---

“Magic was discovered right before the fall of the Kolodon Empire, three and a half centuries ago. Or, that is what history tells us. According to Shirik’s claims, they were Awakened to Heat magic during Kolodon’s conquest of the Myriad, a thousand years before that. In any case, magic was not known widely to the world until a few centuries ago.” Kareet answered Itxaro.

What Itxaro said conjured up ideas that Kareet had never considered before. She was certainly aware of the power of lightning, but to her experience, it was always something that was fleeting. Sure, she could hold lightning for a time, but that was something that required persistent concentration and effort. To do so passively was a new idea to her, and based on how Itxaro described these inventions of her society, electricity had capabilities she would not have imagined.

Kareet would have had another dozen or so questions for Itxaro, not the least of which being why her notebook would have been any more flammable here than anywhere else, but the Human’s attention was soon pulled towards this demonstration Nellara was giving to Vigdis. Kareet had been half paying attention to what they had been doing nearby, so she gathered that they wanted to judge the power of Nellara’s lightning. Kareet had not known their exact motivations at first, but after listening to Itxaro, she felt she was starting to get a good idea. If she was right, this could be useful.

“We can make stronger lightning than that.” Kareet chimed in. “If we really want to give them a show, Castigator, then we should coordinate our casting. I am guessing you are trained in coordinated casting, yes? Everyone will just need to back away to a safe distance.”

Out of the corner of a couple of her eyes, Kareet could see Silbermine and some of his entourage on approach. In truth, Kareet did not care if he spoke to the Humans or not, as long as his intrusions did not disturb her business.

”Yes captain, it’s the druid.” Vigdis confirmed to Zey when she mentioned shapeshifting, glad the translator wasn’t líinked to incoming comms. ”He says he wants to talk to him, I’m assuming he means theoretical knowledge, though if Dr. Feng or his staff wouldn’t object, I’m sure he’d love to observe a medical procedure or two.” She looked to Kerchak for confirmation or corrections.

Once that was handled, unless Zey had more to say, Vigdis turned back to Nellara. ”I will happily explain the detailed function and provide the math useful for development once my conditions for discussing such topics I’ve outlined four days ago are met.” Vigdis replied politely when Nellara asked about batteries, ”But in general, a chemical reaction is used to create electric potential difference between two points, called ‘cathode’ and ‘anode’. We induce the oxidation of the anode and reduction of the cathode to cause the flow of electric current. Our most advanced batteries are so called ‘Lithium-Air’ batt-” Vigdis stopped mid-word when she realized the translator said ‘lithium’ in English. ”And either we missed a word, or you haven’t discovered that metal yet. Lithium?“ She tried again in case the translator simply suffered a brief hiccup, ”I knew we would run into this problem, but I didn’t expect it to happen this fast. The metal with an atomic number- I don’t suppose you’re familiar with atoms and their structure, so that’s not going to work either, explaining ‘electrons’ is going to be interesting too and you have no idea about redox reactions.” In hindsight, Vigdis wouldn’t be surprised if the translator translated ‘oxidation’ as ‘corrosion’ either. She’ll have to ask Dr. Lambert if the electron microscope survived the crash and the captain to get permission to run it for a few minutes, getting the locals to understand that everything was made up of tiny particles would be a lot easier if they could show them the particles. ”Explaining this alone will require a few hours of chemistry lessons.” She summed up her ramblings.

”Hello mr. Barberio.” She greeted the machinist when he arrived in a casual tone as if the radio interaction never happened, catching the awkward handshake situation out of the corner of her eye and seizing the opportunity to explain some customs to the locals. ”Humans shake each others’ right hands as a formal greeting or as a symbolic gesture when agreeing to a deal.” She extended her hand to Arancini to demonstrate. It also served as a better explanation than two crudely drawn pictures. ”Now you know.” She added to Nellara.

Then another figure came into view. A figure she wanted present at the meetings since the start, yet a figure she was increasingly wary of. ”Then talk. We’ve heard the castigator’s side. What are you here for?” She wanted to hear it from the horse's mou- goddamnit.

Vigdis had Nellara repeat the experiment four or five times - a single measurement is no measurement - and did some simple math. A ‘standard’ lightning on Earth measured up to 300 MV and 30 kA. What Nellara conjured up was around 25% of that, which would be usable with some effort, but at the same time apparently wasn’t their peak. Assuming a lightning mage could influence the voltage of their discharge, the ‘charger’ so to speak - essentially just a transformer and some support elements - wouldn’t even have to be that sturdy or complex. If they could either go balls to the wall or nothing, that would necessitate a bigger transformer to handle the excess heat. Either way, they’d need more lightning mages if they wanted to get the reactor going within the scope of… a week? At least lightning was already direct - well, pulsating - current, eliminating the need for an inverter. ”Yes! This can work!” She cheered. It was just the start, but she would take any good news they could get. ”If you could go a bit higher and sustain it for a longer time, the labor of lightning mages might be another tradable commodity you have.” She said in the assembled locals’ direction. While she’d technically accomplished her objective, she saw no harm in letting them show what they could do, checking to make sure the fuse protecting the device from damage was in place and retreating to the indicated safe distance.

Even though it wasn't exactly Nellara's area of expertise, she could only imagine the excitement Kareet was feeling. With every additional explanation Ixtaro and Vigdis gave, with every additional word said, it seemed to open endless opportunities for their own technology to develop. Techniques, technologies and ideas that had the potential of changing the Tekeri society forever.

One interesting point that Ixtaro said though, was that electricty was just the very beginning. According to her explanation, it seemed to be the very basis and beginning of human technological development.

"A capacitor..." Nellara repeated, with a thoughtful expression. Nellara was absolutely certain that if Vigdis or Ixtaro ended up visiting Arcaeda, the Seekers of the Order of Sages would definitely forget to eat and rest just to continue studying human technology.

"I am exceedingly interested in the applications such technologies could have on Tekeri society. In particular, if the same principles could be used to further develop our magic. It seems both of you would feel right at home in one of the academies made by the Order of Sages. Although you might need to remind the seekers that both you and they too need to eat and rest... I am certain they might as well forget to eat and starve to death if you continue to give them information." Nellara said to Vigdis with a chuckle.

The very moment she was about to touch the metal spike to use her electricity though, Kareet approached her, mentioning that they could produce better results with Coordinated Casting. Not exactly Nellara's expertise, since her magic was rather 'unique' in the way it worked, but she learned how to circumvent those limitations enough to receive a passing grade from the Order of Magisters on that specific subject.

"That will definitely produce much better results. Assuming that electricity seems to be the very basis for human technology, I guess the more we can produce the better, right?" Nellara asked, looking to Vigdis and Ixtaro.

"Due to the unique way my magic works, it will probably be better for you to lead the Coordinated Casting. It might be easier for me to follow your lead than the other way around." Nellara said as she approached the metal spike once again, firmly grabbing it as she looked to Kareet.

"Don't worry too much about me. Feel free to go all out, I will follow your lead." Nellara said as she gave a nod to Kareet, indicating she was ready for them to start.

Before they could start though, Nellara noticed from a distance that no one other than Silbermine himself thought that was appropriate to approach the encampment of the very people he was invading.

"Silbermine. You already offended the Ascendancy enough by invading our territory and you still have the audacity to ask to 'break bread and talk' just because our guests are currently talking with us? Stop with your lies and trickery. You merely approached us because you saw here something you want for yourself..." Nellara said, letting go of the metal spike as she approached Silbermine and his knights, putting herself between them and the rest of the group. Nellara said, her words clearly insinuating that the only reason Silbermine approached them was because of the humans.

"There is nothing else left to be said, Silbermine. All words that needed to be said between us were already said... You made yourself very clear about that on our last meeting..." she said with a serious expression.

"But if you still think you have anything to say... You are free to do so... As long as you agree to be escorted while on our encampment." Nellara said, motioning with her head for her soldiers to surround Silbermine and his men.

The tekeri soldiers were donning their armors and were armed, although they did not unsheathe their weapons, instead simply keeping their hands close to them, watching every movement Silbermine and his men did, ready to draw their weapons if any of them tried anything.

"But if you are fine with our conditions, please stay. It will be amusing to hear your words." Nellara said, with an acid, sarcastic smirk as she did so.

---

There were a fair few words in Vigdis’ explanations that did not translate through her armband. Kareet copied them down into her notes, sounding them out as best as she could. Were they result of errors, maybe some kind of mistake in Gar’Tan’s work? Or perhaps these were concepts that were simply unknown to Kanth-Aremek? The latter, she felt, would be far more exciting to her. She did not imagine it would be anything she would be able to understand quickly, but what she had heard so far seemed to confirm the potential of what she could learn.

Unfortunately, before Kareet could start demonstrating her own power, it seemed that Silbermine’s interruption was most certainly going to be interrupting her. She could not hide her frustration, though to most of the others, it would likely seem that she was frustrated at Silbermine himself. In truth, she did not care if he was involved. As far as she was concerned, he could speak to the Humans as much as he wanted. What she cared about was the fact that he kept interrupting her work. Or rather, the conflict between him and Nellara kept interrupting her work. If that conflict were to end, she would no longer have a problem.

Kareet approached alongside Nellara, leaning in to whisper to her. “Look…why don’t we just let him stay? I’m sure a five minute conversation with Silbermine will do more to convince the Humans of your point than we ever could.”

While Kareet had not demonstrated the full extent of her abilities, the fact that they could make electricity at all had already seemed to satisfy Vigdis. She did not want to continue discharging lightning bolts in Silbermine’s presence, regardless. Instead, she returned her attention to Vigdis. “These politics are not usually my concern. The Sages are concerned primarily with knowledge. Regardless of who you do or don’t want to work with, I just want to offer you a trade. Not from the Ascendancy, but from me. Help me write my encyclopedia, and I will give you as much of this ‘electricity’ as I can.”

J'eon eyed the tree before him, then carefully knocked.
"If you're awake," he rumbled, "And aware of me, I come for a branch."

Getting no response, the blacksmith took hold of a stout sucker limb growing from the tree's base and chopped it off in one blow.

The tree... did not react. J'eon sighs in relief, then pricked one of his digits, pressing the small bead of blood into the fresh cut wood.

"I thank you for this sacrifice."

Picking up the newly chopped limb, J'eon began to decend towards the encampment below.

"Ah," he sighs when he sees a small troop of Glen approaching from the other side. "What brings him out...?"

---

"Silbermine's approaching?" Jack demanded, the cameras swiveling around to capture the Glen lordling with his escorts.

"Wodan, please check to see if there are more Glen coming this way?"

Zey slowly rolled the gob of chewing gum in her mouth when Vigdis confirmed it was the creepy shapeshifter who was asking. A cool breeze ruffled her flash gear from atop the Jotunheim. A spider bot gently bumped into her - it wanted to get access to a panel she was standing on. Zey stepped to one side and patched in the ship’s doctor.

“Feng, what are you doing right now? One of our new friends wants to learn about the Human body.”

Feng was sitting in the ship’s cramped med bay, examining some X-ray results on a tablet with augmented reality glasses on. A passenger in a grey hooded jumper with a new leg cast sat on the edge of a treatment pod. Whenever Feng looked up from his tablet, the X-ray data floated to the corresponding point in that patient’s anatomy.

“Sorry, vivisection class was first period, finished already.”

“Haha. Seriously. Show him the inside of an eyeball or something, what's the harm? I want to know how these things can POSSIBLY change their entire shape; seems a good trade, no?”

“Aye Captain. I can put some of my surgery head cam video on a screen for them. Does that work?”

“Well, i was hoping for some footage that won’t fucking scar them for life but i guess i’ll take it at a pinch. Vigdis, do you have a screen you can lend the druid?” Zey asked the engineer, her eyes drawn to the edge of the charred clearing. A distinctive set of Glen appeared and had approached the team on the ground - it looked like they were talking. Zey pushed a clear earpiece into one ear and accessed the microphones of Itxaro, Arancini and Vigdis so she could hear.

---

Silbermine had been informed that the Humans were attempting to ‘learn’ S’toric a few days before. But this didn’t stop him from being taken aback when one of the tiny Human figures near the camp addressed him fluently. It seemed impossible, even with Thought magic sorcery. For once, it took him a moment to marshal his thoughts. The sight of the Jotunheim up close seemed to humble him.

“I…uhum, I sought your guidance and support in a matter of great importance. The Running approaches, and we are looking for champions. Exotic champions, to save my people from ruin against larger houses. I believe Venurwreth brought us together for this purpose. I have coin, if such an offering is required.”

Silbermine’s speech was slower and more enunciated, as one does when addressing a foreigner. It returned to normal when he included the various scowling locals in this conversation.

“You appear to have formed your own judgement of me. I pray that breaking the night’s fast together will help you see sense. We need not an escort.” That last part was directed to Nellara. Silbermine clicked his fingers and Sir Sweven motioned for two Glen-at-arms to pull some large loaves of preserved bread from their panniers.

”Just have him stream it to my wristpad, I’ll make due without it for a few minutes.” She told the captain, unclipping the device from its mounting. The wireless connection would keep the translation going, except the device would be speaking from Kerchak’s hands instead of wherever she was standing. ”Kerchak. We can’t let you into the ship at the moment, but I have a way of showing you some medical procedures. We have devices we call ‘cameras’ that record what they see and hear just like eyes and ears do, and store it to be viewed later.” She explained as she set up the remote viewing and handed the device to the birdman, ”If you tap the display once, it stops or resumes the recording. By sliding your finger along this blue bar down here, you can move it back and forth if you want to see a part of it again. Just don’t use your claws, try a knuckle.” She demonstrated the basic media player controls to the bird. The touch screen was one of the heavy-duty, graphene-based industrial ones that could handle being hit with a hammer and was designed to work with gloves on, so she wasn’t too worried about Kerchak damaging it or it not registering his fingers. ”Here it is. Looks like… Okay, I admit I have no clue what they’re doing, I’m an engineer, not a doctor.”

Kareet’s offer was frankly better than anything Vigdis hoped they’d get. ”I don’t think anyone will object to that agreement. Just a warning, there are over 5000 years of history, over which we venerated around 2000 gods and more civilizations past and present than I can recall to cover.” She cautioned the Seeker, who would need a lot of paper or invent computers fast. ”I’m just not sure how much of the knowledge we have with us.” Maybe Ixtaro could help her in that department, she though she remembered Ixtaro saying something about medieval history at some point? Or was she misremembering?

There was clear animosity between Nellara and Silbermine. It was radiating off them like heat from a boiler. Vigdis had many flaws, not being one for solving interpersonal conflicts among them, but she considered herself a damn good engineer and knew that when a machine was misbehaving, sometimes it needed one good whack to shock it into compliance. And a proverbial cold shower could do the same to nip a heated situation in the bud, simply create a situation so awkward it breaks the flow of the argument. ”I'm sorry that our life or death emergency that already took the lives of several people is getting in the way of your political disputes.” Vigdis' voice was dripping with sarcasm which she desperately hoped the locals could understand. For now she refrained from referencing their intent to leave though. She didn’t want to be this close to Silbermine when that was revealed. His next words were a shocker though. ”The what is approaching, who brought us together and WHAT are you looking for?” Vigdis’ tone and facial expression must’ve conveyed absolute disbelief at the last part, even through the mask. It was also the only thing stopping her from laughing at the thought of a centaur nobleman talking to her with the stammer of a high school nerd addressed by a girl. ”Champions? I hope that’s the translator failing or that word having a different meaning to you than to us. We’ve already outlined our conditions for sharing knowledge, and you’re welcome to that agreement, but we’re not here to fight, especially not on someone else’s behalf.” She also didn’t say anything about the impression he’s giving not making many people care all that much about his house, if he was a representative of what they were like.

Itxaro listened intently to Kareet and Shirik’s brief history lesson. 350 years of magic. She wondered how human society would have evolved if similar Awakenings had struck the population, say, in the 14th century. She couldn't imagine the path mankind might have taken, but knew it would involve exponentially more bloodshed, and likely less focus on tangible fields of science. Itxaro made a note that, perhaps this is what was happening on Kanth-Aremek; stagnating scientific studies, but rapid societal evolution through magic thanks to these Awakenings. She’d have to learn more before drawing any conclusions, and silently wished she’d devoted more of her time to sociological research. Then again, I don’t think they’d want an anthropologist on an interstellar space ship.

She couldn’t stop herself from cocking an eyebrow at Shirik though. 1000 years of walking the earth. I’ll be lucky if I hit 40 at this rate. Itxaro got the impression that this type of longevity wasn’t typical of his species, along with his smoldering body, and wondered if the strange creature was lonely in his possibly eternal wandering.

Her musings were cut short when a familiar face trotted up to the encampment.

“Ah, fuck.” The translator picked up her obscenity and spat out a rough approximation, something akin to "mating". They’d forgotten, or intentionally omitted, Silbermine from the new conversation, and now he was here. Probably watching us. Smart.

If the Glen had been expecting a royal's welcome, he was sorely mistaken. As insult after insult piled upon Silbermine, Itxaro sank deeper and deeper into the soft grass until she was practically flat on the ground. She wished the earth would swallow her up whole, wincing after every slight Nellara delivered with her sharp tongue. Their previous interaction had been hostile, but with the translation program now running, she fully grasped the scope of their shared animosity. Shirik’s insults and truly demented laugh didn’t help matters either.

Itxaro contemplated staying cloistered away in the tall grass. But, neither the commander nor the X.O. were anywhere to be seen, Barberio was just getting over the initial shock of first contact, and Vigdis seemed more interested in scientific endeavors rather than preventing a charging army of Glen from cutting them down. So, Itxaro felt the responsibility fall on her shoulders yet again.

“Shirik, why do I keep getting diplomatic duties?” Itxaro groaned to her companion. She produced the armlet Silbermine had given her from a jumpsuit pocket and slid the golden ring onto her bicep before emerging from her hiding place “He’s the one who needs to watch out for me,” Itxaro replied to Shirik with a wry grin. She’d spent years developing a calm, neutral persona, able to mask her anger and intentions, and it was time to put it to work. She hoped it wouldn't crack. Itxaro felt calmer now, as the situation was becoming less fluid and the language barrier was mostly resolved.

---

Silbermine was thrown off guard by the translators, which was good for Itxaro. She slid between the feuding parties, as if her physical presence would block any more harsh words thrown by Vigdis or Nellara.

“Good morning, Lord Silbermine,” Itxaro began with a bow, “We’re pleased by the timing of your arrival; we were just about to send an envoy to request your presence.” Itxaro glanced to Vigdis, attempting to somehow convey for the love of God, back me up with her eyes.

Itxaro realized no one had explained the translator to him, judging from his bewildered expression. “We’ve been working with a representative of the Inquisitor’s Guild to learn your language, and our blacksmiths have developed this device,” she said, gesturing to the translator. “Think of it as a small golem, capable of taking our words and translating them.” She had no clue if this explanation would work, but it was worth a shot. It would be easier to describe their technology through a KA lens, rather than explain it in human terms.

“What my companion here," she said, nodding to Vigdis, "is trying to say is we’re unfamiliar with your custom of The Running; however, we would be glad to discuss it and our potential involvement further with you and break bread. In fact, one of our leaders is on our way right now,” Itxaro finished with a smile, quickly tapping out on her datapad a message to both Zey and Mallory.


Of course, Itxaro didn’t need guidance; a plan was already formulating in her mind, something she’d been loosely developing as she scrambled through the Jotunheim’s hull. Really, Itxaro just needed permission. Now that it sounded like Silbermine needed their help to save his house, they had the upper hand. This "Running" seemed like a good way to resolve all their problems with one decisive move. Their alien companions had warned them against it, but Itxaro decided to weigh all the options before making her move. At worst, she would simply buy the humans some time.

She eyed the bread produced by Silbermine’s Glen-at-arms and already decided she would eat it when offered, and just hope it wouldn't prove toxic to human biology. If it did, then the good doctor could just pump her stomach. Besides, she hadn’t had fresh(ish) bread in a while.

Itxaro looked to Nellara, who seemed to be fuming, and hastily added,"Maybe it would be best if we held our meeting outside this encampment? Neutral ground?"

@Regime Goon @Starlance @Catharyn

Kolvar Stilmyst

Arancini Barberio

Arancini was looking in amazement as Kolvar was showing him how life magic works. Showing him the utilities of life magic, and the many things it could do. Showcase how he could manipulate the body of himself and the others, including making weapons and shapeshifting into other fauna. “Have you been able to shapeshift into one of us?” Arancini asked wondering if human anatomy would be possible for him to morph into.

“It would take some time for me to do so, I would need a lot of time to study how your people’s anatomy works. If allowed to and with enough time, I would be able to blend in without any suspension.” Kolvar said this was a little concerning to the Italian. Arancini was not sure if Kerchek is planning on infiltrating their ship, and plan on spying on them. He wondered if spying and espionage were a common thing on this planet.

“How do they breath anyway, do they have lungs like us?” Arancini’s pointed towards Shirik, with his question being answered by Kolvar nodding his head.

“Indeed, much like your people, the Iriad use their lungs to breath.” Kolvar would be glad to explain more about the autonomy of the natives to the humans.

Kolvar's attention was briefly taken by Vigdis showing her a video on her tablet. It was a video of a surgery being performed on a human. Kolvar did not seem disgusted by the video, in fact he seemed quite fascinated by the video. Although really he wouldn't need to cut a body to see how it works. Craning his head to the side for a moment trying to get a good angle of what he was looking at.

"Thank you for showing me this moving picture of surgery being performed, I would like to show you how I can transform using life magic." He walked over toward one of Gar'Tan's people."With transforming using life magic I would need time to study the subject's anatomy. This usually mean reading about the subject's anatomy, but personally, I like to study the subject in person. For example, Tekeri's anatomy is quite easy to study and perfect the transformation process. All I need to do is relax and change the anatomy of my body to match my subject. I could even change certain parts of my body to a preferred subject." Showing an example of this by changing his hand into a S'torian, before going back to a Tekerian.

"I can also transform others into a desired form and back, very useful for travel among other things." He said thinking of how life magic could be used to torture someone. By either transforming them into something vulnerable or by extending the suffering of a person.

Finally noticing that Vigdis was speaking to him, turning his body to face her. “Oh I see, I assume bowing would be a more appropriate greeting?”

Arancini looked at his tablet, seeing the message that Ixaro said sent him. Quickly typing up a response. "I would be glad to showcase what our machines could do, hopefully, I can power the main reactor quickly."

Arancini and Kolvar turned towards Silbermine, Kolvar looking more annoyed that Silbermine had arrived to try and negotiate terms. Silbermine probably wanted to talk and try to make a deal where he doesn't lose anything. “Breaking bread? Is that what you are calling it now? I am sure you mean trying to use your silver tongue to get aboard their ship Do not think you will be able to get any closer with your meaningless words.” He walked over so he was now standing beside Nellara. He was going to stand with the others to protect the humans. And not wanting to repeat the dark history of his people. Looking at Silbermine and his army with intense hatred.

Arancini meanwhile was trying to figure out what was going on. “Do you know why they are hostile towards this Silbermine guy?” He leaned forward towards Ixtaro and Vidgis. Because he had come later, he was in the dark about the current issue.

Kolvar didn’t seem pleased when Silbermine’s people brought bread. He didn’t think that he was going to be literal. If offered he would not be taking it. He hoped the others would follow suit. But to smooth things over perhaps it would be best to accept the offer.

---

While the others were speaking, Kareet stayed near Nellara and observed. She tried to look upon Silbermine with more of an objective eye. His approach had changed rather dramatically from just a few days prior. There had been plenty of time to consider the situation with a cooler head than their previous, emotionally charged arguments, and perhaps to discuss with his advisors. The people of the Ascendancy largely did not respect nor acknowledge titles of nobility, so the tactics that usually worked in his own lands were rather ineffective here. Or perhaps he realized that his superiors back home were not going to be nearly so eager for war as he was. In any case, now that he could speak directly to the Humans, he seemed intent on giving his own impression of himself to them, rather than letting his enemies dictate that impression for him. It was a wise choice, and probably what Kareet would do were she in his hooves.

Once again, Kareet whispered to Nellara. “The Humans clearly want to try to be diplomatic with Silbermine. I think we should just play along and join in. We don’t want to appear to be the ‘unreasonable’ ones.”

---

---

The approach of the aliens, these “Glen”, naturally drew Wodan’s many eyes before anyone else had even been aware. They were not approaching the Jotunheim itself, but rather the other camp of natives nearby. Of course, some of their own crew members had gone to speak with them, so they were still involved. Even if they had not been, what little they had gleaned of the local political situation painted it as tense and uncertain. It was most definitely the Jotunheim’s business if a war broke out around them. The defense droids were positioned stationary around the ship, motionless like statues, but always observing, and through all of their eyes, Wodan could see all that transpired.

“There are no additional contacts aside from the Glen already in view.” Wodan answered to Mallory.

As Kareet approached her, suggesting Nellara to let Silbermine stay, she nodded, agreeing with her words. Not only it would help the humans to see them as the more reasonable ones between the Mythadians and the Tekeri, but letting Silbermine talk with the humans in their encampment, a place where they could hear also had it's own tactical advantages.

"I won't send him away without giving him an opportunity to talk with the humans... Especially if he wants to do so here in our encampment... Somewhere we can listen to what he says." Nellara whispered, replying to Kareet's words.

Silbermine's words and actions had a radical change to the ones Nellara had heard once he arrived, enough that almost made her laugh. Surprisingly enough, it seemed like even after changing his tone, Silbermine was unable to hide his true nature and the 'offer' he gave to the humans was simply outrageous.

"It seems it is hard for someone like you to change your true nature, even if you change your tone of voice, is it not, Silbermine? In the end, you just want to use the humans as your pawns. Whether in your political plans or for you to take what you want out of them." Nellara said, laughing as she heard Silbermine's proposal.

"Using concepts like religion, nobility or a 'higher purpose'... Those are just pretty ways to deceive and justify you and your people acting like you always did. Always taking whatever you want for yourselves." she completed with an accusatory tone.

When Silbermine mentioned that they didn't need an escort though, her amused expression immediately disappeared, turning into a cold, serious one.

"I didn't give you a choice, Silbermine. As long as you are in our encampment, there will be an escort and when our army arrives, you will also be 'escorted' out of our lands." she said, looking at him with a cold, harsh expression.

Fortunately, much to Nellara's relief, it seemed like Vigdis had the same idea about Silbermine's 'offer' as she had, due to the clearly negative reaction she had to his words.

"Although I won't lie that there are political reasons to our decisions, both Kareet and myself have already offered to help you and your people in any way we can. Even if motivated by something else, our intent is to merely create a friendly relationship with your people." Nellara said, replying to Vigdis as she mentioned that the humans' situation of life or death wasn't being taken in consideration by neither of their sides.

Unfortunately, Ixtaro didn't seem to have the same reaction to Silbermine's clearly outrageous proposal, much to Nellara's dismay. Nellara didn't try to hide her shock as she heard Ixtaro's reply, looking at her almost as if she was worried that Ixtaro would be too easily fooled by Silbermine and his people.

"Our first reaction was to offer our help, while Silbermine merely wants you as their champions for their own political games. This fact alone should already be enough to clarify exactly what kind of people Silbermine and his men are..." Nellara said, looking to the humans and then to Silbermine. None of the words Nellara was saying was a lie, nor she seemed to hide any information. All in all, her intentions were to create a friendly relationship with the humans, even if motivated by the opportunity of trading both products and knowledge.

When Ixtaro asked if making the negotiation on a neutral ground would be preferred, Nellara raised an eyebrow, not understanding the question.

"I believe any deal we might have to offer you will differ greatly from anything Silbermine might want. We have different objectives, after all. Silbermine made that very clear." Nellara said as she looked to Ixtaro, clearly referring to the fact that Silbermine's offer was merely to use them as pawns to their own political games while she offered them help and a friendly relationship.

"I have no problems meeting on a neutral ground if it will make your people feel more at ease. Under the condition that Silbermine leaves the army and the weapons he brought to invade Ascension territory and take your ship to themselves in their own camp, that is." Nellara added, agreeing with Kareet's whisper while once again, trying to make Vigdis and Ixtaro understand Silbermine's real objectives and the vast difference between their approach and his.

Normally, Subira would have jumped at one of these “change of scenery” sort of orders. Well-to-do strangers had, somewhere between the Jotunheim’s resting site and modest Keraknúr, confirmed her bearings to her, and her steps were quick, firm. This all seems a bit… political, she languished to herself. It was supposed to be a big deal, or so she had heard, to be called out to Undisclosed Location for this urgent construction project, at the request of some “Silbermine.”

Urgent. What’s urgent about construction? At least, she always told herself, her interest (and therefore involvement) ended as soon as the cornerstone was posed. Urgent construction project on the Ascendancy’s border? In a way it was like going backwards. All that work to put the Ascendancy behind her… And here I am trudging right back. Basically. It was, however, new callings to which she responded those days. A reminder inside a reminder.

Her blasé attitude evaporated as she was finally able to make out what the Jotunheim was. Or, rather, was unable to make out what it was. From afar, the glistening, smooth fortress perplexed her as much as it ignited her curiosity, giving her interest in the project she had been called away from her post as a force mage in the capital’s construction sites for a new lease on life.

Crackling through foothill undergrowth at an unimpressive pace, Subira remained at a healthy distance from the goings-on in the clearing upon reaching it, taken aback by the multiple, clearly aggravated opposing factions occupying it and getting in spats and tense discussions—she read this in their uneasy stances and awkward groupings, rigid body language. Yet, she could not make out their words.

Her eyes drifted about the clearing from where she was concealed. They widened. What are those? Or… who? Or what? The smooth skin, peculiar faces, and enchanting getups of the unfamiliar beings buzzing around the metal edifice gripped her. These are completely new. I have never seen whatever that is. Her mind raced, the scale and gravity of what she was suddenly mixed up in only just beginning to dawn on her. I have to find Silbermine… why am I even here?

Carefully, she descended into the clearing, the inevitable collision of her Tekeri body with what everybody would soon know to be her Mythadian allegiance nagging somewhere in the back of her mind. The one who best matched the description of Silbermine was… Oh perfect, he is the center of attention. I can’t think of a better way to make an entry than by immediately becoming associated with him.

She waited impatiently as the frigid discussion unfolded to report to him; meanwhile, both sets of eyes danced across the incredible beings and objects scattered around her, trying to make connections where there were simply none to be made, no, everything was just so out of place… What is any of this? She dared not speak, having been violently ripped far outside her comfort zone.

“On my way.” Zey confirmed to Itxaro over comms. She opened a service hatch and hopped down.

“Oh, and Vigdis? Don’t let the shapeshifter look at any more videos. I don’t like where that is heading one bit.”

---

“I am proposing a mutually beneficial arrangement. It is the Ascendency that ruins anyone who cannot perform for the ‘greater good’.” Silbermine shot back calmly to Nellara; he was at pains to remain level-headed. He even ignored the heresy in her accusations; the gods could decide her fate.

Vigdis’ translator didn’t really port sarcasm over. Silbermine thought these strangers quite amenable so far, if a little slow. “Apologies, allow me to explain.” Silbermine replied when this first Human seemed to not have understood.

“The Running is a months-long contest where the noble families of Mythadia compete for responsibilities at court, control of castles, towns, land, Glen. Winners also have the chance to enact their proposed amendments to some laws. All of Mythadia joins in the glorious pageantry.” This stuff came naturally to Silbermine - his education extensively featured the intricacies of the Mythadian power structures.

“You come from the sky, and yet you do not know Venurwreth?” Silbermine supposed something must have gotten lost in translation. “He is a sky god who travels the world atop a great shard storm, leaving behind treasures for the worthy who brave the danger below.”

It was at this point that another Tekeri berated Silbermine. He snorted in annoyance. It was one thing to trade spirited insults with a respectable figure like the Castigator. It also seemed prudent to be cautious and respectful around what appeared to be one of the few truly odd beings that roamed Kanth-Amerek. The burning tree had made its feelings known with a disgusting laugh and some barbs which weren't lost on the nobleman. But for a commoner to think they could speak to him like that without fear of retribution wasn’t going to fly.

“Stay your tongue, hedge-born.” Sir Sweven growled softly at Kerchak as a few Glen stepped forward, bearing hunks of bread. “Show some respect when addressing my lord.” The knight offered a long, thin loaf to Itxaro, towering over her. A Glen-at-arms offered another loaf to Arancini and Vigdis. One more was offered to Nellara. This variety had a green tinge, was very tough on the outside, and extremely salty. Glen liked salt.

“I see no problem with parlé here.” Silbermine replied to Itxaro. “It would be best to finalise the details of our deal in private though, if you choose to accept. We have observed you from a respectful distance, and I have been very impressed with the longevity of your golems, both large and small… I would be very interested in learning more about what they can do. Will you show us?”

---

Zey exited the shuttle bay into the clearing. As she made her way over to the group of individuals conversing by the Tekeri camp, her keen eyes spotted a Tekeri she hadn’t seen before making their way over as well. The closest security droid had clanked up behind them.

“This is a restricted area. Please identify yourself.” It said directly to Subira in S’toric.

"Can you listen to what's being said down there?" Jack asked Wodan. "I hate being stuck in here waiting for someone to let me know what Silbermine wants."

”Differing goals by the looks of it. Apparently it’s got to do with disputed borders and that big old treasure trove we dropped on that disputed border. Basically the same mess as back home, but with centaurs and magic.” Vigdis tried to sum it up to Arancini after retrieving her wristpad from Kerchak, ”He showed up with a platoon’s worth of troops in full kit and they’ve been tense at first sight. Though let’s not pretend I wouldn’t have shot Nellara out of fear when she first boarded the ship if my weapon hadn’t been unloaded at the time.” She added, staring in fascination at Kerchak’s display. She’d give her kidney to be able to do something like that. Just the ability to make her hand smaller would help so much with her work whenever some designer didn’t think about how a technician was supposed to reach something.

”The Running sounds like a hoot, but as I’m sure you realize, we have plenty of our own problems to solve here.” To his credit, Silbermine was a lot more patient than Vigdis expected him to be. Either he was a very good politician, or there was more to him than Nellara made it out to be. ”And nope, never heard of your god. Like I just told Kareet, we’ve had over 2000 gods throughout our history alone, couldn’t keep track even if I cared to. How could we possibly know about your deities on top of ours when we didn’t even know this planet existed a week ago?” By all rights she should’ve been walking on eggshells, scared half to death of saying something that rubbed Silbermine the wrong way. But knowing Nellara - who obviously was no fan of Silbermine’s - was standing right over there provided no small amount of reassurance, even if it was perhaps a false sense of security, not to mention the very real possibility of saying something that angered her. ”Which means we’re really far from home, because if a planet in the star’s goldilocks zone with an oxygen-rich atmosphere was close by, astronomically speaking, we would’ve known about it a hundred years ago and there’d be probes all over this place…” She got a bit lost in her own thought process before snapping back. ”And if you’re suggesting that our ship was created by this… I’m not going to insult you and your beliefs by trying to pronounce this sky god’s name, then that would make me and Dr. Ibarra here parts of said god, along with almost 3000 other people who worked to build it. If you don’t believe me, I could show you the ventral beam where the entire Hull and Structure team signed our names.” She shrugged, swallowing a remark about Kareet, Kerchak and Shirik being the first who found the Jotunheim and therefore the ‘worthy ones below’.

”We don’t yet know if this is safe for us to eat. I trust you understand if we don’t join the feast right away and instead wait for our…” How to say this so it would translate? ”One of our scholars to determine that?” Vigdis explained to Silbermine & Co as she accepted the Glen bread before calling the command channel, ”We’ve got a food sample for Dr. Lambert if she’d like to come collect it. Looks like pastry that’s been left sitting out for a week.” Fuck, she should’ve muted the translator for that bit. The to her unknown knight's reaction to Kerchak was pretty much on track as far as her image of nobility was concerned. She’d seen elements of such a mindset on Venus, in the officers and managers who attained their rank and post not through work, but through nepotism or cronyism, and who were usually the ball and chain tied to the ankle of whatever organization they were settled in while considering themselves the best thing to ever happen to it, although it was interesting to hear that Mythandian nobles competed for positions of power directly as opposed to being assigned land and duties by the monarch based on favor like she expected.

When Silbermine asked about the droids, Vigdis turned to Nellara. ”You see, this is why I wanted him at the previous meeting. Now we have to explain it again.” She said before turning back to the Glen nobleman, ”We are looking for sources of food and materials, as well as learning about magic. In exchange, we are offering some of our knowledge. Our cap- commander” She caught herself, using a word that stood a better chance of making it through the language barrier intact, ”would explain the details of what we can and can’t share better. Personally, I would gladly show off some of our more advanced capabilities if they won’t terrify you, but I can assure you neither side will learn much about our ‘golems’ as you call them. From our limited interactions, I can guarantee your finest minds would need decades to be able to understand them and the underlying principles behind their construction and function, nevermind the actual ability to build intricate machi- mechanisms smaller than the thickness of your hairs.” A late medieval society, however magical, building things on microscopic scale they likely couldn’t even imagine simply wasn’t happening in her mind, unless Silbermine just wanted the mechanical hardware to be given life through arcane means, which - although significantly easier - would still require a metallurgical revolution. The scary thing was, between Vigdis, Zhao and Ibarra, they had everything they needed to set that off. Explain atoms and crystal grids, show them the periodic table, build a blast furnace and a Hall–Héroult cell and they’d be off to the races. Even if they had to power the thing with enslaved lightning and/or heat mages, using human behavior as a template, there was no doubt in Vigdis’ mind they would do it without a second thought if they only knew half of what the new alloys could do for them.

Is this how all diplomatic relations go on Kanth-Aremek? Hell, is this how all diplomacy goes?

Itxaro listened patiently as the group argued, waiting for her time to interject. Nellara frustrated her most of all; to Itxaro, it seemed the Tekeri wanted to simply sever all ties with Silbermine, end things right there, and run off with their human prize while the two gathering armies clashed right on the border where the Jotunheim sat. Perhaps this was her intention, or maybe the animosity between their nations simply ran this deep. Human history was rife with border disputes used as casus belli, and she doubted things were different here. Maybe the Ascendency thought they had the upper hand now and she decided to plunge them into conflict. Either way, Itxaro wasn’t eager to get caught up in a medieval magic battle. She preferred to read about those, not participate in them.

Itxaro lowered both her voice and the volume on the translator to speak in some manner of privacy to Nellara. “Listen Nellara, I don’t know what is going on here, I admit that. I don’t know your plan, or Silbermine’s intentions, but there is a way to get out of this without bloodshed. There’s two armies on their way, which means war; whatever we have to offer you isn’t worth that. We have to work with Silbermine, or people will die. Just trust me on this, or at least go along and then decide, alright?” Of course, she did suspect Silbermine's intentions. But it was best not to say that within earshot of the Glen.

Vigdis wasn’t winning much favor in the doctor’s eyes either. Itxaro figured that if they had landed in 14th century Earth somehow, they’d have been burned at the stake as witches by now. Vigdis was dumping some serious heresy on Silbermine, and though they hadn’t started lighting the pyres yet, Itxaro feared that suggesting their gods weren’t actually hanging out in the sky wouldn’t go well for them. She treated the whole situation flippantly in Itxaro's eyes, as if lives, both theirs and the inhabitants of two nations, weren’t on the line right now. Itxaro strained against a scowl creeping onto her face but kept her composure. It all threatened to crack when one of Silbermine's knights cut Kerchak down with their tongue. If we were back home, your noble ass would be thrown against a wall and shot. The doctor’s blood was up.

The Running was their way out. It spanned weeks, giving them time to establish relations with all the players in the region, earn favor, and above all avert war between the Ascendency and Mythadia. They could repair the ship in the meantime, as well. She considered even accepting Silbermine’s offer to move their ship, if such a thing was even possible, but that wouldn’t be seen favorably by the Ascendency. Perhaps it was fortunate they landed right on a disputed border.

Itxaro stepped forward to accept the offered bread and spoke to Silbermine. “What my companion here means is that, well, Venurwreth’s domain in the sky is vast; incomprehensibly so, as I’m sure you know. They have not made themselves known to us. Maybe Venurwreth intends for you to serve as their envoy to us, Lord Silbermine?” Itxaro looked sidelong to Vigdis, as if to say for the love of God, don’t insult their gods. "We look forward to learning more about Venurwreth.” Weak, she knew, but it was something.

Itxaro waited for their host to eat the strange loaf first. She studied the bread and smelled it. Well, I ate Norwegian food before ending up here, and that didn’t kill me. Itxaro took a small bite of the mossy bread; tough, earthy, and incredibly salty. She’d had worse. Itxaro nodded to the Glen, as if in approval or gratitude. Hope the salt kills anything that might kill me.

After she finished chewing, Itxaro responded. “What interests me most right now is The Running. It sounds like a grand and noble tradition,” she began earnestly, as the tournament had intrigued her. Tournaments on Earth had been for money, glory, and favor, but never actual power. As far as backward societies went, not the worst tradition. “I can’t speak for our leader, but I'd like to learn about our potential role in it as your champions. What sort of competitions are held? Is there bloodshed? No coin is necessary for us, but maybe some bargain could be made that will benefit us all.” Itxaro hoped her plea was heard by both Silbermine, Nellara, and the humans among the fray.

---

While the others spoke, Kareet fetched a small blanket from her backpack nearby and laid it out on the grass. She had been hanging on Vigdis’ every word when she spoke about her people’s history, and especially the Jotunheim itself. As she told it, Vigdis herself had been among a team of thousands that had constructed the ship. For Kareet, that was an exciting revelation. However, it was becoming abundantly clear that these political discussions and arguments were not going to end anytime soon. Any time it felt like she was about to be able to learn something especially interesting, the discussion shifted back to Silbermine and the approaching armies. It made sense, given the situation, but that did not mean she had to be happy about it. If she was going to have to participate in them, she may as well make herself comfortable. She took a seat on her blanket, taking particular care to avoid getting any dirt on her feathers. Kareet preened herself absentmindedly, up until they started to discuss the Running. That, in her mind, was something on which she could give a helpful perspective. She was not one who had any problem chiming in when it suited her.

“The Running is one of Mythadia’s greatest traditions, in my opinion.” Kareet commented. “Archmagister Vyana herself took inspiration from it when she was forging the customs of her Ascendancy. No one dies in the Running, or no one is meant to. Especially not since Life magic became available. It is, essentially, a long series of contests spanning weeks, testing every facet of a person’s being. Martial prowess, physical conditioning, mental acuity…it can really make a show of everything a person is.”

At first, Kareet did not hide her admiration for the Running’s concept, though after a moment, she let out a light sigh. “Of course, there are a few details that unfortunately undermine the whole affair. To Mythadians, it supposedly shows who their gods favor the most, so they allow champions. Sometimes they invite champions from nations all over the continent, which makes for some spectacular competitions, but only Mythadian nobles can earn the positions they are competing over. You see, Archmagister Vyana outlawed all titles of nobility when she established the Ascendancy; worth cannot be inherited, only earned. It is a point of contention between us and…nearly everyone else, except the Iriad.” She explained, tilting her head slightly towards Shirik.

“Sir, the mobile relay just came online. It's Edwards and Chappel.” Comms officer Anselm called to Mallory on the bridge.

“Initial scan activated.” A large spherical grid appeared on the Navigator’s interface. A detailed 3D model of the area surrounding the relay’s position on top of the hill the Jotunheim had crashed into began to appear. It was 526 metres away and 167 metres higher up.

They were positioned in the middle of two other similarly sized hills, with verdant valleys running between the three. To the ‘south-east’ appeared a large forest - the scan highlighted a few bodies of water and (with lower certainty) some possible structures hidden within. To the ‘north’ was the floodplain visible from the Jotunheim itself.

One of Anselm’s comm panels squawked - she quickly put on a headset.

“Jotun Two Zero this is Jotun Actual. I read you - what is your status, over?”

Anselm listened intently.

“Copy that Jotun Two Zero, hold for orders, over.”

The comms officer spun in her chair to address Mallory.

“Sir, there are more of those bird things approaching the relay. Edwards says they’re dressed like hunters. Our team are requesting instructions.” This sort of situation was within the XO’s remit. It evidently required a quick reaction and he was clearly in the best position to respond with the Captain elsewhere.

@Regime Goon @Starlance @Catharyn

Kolvar Stilmyst

Arancini Barberio

Kolvar looked quite displeased being told to shut his mouth. He glared at the soldier that had tried to silence him. He wanted to walk over and strangle them with his claws. But he didn’t want to be the one to cause the conflict because of an insult. “My apologies for the insult my lord, it was unnecessary, Please forgive my rudeness.” Bowing toward Sibermine and his knights, Although he was being insincere with his apology. He would rather they leave but that didn’t seemed likely.

Arancini leaned his head forward towards Vidgis, “Ah I see, I wonder if their intention is to take over the ship?” He said pointing towards Silbermine and his army. “But maybe we can persuade them to leave?” He thought for a moment about how he could help smooth over the talks between the two groups. Then it hit him like a bolt of lightning. “I will be right back.” He said before running towards the ship. Coming back a few moments with a bottle of wine and some cups. After seeing Sibermine bring bread to break, he thought some wine would be appropriate to smooth things over.

“I have brought some wine to share as a peace offering. Please accept this as a gift from the human race.” Arancini started pouring some of the wine into the cups, handing them to the residents of Kanth-Amerek. Making sure that each cup had an equal pour. Arancini help with equally dispensing the pieces of bread to the others.

Kolvar took the cup of wine, alcoholic beverages were quite commonplace in Kanth-Amerek. But most Kriliterans did not partake in things that would cloud the mind, however, it would be best if he accepted the offer from both Arancini and Sibermine. “Thank you.” Saying this to both Arancini and one of Sibermine’s soldiers.

“No problem Kerchek.” Arancini smiled as Kolvar took a sip from the cup. His face contorted into a grimace from the bitterness of the drink.

“Thank you.” Kolvar took the piece of bread but was not sure if it was poisoned or not. He wondered if he could use his life magic to try and detect any sign of poison.

Arancini had taken a small bit from the piece given to him. “Molto bene, this is very good.” Nodding his head showing gratitude for the offering of food. “If I may interject, but I and my team were the ones that made those so called golems. They are called robots, they are mechanical autonomics that we control through commands. I would be happy to explain further if you have any questions.” Arancini interjected being excited to talk about his robots.