View source for 3712/The Lady and the Scoundrel

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|Date of Scene=2016/01/21
|Location=Njorun Station - The Skygarden
|Synopsis=Sarah invites Kevin Graham to the Skygarden for a cup of tea.
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|Cast of Characters=316, 887
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{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:316|Sarah (316)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  Although it spans a bough of Njorun Station's great tree, the Skygarden could easily fool the uninitiated into thinking it's a terrestrial location. So vast is its grounds that it seems as though it were a great garden in truth, rather than more in metaphorical name.<br /><br />  It's here that a small table has been set up, in the midst of very convincing fields of wild wheat, beside the shore of a considerably-sized lake. The Runebearer has seated herself at one end of the table, with a pot of tea and a plate of scones at the middle of the table; a delicate teacup cradled in equally delicate hands.<br /><br />  Her eyes are closed, and it might be noted that the lake of the water is not, in point of fact, /in/ the lake. It's /above/ the lake, floating in perfectly-controlled formation, twisted into serpentine guise. It's expertly detailed and finely-controlled -- parts of it are lightly frosted over to give the impression of texture, creating scales, a face, and eerily intelligent-looking 'eyes' of frosted ice.<br /><br />  Creepy.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:887|Kevin Graham (887)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kevin's flippant and seemingly negligent manners on the radio were actually anything but. He and Ries had been working together in the medical center, taking inventory of medicine on hand and anything that needed to be restocked.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;However, the idea of a break from work they had been enveloped in for the past few hours was, in fact, a welcome idea. Ries found it an opportunity to go have a meal, and Kevin decided he'd join Sarah in the Skygarden.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When he arrives, he's in the white and red uniform- something that's become expected of him. And he doesn't speak immediately, only watching the water and the art that is being made with it from, presumedly, Sarah's control over it.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Still without another word, he walks to the table and takes a seat. While he seems to have an irreverent demeanor, the priest understands the importance of not interrupting a person while they're 'working' - especially with the kind of power he has sensed and knows that the Runebearer holds. Control is a big deal to him.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What it doesn't do is prevent him for picking up a teacup, setting it on the saucer, and checking the pot to see if it's ready for him to pour himself a cup of tea.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:316|Sarah (316)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  Few things about her have changed. Sarah still has the True Rune's aura of power about her, vast and overwhelming as the ocean's crushing depths. It's even worse now that she's actively using the rune, and the sigil glows blue-white on her right hand. Even more impressive is that her eyes remain closed as she adjusts the details -- she never once looks at her creation.<br /><br />  Her eyes open, though, when Kevin strolls into the area. The 'dragon' swirls away into mist, dissipating as though it had never been, and the water somehow finds its way back into the lake.<br /><br />  Sarah opens her eyes all the way, and to her credit, it only takes a second or two for her eyes to focus fully on Kevin. She blinks once or twice, before automatically reaching for the pot, pouring Kevin's cup for him. Her motions are the same as always; graceful, economic, precisely calculated not in the way of a warrior, but in the way of someone who knows exactly their place and self-control.<br /><br />  Her hands return to her own cup once she sets the saucer down, and she arches a brow, offering the faintest hint of a smile.<br /><br />  "So. You have arrived, Priest. And more quickly than I had expected, too. It is good to see you again."<br /><br />  There's a short pause, and she indicates the plate with a slight tilt of her chin. "Scone?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:887|Kevin Graham (887)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kevin finds himself glad to know that he doesn't need to pour himself a cup of tea, nor interrupt Sarah's work with the water.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He has seen Sarah using the power of her True Rune enough to remain comfortable, if in awe, at the force that runs through her- but there's nothing ever said about it. Conversely, somehow, though there is a sense for some power in the priest, it remains muted and continuously in check. Out of habit, the act of keeping his power dampened is almost a natural action.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There's a broad grin to the hint of the Runebearer's smile. Kevin's much more open about his emotions and actions. He simply bows his head once and says, "I would love a scone, please."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He picks up a napkin and settles it into his lap. "I was actually jus' over in medical, an' yer offer caught us at a good time." 'Us' probably means himself and Ries, his squire. "It is definitely good t' see you again, too. Impressive work when I got here." The water with the lake, of course.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:316|Sarah (316)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  Where Kevin's power is controlled, the True Rune is not -- so much so that it seems absurd that a woman this small and fragile should have that kind of cosmic power at her fingertips, and in such expert control. She makes absolutely no effort to mask the presence of the True Rune; indeed, it would be more effort to hide it than to merely let it be.<br /><br />  Sarah is not, however, as open about her own emotions. Rare is it that she's openly much of anything -- a by-product of the True Rune, and the need to control it, lest it control her.<br /><br />  One scone is deposited on Kevin's plate, without so much as a dropped crumb.<br /><br />  "Good. I would not have liked to interrupt you from your business." Liar. "I have been in the medical facilities, as well, but primarily at night. I suppose our paths had simply not crossed terribly much. Thank you, but it was merely a pass-time, while I was waiting." The smile she shows is a little cold. He's seen what she can really do -- what happens when she stops exercising that famous self-control. "It is necessary that I practise constantly. A True Rune is too dangerous to lose one's control over."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:887|Kevin Graham (887)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Once the scone is on his plate, Kevin picks up the utensils and cuts into it. He takes a bite from it and closes his eyes. Ries has helped him learn the appreciate good pastries. This is definitely one of those cases. He then reaches for the cup of tea to take a sip from it.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I'm not in Njorun as much as I was before. I have a lot o' duties back home so I spend part o' my time in Arteria durin' th' week, then spend a few days here. Ries an' I share a small furnished apartment here, but you prol'y won't catch us there too much." There's a wave of his hand. "No, I fully understand th' need t' keep yourself in shape regardin' th' Rune."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It's hard to imagine the kind of power he can use- but he understands that there's a difference of the True Rune being almost an addition of power to what she's capable of doing. There are similarities to it and his own stigma, but... "Though it almost seems like that Rune almost has a mind of its own, all things considered."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It's an unpleasant thought. The stigma and Kevin are basically one being, in a sense. It's a reflection of himself both consciously and subconsciously.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:316|Sarah (316)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  "Yes." Sarah can relate, on not being in Njorun Station quite so often. "I have had much of my time taken by the Holy Kingdom of Harmonia. Often I am required to handle diplomatic matters in lieu of the Masked Bishop, as even though I am his aide, I may act with his voice and authority."<br /><br />  The teacup clinks quietly as she sets it back down, tilting her head faintly; studying Kevin from those slightly eerie, almost colourless eyes. It would be easy to pick her out of a crowd -- aside from her presence, there's almost no colour in her complexion. Her skin is exceptionally pale, and even her hair seems more to hint at blonde than actually be that colour. Her eyes, though, are the most notable. Some might think of someone with such wan complexion to be weak, especially with as physically fragile as Sarah seems to be, but there is an intelligence, depth, and power behind those eyes that unsettles many in the Harmonian courts.<br /><br />  Call her a witch, did they, once upon a time? Maybe they weren't half wrong about certain things. There's certainly an inner fire about her that has nothing to do with the True Rune; the hidden strength of a survivor, even if she doesn't always know that she has it.<br /><br />  A flicker of a smile passes across her face again, fleeting.<br /><br />  "Technically, I have quarters in Njorun Station assigned to Master Luc and I. We have never used them." She twitches one shoulder in a semblance of a shrug. "'In shape?' It is not so complex as that, even. If I do not exercise constant control, the consequences will be terrible." She brandishes the back of her right hand, showing the three concentric circles -- still faintly glowing -- to Kevin. "I do not doubt that you remember what this can do, left unchecked."<br /><br />  Terrible things, indeed. If it ever truly felt its bearer's life were in danger again, the damage would be on a terrifying, awe-inspiring scale... and the Five Elements are relatively tame, as far as True Runes go.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:316|Sarah (316)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  "The Runes are not sentient, but they possess their own will, and their own undeniable drive to influence the events of the world," Sarah explains, picking up her teacup again. "They wish to exert their influence on the world. To leave their mark. In the case of the Five Elements, to which the True Water Rune belongs, that means manifesting their chosen element in the world. This is not always done in a neat or tidy manner, as you have seen. They will do so in any manner they are able, and for those who are poorly trained at exerting their will, the results may be disastrous -- and those individuals rarely remain Runebearers for long."<br /><br />  She sips at her tea, before continuing, eyes falling half-closed. "True Runes have long been sought by humanity for the power they represent. There are twenty-seven of them, and they are the literal founding forces of the world from which they, and I, hail. It is a known fact that war and True Runes are often closely linked, but I suppose the point of contention is whether the True Runes inspire warfare in those that surround them, or whether warfare simply follows them, and is something more of a passive effect of their very being -- whether humanity simply allows itself to be swept up into those great conflicts."<br /><br />  "There is a story about the Queendom of Falena. I will tell it to you some time," she adds, mildly.<br /><br />  It's probably not a good story, and it probably doesn't have a very happy end.<br /><br />  "But no, they are not sentient, thank the Heavens. But that does not mean they are docile, or without willpower of their own. They speak, but in strange ways, and through dreams. They are driven to do particular things, depending on what they are, but one learned in such matters may divine what their motivations may be. Perhaps not why, but what, certainly." Sarah sets her teacup down. "In truth, I did not wish for a True Rune, but the True Water Rune's wish for a bearer was stronger than my wish to reject it." She shrugs, faintly. "Looking back, at this point in time of my life, I cannot say that I regret it, although perhaps I may have told you that when it was first within my possession."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:887|Kevin Graham (887)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Water," Kevin says quietly, "Is one o' th' more interestin' elements. At least from my experience an' in my world. It can soothe an' heal, though it can also be both patiently and immediately destructive. It's a force t' be reckone with- an' it is like no other in th' physical elements."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He takes a drink from his teacup, then sets it on the saucer. "People generally have a desire for power, though... so I'm not entirely surprised by others actively seekin' them. Were this in Zemuria, we would do what we could t' keep 'em 'quiet' an' out of the general public's eye." The Gralsritter being 'gatekeepers' for things like this may be a bit of a surprise, but perhaps it's an understandable approach... "Especially," he finally adds quietly, "if they can inspire such violence in people."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There's a laugh, and Kevin smiles- he appreciates the reassurance of the lack of sentience in them, but the thing that makes him comment is something else: "A life-alterin' decision like that is somethin' that can haunt you if you /do/ regret it. I'm glad ya've got such acceptance of it. I'm sure it makes th' coexistence with the True Rune that much easier, at least."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He scratches at the side of his head. "...I didn't accept th' Goddess' gift t' me after I first discovered it. Its power was uncontrollable, an' devastatin' t' both me an' those around me should I have chosen t' use it at is full strength- an' even then, I don't think I could even reach its potential due to my hatred o' it." Kevin stops to look down at the cup of tea, staring into the liquid for a moment. "...that's why I'm especially glad t' hear that you have no regrets. Concernin' th' nature o' th' Rune, as you've described it, I can't imagine how that would play out..."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then there's a smile- the concern seems to have been wiped away. "...perhaps it's good that you were th' one t' accept it, then. You've got a good hold on it, it seems."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:316|Sarah (316)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  "I do not know if 'interesting' is the word that I might use. Still, it has its uses, and it is necessary to life, though the same could be said of any of the Five Elements. Water, wind, fire, earth, lightning," Sarah lists, patiently. Just as over the radios, her voice is barely a whisper in person, although it isn't voiceless; just absurdly quiet. It's the voice of a person not only accustomed to lurking in the background, but wholly comfortable there. "These are all necessary, to some degree, to support human life."<br /><br />  She pauses to sip at her tea, but she doesn't set it down, curling delicate fingers around the warmed china. "It is an official policy of the Holy Kingdom of Harmonia to seek out True Runes. Where possible, it will keep them in its possession, although that does not always turn out to be the case. The Beast Rune famously shrugged off their custody, and went where it would after acquisition; and they do not know yet that I have it. While I do not believe I can maintain that ruse indefinitely, I would prefer things remain that way for as long as possible."<br /><br />  "As Zemuria, so too does Harmonia," Sarah adds, with a pointed look to Kevin. "At least, officially. In reality I have no doubts that they wish to weaponise the True Runes in any way they are able."<br /><br />  To his laughter, she only fixes him with a bland look, and shrugs one shoulder. "I did not have a meaningful choice in the matter, and thus I forced myself to begin learning how to control and harness the True Water Rune's power, as though it were the Flowing Rune I was born with. What point would there be in regrets? Having no regrets does not in fact make it easier, but I suppose I could understand that sentiment."<br /><br />  "How would regret play out? The Rune and its bearer would be locked into a stalemate, I imagine. Or the Rune would eventually destroy its bearer. Those of weak will do not hold True Runes for long." Sarah reaches up, tapping a slender forefinger to a temple. "I have memory enough of those, in the depths of the True Water Rune. Candle flickers, when held up before the flames."<br /><br />  Her attention drops to the scone, which she dissects with a single measured stroke of her knife. "I am sorry you spent so long fighting your own power. It sounds as though acceptance, in your case, would have made life much more harmonious." Afleeting smile, or a hint of one; she never seems to truly smile, any more than she shows any other expression wholly. "But if not me, it would have been someone else. It seems the Runes grow bored, without a bearer to ensure that they have an active place within the stage of the world." Fastidiously, the Runebearer folds her hands and looks directly at Kevin. "Yes?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:887|Kevin Graham (887)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Interestin'," Kevin says, grinning this time, "when compared t' fire an' earth. None o' those elements have th' same power an' versatility t' 'em that water possesses. While all o' 'em are necessary fer life, in a way or another, water encompasses so much that none of th' others manage. It's not a borin' element in th' slightest." A much different viewpoint, it seems. "Thus, 'interestin'.'"<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Though he settles into his quiet demeanor again- which seems awfully foreign, somehow, but it's been seen by the Runebearer before. As she brings up Harmonia and its intention of potentially weaponizing the Runes, there's a brief- almost barely noticable- flinch. It's not entirely uncommon for the Septian Church to have done the same with their own research and findings- and it's something he stands behind to a degree. "...sometimes, there's a necessity that can come from such a thing. While it may be preferred t' not take such action..."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;But Sarah's commentary is listened to patiently. Kevin takes a drink from his tea, but as he finds he's near the end of his cup, he gestures if it's okay to pour himself a little more. If there are no issues, he'll do just that. It's clear he's still paying attention however.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Once the teapot has been set down again, and he looks to the cup and sauce before him, Kevin speaks quietly. "Regret an' anger happens when ya feel yer not in control o' yer life. When such a thing- like th' True Rune in yer case- takes something an' forces a change in th' direction ya've lived. As I recall, you were already determined t' care for yer Flowing Rune before you gained the True Water Rune, is that correct?<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"As such it sounds like ya already had acceptance o' th' life you were t' live once the Rune chose you." Kevin says this simply. He takes another bite from his scone, chewing thoughtfully before he finally adds. "When my power first manifested, it took a lot away from me that was a foundation o' my life, an' it even took my goals away from me. I'm sorry I spent so much time hatin' it, now that I understand what its done to enrich my life one I've accepted it- an' yer right, it has brought more harmony to me."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He sits up straight finally. "An' as I said before- it seems like it was better for everyone that it chose you. You're a very strong an' capable woman. I have no doubt that yer a person t' keep it in check t' ensure it doesn't cause havok or, as ya mentioned earlier, influence war. For that, I'm thankful."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:316|Sarah (316)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  "You have never seen their respective True Runes," Sarah replies simply, lifting her teacup for a leisurely sip, eyes half-closed. "Fifty years ago, there was a war in the Grasslands. It was ended when the bearer of the True Fire Rune lost control of his rune. The crater that was left is still visible, even though the grass has long since regrown. And the True Earth Rune, well." Her eyes slip out of focus, and the sensation that she's looking /through/ him may be unsettling. After a moment she blinks back to reality. "I have seen its power firsthand, as well."<br /><br />  "We would not survive without fire and heat, and wihtout earth, where would we live? So they are with equal necessity. Lightning, too, has its place within the cycle." Her head tilts very slightly at his flinch; although she doesn't draw attention to it, she certainly saw it. Instead, she simply studies him for a moment, coolly and detachedly, as he tries to justify Harmonia's meddling. Or perhaps the meddling of his own Septian Church?<br /><br />  Without pausing, she reaches for the kettle, refilling his cup when he gestures to ask to pour, although her attention remains fixed on him.<br /><br />  She shrugs, faintly, at his commentary. "It is not a matter of 'caring for it,' Father Graham. It is a part of me. As the Flowing Rune was before, so too is the True Water Rune. I am not normal. It is not normal for one to be born with a rune already inscribed upon them, yet I came into the world with the Flowing Rune in my keeping, albeit with no knowledge of how to use it." A piece, perhaps, of her jealously-guarded past?<br /><br />  Those colourless eyes settle on Kevin, uncharacteristically direct. "I did not have a choice in either matter. What else, then, was I to do but to learn to use them? Although, I will admit, in the case of the Flowing Rune, it took me some years to find an appropriate tutor, and even that happened more as a matter of chance. It was not a matter of personal choice. It was a matter of causing widespread destruction if I did /not/ learn to control it -- although, I will freely admit, mid-tier runes such as the Flowing Rune are considerably less dangerous than the awe-inspiring power of a True Rune." Her mouth twists, just faintly. "A candle before the bonfire, again."<br /><br />  She looks almost amused when he describes her as 'strong' and 'capable.' "Necessity, Father Graham, and little more than that. I will tell you something htat not even our esteemed allies among the Union are aware of. Did you know? I was cast out from my own home when I was not six years old, because I could not control the Flowing Rune that I was born with. I then spent some fourteen years serving as a tool to those who understood my talents. It was not until my twentieth year that I was rescued from my fate by Master Luc, and taken to Magician's Isle, where Mistress Leknaat agreed to tutor me in the use of my particular rune. Nine years later, Master Luc and I departed for Crystal Valley, where I would serve him as the Masked Bishop's aide. A year after that, our world Unified. That was five years ago. I am thirty-six years of age, now, although one does not know it to look at me; a by-product of the True Rune."<br /><br />  "My point is this: I have drifted through life with little in the way of direction." Another sip of tea, serene and unhurried. "I will keep it in check. My personal theory is that the True Runes themselves do not cause war; they merely inspire it, wherever they should go. It seems that man cannot well keep his hands to himself when he senses an object of such power." She sets her cup down, gently. "That would seem to be the pattern, at least. I cannot say with certainty."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:887|Kevin Graham (887)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Oh, don't get me wrong. I can imagine that when you have th' ultimate embodiment o' th' element that incredible things can, an' will, happen. It's just th' nature o' elements that are beyond our imagination an' understanding." Though he notices her expression and tilts his head slightly, studying her.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At the comment on his choice of words, he gestures with a hand. "Nah, that's my bad- bad wording on my part. Yer use of 'keeping' is a far better phrase to accomplish what I was tryin' to say. An' th' situation is never matter o' choice, yer right. But sometimes, some people are called onto th' task that can't handle th' responsibility thrown onto their shoulders abruptly. Those are th' ones that crash an' burn- usually at the cost of their own lives at best, an' the lives o' many others around them, at worst..."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He falls quiet as Sarah tells him about her past, though. There are no signs of any smile or the playful exterior he often poses. The loss of her home is something that he empathizes with, simply for having experienced a similar situation himself, though not exactly through the same cause of hers.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kevin leans forward, lacing his fingers together and resting his chin on his hands. Sarah has his full an undivided attention- he's not even looking to the fresh cup of tea or the scone.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I'm sorry t' hear that things happened that way for you with yer home." He finally says with a quiet tone. Conversely, despite th' lack of direction, you've still had a life to fully prepare you for th' True Water Rune. I'll admit that I'm a little envious. Th' full expanse of my power didn't really show itself until I was seventeen. An' I was absolutely /not/ prepared."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Maybe the 'responsibility' comments came from his own personal experience, then....<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"However," He says cheerfully. "I do want t' know how you've been doin' in th' Union since I went back t' Arteria. We've not had much of a chance t' catch up on that, as a whole. Have you an' Luc been doin' well?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:316|Sarah (316)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  "Those who cannot adapt are the footnotes in the history of the True Runes' bearers," Sarah responds, crisply. "You adapt or you are inevitably killed; if not by the powers of the True Rune itself, than by those seeking that power for themselves." She shrugs faintly. "There are other methods, but True Runes are frequently taken by force, often at the cost of the bearer's life."<br /><br />  She reaches for her teacup again, sipping at it and regarding him through hooded eyes, as though to consider his reaction to her story.<br /><br />  Once he responds, she shrugs again; the brief rise-and-fall of one narrow shoulder. "I was not prepared for the Flowing Rune, but you are correct in that it prepared me, at least in part, for the True Water Rune, if one can be prepared for such a thing."<br /><br />  "In the Union?" His questions earn another shrug, this one even more subtle, and vaguely dismissive. "Very little. I am a reserve officer, and thus granted a certain degree of leeway in these matters. I have had my hands full with Harmonian matters, as Master Luc has little interest in dealing with them personally. I suppose I can hardly blame him. Harmonian politics are, at times, wearisome."<br /><br />  "Still," she adds, more quietly. "I appreciate your sympathy." She doesn't add why, though -- because she can sense his understanding, and his relation; even if she doesn't know the full extent of his story, she knows that he's been through something of a similar situation.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:887|Kevin Graham (887)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There's a short lived laugh at the comment on those who either adapt or don't. 'Eat or be eaten,' as he's heard elsewhere. Though the thought of True Runes being taken does cause him to stop and think a bit in relation to the stigma. It's bound to him in such a way that the issue (most likely) can't happen. At least, in ways he's aware of.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It's something to be quietly thankful for.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The priest takes a drink from his tea. "Reserve sounds nice." There's a grin and a laugh. "Fer now, I think I'll jus' stick with part time, since that's so useful fer me at the moment, anyway." Arteria will take up most of his time in reality. "Like Harmonia, so are politics in Zemuria. There was a major civil war there recently. Kept us very busy, actually. It can be exhaustin', but what can ya do?"<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He finally leans back in his seat, hearing it creak slightly under the shift of his weight. "...it's only natural. I think those who come into situations like ours will define our lives, an' they're very rarely peaceful. You still hold yerself with grace an' poise, despite what you've experienced, an' it's th' very best o' what any of us could wish t' achieve."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:316|Sarah (316)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  "In reality, it works out to be something like part-time, at least for Master Luc and I." Sarah shrugs, faintly. "We have contributed to several major Union operations over the years. Our skills were instrumental in the raid of the Confederacy's Manakoshi intelligence facilities, and of course, you are intimately familiar with the campaign into Annu, I am quite sure."<br /><br />  Setting her teacup aside, the Runebearer returns her hands to her lap, earrings clinking softly as she looks down to them. "We do not make use of our commissions often. I expect eventually I will be relieved of it, should Harmonia take too much of my attention in the coming years. I do not mind. It is only fair, if that should prove to be the outcome."<br /><br />  "I have Harmonia's draconic colonial policies to thank for there being no civil wars, though that does not make life any easier for their third-class and second-class populace." Sarah thins her lips in an expression of subtle displeasure. "I come from the furthest north. Even with an appearance that would allow me to blend in with first-class society, and hailing from the heart of the Holy Kingdom of Harmonia, that does not make me any more enamoured of Harmonian foreign policy."<br /><br />  Actually, she quite hates the Holy Kingdom of Harmonia, and doesn't make much of a secret of that.<br /><br />  Glancing back up, she tilts her head, eyeing the priest obliquely. "Thank you for the sentiment, for whatever that may be worth. Perhaps. Perhaps not. Something to think about, I suppose. Or perhaps not; it is what it is, and thinking about it changes precisely nothing." A flicker of a hinted smile.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:887|Kevin Graham (887)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sarah bringing up Annu does cause a stark reaction. Kevin doesn't regret his decision to help those, but he does regret what happened, and wishes there were better ways. This is reflected in his eyes as he looks down to the cup and saucer in front of him.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"If that were t' happen," Kevin eventually says, relieved of the change of the subject of Annu. "do know that you will be missed by people here. Even if we got off on th' wrong foot, our chances t' sit together an' talk like this have been one o' th' highlights of workin' in th' Union."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There's a wince, then, "...draconic policies, sadly, may only work fer so long. Especially if there's any sort o' dissent or disillusionment in th' people that the policies are set on. We do a lot of workin' with th' governments in Zemuria- the Septian Church, that is. However, we only step into th' government itself when there is a dire need for it. Most o' th' time, it's not the case, thankfully.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"...but should a war break out- which they have, since ideals are all over th' place in Zemuria- we do what we can to keep th' public themselves safe an' try to soothe th' fear an' worries, an' perhaps placate th' instigators themselves." 'Placate' is a nice way to put it, really.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He laughs, and offers a gesture finally. "...but there's no need t' thank me for it. It's an observation that I've had since I've come t' th' Union. It may not change anythin' in th' past, but it does set a precedent an' help inspire those o' th' future. /That/, right there, is priceless."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It's like those of the Septian Church, and especially the Gralsritter, to look at the future from things.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:316|Sarah (316)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  "You speak as though I have any intention of running off and letting someone murder me for the True Rune I carry." Sarah shows a blade-thin smile. "I suppose that would not be so far from the truth, if Harmonia discovered the True Rune I bear. Killing an aide would hardly be a deterrent, if one wanted to curry favour with High Priest Hikusaak. It would only be a question of how to do so while avoiding suspicion."<br /><br />  "You are also a consummate flatterer, Kevin Graham," Sarah states softly, "and while I do not care for your currying favour, I thank you nonetheless."<br /><br />  She shrugs, faintly. "Harmonia's policies do not interest me. It will do what it will do, regardless of input from its own people. I do not even know if High Priest Hikusaak is even alive. He is the holder of the Circle Rune, a Rune of absolute order and perpetuity, and I cannot imagine that holding it for the centuries that he has would do so without changing him, somehow. In the meantime, his Bishops are the real power in the kingdom, and it is they who decide what policies to adopt or discard. There being a number of them maintains a certain status quo that cannot be easily changed."<br /><br />  "Hikusaak has not been seen in a number of generations," she clarifies, "and there are those who doubt his existence. It is not impossible that he may have been subsumed by the Circle Rune, or that it has driven him mad."<br /><br />  Looking away, she watches the wind ripple through the long grass. One can almost imagine themselves in a meadow, here, if not for the indistinct form of branches in the distant sky. "Matters regarding the High Priest are merely speculation, though. No one knows with certainty, let alone myself."<br /><br />  Her eyes turn back to Kevin, and she seems almost uncertain for a moment, as though considering what to say. Finally, she inclines her head, politely. "Thank you. I am also pleased that we can speak this way."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:887|Kevin Graham (887)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I don't see that happenin'," Kevin says with a grin. "I would imagine that murderin' you would be far, far more difficult than some people would expect."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There's quite a laugh at the comment on him being a flatterer, and a mumbled, "I certainly try." --along with that broad, never failing grin. It's clear to see that perhaps all of it is, to a degree, a game anyway.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"....interestin'. I assume by its power, the Rune's effects would give him some form of immortality... but if he's not been *seen* for that long?" Kevin loves him a good mystery. This is one of those kind of things where he'd like to sit and think over it, of course. Even if it's not his business. He's a Gralsritter. They can't help but meddle, sometimes.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The priest rubs at his chin a bit, head tilted. "Then it could be that th' name of th' priest exists as only that, a name, an' others use his name for their own methods and means." He quickly smiles, though and waves a hand at the mention of speculation. "No, don't worry 'bout it at all. Speculation is enjoyable. It really helps with some o' th' work we have to do."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It's during this point, though, when a young woman shows up. She's dressed in a navy dress, with her reddish pink hair pulled back underneath a veil- a nun's habit, it seems. "Kevin?"<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The priest twists around in his chair- he hadn't been expecting Ries to come looking, "...ah. Ries." He gestures to Sarah. "Sarah, I want ya t' meet my assistant, Ries. I don't know if you two have formally met before."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Good evening, Lady Sarah," The young sister steps forward and offers a polite bow. She casts a glance back to Kevin and offers a letter to him. "This came in, and I was told to bring it to you immediately."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:316|Sarah (316)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  "If anyone were to try something so foolish, I would ensure that my life were sold at a bitterly high cost, indeed," Sarah says simply. She seems strangely serene and accepting of the possibility of a murder attempt, but one supposes that the bearer of a True Rune accepts a certain fatalism regarding their eventual fate. "I am not foolish enough to believe this will not eventually come to pass. Runebearers do not die of old age; they die of unnatural causes."<br /><br />  She smiles, so thin that the ambient temperature might seem to drop a little. "In truth, I pity anyone foolish enough to try. Master Luc is far more adept with his True Rune than I; and his bond with his rune is far closer than mine could ever be. The combined powers of wind and water would be enough to halt an army. Can you imagine what they would do to a singular target, Father Graham?"<br /><br />  Terrible things. That's for sure.<br /><br />  "All True Runes imbue agelessness, so the upper limit of one who bears a True Rune is unknown. Runebearers do not die of age; they die, most often, because they have been overcome by those hungry for the power that they bear." Sarah drains her teacup, setting the empty china on its saucer with a delicate clink.<br /><br />  She considers for a moment, looking out to the horizon. "I suppose it is possible that some of them simply give up, once they have exhausted their desire to live. It is not an easy thing to see all whom you once loved wither and perish before you, while you age not at all." She smiles, a little bitterly. She's fortunate, in that regard; both she and Luc bear True Runes.<br /><br />  "I do not know. It is possible there are a certain number of Bishops acting in Hikusaak's name, and it is possible that Hikusaak himself still issues his edicts and orders." Sarah shrugs, very faintly. "It does not matter to me. Used as I have been, I have little love for the Harmonian state."<br /><br />  She falls silent, colourless eyes immediately flicking sidelong well before Ries arrives; it seems she senses the other, even before she can be properly seen. Her hand reaches for the greatstaff leaning against the table, but after a conscious effort she leaves it where it is. Only a Union ally would be able to access this area. Sarah studies the young woman, perhaps a little unsettling in how unassuming the fragile woman looks, relative to the aura of monstrous power around her.<br /><br />  Whoever this woman is, Ries might understand immediately that she's not what she seems -- and her preternatural aura of calm might be a little unsettling, too.<br /><br />  When formally introduced, she inclines her head, earrings clinking. It's not quite a bow because she isn't standing, but the intent is the same. "No. We had not met before now. A pleasure, Miss Ries."<br /><br />  Standing, she brushes the dust from her dress, taking up the greatstaff she'd left leaning against the far end of the table. "I am sorry to cut things short, but I should return to Toran Castle, and see if there is anything Master Luc may require of me. I have been away for most of the day, dealing with Harmonian matters, Union matters, and lastly here." She offers a smile for both of them. "A pleasure as always, Father Graham. And a pleasure to meet you, as well, Miss Ries."<br /><br />  She'll hesitate a second or three, though, just in case they have any last comments for her.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:887|Kevin Graham (887)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Th' stigma does a number t' our bodies over time," Kevin says quietly. "I'm not entirely sure we want t' know th' end result of an immortal life wit' its impact on us. --but easier to think about Luc and Sarah's prowess on the battlefield.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I can easily see what you'd do t' an army, and for some reason- I feel no pity fer th' person who tried t' murder you." There's a faint grin for that. "It's far beyond my imagination, after what I've seen you accomplish- an' if Luc's control over his rune is /greater/, then that would be a sight to see for sure."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kevin wasn't taking any feel for anyone around him, but he did spot Sarah's reaction to realize someone was approaching. Though once his sister has handed him the letter, he flips it over, looking at the seal on the back, a small frown showing up as he does.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;But Ries isn't interrupted as she speaks to Sarah. "I've heard of you from Kevin. I apologize for showing up uninvited, but I was told I couldn't wait for him to return." There's a very rigid posture to the young woman- she maintains an extremely proper aura. She very much about the outward appearance- which sets her apart to a distinct difference from the priest seated next to her.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As Sarah stands up, Kevin does so as well. "No, I apologize as well. If you didn't have to cut things short, I would have myself." The letter is then slipped into a pocket inside his coat. "It seems that I have something that I need to read in private, an' if it was urgent..."<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He bows his head to Sarah before she leaves. "It's always a pleasure t' meet with you." Ries even follows up with her own bow- this one seeming slightly deeper than Kevin's. There's a clear difference of rank between the two, as well. "Perhaps one day we'll have the opportunity to speak together ourselves. It was a pleasure to meet you as well."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:316|Sarah (316)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>  "No," Sarah states softly, so softly it might be missed in the breeze rustling the grass. "No, you would not want to see what Master Luc would do to an army. I am held in check by my nature and my conscience. He is not." She wonders, sometimes, if Annu would have bothered him at all; so detached is he, some days.<br /><br />  A shrug, faint. "But that, I suppose, is neither here nor there." She falls silent, watching; seemingly impassive as he handles the letter. The frown is noted, but not commented on. Troubling news? Or, perhaps, troubling by its very provenance?<br /><br />  Her eyes flick to Kevin as he pockets the letter; then she shrugs, very faintly, a brief rise-and-fall of one shoulder. "I am no stranger to pressing business, and can hardly fault you for that. Go well, then, and may your Goddess watch over you both."<br /><br />  Ries earns a bow, too, though it's more European in its styling, one arm folded over her stomach as she inclines forward, head bowed before straightening. "Good evening."<br /><br />  And with that, she murmurs something in a curious, untranslated tongue -- something to raise the hair on the back of the neck -- and vanishes in a swirl of cold mist. Even after she's gone, the sensation lingers.<br> <br>


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