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<blockquote data-quote="Tizbiz" data-source="post: 7084004" data-attributes="member: 6874057"><p><span style="color: #0000ff">I happen to have one of my players writing a (german) recap for this campaign and she even adds her thoughts for me to see. This means you see the campaign trough her eyes and not from both players or mine. I will translate these and add my own thoughts. Please forgive the occasional german sentence structure sneaking in.</span></p><p></p><p>Stover Delft summons Auryn Galadin and Gabriel Carlyle to his office and suggests that they could look into a closed case of a late Skyseer, which was rumored to have had a vision concerning the King's visit, "if they don't mind following a cold case".</p><p></p><p></p><p>The two constables examine the files and get to know that the skyseer's nephew is a young Bailiff named Steffen and so they visit him and his colleagues in the Nettles.</p><p></p><p></p><p>Everything points to a "true“ accident, but the Skyseer has left many cryptic drawings in her apartment, which Auryn and Gabriel draw on paper so they can show them to a different Skyseer since they are no experts on visions (They only know about the famous, but very old Nevard, so they were looking for him.)</p><p></p><p></p><p>After searching for him in the Nettles they can´t find Nevard, so they consult other, more unknown skyseers. Finaly Ms. Galadin and Mr. Carlyle agree on an interpretation based on their own findings and the interpretation of the moderately famous "Allseer" who had scores of beautiful ladies waiting for his visions, as well as the interpretation of a local seer in a shady tent at Bosum Strand: There might be some unrest in which people from Ber are involved which in the worst case can end in something deadly. (cant remember how they misinterpreted some of the drawings and came up with the wrong Ber clue actually. Fortunately they got it when they saw the map on display.)</p><p></p><p></p><p>(The players were requested not to take the skyseer related background because we just finished an other campaign where one player was using omen and visions quite often and i was a little tired of that. Yet i wanted to give them the clues from the skyseer theme in exchange for a little legwork.)</p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #008000">*Auryn was a bit surprised that Assistant Chief Inspector Delft sent Mr. Carlyle and her on a mission immediately after their last assignment, even if it was a seemingly cold case. For a short time she was not sure if she would not have preferred working alone, as she was used to. But somehow she felt that they both had something in common. Gabriel Carlyle worked precisely, planned exactly and had a keen eye. And more importantly, he had 500 years of experience. She could not help comparing him to Thorandil, who had been teaching her art and music back in Elfaivar. He too had been a veteran of the last war. She understood what a girl like Nymeia could see in him. And yet the mystic nuances she could sense so clearly were often completely alien to Gabriel, resulting in his skepticism towards the Skyseers. She had wondered how many of the seers really had visions, and how many were just charlatans who had attention or a quick coin in mind, and thus extolled the old traditions of Risur. Was the Alleseer a real Skyseer? She could hardly point her finger on whether or whether not he was sincere. Not being able to find Nevard had frustrated her, but she could, no, she had to draw her own conclusions from the cryptic information. Especially if the King's welfare was at stake … *</span></p><p></p><p></p><p>The constables share their insights with Delft, and he agrees to raise the security level for the time of the King's visit.</p><p></p><p></p><p>Auryn visits rear admiral Dawkins to tell him the disturbing news and he seems to share her worries. He promises to swap part of the crew of the Coaltongue with crew members of his own flag ship. Auryn is relieved to know Dawkins' most trusted men will be on duty. If fortune was on their side, it would be a happy reunion with old acquaintances, even if this was important work for the RHC. She is still troubled by his mentions of a growing rift between workers and industrialists, as well as followers of the old paths and the new industrialism.</p><p></p><p></p><p>She is invited by the rear admiral's wife Milena Dawkins to stay for supper When Milena hears that she will be on duty on the Coaltonge she tells her about a nice young noble who will antend the celebration and seems to be interested to play matchmaker for Auryn and Lord Vantrys. </p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #008000">*Auryn hoped that Milena would someday understand why she had no interest in a marriage with a young Risuri. Not only would Auryn survive the poor by ten lifetimes, a connection with any human or non-Eladrin would also not be futile, as she could not sire any offspring with them. Plus probably none of the „little“ boys would ever be her equal. Love was a concept unknown to her, and even if she was ever to develop spontaneous feelings, which she thought was impossible since true relationships needed time, young men would probably not be her first choice. Her first husbands in the enclave would have most certainly been experienced, older Eladrin, who could have supported her in her duties, while the chosen young men became the husbands of experienced, older women. But for Milena's sake, Auryn decided to at least exchange a few polite words with this Nathaniel Vantrys.*</span></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Mr. Carlyle asks his informants to mingle with the crowd at the day of the celebration and to tell about suspitious guys or known troublemakers if they happen to spot them. </p><p></p><p></p><p>As the constables are responsible for the coordination of the security, they visit the Royal Shipyard in advance. There they meet the talkative chief mechanic from Danor, Geoff Masarde, who explains some of the features of the ship. He tells them that firing the canon might extinguish the fire in the ships furnance and leave the ship without power.</p><p></p><p></p><p>Carlyle comes up with the idea of preparing an escape boat for the king and securing the furnace of the Coaltongue. Auryn agrees and takes him to the rear admiral's office.</p><p></p><p></p><p>Auryn introduces Gabriel to rear admiral Dawkins and they agree to prepare an escape boat, just in case. For the event of an energy shutdown of the ship, Dawkins tells the two that the Coaltongue will not be defenseless because there will be more ships accompaning her on her maiden voyage. Carlyle wonders about the details of Auryn's relationship with Dawkins. When he asks her about it, she tells him that he is her best friend and that she trusts him unconditionally(which seems to surprise him even more)</p><p></p><p></p><p>The constables spend the evening together (apparently both do not have much to do at the moment ...) and exchange their (pretty negative) opinions about industrialists. They also talk a lot about responsibility of aristocrats (especially Carlyle seems to hold noble families in high regard, but Auryn agrees that being taught to lead responsibly from the very beginning will work out better than just aspiring to power through money or strength)</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #008000">*Auryn was astonished to see a Danoran tiefling aboard the Coaltongue. She had concluded that Masarde had to be an exile because he had protection, but no supervision, like a prisoner would have had. The ship was impressive, albeit frightening. She saw the potential in the combination of technology (new) and magic (ancient). She had hesitated to take Carlyle to Dawkins, but did not really know why. Maybe she did not want to reveal too much about herself, but there had been something else ...</span></p><p><span style="color: #008000">Nevertheless, Carlyle's logic was sharp and the king should be protected by all means. She was not surprised to see that her colleague was wondering about her contact, but she did not want to doubt the integrity and trustworthiness of Dawkins. Carlyle was a strange man, she told herself. He did not seem to have a private life, had no hobbies, and she was not sure whether she was doing him a favor or whether she was a nuisance when she was spending time with him. But as he was a veteran of the old war, there was a slight chance that he could explain to her what had really happened when Srasama died. He seemed to dislike industrialists as much as she did. Plus he was favoring a leading role of the traditional noble families whose heirs were groomed to be leaders anyway. They really had the same ideas, ableit in a slightly twisted way, yet Auryn could not forget the time of the mad kings of Elfaivar (who were also "educated nobles") and that she herself had been educated to be a leader.. Still both of them shared their appreciation of the old risuri way more than she had previously thought.*</span></p><p></p><p></p><p>On the day of the launch of the Coaltongue, Auryn and Gabriel are both assigned to monitor the crowd gathering in front of the shipyard.</p><p></p><p></p><p>Together they look for suspects via descriptions they got from the RHC profiles and quickly spot three restless potential troublemakers, which are all found near signs which match the vision of the late skyseer.</p><p></p><p></p><p>The three suspects are part of the Docker's Union and the constables manage to calm the three with arguments and even get the help of Thames Grimsley, (who leads the three troublemakers away after being promised a favor.)</p><p></p><p></p><p>After a brief conversation they admit that they were instigated by the veteran Dafton. As time runs short, Auryn quickly charms Dafton and leads him away to Grimsley. Till that day, the Docker has only known her as an artist but now he suspects her of being a cop. Still he thanks her and tells her that he will keep in mind that she owes him something, even if he might return the favor again.</p><p></p><p></p><p>Auryn promises that either king Aodhan or governor Stanfield will be informed about the terrible, unjust situation of the workers. Carlyle seems to be impressed by Auryn's networking, but warns her that she should not put too much strain on her relationships.</p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #008000">*Perhaps Auryn understood better than most of the RHC or the town guards of Flint what the Dockers felt. They expressed their feelings and thoughts through their form of art and Auryn knew how to read them. Until a few years ago, the concept of a "job" had been foreign to her. She has had her duties while other Eladrin were taking care of everything else. Her life had been regulated, simple and secure. But these people suffered in a country that could afford great ships like the Coaltongue. Industrialists lived in abundance and could afford leading the luxurious lives of kings. Even law seemed to protect them. Nevertheless, violence and turmoil were the wrong way to achieve one's goals. Violence only led to conflict and suffering. She was glad Grimsley understood this approach and that their influence had been strong enough to prevent worse. Grimsley now knew that she was part of the RHC. Carlyle was right, she had given her promise that the king or the governor would learn of the conditions of the workers without having access to any of them. But she could ask Milena a favor, even if she would not have the chance to speak to either of them. She just hoped that her words could make a difference. In no case did she want to choose between the safety of Flint and the well being of the workers. And as much as she despised the exploiters, she had sworn to defend any Risuri, regardless of who they were.*</span></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Delft tells the two constables to go on board and help welcoming the guests while some cooks enter the ship to deliver sweets. Milena Dawkins boards the ship, as well as a somewhat depressed looking Lord Vantrys who is in the company of a much more cheerful Guy Goodson. Vantrys' mood lightens up when he sees Mr. Carlyle. The King's sister Lady Ethelyn has an Eladrin attendant with her and she seems to be as unhappy as Lord Vantrys was just some moments before.</p><p></p><p></p><p>When Auryn asks Carlyle about Vantrys' sudden change of mood, the Deva explains that he used to work for Vantrys.</p><p></p><p></p><p>After a prolonged tour around the ship, Lady Ethelyn seems tired and weary and Auryn and Gabriel take her to a room where she can rest.</p><p></p><p></p><p>The constables observe the the guests and learn that the industrialists seem to take great pleasure in the event. </p><p></p><p></p><p>The ship leaves the harbour and Auryn and Gabriel are tasked to blend in with the guests partake in the banquet under the lightning lit crystal dome (it is absolutely safe they said!)</p><p></p><p></p><p>As the banquet ends, Carlyle and Lord Vantrys talk to each other. Vantrys is not happy about his business relationship with Goodson and promises that no one is exploited in his own company. He also mentions an entrepreneur who is particularly respected (Sechim), since he leads his chemical company which he has founded on his own in a very responsible and independent manner.</p><p></p><p></p><p>Vantrys looks much more relaxed in Carlyle's presence. Auryn suspects that Carlyle is a good friend of Vantrys, but her colleague tells her he was (and somehow still is) like a son to him.</p><p></p><p></p><p>Auryn and Gabriel happen to overhear a conversation between Principal Minister Harkover Lee and King Aodhan, as the later apparently gets a bloated belly and it seems like the Fey of the sea want to make him feel that they are displeased. (The Fey are not amused about the Coaltongue). Aodhan tells Harkover Lee that he fears that the situation as it is right now might kindle an insurrection. The constables don´t geht the part what would cause his fears.</p><p></p><p></p><p>When Aodhan notices the constables, he asks them about their opinion on the Coaltongue. They tell him that they are impressed, but Auryn also mentions that the ship has caused a lot of suffering for Flint's workforce. The king explains his own burden and responsibility for all of Risur and indicates that he had to make the difficult decision to let Flint be Risur's industrial center in order to lessen the threat that is the highly industrialized Danoran military. ("At the moment, we need the industrialists"). Auryn warns him respectfully that Flint is becoming more and more of a powder keg and that one must not lose sight on the possible threats one might breed from inside.</p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #008000">*Auryn was astonished to see that her "future husband" (in Milena's eyes) Lord Vantrys was not only the former employer but apparently also a good friend and quasi-son of Gabriel Carlyle. She understood what he might feel for the "boy," as she had herself taken care of the little Eladrin of her Enclave, who were cared for by the whole community. She could not help but notice that Vantrys seemed more alive whenever Carlyle was present, and that he even freely expressed his thoughts. Thoughts ablout his feelings of unease when it came to his relationship with Goodson. Thoughts about the need to treat his employees well. Deep inside, she realized Vantrys was reaching out to his mentor for help. He was still too young to be without an adult adviser. She felt empathy for the young lord, but would have to disappoint Milena again. Auryn was also amazed that Lady Ethelyn had an Eladrin maid and wondered how she had come to her service. She understood the Duchess' displeasure about the new technologies, but found her open display of her discontent to show a lacking respect for the king. King Aodhan was an impressive man, who emanated a pleasant, calm and even warm aura. And he had actually listend to her concerns for the workers of Flint. Like Old Stag, he had the aura of a matriarch which made it easy for her to exchange thoughts with him and which gave her confidence. She respected the difficult decisions he had to make, even if she had not necessarily come to the same conclusion as he did. But alas, she was an Eladrin from a small enclave in Elfaivar and had no country to rule and millions of inhabitants to protect. She wondered what kinds of difficult decisions she might have to make once she was a matriarch, and for a moment she ws afraid of that burden. She only hoped that Aodhan would not lose sight of the Fey and the unseen court, since they too belonged to Risur and the hints of Old Stag sounded troubling. Old Stag ... he had to have something important to do in the dreaming if he could not be on the ship on this important day. She just hoped he was all right. His career prospects were nothing compared to a broken bond with the Fey. Harkover Lee had seemed eerie and harsh, and she did not really know what to do with the mage. Yet the King was certainly in good hands.*</span></p><p></p><p></p><p>The Duchess Ethelyn is missing after a few hours of absence. The constables are send to look after her by Assistand Chief Inspector Delft and to lead her back to the banquet. Delft fears that she wants to shame her brother by not being in the crowd when the king makes his speech.</p><p></p><p></p><p>On the way down, they are stopped by Carlyle's favorite columnist, who wants to know more about rumors on Lord Vantrys (his "relationship" to Goodson and hints about Vigilantism). Carlyle dismisses all of these accusations as mere rumors.</p><p></p><p></p><p>The constables find the room of Ethelyn locked, so Carlyle quickly lockpicks the door to Auryn's surprise when they hear a splashing sound. Auryn fears that the Lady has gone overboard and is shocked when she sees Ethelyn dive into the deep sea alongside Archfey Beshela on a Titanic Nautilus.</p><p></p><p></p><p>The subsequent hectic search for Ethelyn's servants ends with the discovery of several murdered technicians and sailors (including some members of the admirals flag ship which Auryn knew)</p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #008000">*Beshela. What had happened in the name of all the Titans that Lady Ethelyn disappeared in such an unsuitable manner with an archfey and her wretched pet? But now she was gone and "someone" had left a pile of dead people. Auryn did not have time to think about the consequences. She had to find the culprit before more people died. Before they killed more people she knew. Who meant something to her. Who were important. The faces of Milena, Telluriel Rommath, Julien, Kilika and King Aodhan floated before her eyes. And for a moment, Zahir. She would not hesitate again. She would eliminate the threat at any cost. No more would die today.*</span></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>The constables search all the decks and uncover a sabotage attempt of some cooks, the eladrin maid and two other technicians who try to make the engine explode and sink the ship.</p><p></p><p></p><p>After a short, hard fight Auryn and Gabriel can finally knock the saboteurs out and pull the fire stone out of the overheated furnace.</p><p></p><p></p><p>The constables realise that they only bought themselves some time and decide to switch off the furnace with the help of a completely planned (!) shot of the main cannon. Carlyle shovels as many firegems as possible out of the fire, while Auryn searches for Geoff Masarde and together they activate the fire sequence under the glass dome. (And interrupt the King's speech ...)</p><p></p><p></p><p>Ms. Galadin and Mr. Carlyle tell Stover Delft about Ethelyn's high treason, who in turn informs the king, while the constables move on to inform Harkover Lee. (Lee gets really angry and casts a silence to cover his cry of rage and the heroes get a very short glimpse of his eyes turning into a slit.) He also demands the death of the Duchess. </p><p></p><p></p><p>Harkover Lee commands the constables to conduct the interrogations of the prisoners who call themselves fanatical "true patriots", who support the anti-technology stance of the Duchess and lament the decline of the Risuri values, fearing that the ancient connections to the Fey will suffer beyond repair should Aodhan continue his course. </p><p></p><p></p><p>The constables are very skeptical about the changes the industrialisation brings to Flint but sharply condem the terrorist's actions.</p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #008000">*Treason among their own ranks. A murder plot, an act of sabotage on the Coaltongue, which could have easily extinguished hundreds of lives on the ship. Auryn was able to understand Lee's reaction (or better explosive rage) only too well. His harsh, repulsive nature now made much more sense under the prospect that he had to keep such a fiery rage under control. She could not help assuming that he could be a fey advisor to the king. Carlyle had once again been a reliable partner, who had protected her during combat .They both had taken care not to end even more lives (they had been especially careful with the eladrin maid) and were able to learn something about the motives of the "true Risuri". In fact, she understood the logic of the attackers too well and she found that she could even agree with them. However, violence, especially conducted in such an insidious and excessive way, could never be a good start for negotiations. She was sure that the king, as an intermediary between Fey and mortals, would have had an open ear for reasonable concerns, and that the terrorist's cowardly attack had destroyed all possibility for negotiation. Such behavior was unworthy of a noble sibling of the king and even less of the eladrin woman in her attendance.*</span></p><p></p><p></p><p>The constables are told that the King would like to speak to them again and he asks them about their life and their reasons to join the RHC. Auryn introduces herself as being the daughter of Galadin, daughter of the Kaealys, daughter of the matriarch Launga. Being quiestioned why such a descendant of Elfaivar would be part of the RHC, she explains that she was freed from "danoran captivity by a certain "Captain Dawkins" and is thus indebted to Risur. Because of this she is skeptical about an all-too-danoran path which Risur might be about to follow. Aodhan tells her that he missed Dawkins at the celebration (she tells him that he has caught a fever) and declares that he really likes his „youngest rear admiral“. Carlyle states that he has been living in Risur for centuries and has proudly served the Vantrys family until his death 7 years ago. His family, except for the young Lord Vantrys, had been killed by an attack of unknown assailants. He says he has known Flint and Risur for a long time, but is concerned about the current domestic political situation and the worker's issues. The King understands their motivation to serve Risur and shows his own pain about the betrayal of his beloved sister.</p><p></p><p></p><p>In the same night the cowardly attack is announced to the Risuri media and in the next morning the King announces that there will be negotiations with Danor for a peace treaty and that he will marry a Danoran to tie this knot.</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #008000">*Auryn had not expected the King to speak to them personally. She knew there was no reason to hide her origin from the king of her new home (and in a way she was proud of what she was and had created her „elven camouflage" out of pure caution). She had to smile slightly when she caught Carlyle's surprised expression and was even mildly surprised that the King held rear admiral Dawkins in such high esteem. Likewise, she was astonished to hear about the attack on the Vantrys family and the corresponding death of Carlyle, and now she could understand the relationship between Vantrys and Carlyle a lot better. She was glad that the King had listened to the words of both of them again, and apparently also recognized their underlying wisdom. Carlyle probably knew Risur and its people better than any of them, and even he feared that Flint might soon to tear itmself from the inside. Her own experience of her imprisonment on the Danoran island and her comparison with the situation of some workers had apparently also made an impression on the king. She thought that in the end she could see many similarities between the thoughts of those present and she felt compassion for the grief of Aodhan for the loss of his sister whom he could not forgive. She herself would not know how she would cope with such an insidious kind of treason, an attempted murder by a part of her family. She comforted herself in the belief that this would never happen. Her family, her bloodline, had always been most important and holy to her, even though she was now far from home. No, a family would defend each other with their lives as she had been taught so many times before.</span></p><p><span style="color: #008000">Auryn had feared for a moment that due to Stanfield's reactions, sanctions would be imposed on Fey supporters or critical voices, but the King's wisdom was greater than petty feelings of revenge. She herself saw the engagement with a Danoran as a wise descisono worthy of a king who wanted to maintain and build on peace. She hoped that this would also lead to diminished labor pressure and better rights for the workers. *</span></p><p></p><p></p><p>Contrary to all fears the population supports the king's descisions.</p><p></p><p></p><p>Auryn and Gabriel are concerned however, that the industrialists who have benefited from the armament expenditures could now plan possible intrigues against peace.</p><p></p><p></p><p>Auryn visits rear admiral Dawkins, who seems to be getting better after his „Dreaming fever“. She tells him about Beshela and he explains to her that he had fought Beshala in the Dreaming but lost because his powers were lessened by his exile. He thanks her for protecting the king in his stead. (<span style="color: #0000ff">Auryn knows Dawkins to be a strom fey exiled to live countless mortal lifes as an punishment for loving the mortals too much.</span>) </p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #008000">*Despite her concern for her friend, Auryn was a little proud that he would rely on her and that she had been able to protect the king in his stead. His warm words meant a great deal to her, even though she could express it only by a friendly embrace. She had still not completely processed the events of the last day and realized now that the possible consequences were beyond her imagination. She was afraid that they might have to confront Beshela again, and if even Old Stag could not stand up to the archfey, the who would?*</span></p><p></p><p></p><p>Four days later Auryn and Gabriel are again summoned by Assistant Chief Inspector Delft to his office where he introduces the Minister Foreign Affairs of Danor: Lia Jierre</p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">This part literally went by the book. No surprises here besides the party's more or less expected willingness to negotiate as much as possible instead of looking for fights.</span></p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Tizbiz, post: 7084004, member: 6874057"] [COLOR=#0000ff]I happen to have one of my players writing a (german) recap for this campaign and she even adds her thoughts for me to see. This means you see the campaign trough her eyes and not from both players or mine. I will translate these and add my own thoughts. Please forgive the occasional german sentence structure sneaking in.[/COLOR] Stover Delft summons Auryn Galadin and Gabriel Carlyle to his office and suggests that they could look into a closed case of a late Skyseer, which was rumored to have had a vision concerning the King's visit, "if they don't mind following a cold case". The two constables examine the files and get to know that the skyseer's nephew is a young Bailiff named Steffen and so they visit him and his colleagues in the Nettles. Everything points to a "true“ accident, but the Skyseer has left many cryptic drawings in her apartment, which Auryn and Gabriel draw on paper so they can show them to a different Skyseer since they are no experts on visions (They only know about the famous, but very old Nevard, so they were looking for him.) After searching for him in the Nettles they can´t find Nevard, so they consult other, more unknown skyseers. Finaly Ms. Galadin and Mr. Carlyle agree on an interpretation based on their own findings and the interpretation of the moderately famous "Allseer" who had scores of beautiful ladies waiting for his visions, as well as the interpretation of a local seer in a shady tent at Bosum Strand: There might be some unrest in which people from Ber are involved which in the worst case can end in something deadly. (cant remember how they misinterpreted some of the drawings and came up with the wrong Ber clue actually. Fortunately they got it when they saw the map on display.) (The players were requested not to take the skyseer related background because we just finished an other campaign where one player was using omen and visions quite often and i was a little tired of that. Yet i wanted to give them the clues from the skyseer theme in exchange for a little legwork.) [COLOR=#008000]*Auryn was a bit surprised that Assistant Chief Inspector Delft sent Mr. Carlyle and her on a mission immediately after their last assignment, even if it was a seemingly cold case. For a short time she was not sure if she would not have preferred working alone, as she was used to. But somehow she felt that they both had something in common. Gabriel Carlyle worked precisely, planned exactly and had a keen eye. And more importantly, he had 500 years of experience. She could not help comparing him to Thorandil, who had been teaching her art and music back in Elfaivar. He too had been a veteran of the last war. She understood what a girl like Nymeia could see in him. And yet the mystic nuances she could sense so clearly were often completely alien to Gabriel, resulting in his skepticism towards the Skyseers. She had wondered how many of the seers really had visions, and how many were just charlatans who had attention or a quick coin in mind, and thus extolled the old traditions of Risur. Was the Alleseer a real Skyseer? She could hardly point her finger on whether or whether not he was sincere. Not being able to find Nevard had frustrated her, but she could, no, she had to draw her own conclusions from the cryptic information. Especially if the King's welfare was at stake … *[/COLOR] The constables share their insights with Delft, and he agrees to raise the security level for the time of the King's visit. Auryn visits rear admiral Dawkins to tell him the disturbing news and he seems to share her worries. He promises to swap part of the crew of the Coaltongue with crew members of his own flag ship. Auryn is relieved to know Dawkins' most trusted men will be on duty. If fortune was on their side, it would be a happy reunion with old acquaintances, even if this was important work for the RHC. She is still troubled by his mentions of a growing rift between workers and industrialists, as well as followers of the old paths and the new industrialism. She is invited by the rear admiral's wife Milena Dawkins to stay for supper When Milena hears that she will be on duty on the Coaltonge she tells her about a nice young noble who will antend the celebration and seems to be interested to play matchmaker for Auryn and Lord Vantrys. [COLOR=#008000]*Auryn hoped that Milena would someday understand why she had no interest in a marriage with a young Risuri. Not only would Auryn survive the poor by ten lifetimes, a connection with any human or non-Eladrin would also not be futile, as she could not sire any offspring with them. Plus probably none of the „little“ boys would ever be her equal. Love was a concept unknown to her, and even if she was ever to develop spontaneous feelings, which she thought was impossible since true relationships needed time, young men would probably not be her first choice. Her first husbands in the enclave would have most certainly been experienced, older Eladrin, who could have supported her in her duties, while the chosen young men became the husbands of experienced, older women. But for Milena's sake, Auryn decided to at least exchange a few polite words with this Nathaniel Vantrys.*[/COLOR] Mr. Carlyle asks his informants to mingle with the crowd at the day of the celebration and to tell about suspitious guys or known troublemakers if they happen to spot them. As the constables are responsible for the coordination of the security, they visit the Royal Shipyard in advance. There they meet the talkative chief mechanic from Danor, Geoff Masarde, who explains some of the features of the ship. He tells them that firing the canon might extinguish the fire in the ships furnance and leave the ship without power. Carlyle comes up with the idea of preparing an escape boat for the king and securing the furnace of the Coaltongue. Auryn agrees and takes him to the rear admiral's office. Auryn introduces Gabriel to rear admiral Dawkins and they agree to prepare an escape boat, just in case. For the event of an energy shutdown of the ship, Dawkins tells the two that the Coaltongue will not be defenseless because there will be more ships accompaning her on her maiden voyage. Carlyle wonders about the details of Auryn's relationship with Dawkins. When he asks her about it, she tells him that he is her best friend and that she trusts him unconditionally(which seems to surprise him even more) The constables spend the evening together (apparently both do not have much to do at the moment ...) and exchange their (pretty negative) opinions about industrialists. They also talk a lot about responsibility of aristocrats (especially Carlyle seems to hold noble families in high regard, but Auryn agrees that being taught to lead responsibly from the very beginning will work out better than just aspiring to power through money or strength) [COLOR=#008000]*Auryn was astonished to see a Danoran tiefling aboard the Coaltongue. She had concluded that Masarde had to be an exile because he had protection, but no supervision, like a prisoner would have had. The ship was impressive, albeit frightening. She saw the potential in the combination of technology (new) and magic (ancient). She had hesitated to take Carlyle to Dawkins, but did not really know why. Maybe she did not want to reveal too much about herself, but there had been something else ...[/COLOR] [COLOR=#008000]Nevertheless, Carlyle's logic was sharp and the king should be protected by all means. She was not surprised to see that her colleague was wondering about her contact, but she did not want to doubt the integrity and trustworthiness of Dawkins. Carlyle was a strange man, she told herself. He did not seem to have a private life, had no hobbies, and she was not sure whether she was doing him a favor or whether she was a nuisance when she was spending time with him. But as he was a veteran of the old war, there was a slight chance that he could explain to her what had really happened when Srasama died. He seemed to dislike industrialists as much as she did. Plus he was favoring a leading role of the traditional noble families whose heirs were groomed to be leaders anyway. They really had the same ideas, ableit in a slightly twisted way, yet Auryn could not forget the time of the mad kings of Elfaivar (who were also "educated nobles") and that she herself had been educated to be a leader.. Still both of them shared their appreciation of the old risuri way more than she had previously thought.*[/COLOR] On the day of the launch of the Coaltongue, Auryn and Gabriel are both assigned to monitor the crowd gathering in front of the shipyard. Together they look for suspects via descriptions they got from the RHC profiles and quickly spot three restless potential troublemakers, which are all found near signs which match the vision of the late skyseer. The three suspects are part of the Docker's Union and the constables manage to calm the three with arguments and even get the help of Thames Grimsley, (who leads the three troublemakers away after being promised a favor.) After a brief conversation they admit that they were instigated by the veteran Dafton. As time runs short, Auryn quickly charms Dafton and leads him away to Grimsley. Till that day, the Docker has only known her as an artist but now he suspects her of being a cop. Still he thanks her and tells her that he will keep in mind that she owes him something, even if he might return the favor again. Auryn promises that either king Aodhan or governor Stanfield will be informed about the terrible, unjust situation of the workers. Carlyle seems to be impressed by Auryn's networking, but warns her that she should not put too much strain on her relationships. [COLOR=#008000]*Perhaps Auryn understood better than most of the RHC or the town guards of Flint what the Dockers felt. They expressed their feelings and thoughts through their form of art and Auryn knew how to read them. Until a few years ago, the concept of a "job" had been foreign to her. She has had her duties while other Eladrin were taking care of everything else. Her life had been regulated, simple and secure. But these people suffered in a country that could afford great ships like the Coaltongue. Industrialists lived in abundance and could afford leading the luxurious lives of kings. Even law seemed to protect them. Nevertheless, violence and turmoil were the wrong way to achieve one's goals. Violence only led to conflict and suffering. She was glad Grimsley understood this approach and that their influence had been strong enough to prevent worse. Grimsley now knew that she was part of the RHC. Carlyle was right, she had given her promise that the king or the governor would learn of the conditions of the workers without having access to any of them. But she could ask Milena a favor, even if she would not have the chance to speak to either of them. She just hoped that her words could make a difference. In no case did she want to choose between the safety of Flint and the well being of the workers. And as much as she despised the exploiters, she had sworn to defend any Risuri, regardless of who they were.*[/COLOR] Delft tells the two constables to go on board and help welcoming the guests while some cooks enter the ship to deliver sweets. Milena Dawkins boards the ship, as well as a somewhat depressed looking Lord Vantrys who is in the company of a much more cheerful Guy Goodson. Vantrys' mood lightens up when he sees Mr. Carlyle. The King's sister Lady Ethelyn has an Eladrin attendant with her and she seems to be as unhappy as Lord Vantrys was just some moments before. When Auryn asks Carlyle about Vantrys' sudden change of mood, the Deva explains that he used to work for Vantrys. After a prolonged tour around the ship, Lady Ethelyn seems tired and weary and Auryn and Gabriel take her to a room where she can rest. The constables observe the the guests and learn that the industrialists seem to take great pleasure in the event. The ship leaves the harbour and Auryn and Gabriel are tasked to blend in with the guests partake in the banquet under the lightning lit crystal dome (it is absolutely safe they said!) As the banquet ends, Carlyle and Lord Vantrys talk to each other. Vantrys is not happy about his business relationship with Goodson and promises that no one is exploited in his own company. He also mentions an entrepreneur who is particularly respected (Sechim), since he leads his chemical company which he has founded on his own in a very responsible and independent manner. Vantrys looks much more relaxed in Carlyle's presence. Auryn suspects that Carlyle is a good friend of Vantrys, but her colleague tells her he was (and somehow still is) like a son to him. Auryn and Gabriel happen to overhear a conversation between Principal Minister Harkover Lee and King Aodhan, as the later apparently gets a bloated belly and it seems like the Fey of the sea want to make him feel that they are displeased. (The Fey are not amused about the Coaltongue). Aodhan tells Harkover Lee that he fears that the situation as it is right now might kindle an insurrection. The constables don´t geht the part what would cause his fears. When Aodhan notices the constables, he asks them about their opinion on the Coaltongue. They tell him that they are impressed, but Auryn also mentions that the ship has caused a lot of suffering for Flint's workforce. The king explains his own burden and responsibility for all of Risur and indicates that he had to make the difficult decision to let Flint be Risur's industrial center in order to lessen the threat that is the highly industrialized Danoran military. ("At the moment, we need the industrialists"). Auryn warns him respectfully that Flint is becoming more and more of a powder keg and that one must not lose sight on the possible threats one might breed from inside. [COLOR=#008000]*Auryn was astonished to see that her "future husband" (in Milena's eyes) Lord Vantrys was not only the former employer but apparently also a good friend and quasi-son of Gabriel Carlyle. She understood what he might feel for the "boy," as she had herself taken care of the little Eladrin of her Enclave, who were cared for by the whole community. She could not help but notice that Vantrys seemed more alive whenever Carlyle was present, and that he even freely expressed his thoughts. Thoughts ablout his feelings of unease when it came to his relationship with Goodson. Thoughts about the need to treat his employees well. Deep inside, she realized Vantrys was reaching out to his mentor for help. He was still too young to be without an adult adviser. She felt empathy for the young lord, but would have to disappoint Milena again. Auryn was also amazed that Lady Ethelyn had an Eladrin maid and wondered how she had come to her service. She understood the Duchess' displeasure about the new technologies, but found her open display of her discontent to show a lacking respect for the king. King Aodhan was an impressive man, who emanated a pleasant, calm and even warm aura. And he had actually listend to her concerns for the workers of Flint. Like Old Stag, he had the aura of a matriarch which made it easy for her to exchange thoughts with him and which gave her confidence. She respected the difficult decisions he had to make, even if she had not necessarily come to the same conclusion as he did. But alas, she was an Eladrin from a small enclave in Elfaivar and had no country to rule and millions of inhabitants to protect. She wondered what kinds of difficult decisions she might have to make once she was a matriarch, and for a moment she ws afraid of that burden. She only hoped that Aodhan would not lose sight of the Fey and the unseen court, since they too belonged to Risur and the hints of Old Stag sounded troubling. Old Stag ... he had to have something important to do in the dreaming if he could not be on the ship on this important day. She just hoped he was all right. His career prospects were nothing compared to a broken bond with the Fey. Harkover Lee had seemed eerie and harsh, and she did not really know what to do with the mage. Yet the King was certainly in good hands.*[/COLOR] The Duchess Ethelyn is missing after a few hours of absence. The constables are send to look after her by Assistand Chief Inspector Delft and to lead her back to the banquet. Delft fears that she wants to shame her brother by not being in the crowd when the king makes his speech. On the way down, they are stopped by Carlyle's favorite columnist, who wants to know more about rumors on Lord Vantrys (his "relationship" to Goodson and hints about Vigilantism). Carlyle dismisses all of these accusations as mere rumors. The constables find the room of Ethelyn locked, so Carlyle quickly lockpicks the door to Auryn's surprise when they hear a splashing sound. Auryn fears that the Lady has gone overboard and is shocked when she sees Ethelyn dive into the deep sea alongside Archfey Beshela on a Titanic Nautilus. The subsequent hectic search for Ethelyn's servants ends with the discovery of several murdered technicians and sailors (including some members of the admirals flag ship which Auryn knew) [COLOR=#008000]*Beshela. What had happened in the name of all the Titans that Lady Ethelyn disappeared in such an unsuitable manner with an archfey and her wretched pet? But now she was gone and "someone" had left a pile of dead people. Auryn did not have time to think about the consequences. She had to find the culprit before more people died. Before they killed more people she knew. Who meant something to her. Who were important. The faces of Milena, Telluriel Rommath, Julien, Kilika and King Aodhan floated before her eyes. And for a moment, Zahir. She would not hesitate again. She would eliminate the threat at any cost. No more would die today.*[/COLOR] The constables search all the decks and uncover a sabotage attempt of some cooks, the eladrin maid and two other technicians who try to make the engine explode and sink the ship. After a short, hard fight Auryn and Gabriel can finally knock the saboteurs out and pull the fire stone out of the overheated furnace. The constables realise that they only bought themselves some time and decide to switch off the furnace with the help of a completely planned (!) shot of the main cannon. Carlyle shovels as many firegems as possible out of the fire, while Auryn searches for Geoff Masarde and together they activate the fire sequence under the glass dome. (And interrupt the King's speech ...) Ms. Galadin and Mr. Carlyle tell Stover Delft about Ethelyn's high treason, who in turn informs the king, while the constables move on to inform Harkover Lee. (Lee gets really angry and casts a silence to cover his cry of rage and the heroes get a very short glimpse of his eyes turning into a slit.) He also demands the death of the Duchess. Harkover Lee commands the constables to conduct the interrogations of the prisoners who call themselves fanatical "true patriots", who support the anti-technology stance of the Duchess and lament the decline of the Risuri values, fearing that the ancient connections to the Fey will suffer beyond repair should Aodhan continue his course. The constables are very skeptical about the changes the industrialisation brings to Flint but sharply condem the terrorist's actions. [COLOR=#008000]*Treason among their own ranks. A murder plot, an act of sabotage on the Coaltongue, which could have easily extinguished hundreds of lives on the ship. Auryn was able to understand Lee's reaction (or better explosive rage) only too well. His harsh, repulsive nature now made much more sense under the prospect that he had to keep such a fiery rage under control. She could not help assuming that he could be a fey advisor to the king. Carlyle had once again been a reliable partner, who had protected her during combat .They both had taken care not to end even more lives (they had been especially careful with the eladrin maid) and were able to learn something about the motives of the "true Risuri". In fact, she understood the logic of the attackers too well and she found that she could even agree with them. However, violence, especially conducted in such an insidious and excessive way, could never be a good start for negotiations. She was sure that the king, as an intermediary between Fey and mortals, would have had an open ear for reasonable concerns, and that the terrorist's cowardly attack had destroyed all possibility for negotiation. Such behavior was unworthy of a noble sibling of the king and even less of the eladrin woman in her attendance.*[/COLOR] The constables are told that the King would like to speak to them again and he asks them about their life and their reasons to join the RHC. Auryn introduces herself as being the daughter of Galadin, daughter of the Kaealys, daughter of the matriarch Launga. Being quiestioned why such a descendant of Elfaivar would be part of the RHC, she explains that she was freed from "danoran captivity by a certain "Captain Dawkins" and is thus indebted to Risur. Because of this she is skeptical about an all-too-danoran path which Risur might be about to follow. Aodhan tells her that he missed Dawkins at the celebration (she tells him that he has caught a fever) and declares that he really likes his „youngest rear admiral“. Carlyle states that he has been living in Risur for centuries and has proudly served the Vantrys family until his death 7 years ago. His family, except for the young Lord Vantrys, had been killed by an attack of unknown assailants. He says he has known Flint and Risur for a long time, but is concerned about the current domestic political situation and the worker's issues. The King understands their motivation to serve Risur and shows his own pain about the betrayal of his beloved sister. In the same night the cowardly attack is announced to the Risuri media and in the next morning the King announces that there will be negotiations with Danor for a peace treaty and that he will marry a Danoran to tie this knot. [COLOR=#008000]*Auryn had not expected the King to speak to them personally. She knew there was no reason to hide her origin from the king of her new home (and in a way she was proud of what she was and had created her „elven camouflage" out of pure caution). She had to smile slightly when she caught Carlyle's surprised expression and was even mildly surprised that the King held rear admiral Dawkins in such high esteem. Likewise, she was astonished to hear about the attack on the Vantrys family and the corresponding death of Carlyle, and now she could understand the relationship between Vantrys and Carlyle a lot better. She was glad that the King had listened to the words of both of them again, and apparently also recognized their underlying wisdom. Carlyle probably knew Risur and its people better than any of them, and even he feared that Flint might soon to tear itmself from the inside. Her own experience of her imprisonment on the Danoran island and her comparison with the situation of some workers had apparently also made an impression on the king. She thought that in the end she could see many similarities between the thoughts of those present and she felt compassion for the grief of Aodhan for the loss of his sister whom he could not forgive. She herself would not know how she would cope with such an insidious kind of treason, an attempted murder by a part of her family. She comforted herself in the belief that this would never happen. Her family, her bloodline, had always been most important and holy to her, even though she was now far from home. No, a family would defend each other with their lives as she had been taught so many times before.[/COLOR] [COLOR=#008000]Auryn had feared for a moment that due to Stanfield's reactions, sanctions would be imposed on Fey supporters or critical voices, but the King's wisdom was greater than petty feelings of revenge. She herself saw the engagement with a Danoran as a wise descisono worthy of a king who wanted to maintain and build on peace. She hoped that this would also lead to diminished labor pressure and better rights for the workers. *[/COLOR] Contrary to all fears the population supports the king's descisions. Auryn and Gabriel are concerned however, that the industrialists who have benefited from the armament expenditures could now plan possible intrigues against peace. Auryn visits rear admiral Dawkins, who seems to be getting better after his „Dreaming fever“. She tells him about Beshela and he explains to her that he had fought Beshala in the Dreaming but lost because his powers were lessened by his exile. He thanks her for protecting the king in his stead. ([COLOR=#0000ff]Auryn knows Dawkins to be a strom fey exiled to live countless mortal lifes as an punishment for loving the mortals too much.[/COLOR]) [COLOR=#008000]*Despite her concern for her friend, Auryn was a little proud that he would rely on her and that she had been able to protect the king in his stead. His warm words meant a great deal to her, even though she could express it only by a friendly embrace. She had still not completely processed the events of the last day and realized now that the possible consequences were beyond her imagination. She was afraid that they might have to confront Beshela again, and if even Old Stag could not stand up to the archfey, the who would?*[/COLOR] Four days later Auryn and Gabriel are again summoned by Assistant Chief Inspector Delft to his office where he introduces the Minister Foreign Affairs of Danor: Lia Jierre [COLOR=#0000ff]This part literally went by the book. No surprises here besides the party's more or less expected willingness to negotiate as much as possible instead of looking for fights.[/COLOR] [/QUOTE]
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