Freyd 0 Posted September 19, 2020 Author #21 Share Posted September 19, 2020 There was an unusual tremble and fragility's touch that hadn't been there before. I stole a glance, but she was averting her gaze from everything these days. She was near the point of collapse. Not good. Fonsa, meanwhile, had been relatively quiet. Mari's detached state of mind, combined with the NPC's physical injuries, had provided the opportunity I needed. Fortunately, her programming for this quest prevented her from healing. I was able to learn more about the Order of the Night Lily, the devastating war between the forest and dark elves, and the Queen's desperate gamble to end it all. Every account and bit of evidence I had seen suggested that her efforts had failed. It took a bit of negotiation, but I eventually bartered a deal that would see her and her husband quietly relocated to the Vale of Ruins - another nearby settlement beyond the influence of the Queen's Council. In exchange, she provided me with the Queen's diadem. It was the impossible proof she had been sent to find, and confirmed her story. The outbursts of emotion when Fonsa and Tythen reunited was excessive, but not unexpected. I promptly excused myself, having already made the necessary arrangements, and picked up some warm food and my way back out of town. Mari wouldn't have easy access to such things. Hopefully, it would bring her some small comfort. "I'm doing it again, aren't I?" The words managed to be heard out loud this time. Yes. Remember: resolve. These things are necessary. "Yes, but to what end, and for who?" Because, when the day finally comes, and it is time to leave this place, we won't be going. Our place is here. "That's why we need to ensure that Mari makes it. Why she needs to find her strength again. They'll need her to get out, past us." There was no sadness, and no self-pity. I had made this decision long ago without realizing. It was what allowed me to do the things that were necessary, even if vile or unscrupulous. The pieces on the board had to be set up ready to deal with all contingencies for the other sides' moves. Unlike most players, I had simply come to realize a crucial truth: I had to ready to manipulate or sacrifice any piece, including myself. That is the true measure of resolve. *** "Here," I said, handing her a still-steaming bun fresh out of the baker's oven, along with assorted packets of delectable meats and steamed vegetables. "We need to escort them both to a safe place in the morning, then it'll be done. I thought you might like something from in town for a change." I sat next to her, without knowing why. She seemed to like warmth, and the blankets would only stretch so far. If her pattern continued, I would simply keep watch, and make sure she got the rest that she needed. It was fine. Someone needed to look out for Mari when she refused to look out for herself. I'd normally suggest anyone but myself, but there was no one else here. Resolve. *** Thread Summary: All players receive 3 SP (1 base + 1 event + 1 quest) and can proceed with <<Escaping the Underdark>> 800 col Link to post Share on other sites
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