(1875-10-30) The Goblin King's Court
The Goblin King's Court
Summary: The Goblin King holds court at the Spirit Day Ball in Four Corners, 1875.
Date: 2019-10-26
Related: Anything Endings related.
NPCs: Jyreth, The Goblin King, Minat, a vampiress. Many goblins. Cameo by Glyarek, The One.
Players:
Alia  Brennart  Cervantes  Dertan  Elisha  Ivo  Jarret  Mattias  Myrana  Ramius  Shirlyn  

Four Corners - Courtesans' Academy

The Salon of the two story building housing the local academy of courtesans is an impressive hall with a high ceiling, its walls painted all in white, to form a somewhat clean contrast to the colourful high windows of stained-glass which shed a colorful light during the day. The images depicted encompass scenes of study and accomplishment, such as young maidens playing the lute, studying the art of the quill as well as a number of books. However, any bawdy pictures of the more private entertainment the courtesans are instructed in will be looked for in vain. This is the Courtesan Academy of Four Corners, not just some primitive brothel.

To one side of the hall is a long table with a number of chairs carved from finest cherry wood - sometimes joined by a second table on larger events. Here courtesans can show they are capable of holding their own in polite conversations during official dinners. To the other side is a comfortable seating area with cushions of red and purple brocade, arranged about a number of low tables for enjoyment of refreshments and a more private setting for conversations. In the middle of the hall, however, is a podium, where young aspiring courtesans can show some of their arts, reciting poetry as well as performances of music or dancing.

The Salon may be the place to establish contacts with courtesans; it is not the place however, to engage in improper behaviour of any kind.

1875-10-30

-

Upon arrival into Four Corners territory, or indeed if you've already arrived, the festivities are easy to see, and taking place across the great City State, in every Margraviate, and every small village, and every tavern and inn, lanterns, feasts, free flowing wine and ale, there is no end to the joy and the peace that few other realms could ever enjoy. While behind the scenes mercenaries protect the lands and its people, and privateers protect the coastline, it is an unwritten notice that any disruption is quite unwelcome.

Beyond the city lights are lit, villages and towns can be picked out from miles away, and the sound of music and joyous festivity can often be heard on the breeze. Within the City of Four Corners, it is no different, with vast crowds of the poorer folk enjoying their free festivities, drinking themselves merry, dancing, singing, and filling the streets with joyous noise, and the merest threat of a booze-filled altercation is swiftly dealt with by the Grey Cloaks. There is however no traffic for the courtly folk, for a single route planned and kept free of all festivity and joyous carousing ensures a swift arrival to the Courtesans Academy, with the sound of merriment and joy ringing through the streets, across the canals, and out across the docks and the sea beyond, the great City's party is in full swing. Lanterns are strung, little blobs of light dancing betwixt buildings, across the masts of the great ships in the docks, and everywhere and anywhere, as if a horde of giant fireflies have settled upon the city, and bathed it in light, clearing the shadows, and providing some measure of fluttering warmth on the breeze, a warmth that may well be swept away, but with the free flowing booze, there's warmth aplenty to be enjoyed.

Drawing up to the Courtesans Academy, one would find themselves greeted by an array of lined servants and courtesans, all dressed as sylphs and goblins, flowing costumes, gossamer wings, versus green masks of teeth and large pointed ears, each as lithe and nimble as the next, ready to guide and to serve, barely seen within the Academy, though their presence would easily be felt, for wine and food is always within reach.

No announcement would be made for each arrival, merely a sweeping bow from an ancient and be-masked worthy, a sweep of an arm directing the newest of arrivals to sweep on down into the party, and a unseeing milky gaze would barely follow before fixing upon the next.

And once within, the variety of costumes would surely astound, for wealth and ostentatious display is nothing if not the aim. Creatures and beings of fairy tales and lore have been brought to life, from simple yet effective, to such displays of wealth and glittering fabric, jewels, and artistry. An empty throne, grandiose and gilded rests upon a dias, untouched, empty, while beside that grand throne rests a vast pile of gold, an actual pile of gold consisting of more coin than a good many here could ever hope to gaze upon, while upon that pile rests a smaller, yet still grand affair of carpentry and gilding. And upon that throne a dragon of lore, or at least a man dressed as such. A vast mask, with curling plumes of smoke rising from the nostrils gazes out across the see of Tirth's worthies, his bronzed and gold scaled long coat glittering in the firelight, his singular gloved hand adorned with rings of such worth, and the rest of his costume equally adorned with some measure of scale to catch the light. Vast horns rise from his mask, curling away behind. Though for now the dragon watches and shifts, causing that pile of gold coin to send a small cascade of glittering coin from the top to the base of the pile.

-

Standing beside the throne set upon coins with The Dragon ensconced on it is a women with a smile upon her lips. Her gown is gossamer gold and maroon with vines wrapped about her tall frame. Artfully done, the vines leave a line of her left side exposed so that a tattoo of green vines and black thrones can be seen from left toe to left ring finger. Long, red hair braided with grape vines and golden thread cascade down her back in a mix of braids and barrel curls. Her mask covering all but her chin and bottom lip is feminine, painted by a skilled craftsman to represent a woman with a permanent laugh crinkling her eyes and symbology that noticeably points to Summer Moon.

Barefoot, Summer Moon leans down to The Dragon and laughs heartily at some suck quip he said. "Indeed gold makes everything look better." Her blue green eyes behind the mask land on a man dressed as a golden lion mingling below. "My hopes is that he enjoys himself, at least for the night." Summer Moon says as she spins a ring idly around the ring finger of her right hand, ruby set in its middle.

-

The Dragon tilts his head, allowing for a lazy swirl of smoke to drift from his flared and draconic nostrils, "It is all we both wish for, given what is to come… our celebrations honour him." Beneath the mask, it's wearer smiles, a fact easily picked up within his voice as he adjusts a clawed hand, clutching idly upon the arm of his throne, "And you look delightful my dear friend, I am sure that our honoured guest will be thrilled to meet with you." More smoke drifts from the nostrils, while a clawed hand gestures for a agile goblin to bring forth a goblet for Summer Moon, "I shall say this of him, I have enjoyed this…" And to this, a clawed hand gestures to all those gathered, and the ornate, and richly appointed decor.

-

All dressed up in various shades of gold, the man wearing a sun mask, is making some effort to mingle but mostly just manages to look haughty and slightly bored. Fitting really. He waves off an offer of drinks from one of the servers and wanders about the crowds, neither trying to draw attention his way nor avoiding it.

-

War rarely takes time for leisure, and nowhere is that more apparent than among such opulent surroundings. Where many others where dresses and suits she is bedecked in (admittedly ceremonial) armour, dark hair let down to flow and play for once but still pinned back and off her neck. She also carries equally ceremonial weapons, a sword made for fencing, but as a gesture of goodwill to the room makes it a point to quickly fill her hands with food and drink for the night as she circles about the room, unaccompanied and as awkward as one might expect a god of war to look amidst glamour and socializing.

-

Not among the first to arrive, but an entirely fashionable number of minutes late, the Sphinx arrives and returns the bow offered by the masked worthy at the entrance. As no words are offered it replies with none, apparently perfectly content to stride on down into the party proper, effortlessly taking a glass of wine from the tray of a passing servant as it does so. The wine is glances at, sniffed, sipped, and thoroughly approved off, before a faint smile is cast in the direction of the throne and it's gold. It suspects it knows who that might be behind the mask, but dismisses the thought immediately, after all, what is the point of a masque if you're going to spoil the fun of it all? Content for now to mingle, and show off it's golden wings it sips it's wine once more, and soaks up the atmosphere.

-

"Of course, you did him well," she speaks of the Goblin King. "You said he asked for the grandest affair, I daresay you did that and then some. Even the poorest of Four Corner citizens will eat well and revel in hight style this eve." Summer Moon takes the goblet of wine from the goblin servant. "His most honored chose the best place to hold such an event." Summer Moon's gaze travels about and eyes the myriad of nymphs that flit around the room, the house's courtesan's at work and play and on a fine display if anyone would wish their company for the evening.

-

The Goblin king saunters into the room, if the graceful way that he moves, one hand slightly raised, painted eyes ad glitter infused makeup moving through the throngs of people as if they are not there. He glides up next to a woman dressed as a Vampire. The stereotypical Vampire, with a flowing skin tight dress, voluminous sleeves that drape down to her elbows and nearly touch the floor. The corner of her mouth has a dribble of blood, and her eyes are golden iris. A trick of glass perhaps? "Minet." The Goblin King says to her, taking her hand and kissing it lightly.

The Woman's eyes glitter and her canines, long and pointed gleam as she inclines her head. "Your Majesty. I wondered if you still did this."

The Goblin King smirks and performs a little bow. "How could I not? Especially given circumstances in the world? Now. Minet. You behave yourself. No eating the guests."

Those canine flash and her eyes flash a quick actual golden for a moment as she says, "No promises." Then moves off to see to her guests.

The Goblin King watches the woman move off, her hips swaying just so, and any male that sees her walk by has his eyes instantly drawn to her form. He chuckles and saunters deeper into the party, a knowing smile on hi s features.

-

Winter Moon did not so much arrive as she simply flowed into the room like a errant and chill breeze through an open window, stirring a child, warm and comforted in their bed by the unexpected chill of night an the threat of reality stolen from dreams. She was small and slight, her dress of silver and pale blue silks, flowing in airy waves as she moved through the space, pausing only now and then to catch sight of the figures arrayed around the already crowded room before she made her way towards the throne. Her face was masqued, of course, a glistening field dotted with crystals, with only her lips, pale and bloodless revealed below. She paused, as she came to the throne, offering the most graceful of dips of her head to the Dragon, before she glances towards the woman sitting beside her, 'Sister.' A soft sibilant sound, free of accent, a voice from everywhere and nowhere.

-

War isn't wandering around for long before she spots Shinx, mostly because they were late to arrive, and saunters over to him with a good natured tilt of her scarred lips in greeting as she raises her glass. "Quite a party no?" she asks good naturedly.

-

Servants move freely, sylphs and goblins keeping drinks topped up, empty glasses whisked away, and food within easy reach. Flowing robes of earthly greens, and holy whites adorning each, and yet as they move, they leave but a faint trail of gold dust in their wake.

-

The Dragon waves a clawed hand in a gesture of welcome to Winter Moon, twin plumes of smoke escaping his nostrils, only to be drawn back in for an instant, and then sent back upon their merry way. His goblet remains as full as it ever did, for drinking is rather a messy affair for a dragon, and as such the goblet is merely a prop, to hold and to wave, to allow the rich golden mead of White Hall to swish about the cup.

-

Summer Moon simply inclines her head to those that greet The Dragon, her hand placed firmly on his shoulder. She looks down at her gown and smirks, speaking to The Dragon with a whisper. "My thanks on the compliment, I had thought to make the vines living but then thought better of it." She wiggles her ringed finger on his shoulder. "How unfortunate it would be if I'd lose my clothing half-way through the night," there is a light chuckle that comes from Summer Moon as she takes her goblet and brings it to her lips for another sip, hmming in appreciation for the vintage. "Is this the pear wine?"

-

There have been many shocks this evening, and though he deserved every single one of them, none of them found their way to Ramius al'Arran.

Stepping down from the carriage, Myrana d'Armaz puts her gloved hand into the fingers of a goblin and nearly has another one, only just jerking her hand up with a little gasp of surprise as a little pulse of electricity pulses in her fingertips.

"Ah! I'm sorry." She laughs to cover it, and with a slightly silly smile accepts his help down and thanks him before proceeding at last into the Courtesan's Academy. A place alone in Four Corners that has felt her step no more than once, under any guise, under her father's command.. She stands looking up at the beautiful facade beneath the stars full of music and light, and fingers the silver bell at her throat.

"Damn you Ramius," she mutters, and goes in, gathering up the ridiculously soft skirts of her angora kirtle steps inside to walk into the wild phantasmagoria of what is surely Tirth's most fabulous Spirit Day Ball.

"Why thank you," says Lopki, or so she tries to remember. Ramius left a note with her dressers, who were in on it but probably not deserving her reaction at the time. Lopki who Walks Between. Suspicious! Who else was in on this? The rabbit-masked trickster god siezes upon a canape and eats it, fuming silently around a bite of cheese and fig jam. HRMMMPGHGHH…

-

The Sphinx tilts it's masked head to War as she approaches, then raises it's glass briefly in actual greeting once conversation is started. Smiling back it considers for a moment then asks in in a clear, elegant voice, "When the answer I give is yes, it is no, and when the answer I give is no, it is yes. What is the question?"

-

That frame moves through the crowd, painted eyes scanning each individual that falls under his gaze. He touches a person's shoulder here, kisses a hand there, spins a maiden over there before i na sweeping bow he dissappears into the crowd. He stops near the pile of gold and smirks up at the Dragon and Summer Moon perched nearby. "Goodness. Such a horde of wealth. Tell me Dragon, would you mind if I stole your most precious treasure for a dance?"

Then the Goblin King offers a half bow and offers his hand to Summer Moon, a slight smirk on his features and playfulness in his eyes.

-

Winter Moon slipped away, something knowing in her expression, as seemed only fitting for the elder sister greeting the younger, making her way back through the room. She took neither food, or drink, though she seemed to take a momentary interest in the one dressed as the Sun, plucking a glass from a passing sylph and carrying it towards where he was standing. "I wonder, if I am but a pale reflection of you, or if, indeed, you grow brighter in the reflection."

-

The Dragon inclines his head to the Goblin King, rising and slowly bowing, bowing in a manner that has not ever graced any King or Queen of Tirth, for there is sincere respect as the banker rises, and settles once more, answering Summer Moon's question, "It was the pear, though I'm sure you'll both make a much finer pair. By all means your Majesty." Plumes of smoke billow once more as the Dragon settles once more, goblet poised and yet never sipped from. Those ruby eyes regarding all through a rose-tinted haze.

-

War laughs good naturedly as true to their role Sphynx gives her a riddle, the usual stoicness of War can't help but be delighted to such commitment. "Ah but we are in the world of Nobility tonight Sphynx, no matter what question is first asked it is never the real one, and there are always hidden intentions to even the most benign of them," she muses as she takes a sip of her drink, eyes alighting across Lopki and dancing in amusement at what War well knows to be anger eating.

-

"I thought so, it is my favorite flavor." Blue-green eyes flit to The Dragon, then once more to the Golden Lion to which there is a subtle nod and back again to the mysterious stranger in front of her. When The Dragon answers for her she takes The Goblin King's hand "Just like always, Dragon, you are more than likely right," and with a curtsy she lets him lead her away.

-

Since the Goblin King is stealing away with summer moon, the man dressed in a sun mask, decides he will do the same with her sibling. He grants her a small bow when she approached him as he is approaching her. "So full of unanswerable questions Winter Moon." He offers his hand. "Dance with me?"

-

Dresses In a lovely attire and in a costume very similar to that of a mountain lion. He currently just meanders around the place, sipping on a glass of wine and just watching the place. One day, when peace is known through all the land…he'd like to attend more of these functions.

-

The band, hidden from view never stops playing, with its lilting tones and musical verve drifting throughout the wonderfully acoustic Academy. The strains of Aequorian, Galenthian, Kentairish, and Partharian songs, not to mention choral music of Rikton fills the room, with even the more boisterous White Hall songs gently filling the vast hall. Every culture of Tirth catered for, every taste, with dancing and merriment fulfilled as certain tunes strike up, and courtiers and attendants guide the guests into position. Waltzes galore. Foxtrots. Military quick steps. Dervish dancing, and more. There's always some dance to join in with, amidst the feasting and frivolity.

-

Winter Moon offered The Sun a tipping of her head and the edges of her fingers, "So it is with so many things, in life and death. We only see a story of the thing and not the thing itself." She allowed her companion to lead her away, and to find themselves a place on the dancefloor.

-

War offers a nod and greeting toast to the mountain lion prowling nearby out of politeness (and maybe slightly tipsy enabled desire to be friendly) but otherwise remains engaged with the Sphinx.

-

Ramius Arran deserves absolutely every single awful thing that he has coming to him.

But this is not a just world, and there is not even a single grain of justice to be found, no matter how finely you might grind it.

Describing what he's wearing as he exits a /totally different/ carriage from his wife is difficult. It might be more appropriate to describe what he is not wearing. He is not wearing a shirt, first of all. He is also not wearing pants. Instead, he is wearing… A wolf. A full wolf's pelt is draped over his face and back and shoulders in lieu of a proper mask. A kilt is wrapped around his waist and secured there by a series of heavy belts capped by a toothy, grinning sporran. A slab of artfully carved metal with a deceptively short shaft dangles from one hip. On his chest, a leather harness. On his skin, a winding lattice of knotted warpaint that partially creeps up one side of his face and up into his hidden hairline.

This is Thrulf, northern thunder god and renowned MUSCLE MAN.

This easily gives away who exactly it is that is under the costume— but only to one person in particular who is likely ABUNDANTLY FAMILIAR with said muscles.

And of course he goes immediately toward the nearest source of booze and food, because why would he not?

-

Time stops. Music, movement, everything except two people. A man in a white cloak with his hood up, hiding his features and gleaming white armor of the ancient style suddenly steps between the Goblin King and Summer Moon. His hand rests on a Gladius whose hilt is pure Rose Gold. A Rose Gold so pure and perfect it too almost shines with white light. He puts a hand to the chest of the Goblin King. "Stop. She is one of mine Jyreth. I will not have you harm or corrupt her."

The Goblin King's laugh is like bells tinkling as he looks to the hand placed on his chest. "Oh Glyarek. This is MY night. You, and all the others are powerless." He then gives the man in white a little shove.

As the man stumbles the Goblin King sweeps up to Winter Moon. "She's one of yours yes?" He chuckles and draws a long fingernail down her cheek. The fingernail stopping just before the neckline, his breath tickling her ear. Before he suddenly spins off and is beside Lopki.

He spins her and dances through the froze crowd, somehow striking nobody as he cavorts through a delicate and masterfully performed Hunt dance. Lopki's eyes staring forward even as her body goes through the motion. "She's more difficult. She CLAIMS to be yours but I believe Winter Moon has her fingers all over her don't you?" At the Dip he nips her nose.

This puts him near The Golden Sun whom he circles, One hand tracing along the man's shoulders and chest as he circles. "The Golden Sun. He was yours once, but has given fully to the Many. I suppose you won't care what I do to him. Except the Golden Sun was your son, so the irony would not be lost me." He laughs and Is now suddenly behind the Sphinx.

"Don't you jsut want to ask him questions? He too is one of yours, but his soul almost belongs to the Ocean." The Goblin King chuckles and plucks a drink form another party goer and places it in the Sphinx's hand. "To keep him … Hydrated. It's important don't you think?"

Then he stops near War and looks her over. He circles until he's behind her and leans in to breath in her scent, his breath tickling along the ear, the neck as he places his hands on her shoulder. "This one. She prayed silently to you for years didn't she? Save me. Oh One save me!" He says in a mocking voice. "Did you?" He holds up a finger and shouts, "NO!" He stalks to the man in white and peers down at him. "You. All the others. You listen but only step in when YOU want. I don't pretend and hide whom I am. I simple AM."

He looks to Thrulf and gestures. "If you cared about your followers then free him. End his Curse. Elsewise leave me by Glyarek. This is MY Night."

The Man in White glares, eyes flashing a blue that might be menacing beneath the hood. "This is your Night. But there will come time when you are in my position, and I'll say no."

The Goblin King performs a mocking bow, then blows the Man a kiss. That man in White dissolves in a shower of rainbow motes that float harmlessly to the floor before the Goblin King resumes his previous location. Hand extended to Summer Moon.

Those touched or affected remember nothing, but FELT whatever he did, and if moved, are thus moved.

-
The food and drink hales from all over Tirth, from White Hall mead and ice peppered delicacies, to fat dripping hogs, and honied pastries, to the spices of Partharia, with ever bubbling, sand-heated kaffe, rich savoury delights laden with all manner of spices, to sweet desserts that are equally lavish. Galenthia and Aequor are likewise represented with the finest culinary creations known, from hale and hearty sweetmeats, to fine little stuffed Orioles meant to be guzzled whole, beaks and all. Kentairish dishes delight with their richness, while a vast array of delicious treats are arrayed. If you wish for it, it is likely there, there is simply no expense spared. Gold has flowed like a river to ensure that every drop of ale, beer, wine, and spirit flows just as freely and easily as Four Corners trade.

-

The Sun is content to draw the woman with the winter moon costume into a simple waltz. "Winter Moon is an interesting choice." He says to make conversation. "What made you choose the lady that so." Time stops and resumes again and the sun's steps fall out of rhythm with the music in his brief confusion. Its a momentary lapse that might never have happened at all. Yet its enough to break off the line of conversation he was trying to establish.

-

Summer Moon's brow furrows behind her mask as she follows the Goblin King but she shakes whatever feeling she has off and continues on. "I was told," she says softly, "I was wanted and certainly expected. Seems to be a common occurrence these days." Summer Moon says, eyes straying to her side to eye the Golden Lion, shaking her head with a swift jerk before continuing further into the crowd.

-

Sphinx smiles back to War, considering her answer for a moment as it sips it's wine, then effortlessles moves the glass into the path of a passing goblin who swiftly refiles it. "We are indeed," in conceeds in that same lofting voice, "but even the nobility must answer if they wish a share of the treasure that lies beyond." It follows her glance to the mountain lion, casting an appraising eye on the differing take on the theme of lion, then turns back to War. "Perhaps though, this one is more in keeping with your.." It pauses a moment, then shudders, as if there was a sudden draught of wind had caught it, only no wind was there. Blinking once, then looking at the newly acquired additional drink it seems thrown for a moment, then catches up with itself and asks, "What is easy to get into but hard to get out of?"

-

Winter Moon offered that hint of a smile, as she found her place on the dancefloor, taking some movement from the people flowing around her, the breeze of their passing as they gave themselves to the dance causing her dress to ebb and flow in its own tide. She stepped into the waltz with practiced easy, though something in the rhythm of the dance, perhaps caused her to shiver, the slightest shake of her head marring the perfect placidity of her expression, but not so much that she gave up the thread of the question entirely, "Perhaps because while most would claim they live their lives under the rays of the Sun and in the warmth of Little Sister, it is beneath the light of Winter Moon that they seek their true desires."

-

While most people seem to enjoy events such as this, some people never seem to get as comfortable with them. All the masks, costumes and secrecy can help to make some people a bit paranoid. And so there's someone simply wearing dark clothing and a dark mask, staying a bit closer to the walls for now as he watches the various people present, glancing towards the exit every now and then.

-

While most people seem to enjoy events such as this, some people never seem to get as comfortable with them. All the masks, costumes and secrecy can help to make some people a bit paranoid. And so there's someone simply wearing dark clothing and a dark mask, staying a bit closer to the walls for now as he watches the various people present, glancing towards the exit every now and then.

-

The Dragon atop his hoard of gold shifts to accept a goblet of some rich red liquid, Ricoshan red? The glass raised to the gathered throng of the wealthiest and noblest of Tirth, and then his attention dips once more to watching the gaiety, and frivolity before him. Nothing but peace, joy, and wealth in abundance. While beyond the walls the entire City State joins in, drinking, dancing, and making merry like never before. The Dragon rumbles warmly, grinning beneath his mask as he barks out a well meant toast, "May you all enjoy this peace, may you all be happy, until the end of time."

-

The Mountain Lion gives a nod and raise of his glass to War. He, like all others, is completely unaware of anything that just happened outside of what he can naturally perceive. He sips his drink idly. He does look upon Sphinx after catching the glance…better go and mingle. He approaches Sphinx and War and gives a bow. "How are you both enjoying festivities?"

-

The words from Winter Moon draw the Sun's attention back to the the social requirement of conversation. "Strange that you and I would think of her so differently. It has always been Winter Moons sense of duty that I admired most."

-

War was simply minding her buisiness waiting on the sphynx to speak when she feels a gust of air shivering at her neck and cheek causing a quiver to race down her spine. When she reorients herself from the sudden cold she sees the Sphynx has so quickly refilled his drink but thinks nothing of it.

"The nobility, most of them at least, are too prepccupied with the treasure of the moment. For if it is not immediately available they care not for it," she comments in a dismissive but good natured tone before tilting her head curiously.

"But I an war, long before i was notable or aristocratic I was a warrior, and I know to seek beyond the horizon, so what treasure do you speak of Sphynx?"

-

The music for a Hunt dance continues and the Goblin King leads Summer Moon onto the Dance Floor. His eyes sparkle as he looks into the eyes of Summer Moon and when he speaks there is mirth there. "Oh Shirlyn Tenebrae Nee Charing, pray tell me Mortal, what were you going to do with this?" He lifts a hand from Summer Moon's shoulder, and with surprising strength holds her tight to him by the waist. In the lifted hand and before her eyes he holds a Rose Gold band with a ruby gem.

He chuckles. "Your Order si quaint. And adorable. And all things that a God might find cute in Mortal ingenuity, but you do know you were trying to play in the court of Gods yes?" He makes a fist and the ring vanishes in his hand. When he opens it he waggles fingers and flecks of rose gold and ruby dust glitter between them. "You may ask one question Shirlyn, because you have amused me with your attempt. But only one. So be wary, and be clear. I have much to do this evening."

-

War was simply minding her buisiness waiting on the sphynx to speak when she feels a gust of air shivering at her neck and cheek causing a quiver to race down her spine. When she reorients herself from the sudden cold she sees the Sphynx has so quickly refilled his drink but thinks nothing of it.

"The nobility, most of them at least, are too preoccupied with the treasure of the moment. For if it is not immediately available they care not for it," she comments in a dismissive but good natured tone before tilting her head curiously.

"But I an war, long before i was notable or aristocratic I was a warrior, and I know to seek beyond the horizon, so what treasure do you speak of Sphynx?" of course just as she is getting serious they get a guest and she opts to include him mischievously. "The wine and food are good, even if the company a bit lofty for my usual groups," she replies with a bow of her own, currseying in armour being nigh impossible.

-
Sphinx is still not entirely sure how it got a second wine, but it doesn't seem that it's going to question that too deeply and simply drains one, setting the empty glass down on the tray of a mingling goblin. Returning the mountain lions bow it smiles for a moment, considering, then asks, "What type of lion never roars?" Then, turning back to War he listens as she speaks, then holds his free hand out, palm upwards. "Ah, but War, to know that you must first answer."

-

"Is that not the way of the Gods? To be what the supplicant wishes for them to be? And for every wish, there is a facet of the Gods there as well. I am no different, nor You, Sun." Winter Moon continued to dance, having found that perfect rhythm with her partner, her following steps perfectly mirroring his leading ones.

-

"You know you're going to get me into a lot of trouble with that," she says as the ring is turned to dust, "but at least I can report back that it was nothing of importance." She eyes the dust for a moment more before turning her gaze back to the Goblin King. "That Order was doing everything it could to stop a magical war from brewing once more, but I fear that no matter what we do it will fail." This is, of course, quite chatty for Shirlyn but it is not often you speak to a God, but she doesn't seem phased or afraid.

No, indeed, she seems intrigued as her intelligent eyes take in every detail. "What a clever thing you do, dear King of Goblins, and if I had your power I would stop all wars and end the reign of Michael, or Powerfull man, or Man in Red if you will. If I had a question, it would be this…" A deep breath is taken before she leans in and whispers a question in his ear.
---< [LOG: 222 - POSE: 7040] End of Summer Moon's pose >---
=================<* [LOG: 222 - POSE: 7041] Lopki has posed *>=================
Lopki blinks, and finds herself a little out of breath and blushing as if she'd just been whirled madly about the dance floor. She puts a hand over the quick pulse at her throat and looks around. Surely she didn't get that disoriented that quickly!

"Ow…" she rubs gently at her nose- a moment ago she spotted Ramius in his barbaric costume, but now she's lost sight of him again.

"Why do I always get so out of sorts at these things?" she breathes, turning around with a whisper of soft angora. As she cannot spy through shoulders and chests, she takes a moment and closes her eyes, calming herself. The little bell at her throat jingles and she draws in a slow, quiet breath, closing her eyes and tilting her face momentarily down to the floor in an attitude of listening there among the dancing people, a motionless spot of monochrome in all the glut of colour.

-

The Mountain Lion looks upon the Sphinx as the riddle is asked, which gets a grin. "A dandelion." Then his attention turns upon War. "Yet at the same time, aristocratic meetings like this are amusing. See who whispers, who gossips, who causes the biggest scandal…" he chuckles deeply.

-

And the dark Shadows keeps on being a shadow, watching in quiet from a bit towards the side, gaze always moving, never staying in one place for very long.

-

"Quite so," Sphinx replies to the Mountain Lion, raising it's glass in salute as it does so, "quite so." There's a brief pause as catches the eye of a canape wielding goblin, quite effectively summoning it over then selecting a couple of pieces from the selection. "The wine is most excellent," it replies, then tastes a morsel from it's hand and chews. "The food also. I fine show of that there is no doubt." It's eyes flick to the Dragon on it's horde and it adds, "I do approve when there is such commitment to theme, it quite makes an evening."

-

"Oh. So seductive with a whisper." The Goblin King chuckles and then spins Shirlyn before he deeply dips her. He's nose to nose with her, his eyes locked on her. They say eyes ar ethe windows of the soul and locked as she is with the Goblin King she sees only infinity. An Abyss staring at her that holds everything and nothing at once. Fear and exultation war with each in those eyes when you stare at them so close and she can truthfully see she does not stare into a human's eyes.

In that deep, with the eyes locked so, The Goblin King smiles a mirthless smiles. "How does one summon Mother? She started this. The Old Thing that decided to not be an Old Thing anymore. You find her tree, say her prayer, and make sure Darius is there." He laughs and then ….

Drops Summer Moon on her ass. He saunters off and looks up at the Dragon giving a little smirk before he snaps his fingers. "I've had enough I think. Let's just bring the players here and hold a REAL court shall we?"

The Servants and Guests alike all turn to The Goblin King and Kneel. Shrinking in size until the room is filled to the brim with Goblins. All of them in the disguises they were before. The room shimmers and there across from the the Dragon's throne another Throne appears. Made of Glass and accented with Emeralds. The Goblin King moves and sits there, crossing his legs as he holds out a hand. One of the Goblin Servants comes to him and places a wine glass there. He sips it and merely watches the chaos as those he has deamed "Players realize where they are.

-

War laughs and winks at Sphynx as she is an expert at this subject, if only because she seems to be a magnet for the worst kind of it. "Trouble, a thing i am intimately familiar with," she offers before grinning at the lion.

"Oh I do think you and I are going to get along quite well,"

-

The Sun listens to Winter Moon talk as he studies her silently from behind the mask. But he's supposed to be talking isnt he? He's just about to open his mouth and say some politely boring thing or another when the Goblin King decides to change the party. He stops moving half way between one step and the next and starts trying to process what exactly just happened to almost everyone else. He seems calm though except for a slight tightening of the grip he has on Wintermoon's Hand.

-

At the Goblin King's insistence that a real court be held, the Dragon simply nods, for this is indeed the Goblin King's party, and none other. Though to say that the change amidst the guests comes as a surprise, well it certainly was unexpected. But then when one organises a party for a God, there are bound to be some hiccups. With the guests shrinking and turning to Goblins, the Dragon's nostrils flare with more smoke, the eyes hidden behind those ruby shades gazing across the sea of green critters and sharp teeth. A veritable horde who could surely shred every last 'player' in an instant. Mattias doesn't shift from his throne atop the pile of gold, though he does idly shift to lean from one side to the other, crossing a scaled leg across the other. Perhaps death by teeth isn't all that bad, after all, one has pondered many other prospective deaths… and thankfully that mask does much to hide the furrowed brow. One thing for certain, that goblet of Ricoshan red remains unsipped, and held within a clawed hand even still, "A shame to cease the music."

-

"What a plan, many thanks," she says breathlessly, those eyes are something that would throw anyone off. Summer Moon picks herself up from the ground with smile upon her lips, grabs a glass of pear wine from a passing tray and heads to where The Dragon is and plops her ass down on the other throne in the room. Waste not want not. She sends the Goblin King a smirk from across the room and tosses her mask off. She didn't need it anyway, her disguise was two fold, vines are painted up the sides of her face, red makeup and kohl are around her eyes, the kohl going across the bridge of her nose giving her an otherworldly look. She pulls her long, bright red hair over her shoulder and crosses her legs. "Oh, dearest Dragon, isn't this fun?"

-

Before Winter Moon could reply hear the The Sun might offer her, the room seemed to shimmer and shift around them, and in the wake, the world had changed. The people had changed. The Maester of the fete had changed, and she moved closer to her companion, hands slipping to her side, as the dance was brought prematurely to a halt. Shame. He was a skilled dancer. But so were the creatures that now seemed to fill the room like a swarm, underfoot and in every corner. But the greatest part of her attention was for the man on the emerald throne.

-

Sphinx is just tilting it's head to acknowlegde War's answer when it catches sight of the beginnings of the transformation. For a split second it wonders if there was something in the wine, but this does feel like alcohol, or other mild altering substances, this feels very solid and very real. It's hand (the one without the wine) drops instinctively to it's hip at the sight of the horde of goblins, but there is no sword there tonight, no armour to protect from those teeth. It's tense, that much is clear to the two with it, and likely others close by, but for now it's silent, glancing between the two thrones and trying to workout just which one it should be watching. In the end though it simply pivots in place slightly, so both can be seen, although it's fighting an instinct not to back up to a wall or pillar so that goblins can't get behind it.

-

War had spoken just before the transformation and was now a bit struck dumb by things that had happened. As she might be the only one of the three with some sort of armour she steps between them and their goblin companions, throwing her wine back and handing it to Sphynx. Not agressing but clearly getting ready to defend her companions or herself if she must.

-

Well, That changes things doesn't it? The mountain lion should call one of the servants to fetch him his sword, but they are all surrounded by goblins! He sets his glass down and looks ready to defend himself if need be…but his attention is ultimately on the figure in the suddenly new throne

-

The Goblins peer at the Humans and begin to chant: "Feast! Feast! Feast!" Over and over again, stomping their feet and cheering amongst themselves. The Goblin King sits on his throne, and sips his wine, allowing the Mortal Creatures their interactions.

-

"I rather believe that as parties go, I could not have done better." Had the thought of finding actual goblins occurred to Mattias? Well on some level perhaps. Little powdered wigs and various accoutrement. Adorable! But unlikely given the high probability of guest gnawing. The Dragon grins, "I rather believe the vast majority of our honoured guests are likely better behaved than half the Senate."

-

As the room seems to change, the Shadow steps back towards the wall, more or less instincts doing so. "And people wonder why I hate this place…" he mutters to himself, as his gaze goes around, mostly looking towards the exits. The thrones are ignored for now, as he tries to figure out the rest of the room, fists clenching.

-

A riotous laugh escapes Summer Moon, as The Dragon speaks of Goblins and their behavior. "No doubt you're right, Dragon. At least they know to wait to be told before they just… do whatever they want," she waves a hand over the goblins and takes a sip of wine. To the Goblin King? She sends him a blown kiss and a bent at the waist bow as if to tell him 'good show, chap.'

-

Brass Emperor strides into the ball room having arrived later than he'd planned but he's dressed in polished brass armor a fancy sword at his hip and a helmet covering his head and face, "Oh I missed all the fun didn't I?"

-

Thrulf was in the process of stacking his plate and filling his mug when suddenly reality gave itself an atomic wedgie as a fairy tale abruptly vomited its contents into the room. The half-naked barbarian god feels a chill run up his spine as the chant begins and sloooowly turns to regard the room.

Goblins.

His eyes narrow under his mask.

Why did it have to be goblins?

Well, that's why he's got himself a cold iron hammer on his hip. It might not be the best tool for the job, but this is certainly not Ramius' first fae rodeo. Now if only he could conjure a certain axe-brandishing bunny to pull he and his wife out of the metaphorical fire.

Speaking of which, where /is/ Lopki? Now that everything is approximately ankle-height, he should probably be able to find her easily enough…

-

"ENOUGH!" The Goblin King shouts, waving his Goblit in fornt of him. "We are guests in the Lord Dragon's home. It wouldn't due to eat him or his peers." He bows his head toward the Dragon and then to the goblins he gestures. "Keep them fed! Keep the Music going! But let us Hold Court None the less!" He sips his wine and laughs. The Goblins laugh as well and he slashes the air with a hand. They all silence at once.

He gestures to the Humans, that mirthful smile playing on his lips. "Come Mortals! Pay homage and ask your questions of this court! We won't bite…" He pauses and brings afinger to his lips to the Goblins around him. They all giggle and turns their beedy red eyes toward those gathered here.

The doors ominously close and there is an audible CLICK as they lock behind the Brass Emperor.

-

Lopki's eyes were closed when that sensation came; she feels for a moment like a strawberry dropped into a glass of champagne, all bubbles rushing up as she plunges. She's felt something like this before, but then it was the deafening euphoric song of the storm around her as a bolt came crashing down from the clouds to consume everything around her and turn the horse she rode on to cracking slag and bone. Different. But the source is the same:

Magic.

She opens her eyes and finds the guests and servants around her all transformed into goblins and sylphs of every description and all of them kneeling. She turns, seeing the others who remain unchanged like her, and at last the glass throne and the Goblin King atop it.

Lopki draws back a step and reaches out for Thrulf over the heads of the kneeling court, catching his hand from behind.

"Be careful, my love." she says, cold little hand gripping his and Myra's voice a smoky whisper. "We must be polite here."

-

The Dragon raises his goblet to the Goblin King, and with his other hand he peels back his ornate mask, to reveal that he is indeed the Chancellor, to which will come as no surprise whatsoever. But unmasked, and finally able to sip his wine, Mattias smiles a crooked and oh so languid smile, "I am merely your humble servant, you wished for a party, and I obeyed. I am of a mind that what is to occur is free to happen, and in all honesty, quite welcome also given the state of Aequor and Galenthia… oblivion would be a welcome respite. I could use a rest." He grins, leaning back within his chair, sending a few coins cascading down the pile as he shifts his weight, "Though I am intrigued, what is your stance on the matter apparently facing us?"

-

Summer Moon waves her hand to the Golden Lion who goes to her with a slight limp, she rises to her feet and has him sit on the throne before resuming her seat though now upon his lap. Her eyes follow Mattias as he unmasks. "Indeed, dear friend," she says with a sigh, "lust for blood is not making our situation any better. I'd rather not mind dying." Though his question to the Goblin King is reflected in her gaze as well, she falls silent.

-

"When you asked what treasure lay beyond I must confess this is not what I had in mind," Sphinx mutters to War as it drains what wine was left in her glass then sets it down. It's still got it's own glass mind, clutched in one hand as if a shield to ward off the creatures. As the Goblin King quietens them though he relaxs a little, still wary of the teethy buggers, but content for now that they're not about to start taking chunks out of it. As Mattias unmasks and speaks he glances round the room to see who else is left unaffected, commiting that most henious sin at a masque, trying to work out just who is who. Ramius is easy, which makes Myrana guessable, and he slowly starts to move his way towards them. He's out of his depth here, but she might have an idea of what to do.

-

Winter Moon stood silent, her attention settling, first, on the man, after a fashion, sitting on the emerald throne, shifting away only as those who chose to speak either offered their commentary, or offered a question to the King holding his court. There was something to be said for holding your thoughts and keeping still your tongue until your words did you a credit.

-

"You wish to know what I think will happen in Six Months time?" The Goblin King asks with a laugh. The Goblins all laugh with him, some holding their bellies some slaping their knees. The Goblin King slashes the air again and they stop. "In Six Month's time you will all be dead. The Man whose name I cannot speak, He who has woven the world to his whims for centuries will destory it." He smiles. "Or he won't," He shrugs a shoulder. "Each of you here has a part to play in it. I can't tell you your parts, and if I could I wouldn't anyway. It's so much more enjoyable to see you flail your arms."

The Goblin closest to the Goblin King says, "Wait. Even us?"

The Goblin King kicks him and the thing ails through the air to land near the band playing. "Yes. Even you twits. Now Quiet! This is for the Humans not you lot." He smiles to the peaople and gestures with a hand. "You all look like frightened Church Mice. Speak. How often do you get to converse with a god to get answers you fools?"

-

War relaxes and eases her hands, albeit slowly, away from the sword they were all but itching to grab. So a god or a goblin king was usurping the party was he, or it? If he was taking questions she had a few for him. So stepping forward she made her awkward stiff bow before waiting, of all times this was not one she wanted to speak out of turn.

-

The Shadow stays quiet, still looking around the room rather carefully. The reaction to whatever is spoken is hidden behind the mask as he remains where he is. The invitation to speak, and the mention of a god makes him even less inclined to say something at the moment.

-

Mattias looks to those so gathered, "Oh seriously? Are you all going to trip over your tongues? You love the sound of your voices in every other theatre?" His drink raised, and quaffed, "Damn this is good."

-

Well, in for a star in for a crown. As the Goblin King opens the floor to all the Sphinx takes a short pace forward, incling his head respectfully to the emerald throne and ask in a clear ringing tone, "With sharp edged wit and pointed poise, it can settle disputes without making a noise. How do I find them?"

-

Summer Moon speaks up loudly over from her own throne, "You have heard my question already, King of Goblins, however helpful you were not." She sniffs and turns to the man's lap she's sitting on, takes grapes off a passing tray and pops a few in her mouth with a bit of a laugh. "Die we shall then, my dear," she says to the Golden Lion.

-

The Brass Emperor just stares at the insanity of the room. Then he looks around to get himself a glass of wine then turns towards the Goblin King as he raises his visor enough to begin sipping on the wine. He shakes his head a bit at any questions he might have as he thinks on how to best put them into words.

-

The Sun blinks at the Goblin Kings latest words. His gaze almost calculating. He makes the move to step forward, picking his way between the goblins, until he's at the foot of the throne where he kneels as if the Goblin King is indeed royalty. He stays there, silently waiting, until the Goblin King has answered the Sphinx's question and then speaks in the brief silence afterwards. "You invited questions." He goes quiet, almost uncertainly, and then asks. "Can you teach me how to make, or find, a tool, or weapon, that gives us a chance of victory?"

-

Thrulf jolts when something takes his hand from behind, only to realize who was responsible. Damnit Myrana, Ramius made that bell specifically so this /wouldn't/ happen. "You mean we /can't/ play Golfblin?" He answers, sounding only mildly despondent, "Too bad. But why does it seem like every time I go to a masquerade, something strange happens? It feels like masks might be cursed, just, in general."

Well. Nothing to do for it. The Goblin King declares that there won't be any mortals on the menu tonight, and Thrulf inclines his head congenially toward the glassy throne. "Well said, your highness. Though I daresay that that Crimson Fucker will have to fight harder than he might expect to get his way. Now then, while I can't exactly expect a god of any stripe to spoil the game afoot, I might want to ask whether or not any of your colleagues might be somewhat more reckless and may be interested in aiding a bunch of hapless mortals in desperately staving away the End of All Things?"

"Also," he inclines his head mildly, "He has mentioned that he would rather like to go home. Is there a reason in particular why he cannot simply /leave/ and let us have our world unmolested?"

-

The Dragon groans and takes another sip of wine, "Victory? But why?!" He asks, "Death is a sweet and blessed release from all this… well… /this/!" He gestures about with a clawed hand, and yet somehow still manages to convey the entirety of Tirth, "Though I am greatful for your answer Your Majesty… I am ever hopeful it will be so, and shall I think… yes… gladly do all I can to ensure it. I'm tired."

-

Summer Moon coughs as she chokes on a grape slightly. "Oh, dear Dragon, for some people I couldn't agree more. Not everyone deserves the gift of life they were given. But you are certainly not one of those people." There's a smile on Summer Moon's lips that gets swallowed by the goblet in her hand and slips away thereafter as if it was never even there. "Though yes, if it is to end I wish it sooner rather than later," she says with a faux yawn, complete with a dramatic hand to her blood red lips.

-

"Serves you right," Myrana whispers up at Ramius with a smile impossibly tugging at her lips despite the circumstances they find themselves in. "One trick for another." Then she turns her head to see her cousin approaching them. She smiles under her mask, the smile she uses in court when she's frightened but likewise counting the windows and swingeable chandeliers, a gamely calm sort of smile as tension hums down her back and the court of goblins erupts with wild laughter. Myrana d'Armaz is nothing if not contained violence, after all. They roll around on the floor and kick and scream, wild with hilarity. One tugs at her skirts like some hideous child as she fails to laugh along with them and she ignores it serenely, the arm on that side only bending a little at the elbow with courtly grace before her gloves can brush its be-wigged head, still wearing the clothes of the woman it was a moment ago but warped and shrunken by magic.

The Sphynx asks a riddle. She looks at her cousin again, then up at Thrulf, lips quirking under the black mask.

"Gracious Goblin King," she begins politely, as politely as she would to any king… then, unexpectedly, her throat works, and a question she didn't mean to ask jumps from her: "What is the Eye of Darius?" She almost stutters, but catches herself in time, letting go of her muffling hold of the bell around her throat and giving Ramius an almost apologetic look. "Can it help us save this world from the Man in Red?"

-

The Mountain Lion seems to take a breath, but when it appears as though there won't be any feasting or killing of mortals, he looks relieved. He lowers his guard for a moment, but he looks to the Dragon as he clearly opposes any sense of victory. He currently does not have any questions to ask, but it is likely he is still composing the question itself.

-

"Sword." The King says to the Sphinx. He looks the man in the eyes. "You wish to play word games. You have a world to save and you want to play word games." He pinches the bridge of his nose and then looks to the Dragon. "As I said. In Six months time you'll be destroyed."

At the Sun's Question the Goblin King smirks. "You already have them. It's up to you to piece together what and were they are." He raises a finger. "I will warn you though. The world will continue or not based on you. How you act up until then will play apart. So think every action through. What's the expression? Every Rose has a Thorn? Think of that before you continue with your plans."

As Thrulf asks HIS question the King smiles to the man. "No. No Gods can help you more than this. I am in a unique position as though I AM a God, I have supreme power over most things on this Night. I can break most rules this night, but the ones that are a part of me, I am bound. All the other Gods of Tirth do not have a day or a time for this, so it falls to me. As for this man going home? He cannot. He is bound to Creation as sure as you or I. If Creation were destroyed, that tether would be gone."

The King smiles as Lopki asks her Question. "The Eye of Darius isn't a thing. It's a place. You've been there. You've shed blood there. You've fought a war there. It will indeed be needed to defeat him." He smiles and sips his wine. "You will need to face him there, so I'd find it, as it is important."

-

The name Man in Red grabs her attention and drags her gaze to Lopki, Summer Moon knows who is behind that mask. Only one she knows that calls him by that name. A snap of fingers and a servant comes to Summer Moon, with a whisper a quill and paper is procured from a table at the back of the room behind the thrones occupied by Summer Moon and The Dragon. Quickly things are written on a sheet of paper and shoved into the pocket of The Golden Lion. Another whisper to the Lion's ear before her attentions are brought back to the Goblin King. "I tire of these games," Summer Moon sighs into her cup, "and I tire of the company," she looks to The Dragon and pats the Lion's chest pocket to tell him there is a missive there for him for later. Apparently a sort of communication they've had for a long time and easily noted for the pair.

-

War stands when the questions lull, no one seems to be waiting to be acknowledged so why should she do otherwise? Seizing on the lull she speaks, unlike most, she knows the one thing she must ask above any other question.

"Gracious King….can the Qutanux be destroyed? Obviously, we seem to have bigger priorities right now, but i'll be the first to admit I know nothing about the world, let alone how to save it, all i know is hatred for those creatures,"

-

"Give us a few months, and they shall surely perish alongside us." Mattias offers helpfully, a shrug, a sip, and a stretch, not to mention a cascade of more coin.

-

Winter Mood finally stood forward, her expression almost contemplative. She glanced around the room, listening to each question and then to the responses that were offered, or not offered. She took in every word and stored them away, before she spoke herself, her voice soft, "Why can you not say his name. For you are a King, and a God, made manifest among us tonight. What power does he hold over you, that you may speak to us in riddles, offering guidance and wisdom, but do not seem to be able to move against him yourself, to save this world to which you, in some part, belong?"

-

The Shadow has turned to look at the wall, focused more on that than the thrones and talking going on there for now.

-

"Creatures?" The Goblin King asks with a mocking laugh. "They're human. Are you saying your species is nothing but lowly savage creatures? Should the world be tasked to the Pooka to save? All what? ten thousand of them?" He shakes his head. "Your desires are tiny Mortal. Insignificant. What is one man's war when the war to save Tirth is brewing?"

He looks to the Sphinx. "You want to find the swords. I can't tell you how to find them except to look. Books, legends. I will say, that this man thinks he has Five, he has four."

-

TO Winter Moon he smiles. "Oh. HE has no power over me. SHE has power over all." He chuckles. "Creation created us, and forbade us to speak much of him. Including his name. Oh I can say the name, just not when pertaining to HIM. It's kind of a common name actually."

-

"He does serve the most exquisite tea." Mattias adds less than helpfully, "A wonderful host."

-

Sphinx looks briefly hopeful as the Goblin King catches onto what it is talking about, then frowns under his mask as it's breated without answer. Flaming goblins. It briefly ponders asking again, but decides against and instead leans in to whisper to Lopki, "I think, perhaps, that there is more to our dear Chancellor than meets the eye. From his manner he knows more, or is somehow different from us, and I would like to know what or why." It might add more, but the Goblin King speaks again and it would be rude not to pay attention, so it looks over to the throne and bows gracious as the answer is finally forth coming. Helpful, and yet not, it's starting to be a theme. Still, it's grateful for it and inclines his head once more to indicate the answer is understood. The it drains it's wineand looks around for a bottle or decanter.

-
ers and behind his mask his brow is furrowed in thought. He moves to his feet slowly and then looks to the Dragon. "It doesnt matter if we can win or not Counsellor Mattias. The fight is the point. It always has been." He looks back to the Goblin King and takes a gamble by asking a second question0. "Is it possible to gain magic if you were not one of those marked on that day?"

-

"I don't know, trusting the world to the Pooka might be for the best. They do at least seem to be somewhat more gung-ho about not dying than most," Thrulf rankles his nose and shakes his head at that. Lopki's question summons a curious noise from the depths of the shirtless barbarian man's chest, though. The Eye of Darius is a place where they fought, they bled, and they have been. "That sounds either like Lyionesse, Heresurge or… Elder's Eye?" He cants his head at the man on the throne, "I don't suppose you'd be willing to suggest which one, would you?"

-

Thats fair and Wat knows it. But nothing ventured and nothing gained and she has to try, always. She grins and offers a wink at Mattias and as she passes by his throne on the way to join Sphynx she lets her mask half slip to show her scars more clearly.

"The Qutanux aren't allowed to die until I pay them back for each minute," she responds darkly before the mask is refastened and she'ssliding up alongside friends and strangers alike. "So the world can'tend yet, the qutanux don'tdeserve such a swift end," she states casually.

-

"When they fought Teleko," Lopki speaks the vampire master's name for the first time in years. There are many things she's supersticious about, and Names have become one of them. "The Sorcerers at Mathis tried to band together. It nearly worked, and Teleko was driven back. If more were to try in concert, could they hurt him? Take his magic from him?" This is no time for nerves, it seems. The world will end in six months.

-

Winter Moon did not seem at all fazed by the answer to her question, and so, as this was an audience and The Goblin King had not called it finished, she continued, "And did she bid you and all of the gods not to interfere with him as well? Did she set him on this road knowing where the road would lead in the end? That he would be the world's undoing as she was its making?"

-

"Oh I believe the same of all humanity upon Tirth, we are undeserving of a swift end. But we should be grateful one is to be given, for it is more than we deserve." Mattias offers warmly, his features blank, content, and his hand as ever raising his goblet of oh so fine wine to his lips once more.

-

To Lopki the King replies casually, "Sorcery will be needed. He wields it all, all types even the Black Element." He shrugs a shoulder. And then sips his wine as he regards Winter Moon. "She forbade us many things. We cannot interfere with him. He was needed. That is all I can tell you." he sips his wine again and salutes Mattias with it. "Good vintage Dragon." He sets the goblet down and steeples his fingers. "I will say I don't WANT it to end. But it's all a game, and the game has rules which must be obeyed, I can twist them tonight and tonight only, but I can only twist them. So, save your anger for the enemy, and not me. Your anger at me can come when my Hordes eventually come out of the Eregonian Mountains and sweep your little Colonia aside. Until then, we are on the same side Mortal. Be happy."

-

And because boldness hasn't hurt yet the Sun also asks "And where should we look for the weapon that he thinks he has but does not?"

-

The King chuckles and waggles a finger at the Sun. "That would be telling Mortal, and would spoil the game wouldn't it. I will say it is not as hidden as you think it is."

-

Sphinx fails to find more wine before another question occurs to him. No riddle comes forth this time, instead he simply steps forward again, ignoring the goblins that chitter around him. "The Gods may not interfer you say, yet the Old Ones of the Abyss are spreading their chaos stones far and wide. Are they his pawns, or do they work together in this as a common goal?" As The Sun asks it's question, mirroring his own, he makes a mental note to speak with them later, if he can.

-

Winter Moon smiled, at the Goblin King's answer, an expression that was wholly genuine. "I am not angry with you, fair King, indeed, I see no reason to be. For you have come to us when you had neither cause nor reason to do so, aided us in the ways that are given to you, and for that, I am grateful." She dipped her head, offering again, that bow of respect, "You do not wish it to end, and so, I ask you, since I can move only myself and those who walk with me. What can I do for you, to see that this world continues, so that we can meet each other on the far side of the mountains. What service can I provide?"

-

The Brass Emperor sighs a bit, "I don't suppose you could point us in the right direction to start researching these swords? I've got an idea where one may perhaps be but I want to know for sure."

-

How many chances like this will come before the end of the world? None. Lopki watches Winter Moon carefully, and exchanges looks with Sphinx and Throlf. Offering your services to the Sidhe is dangerous. She leaves her mask on and listens for a moment, waiting her turn as one does in Court.

But finally she asks a question that presents itself to her suddenly.

"Is the Cardinal Lucien Ramius in Lyionesse?" she asks. "Where will I find him, if I go looking?"

-

There's a chuckle coming from the one dressed as the Shadow, but nothing is spoken from him. There's a shake of his head, as he keeps on looking around the room, expression hidden behind the mask.

-

"Two are close at hand. In Four Corners this very instant!" The King says with a smirk to the Brass Emperor. "But one moves even as you do, and the other has a penchant for the cold." He shakes his head. Then to Winter Moon he says, "You are doing it. You are listening and finding information. You are researching and finding things. When the time comes for this Man to make his stand, then you must stand with others. Remember to Find your heart, and find your true Oath, but never forget that fire burns, caring not who touches it."

He is silent for a moment. "I will give you this gift. Evne if it looks as if you will fail. If you can accomplish the Shattering, then I can expend he last of my power to ensure things come back. They will not be the same. But You might retain who you are. MIGHT. But the souls and cycle of Rebirth will continue." He nods once. "Yes. I believe I can do that much."

-

War titls her head curiously at the question. Who would seek out that sort of person? Willingly? So she speaks up, ignorant as she is of who Myrana is, tugging on her sleeve. "What on Urth would posess you to do that?" she whispers between questions.

-

To Lopki the Goblin King smiles. "The Cardinal is not in Lyioness. He's in Partharia."

-

The Sun lowers his gaze before lifting it again. "You mentioned that the others were limited who would like to help. How can I earn their assistance, within the rules?" He licks his bottom lip. "We have lost so much. Perhaps there is a challenge of some sort that would earn such a favor? You enjoy the game of it. Perhaps that would be an acceptable trade?"

-

The Goblin King shakes his head to The Sun. "You can do nothing to earn the Help of the Gods. They are bound stronger than I, and are thus incapable." He chuckles. "No Dertan Coning. This is a Mortal Problem, and as such, subject to Mortal Whims, including the probability of betrayal."

-

"Partharia!" Lopki exclaims. Then, letting go of Thrulf's hand and forgetting her place she approaches the throne itself, skirts whispering and brushing past goblins without fear or regard till she's standing in a landsllide of coins and treasure, cold under her feet.

"How can I save her Majesty? Please- if we wrest the earrings from her, will she be herself again? Or is she lost forever?"

-

Partharia. That name makes the Shadow turn to look at the Goblin King. "Partharia? Doing what?" The words escape him even if he may not mean for them to, taking one step away from where he has been standing through all of this.

-

Geez no one wants to answer her questions today do they!? Sighing she turns away and returns her attention back to the throne, she's clearly out of the loop and the only way to even try getting back in is to listen and learn.

-

"Sadly, when it comes to the Stones I can't say." The Goblin King states. "Some mortal souls can be wrest free, others are shattered and destroyed. Your Queen and King are unknown to me in their status." He shrugs. "I also, frankly don't care."

As Jarret finally speaks the Goblin King smiles. "What is he doing in the Empire of Partharia? Why I daresay I believe he is plotting. One could say he is plotting …. What … " He opens and closes his mouth. "I can't … I can't say."

-

"Is he," Sphinx asks, following on the chain of questioning about he Cardinal, "strickly mortal. Or do other considerations have to be taken into account if attempts are made to stop his.. plottings?" Anotehr master vampire would be deeply unwelcome right now, as would a demon, so it's best to check.

-

Looking to Sphinx he smiles darkly. "As I said. I am bound by rules and I cannot speak of him."

-

Winter Moons nodded, stepping back to resume her place not far from where The Sun was standing. "I have been many things, done many things, for good or ill, fair King, and am likely to do more, before the end. As for my Heart, that travels with one far from here, who looked to the past to find the future. Some oaths dare not be broken. But, if it comes to it, I will not turn away from allies." She glanced down at The Sun, even as he was revealed, but she made no comment on it.

-

Thrulf's eyes narrow, then. The mysterious Goblin King is, perhaps, more keen on seeing the survival of the world than he'd like, if he'd risk /almost/ breaking one of the Rules in such a way. Or perhaps one of those rules suddenly changed in such a way that prevented his answer? It doesn't matter. What does:

"We're beset on many sides by many enemies. But as you aid us today, let me ask you these two things: Would you say that unifying with the North and the so-called 'savages' from the East are necessary to our survival? And another thing, the Goblins that came to my home insisted that a certain something in my possession rightfully belonged to them. Might there be peace in our time between our people if such things are eventually restored, in the aftermath of this battle to save the world?"

-

Mattias remains sipping his wine, watching the Goblin King, and no doubt pondering the sweet blessed relief of the end of times soon.

-

"Just so I understand some of these rules you have been speaking about, is there a large number of the people you cannot speak of?" Jarret asks thoughtfully. After all, he's not asking for something to be said about just people, just if there's more than one.

-

"My Goblins will not bother you until this is resolved, but it has nothing to do with the battle coming." The Goblin King says. The Goblins all "Awwwwwww" In depressed sounding that says they rather WANTED to raid Gendiel again. "As for the "Savages." You COULD unite one of them, but the other is fully in his control through one of his minions."

-

Sphinx returns the Goblin King's smile with one of his own, then bows in thanks to the none-answer that told him exactly what he wanted to know. In someways it would have prefered if the man was a mere lackie, but it's better to know he is not. He flicks his eyes to Lopki, to make sure she caught that too, then falls silent to listen again as futher questions are considered.

-

The Goblin King smiles to Jarret once more. "There is a very tiny number of people that Creation has forbidden me to speak of."

-

The Sun barely seems to notice that his name has been used. He just gives a brief nod and moves a half step back away from the Goblin King.

-

War blinks a bit as her eyes flicker over the goblin king and catch the sign, oh she likes him, tricky bastard. Still thats quite interesting to know and for once War feels like she's in on things….for the moment!

-

"It would seem," Winter Moon offered, that the ancient evil Teleko is a great general in the army of the man of whom you cannot speak. We have, many of us, faced him. Brought our strength of arms and the might of our magic to bear and have made no great headway. What is the key to defeating him?"

-

The Brass Emperor thinks for a moment on the riddle he'd been handed over the swords and then smirks a bit before he takes a drink of his wine, "I see." Looking at the others asking about Michael he shrugs some, "He bleeds. He undid the bleeding soon after but he bleeds so that tells me he can be killed although I think it would be near impossible to do with the powers he controls. Same with Teleko he bleeds. Takes a lot to make it happen but it's possible."

-

"The Man in Red, Michael," Lopki asks, nodding to Winter Moon as if she'd had the same thought. "He took a friend of mine…" Stepping back, she rejoins Thrulf, edging away from the goblins as they chorus in dissapointment and seeking out her husband's hand again with a sick shudder. "Does he live?"

-

"Maybe that is why Darius' eye is the key." Dertan looks at the Goblin King whilst he says this. "Is it important because it weakens our enemies?"

-

Somewhere a Clock begins to sound. The Goblin King looks to it as the thing strikes Midnight. "Ah. And so our time comes to an end." He sips his wine and dips his head. "Good luck Mortals. Use what you have learned. And one last bit of advice. Your world will continue on the path that has been set it over the centuries. People will die even if you manage to defeat him, but hundreds, if not thousands more will perish before this Six Months is up. Make your piece, but don't ADD to it. There is One War that will be needed, and a second that is part of the plan. Choose which one, but don't get suckered into his." He chuckles as the clock finishes striking, "Maybe I'll see you next year."

And then he and all the Goblins are gone.

-

War whips off her mask, it's Elisha and to hell with the party. She just runs her hand through her hair with a tired and overwhelmed sigh.

-

Sphinx holds it's breath as the clock chimes and the goblins vanish. That was a lot of information and it wants to try and remember as much as possible. Turning to the others remaining it asks plainly, "does anyone have quill and parchment? We should write down what we remember was said before we forget."

-

Dertan removes his own mask as well now that there is absolutely no point in maintaining it. He glances to the golden mask and then drops the expensive thing onto the pile of treasures that made up Mattias' throne. He lets his eyes skim over the almost empty ballroom, over each of the people occupying it, and then back to the spot that had the King in it so recently. "There were a lot of half-answers."

-

The clock tolls midnight, and the Salon is empty but for clattering platters and smashing glasses as the goblin servants simply vanish with a wink and the party is over. The band vanishes and their instruments clatter and smash to the floor, knocking over the stand of the violinist's sheet-music.

Lopki turns to her cousin and whips a stylus out of her hair. "I've a pen! We can write on-" she turns around and almost collides with Ramius' chest in her hurry and has to step back sharply with an alarmed 'wah!', barely missing streaking him with it.

-

"Yes," Ramius declares, puffing his chest out boldly. "You may write upon my pectorals if you so desire."

He begins flexing.

It is somewhat… provocative.

-

Elisha laughs and rolls her eyes as she hands him her mask, which is made of leather rather than silk, like most her outfit for a /real/ object to write on that she hands over to Sphynx.

"I don't even know you but I want to slap you," she says to Ramius, though there is more amusement than venom in her voice.

-

Winter Moon, as well, drew down her mask, setting it aside on the table closest to her, as she became herself again. But then, perhaps Alia was always herself, and the costume simply allowed her to be the woman she was, and not the woman that was expected. "It is difficult to write on such an uneven surface," she offered almost good naturedly, as she withdrew from the room, returning after a while with a small case. Alia never went anywhere without her supplies, which she offered to Myrana. "Such is the way of gods, to give you no straight or clear answers. They test us all, and we win or lose on our own merits."

-

Sphinx strides over to where the band were sat and collects up their music before bringing it back to Lopki. "Use these," it suggests, shaking it's head ever so slightly at Ramius. As it offers them across it leans in and whispers, "make a note for me. Investigate Mattias. There was something off about him tonight. It might just be the occasion, but I want to know if he is.. fully mortal too."

-

Ramius looks toward Elisha and does not reply.

Instead his answer is simply… a pec dance.

His thews bounce rhythmically. It's simultaneously hypnotic and only mildly intimidating.

-

Lopki just turns her back fully on her husband, apple red under her mask and muttering under her breath. "Thank you," she tells Sphinx, trying very hard not to guess what's happening behind her. It is too mortifying. Instead she writes down everything she heard, quietly conversing with her cousin as to details. Between the two of them, they quickly have a record of what was said and done.

-

Sister!

After a party like that Elisha doesn't hesitate to embrace her sister, not that she has anything to say, just glad to see her.

Mostly she's not talking because Ramius is making her laugh.

-

Lopki hands Sphinx a scrap of paper torn neatly from the bottom of the last page, folding it deftly in her fingers as she does so. "Is he still doing it?" she asks in a horrified whisper.

-

Lopki thanks Alia as well for the case, which makes the notes so much quicker and nicer. Her hands are shaking a little, but she's good at this.

-

Ramius is definitely still doing it.

He is also staring /directly/ at the back of Lopki's head, one eyebrow quirked questioningly. Somehow, this is obvious even through his mask.

-

Elisha rolls her eyes as she looks at the people around her who she's decided she kinda likes. "so who are you guys?"

-

Sphinx stands by Lopki, adding details, suggesting comments, and so on as the notes are made. As it's noted about the tapping ion the cup it raises an eyebrow underneath it's mask, that is something it had missed. Taking the folded scrap offered he tucks it away inside his doublet and nods a silent thanks before daring a look to Ramius. "He is."

-

The Brass Emperor removes his mask/helmet and returns himself to being just Brenn as he looks around at the others, "So why are these seven swords so important?" He looks around at the others and hopes somebody has a real answer for him so his brain doesn't explode from more riddles.

-

Dertan gives the pec dancing Ramius the sort of derisive look you give to a small child who wont sit down. "Lady Alia?" Dertan asks of the woman who was once winter moon with only mild uncertainty. "The King suggested that you were doing a lot to help with research and he also told me that everything we needed to provide the weapons we already had. Do you have access to a library of old texts by any chance? You see I am a master engineer. I am certain that if we can find something I can build it." He looks to Brennart then as he asks that question. "Because they were made by the One. That is the only reason I know of."

-

Sphinx still has it's mask on, but mostly so it can use it's hands for other things, like fetching wine. "We think they're the seven swords forged by The One, with each handed to the head of a Holy Order. Conventional lore says the church has three but the others are lost. My suspicion is that those three are among the five his thinks he has, or two of them perhaps if the church was wrong in their identification of them. They were sued to destroy, or banish, the Ancient One, and thus it seems likely that they are needed to perform the same task again. That or they are all needed to unbanish it, and keeping them out of his hands stops that."

-

"Because they are the seven swords which were swords before there were swords," Ramius says, cryptically. He has stopped bouncing his pectorals.

He has now turned around and is apparently flexing the myriad muscles of his back.

"In other words, they're incredibly powerful, sacred relics from the dawn of history. Capable of literally cleaving through battlefields, and bringing victory when defeat seems almost certain. The more we have, the better off we'll be when we must defeat the Crimson Fucker."

-

Elisha perks up at dertans words, she can do swords and so she's interested in this to be sure! So it is she detaches from her sister and does her best to listen and understand all the lore being bandied about around her.

-

As the goblins fade away, the Shadow figure that is Jarret simply leans back against the wall, keeping his mask on for now. He keeps quiet, taking a few deep breaths for now.

-

"As far as I can see there are a few elements to this." Dertan continues. "We need to work out which two wars are the ones we need to care about and reduce our attention on the others. We need to arm ourselves with as many weapons suited for the battle as possible. We need to learn more about the powerful man to discover his weaknesses and strengths so that we can best work out how to tackle them. We need to find the swords that the powerful man does not yet have and ensure he does not get them. And." he looks to Myrana here. "We need to learn where Darius' eye is." A pause. "Did I miss anything?"

-

"Ah yes." Dertan adds. "We should find the tree that leads to Creation?"

-

Elisha shakes her head and looks to Alia with an apologetic smile. "I know i'm yourr citizen, but for now i think we can agree, ny talents are best used helping find the swords," she offers as she looks back to dertan. "I don't suppose we have any clue where to start?"

-

Brennart nods a moment looking over at Sphinx, "I'm reasonably sure that if the Church had three of them then Michael's got those three. He was sure that Vendetta or Reckoning was Starfall so that's likely one of the remaining three of the seven." He looks over at Ramius and the gun show, "I believe that you know where one of the swords are. The one with the pechant for the cold…"

-

"Oh I'm sure he beleivees he has the three the church had," Sphinx replies to Brennart as he hunts around for an intact source of wine, "but if he is wrong in what he has, then that error could have been the Church's initially if you get my meaning. The misidetified one might be one they had, not one of the others he found since." Tilting his head to the Gendiel's as their sword is mentioned he lets them answer, but nods to indicate that, for now at least, he shares the belief.

-

Alia turned, as Dertan spoke to her, "I have been looking into a good many things, though I am not yet sure if there is anything that we can build to assist us, though that time might come. I think, though, that you have other knowledge which would be of help to us. For these gods and these stories are yours, not mine. But the sealing of magic has been my focus, though I am searching what libraries we have in the colonias to find some trace of how Nikandros managed that great working." To Elisha, she shook her head, "This problem threatens more than the Empire. DO what you need to do, for your skills are greater than mine."

-

Dertan tells Elisha. "He suggested that the answer to that was in our legends, myths and stories. So that is where I intend to look first." He looks back to Alia. "I have been collecting lore myself through the church of the Many. I would like to suggest a trade, if Sonya is agreeable. Access to these libraries in exchange for access to yours?" He nods. "I was studying the methodology of sealing magic myself. Sadly I made no progress."

-

"Never marry a barbarian, dearest Sphinx," Myrana whispers in what's clearly mostly a joke. She loves Ramius; everyone knew it before she did. It's probably why she goes up to Thrulf and puts her hands on her hips instead of murdering him dead.

"What am I going to do with you?" she asks. "There are three places that ccome to mind for Elder's Eye…" Because Ramius is immistakeable and all but naked, she shoves her mask up atop her face before addressing the others again. "Like my husband said: Elder's Eye, Lyionessse, and Herensurge. But we have fought wars at other places… but let us start with those."

"Ramius' sword is indeed one of these swords," she says, smoky voice quiet but strong. "If we believe the Goblin King, which I feel we have no choice but to do so, we may possess another among us here tonight."

She looks at Brennart. "Did you inherit Vendetta when Gauvain was taken?" she asks. "Or was it Sir Bethany?"

-

Elisha chuckles and grins, greater than Alia? Not likely, but she understands the intent and all plans to study healing have now been officially halted, because hey, she's going to study fairy tales! "I'm not that smart, alas, but i'm stubborn enough to keep trying, so i'll hit the books," she agrees more solemnly.

-

Brennart looks to Myrana and shakes his head, "Vendetta went to Bethany." He taps the sword at his hip, "Reckoning is the one that moves when I do. So if we're to believe the Goblin King then this is one of the swords as well. That just leaves one unaccounted for with Michael having four of them."

-

"Elder's Eye is what I thought of when he said it was a place," Sphinx notes, "I mean, just look at the name! It won't hurt to check though, to be sure, but I'd start there." Turning as Brennart speaks he asks, "if the theory of these swords being the seven is true, can you shed light on how you came to carry it? And indeed, how Vendetta came to be your house's blade just in case. It might help track down the last."

-

"We should start with the place we fought Teleko." Dertan suggests. "That seems a likely choice for a magical focal point given what he achieved there." he pauses and then asks. "Is it possible that when he said one that likes the cold he was not talking about Ramius' blade but rather one that was associated with ice magic?"

-

"I would consider trading our histories of those times for yours and what knowledge we have on the gods and the battles of those times." Alia did not seem to care about the show, and so, did not respond to it. "I know of no such sword, but then, my knowledge of martial weapons is not as deep as you all seem to have."

-

Brennart chuckles as he looks at Reckoning, "I was good at tournaments is how I came to possess Reckoning. I won the Falling Blade tournament." Then he takes a sip of his wine before answering about Vendetta, "I'll have to ask Bethany on that one. I've only married into the House so I don't know the history as well as I do the Sokar history." He shakes his head a bit, "I'm not sure we need to think that deeply into it? It seems like the Goblin King was trying to be as helpful as possible and was making his riddles… Simple."

-

"I hate swords…" Jarret mutters, meant mostly for himself as he sits down on the floor, letting out a bit of a breath. He doesn't say anything for the others so far, just looking out into the air, thoughtfully.

-

Elisha chuckles and nods. "I like the king, or god, or whatever he was, trickly little Vitch but he was trying to help," she agrees before patting Alia on the shoulder, because hey, she didn't know anything about this either!

-

"The Falling Blade tournament?" That gets a raised eyebrow from the Sphinx. "We know the Cardinal was active in influencing the Aeqouring court around that time. I find it odd he'd be that close to one of his targets and not seize it." Finding wine it salvages a few glasses and returns to the group, "of course, I don't know how easy it is for him to detect them, but I'd want to check it's history before it became a prize." It's not sure how, and glances to Lopki in case she does."

-

Alia turned, finding a table edge against which she could lean, "I am also interested in these two wars he spoke of. One, I believe, is the war we fight with the Qatunax. And that one, I think, we must fight. Because the Qatunax are led by Teleko, so is surely one of his minions, and he will use them to destroy all that he can. The other, I believe, is this civil war in Aequor. One that was clearly orchestrated by this man, but which could be resolved, more easily than we can kill the thousands of Qatunax at our doors."

-

"I am not so sure." Dertan says to Alia. "You see he also said we must avoid the wars he has created for us. That could be referring to the Qatunax conflict."

-

"Go back to Mathis," Myra echoes, clearly chilled by the idea. But she nods, willing to try. "Thank you," she says, taking a glass of wine. "We must investigate the histories of the known sidhe steel blades if we want clues as to the missing blades, I think. There are a finite number of them, after all."

"It… It's a mistake to go to Partharia, isn't it?" She asks, and this she points up at Ramius. "I want to help her Majesty- their majesties," she corrects, remembering what the Goblin King said about King Maris as well. "But I don't know where to start…"

-

Brennart hmmms a bit, "I don't think they know exactly which ones are the seven swords. Michael was reasonably sure that either Reckoning or Vendetta was Starfall but he wasn't sure. He also couldn't take them from us seems they had to be handed over willingly. So perhaps the Cardinal doesn't know which of the seven were lost."

-

"I disagree emphatically," Ramius says of the conquest of Qatunax. "Given that my wife and I have never actually gone to war in those territories, whereas we definitely have engaged in war in both Lyionesse and Elder's Eye, we must do whatever we can to secure Aequor and those territories. Besides, we both had an encounter with the Crimson Fucker in which he definitely wanted us to avoid interfering in his business in Aequor. I believe the Qatunaxi incursion to be a distraction. It's both flashy and terrifying, something that rouses the emotions and draws attention away from other fields. However, I do not think we should just let them run rampant. Just that we should focus on liberating Aequor."

-

"In other words," Ramius explains further, "I believe that the Man in Red has chosen to usurp the seat of power in Aequor for a reason. And that reason is specifically to keep us away from Darius' Eye. So we need to defeat him there and reclaim Aequor for humanity."

-

"Partharia makes sense. When they incaded us, they seemed pretty clear about being used by someone," Jarret remakrs a bit quietly, before he takes off his mask, rather slowly, tossing it onto the floor. "Another event that might make a place potentially interesting, even if it's way back in time. Anyone remember that so-called Peace Ball?" It's offered a bit quietly, and with a grimace. "Just a thought, though…"

-

"Atreis then," Sphinx notes as the conversation turns to Aequor, "she is our best route I think. It's clear the wya he's meddling in the court that this is a place to focus but the other..?" It can see the arguements for both and needs time to think them through before making a judgement. Brennart gets a nod with the talk of Reckoning, "it makes a degree of sense, it just doesn't sit well that he was that close to it if that makes sense? I'll see if I cna find anyone to look to where it came from before it was offered as a prize. It maybe that he had no dealings with it, but I'm cautious of the proximity."

-

It should be an obvious choice, let the Qutanax go /for now/ for the fate of the world. But the very suggestion makes her blood run cold and she turns abruptly on the edge of storming off, because the other option would be an argument that would cause a distraction she /knows/ they don't have time for

"I'll see what I can dig up on those swords, thats where I can help, but don't ask me to shift my focus from the Qutanux, i know it sounds silly, even to me, but i CAN'T," she rasps out, her back turned to the group as much to shield them from her growing wrath as to keep her from being caught so emotional.

-

Alia shook her head, as she finally turned to consider Ramius, "You misunderstand stand me. The Qatunax war IS a war, and it is not one that we can ignore, for if we allow Teleko to have his way, he will push past the Legion and swarm into every corner of the West that his soldiers can reach. I believe the manufactured war IS the one in Aequor, and if the kingdoms which have split off and the original remain at war, then we are feeding the division there. SO, the solution is to do whatever is necessary to end the wars in Aequor." She glanced to Dertan, "The war he created for us was the same war that began with the Cardinal inflicting his will on Aequor and leading the Archduchess to secede, it also lad to such actions that cased Gendeil to also secede from Aequor. That is a manufactured war, created by one man, the Cardinal. The Qatunax are a true enemy that care nothing at all for the politics of the West. The civil war in Aequor is nothing but politics turned to military action."

-

"I always had a nagging feeling." Dertan says "That the Partharians invaded us to loot the Queens vault and not to actually do us any harm. I always suspected they had achieved their goals and that is why they were chased so easily from Firen." He looks to Alia and he says "I do not think anyone is suggesting we strip the garrisons bare Alia. Just that we change our focus there from offense to defense."

-

"Oh, well then," Ramius shrugs at Alia. "Fair enough. I'm just saying that the war we absolutely need to win is probably the one in Aequor. If we don't, we probably can't find Darius' Eye."

He looks to Elisha, then, and shakes his head. "Don't misunderstand me. We must fight against Qatunax as well. I don't feel comfortable about letting them run rampant over innocent lives. The sooner we liberate and unify Aequor again, though, the sooner we can direct her many legions away from a misguided attempt to quell dissent and toward defeating the Qatunaxi and whatever other threats the Man in Red might level against us."

-

Elisha managed to not run off, because in reality she is a mature adult who knows not to give in to her emotions, but she is still emotional as she turns back to Ramius and opts to explain herself, if only out of embarrassment.

"Those sons of Vitches killed my twin, my soul. They orphaned Alia and I, and they enslaved me for two years, it's how i got so good looking, in my mind I understand your logic, but my heart is more volatile and I apologize for that,"

-

"The Goblin King mentioned Old Ones," Myrana wonders aloud, looking between Alia and Elisha curiously but not wanting to stick her hand in the boiling water there just at the moment. "They are primordial forces, symbols almost, as far as I understand. Bodiless, hard to understand. Like… like gods," she adds, delicately. "But vaster, less focused. I read something about them once, but it was all so coded up and confusing, it was hard to winnow anything out." She sighs. "A-anyway. I will learn what I can about those places, and with your permission Dertan I will go to Mathis again and look at that place with you and anyone who will come with me. Elder's Eye will be difficult," her blue eyes harden. "But I have penetrated it before while it was held by the enemy. I can do it again, I believe. There was a river spirit under the fortress. Perhaps if we find her we might beg her to tell us if that was once Darius' Eye."

"The other possibility is Herensurge," she adds. "That will be easier to investigate."

-

"I don't think you got to talk with one of their leaders," Jarret replies to Dertan, shaking his head. "When I told him he was likely being used by some power, he more or less agreed to the point." He shakes his head as he listens to all of them. "Of course, there's always the possibility that the goblin was sent here to spread disinformation. Not likely, I agree, but the possibility should at least be mentioned."

-

Alia looked about to reply to something, but held her tongue. As if it was an old argument she knew she would not win. Instead, she turned to the things she could have some success with, "I will go to this Elder's Eye with you, if you need me to. But there are many things which I would like to know, including this tree of Creation. For she seems to be the key to all of this. She began it. perhaps she has the power to stop it."

-

"I'll go, battle is my specialty and I have more chance of success there than anywhere'" she stated though casting a curious, and maybe slightly worried glance, to Alia.

-

Sphinx had wanted to join any trip that might be heading to Mathis, but as soon as Lopki mentions a river spirit he's fully determined. Not that it says anything for now, covering the surprise of that revelation with a drink of wine. "So. We need some to focus on the swords, some on Elder's Eye, and some on Creation and her tree," it notes, trying to sum up the discussion. "We could also do with a central point to report back to and receive updates from. Four Corners seems the obvious bass, but where would be safe to co-ordinate from?" In it's mind it thinks the Sorcerers Academy, but it isn't sure just who knows about that and who doesn't.

-

"I dont mind escorting you there." Dertan tells Myrana. "If you think my presence will help." He is quiet for a moment and then he says "I can offer Coningburg as a safe location to work from if you wish."

-

Alia shook her head, "Given that Mattias seemed to ready to do whatever was required to see that this Man in Red brought about the end of the world, I would not feel comofrtable in meeting in a place that he controlled, though it would be easy enough for us to get here."

-

Dertan looks to Jarret and adds. "With Duke Sokar's approval and assistance.

-

Sphinx glances to Alia, "The Chancellor did seem.. off tonight. I can't claim to know him well, but I'm concerned by the general attitude he was expressing." Having already shared that concern with Lopki it turns to the others, to see if they have any opinions on the matter.

-

Elisha nods in agreement about the Chancellor. She knows that man well enough, she sees him in woman form every morning, but for now she has to prevent him from taking them all with him. "Not four Corners, if his grace agrees Coningberg would be far better,"

-

Jarret lets out a bit of a breath. "It's probably a good idea to stay away from Four Corners, given the Chancellor's behavior," he offers, nodding a bit as he hears Dertan's words. "That's a good place, yes," he offers.

-

Alia nodded, once she heard Jarret's words, "I will speak with my scholars and see what information we can put together that I can bring down to Coningburg, then." She rose from where she had been leaning, "But now that things are in motion, I think we all need to be about our business and depart this place before we end up with the Chancellor's spies knowing all of our business."

-

Elisha sighs as her shoulders sulk at that, of course spies, she gets up and presses a kiss to her Sisters cheek. "I will see you soon, stay safe," she murmurs before turning and offering a more formal bow to the rest of them. "Shall i see the rest of you at Coningburg then?" she asks in parting.

-

"Thank you," says Myrana, sighing. She doesn't seem to know how to respond to the questions about the Chancellor. Is he helping the Man in Red? Is he hindering him? Protecting his people? Or sacrificing them fat to the butcher? She squeezes Ramius' hand, growing quiet and thoughtful. Six months.

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