Battle of Trelling

[Zanaikin]

Declassified:

(2:42:22 PM) Zanaikin: (Morning april21st: Ulrich walks into the meeting place as described in the sealed order from Anstrun, there's currently three people there. Two of them you recognize as Inquisitors of the paladin order)
(2:42:40 PM) Zanaikin: (the third was a crusader commander from one of the companies, you don't recall his name)
(2:43:17 PM) Squall2551337: "Hello gentlemen. How are you after the battles?"
(2:44:04 PM) Unable to send message: The message is too large.
(2:44:11 PM) Zanaikin: "well, you're amongst an early one today. Most of the people aren't even here yet. Regarding the battle, I must say I felt like we got called to Trelling for nothing....
(2:44:18 PM) Zanaikin: ...Although I guess we can be pleased of the lack of casualties involved."
(2:46:00 PM) Squall2551337: "Well, that's what we in the command squad were going for. No casualties means that the Archeronians will be pleased. If I'm that early, would anyone like something to drink while we wait?"
(2:46:14 PM) Zanaikin: (this is an abandoned building actually that just manages to match the description... the roof is partially burnt out by the fire storm raid)
(2:46:55 PM) Zanaikin: "Ah yes, by all means, I guess its a good method of relaxing ourselves a bit, although all the commanders called here would hardly need to eat or drink as per need of humans."
(2:47:58 PM) Zanaikin: Major Coric of the Misalin cavalry then arrives at the scene, followed by immediately be Major Rowen of the crusader and templar units
(2:49:07 PM) Zanaikin: both of them exchanged their greetings with the group, looking decidedly uncomfortable in the current situation.
(2:49:13 PM) Squall2551337: "Might as well make ourselves comfortable. I realise the lack of need, but I do so enjoy a good meal." with a flick of the wrist, Ulrich summons a bottle of wine, and a dozen small sandwiches.
(2:49:22 PM) Squall2551337: "would you like some?"
(2:49:56 PM) Zanaikin: "Surely." he said, helping himself to the wine.
(2:50:04 PM) Squall2551337: "I realize that we are here to discuss a somber topic, but why shouldn't we be comfortable?"
(2:50:35 PM) Zanaikin: "Well, it's more of a deal that we do not wish to attract more attention than neccessary."
(2:51:35 PM) Zanaikin: one of the other inquisitors looks around rather impatiently, then focuses on his hand for a few moments, all the signs of one using the commander ring to communicate
(2:53:00 PM) Zanaikin: it took another ten minutes for them to arrive, another church inquisitor, Major Osweald, and two more company Captains
(2:53:24 PM) Zanaikin: as the last of the ten walks in, one of the Inquisitors began to speak
(2:54:37 PM) Zanaikin: "It appears we have finally all gathered. I believe you are here because each of us, has received an order from Lord Anstrun that was only support to be opened post dusk of yesterday. I presume you've all read said order?"
(2:55:26 PM) Squall2551337: "aye. It is a terrible idea, what Lord Anstrun has said."
(2:56:17 PM) Zanaikin: there were several consents, and he simply continued. "It is a terrible circumstance we must face, and we must only be prepared for the worst results. Pray for the best, but the gods do not always grant us the ease of way..."
(2:57:27 PM) Unable to send message: The message is too large.
(2:57:34 PM) Zanaikin: ...this is a time of chaos for Penthiae, with the arrival of these, offworlders, extraplanars, whatever they wish to call themselves. To survive as a nation, Misalin has to be fully prepared for what will come...
(2:57:36 PM) Zanaikin: , and we ill afford to have own our strength undermined"
(2:58:47 PM) Squall2551337: "aye. However, I have fought with these two people, I have trusted them and they have trusted me with their lives. I just cannot see them rebelling against the church like this."
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(3:00:48 PM) Zanaikin: "I thought so, or maybe more of, hope so as well. Yet, we all had faith in the Silver knights who led us through this war and allowed the surival of Misalin. ..
(3:00:49 PM) Zanaikin: Yet the coup attempted by Kovis and Cary proves that even they are not infallible to corruption."
(3:01:32 PM) Zanaikin: he looks around "I trust you all have at least heard of those rumors by now? well I can tell you now, they are true."
(3:01:34 PM) Squall2551337: "What is this you speak of? I have heard nothing of Kovis or Cary."
(3:01:47 PM) Squall2551337: "What coup?"
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(3:04:01 PM) Zanaikin: "our former marshals, it appears, have decided they wish not for Anstrun, to become the leader of the church and theocracy. Despite the fact he is our senior remaining priest and thus is by charter, ...
(3:05:15 PM) Zanaikin: , must take up his responsibilities for the nation. Due to the circumstances around the Eyes of Misalin and infiltration of Norinth in our forces, the church declared an investigation of all officers.
(3:06:07 PM) Zanaikin: for which the two marshals failed to obliege by, and they took control of what troops who had thrown their loyalties behind the traitors and attempted to drive off those loyal to the church.
(3:07:03 PM) Zanaikin: we managed to maintain our hold on Winchester, but it is them who took the bastion of Blackbog and cost us a number of loyal forces."
(3:07:52 PM) Zanaikin: "we know not of their intentions, only of what they've done thus far. I cannot fathom if they truly wish to topple the church, but it is clear they have declared themselves an enemy of the state and church."
(3:07:59 PM) Squall2551337: "My word. This is... How could people with so much god given power rebel against the church of the very gods that gave them that power?"
(3:08:40 PM) Squall2551337: "And now Anstrum susspects this of Lady Grant, and Sir Derrovar?"
(3:09:22 PM) Zanaikin: "Possibly, the two were hand picked by our marshals, Lenneth included, to lead this campaign. So yes, we suspect they may extend loyalties to the traitors."
(3:10:53 PM) Zanaikin: "there's also a possibility Kovis and Cary may have hoodwinked our commanders here with deceits and lies, after all we are dealing with a warlock of inferno magics and an exile of Airindale who acts as she pleases."
(3:11:08 PM) Squall2551337: "while I find it hard to imagine, if Lord Anstrum has decided we should take percautions, I believe we should have some set up."
(3:12:29 PM) Zanaikin: "That is precisely what he wishes I believe, Lord Anstrun would not be so hasty to presume guilt of a loyal commander without evidence, and unless they prove themselves traitorous we will do naught."
(3:13:00 PM) Zanaikin: "However, what we SHOULD do is the question. How would we respond SHOULD they prove all our hopes false?"
(3:13:13 PM) Squall2551337: "Well, one thing that would be potentially dangerous, would be the mage Sir Jens. He seems to feel an attraction to Lady Gant, and if she is threatend, I believe he will take her side, no mater what Logic states."
(3:14:05 PM) Squall2551337: "So we will really have three enemys should they prove to be traitors. An adept martial, Lady Gant, and a high powered Mage.
(3:14:58 PM) Squall2551337: I do not have anything in my magical arsenal to take care of Sir Derrovar, nor do I think I can do much against Lady Gant.
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(3:15:10 PM) Zanaikin: Coric speaks "Yes, and I've seen first hand of the skill the command group has, for victory of many engagements has been claimed by them... I don't like this... I REALLY don't. and I don't see Derovarr as that sort of man...
(3:15:11 PM) Zanaikin: , although apparently, I've been wrong about others already."
(3:16:37 PM) Squall2551337: "Aye. I've actually sat and talked with him about his faith. He does believe, however, he has a unique view on our responsibility as humans to use the gifts of the gods."
(3:17:02 PM) Zanaikin: Rowen looks like she's holding back her fears of what will happen. "No, he won't betay us, and can't be such a person. He puts everything upon the nation, the people, he would gladly forfeit his life before betraying it all."
(3:18:34 PM) Unable to send message: The message is too large.
(3:18:41 PM) Zanaikin: the second Inquisitor stands up "Yes, that is what we all hope and believe, but we are here to plan for the contingency if they should. And, I must present something to you all...
(3:18:41 PM) Zanaikin: Brace your minds though, for it may shake your confidence a bit."
(3:18:43 PM) Squall2551337: "I feel the same way, unfortunately, Anstrun is the one who does not, and we are to follow his orders."
(3:20:11 PM) Zanaikin: "Anstrun is simply being careful I believe, if nothing happens this meeting will bring no harm, is something does then this meeting will only do us good."
(3:20:47 PM) Zanaikin: "It happens when you get to that age and seen far more and worse than most others... not that I can imagine much worse after norinth trampled through our homelands."
(3:21:56 PM) Squall2551337: "Aye, I see what you mean."
(3:22:26 PM) Zanaikin: the inqusitor continues: "I can across those two yesterday, they were being rather... suspicious, so I followed them a bit. I managed to record this though, only a portion of their conversation."
(3:23:03 PM) Zanaikin: he pulls out an illusory projector, there was no image... only voices
(3:23:07 PM) Zanaikin: Derovarr: "The only ones I'm really concerned with the are the Sacrosancts that arrived with Ulrich."
(3:23:16 PM) Zanaikin: Derovarr: "Of whom, I have no doubt have been working to counter my efforts."
(3:23:26 PM) Zanaikin: Kati: "Most likely they have been. How much do you think we have to worry about Ulrich himself?"
(3:23:45 PM) Zanaikin: Kati: "But he may have sealed orders and doesnt know what they contain."
(3:24:05 PM) Zanaikin: Derovarr: "This is true. At which point it will become a test of loyalty. For us, it is much easier. To a degree anyway."
(3:24:16 PM) Zanaikin: Kati "Hopefully it will not degress to actual combat"
(3:24:37 PM) Zanaikin: Kati: "Ulrich's defenses are formbidable, but not impenetrable. However, if he gets the majority of the troops on his side, we are in for some trouble."
(3:24:58 PM) Zanaikin: he then closes it... "that was all I managed to get in"
(3:25:25 PM) Zanaikin: "I can only presume details from such piecewise information, but it is clear that they are planning to antagonize us"
(3:25:31 PM) Squall2551337: *shocked silience*
(3:25:52 PM) judson256 entered the room.
(3:26:16 PM) Zanaikin: most of the other officers around the room also look utterly shocked
(3:27:11 PM) Squall2551337: "I'm... they actually compared their strength to my defenses... could they... actually be planing something... after all we've been through..."
(3:28:11 PM) Zanaikin: he looks up: "sadly, it would point in that direction. I would hardly consider this evidence of anything, too much speculation involved."
(3:28:29 PM) Zanaikin: "but I do suggest that, maybe our formidable commanders are not as true as they lead me to believe."
(3:29:21 PM) Squall2551337: "I wonder what 'plans' they are making... and how could the gods bless Lady Gant with such a gift of flight, if she were truly up to something evil?"
(3:30:19 PM) Zanaikin: "I do not know, but I do know that with this, it is absolutely neccessary that we plan should the worst happen."
Zanaikin (3:36:30 PM): Coric speaks after the shock on his face slowly disipates. "You are right, but frankly I do not believe the tattered remains of my squad would even be any match for them should something happen."
Squall2551337 (3:36:48 PM): "aye. well, if it's to be like this, I think we should first plan on subduing Jens and Kati first.
Squall2551337 (3:37:37 PM): "without mage support, Derrovar will be much less of a threat, and more suceptable to reason."
Zanaikin (3:37:53 PM): "I received a message from HQ this morning. The dispatch with orders for return to Misalin will arrive this afternoon by 1pm, just over three hours from now."
Squall2551337 (3:38:42 PM): "that means we don't have much time."
Zanaikin (3:39:23 PM): Rowen looks at you, "what are you proposing? that we take actions now before we even confirm their intentions?"
Squall2551337 (3:39:48 PM): "no, merely that any contingency that we plan must be simple
Zanaikin (3:42:10 PM): inquisitor: "well raymond here" he gestures towards the third inquistor "has been trained as a Justicar and has extensive experience as one. If he can get close to the mage, he can subdue the other will little difficulty."
Zanaikin (3:42:30 PM): "kati and derovarr however, are another matter."
Squall2551337 (3:43:02 PM): "Aye. Kati has a multitude of contingencies, however, I doubt she walks around fully buffed"
Zanaikin (3:43:56 PM): inquisitor "Hopefully that will be one advantage we have over them. The dispatch will not be something they expect."
Squall2551337 (3:44:28 PM): aye
Zanaikin (3:47:01 PM): Coric "worst comes to worst, we could always swarm the remaining two. Our clerics will be able to provide the backup support they do not share."
Zanaikin (3:47:41 PM): he looks towards Rowen, and at the moment Major Rowen really does not look like she's accepting reality very well
Squall2551337 (3:48:40 PM): "Aye, I was most of their healing during battle, although Kati can keep the two of them going for a while. I have plenty of healing as well. if we can have the crudsaders and soldiers ready to teleport in should things go bad, that would work"
Zanaikin (3:49:14 PM): Coric: "I'd suggest we handle the dispatch in the teleportation area and call Kati & derovar there. Try to leave Jens out of it if possible."
Zanaikin (3:49:43 PM): "there is more room to maneuver our forces in and our, and we could press more strength against them."
Squall2551337 (3:49:49 PM): "I'd advise against that. Kati has teleport spells, and could easily escape."
Zanaikin (3:51:03 PM): Coric: "but I believe our goal is to keep them from trying to turn traitor with forces? Then it doesn't matter if they escape, for their plots would be revealed to the troops."
(9:10:41 PM) Squall2551337: "well, if that is the case, then the teleport area would be acceptable."
(9:11:56 PM) Zanaikin: Inquisitor: "Taking them down would be the better option, but yes our highest priority is to separate them from their command should the case turn for worse."
(9:12:38 PM) Zanaikin: "thus it would still accomplish our goal should they get away."
(9:14:13 PM) Squall2551337: "So you Sir (indicating the inquisitor #3) will ensure that Jens is not a problem, should they rebel. now we need to form a way to manage Lady Gant. I feel that managing her will be the toughest thing, again, should they rebel."
(9:15:22 PM) Zanaikin: Inquisitor3: "I will try in any case, although our best solution would be to keep him out of it altogether."
(9:16:16 PM) Squall2551337: "True. although in my best solution, they aren't traitors at all."
(9:16:38 PM) Squall2551337: "Remember, they must not see any of you who are not scheduled to return with us."
(9:17:45 PM) Zanaikin: Inquisitor1: "Definitely, we will simply position our men in the area surrounding the teleportation area. Not a difficult task since its built to defend inwards, battlements up against the area itself."
(9:18:57 PM) Zanaikin: "Major Aelle, if you will, select amongst your men to position upon those battlements for fire support, try to keep it casual so the Archeronians don't make a fuss about it."
(9:19:30 PM) Zanaikin: Aelle thought for a moment: "got it."
(9:20:27 PM) Squall2551337: "any chance we could have some men out clearing the field or something, but ready to port back to the teleportation center at a moments notice?"
(9:22:01 PM) Zanaikin: Rowen looks up "My squad could do that, and I'll coordinate some extra mages along."
(9:22:43 PM) Zanaikin: she looks at one of the warmage company commander, who gave a nod of confirmation
(9:23:23 PM) Squall2551337: "Ok. now, we must come up with a signal for determining when, excuse me, IF things go as bad as Anstrun fears."
(9:24:39 PM) Zanaikin: Inquisitor1: "That's easy, telepathic bond, I should be able to link up all our commanders thru the command rings, and use a holy storm glyphic grenade for signaling the troops."
(9:27:59 PM) Squall2551337: "Alright. I'll give the signal. I'm going to be down there anyway and will be close enough to see how they are taking it. Remember, they trust me... or at least... they trust me enough."
(9:28:28 PM) Squall2551337: "and remember, NOBODY does anything out of the ordinary untill I give the order. Remember, they don't want bloodshed either."
(9:28:44 PM) Zanaikin: Coric: "And I can keep my Pegasi squad on the roofs of a block away, they'll easily get there within one round. We'll also have Rowen's squad teleporting in."
(9:29:27 PM) Zanaikin: "we can also get two or three squads of crusaders on the ground as main force?" Coric looks at Rowen, who nods.
(9:29:44 PM) Squall2551337: "Actually, Coric, could you possibly be doing arial combat practice? That would probably be less out of the ordinary."
(9:30:35 PM) Zanaikin: "Aerial combat practice over the teleportation area would seem kind of suspicious I believe, and we can stay out of sight just a block away."
(9:30:46 PM) Squall2551337: "I'm not sure I want that many soldiers on duty. We just won remember, Security doesn't need to be tightened."
(9:33:06 PM) Zanaikin: Inquisitor1: "I'd hardly call what... six squads? as tightening security heavily. And even with this much it may not be enough."
(9:35:29 PM) Squall2551337: "To take them down? No, maybe not. to throw them into extreeme caution, most definately. As one of you suggested, they may have been fed lies from Cary and Kovis."
(9:36:34 PM) Zanaikin: Inquisitor: "which is only more reason to subdue them. If they runs away instead we'd have no way to clear up everything and they'll only join those traitors and their lies."
(9:37:32 PM) Zanaikin: "We do need them to be unsuspecting before actually engaging, but that's why all of our troops will be hidden."
(9:38:31 PM) Squall2551337: "I'm sorry, you're right. I'm just not used to having to hide our troops from our own men. I don't like all this negative speculation."
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(9:40:14 PM) Zanaikin: Inquisitor3: "This is actually common in my former career of work, sometimes to stamp out corruption we have to prepare an ambush and ultimatum for our own... "
(9:40:16 PM) Zanaikin: sadly, but even without the nine hells people still fall to temptations often enough."
(9:40:26 PM) Zanaikin:
Inquisitor: "Well then Ulrich, I'll leave the signal up to you.", he takes a holy storm grenade from his pocket and gives it to you, "but I'll keep and extra one just in case."
(9:44:36 PM) Squall2551337: "Aye. well, I think we have a plan then. go for Kati first, then Derrovar. AFTER i give the signal. Alright, go get your men into position and hidden. I don't want to know they're there."
(9:45:50 PM) Zanaikin: confirmations resounded across the room. and the lead inquisitor speaks again "Well then, I guess it'd be good for us to start preparations. Dispatch is only... two some hours away."
(9:46:03 PM) Zanaikin: "I'll need to go talk to the Archeron troops to try get them out of the way for a bit."
(9:46:28 PM) Zanaikin: and one by one the various commanders begin leaving

[Zanaikin]

(10:00:40 PM) Zanaikin: (It's 12:15pm noon in April21st, Derovarr is still drilling the troops, despite their victory just yesterday.)
(10:01:01 PM) Zanaikin: (he notices Rowen walking towards him from the far corner of the place, looking quite troubled)
(10:01:17 PM) theonecag: "Very good lads! Now, push back against the other team with all your might!" He called out, as the red team smashed into the blue teams defensive line.
(10:01:56 PM) theonecag: "Ah, Rowen. Come to see our champions do justly battle practice?" he said in greeting.
(10:02:49 PM) Zanaikin: Rowen comes up: "heys, no not quite. I just had to get through a few other... unpleasantries. But don't need to face that for near hour again at least."
(10:03:22 PM) theonecag: "What's wrong?" he asked, turning to her with a face of concern.
(10:04:31 PM) theonecag: "Come on Blue Team! Push Godsdammit!"
(10:04:39 PM) Zanaikin: "eh, nothing too much I suppose. Although, I do need to talk to you..." she looks hesitant. "We're done here in Trelling, most likely be called elsewhere, likely back to Misalin soon. Where you suppose we'll end up next?"
(10:06:06 PM) theonecag: "I wouldn't have any idea of what to tell you in front of all these people." he replied.
(10:06:49 PM) theonecag: "Alright men, that's enough for now. Take ten!" he called out to the soldiers.
(10:06:50 PM) Zanaikin: "Should we take this somewhere else?" she said
(10:07:14 PM) theonecag: "We should." he replied.
(10:07:31 PM) Zanaikin: you hear a few snickers from the troops as they put down their weapons, "what's wrong commander? girl to pick you up?"
(10:08:26 PM) Zanaikin: Rowen: "well the, back to my place I suppose, it's definitely closest from here."
(10:08:33 PM) theonecag: "Not of your concern soldier! Now, I suggest you look to your own problems, lest you wish to run laps for the next ten minutes." he said, half-jokingly.
(10:09:10 PM) theonecag: "Koranna! If we're not back in ten minutes, you're in charge."
(10:09:36 PM) Zanaikin: "aye!" replied Koranna
(10:09:53 PM) theonecag: "Shall we?"
(10:10:00 PM) Zanaikin: Rowen didn't seem very amused by it all, still looking troubled, and simply led the way... until you two were back in her office/place near the Misalin church alter
(10:10:17 PM) theonecag: "Now, what is the problem?"
(10:10:32 PM) Zanaikin: "It's just... I have a really bad feeling of what's going to happen."
(10:10:44 PM) theonecag: "Don't we all."
(10:11:29 PM) Zanaikin: "I'm not entirely sure what it is, but... something, is up. And I just wanted to ask you what you think we're heading into? the next step, whatever it is."
(10:11:46 PM) Zanaikin: (derovarr was pretty sure Rowen was being untruthful, at least, about that last comment)
(10:12:13 PM) theonecag: "Rowen. You know something."
(10:13:05 PM) Zanaikin: "No, nothing, although I certainly wish I did." (that was such a balant lie)
(10:13:29 PM) theonecag: "Rowen." Derovarr said, looking at her sternly.
(10:13:59 PM) Zanaikin: she stares back at you for a minute, eyes full of hesitation, then looks away at the ground
(10:14:14 PM) theonecag: "Rowen. What's going on?"
(10:14:36 PM) theonecag: "Please don't make me pull rank."
(10:15:19 PM) Zanaikin: "I told you... I don't know..."
(10:16:20 PM) theonecag: "Rowen, we're all suffering from battle fatigue here. That, compounded with the fact that we know I'm abnormally good at reading people... I can read you like a book."
(10:16:38 PM) theonecag: "You know something you're not telling me."
(10:17:34 PM) Zanaikin: she continues to be silent for a while. "no... well yes, you're simply not meant to know." she stares back up at you
(10:18:00 PM) theonecag: "We're not meant to know a lot of things Rowen."
(10:18:41 PM) theonecag: "But we're not leaving this room until you tell me whats going on."
(10:18:49 PM) Zanaikin: "I have my orders, and they involve you not knowing, so ... I really can't tell you... but please, at least answer my question."
(10:19:29 PM) theonecag: "You're supposed to arrest me and Lady Gant. Aren't you?"
(10:20:38 PM) Zanaikin: "no, I don't have anything like that" (she's not being entirely truthful)
(10:21:32 PM) theonecag: Derovarr let out along sigh, and closed his eyes. When they reopened, they were pure holy white.
(10:21:38 PM) theonecag: "Stop lying to me."
(10:21:56 PM) theonecag: "And tell me what's going on."
(10:22:35 PM) Zanaikin: "I... can't, I told you, I'm not allowed to inform you of it."
(10:23:08 PM) theonecag: Derovarr shook his head.
(10:23:36 PM) theonecag: "If you're not going to be honest with me, then I'll not feel inclined to tell you anything likewise."
(10:24:59 PM) theonecag: "Furthermore."
(10:25:37 PM) Zanaikin: "you are... just like there's something hidden in planning between you and kati that you're obviously not being honest to me with?" she seems slightly angry
(10:26:03 PM) Zanaikin: "or for that matter, any of the other commanders that surround you and puts their faith in you?"
(10:26:54 PM) theonecag: "In order for me to place trust in someone, I have to feel that they'll be there to stand back-to-back with me in a time of need."
(10:27:22 PM) Zanaikin: "are you saying that Ulrich didn't do that through his efforts in the command squad?"
(10:28:27 PM) theonecag: "That's a rather complicated issue Rowen."
(10:28:42 PM) theonecag: "I could certainly tell you quite a few things about it."
(10:28:45 PM) Zanaikin: "I'll be frank with you, I heard from one of the inquisitors, apparently they evesdropped on you and kati yesterday, that you were planning to antagonize Ulrich and eliminate him if need be. What's this all about?"
(10:28:48 PM) theonecag: "But."
(10:29:03 PM) Zanaikin: (you think she's still hiding a lot in that commeent)
(10:29:13 PM) theonecag: "Rowen."
(10:29:26 PM) theonecag: "I'll square with you."
(10:29:40 PM) theonecag: "I'll tell you whatever you want to know."
(10:29:58 PM) theonecag: "But, first, you need to be completely honest with me."
(10:30:10 PM) theonecag: "What else did that inquisitor say."
(10:31:02 PM) Zanaikin: "he believes there's a chance you were hoodwinked by Kovis and Cary's doctrines or something, that you may turn traitor like they did."
(10:31:31 PM) theonecag: "Well, define traitor."
(10:32:09 PM) theonecag: "I took an oath to defend the state."
(10:32:20 PM) theonecag: "To this end, I have been unwavering."
(10:32:49 PM) theonecag: "Nor, am I carried by any one person's doctrines."
(10:32:58 PM) Zanaikin: "and you would not turn against the state? even if others claim that the state in question is of the wrong methods?"
(10:33:24 PM) Zanaikin: "claiming that the state is corrupted and needs reformation by means of destablizing order?"
(10:33:48 PM) theonecag: "I believe the state has become corrupted."
(10:34:20 PM) theonecag: "I would hope there is a peaceful means with which we could remove this corruption."
(10:34:53 PM) theonecag: "You're beating around the question, Rowen, what do you want to know?"
(10:34:59 PM) Zanaikin: "what kind of means would you find acceptable?"
(10:35:39 PM) theonecag: "You're asking if I've gone anarchic?"
(10:36:07 PM) theonecag: "I've not."
(10:36:11 PM) theonecag: "However."
(10:36:51 PM) theonecag: "I do believe that there come times when we must look at ourselves as leaders and guardians of the state, and make sure that we are doing what is best for all of the people."
(10:36:57 PM) theonecag: "Not just one faction."
(10:37:34 PM) theonecag: "I swore a oath to uphold the ideals of freedom and protection for all the people of Misalin."
(10:37:40 PM) theonecag: "Not, one man's will."
(10:38:00 PM) Zanaikin: "Yet you believe the state as it is, has become an authoritarian dictatorship?"
(10:38:21 PM) theonecag: "I think is has become a theocratic dictatorship."
(10:38:45 PM) Zanaikin: "why?"
(10:39:31 PM) theonecag: "Because our high priest seems to think that he's on some divine quest to rid the world of all things non-holy."
(10:40:14 PM) Zanaikin: "I do not think our aging high priest is someone so naive who believe the could accomplish that with definite ease."
(10:40:23 PM) theonecag: "Really?"
(10:40:42 PM) theonecag: "Are you familiar with the proclaimer ideals?"
(10:40:47 PM) Zanaikin: "he may be trying his best to at least attempt to make the world better, but not that way."
(10:41:10 PM) Zanaikin: "yes, increased involvement in other countries, preaching the words of god to the people, what's wrong with that?"
(10:41:23 PM) theonecag: "Not everyone want's our Gods."
(10:41:34 PM) Zanaikin: "the Church has been doing that for centuries, spreading faith across Penthiae as much as they may while helping others."
(10:42:19 PM) theonecag: "Do you really think that if we had succeeded in taking Archeron and the other countries all those years ago that things would have really gone so well?"
(10:43:02 PM) Zanaikin: "We aren't forcing them to worship our gods, we merely seek to set an example, and show a path to those who seeks guidance and has none other to turn to. And we aren't tring to 'take' Archeron."
(10:43:24 PM) theonecag: "Rowen. Wake up!"
(10:43:26 PM) Zanaikin: "the church runs many branches in Archeron, and before the war Evangelists were often dispatched here for missionary work."
(10:43:51 PM) theonecag: "These people accept our help, but they do want our religion."
(10:44:14 PM) theonecag: "Why should aid and churchly services have to walk hand in hand?"
(10:44:24 PM) theonecag: ((EDIT: do not want))
(10:46:08 PM) Unable to send message: The message is too large.
(10:46:17 PM) Zanaikin: "and help is what we offer, but we are clerics and religion is simply something we bring alone. We don't force it upon them, we merely present it...
(10:46:19 PM) Zanaikin: I know about this well, my father once did four years of missionary work in Archeron."
(10:46:48 PM) theonecag: "This isn't going anywhere."
(10:47:03 PM) Zanaikin: "indeed, we are getting far too off topic"
(10:47:44 PM) theonecag: "Since you were honest with me, I'll be honest with you."
(10:47:52 PM) Zanaikin: she calms back down (rather than getting hyped up as if you insulted her career or something on the likes)
(10:48:39 PM) theonecag: "No, we are not planning a coup on Ulrich."
(10:48:54 PM) theonecag: "However."
(10:49:20 PM) theonecag: "If some-one tries to stage one on us, you can be well assured, that we won't be giving in."
(10:50:00 PM) theonecag: "That one shouldn't surprise you."
(10:50:02 PM) Zanaikin: "I don't think anyone would attempt that lest you or kati starts something."
(10:50:48 PM) Zanaikin: (you think that's truth from her, although she is still hiding something.)
(10:51:34 PM) Zanaikin: (although, she seems to really mean it when saying 'lest you or kati starts something', and some dislike of kati is in order within that comment)
(10:52:17 PM) theonecag: "What else would you like to know?"
(10:54:12 PM) Zanaikin: "I believe, that'll all. Just be sure, not to play into someone elses' hands, and end up down a path of no return."
(10:54:42 PM) theonecag: "Wonderful. I have been honest with you. Now, you must be honest with me."
(10:54:54 PM) theonecag: Derovarr said, staring at her.
(10:56:47 PM) Zanaikin: "I've told you..." she goes silent for a while, as if trying to decide. "There'll be a dispatch from Misalin coming soon, they'll be recalling us back, or so the inquisitor... what was his name again... says."
(10:57:15 PM) theonecag: "Anything else?"
(10:57:21 PM) Zanaikin: "he's afraid you may try to go rogue and take the forces into Kovis and Cary's hands instead."
(10:58:09 PM) theonecag: "What about us?"
(10:58:18 PM) Zanaikin: "what you mean?"
(10:58:31 PM) theonecag: "Me and Kati, what did he say about us?
(10:58:39 PM) Zanaikin: (and you're sure that wasn't it all, but she seems quite finalized)
(10:58:54 PM) theonecag: "Aside from that."
(10:59:14 PM) theonecag: "There's something more Rowen. I can feel it."
(11:00:27 PM) Zanaikin: "nothing much else, just that he needs to keep an eye on you, and trying to confirm if I would follow you if you join their revolt."
(11:00:35 PM) Zanaikin: (definitely a lie)
(11:00:52 PM) theonecag: "Rowen, we've been over this before."
(11:01:05 PM) theonecag: "I can tell when you're lying to me."
(11:01:23 PM) Zanaikin: "well then, I must inform you, that your senses took you too far."
(11:01:46 PM) theonecag: "They always have, Rowen, that's why I'm still alive."
(11:02:08 PM) theonecag: "You're not telling me something."
(11:02:21 PM) theonecag: "It's probably the most important thing."
(11:02:22 PM) Zanaikin: "or that all this talk of allegiances and wavering loyalties is causing you some paranoia like others."
(11:02:53 PM) theonecag: "Don't jump subjects, Rowen, it won't work with me."
(11:04:01 PM) Zanaikin: "and I told you that you're wrong." (she seems determined to allow nothing but that to come to conclusion)
(11:05:09 PM) theonecag: "See, and here I thought I could trust you Rowen." he said, moving towards the door.
(11:05:42 PM) Zanaikin: then her eyes loses focus for a mere second, as the sign of communicating via command ring, "I'll need to cut this short and leave now, my captains are requesting my attention on something."
(11:06:51 PM) Zanaikin: she seems quite saddened by it all, and growing more uncomfortable by the minute, but determined to leave it there... as they walk out the door
(11:07:06 PM) theonecag: "Thank you for your contribution, commander, I'll be sure to pass it on to my superiors." he said, half-jokingly, as he walked off.
(11:08:20 PM) Zanaikin: just after you turn you back, you could hear the clanking of armor running in the other direction, and a barely noticeable sniff as if someone crying
(11:08:44 PM) theonecag: Derovarr stops dead in his tracks.
(11:09:08 PM) theonecag: As feelings of sadness an guilt begin to creep up inside of him.
(11:09:26 PM) Zanaikin: and she seems to have vanished immediately afterwards around a corner
(11:10:06 PM) theonecag: But, soon enough, he shrugs them off, as he has done all of his life.
(11:10:27 PM) theonecag: And continued back to the training yards.

[Zanaikin]

around 1pm... Derovarr & Kati receive call via command ring, coming from Coric. (one message after the other)

"Sir, we have a dispatch here from Capital City to pass our next order. They demand your presence in the teleportation area."

when you get to the teleportation point, you see it the same way it always is, but somehow you get the hunch that something is not normal at all. There's definitely more Misalin soldiers around here than usual, most of them just talking to the Archeron sentries still on duty. Flag-Captain Coric and Cardinal Ulrich was talking with three paladins you've not seen before, who were likely the dispatch. Two were Battle-Captains, and the third a Flag-Captain who was also an Inquisitor.

After both Derovarr and Kati arrives, the leader of the dispatch begins. Derovarr notices that the two Battle-Captains behind him, and Coric as well, seems to be taking a rather tense stance.

"Well we now have Escort Marshal Kati Gant and High-Captain Derovarr d'Rothwyn here at last, and thus not to delay any longer. I am here to bring personal orders from Anstrun. He wish to commend the Misalin commanders of the Trelling campaign for a job well done. However, unfortunately there are other immediate matters that must be attended to and therefore we cannot offer the troops an extended break here in Archeron. Misalin forces in Trelling are to begin preparing to depart immediately, as Bishop Kenthik will arrive at dusk to begin teleporting the troops back to Winchester."

"The Archpriest and high command would also wish to brief you regarding your next assignment as soon as possible. They expect you in Capital City within the hour, so please ready yourselves to leave immediately. We will inform your subordinate commanders of their individual orders, and you materials aboard the Sky Galleon Retribution will await you in Winchester by the time of your meeting's finish."

they all stare at you two, expecting a reply.

[Mr_Praetorian]

"I'm afraid I can't do that." Derovarr replied, rather frankly. "If I did, I fear it would make me a traitor, to my people."

[Zanaikin]

no ones too surprised or shocked, apparently. Well, maybe Ulrich somewhat.

the dispatcher repeats himself with a steely tone: "Sir, I must insist you return per orders to Capital City. Our commanders do not have the time to be kept waiting for exceptionally long. And I believe, the Capital City Guard would also like to see you for questioning, about breaking and entering within the Capital during last night."

that DID bring some obvious surprise from Coric and Ulrich.

you notice the two Battle-Captains grasp their hands around their swords' hilt tighter, and that every eye across the battlements of the teleportation area was watching down. There's something hostile about those stares... and the arms of about two dozen Misalin skirmishers seems to be drawing weapons behind the covers of the battlements.

Kati was sure they could have heard the faint clanking of a squad worth of armor, somewhere right around the battlement corner behind them.

[Mr_Praetorian]

"It's good they briefed you, but no matter how sharply you gaze at me, nor how tightly you grip those weapons, will you make me abandon my post. We're not stupid gentlemen, we know what's going to happen when we step into that portal." Replied Derovarr in a surprisingly mild tone.

"To those of you who look upon us now, ask yourselves this. Would traitors have fought so hard for this city? Would we have committted ourselves to such a just cause so devoutly and adamantly? Why would we have strived so hard and for so long if we were not but skaven betrayers. Search our and read our minds, for you shall find naught but devotion and loyalty to our country and to our people.

I swore an oath gentlemen, to defend and keep my people and my nation from forces that would see us hurled unto oblivion. I swore to uphold the ideals of my church and my state. I swore fight for the sake of upholding the creeds and laws that our forefathers set down in inscription all those years ago.

As a member of the paladin order, my duty is to follow my commanders to order, to the end that the proud and sacred state of Misalin would remain standing at the end of the day. From what I have gathered, it is expected that I will follow these orders unwaveringly and without question. That I will do my duty without questioning what that 'duty' is.

But, gentlemen, alas, I cannot devote myself to such an ideal. For you see, comrades, we must remain vigilant not only to threats from outside, but also from within. We must question what we are told to do. For if we are to follow orders without question, then we are no better than the generals of the tyrant kings in the histories. Who committed horrid and unnecessary atrocities because they simply lacked the will to question the validity of it all.

It is for that reason that I will not stand down.

And, my dear inquisitor, you can scan my speech all you will find neither heresy nor lies within it."

[Zanaikin]

The three dispatchers did not change their stances, although Coric seems to ponder something in deep though, although keeping an ever vigilant eye.

It is for that reason that I will not stand down....

at that moment, an burst of light seems to have erupted from Kati's backward facing palm, straight into to the corner of the battlements behind her, and exploded in searing light (literally, spell: Explosive Radiant Assault). Yells and the clatter of steel hitting stone hard could be heard from that direction. The noise drowning out Derovarr's last sentence.

Coric and Ulrich's eyes were as big as saucers as they watched in shock, staring at the explosion of the spell. They were clearly not expecting it to come to that. Most of the troops around the wall were also watching the explosion with mouths open, then a few skirmishers quickly pulled their bows up from behind cover and took aim...

The two Battle-Captains immediately drew their weapons...

A glyphic grenade hurled itself into the middle of the group from the northwest, its magic discharged and holy water began falling from the skies. More clanking could be heard behind you as another squad of Crusaders turns from their hidden positions behind the cover of the battlements. You could clearly hear from behind someone shouting "Take them!", Derovarr finds this voice oddly familiar, then he see it coming from the same Inquisitor who tried to scan his thoughts in the bar.

The Flag-Captain grits his teeth "You sir ... are under arrest ... for high treason!"

(Derovarr notices that Kati seems to be as shocked by what had just happened as everyone else, and she's not faking it)
(after the shock wears off, Kati manages to realize what just happened, she had just been played by a Deceptive Spell)
(Ulrich is wondering how Kati could have just cast that spell when something hit him... wars have began in the past by spies using Deceptive Spells to cause misunderstandings. By Kati's shock, this seems to be another case of it)

[Mr_Praetorian]

Derovarr watched in horror at Kati launched the blast of searing light. He might have gone completely mad if it had not been for the look of utter shock on Kati's face. Someone such as her would never do such a thing to her own soldiers. Something was amiss. Until he could figure out what exactly had happened, he resolved to taking a defensive stance, and acting to defelct any incoming blows.

"Gods have mercy on all of us." he said, as the soldiers moved in.
((CE at full, Full Defense, stances active, 20 initiatve))

[Sajuuk]

Shaking off the shock the the deceptive spell, Kati reaches inside her cloak and draws Kara, resizing it to its full size and dropping into a defensive stance. "Can you truly serve a leader that removes competent leaders to serve his own goals?"

((CE full, Activating Martial Spirit stance. Initiative 26))

[Squall255]

*Taking up a defensive stance* "Takes out? Lord Anstrun hasn't taken anyone out of office! Cary and Kovis ran from a standard investigation after learning of what happened to the Eyes of Missalin. It was to check for what had happend to Kilar! Why are you so desperately trying to escape from the church?!?!"

*at full volume* "HOLD IT! THAT WASN'T KATI!!! EVERYONE STOP!!! THERE IS FOUL MAGIC ABOUT! NO ONE ATTACKS!" *at a shout* "Let us talk! I have fought with you, and know that you do not want bloodshed."

over Telepathic bond "NO! That was a DECEPTIVE SPELL!!! Kati had no control of it whatsoever! Give me a minute!"

[Zanaikin]

Coric was in the middle of raising his right hand, his left hand already contained a golden glowing shortsword made of what looked like force. He looks between the dispatcher captains, Ulrich, and the other two, utterly bewildered.

The lead Inquisitor shouts over Ulrich's telepathic line "They're faking it to buy time! Arrest them!!! We can question them afterwards! They're probably trying to load up another silent-still casting!"

At the same time, every other officer linked to the link was shouting over it in confusion. Including the Captain who was hit by the radiant assault who was yelling the loudest "FKING THAT BURNS! TAKE THAT TRAITOR DOWN!"

A third inquisitor was walking along the NW battlements, shouting to the skirmishers who were split between taking aim and pulling back their bows. "They're trying to buy time to escape! Shoot their legs under!"

You notice the wings of 3 pegasi cavaliers over the roofs on the east side, flying in your direction.

[Squall255]

"HOLD IT!!!! DECEPTIVE SPELL!!! THERE IS A TRAITOR BUT IT ISN'T THEM!!!!!!! HOLD YOUR ATTACKS!!! HHHHOOOOOOOOOLLLLLLLLLDDDDDDDD!!!!!" *Abandons Defensive stance and puts arms out and away walking to the middle of the space between Kati/Derrovar and the others. Osmund did his best to amplify Ulrich's voice, which was also broadcasting at full volume over the telepathic bond.*
initiative 23.

[Zanaikin]

battle starts...

battle stats updated (I need DAILY buffs from kati)

up next: Marty[consider your swift & speech already used up, still need move&standard], (Squall just went), Drew



"HOLD IT!!!! DECEPTIVE ... Ulrich notices suddenly that all noise outside his telepathic bond was drowned out. (Derovarr & Kati both notices the same thing, as if they just went deaf)

[Mr_Praetorian]

Derovarr watched as as Ulrich's voice cut out, and swore aloud for naught.
Message to Shift Via Command Ring: "Commanders under attack. Power up immediately and move to area around teleportation keep. Do not. Repeat. Do not open fire unless ordered! Over."
((No status changes))

[Squall255]

*Silent Prayer* "Pelor PLEASE let this work!"

AP burn for sudden silent
AP burn for reroll
Area of Effect Greater Dispel Magic: .


DM EDIT:
Does not kill the Silence effect...
Does kill the Holy Storm effect...
and possibly a few others...