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Post by posy-punch on Jul 5, 2019 1:56:08 GMT -6
Hello Starborn, and welcome to Talori Plot 801: Subterfuge  Team Leader: Rycaron Participants: Chantelle, Thalassa, Naasir, Gideon, Kraken (RA), and Rhodesna (RA) Please keep the following in mind!- Posts must be a minimum of 175 words. There is no maximum!- No strict order is enforced, but there must be at least two posts between your own character's.- No god-moding or reading characters' minds (unless your pony is a literal telepath, anyway)
- Always get consent before harming another character!- Your team is precious. Try to interact with everyone. <3- Have fun! Even if your pony isn't. 8'D
Prompt: Perhaps, a tender hand is what is needed in times of trial. But, a few months ago you had chosen, instead, to exert a firm one. Now, friends on the coast speak of a startling development: the Rogue Alliance is functioning as a true alliance once more... or at least. Some of them. The two captains you chose to fine, whose sentencing played a part in the Alliance's revelation, are not among them. They've asked for your audience, and you will give it to them. Time of Day: Twilight Weather: Dark, but you're indoors so who cares Location: The Council Chamber You do not need to wait for your leader to post!
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Post by foalish on Jul 5, 2019 18:49:04 GMT -6
Chantelle
She had not been one to attend the previous trial in the name of Cassandra; she felt impartial, based on everything she had learned through perked ears and careful questioning a. She knew the outcome at least, and the names of the Captains. She had not expected to see them ever, not until they’d asked for an Audience, this time herself included. Part of her was excited, the rest of her curious. For she had little idea what to expect.
News of the Rougue Alliance’s revival has spread through the council by now, at least enough to reach her ears. It was something she also had no idea what to even think about - pirates were legal citizens of their herd, but they were of a different culture. One who many looked down upon, with as many different opinions of as there were Rogues out there. And she certainly had no experience to any in her life, far little to hold any sort of opinion to them. She also had no idea what the Alliance resurgence would mean; for the herd, for the alliance itself.
But perhaps that would change with this council.
She was still new to her rank; her naive inexperience to her title would surely show at one moment or another, but she held her head high regardless, eyes keen and watching.
It was the evening, she was silent, still settling into her place, her gaze travelling along the horses around her. She would wait to say anything, for someone else to start the event - perhaps Rycaron, any of the Captains; although her silence, she was present none the less.
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Post by Chipo-H0P3 on Jul 5, 2019 20:15:27 GMT -6
 ------------ Captain Rhodesna ------------ Rhodesna couldn't believe that she was standing within the walls of Talorian Council Chamber once more. She hadn't even thought she'd step foot on the mainland again until she could collect her captured daughter. Poor sweet little Leonora... The crown had no right to hold her freedom as ransom over her. She owed the crown nothing, though Rhodesna was in no position to protest. She knew better than to antagonize the Empress, especially given the new situation with the Rogue Alliance and the "reanimation" of the fabled King Morien. Rhodesna was stuck between a rock in a hard place. She trusted neither leaders. To her, they were different faces of the same coin. Aligning herself with either would end the same. Subjugation. And was something that Rhodesna could not live with.
The shark finned mare had been in ill spirits for months. Having to hand over her daughter to the mainland had been hard but at least she knew where Leonora was. Her son, Aikira, however was a different story. Last she saw Nora, her daughter told her Aikira had been captured by Aodhonian Soldiers back in Serora where she had hid them. Her efforts had backfired terribly and now her heart was torn between the two of them. She needed to get them back home. Back to the sea where they belonged.
She hoped coming here would help her efforts.
Rhodesna's posture relaxed as she turned to the familiar face that was Kraken. The two Rogue Captains seemed to be seeing each other a lot recently. She flashed him a side smile, hiding her teeth from the council before them, "I feel like I should be thanking you for following me out here but something tells me you have your own reasons for coming." A silent chuckle escaped through her nostrils before speaking again. This time more to herself than anyone else.
"Gods be with us, our minds must be lost."
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Post by mariahwhy on Jul 5, 2019 22:17:57 GMT -6
Kraken | Captain of the Sacrifice
If there was anything Kraken could expect anymore, it was the unexpected. He'd never guessed that he'd be back in this courtroom - not so soon anyway. Certainly not of his own accord either. Neither would he think to be so aligned with Rhodesna. Never a threat to his business, she had been more of a splinter in his hoof, a rule-abiding do-gooder (in as much sense as a rogue could be). And yet here they were, standing shoulder to shoulder once more. And even more surprising was there remained little animosity between them. Threats now loomed that were bigger than either of them. Their own ideals had to be side-lined, their pride stowed away so that it might, in some weird way, be preserved. For their way of life was in jeopardy. Not from the Mainland, but from their own Alliance. King Morien had returned, and he had united the alliance in a way that the island dwellers had fought against when any other horse had mentioned such ideas. And Kraken felt sure that the stallion's silver tongue was not as truthful as it was inspiring. The nod and almost smile that he returned to the other captain was genuine for once. "If I didn't have a reason I'd be back there hanging onto every word that eel is spouting, just like everyone else," his voice was low, partially to make sure the words did not carry to the council, and partially due to the now instinctual feeling of confidentiality that must surround such opinions. Kraken had never been one to hide how he felt, but when it was one voice against a whole island's you came to understand the need for speaking softly. It was no secret that Rhode's had lost her child to the mainland in their last... negotiations with the council. Just as it was no secret that he had lost a fair amount of his funds. If he had to guess, she was here to ask for a redaction of her punishment in exchange for information, same as him. If she had plans to broker more from the government, however, he would certainly play along. And if they could have something done about Morien while they were at it... even better. Piercing yellow eyes scanned the crowd quickly at her whispered invocation. There were not many new faces, which would make this much easier in that at least he knew his audience. His eyes came to rest on the Empress. "A good pirate is never lost at sea," he returned, voice hushed, to the other captain. He turned his face fully to her now, his features sharp and resolute, "And this damn courtroom will never see two better pirates even if they hang Morien here by his gills." He stepped forward, metallic shoes ringing against the smooth floor. "Good evening, Empress. Council members. We appreciate you agreeing to meet with us this night."
(Post 1: 487 words)
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Post by posy-punch on Jul 6, 2019 13:06:39 GMT -6
thalassa empress of the talori Thalassa could not help but feel that ultimately, she had been the responsibility behind the Rogue's actions. She had pushed for the trial to take place. The councillors had deliberated, but it was she who had suggested the final middle ground. For this meeting, she would guide only. Her last mistake rang around her head. It echoed, it reminded. "Captain Rhodesna. Captain Kraken. We're curious to see what you have to say to us." She gazes down at the both of them, her face stoic apart from her eyes. They glimmer, with curiosity, with apprehension. "Our friends at the ports have spoken of a blockade. Now they speak of the Rogue Alliance made a functioning alliance once more." She takes a breath, eyes glossy as she imagines the scene at the coast. "Which would make your faction and mine enemies, no?" She doesn't ever really look back at them. More like beyond them, as if her mind is elsewhere. It is. She thinks about Inarians, who've begun to realize the gravity of the situation in which their beloved home rests. She thinks of the farmers and brewers whose trades have been disrupted. She never did believe herself capable of being Empress, and recent times have only solidified this thought. "You must have a reason, then, to come stand before us. Please, let us begin?" She shoots a glance at the present Trinity members, at the councillor, and at the guard commander that has been welcomed into their midst.
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Post by Dream-Lark on Jul 6, 2019 16:09:58 GMT -6
 Rycaron;Talori|Sage
The Sage stood beside the Empress, a solid and reassuring figure, if much more slight than the imposing Gideon nearby. He was calm, solemn, and feeling bone weary as he stood there that evening, gazing across the room at a pair of rogue captains.
It was nearly a scene from recent history, with only a small change up in who was present.
Rhodesna and Kraken stood before them in nearly the same poses, radiating the same attitudes.
They were here for a reason, and the orange hued stallion could well guess why, for it wasn’t difficult. Rhodesna wanted her child back, Kraken probably wanted his money back, and Rycaron was sure they brought something they thought well worth what had been taken.
Internally, his curiosity was peaked. He wanted, no needed, the information these two must possess. The economic state of the country was beginning to crumble around the edges, with trade routes being blockaded, and he’d once again begun to lose sleep due to stress and attempting to figure out solutions.
Of course, his only solution to try and hide the fatigue was to wear his jeweled bridle in public, drawing attention away from his eyes. He should probably ask Corrine about some sleeping potions at some point….
Wandering attention was dragged back to the present, the stallion mentally berating himself, as Thalassa began to speak. He needed to pay attention, be present, and sharp witted, for the rogues were surely going to swindle or withhold as much as they could while taking as much as possible.
It’s what he would do.
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Post by ThatDenver on Jul 8, 2019 18:53:27 GMT -6
GIDEON
His place here still felt foreign; his presence an anomaly. Gideon observed the beautiful marble floor, imagining the many who had stood just where he now was; Defenders of many generations past, each mighty and some legends in their own right.
Gideon wondered if they had ever felt like this; if this was normal, this nagging sense of not being quite enough, of standing in someone else’s spot.
He supposed it was stage fright, to an extent. He had been present when the rogues were last brought for questioning and sentencing, but his presence had been once of background strength, his voice hardly used. The spot of an observer was easier to take to than actively participating.
His eyes drifted over to Thalassa. Looking at the Empress gave her center, a clearer purpose. It was a trick he had always used – focusing on just one thing to make the situation more manageable, and himself seem more in control of it all.
He was here to help and to protect. One of the three pillars.
Gideon adjusted his posture, allowed himself to seem taller and more upright.
The captains entered, and Gideon’s face slid to a well-practiced stoniness.
Thalassa spoke, her words almost a challenge. Enemies indeed. The rogues had not been subtle in their machinations; their actions immediately felt on the mainland, vibrating down from the ports into the villages that supplied the trading goods.
It was a chokehold, and they all knew it. The wisdom of isolationism seemed doubtful now that they were trapped within their own country; isolated for the first time on the whims of someone other than themselves.
It did not look good, and he too was interested to hear the business of these two captains.
Word count: 290
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Post by ebbarie on Jul 8, 2019 23:15:38 GMT -6
 Naasir;Vagabonds | Harbinger
But hidden in his coat is a red right hand
Again he shifted his weight, from one front leg to the other, while he kept his eyes fixed on the chamber door. The whole situation felt like a damn deja-vu with the little but fine difference that this time the mainlands found themselves in difficulties, not the other way around.
Once more he shifted his balance and suppressed the desire to release a deep breath. He was tired, not physical, but emotional.
Some time had passed since the sudden and mysterious vanishing of his wife on her mission in Eithne and no new information had come to light about it yet.
His son was doing fine with the situation, Lichas was way too young to understand what was going on, but organizing his days with a toddler was still strenuous.
The silent creaking of the doors brought an end to his thoughts and the stallion found his concentration back.
With a cool gaze he watched the two well-known captains stepping forward. First the Flight, now the Rouges. When would Aquore finally receive a well-deserved resting period?
The renewed Alliance was already not only a rumor, instead the first consequences were already noticeable for those that payed close attention. If this continued it would arouse the attention of the public more and more.
His eyes rested on the two captains, impatiently waiting for the polite phrases to be done with, so that they would learn about their reason to be here tonight. Why didn't they joined the Alliance? Why were they here? Was it a trap, or a chance to deal with that mess?
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Post by Chipo-H0P3 on Jul 9, 2019 0:58:49 GMT -6
------------ Captain Rhodesna ------------ Rhodesna listened intently to the other Captain as he revealed his opinion of the Stallion who had taken control over their home and was relieved to find out that they were on the same page.
The Rogue Alliance had advanced since King Morien's time. Her people were meant to be free, they didn't need a leader, they only need learn to work together. Morien was a false savior that would lead them to ruin. Atlas was a fool to bring him back from the grave.
She nodded passively as she looked over who would be attending this meeting. Many of the faces were the same, as she assumed they would be, though one was new. Rhodesna tried to get a read on the bay mare but was halted by Kraken's voice, "A good pirate is never lost at sea."
By the Sisters, were those words of comfort coming from that ancient pile of salt? She didn't expect he'd catch her mumbled worries and certainly didn't expect he'd actually reply to them. Rhodesna smiled up at him, bemused, as he took control of the courtroom. 'Ever the politician arentcha, you old wind bag.' She mused.
She let him introduce them and then listened to the Empress speak for the room. Gods she did not miss that arrogance. It just seemed to spill from the very mainlander dialect.
"Empress." Rhodesna began. "The observations you have gathered are correct, save fer one." She bowed her head briefly to gather her words. She had to play this carefully.
"We are not enemies, for the Alliance you speak of is one I no longer recognize, nor Captain Kraken. The common enemy between us is none other than the False King Morien, or Pirate King Morgan as I'm sure you'll recognize from your fables. Whether you believe it or not, he is the man orchestrating the show. We have information and can get information. The alliance doesn't know we are here which leaves us in a unique position, one that could prove most beneficial to you. Though, of course, we would require compensation for such insinuated services."
She then looked up at the council from the shadow of her brow. "It's only fair."
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Post by mariahwhy on Jul 10, 2019 22:21:28 GMT -6
Kraken | Captain of the Sacrifice
Straight to the point. That was one thing he liked about the Empress. He let her words sink in, trying to gather just how much she knew. But she skimmed just the surface of the Rogue's plight. If she knew more, she wasn't letting on. The rest of the council was dead silent, all eyes locked on them. He supposed that was how it should be. The rogues had called the meeting after all - this time the council was the captive audience. Rhodesna began to answer, and the stallion relinquished the floor to her. It was weird to hear her tell the Empress that they weren't enemies. Sure, he would absolutely say it too. That was part of the game, but by the gods, how had it come to this? That in this moment, while certainly not allies, they were no longer enemies either.
"What she says is true," he began. "The Pirate King has returned." His words trailed off momentarily. The Keeper had been the bridge between their worlds for many, many years. But he had also been about the only horse Kraken had respected for just as long. He had been about as close to a leader as Kraken had ever had, without being one at all. He had commanded respect without hardly ever stepping hoof out of his little hut. The captain admired that, and to name him as the perpetrator would surely be Atlas' downfall in the eyes of the Mainlanders. But the Keeper had changed. He had lost sight of the Alliance. He had grown too old, and everything had its end. And naming him might add the credibility they needed for the Empress to believe them. For if anyone could feasibly do it, it would have been him. "Keeper Atlas, it appears, was the one to have a hoof in bringing him back, and did so without any other council. But now Morien seeks to, as you said, restore the Alliance into an Alliance once more. The Alliance he once created - the Alliance from 300 years ago. If you remember the stories, you know he was ruthless. He was unstoppable to the point that the islands he took control of remain largely free of the Mainland's rule to this day." A ballsy thing to say to their face, but they all knew it anyway. "We all must admit he is a force to be reckoned with, and Captain Rhodesna and I have seen first hand how he can rally a crowd. We are about all that is left of the Isles that seems to remember how we have worked together with the Mainland, in more recent history, to create a prosperous and useful commerce for both of our people. He seeks to destroy such a thing."His eyes had been roving the court, but landed on Thalassa. "He seeks to destroy you." "And he is not alone."He closed is eyes briefly, stretching the scarred hide over his shoulders. While normally he preferred to wear his cloak on the Mainland to appear as a normal horse - it was better for business - he liked to leave himself uncovered for these meetings. Let them see. Let them remember who they were dealing with, and what their people had done. And that he was still here, trying to help them.
Let him go ahead and put all the cards on the table. Surely if they would see their willingness to give information now, they will trust them to do so later.
He began to pace in front of his audience, allowing his hooves to accentuate his words. "The Flight have been a nuisance to everyone up to this point. They demolished your homes. They have ruined our business. They killed your Emperor. They have one goal, and it is to destroy the Crown. That has now, with Morien's influence, become the goal for the Alliance as well. And Morien seeks to unite the two forces. I fear that he already has. While you might can hold one of them at bay, we both know that together they will be a powerful thing." Kraken stilled himself, alongside Rhodesna once more. "That is why you need us. That is why you will give us what we ask for," he said. "I assure you our price is worth the herd's longevity."
(Post 2: 721 words)
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Post by foalish on Jul 11, 2019 3:25:52 GMT -6
Chantelle
As the Empress stood in her position and started speaking to the Captians, it seemed as if the whole room fell a different kind of silent, herself included. Attention all turned towards the Captians, waiting for what they had to say, why they had been brought to the Empress, and most certainly, what they could offer to the crown.
Certainly, when it came for them to start speaking, she wasn’t disappointed.
Information coming form an inside source was valuable; they could know things, in their own positions, but it wasn’t the same as what the roughed had to offer.
Of a pirate king brought back to life, a name to the culprit who preformed such strange and powerful magic. Confirmation of a blockade, of the flights resurgence, a united force against the crown. It felt different coming from their mouths.
Chantelle had her own questions swirling around her head, of what the Captians would gain by choosing the crown over the alliance. If they thought the threat was so severe. Of if they believed it was worth turning their back on a powerful alliance that united many of their kind; if speaking to the crown was even safe for them.
But instead her gaze swung back those those of the Trinity, to the Empress. For it didn’t feel like quite her place to speak yet. The exchange felt like it was fresh, a dance between the two heads. And she wasn’t going to interrupt it’s grace and movement quite yet.
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Post by ThatDenver on Jul 13, 2019 6:35:11 GMT -6
GIDEON
Gideon was lost between two feelings – that of disgust that the Rogues could not even be loyal to their own kind, and that of gratitude for their offered assistance and intel.
Well, at least until there was talk of prices to be paid for such assistance. His face remained carefully neutral, but it was harder than usual to achieve. Had they not needed this assistance Gideon would surely have sneered. All of this just proved that the rogues should have been collared in a long time ago – they had too much freedom and look what it had done.
Criminals, all of them, with no sense of country or loyalty. Always out to line their own pockets, even the ones who made claims of honorability.
Gideon looked at Thalassa. For someone chosen by the Goddess in such a loud and unmissable fashion, her reign had not been particularly blessed. Emperor Hawkeye at least had the chance of many years of peaceful reign before everything had gone tumbling down, plenty of years to learn how to rule and how to connect with his people.
Thalassa was racing against time. Constantly. Endlessly.
It was unfair.
“A fantastical tale, but one we must accept as true for now”, Gideon remarked, more so to the other members of the Talori than the rogues who had just finished their speeches. Equally strange things had happened, and in Gideon’s mind, it hardly mattered whether the unitor of the Rogues truly was the legendary King Morien, or someone pretending to be him to garner support. What was important was that there was someone with the pull to unite the Rogues, and from the sounds of it, the Flight as well.
He had wondered what they had been up to. Awfully silent on that front ever since his ceremony.
“Pray tell, what is the price of such an endeavor?” he asked, and then more pointedly: “And on what merits are we to believe that you are not playing both sides?”
Gideon’s tone wasn’t truly accusing – he knew what Rogues were like, and as risky as this little business trip was to them, at least if they were to be believed, he didn’t see any reason why they wouldn’t simply work for both sides, and benefit whichever way the conflict ended.
He was sure the Rogue playbook would have called that smart, rather than dishonorable.
Word count: 395
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Post by Dream-Lark on Jul 14, 2019 16:20:41 GMT -6
Rycaron;Talori|Sage
Rumors had reached him of some new pirate king. It was the kind of thing that didn’t stay quiet, and had been enjoyed being flaunted across ship decks and hurled into the Mainlander’s faces. However, the fact that Captain Rhodesna was claiming this King Morien was the same as the ancient King Morgan was simply...astounding.
The Sage kept the surprise from showing on features, though this revelation disconcerted him deeply. Aqua hued eyes shifted to Kraken as he, too, confirmed the idea that some long dead equine had been resurrected and was going to plague them once more. Oh, Rycaron knew the stories of the past quiet well, being the bookworm that he was, and this was all simply…
Wave Mother, how many waves of enemies must we keep dealing with? Mental tone was exasperated, a deep, but silent sigh moving sides, as Kraken continued his oration, and then Gideon spoke up. Ry was truly beginning to feel like he was trying to bail out a boat, equiped only with a bowl that had small holes in the bottom.
But there was always hope, and he had to hold firm that Cascade was looking out for them, would aid them if they truly needed it. She wouldn’t abandon her children, though they had apparently run errant for so long.
“It is assumed that this price you will attempt to extort from us will begin with what was taken the last time we met here,” the Sage remarked, tone neutral, though gaze was hard as it centered upon the two captains. The Defender’s point was valid, the two could very well be double agents. Then again, if what was said was true...he doubted the Alliance would appreciate such a thing, and Rycaron was not above blackmail to secure his herd’s safety. But that, he didn’t speak of, yet.
“However, jumping to prices when the goods have yet to be brought forth and spoken of is not proper bargaining practice,” the hippocampus continued, a gentle emphasis on the word ‘bargaining’ as his gaze slipped to the black coated captain. “Even if those goods happen to be information. You can hardly demand anything when you have yet to offer anything that is not currently known.”
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Post by ebbarie on Jul 23, 2019 2:39:47 GMT -6
Naasir;Vagabonds | Harbinger
But hidden in his coat is a red right hand
From all news brought forward on that evening, the one indicating a coalition between the Flight and the Alliance was the most alarming. He was not going to waste any time or thoughts on rumors about an undead pirate king, if there was a far more real threat to take care about. By now he was inclined to believe almost everything, yet it made no real difference. A charismatic leader was a charismatic leader, undead or not. A problem that needed to be dealt with sooner or later for sure, but right now other things had much more priority.
"The Sage is right, a discussion about promises and rewards is pointless without any words about what you can actually offer us." he raised his voice for the first time.
"I agree that information would be valuable, however if the Rouges actually allied with the Flight, then what we need in particular are more warriors. The Flight alone once managed to overwhelm our defenses. I'm sure they kept recruiting ever since and the Alliance can provide another considerable amount of fighters. I doubt that we can withstand their united forces for long, especially not without incredible high casualties in our own ranks."
It was hard to admit it but it was the truth. He especially looked at the Defender when he spoke those last words. Gideon knew even better than himself that their troops were still weakened after the events of the past months and it didn't seemed like they would get their well deserved moment to breathe deeply any time soon.
They needed an ally too, to improve their chances. But even if they managed to find help, they would have difficulties to get this support through the Rouges sea blockade to the main land.
Looking further ahead, what would they do, even if they managed to fight them off? Would the crown reach out again and negotiate another ceasefire, like after the last rebellion? Right now they could experience the impact of that fatal wrong decision. In his eyes it was time to end the Rouge Alliance, once and for all. Time for the mainlanders to take back the isles and get the trade with the others herds back into their own hands.
That however was something he would discuss later, once the unwelcome visitors were gone, in a much smaller compass. Maybe Rycaron and Gideon would be able to talk some sense into the young Empress.
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Post by mariahwhy on Jul 23, 2019 19:30:14 GMT -6
Kraken | Captain of the Sacrifice
Their reaction to his demand did not surprise him. It had been what he was hoping for. By getting them riled up it would be easier to ease them back down to what he really wanted. But he had to bark out a laugh at the Sage's words. Of course he would have known what they wanted. Those who wanted to all spoke up, saying more or less the same thing. What was the price, and how could they trust them? Exactly the questions he had expected. "What do you think we could possibly gain from the Alliance that we do not already have? The stability their new King promises is not one I seek. Providing Morien or the Flight with any information about the Mainland would do me little good. Besides, it is not like you are terribly forthcoming with telling us any secrets that we might pass on. Other than my word, and the information we have already provided, I do not know of a way to make you trust us. I suppose that is simply a decision you will have to make on your own - is not trusting two Captains, who have always abided by the laws set between the Alliance and the Mainland, worth the risk of the Talorian downfall?" He turned from the Defender to now face the Sage. "And you are correct. I would like to start with the fees I had to pay last time we spoke. As for Rhodesna," he glanced over at the mare, "I will leave her price up to her.
"And you are certainly right in asking for information before paying up. But you should also, then, understand that we need some payment to trust you will also hold up your end of the bargain."He paused for a moment, considering Naasir's words. That had not been something he'd expected, but a fair point. He breathed in deeply, taking his time to consider his answer, and allowing a hush to fall over the room. After a moment, he spoke back up. "You speak of allies. I can not even pretend that we could get some of the rogue forces to switch sides and join with you." It had been hard enough convincing his own crew to leave the Isles in the midst of the Uprising, but that information was not something the council needed to know lest it be used against him. "However, I will gladly offer my crew and ship to set out to find allies, if that is what you truly need. I'm sure we could find some capable fighters." He looked up at Thalassa, a twinkle shining in his eye. Slaves, he was thinking. Or, you know, sending messages to other herds and schmoozing the rich, but bringing back unwilling bodies was his specialty.
"We," he motioned to the captain next to him, "already know where Morien seeks allies. Perhaps such a piece of information could start off our pact. We tell you where he has sent messengers to ask for help, and you give back what you took last time. After that, as you said, I suppose we will discuss equal payment as information is provided, though in the end I want little more than my financial stability and the reestablishment of trade routes. But I will not agree to risking my neck to bring you the Alliance's secrets without knowing you are serious about your end of the deal. And that requires a down payment."
(Post 3: 581 words)
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Post by ThatDenver on Jul 25, 2019 15:29:11 GMT -6
GIDEON
Gideon kept his face carefully unfeeling as the Sage and then Naasir spoke. It was easy for the Rogues to lie, and it was not outside their nature to play both sides. There had to be something truly on the line for the Rogues for them to be trustworthy in the slightest – if it was simply for profit, they could easily turn sides at any time, especially since the Talori did not have a wealth of sources.
They would have no way of confirming what the Rogues said to be true, and as such, it would be a relationship of trust alone.
And trust paid in shards, no doubt.
But he agreed with Rycaron and Naasir that price could be discussed later. The value of what they were trading was determinant on what they could truly offer, and the idea of an allied front was… Frightful, in all honesty. They all knew how badly it had gone last time – they knew the casualties. This time it would not be a surprise attack, which evened the odds, but other than that…
One thing he was certain off: this deal, whatever it might result in, would not be getting any fighters from this arrangement. Kraken and Rhodesna were but two captains and two ships. He doubted even all of their crew knew what went on in this room, and he had his doubts that the two would bring their ships against their fellows.
No, if they wanted military aid, they would have to look elsewhere – a task made difficult by the blockade and the barrier mountains. The Talori had few friends, and no ability to reach them.
Kraken’s words to him made sense, too, although it was not so much the exchange of information he feared. Beyond information, there was access – access given by trust. Access to places like this court.
Gideon shifted his weight.
The matter of allies however, taking Talori out so they could seek friends… He would have loved to feel comforted by that promise, which he was sure was all Kraken could promise.
But a nation without trade, heading out to try and garner friends for a war?
When there was another who had so many more ships to send around, with the promises of trade and friendship doubtless numerous.
Well, Gideon knew how that looked, it wasn’t in their favor.
“Empress”, Gideon said: “What do you think?”
He looked at Naasir, and his voice was more quiet, intended for the Talorians only: “Two ships are not enough to ship armies to our aid, regardless of the loyalty of the captains – that is if they even manage to carry our Emissaries through the blockade.”
They needed help, but reaching it through the blockade seemed unlikely at best.
Word count: 459
Post #3
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Post by posy-punch on Jul 29, 2019 16:30:31 GMT -6
thalassa empress of the talori She was loathe to trust a rogue. Simple as that, and yet, what did they have. She had already made up her mind to resubmit Talori to isolationism, at least by way of trade, but if it did come to war... they would need help, and as of current, the rogues were the only passage they could count on, and with the Wilds still largely unexplored were too much of a beast to conquer in a time like this. "Even if they cannot get ambassadors through the blockade, it would be good to have voices behind the rebellion's lines. If it comes to war, we get to play defense and what we know in advance is what we can prepare for," She sighs lengthily, then returns her gaze to the captains. "Captain Kraken, we can remove half of your debt initially. The other half will be forgiven when we see tangible proof of your alliance. Reward can be discussed for exemplary work performed beyond that." Her head swings around to Captain Rhodes. "Captain Rhodes. I'll offer you your child back for your cooperation, and then when proof is shown, your debt will be forgiven in a similar manner as to your counterpart," Her voice is calm, strict, but still, she turns to the rest of the Council. "I offer this option only so long as the rest of the Council is in agreement. And if we are, then we can discuss your role as informants in more detail, I'm sure?"
2 . 256 words |
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Post by foalish on Jul 29, 2019 19:06:11 GMT -6
Chantelle
Her expression hardened into a mask she was still perfecting, for in courts like this. Words tossed around, Thalassa making a deal. It sounded fair, at least from her limited knowledge. It was a wager that could possibly save their country if things escalated; that would never come cheap.
The Empress turned to her council, offering their voices, their agreement. Chantelle didn’t stop to let others speak, taking the invite to voice what had been swirling away in her head as the banter danced around her. She took a step forward.
”I am concerned we are making a deal with dead men if we agree to any of this.” Her gaze took a moment to harden, but her eyes revealed her empathy through her mask anyway. Her ears pressed forward, looking at the captains, ”Captain Kraken, Captain Rhodesna, is this a wager that will put you at risk?” She took another step forward. ”I do not believe the alliance would be kind to you, should it be known that information is being shared, correct?” She did not speak further, letting others voice up in their turn. Or for the pirates to defend themselves. It would be useless if their sources of information was killed before they became fully useful. And that was before her empathy had any concern for these horses; which of course it always did, despite her harsher words.
WC: 237 | Post 3 |
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Post by Chipo-H0P3 on Jul 29, 2019 22:28:47 GMT -6
---------- Captain Rhodesna ---------- Rhodesna stood back as Kraken danced with the council to a tune of political noise. She didn't quite have the stomach to keep up. She had been on land too long and it was starting to effect her physically.
Back and forth they went arguing until the Empress finally spoke up once again at the invitation of the Defender. Rhodesna figured Thalassa preferred to listen during these circumstances as well. What she offered was agreeable. Rhodesna would regain custody of the daughter that was stolen from her.
A sigh escaped her as a considerable weight was lifted from the Captain's shoulders. "Your terms are stern but wise, yer grace. I find myself agreeing to them." She doubted Kraken would turn down this offer either. It was now up to the council.
Councilor Chantelle, the bay mare Rhodesna had not recognized, was the first to share her opinion and she was worried. Worried for their safety, which Rhodesna found both odd and amusing.
Rhodesna clicked her tongue against her teeth and shook her head. "You underestimate us severely so, lass. I'd be insulted if it weren't for subtle tone of sympathy spilling off your words."
She moved to address the council as a whole, stepping closer to them, "There's always been a risk when seeking reward. A Rogue knows this. It's our way to navigate chance, and Captain Kraken and I have been very successful at it. Our names carry weight among the Rogues even with the man who calls himself Pirate King back among the living. The Isles are our home. We want to fight for it as much as you want to fight for yours." Rhodesna stomped her hoof to further her point. She would fight if it came down to it.
"We're the best if not the only option you all have."
P3 | WC 306 |
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Post by mariahwhy on Aug 5, 2019 14:54:30 GMT -6
Kraken | Captain of the Sacrifice
The tension in the room seemed to crest in the silence that stretched between them, and then break like a wave as Thalassa finally took reign of the conversation. The atmosphere in the room changed completely as she offered to accept the wager. He and Rhodesna had accomplished what they'd come here for. While he had hoped to have the entire loan forgiven before he stepped out of the room, half was still good enough for the time being. And of course Rhodesna would be happy with her end of things - her daughter would be given back to her. "Aye, Empress. I accept these terms as well."Of course, Thalassa had left it open for the others to negate her, but Kraken felt pretty sure that they wouldn't. They were coming to truly understand the situation that they were in. Even to the point of showing some concern for the rogues. The captain couldn't help but laugh, bobbing his head along to Rhodesna's words. He smiled, eyebrows raised. "She is not wrong. And we have already put ourselves at considerable risk by simply crossing this threshold. Were Morien to catch wind of just this fact, he would certainly consider it an act of treason." Gods know what sort of punishment he might find fitting. "Which is why I hope that we can all agree that this entire conversation be kept highly confidential." His smile disappeared, giving them a serious look.
(Post 4: 240 words)
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Post by Dream-Lark on Aug 8, 2019 19:21:02 GMT -6
Rycaron;Talori|Sage
The Sage lapsed back into silence as the others spoke, hearing much what he had expected to be said. After all, negotiations with the rogues always ended up in batering, no matter how usual the price for something had been. They could be paid the same rate a dozen times, but they’d still try to ask for more the next. It was the way of things, and he was sure it always would be.
One ear flicked to focus his hearing upon the Empress as she spoke up, and he nodded his head gracefully in agreement when she was done speaking. It was what he had been thinking himself. They rogues were right to demand something up front, insurance as it were. But they all knew they’d be fools to pay them so much at the get go, before it was sure that there truly was more information to be had. It would also keep the greedy equines coming back for the rest.
Aqua gaze slide to Chantelle as she stepped forward to speak up, feeling a wave of amusement at her words, and the Rogue Captain’s replies to her. As Rhodesna had put it, their breed was adept at calculating risk verse reward, and they must have deemed the odds in their favor to even send word about this meeting, let alone step so far onto the Mainland.
“Those terms are along the lines of what I had been thinking, Empress, and I agree with them readily,” Rycaron remarked, his gaze shifting to fall upon the two Isle Dwellers before them. He dismissed the serious look with the flick of an ear, appearing unconcerned.
“You know as well as we that there is no need for sure promises of confidentiality. The Crown has long worked with the rogues on contracts, and we are also well known to keep secrets. You would not have stepped hoof in this Chamber if you had thought it might be at all otherwise. I am quite sure that was calculated into your risk assessment. Though it need not be said, no one else will be privy to these dealings that does not need to know,” the Sage announced, voice soft but full of authority on the matter. He’d see to the matter himself, with Thalassa’s permission of course, if need be called for.
WC:389 | Post #3 |
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Post by ThatDenver on Aug 10, 2019 7:13:02 GMT -6
GIDEON
The Empress offered terms that were, in Gideon’s opinion, more than fair. He had his doubts as to the usefulness of this partnership, but he knew that they were not exactly burdened with options. They had few allies, and fewer yet that they could truly reach, or who had the ability to come to their aid.
There was Serora, of course, but they had just ended a war of their own. Aodhians had repelled their Agents and captured their Emissary, making it clear friendship was not of interest to them. Breimians hardly had a fleet, meaning they could not come to Talori’s aid, even if they wanted to, and the Forged were well known to be allies of Aodh.
It looked grim indeed.
If the rogues were truly here in secret, then he had the uttermost trust that the secret of this meeting was safe with them – as if that was the case, they had everything to lose. Gideon still had not ruled the possibility of double agents from his mind, but it was not as if he could know this for sure either way, so trust was the only option, no matter what he thought.
“I too, agree with these terms”, he voiced, calm and quiet, but loud enough to be heard.
He liked none of this.
Yet a part of him was still eager to see this ‘King’ of theirs.
Word count: 232
Post #4
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Post by foalish on Aug 14, 2019 0:11:16 GMT -6
Chantelle
Chantelle’s expression softened as the Captains spoke; to something a lot less harsh, something more befitting of her presence. She had no intentions of fighting a battle of wits with pirates when she had never once set foot on any of their ships, lived a day in their lives. If they believed they could do it, she knew she had no knowledge to tell them otherwise; and perhaps no right.
She hoped her concerns were not justified, and that they would not be found, floating to the shores, lifeless.
And perhaps it was the knowledge of the Captian’s kids, being taken away from her, that garnered the most empathy after all, enough to dissolve any restraint to tell anyone no. She knew what it was like to have children, and she would not wish it upon anyone to have them taken away like this. And this never felt needed; it didn’t feel justified - but she’d never had a say in that hearing, as she did now.
But that was not her concern now, instead, she dipped her head politely, her expression hardening again, just the slightest bit. She made eye contact to both captain, a second longer to Rhodesna, apathetic to if they returned it.
”I still hold my concerns, but I am not one to stop someone who wishes to prove me wrong. They know the risks they’re taking, and thus, I too agree to those terms.”
WC: 240 | Post 4 |
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Post by ebbarie on Aug 16, 2019 4:44:39 GMT -6
Naasir;Vagabonds | Harbinger
But hidden in his coat is a red right hand
Two ships would indeed not be enough to carry back armies to their aid, however it was at least something, some chance to reach out beyond the barrier without putting the lives of mainlanders at risk.
The Rogues might be able to pass through it without being bothered by the Alliance, while their own ships would definitely not.
Naasir slightly nodded at the pirate captain, a sign of his consent and appreciation for that offer.
His ears pinned back against his neck when Gideon raised his voice to adress the Empress on that matter.
Of course it wasn't enough, but how else should they search for allies? Their own forces where still weakened by the events of the past months. In this current state Inaria wouldn't be able to withstand long.
No he wasn't happy with this agreement, or any of the current circumstances. Especially Rhodesna was far too confident on that matter. But unfortunately, she also had a good point.
Right now the Rogues indeed were there best option. And he hated the very thought of it.
"I, like Chantelle, also do have my concerns on that matter, but do agree to this terms as well. It remains to see if this agreement will pay off, for both sides."
At least it was better than nothing.
WC: 3 | Post 217 |
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Post by mariahwhy on Aug 17, 2019 22:42:32 GMT -6
Kraken | Captain of the Sacrifice
Kraken watched stoically as each council member in turn agreed to the terms of their new agreement. He was surprised by how many of them seemed concerned for their safety, but he knew that it wasn't truly a matter of personal empathy. They were simply concerned with getting their money's worth, before it sank to the bottom of the sea with the captains. A fair concern, he couldn't help but agree. But best not to dwell on that. After all, today had been a win. He was leaving this court room with exactly what he had come here for, and he couldn't ask for anything better than that. He gave a deep bow, eyes lowered to the floor. Certainly more respect than he had shown on his last exit from this room. But when he stood back up he still raised his head high. He was a captain after all, and they would remember that. "Empress, council, thank you for meeting with us today. I'm glad that we could come to an agreement. We will be in touch." "May the gods bless you in the coming storm." He turned sharply, and exited the room quickly. The hallway that he stepped out into was such a drastic change from the courtroom- much smaller, much more conservative in design - and it put him at ease. He lowered his head, taking a deep breath, and only opened his eyes when he heard hoofsteps join him. "Well, Captain," he said, "It seems that we have work to do."(Post 5: 254 words) |
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Post by posy-punch on Aug 23, 2019 19:11:30 GMT -6
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