Meirin | Ovak | Djarkel Diplomats | Lucilia
~Introduction~
Meirin looked at Ovak and Uicle. She merely smiled at the older gentleman, assuming that he was a friend of Uicle.
"Of course." She helped Ovak to his feet and the two walked to the diplomats. Meirin took the opportunity to examine the old man. He was dark skinned, probably from Yarosmere. He was obviously quite old if he needed a cane to walk, but the way he dressed also made him look kind of like a mage. Though considering that this was the college, Meirin wouldn't be surprised if he was one. Perhaps he was a diplomate from Yarosmere? But what was his magic? Aeromancy seems to be rather common from that area, or maybe vitamancy. But if he was a vitamancer would he be this... Freeble? Meirin figured that a powerful vitamancer would be able to be relatively healthy throughout their life. Not that Meirin knew a lot about Vitamancy, she's working hard learning Weaving.
Soon Meirin arrived to meet the Djarkel diplomats. They seemed to be talking to their aides when they noticed Meirin. Or rather they noticed Ovak. Meirin was worried because they seemed to be talking cheerfully one moment, then looked almost... Worried. Meirin herself glanced at Ovak and wondered just who he was, and how much trouble she might be for not knowing his identity.
Remembering that she had a job to do Meirin looked to the diplomats and greeted them.
"Hello, I am Meirin Kurenai, of the Heaven's Reach Monastery. I'm pleased to meet representatives of Djarkel, how is the home country?"Ovak’s stare was quiet and stern, his gaze flickered from the pure shock on the Djarkel diplomats to Meirin. His hands touched his cane, decorated with a griffin head, and firmly stood as still as he could. His old ears were fixed on the young woman’s introduction causing him to kindly smile with some form of pride at how well she held herself. Diplomacy was a rare trait for many individuals and sometimes poorly nurtured, leaving a promising student to nothing more than a stumbling child among the cruel adults. He pressed his lips lightly together while waiting for the diplomats to answer her, giving each an expected look when the room utterly silent. By now, many people had finally noticed his presence among the proceedings and stood still in awe.
Despite that, he continued to ignore them when he politely backed Meirin’s question.
“I believe Meirin asked about her homeland, which being of the Monastery, makes her a Djarkel citizen doesn't it? I hope you don’t plan on keeping us in suspense over a simple question because curiosity has a habit of growing.” His tone was neither threatening or anger, but rather kind and teacherly in his hinting that making them wait was rather ill manners.
The two diplomats glanced between each other as Meirin and Ovak spoke. Of course they didn't really have any reason not to answer her question, least of all while the Archmage was here. One of the diplomats, a tall man in a fine cut robe with light armor, looked at Meirin and gave her a polite smile. "A warrior of the mountains? It's good to finally meet one in person. I am Erandur Varosa, Baron of the Forest City." He bowed his head towards Meirin and motioned towards one of his aids. He left to go fetch drinks.
"It is not doing well, Miss Kurenai. Not well at all. There have been an influx of demons in the north. And while we have many warriors, much of our attention is drawn there to ensure that the demons do not spill to the south. But that's not the worse of it. We believe that the demons have so much traction due to cultist within our own cities. Demon worshipers have infiltrated the baronies, from the lowliest peasants to some of the barons themselves. Trouble is is finding out which Baron has thrown their lot in with these demons. And to be frank, many baronies have made alliances with demons in the past, but none of them have sold our Djarkel like this..."
Eandur shot a glance at Ovak before focusing his attention back onto Meirin. "I'm sure the warriors of Heaven's Reach has dealt with demons before. And surely you were here for the demon attack here not too long ago? I am not like some barons who believe that a number of swords would be enough to drive back the demonic horde. Don't you think the college could help the Forest City in defending it's people from these monsters?"
But before Meirin could answer another person spoke up. Another man, shorter and more simply dressed, but the material of his clothing made up for the lack of design; golden silk that shined even in the dim light, with a white cotton shirt underneath. He wore a gilded silver ring with a scorpion motif. "Please Sir Varosa. You warriors are doing a fine job protecting Djarkel against the demon menace. But as you said, the true threat lies within the our cities. I am Anil of the Three Stings, an organization that has reason to believe that the true threat isn't the demons, but the cultist within Djarkel. We have more then enough soldiers to fight off any of our enemies, but the issue is finding out who is truly our ally. The cultist prey on the poor and dissolute within Djarkel, coercing them into joining them with promises of power and carnal desires, things which demons can offer, but not without a price. Surely you've seen Djarkel's at it's worse, haven't you Miss Kurenai? You know how poor and desperate some are, enough to turn to banditry even. If the college could help, they should look to assist the common wealth rather then militaristic endeavors."
The two diplomats seemed to be operating on different agendas, but still neither disrupted one another or paid each other any mind. They seemed to be looking to Meirin for some sort of answer, as if she has the authority to make this sort of call.
Meirin was surprised that the diplomats said so much to her. She was honestly just expecting some casual conversation, not this filibuster. She did her best to remember what Erandur and Anil were saying, thinking deeply about what they were suggesting. First she spoke to Erandur since he was the one to speak to her first.
"I've never been to the Forest City, as I've only heard of it from travelers. And I have fought demons before, both while I lived back at the Monastery as well as here at the college. I completely understand the necessity of allying with one another against the demons. But why not ask for fellow barons? Surely they too are threaten by the demonic horde."Then Meirin looked towards Anil with a sympathetic look. Meirin always wanted to try to help the community in some way, though she hates to admit that her only worth while skills are her combat abilities. Aside from teaching others how to protect herself, she had no idea how to help a community. But she was always willing to try any way she could.
"That sounds like a wonderful idea Sir Anil, but how would you propose that the college improve the welfare of the people? What they need is to be able to rise above their station under their own power. Too often I've seen influential and charismatic leaders bring the poor and downtrodden from nothing, only to become something as bad or worse as those before them. I know this because those same people were bandits hoping to become barons on a campaign of violence."Meirin liked to see the good in others, but she wasn't so naive to think that something like this wouldn't happen. It's the entire reason why the monastery stays in the mountain and doesn't involve itself in the politics of Djarkel. Without a doubt, they would have the strength of arms to challenge the baronies, but to what end? They would simply end up causing more fighting and destruction, and win or lose all that will be left is death. Something needed to be changed for sure, but Meirin hoped that neither Erandur or Anil were expecting the college to supply them any form of support that would be used for violence or war. At least that's not something Meirin would approve of.
Ovak had remained completely still throughout all of Meirin's response. He not once giving a sign to the diplomats he had seen or heard them attempt to gain his attention, while he listened to the student's attempt to resolve both problems without getting the College involved directly. He appeared to digest the words for several moments before speaking.
"It seems Ms. Kureni knows the school's policy on remaining neutral and very well I might add, a fact I'm very proud of. Well done. Though, Djarkel has problems like this in the past and still not quite to this degree. I'm curious why now they have become so wildly out of hand compared to the past, a matter to consider because when you locate the source, the root, then the problems became much simpler to solve. Is there other issues you wish to discuss with us?" Though Ovak had asked, his voice clearly knew there was something further to bring into the light as he looked upon the pair while standing beside Meirin, firmly supporting her. He inhales, though Meirin would feel a slight, coaxing brush against her wards asking for permission inside. It was Ovak using psychomancy with a praise and secret for her, if she allowed it.
'Well done, Meirin. You've got some budding diplomatic skills and if you desire, I'm certain Lidda and others could help you define those traits at your wish of course. Though, I get the feeling the diplomats aren't revealing everything about Djarkel's problems, a matter we need get to the bottom of. How do you suggest we approach this? ~Discussion~
Meirin flinched when she heard the voice in her head. She nearly lunged out defensively when she recognized that voice as Ovak. Was he a Psychomancer? He must have been a friend of Satori. Perhaps her teacher, given his age? He also complimented her on what she said, though she didn't feel that she was enforcing the college's neutrality. Honestly, she did want to help, but she didn't want to help simply by fighting. Djarkel has enough fighting as it is.
"I'm honestly not sure... I suppose I would like to hear more of what they would have to say first. I'm not entirely sure why they're even asking for my opinion, though I'll do my best to try to suggest something to help." Being a diplomat was the last thing Meirin had expected to do. She was a woman of actions, not words. She didn't know how to communicate a solution, but she at least knew what was a bad idea when she hears it.
"You also mentioned some sort of cult? What do you know about that?"The two diplomats seem to ignore Meirin as soon as Ovak spoke to them. Erandur spoke first, pulling out a map. "Actually, we have found the main source where the demons come from. Of course they are arriving in multiple locations through the Ravine, but our scouts have reported this location having the greatest concentration. Which also means that it's the most heavily defended. I will not lie; the barons do have their hands full. They cannot spare the men to a joint operation when they need those same men to defend their lands and people. It is the same problem that plagues the Forest City. But perhaps the college could assist us? Provide at least arms and training for demon slaying? The Forest City are no strangers to war, but we are more accustomed to battling against conventional men, not these monsters."
"But the warrior said is true. In order to fight against the cultist we need to do more then simply arming and raising a force against them. Currently the issue is, as you should know, the constant state of war that Djarkel is in. I know each has their own reason to fight, but this war serves no one. Thousands of men and women die everyday in battle, and those who survive either grow fond of blood on their lips or flee. But Djarkel executes deserters, forcing them to become bandits in order to survive. I know that change will not happen quickly, nor would it be easy, but we have to start somewhere. Which is why I propose that perhaps the college would be willing to take in refugees and displaced residents of Djarkel? In order to keep them away from the influences of these cultist." Anil spoke towards Meirin and Ovak, but he looked towards Ovak for an answer.
"Relax, Meirin. I'm not like Satori, who has an odd tendencies for experiments, and I will not abuse my power. Though I apologize for not asking permission first before entering your mind. I much rather the diplomats not over hear our conversation as you can see, will cease to acknowledge your presence. A fact I find rather... ill mannered. As that doubt you have, actions and often have different strengths in key situations. It's the skill of a diplomat to know when and how to use action or words to proceed for the answers they seek. Master them both, you'll be a force to remember young lady."First Ovak addressed Anil, who had the politeness to at least direct his conversation toward the both of them though it was clear he was leaning toward Ovak for an answer.
"It might work for a time, but what happens when the cultist attempt to infect the place using the very innocents you send here. The College is and always have been, neutral in the matters of Djarkel, Eania, Yarsomere and many other nationalities. Providing care, housing and other means on College grounds would invite Eania to believe our support lies with Djarkel and end up inviting conflict in our otherwise neutral stance. However, Meirin, do you had any ideas to add to this?"As he waited for Anil to answer or at least consider what Meirin had to say, he turned to Erandur.
"Well, it seems that much is something all of Tiien has in common from what I've heard. Everyone is having serious trouble. Though I believe, in this instance, Ms. Kureni makes a good point that by combining your forces. Though it's odd that the demons would be surging through the Ravine to the surface. Usually when you head to the surface... bigger and hungrier things tend to get in the way. Ms. Kureni, I believe the Monastery has some proven tactics against demons, don't they? Would you be willing to go to Djarkel, speak to the Temple and with the spiritual leaders to teach the soldiers the best methods to deal with the demons?"Turning to Ovak Meirin had a look of surprise and disbelief. They wanted her to go back home and ask the artists how to deal with demons? Admittedly, they did have some knowledge, but none of it Meirin knew about. She just always figured their knowledge only extended to the weapons they made to fight against demons. She was uncertain if they even had any actual means to fend against demons aside from slaying them. Still... There were secrets within she doesn't know about, and perhaps they did know something. It was worth a shot and Meirin wanted to visit home anyways.
"Of course. Heaven's Peak monastery has many techniques to subdue demons, and knowledge of how to forge weapons that are particularly effective against them. They are not quite as powerful as the enchanted ones of the college, but they are still masterwork weapons and require no magic to empower them. However there is still the matter of the cultists you mentioned. Aside from being aligned with demons, what exactly have they done? What are they motivations, beyond following the commands of demons?"This was where both Anil and Erandur looked a bit lost. "Well... Frankly, not much. We know that they have been supporting the demon's efforts through subterfuge, as we've yet to obtain any reports of the cultist openly working against the baronies. Things such as leaking information, sabotage, and causing civil unrest. Grievous things I assure you. But as for their motivations? We have no idea. Nearly all the cultist we've captured committed suicide before we could even bring them for interrogation. And unfortunately we lack the magics to extract information from the dead. Another thing I hoped the college could assist us with. I'm sure you have mages who could make the act of gathering information much easier. For the safety of Djarkel, I would hope this is the case."
Soon a servant came back with a platter of wine for everyone. Erandur and Anil took their cups while the servant offered the remaining two to Ovak and Meirin. Not too far away Lucilia was watching carefully, ready to swoop in should something occur.
"Ummm.." Ovak stated, his thin hand brought to his chin and fiddled slightly with his goatee. His eyes glanced at the two diplomats for a moment as they started to acknowledge Meirin to be someone of respect though he had the feeling it would quickly vanish the moment he went back to his seat. Though the College could easily give Djarkel what it wanted, it still risked complications with their alliance between the warring nations. Though there was one individual that could assist without harm to himself or the college representation, Rurik. Sadly, putting the dwarf on the spot wasn't ideal. Unless...
Gently taking one glass of wine, he gently passed it to Meirin for her to take than took the other himself. Though he didn't drank it yet.
'Meirin, I believe Lucilia is lurking. Feel free to bring her into the conversation if you wish and when, as I trust your judgement. However, don't underestimate yourself as you're doing fairly well in this. Sadly, as important that information is with the dead, involving the College would have Eania breathing down Khan's throat. If we deny any aid at all, then they will turn to Yarosmere who are the verge of purging the Naga's existence from this land. A fact I fear is merely hurting the delicate balance as we speak. It's terrible our resident Naga student isn't taking it very herself though that is another problem for another time. So, shall we wrap this up so you can enjoy some quality time with your young Esyire gentleman? I believe he and you have a date in the garden. My suggestion is mention Rurik. I believe Rurik might be better suited in that area as to keep the College neutral. The dwarf has come across many interesting things in his life and would have little problem with acquiring what they will need much easier through Runes. He moved slightly to place his hand on Meirin's shoulder again as if signalling her to speak when she was ready.
~Escape~
It was getting a bit embarrassing letting Ovak read her mind. She hasn't even mentioned Ssarak and he already know her relationship with him. She'd love to go see him, but she didn't think that Ovak would know that she intended to meet with him soon. Though thanks to Ovak's mental messages he did tell Meirin of Lucilia, who'd Meirin would more then gladly hand the two diplomats off to. However when Ovak mentioned Yarosmere purging their lands of the naga, Meirin's eyes grew wide. Why would they do such a thing? The first thing that came to mind was, of course, Mar, but then Meirin thought of Lyn. While she was only half-naga, if Yarosmere were so brutal that they would commit genocide against an entire race, would they really stop themselves from harming one girl who only shares half their lineage? Not if Meirin had anything to say about it.
Taking the drink Meirin simply held onto it as she pondered what she would say next. Finally once she had an idea she spoke. [color-00a651]"I see. In that case, you don't truly need the college. These cultist seems to be sly people, and simply bringing in our people will only give them cause to cease their actions until the college is gone. That won't solve the problem. What you need is someone who can investigate the matter themselves without drawing as much attention. It also sounds like you need supplies for your war again demons, but the college is not the only one with these supplies. I can recommend a merchant by the name of Rurik, a dwarf who's crafts rival the college's own. He is an ally of the college as well, so you can be sure that he can be convinced to assist you, so long as he's able to turn a profit."[/color]
But there was still the issue with the refugees that Anil had spoke of, which Meirin wasn't sure she'd have a solution for. The best she could suggest is the monastery, but she'd have to speak to them first. At least she could tell Anil she'd speak to them.
"As Ovak said, the college assists all, but we cannot take in just Djarkel refugees, and even if we did cultist may very well infiltrate their ranks. Please understand that the college must be able to protect itself as well. That being said, I believe that Heaven's Peak could shelter any refugee of war from the dangers of Djarkel, though you'd have to wait to see what they would say about the matter. Heaven's Peak are a kind and generous people who will shelter and protect anyone who comes to their doors, so long as they uphold their laws and maintenance peace. At the very least the refugees would get to stay within Djarkel, and as soon as peace comes to the land they can return home without braving a longer journey."Eradur and Anil seemed pleased at these answers, though in truth they wanted more help from the college. They always kept trying to play neutral in the affairs of the world, hardly even helping their allies. But neither of the two were foolish enough to press more from Meirin, not in front of Ovak. Anil in particular was in a haste to leave because he noticed the presence of Lucilia, who would be much more willing and capable of forcing a one-sided deal if she picks up from where Meirin left off.
Anil finished his wine and bowed to the two, giving his cup to a servant. "Thank you very much, Miss Kurenai! We'll use all the help we can get, and all the better to get it from Djarkel itself. I know many of our enemies sees our nation as nothing more then brigands and war, but we are just as capable of working in unison as any other great land. Now then, I must go and report our deal to my fellows. It was a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Meirin Kurenai, and you as well Archmage." Anil beat a hasty retreat just as Lucilia approached, her smile pleasant and dripping with venom. Much too late Erandur noticed Lucilia and grabbed another cup of wine, drinking it for courage.
"Meirin... Ovak... What a pleasure to see you two today. I trust that your both enjoying the festivities?" Lucilia shot a look at Erandur which nearly made him drop his glass.
"Ah! Erandur! How is the Forest City? I do hope my investment of Living Steel is helping your city's construction efforts. Do you still have that problem with the as well?"Sighing in relief Meirin looked over to Ovak and extended her hand towards him.
"Well then, let's return to your seat then. It looks like Professor Lucilia will take care of things here." Meirin turned and walked towards to teacher's table, but she was secretly sweating like a river. She had no idea that Ovak was the Archmage, of all things. She actually thought Khan was the Archmage, and Headmaster was simply another title of Archmage. Meirin was very self-conscious about how she acted in front of Ovak now, knowing that she essentially spoke over him when it came to matters of the college. On one hand, Ovak did praise her for her diplomacy skills, which she suppose is a sign of approval. If he really thought she wasn't doing a good job surely he would have stopped her. But on the other hand she was ashamed of how ignorant she was.
Soon Meirin and Ovak reached the teachers table and Meirin bowed to the Archmage.
"Thank you for taking care of me, Archmage. I'm sorry but I must go and..." Meirin's face grew hot the more she thought about meeting with Ssarak and knowing that Ovak could read her mind. They were innocent thoughts, but still Meirin had some very personal... Fantasies. Without another word she beat a hasty retreat out of the dinning hall. Ssarak was at the Gardens, which hopefully won't be too populated. It was quite scenic, all the more reason she was worried that there would be too many people. Though at least it shouldn't be hard to find Ssarak.
"My pleasure, Ms. Kureni. And he's waiting for you, and a bit of advise. Cherish your love as it will see you through troubles ahead." Ovak spoke gently, letting the student escape his presence and the hallway. His body leaned into the chair letting the exhaustion sweep over him for the time as he turned toward Khan. He lingered seeing his headmaster had finally taken a seat beside the archamge and gently, put his hand on the Esyire's shoulder. It wasn't hard to note the tension in Khan's figure though Ovak chose to ignore it for he knew why. Sadly, he couldn't interfer else things would crumble and so, he had to trust what he had set in motion would prevent their greatest ally from becoming their worse enemy in the end. Only time would officially tell, Ovak sighed inwardly.
