certainly don't want to be arrested, it would simply ruin my entire social schedule. So, er, if you want me to say I've seen her, then I certainly have, and she's a tall blonde woman with a scar on her cheek. Or maybe she's a redhead with a remarkable chest? I mean, tell me what you want me to say and I'll say it, alright?"

A flicker or awareness makes its way into Perian's face. "Unless you're after that girl we saw at the mercer's shop, the one who didn't look like a seamstress. I knew there was some subtext involved when I got that cloak. Anyway, the store is just a few blocks off, so you might catch her if you hurry."

Some miracle must have occured, for a trace of craftiness follows Perian's brief contact with reality un-cushioned by money and priviledge. "But it's you're dragging us along, it'll be much slower, right? So if I give you directions, and promise to stop all my petty little dealings with the Freerunners, then we can both benefit. I don't end up in jail, my parents never hear about this, and you have your best chance at finding that shopgirl who isn't one. Alright? Alright?"

[Private to GM: And not a single direct lie in the entire performance. I'm quite proud.

If rolls are required, spend motes on Performance again.]
This message was last edited by the player at 08:18, Sat 25 July 2009.

[Private to Kares Perian: Gave a +3... I rolled for you, you got 9 successes, +2 from Appearance difference (I don't consider this guy incredibly attractive), and factoring in the fact he actually thinks his charm is working and you're telling the truth... I think you're doing fine. I wouldn't have him WP to defend something he doesn't even know needs defending, after all.]

Playing along with Perian's performance, 'Damia' turns up the pout again, sighing in obvious dissappointment. "But Soran, darling, where are we going to get the money for that pretty necklace I wanted, the one with that gorgeous fire ruby, I had my eye on it for such a long time..."

"And running with Free was so... exciting!" She gives a little thrilled shiver, then turns her gaze on Daigal directly, her blue eyes turning frosty. "Mnemon Daigal, correct? I'll make sure my family knows all about this trouble if that seamstress isn't really important to your investigation! You'll hear from House Breseid soon enough for making so much trouble for us!"

Listening to Soran's longwinded explanation, and Damia's obvious disdain for him and his soldiers, Daigal's expression goes through several stages from irritation, to incredulity, to exasperation and just plain resignation. "Breseid... I've never heard... oh, never mind! Give your directions, and hurry! I'll leave some of my men here with you to bring you to the station... we WILL have to talk again about this Freerunner connection, and I'll need your information and your statements for later. Lots of paperwork, understand?"

It isn't a completely clean escape, but two men are much easier to overpower than five. Once Perian, under his guise as Soran, gives whatever 'information' he finds most appropriate to feed, Daigal directs three of his men to depart from the Last Literate. The remaining customers, except for a bare few, scurry to make themselves scarce as well, and Perian and Camilla find themselves escorted out in the direction of the nearest Peace Force station.

The two dutiful soldiers bringing them out take a turn passing by the alleyway leading toward the back of the Literate, and are suddenly yanked into the darkness. Muffled sounds of struggling are followed by the sound of a few heavy blows... then silence. Volya steps out, wearing her hood up, accompanied by Verad and a rather spunky quarter-beast whose name Perian remembers as Pixie. "'Ey, Perian. We took care of 'em for ya," she says with an unabashed grin.

"Our new ally's gone her separate ways too," adds Volya gruffly. "Let's keep moving. Where to now?" [Private to Kares Perian: And hopefully this can help you transition toward your prayer attempt.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:18, Sun 26 July 2009.

"Much appreciated, Pixie. Incidentally, are my erstwhile 'captors' still breathing?" Perian asks. "If so, best let them know it's because the 'Runners greatly approve of Daigal. After all," his grin is brief and savage, "That fool has done us quite a service just now, in pursuing Alivia - we may as well let them know."


A few streets down, he answers Volya's question, spoken and otherwise. "The way I see it, the less reliable, loyal, and competent Daigal seems, the better for us. But that's for others to worry about, now. Our next step is in Sector three, although," he shuffles through his pack and briefly peruses a map of the area, "I'd like to drop by here," he points at an area that seems to have been abandonned for quite some time, "On the way. If I remember correctly, it's a place that was once popular with some of my more... unusual contacts. And I hope to have a drink with them, before we head into danger once more."

[Private to GM: And setting up the prayer. A simple 'travel' post, and I can get writing. Or I may run into something on the way...]

"Heh heh," says Pixie, "I like how you think. We'll make sure your message comes loud and clear. Catch ya later!" She slips away again while Perian, Volya and Verad continue on, joined by Camilla who quietly states she needs to 'get rid of extra bulk'. Likely the cloak. After all, if it attracted Peace Force attention before...

Volya peers down at the location on the map Perian shows, and after a moment shrugs and nods. "Shouldn't take us terribly long to get there." Verad accompanies the pair with hardly a comment, more an interested observer than a direct participant. At least for now.

The trio travels on foot, Volya taking creative shortcuts now and then as to bypass Peace Force patrols. They are not alone, of course. The Mori Freerunners follow at various distances, by varying means, remaining inconspicuous while never letting their pack leader or diplomat quite out of their sight. Perian only sees them in chance glimpses: feigning casual conversations across the street, passing by in delivery vehicles, now and then hurrying by while jostling Volya to pass a message. Once Perian thinks he certainly just saw Blood Sparrow, the sniper team leader, crouching from a balcony; the next moment, she is gone. Another time an altercation at a market stall draws local guards to the area, allowing Perian, Volya and Verad to skirt safely past.

Thus with no significant incident, Perian arrives at his chosen destination... [Private to Kares Perian: And it's yours! Feel free to to describe the location and your prayer, or one before the other, however you like.]

The locale that Perian has selected appears at first glimpse to be a section of corridors that has not been visited for quite some time. Dust, debris, and darkness are the main features that come to mind. When he steps into a small alcove and vanishes, it comes as a surprise, followed by a few curses from the other 'Runners. The new route is an odd, narrow path, nigh invisible from the main way.

The walls are off, feeling wrong somehow - until Perian steps into a larger chamber, and perspective is restored. The faint patterns that did not belong in tunnel sides are perfectly suited to ancient columns and carvings, first smashed by Dragonblooded warriors, then worn down by time and water. The cave where Perian comes to a stop was once a tall room, though few signs remain of what it used to be. A pool in the center, fed every score heartbeats by another drop. A strangely blackened vent, leading away at an angle, which was perhaps a fireplace once. Columns that might have been engraved in earlier, brighter days.

"Make yourselves comfortable. I do not expect trouble here, and may have unusual visitors. You are welcome to watch, listen, or rest as you will. I would appreciate silence, though."

Formalities dealt with, Perian moves to the space between the pool and the chimney, stopping on a pile of rubble which might have been a dais. There, ceremonially, he sets down a finely carved wooden bowl and sits cross legged before it. Carefully tugging loose the cork of the wine bottle he has carried this far, he pours a significant amount inside. A bit of scrambling with flint and tinder, and a pair of incense sticks burn slowly on either side of the bowl.

"Come, all you who listen, who watch, who are the heart of the Coils. Come remember the days that were, the touch of the sun, the righteous path. Come, and be welcome, to share my drink, be warmed at my fire, enjoy my tales."

"Once upon a time, a poor couple had five children, who cared for their parents and worked tirelessly to maintain their humble farm. But bandits came wandered the land, and one morning they fell upon the first child as he ventured forth to see to the safety of the land and his family."

"Though the child fought as well as he could, the bandits were many. Even so, he might have escaped, but they were cruel, and threatened those he cared for, promising to release them if he would surrender. In the end, though he did not trust them, he went with the bandits and was clapped in chains, given a sword, and sent to battle their enemies."

"But the troubles were not over."

Perian pauses, to let his audience think of what may come next. Those most intent on the bowl before him might notice that the level of wine seems to have dropped. Smoothly, he fills it once more to the brim, and continues.

"And then, one day, while the second child was temding to the crops, the bandits came again. Once more, they attacked, once more, they threatened. The second child spoke to them, asking them why they came when they had sworn to leave the family in peace, to mourn their lost sibling."

"All you brother does is conquer, said the bandits, and we want to enjoy the fruit of his victories. Come with us to minister to the lands we have stolen, and we swear we shall not trouble you again."

"And so the second child stepped forth, knowing that they lied, but hoping that they could learn. For he knew many tales, with which to guide and instruct, but also to inspire and entertain. Perhaps, he thought, the bandits might learn righteousness from his stories, or be distracted by them."

"And so, on the first day he was presented to the bandit's leaders, the second child told them a tale, most marvelous and strange. Do you know it?"

Perian's question rings out, seeming to echo in spaces beyond those of the cavern.

"Come, make yourselves comfortable, for we are friends here, companions by choice and duty, spinning yarns old and new."

Again, he fills the bowl.

"In the days before Autumn, the second child said, There lived a lord in a great city that swam on the water. This water stretched across levels and levels, and the city's flippers were so great they could carry it from one end of the land to another in days."

"The lord was sad, although his reach was great, and he could travel to other cities, even those of the earth. Although he had the finest foods on his table, the purset music and the most glorious jewels, he was not content. Despite a great family, all promising lads and lasses who would do great things in his name, he felt hollow, as though something were missing."

"He set forth to ravage and destroy those who had angered him, and crushed them beneath his feet. He threw greater and brighter celebrations, turning to strange drugs and exotic habits when ordinary means began to pale. He threw himself into the arms of partners, willing and otherwise, seeking to assuage his emptiness."

"At last, he began to summon sages from across the land and the water, promising them fortunes if they could only tell him what he lacked. And swearing to kill them if they proved wrong. Many tried, and many died at his hands, for he was blessed with power beyond measure."

"At long last, a simple peasant came, carrying for only possession a sack of food, a straw hat, and the memory of sunshine on his shoulders."

Perian pauses, listening intently.

"Would you hear more?" he asks, softly, so as not to disturb the threads of the tale.

Volya gestures to Verad, finding a quiet place to sit. She's seen Perian do something like this before -- many Freerunners have, through the couple years of his cooperation with them -- and while she doesn't completely understand what significance the tales have, she does know that afterward, good things often happen. Not immediately, not always exactly on time, but they do. Crops grow where they otherwise wouldn't; fresh water flow from dry rocks; an opportunistic trader brings them just what supplies they were lacking; a difficult mission goes well, while pursuers find themselves beleaguered by snapped harnesses, rocks tripping them up, unexpectedly locked doors.

Does Volya believe? Perhaps not; but she is also one that does not question good fortune, and thus is content to let the Zenith Caste spin his yarn for as long as he must.

Verad, a pensive and curious expression on his face, pulls from the depths of his coat a note pad, with which he begins to write observations as Perian lights the incense, pours the wine and begins to speak. Though Volya often peers at his writing, finding herself vexed that the dark-haired investigator has chosen to write his notes in a coded shorthand, he pays her curiosity no mind. "Fascinating," he mumbles to himself now and then, or, "Possibly quite heretical." But he doesn't stop Perian, either.

As for the true audience of the tale, they do not show themselves in physical, obvious ways. One can only truly see their appreciation from observing the surroundings. Most apparently, the bowl of wine, which periodically -- as Perian pauses, allowing his tale to sink in -- drops in level as if someone were consuming it without lifting the bowl. Now and then the incense drifts to form particular shapes: an eye, the iris formed by a circular gear in the center; a pair of hands reaching out, bound with a cord around the wrist; a single, smoky white pillar extending as high as the nearby crumbling walls. And others, not all of them clearly identifiable.

The tale winds on, and the ground trembles periodically, but not like a cave-in or an earthquake; rather a contented tremble, like the purring of a cat. A sound like gears turning fills the air, perfectly rhythmic, metallic and sure; then the music of water flowing upon river rocks, so much like the glissando of harpstrings; then the murmur of voices once silent, murmuring words in languages lost to time, punctuated by laughter and sometimes, keening tears. Footsteps appear on the earth between broken shards of rubble, imprints that fill suddenly with water, or with sprouts of green that quickly recede.

They are there. They are listening.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:14, Wed 29 July 2009.

"And so the lord had the peasant brought to him, to risk his life in answering a riddle where so many had failed and died before."

"I'll be glad indeed to help you find your way, said the peasant, But first, you must share my meal. And he reached into his bag, and pulled out a bottle of wine that he had made from his own grapes."

"It was a rough drink," Perian continues, emptying the last of his bottle into the bowl. "With none of the exquisite flavor the lord had become accustomed to. And then the peasant brought out a loaf of bread, and broke it in half, then chewed happily on his share, burned and full of poorly ground seeds. Finally, from the depths of the worn sack, he pulled out a single nut, and handed it to the lord."

"Here is your answer, if you will break the shell of outside appearances to see what lies within."

Again, Perian comes to a stop, and shuts his eyes, listening to the cave around him, feeling it, becoming a part of it. The incense burns low, and he strikes another spark to light a last stick, placed before him - not so much for the smoke, as for a brief moment of light revealing his audience and the setting around them. For that moment, it almost seems the cavern is restored, once more a shrine to gods whose names are now lost.

"As the lord cracked the nut, he felt its texture against his fingers, that had grown accustomed to steel and silk alone. The scent of the meat within brought back memories of lands tilled by farmers, towns and travellers close to the earth as the sunlight fed them and their families."

"At last, he remembered."

"When the peasant walked away from the city, into the water it swam through, and returned to the earth from which it had been born, he did not carry great mountains of jade, as the lord had offered. Nor even circlets of gold and rarer treasures. Only a jug of cider, pressed by feet that had stepped on fur and flesh and iron alone before. Then he wandered out of the tale, perhaps into another, perhaps to his home, while the sun showed him the way."

"So now, the second child spoke, Do you remember, my lords? What duties you bore in earlier days, before blood and time were all you knew? For it is not too late to serve the earth and water once more, to delight in the sun's kiss, to marvel at the moon."

Very softly, Perian concludes his story. "As to what the bandits did, and what fate befell the other children... that is another tale, for another time. I hope you will care to hear it."

---

OOC: Rolled 9 successes, target number is 6 - Resource value of the wine. So the prayer works. I hope.

[Private to GM: Spent 9 motes, currently at 6 / 17 personal. (up to 2 more if I had time to recover them via Hearthstone). Plus stunt, if any.]

Verad's pen continues to write, as he watches the various manifestations of... what could only be supernatural effects, the myriad if often subtle reactions to Perian's storytelling. "Oh... my this definitely must be..." scratch scribble scratch "...earth and water... open hands... clockwork gods...?" scribble-scratch "Ancient worship... monks would most definitely..." He shakes his head, adjusting a small round emblem on his lapel, and continues to extrapolate quietly. His demeanor is that of a learned man who has stumbled upon a dangerous, yet exceedingly interesting secret, so cannot quite keep his eyes from it, nor his analytical mind.

Volya, meanwhile, has crossed her arms behind her head and leaned back on the wall behind her bench, apparently relaxed. She may well have been sleeping, if one gauged purely by appearances -- yet now and then an arctic blue eye cracks open, peering around, or her wolf-ears twitch as if tickled by something.

Her eyes are still closed when Perian renews the incense, when that sudden burst of light reveals what could have been several hunched figures of various size and shape, seated around the bowl in a half-circle in front of Perian. It could very well have been a trick of the light: strange shadows formed from broken pillars, rubble and statues, emphasized by the match flare. Yet even if one disbelieves the vision in front of them, one cannot discount the definite presence, for the air is heavy with it, the skin tingling with the sensation of proximity.

Now the gears and the earth and the whispers have ceased; even the pool at the center of the cave is as still as a pane of glass. An expectant and palpable silence, pressing into the ears. At that moment even Verad lowers his pen, and turns his full senses toward the conclusion of the tale, and what happens after.

"Do you remember, my lords? What duties you bore in earlier days, before blood and time were all you knew?" The incense swirls at those words, forming a dense whirlpool, then from that whirlpool the foundation of a tower or pillar, surrounded by items represented with such articulate beauty in the smoke. A jeweled crown. A magnificent sword. A breastplate emblazoned with a clockwork face, upon which a joined moon and sun are etched. A cornucopia, overfull with food, and an ornate cup overflowing with water. Then, quite suddenly, the tower crumbles, burying the items of wonder. And the incense gutters out.

The wine bowl is empty when Perian is done. And around it, words are scrawled on the ground, as if by a dampened finger in the dirt. We remember. And Perian knows his prayer has been heard.

[Private to Kares Perian: Well, the wine is Res 4, since you did get one of Riven's rarities. (It may be harder to get such good wine again! but you need it this time!) I also rolled your +3 stunt dice, so you have 10 successes on a difficulty of 2. 8 successes total is quite significant! Rather than force you to dig into this thread every time you want to see the rules for the small gods' gift, I'll be PMing it to you, so we can discuss it further as needed. :)]

When his tale is over, Perian remains silent for a while, simply listening. Then he collects his bowl, the empty bottle, and what remains of the incense, bows towards his audience, tangible and otherwise, and moves back towards the tunnel leading out of the shrine.

"Well, I'm back in your capable hands until we meet our next contacts," he says to Volya as the 'Runners begin to move out, "And as we're going to be working together, feel free to use me as you feel best while we're at it."

As the group moves out, he adjusts his pace slightly, to remain near Verad. "I trust you are finding this... illuminating?" he says softly, with a hint of shared humor in his tone. "If you want to listen, and occasion permits, you'll find that many here will vouch for my willingness to talk their ears off - even with tales that are suitable to the ears of the most devout Immaculates. Though there is a lot more to the world than those."

[Private to GM: And set to move on to the next step, or be interrupted by hostilities beginning, or what have you.

Thanks for the audience reactions, by the way!]

Volya looks pleased to be on the move again, stretching out the kinks in her muscles as she walks. Not more than a few steps out of the tunnel, Pixie rejoins the group in her crop top and snug leather pants, along with Blood Sparrow, clad in a dark, thigh-length tunic, long boots and a scarf that wraps around her head and neck. With them is a dark-skinned man with his hair in small braids, the doctor-thaumaturge named Ashen Feather, in a white sleeveless coat and cuffed brown pants.

The new group of six continues on foot for a time, keeping to quiet streets and obscure alleyways.

Verad, his notepad and pen now safely stowed away, glances at Perian with a deliberately neutral expression, his interest banked now that the tale telling and strange manifestations are over. "I have no issue whether you tell stories for the Immaculates, or the heretics. I am purely an observer, and I report only to Lady Alivia. Nonetheless, your ritual would most certainly bring a Wyld Hunt down upon you should it be known to the Order, and as such, it is quite the rarity." His shoulders shrug slightly, underneath his borrowed cloak. "I admit to being surprised, that is all."

Blood Sparrow steps lightly ahead with Volya, checking the intersections ahead of time with their sharp eyes and penchant for stealth. Once they give the "all clear" signal, they beckon the whole group to cross.

"So here's the plan," Pixie says in a hushed voice as they come in sight of their destination, a back-alley loading zone for a Sector 1 shipping facility. She is quite thrilled to take part of the next leg of the journey. "If Alivia's support is true, we don't got trouble coming out of Sector 1. But we ain't ALL bettin' on walking all the way to Sector 3 like that, noooo way. So we're gonna get smuggled out!" The way she says it implies an isn't that soooo awesome?! sentiment which... no one else seems to share.

"There was not much time to prepare ahead, so we lack the best possible conditions," adds Ashen Feather, more sedately. "It will be uncomfortable." He pauses, nudging the group's attention toward a blue signal flag rising out from one of the stacks of barrel at the loading area, waving twice before descending. "And there is our ride."

[Private to Kares Perian: Well... I didn't really want to delay, so any 'troubles' along the way will be abstracted or assumed taken care of. So, will be switching to Sector 3 thread after any last words or actions you may have. We may at least be able to start over there before you go on vacation, or would you rather just wait till after the 16th?]

"Then observe as you will, and to refine your observations, do not hesitate to ask. At worst, we won't answer."

"As to the... ritual, you call it? Its forms are likely incorrect in the details, as I cobbled it together from insight, certainty, knowledge and folk tales - but the heart of the matter... That, I believe is true. Though I'll grant it's harder to observe."


Carefully surveying the site from which the 'ride' is planned to leave, Perian nods in satisfaction and moves forth. Then catches himself before his companions can, and waves them ahead. "Sorry. Shouldn't make a target of myself, I know." Looking at the area with an eye more for contents than threats, Perian says, "Let me guess. We're cargo, again?"

[Private to GM: OOC: Happy to move ahead - no reason to stop when I haven't left *yet*.

Currently, I'm 5 motes down (and have a level 2 Hearthstone) - let me know if / when I recover any motes.]

"You've got it!" Pixie says, grinning ear-to-ear. "But this time we're not pickles... we're booze."

Volya turns about, gives her a warning look. "No drinking the cargo."

"Aww..."

Of the group entering the loading zone, Blood Sparrow is the silent one, her dark gaze ever alert of her surroundings, never quite allowing herself to relax even among comrades and allies. Verad (after answering Perian's explanations with a terse nod, and a word of thanks for his cooperation) seems to take special interest in the mute woman, leading now and then to awkward staredowns, as Sparrow does not take well to being watched. His attempts to address her make quite apparent that she is either mute or unwilling to talk.

Feather explains quietly to Perian where they would be headed next, as travel preparations are made. There would be a stopover in Sector 3, trading the alcohol for medical supplies. They would have to slip out from there, and go on foot into the Quarters of the Incurably Diseased, where their next potential allies have secured a hiding place. ("...Disease?!" squeaks Pixie incredulously, as she ducks into her barrel.)

Soon, Perian once again finds himself in a very dark, very cramped space with little more than a hole the circumference of his thumb for air. Their transport lifts off, bearing the Freerunners toward East Sector 3.

[Private to Kares Perian: I have ideas for starting Sector 3 but it may not be written till 12+ hours from now. For now, this thread is closed!]