Chapter 5: Blood and Fire

[Joe]

"My apologies, your Highness," Kal says, "but out of respect to those who have helped us, I cannot say more about this, yet."

"Indeed. However, I believe we CAN directly tie what is currently happening in Fairhaven with one of the aspects of that book we've been carrying with us."

Streko begins to unconsciously pace back and forth.

"The first time we attempted to study it was with the assistance of a wizard of some reknown...Olladra forgive me, but I can't even recall his name, our time with him was so short."

He glances back at his friends, as if asking for some assistance. He decides he will not mention Mattheu's name at the moment. If the pseudodragon wishes to be part of this actively, that will be his decision, not Streko's. A moment later, Streko continues...

"In any event, simply attempting to decipher some of the language within the book, which I have, in fact, discovered the origins of at least one of those languages, for indeed, it is written in at least three different tongues, led to the summoning of a handful of creatures from a plane of fire. I recall hearing in this very room that one of Malov's talents lay in the art of summoning, did I not? THis book, is a book fo summoning!"

He pauses, as if waiting for a reaction, then immediately continues pacing.

"This book is Malov's. Of that I am certain. I am forced to agree with Lady d'Medani. It is something important to Malov and we must use that importance accordingly, while we still can. Yes, we have kept him from attacking all of the Five Nations, as was his original intent, however, I am sure he wishes that opportunity to be returned to him. This book is that opportunity...which, of course, carries with it GREAT risk, especially considering Malov's ability to possess people and control their actions, to essentially live through them."

"This book is our key to attracting him to us...and perhaps, since he has attempted to recruit me once before, he would be more willing to make a similar attempt if it should happen that I was...dismissed...in my attempts to illicit your help in finding my sister."

"Forgive me, Your Highness, I am neither fond of or any good at court politics and I might be completely misinterpreting everything, but something inside me, perhaps Olladra herself offering aid, tells me that we are quickly running out of time."

He turns and notices the entire room having fallen silent while he spoke.

"Perhaps that is, partly, my fault. My apologies..." He bows low to the Prince and steps uncomfortably back amongst his friends.
____________________________________________________

INSIGHT

DM's Edit: Joe, I'm going to assume that the use of Insight here is insight into Malov and just how badly Streko thinks he wants book. Seem about right?

What a crappy time for the Dice Roller to go down. Oh well, I've had to use the non-stored WotC roller.

Streko's Insight check: 26 (success #1)

[Jeff]

"The first time we attempted to study it was with the assistance of a wizard of some reknown...Olladra forgive me, but I can't even recall his name, our time with him was so short."

"Phorem," Lamara adds gently.

While Streko is speaking, Charis pulls from the folds of her new cloak the mask that was given to her by the Mistress of the Wood. She seems to consider it for a moment, then lifts it to her face, where it attaches itself gently and without the need for a strap.

The prince and the dragonmarked representatives look curiously at her. "A gift," Charis says, "From one of the unexpected allies Kalarian refers to. It allows me to collect my thoughts better."

This is the first time Condign has seen this elegant black leather mask, which is gilded at the edges in gold thread. While Charis wears the mask, there is an air of supernatural grace about her. To Belarin—although he knows the nymph acquired the mask from human visitors to the Whisper Wood long ago—it almost seems as if some of the Mistress's own presence has suffused it—and thereby Charis herself.

Streko:

"This book is Malov's. Of that I am certain. I am forced to agree with Lady d'Medani. It is something important to Malov and we must use that importance accordingly, while we still can....This book is our key to attracting him to us..."

"I'm not sure I entirely agree with you, Streko," Charis says to the halfling, and seems dismissive of Lamara altogether. "Though your reasons are solid. The sooner that damned book is entirely out of Malov's reach, the safer other cities will be. Remember what we learned from Alvek? Malov couldn't go through with his plans for Passage, or anywhere else, precisely because he needed the notes in this book. Walking around with it may lure him out, but it also means he just might get it back. We're not so powerful that we can be sure it's safe with us."

Lamara shakes her head. "Don't lose this chance to find Malov! If you steal it away, we may not see or hear of him until it's too late. Until he's done what he aims to do here."

Charis looks to Prince Aurad. "Your Highness, I'm a Thrane—as you can hear in my voice. I'm not your sister's subject, and I bear no particular loyalty to Fairhaven. I came to this city on a favor for a dear friend, and it landed me in the same predicament in which we're all stuck. I want to see Malov dead for the atrocities he's committed—not just lightning rail attacks, but experiments on innocent peasants, mass murder...and unforgivable devilry."

Charis pauses, casting her eyes down. When she looks up again, there is moisture in her eyes, and something like rage.

"But the one way to do that is to know his game. My companions and I will do what we can in this city, but I would ask that you send that book away—as swift as possible for Arcanix, or wherever its secrets can be unveiled. There is more than Malov alone to contend with. He's made allies of devils, and they..." Charis's mouth twitches, almost a snarl. "Work at us from within."

Lamara fixes Charis with an expression of irritation.

Charis is clearly convicted, and her words are compelling. But it's also obvious to the prince that your party is not all of the same mind, and that Charis is speaking perhaps too emotionally.

Prince Aurad frowns, unconvinced.

___________________________________

Charis is choosing Diplomacy.

Charis's Diplomacy check (1d20+10=12) (failure #1)

[Josh]

"But the one way to do that is to know his game. My companions and I will do what we can in this city, but I would ask that you send that book away—as swift as possible for Arcanix, or wherever its secrets can be unveiled. There is more than Malov alone to contend with. He's made allies of devils, and they..." Charis's mouth twitches, almost a snarl. "Work at us from within."

Grafth steps forward. "I for one would like to see the book destroyed. I doubt that anything good can come of such a thing." It is clear the thought of the book unsettles him.

"It is obvious that you all, given the information, will come up with a plan of action that will aim to protect the city as well as your own interests. Surely your resources far surpass anything that my traveling companions and I can muster.

"However," the shifter says, leveling his gaze at Lady Korvine before scanning the rest of the room, "while it is clear that we are a mismatched and somewhat unruly group, it should also be clear that we have voluntarily put ourselves on the front line of a battle that only circumstantially includes us. And we are willing to continue this work for the sake of you, your city, and your people."

Grafth turns toward Prince Aurad. "I know you believe this situation to be gravely serious, there is no need to convince you further of this. It is my hope, my simple request to you, that you acknowledge that my friends and I are your best allies in the fight against Malov. Do not mistake our... strong personalities... for weakness, and give us access to what aid we may request as we continue our investigation, just as we are lending our aid to Fairhaven."

__________________________________

Grafth uses Perception to analyze his audience and lend credence to his words.
1d20+11 =28

DM's Edit: Success #2!

[Darren]

Kal sits with his chin in his hand, listening to everyone speak, showing little emotion. "Prince Aurad," he begins without rising, "as a member of House Deneith, I understand the duty of a soldier is to serve." He gives a nod to Amal. "When the Blademarks Guild is given a task to perform, they carry out the wishes of their employer, even if they disagree with the strategy. So the ultimate decision of what to do with the book rests with you."

Kalarian looks up with a sly grin. "However, I think we have an opportunity to draw out at least parts of Malov's organization, and I don't think we even need to put the book at risk to do so." Kal looks to Charis, to Grafth, to the Prince and Lady Korvine, making sure he has everyone's attention. "Word travels fast on the street, and even faster in the underground. Put the word on the street that the book was stolen from these grounds. Criminals will not only believe that, they will laugh at how it was taken right from the palace." Kal's smile fades for a moment. "No offense, your Highness. I know the book is secure here, but you must understand how the criminal mind thinks. They are more likely to believe a story if it confirms what they already think is true. And we must put the story out there that the book has been stolen, because Malov knows where it is right now." Kalarian's grin returns. "Then we put word on the street that the thief is looking for a buyer. We control the information, set up the meetings, and see who shows up. Even if we don't get Malov, himself, we may get those who work for him, and then we can start to follow that information back up the chain to reach the leaders of this plot." Kal leans back in his chair and spreads his hands in front of him. "Meanwhile, the book itself remains here, safely shielded from Malov's scrying and safely guarded by the Queen's finest men."

_______________________
I THINK I'm going for Streetwise here....

DM's Edit: Kal's Streetwise check (1d20+10=30) (Success #3!)

[Jeff]

Grafth:

"I for one would like to see the book destroyed. I doubt that anything good can come of such a thing."

Lamara frowns. "Yes, maybe. I'd rather use it as bait...but if not, then yes, destroy it. Sending it out of the city to Arcanix for study will take time...time for Malov to snatch it back."

Prince Aurad smiles at Grafth's words. "It never escaped me that a shifter from the Talenta Plains was here, helping me secure my city and my people. I will save most words of praise when this crisis has passed us by, but I will not forget it even now, amidst danger. I will certainly give you and your friends what aid I can spare, Grafth. But that also depends upon what course of action we will take..."

He leaves the thought hanging. Then he listens to Kal's words.

At first, the prince shakes his head. Lamara, however, seems particularly drawn into Kal's words. When Kal is finished, Prince Aurad stares out the window. "Your plan has merit, Lord Kalarian. But I do wonder at the cost. This city has a dark underbelly indeed, and spreading false news like this would indeed travel far and fast. But...it would also harm the reputation of Fairhold in the eyes of many."

"Yes, it would," Castellan Adele says, her tone neutral.

"And reputation is not easily won back," the prince goes on, looking to Kal again. "It is a matter I must consider, even if you do not. There are many...many who would wish to exploit that, even if such weakness if feigned."

"I like this plan," Charis interjects, turning her eyes on Kal. There is some admiration there, as if she's giving Kal a second chance after their disagreements in the past. "And I think I could play a part in this. I've learned about the criminal element in Flamekeep, a city no less grand than this one, and an underbelly likely as dark. I may know how to get the rumor started."

Prince Aurad sighs. "If there was a way to keep such a rumor from spreading to the lawful citizens, though...that would be best."

"It's about speed, Your Highness," Charis goes on. "Kreelo is the key, I think. If he's Fairhaven's most notorious crime lord—"

"He is," the prince says.

Charis smiles. "Then we merely have to get his attention. He's supposed to be working with Malov somehow, right? The way you get a criminal's attention is not by trying to whisper words to the right people. You have to step on his toes. Invade his turf. Dare to commit the crimes that Kreelo dominion over."

Prince Aurad looks between Grafth and Kal and Charis. "I like this." He turns to Belarin. "What do you think, Master Malizia? And I think it's about time I was told what this scroll is about." He points to the scroll case on the table, which lies beside the book.

[Joe]

At first, Streko feels his brows instinctively furrow while listening to Kal's plan. Upon thinking it over a few moments, and listening to the others interject their thoughts, Streko can only nod and smile at the idea.

"A good idea, Kalraian, if I might say so myself. I am sure, also, My Prince, that Olladra and her deciples would be more than happy to assist at quashing any thoughts that this castle is so easily infiltrated. However, to that point, I must ask, in the same manner, how can we suggest that this...Kreelo...can do just what we do not wish others to believe he can do and, in fact, do so in the most brazen of fashions? Would Malov, as powerful as he is, even consider such a possiblity as valid, or would he consider it a trap...as we all know it so very much is?"

[Ken]

Oct 16, 2009 11:47:34 GMT -4 Jeff said:

Prince Aurad looks between Grafth and Kal and Charis. "I like this." He turns to Belarin. "What do you think, Master Malizia? And I think it's about time I was told what this scroll is about." He points to the scroll case on the table, which lies beside the book.

"As someone who has dabbled in the shadowy side of the law - for noble purposes, mind you, Your Highness," says Belarin, "I agree that few rumors are more delectable to miscreants than news that the royalty has been embarrassed by criminals. Lord Kalarian's plan has merit, and the potential benefits to your land outweigh any temporary public embarrassment.

"Speaking of potential benefits to your land, yes, I will address the nature of that scroll. As I've told Lady Lamara and suggested in passing during my testimony, I have a connection to high-ranking members of the fey in Thelannis. My dagger is in fact a gift from the Court of Dusk. I say this not to brag -- well, perhaps a little -- but to give credence to my credentials. I've already said that the powers that be in Thelannis are most concerned about Malov's activities, specifically by his greater plans involving the other members of the Dark Echelon. Fairhaven is only his most immediate target; the Dark Echelon has aims that go beyond this world, and that worries the royalty of Thelannis.

"My contacts in the fey high court would've preferred that we acted directly against the Dark Echelon's wider schemes first. You may be pleased to know that people in this room made an impassioned case to act NOW to stop Malov's attack against Fairhaven. They were persuasive enough to convince the Court to give us the name of another fey who may have more knowledge of the Dark Echelon and their greater plans. That name is on the scroll, to be opened only when we have resolved matters here. Otherwise, that greater knowledge will be lost.

"Know, Your Highness, that you have allies in unexpected places, and any actions you take to help us defeat Malov and the Dark Echelon will be highly regarded in the Court of Dusk and in Thelannis. I will go so far as to say that they will be in your -- and your esteemed sister's -- debt, and that is a rare, rare commodity."
___________________

OOC: This is a Bluff check, as Belarin clearly has no pull within Thelannis.
Bluff check (1d20+9=25)

DM's Edit: Success #4!

[Jeff's backup]

In a flurry of precise movements, Condign sheds his longsword and dagger, handing them to Belarin. He steps forward, close to the prince, closer than an armed person would be allowed. He stands tall, head bent slightly forward so the flare of his horns is visible behind a wash of dark blue hair. With a subtle gesture, his cloak curls behind him and his long red-skinned tail sweeps into view. The tiefling looks intently at the prince, his gold eyes wide and unblinking.

“My Lord Prince Aurad,” he says loud enough for all to hear, “far from here, in the Demon Wastes, many mountains lay scattered about the land. In the past, my people hunted on them. We fought across their foothills. Eventually, we built homes near them. We never gave a thought to any danger from these great fists of rock thrust up from beneath the ground. So we lived for many years, secure in the comfort of our complacency. Until one day, upon that mountain, small fires began to burst forth through that stony skin, bleeding angry rivers of red lava that cooled quickly into scabs of hard black stone. Some expressed their concern and said we must leave; move somewhere safer; do something. Other shouted: No! We are known as warriors! We will be seen as weak! This went on and on, back and forth, while the mountain bled lava and belched hot black ash into the air. Eventually, with a sonorous rumble that shook the foundations of the world and pitched all to the ground, the top of the mountain exploded! Waves of lava flowed down the mountainside with the promise of red death. The explosion threw black ash high into the sky until it blotted out the sun. The ash killed my people before the lava could even reach them. They now lie dead under the cold black stone of the mountain, their reputation intact.

“My Lord Prince, fires already spout from your mountain. Danger swells within your town like lava building inside a volcano. I fear Ebonfire has aligned with Malov and the Dark Echelon, and they now have the Rage of War as an ally. Malov, I believe, is not ready to act or the army of Ebonfire would be coming down like waves of molten red rock over the Eldeen Reaches to cover your city in a blanket of bloody red death. But his machinations may be nearing completion. You do not have time to send the book away to be studied. You must act now or risk losing the city and citizens you love.

“Lord Kalarian has a good plan. Get Malov’s attention. Distract him. Make him think the book can be recovered. Make him fear attacking the city for fear of destroying the book as well. Your reputation is well earned; but it first had to be earned. It can be earned again. But not if you lose your city, my Lord Prince.”

Condign takes two steps back and bows deeply to the prince. He then turns and approaches Belarin to retrieve his weapons.
-------------
OOC: This is an Intimidate check. 1d20+9=25

Yes!

DM's Edit: Success #5! ;D

[Jeff]

Prince Aurad listens intently as Belarin speaks, shaking his head in mild astonishment at what the other man is suggesting. Belarin can't be certain if the prince is completely buying what he's saying, but one thing's clear: he's considering the possibility. The more Belarin suggests the idea—that a mortal city or nation should really find particular favor with a planar realm—the more outlandish it sounds, but from all that's been said and seen, the prince at least does not refute it. It's certainly got him thinking...

Perhaps it's Aundair's arcane prestige which makes it more convincing. Belarin's fairly sure such a bold offer would fall on deaf ears in, say, Karrnath.

The prince glances down at the scroll case. "Take it back, then, Master Malizia. I see no reason for it to remain in my care. This scroll is for another day."

When Condign sheds his weapons and approaches the prince, the halberd-bearing guard steps forward, eyes fixed on the tiefling with challenge in his eyes. But Prince Aurad holds out a hand to stay the guard, allowing Condign to draw close.

As the tiefling speaks, the prince's eyes drift out the window to the city below....as if picturing volcanic geysers sprouting in his city. When Condign finishes, he regards the tiefling and he doesn't look pleased with the vision, or of Condign's tactic—but is nevertheless stirred by it. "That's....much to account for. It is difficult to believe that Malov would wield so much power, and that he could acquire it in so little time. Before his death and disappearance, he was nefarious, but he could strike only from the shadows. He could not amass armies."

Lady Korvine steps forward. "My prince, I well remember the injuries Malov inflicted upon this nation before, and I agree that such talk of armies is not in keeping with what we know of him. But it is viable that he could have made alliances with those who can muster such numbers. The reports along the north and western borders confirm the possibility. What Lord Kalarian and his companions are proposing, I think, is that we do what we can to draw out Malov or his servants...but we must consider that there are more enemies than just him to contend with."

Prince Aurad shakes his head. "Aundair could easily repel an invading army of barbarians, no matter what banner they march under."

"I have no doubt, Your Highness," Charis adds, "But the effort required to do so would weaken your defenses all around, wouldn't it? How little an excuse is needed for old enemies—and next door neighbors—to take interest in that weakness?"

Prince Aurad turns hard eyes on the Thrane woman, but Charis accepts it almost proudly. Then the prince looks to Streko.

Streko:

"I must ask, in the same manner, how can we suggest that this...Kreelo...can do just what we do not wish others to believe he can do and, in fact, do so in the most brazen of fashions? Would Malov, as powerful as he is, even consider such a possibility as valid, or would he consider it a trap...as we all know it so very much is?"

"Malov would believe it to be a trap," the prince says. "Of course he would."

Lamara smiles. "Even so...if the bait is tempting enough...if the real book is used, he will take it."

"What do you think, Lord Streko?" the prince says, turning to the halfling again. "What would the Sovereign of Feast and Fortune say of this idea?"

Lord Werris d'Jorasco, who's been sitting in complete silence, looks with strong interest at what his kinsman may say.

[Ken]

Oct 18, 2009 10:11:46 GMT -4 Jeff said:

The prince glances down at the scroll case. "Take it back, then, Master Malizia. I see no reason for it to remain in my care. This scroll is for another day."

With a slight bow, Belarin accepts the case. "My thanks, your highness." He turns around and walks back across the room. As he walks past Kal, he surreptiously winks.

[Darren]

Kal leans further back in his chair, one corner of his mouth rising unconsciously at Belarin's signal.

[Joe]

Prince Aurad:

"What do you think, Lord Streko?" the prince says, turning to the halfling again. "What would the Sovereign of Feast and Fortune say of this idea?"

Lord Werris d'Jorasco, who's been sitting in complete silence, looks with strong interest at what his kinsman may say.

Streko looks up, seemingly surprised that he would be addressed by the Prince...so directly...so publicly. He blushes, looks down at his feet and remembers some of Olladra's teachings, some of the first things he remembers hearing as a boy brought into the Goddess's fold. He lifts his head and speaks directly to Prince Aurad.

"My Prince, I believe that Olladra would, first and foremost, tell us that fortune favors those who take the risks that bring Her blessed attentions upon them. No great deed was ever done by those sitting upon their laurels. No city was ever founded, nor thrived for that matter, by a people not willing to defend it. Olladra's gifts come to those who do more than simply wait for the inevitable.

"I do believe, Your Highness, that swift action is a necessity, not merely a suggestion. Olladra requires loud, bold statements of action, not whispers of hope. She helps those who help themselves...and if I may say so, you are being offered an opportunity to take great advantage of many offers of assistance."

Streko looks over at Lord Werris and nods. He then returns his eyes to Prince Aurad and stands as tall as his 3'3" frame will allow.

"I believe I can speak for House Jorasco in that we will provide the assistance and support we have always provided to you and to the great city of Fairhaven.

"As a cleric for Olladra, I say that we must take control of this situation, rather than react to Malov's actions. That course will lead to, I have no doubts, a fiery and destructive end for all of Eberron. We must strike first. We must put Malov on the defensive and not allow him to control the battlefield, as it were."

Streko take a glance at Kal and a small, sly, yet somehow friendly smile curls the left side of his mouth. "I can think of no one in our small band would could better lead us to this battle than Lord Kalarian of House d'Deneith. With the support of the Crown, upon your orders, we can and we WILL defeat this malignancy once and for all."

He suddenly looks around the room, as if having heard his own voice for the first time. He coughs and shrugs.

"I think that this is what the Goddess of Feast and Fortune would suggest, my Liege. We stand ready to assist you."
____________________________________________________

Streko's Diplomacy check (1d20+8 = 25)

I don't know how to put the link to the actual roll without having all the url info on there...sorry...

invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2291560/

DM's Edit: Success #6!

[Jeff]

Unfazed by the prince's reaction to her words earlier, Charis steps forward again. She places a hand on Streko's shoulder. "I couldn't agree with him more, Prince Aurad," she says. "If it will take time to convince your sister that Malov is to be taken seriously, let us not be complacent while we wait."

Charis moves over to the large table at the center of the room and hops onto it in one catlike step; she is certainly acting remarkably informal for one in the presence of royalty. The prince has no real reaction to it, but you hear a sniff of disappointment from the halberdier guard at the sight.

"If I may," Charis says, "I would like to reiterate the position I feel Fairhaven, and thereby Aundair, is in. In the wake of the Last War, Aundair is strong. For now. But it has enemies.

"Forty-three years ago in the southern fields of Aundair your people and mine clashed viciously. The Aundairian army was led by your Second Warlord, Darro ir'Lain, who is probably right now pacing somewhere through these very halls..." Charis cocks her head and looks to one of the walls as if trying to peer through it. "...trying to decide who he'd rather kill next: an 'insolent' Reacher or some 'brainwashed' Thrane."

Castellan Adele scowls. "Lady Charis, do not insult us in our own home."

"Please," Charis says. "Let me finish, Castellan. I have a point to make."

Prince Aurad does not look happy, but he gestures for her to continue.

She does. "The battle was long, the suffering considerable, and the casualties were devastating. On both sides. Just over one thousand Aundairians were slain, but nearly six thousand Thranes had blooded the fields with their dead. Today, as you know, that site is known as the Crying Fields...and on the nights of the full moon, the ghosts of the dead relive the battle. It is a shunned place now, more like the Mournland than beautiful countryside."

"Yes, we know all this," the prince says softly.

Charis continues. "Not only did my people lose so many of their sons and daughters, but the aftermath of that battle divided our own. Cardinal Yisek, one of our greatest advocates of peace, criticized the Thrane army, its generals, and the leaders of the Church of the Silver Flame for leading our people so easily to the slaughter. He spoke up against the Council of Cardinals, hoping to negotiate for a new policy other than the "unending war until victory" that the Council had always proclaimed. All across Thrane, those who had lost loved ones in the war showed their support of Cardinal Yisek. Here at last was a chance to rethink things, to reconsider Thrane's position in a costly war, to rethink. But the Council acted swiftly and stripped Yisek of his title and exiled him, ending the matter. And so the fighting went on as always. More Thranes died. More Aundairians. More Cyrans, Brelish, and Karrns."

Castellan clears her throat. "We know our history, Lady Charis, and yours."

Charis ignores her. "The Battle of the Crying Fields was just one of many battles fought between your people and mine, Prince Aurad, though it numbers among the most memorable. War makes ugliness out of noble intentions. It fosters evil even in good people, even those who are in the right and who are fighting to defend their own. And it leaves permanent scars, even in the land itself sometimes.

"Forty one years of death later, peace was finally brokered. The Last War ended, and we are no longer facing the hard decisions we used to that made so many suffer. But we could do so again. What would it take to start war again?"

Charis points to the book. "What we've learned from that cursed book, and from Malov's minions so far, is that he was targeting more than just Fairhaven, possibly more than just Aundair. If his alliances with devils continue, and his planar summonings, then you're facing a bit of Shavarath right here in the capital city. There's a thousand ways to start war again, Your Highness, and I'm sure you've heard many of them."

"Every day," Adele interjects.

"But have you thought of direct influence from the Battleground, right here on the Queen's doorstep? Have you thought of armies from the Demon Wastes advancing onto your soil? Yes, you can repel them...but won't that get others thinking? If Aundair is busy defending itself from diabolical hordes, I can tell you honestly that an unpleasant debate will take place somewhere in Flamekeep. 'Do we ally with Aundair against the hordes and fight what is obviously a force of supernatural evil? Or are the Aundairians the true enemy, devils in disguise?' I want to tell you that my people would do the right thing, do what the Silver Flame charges them to do: to destroy real evil wherever it is found. But I can't promise you they would. What would Aundair do if an army rose up out of the Mournland on our borders and attacked? Come to our aid, or help the invaders?"

Charis stops for a moment, letting her words sink in. "Your Highness, I know you are already resolved to help us, but I ask that you let us do it our way...since you yourself admit that the Queen will not yet act without proof. We helped to bring your attention to this matter, so help us solve it—even at the risk of your reputation. I am more involved than some of my companions, because Thrane will be at risk as well. I am thinking of more than Aundair, though may not be."


___________________________

Charis's History check: 1d20+8=23 (Success #7!)

[Josh]

"I sincerely doubt that anything we undertake would mar the prince's reputation," Grafth adds hastily, "nor do I think that any of us is more or less involved in this struggle. If Malov is allowed to enact his plan, all of our homelands will be in danger, and the peace between nations will be shaken apart.

"We will all be better off if this plan is put forth discreetly and with sensitivity to our allies' needs. The more swiftly my friends and I act, the more control we will have over this.

"We already have a reporter, unaccounted for, here in the city that knows more than she should. Her story doesn't yet have an ending, but in my limited experience, journalists are hardly known for their discretion."

______________________________
Insight

(1d20+4=16)

DM's Edit: Success #8!

[Jeff]

Grafth:

"We already have a reporter, unaccounted for, here in the city that knows more than she should. Her story doesn't yet have an ending, but in my limited experience, journalists are hardly known for their discretion."

"So I've been told,"Prince Aurad replies. "And we've already inquired at the local Korranburg Chronicle office in search of her. I will, however, require your own discretion in all of this. The things we have talked about in these chambers, I must emphasize, should not be discussed freely with anyone outside of Fairhold." There is a serious note to his voice, both a request and a warning.

"But I need no more convincing," he continues with a grim smile. "You are brave men and women come to my doorstep, and I will not refuse your aid."

He looks to each of you in turn. "Until now, you have had no obligations except your own. Though you have given your aid, you've had the freedom to walk away, to rid yourself of that book and go. But unmasking Malov and his plot against this city is what I would charge you with at this time, under my employment, and it is no small responsibility. In exchange I will give you greater freedom while you remain within the walls of Fairhaven. Along with a few extras." He offers a princely smile. "Will you accept this charge?"

He looks to Condign. "And I would ask you to accompany them, Condign. If I find another service for you, or if the Queen wishes to know more about your tale, then I may call on you again at a later time."

[Jeff's backup]

Prince Aurad:

He looks to Condign. "And I would ask you to accompany them, Condign. If I find another service for you, or if the Queen wishes to know more about your tale, then I may call on you again at a later time."

Condign nods but looks around at the others then back at the prince. "My Lord Prince, while I would like to honor your request, I have but recently met these noble fellows. I have not been properly asked to join with them. It would be dishonorable to force myself into their presence without their permission."

[Ken]

Oct 21, 2009 9:58:00 GMT -4 Jeff said:

"Will you accept this charge?"

Belarin exchanges relieved smiles with his companions, and he says gratefully, "Thank you, Your Highness. We were already detemined to succeed and -- now that we have your support -- we know we will."

After Condign speaks, Belarin feigns a look of horror. He looks back at the others and, turning back to Condign, says, "Well, I think I can safely say for all of us ... consider yourself asked! I'd be honored to fight alongside a noble, principled, interesting person like yourself. I thought I had found those qualities in Lord Kalarian, but alas..." He winks at Kal.

[Darren]

Kal gives a small grunt at Belarin's words and offers him a small grimace. He unfolds his arms and pushes his chair back from the table, making a show of rising to his feet. "Prince Aurad, I am pleased that you have accepted our plan. Know that you have not only our support, but the support of House Deneith." Kalarian looks at Lady Korvine and smiles, clear in the knowledge of what he has just offered.

[Jeff]

Lady Korvine seems pleased with the results of these discussions. Lord Werris d'Jorasco's expression is mild, but pleasant. Lady Vialene looks slightly puzzled.

The Lyrandar half-elf address the prince for the first time. "Your Highness, if I may ask...what of Lord Ralsor?"

Lamara opens her mouth to speak, but the prince speaks first. "I have a strong suggestion," he says, looking at Ralsor. "Malov surely knows that the Thunderhead and its crew have arrived safely in Fairhaven, despite his efforts. Since hiding the ship would be difficult, at best, let the Thunderhead remain docked at the Lyrandar tower. Let it draw his attention. Captain Ralsor, remain with your ship, see what repairs can be made within this city...should you need it again beyond these walls."

The prince regards the rest of you. "While you move freely and more discreetly, I could even have lookalikes for each of you stationed aboard the Thunderhead, under heavy visible guard, to maintain the illusion that you're still under royal supervision."

Lamara seems to consider this. Ralsor shrugs, while Lady Vialene frowns.

Kal:

"Prince Aurad, I am pleased that you have accepted our plan. Know that you have not only our support, but the support of House Deneith." Kalarian looks at Lady Korvine and smiles, clear in the knowledge of what he has just offered.

Lady Korvine raises an eyebrow, then smiles noncommittally.

Belarin:

We were already detemined to succeed and -- now that we have your support -- we know we will."

"Excellent." Prince Aurad indicates the Medani inquisitive. "The investigation has been given to Lady Lamara...that is, solving the lightning rail incident and the murders, and so I would ask that you follow her lead. However, as Malov's book came into your care, I would like its fate to be your decision.

"If you will it, I will send it to the towers of Arcanix immediately. That is where Malov's old masters—the very ones who expelled him—will be able to better learn its secrets. Or, if you wish to take it with you now, to bait Malov or his associates, then I will entrust it to you again. If you want it to be destroyed, we can do that immediately as well. That choice is yours." He looks to Lamara. "And I would ask that you respect their decision, Lady."

"Of course, Your Highness," she responds, her face neutral.

"And as for Malov himself, I will cooperate with your request. We do not know his timetable or plan of attack. If you acquire any concrete proof of his intentions, deliver it immediately to me by any means necessary.

He looks to the castellan. "Adele, I would like each to be given a Ring of Recognition, with a duration of one week." The castellan nods, awaiting any further instructions.

The prince turns to face your group. "With the rings, a simple wave of your hands will reveal Fairhold's sponsorship of your actions and the Watch will show lenience and restraint in regards to your actions. Understand, this does not give you the ability to commit crimes freely...as I'm sure you would not. Harming citizens or members of the Watch will still carry with it extreme prejudice. But the Watch will give you some space. And the rings will also grant your permission to enter Fairhold at any time."

[Darren]

Kal nods with respect to the prince. "An honor, your Highness." Looking around the room, he continues, "I would ask three things with regards to Malov's book. First, ask your wizards to remove the scrying spell upon it. Malov knows that we know of it, and he knows where the book currently is. He would not be surprised if it was removed. If we do not, our story regarding its disappearance from your care will not carry much weight. Second, I would ask that the book remain here, under strict guard. We cannot allow our rumor to become reality. Third, I would ask that no one be allowed to further study the book. Our experience with study of the book, so far, has yielded unpredictable results. We know enough to know that the contents of the book will not likely further our own cause, so further study of it is unlikely to give us significant gains." Kal turns to Belarin and Streko. "You two have had more chance to study the book than I," he says, then adds Grafth to his gaze and says, "and you have seen the results of its study. I would defer to your judgment in this third matter."

[Joe]

Condign:

Condign nods but looks around at the others then back at the prince. "My Lord Prince, while I would like to honor your request, I have but recently met these noble fellows. I have not been properly asked to join with them. It would be dishonorable to force myself into their presence without their permission."

"Olladra Herself knows that we need all the assistance we can find regarding Malov. I am not opposed to Condign's aid and, indeed, welcome it in the coming battles." Strko turns to the tiefling. "The risk you face is great...greater than an errand of mercy would dictate. You will be fighting for not just your life, but th elife of the Five Nations...and I suspect I do not speak in hyperole when I say this. Before you so eagerly join us, know that we have already lost four fellow travellers over the course of this investigation-turned-plot to destroy the world. Do not make your decision lightly, despite the request of the Prince to aid us. No disrespect meant, your Highness."

Kalarian:

"You two have had more chance to study the book than I," he says, then adds Grafth to his gaze and says, "and you have seen the results of its study. I would defer to your judgment in this third matter."

"The book must be destroyed, or Eberron herself will face other greedy individuals entranced with the possibility of opening pathways into other planes of existance. As Kalarian states, the book's usefullness to US is at an end, but its usefullness to Malov is still great. I recommend its immediate destruction, without study and without further discourse."

[Josh]

I recommend its immediate destruction, without study and without further discourse.

Grafth nods, "I have stated my preference with regards to the book. The question is, can we successfully draw out Malov or his associates with merely the promise of the book as opposed to physical proof of ownership?

"The fact that an errant word upon the pages of this tome can bring forth the abominations that I have seen and fought... this is grounds enough for its destruction in my eyes. Is it possible that a facsimile could be wrought, in case we are required to provide evidence that it is in our hands?"

[Jeff's backup]

Belarin:

Well, I think I can safely say for all of us ... consider yourself asked! I'd be honored to fight alongside a noble, principled, interesting person like yourself.

Condign gives Belarin a brief nod and. . .a smile.

Streko:

The risk you face is great...greater than an errand of mercy would dictate. You will be fighting for not just your life, but the life of the Five Nations...and I suspect I do not speak in hyperbole when I say this. Before you so eagerly join us, know that we have already lost four fellow travelers over the course of this investigation-turned-plot to destroy the world. Do not make your decision lightly, despite the request of the Prince to aid us.

The tiefling turns and looks down at the halfling, listening to his comments. "Yes, lord Streko, I do understand the danger. But I also understand that the Carrion Tribes, especially Ebonfire, threaten to push out into Eberron. If that happens unopposed, many lives will be lost. Were I to lose my life stopping this, it would be an honorable death."

He turns to face his new companions and says: "However, I have seen you all in combat. You will not die easily. My blade may help you survive." He turns to look at Charis. "And I may learn more about myself and the world."

He turns to the prince and says: "My Lord Prince, I will accompany them."

Streko:

The book must be destroyed, or Eberron herself will face other greedy individuals entranced with the possibility of opening pathways into other planes of existence.

Grafth:

The fact that an errant word upon the pages of this tome can bring forth the abominations that I have seen and fought... this is grounds enough for its destruction in my eyes.

Condign waits for his companions to finish their discussion and interjects: "If this book is Malov's, and it is imbued with great power, would he not sense if it were destroyed?"

[Darren]

"I do not believe so, Condign," Kal says calmly, "though he would detect that the scrying spell upon it had disappeared. But do not be so hasty, my friends. While I said that what was IN the book is no longer useful to us, the book itself still has uses, and I believe that destroying it now would be a mistake."

[Jeff]

"I would rather see it destroyed than dangled before him," Charis says, slipping off the table and assuming a more formal stance again. "Because it's too risky. While it's ours to decide, I'd rather it be given to someone safe and knowledge, to use Malov's folly against him. But if we're not sending it to Arcanix, for Flame's sake, get rid of it."

Lamara shakes her head, clearly frustrated. "The book itself would be the only sure way to draw him out. Setting rumors and committing petty crimes will only go so far. Remember, he doesn't need this book to do whatever it is he's going to do in Fairhaven. Denying him the book is what's kept him from attacking other cities. But if he believes he can have it again....I believe he'll take the bait. Malov is nothing if not ambitious. But I agree with you, Lady Charis...if it's not to be studied, get rid of it altogether. Remove any chance that Malov can reclaim it."

"Well," the prince says, looking to your party. "You'd better decide and soon. If you cannot come to a decision now, then we'll merely guard it here until you do. Yes, a false duplicate can be made that you can carry with you, but if Malov attempts to scry for his book, the facsimile will not take its place within the magic."

"I'm with Streko on this," Charis says. "And Grafth. That's three. Belarin, what do you say?"

[Ken]

Belarin frowns. "Granted, I didn't make as deep as examination as Good Streko, but I have no doubt about the book's destructive power. That said..." He walks around the table, looking into each of his companions' faces as he continues speaking. "...how do we know -- really know -- that Malov or his demonic allies wouldn't sense its destruction? From what we know, its summoning abilities may be beyond anything this world has seen, suggesting an arcane link that goes beyond mere ink on a page.

"If you want this ruse to succeed, I say we cannot destroy it. Yet. Right now, I believe the momentum of victory lies with us, if I can be a little florid in my description. The writer in me, I suppose. If Malov can sense the book's destruction, we lose that momentum. He'll know our ruse is exactly that, and he may end up playing us for fools."

He looks at Kalarian and gives a slight shrug. "That's my view. I'll understand if you decide to destroy it regardless. It IS vile."

[Darren]

Kal stands with arms folded. Catching Belarin's eye, he nods. Then he looks around the table at each person, but says nothing else.

[Jeff's backup]

"If I may offer an opinion, I would argue against destroying the book at this time. While I would agree that Malov does not need the book to put all of his plans into motion, I believe that the book fits into the strategy that he feels has the best chance of success. While the book exists, he may feel compelled to follow this plan of action, and we may be able to manipulate him better. Were he to sense the book's destruction, then he would fall back to his contingent plan, and we would lose a tactical advantage."

The tiefling looks at the prince. "My Lord Prince, can plans be put into place to have the book destroyed should something go amiss, and the benefits of destroying it then outweigh the risks?"

[Jeff]

"Destroying the book should be easy," the prince says. "The court wizards have verified that there is nothing inherently magical about the thing itself. Only the magic cited within the book is dangerous. In fact, it's unlikely Malov has any mystical bond with it; if he did, the book itself would possess such extant auras. It does not."

Lamara says, "Indeed. Malov is obviously familiar with the book, that is why he can use a scrying spell or device to locate it. It doesn't matter what it is. It could just as easily have been his favorite blanket. The blanket would require no magic of its own to be found, only the caster's knowledge of it. That is why creating a replica won't help. So long as it exists, he'll know it. If you destroy it, he will not sense its destruction. But when he goes to scry for it again, it simply will not register. Pretty much the same as when you concealed it within the lead casing.

"So that's all destroying it will get you. The same as merely hiding it. So if the consensus is not to destroy it"—she looks pointedly at Streko, Charis, and Grafth—"then we should use it, and take it with us. That's what I would do. It's our only bargaining token against him."

"I disagree," Charis says, eyeing Lamara with irritation.

Prince Aurad lets out a sigh. "I'll say again, the choice is yours to make." He indicates Belarin, Kal, Grafth, Streko, and Charis. "If you do not come to agreement, then we'll simply guard it here."

"Fine with me," Charis says. "Perhaps we can make an informed decision later."

Condign:

"My Lord Prince, can plans be put into place to have the book destroyed should something go amiss, and the benefits of destroying it then outweigh the risks?"

"Yes," Prince Aurad answers. "If you send me word, I will see it done. Assuming you leave it here."

[Darren]

"Consider this, too," Kal says. "Gurend gave his life to get that book away from Malov. But he could have just as easily destroyed it. There must have been a reason he did not."