Diablotin 2 session 73

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Session

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Prologue

[DiablotinNarrator] It is the beginning of 11th month, and the weather in Diablotin has taken on a distinct chill, with cold rains and winds being typical most days.

[DiablotinNarrator] The biggest recent news, amidst continued rumours of preparations for war, is that the Lord Marshal of the Order of the Spoke, Butler Belden, has resigned abruptly. Anonymous sources suggest that perhaps he was unwilling to order his forces into the upcoming battle.

[DiablotinNarrator] The leading candidates to replace him are said to be Enorée Escalera and Royse Dyess, both Spokesmen of long standing and good reputation.

[DiablotinNarrator] Meanwhile, the Scourge reports from 'inside sources' that the Chief Sorcerer, Loick Silveira, has kidnapped and imprisoned a helpless girl, and is keeping her in chains for his depraved purposes. Silveira's only comment on the allegations has been unprintable in a respectable publication.

Seth and Guillame

• Seth will make an appointment to meet with Guillame in private.

[Guillame] (at home, or somewhere discreet?)

[Seth] (home)

• Guillame directs the staff to expect you, and makes sure not to be naked even in private.
• Seth ensures to arrive clothed.

[Seth] Good afternoon, Your Grace.

[Guillame] (Arriving via door, wall, ceiling or floor?)

[Seth] (door)

• Guillame seems moderately surprized to see you use the door.

[Guillame] Welcome, M. Argo! Are you well?

[Seth] Yes, thank you, very well.

[Guillame] Can I offer you any refreshment? Er, it's my understanding that I quite possibly can't...

[Seth] No, thank you, I'm fine.

[Guillame] Very well.

[Guillame] So, to what do I owe this visit?

[Seth] I've come to you today because I am interested in knowing about Phelix Valtieras, and his associates.

[Guillame] I... see.

[Seth] I assume that you are aware that he is Kavreshar, or rather, that Kavreshar has been known to use his form.

[Guillame] I had suspected as much, and seen some evidence to corroborate it, but nothing conclusive.

[Seth] Hmm. Have you seen him lately?

[Guillame] (trying to check logs to get accurate answers)

[Seth] (ok)

[Guillame] (also, baby crankening)

[Seth] (yarr)

[Guillame] I haven't personally, no, although I and a few of the others were investigating.

[Guillame] (re)

[Seth] What about Thea Vermillion?

[Seth] She was, as I understand it, one of his close companions?

[Guillame] Yes, and sadly still is, as far as we can tell. She was a good person, but I suppose he has tricked or ensorcelled her.

[Seth] Hmm, I see.

[Seth] Is there anything that you might be able to tell me to help to locate Valtieras, or any of his associates?

[Guillame] For what purpose, might I ask? Do you have a plan?

[Seth] I, personally, do not have a plan, but some of my associates do.

[Seth] This has gone on long enough. This fiend has terrorized my city for too long.

[Guillame] If there is a credible plan, the I'm happy to be of any help I can. I could certainly help with information about Thea's whereabouts.

[Seth] Cornelia Nash has a strong interest in locating Kavreshar. With the new Warlord occupied with matters relating to the Psyrene war, the very serious threat within our borders has fallen out of official attention.

[Seth] It is to be hoped that Nash's resources would allow Kavreshar to be re-bound or trapped in a way that it cannot do any further harm to anyone.

[Guillame] It is to be hoped that he'd suffer or die, but if imprisonment is the only option, then so be it.

[Seth] I will convey to Nash the information that Vermillion may be under a magical influence. If this is so, I am certain she will do what she can to prevent harm from coming to her, if she can be freed.

[Guillame] *nod

[Guillame] Do you think she can do it?

[Seth] Yes, I believe she can. She has resources well beyond those relating to her former official duties.

[Guillame] Ok. I suppose I'm in.

[Seth] What can you tell me, then, that would lead me either to Ms. Vermillion or M. Valtieras?

[Guillame] Sadly, my information is a little stale now, but until recently Thea was working under false pretenses in the household of Leonien Kizer - she tried to poison him, but Alma and Ysabeau stopped her.

[Seth] You ... you've ... I ... huh.

[Seth] Well.

[Seth] That certainly is ... tidy.

[Seth] Why would Thea want to kill the Duke?

[Guillame] She's definitely working with Kavreshar - she spoke his name to activate some form of magical escape. I hadn't yet fully assumed that he was inhabiting Phelix, but they are definitely tied.

[Guillame] I don't know, sad to say.

[Seth] Kavreshar doesn't seem like the sort to have such a subtle plan. It seems like the sort to prefer to blow things to bits.

[Guillame] The Sister also determined where she is currently living, if she hasn't fled.

[Guillame] I disagree - I am certain that it is behind the grain fires, and the assault on the bridge which was used as a means to the assassination of my mother and sister.

[Seth] Where is she?

• Seth has a look in his eye that suggests his interest may be more than intellectual.

[Guillame] (sm?)

[Seth] (Seth seems to want vengeance)

[Guillame] Did she wrong you, in some way? Forgive me for saying so, but you seem a little... zealous.

[Seth] My mother ... also died that night.

• Guillame nods.

[Guillame] Then it is Kavreshar you want, as do I.

[Guillame] Is it possible that I could meet with Nash? I've come this far, I'd hate to miss the ending.

[Seth] It is possible, yes. Now that she is no longer Warlord, she is much freer than previously was the case to have these sorts of discussions. I will convey your interest to her.

[Seth] Can you tell me, though, where Alma told you Thea could be found?

[Guillame] She gave me the street, but not the address.

• Guillame looks Seth in the eye.

[Guillame] I want in on this. That's that.

• Guillame tells Seth the street name.

[Seth] Yes.

[Guillame] (Middlestreet, Uppertown, Middleville)

[Seth] I will find him, and using my powers, I will learn his ways. Then we will eliminate this threat.

• Guillame nods, satisfied.

[Seth] We will speak again soon.

• Guillame nods again.

[Guillame] I look forward to it.

Seth and Royse

[DiablotinNarrator] Seth, you have been granted permission to continue the search of the Greysmoke Temple and its subterranean chambers for the head and amulet of the golem Schesutte.

[DiablotinNarrator] The Emperor, true to his word, provided you with a team of workers to extract the body parts already located. The arms, legs, and torso are in the process of being carefully removed from their hiding places.

[DiablotinNarrator] Meanwhile, you are considering the sepulchre, now emptied of its contents.

• Seth examines it carefully to see if there are any newly visible clues.

[DiablotinNarrator] Search check, please.

[Seth] (34)

[DiablotinNarrator] Running your fingers along the inside of the chamber, you come across a small groove in the base, which contains a trigger or button of some sort.

[Seth] (can I determine whether it is a trap, locking mechanism, or something else?)

[DiablotinNarrator] Do you have Disable device, or use Tech?\

[Seth] (yes, both)

[DiablotinNarrator] You can roll whichever's higher.

[Seth] (DD 22)

[DiablotinNarrator] You believe it is not a trap, but probably opens some sort of chamber or compartment.

• Seth presses the button.

[DiablotinNarrator] Pressing the button, you hear a grinding, scraping sound as the bottom of the tomb opens to reveal a staircase descending further beneath the temple, to a yet-unexplored area.

• Seth descends cautiously.

[DiablotinNarrator] The staircase descends into darkness, and from somewhere below you can hear faint sounds of water flowing.

[Seth] (I would have my scarab, boots, ring, and swords with me)

[DiablotinNarrator] (ok - any light source?)

• Seth will go and get a handy priest to give him one :)

[DiablotinNarrator] (can do!)

[DiablotinNarrator] You want it on a pebble or stick or something?

[Seth] (yes, just a pebble will be fine)

[DiablotinNarrator] Very well.

[DiablotinNarrator] After about fifty steps, the stairs come to an end and you are standing in a chamber, twenty feet wide and an indeterminate length - you can't see the far end.

[DiablotinNarrator] The sound of water is stronger here, as though it flows beneath the floor.

[Seth] (how close is the temple to the river?)

[DiablotinNarrator] Not very close - but there could be an underground stream, perhaps?

• Seth proceeds onwards cautiously, holding the pebble before him.

[DiablotinNarrator] The chamber is lined along the left side with alcoves - you can probably make out two or three, but there could be more. Hanging in each one is a graven amulet.

[Seth] (can I see anything in the chamber at all? also, what is the age of this structure?)

[DiablotinNarrator] Make a Search check plz.

[DiablotinNarrator] And K: Arch. also.

[Seth] (41 search)

[Seth] (29 K:Arch)

[DiablotinNarrator] OK.

[DiablotinNarrator] You believe this chamber is older than the temple above, though not ancient.

[DiablotinNarrator] You also notice some unusual features about the chamber.

[DiablotinNarrator] There is a gap of a few inches between the edge of the floor and the wall, on both sides. There are also some faint scrapes along the base of the walls. Most unsettling, you feel the slightest shift in the floor when you set foot onto it.

[Seth] (shift as in pressure plate kind of shift?)

[DiablotinNarrator] With your super-duper search roll, you believe that walking to one side or the other could be a trap, making the entire floor tip and dump you into.. whatever is underneath.

[DiablotinNarrator] (is that clear? or do you need better desc.?)

[Seth] (so basically if I were to walk to the left to the alcoves a few feet, it could tip. But I am standing about 10 ft. from the alcoves, in a 20' wide room?)

[DiablotinNarrator] If you are in the middle of the room, it doesn't tip. If you were to approach the alcoves on the left, or the nothing at the right of the room, you believe the entire floor would pivot on some sort of centre axis and dump whoever is standing on it.

[DiablotinNarrator] It might be possible to balance it, with suitable weight. Or, if you walked straight down the middle, it would probably be ok.

• Seth walks down the middle to see what is at the end, as long as it feels stable enough.

[DiablotinNarrator] Make a Balance check please.

[Seth] (also, use my scarab to check for golems)

[Seth] (16)

[Seth] (if I feel it actually tipping, I will jump up and to the left, then feather fall down to one of the alcoves)

[DiablotinNarrator] You have made it out onto the floor far enough that you can make out a final alcove, larger than the others, containing a head...

[DiablotinNarrator] The entire room is about 100 feet long, and there look to be seven alcoves, each with its own amulet.

[DiablotinNarrator] There is some commotion up above, and the clatter of heavy feet descending the staircase.

[Seth] (seven, all to the left?)

[DiablotinNarrator] (correct)

• Seth calls out: "Stay back!"

[Voice] Step aside, in the name of the Patriarch!

• Voice comes from a large, mustached man in heavy armor ornamented with a prominent gilded sign of the Wheel, who is now standing at

the base of the stairs and eyeing you angrily.

[Seth] Yes, what is it?

• Seth tries to not sound too annoyed.

[Voice] I am Ser Royse Dyess of the Order of the Spoke, and I command you to step aside.

[Ser_Royse] These artifacts are under the protection of the church!

[Seth] Ser, I am here under the authority of His Imperial Majesty himself. Your liege instructed me to be here.

• Ser_Royse takes a few steps forward, and you can feel the floor beginning to tip...

[Seth] Stay back! It is not stable!

• Seth says, definitely sounding more annoyed.

[Ser_Royse] What is this trickery?

• Ser_Royse bellows.

[Seth] A trap, built centuries before the Greysmoke Temple, even.

[Seth] Well-designed, to function still after so many years.

• Ser_Royse manages to centre himself, at least, so the floor steadies itself.
• Ser_Royse looks displeased.

[Ser_Royse] I command you to step aside.... er. Step back. Carefully.

[Seth] Ser Royse, my name is Seth Argo. I am appointed by the Emperor to investigate this temple and, if possible, to retrieve the golem Schesutte. If you are not here to help me, then I ask you at least to stay back so that you do not plummet into the pit. I say 'you' because I am well-protected against such an eventuality.

[Seth] I will not step aside.

[Ser_Royse] You threaten me?

[Seth] No, ser. I threaten nothing, although I have now warned you ... twice.

[Ser_Royse] These artifacts are possessions of the Church. The Emperor has no authority to disperse them without the Patriarch's blessing.

[Seth] That is not for me to judge.

[Seth] I have been ordered to come here, so I am here.

[Ser_Royse] As have I.

[Seth] By whom?

[Ser_Royse] By the Reverend Mother of my order, and others of the council of Reverends.

[Seth] Ser Royse, I must continue to carry out my appointed duty.

[Seth] (is he on the floor or still in the hallway/staircase?)

[Ser_Royse] Then we are an an impass, for so must I.

• Ser_Royse is at the edge of the floor, maybe 10 feet from the staircase.
• Ser_Royse draws his sword.

[Seth] Ser, you know as well as I that if you should attack, you will fall. I give you my assurance that, when that happens, I will do what I can to rescue you.

[Ser_Royse] You can continue your efforts - but know that you will not be leaving this chamber with these artifacts.

• Ser_Royse seems inclined to wait by the door - after all, you have no other way out...
• Seth walks carefully as close to the 7th alcove as he can, then inspects it. If necessary, using clairvoyance.

[DiablotinNarrator] In the furthest alcove, deep in shadows, sits the head. It is large, stone, impassive, as if it has been waiting patiently for you all this time.

[Seth] (roughly how big is it / how much would it weigh?)

[DiablotinNarrator] It would probably weigh 70-80 lbs, you estimate. Liftable but heavy.

[Seth] (and the amulets in the other alcoves? what do they look like?)

[DiablotinNarrator] They all look roughly the same, at least from this distance. Circular, about palm-sized, with some sorts of engravings on them.

• Seth gets out his sketchpad, and draws them.
• Ser_Royse looks impatient.

[Ser_Royse] What are you doing?

• Ser_Royse shouts from the far end of the room.

[Seth] Ser Royse, these artifacts have laid in this place for centuries. Before anyone disturbs them, I am ensuring that we know how they looked _in situ_.

[Ser_Royse] In what?

• Seth sighs in exasperation.

[Seth] In the place where they lay.

[Ser_Royse] Then why didn't you say that.

• Ser_Royse mutters.
• Seth ignores the clod.

[Seth] (once done, I will toss my pebble all the way to the end of the chamber, to see what I can see down there.)

[DiablotinNarrator] Oh, the alcove with the head is at the end of the chamber. There's nothing further.

[Seth] (ok then forget that)

• Seth slips into the wall to see if there is any escape that way)

[Seth] (the back wall of the chamber)

[DiablotinNarrator] Into the far wall? opposite the stairs?

[Seth] (yeah)

[DiablotinNarrator] You can step into the wall, but it is too thick for you to get out the other side. You could walk through it to the alcove, though.

[Seth] (yeah I know that)

[Ser_Royse] Where did you go?

• Ser_Royse bellows.

[Seth] Well, Ser Royse, it appears that I have two options. I could simply take the head and abscond with it, or I could return and allow higher powers to sort this out.

[DiablotinNarrator] (are you still within the wall?)

[Seth] (yes - I believe I can speak and be heard, right?)

[Seth] (did we ever resolve that?)

[DiablotinNarrator] (yes, you can - it's probably a bit muffled but audible. just checking where you were)

• Seth steps out.

[Seth] As you see, I could very readily escape you, if I so wished.

• Ser_Royse takes a few steps further, wobbling the floor uneasily.
• Seth tosses the rock down towards Ser Royse, then slips through the wall again (under cover of darkness/shadow), then slips around the right wall and back to the staircase, then re-emerges.
• Ser_Royse jumps, startled, when you emerge behind him, and the floor begins to tip.

[DiablotinNarrator] Are you still on the floor or actually in the staircase?

• Seth reaches out to grab him and pull him back, if possible.

[Seth] (staircase)

[DiablotinNarrator] He's like 15 feet away, you would have to go onto the floor to grab him.

[Seth] Quickly, get back, you fool!

• Ser_Royse is trying to run back...
• Ser_Royse 's heavy armour impedes his efforts, and he slides with the floor as it tips almost vertically. You hear a splash from somewhere below, and then the floor tips itself back once more, without his weight on it.

[Seth] *sigh*

[Seth] (I presume the pebble fell in with him?)

[DiablotinNarrator] Yes.

• Seth uses clairvoyance to see what's going on down there

[DiablotinNarrator] There's a flowing stream, presumably it heads in the direction of the river. He's being carried away...

[DiablotinNarrator] His armour is making it difficult for him to keep above water.

• Seth yells up to whoever is upstairs.

[Seth] Ser Royce has fallen into a trap! Aid is needed!

[Seth] Help!

[DiablotinNarrator] Some workers and priests will come at your call.

[Seth] The floor tilts - he walked too far in one direction and fell in.

[Seth] There is a stream underneath - it must lead to the river, but he was in heavy armor!

[DiablotinNarrator] There is panicked commotion, but some of the priests seem like they are going to try to help.

[DiablotinNarrator] What are you going to do, Seth?

• Seth is going to wait for whoever is going after him to help, then go and take the head and leave.

[Seth] (leave the chamber, not the temple)

[Seth] (I am putting the head and amulets with all the other golem parts)

[DiablotinNarrator] OK. The rescue efforts seem well underway, so you proceed down to the head.

[DiablotinNarrator] When you touch it, you hear - or imagine? - a faint whisper. "At last, you found me," it says.

• Seth smiles.

Ilphere, Alma and Sanadhil

[DiablotinNarrator] The group who will be attempting the exorcism of Madelen arrive at the appointed time at the home of the Chief Sorcerer, where she is being kept. Someone - probably a tabloid reporter - is loitering near the gates, watching you go in.

[DiablotinNarrator] Alma is bringing Danyel? San, were you bringing Dozilva too?

[Sanadhil] (D is perfectly welcome!)

• Sanadhil will use his innate suggestion to tell the loiterer to go away and forget those he saw coming in :p
• Alma glares at the loiterer.

[DiablotinNarrator] ok :)

• Alma looks particularly righteously at him @_@
• Loick welcomes you in when you arrive. He looks somewhat weary.

[Loick] Thank you all for coming.

• Ilphere looks around at the rather larger than expected group.

[Sanadhil] of course - I'm eagre to sort this matter out

[Alma] The poor woman...

[Loick] I think we should discuss our plans before going to see her... we wouldn't want to give ... the thing... any forwarning of what we're going to do.

• Sanadhil nods
• Alma pulls out her list of pre-emptive spells to go over once it's her turn ^_^

[Sanadhil] I've been informed of the basic plan... I have some spells that can help boost the resistance of those involved

[Loick] So, the basics of the plan are as follows, if I understand correctly. We will have a Dimensional Lock cast in the girl's vicinity. Someone will have to be in there with her in order to remove the shackles, at which point a Banishment will be cast. This should force the entity out of her body, but it will not be able to leave the area.

[Alma] I am capable of Banishment, but unfortunately not Dimensional Lock...

[Loick] Any other assistance that can be provided - to make it more difficult for the entity to possess anyone else, for instance - would be much appreciated.

• Sanadhil nods

[Ilphere] I can cast a magic circle of protection...

[Sanadhil] how do we plan to keep the creature inside the dimentional lock once it is cast?

[Alma] (Take that back.)

[Loick] It won't be able to leave by planar travel, but it can still leave by normal means, if it is in a physical form. We'll have to stop it if it attempts to leave.

[Alma] That is a good question...

• Sanadhil nods

[Alma] Do we think the creature will be forced into a solid form by this combination of spells?

[Loick] I'm not certain. It probably depends what its natural form is.

[Sanadhil] I have some spells that may be able to help with that.... but I can't say without knowing what we're dealing with

[Loick] If it is normally ethereal, it could be forced into that form, for instance.

• Sanadhil nods

[Loick] In one sense, that would be rather easier, as it would have to remain within the Dimensional Lock.

[Loick] But we would have to be able to perceive and affect it.

[Sanadhil] it would be prudent to have someone with true seeign or greater arcane sight cast, incase it is ethereal or invisible

• Loick nods.

[Loick] I have a cloak of etherealness which I took the precaution of borrowing from the treasury.

[Loick] I would be happy to provide it to whoever can make best use of it.

[Alma] I have brought some of the ointment for true seeing, though I can see the invisible regardless.

• Alma goes over her list @_@
• Sanadhil considers

[Alma] Though I had been considering Eagle's Splendour as well considering you are mostly sorcerors...

• Sanadhil nods
• Alma looks at Dozilva uncertainly...

[Alma] (I take that back -_-)

[Sanadhil] I was planning to cast heroism on those most directly involved...involve

[Sanadhil] I'm not sure who wuld be best suited to take the cloak

[Sanadhil] (-...involve, where did that come from o_O)

[Alma] It seems sensiblethat Danyel and I be the ones closest to Madelen and remove the chains...

[Loick] Remember, of course, that even if it is ethereal, force effects will still harm it. If anyone has spells of that nature, perhaps they should take the cloak.

[Alma] Hmmm, they need merely see the creature then, no?

[Loick] Correct - if they are to target it with a Magic Missile for instance.

[Alma] Then see invisibility would be sufficient?

[Alma] Or True Seeing

[DiablotinNarrator] So you suggest that Ser Danyel might benefit most from the cloak, if he is to attack the entity with his weapon?

[DiablotinNarrator] (ww)

[Loick] So you suggest that Ser Danyel might benefit most from the cloak, if he is to attack the entity with his weapon?

[Alma] Yes, perhaps. I will be enchanting his weapon but he would still frequently miss...

• Loick provides Danyel with the cloak, then.

[DiablotinNarrator] Who is getting the TS?

[Ilphere] I can cast a fair number of Magic Missiles...

[DiablotinNarrator] And/or the See Invisibility.

[Ilphere] Probably eight...

[Alma] Who cannot see the ethereal?

• Alma assumes Sanadhil can with Arcane Sight?
• Sanadhil is good

[Loick] I can make use of See Invisibility.

[Ilphere] I cannot, not usually...

• Alma will cast True Seeing as a domain spell on Ilphere in the run-up

[Sanadhil] (well I actaully need true sight, but i can cast it)

• Alma looks lastly to Dozilva, presuming she's coming in.

[Dozilva] I will be fine, thank you.

[Alma] Excellent.

[Loick] So Sister Alma, you are volunteering to place yourself and Ser Danyel within the circle with the girl, while the rest of us remain outside the area?

• Sanadhil will cast heroism on himself, Ilphere, Alma, Loick, Dozilva, and Danyel

[Alma] Yes, I believe we are likely the best candidates :)

[Loick] Obviously if things seem to be going wrong, we will enter to assist you.

[Alma] If they go badly enough we may end up backing up a little anyhow :)

• Loick nods.

[Loick] Are we ready to proceed, then?

[Sanadhil] I believe so

• Ilphere adjusts her goggles and prepares to take notes.
• Sanadhil is casting true seeing on himself, btw
• Loick will lead the way up to the spare bedroom, then.
• Madelen is naked, kneeling in the centre of the rug, her wrists bound with heavy chains, but at least she looks as if she's been cared for, cleaned and fed and so on.
• Madelen looks up when you enter.

[DiablotinNarrator] San, you will of course recognize her.

[Sanadhil] . o O (Sigh)

[Sanadhil] hm.

• Alma does her best to smile reassuringly.
• Madelen seems to recognize you as well...

[Alma] Madelen?

[Sanadhil] We're here to try and help you...

• Madelen squirms closer to San.

[Madelen] Oh, it's you! I remember you. I don't remember your name, but I remember your hands on me, and how good you felt...

[Madelen] Did you come to help me? Or are you here to fuck me again? I'd like that, but it would be so much better if you'd just take these chains off. I'll do *whatever* you want...

[Ilphere] ...

[Ilphere] . o O ( ... Awkward...! )

• Madelen tries to get to San, but her chains are impeding her movement.

[Alma] o_O

[Sanadhil] :to Ilphere She's in the order....

• Alma looks to Sanadhil briefly.

[Sanadhil] : -_-

[Ilphere] : -_-

[Sanadhil] No.

[Alma] .oO( I suppose Mr. Orecalo has been to the Jewel Box)

• Sanadhil says calmly

[Sanadhil] We are here to help you.

[Alma] We've come to help her, yes.

[Ilphere] : Do you think Phedre knows?

[Sanadhil] :I have no idea

[Alma] Let's begin.

• Loick nods.
• Sanadhil will try casting charm monster while Alma is setting up

[DiablotinNarrator] save DC?

[Sanadhil] (21)

• Alma casts Dimensional Lock
• Madelen smiles at San, fetchingly.

[Sanadhil] Who are you?

• Alma centers it on Madelen's current location.

[Madelen] Madelen Levernois.

• Sanadhil shakes his head

[Alma] No, you're inside of Madelen.

• Alma casts Banishment.

[Alma] Now get out!

[Sanadhil] I know there is something else in there as well

• Sanadhil waits to see what it is @_@
• Ilphere waits...
• Madelen suddenly arches her back, and then drops to the ground as if her strings have been cut.

[DiablotinNarrator] The entity that emerges from her looks humanoid in form, but it is far from human. It is at least seven feet tall, but horribly emaciated. Its joints move unnaturally in too many directions, its fingers are little more than boneless tendrils. Its skin seems almost liquid, a morass of brown mixed with livid purple patches that slither over its body.

[DiablotinNarrator] Its bulbous face appears to be wrapped in some sort of crusted, yellowish fabric, which might be a small mercy, as whatever horror lies beneath the wrappings is thus obscured.

[Sanadhil] ...

[Ilphere] (K: planes?)

[Alma] (Yes that! :D)

[Sanadhil] what *are* you o_O

[DiablotinNarrator] It is ethereal.

• Sanadhil will roll also..

[DiablotinNarrator] Those of you with K: planes know without rolling that you have never seen or heard of anything like this thing.

[Alma] (26)

[Alma] ...

[Ilphere] [w] What ... *is* that...? :o

[Sanadhil] (26)

• Danyel moves to attack it with his sword.

[Sanadhil] ...get her out of there

• Ilphere begins to write rapidly.
• Alma will cast Holy Aura asap unless we're into init

[Entity] NO NO NO NO NO! THIS ONE LEAVES THIS BODY, GOES TO THE CYST, NO HARM!

[Ilphere] The cyst..?

[Ilphere] What is the cyst?

• Alma Detects Evil.

[Sanadhil] what is the cyst?

[DiablotinNarrator] Alma, you detect evil from this creature, of a moderate power.

• Danyel hits it once, twice, and it immediately crumples and dies.

[Alma] (Meaning we should be able to nuke it?)

[Alma] ...

• Sanadhil nods to ilphere, but will see if he can pull madelen out of the circle with his ring...

[Sanadhil] what...

• Danyel looks startled.

[Sanadhil] that seemed too easy :|

• Alma continues to detect evil in the area.

[Alma] Far too easy...

• Danyel is also suspicious.
• Danyel pokes the thing with his boot.
• Ilphere frowns...

[Sanadhil] I wish it havd been given a chance to answer...

[Ilphere] Indeed...!

• Sanadhil frowns at danyel

[Danyel] Sorry?

[Alma] Well, until I detected evil, there was no reason to believei t was not a considerable threat to us.

[Sanadhil] Is Mlle. lavernois alright?

[Danyel] I didn't know it would die that easily.

[Alma] Talking would have reduced the amount of time our protectives were active.

• Madelen is unconscious.
• Alma will go to tend to Madelen

[Alma] And don't touch it any more... "Cyst" sounds like a disease.

[Sanadhil] yes.

• Alma checks Madelen over.
• Danyel steps back from it.

[Sanadhil] are we sure its dead?

[Ilphere] How would one tell...?

• Alma looks at it with Deathwatch.

[DiablotinNarrator] Alma - it is dead.

[Alma] That... whatever it is, is dead.

• Madelen seems physically well, but still unconscious. The effects on her mental state may be more severe...

[Sanadhil] Maybe she will have some better answers once she is awake...

[Sanadhil] can someone get her something to wear?

[Ilphere] We must hope so...

• Alma has conveniently brought a robe.
• Alma sends Danyel to get it from her pack.

[Alma] She's well physically...

• Alma looks around.

[Sanadhil] hmm

• Loick will get some water for her.
• Madelen comes around soon enough.

[Madelen] What... what happened? Is it gone?

[Alma] Yes, dear. It is dead.

[Sanadhil] what happened?

[Sanadhil] Do you remember where it came from?

[Madelen] I... I don't know where it came from. It was just... in my head one day.

• Sanadhil tries to tell if she is telling the truth

[Alma] Do you recall that day in particular? Were you anywhere strange, with anyone strange?

[Sanadhil] do you remember what you were doing? who you were with?

[Sanadhil] (26 sm -_-)

• Madelen seems to be telling the truth, as far as you are concerned, San.

[Ilphere] DO you know anything of its motives...?

• Alma will also SM

[Ilphere] DId it communicate with you at all...?

[Alma] (34 pfft)

[Ilphere] (sm too yo)

[Sanadhil] I suppose we shoudl give you a chance to answer.... -_-

[Madelen] I was ... near the Arch, when I first felt it talking to me. But it could have been there longer. Sometimes it would go silent and I'd think it might be gone...

[Ilphere] (38)

[Alma] ...

• Alma looks at Sanadhil
• Alma SMs HIM.

[Sanadhil] near the arch?

• Madelen nods.

[Alma] (fff 33)

[Sanadhil] :to madelen was it at a meeting?

[Madelen] At one of the ... the rites they have there. I just went for fun...I didn't know what it would be like.

[Sanadhil] (38 :3)

[Sanadhil] when was this?

• Alma frowns

[Madelen] It was in the summer...

• Madelen looks briefly confused.

[Madelen] Last summer?

[Sanadhil] Hmm.

[Sanadhil] . O ( ]_[)

[Madelen] Sometimes I think it would make me do things. But I wouldn't remember it afterwards...

[Alma] Does "the cyst" mean anything to you?

[Madelen] I think that's... where it came from?

[Madelen] It's a place.

[Sanadhil] on this plane?

[Madelen] I don't know.

[Alma] (K-planes would likely come up empty re: the Cyst)

[DiablotinNarrator] (yes)

[Madelen] Most of the time, it was just sitting... watching. Learning.

[Alma] Learning? About what?

[Madelen] About us. About here.

[Ilphere] Was it in communication with some other entity?

[Madelen] I don't know. Maybe in the parts I don't remember it could have been...

[Madelen] Thank you so much for ... for helping me...

• Madelen begins to cry.
• Sanadhil will cast break enchantment @_@

[Alma] It's alright... it's over now.

• Alma will comfort her as well she can -_-

[Sanadhil] ...

[Alma] Do you have somewhere you can spend some time, dear?

[Alma] Family in the city?

[Sanadhil] Friends?

[Madelen] M-my grandmother, I suppose...

[Alma] We could take you there to get you back on your feet?

• Alma will look to see if she thinks that's a viable option.

[Loick] [q] We'll want to take her out of here carefully, or the Scourge will have all our pictures on the front page.

[Alma] We need not take the door.

[Sanadhil] [q] That shoudl be easily enough done.

• Sanadhil nods
• Loick nods.

[Alma] (Honestly Alma will just pick up another orphan if Madelen doesn't think it would work :P)

[Alma] (Or at least offer)

[Sanadhil] I know this has been very trying for you.... but if you should remember anything - anything at all, its important that we learn what we can of this creatures origins and goals

• Madelen seems ok with going to her grandmother's.
• Madelen nods slowly.

[Madelen] I will, of course.

[Madelen] Thank you.

[Sanadhil] I'm sure you could come to Duke Silveira, by myself or Countess Alma would be happy to help you as well

• Madelen nods.
• Alma will help Madelen to her feet.

[Sanadhil] or Primcess Ilphere, if you can reach her -_-

[Ilphere] Of course...!

[Madelen] Oh, your highness, I didn't realize it was you!

• Madelen gives a curtsey to Ilphere.

[Ilphere] You have but to send me a message... I will help if I can.

• Ilphere smiles graciously...

[Madelen] Thank you so very much... you've all been so good to me.

• Loick looks a bit awkward, but nods.

[Alma] Tell me about your grandmother's.

[Alma] Just describe it to me, and I can take you there :)

• Madelen tells you where it is.

[DiablotinNarrator] (anything further you wanted to ask her, or say to each other?)

[Sanadhil] (not right off no, but I now need to talk to earric and Phedre)

• Alma will take Danyel with her when she goes.

[Sanadhil] I'll see if I can't look in to this further -_-

[Loick] Do you think this was just a ... an isolated incident?

[Sanadhil] I very much hope so.

[Ilphere] I will also see if I can turn up anything about this ...'cyst'

[Sanadhil] how was her possession discovered?

[Loick] Could the creature have been, uh, scouting? Sending word back to its home plane, wherever that is?

[Ilphere] I would say that is a strong possibility

[Sanadhil] I don't know if we can rule much out, at this point

[Loick] Well, the Warlord and M. Rademacher brought her to me - they discovered her. My understanding is that the Warlord found, in the previous warlord's notes, a report on demons located in the city. This girl's name was on the list, so they went to investigate her.

[Ilphere] She said there were times when it might have been absent... It could certainly have been reporting then...

• Sanadhil nods

[Loick] Or possessing other subjects.

[Alma] (Alma informed Loick as well.)

[Sanadhil] I wish I knew where that lost came from....

[Ilphere] Indeed...

[Sanadhil] (list)

[Alma] (Once Moncaire I mentioned she'd send him the list of all four.

[Loick] Given her ... profession, it would seem likely that it could have encountered many individuals, possibly powerful ones.

• Sanadhil nods

[Sanadhil] And her other habits -_-

• Loick nods.
• Loick sighs.

[Loick] We should attempt to keep the body for study, I suppose.

• Sanadhil nods

[Sanadhil] absolutely

• Sanadhil looks to Ilphere

[Ilphere] I should be interested to know the results of those investigations...

[Sanadhil] or conducting them? :)

[Ilphere] If you think I might be of assistance...!

[Loick] I would be delighted.

• Loick says, offering you the honour of.. dissecting a gross creepy thing @_@

[Ilphere] It should prove fascinating...!

• Ilphere says eagerly.

[Sanadhil] . o O (I have need million showers DL)

[Sanadhil] (I need a million showers, even)

[DiablotinNarrator] The body has materialized into this plane since the creature's death, I should have mentioned.

[DiablotinNarrator] So you can.. remove it @_@

Ysabeau and Fern

• Ysabeau is rather more nervous about this meeting than with her paternal family's. For one, it might not be Fern, for two, if it is, Fern might not care to have anything to do with her.
• Ysabeau finds it strange that Fern would have ignored her so completely for the two years they've been in the society together, when it's known I look so much like my mother. :/
• Ysabeau waddles herself over to the Society HQ where she has made an appointment to chat with Fern...
• Fern can be found at the Society.
• Ysabeau located her and shyly makes her presence known.

[Ysabeau] Good afternoon, Fern. I hope you are well?

• Fern is about sixty years old, with short grey curls, still with a hint of brown, and green eyes.

[Fern] Yes, thank you. What can I do for you?

[Ysabeau] I hope you can help me with a few questions I have, maybe...

[Fern] If I can, certainly.

• Ysabeau nods. She seems a bit hesitant.

[Ysabeau] I've been looking into my family's history, lately. Well, with a baby on the way, it seems more important. You see, my sister and I were orphaned about nine years ago...

[Ysabeau] Anyway, I learned that my mother was from House Rat.

• Fern listens.

[Ysabeau] Furthermore, it seems she was one of the more traditional members. She went by a first name only: Tersa.

[Fern] I see.

• Ysabeau will be SMing Fern for any hints of lying or twisting the truth, any body language or anything like that which suggests she knows more than she is letting on.

[DiablotinNarrator] (you can roll)

[Ysabeau] (37)

• Fern seems somewhat stiff, uncomfortable perhaps, with this conversation.

[Ysabeau] So, as you are a scholar of the history of House Rat, I was wondering if you could point me in the direction of any living family members, possibly.

[Fern] I don't recognize the name. I'm sorry.

• Fern is not being truthful, you can tell.
• Ysabeau sighs, a bit regretfully perhaps.

[Ysabeau] Her marriage record states that she was "Therese Fougere." But two independant sources who knew her provided me with the name Tersa.

• Fern winces slightly, but tries to conceal it.

[Ysabeau] One of those sources also provided the information that her mother was a scholar.

[Ysabeau] "Fougere" is [Middle Aveyronnais? or some other language] for "fern."

[Fern] I'm afraid I can't help you, mademoiselle.

• Fern says stiffly.

[Ysabeau] Perhaps it is all a very large coincidence. If not, rest assured that I'm not looking for a warm, tearful reunion or anything of that sort.

[Fern] If this ... Tersa... gave up her name and her House, then she has nothing to do with me.

[Ysabeau] I understand. If you had wanted a relationship with me you had two years to initiate one. But please, I am wondering if you can tell me anything about my mother's father. I will get out of your hair and pretend this episode never happened if you can do that one small thing for me.

• Fern frowns.

[Ysabeau] Please.

[Fern] My husband died many years ago. His name was Rix.

• Ysabeau nods.

[Fern] I don't believe there's anything further I can help you with, Mlle. Chanuier.

[Ysabeau] Was he from House Rat?

[Fern] Of course.

[Ysabeau] (truth?)

• Fern is telling the truth about her husband's name and his House.

[Ysabeau] Was Rix Tersa's father?

• Fern stands up.

[Fern] I have nothing further to discuss concerning this matter.

• Ysabeau casts Charm Person.

[DiablotinNarrator] save DC?

[Ysabeau] (17)

• Fern looks offended.

[Fern] I see how it is. Good day, Mlle. Chanuier.

• Fern departs, angrily.

[Ysabeau] Wait, please!

• Ysabeau doesn't expect she will, though.
• Fern leaves despite your pleas.

[Ysabeau] (in which case I can do nothing further, and I guess my scene is over.)

[DiablotinNarrator] (if you choose not to follow her)

• Ysabeau gets angry and chases after her, then. :P

[Ysabeau] (grapple? lol. Pregnant lady beats up old lady. not. I just want to grab her shoulder or something, so she kind of has to pay attention to me.)

• Fern is exiting the Society's hall when you catch up with her.
• Fern turns when you grab her shoulder.

[Fern] You don't give up, do you.

[Ysabeau] I'm not asking out of idle curiosity. If idle curiosity were my only motivation, I wouldn't even have bothered you to begin with.

[Ysabeau] I'm asking hard questions because it might be important in some way.

• Fern thins her lips.

[Fern] This is *my life* you are asking about. It is important to *me*.

[Ysabeau] I understand that. I fear that it might be important to my child, as well, perhaps.

[Fern] Your child? It will grow up and break your heart.

[Ysabeau] It might break the hearts of more than just me, Fern.

[Fern] What do you expect me do to about it?

[Ysabeau] There are Legend Lores, about my husband, and his father. And there are our creation myths, and I don't know what it all means yet, if anything, but that is why I am asking you these terrible questions.

[Ysabeau] Between my husband and I, this child has blood - newly, going back only to our grandparents - from almost every House.

[Fern] So?

[Ysabeau] Can we go back inside? I don't want everyone in the street hearing me. Please.

• Fern steps back inside the door, grudgingly.
• Ysabeau will take her back to a private study room and explain about the LL which suggests the baby is a herald of some great change, and how the cosmogony speaks of the end of the great day when all the bloodlines meet once more, etc.

[Fern] ...

• Ysabeau probably grows more distressed as she goes on.

[Ysabeau] You probably think I am crazy.

[Fern] I don't know.

[Ysabeau] I wish I knew if I was.

[Fern] I can't say I understand all of this. It seems so incredible.

• Ysabeau tries to stop crying.

[Fern] [w] ... I don't know who the father was. Very well? There were three of them, they attacked me, that's all. I prefer to believe it was my husband's child.

[Ysabeau] I'm sorry.

• Ysabeau pulls herself together enough to try to offer comfort.

[Fern] It's nothing for you to be sorry about.

• Fern straightens up as well.

[Ysabeau] It is, though. For being the cause of bringing back terrible memories. I'm sorry for that, Fern.

[Fern] You have brought back those memories since the first day I saw you.

• Fern says, not angrily though.
• Ysabeau nods, feeling drained.

[Ysabeau] Everyone said we look like her.

[Ysabeau] And she liked to sing, too.

[Ysabeau] I'm sorry.

• Fern nods.

[Fern] It isn't your fault. I'm sorry too.

[Fern] You can't be blamed.

[Ysabeau] Neither can you.

• Fern shrugs.

[Ysabeau] You were brave for keeping the baby. I... didn't.

• Ysabeau pauses, not certain why she mentioned that.

[Fern] I couldn't be sure. That it wasn't his. I couldn't give it up, not knowing.

[Ysabeau] I understand.

• Fern nods.

[Fern] I... I'll be going now.

[Ysabeau] Well... okay.

[Ysabeau] Would you prefer things go on as if today never happened?

[Ysabeau] I'm pretty good at pretending.

[Fern] No. I'm tired of pretending things never happened.

[Ysabeau] All right.

[Ysabeau] You could come to my house sometime, if you liked. We could have you over for a meal or something?

[Fern] I don't know. I'll think about it.

• Ysabeau nods.
• Ysabeau smiles.

[Ysabeau] I'll wait for your answer.

[Ysabeau] Please take care, Fern.

[Ysabeau] Thank you for talking to me.

[Fern] You too, Ysabeau.

• Fern departs, looking older.

Sanadhil and Guillame

[Sanadhil] (Does G frequent the society enough that a chance encounter is possible?)

[Guillame] (Probably around once a month, although more to socialize than for research)

[Sanadhil] (oh hey, meetings!)

• Sanadhil will try and catch Guy after one of the weekly meetings, if he's made an appearance
• Sanadhil possibly looks a little tired/overworked

[Sanadhil] Good evening, Your Grace.

[Guillame] Good evening, M. Orecalo! Still working hard?

[Sanadhil] harder than ever - I am teaching a new class at the castalia, but wasn't given much notice beforehand.

[Sanadhil] Its very engaging, but time consuming.

[Sanadhil] Have you been well?

[Guillame] Neither well not unwell, on balance - which I suppose is a happy balance to strike.

[Sanadhil] Indeed.

[Sanadhil] How are your wife and sister?

[Guillame] Both well, and Silvia has found a renewed interest in her studies.

[Sanadhil] oh - what is she studying?

[Guillame] Religion, of some kind, as I understand it.

• Sanadhil nods

[Sanadhil] The Way of the wheel, or something more traditional?

[Sanadhil] I'd heard somewhere that before the emergence, House Rat used to follows beliefs that may have been more in libe with some of the druidic beliefs of some Cozovode elves...

[Guillame] Really?

• Guillame seems surprised

[Sanadhil] at least, that it was more nature oriented, with some ability to assume animal shapes

[Sanadhil] of course there are many rumours about your house :|

• Guillame eyes Sanadhil suspiciously

[Guillame] (Which he must be used to by now)

[Guillame] I'd love to hear about these "druidic" beliefs, to see if there are other similarities

[Sanadhil] its hard to know if there is any basis in truth...

[Sanadhil] I'm not an expert - my experiences are more with the hierarchical priesthood..

[Sanadhil] But of course it all relates, in essense, to the believe that all things are created from the substance of stars, and living things have a stronger concebntration...

[Guillame] Well, I am convinced of the stories of people taking rat-shapes, if nothing else, although I haven't yet published anything for fear of an incomplete report tarnishing anyone's reputation.

[Sanadhil] *nod*

[Sanadhil] it would be difficult to prove without a living pratitioner... but I know the Druids back home are capable of such things.

[Sanadhil] By analogy, at least, it may give you more support

[Guillame] Thank you, M. Maybe if I find the time, I could ask you to arrange for me to meet someone for further research?

[Sanadhil] That would be difficult, I'm afraid - i don't know any druids personally, and certainly not any outside of the country.

[Sanadhil] if I ever do hear of such a thing, I can see about putting you in touch.

[Guillame] My thanks.

• Sanadhil says apologetically, but is thinking about his aunt's homestead, and what he might do there still, if he ever has a chance, and whether there might be a chance for research

[Sanadhil] there were a few other matters I wished to speak to you about, perhaps in provate?

[Sanadhil] It shouldn't take much of your time - I think we are both fairly busy

[Guillame] Certainly

• Sanadhil nods his thanks and will go to one of the research rooms
• Guillame follows

[Sanadhil] The first thing I wanted to ask about was whether you ever had any more news of Thea Vermillion or Phelix Valtieras

[Sanadhil] ?

[Guillame] Precious little - we may have known where Thea was living, but she's almost certainly not there now.

[Guillame] Phelix is in the wind.

[Sanadhil] what do you mean?

[Guillame] I mean that I may as well try to find an individual leaf as to find Phelix at the moment, not that I've stopped looking.

[Sanadhil] And Mlle Vermillion?

[Guillame] Isn't where she was before, posing in Duke Kizer's household.

[Guillame] Do you have any tidings yourself?

[Sanadhil] hmm... some, but not on this matter

• Sanadhil sighs thoughtfully

[Sanadhil] I am planning to talk to Laeken again, to see if i can get him to divulge more about his pact with Emkathon

[Sanadhil] If I could give him some kind of indication of what Kavreshar is up to *now* perhaps he woudl be more willing to share.

[Sanadhil] What was she doing in the Duke's household? Hiding?

[Sanadhil] Do you know if she was still with Phelix? or Kavreshar, in some other form?

[Guillame] I think so, yes, although I can't say for sure. I gather that she disappeared again after failing to assassinate the Duke himself.

[Guillame] Although I have no idea why.

[Sanadhil] Well, its something, I suppose...

[Sanadhil] thank you.

[Sanadhil] I'll let you know if anything comes from that converstaion - perhaps laeken will know ssomething that coudl be beneficial to finding, or trapping him.

[Guillame] I'm still not certain that she's acting in full knowledge, or under her own control - but I'm less inclined than before to take a chance.

[Sanadhil] If he was able to bind Emkathon, he may be able to do the same with Kavreshar if he can be convinced of its necessary

[Sanadhil] you think she's been enchanted?

[Guillame] Yes - we really need something like that if we are able to find him.

[Guillame] I don't know. She was offended when I tried to warn her, so I don't think she knew then

[Sanadhil] Laken described Emkathon as being innately begiuiling, not through any power exerted, but just from the power of her presence

[Sanadhil] kavreshar may have some kind of similar effect

[Guillame] Indeed

[Sanadhil] My experience of her was entirely overwhelming - perhaps it is similar with Mlle Vermillion.

[Sanadhil] Especially if she has any natural inclination towards the concepts he stands for... Revenge, or some kind of twisted justice

[Guillame] Yes.

[Sanadhil] That may be enough to keep her with him

[Sanadhil] Thank you, in any case.

[Sanadhil] The other matter is also somewhat delicate....

[Sanadhil] Please excuse me if I am making false assumptions, to start with.

• Guillame listens

[Sanadhil] But, ah, I am wondering if you might be willing to help me gain an audience with your wife to inquire about one of her...

• Sanadhil considers his word choice for a moment and finally settles on "associate."

[Sanadhil] A woman that I recall from your wedding, Madelen Levernois.

[Guillame] I'll ask her if she'll see you, certainly. Do you mind if I ask after the business, so I can relate it to Portia?

[Sanadhil] It is a very delicate and discrete matter, and I'm only a consultant in the affair, so I'm not certain how much authority I have to be blunt

[Guillame] I'll certainly put it to her.

[Sanadhil] But I trust you and her grace to be discrete, so I can tell you, at least, that it has come to light that Mlle Levernois has recently been found to have been under magical control, for quite some time.

[Sanadhil] I'me hoping that someone who may have known her somewhat better may be able to reveal more information about any changes in behaviour, or personality.

[Guillame] I appreciate your being forthright - Portia would certainly want to know of this.

• Sanadhil nods.

[Sanadhil] If she is willing to speak to me, I can be most easily reached at the Castalia, these days.

• Guillame nods.
• Sanadhil will give you his ofice number

[Sanadhil] Thank you for your time then - I won't keep you any longer.

[Guillame] And thank you for yours!

• Guillame bows and leaves

Guillame, Aden, Emoune and Fitz

[DiablotinNarrator] Guillame, the air is distinctly cold this far north at this time of year, even inside the ducal palace. Servants who have evidently been awaiting your arrival bow politely and move to escort you through the palace's corridors to the duchess's bedchamber.

• Emoune looks very small and frail lying in her vast sea of pillows. Her face is milk-white, stark against the black of her hair.
• Emoune smiles slightly when she sees you.

[Emoune] How sweet of you to come, dear.

• Aden_ is seated at her bedside, but stands to welcome you when you arrive.

[Aden_] Thank you for coming...

[Guillame] I wouldn't be anywhere else

[Emoune] You came in time, that's all that matters. I'm sure that Aden will need you soon.

• Emoune waves a hand airily, but even that much effort seems to pain her and she drops it back to the silken bedspread.

[Guillame] Well, I'm here for him... but while I'm here, maybe I can help to keep your company and lighten your days a little too?

[Emoune] That's kind of you. Perhaps in a little while you can read to me, if you wish - Aden's probably gotten quite sick of it.

• Guillame gives Emoune a grin, slightly cracked by the sourness of the room but charming nonetheless

[Guillame] Of course!

[Emoune] Soon, then. But for now, do you mind if I speak with Aden privately? Just for a little...

• Aden_ shrugs, smiling wanly.

[Guillame] Not at all

[Aden_] You can wait next door if you want - I'll show you.

• Aden_ leads you to an adjacent room, which looks like it must be the duchess's personal study.

[Guillame] Thanks - I'll be ok here

[Aden_] [q] She's anxious about the inheritance. She's gone over it with me probably half a dozen times already, but I think she forgets...

[Aden_] Just make yourself comfortable.

• Guillame browses the bookshelves for interesting texts
• Aden_ gives you a quick kiss, then hurries back to his mother's side, leaving you there.

[DiablotinNarrator] The room is homey, a bit cluttered, and still feels very strongly inhabited. Papers are still strewn on the desk, waiting for a signature that may never come, and a novel sits open beside an armchair near the fire.

[DiablotinNarrator] Suddenly, and without warning, a man appears. He is tall and thin, wrapped in a hooded cloak that somewhat obscures his face, and seems very surprised to see you sitting there.

[Man] Who are you?

• Guillame blinks and puts his hand on his hilt
• Man asks warily, his hand already on a knife at his belt.

[Guillame] I could ask you the same; I am here by invitation

[Man] I'm the Duke of Greywatch, and I'm given to understand that my wife is dying.

• Man speaks softly, but there is a distinct tension in his voice.

[Man] What are you doing here, precisely?

[Guillame] You understand correctly. I present myself Guillame Rionet, Duke of Corcyra, and I am here in support of my close friend Aden.

[Man] Hm.

[Man] So he's here too, then.

[Guillame] Yes, he is. Tell me, will they be pleased to see you? I could have you announced, if you like?

[Man] No, I don't expect they will.

[Man] Perhaps you could let my son know that I'm here, and he can decide how we'll proceed from this point.

• Guillame acts casually, but keeps his hand near his sword.

[Guillame] I'd be happy to. He's consulting with his Lady Mother in private at the moment; I'll inform his as soon as he is available.

• Aden_ opens the door at that moment.

[Aden_] Guy, you...

[Aden_] You.

• Aden_ says, seeing his father.

[Aden_] I can't believe you came.

• Aden_ seems surprised and displeased.

[Fitz] What did you think, I'd just ignore her?

[Aden_] Do you really think she'd want to see you? Really? After what you did?

• Fitz sighs.

[Aden_] Unless you're here to apologize, I'm not about to let you in there. You'll only upset her.

• Guillame stands at Aden's side, trying to think of a way to defuse the situation.

[Fitz] I just want to say goodbye. That's all. It wasn't all bad, you know.

• Guillame slips next door to Emoune's room.
• Emoune looks over when you emerge.

[Emoune] Is everything all right?

[Guillame] Pardon me, your Grace, but your son is valiently defending you from a visit by the Duke of Greywatch, and it seemed prudent to me to check with you whether you'd agree with his instincts.

[Emoune] ... Fitz is here?

• Emoune seems a little surprised.
• Guillame nods gently.

[Emoune] Well.

[Emoune] What does it matter now... Let him in.

[Guillame] I know that normally you'd rather he stay as far away as thrown, but in these exceptional times...

[Guillame] Very well.

• Guillame goes back next door and puts a hand on Aden's shoulder.

[Aden_] ... her sister! how could you even...

• Aden_ turns when you touch him.

[Aden_] What is it?

• Guillame looks him in the eye reassuringly

[Guillame] Her grace tells me that she will see her visitor now.

[Aden_] ...

• Guillame waits for Aden's response

[Aden_] Fine.

• Guillame nods to Fitz
• Aden_ says grudgingly, and steps aside.
• Fitz goes into the bedroom to see his wife. He shuts the door behind him, so they have some privacy for whatever last words they feel the need to exchange.

[Guillame] I'm sorry I went behind your back Aden

• Aden_ slumps down into the armchair.

[Aden_] It's all right. I suppose it's her choice... I just thought maybe I could spare her that.

• Aden_ 's eyes are reddened.

[Guillame] I'm told these things aren't as important, at the end. I thought that she deserved the choice.

[Aden_] He left when I was seven.

[Aden_] ... with my aunt.

• Guillame listens.

[Guillame] A cad, then - he seemed as much by the way speak of him, and the way that you don't.

• Aden_ nods, shrugging.

[Aden_] She should have just gotten the marriage ended. I don't know why she didn't.

[Aden_] It wasn't because she still loved him, or thought he would ever come back.

[Guillame] Who knows? Fond memories somehow untainted perhaps? Or a longing for a life unfulfilled?

[Guillame] We don't always do things the way we should.

[Guillame] You're a fierce defender, you know - I thought he was going to curl up on the floor right here.

• Aden_ smiles slightly.

[Aden_] Got that from her.

• Aden_ says under his breath.
• Fitz emerges from the duchess's bedchamber after a little while longer.

[Fitz] I'll get out of your way, then.

[Aden_] Yes, do.

[Fitz] ... You can stop loving someone and still care about them, you know.

[Aden_] I can't. Get out of this place, and don't show your face here again when I'm Duke.

• Fitz makes a little half-bow, and disappears again.
• Aden_ goes to see if his mother's all right.

[Guillame] . o O (And maybe it'll be you appearing unbidden at Fitz's deathbed, years from now. I'm sure you'll understand before it's too late)

• Guillame goes with him.
• Emoune seems all right, even smiling slightly.

[Emoune] I think I would love to hear some more of that book, if you feel up to it.

• Emoune says to you.

[Guillame] Certainly!... Did he find what he was looking for, if I might ask?

[Emoune] I don't know if he ever did. But ... I was glad to see him, just for a little while.

[Guillame] I'm glad to hear it.

• Guillame picks up the book and hefts it open to the marker.

[Guillame] I'll not ask the backstory, but please correct me if I misinterpret anything by omission?

[Emoune] I'll try. And please don't be offended if I fall asleep.

[Emoune] It's not an indictment of your powers of entertainment.

[Guillame] I'll take it as a complement to my soothing voice.

• Guillame winks.
• Emoune smiles and closes her eyes to listen.

[DiablotinNarrator] The End, for now...