Chapter 5: Blood and Fire

[Josh]

The shifter looks perturbed, but simply addresses the group, "We can make an educated guess that if the book is destroyed, Malov will suffer a severe set back. His attempts to recover it are what started this mess, and if it had no value to him, he wouldn't care if we destroyed it. However, if someone has a sufficient answer to the following questions, I will relent to their opinion of why the book should remain in existence.

"Question one: If we keep the book as a tool for bargaining, what exactly are we bargaining for? What, when we tempt Malov with a book we do not intend to give him as long as one of us remains breathing, do we expect him to give us?

"Question two: Can anyone provide a single idea of what might be in that book that would help us in any way? We have seen its destructive power and been warned about it many times. We know that our enemy wishes to have it to enact an extremely diabolical plan. For us to keep the book intact, giving Malov even a glimmer of a chance to recover it, then there must be something within its pages that can be used to our advantage as opposed to our detriment."

[Joe]

Streko sighs. "If the book gets us closer to defeating Malov, then certainly we should use it to some extent. Again, however, I must point out...Malov has previously demonstrated the ability to possess others. We do not know how he does this, just that he does and that the possession is total...the possessed individual has no ability that we have seen thus far to fend off Malov's control. Should the book not be destroyed, we MUST keep it with us. It is the only way for us to know that it is safe. I would, however, just as soon see it burned in Khyber's flames. Granted, this is from a personal perspective only, not a tactical one.

"I agree with Grafth that we need more answers to the questions that we have. I fear, however, that the time it will take to adequately answer my colleagues intelligent questions might not be adequate or even available to us. I would like to know if anyone here with arcane abilities could provide at least some hope that keeping the book intact is a good idea."

He looks up at Kal. "However, if no answers are forthcoming, I shall demure to the one person in our party who knows about tactics from a battlefield commander's point of view. If you think we should keep it, Kalarian, then keep it we shall. Once Malov is vanquished for good, or when it is assured that this book is more of a danger to Eberron than it's worth, then I shall be the one to light the flames that will eat its innards to powder. Is that acceptable?"

[Darren]

Kal smiles at Streko but offers no other response to the halfling's loyalty. "I do see your point, Grafth," he says. "The book definitely should, and must, be destroyed at some point, and we do not have any intention of giving it to him. My only concern, tactically, is that if we destroy it, word of its destruction must not leave this room, or else our plan to use the supposed theft of the book and it's subsequent availability for purchase will be for naught. If we can assure that, then I will consent to the book's immediate destruction."

[Jeff's backup]

Streko:

"However, if no answers are forthcoming, I shall demure to the one person in our party who knows about tactics from a battlefield commander's point of view. If you think we should keep it, Kalarian, then keep it we shall."

Condign gives the halfling a puzzled look. He glances down at himself, making sure he had not forgotten any of his arms or armor. He looks back at Streko and gives a small shake of his head and a soft grunt of disbelief. He decides to let the comment pass.

For now.

[Ken]

Belarin still looks uncomfortable, despite the informed opinions that Malov wouldn't automatically sense the book's destruction.

"Excuse me, Your Highness," he says, "but may I ask for some details about the type of security under which the book would be kept if we decide to leave it here?" He adds quickly, "By no means am I questioning the ability of your guards or the potency of whatever arcane protection you'd employ -- I've already seen that in effect. I simply seek reassurance."

[Jeff]

"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."

"That is an excellent point, Lord Kalarian," the prince says. "But it may be that his purpose was to inform Malov's enemies of his intentions. That we now have the book and know a good deal more than you started with may be enough. Or, it may not."

Belarin:

"...may I ask for some details about the type of security under which the book would be kept if we decide to leave it here?.....By no means am I questioning the ability of your guards or the potency of whatever arcane protection you'd employ -- I've already seen that in effect. I simply seek reassurance."

"Of specifics there is little I can tell you, Master Malizia. There are many hidden vaults in this palace, guarded by spells and by arms. Many of their keepers know little about what they guard. The book would be, I assure you, quite safe here, and few outside of this room would know of the book's location. That is all the assurance I can give you."

[Josh]

"My only concern, tactically, is that if we destroy it, word of its destruction must not leave this room, or else our plan to use the supposed theft of the book and it's subsequent availability for purchase will be for naught. If we can assure that, then I will consent to the book's immediate destruction."

Grafth nods, "I cannot imagine that it would... unless someone in this room is working against us. I highly doubt that is the case.

"And additionally, we would still have the case, and would not carry the book around without it. So, whether the book is in it or not is irrelevant to our plan."

[Ken]

Belarin leans back against the wall. "Democracy is so frustrating sometimes," he says with a chuckle. "Royal decree is much more straightforward. Very well....

"To sum up, Kalarian and I would seem to be of the same mind -- a fact that must never leave this room, please. That is, it seems best for our plan -- perhaps marginally so -- if the book were kept here, under the exemplary protections Your Highness here has described," he says, nodding at the prince. "Certainly, though, we'd shed no tears over its destruction. My lady Charis, for understandable reasons, would wish to see the book studied in order to determine whether any of Malov's deviltry could be undone. Failing that, she would side with the conclusion that Streko and Grafth have reached: that the book should be destroyed as soon as possible.

"I hope that's fairly accurate. It still leaves us without a clear path. The five of us do seem to agree that the book itself, physically, should not be taken from a secure location and used as bait."

He turns toward Condign. "We're very different, aren't we? Here I am, blabbing on regardless of who's in the room, and you remain fairly quiet, an austere observer of protocol. I like that! Variety is always enlightening. Clearly, you've seen plenty of battles and have had to develop unusual strategies when necessary. What do you think, Condign?"

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OOC: It seemed best to sum up the last few Q&A posts and give
Condign an opportunity to let loose his wildly thrashing opinion.

[Jeff's backup]

Condign looks briefly at Belarin, then glances at the others. After a moment's contemplation, he nods. Standing tall, shoulders back, with his hands folded behind him, he says: "My apologizes if I am blunt, but there is little room for a democracy when you are waging war. And you are at war, whether you call it that or not. You can debate an issue incessantly, until suddenly you are covered in ash and cold black stone.

"As my lord Kalarin will confirm, in a war, the side which controls the pace and direction of the battles usually wins. In your possession is a valuable tool of Malov's, one which he has in the past attempted to regain. With it, you can control -- to some degree -- the pace and direction of your conflict with him. You can not send it away for study; you do not have that kind of time. To destroy it now, while understandable and in the end necessary, removes your advantage and control shifts back to Malov.

"You have no choice, as I see it: you must use the book to control this part of the battle against Malov. Put out word that the book is missing. Let that criminal -- I forget his name -- lead Malov to you. Strike from the stronger offensive position. Once you have won this part of the war, then destroy the book."

The tiefling stands still, ready for any response.

-----------------------

OOC: Thanks, Ken!

[Darren]

Kal's posture mimicks Condign's, except that his arms remain folded in front of him instead of behind. He offers the tiefling a nod of acknowledgment, then looks to Charis, Grafth and Streko, awaiting their response.

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I found it interesting that spell check called out Grafth and Streko as spelled wrong, but not Charis or Condign. So I had to look them both up. Pretty cool, guys!

[Jeff]

"Then this will be a bluff only," Charis says. "But I'll cooperate with that, and do my best with what I know. I may know some ways to get the word out to Kreelo that the book has been lifted from our possession. I'm not sure if Malov's going to buy it, so I say regardless of his reaction—whether he makes a move or not—we still try to get Kreelo's attention. Move in on his territory, completely separate from spreading the rumor."

Lamara lets out a sigh, then nods, resigned. "At least we are agreed in that."

"So that's the decision, then?" Prince Aurad says. "The book stays here, close to me. And you say what you need to say to get Malov's or Kreelo's attention." He looks to Streko and Grafth for confirmation of their cooperation.

[Joe]

"I said earlier what my intentions were, regarding the book, and who I felt was not only the one person who should make this decision, but how I felt about that as well. Olladra will see to it that we are challenged in either event."

[Jeff]

Lord Werris d'Jorasco raises an eyebrow at Streko's continual deference to Kal. But as always, he says nothing.

The prince addressed Grafth. "You have made very sound arguments for the book's destruction. Indeed, what is there to bargain with a madman bent on revenge. And what can be gained from keeping it, beyond keeping it safe? If at any time any of you wish it to be examined—in time, an inevitability—I guarantee you that its secrets will be unlocked. This is Aundair."

"But unless anyone wishes to reason otherwise, for now it remains in my keeping."

[Josh]

Grafth listens, his face unreadable. In the end, he merely shrugs. "As much as I enjoy a healthy debate, I prefer action when action is necessary. I can agree with Condign on that point.

"Fine, keep the book here. If at any point it seems necessary for you to destroy it, you have my endless blessings."

[Jeff]

"Then," the prince says, "I think we are concluded. At least for now. I will see to it that you can come and go freely from Fairhaven. If you wish, I can have a unit of soldiers shadow you during your investigation, should you need martial support."

Charis removes the mask from her face and offers a dubious expression. "The shadow element of this city would probably spot them quickly," she says. Then adds, "Your Highness."

Lamara nods. "My prince, Lady Charis is right. We will operate much more discretely just as we are. We are already too large a group as it is. We will need to think carefully how to proceed." She looks to your party. "But we can discuss that separately, once we're underway."

Prince Aurad nods, looking to the rest of you. "Is there anything else you would ask of me at this time?"

[Ken]

"You've been very supportive, Your Highness," says Belarin. "I can't think of anything else... hmm, well, how far is your wondrous library from here? I'm hoping that a visit there may answer some lingering questions." He is suddenly concerned about the possibility of missing their noontime appointment behind the library.

[Darren]

Kal hesitates for a moment. "Your Highness," he says slowly, picking each word carefully, "an operation such as this one, especially one involving the criminal elements, often requires coin to be pressed into the right palms." Kalarian looks ashamed to continue. "I wonder if we might request the financial backing of the crown, as well, to ensure that our ruse is backed up by the proper resources?"


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Gotta deal with the practical stuff, too!

[Jeff]

Belarin:

"...hmm, well, how far is your wondrous library from here? I'm hoping that a visit there may answer some lingering questions."

Prince Aurad looks puzzled. "Fairhold has many libraries, but most would not be available for your perusal. But the city has several libraries to speak of. If you're looking for something in particular, perhaps I can send a letter of recommendation; not all of them are open to the public."

Belarin feels Charis's eyes on him, also perplexed.

Although from the sunlight outside the window, Belarin can see that it probably is nearly noon—the rendezvous hour—he also realizes that the notion of a fey observing a strict time and place may also be unrealistic. In the back of his mind, the whispers say the same; probably no need to hurry, but maybe it's best not to tarry too much longer, regardless.

Kal:

"I wonder if we might request the financial backing of the crown, as well, to ensure that our ruse is backed up by the proper resources?"

"The treasury of Fairhold is at your disposal," the prince says with a sarcastic smile. ""Yes, I will see that some funds go with you. I only ask that you use it strictly in this endeavor."

"Nothing too shiny or newly minted, Your Highness," Charis adds. "That's always too suspicious."

[Ken]

Oct 28, 2009 8:47:41 GMT -4 Jeff said:

Belarin:

"...hmm, well, how far is your wondrous library from here? I'm hoping that a visit there may answer some lingering questions."

Prince Aurad looks puzzled. "Fairhold has many libraries, but most would not be available for your perusal. But the city has several libraries to speak of. If you're looking for something in particular, perhaps I can send a letter of recommendation; not all of them are open to the public."

"My apologies, Your Highness," says Belarin, seeming slightly distracted by unseen concerns. "Yes, there are many libraries here. Particularly, though, I'd like to research historical arcane tomes at the University of Wynarn... after our ruse is properly underway, of course. Scholars of the past may have encountered cases of possession similar to what we've seen."

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OOC: My bad! I typed "library" yesterday when I really meant "university." Oh well, the slip-up sounds more realistic, anyway.

[Jeff]

"Due south of this estate," the prince replies to Belarin. "And I'm certain any citizen can point you to it."

He looks to the rest of you. "Let us disband for now. The rings Castellan Adele will give you will allow you to enter Fairhold freely. If you need to send me word of anything you discover, you can use a Sivis message station—just display the ring—if one is nearer to you than the palace. In the mean time, give no more thought to the book. It is secure in my possession, but if you have need of it, we'll talk again. Good luck."

The prince readies himself to go. He speaks quietly with Adele, while the halberdier keeps an eye on you. The dragonmarked representatives gather themselves as well.

Lady Korvine approaches Condign. "Condign...the Sentinel Marshals have already been informed of your arrival. If you wish it, I will relate your story to them, and free you up for some time. Either way, you are no longer to be taken into custody for any reason. Marshal Marin would consent as well, I am sure." She glances briefly at Kal.

The castellan leaves the room for a few minutes, then returns. She holds out a case with velvet lining. Within, rings of silvery-blue metal gleam. She holds out the case for each of you to take one, Condign and Lamara included. "They will resize themselves to fit your finger. Wear them at all times. If in the course of your investigation, the Watch interferes at an inopportune time, gesture like this." She slips one of the rings on, and sweeps her arm upward. leaving a trail of silver-blue light, which then reforms itself briefly into the shape of the royal crest. Then it dissipates quickly. "And they will know to, as Prince Aurad says, give you some space."

[Jeff's backup]

Lady Kovine:

"Condign...the Sentinel Marshals have already been informed of your arrival. If you wish it, I will relate your story to them, and free you up for some time.

"My thanks, my Lady Kovine. I would dearly like to start making progress toward thwarting Malov. Though, if I may ask, should you learn anything of the tieflings that have been crossing the border between our nations, I would appreciate learning of it."

[Darren]

Kal takes one of the rings and places it on his right hand where it provides a mirror to the Deneith signet ring on his left. "My lady," he says to the castellan, "when can we retrieve our weapons?"

Satisfied with the answer (I assume), Kalarian moves close to Lady Korvine. "I think we have much to speak about, my Lady, but for now it seems our party must be moving on. May I find you later?"

[Ken]

"Thank you, Castellan Adele," says Belarin, happily placing a ring on one of his fingers and watching it instantly resize to fit perfectly. "Marvelous."

As Kal talks about the need to move on, he nods agreeably.

[Joe]

Streko also graciously accepts the ring and places it on the second finger of his left hand. "Thank you for this gift and responsibility. We shall, of course, bear them with honor and use them only when necessary."

He steps away form his friends and approaches Lord Werris d'Jorasco. "My Lord, is there anything I may do for House Jorasco specifically regarding this situation. I would ask for your wisdom and insight into it if I can, as I do believe Malov is targeting our House, as well as Deneith, Orien, Lyrander and perhaps more."

[Jeff]

Kal:

"My lady," he says to the castellan, "when can we retrieve our weapons?"

"They will be ready for you at the door, when you are ready to leave Fairhold," Adele replies, then adds, "Which I presume is now?"

"I think we have much to speak about, my Lady, but for now it seems our party must be moving on. May I find you later?"

Lady Korvine nods. "We do indeed, and you can find me at the enclave. Amal will need to return with me now, but should you require more force of arms, come to the enclave. More Blademarks may be able to join you."

Streko:

"My Lord, is there anything I may do for House Jorasco specifically regarding this situation. I would ask for your wisdom and insight into it if I can, as I do believe Malov is targeting our House, as well as Deneith, Orien, Lyrander and perhaps more."

The older halfling sighs. "I remember this Malov fiend," he says, "And I remember the slander he inspired against our house. I will see to it that the Jorasco Citadel is properly warned of this returning threat. We will not be caught unawares." He meets the prince's eye. "Though, of course, I will not speak of the particulars of this meeting. Lord Streko, I have no wisdom to offer you other than a word of caution. If you have the time, stop by the Citadel, and I will see what I can arrange for the benefit of you and your companions."

[Josh]

"They will be ready for you at the door, when you are ready to leave Fairhold," Adele replies, then adds, "Which I presume is now?"

"Yes, let us move on. I know I could do with a bite to eat."

Grafth thanks their 'hosts' for the audience and support, and is ready to leave when the others have concluded their conversations.

[Darren]

"I will be sorry to see Amal go, but I do understand," Kal says to Lady Korvine. "I will find you later." He takes a step away and then stops, turning his head to her as he adds, "My thanks, my lady."

The Deneith heir continues his steps over to Amal. He grasps the man's forearm as one soldier to another. "You have my thanks, Blademark, and my support for as long as you need it. If ever I can be of assistance to you, please seek me out. Please pass my regards to Enan for me, as well. Your service will not be forgotten."

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Kal's ready to go whenever everyone else is.

[Joe]

Lord Werris

"If you have the time, stop by the Citadel, and I will see what I can arrange for the benefit of you and your companions."

"My Lord, I and my companions are grateful for your generosity."

Strko bows to the Jorasco heir and returns to his companions. When he arrives near to Kal, he is muttering to himself. "House Jorasco...generosity...something not right with that...perhaps I am getting paranoid in my old age."

He shrugs and looks up at Kal and Grafth. "Whenever you are ready my friends. To quote a famous Talenta Halfling...I cannot recall his name at the moment..."Once more into Kyber's maw!"

[Ken]

"'Khyber's maw'...!" says Belarin, feigning shock. "It's a marvelous day out, Streko! Let's be more positive!" He smiles and says, "Yes, I'm ready to leave as well."

[Jeff's backup]

Condign looks at the ring he placed on the first finger of his left hand, amazed that it would fit. After a quick survey making sure his gear is set, he looks up at the others.

"I, too, am ready to go."