Quest [Spring SQ] Excursion (Right)

[Nemesis]

68th Day of Spring, 514AV
Eleven Bells

By the Lakeshore Stables, standing at a little distance from another group, stood three well dressed individuals. Two of them stood together, speaking in low voices. Previously they had made no effort to speak quietly, or even stand still, as they used the time to 'train' in swordsmanship, but a single look from the third member earlier had silenced them. This final figure, a woman, leant against a wooden post, staring out into the vast lake, eyes searching for the boat which would bring along the remainder of their excursion party. Having sent boys out with messages, the agreement was to meet at the stables in what would now be ten chimes time, and the woman was starting to lose her patience, having hoped that the three civilians would be eager enough to arrive earlier. When she had initially been given the assignment, she was told of a second excursion, and she desperately hoped that she would be able to begin before the riff-raff of the city got to anything of importance.

The waiting group was formed of three officials; two male soldiers of the Ebonstryfe, who had volunteered their services under seemingly honourable guises - working simply in the name of the Defiler. In truth, they had heard the rumours spreading of royalties that might be found from the excursion and had been the first of many to make their interest known. Both were low ranking and unremarkable in appearance, with slightly tanned skin and dark hair, though both stood at about six foot, possibly a little more, and were heavily built, as most soldiers were.

The third official, the one standing a number of feet away from the two men, had shown little interest in the excursion, thus had been the Black Sun's first choice to send to lead the mission. A female Acolyte, also with dark hair, though somewhat shorter, Evelyn Grey was known within the organisation for her complete devotion to her God. A fair woman, her seniors had decided that, because she had not expressed any interest for personal gain, she was most trusted to ensure that what needed to be brought back to the city would not fall into undeserving hands.

Another few chimes passed before Evelyn spotted the boat carrying the three Ravokian civilians come into view, and more passed before she confirmed that it was indeed the three men. Who they were, Evelyn knew little, other than their names and valuable skills for the excursion. She was not interested in their life stories, or their reasons for wanting to venture to the ruins; she just needed assurance from each of them that the mission would go smoothly. For that reason, she had endeavoured to find out a little about each member of the trio - there was a poison crafter, who she had heard had worked with her colleagues in the past; a Mage, who had assisted with the recovery of the disastrous Rising Dawn Execution; and the third had also helped on that day... he had apparently been seminal to the operation. Or maybe it was the brother... intel wasn't entirely clear there, but she had been warned about the boy's family, and planned to keep an eye on him.

"Jepsen, Blake," the Acolyte called to the two soldiers, who instantly stopped talking and turned to her. She nodded in the direction of the unseen lake-city, and to the arriving boat, "They're here. I expect this to go off without a hitch. Do not disappoint me." Though smaller than the two men, Evelyn had almost ten years of experience on them, and outranked them. Just from the way that they looked at her, Evelyn knew that she commanded the respect of both.

Pushing herself away for the post, she ambled down to the dock, the two soldiers in two, to meet the three new arrivals. "Good morning, gentlemen," she spoke crisply, the pinnacle of propriety, "I am Evelyn Grey, representing the Black Sun on our excursion today. Behind me are soldiers Jepsen and Blake of the Ebonstryfe. I hope that we will all be able to cooperate and see this excursion through without any incidents. Now..." She smiled, though it did not reach her eyes, nor did she bother to offer her hand to any of the trio. She considered that she might ask them to each introduce themselves, but she hoped, perhaps in vain, that they were all intelligent enough to have already done so, if they didn't already know each other. If not, the walk over to the ruins was surely enough time for them to grow weary of silence and strike up some meaningless conversation. "As we walk over to the location, do any of you have any questions for me?"

NoteOkay, Guys! This will run much like Abstract's - one post a round, any order you feel like. Unless you give me advanced notice of an absence, posting will continue even if one of you hasn't after a few days, just to keep the ball rolling. We're a small group, so let's make this work to our advantage!

Happy posting!

[Inoadar]

Inoadar

Inoadar had been quite gratified to find that his partners were men he knew. Venser Rush, twin brother of Verin, a man he'd been on excursions to the shore with before. He'd met this twin earlier this season on the docks. There had been the understandable mistaken identity at the outset, but it been settled quickly enough. Fortunately, Inoadar had never had any dispute with Verin, so there was nothing hostile to result from the mistake.

He'd known Miro for considerably longer, and had been on a drawn-out adventure with him, which had resulted in a captured, and "reoriented" mage from Sahova being added to the assets benefiting the city of Ravok, as well as the artifact he'd brought with him from the undead city. Miro, and his servant, Lessomm, had accompanied Inoadar to a hidden site and together they'd dealt with the renegade, and pulled the rug from under the family that had been backing him.

The covert backing of the Nitrozian Family had been of great help to Inoadar's efforts to ferret out the information he needed to locate the site. And it was becoming known that Inoadar was as much an agent of theirs as he was a man ready to aid the Black Sun and Ebonstryfe at a moment's notice. Of course, any prestige he gained from recognition by the city for services rendered was, by extension, prestige gained by the Nitrozians as well.

With Miro's help though, he felt the day would come much sooner when he would step out of the Nitrozian shadow and cast a long shadow of his own. He'd found the mage to be as capable and dangerous as any man he'd ever known that had not has his reputation expanded by tavern talk and myth. He was glad the mage was beside him here. There had been talk to the effect that the party of soldiers that had found these old ruins had "hurried" back without extensive details. That hinted at men running in fear, though he would never speak such insult aloud, regardless whether or not their brothers-in-arms were present.

As they disembarked from the boat, the woman identified herself and greeted them. There was nothing in her demeanor indicating anything except the anticipation of a quick, thorough investigation without incident. Nor was there even a hint of tolerance for anything less. Inoadar liked her immediately, though he knew better than to display such irrelevancies. His hands were clasped behind his back, as they always were at such times. He was not given to handshakes, as he had no interest in making friends with those who were fool enough to shake hands with someone that worked with poisons all day.

He would excuse someone that did not know what he did for a living, but he had no doubt this woman knew all about him, and he was honored to have been included on this outing. At her prompting, he shook his head. The only questions he had were the sort that would be the reason why they were here. He was not here to search for herbs or fungus or stinging critters for toxins. In truth, he was not entirely certain why he was allowed along. He was no historian, or archaeologist. But he was loyal, observant, resourceful and could think on his feet. He assured himself that this would be enough.

x

[Venser Rush]

Venser noted that the two who enlisted on the expedition on his side were two men that he knew, but upon that realization, his interest in the matter ceased. Miro and Inoadar were both of a sort that Venser had confidence in. At the very least, in their abilities, but the intake of old information and the dwelling upon on what was did not benefit him in any way. Instead, he watched the large men and the petite woman that they followed as if she were Rhysol himself, a narrowed gaze scrutinizing the trio, a cursory glance upon the men cast before he made his way to the woman.

A petite form belied her abilities, he was sure. Though, she was rather unremarkable save for the eye... The same eye he had seen upon the form of Thadeus Lazarin. With the information that the woman was a member of the Black Sun, the governing body of the city of Ravok, he was able to make his own conclusions, eyebrows arched for just a moment before he made his way into thought.

Rhysol's marked are known as Chaon, right? I've heard the name thrown about the city in whispered words. Is that appalling eye part of the gnosis? Thadeus Lazarin is a highly-ranked member of the Ebonstryfe, and this woman is in command of soldiers... The eye must be a show of power. A sign of status, perhaps?

Venser stopped the line of his questioning before he began to stare, or worse, to trigger the effects of Auristics and look upon this woman only to find the terror that he found in the aura of Thadeus Lazarin. There was no desire to relive the experience, and thus, instead, he listened to the woman's words.

She introduced herself and her underlings, the names committed to memory, then cast aside in favour of looking around. Venser was fully able to commit to the furthering of the cause of the Black Sun in this situation - the investigation of ruins newly discovered- for the knowledge that could be held within was of interest, not just to them, but to all. And more than that, but to Venser himself. Bones of the ancients could litter the ruins, ancient relics of the past, Legacies or otherwise, could be located and studied. Venser, with his newfound affinity for the magical granted by both Miro, who was present, and Lazarin, was all too eager to look for himself.

Legacies still required the investment of time for creation, studies were still to be had, and the work of the Emporium could not be passed on to Valdar, but the Rush twin had the time for this. He simply shrugged as the woman asked if they had questions, feeling no need to answer. Instead, the Rush twin found his gaze looking to the allies that he knew personally.

I know nothing of these Chaon, but perhaps Inoadar, and certainly Miro, will be useful in this expedition. Only time will tell.

[Miro]

Miro rode the boat to their destination with some level of contained excitement. He knew that his assistance was required, and that meant a chance to impress somebody. One of the rare opportunities that came around to dig in a few hooks. Even the people tasked to assist were ones that should be impressed. Nolan Parnell was a very useful ally, a man worth winning over. He a reliable fellow, always good to have around. The other was Venser Rush, a capable wizard. He could stand to see a little excitement.

However as the Reimancer approached the people he was to assist, he was stricken a bit of nervous awe. The cause was a woman, one with a white eye, a symbol of Rhysol's favor. It was the same as in the temple, the IHL too, any time there was a high ranked official. A member of the Black Sun that escorted two Ebonstryfe soldiers. Evalyn Grey, the woman's name. The other two, not so important. They could be useful, but they were not the ones to impress. None of the others seemed as if they were going to say anything however.

Just as well, for that gave the Chained One opportunity. He would take the lead, make introductions. Though he was more focused on making a good impression. "Hello Miss Grey, I am Miro." The wizard crossed his staff across his chest and gave a slight bow. He then gestured to his companions. "These are my associates, Venser, and this is Nolan. I assure you, we are very resourceful. We will see to it that everything goes smoothly." Though what exactly these things were remained unknown.

Evelyn asked of possible questions as the group walked to their destination. The undead had to hurry to keep pace though. He used his staff to help him keep balance and from falling too far behind. There were a few questions on his mind however. "Miss Grey, I have a few questions. I wonder, what exactly is our goal? It would certainly be nice to know what to expect. What kind of issues might we expect to encounter? Anything you know would help."

Miro was not sure of many details, but hardly needed them. Such things were nice, but all that he really needed were directions. If it meant be would be rewarded, the wizard would do as he was asked. He would be well behaved and obedient, if such an attitude won him favor. Today he would remain completely reserved, professional. He had somebody to please, so he would focus his efforts on that entirely.

On his wrist, as usual, was his sealed Familiar. Ender observed and plotted quietly this whole time, eager to see a bit of adventure. Nolan and Venser were people that he liked. One more than the other, though both quite tolerable. In truth the creature did not know Venser so well, but knew well how his master felt about the man. Nolan however was one known quite well, and admired even.

The Irylid had decided to hold an attitude very similar to his master's. Only Ender would focus on seeing that Miro was well served, kept completely happy. It was obvious that this was an important task they were appointed. It was fortunate that the master and Familiar had such support. There was no way to be sure exactly what skills would be required, so a wide range of capabilities would serve them well. For now they could only prepare for what came next.

[Nemesis]

The corners of the Acolyte’s lips curled into a small smile as only one of the new arrivals came forward to introduce himself. The smile grew when that same person offered introductions for the other two… his [associates, even. So apparently they did all know each other. The woman wondered if that would be a curse or a blessing today. Evelyn inclined her head in acknowledgement of the man’s words, "Thank you, You’re your words are reassuring." She gestured to the path behind her, "Shall we, gentlemen?"

The two soldiers instantly turned and took the helm of the party – they had been tasked with studying the route, and the schematics that could be found or reconstructed of the unknown facility they were heading to. Evelyn was here to supervise the expedition, not to do everything herself… if that were the case, she thought, citizens would not have been invited to accompany the officials. The small woman turned her head as the undead spoke to her, asking the first questions.

A few moments passed as the Acolyte thought of the answers, some of which she was not sure of herself. But it would not do to give off the impression of incompetency. "The Ebonstryfe soldiers who were initially sent out to investigate the ruins returned within the day; they could not have been in the ruins for more than two or three bells." She turned to look forward once again, her gaze catching Jensen and Blake up ahead. Both were back to their foolish antics, brandishing steel at each other and laughing. She whistled, causing both to turn and fall silent again. Resisting the urge to roll her eyes, Evelyn continued, "City officials want to know what is there. The ruins are pre-Valterrian. Expect anything."

The walk, which had been described to the Acolyte by her superiors as taking little more than half a bell, was slow. Her normal stride was smaller, and more accommodating, when, looking to her side, she realised that the Nuit, Miro, was struggling a little to keep up with her brisk pace. Thinking back on what she knew of him, Evelyn was surprised; the man wasn’t a Nuit, if her background research had been correct. She had to admit that she did not know what to expect from one marked by Uldr. He was definitely dead, even the most dense of humans would have little trouble in perceiving that of the man.

Eventually, the soldiers’ pace in front slowed, and they turned, calling over that they had arrived. The woman glanced around – the dense rows of trees had fallen away to reveal a large clearing, through the clearing still boasted a number of trees dotted around the expanse, as well as bushes and other shrubbery. For the most part, the party would see that the wide expanse, which must have been about ninety to one hundred feet across, and maybe a third of that in length, looked natural. Climbing up a small mound, they might notice that the mound itself was distinctly oblong and symmetrical, rising about a foot from the rest of the ground. The mound, too, was covered in grass and shrubs, yet the more observant of the party would recognise it as artificial.

Another visual hint as to the nature of the clearing were the stones, which appeared to be placed in straight lines. Most had been eroded down by, weathered by centuries of abandonment, yet some rose taller, creating what were likely once walls, or foundations for a plot that had long since been destroyed. Walking farther up the mound, the group would see a small hatch that had been lifted away to reveal steps heading underground.

"I don’t see that other party yet," the Acolyte spoke to no one in particular as she squinted, looking out to what she assumed must be a similar landscape in the distance, "Good, good. I’m hardly impressed by their presence." She turned and looked down at the hatch, where the two soldiers were standing, one of whom was looking, for the first time, pale and nervous. "Now is not the time to be getting cold feet, soldier. You offered your services and you are expected to see this through."

Her rebuke was light, knowing that reminding him of his duty to the city and his God would be more effective than threatening him. The soldier nodded and she watched him carefully for a few ticks before turning to the others, "I am told that there are oil lamps down there. When you’re ready…" she said softly, indicating with her hand that they were free to head down.

[Miro]

One could not be too sure about the situation. Everything seemed quite straightforward, but perhaps too much. It seemed like there was something that was not being told. However it was not Miro's place to question such things. It was his job to follow orders, and that is what he did. Though in honesty, such things as uncertainty did not bother the undead. He was enthralled by the mystery, the challenge of unpredictable circumstances. There was only one thing that did bother him, the mention of another party.

Though this time he did not question such a thing aloud, but instead kept it tucked away. It would do him no good to ruin such a beautiful environment with constant questioning. Sometimes one was best off just going along with things. This beautiful scenery, it was hard not to sit and take in, though pace was supposed to be held. They were in a familiar terrain, one recognized, that of ruins. The best kind, ancient ones, Pre-Valterrian supposedly. How wonderful it was to hear. Truly this was a treat.

But there was something not right still. Perhaps it was the foolish Ebonstryfe soldiers. They were more advanced in rank than the apprentice, given a great opportunity, but preferred to act as idiots do. Maybe it was this woman, Evelyn Grey. She seemed a strange mix of sly and uptight. There were less than subtle hints she was trying to make things go perfectly. That was fine by itself. However along with that were these dark undertones, instances where it seemed she expected trouble.

One thing kept the wizard reassured though, and that was the presence of his companions. Miro had with him Venser and Nolan, two men who would not let him down. As well his Familiar, Ender, on his wrist in wait. Together the four made an excellent team, plenty enough to ensure that things went well. It was this simple fact that reassured the undead as he descended into the ruins. Though he was the last to catch up, he was the first to enter.

It was a good thing that the Irylid were so gifted with their ability to see, because the Chained One was not. The dark left him nearly completely blind. He shook his right arm and his Familiar shifted into its natural form. The icy bracelet changed form to become a reflective orb that floated in the air. For once the two shared open verbal communication instead of relying on telepathy. "Ender, find a lamp, carry it for me."

The creature was able to see well enough, but to carry anything was an odd request. Though the way this was possible became apparent quite quickly. The Irylid floated atop the oil lantern's metal handle and began to produce Res to surround it. The Res enveloped much of the handle, but remained firmly attached to his body as well, and was transmuted to ice. Though the lamp remained unlit, it was now attached to the creature that floated steadily at walking speed.

Ender returned to his master's side to float beside him. The two were close enough now that the Reimancer could witness the glint of the oil. He as well produced a tiny wisp of Res, an aqua colored gas, and guided it to the oil. He transmuted it to a puff of fire that lit the lamp. Finally he could see. The Irylid especially was able to see quite well. Though the heat emanating from the fire was hardly comfortable.

The Chained One waited with nervous anticipation for what would come next. He pointed his staff at the other lamps, three of them at least, and began to guide a puff of Res to each. They too were lit, ready for his companions to take them up. He was not sure about this Evelyn Grey, but he would have to trust her. Normally he would confer with Nolan, perhaps Venser too, but not now. If either of his partners had cause for concern, they could address him with it.

[Inoadar]

Inoadar

If Acolyte Grey had been watching him, she'd have noticed Inoadar start at the mention of a second party. Up until then, he'd enjoyed the walk. It was probably the first time he'd been ashore that he'd had no concern about being stalked by wolves. And the thoughts of being stalked by unknown pre-Valterian dangers was more enticement than apprehension.

He'd not been surprised by the obvious man-made nature of the rise upon which the ruins sat. It was a common enough practice, even today, to elevate your holdings. If anything, he was surprised it was not higher still. But when they came upon the opening to the descending stairway, he thought the rise may be nothing more than what the original builders did with the displaced dirt from below, smoothed and tamped to form the base of their installation.

Miro led the way down, as Inoadar got out his crossbow. He looked to Acolyte Grey for permission to prepare the weapon. He did not know if the citizens on this mission were expected or permitted to carry such items. there would surely be no objection to a dagger. And his cane/blowgun was not readily identifiable as a weapon. Though it was entirely possible the leader was well aware of his use of his signature device.

If she had no objection, Inoadar would load the crossbow with a heavy, armor-piecing variety of bolt. He also had broadhead and stun bolts along. He'd left the acid-bulb types back at his room, but he had not neglected to bring a vial of the stuff. It was quite versatile. These in addition to his knuckleduster, his garrote, his boot blades and his whip. He had on his mail shirt, and the leggings of his leather armor. He had not yet replaced the Nettle Cloak he'd given up during the Weaponmaster's Riot, as it was coming to be known.

More functionally in mind, he'd made room for his crowbar, hatchett and hammer, and his grapple and rope. To this, he added his last safeguard, his leather loop bracer with five darts for his blowgun, containing Pillowsap, Dark Reaving, Lost Tongue, Blood Root and Wildleash. One never knew what sort of hostile skills needed to be negated.

Being the last citizen to go below, he stopped on the top step and turned to the woman. "Lady Acolyte...excuse my lack of proper military protocol...But you mention a second party. Is it possible they may attempt to sabotage our efforts, for their own additional prestige at our expense? Should you or one of your men perhaps stay up here to guard our flank?"

x

[Venser Rush]

Crystalline eyes narrowed their gaze as the Rush twin attempted to check the nature of a peculiar-looking mound from which the ruins rose. By itself, Venser likely would not have noticed anything, but the combination of it with the ruins told him that the ground before was shaped by the ancients in order to better suit the structure.

Is it altered in order to maintain structural integrity? Or is it shaped in order to retain a flat surface? Or did the ancients - Alahean was the name, if I recall correctly - do it for a different reason? Magic? Cultural appeal? Only time will tell...

Venser felt his heart pounding in his chest with excitement, his eyes hungrily cast about as he attempted to divine a greater amount of information from the outer shell of the ruins, but it seemed unlikely that such a phenomenon would occur. Patience was a thing he learned in the craft of woodcarving, his work sometimes taking a full bell for even the most minor of details, much more for larger finishings.

Mikayas tasked him, at times, with assignments that took his entire day's work. And though Venser did not appreciate the entirety of Mikayas' 'process', he did understand it. The Rush twin had proof of its merits, the mask he made at Mikayas' behest bounding against his hip, suspended by a length of string.

Venser looked over to Inoadar as he addressed the Acolyte with plans of defense, the Rush twin arching his eyebrows in surprise, noting the presence of the man's blowgun, several darts visible. They were likely poisoned, given the nature of the weapon and Inoadar'sFor now, I'mma call him that since we haven't introduced one another in thread yet. I'll change it to whatever he introduces himself as later. profession, but Venser decided not to press the point, instead lowering to the clasps at his belt, feeling for the punch daggers that he had learned to use.

After feeling that they were there and in place, the Rush twin tugged at the weave of his djed, feeling the slow movement of the Flux through his body. Djed welled from his soul, spurring forth the movement of the present djed in his musculature. He did not aim the djed as he would in combat, instead allowing it to merely circulate, pulse through his body in a slow, steady cycle as he walked forth. Words were lost on him in the midst of the process, his focus absolute on the movement at hand, a deep breath filling the Rush twin's lungs as he listened to the slowing beat of his heart.

The familiar anticipation bubbled within his mind, his lips curling into a vibrant grin as a fist clenched, gently brushing against his thigh. Venser decided not to involve himself in the conversation at hand, instead allowing the cycling of his djed to move through his entire structure. It was a slow, controlled process, born from his growing experience with the Flux, and with it, Venser felt the strength flowing through him. It was a good enough day to embark on his adventure, as the Rush twin sensed nothing inherently wrong with his body. Instead, he looked over to Miro, a chuckle escaping his lips as the wizard spoke to his familiar. In truth, the Familiar was almost an unfair advantage, one that the Rush twin coveted, but only time would bring him that sort of power.

For the moment, Venser merely smirked, catching Miro's gaze for a moment before trudging forward. A lantern now lit their way, carried by a Familiar. A sense of calm, brought on both by the controlled state of things, and the exercise he had performed flowed through him, and with the calm, he finally decided to speak.

"Is there a particular order that we will be making forward progress into the ruin in? There is a need to do so, obviously. I think that the we should assess our strength as a group and figure out how to effectively utilize it rather than leaving a single man behind to guard us.

We have a total of twelve eyes, not including the Familiar's way of perceiving things. More than enough to not need to split a group and our strength. There may be other, more present dangers ahead that we'll need the extra man for. Sabotage should be the least of our concerns."

[Nemesis]

The woman’s eyes shot up to meet the poison crafter’s as he spoke to her, offering a suggestion to ensure the excursion went smoothly, without the interruption of the second party. Her eyes narrowed at the ludicrous suggestion that one of the officials remained behind to act as gate-keeper so that the others had an easy time of it down in the facility proper. Briefly, the Acolyte thought over what she knew of Nolan Parnell. Information that she was privy to went either way – either condemning the man, or hailing him. Her own opinion was quickly being formed, however, and she was not impressed that now she had to supervise him as well as the Rush boy.

Slowly, the woman caste her eyes down the poison crafter’s body, quickly searching for anything that he might have concealed on him, except for the crossbow. She wouldn’t put it past the man to have a variety of poisons stored on his person. "You are welcome to stay up here if you think your skills would be most suited to hindering the rabble party of adventurers also searching the ruins, Mister Parnell." She met his eyes once more as the two soldiers, taking their cue from their superior’s reply, descended into the darkness after Miro. Her gaze was hardly the most inviting, with one pure white eye, and the other pale enough that it could be mistaken for white, most were unnerved by the twice-marked Acolyte. Her tone made it clear that she did not view the others as a threat.

"But if the tales from the soldiers are true, these citizens will be the least of your worries." With a final, lingering glance, she too headed down the uneven stairs, glad to see that lamps were already alight and offering a low glow. It wasn’t much, but it was enough. One soldier offered her one to carry, but she ignored him as she looked around.

At the bottom of the stairs, where the group was congregating, they found themselves in a rectangular room. At the bottom of the rectangle, straight across from the bottom of stairs, was a small passageway, where it led to was unclear to the Acolyte – the darkness was impenetrable. To the left of the stairs, an open door could be seen, and just beyond it, a room, larger than this one. Evelyn nodded to each of the soldiers, who made their way to an opening each. Both called over that they thought their route should be checked out.

The Acolyte was no longer paying attention, however, as the Rush boy had spoken to her. She frowned, "In what sense, Rush? This is no battle formation, we are three officials and three individuals brought together for a common cause. Perhaps, if it will make you feel safer, we might create a star-formation? Five points with you snugly in the centre?" There was mockery and scorn in every word that slipped from her painted lips; she was not a fan of having to protect those who could not protect themselves, nor did she appreciate being told how to run her excursion. "Jepsen! Blake! Come here and watch over Mister Rush. He might be fearful of the dark."

The two guards grinned to each other as they sauntered over to rejoin the group as Evelyn stepped away from Venser. Slowly, her gaze passed from Venser to Parnell, to Miro, and back again, trying to decipher whey they were here and what they wanted. The words of humiliation and discreditment aimed at Venser would serve to both remind him that he was here by invitation and his advice was not needed, and ensure that her Stryfe soldiers kept an eye on him and the other citizens; incompetent as they had been so far today, they knew their superior’s cues well enough to know something concerned her. A normally fair woman, she generally took advice on board, yet here she had scorned both the advice of splitting up and remaining together. As a cool wind brushed through all of them, seemingly coming from one of the passages, it was clear to all that the Acolyte was on edge.

NoteFirst one in, pick a direction!

[Miro]

Miro listened carefully as he waited for his party to gather. The lanterns were all lit, and the room could be made out. The fire of the lantern's caused a reaction, the metal of his ruby ring growing warm from it. There was not much the wizard could see, though the Irylid had a much better sight. There was a dark passageway across dead ahead that the undead had his eyes set on, but Ender noted a door off to the left. The two had their own opinions on how to proceed.

Through telepathy the duo held discussion. "There, ahead, a passageway. Simple enough, we know not which way to go. Straight ahead and into the heart of things makes the most sense." An answer much to simple and obvious for the Familiar. "But that is what is expected, far too obvious. Surely you'll fall to traps that way. There is a passage to the left, we should check it. It could be give us some idea what to expect before we advance too far"

It was hard to decide which of the two was right, as both could understand at least a bit of the other's reasoning. Though there were other factors to take in too. Miss Evelyn Grey for instance, the things she said. Adventurers already in the ruins. It urged the wizard to press on quickly. However Ender took from it something else, that the tales of soldiers brought with them warnings. That there were other things to take into consideration. With the few facts given, all that they had to work with was intuition.

"Lady Grey has warned us of things. Things far worse than citizens. Traps and monsters, unstable architecture, ancient secrets, it's all far too unpredictable. We should take things slow. Whatever we are here for, it could be tucked away anywhere. We need to take things step by step, carefully, as not to ruin anything. Hold care in everything we do, search for traps, stick together. It's the only way to ensure our mission is completed absolutely."

Though there was no way to know exactly the reason they were all down there. It could very well be related to the other adventurers. Perhaps like a competition, a race to beat them to whatever was hidden away. Some object or secret perhaps, or a mere test of skills. There was still much that wasn't being told, but it did not matter to the Chained One. He was slow as it was, and not particularly nimble. He was guileful, but only when it was the obvious solution.

"Ender, you are wrong, I am almost sure of it. My gut tells me to go straight to the heart of things. The best way to navigate the unknown is by not navigating at all, by trusting your instincts. Alvadas taught me that. But we have a good team of men, and most of all we have me. I aim only to please Miss Evelyn Grey. I can see that holding some reservation is wise. Though I can also see that we need not be afraid to act. These other adventurers could make away with our true objective."

Then the two came to a similar conclusion, that they could not know. They realized both of them were right, and for their own reasons. They were the two possible answers to the same problem, aligned yet contrary. "Obviously we can't agree, though I see your point." The most important factor was the objective itself. "We can't be sure which of us is right. We would have to go our separate ways to see. But I know you will not allow that."

Of course that could not be allowed, Ender was absolutely necessary right now. Perhaps now more than ever, considering their environment and the stakes. "No, we must stick together, but only us. I think it is important to take a leadership role here. You will help me as my second in command here. Though you must remember, we do not have authority here. We must seem the most logical and assured, and for that we need more information." Now was the time to act.

Jepsen and Blake, Nolan and Venser, Evelyn and Ender. Miro had a fine set of tools on hand, and he could get quite a bit out of them. Only there were issues. The Ebonstryfe soldiers were idiots, trap monkeys. The kind that were best sent in first to clear a room. Nolan and Venser were both independent people, the kind who wanted to make their decisions. They would be hard to guide as the wizard saw fit. Though the biggest issue was Evelyn herself.

The Acolyte was not as skilled a leader as one might hope. She was naught but nerves and tensions. She was the one in charge, but only in that her name was on the line. If things went wrong, it was her punishment. However if things went right, she was the one who received the praise. This was something that could be manipulated. The woman seemed as if she needed saving. Somebody had to be the one who took charge and gave a clear direction to success.

It had to be Miro, of course, but he could not just start barking out orders. He would have to establish himself as reliable, somebody they'd want to listen to. All of them had gathered and the Acolyte had made her remarks. It seemed more and more that she was unsatisfied with their current situation. That would soon be fixed. The undead cleared his throat and drew attention to himself. "Excuse me, your attention, please. I will assume that I am the only one with any experience with pre-Valterrian ruins."

The amount of experience held with them was actually quite slight. Practically non-existent if one were to get technical, but nobody needed to know that. "There are procedures to follow. We can not allow ourselves to become separated, but we mustn't travel too closely bunched. It is important that we keep within range of communication, but also that we understand the ruins. It seems complicated, but it's simple really." Both the wizard and Familiar were right, but for different reasons.

"We must know our every route, in case of ruin collapse, traps, or any other factors. Every room should be explored, or at least given some cursory examination. This is important to establish a layout of the ruins, but also to ensure that we do not pass an invaluable discovery." Though the method in clearing rooms was not nearly as straightforward. Evelyn likely would not like much power taken out of her hands. To give any orders was likely an overstep of unclear boundaries.

The answer to such things was Hypnotism. A bit of sly manipulation, a few pushes, there wasn't much that he was unable to accomplish. The undead walked closer to Evelyn and directed his hypnotic presence towards her. The others were not of consequence to manipulate directly. Not now at least. He expanded his aura of influence and began to flow Djed through words and gestures. His voice held a tinge of cockiness, though he kept a strict tone. He still had a point to make.

Miro tapped his staff with each staff as he approached the Acolyte, Ender behind him with the lamp. The wizard silhouetted all but the grey of his eyes as he spoke. "Miss Grey, Venser and Nolan are fine men to have, as am I, but in the end only you can decide how we shall act. But a wise leader always keeps an open ear to those they lead. You have heard what my associates have to say, and you have made your stand clear. Perhaps you might let me have a turn to express strategy before you make any decision."

The wizard layered thickly his magic within the confines of his words. The magical rises, though eager to slip free, they would remain hidden within the words. Only the slightest of his manipulative tricks triggered thus far. As always he started with emotional responses, trust, patience, compliance, affection. A ploy to sway her into keeping an open mind, to work at a soft spot. As well he implanted subliminal suggestions, "Trust Miro, Miro is experienced, Miro has leadership potential, Miro will not let me down."

Though these were only the initial hypnotic adjustments made. These spells were subtle, though would rise to sit just below the surface. Only those with a great handle on their emotions or those feelings truly out of place would be able to call him out here. Though with these next spells the risk was elevated, as was the influence they provided. Again his voice was empowered with Djed as he spoke. "I say we split our six bodies into two teams that work together. One will clear a room and ensure it is safe, the other to follow after and ensure nothing is missed."

This time the wizard pushed a more powerful set of spells, but only one of each. A flash, a frame of implanted sensory thought. In this instance, an image in mind, the separation of the groups. Miro, Nolan and one of the soldiers in one, the other consistent of Venser, the other soldier and Evelyn herself. Along with it a sudden thought would follow, her mind's voice producing the artificial thought, "Two groups working together in such a way seems most efficient." It was a risky move, if performed poorly.

Though the Chained One ceased his acts of manipulation and cleared his throat again to speak. "I would gladly lead a team to ensure that a room is cleared of traps. I am quite durable myself, and Ender is quite observant. Nolan as well would be a boon to such an effort. He is quite tactful and observant himself. Once we would have a room clear, it would be up to the other team to comb over it while the next room is being cleared. We could proceed in such a manner until everything is cleared." Though this was mostly a transition to the next point to be made.

The truth was the entire mystery of why they were down there was eating away at the curious undead. He needed to know what to face, but more so what they stood to gain. "But there is only so much advice I can give, considering the intelligence I lack. I do not even know our actual purpose down here. You speak of others that prowl about and worries apart from them. You make it apparent that we mustn't fail you, but you give us no aim of success. Are we down here to chart these ruins, to see them cleared safely, to retrieve something? Maybe it is a combination of these things."

Truly this was what was most important right now. One more use of Hypnotism, the wizard told himself. It would be a combination of a few spells condensed around a single target. The Hypnotist spoke in a soft yet clear voice at Evelyn one last time with Djed running off the tip of his tongue. "It would assist us all greatly if you were to allow us privy to such information." He cast an emotional response of confidence as well as a suggestion and sudden thought both of, "Miro is right."

Though he could only end his request with a shrug, as if it was all irrelevant. "Of course, I will do as you ask without question. I merely ask to have the comfort of knowing that my words are heard." Miro began to trudge forward toward the door across from the stairwell, his original path. "I say we start with this room. If you'll allow me, I'll guide Ender in and we can see what is under the shadows that mask it. I am eager to get things started." He nodded at the soldier he stood next to and stood patiently. The Irylid followed behind with a sense of pride.