The Artisan That Which Souls Cling's Story

Fakharu bore the chatter of his guest with the patience of ages. There were an number of things in the gathered exalts actions that showed a surprising lack of decorum in their behavior that was displeasing to his sensibilities. Still though, he continued to grin and bare it. He had been the one to decide on inviting this group of exalted into his tower and thus it was on him for whatever ruckus they made while here. Still though, he was making mental notes on each of them as the meal progressed, and thus far his opinions of them were becoming low. If he weren't scrapped for time he probably would have sought out chosen that held more.... competent airs about them.

Finally the deathknight spoke up, and the dragon was almost glad to answer the question and put the present farce out of his mind. "So... I may have taken liberties against my liege's wishes in coming here. So in his honor, I'll get to the thick of it... About our summons..." Ah yes. The deathknight's 'liege', the Bodhisattva Anointed By Dark Water. That was also a matter he would be getting into. Later of course. But for now the query deserved an answer and it was as good an opportunity as any to broach the matter.

"Ah yes, your summons. I had hoped to make sure you were all comfortable before I raised the issue of why I had called you hear for it is a rather difficult one." The dragon shifted in his seat till he was no longer in a reclining position. Now straight backed and sitting tall he drew the gathered guest attentions on himself. "Now before I begin, I know that some of you know me, and some of you only know my name but not my position and the duties therein in the celestial order. So for that reason allow me to reintroduce myself; I am Fakharu, appointed celestial censor of the west by the order of heaven. It is my responsibility to provide oversight and audits of the gods and elemental spirits of the west and enforce the laws of heaven in this portion of creation."

He gave a brief moment for that to sink in before he continued. "My rank in the celestial order grants me much power and prestige amongst the gods, but with that privilege comes the issues of responsibilities to uphold and envious rivals that would seek to exploit my power for their own gains or bitter law breakers that would undermine my authority. This is why I have called you, for the actions of a few such criminals has put me in a difficult position and I would be grateful for your aid in resolving the matter."

The dragon paused again to take a deep breath and place a claw over his chest. "The issue is a personal one I am afraid. One who is dear to me has been kidnapped by a trio of sirens, in an attempt to force me to unjustly prosecute the Storm Mother of a spirit court to the west of here. Naturally I would never abuse my position in such a manner under normal circumstances," Ashen sky's nose twitched at this but he said nothing. "but the threat to my beloved Amarel is something I cannot ignore. I cannot chase after her myself however, much as I would wish to- not only would such action give certain enemies of mine unwelcome ideas, but the sirens would know that I have left my spire and might kill her before I could reach her. They have hidden her in a place called the Archipelago of exiles, a place hidden from the eyes of heaven and earth by certain magics from long ago. This is why I need you, noble exalted, I cannot send my own servants for they are too well known in the west and the sirens may have spies watching the tower so I need trust worthy and powerful allies, unknown to the powers of the west who can covertly rescue her in my stead. If you aid me in this emergency, I can promise that you will be richly rewarded and you will have me in your debt."

Lux listened intently, silent and thoughtless as Fakharu spoke.... Before explaining the reason behind the writ that he’d had delivered to each of the group, the Lesser Dragon took it upon himself to ensure that everyone in the group understood the fundamentals about him, his position and what it all entailed. Certainly, Lux was aware of a few sparse facts prior to this, at least...she knew enough to comprehend that Fakharu was an influential individual of great importance. She didn’t need to know many of the finer details to realize that his position as a Celestial Censor of the West came with as many negatives as it did positives…. Positions of authority were a double-edged sword for a plethora of reasons, after all.

“...this is why I have called you, for the actions of a few such criminals has out ne in a difficult position and I would be grateful for your aid in resolving the matter.” If Lux’s attention hadn’t been drawn to the Dragon before, it certainly was now. Fakharu sighed, deeply, and set one of his clawed hands upon his chest before he continued. Whatever he was about to divulge to the group, it was a...sensitive topic. And in the back of Lux’s mind, she thought about that statue.... “The issue is a personal one, I am afraid. One who is dear to me has been kidnapped by a trio of sirens in an attempt to force me to unjustly prosecute the Storm Mother of a Spirit Court to the west of here. Naturally, I would never abuse my position in such a manner under normal cirumstances, but the threat to my beloved Amarel is something I cannot ignore.”

So, it seemed that perhaps her intuition wasn’t wrong—Lux’s hands tightened into small fists upon her lap and a rather light expression of ire overtook her features as she continued to listen to Fakharu as his explanation turned into a plea.
“I cannot chase after her myself, however, much as I would wish to—not only would such action give certain enemies of mine unwelcome ideas, but the sirens would know that I left my spire and might kill her before I could reach her.” A pang of melancholy resounded throughout Lux's person. Fakharu and Amarel's situation...it was one she was knew all too well. After all, once upon the night she'd taken her Second Breath, she'd been held as a hostage. They'd used her as leverage against the closest thing she'd had to a mother, and that'd gotten her killed. Lux survived, only because of Vered's sacrifice and the fact that she Exalted.

Fakharu had more to say, but Lux knew where this was going, it made sense why he’d beckoned to Exalted all across Creation...even if she didn’t think she was quite fit for the task she knew he was going to ask of them. And she didn't even need to be asked.

“They have hidden in a place called the Archipelago of Exiles, a place hidden from the eyes of heaven and earth by magics from long ago. This is why I need you, Noble Exalted, I cannot send my own servants for they are too well known in the West and the sirens may have spies watching the tower, so I need trustworthy and powerful allies, unknown to the powers of the West who can covertly rescue her in my stead.” Someone of Fakharu’s position didn’t beg for help, but this...was about as close to it as you’d ever see, Lux was sure of that.

To call upon perfect strangers for a task like this one, truly, Fakharu was desperate, and she understood why. The Dragon was caught between a rock and hard place, his lover being held hostage, while he was physically unable to anything to save her. That someone would sink so low, that someone would do this.... This sort of matter was something that Lux would have felt compelled toward if she happened across it during her journeys. To take someone’s loved one to blackmail them—it disgusted her! Unbeknownst to Lux, she’d started jittering, just a bit as the irritation built in her. She still wasn’t sure just how helpful she could be, but, without needing any incentive, Lux was already swayed to the cause.

“If you aid me in this emergency, I can promise that you will be richly rewarded and you will have me in your debt.” Fakharu finished, definitely trying to persuade the group...certainly that might be necessary for some, but, not for Lux. She didn’t need any incentives. Lux didn’t need promises of wealth or favors, she didn’t want those things.... And, perhaps she’d be called naïve or silly for that, but it didn’t matter to her. All she wanted to do was do what was right.

Perhaps her compassion and her anger over this wrong got the better of her, but without realizing the small Dragon-Blooded had gotten to her feet rather quickly which caused her chair to slide backward with a squeal, slammed her hands down on top of the table hard enough to make the dinnerware clink and rattle. She probably looked like a fool again, getting so emotional, but Lux didn’t care about that. “How revolting! That they’d sink so low....” she started, her voice loud, impassioned. Her views were simplistic, influenced by her own experienced but across all spectrums she’d view this situation the same. As wrong, wrong, wrong! No matter who the victims were, or their lot in life, her reaction would be as fiery.

“The sort of sods who’d commit this kind of thing can rot, as far as I’m concerned....” she spoke, rather allowing her thoughts to form aloud. Lux removed her hands from the tabletop and looked at Fakharu, expression genuine and determined, “I cannot say I’m entirely confident in myself, but, I want to help. I want nothing and need nothing, from you, Lord Fakharu, I just...want to help, if I’m able to.”

She jumped at the call, not caring or knowing if any of the others would even agree to assist. It didn’t matter, she was committed to this, and she would do whatever she could—she couldn't stand the thought of someone being in the position she once was. Certainly, the task that Lux was vowing herself to could well end up costing her, her life but...that didn't matter. If she did nothing, she couldn't live with herself. Whatever she was capable of doing, she'd do it.

And so it was that Fakharu began to explain the reason he called these... uncouth heroes together. Artisan nodded while listening to Fakharu explain who he was and what he did, a fact that the Deathknight already knew. Present company taken into account though, he wasn't surprised of the necessity. Artisan himself had already explained this fact, but... he wouldn't be surprised if the group had already forgotten. After all.... Look at their behavior.

It seemed his lover had been spirited away, probably in retaliation against his corrupt behavior. It brought a slight smile to Artisan's face, one he did his best to hide. Fakharu blamed the incident on his position of power, but... The Abyssal decided it was probably more likely that he had made enemies of the sirens through his rather lackadaisical actions. As a result of the censor's indolent behavior, the gathered Exalted were being implored to head to the Archipelago of Exile.

The Artisan That Which Souls Cling didn't like that idea, but Fakharu promised "If you aid me in this emergency, I can promise that you will be richly rewarded and you will have me in your debt." Which could definitely help with the mission his liege had tasked him with... Traveling with this group for an extended period of time could prove troublesome though. Lux interrupted his musings with an outburst of utter selflessness.

“I cannot say I’m entirely confident in myself, but, I want to help. I want nothing and need nothing, from you, Lord Fakharu, I just...want to help, if I’m able to.” How quaint that someone so seemingly harmless would so fervently stand up for what was 'right.' "Very commendable Lux. I understand what it's like to lose a loved one, Lord Fakharu. I'd be more than happy to lend you my assistance. I understand how intricate these political proceedings can get. They could discuss the reward and incurred debt in more detail upon his return.

---

Astrid was indeed comfortable, with a full belly and a decent buzz going on. Though she didn't appreciate Fakharu taking so long to bring up his reason for summoning them. It seemed underhanded somehow, waiting until your guests were intoxicated to beg favors of them. The Dragon continued bragging about his power and crying 'woe is me' about the misfortune it brought. She couldn't care less who audited or enforced what in the West. Not yet anyways.

Fakharu would be in less of a position to help should his authority be undermined, but ultimately he was but a piece to be used for her own betterment. It seemed the Dragon's romantic plaything had been taken out from under his nose and was knowing being held as a hostage. A tactic that Astrid enjoyed implementing, but one that reflected poorly on Fakharu. To think he couldn't even protect the ones within his palace. All that power, wasted on such a being.

She'd have to lend her aid though, as she'd already wasted this much time coming here and hearing him out. She decidedly wasn't swayed by his mention of reward and being in his debt. Though it had originally been why she came here, at this point she legitimately felt bad for the old bastard. Able to move rivers, lay low entire cities, and bend the very spirits of Creation to his will and yet; the old fart couldn't even keep hold of the woman that held his affection. Truly pitiful.

Sneaking through Creation and infiltrating a magically hidden archipelago to snap three sirens neck and save a fair maiden was the kind of thing Astrid lived for. She could hardly say no to such a challenge. Especially when it could positively impact her tribesmen. Deciding she was done with the feast, Astrid would have started to answer, were it not for Lux's outburst. It seemed the little creature was truly upset about Fakharu's misfortune. That or she was feigning it like the sniveling Dynasts loved to do, whatever emotion proved most useful they wore like a mask.

The filthy Abyssal also accepted, much to her dismay. Reserving judgement for now, Astrid nodded while looking Fakharu in the eye, "Very well Celestial Censor, I hear your request and will have your beloved back to you. Covertly is my middle name. Hold up your end of the bargain and I shall hold up mine, in only a short while we'll be feasting in this same room with Amarel, laughing the night away. Where is this Exile's Archipelago?"

A smile appeared on the dragons face as three of the exalts gave their answer. "It relieves me greatly to hear that from each of you. The Archipelago lies 600 miles westwards from here, past the very same court of the storm mother whom the sirens seek to spite. I will gift you the same ship you arrived upon to provide transport there."

Ashen noted that by their own proclamations the three had more or less volunteered the group as a whole. He didn't mind though, he was planning on taking the job anyway and he recognized that the dragon had been maneuvering them towards this in the first place. Invite them into his house, feed them a fancy breakfast, give Lux a fancy dress, then make his request after they'd all sampled his hospitality when it'd be rude to refuse. A simple ploy that he honestly should have expected as soon as the word 'brunch' had come up. He had been making note of the emotional signals of each member as they spoke along with his charm for snatching out lies, and though he detected a smidgen of untruth from Fakharu his concern for his lover was genuine.

The more interesting responses came from the other exalts in the room. From Lux he could tell her outrage was real and in it was twinged a hint of regret? That was interesting, but it didn't seem to be targeted towards the dragon but herself. Perhaps she had experience with people being kidnapped before?

The more interesting scents came from Astrid and Artisan. Both had a mix of pity and contempt, with Artisan emitting a bit more avarice. Both of them seemed less interested in helping the dragon than they we're in either the reward or the challenge of it. He also detected a hint of disdain from them aimed towards Lux of all people. That one threw him for a loop and he couldn't figure what it was she did or said to earn that.

Regardless the changing moon decided to ask a question that the others hadn't. "So this archipelago... why is it magically hidden? And who is exiled there?" There was a pause from the dragon before he answered. "That is... a long story. The archipelago gets it's name for the fact that rogue spirits flee there for sanctuary. Lesser Gods who have fallen out of favor with the celestial order, elementals that have offended their spirit courts, even some demons that have escaped from hell or broken free of a sorcerers bindings. All of them try to escape punishments for some crime or another and the wrath of the law and seek the isles that dot that place to lay low. I will admit that I have found it politically pragmatic to ignore that stretch of the ocean, for there are those high in office in heaven that desire it be kept hidden for their own reasons. And as such I know little of the on goings there. I do know that Sikunare, the storm mother to the west, makes a business of smuggling such spirits in there and will likely know more, though I would caution discretion if you seek to meet with her."

Ashen grimaced at the thought of that. Entering a storm mother court, it was not a situation he relished the thought of. Especially not under current circumstances. For some reason he gave brief concerned glance at Calliope. She'd likely be the one at the largest danger if they went that route. "Any supplies you'd be willing to spare for this venture?"

The dragon nodded, likely expecting a bit of an extortion up front under this guise. "I can loan you a few items that may help, but for that I would like to know what strategy you plan to employ." Ashen pondered this a bit. They'd need to act fast if they wanted to nab Amarel safely, but how'd they'd do it will probably require a plan based around the groups strengths. He gave a glance to the others for suggestions.

After hearing the dragon's request, Calliope, too, offered her support. The noble creature smiled. "It relieves me greatly to hear that from each of you. The Archipelago lies 600 miles westwards from here, past the very same court of the storm mother whom the sirens seek to spite." Calliope licked her lips at the thought of confrontation. "I will gift you the same ship you arrived upon to provide transport there."

Newly invigorated after her meal, Calliope sat on the edge of her seat as though she was ready to jump up and depart at any moment. Ashen probed for more information, and in return, Fakharu explained the pertinence of the island, presenting the difficulty it might pose for forming a proper plan.

She could feel Ashen's eyes on her once more. It was a good thing she was pink, because her renewed embarrassment would have been all too apparent. For a moment, Calliope's mind lingered on the gentle, albeit awkward gesture Ashen had displayed earlier. Her heart raced. She stared deeply into the table as she relived the moment. For some reason his additional glance only embarrassed and enraged her further. She wanted to violently demand an explanation for his behavior, but instead, Calliope forced herself back to the topic at hand.

Ashen Sky however caught the scent of her embarrasement and subsequent anger. He flinched slightly even if she didn't return his stare, for his magic made it clear to him that he was the source of her sudden turmoil even if he couldn't identify the cause. He was going to have to come up with an explanation for his actions later, even if he couldn't figure it out himself.

Calliope followed the same train of thought Ashen did. What was Fakharu willing to supply for the safe return of his betrothed? It seemed he was unwilling to reveal that information without a more defined road map. "I would offer the assistannce of the Gladomeenn armmy, but I regret your quanndry may nnot cause enough alarmm to warrannt the accordance of mmy King and Queenn." Calliope made eye contact with the beast.

"I am inclinned to ask, dear Fakharu." She began cooly, wiping her greasy hands off on a napkin. "How could you let your beloved escape you so? Be you nnot all mmighty inn your lannd?" Calliope knew not what effect her agnostic approach may invoke.

The dragon's face remained neutral, but his clawed hand did ball into a fist. He showed no sign of feeling insulted even as he spoke. "While I welcome the sentiment Calliope, I feel that it is probably for the better that your nation didn't get involved. The movement of an army would be neither swift or quiet and this endeavor requires both. As for how Amarel was abducted..." He paused to rub his face. Though hidden under his palm their was a mixture of anger and remorse in his face. "She had been collecting pearls along the island's beach when it happened. I have always allowed her to wander the grounds as she chose, and she never felt the need to take a guard with her. Perhaps I should have insited she keep an escort on her walks, but that is in hindsight now. I have come to suspect that the sirens may have had help in snatching her away though, for the island is normally carefully watched from the sea and the air."

Calliope could sense the injury she had induced, but given the circumstance, she felt entitled to hear his answer. She tried to be apathetic, in true Gladomeen fashion, but she recognized his pain. A pang of guilt and anguish washed over her, while she also maintained a neutral expression. She said nothing in reply, simply because she had nothing to say.

"In anny case, I suggest we seek allies on this 'Archipelago'. What is this saying you have? The friennd of mmy friennd is mmy enemmy? The ennemy of mmy friennd is mmy...? No mmatter." The clumsiness of her attempt at the phrase was amplified by her Sky accent. "Surely we can enntreaty the assisstannce of sommeone with our commonality. Knnow you any other person with contact onn this island?" She asked Fakharu.

Fakharu nodded slightly and seemed to consider the idea. "While again I must admit that I have intentionally avoided scruitiny the isles and thus have little knowledge of its inhabitants, and that Sikunare knows more than I, I can offer a few 'gifts' to sway favor for you if needed." He placed his elbows on the table and leaned in. "As I said my position allows me much power over the west and in the celestial order and a word of my command can grant someone much. I can provide letters of pardons for past crimes for those spirits hidding from the law, positions within my own court, material wealth, vauluble information..." He paused for a moment to consider something. "If possible you might even be able to negoitate with the Sirens themselves, or who ever they are working for. After all there must be other thing they would want then simply the disgrace of one storm mother. And if we are lucky the kiddnappers themselves might not all be in agreement by this point. If any of them show remorse or a willingness to aid in her return then I can promise to be... lenient towards them." Their was a small glint in his eye at this. "But above all remember that the immortal inhabitants of the isles were exiled for some treachery or another, and though that will likely make the desperate another treachry is neither too much or too little to expect from them."

Lux returned to her seat after her rather emotive response to Fakharu’s request, having a little bit of difficulty doing so due to the damned corset...perhaps it’d be a little bit too impassioned, but she could not help it. And it was while she was settling herself that she listened as Astrid, Artisan and Calliope confirmed that they too would lend their abilities to Fakharu’s cause. Certainly, they had different motivations than herself, but it was still comforting for the little Dragon-Blooded to know that she wasn’t going this alone after all. She listened as the conversation continued, keeping herself quiet for its duration, doing her best to absorb everything she was hearing as Calliope spoke at length with the Lesser Dragon, and the latter revealed that he could offer up little actual information on the Archipelagos, but did mention the notion of providing materials with which the party could use to sway the favor of the islands’ inhabitants....

So, they were launching into a discussion on strategy? Lux slid down in her seat a bit—she’d been the first to volunteer herself to this cause, but that didn’t mean she was going to be the first to come up with a sound plan on how to go about rescuing Amarel. Strategy was not her strongest area of expertise—typically she tended to think on the fly and acted more on instinct. She was better at improvising, but Lux knew that it would be best to come up with some kind of plan; this was on a different level than the situations she usually delved into.

Bribery and whatnot wouldn’t be the worst way to go about things, but as Fakharu had said, the Archipelagos were full of beings that’d committed one crime or another. Lux brought her hand up to her chin as she ruminated on the information provided....

“Strategy and such things are not my forte, I won’t try to fool anyone on that matter....” she started, quietly, “But, I do not think we would be any lesser for having material we could use to persuade some with. Given that we are lacking information on the Archipelagos, we’ll likely end up having to take a mixed approach to this, though.”

Biding his time to speak, Artisan finally decided to put his two cents in on the matter. "What's done is done Lord Fakharu, my concolences on the kidnapping of your beloved, but we will have her back to you soon. As for the Archipelago... it is... complicated to say the least. We could use whatever resources you have to spare. Making allies is likely the safest way to get your beloved Amarel back to you. Other methods of rescue may have incidental damages, which I'm sure you'd prefer to avoid. As for treachery, I assure you..." He paused, pondering the exact wording of what he was about to say. Failing to find a phrase that properly conveyed what he meant, he decided upon, "Well, I'm no stranger to treachery. Whatever machinations they might have, I'm sure our little group will stay out of the spider's web, and perhaps turn their own plans against those who are keeping Amarel from you."

Turning an eye to Lux, the evangelization of the islands came to the forefront of his mind. "If the Immaculate Order had any success, perhaps Lady Lux will be able to sway some minds. With the proper resources of course." Artisan was intent on squeezing what help he could from the Censor. Though he kept reassuring Fakharu that they'd safely retrieve his lover, judging by certain temperments in the party, he was less than certain. They would definitely need all the help they could get if this was going to be an expedient and successful endeavor. Astrid suppressed a snort at the Abyssal's obvious kowtowing, if it were up to her they would simply sneak into where the girl was being held, kick open the door, and spirit her away.

However partly due to the thought of a challenge, and partly due to the drink, Astrid was in a good mood and willingly to hear the assembled group out. After all had been said and done, and once Astrid was picking her teeth with a claw she proclaimed her attack plan. "Me, I'm not one for words. I leave it up to popular decision, but in my opinion we should go in quietly, strike hard and fast." She slammed a fist into her open palm as it to emphasize the force of their assault. "We'd have Amarel in our hands before they even knew we were there."

Artisan, though not shocked at her plan, was shocked that she thought he could sneak around even half as well as her. "Um... Miss Astrid, I can't exactly move quietly in this armor." As if only just then remembering, she looked at the assembled Celestials and lone Terrestrial. "Then don't come. Though... perhaps most of us are not up to such a task." She ended the thought with a lazy shrug.

Calliope nodded thoughtfully. "While I finnd your approach ennticing, Astrid, this dismmal creature is correct," she referred to Artisan. "Diplomacy mmay be our best option."

The dragon steepled his fingers and spoke. "Lady Astrid's suggestion is tempting, and I would be willing to provide armaments for that course, but it would require locating Amarel and her captors first. That said it seems your group has come to something of a decision for now." He looked over the assembled exalts and nodded to them. "I again thank you all of agreeing to this plea on short notice. And if there is anything specific you would have in mind for provisions in this quest you need merely inquire it of me and I will see that it is given to you." Fakharu then rose from his seat and brushed himself down. "With that though I must return to my chambers and see to my midday task. If you have need of anything for personal taste you may speak to my chamberlain Burnished Mantis and he will provide for you. If you need information about the local seas then my other servants, Shemaru my librarian, Mirror of Divinity my informant, and Steel Sun down by the docks are all present and knowledgeable of the surrounding region. I ask that outside of these four though you do not speak of the true reason why you are summoned here. There are many that watch my court and and if they were to over hear talk of Amarel's kid nap they might see it as something to exploit and I cannot ignore the possibility that the sirens have left a spy to watch for any rescue being sent. If any ask you then tell them that your reason for being here is discussing the matter of my policy on the immaculate order. And while I would like for you to leave as soon as possible I would suggest waiting until night fall to foil any watching eyes or pursuit."

Artisan nodded at the censors words, glad to hear this talk of stealth had been put to rest. Fakharu mentioned the names and locations of some individuals that may be of use to them before they left to retrieve Amarel. Which reminded him of something that had transpired earlier and a need to react to it appropriately. "Oh, one more thing before you go Lord Fakharu. I um..." He bit his lip, thinking about how to broach the delicate matter. "I have need of a quiet place, one where i will be alone and entirely isolated. Can't have prying eyes or ears for this matter, I'm certain you of all people understand the need for privacy. Is there uh... such a place in your court?" For multiple reasons, the Abyssal hoped the dragon would say yes.

Fakharu quirked a brow at this request but he did answer. "There is a meditation chamber on one of the lower floors. I shall have one of the handmaidens escort you there if you wish."

"It would please me greatly to have some time to center myself. Thank you for your gracious kindness Lord Fakharu"

The censor gave a short nod again and addressed the rest one last time. "And with that I must bid you good morning for now. Feel free to enjoy the rest of your breakfast and make yourselves comfortable until nightfall comes. Until then, you have my permission to explore the spire to your hearts content." And with that the dragon turned a departed through the set of doors, leaving the exalts amongst themselves.

Shortly after Fakharu left, a handmaiden approached Artisan, introducing herself as "Your guide, Sir Celestial. I was instructed to take you to our meditation chamber so that you may relax." Her smile was warm, if a bit fake, and it did well to relax the Abyssal about what he was about to do. "Indeed thank you so much Miss." Following the handmaiden, he made absolutely certain, to the best of his ability, that no one was following them. For what was about to happen, it was best that he be left alone and unseen.

---

Being left to her own devices, Astrid resumed her meal, polishing off a bit more of the feast. It seemed the filthy Deathknight had no plans to eat, and as such she was more than willing to eat his share. Between each few bites, she looked towards her companions. It seemed they were all better dressed than her. Not due to her vanity, but perhaps due to a slight bit of embarrassment, she began to grow self-conscious about her clothes. Her tribe never commented about them, but they treated her as a Goddess and Astrid began to suspect the disrepair of her clothes was definitely not common in other parts of Creation.

After eating her fill, and comfortably lounging about the table, Astrid remembered something Fakharu had mentioned earlier. Standing up, she made her way to find the chamberlain Burnished Mantis. Though it took longer than she liked, only an hour or so of wandering about with speaking to anyone, she found the chamberlain. Taking a quick glance around that no one would overhear her, she spoke to him in a hushed voice. "Hey," she addressed him rather tersely. "I'm one of Fakharu's honored guests and I need you to get me a new set of clothes."

The chamberlain raised a querulous eyebrow before replying, "Of course, any particular requests?" Astrid grit her teeth, feeling oddly tense about saying it. "Something similar to the Terrestrial's outfit, but not so similar that it's easily noticed!" The chamberlain gave a overt bow, replying with a simple "Of course honored Celestial," and began to make his leave.

An afterthought, but perhaps entirely necessary due to the nature of this mission, Astrid called after him. "Also! I will require a gauntlet and pair of greaves. They should all be spring-loaded with a sharp-edged blade that can be triggered easily with my hands or feet." As the chamberlain left, she began to idly play with her hair, wondering what outfit the chamberlain would bring her. Perhaps she shouldn't have asked, though she was certain that her current outfit would draw unnecessary attention.

---

The meditation chamber was expansive, larger than Artisan could've imagined. As the handmaiden began to take her leave, the Abyssal, examining the chamber, asked one last thing of her. "In about an hour's time, can you send my servant up to me. I will have need of him in my meditative practice." Slightly confused, the handmaiden acquiesced. "Of course sir."

Doing his best to ensure he was left alone, and after he was satisfied that he was indeed alone, he waited another hour, just to bore anyone watching that he might have missed. After the hour passed, he began the process of bleeding essence into the environment around him.

Though it sometime took a few tries, today Artisan had mastery over his curse, and his resonance began to effect Creation. The room began to smell slightly of a graveyard, death and decay filled the chamber as he felt the curse began to life from him. It seemed the Neverborn's grip would loosen today, albeit only momentarily. Waiting for the effect to face, Artisan sat and began to reflect quietly on the day. Once his servant was here, and night hit, the fun would truly began. A slightly twisted smile painted its way across his face, as he began to chuckle slightly to himself. "Fun, indeed."

The sun had nearly dipped below the horizon and the time was nigh to begin. The Artisan That Which Souls Cling began by spreading about a circle of bone dust, about five feet in diameter and seating himself in its center. With a measure of effort, pure essence sliced open a rift to the Underworld drawing forth a familiar spirit, one that sometimes crossed the Necromancer's path in the Underworld. The summoning lasted for all of a few seconds. The spirit cast its gaze upon Artisan, and swiftly vanished back to whence it came.

---

Left with express instructions to ensure no one interrupted the master, Artisan's servants hung idly around the hallway that led to the meditation chamber. It was almost sundown, and he had been told to return an hour after the sun went down. It was now that time, and the servant began ambling down to bring retrieve the young Master.

---

As the servant came into the room, he found his Master on the ground in a state of perturbed silence. With a vague gesture, Artisan told the servant to lead him back to the surface so he may rejoin the... undesirables.

After the botched summoning, Artisan began making his way back to the pier, eager to set out and get this ordeal over with already, being met with his slave along the way, one of the many nameless chattel the Abyssal kept around as spare blood. The slave could sense the agitation his lord was carrying, and with a yelp of anxiety, he informed Artisan, "Th-there are more Exalted meeting you at the pier!"

Artisan's pace increased slightly, flustered as he was, and the walls of the Spire twisted up before him as he headed down to where the Censor's dubious representatives in this matter would be meeting. "Why would there be more of us!? Is Fakharu plotting against me and the Bodhisattva? That doesn't add up, we're already amounting to a small army; this would just be overkill." The Abyssal could think of no satisfying answer other than Fakharu wasn't telling them something.

He had already known there was more to this than the Censor was saying, but this only doubled his suspicions. "What exactly had Amarel been abducted for, and what kind of place was this Archipelago of Exiles, that it should be hidden from the Heavens?" More and more Artisan was wishing he'd woken more of his creations for this journey, especially if the Immaculate missionaries had seen success on their on the Archipelago.

The pier came into sight, sea-breeze blowing his snow-colored hair back, right as his eyes locked onto an enormous Golem, not unlike the ones common in the underworld. "Right, so that's one of the other Exalted found." Artisan began making his way to the Golem.

---

The Abyssal's appearance and sudden direction brought Astrid's attention to the Golem. Charting out a quick course, she jumped from her perch, catching the eve of a house as she fell, and using the moment to swing herself onto a nearby passing cart. From there she disappeared into the crowd, doing her best to blend in and hide from any would-be eyes, quietly shifting into a small black housecat.

Newly disguised, Astrid leaped up onto Artisan's shoulder and with a lazy yawn, she laid herself around his neck, claws well within reach of his throat.

---

With an annoyed sigh Artisan composed himself, the Golem appeared to be following a confident girl with dual-colored eyes, one that introduced herself as 'Mirror.' Her construct was interesting enough, and that alone made her less annoying then a majority of the other Exalted he'd met.

"Hello Mirror, I am The Artisan That Which Souls Cling, and yes I daresay I am part of the group you were to meet here. This is Astrid," with an idle gesture he indicates the cat on his shoulder. Turning towards the Golem, he continues "And, who pray tell, is this?"

Nimin began to move down the pier as he could see the group that was now gathering midway up it's landing. It would be hard to hide such an event as anything other then an exalted gathering at this point.

He was sure that his message spoke of others like himself gathering, but at this point it was beginning to reach such proportions. That at least one Order bureaucrat somewhere in world, must have a ringing in his ears equal to a hornet being stuck in the damn thing. A thought that gives him both a slight amount of pause, and humor in equal measure. Resigning himself to simply worry about it later, and just finish stuffing his pipe away into his satchel.

The salty air of the sea blew across the pier once more as he closed within range of the group, taking notice of the more easily discernible members as he moved. Keep a calm look about him, even as the weight of the large construct ahead of him was starting to test the strength of the pier they all currently stood upon. Though he was confident that such construction would hold. Despite the groaning that could be heard from the wood underneath.

He scanned the group ahead of him, even as another came to join in. Stepping with a quicker pace than his own and addressing a rather familiar figure. One that Nimin had to be certain of who he was looking at before speaking. Then he heard the name spoken ahead of him as well. Mirror; such memories came to mind about long distant fields.

A group of exalted, with solars even. Three by the look of it, and more to boot.

It serves right that they'd even be graced by a princess as well.

The other introducing himself was enough to easily point out that he was an abyssal. Knowledge that already did not sit well with Nimin. Though that was only because of their opposing nature, it was just a feeling that was have for one like himself to kick after all these years. He honestly had nothing against the man on face value. Old emotions are hard to be rid of, and having to defend entire settlements from cults, ran by such entities. Was not something that one could deem, as helpful in that matter.

Nimin stopped short of passing his pale companion, and looked between the two of them.
"I see that our mutual acquaintance is more adamant about this proposal than even I thought possible."

He lightly nods towards the two of them as he finishes speaking. "Though it's good to see that I won't be alone as much as I thought this time around... I am Nimin" He adds as he extends a hand towards The Artisan That Which Souls Cling. Being the closer of the two.

One by one the Girls all left, leaving the soggy Lunar to crawl out of the fountain on his own. He was actually somewhat thankful for that as it spared him a bit of further embarrassment and gave him a moment of privacy away from the others, even if he was still slightly miffed at Astrid dropping him in the water in the first place. As he stood up he could feel the cloth wrappings under his shirt slip. The sensation made him grimace and he lifted his shirt . Sure enough they had soaked up water and and come loose and underneath, mixed in among the moonsilver tattoos, a small set of black lines burned into his skin peaked out from underneath. He cursed softly and made an attempt at re-tightening the wrappings. But in their soggy state they refused to remain in place, instead sliding loose at the first sign of movement. Ashen sighed in defeat and started to reconsider his options.

"Shall I bring you a fresh change?" Ashen nearly jumped out of his skin, and whirled around to see Burnished Mantis was still standing behind him. Ashen stammered in his response for a second. "I uh... yes. I ya could brin' it ta me cabin on tha ship tha'd be a help." The Spirit nodded and turned to leave.

"I'll have one of the servants prepare it for you before you depart Ma'am." Ashen smiled and thanked him before what he said sunk in. "I ain't ah lady!" He bit out. The spirit stopped, and looked Ashen up and down. "... of course sir." The tone sound unconvinced and Ashen very quickly adopted an annoyed frown as the giant but walked off.

He scratched his head and groaned, but thought nothing more of it. He was probably holding up the others by this point, but didn't want to meet them in this state. Figuring he'd just make the best of it for now, he pooled his essence and shrunk, down, down into the form of a small white ash colored form of a weasel. Satisfied that he could keep himself decent and his chest marking covered under the fur, the Ashen Weasel scurried down the halls and out to the docks until some time later he arrived outside where the others had gathered. Along with two new additions. Well, three actually. Where the hell did that massive wall of rock and limbs come from? That said Ashen could tell with a glance that the two humans were fellow exalted, and he had to wonder where they came from and what skills this was going to bring to the team? His mussing were a bit distracted when he spotted Astrid sitting on Artsians shoulders, very clearly pressing her claws against his neck in an implied threat. Already irritated from the unwanted bath from earlier, he felt further vex that she was once again threatening the teams Abyssal with no stated cause for it. Just what was her beef with the poor guy? He then noticed that her tail was wagging and a wicked thought passed through his head at that point and he gained an idea for some mirth to play in revenge.

Quietly he scuttled up to the side of Artisan's ankle, and began to climb up his pant leg. Once he reached the Abyssal's back he paused and watched his target swing back and forth above him. Clinging to the back of the cloak, he dug his back paws in for leveraged, then launched himself upward to nip at the tip of Astrid's tail. Letting out a yowl of fright and jumping into the air Astrid, fell to the ground with a start. With a meow of indignation, she started after the weasel, not terribly intent to catch Ashen Sky, but rather seeming to enjoy the game of cat and mouse. For his part Ashen gave a small squeking noise that could of been a laugh and darted away leading the two of them to dash between the legs of their fellow exalts.

Seeming to appreciate being freed of the black cat, Artisan continues to introduce himself, "Thank you Nimin, it is a pleasure to meet you both. I hope we can all become fast friends in our time together."Though the Deathknight didn't move, his shadow seemed animate of its own accord, shaping itself as if its host were in a deep regal bow.

---

The setting light of the sun saw Fakharu finish his affairs in court and finally 'excuse' himself to go 'bid farewell' to his guest. He had resumed his majestic serpentine form and descended the hills to the beach where the exalts had all being to gather. He was delighted to see that they were making acquaintance With the last of the arrivals, and he slowly approached while they were finishing introductions. "Ah Nimin, it is good to see you again. I give my thanks for your swift arrival on this favor. And You I presume must be Mirror Leih Regium Vertarria, I am pleased to make your acquaintance though I apologize if this all seems so sudden considering your recent circumstances."

Raising his head till he towered once more over the assembled exalts. "I once again reiterate what we spoke off in the tower. Please rescue my dear Ameral from the clutches of the sirens and bring her safely back home to me. If you can do this, I promise my gratitude and aid and whatever reward you could desire. I bid you to go now with all haste, for the deadline is the 28th of Resplendent Water, and the sirens have threatened harm to Amarel if I do not acquiesce to their demands by then."

"Of course, Fakharu. It is our imminent pleasure to save Lady Amarel, posthaste." Not wanting to prolong things further in the presence of several Solars, Artisan started away to their vessel. Less than 28 days now to rescue the mortal lover of an upstart God that continually shirked his duties, what a wonderfully droll notion for Artisan to occupy his time with. Hopefully the workshop would fare well enough without him, and of course there was always the rare chance he'd encounter some devious new materials to bring back with him. Still in feline form, Astrid followed suit after the Deathknight; though she shared her own grand delusion about the trip, that wasn't on her mind, just eagerness to depart.

Once Ashen had disengaged with Astrid, he too followed the others on board. Remaining in his ferret form for the time being, he scampered up the gang plank and down into the ship's underbelly where he sniffed out which cabin was to be his. Finding one with a change of clothes already prepared for him he quietly slipped in and shifted back. A minute later he had disrobed and changed into a new set of clothes with a thick leather Jerkin over top for armor. He couldn't find a replacement for his wrapping and so grumbled and left them up to dry for the time being while he did a quick pre-launch prep check of the ship. A quick perusal of the ship's layout was first. Above, obviously, was the surface deck which sat largely uncovered save for a small section in it's aft where there was a room for navigational equipment. Below was the second deck where the crew cabins were, where the were enough rooms to fit twelve people or twenty four if they decided to double up. He saw not much else here save a small kitchen/dinning area in the back with a set of stairs leading down to the third level, and what curiously looked like a small weapons cabinet containing some bows, a small stockpile of arrows, some short spears and a few short swords.

Down below that was the third level where things got interesting. On one side he found what he would have normally expected from what looked like the storage deck. A large larder full of smoked and salted meat, dried fruits and vegetables among other preserved foods. From what he evaluated there was enough rations stored down here for the crew to stay well fed for six weeks. It was what was on the other side that made him raise an eyebrow. The storage deck had an entire wall full of treasures. Gold and silver, precious gems and pearls, even a few coins of jade in the five colors. Admittedly spending the day in Fakharu's extravagant palace had numbed him a bit to the sight of so much wealth, but it was still surprising to see first hand. He picked through the shelves a bit and found a set of nine scrolls. Curiosity took him and he crack one open. There was an odd series of letters in a script that he couldn't read. He squinted at them, before blinking in surprise as the letters morphed and rearranged themselves into symbols of low realm and read out 'The holder of this message is here by absolved of all crimes committed before the date of the first of resplendent water in the year of 768 as by the calendar of the Scarlet Empire, also known as The Realm, by order of Lord Fakharu, Dragon of water and Celestial censor of the west in light of services rendered.'

Ashen thought for a moment and remembered that Calliope had advocated for a diplomatic approach to the rescue of Ameral. Fakharu then must have loaded the ship with means to bribe or barter with the local spirits and tribesmen of the archipelago. Humming to himself he placed the scroll back where he found it and climbed back to the top deck of the ship where the rest were filling on. Taking his place at the helm he looked down to the others and cleared his throat. "Right, 'ell we'd best get ah move on than folks, we have a princess to save." He paused. "Not ta be confused with the two already on deck. If we all be aboard now than someone raise tha anchor and lets shove off!"

In a few moment, the ship slipped it mornings and with some effort it's anchor was raised and it's sails loosened. Departing dock in the dark was an unusual task but Ashen had been raised on ship handling practically his whole life, and the vessel smoothly pulled out of the harbor inspire of the lack of visibility. From where they stood on the dock, Fakharu and the five handmaidens waved their goodbyes and gave short calls of good fortune on their journey. Navigating by star light the ship made it's heading for it's first, and likely most dangerous, stop. The Court of the Storm Mother Sikunare.

"Get some resy now me lads and lasses while ye can. By mornin well be in the lair of tha storm goddess, and I've a feelin' she'll be na be as hospitable as tha dragon be." Quietly the ship drifted off into the night under the sliver of moon light by the recreant form of luna above. By the next morning, it's journey would have officially, begun.

Nimin looked on as the last of his cadre walked onto the deck of the ship and disappeared below in short order. Before pulling the last of his possessions together and looking towards Fakharu one last time, he nodded. Doing his best to reassure the dragon of their mission. "We'll do what is necessary to return what was taken. Though I pray that she is still of sound health, given what we know of the sirens." He gave the dragon one last assured nod before walking ahead and going up the ramp before the deckhands began to work as freeing the ship in preparation for their journey.

After several steps on the deck he looked around. Hands moving back and forth to get their duties done. Nimin made his way below to find his own quarters. Such ships were not new to him and the location of the sleeping quarters were very simple to locate, though he was interested to see that the ship was well made and the quality of the accommodations was better than most other vessels he'd laid foot on.

Actual beds to sleep upon, not just wracks, or cots. He sat his bag down on the foot of his own bed only to look up and see a small water basin for bathing. An amenity that he'd not expect to see in someone's personal quarters. He would've been more surprised at this. Were it not for the fact that we he looked up from the basin to see a mirror staring him in the face. That he reached up and unhooked the item, placing it face down in the basin. "such a pity" He uttered, with a sigh in his breath.

He left his new quarters to look around the compartments on the deck. Taking this time to look in on his companions, taking count of them as he saw them. Making sure that all things were in their place before heading off.

It was then that he saw the woman from before. She'd made her way onto the ship before him and it was her arrival that made more than a simple impression. Unlike most of the others that arrived, who showed up with what they could bare to travel with. This one had arrived carrying what amounted to a small arsenal. He'd barely missed the small tagalong that she had with her, until it flittered off to some other part of the ship. A conversation for another time perhaps, though he did wish to address her.

He stepped forward ending much too short for arms length. "There is something to say about coming loaded for such eventualities as an all out war." He says with a wry smile. "Are you completely sure that all of that is necessary?" He ask, motioning to most of all that she is still currently wearing.

Astrid quietly padded her way down to the room she had occupied on the way here, many of her belongings had been left here when she ascended to the Spire. She had, since boarding, resumed human form and taken the time to suppress her Moonsilver tattoos. Three steel axes with the hilt worn smooth, two sets of spear (steel and cold iron,) a shield, but most prized of all was her oil painting of Lem and her. It was a remnant from simpler times, before she was called to work as an embodiment of The Lunar Goddess.

The bed was comfortable enough, much of the fine silk sheets and bedding having been stripped off when Astrid first boarded. They currently lay in a pile in the corner, in favor of several furs from her most thrilling hunts. They were comfortable and smelled like home, a place the chieftain was already beginning to miss, despite having left less than a week ago. Gathering up the furs into her arms, she inhaled the scent of her family. "I hope you're all doing well without me. I'll be home soon."

The Lunar girl began her ascent to the deck, eager to start the journey, perhaps even row with oars if that were to expedite their trip. "Hark! Let us do our best to grab Amarel quickly." Her words were addressed to no one in particular, but once her eyes settled on Calliope and Nimin, she started over to them.

---

The boat would suffice, though it was nothing compared to certain vessels aboard the Stygian, Creation often palled like that. His room was likewise sufficient for now, a coffin having been dragged in to sleep in. Fine purple velvet lined the inside, filled with downy from what some would consider sacred foul; not quite the crypt he was used to but it would suffice for now. It was at least enough to keep the Resonance from weighing down on his soul.

In the corner stood his suit of artifact armor. A Loathsome Osseous Shell, originally created by the Mask of Winter, adapted by Artisan for his own purposes. It was a beautiful creation, one almost entirely of bone and Soulsteel, and the fearsome seven-foot tall armor smiled back at the Abyssal. Attached to its shoulder was a device of his own creation, one that fired of its own accord at the wearer's enemies.

Artisan stared into the mirror above the water basin, his reflection showing the souls of the damned like a thick mist, cloying to him as they drifted around in a lazy roil. The image dissipated the moment he cupped a handful of water in his palms and splashed the cool liquid against his face. The boat rocked lazily beneath his feet, the voyage underway in earnest, soon they'd cross Sikunare's domain and head into untold waters. "Simple enough, we amount to a large army anyways. Some exiled spirits shouldn't be an issue to deal with. Regardless of who they have captive..."

The next morning, Ashen would find The Artisan That Which Souls Cling leaning on the wall outside his door. The figure was in his regular breastplate, saber strapped to his side. "Shouldn't we discuss passage into the Storm Mother's domain?" He moved off the wall, "Shall we rouse the rest?"

With a face as red as a beet, Lux followed behind the rest of the group as they all took to boarding the ship...she slipped through the motions, not uttering one single word as she attempted to make seem as small as absolutely possible. She absolutely wanted to vanish into dust right then and there—the whole day.... That whole day she’d done nothing but made a complete fool of herself! She’d come here at the behest of Fakharu, and asked to offer aid in rescuing his Amarel. And...that whole day she’d gotten up to nothing but shenanigans.

How embarrassing!

Lux could not bring herself to process any other thought in her head than that. Embarrassing, embarrassing, embarrassing. She’d made such an idiot of herself all day. Such an idiot.... She was NEVER drinking any kind of alcohol again, no matter how much others urged her to do so. Evidently, she and alcohol did not mix....

Here she was, supposed to spend the next…four weeks with these other Exalted, and what impression had she left on them, she could only wonder and fret over. Of course, she was never the best when it came to dealing with others given her past and how she rarely stayed in one place long...actually, four weeks? Four weeks might end up being the longest time she spent in the company of the same folk at any point in her life. Being in the company of the same people that long would be strange, and rather a different experience.... How it would feel to wake up and see the same faces that many mornings in a row, and seeing them before she would sleep as well...that was a thought Lux could not entirely bring herself to fathom as it surface within her mind amidst the chaos.

It was enough to rouse the Terrestrial’s awareness back to her surroundings as her feet hit the wooden deck of the boat again. Something about that...stepping foot again on the ship was enough to just push back all her anxiety for a moment as reality settled upon her—what exactly she was about to do, what she was doing. The gravity of the overall situation had been apparent to her, yet still. She’d humiliated herself today, got up to foolish antics—she’d slid down the banister in the dwelling of a Lesser God for Creation’s sake! And yet, she was still doing this, she was still going to do this, wasn’t she. Embarrassed or not, she was DOING this. It didn’t matter if she made an ass of herself today, she was still...doing this. After all was said and done, chances were high that she wouldn’t see any of these Exalted again, anyway...right? Her antics and shenanigans would fade into a distant, foggy memory for them and she’d be nothing than a temporary companion they’d shared a short adventure with. And that’s what they’d end up being to her as well.

This would happen, and then it’d be over. They would do what needed to be done—they’d rescue Amarel as agreed and part ways. Such was life.

A shaky breath exited Lux’s lips, as she turned around, and leaned upon the railing of the ship...coming to terms with her thoughts and doing her best to shove aside her mortification. Though she would be in the company of this group for a time longer than she was used to, it was temporary and fleeting as was everything in her life. This was how she lived her life. Going along with her whims and traveling to wherever life seemed to take her. Temporary, temporary, temporary...this was all temporary....

Today was just a mess, a mess that didn’t matter and that would just be an embarrassing, distant memory soon enough...it meant nothing. Settling upon that thought, the Fire Exalted let out a long, deep breath as she did her best to soothe herself. Today meant nothing in the grand scheme….

As the boat jutted forward, leaving the dock behind, Lux let out a startled noise, being rattled from her thoughts and nearly knocked to her rear for the umpteenth time that day. She reflexively grabbed onto the boat’s railing to steady herself, groaning and grumbling, rather fatigued of her suddenly common episodes of absentmindedness and clumsiness. She had to remind herself, all this was as temporary and as fleeing as the rest of her life.... It’d be over in four weeks and she’d be on her way somewhere else, never to see anyone involved again.... They’d be as okay with that as she was.

At least, that was what Lux was telling herself and rather believed, til she looked up and back at the shrinking shoreline. Fakharu himself was waving, as well as...the handmaids. All five of them were rather energetically and enthusiastically waving their goodbyes, and Lux knew, she knew they were waving with such vigor in part at her. She had wanted to tell herself that today was just a random occurrence, that it meant nothing and that this was as temporary as everything else she’d even known. That she’d never see these people again...that it meant nothing more. But....

She heard Nāgasāni call out, her voice barely distinguishable overtop the sound of waves and wind. “Take care, Lady Lux! Return to us safe, please!”

....today wasn’t just something that would mean nothing in the long run, was it. It wasn’t. It was the start of...something. A something Lux wasn’t quite sure of. Though she’d embarrassed herself like no other, the handmaids...they.... And she.... They specifically wanted her to return safe. Yes, they were counting on her and the others to rescue Amarel safely, but...Nāgasāni’s last words to her were asking that she’d come back to them safely instead of reminding her of her mission. That...realization made something flutter within Lux’s heart, and she swallowed back a pitiful noise that wanted to slip from her throat. She said nothing, and bit back the nearly overwhelming emotions she felt as she raised her own hand, and slowly waved back specifically to the five handmaidens before she turned on her heel, inhaled sharply and walked by the rest of the group, not even registering anything anyone had said as she made her way toward her cabin for the night.

This was...quite a day, and she...was rather just done for the time being. She’d gather her scruples and whatnot come the morning....

It was the first light of the next morning when Ashen decended down to the crew quarters. He yawned, haven been up most of the night guiding the boat though the dark and was only vaguely aware of anyone else already up and about. He was hungry, not having eaten a thing since the impromptu banquet at breakfast in Fakharu's spire. But while food was first on his mind, a close second was a minor worry niggling at the back of his mind as he started going through the kitchen was what they were going to do when they reached their destination at noon. Their first stop, the court of Sikunare the storm mother. Ashen knew from the tales his parents and fellow sailors told of the short and viscous temper of the storm mothers, and it was every sailors dread to catch their attentions. Vain and spiteful creatures, with a anger match only by their hideousness. Their fastest course would have to take them right through her territory, and they'd be doing so with a ship full of the one thing that storm mothers hated above all else and would gladly sink whole fleets just to destroy.

Women.

Artisan watched with mild interest as Ashen blearily went through his morning, following quietly after the Lunar who seemed absorbed in thoughts. The Abyssal was not wearing his armor for once, and was surprisingly light on his feet as he trailed the half-awake pirate. As Ashen Sky was the only other one to prove themselves reasonable so far, the deathknight thought it would be prudent to discuss their next course of action proceeding forward.

Ashen sighed as he pulled out a frying pan and a wooden spoon. Whelp, they'd have cross that bridge when they got to it, and maybe hope their status as exalted would nudge her towards restraint. Deciding that the plan of attack regarding that would probably best be made by the committee. He took the frying pan and began to beat the spoon against it in an attempt to marshal the troops while he shouted out in seatongue. "Oi! Waky waky eggs 'n baccy. If any o' ya lot want ah hot breakfast git yer lazy bums outta bed in tha next fifteen. Were havin' ah war council over mornin' meal!" After a few more minutes of making a racket with the kitchen utensils, the Changing moon made his way back to the stove, and set about kindling the coals inside. As he worked, he looked over his shoulder behind him and, still speaking in sea tongue, asked. "Soooo... how much do ye know about storm mothers?"

Artisan stared on at Ashen Sky with slight confusion, his words seemingly meaningless drivel. Of course, it would not have been out of Fakharu's realm of power to provide some sort of translating magic, it was certainly unexpected that the Exalted here weren't fluent in High Realm. This could be quite the boon, or an insurmountable issue. He took a seat, waiting for the rest to arrive or Ashen to finish cooking, quietly musing to himself. "Hopefully someone here is from the Realm, and can speak properly."

It wasn't terribly long after that Astrid same striding down the hall into the messroom, immediately giving Artisan an annoyed glare. "Astrid! Would you by any chance, spe-"

The Lunar quickly cut him off, "High Realm, yes... She raises an eyebrow while crossing both arms, turning to the preoccupied chef, "Ashen do you speak the language of the Realm?" Artisan gave a warm smile to Astrid, before gesturing to Ashen, "Indeed, he does not."

Astrid lets out a quiet sigh, "Just saying no," Astrid paused, making air quotes with her fingers before continuing, "Would be so much quicker..."[/color] With a bored yawn, her eyes turn back to Ashen, asking him in Riverspeak, "We have a small problem when it comes to talking with each other..?"

Ashen blinked and responded. "Wha? Ye was speaking seatongue just ah-" Then the changing moon stopped as the realisation clicked in his head. "Fakahru right." He slapped a palm to his forehead. The fact that the group had more or less been assembled from differnet parts of creation apeared to have left his mind up until this moment. Ashen spoke again. This time in a butchered version of highrealm. "Aye ey knuw oh bit oo rivspee and 'igh realm. Tha ay thin' me rivespee 's bitter as ey 'ad mur practas wiv it." He rolled his tongue around, feeling very out of place trying to speak the language of the realms noblity. He only barely managed to pick up a second hand version of it as a sailor, and was just enough to pass during his brief stint in the realm itself, little good that it did to him then. He switched to riverspeak from then on. "Ay hope tha rest ah tha crew's gat some way of speakin' tha same tongue. 'Cause this trip just got a little more awkward."

The Deathknight simply stared on in mild confusion, looking to Astrid, who was beginning to smirk at him, then to Ashen, giving them both a pleading look. "W-what?" He shifted uncomfortably in his armor before seeming to regain his composure, "We have hardly have time for this anyways, we are only a few hours way from the Storm Mother's and we haven't decided our course of action to navigate through it."

"Ashen just informed you, that he, 'Knuw oh bit oo rivspee and 'igh realm." Astrid's mocking of his accent proved enough to lift her own mood, and she let out a chuckle which quickly turned into a laughing fit. "Yer bee' reel roo', Artsin! Ansa th' pour man." Artisan quickly replied by burying his face in his hands, and letting out a tired sigh. Ashen's ears drooped slightly. "Dun muck. Ar trin'" He groused. Switching back to riverspeak he spoke again. "But 'e's right. We're goin' be in tha court o' a storm mother by noon. Tha question o' how we goin' pass through. She might know more 'bout tha sirens, but tha have a repu-rep." He stumbled for a few seconds. "Thay got nasty tempers aright. An oftan wan't bribes fer safe passage."

Astrid, having finally managed to compose herself and stop laughing, beamed a wide smile at Ashen. "I don't suppose I could just punch her in the nose and we'll be on our way while she's reforming?" She said it jokingly, but, secretly still hoped someone would assent. Ashen fit her with a blank stare and muttered to himself in seatongue. "This is why women should stay on dry land." He turned around and put the frying pan on the stove and started rummaging through the cuboards for something to start cooking with. Returning to Riverspeak he responded. "Well we could try that. But we'd ave to go out inta tha middle of the ocean ta do it. On 'er 'ome turf. Than face 'er wrath on tha return trip back. An' like ay said, they 'ave a temper. She'd nah forget tha insult. 'Specially if it were a woman tha did it."

As Ashen spoke, his Full Moon counterpart's smile slowly faded. His tone had been mildly insulting, even if she hadn't fully understood what he'd said, Lem taught her more than enough to learn when someone was picking a fight. The last thing he said was the nail in the coffin. With a withering scowl, she queried him, "Pray tell... What's wrong with women?" She crossed her arms, stance promising discipline if his response wasn't to her liking. Ashen could feel the hairs on the back of his neck prick up, and his tail very slightly puffed up. The heat of her voice and the implied challenge triggering an insticutal responese. Slowly and calmly he put down the bag of rice and the butter he'd pulled out and said over his sholder. "Tha problem ain't wit women persay, but wit 'ow spirits out 'ere see em. Thar's a reason why ya don't see many girls on ships out in tha west. 'Cause ships tha carry 'em tend to go missin' at sea or 'ave all manner of misshap on board."

Feeling placated, the other Lunar dropped her threatening pose, "Fakharu picked us personally. She wouldn't start a war with us over something so trivial... Right?" Feeling a tap on her should, she turned back to Artisan. Before he could even ask, Astrid summarized Ashen and her's exchange in the language of the Realm. The Deathknight perked back up telling Astrid, "Tell Ashen that the easiest way through would be a simple explanation and bribe. She gave him an annoyed look, "Artisan said he's hungry; Ashen can understand you. It's just a bad accent, you dolt." With a frown, and slight blush of embarrassment Artisan looked to Ashen "Ah, well no matter. Are you agreed?"

Having heard Ashen’s shouts from the galley below, Lux managed to wrest herself free from her bed...the night had been long and sleep had been sparse for the Terrestrial as she couldn’t help but bring herself to ruminate over the previous day’s happenings and what exactly it all meant, as well as suffering from her usual bouts of nightmares. This trip was...definitely going to be different and it was the start of perhaps an entirely new chapter of her short life. It seemed like every several years, her life underwent some kind of drastic change.... And this whole adventure was the start of her life’s newest chapter. And, quite honestly, Lux wasn’t sure how to feel about that. She’d never had the luxury before of knowing when her life was about to change, it’d always been so sudden, happened so...violently.

The best thing she could do was deal with things as they came, as always. And try not to make herself look like more of a fool, as she did yesterday.

Dressed in her usual travelling clothes, sans her green-hooded cape and with her Lantern attached to one of her belt loops, Lux trundled through the swaying ship, her hair still mussed from sleep, til she eventually found the gathering place of the other currently awake Exalted...who seemed in the midst of some kind of discussion as Ashen was...cooking breakfast, apparently.

Still half-asleep, and not entirely cognizant, the little Fire Aspect quietly shuffled into the room in and mumbled a quiet, “Mornin’ all....” to the lot in her native tounge, Riverspeak, as she took a seat at the nearby table, barely capable of acknowledging the two Lunars and the Deathknight.

"Morin'" Ashen responed. "we're havin' fried rice fer mornin meal." He began melting the butter in the pan and added the rice a few minutes later. Then he switched to High realm. "cin ye spee 'igh realm. Cus 'e mught b avin' a spea prublem."

Lux stared at Ashen blearily and wearily, a visible grimace overcoming her face as her brain registered him speaking in what might’ve been the most butchered High Realm she’d ever heard audibly spoken.... Was he doing that on purpose to mess with her or something...? She might’ve been tired but, for the love of Creation! So, communication might be a problem then if she couldn’t speak High Realm? It’d seemed like yesterday before that everyone had no issue communicating, the matter of language never came up. Lux came to the most logical conclusion she could; mmmmmagic.

Specifically, some weird hocus pocus that came from Fakharu himself...made sense.

Consciously, Lux switched her speech, it’d been a while so she might be a touch rusty but.... “Yes, I can speak High Realm, my caretaker was fluent in it and taught me to speak it. I also know Seatongue, Riverspeak and Forest-Tongue. I hope that’s sufficient for communication purposes?” Lux gave Ashen a tired look, still speaking High Realm for the sake of Artisan and Astrid. She wasn’t sure which of the two wouldn’t be able to understand her if she spoke in another tongue, “And I hope you were just faking that horrid accent, because you’re committing linguistic murder, otherwise.”

"Surry, naw Surry, 'igh realm ain't 'ave much prac- pra... naw used ta." He swapped to seatongue as he set a pot of water next to the stove. "But I'm surprised you can speak my hometongue. It's not that common outside of the west and south west. I guess that makes you our translator. That said we should update you on what we were discussing" Switching again to riverspeak he started to fill her in on the issue of Sikurane and how they might approach her.

Waiting for Ashen to finish what he presumed was a summary of the meeting, Artisan leaned forward in his seat, smiling warmly and with a look of mild excitement. "Ah, Lady Lux, your caretaker has taught you well. Your High Realm is impeccable, far better than Sir Ashen's, er... honest attempts. I'm glad to know I will have you along for conversation. Lunars and Abyssals don't really get along." Seeming to remember himself, the Deathknight cleared his throat and settled back in his chair. "So what say you on the matter, Lady Lux? A simple bribe and lip service would be enough to deal with Sikunare, surely?" At that moment he suddenly became aware of a near murderous gaze coming from the Full Moon barbarian standing only slightly behind him. She was looming over him while tapping out an irritated rhythm on her thigh with an index finger. Far from a fool, the Abyssal immediately shut up.

Lux glanced between Artisan and Astrid—frankly surprised since this was the most the Abyssal had spoken to her thus far...and also equally surprised by the slightly homicidal aura emanating off the Lunar. It took her a second to even process what she’d been told by Ashen, everything about Sikunare and Artisan’s excited rambling over her High Realm and him urging her to agree with his approach toward dealing with the Storm Mother.... When it came to it, she really had no room to give an opinion on the matter. In the past, she’d had brief dealings with spirits here and there, just strange minute interactions that she could never rationalize or understand. Those senselessly odd, confusing moments added nothing of value to her knowledge.

“Ah, I’m not....” she started, speaking High Realm again, looking down at her lap whilst she started uncertainly wringing her hands, “I-I’m not sure that I am qualified to voice an opinion on this matter? It’s probably better if I defer to everyone else’s judgment...until meeting with Lord Fakharu yesterday....” Lux wasn’t quite sure how to word it, “Quite honestly, the only knowledge I have regarding spirits and anything in that realm comes from the quite frankly bizarre interactions and nonsensical dealings I’ve had with them in the past. I hardly think I’m qualified to have a say in this matter. I understand the barest basics, as my caretaker made sure to educate me on those at least, but that's it.”

Artisan began to talk, but Astrid simply put her hand on his shoulder and squeezed, rendering the Abyssal mute and very tense. The chieftain took a few steps forward, until she was standing at the corner of the table nearest the young fire aspect. "Hey," Slowly and gently, she put a hand on Lux's chin, raising it so that their eyes met. "You are the only Terrestrial chosen by Fakharu for this very important mission. He believes in you, and more importantly, I believe in you." Her eyes lingered for a moment, inhuman intensity burning in them, before releasing Lux's chin and looking away. With a shrug she quietly added "Creation is a bizarre and nonsensical place, your interactions and dealings are as worth at least as much as mine..."

A flush ran across Lux’s face, the memory of her dealings with Astrid the day before coming to surface in conjunction of what she’d just said made the tiny Terrestrial’s heart feel as if it’d leapt into her throat. For several seconds, the girl was utterly silent, as she just stared at the Lunar a little dumbstruck. She was the only Terrestrial chosen for this journey...or, perhaps she was the only Terrestrial who’d decided to join in on this journey. It certainly meant something that Fakharu would’ve summoned her in the first place, and it meant quite a bit to her that she had Astrid’s vote of confidence so readily. However....

The tiniest little nervous laugh slipped from Lux’s throat as her expression morphed, and she smiled most nervously. She didn’t want to seem dismissive of Astrid’s sureness in her—she really did appreciate it! But...but there was still what she thought about her own self and what her role would be in all this...insanity. She’d agreed to help save Amarel because she felt it was the “right thing to do,” she didn’t agree to do it because she thought she was capable of doing it. Lux felt compelled to the cause.

“I...thank you, Miss Astrid. I very much appreciate your confidence in me; it really does mean a lot.” she responded, side-stepping the root of the impromptu pep talk. Lux adjusted herself in her seat, setting her elbows upon the tabletop, and twining her fingers together before her, looking as if she were going to pray. “Regardless, I agreed to undertake this journey only because I felt compelled to do so, because it felt like it was the right thing to do. My usefulness or worth...well, I just want to do whatever I can do to help. If that means only being a extra set of hands, then that’s fine with me. How to handle Sikunare, I choose to withhold my opinion, for now....”

With a dismissive shrug of her shoulders, Astrid simply sighed; in her experience, the small ones were always the most hesitant to act. "Suit yourself. You are far from the first youngster afraid to step forward." Turning around, she raised a spread palm to her mouth, poorly hiding a cat-like yawn. Prowling around Artisan, Astrid's left foot kicked out one of the free chairs by the deathknight, before taking a seat, perhaps a bit more forcefully than necessary. The chair slid across the recently polished floor, making only the slightest bit of noise. With a bemused smile, she kicked a metal greave up onto the edge of the table, pushing against it so that her chair was balanced on only its back two legs. "I guess it's up to the rest of you to decide. I care little as long as we are quick and not wasteful."

The chieftain's posture suddenly relaxed, her head lolling back so that her eyes seemed to stare up at the ceiling, or perhaps off into the distance. Seemingly more to herself, and without concern for being overheard, she whispered in a confident tone, "Someday... You will be forced to step forward, little Dragon. Creation isn't for the hesitant." The Abyssal seemed pleased with the situation, something Astrid could sense without even having to look at him, which annoyed her even more. However, the trip was going to be a long one, which she reasoned would give her plenty of time to teach the fool his lesson.

Artisan loudly clapped his hands together once, before giving a mischievous smile towards Ashen Sky. "Well, it seems it is up to us, Sir Nimin and Lady Calliope. My vote is already cast, how goes the cooking Sir Ashen?"

"Yap, shuld b rady in..." Ashen's response trailed off as he actually looked at the pan he'd left unattended for the last few minutes and noticed the small smoke trail billowing upwards from the edges. Giving a shout of "AW SHADS!" he scrambled to salvage breakfast. Minutes later, one by one the rest of the crew arrived to a filling meal of dried fruits, jerky, and slightly burnt rice.

Nimin sat through most of the morning with his pipe in hand, slowly taking one draw after the other. Watching as the whole conversation unfolded, while scanning through several pages of his book.

Off from the start he could tell that they'd have some issue with communication, despite how novel he found Ashen's vocal inflections to be. He was more than willing to deal with anyone who could catch his eye in the least. Though he did step in when Astrid spoke in regards to Lux. Keeping his tongue in the cleanest form of common that he could offer.
"It's not the point that someone might, or might no be afraid of stepping forward. It's simply the fact that more than a few of us gathered here are not going to be used to doing something like this. I can speak for myself whey I say that when it comes to subterfuge. I find myself not very motivated to do such things and as to our benefactor, I can only say that the possibility of such requirements being needed are still a possibility." He returns to pulling another breath through his pipe, giving his words a moment to soak in. "Now were this an epidemic of some disease, or some form of fever that was overtaking a small town on the frontier. Maybe even some sort of uprising that was costing the lives of hundreds. Then I'd be more inclined to put my foot forward. Even as it sits, I'm not unaccustomed to rescue missions, but we must not forget the scope of who it is we may be stepping between here."
Closing his book, Nimin stands and approaches. Making himself more center to the group before continuing.

"Now as I see it we have two choices."
"Either going to the target of all this directly. Seeing as this not only threatens Fakharu, but Sikunare as well. We should be able to ask that they either give us open pass in her territory, or direct help with retrieving the prisoner. Because if they're willing to blatantly kidnap someone so close to one dragon as to force their hand. Then they're most likely desperate enough to try something even more drastic. Which in Sikunare's case, she should be more than willing to avoid at this point.

"That, or we find allies among the people who have problems with the sirens as well, and if that should fail. We should be able to come up with a more conventional way of dealing with them, and retrieving Amarel in the best state possible."

The group continued with breakfast and their discussion. One by one the others joined them and were brought up to speed on the issue. As the meal was winding down to a close, it was uninterrupted by a thunderclap in the distance. Ashen went rigged at the sound, his ears pointing straight and one of his chop sticks clattering against the plate. "Aw shads..." He muttered, before standing up and briskly walking to the port side window. He opened it and leaned out. Sure enough, on the horizon dark clouds had appeared where previously it had been a clear sky. Gingerly he leaned out and glanced down with trepidation. The sea had started to change color, to that a of a deep purplish green. It was the sign that the ship had passed into the storm mothers territory.

"Whelp." He muttered and turned back to the rest gathered at the table. "Tha point ma be muut...She knaws were 'ere." In that sea, Ashen could spot a trio of sharks circling the ship. It didn't take any great skill in observation to spot the telltale shimmer of stars on their scales and deduce that the three were no mere beast. "An looks like she sent us sum un ta greet us..."

An uncharacteristic nervousness befell the changing moon as he shut the window. His ears flattened themselves against his skull and he ground his teeth. He spoke again in river-speak. "I don' suppose any o' ye brought an offerin' with ye did ya?" He shook his head. "Nevermind... Let's go greet out guest."

He marched upstairs and trusted the others to follow him.

Up on the deck the sharks could still be seen circling in the water. They paused their patrol as the first of the exalts appeared on deck, and when a significant number of them had surfaced they leapt out of the water. Clearing the rail, the shark spirits change shape mid leap and land upon the deck in a new form, one that reminiscent of a humanoid shark. The leader of the trio stepped forward and gave a short bow. "Greetings honored exalts. We recognize your ship as of Fakharu's make. Lady Sikunare bids you welcome to her domain and has sent us to guide you to her court." The shark spirit raised it's head and smile with a row full of serrated teeth. Ashen noted that there had been no mention of their attendance in her court being optional.

She remained rather quiet throughout breakfast, mostly getting her fill from the available stock of dried fruits. While she did very much appreciate the effort Ashen had put into cooking rice, the fact that it was even slightly burnt was enough to turn her stomach...perhaps there was a bit of irony in that, given her status as a Fire Aspect.... It was something that couldn’t be helped; it wasn’t a matter of her being fussy if it actually made her nauseated. The issue was something with which she’d always dealt. Vered used to say she was being childish or immature, even rude, whenever she would refuse to eat something that had even a little char. The bit about it outright refusal of food being rude had always stuck with her, enough so that she always did her best to be discreet about it.

Things were as peaceful as they could be upon the sea for a while, and Lux continued to nibble upon various and unidentifiable fruits, just content that they still at least carried their natural sweetness with them.... Lux’s mindless peace was interrupted, however, when a vicious rumble of thunder echoed out, causing her to violently flinch, dropping her half-eaten fruit.

....she didn’t need to know much of anything about Spirits to know that probably meant...something important, and it probably had something to do with the apparently appropriately titled “Storm Mother,” Sikunare.

Recovering herself, Lux took note of Ashen’s comments, which otherwise confirmed her suspicions—indeed the Storm Mother was making them aware that she was aware. And that she was not letting them enter her territory without first asserting herself. While Lux had not known Ashen but for a day, the fact that he was definitely nervous about this was something that struck her as atypical for him. That Sikunare had sent a welcoming party for them...it had the Lunar worried. Probably understandable. Though matters regarding Spirits were far beyond Lux’s understanding, she was still intelligent enough to know that this situation was one to treat gingerly. After the fiasco that was yesterday, Lux reminded herself that she needed to keep it together today—Fakharu was definitely tolerant of the various shenanigans that occurred within his spire only because he was asking the group she was a part of for help. She’d more than made a fool of herself yesterday in his presence...and out of it.

The little Dragon-Blooded knew that such informality before a being that bore the title of “Storm Mother” would indeed not be abided. Lux needed to keep it together as best she could and not lose herself in any sort of hullabaloo today.

Ashen made an off-handed comment in Riverspeak that she caught as he made his way out of the galley to head to the deck, something about if anyone’d brought an offering...what sort of offering would be appropriate to this situation anyway? Lux DEFINITELY had no idea, and without knowing, the best thing that could be done was to be as respectful to Sikunare’s people as possible and hope for the best.

Saying nothing, the Fire Aspect rose to her feet, the Lantern coming to rest against her hip. She followed behind Ashen, a pensive expression upon her face as she ran her fingers through her still rather mussed hair. However, the hallway between the interior of the ship and its exterior was a tad…dark. And Lux’s eyes had yet to adjust, so before she could make it to the stairs she...tripped. It’d felt like something had wrapped around her ankle and purposefully made her lose balance! Naturally, Lux yelped and did her best to catch herself before on...something before fell over entirely. Not that her efforts did anything to help. If anything, her trying to do something only made the situation worse as her hand came to rest on an unsteady something-or-other, and when she fell, the something-or-other came tumbling down with her, and on top of her.

It was something metallic, and from within it was something squawking and panicking...a bird? The noises coming from the creature were what brought Lux back to cognizance so quickly. “For the love of Creation, just when I’m trying to make an effort to not make an idiot of myself....” she grumbled, flustered and hurrying to stand as she untangled herself from the various things that’d fallen upon her during her tumble. “And why is there a live bird just sitting in a dark hallway on a ship anyway...?”

Continuing to quietly kvetch to herself, Lux mostly managed to free herself and get back to her feet...save for one thing. The bird cage. The damnable thing had gotten ensnared on her belt loop, the one opposite her Lantern’s. Inside the cage, the bird was still calling, angry and as irritated as she probably was. Try as she might, Lux was unable to get the thing off her belt loop without being able to see. She did NOT have time for this right now! After about ten more second of senseless fiddling, Lux just groaned and gave up on the matter for the time being. Even if she looked the part of a fool again, it was better she be present when greeting those sent by Sikunare than not.

Continuing to grumble silently within her own head, Lux made her way up the stairs and onto the deck to be greeted by the sight of...humanoid shark...spirits? She’d missed their emergence from the waters below, but she had not missed the “welcome” from the one who she assumed was the leader of the bunch. He(?) greeted all on deck with a graceful bow, “Greeting honored Exalts, we recognize your ship as of Fakharu’s make. Lady Sikunare bids you welcome to her domain and has sent you to guide you to her court.”

The shark spirit raised up his (and Lux was only assuming his gender due to the voice that emanated from him at this point) head, and smiled at the lot of them, his mouth full of knife-like teeth. The mere sight of them was enough to make Lux nearly cringe, but she kept her composure. Though, perhaps that was the intent. He revealed his predatory teeth to intimidate, make himself even more frightening than his large stature already did. Indeed, he was...imposing. Perhaps this introduction was something of a test; a way to see who was cowardly and weak-willed among them...? Spirits were fickle, and their ways so strange that they were unknowable in every sense. That Sikunare would decide to see who could be easily disheartened and daunted upon entering her territory would be sensical...by the logic of a being such as herself...probably.

Lux took in a breath, gathering herself as best she could—Ashen hadn’t responded to the spirit, and...someone had to, right? Ignoring the still twittering bird that was caged and stuck to her side, Lux returned the gesture, bowing to the trio of spirits. Creation, hopefully she didn’t do something stupid and anger them.... “It is most gracious of Lady Sikunare to extend to us a personal welcome and guides to her court.” she stood back to her full height, a calm and serious expression upon her face as she made eye contact with whom she assumed was the leader of the spiritual trio. “The gestures are very much appreciated.” Not wanting to speak for anyone but herself, she did her best to keep her words neutral and polite, considering she probably looked like enough of a fool as is since she had a bird cage at one of her hips with a very irritated big in it....

A hush had fallen over the group, one that Astrid was treating with mild disdain; her children had sat in a similar uneasy silence upon experiencing their first thunderstorm and she hadn't signed up for this expedition to play at being Mother, she got more than enough of that at home. She idly picked at the burnt rice, taking bites from it more out of boredom than any real hunger, the burned parts had a smoky crunch to them, but it was nothing worse than some of the burnt offerings she was usually expected to eat. She shot a quick glare at the deathknight, who was politely playing with his food, pretending to eat more of it than he actually was.

A bored sneer almost left her lips, but the little hairs on the back of her neck stood up and Astrid's focus was completely on Ashen Sky as he seemingly noticed the same thing. His words barely registered as she abruptly stood up to her full height, sending the chair she had been seated in skittering across the floor. Her body language became eerily still for a couple of seconds, before she casually returned to motion, following closely behind Ashen.

The Artisan frowned to himself for a few moments, watching the two Lunars quickly make their egress from the room. He was one of the last to leave the room, but the noise and sight of Lady Lux fumbling about in the dark was more than enough to elicit a chuckle as he slowly stood up and made his way to the deck. Just before taking the stairs above-deck, Artisan could hear Lux finishing up a polite greeting. After letting out a small sigh of relief that Astrid hadn't been the one to speak first, he made his way upstairs to stand with the rest of the Exalts before quickly realizing he had sighed too soon.

The Lunar chieftain began prowling the moment the shark spirit had landed; her gait was slow and meticulous, circling around the shark spirit in a way very similar to a shark circling its prey. Thankfully she was still in human form, and Artisan quickly tried to interject before she could make an incident out of this, "We are here on behalf of Lord Fak-" His words were quickly lost under the bark of laughter coming from Astrid, who had stopped directly in front of the shark spirit, interposing herself between the spirit and other Exalted.

"Well..? Some of us are in a hurry. So. Let's. Go." She poked her index finger into the shark's chest at the end of each sentence, as if to punctuate her point. "Or would you prefer us to tell Fakharu how we were delayed by an overgrown. Upstart. Fish?"

Had it been physically possible, Artisan's face would have turned even paler as the Lunar made it clear she wasn't impressed with their escorts. "Apologies for Lady Astrid's lack of decorum, but she is correct that we are on an urgent matter for the Western Censor; a matter he would be undoubtedly grateful to have resolved sooner rather than later; if you would be so kind as to escort us to see Lady Sikunare?" With a gracious smile, he hoped that a sense of duty and a healthy fear of the not entirely sane barbarian would be enough to keep the shark spirit from starting a pointless fight.