Act II: Penumbra

[Grodech]

Perception, to be able to hear the conversation through the door:

[19]+14 = 33
1d20+14:  [

] +14 = 33

[Charon]

OOC: If it could be a dark green, that would be great. Like this #FF4000

Sigh. That's reddish orange. But ok. Going forward, if a colour is difficult, speak up. I cannot read minds. XD Timidity looked perfectly fine in Proflat_black.

---

I didn't realise you'd taken Nirili with you. XD OK.

Rashkata continues addressing Viales for now.
"There is a time for subterfuge, Viales, but don't let that become your default purely because it is convenient. You are who you are, and if you are to stand with the full weight of the Tower behind you, then it is time people started to take notice of precisely who you are."
He stands, smoothing down his attire.
"You have good news in this regard, I hope? Master Garim briefed me on your intent here, but I admit I lack the detail. Regale me, if you will, with your process and results."

[Cmdr Maxwell]

"I do have good news. Master...for the most part. After the events in Plenty - which I will detail later as that is secondary - we made our way here. Upon our arrival, I made our way to meet Tegwin..." Viales begins, reciting through the key events of both areas, expanding upon certain points where asked by Rashtaka, until eventually concluding with "...and as of this morning, we foiled their nefarious plan, and managed to save the last girl they were planning to sacrifice, at the unfortunate cost of my guard's colleague and the Captain. And of course, Tegwin."

He shifts his uncomfortable from from foot to foot, having been standing the entire time.

[Charon]

Rashkata absorbs all of this in silence, allowing Viales to ramble as he covers every detail. When you wind down, Rashkata's eyes dart around the room as he thinks, and then nods.
"We will have to install a new information broker in town. I am sure that can be arranged relatively simply. You have the key?"
He holds out his hand, and once the key is placed in it he slides it into a pocket inside his robes.
He looks over the treasures you brought with you and sighs.
"We will have to take these to The Tower. Alas I did not come with a suitable lockbox. I suggest you keep them on your person for the time being and guard them with your life."
(I don't see a backpack or similar on your sheet but I assume you have all that gear in something?)

[Cmdr Maxwell]

OOC: Retconning, Viales will have grabbed a suitable container from the house to carry the artefacts in, although only suited for a short distance carry than a long haul trip back to the Tower.

"The house is locked up and key documents secured within. And understood, I will secure a suitable lockbox prior to our departure, Master," Viales replies, putting the artefacts back into the container. "Do you have any further questions for myself?"
If nothing, he'll continue. "May I ask a question then, if permitted?"

[Charon]

He'll allow you your question.

[Cmdr Maxwell]

"What particular vitae do you have an appetite for, for afternoon meal?" Viales politely asks, aware his stomach is one second away from growling, and of Master Garim's communique.

[Charon]

Rashkata cocks his head, seemingly surprised by the request.
"I have not yet had the opportunity to plan a meal. It would serve nicely to discuss these events further over a repast. I have a meeting in a couple of hours that I cannot be late for, so let us choose somewhere simple and quick. You've been here the last few days, surprise me."

[Cmdr Maxwell]

Viales nods in affirmation. "I recall an establishment in the nearby vicinity that seems apt. As long as they don't do a meal of steel and spell, which was yesterday's sustenance, that's fine with me. The name, however, does lend itself to be...punny. Human humour is strange."

He's thinking of the Don't Go Inn, a seemingly homely tavern - paradoxical to the name - that they saw on the first day.

[Charon]

Sure thing.

As you prepare to leave, Rashkata ushers you outside the door then begs just a moment.
He closes the door, with Viales outside and Nirili still inside.
"You'll forgive my rudeness, my dear, however this meal will be Conclave business. I have it on good authority you will be receiving new orders very soon, your superiors already informed of my plans going forward. Your contract with the Tower is officially dissolved for now. I will be accompanying Viales back to the Tower, though there will be time for goodbyes after our meeting. Your professionalism is noted and respected."
And with that he swiftly opens the door again, joining Viales in the corridor.

Nirili. It's a surprise, but not a shock. You've seen the Conclave operate seemingly on a whim before, yet you're aware their plans are often formed in advance, communicated magically between the senior members. If Rashkata says new orders are coming, you know you can take him at his word; The IB do have to rely on more mundane methods of communication except in times of extreme urgency. For now there's little more you can do than either return to the inn and await those orders, or seek a little R&R if you're that way inclined. Still, there is perhaps a sense of loss. Spending so much time with Viales, it can be easy to forget that your company is bought and sold as need dictates. A blade for a coin, nothing less.

Viales, you and Rashkata dine and as you do, you discuss in greater detail the events passed in Heavensholm, answering all of Rashkata's questions fully. He interrogates you on your methods, your logic, your decision making and eventually, satisfied, moves on to grilling you about your time in Plenty and the treasures you came bearing. As the meal winds down, Rashkata leans back in his seat, worrying a toothpick around his molars.
"Viales. You may well be wondering why I am here in Heavensholm. My presence here is twofold. First of all, I have another meeting with a representative from Prince Jelani. I will be hearing what events are transpiring in my homeland and it is a meeting that your curiosity no doubt begs you to attend, alas, this is the business of Masters and the meeting will be private. After this meeting, you and I will be returning to the Tower. Strange events are afoot and every active Master, Journeyman and Acolyte will be returning for a grand moot. It has been some time since the entire Tower has assembled. It will no doubt be a historic occasion. I will tell you more on our journey, where we are free from any stray ears. You and I will travel alone. I have already dismissed your bodyguard as her services will not be required and our discussions will not benefit from her presence. Make sure you settle your goodbyes as we leave in the morning."

[Grodech]

To my knowledge, Viales had left Nirili standing in the hallway to guard the door from the outside originally, but no matter. Nirili will take her leave with a slight bow to Rashkata and head for "The Snorcerer.", where they had paid for rooms earlier but never used. (ooc, IIRC, we paid for a double room for 4 nights, though I don't know how long we've been here since - gonna have to go back through the thread).

[Charon]

I think you met Tegwin on the same day you arrived. He was killed the following day when you went to the morgue, met Timidity and rescued Zandorian. I believe the day afterwards was the evening you held your ambush. This is the next day, so right now it's the fourth night. Works out nicely tbh.

(Either way, we'll assume Rashkata was able to collar you to give his message, I appreciate it's not very elegant, but having to factor in Viales' departure short notice, it will have to suffice.)

[Grodech]

I think you met Tegwin on the same day you arrived. He was killed the following day when you went to the morgue, met Timidity and rescued Zandorian. I believe the day afterwards was the evening you held your ambush. This is the next day, so right now it's the fourth night. Works out nicely tbh.

(Either way, we'll assume Rashkata was able to collar you to give his message, I appreciate it's not very elegant, but having to factor in Viales' departure short notice, it will have to suffice.)

Yes - my calc's match - this is evening of day 4, so tonight's lodging at the Snorcerer is still paid for.

[Cmdr Maxwell]

OOC: Just to add, he would have ordered extra for Jess.

IC: Leaning over to fuss with Jess who is on her third carrot, Viales listens with a vested interest. A grand moot. That is certainly...something. One hasn't been called for more than three decades, so whatever it is that has warranted the Conclave to recall every member is indeed a matter or situation that the higher echelons find themselves severely concerned about.

"I look forward to our continued conversation, Master. But of course, the matters must wait until we are on the road. I shall meet you at the house at the appointed time. I will also secure us an appropriate pair of mounts, unless you have already made arrangements. If there is nothing further, please excuse me. I shall make departure preparations my priority, including bidding my goodbyes to Nirili. Without her, I would not have survived nor would the people of Heavensholm rest easier. Bowing respectfully, he'll conclude. "May the light and grace of Paletius shine upon the both of us with fervor."

He'll settle the bill, and (assuming no further input from Rashkata), make his way to find Nirili, presumably back at the Snorcerer.

[Charon]

Rashkata will encourage you to acquire your own horse. He already has one he arrived on.

I'll let you and Nirili do anything you want to do and once you go to sleep I'll do Rashkata and Gortig.
To that end, Nirili is at the Snorcerer when you get back.

[Cmdr Maxwell]

Approaching Nirili, he moves the seat next to her to take its place momentarily. Jess's head pops out of the bag, staring beady eyed at Nirili. The small sense of disdain for not being petted is felt by Viales, who keeps schtum but sends a mental frown back.

"Apologies that our parting is abrupt. The matters afoot are urgent enough to recall every member." A beat or three passes, before he offers a hand and a smile. "From deep within, you have my gratitude for services rendered. It has been a privilege to fight beside you, and may our paths cross again one day soon. I will ensure positive feedback is sent back to your superiors."

Turns around, takes a few steps, then pauses and spins on his heel.

"May I pay for your next drink or two, as a parting gift?"

Once that is done (if accepted), and without much bravado, Viales departs to busy himself through the itinerary for the rest of the day. Specifically, and in no certain order:

• food stuffs for the journey

• appropriate lockbox if one is not available in the house

• a saddled horse

• a bedroll

• a walk around Heavensholm in retrospective reflection

He'll be staying at the house tonight.

And with that, Viales goes into the unknown to never be seen again...

Over in another part of the Material Realm, a bull-headed dwarven warpriest downs his fourteenth pint of something bitter, that burns a path down his gullet.

[Grodech]

Viales finds Nirili seated along the far wall at a small table, her back to the wall. Her hood is pulled up to hide her face, but his familiarity with her allows him to find her switfly as he gazes across the room.

"Apologies that our parting is abrupt. The matters afoot are urgent enough to recall every member." A beat or three passes, before he offers a hand and a smile. "From deep within, you have my gratitude for services rendered. It has been a privilege to fight beside you, and may our paths cross again one day soon. I will ensure positive feedback is sent back to your superiors."

She shakes his hand with a smile. "It's been interesting, to say the least. Good luck on your travels. May you find the enlightenment you seek."

Turns around, takes a few steps, then pauses and spins on his heel.

"May I pay for your next drink or two, as a parting gift?"

"Of course."

Nirili stays at the table for dinner and another couple of drinks, then retires to the room after stopping to ask the innkeeper for a bath. No telling how long before she'd have accommodations again, so she's taking full advantage.

[Charon]

Gortig.

You arrive in Heavensholm that evening. There'll be time to find a room for the night later. As much as you'd love a moment to rest, you know the meeting with Rashkata is to too important to delay. You were told to locate him at the Sandman Inn. The reference is lost on you, you assume Rashkata chose it due to it having a deserty vibe.

The town is a little busier than you're used to. It's not that the desert doesn't have large groups of people living together, but they're usually more spread out. The roads feel uncomfortable underfoot and the thin alleyways between houses are, not unnerving, but displeasing aesthetically. Why do these people live squashed up against each other?
The lights on the street corners interest you. It's been a while since you've been in an urban environment. Unlike the desert lands where torches on poles stand freely to provide light, these people have lanterns made of metal and glass hanging from metal poles.
You drag your mind away from such thoughts. You can read the signs in this place, though the style of lettering is unfamiliar. You don't see the place you're looking for, but you do see another orc passing and collar him for directions. With that information in hand, you weave through the streets to the Stretch and locate the Sandman Inn. A quick enquiry sees you led to door number 4. This is it. Convince this man your people are not a threat to be dealt with and subtly see if he has come across anything like the Encased before.

[Gimble]

The transition from the desert ot the cobblestone streets of town felt like stepping into a different world. Following the cobbled path towards the inn Gortig adjusts the straps of his pack, his joints protesting with every step. He dusts off his cloak, revealing the red cloth under the layer of desert dust.

The journey had felt much longer than it had actually been, a sign he was approaching middle age. Or maybe he had just gotten too comfortable back home. He chuckles to himself, thinking that at least he's out of his grotto for a bit.

Rook, Gortig's monkey familiar, had climbed a street lantern and disappeared onto the rooftops when they entered Heavensholm. As Gortig enters the Inn he focuses on his link with Rook, sending a feeling of loneliness, knowing that the monkey would most likely take the cue to come back to him soon.

As he walks up to the door of room 4 he scrapes his throat and mumbles over his tusks "Right, let's see if this Rashkata fella is friendly to an orc as dusty as the desert.". He knocks on the door and takes a step back.

[Charon]

There's a moment, brief enough that it's not an intentional delay, before Rashkata opens the door. You see a stern faced man with the typical dark skin of those humans born to the desert. A traditional keffiyeh frames his head, the yellow the exact shade that comes from the desert mahareb flower. A smile plays across his lips, the expression softening as he takes in your witchy/sahamany vibe.
"I must admit, it took me some time after arriving in these lands before understanding the necessity of knocking on doors. Welcome to my..." he pauses, turns, sweeps an arm across the room. "...khayma." he finishes. Khayma, a temporary or portable tent or shelter, different to the permanent tent one might live in. It's not just an accurate translation, there's an implication there, that Rashkata does not consider this place home. It's also a word an outsider would be unfamiliar with even if they knew your tongue, the concept not existing in their language.
He bids you enter, grabbing cushions from the bed and tossing them to the floor. He sits upon one of these, cross legged. He places his right palm centrally on his chest and taps twice.
"I am Rashkata, of the Jehnah. Here I hold the rank of Master of the Conclave, a role akin to an Emberheart. A man of study, wise counsel, and skill in the art of arcana."
You're familiar with this style of greeting. By seating and naming yourself, you agree to the law of parlay. There will be no hostilities between you inside this khayma.

You may roll Sense Motive for a read on Rashkata if you wish.

[Gimble]

Taking seat on a cushion, Gortig thanks the man with a smile, because of his tusks comes across as more of a grin. "Thank you, may the Gods treat you with hospitality."

He nods politely as Sashkata introduces himself, then bows his head in response. "And I am Gortig, son of the Ash Mouths, an Emberheart in the service of Prince Jelani of the Kufeshi." (OOC: is that correct?) If it's common to tap the chest twice he will repeat the gesture, otherwise he'll simply hold a closed fist to his chest, which would be a greeting he's seen used between merchants.

He'll tell briefly about the journey here from the oasis settlement of Qasr Al-Hawa (which would be where Gortig lived most recently and thus started this journey from). He'll also share that he served as a local healer and alchemist in the Emerald Grotto, a landmark near the oasis that anyone who knows of Qasr Al-Hawa could have heard of.

OOC: I'm just coming up with some names that seem reasonable. If you they need any amendment let me know. I also hope the dice roll works the way I think it works. Before starting the conversation about the message from Jelani I'm curious about the sense motive roll.

[Charon]

It's hard to gauge this man. He carries himself like a desert dweller, but evidence of his adaptation to grassland life is apparent. He lacks the smell of the sands. You can't tell if he isn't used to sitting on cushions or whether it's his age betraying him, not that you can place his age with any accuracy. You cannot get a feel for his level of talent in the ways of magic either. The only thing you can say for certain is that he has made an effort to accommodate you. The seating, the traditional parlay (palm or fist, the double tap is common in such meetings and is also used as a general 'calm down' gesture, a bit like how we might raise our hands slightly to show we mean no harm nor insult).
Indeed, as you sit and return the greeting, he reaches for a small carafe and two silver cups into which he pours an iced tea. He lets you choose a cup and takes the other.
He listens, seemingly familiar with Qasr Al-Hawa and the Emerald Grotto.

"It is good of Prince Jelani to send someone of such high esteem for this meeting. You should understand that the Conclave I represent holds no real recognition of the Emberhearts, which is why I insisted on being the one to meet. I am no stranger to desert politics and I will speak frankly to you on this matter. Jelani is viewed as arrogant by some, and many are distrustful of those who share the blood of djinn. In these lands, they view Jelani as volatile, an unknown. My Conclave serves no ruler directly, but our current King in these lands is a man of peace and we have a vested interest in keeping him on the throne. These lands are fertile and bounteous and there are many who would seek to seize them from him. You can see then how Jelani's recent efforts to bolster his forces could be seen by some to be indicative of a coming assault.
By our reckoning, with the tribes he has absorbed and the elimination of the Geshir, Jelani likely has enough men that if he were to march on Heavensholm, it would be ill equipped to resist him. Jelani claims this is not his intent. My Conclave wonders if this meeting is a delaying tactic. The fact that he sent an Emberheart to plead his case gives me faith it is not so, but my faith alone will not assuage my fellows. Gortig, what is it precisely that has stirred Jelani's blood to this degree, if not preparation for war on a larger scale?"

(Names are fine. Vaguely Arabic is good enough for the vibe I'm building :P)