eachdraidh | [video / both courts]

[He'd wanted to do this more formally, had all sorts of plans for what to say and what topics he needed to address. But his hand is being forced, and so quick and to the point is what he has to settle for.

Some might recognize him, but he's been busy outside the courts and so plenty might not. For those unfamiliar, the person speaking over the lockets is young and delicate-looking, with a regal sort of poise and a currently unhappy expression.]

My name is Saralegui. With the Lady Alyosha's death, rule of Redgate has fallen to me. Were things less dire, I'd have taken the time to speak on the intentions Alyosha had for the city, the hopes I have for it. Issues of rebuilding and peace, moving on from past traumas, maintaining a safe haven for both its residents and shardbearers -- anyone who wants no part in this war. But the situation is dire, and time won't permit me to do things so nicely.

[There. At least he can leave hints as to what was intended, both to soothe his own ego over ruined plans, and tease out those who might have had some interest in any of it. Multi-tasking is good. But frowning now, he focuses, voice steady and gaze intense beneath tinted glasses.]

Reynard the Fox is riding for Redgate. We've no idea when he might arrive, or what he's after, but I've seen firsthand the sort of death and destruction he can cause on his own. The city has already experienced more than enough bloodshed, is still recovering from it, and I would not see it suffer him.

[Only a little bit of a lie in there -- he knows what Reynard wants, as do likely at least a few others who are in the loop with regards with Reynard and Alyosha. But details like that aren't necessary to appeal to those who might be useful here. Those with strong senses of honor, or justice, or revenge.]

I know Redgate has its champions and allies in either court from Alyosha's rule, and there are plenty who would call the Fox their enemy. I ask for those who would stand in the city's defense, whatever the reasons. I leave myself for Redgate as soon as possible, through means faster than by horseback and fairy rings, and anyone in Caer Scima willing to help is welcome to travel with me.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

Not yet. We don't even know where he's coming from, or how long we have to prepare. But the person who delivered this information is hunting for more, and I'll pass along whatever he discovers.

Truth told, I would rather meet the man on a field of our choosing and not defend against a siege. Regardless, I will stay available as best as I can. If it does become a siege, I will rally a force to attack at his rear .

Whatever help you can offer is greatly appreciated. Thank you, Saber.

I expect to be included in any locket conversations regarding this matter. Even without being present, my experience can be of use.

I'll see that you are. And whatever is discussed in person, I'll be sure to brief you on the important parts.

Much appreciation, Saralegui. Have you concluded your other business?

[his face falls slightly, but he's quick to school his expression and give a slight nod.]

I did.

[Saber nodded.] It is good that you will not have that on your mind while tending to Redgate.

[But Saber had noticed that shift in expression, having spent more than enough time at TB with him to pick up on these things. She shielded the conversation from prying eyes.]

But it did not go well, correct?

[the privacy is welcome. for a moment he's tempted to brush her question off, but she's been considerate and professional so far. he can at least give her this.]

It went about as well as you would expect tossing the High Queen's generosity back in her face to go.

[The brush off would just piss her off. Saber knows full well Sara's comment about regarding her as a friend was more for show than anything else, but she would like that friendship to become real. Especially since she'd taken an interest in his well-being.]

It takes many a year to dance along the blade's edge without getting cut.

A saying from your world?

[not one he needs translated, the meaning is clear enough. but he's happy to have any other subject.]

No. It simply seemed the most appropriate description of your current circumstances as I see them.

Do recall that I know more than some regarding your affairs.

[And her tone of voice made it impossible to take her words as a threat unless someone was insanely paranoid. But such a person would have never let Saber in that meeting room with Corthromach's Keeper.]

Mm. So you likely already understand what happened.

[what he had to face morla about, and how that turned out.]

I do. She has given you a second chance.

[He better not try to argue that, because it was true. If Morla hadn't given Sara a second chance, he would not be in a position to speak with anyone.]

...are you well?

She did.

[it wounds his pride that he has to admit that, that he'd had to almost beg for another opportunity to ward off her anger, that he was so under her power at all. the sting of it leaves him irritable and short on the subject.]

I'm fine, at least.

That does not mean you are well. I am certain she struck in such a way that you will never forget.

[It was a common tactic of tyrants.]

I'm not the one she struck.

[and that aches just as much somehow, whether because he'd been so shaken even without being her true target, or because seeing someone else suffer had shaken him so much. either way, he's supposed to be harder than this. colder. less vulnerable.]

She nearly killed Tzilan.

I did not say she struck you, but that she struck in a way that you will never forget. Will you ever forget it?

[But then Saber's expression softened.] You have developed an attachment to the vampire.

It's not like that. [the denial is instant, and his expression hardens in an exact opposite of hers.] This wasn't something she did to hurt me. He just had information she wanted, and she was happy to do away with him when she was done.

[the secret of tzilan's shard, at least, he'll keep to himself. not out of distrust of saber, but out of respect for the vampire.]

We get along well. Our goals are aligned, and our work is mutually beneficial. But that's all.

Of course, not. But that does not mean she did not take advantage of the moment to allow you to understand the depths of her power. Tyrants rarely pass up such opportunities.

[well, you're not wrong.]

I understand it plenty, now.

[and there's a set to his jaw there that speaks of something far more than just fear of it.

but that passes quickly enough, and his expression retreats to a cool neutrality. he shakes his head like that will chase away all the current issues, and sighs.]

But enough of that. What have you been up to, since leaving Redgate?

[Saber will let it go for now. Maybe they'll revisit it later if she managed to gain something of real friendship with Saralegui.]

I made a visit to Caer Glaem to return the Seelie bones. It made me somewhat nostalgic. And then I spent some personal time with a friend. Now I am on my way to secure a powerful ally. Perhaps I can talk her into setting the Fox on fire should it be possible to catch him from behind.

[that comment at least seems to return a bit of good humor to him.]

If she can do that, then I'll have her made a Champion of Redgate on the spot.

[Saber chuckled.] Sorceresses are fickle creatures, but I will see what I can do.

[video / both courts]

Video

Re: Video

Video

Video

Video

ideo

video

1/2

Private - Video

Private - Video

Private - Video

Private - Video

Private - Video

Private - Video

Private - Video

Private - Video

Private - Video

Private - Video

Private - Video

Private - Video

Private - Video

Private - Video

Private - Video

Private - Video

Private - Video