Family Circle log, 3/25

[leticia]

Leti peers at everyone. We all set?

Name set.

Yoru bet set.

Shai is!

Sado Yasutora arrrr.

<<OOC>> Green Cove digs up her sheet on Writely. Yup!

<<OOC>> Allen says "Yep."

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "Okay! To make sure we're all on the same page..."

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "We are starting, all kitted up and about to walk into the barbarian camp."

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "...Yes?"

<<OOC>> Yoru believes so.

<<OOC>> Shai nods.

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "...Does anyone want to make any preparations before you leave town/hit camp?"

<<OOC>> Allen says "Getting soused does not count as preparation, Yoru."

<<OOC>> Yoru harumphs.

<<OOC>> Yoru says "You don't think projectile vomit and holding onto the ground would impress them?"

<<OOC>> Shai says "With Allen as our spokesperson, Shai supporting him/playing Good Cop, and the other three being Bad Cops unless we find out that's not necessary. [laughs] And no preparations come to mind, here..."

<<OOC>> Shai _snrk_.

<<OOC>> Allen says "No preparations here, really. ...which reminds me, did we decide if we were going in with castemarks blazing, or not?"

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora doesn't recall.

<<OOC>> Yoru doesn't think we decided, and no preparations on my part.

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "Decide quickly!"

<<OOC>> Shai says "I think we decided that we were going to flare the castemarks when we got there, for Dramatic Effect, unless we saw something to indicate that we shouldn't?"

<<OOC>> Shai says "Not the anima banners, but the castemarks."

<<OOC>> Yoru suggests we leave caste marks for the appropriate moment.

<<OOC>> Green Cove is being sulky and unhelpful.

<<OOC>> Shai is cool either way, though. [laughs] [nods to Yoru] There might be a better moment than 'as soon as we're there', yeah.

<<OOC>> Shai giggles at Cove.

<<OOC>> Yoru distracts GC and FL with a mousetoy?

<<OOC>> Allen says "Either way, Allen's going to shed the covering on his breastplate before we get there - it's not as OBVIOUSLY BIG AND SHINY as Sado, but it's better than looking like a motley clown for the Impressive factor. XD"

<<OOC>> Shai hee!

<<OOC>> Shai suggests we don't flare the castemarks unless they demand some additional proof, since we're walking in with Lots Of Orichalcum anyway?

<<OOC>> Allen nods. Sounds good to me.

<<OOC>> Yoru fears Cows with Guns playing. At least this isn't J&C.

There is a slight drizzle - though the farmhands are no less in evidence for that. The town bustles in the early hours before dawn, with many on the road even as you are, heading for the further fields. You gather quite a bit of attention, as before. There's some scattered cheers for you, though, particularly as you get towards the outskirts of the fields; these people have heard rumors you're going to drive the barbarians away.

The camp remains where it was before, but is much quieter than the town - barbarians, apparently, are not usually early risers - or those that have risen are out hunting. As you approach it, a howl sounds from the woods to the side.

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "(And if you succeed on a Perception + Survival roll, you can tell that it's human imitating a wolf, probably a sentry who has spotted you.)"

<<OOC>> Shai says "Between Sado, Allen's breastplate, Shai'll drop the canvas wrap on her bow so it's visibly orichalcum-patterned, Sado, I think Cove's ribbon, Sado... yeah. [grins] That works."

<<OOC>> Shai _hee_.

<<DICE>> Shai rolls 3 dice: <5 6 6> for 0 successes.

<<OOC>> Shai eyes the Neighbor of the Intervention dubiously.

<<DICE>> Sado Yasutora rolls 6 dice: <3 5 6 7 9 10> for 4 successes.

<<DICE>> Yoru rolls 6 dice: <1 2 3 4 5 7> for 1 success.

<<DICE>> Allen rolls 5 dice: <3 4 7 7 8> for 3 successes.

<<DICE>> Green Cove rolls 8 dice: <5 6 7 8 8 8 9 10> for 7 successes.

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "Anyhow, everyone but Shai will hear it."

<<OOC>> Shai says "Oh, by the way -- remind me who knows Old Realm in the party?"

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "You and Green Cove and I think Allen."

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "Also, three of you know Flametongue, and two of you know Seatongue, I think."

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora knows River and Flame, too.

Sado Yasutora nods significantly to the rest of the Circle. "They know we are here," he rumbles.

<<OOC>> Allen knows River, Sky, and Old Realm.

From afar, to (Storyteller, Green Cove, Allen): Shai's short powerbow actually reads something: 'Quicksilver Singer of the Sun's Journey', spelled out in spiderwebby orichalcum and moonsilver Old Realm characters. [cough] It's the bow's name, which Shai will explain if asked, though she usually just calls it 'Quicksilver'. [grins]

Yoru nods to Sado and winks at the big boy. "A little more observant than last night they are."

Shai blinks at the Zenith and Night, looking bemused. "If you say so..."

<<OOC>> Storyteller is not letting you brutes near another sentry. ;p

Allen nods agreement. "Indeed. Though I imagine their perception is aided by the fact that we are not attempting stealth."

Yoru nods in agreement and glances around idly to see if he can spot the sentry.

Shai says to Allen, cheerfully, "Could be." And keeps an eye out herself -- not that she's likely to see anything till they're right on top of it, but in _theory_...

Sado Yasutora hefts up his shield and nods. "It is time to greet them, then, and determine the right of things," he comments before marching forward once more.

Whoever saw you does not come out to challenge you, but as you break from the thin line of trees, you are met by an uneven row of warriors, male and female. They are not immediately threatening, but there are hands on the handles and hafts of weapons - and more than one takes a half step backwards at the sight of your party - particularly the most intimidating armor of the Zenith, but the Dawn's bright breastplate and the others with their weapons - and tiger - as well. Though not well organized, they are obviously arrayed as a blockade.

Yoru pauses, assuming the rest of the party does so, and slouches slightly. He smirks at the blockade from beneath his hat and remains quiet, letting the more socially minded (or Barbarian-connected) in the party deal with this.

Green Cove sulks quietly near the back of the party, Floating Leaf's leash carelessly held in one hand.

Shai keeps her hands open at her sides, standing next to and slightly behind Allen; sure, she could snatch the bow off her shoulder easily enough, but the overall body language is 'not going to attack right now', backed up by a smile that doesn't show teeth. She keeps one eye on the blockade and another on their Dawn, ready to follow the latter's lead.

Sado Yasutora bows his head to Allen and steps to one side, clashing his shield down on the ground with a harsh *CLANG* as he gives the Dawn the lead.

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "And no, none of them are particularly pretty. ^^"

<<OOC>> Shai _hee_. Right!

Allen, at the head of the group, moves forward to a distance from the line so as to be easily heard, but not so close as to appear as though he is pressing them, and raises his voice to speak. "Greetings this morning, Wolf-children; I am Allen Walker, and these are my companions. I wish to speak with your leaders in peace."

<<OOC>> Allen is STILL amused that the Dawn wants to learn more and try to solve things without killing a lot of people and the Twilight wants to just kill 'em all.

<<OOC>> Shai idly makes a note, skimming her Charm list. I may want to invoke Mastery of Small Manners if we get down to private discussions. Heh. (Scenelong, allows Shai to dodge any unintentional faux pas as long as she doesn't push it, basically. Since she largely expects to be playing 'social support' rather than 'leader'...possibly useful.)

The warriors do not really look any less stressed about this situation for Allen's declaration of peace. There is a long moment of silence as they look at each other, and you, and then one of them nods, and mutters something in a harsh, guttural language to the apparently youngest, who scurries off through the camp towards the central building. One end of the line of warriors drifts backwards, towards the camp, as her companions fill the spot and take the opportunity to give themselves a bit more space. The man who spoke to the young warrior gives them a disdainful look, and then, in a broken rendition of Rivertongue says, "The priest must decide."

<<OOC>> Yoru resists disappearing from view. Must be good.

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "I assume everyone's going to wait politely?"

<<OOC>> Yoru will do so, yes.

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora says "Yup!"

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "/I'm/ just amused that the Eclipse and Zenith are deferring to the Dawn as spokesman. :p"

<<OOC>> Shai _snickers_. (And will wait, yes.)

"Then we will wait for your priest," Allen says, returning the man's look with a steady gaze.

<<OOC>> Allen says "Waiting, obviously. :)"

Yoru watches the blockade with that smirk still upon his lips, giving off that air of 'you are not worth the time'.

Sado Yasutora waits solemnly, his huge armor not moving at all, only the light glow of the visor surveying the camp any indication that he is anything other than a statue.

Shai looks calm, still smiling a bit, at the disdainful look, and inclines her head slightly at Allen's comment.

Green Cove rocks on her heels, toying with Leaf's leash, and looks about in different directions, not much concerned with the warriors ahead.

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora realizes... It should concern me that our medic is the most bloodthirsty in the party, shouldn't it?

<<OOC>> Shai _snickers_.

<<OOC>> Green Cove innocents.

<<OOC>> Shai says "Eh, could be worse. I have an Night medic lurking around that I might've asked about if something hadn't worked out with Shai. The Night medic _actually does_ double as an assassin... ^_^"

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "Also: Just wait until she gets into poisons and drugs. :p"

<<OOC>> Yoru says "More people to practice the medicine on?"

<<OOC>> Shai says "Clearly!"

Only the man in the center of the line doesn't so much as shift; the other warriors gradually shift backwards, one fidget at a time. You are kept waiting for about five minutes, and the young warrior comes running back; she responds to the leader in the same tongue. He shrugs, and steps aside. "He will speak to you at his fire," the man says, and nods towards the lone wooden roof in the center of the camp. The other warriors hurry towards the side, and the man heads into the camp.

Yoru offers the man a slight nod and then waits for the Dawn to lead the way. Might as well look like an organized Circle to impress them.

Allen gestures to the other Solars to follow him, and walks towards the indicated building, his breastplate gleaming under the freshly-risen sun.

Sado Yasutora 's heavy orichalcum boots tromp after Allen, falling in line as he silently heads into camp.

Shai follows the Dawn, keeping a discreet eye out as they go; half to take notes on the layout of the camp, and half in case of attack.

Green Cove trails along at the back, at her tiger's side, with her nose tilted up. She is still a princess, and dealing with pirates is so...undignified.

Yoru does not say Boo as they pass the blockade. He does however smile at them as they walk past.

The man stops at the fire - little more than coals, this morning - before the wooden building, and indicates the ground. No chairs are in evidence, as he sinks into a cross legged position on the dirt.

After you are all settled, the door opens - well, the hide flap over the entrance to the building is drawn back, anyhow, and -- well, you can see why the guard would have called this man too pretty to be a barbarian warrior. But though his face is delicate, his frame is as strong as that of most of the warriors - though the man who sits at the fire with you already is more brawny. He wears what appears to be entirely wolf-hide, the fur left on both the shaggy vest and wrapped kilt of the stuff. He too settles crosslegged at the fire, next to the warrior, and says something in the barbarian tongue.

Yoru's coat pools around him as he crouches down near the fire. He looks towards the 'priest' or whatever the man is as he arrives and nods politely to the man.

The warrior relays it in his accented Rivertongue. "I will translate for our priest; Pale Soul Shadow. He wants to know: 'Why do you come here, Sun's Chosen?'"

Shai keeps her expression under control, ticking off a mental note. She sits crosslegged, ideally near to both Allen and Cove (though she'll settle for just near Allen), and listens as she quietly taps her subtler Essence reserves. She pays particular attention to the priest, to see if his tone or body language ever conflicts with the warrior's translation.

<<OOC>> Shai decides to invoke Mastery, since it could actually be useful and she's not sure when else she'll get the chance to invoke it. 3e personal, scenelong.

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "You may note that the other warriors are falling into a loose - very loose - circle beyond the fire's immediate vicinity - though primarily on the side of the the two barbarians sitting with you. There are very few behind you."

Sado Yasutora crouches by the fire, the smooth, overlapping plates of the Unyielding Bastion moving easily into position, the mark of their ancient masterwork craftsmanship. His shield rests at his side, and he quietly awaits Allen, his glowing visor fixed on the priest.

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "Okay... *rereads Mastery of Small Manners* Oh, right, Merc-Rez. ;)"

<<OOC>> Shai nods cheerily.

"Because we are the Sun's Chosen," Allen says, placing his palms flat on his knees and leaning forward slightly, "and we have a duty to those who are not so fortunate as us to be strong by nature. The five of us happened to travel to the town of Whitewater Bend, to the south of here; the people there approached us. It is a town from which you collect tribute, is it not?"

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "The two seems to mutually respect each other, and be quite wary (and possibly, slightly hostile, though if so, it's covered well) towards you; there's definite sense that the priest is superior to the warrior on both of their parts."

<<OOC>> Shai makes a note.

There is a brief delay as the warrior translates for Pale Soul Shadow; the priest nods, and grunts a single word with the intonation of a positive. The warrior nods as well, and translates, "Yes." The priest begins to speak again, and it is translated, "And that is the way of the world. Sheep feed wolves."

<<OOC>> Storyteller entirely blames Harle and her frequent discussion of CFUW for that. ;)

<<OOC>> Allen says "XD"

<<OOC>> Shai LAUGHS. ...the scary thing is I'm actually reading through CFUW backlog right now...

Green Cove is very, very quiet as this goes on, her gaze roaming about from one point to another.

<<OOC>> Yoru fears the name.

Yoru's eyes wander around the gathering of Barbarians too, letting Allen speak on their behalf.

Sado Yasutora cricks his neck inside the helmet of the Unyielding Bastion as he begins to rise again, the crick somewhat muffled by the grinding sound the brilliant helmet makes as it brushes against the enormous shoulder-plates and the soft hiss of steam as Essence vaporizes into reality. The vanes on the back of the Unyielding Bastion flex out, sparks travelling up and down the graceful lengths, while the visor begins to slowly pulse-- once every few seconds, a line of golden light crosses over the silver display as his castemark twinkles into existence. Yasutora stands to his full height, picking up the shield again.

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora says "Activating Eight Soul Steel Harmony with 5 personal and 3 peripheral. Yasutora does NOT like what the priest is saying so far."

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora says "Which sort of helps with the whole 'bad cop' image. :P"

<<OOC>> Storyteller giggles. Mmmm, mayhem. :p

<<OOC>> Shai _snrk_.

<<OOC>> Green Cove snickers. Giant glowing bad cop, even.

Allen nods his understanding, if not agreement. "I am familiar with tributes; I spent the last four years among the Mammoth Tribe of the Icewalkers, sharing their fires and fighting alongside them. However, the people of the town tell me something else. They tell me that you bleed them dry, and make it difficult for them to live - an improperly tended flock does not prosper, Pale Soul Shadow. Moreover, they tell me that despite paying the tribute, their young adults are still slain by your people."

You paged Shai with 'The man - that is, the priest - looks angry as soon as Allen mentions the slain villagers - before the translation.'.

From afar, Shai _heh_. Figured he might actually know Riverspeak. [nods]

Long distance to Shai: Storyteller nods. But of course. :p The unnecessary translator is a well established trope. :p

After translation both ways, the answer comes back, "I condone no slaying of the sheep; their wool is fine." He is unmistakably angered (though with Mastery of Small Manners up, Shai might note the anger is directed elsewhere than the five of you. "But tell me, do the city-men never butcher their own? If there has been some small scuffling between my kin and their folk, is that any different?"

There is a quiet mutter through the barbarians circling behind.

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "Oh, and needless to say, there's a bit of apprehension on /everyone's/ part as Sado goes all "Imma gettin' ready to beat you down.""

Sado Yasutora remains standing, the periodic golden shimmer the only movement on the mighty Bull of the Sun. He does not act -yet-, but he is very slowly being convinced that Green Cove has the right idea. Except for the letting-the-tiger-eat-them part.

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "Though the two at the fire with you conceal it better than most the others."

<<OOC>> Shai _hee_ at Sado. And nods to ST.

Yoru remains still in his position. Only his eyes flicker to look at those around him. He will behave for the moment, but soon he might throw a stone in the mill to see if he can rattle their cages.

"The way it was presented to me, it is less 'scuffles' than kidnapping and slaying. They say that sometimes, their young adults who were working outside the city alone go missing, and often, their bodies are later found in the woods outside the camp south-east of here." Allen shakes his head. "The guard we spoke to said that the town does not resist; have you found this to be the same?" A pause, and then Allen continues; "Does a red arm-band mean anything to you, Pale Soul Shadow?"

Shai darts a quick glance at Yasutora, but...well, hopefully he knows what he's doing. She nods to Allen's comments, settling her hands on her knees, and lifts an eyebrow slightly at the angry look. Then leans slightly closer to the Dawn, murmuring something.

From afar, to (Allen, Storyteller): Shai murmurs in Old Realm, "He's angry at someone else, not us. And speaks River."

From afar, to (Shai, Storyteller): Allen murmurs back, in the same language, "A front to permit him more time to think of answers, or to put more distance between him and us, I imagine. As for who they might be angry at... the town, perhaps, for approaching us, or perhaps some of his own people whom he has caught killing the 'sheep' before."

From afar, to (Allen, Storyteller): Shai murmurs to the first part, "Naturally." To the second, she adds, "My suspicion is he's angry at the latter, though there's a chance of the former."

The reply is again, delivered with a certain amount of venom - in both the priest's guttural words and the warrior's translation. "No one is stolen away here." He doesn't respond to the question about the red-bands but the anger clouding his too-pretty face grows stronger. After delivering the reply, the warrior and Pale Soul Shadow talk to each other quietly for a moment. (Shai, it seems to be a rather subdued difference of opinion.)

Yoru waits to see what this discussion brings about.

Sado Yasutora is not particularly impressed by the priest's response. However, it is enough, to the young Pillar of Heaven's mind, to let Allen do the speaking for now, rather than do the same with the Shield of the Righteous.

Shai adjusts the cuffs of her sleeves slightly, gold glinting beneath them, and watches quietly.

Allen nods again. "I have no dislike for the Children of the Wolf, good priest. However, as I said, I have a duty. I would like to aid the town as I can - but I also do not wish to bring harm to your people. My scouts saw a group of red-banded warriors leaving this camp and heading for the south-east camp; it seems likely to me, with your words, that these red-banded warriors are responsible for the deaths of the young town people." Allen spreads his hands. "I wish to help wherever I can. That is why I have my power; to lend aid. If these red-bands are a trouble for you as well, I would like to offer you my aid."

The priest's tone is proud, and his translated words are, "They are my concern - and my tribe's, and the chieftain's - alone."

Shai hopes inwardly that the bet's right, and continues emoting support of Allen, with a nod at the last comment. And watches for the barbarians' reactions, both before and after translation. ...mm, _that_ might explain it. She murmurs something to the Dawn again.

From afar, to (Allen, Storyteller): Shai murmurs in Old Realm, "Good guess, seems like, but careful of that pride..."

Yoru glances at the Shai and Allen questioningly, hoping they know what to do other than threaten bodily harm.

Sado Yasutora sweeps the slowly pulsing gaze of the Unyielding Bastion over the camp, letting one pulse light on each barbarian before returning to the priest.

Green Cove snorts, but quietly.

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora says "It's too bad there's no way to detect evil in this game, and none of us have the detect lies charms."

<<OOC>> Storyteller laughs.

<<OOC>> Shai snickers!

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora says "I suppose I -could- try hurling holy fire at him; I mean, nothing would happen if he's not a creature of darkness or the undead, right?"

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora says "But would I still be out the 5 motes?"

<<OOC>> Shai says "There's no skill roll that could be used to represent Detect Lies? Sure, a Charm would be more _effective_, but..."

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora says "I suppose Wits + Socialize. But it's pretty hard detecting someone's lies in a language you don't speak."

<<OOC>> Shai ...actually has a good Wits + Socialize pool. >_> And may eventually get to invoke EET! Although with an _hour_ prereq, might take awhile. [laughs]

The warrior shakes his head slightly after he delivers the translation.

Allen tilts his head consideringly, then smiles. "To be honest, Pale Soul Shadow, it would be more that you would be aiding me. I have no doubts that your tribe is capable of handling the trouble on your own, but as I said, I feel as though I have a duty. If you would permit me some small part in dealing with those red-bands, I could feel more at ease with myself." He shakes his head a bit ruefully, as if at his own weakness.

<<OOC>> Storyteller giggles.

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "Right. Our Dawn's all social, our Twilight is bloodthirsty, and our Zenith and Eclipse are deferring to the Dawn. :p Well, no stereotypes HERE. :p"

Green Cove scratches Floating Leaf behind the ears, and glares about rather indiscriminately.

The response is no less proud. "When the new chieftain is named, he will deal any problems in the tribe," the Dawn is told. The warrior bites his tongue as he finishes delivering it, and says something darkly to the priest, with an emphatic shake of his head. It is quite obvious he disagrees with the leader on something.

Sado Yasutora lets his gaze focus in on the priest, just that steady silver-gold-silver-gold-silver as the Zenith waits calmly.

Shai does arch an eyebrow at that response.

Yoru resists sighing as this discussion drags on. As a sign of his impatience he charges his Caste mark, causing the empty golden ring to shine through the hat he constantly wears.

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "Go for it. :p I might require longer in the future, but at this juncture, you can invoke EET."

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "But I'm gonna let Shai get more feedback, so, that might make some choices easier."

<<OOC>> Shai w00ts at ST! And nods. "Hm... well, it's not like we haven't started to flash signs. Three from peripheral; caste mark's there. Want me to pose it?"

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "Since you're spending peripheral, please."

Shai shoots a sidelong glance at Yoru, and decides that there's not much harm in revealing hers as well. If a _bit_ more discreetly; Essence coalesces into a glimmering circle-and-disk on her forehead, visible through her headband to those who look, as she attunes her senses to the barbarians' language.

Green Cove remains glare-ful and sullen in her spot.

Shai's Essence wraps around the words as Pale Soul Shadow and his warrior-translator argue with each other, bending them to suit her ears. The conversation approximately confers that another member of the tribe, Ten River Wind, believes himself fit to be chieftain in the place of the apparently deceased one - and is somehow quite capable of making sure other candidates wind up dead - or so the warrior believes. The priest, in his turn, is determined that the matter will be dealt with traditionally, and these big shiny people are outsiders.

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "As for the various mutters from the watching barbarians, it comes down to agreement with one or the other party. There are a few murmurs that it would be best to just name Ten River Wind Chieftain and get on with it."

<<OOC>> Yoru says "Yes, get on with it! -yells the crowd."

Sado Yasutora continues to defer to the Dawn for now. But he will not again sit with those who would plunder, even if there is something going on here he doesn't understand.

Shai presses her lips together slightly, then murmurs to Allen again.

To (Allen, Storyteller), Shai pages: They've got a candidate for chieftain their translator doesn't like, Ten River Wind. Last chieftain's probably dead, Wind may be killing other candidates. Priest doesn't want us involved, though -- we're 'outsiders'. Rest of 'em are mixed.

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora says "Since only one of us speaks the language. ;)"

...There is a howl from beyond the edge of the camp - similar to the one before, it comes from a human voice. It is repeated. The warrior sitting with you curses distinctly - only Shai can understand the particular epithets he uses, but it's quite clear from tone the implications. He jumps to his feet, and yells commands to the warriors standing around. Pale Soul Shadow also stands, and peers off towards the edge of camp, where the warriors are heading. Forcing himself to sit, he stares across the cooling coals at his uninvited visitors, and, in clear Rivertongue - though no less accented than his translator's was - says, "We will have to continue this discussion without Roar-of-Battle. He is needed elsewhere." He shrugs apologetically.

<<OOC>> Storyteller notes that if the Dawn is bogging down socially, it would be nice for the Eclipse and Zenith to help him out. :p

Yoru opens his mouth to ask if there is a problem, but stops himself from speaking. Instead he shifts his weight and just glances in the direction of the wolf howl.

Green Cove stands up, and turns to look after where everyone's going, touching one finger to her lips. She murmurs something to Floating Leaf, bending down for a moment to whisper in the tiger's ear.

Shai glances in the direction of the howl, a hand reflexively twitching toward her bow as she starts to rise. Then pauses, when Pale Soul Shadow sits again, and inclines her head. "And you and we could not assist, respected priest?"

Green Cove pages: Not that it's important, but what she says is, "Hungry yet? Breakfast wasn't long ago."

Long distance to Green Cove: Storyteller giggles.

"I could," the priest says, "...But I appear to have other problems at the moment. If I can, however, convince you that our tribe is responsible for none of these atrocities you describe, perhaps I could even go assist." He pauses. "It is the law of my kin to accept the aid of no powers beyond Grandfather."

Shai tilts her head, glancing at Allen. "Grandfather?"

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "Is that a question to Allen? *blinks*"

<<OOC>> Shai OOCly has a guess -- totem animal and/or patron deity, probably -- and wonders if a Lore or Occult roll could get more detail? (...not that I have very good pools on either, but I'm pretty sure other people in the party do. [laughs]) If the guess is in the right area, anyway; if not, ignore me. [grins]

<<OOC>> Shai says "It's a question to the priest, but she's wondering if Allen might have an idea, so it's like '[look at Allen for response] [turn back to priest] Grandfather?'. ^^;"

Pale Soul Shadow waves a hand. "The guardian of my tribe. More is not a matter for outsiders."

Sado Yasutora 's deep, echoing voice begins to speak. "I am Sado Yasutora, Bull of the Sun and Pillar of Heaven. I am a priest of Sol Invictus, and charged with the responsibility of adjudicating between those of spirit and those of flesh. To the people of Whitewater Bend I have sworn to find them safety from rapine and murder; if the aid of Grandfather can help us to help you so that this goal is achieved, then to so speak with him is my right and duty."

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "Mmm, Zenithy."

<<OOC>> Shai admires the Zenith!

Shai reaches up to the sash she wears around her forehead and tugs it loose, baring her caste mark entirely as the silk falls free. She says, quietly, in Pale Soul Shadow's own tongue, "And I am the Sun's emissary, not his destroyer of tribes or traditions." She spreads her hands, palms up, weaponless. "We have no desire to attack your people. We simply wish to resolve this matter for the benefit of all. Is there truly no way to do so with your Grandfather's blessing?"

Yoru thinks that is an interesting way for Yasutora to go about things. Hopefully it works.

<<OOC>> Shai ...glosses the truth a little. [eyes most of the party] But, er. It's part of the Eclipse job, really! [shiftyeyes]

The priest quails at the pronouncement, and hesitates. "I doubt Grandfather would favor me for causing such," he states, plainly.

<<OOC>> Storyteller cackles. Just you wait, Green Cove. :p

Sado Yasutora nods gravely. "However, my right exists nonetheless. This is not by your will, but by that of mine, serving the Unconquered Sun. We will speak with Grandfather, one way or another; I do not wish for regrettable incidents to serve as our introduction."

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora says "Being nice hasn't worked. Time for the direct approach."

Shai slips back into Riverspeak, nodding to Yasutora's statements. "If you simply put us in contact with him, you have not chosen to accept our aid or refuse it; simply upheld the ancient rights of the Sun," she points out quietly.

Green Cove is still standing, her back mostly to her companions at the man they've been speaking with. She glances over her shoulder for a moment, then continues watching other things, one hand resting lightly on Floating Leaf's back.

Pale Soul Shadow blanches further. Glancing over his shoulder towards the the direction the rest of the barbarians went, he sighs and stands. "What must be..." he shakes his head regretfully. "Permit a minute of preparation," he requests.

Yoru remains where he is as well. He is behaving, not having played the disappearing Night trick yet.

Sado Yasutora bows his head, the golden giant inclining politely towards Pale Soul Shadow. "Of course. My thanks."

The shaken priest retreats into the wooden building, leaving the five of you alone at the fire.

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "Any discussion? He'll be out again shortly enough to gloss easily, otherwise."

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora . o O (Excellent. All is going according to PLN.)

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora says "Nope!"

Shai rises smoothly when the priest does, and nods respectfully to Pale Soul Shadow, with a slight smile. "Indeed." ...and takes the moment of privacy to brush the dirt off her trousers, glancing at the rest of the party. She murmurs, in Riverspeak, "Well, _this_ is going to be interesting."

Yoru glances at his attire and grins. "I hope I am not over dressed for the meeting."

Green Cove looks over at Shai. "Interesting?" she says. "Maybe." She's still wearing a sulky expression. "We're not doing anything."

Yoru reaches out to pat Green Cove on the shoulder with a sympathetic look on his face.

"We're gaining information, Green Cove," Allen says calmly. "Hopefully, this Grandfather will be reasonable about our requests."

"We should be soon, though, Cove. One way or another." Shai keeps an eye on the building, and says absently, "I wonder what drew their attention away from _us_?"

"An attack?" Yoru guesses.

Shai shrugs. "Probably, but what kind?"

Green Cove squats down, very slightly reassured. "Maybe the ones with the red armbands are fighting the others, and they'll all kill each other off," she says. "That would be convenient."

The wait is not very long, before the skin is pulled aside by the pale priest; he holds it up, and says, "Grandfather will speak with you," simply. There is a long cloth wound around his lower left arm tightly, where it was bare before.

Sado Yasutora bows again to the priest. "Once more, my thanks," he utters before striding forward to the tent.

Yoru glances at the others wondering if that is for all of them or just their 'priest'.

Shai bows to the priest, and says in his own language, "Thank you." She lets their own priest lead the way, but will follow Yasutora in unless stopped.

Pale Soul Shadow does not drop the hide after the Zenith passes, waiting for the rest of you.

Yoru rises and follows after the rest of his Circle, bowing to Pale Soul Shadow as he passes.

Green Cove follows along with the rest, curious as to what excuse this Grandfather might give for a state of affairs such as these.

Allen also follows, with a nod to the Wolf tribe's priest.

<<OOC>> Yoru says "And now we find out they worship an Abyssal."

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora says "At that point, he gets a face full of holy fire. :P"

<<OOC>> Storyteller snrks.

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora says "Plus Allen has the anti-undead poisonings in his Black Widow Razors, doesn't he?"

<<OOC>> Shai says "And the rest of us can play with straight Solar smiteage. [laughs]"

The small building is all one room; in the back, a bed roll and small table indicates the priest's quarters. In the center of the room is a wooden altar; the wood is stained almost black around the bowl set in the top, which currently appears to hold a quantity of dark liquid. There is an old man standing before the altar. He watches you come in; the priest drops the hide as he re-enters the dimly lit temple - small braziers burning some kind of oil hang from the rafters - and stands to the side of the entrance.

Sado Yasutora stands forward to the altar. Resting his shield on the ground, he pounds the Shield of the Righteous onto the Unyielding Bastion's left breastplate, right above one of the Kukla-scales. As the ring echoes out, Yasutora rumbles, "Hail, protector of the Children of the Wolf. I am Sado Yasutora, Chosen Zenith of the Unconquered Sun. A Perfect Circle stands before you; will you meet with us and treat with us?"

You paged Green Cove with 'You will note with good eyes - and from Floating Leaf's silent commentary - that the bowl is filled with blood.'.

Green Cove pages: Hmm. Can I tell what kind?

You paged Green Cove with 'You can't! But Floating Leaf says it's human. :p'.

You paged Green Cove with 'And very fresh.'.

Green Cove crouches down, staring at the bowl, with one hand on her tiger's collar.

The old man bows his head slightly. "So the Children of the Sun have indeed returned. It has been a long time."

Yoru remains standing and actually adopts a (somewhat) respectful stance. He will remain quiet, still, and let the Zenith do the talking.

Shai takes up position off to one side of Sado, her caste mark sparkling bright gold in the dimness. She inclines her head respectfully to the old man. "It has been, sir. But we are here now, and would treat with you and yours."

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora says "Can we make a Perception + Occult roll to see if he's a spirit, ghost, elemental, what?"

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "Sure."

<<DICE>> Shai rolls 3 dice: <1 4 8> for 1 success.

<<DICE>> Allen rolls 6 dice: <4 5 5 5 10 10> for 4 successes.

<<DICE>> Sado Yasutora rolls 4 dice: <5 5 8 8> for 2 successes.

<<OOC>> Green Cove is the Twilight with no Occult!

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "But 5 Perception. :p"

<<OOC>> Shai says "But you have ungodly Perception, Cove, so it's okay! --yes! ^_^"

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "Isn't it?"

<<DICE>> Green Cove rolls 5 dice: <1 7 8 9 9> for 4 successes.

<<OOC>> Green Cove says "Well, there is that."

<<DICE>> Yoru rolls 5 dice: <3 4 4 4 10> for 2 successes.

<<OOC>> Green Cove says "Man. The dice like me, today."

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "All of you except Shai are fairly certain that this is not, in fact, a small god, but rather a ghost - and thus, quite likely literally 'grandfather' - or some ancestor, anyhow."

Sado Yasutora nods, echoing Shai's words. "The world has been in darkness; we serve the Light. As you have watched over your descendants, so must we watch over the world. What ban lies over your tribe, that we may not set things right by words? For they have come to the people of Whitewater Bend not as protectors or traders, but as beasts ravening the flock." His voice grows stern. "To demand tribute and squeeze them dry with no contract of responsibility or loyalty is wrong. Worse, still, to violate or to permit to be violated what small honor there is in the strong over the weak by either harming or permitting the harm of these people further. Should the words and the Law that are our heritage fail, the might that is our purpose shall stand in their place, honored Ancestor."

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora says "Translation: We're back, this is fucked up, it gets fixed, or there will be a lot of ow."

The old man inclines his head again. "It has been long since you walked the earth, great ones. The powers who have reigned in your absence have not been kind - or loyal, or honorable. My children are forbidden to place any trust or accept any debt, lest they be enslaved by the powers that have risen."

Sado Yasutora nods gravely. "But we are not like those who have arisen. For greater good or greater doom, we are the Princes of the Earth and our hands are stretched out again. But I would bring them to raise all of the children of mankind up, not to lay them low, and I would have no slaves or servants. Can we not call upon old allegiances, the holy writ of Sol Invictus that holds over all that Is within the realm of fixed shape, such that we can bring honor and justice to your children? Who holds this ban, and how?"

Storyteller peers. "If you guys wanna give me Per + Socialize rolls... Notably Shai, but, never know, particularly those that have lots of per."

<<DICE>> Sado Yasutora rolls 3 dice: <1 4 6> for a botch!

<<DICE>> Shai rolls 7 dice: <1 2 2 7 7 9 9> for 4 successes.

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora cry.

<<OOC>> Shai _laughs_. There, there. (Yay, a situation in which I am _not_ completely blind!)

<<DICE>> Yoru rolls 4 dice: <2 6 6 8> for 1 success.

<<DICE>> Allen rolls 3 dice: <1 5 8> for 1 success.

<<OOC>> Storyteller mans at that botch.

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora says "I don't suppose I could have used Presence, Performance, Lore, or Awareness instead, could I?"

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "...I'll let you roll Presence instead. :p"

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "/Don't/ botch this one. :p"

<<DICE>> Sado Yasutora rolls 5 dice: <2 3 7 8 8> for 3 successes.

<<OOC>> Green Cove says "Perception + Socialize? ...yay for high Perception."

<<DICE>> Green Cove rolls 5 dice: <5 5 5 7 10> for 3 successes.

You paged (Shai, Green Cove) with 'This ghost is sincerely respectful; he sounds... relieved that the Solars are back. Moreover, it sounds like he's familiar with First Age Solars. Mind you, considering the First Age Solars, this may or may not say anything good for him. :p'.

From afar, to (Storyteller, Green Cove): Shai whistles. Iiiiiiinteresting.

Green Cove tilts her face up to pay more careful attention to this ghost, though she hasn't stood up yet.

<<OOC>> Storyteller notes that the ghost and everyone else can be glad that the botch is no longer a botch, and proceeds to pose for the ghost.

EDG's Command Machine(#23){EDG}<-(#19)] <<OOC>> Shai cackles.

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora |Leti: "This guy is a NEPHWRACK!" Yasutora: "Face full of holy fire, serves one."

<<OOC>> Shai laughs!

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "And then you WOULD get to fight all the barbarians!"

<<OOC>> Shai giggles a lot.

<<OOC>> Allen says "Suddenly, I can see Green Cove yearning for a botch. XD"

Shai's golden eyes narrow slightly, but she smiles at the old man, and waits for him to answer the Zenith before speaking.

<<OOC>> Shai _laughs_.

<<OOC>> Shai says "Hey, it'd've been IC if she and Sado had traded results..."

<<OOC>> Shai .oO(Bloody, but IC!)

<<OOC>> Green Cove snerks. Well, if it's Socialize + /any social stat whatsoever besides appearance/, she might manage...

<<OOC>> Shai ... would be afraid if the ST asked Cove for an App + Socialize roll in this context. Very, very afraid.

The old man bows to the Zenith with the grace of one not truly troubled by the pains of ancient flesh. "It is my command that guides my children," he says, calmly.

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "...Only if she intends to try to seduce one of them."

<<OOC>> Shai says "That's why I'm afraid!"

<<DICE>> Storyteller rolls 6 dice: <1 4 5 5 7 9> for 2 successes.

<<OOC>> Green Cove considers how Green Cove got her last boyfriend. "...okay, I'm thinking the seduction is not so much going to happen. Though I do fear whenever the Eternal Vow thing turns up in-game."

<<OOC>> Storyteller innocents at Green Cove.

Sado Yasutora nods in return to the Ancestor. "Then I must ask you, Grandfather, to surrender that command to us, at least of the Ban. You have my oath before the Unconquered Sun that my intent is to provide peace and prosperity for the people of Whitewater Bend, and that I would do so with a minimum amount of harm to your people. You have my word and pledge before Sol Invictus that I desire neither slaves nor servants, nor followers upon crusade, but merely to serve the Sun and Creation."

<<OOC>> Shai <to Green Cove> _laughs_. Yessssssss.

<<OOC>> Green Cove says "Of course, if her Eternal Vow match happens to be besieged by pirates/barbarians/bandits/tigers/tax-collectors when they happen to run into each other, it's all good!"

Yoru leans in to whisper something to Green Cove and then returns to being polite and respectful. Really.

Green Cove gives Yoru a sour look--though not one that seems to disagree--and goes back to staring at the ghost.

The ghost's eyes widen slightly, and he watches the young Twilight oddly even as he answers the Zenith. "My children are warriors, as I was. Would you take that away from them, lord?"

You paged Green Cove with 'This guy's face? If you imagined him about, oh, 20 years younger - a grizzled, experienced warrior? Is vaguely familiar from dreams. You're not sure who he is, but it was dreams of him from which you recalled your healing skills; dreams of healing his wounds. This comes back when he mentions having been a warrior.'.

<<OOC>> Storyteller mwahahas quietly.

Shai glances over at Green Cove, then refocuses on the ghost. "We do not seek to take anything from anyone, Grandfather. We only seek to preserve the people of the city that has sought our aid. I--do not see debt incurred by your children, if they gave us aid in this?"

<<OOC>> Shai spindoctors. >_> ...and fears the ST!

Green Cove pages: ...you're evil.

Sado Yasutora shakes his head. "I would make them into warriors, rather than bandits, honored ancestor. The people of Whitewater Bend have no protectors, but that is not an excuse to steal from them. Warriors defend for what is freely given out of mutual interest and justice. Bandits take what they will. Warriors have honor; bandits will not be welcomed into the company of such in their next lives. There are enough bandits in the world, and worse-- true threats for the cubs of the Wolf to cut their teeth upon. Will you not turn their fangs against worthy foes?"

<<OOC>> Shai eyes her character's spinning/glossing today. ...yeah, I can see why this Caste got pegged "Deceiver". [snickering] Mmm, Balcurians.

<<OOC>> Green Cove snickers.

"One of my children ignored the ban, years ago, Crowned Sun," says the old man's ghost, "and they suffer for it now. Should they not be forced to cleanse themselves?"

Long distance to Green Cove: Storyteller smiles sweetly. No, this ISN'T your eternal vow. :p No worries there.

Green Cove stands up abruptly, but makes no particular move beyond that, except that one of her thumbs begins tapping across the tips of her other four fingers in turn. She's still staring at the ghost.

You paged Green Cove with '...If anything, you have ...vaguely maternal feelings in the dream.'.

From afar, Green Cove snerks. "Oh dear."

Long distance to Green Cove: Storyteller innocents. :p

Yoru gives Green Cove a questioning glance and moves a step closer to her in case he needs to do something.

Sado Yasutora says "If Fate willed that it be your children's doom to suffer from it alone, Ancestor, then yes. But their fate is not separate from those around them. It entangles and endooms those who have committed no such sins against the Ban of -their- people. And thus, as we were raised before, so must we do now, Chosen of the Sun-- bringers of purity, bringers of Law."

Shai frowns, considering this. And says, slowly, "It would be...reasonable, to teach them not to place their trust foolishly. Yet it is not reasonable to never trust at all -- or to force another to suffer in your place." She spreads her hands. "The people of the city are suffering now. How does this cleanse your children, rather than add to their sin?"

<<OOC>> Shai says "...hee. I think we more or less said the same thing. [laughs]"

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora says "You monkey your way, I monkey mine. ^_^"

<<OOC>> Green Cove tigers?

"Grandfather" sighs softly, and a certain tension goes out of him as he bows his head. "One of my children lay with a usurper; the bad blood has risen to the surface again." He spreads his hands. "Always the hunger for unearned power, and the jealousy."

Sado Yasutora nods gravely to Grandfather. "Such is the way of the world. But taint and power can be turned to righteousness; even the product of darkest unions may turn their power against the monstrosities of Malfeas. And if it cannot be so turned," his voice is gentle, but resolute, "If it cannot be so turned, Grandfather, I spoke of minimal harm, and bringing justice. Peace and pacifism are not always the fruits of thus; if I must expunge the taint, rather than turn it to the aid of your people, I will do so, if my Circle will stand beside me. We are not usurpers; we are not the allies of a changing, wracked world. We are Exalted; if you will let us, we will put your children to the test of the forge and bring them out stronger."

<<OOC>> Sado Yasutora says "Just to make sure-- he's not saying he'll curbstomp the tribe, just the tainted bastards, if they can't be turned to good."

Green Cove rubs her nose, and says, almost absently, "I fixed your body once. In another life. Might as well try to fix your children now. It's the same thing, after all, only later on."

Shai opens her mouth -- and then _blinks_ at Green Cove, startled.

Sado Yasutora bows to his Twilight companion.

Yoru blinks at Green Cove as well.

<<OOC>> Green Cove hee. "Well, Green Cove has now moved on from KILL THEM ALL to '...guess it's time to see if this can be patched, or if amputation is needed.' She doesn't mind amputation..."

Allen tilts his head, startled, and glances at Green Cove.

Green Cove still appears grumpy, but perhaps less hostile than she did when they first walked in here.

<<OOC>> Green Cove eyes the time. Also needs to head out...soonish, though it's flexible.

The ghost's head remains lowered - until Green Cove speaks, at which point he looks up slowly at the Twilight. "...Mistress," he whispers, "...it is you. I have kept the charge, mistress; the seal still holds, and I keep the key."

<<OOC>> Storyteller says "...And I think this is a good cliffhangerish spot to pause? >)"