Kayneth El-Melloi Archibald (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
enjoymyatelier) wrote2024-10-06 07:55 am
enjoymyatelier) wrote2024-10-06 07:55 am
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[ 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.
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.
Good day, Miss Tohsaka.
...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.
[ 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?
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?
[...well, that was more of a turnaround than he expected, though he can't really complain about it. Honestly, he did just got lucky, and was really prepared to argue more... but the fact that he feels like he "won" the standoff causes his demeanor to smooth out a bit.]
Well, I admit I'm still amenable to discussions, even if you laid the bluster on a bit thick for a second impression... but if we are to remain in contact, I believe it's important to lay out some terms to keep things civil.
First off, I'm not going to tell you how to conduct your business so long as you don't tell me how to conduct mine. From here on out, if you wish to continue to keep your status as a mage a secret, I'll honor your wishes on that front. However, I'll continue to operate as I currently am, and I won't appreciate being told not to do so.
As for that other point... I had gotten the impression that we were on opposite sides as well, which is why I didn't have many qualms about being harsh.
[He pauses a moment.]
I suppose I should say outright that I don't have any personal stake in this war, so provided we don't get in each other's way, it shouldn't prove a problem. Of course, if we do meet on the battlefield, I have no intentions of holding back, and I expect that you won't, either.
Anyway, that's it. Do you find those terms agreeable, then?
Well, I admit I'm still amenable to discussions, even if you laid the bluster on a bit thick for a second impression... but if we are to remain in contact, I believe it's important to lay out some terms to keep things civil.
First off, I'm not going to tell you how to conduct your business so long as you don't tell me how to conduct mine. From here on out, if you wish to continue to keep your status as a mage a secret, I'll honor your wishes on that front. However, I'll continue to operate as I currently am, and I won't appreciate being told not to do so.
As for that other point... I had gotten the impression that we were on opposite sides as well, which is why I didn't have many qualms about being harsh.
[He pauses a moment.]
I suppose I should say outright that I don't have any personal stake in this war, so provided we don't get in each other's way, it shouldn't prove a problem. Of course, if we do meet on the battlefield, I have no intentions of holding back, and I expect that you won't, either.
Anyway, that's it. Do you find those terms agreeable, then?
[ Of course she turned it around, he mentioned her family name and therefore she got a bit hopeful. Just wait until she discovers he never really knew her father, then she'll be a grudge bearing teenager girl about their first conversations. Until then, an attempt to repair what has been damaged will be her highest priority. ]
Even if I didn't find them agreeable, what else is there to say? You are of the Seelie court and I'm the one who would be left with no choice other than to oppose you. War experienced or not, this is the duty that's been thrust upon us with our arrival.
[ In a roundabout way she's consenting to it without actually saying it out loud. Admittedly she still needs an out just in case Waver opposes the two of them speaking to each other. ]
I suppose now would be as good time as any to discuss what we know of our respective Holy Grail Wars, right?
Even if I didn't find them agreeable, what else is there to say? You are of the Seelie court and I'm the one who would be left with no choice other than to oppose you. War experienced or not, this is the duty that's been thrust upon us with our arrival.
[ In a roundabout way she's consenting to it without actually saying it out loud. Admittedly she still needs an out just in case Waver opposes the two of them speaking to each other. ]
I suppose now would be as good time as any to discuss what we know of our respective Holy Grail Wars, right?
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.
Acknowledgement of note appreciated, but not needed.
[HE KNOWS ENOUGH TO KNOW THAT HE'S A COOL MAGE OKAY THAT COUNTS FOR SOMETHING RIGHT]
Well, that's it, then. I can't say the situation is optimal, but it's the hand we've been dealt.
And yes, certainly. Mine is in the early stages, and there have been... two major skirmishes, I'd say? Assassin is dead [OR SO HE THINKS] and I've learned the identities of two Servants, but none of the Masters are dead yet.
Other than that... well, there have been some strange problems, most notably the fact that Caster has gone completely rogue. The Master doesn't bother to hide him at all, and he's been going around murdering local children with no sense of secrecy about anything... really, it's bad enough that they've essentially put the rest of the war on hold in order to have everyone track him down and eliminate him.
Well, that's it, then. I can't say the situation is optimal, but it's the hand we've been dealt.
And yes, certainly. Mine is in the early stages, and there have been... two major skirmishes, I'd say? Assassin is dead [OR SO HE THINKS] and I've learned the identities of two Servants, but none of the Masters are dead yet.
Other than that... well, there have been some strange problems, most notably the fact that Caster has gone completely rogue. The Master doesn't bother to hide him at all, and he's been going around murdering local children with no sense of secrecy about anything... really, it's bad enough that they've essentially put the rest of the war on hold in order to have everyone track him down and eliminate him.
Lord El-Melloi?
[ 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.
[ 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?
...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.
[ #Now it's a challenge. ]
If it is too difficult do not exert yourself, of course.
[ #Now it's a challenge. ]
Oh, I can be ready immediately. The whole thing ought to be simple, though I do believe I will be going with the regiment. Reinforcing their armor to be stronger than usual would be child's play, so I can save the exertion for when things actually do get difficult.
[excuse me for asking but did you say a challeeeeeenge]
Who are our other sorcerers, then? I'd like to be able to seek them out as soon as I get there for the sake of coming up with a plan of defense.
[excuse me for asking but did you say a challeeeeeenge]
Who are our other sorcerers, then? I'd like to be able to seek them out as soon as I get there for the sake of coming up with a plan of defense.
It is not strength that concerns me, sir, more the heat of the flames on metal.
[ Cooking soldiers alive would be unpleasant. ]
I know for certain Flora will be there, she wields nature magic. A friend of mine, Ryan, can wield water which should be useful -- but he is new to the power. I have asked Lady Triss and Lady Hermione if they might attend us, but have not yet had confirmation. A few others unfamiliar to me may already be there ahead of us.
[ ooc: Welcome to the reinforcement team! The gdoc if you want to glance at some plans and who else is there, and the battle log! You're welcome to just stick with him if the planning feels too confusing, it's a mishmash. ]
[ Cooking soldiers alive would be unpleasant. ]
I know for certain Flora will be there, she wields nature magic. A friend of mine, Ryan, can wield water which should be useful -- but he is new to the power. I have asked Lady Triss and Lady Hermione if they might attend us, but have not yet had confirmation. A few others unfamiliar to me may already be there ahead of us.
[ ooc: Welcome to the reinforcement team! The gdoc if you want to glance at some plans and who else is there, and the battle log! You're welcome to just stick with him if the planning feels too confusing, it's a mishmash. ]
Well, if we're dealing with fire, including heat resistance in the reinforcement should work... or some sort of fire repellant, but that would take longer to set up.
If we are going that route, might I ask a favor, then? My particular brand of magic is more effective if we set up workshops of sorts, and those are most effective in locations with a decent amount of space but solid walls and few windows. If you could make arrangements to reserve a place like that for me and leave some armor you'd like me to work on there, it would expedite things a bit.
From the way it sounds, working with someone who works with the water element would be for the best here, though I'd be happy to discuss things with all of them.
If we are going that route, might I ask a favor, then? My particular brand of magic is more effective if we set up workshops of sorts, and those are most effective in locations with a decent amount of space but solid walls and few windows. If you could make arrangements to reserve a place like that for me and leave some armor you'd like me to work on there, it would expedite things a bit.
From the way it sounds, working with someone who works with the water element would be for the best here, though I'd be happy to discuss things with all of them.
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.
My immediate suggestion to him was to code it via use of phrases like business partners, I'm not sure if it took.
Good luck.
Good luck.
I will defer to your judgement, then. As to a room I can ask the Lady Keeper on your behalf if she has space free, although it may not be an ideal set up. With the fight already begun their focus will be elsewhere. In the long term I have no doubt that if you asked the monarchs for such a space in Caer Glaem they would accord you a workshop more permanently, tailored to your needs, but for now we may have to make do with what can be afforded.
Oh, I already have things set up in my room, as far as Caer Glaem goes. It would just be advantageous for me to have a temporary one at Cothromach that I can dismantle when the battle ends, that's all. Really, I was expecting to have to make do with something that isn't ideal... but so long as it's not incredibly open, it'll work for these purposes.
I will do my best, my lord. Is there anything else you would have me ask for?
No, that's it, really. I suppose I'll be able to ask fairies for alchemical supplies when I get there, so that shouldn't be much of an issue.
Of course. Meet us by the armoury when you are ready, then, we are gathering the troops there. Thank you, again.
Well, I'll give it a go, but I'm not sure how well it will take. If he was keeping it to Seelie allies, that would be manageable, but if he's going to talk about it to everyone...
Yeeeeah, I'm with you that matter.
Keep me updated.
Keep me updated.
[ 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!
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!
[ 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.
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.
Edited (stray punctuation) 2015-01-03 23:50 (UTC)
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