View source for 2667/Leve: We Come In Peace

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2015/07/22
|Location=Hydaelyn Reborn <ARR>
|Synopsis=Adventurers meet the Seedseers of Gridania and discuss assorted matters. Also Alwyn sucks at spelling their names consistently and correctly.
|Thanks=
|Cast of Characters=255, 627, 747, 815, 819
|Tinyplot=The Six Crystals of Light
|Tinyplot2=
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:815|Alwyn Highwind (815)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Notice from the Adventurers' Guild of Eorzea (posted on numerous bounty and adventurer boards, including the Syndicate Network)!<br /><br />Leve: We Come In Peace<br />Location: Gridania<br />Type: Meeting<br />Urgency: High<br />Difficulty: None<br /><br />Enclosed Message: The Elder Seedseer of Gridania would meet those adventurers and assorted heroes willing to assist with the issue posed by the imminent return of Ramuh, the Lord of Levin. She would discuss options with you, as well as diplomacy, and by the same token answer any questions you may have, not just on this matter but on Eorzea itself.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:627|Souji Murasame (627)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Souji Murasame is present. Establishing communications routes with the leadership of a member of the Eorzean Alliance is quite useful for someone like him, even if he already has plans to get his fingers into Uldah. He waits patiently beside Nophica's Altar in Old Gridania, looking about at the lush landscape, general pastoral serenity, and most importantly... <br /><br />The absolute boatload of conjurors present. He adjusts his glasses, folding his arms as he waits for a signal that the Seedseer is prepared to receive guests. He doesn't seem particularly talkative, but then, he has little to say at the moment.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:819|N'raha Tia (819)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If you had ever told N'raha he would be meeing the Seedseer in person... maybe last month, even last week, he'd have laughed and asked you to pull his tail again. Maybe this time it would take. <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;That said, the young miq is now here in his finest armor, still looking slightly dingy despite the shine he's put to it this morning. Hat's off too, letting his roughly brushed hair slick back along his ears. That tail swishes in a rather distracted manner as he waits for that time to come forward. Goodness.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:815|Alwyn Highwind (815)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Welcome to Gridania, the city in the forest.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A Warp Gate is located by the main Aetheryte Crystal of the city, its blue light currently feeble compared to the bright light of day. A city built amongst rocky hills and trees, it feels very connected to its surrounding nature, wooden buildings built simply but standing firm, while a river cuts through the city.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;TL;DR: http://img4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20130623115955/finalfantasy/images/thumb/0/08/New_Gridania_Aetheryte_Plaza.jpg/1024px-New_Gridania_Aetheryte_Plaza.jpg<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You've been invited, specifically, to the Lotus Stand, where you will be meeting the three primary Seedseers. Taking you there will be a small escort of two men, one Elezen and one-- Garlean, judging by the white dot/third eye on his forehead?-- from the main Aetheryte. Located in the back of the city, the Lotus Stand is a tranquil clearing at the base of a slow, calming waterfall, platforms of stone shaped like lilypads present in the middle of the water. Onto the central one, a large table and three chairs.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;TL;DR: http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eFiH-DMG3JU/VFCFLReTMtI/AAAAAAAADVc/n6R5xXTk5IU/s1600/ffxiv_10282014_225639.png<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;After a moment's wait, the three Seedseers arrive from the opposite direction; Kan-E-Senna, the oldest of the three, is a blonde woman dressed in white with a white staff. The other two, Raya-O-Senna and A-Ruhn-Senna, are a few years younger, a boy and a girl with red hair. They are all dressed in a variety of whites, though the two 'twins' also mainline red (Raya) and green (A-Ruhn). They all have white horns sprouting out of their hair, looking like very fancy head ornaments.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;TL;DR: http://img01.3dmgame.com/uploads/allimg/130730/153_130730152017_1.jpg<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kan-E-Senna will be the one to address what few adventurers came (Alwyn is here, chatting up one of the royal guards to the side) first. "Welcome to the Lotus Stand, Gridania's seat of power. I'm glad a few of you were able to make it to address our concerns and help form a plan."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:819|N'raha Tia (819)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oh shit, right, bowing.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;N'raha does that too, though in a thoroughly uncultured not-quite-right Ul'dan bowing. "Ah, N'raha, ma'am. Adventurer's Guild." The voice is strong and firm, much firmer than his manner would suggest right now. He doesn't belong here.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:627|Souji Murasame (627)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>All too soon Souji stands in the Lotus Stand. He looks like he could belong here, perhaps... If there were perhaps some other affectations to the incredibly natural surroundings. Souji steps along the stones and gives a deep bow to the Seedseers. "It is a pleasure to meet yoo all. I am Souji Murasame ,of the Murasame Zaibatsu. We have many interests in the progress of the Eorzean Alliance and would see them flourish."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:255|Setsuko Kaminagi (255)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;More than simply wishing to offer her assistance, one of those attending the meeting with Elder Seedseer Kan-E-Senna is here because she feels an obligation. It is, after all, her fault that the tempered Sylphs of the Sylphlands feel the need to summon their Lord of Levin to protect themselves. Her exercise of power was performed in ignorance of the world's political and metaphysical situation, and as a result, Setsuko Kaminagi has caused this city problems.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It's only right that she helps to mitigate them.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And Gridania is a city worth protecting. Natural and beautiful, filled with life and energy. The demigod cannot help but feel a certain sense of calm... and, for the first time, perhaps a hint of discomfort at her own presence. The way her inherent aura of 'significance' keeps drawing eyes, especially of Conjurers, leaves her feeling a touch out of place. But allowing herself to dwell on it will solve nothing; arriving at the Lotus Strand means getting down to business.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It doesn't mean discarding manners, however. This is no less than the leader of a city-state. Already bucking her usual trend by arriving in a pure white, far more formal outfit than she's usually seen in, Setsuko further steps out of her usual behavior by dropping herself to one knee and lowering her head deferentially. "Elder Seedseer Kan-E-Senna, it's an honor. Major Setsuko Kaminagi, Union Armed Forces. I bear responsibility for the situation at hand - it's only right that I lend my aid to its solution. I'm thankful that you were willing to reach out."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Only then does she rise to her feet again.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:815|Alwyn Highwind (815)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Please, rise," Kan-E-Senna asks.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A-Ruhn-Senna snorts impolitely, evidently at N'raha.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Raya-O-Senna tugs onto one of his horns. "Brother, be polite."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"The Sylphs have told me that those Tempered by Ramuh had been stirring for a while. That you were what made them go from plan to action should not be held against you, bearing in mind it was a matter of time in the first place. Perhaps it is providence we must deal with this matter before the Garleans become active again, rather than at the same time."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;N'raha gets a shorter: "And any adventurer brave enough to assist in the matter of Primals is welcome in my company. Most would avoid it."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Souji gets a curious glance, as Kan-E-Senna motions towards the chairs. "Please, sit. You are our guests today. I'm afraid the Eorzean Alliance isn't as strong as it used to be; before long I must personally see to reestablishing our strong bonds again. Pray forgive my ignorance, but won't you explain this 'Murasame Zaibatsu' to us?"<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Raya-O-Senna chimes in with, "We don't leave the forest very often, and the amount of news that has been pouring in from the Adventurers' Guild link to the Syndicate Network is pretty overwhelming."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:819|N'raha Tia (819)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Those kind words from Kan-E-Senna give N'raha at least some comfort as he does take a seat and dusts at his armor needlessly. He's going to be self-concious the whole time here, deal with it. <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Well, it's not as if... I could ignore it, right? What sort of hero would I be if I did?" He blinks, and thinks a moment. Yep, those words did just come out of his mouth in front of the leader of Gridania. Good. A start. "And Miss Kaminagi shouldn't feel... too bad about it, really. That was really a lot of the off-worlder's first time to the Shroud... or really Eorzea. They wouldn't have known that would have been a problem." <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Miq looks at the twins behind the Seedseer and frowns a bit. "But I'm pretty sure they're all trying to help, at least."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:815|Alwyn Highwind (815)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"We wouldn't judge a hero harshly for running from a Primal," Raya-O-Senna answers N'raha, although A-Ruhn-Senna gives a sort of dismissive snort again.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I absolutely would," he says, before he gets tugged aside again by his sister. The two have a mild argument off to the side, before returning. "My apologies. What I meant to say was 'foolhardy the hero who does not know his limits'."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Raya-O-Senna still glares at him funny but it'll do.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:255|Setsuko Kaminagi (255)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Setsuko gives both Kan-E-Senna and N'raha a small, grateful nod, before moving to take her seat. "Nevertheless, my blade and my word are yours until there is a resolution to this situation, one way or the other." She is careful to tilt her sword so that it doesn't interfere with her seated position, and laces her fingers together on the tabletop for a moment or two before proceeding. "Is there any means by which this might be resolved peacefully? We joined the Scions of the Seventh Dawn on a venture into Sylph territory recently, but they seemed... uninterested in parley. Particularly with me present."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:627|Souji Murasame (627)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Souji sits when bid to do so, and nods. "The Zaibatsu is a collection of mercantile companies who all work together under the control of our Family. It bears some resemblance to what I have heard of the Syndicate of Uldah. Murasame is the name of my family, and I bear the name proudly."<br /><br />He smiles faintly. "I have had some experience with the Garleans. Their behavior has assured me that they are not the way forward for Eorzea."<br /><br />He folds his hands. "I am also very curious about the situation that has arisen in the Shroud. The actions of a few appears to threaten events in the Shroud."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:819|N'raha Tia (819)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;'Know your limits'. If only N'raha could figure that one out. His luck had held out so far, for sure. But... <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The talk of the Scions gets N'raha's ears to perk up. "We also work with Master Silent, who's with the Scions. He's been a big help too. Though... yeah, the Tempered Sylphs really didn't like us even being there. The Garleans in the woods didn't help either. Too many bad memories for them, I suppose, to pick most of us out." <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He does look over at Souji. "Thing is, the Forest, the Shroud, has a Long Memory and the place is still healing. The forest is mad, and stuff is mad and it's really not helping to have the Empire skulking about."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:815|Alwyn Highwind (815)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"It is unlikely we can convince the touched Sylphs that we mean no harm, but the Lord of Levin himself is said to be wise and protective. If nothing else, we must hope we can appeal to his judgment. Failing that, we will need to defeat him, a grim but necessary second plan." Kan-E-Senna answers Setsuko.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Raya-O-Senna steps forward, adding: "I think we might have found a solution for that. My brother and I investigated the Sylphs, those still siding with Gridania. Their elder has gone missing, and they are wanting for a show of good faith from us. I believe that you could be sent as envoys to Little Solace, and convince the Sylphs to side with you against their Lord. Such a token would surely help sway Ramuh's fury in your favor, to see some of his children at peace with us."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A-Ruhn-Senna completes, "Those untouched by the Lord of Levin refuse to summon him. They value their alliance with us and the elements over the benefits of having their Primal out. It shouldn't be hard to convince them by... doing assorted tasks."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:815|Alwyn Highwind (815)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To Souji, Kan-E-Senna nods. "That does indeed sound like Ul'dah's leadership. To be perfectly honest, I never understood it, and so I don't judge it." A-Ruhn-Senna adds, "Anymore." Both Kan-E-Senna and Raya-O-Senna give him the mean older sister glare this time.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Nonetheless you are correct. While not all Garleans are evil," she motions towards one of her royal guards, the one with the third eye on his forehead, "Most are misguided and misinformed on Eorzea. Savages and barbarians, they call us, in fear of our magic. I cannot fault them, given what we have done with it in the past."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A-Ruhn-Senna adds, "Speaking of, I must thank you for your journey into the Lost City. The knowledge we will gleam from it will be invaluable, though the elements have expressed discomfort at our looking into it. It would seem they were the ones to hide the city from us, but now that it has been found, would have us be careful instead."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:815|Alwyn Highwind (815)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"The elements can be a little bit scornful and unreasonable at times," Raya-O-Senna answers N'raha, shaking her head slowly. "The Calamity has clouded their judgment and vision. Poachers roam the forest, the Garleans slowly take steps in, and corruption lingers, harming the elements directly. Bertram Silent is one of our best hopes into calming the elements and purging their corruption. It is very rare the elements will welcome Ala Mhigans, but he's blended in perfectly."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:747|Scarlet Everille (747)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Scarlet arrives just a little bit late due to unavoidable circumstances, but fashionably so. If Eorzeans don't have a concept of "fashionably late" then she'll just have to teach it to them.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;That said, she is anything but disrespectful, despite Gridania's thoroughly rustic charms. A certain method of information gathering she had circulated through the region on her first mission here is enough for her to know of the city-state's economic and political relevance and general reputation. It also doesn't take a genius to figure out a Seedseer's general position of authority within the heirarchy. She greets the three with a very refined, deliberately culture non-specific bow as seems to have been indicated to be the practise before introducing herself properly shortly after.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"It's a rare case that any one group of people can really be called wholeheartedly evil. Regardless, it doesn't seem as if that demonization is going to leave cultural memory any time soon, and so we'll have to bear it in mind either way while going forward. I think we probably already agree that facing off against a Primal, this Lord of the Levin, would be a last resort at best. That said, doesn't there seem to be a possibility that the Slyph's elder may have been taken by the Tempered? Suppose it were a deliberate ploy to have us provoke them in the process of recovering him or her, do you believe it would be worth it?" It's mostly busytalk while she stealthily assesses the Seedseers. She wants to know whether they're purely political figures or equivalently powerful mages. It won't change how she addresses them (much), but it'll certainly change how she thinks of them.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:255|Setsuko Kaminagi (255)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hmm. So Ramuh is considered a wise being. Perhaps he will be willing to listen if she, the reason they finally chose to summon him, speaks with him directly. Moreover, there is a chance for her to demonstrate to un-tempered Sylphs that their purple-leafed bretheren are mistaken about humans and humanlike people. Ordinarily, she isn't very inclined towards politicking and diplomacy, but in this particular case... "I'll have to see what I can do for Little Solace, then. If we can sway the Lord of Levin, that would be preferable for all involved. If not... I am a soldier. I will fight whatever battles I must."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There is a pause in which the demigod listens to Raya speaking on the topic of the Elementals, and then she adds, "Ah... another thing I should offer apology for. When I first set foot in the Black Shroud, I sensed these 'Elementals', and offered them apology and explanation for my presence. They haven't seemed to take issue with me, but if they've been more difficult as a result of my presence, you have my sincere apologies."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:815|Alwyn Highwind (815)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Indeed. Social stigma is difficult to erase," Kan-E-Senna answers, as Scarlet finally joins them. She would motion for her to seat herself, but the table only has three chairs. An oversight, but on the other hand, the Lotus Stand is only rarely used for large gatherings anymore.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"While we don't doubt in our ability to overpower the Lord of Levin, if at great cost, we would very much enjoy peace with the Sylphs, and their Tempered cousins as well. If we could but convince Ramuh to order his children to be at peace with us, we would stand that much stronger for it."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;On the matter of the ploy, it's Raya-O-Senna who answers. "That's possible. They don't have any solid leads yet, but they've suspected a number of their disappearances lately were linked to the Tempered ones. It's possible they mean to have them Tempered as well. If that's the case, then speed and haste will be needed in our search."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:819|N'raha Tia (819)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;N'raha looks up at Miss Everille steps into the conversation as well, waving a little bit. It's that nice-ish lady from the Deepcrofts! <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;That said, Setsuko also gets a murmur. "It could be worse. Ifrit and Titan are conquerers and lead their tribes on... well. That's never any good. Ramuh is less... well. I don't think he's gone crazy and tried takin' stuff over. I know the Brass Blades and the Immortal Flames have their hands full with the desert when the Kobolds and Amalj'aa start getting antsy and angry."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He rubs at his nose and looks to Kan-E-Senna. "Who should we be looking for at Little Solace? Who's in charge withthe Elder gone... or is that one of the problems?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:627|Souji Murasame (627)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>"So you would have us liason with the as of yet uncontaminated Sylphs in hopes that we can still broker some form of... de-escalation of temsions before they go out of control." Souji states. "This is a reasonable course of action." <br /><br />We'll see how reasonable he sees it when they go meet the Sylphs. <br /><br />"In the meantime, I and the rest of the members of my organization are pleased to be of service to Gridania." He nods to N'raha. "We'll simply have to work with what we have. It's all we can do, correct? We have insufficient information on the ground to make definitive plans. We do not know if Ramuh has truly been summoned, nor the last known state of the Elder of the Sylphs. We will need to determine these facts before we can truly examine our chances of de-escalating this situation."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:815|Alwyn Highwind (815)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Raya-O-Senna glances towards Setsuko, offering a sort of shrug. "It's hard to tell what upsets them these days. Sometimes, the sun rising at all angers them. An adventurer steps on a moth or flower by accident and an elemental quakes in fury. They fight amongst themselves, and those of them that have been corrupt border on the uncontrollable."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A-Ruhn-Senna summarizes it as, "It's kind of a coin flip."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kan-E-Senna says nonetheless, "That you sensed them and offered that upfront may have calmed them rather than angered them, as well. The elements have never had much faith in outsiders, but gave us their blessings years ago to open the Shroud's borders. Since then adventurers and heroes have been proving them right and wrong both. Seeing more people prove them wrong helps our cause, in the end."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Rare the times she'd say she's glad people are proving the elements wrong, but that's one subject she'll be glad if people do. 'Outsiders are awful and mean us harm'.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:815|Alwyn Highwind (815)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"That would be Komuxio, a delightful little Sylph, that one," Raya-O-Senna answers N'raha, though A-Ruhn-Senna immediatly adds: "Not sure we can really talk of leadership though. They seem disorganized and confused right now."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kan-E-Senna adds, to the catte's first remark: "We had not seen Ramuh manifested in a long time. We only have the legends to go by; pray they are correct."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:747|Scarlet Everille (747)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Out of curiosity, when was the last time anyone met Ramuh? Anyone besides a Sylph, that is." Scarlet asks, for all the world apparently just that, curious. In reality, she has serious reservations about plans that base themselves around the alleged character and personality of a god-entity someone might not have even seen in decades, centuries, millenia, or whatever unfathomable span of history might have passed in this world. The idea of god figures being active in day to day life in any real capacity is still something of a new concept to her, and she has a long and storied distrust of those that claim to speak for them word for word.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"In any case, Tempering of the elder would most likely be an even less desirable outcome. That said, I would like to request a certain level of time and information to attempt a prepatory search myself before we all go storming into the forest. If they're really as ornery as you say, a lighter touch to begin with might smooth things out considerably." She spares a moment to wave sidelong at N'raha, though coyly.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:815|Alwyn Highwind (815)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Correct," Kan-E-Senna answers Souji, though she adds, "But in truth, it is more to increase our standing than establish it. The Sylphs are already allies of Gridania, but we have been neglectful of that alliance due to the Calamity's damage to our lands. We have no excuse for this, and thus we must send envoys. The Sylphs are peaceful, if untrusting. They have always been considered the weakest of the Primal worshippers, and it is only through Ramuh's protection that they were able to break free from the other tribes. Still, it should not be difficult to sway them."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;His other observations being correct, the Elder Seedseer simply nods. "We have not felt the presence of Ramuh yet; we must assume we still have time. Primals are... not subtle."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She decides to ask Souji about himself, now; "This Zaibatsu, tell me. What would you bring to the Eorzean Alliance? With the Garleans rallying, it may be that we are in no position to turn down help."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:819|N'raha Tia (819)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Miqo'te settles in again, questions answered. And then he looks a bit pensive at the whole thing for a few moments. Well, at least he appears to be pensive, if you could call 'staring off into space while in thought' pensive. His ears twitch a few times as he tries to piece information together in his head.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"...How much does this have to do with the increased... angry monster activity in the Shroud? We had to deal with a big grumpy water elemental the other day, and I've heard some of the local critters are getting big in their britches." Scarlet touches on the point and he gives her a thumbs up as well.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:815|Alwyn Highwind (815)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Having already answered Scarlet's first question, her second (or rather, the assorted concerns and guesses) are answered by Raya-O-Senna. "Tempering of anyone at all isn't a very desirable outcome. I'm sure in time they would find a new elder, but it would certainly set us back if they succeeded. Not to mention that if the Tempered Sylphs grow in numbers, that directly threatens us."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A-Ruhn-Senna adds, "I like this one, she's wise. Yes, a lighter touch would probably be better. If we sent two dozen adventurers out as envoys to the Sylphs, they'll feel overwhelmed. Half a dozen well-intentioned, mannered people should be enough. They'll no doubt have all manners of tasks to make you do, so you'll want enough pairs of hands present. Probably."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:627|Souji Murasame (627)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Souji nods when the talk turns to what he can offer the Alliance. "I have noticed that the Garleans make use of magitech to make up for, I hear, their inability to use magical power. Our organization also manufactures magitechnological weaponry of various forms. I am interested in either observing if the Alliance is interested in making use of my products, or perhaps establishing a mutual research initative in order to advance your own projects should you have an existing corps." <br /><br />There is a pause. "I understand if such a proposal will take some time to negotiate. Perhaps together we can show that the Garleans hardly would have a monopoly on mechanized warfare."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:819|N'raha Tia (819)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;'Well-intentioned, mannered.' N'raha's ears droop.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;'All manners of tasks, pairs of hands.' N'raha's ears perk up. He can help!<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:255|Setsuko Kaminagi (255)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Setsuko bows her head in response to the Elder Seedseer and her siblings. "I'm grateful to lend strength to your arguments. I'm not quite the same as most adventurers; I've grown accustomed to my presence causing issues. So I try to neutralize them ahead of time where I can." Sadly, they're in one of those situations that happens when she doesn't neutralize an issue ahead of time. But there are ways out of it, it would seem.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:815|Alwyn Highwind (815)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kan-E-Senna looks at N'raha, shaking her head. "The wildlife in the deeper sections of the forest has always been... large and aggressive, but not this much, you're correct. How much of it is due to the Calamity, how much is due to the elements' reaction to it, and how much is caused by other parties, we could not say. Though that would bring me to another subject."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A-Ruhn-Senna steps forward, presenting a dark medallion, picturing the red moon Dalamud.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I believe you met Lothaire. He says his men found this near the Tam-Tara Deepcroft, and that the seals had been tampered with again."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:819|N'raha Tia (819)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Miqo'te picks up the trinket, and looks over at Scarlet. She'd been there too. The warrior flips it around a few times in his hands, looking at it. It's not that fancy, really, but something about it feels... Wrong. Ugly. Like it was staining his fingers.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Well, that's rude, but I guess... if the seals were messed with last time and they've been messed with again, we might have a rude person trying to properly wake the dead inside." He's not entirely dumb. He does hand the medallion over to Scarlet for inspection as well.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:815|Alwyn Highwind (815)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At Souji's questioning, Kan-E-Senna motions for one of her honor guards to step forward. The man with the Garlean mark upon his forehead does so, and nods. "That's right. Us pure-bloods can't use magic, at all. We can't sense or connect to Aether. That's why you're all so frightening to us. Why the average citizen and soldier thinks you savages. Your powers are no different from a Primal's, and to the Empire's eyes, the Twelve and Hydaelyn are just more Primals, not proper divinities. I'm lucky the Elder Seedseer saved me and taught me wrong rather than have me executed."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As for the other matter, Kan-E-Senna eyes Souji more closely now, considering. "We only use minimal amounts of Magitek in our lives, and that is for our airships. The technology Garleans use is... forceful, invasive. It does not coexist with the Aether or Lifestream, it subdues it. If yours is anything like, pray forgive Gridania's refusal of it, though I am certain the other two city-states would consider the tactical advantage above all else."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:815|Alwyn Highwind (815)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Raya-O-Senna smiles at Setsuko. "Most adventurers who come to Gridania or the Shroud are just looking for quick jobs anymore. Most of the jobs posted by the Adventurers' Guild are ones that should please the elements, like dealing with the poachers, but to have one come and pay their respects to them so openly, I'm sure they must have noticed."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A-Ruhn-Senna adds, "So, you said you were kind of a Primal. Or I've been told. Of what? Primals have natures, elemental affinities. Concepts. What's yours, that it upset the Sylphs so much?"<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Raya-O-Senna yanks on A-Ruhn-Senna's horn. "Brother! That is rude. Or at least, it is a very rude way of phrasing that. Pray forgive him, sometimes I feel he lacks the maturity to be Seedseer."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A-Ruhn-Senna frowns. "And you the talent, but you don't see me telling strangers that."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:255|Setsuko Kaminagi (255)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"It's alright," Setsuko replies to Raya-O, her expression showing traces of amusement. "Time will temper his choice of phrasing well enough, with such well-spoken siblings. And his curiosity is well-founded."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She reaches down to her side, in a slow, deliberate movement, making it obvious to Kan-E's bodyguards that she's not drawing her blade - rather, she unclips it, and sets it sheath and all on the table. "I'm not a Primal, although given my nature, I'm not surprised that people of this world would have that impression after exerting my power. This sword is called 'Zanjintou'. It belonged to a previous, now-dead God of War from my world; a 'God' in the sense of 'a being with divine authority over a concept', rather than simply 'a being of power'. As the current owner of Zanjintou, its divinity has intermingled with my humanity, rendering us one entity, neither mortal nor god. 'Demigod' would be the closest term for it."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:627|Souji Murasame (627)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>Souji shakes his head. "Not the same, no. Ours functions on Patterns, much like the world we live in is shaped through these patterns. Our Magic Particles... Not dissimlar to your Aether, flows through these patterns and provides us with gravity, rain, the thunderstorms our city depends on for power, and more." <br /><br />He pauses, and gestures. "Anyone who is capable of using Aether can simply invest a small amount into it and it will function. Unfortunately, this means that as your associate has mentioned, it would be difficult for a pureblood Garlean to use our wares unless they were to adapt their own power systems to them. We spend our lives working with magic, we have no need to force it to do what we want when it will simply flow through a channel provided for it like water through a riverbed."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:815|Alwyn Highwind (815)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Then to the uninformed eye you must seem as a Primal of war. No wonder the Sylphs reacted so strongly," A-Ruhn-Senna notes, while Raya-O-Senna frowns a bit as she adds, "Yes, considering the Sylphs' ancestry, that they would fear war, any war, isn't surprising."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kan-E-Senna considers how best to phrase her addition, before settling on: "Us Padjal are not too different. These horns are the sign that we were blessed, in a way, by the elements. We can speak to them, relay their word, commune. I would not be so boastful as to claim us a step between Eorzeans and presences such as the elements of the Twelveswood, however." For one, they lack the raw firepower to make such claims. But for two, she's too humble for that in general.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:815|Alwyn Highwind (815)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"So your technology works with Aether, not against it? Interesting," Kan-E-Senna notes, though quickly covers her bases with: "I must admit I know little of technology; such has always been the strong suit of the Maelstrom and the Flames. And Garleans are not so eager to share their secrets, and us, not so equipped to decrypt them. If your technology truly works as you claim, it may be an advantage the Eorzean Alliance cannot pass on, though many are the eyes that will be wary. Ware the stranger bearing gifts."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She says that with no accusation or hostility, rather she assumes such a saying must be commonplace no matter the world.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Were I you, I would seek an audience with the Sultana or the Flame General to start with. With their approval, contacting the Admiral of the Maelstrom to set up a meeting that you may demonstrate your wares to all of us at once should prove a trivial matter. From there, perhaps you may find your place amidst the Alliance."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:255|Setsuko Kaminagi (255)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Setsuko can only nod towards the younger Seedseers. "It's understandable, yes. War... isn't a pretty thing. It isn't kind, or gentle. It leaves orphans and widows, ruins and barrens. I was raised under a soldier's creed of drawing my blade only so that others can live their life in peace. So I'm very careful about how and when I apply my abilities. That use of my power frightened the Slyphs so..." She shakes her head, finally taking her sword from the table and returning it to her side. "Though I myself dwell on the battlefield, I would never drag someone else there. If we can settle this without bloodshed, I would be deeply gratified. And either way, I have a responsibility to help you and your people." A demigod of War, pushing for peace.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:815|Alwyn Highwind (815)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"That is my hope," Kan-E-Senna nods towards Setsuko. "We must pray the Lord of Levin is as the tales say, and perhaps we may for the first time in Eorzea's recent history reach a peaceful ending with a Primal. Though it is not unheard of to negotiate peace with the Beast Tribes, to do so with their Primal directly is a dangerous prospect. Pray allow me to come with you, when the time comes, if only to observe. As you are the ones who will be interacting with the Sylphs, it would not be for me to speak with Ramuh, but you."<br /><br />As for the matters of war, well, she doesn't feel the need to mirror agreement. It's a very strong given.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:747|Scarlet Everille (747)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It isn't Scarlet's first time hearing of the subjects up for discussion here, but most of it is new. What her allies, temporary or official, have to say on the issue is equally as informative as what the locals do, if towards other ends. It is indeed the medallion is what immediately catches her interest though, and to which she has to feign a little bit of additional ignorance. "You are correct. Deliberately so as well. I'm a little curious what makes you mention that in the same breath however. I have an idea of course, but if you would, please spell it out for me."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She pauses just a little to quickly juggle two topics with different members of the family. "You've mentioned specific tasks the Sylphs would have us perform. How will this relate to the recovery of their elder? Do you have reason to believe it won't be sufficient evidence for them of our intentions?" More importantly, she wants to know what level of "tasks" these are going to be. It's unlikely she'll get to pick a team, but she'd at least like to organize around it.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:815|Alwyn Highwind (815)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I mention it," A-Ruhn-Senna says, "Because this adventurer inquired on the state of the wildlife. We have reason to believe a cult worshipping the fallen moon of Dalamud may be making its home in the deeper levels of the Deepcroft. That medallion all but proves it."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If examined, the medallion would be quickly revealed to be Void-touched. Rather than Aether, it is charged with... well, anti-existence, essentially. Dark magic. It doesn't seem to be enchanted to do anything much beyond... dispel something? Something specific, of similar nature. A dark medallion that dispels something equally dark.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"We would have you adventurers go in and... well, need I really lay that one out?" The boy asks, in his ever-so-humble tone.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Raya-O-Senna chips in about the Sylphs. "A number of Sylphs have gone missing lately, in separate trails. It's likely they'll ask you to find them. I've also heard they're fond of... dancing. Perhaps it is a diplomatic tradition for them. And lastly, the local wildlife has been giving them trouble, and so they may ask you to deter the beasts away from Little Solace."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:255|Setsuko Kaminagi (255)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Were I one of your bodyguards," Setsuko replies, giving them a brief glance, "I would object for the sake of your wellbeing." There's a trace of amusement in her voice again. "But I don't imagine you easily deterred. So I will say only, don't get too close to Ramuh. I'm fairly certain I am at no risk of tempering, but I wouldn't want to put the Elder Seedseer of Gridania under the same test. Beyond that, I have no objections."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:819|N'raha Tia (819)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;N'raha looks at Raya and murmurs. "Well. I'll see what I can put together, I suppose. That's not... not something you just jump into." 'Know your limits'. The adventurer slides his thumb over the medallion again, catching... <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A man in a mask. Watching. A familiar man in a mask. Why is he familiar? W-why does he feel like he should know this person?<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Miqo'te comes back to the here and now, seemingly shaking off another one of those bouts of 'stare at the wall and think'. "Buh. That's weird."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:747|Scarlet Everille (747)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Scarlet outwardly displays no reaction to the young male Seedseer's tone, being generally far too experienced. Instead she manages to look interested but unsurprised, as if happy to have someone confirm something she already knew in their own words, though it's the first time she's had the specifics put to this particular thread of intrigue. "No, it's more or less as I thought. That particular cause is almost linked to the grievances of the Sylphs, and so should be held until after our first objective is seen to, so we can hand it over to maximum effect. They won't thank us for it if their elder is still missing, or worse, comes back Tempered."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She doesn't even so much as blink at the mention of dancing though. "Humouring those kinds of traditions is a trivial affair really. I think I can construct a priority list going forward." She stops to deliberately look thoughtful. "An ideal sequence of objectives. Yes, I definitely think this is well within our collective ability." The real meaning of the word "our" there is anyone's guess. "Will you be wanting an official update on this, or are you hoping to just fire and forget on this one?" She manages to refrain from using her computer just yet, committing it to memory instead.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:815|Alwyn Highwind (815)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Garlean standing by Kan-E-Senna shakes his head. "Stubborn to her dying breath, yeah. It's usually been to her advantage." He beams her a grin, and the dignity and posture of the Elder Seedseer falters for all but a moment until she shakes her head and smiles.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"What a leader I would be if I but sent adventurers to take care of all my problems and never at least attended to one or two with them," she offers, more or less confirming both her guard and Setsuko's say.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;ENJOY YOUR AWFUL ASCIAN ECHO, N'RAHA.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Though, that medallion has equal parts masked man and equal parts Bahamut worshipping crazies in it. They've got a cult! It's cool, they have punch and all. Lambs of Dalamud. They've been around since before the Calamity, but their numbers have kind of dwindled since. Not their crazies, though.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:815|Alwyn Highwind (815)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A-Ruhn-Senna actually smiles for the first time this meeting, the boy definitely enjoying Scarlet's business attitude. "We'd like to hear about major breakthroughs, but you sound like you have this figured out already. Just keep in touch with the Adventurers' Guild if you need to recruit help, and tell them you're working on something for the Seedseers. They'll give you priority one treatment."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Raya-O-Senna comments, idly, "That's a good idea, though. We think we can keep what the cultists are doing in the Deepcroft contained for now, while you address the Sylphs. Once that's done, we can get you a map of the Deepcroft and... well, you can do your adventurer thing." Murder, mostly. Of undead, wildlife, cultists.<br> <br>
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