View source for 1718/The Fairest Maiden of Hall

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2015/03/03
|Location=Terra Majora
|Synopsis=Nathan meets with his unwanted fiancee
|Thanks=
|Cast of Characters=92, 134, 168, 253, 299
|Tinyplot=New Blood
|Tinyplot2=
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:92|Elliana Fairchild (92)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The kingdom of Taliel is supposedly quite small. This... is true. Very true. It's basically one city and the surrounding forest, plus a few small villages scattered about. The 'castle' is more a large house or manor, and they've recently done some work to clear off a landing pad. There are signs that it used to be much more extravagant, with a crumbling outer wall and signs of fancier decor.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Assuming that the Union has told them they'll be coming via... magic or pigeon, a small escort is awaiting outside, just at the entrance of the manor. This includes two large men who appear to be guards, from the weapons, along with an older man in his middle age, with grey streaks in his hair. Beside him is a young woman, seventeen or eighteen years old, dressed in a pleasant and ruffled dress that is both pretty yet not ostentatious. She wouldn't be called lovely, but 'cute' or 'pretty' would be good descriptors. This is likely Illuvia.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:168|Nathan Hall (168)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Union has provided forewarning, as seems appropriate for the situation. They have no reason to deceive, after all. Nathan arrives via a Union air transport, something that may or may not have been arranged by Psyber. Whether or not Psyber has accompanied him, Nathan is the first to step out.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It's sort of the usual adventuring gear, though he's taken off the armor and the weapons for today. If he looks like any kind of leaer, it's a scholar. He doesn't especially blame the Taliel... City itself, for the misunderstanding. As such, there's no repressed hostility or resentment when it comes to this. His stoic expression and deliberate posture are all very professional and leaderly in as much as they ever are, but in that harmless way. "Salutations. Your Highness, Illuvia Taliel, I presume?" He says, quietly, and politely, as he does a brief nod that carries the message of a bow. She's probably nice, right? Elliana mostly exploits and manipulates nice people, according to Nathan's logic, and as such he assumes well of her immediately. He'll follow the welcome group inside when prompted.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It doesn't show, but situations like this make him extremely nervous. Current status on a scale of one to marriage is somewhere around "dry throat". We'll see where that goes.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:134|Sakura Haruno (134)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Flowers has decided that she's coming along on this to ease the poor girl's heartbreak. This is because she has decided she is Heaven or Hell's most credible person on the hearts of young women.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For the record, the current status of everyone Sakura has either had a date with or had a crush on: Dead, dead, dead, and murdered the previous three. This is not the only topic where Sakura's presumption of her own expertise is likely inaccurate, though.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The medic will at least have the grace to let Hall lead the way, of course. She's simply coming along, taking a ride with the others, to try and smooth things over when he fails. She is also still harboring a very slight suspicion that Hall did something to cause this. At least she's dressed up-ish.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:253|Psyber (253)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This is a rare occasion in which, despite both deploying to the same mission, Psyber and Nathan did not arrive simultaneously or via the same vehicle. Not long after Nathan arrives, a second dropship clears a Union officer arriving and touches down just long enough to let the half-angel out before it darts off again. Owing to the nice occasion, Psyber is wearing a dark grey suit with a light blue shirt and a dark blue tie. <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;While not here to be obstructive, his motives aren't the most helpful either. Curiosity drags him out more than any other motive, with the second place motive being 'If him turning down the marriage causes an attack, I should probably not have him die'. A far distant third is that he wants to see a new place. <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The curiosity is the main thing, though. He wants to see just how bad it is when Elliana moves to put someone in the penalty box.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:299|Charity Whiteheart (299)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And... then Charity is there. Stepping 'out' from the trees nearby, she is dressed in a nice outfit, and walking casually up to and alongside the group as if they were on the same side. She's holding a clipboard and wearing glasses, too, and as the others approach, she speaks as if being helpful, "Just let me know if you need any native insight into matters, I will be nearby."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Yep. Looks like she's here to watch as well.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:92|Elliana Fairchild (92)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The King and Princess don't see a problem! The man steps forward to greet. "Welcome! It is wonderful to finally meet you!" If he takes offense to the lack of a bow, he doesn't show it. "While some lands have a tradition of not meeting the bride before the wedding, that is a bit outdated, and I thought you would like to talk first. Illuvia, say hello."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The girl steps forward, doing a polite, perfect curtsy. She smiles, and then she speaks... and her voice is melodic and flowing, soothing even, with a /very/ mild mystical effect that tries to put everyone at ease. "Greetings. May I ask which of you is General Hall? I would presume it is this one?" She nods to... Nathan, actually. She picked that one up pretty quick, rather than picking the more 'heroic' Psyber.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:134|Sakura Haruno (134)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sakura, at least, will look at Charity with a bit of relief; she'd love a guide to local customs! So, she'll gesture the advisor over descretely. And without suspicion; in spite of her reputation in this regard, she's willing to jump to conclusions about trustworthiness, and Charity happens to come up on the good end of this.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Aah. I'm Captain Sakura Haruno, with the Union. I wanted to find out more about the traditions and customs, how the wedding comes about, what might happen if.. something were to prevent it from happening, or another was needed to fill in for the groom, or anything along those lines."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This is all in a whisper, to try to keep it from being overheard by the proud father and bride to be.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:168|Nathan Hall (168)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nathan does not notice Charity. No, this isn't some clever gambit where he pretends not to know who she is, he just didn't really notice her at all. Well, he didn't notice she's that particular ally from Elliana's inner circle, anyway. It was probably the glasses. "Certainly, thank you, I will make sure to ask. Please do inform me if I approach any faux pas" He asides to her with his usual lack of emotion. The nervousness has him a bit unobservant.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There's a nod to the man. "Your Majesty." He says respectfully. "Salutations. A pleasure to meet you as well. I appreciate your willingness to meet with us. It will be good to meet your daughter before things become particularly intense." He makes note of the man's willingness to set aside the outdated. Maybe he can work with that here? Illuvia gets another respectful nod of sorts, and Nathan folds his arms behind his back. "You are correct. I am Nathan Hall." He omits his title because this makes him a lot more comfortable. "These are my friends, Captain Haruno and Reserve Colonel Psyber." He gestures to each one. "I am pleased to meet you as well, and thank you. My apologies for the lack of introduction, I imagine I am not precisely what one imagines when they think of a general." Oh hey, mystical effects! Nathan is one hundred percent vulnerable to these sorts of things, and is immediately put at ease slightly more. He's also avoiding steering the conversation much, figuring the King and the Princess decided on how to work this out before they arrived.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mildly increased nervousness is counteracted by mild relaxation. We're still at "dry throat" for now. Anxious scientists examine their readings everywhere, seeking signs of positive or negative fluctuations.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:253|Psyber (253)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Psyber gives a polite nod, "He is General Hall, yes. I am a Reserve Colonel under the callsign 'Psyber'," the half-angel notes. The voice tone seems to put him at some degree of ease based on its more flowing and mystical nature, "It is a pleasure and thank you for the welcome to your kingdom." <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Internally, Psyber wonders about different things, none of which the least bit relevant to this conversation. <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He looks over to spot Charity coming out of the forest, "Charity, nice to see you. Bit of a surprise." Even with glasses, Psyber endeavors not to forget people who crash through ceilings and land on top of him, "Coming to check on the status of things?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:299|Charity Whiteheart (299)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Psyber," Charity replies. "Just keeping an eye on things. Both ways, as it stands. Can't have him slipping up due to something obvious and getting himself killed." She pauses, flashing a quirky smile. "Besides, it should be pretty fun to watch, I think." Scribbling something on the clipboard, she notes, "You guys move pretty fast. I didn't even hear about this until the announcement myself."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sakura gets another grin, "Well, that's what they're here for. It probably won't be something with /too/ much pomp. I'm wondering how open they'll be to offworld customs."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:92|Elliana Fairchild (92)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Illuvia smiles, "No, I was given a rough idea. More of a scholar than a warrior, but then... that is not a bad thing, is it?" She takes over for her father, walking up and making a motion to guide the group inward. Her eyes pass over Psyber, Sakura, and Charity in turn... curious, but saying nothing. It doesn't appear that the mild calming effect is increasing... perhaps it is something she does unconsciously.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"We are very much looking forward to this, and are surprised that you agreed with so little that we can offer. Our strategic position is good, especially if our neighbors follow suit, but the Union that I have heard of has made little motion against the Windward Empire."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:253|Psyber (253)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Well obviously," Psyber says to Charity in a pretty mild tone. The half-angel adjusts his tie in a calm manner, "She wants to waylay him until he can calm down, not place him in a grave." He doesn't actually seem that upset about her presence. She's not his FRIEND, but he'll at least bring a level of politeness if she's going to. <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I imagine Nathan wanted to address the matter directly and swiftly," Psyber using the phrase 'Nathan' as opposed to 'the Union' is a minor quibble on his part. Still, he looks towards the woman, "How have you been, by the way? I haven't seen you active in quite some time, though I believe that is a good thing in your particular profession." <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To Illuvia, Psyber seems calm and fairly subdued. He actually is rather enjoying the effect, such that he's not resisting it. It's probably the most relaxed he's felt in weeks, all things taken into consideration, "De rustico amnem transituro. Still waters run deep." Psyber notes to her in a relaxed cadence, "You do not let anyone to find out your plan until it is too late to stop it. Be it any plans about the Empire or otherwise." <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;OR OTHERWISE, NATHAN.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:134|Sakura Haruno (134)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sakura will continue to glance over Charity, though she genuinely doesn't recognize her. "I'm not particularly familiar with what Hall's customs would be, myself. It's hard to imagine him having a genuinely romantic side, really." She considers for a moment.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Well, either way, we should really figure out just what's going on. Do you know if we had a serious negotiation over this, or is this something that Nathan managed to stumble his way into?" The pinkhaired woman wil offer Illuvia a smile; the calming seems to have more of an impact over the medic than over most of the others in the room.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:168|Nathan Hall (168)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I would certainly hope it is not a bad thing." Hall says, making a short, plaintive gesture and changing his tone not one bit. "It is rather the only thing I can be, after all." Another brief little hint of humor. He's actually completely unaware of the mystical effect, so it just hits him at whatever level it might hit your average person.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then the Windwards are brought up. "We act with care and consideration." Nathan says. "The Windward Empire and the Union have extensive differences, but before we would act against them, there are less ambiguous and more critical matters, as well as other routes to pursue solutions through." He speaks as they move towards the interior. Psyber's words are adhered to: That nonsense where he accidentally made Eveningstar move, or his intent to disassemble the perceived conspiracy in the Windward Empire, go unspoken. Just a reasonable, moderate political stance.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He tilts his head. "It pains me with some embarrassment to admit, but at the moment it would seem there is a small lack of clarity regarding our mutual agreement, likely due to an unlucky combination of cultural differences and ongoing diplomatic events elsewhere. I can elucidate in a moment, when we are inside. For now, could you explain further?" He glances between the king and the princess, speaking a question either could answer. "Regarding the advantageous position vis a vis the Windward Empire, of course." Okay, let's keep this conversation about you, Nathan thinks, so we don't need to discuss the wedding too much. Would rather be sitting down when that goes down, he thinks uneasily. <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I do not... Ghhhh." He makes a helpless noise at Haruno. "I have explained this to you at length, I do not stumble into these scenarios. I have already explained the matter at length." Despite the monotone he does a brief bit of handwringing. Nervousness going up a bit, more reminders of the inevitable terrifying end-states of this.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:299|Charity Whiteheart (299)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Charity shakes her head at Sakura, "I think this is the serious negotiations. I'm afraid that General Hall has gotten in over his head quite badly this time. Though at least Illuvia really is a very nice girl. Nicer than me, at any rate." She nudges her glasses up. "She will likely pester him with silly questions."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Psyber gets a smile, surprisingly. Charity seems a lot more relaxed than the other times the half-angel has seen her. All those were on the job, and off-the-clock, or in jobs that aren't her usual, she's much more easygoing. "I've been fine, thanks. Yes, if you hear about anything I do, it's gone poorly. Fortunately, not too much requiring extreme measures."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To Nathan, "General Hall, I would suggest letting it slide. It may be better for you to pass it off as just such an accident, if you think about it."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:92|Elliana Fairchild (92)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Oh, we aren't going inside," Illuvia answers quickly. "It's nicer to just use the walkway around. You'll see plenty of the inside later." That might sound sinister, but for one thing her voice makes it seem less so. For another, she's actually not being sinister anyway. She just likes the outdoors. But for the question about position, she looks back to her father.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The King answers amiably, "Our territory as it is now borders both a main trading road, and a river used for transport by the Windward Empire. In the last few centuries, they have grown complacent with regard to the threat we pose, both political and military." He frowns. "Not without reason. Our military is tiny, barely more than a militia, and we can bring little pressure to bear on our neighbors. They are all watching this to see how it affects the balance of power. To be quite honest, in another generation Taliel may not exist. We do not have much left to cede to the Empire, if they brought pressure upon us. Illuvia here is the one who is eager for this to be prevented. Politically, if you wish to coax more allies to your side, we believe that allying with an... 'underdog' such as us will bring several of the smaller nations out with interest. Militarily, this would be an excellent staging ground against the Empire's Western holdings. If you can properly guarantee us safety, there is also the matter of the dowry of course."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Illuvia sighs at that.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:253|Psyber (253)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I'm glad to hear that. Have you made any progress on that guy who betrayed you? I'd prefer to see him, well, taken out of play," Psyber says pretty bluntly. He actually, despite Nathan having formed an alliance some time back, deeply dislikes that man. And has said so repeatedly. <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To Haruno, Psyber finally speaks. And he's quite pleasant about it, actually, "I've been meaning to ask you, Haruno. Your outfits have been growing more towards colder weather. Do you need me to use office funds to help your clothing budget? I imagine your new place of treatment must be fairly different from Boston, which was already pretty cold." He asks it honestly, tilting his head at her and seeming fairly cheerful. <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Psyber's final statement goes to the King, "I may not look like much in this suit, but I was a sellsword of sorts a long time ago. My offices are still hireable outside of Union operations. If the Windward Empire ever applies undue military pressure, please contact me. I am sure I could sortie a suitable response to defend your borders." And then he reaches into his breast pocket and holds out a business card, "Very reasonable rates." <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All things actually considered, Psyber would eat a financial loss if it meant getting to bloody the nose of the Empire's armies.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:134|Sakura Haruno (134)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Yes you do. I already explained that you're wrong to you." is Sakura's only response to Nathan, which was probably for the best, given that they already had that little argument and Sakura is convinced that she won.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She'll give Psyber a confused look for a moment. "I have a clothing budget? Really?" She'd maybe misunderstood that a little bit, but that does seem rather sincere. She mostly wears clothing that she received as gifts or from Cecil's dead mountain ghost dad.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She'll tilt her head, looking back over towards the King. She's curious about the dowry - not exactly a custom she's familiar with - and just what they're expecting from Nathan in return for this whole generous offering. Other than his eternal soul in marriage and all; important things.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:168|Nathan Hall (168)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nathan did not hear anything sinister there. How could he? He cannot read between lines. "The Union has resources at its disposal required to supplement your military power and ensure that you have all you need to resist political pressure. And of course, we can provide our own martial force in emergencies or upon demand. I would hope to ensure that you both find your kingdom preserved through these difficult times." Nathan says. This is more business mode than anything else, but there's a palpable sense that he wants to make sure the King's own wishes are respected. This is a man who has probably had more than enough of other people pushing him around, and Nathan seeks to cultivate an opinion that he'll have plenty of control all on his own. Zero 'puppet king' nonsense here. That's not just because he wants to be in the king's good graces, that's because it's just moral. Good graces would be a really nice bonus though!<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"In any case, you may consider me convinced of your ability to provide an equal exchange for a full alliance." He can't seem to figure out how to broach the topic of the marraige issue and it keeps coming up very slightly. "Ahhh... Dowry?" There's a sigh! Nathan is suddenly hopeful that this will be easier to manage. Maybe if he can get the King or the Princess to initiate this discussion on their own. Of course, there's the matters on the side. Charity gets a strange noncommittal noise that seems to not even quite understand the advice given, but the subject does get dropped.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:299|Charity Whiteheart (299)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Charity shakes her head at Psyber, "Not all that much," she admits. "Soonish. I haven't brought it up to... the boss yet, but she did promise me that we'll take care of him, and you know how she is with her promises. I'm not going to force the issue when she has so much to do right now." She frowns. "But I guess I could remind her. It would be a good distraction from her terrible mood of late."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As for the dowry, Charity helpfully supplies as if Nathan didn't know, "Yes, they offer something in exchange to the husband to be. Something of an old tradition, but very important for the Blooded." She emphasized that last word, very importantly.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:92|Elliana Fairchild (92)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Illuvia gives Charity a cross look, for some reason, then sighs and looks down. "Yes, there is a dowry," she states softly. "That was in the negotiations. I assume that is the real reason you agreed to this?"<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The King takes card with a curious expression. "Well... I suppose it will have to do, though there is little to be done against the full might of the Empire. I doubt they would waste it for us." He sighs as well, pocketing the card... by handing it to an aide. "Yes, well, the treasury is nearly empty, but if you truly can aid us against the Empire, then we are willing to give up our family treasure for it. Illuvia is ill-suited for it, but we were hoping that she would bear us a son who could bear it into battle. Would you like to see it?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:253|Psyber (253)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Psyber nods his head and says, "Right. I imagine it can't happen until the right pieces are in place for the biggest impact," He thinks it over and sighs a bit, "Her mood. Mn. I imagine things have been hard. Last I spoke to her, she sounded sad." He shakes his head and then says, "If you ever need help with the surprise party, give me some forewarning and I'll tag in. Might have to wear a mask, though. But no offense taken if you don't want my help." <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To Haruno, Psyber pretty honestly says, "Well yeah. When your job makes you move," A VERY loose way of phrasing what happened, but let's go with that, "It's pretty traditional for the job to give you a stipend to help you get settled. Hold on, does two thousand credits sound good?" Psyber asks, taking out his business checkbook and starting to write. <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Psyber is still writing as the words 'treasure' and 'bear it into battle' come up. The half-angel looks sidelong, trying to play non-chalant.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:134|Sakura Haruno (134)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sakura looks at Psyber as he starts to pull out the checkbook as though he has grown a second head; she seems completely bewildered. Possibly just by the idea of having to mess with a check, possibly by what he is saying. This is probably for the best, because it means the medic is not paying attention to just what it is that's going on with the dowry.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At least, until Psyber's interest seems to go that way, upon which she'll look over. "What, you're going to give the General some sort of weapon or armor? Well, perhaps his child will be more suited to it than him." Sakura sounds skeptical. She knows all about combat genetics.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:299|Charity Whiteheart (299)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Charity just shrugs. "She doesn't show it all that much, but I know her at least a little bit better than most of her uh... coworkers," Charity admits. The suggestion gets a snort from the young woman. "I don't think a surprise party will help her, not like that. But I'll keep it in mind." It's odd, how relaxed she is with an enemy. As if there's nothing personal about her attempts to jab knives into Psyber's friends.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Maybe there isn't.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If she knows anything about the family treasure, Charity is staying mum on the subject.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:168|Nathan Hall (168)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"The reason..." Nathan tries to find a way of saying this that doesn't implicate him as the one responsible here. He almost has the feeling she might be disappointed in him. "If I have any reason to agree to this, it is the wellbeing of humanity, not greed. As I mentioned before, there are some unusual circumstances distancing me from the negotiations. It is against my beliefs to attempt to use people for acts of greed such as that." The monotone he has is a somber one.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He then turns to the king, and tilts his head. "I am not a man who is inflexible. Negotiations may be regarded as still... Open, in a way. Should you have any particular specifics when it comes to how the Union can assist your kingdom most effectively, please tell me." And then he nods, albeit slowly. "We can assist you against the Empire. To ensure that you are safe, and retain your power." He says. He... Well, he does seem like he's about to say he's just fine without any family treasure, thank you very much. But he should see it before he judges. "I would like to see it, yes."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The discussion about her bearing some child amps up the awkwardness again, past "dry mouth" somewhere over to a tier between "mild fidgets" and "grinding teeth". He gives a look at Haruno and makes the helpless noise again. "Please do not use that phrase?" The phrase 'his child', presumably.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:92|Elliana Fairchild (92)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Illuvia is looking oddly at Charity and Psyber, as if she isn't sure what to make of the two of them. But Nathan's statement makes her smile. "If that truly is an honest statement, then I have gained an even better husband than I had thought," she says with a mellow murmor. Oops!<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The King is walking around toward the manor again, and the doors are opened for him as he moves toward one of the more secure rooms. "What I want most is to preserve our people. We are a very simple kingdom, and do not ask for much. My Blood may be weak compared to most, but Illuvia's is not. I like to think I have taught her how to be a grand noble. We do understand that we will be giving up some things when joining your Union. Slavery has never been a common thing in our land, and I believe there would be no real backlash if we decreed it gone, but assistance to the former slaves might be best." Not all shiny and nice, these people.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Beyond the door, though... is a padded cushion, beneath what appears to be a glass case. The glass has an odd sheen to it, but it doesn't obscure the weathered metal bracer within, inlaid with ancient designs. The King gestures, "Don't step to close, please. Shivan, twin to Ifran. Sadly, I never learned to use it, but I am assured it still has its potency."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:253|Psyber (253)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Psyber has always said that if he held a grudge over everyone who tried to kill him, he would have very few friends. It's just that simple. Though when Charity misses his original meaning, he murmurs something very quiet. Almost inaudible, actually. <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"She hides her emotions, but her recent choices must have been very difficult. Please, give her my regards when you see her. You are both welcome to come by Boston and we can grab lunch. Winter Flounder season just started south and east of Cape Cod. We could rent a boat, big old office outing," The half-angel says this to the woman while he finishes writing a check for Sakura. It's written out to 'Cash', just to make her life easy as he holds it out to her. <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To Charity, Psyber remarks, "You know what the most interesting part is? If he'd been less tunnel-visioned, he might have been able to intercept this before it reached the point it has now. But he was so distracted that he's in a blind spot of his own creation. It's quite interesting to observe externally." <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The half-angel curls his hand into a fist and rests it under his chin as they're led to the treasure room. Granted, the fact that they're standing in front of one of the One Hundred is also very awe-inspiring, "Ah, to think your Kingdom would have such a treasure. Do other Kingdoms know it is here?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:134|Sakura Haruno (134)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sakura will take the check, still looking confused. "Are you.. I don't really understand." She finally admits, though she'll take the check anyways. It may or may not ever be cashed, anyhow, but it's made it into the ribbon of the kimono she'd worn here.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She has been less familiar with the lore of the local kingdoms and such; she doesn't really get what this particular weapon is. She'll hiss at Psyber in a raised whisper. "Is this something I should know about?"<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Of course, the medic is mostly internally cringing at the girl heading towards more betrayed and heartbroken. The poor girl couldn't know what she was getting into with Hall!<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:168|Nathan Hall (168)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;SHIT, EMERGENCY, PULL UP.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nathan keeps a completely stoic look when Illuvia responds positively to what he said in a way that he did not want her to. Damn it! Okay, he resolves to try to say things in a way that isn't going to make her like him MORE. Hopefully. "The wellbeing, freedom, and happiness of people is our priority." Nathan says. "If your kingdom promotes these things, we will preserve, assist, and protect it. I thank you for being willing to accomodate us. I hope that, with our assistance, it can be made worth it to your kingdom. Education, economic adjustment, and other services can certainly be offered to those freed." He's taken this whole slavery thing kind of well! Mostly.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And then there's the artifact. A bracer? Nathan knows its value, but he doesn't know its purpose. He keeps a respectful distance, though, stepping back and nodding. "I see. A moment, please." He considers it, and with a blink, his glasses fill with obfuscating glare as he attempts a [SCAN]. Normally it just tells magical or anatomical weaknesses, but this should more productively give Nathan some idea of the scale of the magic inherent to this artifact.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:299|Charity Whiteheart (299)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Charity gives Psyber an odd look, then just shakes her head. "I know. It's a pity. I haven't seen her sink this much effort into something in a while. If things get resolved, though, I wouldn't mind coming to an outing. My job is my job, I don't really have anything against you or yours."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Charity will then step back away from the door, when she sees it open. Kind of hanging near Sakura. "I'll just... stay over here."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:92|Elliana Fairchild (92)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Illuvia blushes faintly, "If I were more of a warrior, I could use that, I'm sure. I have more of the Blood than my father does." She sighs. "It has come to this that we are willing to part with it, to save our kingdom."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The SCAN will show that it is an artifact of immense magical power. The exact properties are hard to place, but it's quite similar to what Elliana's sword looks like under a scan. Judging from the aura and name, it has some cold-related ability.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:253|Psyber (253)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I would enjoy that," Psyber says to Charity, nodding his head. He won't have much more to say on the matter. She said it wasn't personal, all he can add is, "I have no hard feelings, obviously." <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Psyber explains to Haruno what it is on another channel, before saying, "As for the check, I merely want to ensure your comfort wherever you feel the need to work from. It is my responsibility as your employer and your friend to help you find such a thing," He'd actually like for her to come home, BUT. After the past few days, he understands why she left. This is his obtuse way of supporting her decision, while trying to express that he may not agree with it. He's bad at heartfelt moments. <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nathan? Psyber simply watches Nathan. He's radioactive right now, and with Charity there he's not keen to actively help. Besides, he gave Nathan the answer already, but does Nathan know it.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:134|Sakura Haruno (134)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sakura has about as much a chance figuring out those signals as she does taking Nathan's place in the wedding; instead, she's presently worrying about what she might have done to make her leave as bad as needing a bribe.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She'll try to figure it out later, of course. Right now, she's sternly watching someone who outranks her by a mile to make certain he doesn't do something like try to steal the weapon and crush the bride-to-be. She's rather less worried about his happiness, shockingly. Glancing to Charity she'll ask, finally. "Is something the matter? Do those make you nervous?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:299|Charity Whiteheart (299)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Charity adjusts her glasses when Sakura turns to her. "It does make me nervous. The Hundred are the symbol of Blooded superiority in this world. As nice as these two seem to be, those of us who don't have the priveledge of being born with the Blood still feel a little... nervous around such things. They grant the user some incredible powers, and frankly most of the Blooded are very poor at targeting such power."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:168|Nathan Hall (168)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nathan's just holding that scan, almost a bit obsessively for a moment. God damn it, Fairchild! She probably even set up some kind of countermeasure for attempting to go after an optimized third option. "I understand." He says, simply, pausing after he does for some time to continue to stare, and then turning on his heels.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Your Majesty, I will tell you now that as long as you are willing to comply with the humanitarian regulations of the Union, your kingdom will be saved, or at the very least the Union will do all in its power to do so, and an alliance may be formed based on reasonable mutual assistance." For the brief moment, he pinches the bridge of his nose. "While I admit that Shivan would provide a tremendous amount of benefit to me, due to other efforts closely associated with our efforts to resolve the issue of the Windward Kingdom, I believe I cannot accept this particular part of the exchange at this time. The first and foremost reason is that, by the cultural rules of my own home, your daughter is not currently of an appropriate age."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Additionally, I believe there may have been a diplomatic misunderstanding of a grander scale, due to an assortment of miscommunications. Among the Union, alliance is not secure by marriage among representitives." He gestures to the princess herself. "It is an adjustment made to our cultures over a long period of time, meant to reflect a profound respect held for the individual rights of nobility to choose their partners by their own will. It would be a faux pas of a substantial level for me to... Impinge upon the rights of your daughter to choose a partner of her own will. We are willing to declare an alliance in absence of marriage, if this is acceptable to you."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This has him extremely nervous and he hopes he's managed to spin it correctly, to something suitable for the King.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:92|Elliana Fairchild (92)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hearing those words, the King is surprised, while Illuvia... stares. "Wha..." Her eyes blink a few times, and she opens her mouth, then closes it. "A-am I not desireable?" That melodic voice, this time, transmits the emotion of sadness, perhaps making it more obvious that it's an unnatural effect.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The King fortunately steps in, "I was not aware that any miscommunication had occurred," he states. "And the neighboring kingdoms will be looking for a wedding to show the dedication of the Union as much as our own." He glances at Shivan, then motions for the doors to be closed. "It is very honest of you to turn down the dowry when stating this, but please understand that this is not so easy a thing undone. We can, of course, respect your own culture in waiting until my daughter is of the proper age, provided it is not too long of a wait."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He takes a deep breath, and though it shows some strain, he also shows himself capable of reason. "If she will come of age soon enough to make a reasonable but not too great delay, perhaps we can use that time to come to a better understanding?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:253|Psyber (253)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A sidelong glance is given at Charity. Psyber is, internally, glad he didn't bring Sovereign. Charity might actually have been able to recognize it, which would have been bad. As Nathan begins talking, Psyber rocks back and forth on his feet. <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A hand slips to the inside of his suit and takes out a flask. As the waves of sadness come over him from the princess, Psyber tilts it backwards and takes a long drink from it. The flask comes away and he coughs slightly before swallowing and placing it back into his jacket. <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He tries to keep a neutral face and parse through what's happening. Emotion-related Blooded power. Elliana's trap deepens the longer he stays here.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:92|Elliana Fairchild (92)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Psyber gets a reply from the King then, as it is on topic. "The other Kingdoms, including the Windward Empire, know we have a great treasure. They do not all know its nature. Only one or two have that knowledge, and I ask that you keep it from spreading to the Windward Empire."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:134|Sakura Haruno (134)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sakura will flinch visibly as the wave of sadness crashes over her, and listen in on the conversation. She manages not to cry, at first, at least. But she'll fold her arms up, and start to get rather emotional on the topic herself, and likely make matters much, much worse for Nathan on radio. At least she isn't getting directly involved with the King and Princess.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Yet.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:299|Charity Whiteheart (299)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Charity heaves a heavy sigh at that. "I feel sorry for her," she murmurs at Sakura. "You and I both know that he can't accept, but she seems to have taken a liking to him."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:168|Nathan Hall (168)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;OH NO, SHE MADE A SAD VOICE.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This stabs Nathan in the gut, partially because of emotional magic, and actually mostly because Nathan is unable to sustain any action that makes cute, harmless girls sad.. THANKS FOR DOING THAT AGAIN, ELLIANA. His awkwardness immediately launches from "grinding teeth" to tiers that would make most people stammer and blabber. "No!" He actually breaks his tone of voice for a moment. "I mean-- Yes. No, I mean no." He tries to settle down for a moment with a very deep breath. "You are certainly extremely charming, Your Highness." He makes a plaintive open-palmed gesture. "It is merely that in my culture, it is expected that both partners should know each other for some time, even nobility. It would be unconscionable for me to take your hand in marriage if you were not providing it without coercion and with your own will. In my own particular culture, it would be extortion to withhold my assistance for marriage, unless you had some strong desire to marry me. I cannot force you into marriage with me, you see?"<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He makes a mildly off-kilter noise at the King, but nods very gratefully. "Yes, I... Yes, a delay, at least, until the matter may be sorted, would be best. Perhaps if, during the delay, the Union may bolster you kingdom to the point where the lack of marriage does not show a sign of weakness in dedication from either side?" Maybe? Maaaaybe? Nathan is a little bit off track here, what with all the emotions.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:92|Elliana Fairchild (92)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Illuvia clasps her hands and tries to gather herself up. "I... see." But a moment later, she murmurs, "I am feeling unwell, father. I think I shall retire for the night." Curtsying to the others, she turns about and heads for the nearby stairs.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The King lifts an eyebrow. "If you would do that for us, that may indeed help. For now, I will place a delay in. She reaches the age of eighteen in six months, would that suffice to give us enough time?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:253|Psyber (253)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As the princess leaves, Psyber finally lets show that the particular aura she exudes has exacerbated some of his existing feelings. The half-angel takes a casual gait towards Nathan and slaps him SQUARE in the center of the back. Not hard enough to actually hurt, but it leaves a sting. <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Congrats, Slugger. You're now 2 for 2 in disappointing 17 year old girls. Keep it up." Psyber says before smiling at the King, "Call my office if you need me. I'm gonna signal my pickup now."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:168|Nathan Hall (168)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nathan makes a helpless noise at Psyber and wrings his hands a little bit. "I do not even know what the /first/ one is." He says, and then makes a frustrated noise. Monotone still steady, though. He tries to get back to the king before he completely falls apart. "I believe that with my experience in this matter, I may be able to make a sufficient show of political dedication to render the marriage redundant." This is exhausting, and as such, Nathan lets out a bit of a heavy breath. "My apologies for the confusion, Your Majesty. I hope that we can each pull through this with mutual benefit soon. Thank you." He'll be heading out for now, unless, you know, that's stopped.<br> <br>
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