[ Chime, chime! ] Ahem, excuse me, Lord Archibald? I'm terribly sorry to bother you so late in the evening, but I've heard from my fellow peers that you've been saying some odd things. It's good to have some ego, you know, but you shouldn't let it grow so large.
What I'm saying is that in my short time here, I've already deciphered that you are--[ Very careful to say that instead of 'were', isn't she thoughtful? ]--a Master of the Fourth Holy Grail War and that your Servant is here. Have you been made aware that there are numerous Servants here, many that are far more clever than I, that would kill you just for that fact alone?
Then there's the matter of your house name. A thing to be proud of, for sure, but as I'm the only one here who you could possibly be showing off for, isn't it in poor taste to be doing so? I'm a student of the Clock Tower and to see someone show blatant disregard to the rules we have followed since childhood isn't good. As my elder, I was hoping to expect better from you, but if you can't obey the basic rulings, how can I trust you to be an ideal role model?
In short, I think it's best for the both of us if you keep certain things quiet. The less people who can pick up on us being from our world, the better of a chance we have together to rise to power in this world. You do understand what I'm saying, don't you? If not, I could try to explain it in terms a child would be able to follow, but from what I hear you're one of the greatest academic minds in the Clock Tower. I don't think such rudeness is necessary, do you?
Please contact me at your earliest convenience to confirm that you received this, else I'll be forced to send another message in a way more fitting of our kind.
[it's been a really long day, so a break in the action is welcome...
...and then Kayneth gets a message.
He listens to the message.
A few minutes pass after it finishes.
Rin receives a message very, very late in the day, then...!]
While I appreciate your concern, Miss Tohsaka, I'll be happy to inform you that I am completely aware of my situation and my surroundings --- perhaps even more so than you, actually.
For you see, approximately five minutes after arriving here I became aware that I was not, in fact, in a world resembling our own, but in a world where magic is not only public knowledge, but outright lauded by those who live here. To insist on maintaining secrecy with regard to one's status as a mage would be completely pointless and outright counterproductive to any sort of personal advancement... unless, of course, one happened to be such a terrible mage that they were embarrassed by their lack of skill.
Furthermore, anyone with any knowledge of the Operation of Parallel Worlds and the Holy Grail War would be able to assume that without being present in the same world as where the Holy Grail War is intended to take place and the fact that none of us can be quite certain that a kill would even count for their own world here, most participants on my side of the conflict would be able to set aside their differences and make proper diplomatic negotiations short of some sort of aimless grudge. Ones on the other side of the war would be out for my blood regardless...
Actually, given your family's connection to both Zelretch and the founding of the Holy Grail War, shouldn't you be well aware of that fact? Curious.
Honestly, given that the Tohsaka of the Fourth Holy Grail War seemed like a respectable man and the family has such a good reputation, I gave out my name and title in the interests extending an alliance to a relative of his... but I'm actually beginning to reconsider that decision.
There are plenty of other people to make alliances with, though, so I can't say that's too much of a loss. Regardless, I wish you good luck in your endeavors, as you're apparently going to need it.
[ There must be a good reason why Waver never took the initiative when it came to dealing with this man, but she doubts it's because of this. It's almost as if Kayneth knew where she was most vulnerable in and for a moment, she wonders when she ever gave that impression. It must have been something she said or maybe he's lucked out? Regardless, any mention of her father is enough to make her lower her head in shame.
Right now she's torn. Is this a man she wants to pursue an alliance with even after he's turned her down due to her childish way of going about it or is she better off being removed from his radar, to study and work in peace without fear of an enemy magus stabbing her in the back? Admittedly, these are decisions she should have made ahead of time and if she were to seek out companionship, it'd have to be done in a matter of intimidation.
That's it. He spelled it out so clearly for her that she almost feels a fool for overlooking it. ]
Thank you for confirming all of that for me, Lord Archibald. You see, when we arrived and first exchanged communication over this locket, I suspected we were on opposing ends of the war here and as a result, I wasn't sure what to make of you.
[ She still doesn't. ] However, it seems you're well aware of my standing here. If my father and an associate from the Church were to arrive here to see you scorned a heir of the Tohsaka family, how do you believe they would act? It wouldn't look good on either of us.
Should we discuss this further or consider the matter done with?
As a note, your Lancer class servant mentioned the Grail War to me in conversation, rather lightly. I maintained agreed upon cover, but I suspect that you may not wish for him to be telling all and sundry about the matters back home.
Acknowledgement of note appreciated, but not needed.
Really? I'll have a discussion about that with him, then. He absolutely insists on coming off as forthright and honest so it's not surprising, but he could learn a bit of discretion.
[ It's so odd to address someone other than Waver that way. ]
If you are in the vicinity of Caer Glaem or can be quickly please respond. Cothromach is under attack from Unseelie forces and we need all the sorcerers we can gather to help defend the fortress.
[...that errand keeps getting pushed back further and further... a bit of a callous thought of him to have when you get that sort of news, but Kayneth was never really the pinnacle of sensitivity.]
...in the midst of those exhumations the fairies want us to do? Good lord, our enemies have a terrible sense of timing.
I will be there as soon as I possibly can, of course. Who else have you spoken to about it so far, in terms of sorcerers?
Three others. Cothromach is five days travel minimum from Caer Glaem itself -- how soon can you be ready? Our forces will be on the move soon, you would be safer to travel with the regiment than alone. That aside -- our native forces are mundane in their skill, they have not the gift of magic. I recall your are a skilled sorcerer [ #flattery ] so if it is not too difficult, if you could see your way to providing them some protection against the flames, or some enchantment to their blades, I know we would be grateful.
If it is too difficult do not exert yourself, of course.
[ Bolin gets his general directions from Korra, and he's pretty on-board to be lending a hand to a dude that (at the very least) wasn't a huge jerk to him or to her. Honestly, with guys like Bolin, that's often more than enough to work with.
His arrival is also pretty hard to miss if one happens to be in the area, all things considered. Or all sky bison considered, since Appa does have that way of making himself present with a thud and a grunt. Bolin makes a point of giving him a thorough scratch on the head before dismounting with about as much stealth and delicacy as his ride did tbh. ]
Helloooo! Korra said someone ordered a ride? [ Why is it so quiet by this river. ] She didn't mention any potential ambushes, so you know. Now would probably be a great time to mention those if there are any. No pressure, though!
[...well, there's something of a conundrum here, and it's that Kayneth really does not want to be seen as some sort of small, furry carnivore, but he absolutely does want to be rescued.
...so, well, it was warmer in his pack anyway and as long as he could be heard, he could just... direct things, he supposed...]
No, no ambushes whatsoever. I am absolutely here, you know, just...
[...he hunkers down a bit more.]
Take the bag, will you?
[...meanwhile Volumen Hydragyrm perks up and gets up to go say hi. It's a little sluggish because it's cold out, though!]
No problem! [ Bellboy by nature, unknowingly. Bolin hefts the bag over one shoulder, stretching a hand out for Volumen to sniff if it wants. He's not sure if it even can sniff, but whatever. ]
Did I, uh. Did I catch you at a bad time?
[ did korra send him out here to pick up a guy with stomach problems in the woods... ]
[ The letter itself is written in clear, Celtic style lettering while the signature is in a different hand -- Lancelot had this transcribed. The seal is official, however, and if Kayneth has any doubts Lancelot will confirm it was him who sent it. ]
Marshal Lancelot to Lord Kayneth El-Melloi;
Your efforts towards the Seelie cause have been notable. With regard to the previously discussed matter of magical research I have assigned two people, Kaldur and Dorian by name, to look into notable defensive wards, etc, by means of the library and other research. Your own experience will, of course, be invaluable to them, but consider them assistants while the overall long term research program will belong to yourself, Flora, Hermione, and anyone else you feel should contribute. A room has been set up and warded for use in testing such things, and supplies will be provided. The key attached will allow you access.
As it stands, Dorian and Kaldur have no magical experience or talent existing so I thought it best to put them to task thus freeing you up for more important matters.
There are two others I wish you to commune with: Korra and Charles Xavier. I have a plan I wish to enact that requires skill and craft in magic and manipulation techniques.
As always, you can be assured your efforts will be rewarded. Notify me if you will be available within the next week or so to work with Charles and Korra, then I will advise you of the plan.
[...thank you for the late Christmas present, Senpai, and he'll give him a locket contact as soon as he gets it while drafting a formal thank you note because it is only polite]
Thank you very much, Marshal! I will definitely put it all to good use --- really, I couldn't thank you enough. Flora and Hermione definitely seem to have good heads on their shoulders, and I'll speak with Kaldur and Dorian immediately. Though... I do believe Kaldur has spoken of having a bit of training, which I intend to attend to once I have the opportunity.
I'm familiar with Korra but not Xavier; nevertheless, I'd be happy to work with them on this plan. Do tell, then? Unless you'd prefer not to do it over the lockets.
There's a slight pause of hesitation before he decides, opts for safety. ]
In person would be preferable, if it is not too much trouble. My rooms are in the second wing of the keep, three quarters of the way down. Ebony doors with golden runes, two guards outside should let you through.
[ Try not to be too jealous of the huge enchanted doors. One day, Kayneth, one day all this will be yours. Have faith. ]
[Nico looks like he needs more sleep than he's gotten, but he doesn't care at the moment. Since he doesn't know where Kayneth is, he's just gonna hit up his locket. Why not?]
Marquis Kayneth El-Melloi Archibald?
[...Never once has he felt so pretentious just by saying someone's name before. What the Styx.]
I've been told to report to you as a possible understudy.
[man Kayneth hasn't even had time to celebrate, even if he's really stoked about this news. ...well, in fairness, he really wants to show off even more by accomplishing things now, so he wants to get straight to that quest...
...but he does have a bit of time to slow down and check his locket, in between picking stuff up and cramming, and... ah!]
...Ah, I'd heard something about that... well, I can't really object to an apprentice, so I'll be happy to be working with you...
[...he pauses, looking somewhere off the locket for the notes...]
...di Angelo, then... sorry if I seem a bit distracted, but this... really has been a month.
Greetings. I hope that things are going well for you during this troubled time. [Not long after Diarmuid finishes training with Stiles, he sits down to contact Kayneth. He has promised to send the magus in Stiles direction and he doesn't want something to come up and keep him from doing so.]
I have been training people on shard use and one of the people I trained is a young man named Stiles Stilinski. He is looking for someone to help him learn to create wards. If you have time, would you get in contact with him? He spends most of his time at Cothromach, but can easily be contacted through his locket.
[...AH... why did this happen while he was on the road, though, it's really a bit of a bother...]
Ah, really? I'll definitely contact him at some point, then.
[...he was admittedly dozing a bit, because it had been something of a rough day... so he'll try to stifle a yawn.]
...mmm, sorry. It's been a long day and I've been on the road... but I'm really not sure when I'll get to meet with him in person, if he's in Cothromach.
[ Delivered by the Black Horse Courier, stamped with the seal of the Red Hand, a mercenary organisation employed by the Seelie. ]
Marquis Kayneth El-Melloi Archibald of the White Citadel, Shardbearer and High Magus of Caer Glaem,
We fought together upon the battles of An Carn Ban and An Carn Dubh, though at different places in the line. I was made aware of what travesty befell you there by other comrades in the war, and by your will, would seek to remedy what wrong was done you in return for a measure of your grace upon me and mine.
With Respect,
Aly Red-Hand, The Red Lady, Commander of the Red Hand
[Kayneth wasn't entirely sure what to do with the letter once he got it except perhaps stare at it for a few moments, because holy hell, really...? Perhaps he wouldn't even have to muck around with the monarchs if this was truly the case.
And... well, he could survive without his crest, but he couldn't really live without it. If that was what she was talking about, anyway. He'd mostly just discussed his kidney, because that was far less life-shattering. He would, admittedly, very much like that back, but...
Well, he'll write up a reply and send it by pudgy cockatiel within the day.]
Aly Red-Hand, The Red Lady, Commander of the Red Hand,
You may have my grace and more if you were to aid me in this endeavor. Name the favor and I'll grant it.
Marquis Kayneth El-Melloi Archibald of the White Citadel, Shardbearer and High Magus of Caer Glaem
[Near Yule, Kayneth will find a basket in his rooms. In the basket are several hand carved cat toys and a small silver talisman. Tucked between the cat toys is a hand written note.]
Greetings Lord Archibald!
I thought I would send you a few toys to keep a certain familiar out of your hair when you are trying to work. The talisman is one of protection. It will deflect one blow in a battle when activated. After that, it will need two weeks to recharge and then it will be able to do so again. The cool down limits the usefulness, but I mean it as a back up should every other protection you have forsake you.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
enjoymyatelier) wrote2024-10-06 07:55 am
AUDIO 🌠OCTOBER 5
What I'm saying is that in my short time here, I've already deciphered that you are--[ Very careful to say that instead of 'were', isn't she thoughtful? ]--a Master of the Fourth Holy Grail War and that your Servant is here. Have you been made aware that there are numerous Servants here, many that are far more clever than I, that would kill you just for that fact alone?
Then there's the matter of your house name. A thing to be proud of, for sure, but as I'm the only one here who you could possibly be showing off for, isn't it in poor taste to be doing so? I'm a student of the Clock Tower and to see someone show blatant disregard to the rules we have followed since childhood isn't good. As my elder, I was hoping to expect better from you, but if you can't obey the basic rulings, how can I trust you to be an ideal role model?
In short, I think it's best for the both of us if you keep certain things quiet. The less people who can pick up on us being from our world, the better of a chance we have together to rise to power in this world. You do understand what I'm saying, don't you? If not, I could try to explain it in terms a child would be able to follow, but from what I hear you're one of the greatest academic minds in the Clock Tower. I don't think such rudeness is necessary, do you?
Please contact me at your earliest convenience to confirm that you received this, else I'll be forced to send another message in a way more fitting of our kind.
no subject
...and then Kayneth gets a message.
He listens to the message.
A few minutes pass after it finishes.
Rin receives a message very, very late in the day, then...!]
While I appreciate your concern, Miss Tohsaka, I'll be happy to inform you that I am completely aware of my situation and my surroundings --- perhaps even more so than you, actually.
For you see, approximately five minutes after arriving here I became aware that I was not, in fact, in a world resembling our own, but in a world where magic is not only public knowledge, but outright lauded by those who live here. To insist on maintaining secrecy with regard to one's status as a mage would be completely pointless and outright counterproductive to any sort of personal advancement... unless, of course, one happened to be such a terrible mage that they were embarrassed by their lack of skill.
Furthermore, anyone with any knowledge of the Operation of Parallel Worlds and the Holy Grail War would be able to assume that without being present in the same world as where the Holy Grail War is intended to take place and the fact that none of us can be quite certain that a kill would even count for their own world here, most participants on my side of the conflict would be able to set aside their differences and make proper diplomatic negotiations short of some sort of aimless grudge. Ones on the other side of the war would be out for my blood regardless...
Actually, given your family's connection to both Zelretch and the founding of the Holy Grail War, shouldn't you be well aware of that fact? Curious.
Honestly, given that the Tohsaka of the Fourth Holy Grail War seemed like a respectable man and the family has such a good reputation, I gave out my name and title in the interests extending an alliance to a relative of his... but I'm actually beginning to reconsider that decision.
There are plenty of other people to make alliances with, though, so I can't say that's too much of a loss. Regardless, I wish you good luck in your endeavors, as you're apparently going to need it.
Good day, Miss Tohsaka.
these two are going to murder me
Right now she's torn. Is this a man she wants to pursue an alliance with even after he's turned her down due to her childish way of going about it or is she better off being removed from his radar, to study and work in peace without fear of an enemy magus stabbing her in the back? Admittedly, these are decisions she should have made ahead of time and if she were to seek out companionship, it'd have to be done in a matter of intimidation.
That's it. He spelled it out so clearly for her that she almost feels a fool for overlooking it. ]
Thank you for confirming all of that for me, Lord Archibald. You see, when we arrived and first exchanged communication over this locket, I suspected we were on opposing ends of the war here and as a result, I wasn't sure what to make of you.
[ She still doesn't. ] However, it seems you're well aware of my standing here. If my father and an associate from the Church were to arrive here to see you scorned a heir of the Tohsaka family, how do you believe they would act? It wouldn't look good on either of us.
Should we discuss this further or consider the matter done with?
(no subject)
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Post-Samhain, Permalocked.
Acknowledgement of note appreciated, but not needed.
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Good luck.
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voice;
[ It's so odd to address someone other than Waver that way. ]
If you are in the vicinity of Caer Glaem or can be quickly please respond. Cothromach is under attack from Unseelie forces and we need all the sorcerers we can gather to help defend the fortress.
voice;
...in the midst of those exhumations the fairies want us to do? Good lord, our enemies have a terrible sense of timing.
I will be there as soon as I possibly can, of course. Who else have you spoken to about it so far, in terms of sorcerers?
voice;
If it is too difficult do not exert yourself, of course.
[ #Now it's a challenge. ]
voice;
voice;
voice;
voice;
Voice;
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action; around that fluffy animal time
His arrival is also pretty hard to miss if one happens to be in the area, all things considered. Or all sky bison considered, since Appa does have that way of making himself present with a thud and a grunt. Bolin makes a point of giving him a thorough scratch on the head before dismounting with about as much stealth and delicacy as his ride did tbh. ]
Helloooo! Korra said someone ordered a ride? [ Why is it so quiet by this river. ] She didn't mention any potential ambushes, so you know. Now would probably be a great time to mention those if there are any. No pressure, though!
no subject
...so, well, it was warmer in his pack anyway and as long as he could be heard, he could just... direct things, he supposed...]
No, no ambushes whatsoever. I am absolutely here, you know, just...
[...he hunkers down a bit more.]
Take the bag, will you?
[...meanwhile Volumen Hydragyrm perks up and gets up to go say hi. It's a little sluggish because it's cold out, though!]
no subject
Did I, uh. Did I catch you at a bad time?
[ did korra send him out here to pick up a guy with stomach problems in the woods... ]
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wow what the hell was that first sentence
Letter; Around the 1st; Blatant Flattery
Marshal Lancelot to Lord Kayneth El-Melloi;
Your efforts towards the Seelie cause have been notable. With regard to the previously discussed matter of magical research I have assigned two people, Kaldur and Dorian by name, to look into notable defensive wards, etc, by means of the library and other research. Your own experience will, of course, be invaluable to them, but consider them assistants while the overall long term research program will belong to yourself, Flora, Hermione, and anyone else you feel should contribute. A room has been set up and warded for use in testing such things, and supplies will be provided. The key attached will allow you access.
As it stands, Dorian and Kaldur have no magical experience or talent existing so I thought it best to put them to task thus freeing you up for more important matters.
There are two others I wish you to commune with: Korra and Charles Xavier. I have a plan I wish to enact that requires skill and craft in magic and manipulation techniques.
As always, you can be assured your efforts will be rewarded. Notify me if you will be available within the next week or so to work with Charles and Korra, then I will advise you of the plan.
VOICE, LOCKET
Thank you very much, Marshal! I will definitely put it all to good use --- really, I couldn't thank you enough. Flora and Hermione definitely seem to have good heads on their shoulders, and I'll speak with Kaldur and Dorian immediately. Though... I do believe Kaldur has spoken of having a bit of training, which I intend to attend to once I have the opportunity.
I'm familiar with Korra but not Xavier; nevertheless, I'd be happy to work with them on this plan. Do tell, then? Unless you'd prefer not to do it over the lockets.
VOICE, LOCKET
There's a slight pause of hesitation before he decides, opts for safety. ]
In person would be preferable, if it is not too much trouble. My rooms are in the second wing of the keep, three quarters of the way down. Ebony doors with golden runes, two guards outside should let you through.
[ Try not to be too jealous of the huge enchanted doors. One day, Kayneth, one day all this will be yours. Have faith. ]
VOICE, LOCKET -> ACTION
ACTION;
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[Video] January 15th (in which I forgot this takes place after they first meet lmfao)
Marquis Kayneth El-Melloi Archibald?
[...Never once has he felt so pretentious just by saying someone's name before. What the Styx.]
I've been told to report to you as a possible understudy.
[Video]
...but he does have a bit of time to slow down and check his locket, in between picking stuff up and cramming, and... ah!]
...Ah, I'd heard something about that... well, I can't really object to an apprentice, so I'll be happy to be working with you...
[...he pauses, looking somewhere off the locket for the notes...]
...di Angelo, then... sorry if I seem a bit distracted, but this... really has been a month.
[Video]
No, I can understand that pretty well. Is there anything I can do to help?
[Nico would ask Lancelot, but...well. He's kinda. Busy. Oops.]
[Video]
[Video] Sometime between the 12th and the 25th (Sorry for the wide date range!)
[Not long after Diarmuid finishes training with Stiles, he sits down to contact Kayneth. He has promised to send the magus in Stiles direction and he doesn't want something to come up and keep him from doing so.]
I have been training people on shard use and one of the people I trained is a young man named Stiles Stilinski. He is looking for someone to help him learn to create wards. If you have time, would you get in contact with him? He spends most of his time at Cothromach, but can easily be contacted through his locket.
[Video]
Ah, really? I'll definitely contact him at some point, then.
[...he was admittedly dozing a bit, because it had been something of a rough day... so he'll try to stifle a yawn.]
...mmm, sorry. It's been a long day and I've been on the road... but I'm really not sure when I'll get to meet with him in person, if he's in Cothromach.
[Video]
[Diarmuid doesn't comment on that half-hidden yawn. After all, things have been very busy for everyone and not everyone has the stamina of a Servant.]
Where are you traveling to or is it from?
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MID MARCH
Marquis Kayneth El-Melloi Archibald of the White Citadel, Shardbearer and High Magus of Caer Glaem,
We fought together upon the battles of An Carn Ban and An Carn Dubh, though at different places in the line. I was made aware of what travesty befell you there by other comrades in the war, and by your will, would seek to remedy what wrong was done you in return for a measure of your grace upon me and mine.
With Respect,
Aly Red-Hand, The Red Lady, Commander of the Red Hand
no subject
And... well, he could survive without his crest, but he couldn't really live without it. If that was what she was talking about, anyway. He'd mostly just discussed his kidney, because that was far less life-shattering. He would, admittedly, very much like that back, but...
Well, he'll write up a reply and send it by pudgy cockatiel within the day.]
Aly Red-Hand, The Red Lady, Commander of the Red Hand,
You may have my grace and more if you were to aid me in this endeavor. Name the favor and I'll grant it.
Marquis Kayneth El-Melloi Archibald of the White Citadel, Shardbearer and High Magus of Caer Glaem
no subject
Marquis Kayneth El-Melloi Archibald of the White Citadel, Shardbearer and High Magus of Caer Glaem,
Let us discuss your needs and my capabilities in person. Please note a date, time, and place, and rest assured I'll attend.
With Respect,
Aly Red-Hand, The Red Lady, Commander of the Red Hand
(no subject)
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Yule
Greetings Lord Archibald!
I thought I would send you a few toys to keep a certain familiar out of your hair when you are trying to work. The talisman is one of protection. It will deflect one blow in a battle when activated. After that, it will need two weeks to recharge and then it will be able to do so again. The cool down limits the usefulness, but I mean it as a back up should every other protection you have forsake you.
Yours,
Diarmuid Ua Duibhne