Tellius: Interlude #3

Resistance is fierce but largely ineffectual. You'd guess that no one here was expecting a horse and rider to come rushing down these streets, spear whirling. Cavalry are not common on the crowded streets here, and as you knock down several red-armoured soldiers, most of the rest turn their attention to you as well.

Teodor's group takes full advantage of the distraction to move forward. You've cleared the glut of combatants they were struggling with, and they're now proceeding at a brisk pace towards the army base. The Central Army's patrols are keeping the route to the base as clear as they can, and now they seem to be past the worst of it.

You could either choose to keep on with a merry rampage around here, to try and circle around and ride back, or follow along with Teodor and his escort and try to serve as a guard.

Interesting. So, that clears up our original reason for being here.

Good.

All the more room to maneuver.

"Well, whoever Eldred is working for went to all the trouble of hiring Naesala. Or it might simply be the Raven King's own initiative. Not sure which possibility I like less."

"That was what I thought. Still, I may look into it later. I...have to admit, I am not entirely sure how to save a dying land, Reyson."

Ahh. Well, she is not yelling at me. So better than expected.

I will ask how she and Raj are doing, and thank them for assisting Reyson and Leanne. I know it must have exposed.them to a.certain degree of risk to do so.

Emette shakes her head wearily. "Do you see why we're so paranoid about this?"

"The real issue is what to do now. Standard orders are to keep an eye on your group, try to foil any hunters moving in on you, and find out more. In other words, you're our bait while we gather information. If I were you, though, I'd seriously contemplate just fleeing the whole province. There will be safer places."

She's watching you rather carefully now, gauging your response...

"We did it once," he says, and even though the sending stone you can feel a glimmer of confidence and optimism. "There's no one alive who could truly claim to be an expert, but my advice would be to find the source of the malaise. A country does not sicken and die without reason."

So far, they seem to have kept it all from the king, though Rajaion has to be especially careful. He is fully recovered now and while the dragon tribe usually isn't too inquisitive, he has been - by dragon standards at least - bombarded with attention. Most seem to cloak their interest as harmless, academic curiosity in the lands outside Goldoa, but Ena thinks there's more to it than that. The reminder that there is a world outside Goldoa has piqued the interest of the tribe, especially now that that world has affected one of their own in such a profound way. Deghinsea is not happy. Time will tell whether this interest will intensify or simply die down.

"Hmm. It's something to think on, certainly."

It would also have us on open ground, for at least a little while, and arguably more vulnerable than we are at the moment.

"We'll sleep on it."

I'll want to see about visiting the smithy tomorrow, still, and perhaps some misbehavior that night. After that ...

... well, it might very well be a good choice to leave.

After Emette leaves, I'll ask Marcia and Micaiah what their take on this is.

Though I imagine Marcia's would be particularly amusing, all things considered.

"Something has broken the cycle of the water spirits here, Reyson. To even attempt to do this, I would, as you said, need to find the source."

I sigh, tired. "But I am needed in two places at once. If I cannot fix this quickly, I will have to make a choice."

I see. I had wondered what changes would result from all that has happened. Still, I am very pleased they are doing well, and that they are safe. If I can help, they need simply let me know. My ability to act if both more free, and more restrained than before, but I will do what I can.

OOC: I assume that Cathy at least recognizes the Black Knights style... she had a "run in" with him during the voyage to Izuka.

Cathy nods.

"We should stay to the facts, but try to find out the truth where we are not sure about it.

But I think one fact of this day is that he *she looks into the direction of the Black Knight* could have killed us easily today... or just easily made sure Lekain would have captured us."

She looks to the Black Knight.

"I hope we will not have to face you in combat again anytimes soon, once is enough for my taste. I like to improve my fighting skills, but I don't think I consider becoming 'the best' a really goal."

Cathy is really happy that the Apostle did NOT had the stupid idea to ask her about the sword.

"But the story he told us is scary... its not necessarily true, but it fits the facts that we know. I just hope that the Godess shows more mercy with us if she awakes anytimes soon."

Look at me
You may think you see
Who I really am
But you’ll never know me
Every day, is as if I play apart
Now I see
If I wear a mask
I can fool the world

The cavalry is here! But that's good. More focus on me is less focus on Teodor's group.

I'll follow along with Teodor and his escort. That is what I came here to do. There's no need to go overboard and getting stuck behind enemy lines is not wise, esp. since - well, I can use explosives but it's one thing to blow up Numida's estate and another to go rampaging through civilian houses. I'll keep an eye on any pursuit and again, scattering those that look like they're about to become organized enough to become a threat and slow down the Senator's group.

OOC: I would like to get a video of this "blowing up the estate of the guy who tried to imprison me." Stopping at the moment the owner of the house looks at all the mess thats left.

“It’s going to get messy here,” she agrees. “But there is something to be said for keeping your enemies close.”

She nods. “That’s fair. If you need to get in contact with us, leave a note with Lord Darien of Kalstad. He has a manor upon in the north-east quarter, near the wall. We’ll come find you.”

Perhaps.

Micaiah looks very thoughtful for a time, and eventually concludes that she’s not interested in their stories or goals. She does not know who her parents were and, truth be told, it does not particularly matter to her. She’s just had enough of running and hiding and all these conspiracies. If you want to leave, she would support you. And it seems that all these groups are caught up with politics… Daein independence, or Begnion control of Daein, or who’s going to be in charge of Begnion, and none of those are really her concern.

Marcia, on the other hand, laughed out loud. So, the Holy Guard are supposed to defend the Apostle, and according to some people, Micaiah’s the Apostle. Logically, then, that makes Marcia the best and most effective Holy Guard in the world!

She quickly sobers. Like Micaiah said, it’s all politics, and Marcia saw quite enough of stuffed-shirt nobles and high idealists back when she was with the Guard. The real point is, you and Micaiah are both her friends. She’ll stick up for you. Still, these hunters aren’t going to go away. It might make sense to do something. Er, something other than running.

Of course. They will call you if need be.

So, shall we move on? Did you intend to stay in this town long, or set out for Hataresis?

“That’s your choice,” he shrugs. “I don’t particularly want to fight you again.”

“No insult intended,” he adds as an afterthought.

Sanaki twitches slightly. “The Goddess is on the side of the righteous. She is always with us.”

Fair enough. You move quickly and bowl through the enemies that try to stop you, and soon you safely return to the HQ, just after Teodor and his escort reach it.

…hm. How to handle this…

Suffice to say, a lot of exposition needs to be repeated. Teodor and Levail are told about the Black Knight and many of the points already discussed are gone over again.

The two of them are also able to tell your group what happened to them. By now the Holy Guard have backed off from the Senate house and are trying to regroup. Teodor particularly praises Tanith’s devotion to duty and martial skill. As far as he knows they are still in command. Nonetheless, Teodor thinks that if the dracoknights had been on the ball, they would have been able to stop the Holy Guard’s escape or Teodor’s own escape. They’re sloppy, more used to intimidation now than actual warfare. (Shiharam’s response to this is a curious mix of disappointment, resignation, and satisfaction.) However, the five rebel senators all escaped and seem to be moving their troops to Mainal Cathedral and the Tower of Guidance. Teodor would guess that’s why you’re not facing heavy resistance here; and also that the rebel Senate wants to occupy those sites in order to obtain the appearance of legitimacy.

Regarding the Black Knight’s accusations…

Teodor states his tentative agreement with Sanaki. With no evidence other than the Black Knight’s word, there is no serious case against Sephiran. Yet. You do get the impression that Teodor is still suspicious of the Prime Minister... still, he would allow Sephiran a chance to defend himself before making any assumptions.

As for the Black Knight himself, Teodor does not trust him. He is glad Sanaki removed his sword. He would further recommend the Black Knight give up his armour and any warp powder or other magical tricks. Medes flatly responds in the negative. If anyone tries to take that by force, he will simply teleport away.

Regarding the accusation against Zelgius, Teodor is skeptical, and when Levail puts in a firm statement of support for his commanding officer, the senator agrees. Zelgius must remain in command. Paranoid allegations can be investigated later.

That leaves only Shiharam. In light of the present crisis… Teodor has an idea that he would like to discuss with Shiharam. He believes that it may be possible to recruit a contingent of dracoknights to their side. The dracoknights serve the Senate, after all, and some of the older soldiers remember Shiharam. With the Senate divided, Teodor thinks it may be possible to form a loyalist regiment of dracoknights.

Looks like another person to ask about on the way to the smithy tomorrow.

"It's tempting," I say, with a faint, melancholy smile. "Just walking away, not caring for much beyond where our feet take us. Maybe living quietly. Except, Micaiah, that it never works. Even if you divorce yourself from the world entirely, it will still find ways of reminding you of itself.

And there's something to be said for taking part in events, one way or another. I mean, if I hadn't, we probably never would have met."

I have to give a brief laugh at this. Yes. I mustn't stop yet. There are things still to be done. A whisper in my mind reminds me of when I made something of a similar argument to a woman in the woods, on the verge of dying. It's not the same situation, not really, but similar reasoning applies. If you don't want to have regrets, at least _act_.

"I can't put it into words very well, so let me just steal some:

Whose woods these are I think I know,
His house is in the village though,
He will not see me stopping here,
To watch his woods fill up with snow.

My little horse must think it queer,
To stop without a farmhouse near,
Between the woods and frozen lake,
The darkest evening of the year.

He gives his harness bells a shake,
To ask if there is some mistake,
The only other sound's the sweep,
Of the easy wind and downy flake.

The woods are lovely, dark, and deep,
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep."

"I was planning on either keeping an eye on Olev, or doing a little second-story work in Eldred's mansion tomorrow night, truth be told."

After checking up on whether or not my inquiry at the smithy bore any fruit.

I see no need to linger. This town is pleasant enough, but I wish to see my brother, and it appears that I have yet another time sensitive issue. As such, I will not dally.

As soon as...(Forgot their names. Ashaza? and Devon?(If he is coming.)) are ready, I will want to set out for Hataresis.

"How inconsiderate of it," she says, with a wan smile.

She listens to your song quietly.

"Yes... yes, you're right. You usually are."

"We could split up, do both? If that woman's people are watching the inn it might be safe."

Ashasa and Davin. As it turns out, they will both accompany you. They can serve as guides, and will perhaps help to moderate any crowds that might spring up.

So, your party sets out. The best way to the capital is to follow an eastern road through several villages and eventually to the Nathiya river. You can then get a barge that will take you all the way up to Hataresis.

Should I assume that while travelling you're going to keep up your nightly meditations in order to contact the spirits? If you want to try to hush up your presence or indeed spread your celebrity status, this would be a good time as well.

OOC: Actually, it's verse. Robert Frost, http://www.ketzle.com/frost/snowyeve.htm

"Either would be a solo job, and under the circumstances ... and this is probably going to sound patronizing give what we've been through, but I think it would be a good idea if you didn't go anywhere alone."

"Besides, Olev probably has a slew of people watching him already, some his own, others not. We should save trying that avenue of approach as a last resort."

(That was Marcia talking. I should have been clearer.)

"And yet you're going to check him out straight away?" Marcia asks skeptically.

"What? No. I was just saying I'm saving that for last. I'll visit Eldred's place tomorrow."

I might be looking forward to that entirely too much, truth be told. Feels very nostalgic, even if I normally recon more.

Cathy grins.

"None taken... we met once, thats enough for me. And if you ever think about to reconsider it, maybe you can tell me a few months earlier that I am overdoing all this fighting stuff."

Cathy takes a deep breath, unsure how to response to this for a moment.

"We should still keep trying to end this civil war soon. If the war is won but half of Begnion is burning at the end, I am not convinced the Goddess would count this as a good thing."

Excellent. That pleases me.

(And yes, I will finally put them in my notes.)

That path sounds suitable. I have no complaints.

Of course. I need to try and learn as much about the problem as possible. Hopefully, I can learn more as we cover new ground. As for my status...I see little need to pointlessly announce my presence. I can...arrange to be revealed later if need be, but right now, it serves little purpose.

Also, while the chances are low my enemy has spies here, it is possible, so such an action needs to be carefully timed.

I figured. I'll keep half a ear on what's being covered and observe reactions mostly.

Well, it probably proves him right.

Really? I had not thought that the Mainal Cathedral was the Senate's. Looks more like a coup to me.

Yeah, that's a bit much to ask from Medes (although I have my doubts as to how effective that armor is now). A nice trump card to keep up my sleeve if it comes to that.

Right. There's no time or ability to investigate any of the claims now. It's just something to keep in mind for later.

Well... I'll let Shiharam handle that. It's his choice given his responsibilities.

So, let's talk strategy. Who's on the Empress' side, who's on the Senators, and who's staying out of it? Are there any reinforcements within a couple day's range, for which side, and will they intervene? Do we have a time limit?

And what is the goal? Do we want to contest them taking over the Mainal Cathedral and Tower of Guidance? Or should we concede the city and pick up more allies? Speaking of that, who currently has control over the city gates?

Truly you have a wonderful life.

Shall we skip ahead to the next day and this recon mission of yours?

"We must of course preserve the lives of our subjects, and their welfare," Sanaki agrees. "Neither can we let the rebels take over the empire, though. There - there will be casualties. The innocent always suffer in war... but we must try to minimise it."

Crimea and Daein both became intimately aware of this sort of suffering during the last war. It's obvious that the thought that now Begnion will suffer it deeply distresses the Apostle.

I'm not going to ask you to play through every attempt. Instead, I will assume you're making regular efforts and generalise.

Can you give me 5 separate 2D6 rolls, for your meditations over the trip?

So, you're hiding then? You'll have the others charter accommodations, and you'll move about in a cloak or some other disguise? Lethe will need to disguise herself as well, as there are no cats here. Your beorc companions look a bit too pale to fit in over here, and their fashions are different, but Ashasa can set them up with new clothes. She even has a few oils that can make the skin look darker!

Mainal Cathedral is the centre of government, as well as the Apostle's quarters. It contains a number of offices, conference rooms, and so on.

For now, Shiharam thanks Teodor for the offer, but he needs some time to consider where his allegiance now lies. He is not, after all, a citizen of Begnion any more. He will think about the offer.

So far, in Sienne:

The Apostle commands the loyalty of the Holy Guard and of Houses Damiell and Persis. The Holy Guard is unified and well-organised, but has been brutally mauled in the battle outside the Senate house. (It does not help that the Holy Guard was blooded in the Mad King's War as well.) The Damiell soldiers are well-equipped and well-trained. Teodor did not skimp. House Persis is currently in some confusion due to Sephiran's absence, but they know whose side he'd be on, and their officers have declared for the Apostle as well. The Persis troops are less numerous and less well-trained, but they have a high proportion of mages and more magical equipment than the regular army.

The majority of the Central Army, including almost all the officer corps, sides with her as well. Zelgius has received reports of a handful of desertions or rebellions, but for the most part the army is loyal.

The Senate, on the other hand, controls the dracoknights and soldiers loyal to Houses Gaddos, Culbert, Asmin, Salma, and Seliora. Between all five senatorial houses they do have the numbers to match the Central Army within the city. However, they don't have a unified command structure and seem to have more trouble cooperating: before this the senators rarely tried to combine their forces into a single army. Lekain's and Valtome's troops form the brunt of the rebel army in the city. Both senators are wealthy and field well-equipped, confident armies. Hetzel can't bring many soldiers to the table but he does bring them magical expertise: like the Persis army, the Asmin army focuses on supporting conventional soldiers with mages. Seliora's faction is large and powerful, but currently he doesn't seem to have many troops in the city. The Seliora army may become a problem later. As for Numida's private army, most of it is far away in Daein and thus not a major threat. This is good, because Numida's forces are numerous and powerful. With any luck the need to keep the peace in Daein will keep his forces occupied.

The dracoknights took significant losses in the battle around the Senate house as well, but they nonetheless came off better than the Holy Guard, due to their heavier mounts and stronger armour. The Holy Guard's advantages of speed and agility counted for less in the aerial brawl. However, the dracoknights were always very factionalised, and to the extent that they cooperate now, it's because the rebel Senate is currently united. Teodor thinks cracks might show after a little time, especially if Shiharam puts out a call. It's unlikely that all the dracoknights knew precisely what the ramifications of the attack on the Senate house were going to be.

Outside Sienne:

It's going to be a mess. The Central Army has some troops outside, but not many. Outside the city, it will come down to who the majority of the nobility can be convinced to side with, and the other four major armies. (I tumblred about it!) The Northern Army was mauled in the Mad King's War and is of relatively little concern; this is probably good, since they're in Numida's and Lekain's pockets. The Western Army could go either way: Zelgius' assessment of General Septimus is that he's a capable supply officer but not a very ambitious one, and he's unlucky to stick his neck out for either side. He and the Western Army may simply try to ride the war out in neutrality. The Southern Army is more likely to gravitate towards the Senate... General Corinthus, its commanding officer, is virulently anti-laguz and will probably be all too receptive to accusations against Sanaki. That leaves General Octavia and her Eastern Army. Zelgius knows Octavia well, and he thinks he can bring her around.

All of that said, though, the important thing will be to see which direction the bulk of the Sainted class goes. They are all taught to revere and serve the Apostle, but also to obey the Senate unquestioningly. A decisive military victory for either side early on may swing many of the undecided nobles into that camp. Other than that... well, it may just come down to public relations and propaganda. Needless to say Crimean diplomatic support would be valuable.

Holding Sienne will help with allies. The city is a sign of legitimacy. Quitting the city would look like defeat, and right now it's very important to present a strong front. Sanaki certainly does not want to give up the resting place of the Goddess herself, nor will she be chased from her home by rebels and traitors.

Regarding the gates... the outer city gates are out of contact. The rebels probably have them. The gates in the inner wall, dividing the Sainted district from the rest of the city, are held by the Central Army, for now.

Well, that's the evening. For the day, I was planning to head to Julia to see if the counter-drone managed to find anything on Iris, then check what word of mouth says about Darien of Kalstad.

Whats about the Senators who proposed the compromise? That there should be an investigation about Lekain AND Sephiran?

How much of the "hostile" forces do they command?

"We need a way to keep talking with the Senators... we need to make sure they don't see Lekain as their only option to survive. Lekain designed the event in the Senate very cleverly as a 'us versus them' thing, just black and white. We have to look for a third way to dry up this war.

"The war will be most likely decided here in Sienne... both with weapons and with words. If we abandon the city, we loose the war."

All right. He agreed to ask around and see if any of their staff remembered someone called Iris.

When you enter, you spot the same shopkeeper from last time. He immediately beckons you over, and takes you to a back room.

"Liam, wasn't it? I looked through our records: we never employed anyone named Iris, but there was a woman by that name who subcontracted for us a few times. Apparently she didn't want to be tied to us, more's the pity. She took an exorbitant fee. Apparently she collaborated with Lanvega on the matched spears you saw last time as well. This was all many years ago, you understand."

You'd be looking mostly at Teodor for that. He's the head of House Damiell.

Perhaps... Teodor will certainly use all the influence he has. Sanaki thinks that Hetzel and Seliora should be the most likely to switch sides. She doesn't understand what made Hetzel side with Lekain at all. As for Seliora, he must believe whatever proof Lekain offered that she's an impostor. He's been perfectly loyal to the word of the Goddess before this. If you can prove Lekain's allegations false, she's sure Seliora will turn on Lekain...

You'll find no argument there.

That said: Sanaki is concerned about something. The freed laguz are still travelling to Sienne, aren't they? What do you intend to do with them?

Most likely he fears the "Sephiran Grab for Power". If we can defuse this fear, he might switch.

I thought even Sanaki agreed to not use the Apostle title until the whole thing can be looked into? We have to win Senators to our side even if the accusation that several Senators lied about Anakis status in the past (by hiding the fact that she is not the first born).

I remember we sent Vika to redirect them away from Sienne, right?

"Thank you. That's one bit of good news, even if it's surrounded by more questions. I don't suppose you'd know what happened to her? By your words I assume she's no longer keeping in touch?"