2022.07.31: SubTara Keep Part 1

Sub Tara Keep Part 1
Going to Sub Tara Keep to warn of a possible Coup against the Fianna.
IC Date	2022.07.31
IC Time	ic time.
Players	Kennard, Isla, Sean, Tinlin-Co-ST, Finn, Harrow, Kohana-ST COMBAT, Daffyd
Location	Dublin, Ireland - Sub Tara
Prp/Tp	The Cursed Cow
Spheres	Fianna - Gaian
Theme Song	Loved by the Sun

There's a plane ride to San Francisco! From there, it's off to the Sept of the Western Eye to moonbridge all the way to New York City. From there it's all the way to Ireland to the Sept of the Tri-Spiral. We're talking, almost half way around the world in a matter of hours. Arrival at the Sept of Tri-Spiral is greeted by several friends and family.

Luggage is collected and everyone is ushered about an hour away to a very nice Manor House. Awaiting the arrival are ushers and helpers to get everything settled. There's a whole crew of stylists and such to help folks get ready! Folks are also given a chance to take a short respite and gather their strength. Tonight's Ball is also the celebration of Lughnassa. Ken and Tiana disappear for several hours before returning.

At least Finn's not cranky over the moon, today. He's fussed over on arrival, various aunts, uncles and cousins chatting him up as newly returned. Eventually he's herded towards the stylists and groomers. Poor guy.

Eventually he returns, dressed in his formal kilt and garb. He's still grumbling about having to dress up, and be all proper. The life of a Ragabash.

Daffyd has a hanging bag with his, in it his dress kilt outfit, a nice suite, and some rougher clothing in case things get physical. "So are we all attending this ball tonight then?

Tinlin takes a seat on one of the couches, and tries to not crinkle her dress too much as the bottom portion of the gown fans out. Her hair has enough hairpins in it, to keep the sweeps of braids up and into an intricate design, she hasn't even had time to look into a mirror and rightly see. Nor does she really care. "I have butterflies. Yes, Sir Daffyd, I think we are all going and we'll know a lot more by tomorrow morning. We need to try and get an audience with the Ard Ry." She takes a deep breath, and breathes out slowly. "Ken's parents are coming with us. Clan Madden will be nearby just in case too."

FOR SEAN AND HARROW: A chartered flight, several moonbridge jumps, and a shuttled drive to a rather large Manor House. Folks are ushered in, given rooms and an assistant to help them in any way they need. Isla's assistances are a pair of young ladies by the names of Brena and Leana Madden. There's a whole crew of make up and stylists folks to help people get ready.

Down in the Great Hall, refreshments are being served as people come down, ready to go. Isla's suites are also large enough, oddly enough that it holds two bed chambers.

Also in attendance are Harold and Maueve Madden. They mingle with folks and especially with Isla. Maybe discussing Noble Things and Court Stuff. Harold is an Elder Philodox, whose intro is somewhat similar to Ken's. Go figure.

Isla is never liking the whole dress up thing, but she manages to keep her rage in check throughout the primping and fauning over her. She's been down this road enough times, and she'll deal with it. By the time they are done, she looks amazing, but her patience needs another bottle of Scotch. "Get back, enoough! Me hair is just fine." She is like a cat at the groomer. There is only so long she can take it before she can take no more. She is drop dead gorgeous, but she'd still rather be out in battle than battling with makeup and hair. Once given a breather, she opens up her trusty Scotch and takes a long pull so she can be ready for tonight.

Sean looks pretty goddamn good. Kilt and all. He can dress up. He minds it less than Isla is. He still isn't a big fan.

So there's only one peacock and he's the last to come down because of catching up stragglers. But he's here! Kennard is pulling his sleeves down a little bit as he walks into the room. He smiles, "I see everyone's found things to their liking?" Oh, there's several bottles of scotch old enough to vote for Isla. But then again, they're also for Ken!

Maybe he'll get over this phase. He offers a bow to Isla, then to Sean. "I hope everyone got a little rest before tonight's adventure?"

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ISLA: Flaming curly red hair...a tangled mess for sure! Isla stands out with her mop of hair, which only bring out her beauty, if not shows off her attitude. Pale white skin, darker eyebrows, and hazel green eyes are all accentuated on the 5'5" woman. Her slender build makes her possible strenght a mystery.

The Scot does know how to dress up. Wearing a deep teal dress with a rounded neckline, it looks to be velvet. Gold woven trim goes around the neckline and thicker trim around the hem of the long sleeves that open wide at the wrists. Her red hair is only slightly tamed with her tiara on her head. Yes, Isla is royalty, and she finally has decided to embrace it - at least on special occasions. https://cityofhopemush.net/images/f/f6/QueenIsla.jpg

KENNARD:

Standing just over six feet tall, this young man carries himself with confidence and poise. His hair is a dark auburn, almost brown, cropped short and meticulously groomed and styled in a quiff, sideburns all but non-existent. His strong, squared jawline, rounds down to a well defined chin, and is covered with a slightly stubbled beard, maybe a few days growth, the beard a bit more auburn than the hair on his head. His lips are full and usually curved into a slightly whimsical smile. His eyes are the crystal blue of a Caribbean lagoon. There's a rugged handsomeness to his features. His voice a warm baritone and accent, when he speaks is thickly accented Scottish. His cologne of choice is Clive Christan No. 1 today.

Must be a special occassion. Black tie affair comes to mind. Tailored tux jacket, with tails, and gold buttons covers a crisp, flawless white dress shirt, bow tie black as well and tied with perfection, gold cufflinks peek out of the jacket sleeve. Kilt is knee legnth, the pattern of Clan Madden. A sporran hangs at his waist, gold filigree and minor gemstones decorate it. Knee length socks cover his calves. A fancy sgian-dubh sticks out the top of his right sock. His ghillie brouges are also custom made, quite fashionable, and polished. Crossing from left shoulder to right hip, is his clan Tartan. Over where the lapel would be, is a gold pin, family crest. <<Animal Magnetism/Confidence>>

HARROW:

Heres an odd figure. Hes a thin and waiffy young man in his early 20s, tall but deft and filled out well. Whats striking about him is that he has shoulder long slightly wavy stark white hair and the pink-red eyes of an albino. Various charms and gems are woven into some braids of hair. His skin is likewise very pale and sometimes pink.

The man is currently wearing a formal black dinner jacket with black tie and black silk lapels. His shoes are patent leather. He has a pair of pearescent moonstone cufflings in his starched cuffs and there are some similar studs in his shirt behind his black tie. There are several gold and platinum rings on his fingers. At the moment his face his clean shaven and his hair is bound tightly behind his head with a red leather strap.

DAFFYD:

You see a young man about 6 feet or so tall give or take an inch or two. His hair is a dark brown. It is worn down to his shoulders and is very shaggy, he could use a trim. His eyes are a rich hazel, shifting at time to brown and others to green.

He is wearing a formal full dress kilt outfit in the Owen tartan. The dark Prince Charlie coat with bright gold colored buttons. His starched white poet's shirt has miniature cuff links of sterling silver Irish harps. His sporran is a black leather with a sterling silver pin of an Irish Harp on the front, tassels dangling from the lower front corners.

FINN:

Standing around 5'11", Finn seems like a man who takes care of himself but doesn't frequent the gym. His oval face is framed with mid-length brownish auburn hair that hang over his light blue eyes. His nose slopes down into a cute point. His mouth is usually curved up in a slightly impish smile. His chin stands out a bit with a dimple. He keeps his baby-faced complexion free of facial hair.

Today is formal kilt day. A tailored, white linen shirt with the top left a little undone begin this semi formal look. He wears his tartan, the County Galway tartan, held tother at the waist with a gold clasp. The sporran functional, decorated with silver filligree and the clan heraldry. He has knee high socks, an unassuming sgian-dubh in his right sock, and his ghillie brouges are less formal, but still very high quality and polished. Hanging from his hip is a simple dagger.

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Tinlin found a mini lounger to sit on while everyone is coming downstairs now to gather. "Harrow, do you want to borrow a pair of sunglasses for tonight?" She praises Sean, "Looking spiffy. Who knew you could look so good in a suit." And then Isla is seen with the scotch. "I need a drink too. I think that's a really really good idea." She's already nervous about tonight. "Sean's idea of making a phone call and telling everyone to go stuff themselves, looks like a better idea more by the hour."

She'll rise to her seat once Kennard joins the party. "You also look fantastic, Sir Kenny." So polite tonight. She sidles up near Finn, "I have two knives under this skirt, and one in my corset. How many you got on you?"

Finn's eyes go to Tinlin. A hand goes to the dagger on his belt - both decorative and useful. "Just the one, for now. I'm doubtin' I'll need more for tonight. If I do, I reckon it's time to use claws." The man muses, straightening his sporran after.

One of the ladies helping out Isla runs up with the missing sash of her clan Tartan to wear over her dress. It is colored in gray, dark turquoise, and scarlet. Isla allows it to be put on, but then fends her off. "Enough! Me thanks, but I got it." She drinks some more Scotch. Never enough. "Keep yer wits about ye. We be surrounded by vipers here." Because politics and etiquette are never fun.

Lady Mauve Madden, aka Kennard's mother, suddenly claps her hands together to get everyone's attention. "Good evening. For those who do not know me, I am Kennard's mother, and you may address me as Lady Mauve. I am your Kin, and I'm sure you've all met Harold by now, Ken's father. The cars are now pulled up front, and we are ready to assemble and begin the journey to Silver Tara. Tis not a long car ride, but we will have a few other vehicles providing security this evening as an escort until we reach the palace gates." She smiles, "Once we arrive, etiquette prevails that the house senintel will give an announcement of your name, your lineage, and where you are from. So please do tell them who you are before we enter the main doors. Once inside, we can mingle freely. Are we ready?"

Tinlin will give Harrow a pair of super chic sunglasses to wear for the ball that come out of her drop purse. She has a lot of stuff in there tonight.

Daffyd mmoves over to Kennard's side and whispers to him, "You think there is any chance for an ambush during the ride over or am I being unduely paranoid?', he arches an eyebrow as he waits to see what his cousin thinks.

Watching his little sister fret of Isla, Kennard can't help but laugh. He grabs a second bottle of scotch and holds it up for Isla. He's got them both covered. He looks down and adjusts the rapier at his hip. He looks to those gathered and bows again, "I am truly thankful and humbled that ye've all come this way. May Stag bless and watch over us this evening." He looks to Daffyd, "Possibly, but I'm betting at this point, anything that's going to happen will bein the halls of Tara." With that, he offers his arm to Tiana.

Everyone is lead outside where SUVs are waiting to take everyone to the Sept. It's Garou, but it's High Fianna Court. Everyone is announced as they get out of the vehicles. Isla, Harold, Sean, Ken, Finn, Daffyd, Harrow, Kohana. And everyone is admitted into the court.

SILVER TARA: PART 1

Isla and Tiana get stopped at the double doors by the Inner Sentinel Guard once they reach the ballroom. Isla is motioned to be entering first, based on her title. And she gets a second grand entrance announcing her full introduction.

Meanwhile, the group can see plenty of security outside, lining the main walkway. There's other couples entering in groups and some in smaller packs, all dressed in royal court finery. And the castle within is breathtaking, with the decor of long stretching cathedral like windows, and rich tapestries.

Some people rush in a bit with umbrellas in hand from the long hall behind them. It looks like it's started to soft patter rain outside. Soft lilting music drowns out the pattering of rainfall on the windows, but they will hear thunder in the distance.

A lady down by the hall checking her umbrella says, "Looks like a summer storm. I'm so glad we made it inside before I ruined my dress."

The Sentinel thumps his grand staff on the floor to get attention, as one does, to get the crowd to shush for each introduction.

"Presenting Duchess Isla Ennes, rited Fiery Bellona, Elder Ahroun Fianna. Alpha of Shroud of the Eclipse, member of the Grandchildren of Fionn. Daughter of Claws-of-Fire known to the Court as King Fergus Ennes of Duntulm, Elder Ahroun of the Fianna, Sept Leader for the Sept of the Wisps. Granddaughter of Growls First, known as Hamish Ennes, Elder Philodox of the Fianna. Great Granddaughter of Wind of Fire, known as Wolfgang Ennes, Elder Theurge of the Fianna."

The Sentinel gestures for Isla to make her grand entrance.

Everyone's waiting. Ken's with Tiana. He looks back to the others to see that they're all okay. He's grinning like a fool though. He loves this shit. He turns back to watch Isla enter and kind of nods his head a bit.

If Kohana thought he was out of place in Kennard's castle, this is something else entirely. Kohana is the opposite, he does not 'love' this shit. However, he is a garou of respect. So he puts on a polite face, and is rather good about it.

Isla puts on her best face for this introduction and makes her way through the double doors and into the ballroom. She is a master of the royal 'wave' and does so to those in attention that are looking her way. She cannot wait for the next introduction so she can disappear into the crowd. At least there are plenty of red heads in this area.

Tiana motions anyone else who wants to go in front of her through the doors, to go ahead. She looks like she is having serious butterflies. "I'm so glad Isla is in first." She itches at the back of her neck, and then Lady Mauve sweeps in behind her with Harold.

Lady Mauve says, "This is your first time, Tiana for a coming out. Hold your head up high." She instructs. "And brace yourself for watching the rest of the room everyone." This is either going to go very bad, or very very good.

Dressed up and back in the pit of vipers, Finn is not exactly too happy about this part. He keeps it bottled in for now, however. He waits his turn - no alcohol, no messing about.

Daffyd fidgets slightly as he has never been that fond of formal events, he would much rather be at a drum circle or a beer bash, simple good times with good friends. But, sometimes, you have to sacrifice on behalf of your friends and family and that is what this is, a sacrifice on behalf of friends and family.

Harrow moves behind a column outside the entrance and holds his stomach like he might be sick. There is a sheen of sweat on his forehead.

With a little sigh, Ken nods to Harrow, "Someone get him quick. Make sure he breathes and just holds his head up." Ken says with a wrinkled nose. He glances to Tiana and shakes his head, "Hang on, mi'love." He grins, "There's no going last. Just take a few deep breaths, I'm right here with ya."

Tiana steps up to the door with Kennard, with her hand squeezing his arm so tight, it might have fingernail marks if he didn't regenerate. The sentinel introduces her to the ballroom.

"And this evening, first time to be announced." He coughs, unsure of what he's reading what she passes him in note. But he announces it anyway, as if uncomfortable. Mauve motions for him to READ it. And then he reads.

"Tiana'lin Tinsdale. Known to the fionn as Tinlin. Among the Fair Folk, known as Tiana of the Ancient Oaks. Hailing originally from Midlothorien, land claimed by the Tuatha de Fionn, at the outer edges of Edinburgh, Scotland. Kinfolk to the Fianna. Daughter to Count Elaith Elrel, an the late Gwnethh Tinsdale O'Malley, once proud owner of Farm Bonnie Rosemount. Granddaughter to the late Lord Cullen Tinsdale, rited Whitehart, Philodox and Judge for Silver Tara, Great Granddaughter to Meaghan Tinsdale, Athro Galliard, The White Rose of Tulley Mar, rited Silver Leaf, Great Great Grandaughter to Corvin Tinsdale, Elder Theurge rited Soars the Umbra.

And continuing lineage of the White Rose of Tulley Mar, she was granddaughter to Timothy TimTin of Tinsdale, Ahroun Elder rited StoneBlade, and in record Lord Varyn Tinsdale rited Elderthorne of the Green Knights. Sir Galahad Tinsdale, twin to Varyn, Athro Ragabash rited Blink-Strike. Niece to Elomina Tinsdale, Adren Theurge rited Luna's Fortune, Johnathan Tinsdale the III, Elder Theurge rited Dreams of Gaia, twin brother to Angus Tinsdale the, Philodox Elder rited Whitestone of Moerg.

And further in recorded history of the Fion, Lady Illuminara Tinsdalle, Adren Galliard rited Bleeding Heart, along with Vagash Tinsdale, Elder Ahroun rited Brashclaw from the war of Wells at the Black Cliffs of Dan. in relation to cousins Lady Jaina Kingswell, Athro Philodox, rited Wise One, Sir Thomas Tinsdale, Athro Theurge, rited Lightbringer, second cousin to Sir Tilimar Tinsdale, Adren Galliard rited Luna's Breath, Romathis Tinsdale, Adren Ahroun rited Bark Bite of the Green, and William Tinsdale, the White Knight of Queen Elomina, Athro Ahroun rited OakenTree."

He continues with Kennard's introduction next, followed by Mauve and Harold's introduction.

The Herald takes a breath after that mouthful. He then continues, "Sir Kennard Ry Madden, rited Wrath of Morrigu, Cliath Ahroun of the Fianna, Son of Harold 'Song-of-Harmony' Madden Elder Philodox, Alpha to the pack Stag's Blessing, Grandson of Alesdair Drinks-Like-Fish Madden Athro Ragabash, taken by the Wyrm, Great Grandson of Caden Bane-blight Madden Elder Ahroun WyrmFoe Sept of the Three Valleys, directly decscended from Phelan 'Voice of Wisdom' Madden Elder Galliard and Songkeeper, Righ of Clan Madden. From the Sept of Enduring Spirit. Betrothed to Lady Tiana'lin Tinsdale"

He gestures for Ken and Tiana to make their walk. Kennard is standing as tall and regal as he can, but he's also being as alert as possible. He bows to the Herald as he leads Tiana forward. He is the frame, she is the picture! And what a picture she is this evening.

Next on the agenda, stepping forward is Kennard's father. "Earl Harold Madden Song-of-Harmony, Elder Philodox, Truthcatcher Sept of the Three Valleys, Son of Alesdair Drinks-Like-Fish Madden Athro Ragabash, taken by the Wyrm, Grandson of Caden Bane-blight Madden Elder Ahroun WyrmFoe Sept of the Three Valleys, directly decscended from Phelan 'Voice of Wisdom' Madden Elder Galliard and Songkeeper, Ry of Clan Madden. Escorting, his lovely wife, the Lady Mauve Madden, Another long, distinguished bloodline that the player didn't write."

There is some reaction throughout the room when Isla's announced as a Duchess. Plenty of excitement, and people leaning to see who she is, and who she is with. Sean is also getting looks as if he were prime meat for the picking. But Isla surely, can ward that off with her rank of Elder. Politics and Snakes, are all in this room this evening.

Once Kennard and Tiana step into the room, there's a startled murmur once Elaith Elrel's name comes up linked to Tiana's. There's a mix of disbelief, and people studying the pair as they make that first walk to be fully seen. A few milling about people, exit the grand ballroom, and one fine lady stares to Tiana's left, which is an EMPTY space if anyone else looks.

Isla is holding a drink, while keeping an eye around the crowds at the announcement. Noting faces of who is leaving, and if there are grumbles or what going on. Those taking the most notice, she will try to slip closer to without disturbing.

The music is still playing with an orchestra as announcements are read into the room. At one point lightning flashes through the cathedral tall windows, for a split second. The storm outside is growing closer, and it begins to rain a bit harder outside.

Kohana waits for the announcement, but he exhales slowly and looks to the sky. A frown a moment at the thunder and the rain, "Wakinyan Tanka, be still..." he says a prayer to the Thunderbird patron of his people, he does so as quietly as he can. God forbid if he is somehow blamed for something as natural as the weather, but he is the outsider.

Daffyd after his introduction, Daffyd wanders the room, speaking to the others and trying to be as charming as he possibly can. And some point or anouther he pauses by a window wondering if there is anything unnatural about the storm that has moved in.

Finn steps in, and veers off to the side. The man looks to be getting a good vantage over the goings-on - clearly not interested in mingling or small-talk. The man is on alert - polite, but alert.

The lady in the purple gown watching Tiana and Ken walk around seems the most disturbed, "That has to be a lie." She murmurs to her escort. If Isla gets closer to her, she can overhear what is being said.

Once he finally gets through, Sean glues himself to Isla's side. He obtains a drink and holds it. He's used to these things, but he's a little miffed about SOMETHING or other

As soon as Harrow is introduced, he slips into a dim corner of the room behind a column or a statue and seems to grey out in kind of a smudge. He attempts to proceed unnoticed.

From Harrow's corner of the room, he'll overhear a couple gossiping back and forth.

Miriam McDougall, "Ugh, after all that drama between him and my own daughter. I seriously doubt the Fae would be mingling with the Tuatha de Fionn farmers. What a waste." She shakes her head and sips wine.

Her escort beside her says, "Our daughter may have ruined her chances with Clan Madden, but if she turns out to have lied about her lineage, then we do have another daughter we could send his way. Patience, Miriam." Neither sees Harrow directly behind them.

It's important that as many people see them as possible. Kennard is taking that part of his duty seriously. But hey, it's Kennard, he's extra anyway. He continues to make a slow, very wide circuit with Tiana. He's also watching the crowd. He's on alert, big smile and all.

There is some sort of commotion on the one side, a garou charging into the room. He trips and falls over a kinfolk for a moment and staggers back to his feet. "Hey!" comes a complaint from the garou companion as he helps his kin up. About to get into the face of the other he is pushed aside.

The new arrival has eyes wide he turns to the Sept and castle alpha. He almost stumbles again and the doors suddenly begin to slam. Over the windows the stone itself moves, great and ancient elemental spirits at work. "A fomori is in the keep!" the garou calls out. "The Warder has begun to enact defensive protocols! We are going on lockdown!" he calls out. Fear, not just because of the invader, but to have to be the messenger to ruin the event.

Tiana keeps her head held high. She practiced this with Kennard's mother earlier. It's a bit snobbish, but entirely appropriate. And ... she suddenly turns her head to see the new arrival tripping. Her movement stops, and she looks across the room to where their own Fianna party is spread out, and covering the room itself.

Sean keeps an eye on Kennard and Tinlin. That's why they're there, right? But then there's the commotion and the announcement and Sean glances at Isla, letting her dictate their own actions

The violinist heard the announcement, and his bow strikes across the strings with an errant, irrrbbbtttt. All music then stops.

Daffyd sighs at the announcement eyeing his clothes ruefully. Well, mayhaps castle security will contain the issue but the way his luck usually works he anticipates losing ANOTHER outfit. "Oh bother", he mutters to nobody in particular, "Why am I getting flashbacks to Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone? Troll in the dungeon indeed."

There is a soft growl from Kohana and he is moving towards Kennard and Tinlin, after all he is there with a sworn duty of protection. He moves through the crowd easily, lighting flashing across his eyes a moment. Thunder cracking again outside, and the rain continues its downpour.

Harrow goes toe to heel and pries off his patent leather shoes. He's not wearing any socks. He slips off his confining jacket and takes a few stretches, waiting for some command.

Reaching over to pat her hand on his arm, Ken gives Tiana a comforting glance. He scans the room nearest them and then looks back to find his pack and elders. He idly reaches down and loosens the rapier in its scabbard. He takes a deep breath, "Keep smiling. Keep your eyes open." He tells Tiana.

The big double doors down in the great foyer slam shut! They may as well be in the biggest Hogwarts, ie. Silver Tara castle lockdown as the Warder's defensive protocol begins. BOOM! BOOM! Windows are being shuttered. There's protective spirit activity in the outer hall, and somewhere they can hear the Ard Ry howling out to his pack, to <<Find it and kill it!>> He hadn't even arrived yet.

Lady Mauve signals Daffyd over to her immediately. "See that man over there? He's the Hand of the King. Go see if he'll get you an audience with the King to tell of the information your pack found. No time to waste."

The Hand of the King, is rising up from his table after that announcement. He's a burly looking Fianna in his finery, and yet now he looks grumbly. Leaving his table, and his glass of champagne down, he is starting to walk for the ballroom doors.

Daffyd nods and instantly moves rapidly towards the indicated man, "I say, sirrah, my good sir, it is absolutely imperative that I speak to you immediately even before you go to lend your aid to the matter at hand. It may very well have direct bearing on this situation!", he speaks clearly and urgently as he approaches as quickly as he can without running and possibly damaging his credibility.

Sean stays right by Isla's side, nodding a little to something or other. He crosses his arms over his chest and he just, for now, WATCHES.

The doors are still open to the ballroom, and the Hand of the King stops to turn and looks at Daffyd. He looks him up and down. "Speak quickly. I seriously hope this isn't going to be ruining our evening." He's a bit of a stuffy older garou.

The rest of the party within quickly begins to react. Those who had packs in the room start to gather up to also begin moving toward those ballroom doors. Many of the kinfolk are asked to stay here. Hardly any of them takes the single threat seriously, of ONE fomori.

One fine lady wearing red stops to reassure the crowd. "Don't worry.. this place was built like Fort Knox. We're perfectly safe in this room!" She offers the one man who fell her own drink. So kind of her.

"Get the packs together." One of the guardians begins to tell some of the more trusted Fianna present, those he has fought beside before. "The hunt needs to begin! This invader must be rooted oout and destroyed."

Another at his side, "A distraction? We need to send packs to the walls, set up the defensive perimeters." he growls out.

The Guardian nods an affirmative and turns glancing a moment then to Isla and Sean, moving towards them with a purpose. "Firey Bellona'Rhya. We are fortunate to have you here. Can I ask the two of you, known by deed and trusted to go to the walls, defend the keep while we hunt down what has skulked its way within?" he spits it out, angry. "We cant trust a bunch of cliaths to defend what would dare attack us here." he complains about cliaths as if they were cubs. "And I dont believe a lone fomori would dare..." he doesnt even finish. He unlike some, /is/ taking it seriously.

Daffyd quickly approaches and talks softly enough that the entire room isn't pprivy to his words and he maintains awareness of anyone trying to overhear him as well, "I am Daffyd ap Owen, my cousin Kennard and his intended Tinlin have uncovered evidence of a large plot by someone to undermine, take over and possibly depose the Garou of Silver Tara. The Ard Ri himself could be in danger. This is the second time a fomori has been used to attempt to block my cousin being able to present his evidence. I urge you sir, please take us to an audience with the Ard Ri, he needs to know the facts that my cousin's investigation has uncovered so that precautions and plans may be made. An ounce of prevention was ever worth more than a pound of cure after all.", he uses everything at his disposal to seem dedicated and trustworthy.

Isla is moving quickly toward the doors. She wants to get out and does not even look for Sean because she's in her head already. As they are stopped, she nods quickly. "Aye, we will defend with honor. May the enemies taste our blades and die swiftly." She turns and heads out, dropping her jewelry and sash and then summoning her bow to her hand as she walks.

Finn is doing all he can to surveil every possible entrance - moving with purpose to each in turn. His eyes are almost continually darting to the others, as he moves to the next.

Sean stays right by Isla's side. He knows his Alpha and having her in his head helps a lot too. He moves with her, saying nothing for now as they move to take their places

At the call for packs, Kennard leads Tiana towards Sean and Isla. He looks for the others and kind of nods them over too. He approaches as the Guardian speaks to Isla. He pauses and does seem to take minor offense at the talk of Cliaths. Watching Isla and Sean walk off, he nods and gathers that 'bunch of Cliaths' and Kohana. "We still need to keep our eyes open." He sees Daffyd and gestures, "Time to do our thing. Step lively and speak with conviction. This isn't the time to second guess ourselves." He turns to make his way to Daffyd.

Watching Isla and Sean move off, Kohana wants to rumble a complaint but doesn't. Of course he isn't trusted, he is a Wendigo on lands of the Fianna. An outsider here. His gaze turns to Kennard sharply but he doesn't say a word, he wants to help protect the sept but in the end he just nods and remains as asked.

The Hand of the King hears the call from the Guardian, and then looks back at Daffyd, getting in close to his personal space. "What proof do you have before I bring this before our King? One fomori isn't enough to bother him with. Not even two."

As Sean and Isla are summoned, Tiana looks to the Highlanders and motions them closer to where Daffyd is. Strength in numbers to convince, right?

It's raining outside hard enough that it won't be pleasant to be out in it with a ballgown on.

Harrow looks -beyond- through the Gauntlet and then withdraws his gaze. Turning to Kennard he makes a hand gesture for Umbra and All Clear.

Taking a deep breath, Kennard leads everyone right up to the Hand. "How about possibly a temple dedicated to the Wyrm? Corrupting and creating an army of Fomori?" Kennard starts with. "We've got evidence that the County of Midlothorien is being corrupted by a Bane. Rumors of a Dancer with contacts here in the Court? Some evidence of the Fair Folk slowly and systematically running Fianna off of farm land? Enslaving kinain? It's more than I can explain sitting here right now. But this is not an idle threat. We believe this can be connected to the introduction of Lady Tiana'lin Tinsdale and the connection to her father Count Eltrel, one of ... questionable ... liability."

Daffyd looks to Kennard and Tinlin, nods, and keeps speaking, "Several things my lord. One lands of the kinfolk in Midlothorian are being purchased at an amazing rate by the same couple that are Fae. 2. It is reported a corrupted bog spirit, a bane, is causing the lands to sicken making it possible for the couple to buy the land cheaply as it is no longer farmable. 3. One of our circle had a vision, in this vision the fae lord in question was in a hidden area underground watching a kinfolk give birth. 4. That same lord has forced many kinfolk into indentured servatude aften in conjunction with buying the lands. 5. That was attempted with Tinlin but Kennard saved her from that fate. 6. Also in the vision there was ahinting of a hidden gathering army of dark forces. 7. It is said a Black Spiral Dancer named Blightbringer is trying to influence local events as well and may be involved with the possible army. 8. On the day the bethrothal of Kennard and Tinlin was announced, a package was delivered to the home of Kennard's family here. From it came a secreted fomori which was put down. And now on the evening of Lady Tinlin's first public outing another fomori has somehow penetrated these halls.", he very carefully does not mention anything about the dancer in connection to the queen, this is not the time or place for that tidbit of information. He again calls on every once of his trustworthy nature, his ernestness, everything he has at his disposal to convince the Hand that this is of utmost importance and immediate action would be best.

As Sean and Isla make it to the walls with a few of the other trusted guardian packs, the rain is pattering down upon them uncomfortably. Out over the fields it is...well empty. Nothing.

Yet...there is this odd foreboding.

Fear is in the air out there...in the distance.

Well THAT certainly gets the attention of the Hand of the King. He eyes Daffyd, then looks at Kennard, and the rest of the pack, and supporters of Clan Madden coming around him. The Hand snarls, "Wait here a moment." He must be in communication with the King's pack, because he's only stepped away for a few seconds.

The Hand speaks back to Daffyd first, "The King's busy." He says this as if it might be a real barrier to the group. "He doesn't have time for this." He's gruff. In another breath it looks like he'll relent to Kennard's parents now standing behind him, but then Harold takes off to go to the wall and leaves Mauve behind with Lady Tiana.

The Hand says, "The Ard Ry requests you assist him in this investigation by going down..." he pauses, like he can't believe the King is about to feed the Cliaths to the... he sputters, "The Ard Ry wants you to go down to the Crypts, beneath the Keep, and see if you can wake He Who Walks Beside. Tell him your story. IF you can get him to wake up. If he wakes, then it's probably a legit warning." He looks to Kennard, and Daffyd, "You know the way down there. Right?" They aren't cubs anymore.

Cliath or not, Kennard is not backing down. He was about to say something else, but the Hand's request gets a nod. He looks to Finn and then back to the Hand. "Aye. Like the back o me hand." Kennard assures him. He turns to Tiana and takes her hand, kissing it, then giving her a kiss. He looks to his mother and bows his head. He removes his tartan and hangs it on Tiana's shoulders. "I'll be back fir that." He turns and says, "Do or die. Let's go." And with that, he begins the trek down to the Crypts. He esures the sword is loose in the scabbard incase it's needed. He also slowly grows, taking on his Glabro form.

Tiana will hold onto Ken's tartan, and accepts the kiss to her hand. "Be safe, all of you. Please. I'll stay here with Ken's mother, and with the other Kinfolk. It should be... fine." Right? Lady Mauve, wraps an arm around Tiana and will guide her to the back of the ballroom. She looks over her shoulder at the group, with concern, but it's time for the garou to act.

Harrow follows Laid Kennard and struggles to take point.

Finn doesn't bother changing out of his tartan - ready to go whenever. He simply moves along with the others, quiet for now.

Daffyd nods in gratitude to the Hand, "Thank you Sir.", he turns and follows Kennard, wondering why he shifted as they are going to try and rouse a spirit, a ghost, an ancestor, something, but with just a wee bit of luck combat should not be involved.

Kohana exhales, the entire thing makes him uncomfortable. But he will not put himself into position to not be prepared for the worst. So he begins to unbutton the jacket he was forced to wear to look presentable. Handing it to whomever kinfolk that Kennard was silly enough to get him to be his escort poor thing. He focuses a moment and activates the fetish tattoo, the dark black paint taking on a faint blue of lightning for a moment. He's ready to follow the damn cliath down to the depths of a Fianna stronghold. Great spirits of the Wendigo help him.

++++++++++++++POINT OF ORDER+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

---

At this point Sean and Isla are up on the ramparts, while the others descend into the Crypts-------------------

Isla is ready for battle, but does not like the standing around seeing nothing. "Where is this threat? Something feels wrong. Patience is wearing thing." She wants to shout to the mysterious fear around there to just show themselves. "Be ready fer the worst, because they need a large set of bullocks to attack here."

Sean follows Isla up and when he gets up there, he just... looks around and shakes his head. "Aaaaah, nope. Nope. Aaaaaaaaaand nope," he says, but he doesn't move. He stays right there with his Alpha. "This is goddamn madness, Isla."

+++++++++++++ DOWN BELOW THE KEEP:

As Kennard leads the pack out of the Ballroom, the doors slam shut behind them, and the bars can be heard falling into place with an echo. Kennard looks back just long enough to make sure everyone's with him. He looks to Harrow, "Follow behind, make sure nothing follows us." He orders, "Finn knows where we're going, let him lead."

Its down several corridors, turns and staircases. As they being to reach the Crypts, Kennard finally says, "We're looking for one of the Caern Totems. I've heard rumors, but nobody's seen it in quite some time. It's ancient and just ... sleeps. Who knows what we're about to wake up."

It's dark down below, but the Keep has torches in the walls for spirit lighting. They can see their way, and it smells dank, as down below Silver Tara, and the hewn rock of the earth now become one.

There are bigger rooms, that lead to smaller as they get down those steps. And the further they go, they'll see older crypts within the rock as if it were melded, with great sigils upon them marking the story of their past.

---

For Isla and Sean:

Rising over the far hill, to the open fields across the castle is?an army. Rain can be heard pattering down across their broken armor and leathery skin. Twisted creature of chaos and the Wyrm. Eyes glowing, not with the green of balefire but with red of blood. Each warrior, has a backwards 'BB' carved into their head, blood dripping down them as they snarl with rage. Every drop of blood a blight upon the soil.

In the center is their champion. The warlord called upon by Blightbringer and his pack. A giant avatar of the totem Minotaur. His fur perhaps was once brown, is now stained with so much blood it appears to be red. Its horns twist out in a crescent moon of death. Its gaze wild, as if it is madness just barely contained. This is the armies of war and death they see before them.

Fear. A wave of fear spreads across the field.

Its a palpable fear. Like a force. This champion serves Foebok and brings that Urge of Fear to the battlefield like a wave crashing upon the would be defenders like water against the rocks.

Anywhere else? The defenders may scatter, but here? Some shudder, some stagger back, but no one leaves their post.

---

Finn gets larger - straining his formal attire. As the orders are given, he moves to the front - ready to take point and scout a bit. Sneaky is the method he uses, trying to keep his noise down to a minimum.

Blizzard Wolf nods to Kennard and takes flank. From there, he falls to his hands and his body errupts in a tranformation into the dire wolf form.

As the group down below in the crypts of the keep continue their journey through its depths, they will sense a break in the rock where the rainwater seeps down and pools onto the rock and earth below their feet. The scent of earth is rich here, and they may feel the sense of the great spirit asleep down within. The closer they walk, the veil is thinning.

Around the bend, they may hear something snoring, mixed with the creaking of old wood.

Whatever the spirit torches may be, they shudder a bit and seem to get just a little bit dimmer. Even the scent of the earth around them that was growin closer a moment ago almost seems to dull, their very senses attacked by this...thing. The darkness gathers like a whisp, as if alive itself. Its fast, moving with a purpose as the shadow forms into a physical force, the shadows themselves extend into the air like a pointed blade as it moves to strike at the garou.

Stealth and darkness are its allies, it gives no scent, it gives no aura, it is shadow and death and it is upon the cliath?.oh and Kohana.

---

ON THE BATTLEFIELD WALLS:

Isla shifts into her war form, and summons her Ruby Javelin to her hand. Fiery Belona is ready for battle and howls >> IT'S CLOBBERIN' TIME! TO BATTLE BROTHERS AND SISTERS!! OUR BLADES TASTE THEIR BLOOD TONIGHT! << She's ready to spring into action and GO! Damn the waiting now that they see the threat. She raises her javelin above her head and lead the battle.

Broken Claw follows Isla's lead. As she shifts, he does too, letting out a howl of challenge, even as he starts moving with her, whether the others do or not.

...And so it begins. Fiery Bellona leaps from her position and into the fray! Swinging her javelin around, she slices, she dices, she make julienne banes and puddles of death as she goes. A horde attempts to surround her, but she STRIKES her javelin into the ground and as the light shines out from it and blinds dozens of attackers around her, she holds on to the javelin to use it as a pole and moves from vertical to horizontal as she uses the claws of her feet to take out the circle around her, knocking off heads and just obliterating the enemy. NASTY Blood squirts out everywhere, and by the time she lands on her feet again, she has taken out a good chunk around her. She leans down and dips her claws into the blood and then wipes it across her chest and cheek. Warpaint. She howls again, >> DEATH TO THE WYRM! << WIth more yips she puts her head down, grabs up her javelin, and is ready to spear some more.

Thunder rips across the sky outside as a Fianna up on the ramparts blows a war horn. It resounds in the rain and carries signal to all inside the keep that a battle has begun. Silver Tara is under attack.

For a time, Broken Claw is at Fiery Bellona's side, but as battles tend to do, they separate. Broken Claw has a massive staff that he uses to knock things out of the way, and distract. It's actually quite elegant. Shame no one's paying a LOT of attention to what he's doing. BUt there are claws too, claws that rip and tear and shred.

Somewhere along the line, Broken Claw and Fiery Bellona make their way back near each other. Sean spins valiantly and jams that staff into something's chest and knocks him back into range of Fiery Bellona's javelin. Team work!

Outside, Isla and Sean are doing their worst, slaughtering the hordes of the enemy with fierceness and power. However, they are not the only one devestating in the battle. The great Minotaur takes the field, its stomps like earthquakes, as it charges throw the gaians, impaling them upon his horns with dark glee.

Outside on the battlefield, the Wyrm Dancer known as Baneblight roars into a terrifying howl. He ramps up their war spirit to defend their death machines. The glowing red now coming from them up on the hill is a sickening red haze of fire. The RED BULL as his minotaur rips up the field to stop the invading packs of Fianna from getting up to them. Something really bad is about to happen..

Fiery Bellona hurls her javelin - sharp end first - at the nearest fomori in front of her. The force is so much that it knocks the thing down - goes through it's chest, and it falls onto the ground. The Javelin striking the ground, it emits that bright BLINDING red light, stopping the banes and spirals and fomori in their tracks in the area the light reaches. It is only for a moment, but enough for more of them to do their damage - taking heads and not giving a fuck. >> WATCH OUT FROM ABOVE! WE CAN KILL THEM ALL!! << The ahroun wants to bolster spirits. IT is a GLORIOUS DAY. >> NERIGAL! STAND WITH US!! <<

---

IN THE CRYPTS:

Kennard's just too big of a target. He tries to dodge the sword, but it does no good, the Fomoris blade strikes True!! Kennard Roars and something odd, it doesn't seem to phase him! But all it does is PISS HIM OFF, and ruin his tux!

Inside the Keep, there is a tremble and vibration felt from the battle going on outside.

<---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> Kennard rolls Strength(6) + Brawl(4) (10 dice) vs 6 for 3 successes. 1 1 2 3 5 +6 +6 +8 10 10 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============------------->

<---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> Kennard rolls Strength(6) (6 dice) vs 6 for 5 successes. 5 +8 +9 +10 +10 +10 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============------------->

<---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> StormBreaker rolls 7 vs 6 for 2 successes. 1 2 4 4 +6 +7 10 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============------------->

The shift didn't work! That doesn't stop Kennard at all! He growls and roars, "Grapple it and pull!" In response, he rushes forward and grabs the shadowy assassion! Tendrils shift and turn, the tips looking like blades and barbs! This doesn't stop Kennard from squeezing the shit out of this thing, muscles bugling with his effort.

<---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> Blizzard Wolf rolls Strength + Brawl vs 7 for 0 successes. 1 2 2 2 3 6 6 9 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============------------->

Blizzard Wolf launches his massive body at the assassin, trying to overbear him! But he fails to make contact and lands just beyond his intended victim. He errupts with a savage snarl!

<---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> Finn rolls Strength + 5 vs 6 for 5 successes. 1 2 2 4 5 +6 +6 +7 +8 +10 10 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============-------------> <---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> StormBreaker rolls 7 vs 6 for 3 successes. 2 2 3 5 +8 +8 +9 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============------------->

Time to act, time to fight. Finn, in his pretty looking Glabro form, lashes out with his knife. A solid hit, right where intended - a bit of a slash through the inky blackness. That had to hurt, right?

<---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> Singer-of_Lore rolls Strength + Brawl vs 6 for 2 successes. 1 1 2 2 2 4 +7 +8 9 9 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============------------->

Singer-of_Lore chharges in at Kennard's shouted command. He somehow manages to to grasp a shadow, how he is not quite sure, even as he is dodging bbetween several flailing shadowy appendenges, how do you fight a shadow? At any rate it seems he has a firm grasp on the thing but he doesn't have a clue if he is causing any damage at all to it.

<---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> StormBreaker rolls Dexterity + Brawl vs 6 for 3 successes. 1 4 4 4 4 5 5 +8 +8 +9 10 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============------------->

<---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> StormBreaker rolls Strength + 4 + 2 vs 6 for 6 successes. 1 2 2 3 3 4 4 5 +6 +6 +7 +7 +9 +10 10 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============-------------> <---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> StormBreaker rolls 7 vs 6 for 5 successes. 3 5 +6 +10 +10 +10 +10 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============------------->

Jumping into the fray is the Wendigo warrior, lightning pours down his arms from his tattoo as he strikes at the darkness, the blue light of electrcity arcs across it causing a screech from the darkness as it continues to pile on the attacks. The solid core, vaguely humanoid of the shadow continues to gather up the darkness in a flail of whisps of darkness that become solid to attack...now it is its turn.

The assassin is angry, and cries out in pain. The shadows continue to whip and tear around, alternating between being physical hard and powerful blades and being nothing but darkness, disappearing into nothingness. Its attacks strike true, only the Wendigo goes unscathed as the others take vicious strikes of darkness made solid.

<---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> Kennard rolls Strength(6) (6 dice) vs 6 for 4 successes. 4 5 +7 +7 +7 +8 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============------------->

<---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> StormBreaker rolls 7 vs 6 for 3 successes. 2 3 3 4 +7 +8 +9 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============------------->

<---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> Singer-of_Lore rolls Dexterity + Brawl vs 6 for 3 successes. 2 3 4 4 +7 +8 +8 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============-------------> <---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> Singer-of_Lore rolls Strength + 1 + 2 vs 6 for 5 successes. 1 1 2 +6 +7 +7 +7 +8 8 10 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============-------------> <---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> StormBreaker rolls 7 vs 6 for 4 successes. 1 5 +6 +7 +8 +10 10 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============------------->

Singer-of_Lore lets go with a vicious snarl, this damn thing had the temerity to injure him, he rakes his claws across the shadowy mass still held by Kennard and thinks he might have slightly injured it, who can tell if a shadow is hurt or not after all.

<---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> StormBreaker rolls Dexterity + Brawl vs 6 for 6 successes. 1 3 4 4 +8 +8 +9 +10 +10 +10 10 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============-------------> <---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> StormBreaker rolls Strength + 5 + 2 vs 6 for 5 successes. 1 1 2 2 3 3 4 4 4 +6 +6 +6 +8 +9 9 10 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============-------------> <---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> StormBreaker rolls 7 vs 6 for 2 successes. 1 2 2 5 +6 +7 8 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============------------->

---

OUT ON THE BATTLEFIELD HILLS: Baneblight is a trickster. He's the devil in the wyrm hole, of the Bog Hive. And here he is, cackling like a sinister jester up on that hill, as his pack, and other spirals race down the hill, mixed in with the fomori.

The King's pack is out, alongside the Ard Ry now, and they are bulldozing forward from Castle in the direction of one of those war machines.

Fiery Bellona gets that BLAST of red light, and it hits the fomori putting together the second and third catapult. The first one is assembled, yet the fomori about to operate it are frozen in those few seconds. The fianna are ripping up the field like a killing spree, and Baneblight resumes his coughing cackle once more, by jumping up from the ground, to leap on top of the first catapult, once the light goes out.

HE HOWLS: <<<DO IT AGAIN! I DARE YOU!>>> Wheeheahahahaha. Lunatic. He's Craaaaazy!

Baneblight climbs up into that spool of a bucket catapult, and it looks as if he's going to toss himself over to the Keep. But not yet! The Baneblight bastard takes a fiery piss on whatever is burning red in that bucket, and whatever he is doing, it must be disgusting, AND prepping the crapload that is in the bucket to be fired. He hops

Broken Claw DOEs dare. And while he doesn't have a javelin, he DOES have a staff. He launches it through the air at the crazy fucker and hits him square. It's JUST a staff. There's no magic to it. It might well just bounce off, but Broken Claw is just looking for a moment's distraction for others to take care of the problem and he continues his charge toward BaneFucker

Fiery Bellona cackles when the so called leader of the Wyrm forces dares them. >> YE DONAE KNOW ME! I'VE DESTROYED WORSE THAN YE IN OTHER REALMS! I HAVE NERIGAL ON ME SIDE! YE ARE NO MATCH FER FIERY BELLONA! << She smacks her javelin on the ground again, shielding her own eyes and ducking so she does not stop any of the light from emitting. Once it does she picks it up and hurls it similarly to Broken Claw at his head.

This is something that the Eclipse pack does. They work together. REALLY well. Broken Claw hears Fiery Bellona, senses the light. There is communication between the two that you don't need eyes for. As the javelin is thrown a third time, Broken Claw turns his upper body, still plowing toward BaneBlinker or whoever the fuck he thinks he is. He snags the javelin out of the air with one hand, spins around, tosses it to the other hand and LAUNCHES it through the air, aiming right at the guy up there on the catapult.

<---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> Sean rolls Dexterity + Melee vs 6 for 5 successes. 2 2 3 4 4 +7 +8 +9 +9 +10 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============------------->

<---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> Sean rolls Strength + 1 + 4 vs 6 for 1 successes. 1 1 1 1 2 2 3 4 5 +7 8 8 8 10 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============------------->

The javelin thrown by the garou outside strikes true, the blade stabbing deep into his chest and...did the point come out the shoulder blade? He howls out in pain and rage. Oh its a vicious wound, but he is still alive, and now they will have to go to him to get it back as he turns in their direction and howls in rage, leaving the javelin stuck right where it is.

Rage, pure and true from the source of the Wyrm.

Fiery Bellona wants her javelin back, and seeing that it is now stuck in it's target, she howls for Broken Claw >> THAT DINNAE BELONGS TO YE! I'M COMING FER IT AND YER HEAD! << And off she goes to get the prizes she wants.

Broken Claw's staff is over there too. He launches himself forward, but makes sure Fiery Bellona leads the charge. She is alpha, afterall.

---

DOWN IN THE CRYPTS: <---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> Blizzard Wolf rolls Dexterity + Brawl vs 5 for 4 successes. 1 3 4 +7 +8 +9 +9 10 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============------------->

<---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> Blizzard Wolf rolls Strength + 1 + 3 vs 6 for 5 successes. 4 4 4 4 5 +6 +8 +8 +9 +10 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============------------->

Blizzard Wolf lunges forward, snapping his slavering jaws deep into the flesh of the assassin and then shaking his head until the flesh tears loose. He spits it out and raises his great head to let out a howl. <<We have killed it, brothers and sisters!">>

That... hurt. Finn's formal garb is likely ruined. He's got a nasty wound across his gut where the creature slammed into him. His knife is flicked clean, then re-sheathed. A look to Kennard, the man quirking a brow. "I think he's stirred, cousin. But I am all for singing him to calmness, yeah?"

All the racket and noise drawn from the pack and the garou with them, makes something awaken down in the next chamber. The snoring stops. A rumbling voice calls, ancient, and loud. <<WHO DARES AWAKEN ME?>>

It does not sound friendly. Not at first, it's a cranky awakening spirit who had been slumbering a very, very long time. The assassin now dead, and oozing on the stone ground is slowly dissipating. But as the group will wander forward, toward that booming voice, they will witness the Caern spirit within, tugging arms and limbs from the stone walls, and the crunching dirt. They now look upon Fir, an ancient spirit tree, shifting tree limbs out of the crypt and stretching. It hulks, as if moving roots for legs, and then rises upwards, where the cracks in the Keep have allowed trickles of sunlight and rain down within to feed it.

Shaking off the muck, Kennard lets go of whatever's left of the Fomori. He looks to those gathered. "We need to stir the spirit." He looks back and forth. "I know a song. I want to try. Join me as you pick up the lyrics. If the spirit awakens, offering a bit of your gnosis as chiminage." He steps forward and clears his throat. This is going to take effort.

Bowing before the great spirit, Kennard rights himself and looks up to the Ancient Tree, "Sir Kennard Ry Madden, rited Wrath of Morrigu, Cliath Ahroun of the Fianna, Son of Harold 'Song-of-Harmony' Madden Elder Philodox, Alpha to the pack Stag's Blessing, Grandson of Alesdair Drinks-Like-Fish Madden Athro Ragabash, taken by the Wyrm, Great Grandson of Caden Bane-blight Madden Elder Ahroun WyrmFoe Sept of the Three Valleys, directly decscended from Phelan 'Voice of Wisdom' Madden Elder Galliard and Songkeeper, Righ of Clan Madden. From the Sept of Enduring Spirit. Betrothed to Lady Tiana'lin Tinsdale"

He looks to the others and then back to the great tree, "We come seeking your guiance and strength. The Sept of Airgetteamhair is under attack by the Wyrm! I have but the spiritual essence of my own spirit and a song .... "

He starts to sing! Slowly so the others can pick up the words:

Farewell sweet light.

Now I welcome the moon of night.

The silver turns the leaves to call,

The dreamer to sing of nightfall.

O'er the heavens stars to bring,

The hum of sleeping branches sing.

Fir, Chiye-Tanka, Big Elder Brother, an ancient diety of the forests. Stormbreaker watches on with care as the Fianna step forward and speak to the totem spirit. He is after all, a stranger on these lands and this totem is here, among the Fianna. So he just lowers his head in deference and appreciation to the spirit of the forest.

Singer-of_Lore approaches Fir and proclaims, "Oh great and mighty Totem of the Fianna foul things are afoot! Fomori assassins in the keep, Servants of the wrym plotting against the Ard Ri, you can see the rapidly dissipating remains of the fomori yourself!", he points to the rapidly dissapating remains. The Ard Ri has sent us to find and confer with you, explain our findings and see if they seem of real concern in your learned opinion.", again he puts everything he has into his words, his trustworthiness, his soothing voice, his confidence, he is respectful but not obsiqueous.

There are no words or introductions from Fin, he simply joins in the song to lend his voice to the spirit. Along with his Gnosis, of course.

Blizzard Wolf tosses his head back and purses his pink lips, "AAaaaaroooo... rooooOOOOO rarrrooo roo raaaar ROOOOOOoooooo."

You lose one Gnosis You lose one Willpower

<---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> Kennard rolls Charisma(3) + Performance(2) (5 dice) vs 6 for 0 successes. 1 -1 -1 2 10 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============------------->

Finn loses one Willpower <---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> Finn rolls Charisma + Performance vs 6 for 2 successes. 2 +9 +9 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============------------->

<---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> Singer-of_Lore rolls Charisma + Performance + 2 vs 6 for 5 successes. 2 5 5 +8 +8 +10 +10 +10 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============-------------> <---======##====================[ Dice Roll ]=====================##======---> Singer-of_Lore rolls 3 vs 6 for 1 successes. 2 4 +9 <-------------=============++++++++++++++++++++++++=============------------->

Blizzard Wolf loses one Magical Essence StormBreaker loses one Magical Essence Singer-of_Lore loses one Magical Essence Singer-of_Lore loses one Magical Essence Singer-of_Lore loses one Magical Essence

He Who Walks Beside, hears the song and melody offered by the group. It's not war. It's not typical offerings. But it does seem to be soothed, as if he could go back to sleep. BUT, Daffyd is telling him about war, and siege, and the earth begins to tremble beneath their feet as he's rising up even more to his full height. Branches furl and bend to shed small seedling cones, which are offered to the garou one by one, that offer up the gift of shared gnosis.

The great fir sighs, <> At least he didn't EAT the cliaths, and Kohana.

<<In return, I ask that you plant these seedlings and send them far and wide into the world.>> HE points a limb at the Wendigo. <<In the North, where the Wendigo still survive.>> He points at Harrow, <<In the West, where you come from, and where the Pavee live.>> He knows /things/. He points to Finn, <<Near a lake.>> And he points to Kennard, <<In the Oaks.>> And last he points to Daffyd, <<A seed wherever your next three songs take you.>>

Shifting back to warform, Wrath-of-Morrigu howls triumpaphantly! <<TO GLORY!!>> He howls and takes off loping along on all fours, leading the way back to the surface!

Singer-of_Lore lifts his head high and lets out a loud howl and begins to move as rapidly as he can to get to the ramparts. Once he reaches them and sees all that is occuring he again throws back his head and lets out another mighty howl, a calling to war and he triggers his gift call of the wyld as he does so.

The great Fir spirit creaks in one last stretch and peers back at them all, all bark and moss, and with glowing yellow eyes. They are wild looking, and feral. The spirit commands, <<Now go to the ramparts and assist your brother and sister wolves! To war we go!>>

Where he was manifested as physical in the heart of the Keep, he shifts into a blur of yellow spirit light, and begins to walk right through the walls of the keep and into the dirt, as if it were no issue, to disappear, and teleport himself back out onto the battlefield.

From above in the battlefield, roots ripple upward from the deep ground, and the earth disturbed explodes, where He Who Walks Beside, suddenly pulls himself up from the ground itself, where the war rages outside. Now the fun, really begins...

All who hold a seedling from He Who Walks Besides, that are now emptying the Crypt below the keep, feel a sudden healing glow emanating from within. OOC: <<Heal up to 2 Agg>> Shifting back to warform, Wrath-of-Morrigu howls triumpaphantly! <<TO GLORY!!>> He howls and takes off loping along on all fours, leading the way back to the surface!

Singer-of_Lore lifts his head high and lets out a loud howl and begins to move as rapidly as he can to get to the ramparts. Once he reaches them and sees all that is occuring he again throws back his head and lets out another mighty howl, a calling to war and he triggers his gift call of the wyld as he does so.

The seed is taken up in hand by Finn, then he's off running after the others. He remains in Glabro for now, long loping strides trying to keep up with the others.

OUTSIDE ON THE BATTLEFIELD: Fiery Bellona wants her javelin back, and seeing that it is now stuck in it's target, she howls for Broken Claw >> THAT DINNAE BELONGS TO YE! I'M COMING FER IT AND YER HEAD! << And off she goes to get the prizes she wants.

Broken Claw's staff is over there too. He launches himself forward, but makes sure Fiery Bellona leads the charge. She is alpha, afterall.