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<blockquote data-quote="Nonlethal Force" data-source="post: 3491585" data-attributes="member: 35788"><p>Once the hugs were given out and the group was gathered once more around the table – this time with Ophee – Rhema turned to their newest arrival and altered the conversation. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“So, is your master’s business private or is it a matter of public knowledge? I am curious about what kind of work you do for the wizard in Eberdeen.”</span></p><p></p><p>Ophee smiled at Rhema’s inquisitiveness. <span style="color: Lime">“Oh, I can certainly speak about my mission, although I doubt that you all will be able to help me. You see, my master has instructed me to find a certain woman of duplicity.”</span></p><p></p><p>Charis snickered at Ophee’s description. <span style="color: Orange">“You make it sound so mysterious! She’s a ‘woman of duplicity.’ What’s that supposed to mean? Does she lead a double life?”</span></p><p></p><p>Ophee and the rest of the gathered people laughed at Charis’ suggestion. <span style="color: Lime">“No, not exactly. Although in truth you aren’t very far off. Apparently there is an anchor to a slave trade organization residing somewhere here in the region that I oversee for my master. My master doesn’t know exactly how the slaves arrive here in Fingerdale, but the person that my master’s services are being contracted for does know that this area is a major hub of activity.”</span></p><p></p><p>Brandt frowned. <span style="color: Lime">“Slaves passing through this area? That is a bit disturbing to me to be honest. We haven’t had a substantial problem with slavery since the lords of Tongra were united in the Confederacy of Tongra hundreds of years ago. Before then the lords would raid each other’s lands in an attempt to undermine their economy and morale. If people were taken during the raid, they often became slaves to the households that were responsible for organizing the incursion. But that regime hasn’t been around for centuries. Certainly there isn’t any current market for slaves in Tongra.”</span></p><p></p><p>Ophee shook her head in disagreement. <span style="color: Lime">“Well, my master did tell me that the slavers are not exactly well known. That is why my master talents and my services were needed to find them. The slaves are kept here long enough for them to trade hands, and then they are sent abroad.”</span></p><p></p><p>Ischarus looked as though he were in deep thought. <span style="color: LightBlue">“It actually sounds as the type of fight that we try to disrupt ourselves. We are completely opposed to slavery and tyranny of any kind, and would gladly fight against it. If you are successful in your search, let me know. I’d gladly have a hand in the disruption of any slave trade.”</span></p><p></p><p>Ophee smiled and nodded at Ischarus’ support. <span style="color: Lime">“I will be sure to tell my master. He can pass along the information to the person that has contracted out my master’s services.”</span></p><p></p><p>Semeion wasn’t satisfied with the way the discussion of Ophee’s newest job was wrapping up. <span style="color: Plum">“Does your master know how these slaves are leaving Fingerdale? I’d be absolutely surprised if they were leaving by land. Driving slaves through a land where slavery isn’t acceptable tends to be rather obvious. I’d bet the slaves were being moved by sea, to be honest.”</span></p><p></p><p>Brandt chuckled as his mind registered Semeion’s oversight. <span style="color: Lime">“Or by magic, Semeion. Don’t forget your first love, after all.”</span></p><p></p><p>A look of obvious disappointment passed over Semeion’s face as everyone else enjoyed another good laugh. Semeion smiled back to Brandt and corrected his earlier conclusion. <span style="color: Plum">“I suppose that teleportation magic may well be the method of travel. It would certainly be safe and unrecognizable, that’s for sure.”</span></p><p></p><p>Brandt nodded and continued with Semeion’s conclusion. <span style="color: Lime">“But, that still leaves out the question of where. If they are going by the sea, then they could be headed anywhere. But if they were leaving by teleportation magic, well that would narrow the span of movement. Teleportation magic has its range limitations. I doubt that the slaves could be leaving the land of Enigmatica by the means of teleportation magic.”</span></p><p></p><p>Iasho nodded in agreement as Brandt spoke. <span style="color: Lime">“I agree, although I’ve lived near enough to the port to know that it could be possible at the very least. With the right map and the right services of a disreputable captain, it would be possible to ship slaves out of the port to an uncharted island. Teleportation magic might get them the rest of the way.”</span></p><p></p><p>Semeion also nodded as Iasho spoke. <span style="color: Plum">“Or, perhaps they have multiple places from which they teleport. If a wizard of high enough power visits any of the uncharted islands in the sea and becomes familiar enough with its location, they could teleport unerringly from the mainland to the island. Another wizard could be waiting for them to complete the trip and complete the deal. For the system to work well and be profitable, that would require a few wizards of high power working together. They would burn through their magical aptitude pretty quickly teleporting people across the seas like that.”</span></p><p></p><p>Brandt agreed, but spoke to the logistics of what Semeion proposed. <span style="color: Lime">“That many higher level wizards working in conjunction with one another would be hard to keep quiet. I’m sure we’d have heard rumors, at least.”</span></p><p></p><p>Ophee shook her head from side to side slowly. <span style="color: Lime">“Unfortunately, while you all are coming to reasonable conclusions I think you are looking too far. My master has reason to believe that the slaves are going no further than Fenneress and even Barghost.”</span></p><p></p><p>Brandt nearly choked on the water that he was sipping as Ophee suggested that the land of Barghost involved slave trade. <span style="color: Lime">“What? Your master cannot be serious! As evil as the land of Quehalost is, the land of Barghost is just and righteous! While demons and dark lords rule Quehalost in an eternal struggle for power, the land of Barghost is led by divine agents who seek righteousness and justice above all else. Slavery would be crushed as soon as it was discovered.”</span></p><p></p><p>Ophee shrugged her shoulders. <span style="color: Lime">“That is what I told my master when he suggested that citizens of Barghost might be involved. But he was adamant that his contact had told him quite definitely that the slaves are occasionally shipped into Barghost. He suggested that it may be possible that the slaves are being used underground or in other areas where visibility is not quite so prevalent.”</span></p><p></p><p>Charis shook her head in disagreement. <span style="color: Orange">“I remember Ausaphaborishan’s valley. I find it nearly impossible that such a land could hold such an evil.”</span></p><p></p><p>Rhema looked at the problem through a more pragmatic lens. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“Unfortunately, through the means of things like the magic of Semeion and Brandt or even the intimate powers that I wield this is possible. I find it difficult to believe, but not impossible.”</span></p><p></p><p>Ischarus returned the conversation back to the original roots. <span style="color: LightBlue">“And we cannot rule out the possibility, however so small. But, Ophee, you say that you will find this slave trade by looking for a duplicitous woman? Do you know more than that?”</span></p><p></p><p>Ophee nodded and replied to Ischarus’ question. <span style="color: Lime">“Yeah. I was told that the duplicitous woman was once almost a slave herself. In fact, she still carries the mark of her slavery with her no matter where she goes. My master says that this woman is even so bold as to carry the mark openly. My master says that it should be able to be seen by anyone who knows what to look for.”</span></p><p></p><p>Charis’ curiosity was piqued by Ophee’s statement regarding the boldness of the woman. <span style="color: Orange">“Do you know what to look for? It seems like a mark of slavery would be so rare that it shouldn’t be hard to track down.”</span></p><p></p><p>Semeion concurred. <span style="color: Plum">“I agree. It might appear as a simple tattoo at first glance, though. If there truly is a slave trade going on through the city of Fingerdale, the marks for slavery would probably appear similar enough to a normal tattoo to be overlooked by anyone who isn’t looking for a mark of slavery specifically. However, it would be distinct enough so that a slaver would easily identify it on sight.”</span></p><p></p><p>Iasho agreed with Semeion’s conclusion. <span style="color: Lime">“That would certainly make sense from a business perspective. The thing that I find curious is that this woman doesn’t take any steps to hide her own tattoo. I find that particularly strange.”</span></p><p></p><p>Ophee grinned at the older man’s words. <span style="color: Lime">“I asked the same thing of my master. He said that the one who contracted his services had little answer for that question in particular. There is some thought that the woman earned her place among the slavers by betraying her own people rather than entering slavery herself. She didn’t want to betray her own people, but she couldn’t deal with the possibility of being a slave herself. Thus, she arranged a bargain with the slavers. She agreed to betray the location of her own people and help to bring them into slavery so long as she did not have to go herself.”</span></p><p></p><p>Charis nodded as she thought she understood Ophee’s rationale. <span style="color: Orange">“So the woman took the mark anyway to represent her guilt? She did it as a permanent reminder for herself of the evil that she performed to save her own skin?”</span></p><p></p><p>Ophee shook her head in disagreement. <span style="color: Lime">“In truth, my master suggested that his source provides a much more sinister reason than you suggest. Your words would indicate that the woman had guilt for her actions and realized the evil within them. My master suggested that what you propose isn’t what actually happened. He said that the story is actually that the woman was so eager to avoid slavery by selling her own people into slavery that even the slavers were embarrassed by her willingness to betray her own people. So, they accepted her terms and marked her as a slave anyway. She never served as a slave, but she was marked as one even still. Of course, I understand from my master that this explanation is probable, but speculation at its core nonetheless.”</span></p><p></p><p>Brandt continued to look displeased at the news which Ophee had brought forth. <span style="color: Lime">“I still don’t like what this represents. I’ve worked and studied in Fingerdale for many years now. I’ve yet to hear of this before today. Of course, I don’t pretend to know everything that happens, but surely something this evil would at least have come before my desk in the form of a rumor if nothing else. Furthermore, my father dragon has dwelled in Barghost for my more years than I have been alive and I’d have certainly thought that this is the kind of thing that would have gotten a sniff from him. Do you mind if I investigate this a little among the people and records of my temple, Ophee?”</span></p><p></p><p>Ophee shrugged. <span style="color: Lime">“Doesn’t matter to me so long as I am informed of what you find. I’ll need to report back to my master in the Wizard’s College.”</span></p><p></p><p>Brandt nodded in agreement and Ischarus spoke for the party. <span style="color: Lightblue">“Keep us informed as well. This is the type of fight that we typically like to undertake. Besides, fighting that kind of evil in our own land may have profound ramifications in the Quehalost, at least potentially.”</span></p><p></p><p>Ophee shook her head in agreement. <span style="color: Lime">“I’ll take all the allies I can get. The quicker I dig up information on this, the more my master will be pleased. I appreciate your offers for help.”</span></p><p></p><p>[Sblock=Color-Free Speech Section]</p><p>Once the hugs were given out and the group was gathered once more around the table – this time with Ophee – Rhema turned to their newest arrival and altered the conversation. “So, is your master’s business private or is it a matter of public knowledge? I am curious about what kind of work you do for the wizard in Eberdeen.”</p><p></p><p>Ophee smiled at Rhema’s inquisitiveness. “Oh, I can certainly speak about my mission, although I doubt that you all will be able to help me. You see, my master has instructed me to find a certain woman of duplicity.”</p><p></p><p>Charis snickered at Ophee’s description. “You make it sound so mysterious! She’s a ‘woman of duplicity.’ What’s that supposed to mean? Does she lead a double life?”</p><p></p><p>Ophee and the rest of the gathered people laughed at Charis’ suggestion. “No, not exactly. Although in truth you aren’t very far off. Apparently there is an anchor to a slave trade organization residing somewhere here in the region that I oversee for my master. My master doesn’t know exactly how the slaves arrive here in Fingerdale, but the person that my master’s services are being contracted for does know that this area is a major hub of activity.”</p><p></p><p>Brandt frowned. “Slaves passing through this area? That is a bit disturbing to me to be honest. We haven’t had a substantial problem with slavery since the lords of Tongra were united in the Confederacy of Tongra hundreds of years ago. Before then the lords would raid each other’s lands in an attempt to undermine their economy and morale. If people were taken during the raid, they often became slaves to the households that were responsible for organizing the incursion. But that regime hasn’t been around for centuries. Certainly there isn’t any current market for slaves in Tongra.”</p><p></p><p>Ophee shook her head in disagreement. “Well, my master did tell me that the slavers are not exactly well known. That is why my master talents and my services were needed to find them. The slaves are kept here long enough for them to trade hands, and then they are sent abroad.”</p><p></p><p>Ischarus looked as though he were in deep thought. “It actually sounds as the type of fight that we try to disrupt ourselves. We are completely opposed to slavery and tyranny of any kind, and would gladly fight against it. If you are successful in your search, let me know. I’d gladly have a hand in the disruption of any slave trade.”</p><p></p><p>Ophee smiled and nodded at Ischarus’ support. “I will be sure to tell my master. He can pass along the information to the person that has contracted out my master’s services.”</p><p></p><p>Semeion wasn’t satisfied with the way the discussion of Ophee’s newest job was wrapping up. “Does your master know how these slaves are leaving Fingerdale? I’d be absolutely surprised if they were leaving by land. Driving slaves through a land where slavery isn’t acceptable tends to be rather obvious. I’d bet the slaves were being moved by sea, to be honest.”</p><p></p><p>Brandt chuckled as his mind registered Semeion’s oversight. “Or by magic, Semeion. Don’t forget your first love, after all.”</p><p></p><p>A look of obvious disappointment passed over Semeion’s face as everyone else enjoyed another good laugh. Semeion smiled back to Brandt and corrected his earlier conclusion. “I suppose that teleportation magic may well be the method of travel. It would certainly be safe and unrecognizable, that’s for sure.”</p><p></p><p>Brandt nodded and continued with Semeion’s conclusion. “But, that still leaves out the question of where. If they are going by the sea, then they could be headed anywhere. But if they were leaving by teleportation magic, well that would narrow the span of movement. Teleportation magic has its range limitations. I doubt that the slaves could be leaving the land of Enigmatica by the means of teleportation magic.”</p><p></p><p>Iasho nodded in agreement as Brandt spoke. “I agree, although I’ve lived near enough to the port to know that it could be possible at the very least. With the right map and the right services of a disreputable captain, it would be possible to ship slaves out of the port to an uncharted island. Teleportation magic might get them the rest of the way.”</p><p></p><p>Semeion also nodded as Iasho spoke. “Or, perhaps they have multiple places from which they teleport. If a wizard of high enough power visits any of the uncharted islands in the sea and becomes familiar enough with its location, they could teleport unerringly from the mainland to the island. Another wizard could be waiting for them to complete the trip and complete the deal. For the system to work well and be profitable, that would require a few wizards of high power working together. They would burn through their magical aptitude pretty quickly teleporting people across the seas like that.”</p><p></p><p>Brandt agreed, but spoke to the logistics of what Semeion proposed. “That many higher level wizards working in conjunction with one another would be hard to keep quiet. I’m sure we’d have heard rumors, at least.”</p><p></p><p>Ophee shook her head from side to side slowly. “Unfortunately, while you all are coming to reasonable conclusions I think you are looking too far. My master has reason to believe that the slaves are going no further than Fenneress and even Barghost.”</p><p></p><p>Brandt nearly choked on the water that he was sipping as Ophee suggested that the land of Barghost involved slave trade. “What? Your master cannot be serious! As evil as the land of Quehalost is, the land of Barghost is just and righteous! While demons and dark lords rule Quehalost in an eternal struggle for power, the land of Barghost is led by divine agents who seek righteousness and justice above all else. Slavery would be crushed as soon as it was discovered.”</p><p></p><p>Ophee shrugged her shoulders. “That is what I told my master when he suggested that citizens of Barghost might be involved. But he was adamant that his contact had told him quite definitely that the slaves are occasionally shipped into Barghost. He suggested that it may be possible that the slaves are being used underground or in other areas where visibility is not quite so prevalent.”</p><p></p><p>Charis shook her head in disagreement. “I remember Ausaphaborishan’s valley. I find it nearly impossible that such a land could hold such an evil.”</p><p></p><p>Rhema looked at the problem through a more pragmatic lens. “Unfortunately, through the means of things like the magic of Semeion and Brandt or even the intimate powers that I wield this is possible. I find it difficult to believe, but not impossible.”</p><p></p><p>Ischarus returned the conversation back to the original roots. “And we cannot rule out the possibility, however so small. But, Ophee, you say that you will find this slave trade by looking for a duplicitous woman? Do you know more than that?”</p><p></p><p>Ophee nodded and replied to Ischarus’ question. “Yeah. I was told that the duplicitous woman was once almost a slave herself. In fact, she still carries the mark of her slavery with her no matter where she goes. My master says that this woman is even so bold as to carry the mark openly. My master says that it should be able to be seen by anyone who knows what to look for.”</p><p></p><p>Charis’ curiosity was piqued by Ophee’s statement regarding the boldness of the woman. “Do you know what to look for? It seems like a mark of slavery would be so rare that it shouldn’t be hard to track down.”</p><p></p><p>Semeion concurred. “I agree. It might appear as a simple tattoo at first glance, though. If there truly is a slave trade going on through the city of Fingerdale, the marks for slavery would probably appear similar enough to a normal tattoo to be overlooked by anyone who isn’t looking for a mark of slavery specifically. However, it would be distinct enough so that a slaver would easily identify it on sight.”</p><p></p><p>Iasho agreed with Semeion’s conclusion. “That would certainly make sense from a business perspective. The thing that I find curious is that this woman doesn’t take any steps to hide her own tattoo. I find that particularly strange.”</p><p></p><p>Ophee grinned at the older man’s words. “I asked the same thing of my master. He said that the one who contracted his services had little answer for that question in particular. There is some thought that the woman earned her place among the slavers by betraying her own people rather than entering slavery herself. She didn’t want to betray her own people, but she couldn’t deal with the possibility of being a slave herself. Thus, she arranged a bargain with the slavers. She agreed to betray the location of her own people and help to bring them into slavery so long as she did not have to go herself.”</p><p></p><p>Charis nodded as she thought she understood Ophee’s rationale. “So the woman took the mark anyway to represent her guilt? She did it as a permanent reminder for herself of the evil that she performed to save her own skin?”</p><p></p><p>Ophee shook her head in disagreement. “In truth, my master suggested that his source provides a much more sinister reason than you suggest. Your words would indicate that the woman had guilt for her actions and realized the evil within them. My master suggested that what you propose isn’t what actually happened. He said that the story is actually that the woman was so eager to avoid slavery by selling her own people into slavery that even the slavers were embarrassed by her willingness to betray her own people. So, they accepted her terms and marked her as a slave anyway. She never served as a slave, but she was marked as one even still. Of course, I understand from my master that this explanation is probable, but speculation at its core nonetheless.”</p><p></p><p>Brandt continued to look displeased at the news which Ophee had brought forth. “I still don’t like what this represents. I’ve worked and studied in Fingerdale for many years now. I’ve yet to hear of this before today. Of course, I don’t pretend to know everything that happens, but surely something this evil would at least have come before my desk in the form of a rumor if nothing else. Furthermore, my father dragon has dwelled in Barghost for my more years than I have been alive and I’d have certainly thought that this is the kind of thing that would have gotten a sniff from him. Do you mind if I investigate this a little among the people and records of my temple, Ophee?”</p><p></p><p>Ophee shrugged. “Doesn’t matter to me so long as I am informed of what you find. I’ll need to report back to my master in the Wizard’s College.”</p><p></p><p>Brandt nodded in agreement and Ischarus spoke for the party. “Keep us informed as well. This is the type of fight that we typically like to undertake. Besides, fighting that kind of evil in our own land may have profound ramifications in the Quehalost, at least potentially.”</p><p></p><p>Ophee shook her head in agreement. “I’ll take all the allies I can get. The quicker I dig up information on this, the more my master will be pleased. I appreciate your offers for help.”</p><p></p><p>[/Sblock]</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Nonlethal Force, post: 3491585, member: 35788"] Once the hugs were given out and the group was gathered once more around the table – this time with Ophee – Rhema turned to their newest arrival and altered the conversation. [Color=PaleGreen]“So, is your master’s business private or is it a matter of public knowledge? I am curious about what kind of work you do for the wizard in Eberdeen.”[/Color] Ophee smiled at Rhema’s inquisitiveness. [Color=Lime]“Oh, I can certainly speak about my mission, although I doubt that you all will be able to help me. You see, my master has instructed me to find a certain woman of duplicity.”[/Color] Charis snickered at Ophee’s description. [Color=Orange]“You make it sound so mysterious! She’s a ‘woman of duplicity.’ What’s that supposed to mean? Does she lead a double life?”[/Color] Ophee and the rest of the gathered people laughed at Charis’ suggestion. [Color=Lime]“No, not exactly. Although in truth you aren’t very far off. Apparently there is an anchor to a slave trade organization residing somewhere here in the region that I oversee for my master. My master doesn’t know exactly how the slaves arrive here in Fingerdale, but the person that my master’s services are being contracted for does know that this area is a major hub of activity.”[/Color] Brandt frowned. [Color=Lime]“Slaves passing through this area? That is a bit disturbing to me to be honest. We haven’t had a substantial problem with slavery since the lords of Tongra were united in the Confederacy of Tongra hundreds of years ago. Before then the lords would raid each other’s lands in an attempt to undermine their economy and morale. If people were taken during the raid, they often became slaves to the households that were responsible for organizing the incursion. But that regime hasn’t been around for centuries. Certainly there isn’t any current market for slaves in Tongra.”[/Color] Ophee shook her head in disagreement. [Color=Lime]“Well, my master did tell me that the slavers are not exactly well known. That is why my master talents and my services were needed to find them. The slaves are kept here long enough for them to trade hands, and then they are sent abroad.”[/Color] Ischarus looked as though he were in deep thought. [Color=LightBlue]“It actually sounds as the type of fight that we try to disrupt ourselves. We are completely opposed to slavery and tyranny of any kind, and would gladly fight against it. If you are successful in your search, let me know. I’d gladly have a hand in the disruption of any slave trade.”[/Color] Ophee smiled and nodded at Ischarus’ support. [Color=Lime]“I will be sure to tell my master. He can pass along the information to the person that has contracted out my master’s services.”[/Color] Semeion wasn’t satisfied with the way the discussion of Ophee’s newest job was wrapping up. [Color=Plum]“Does your master know how these slaves are leaving Fingerdale? I’d be absolutely surprised if they were leaving by land. Driving slaves through a land where slavery isn’t acceptable tends to be rather obvious. I’d bet the slaves were being moved by sea, to be honest.”[/Color] Brandt chuckled as his mind registered Semeion’s oversight. [Color=Lime]“Or by magic, Semeion. Don’t forget your first love, after all.”[/Color] A look of obvious disappointment passed over Semeion’s face as everyone else enjoyed another good laugh. Semeion smiled back to Brandt and corrected his earlier conclusion. [Color=Plum]“I suppose that teleportation magic may well be the method of travel. It would certainly be safe and unrecognizable, that’s for sure.”[/Color] Brandt nodded and continued with Semeion’s conclusion. [Color=Lime]“But, that still leaves out the question of where. If they are going by the sea, then they could be headed anywhere. But if they were leaving by teleportation magic, well that would narrow the span of movement. Teleportation magic has its range limitations. I doubt that the slaves could be leaving the land of Enigmatica by the means of teleportation magic.”[/Color] Iasho nodded in agreement as Brandt spoke. [Color=Lime]“I agree, although I’ve lived near enough to the port to know that it could be possible at the very least. With the right map and the right services of a disreputable captain, it would be possible to ship slaves out of the port to an uncharted island. Teleportation magic might get them the rest of the way.”[/Color] Semeion also nodded as Iasho spoke. [Color=Plum]“Or, perhaps they have multiple places from which they teleport. If a wizard of high enough power visits any of the uncharted islands in the sea and becomes familiar enough with its location, they could teleport unerringly from the mainland to the island. Another wizard could be waiting for them to complete the trip and complete the deal. For the system to work well and be profitable, that would require a few wizards of high power working together. They would burn through their magical aptitude pretty quickly teleporting people across the seas like that.”[/Color] Brandt agreed, but spoke to the logistics of what Semeion proposed. [Color=Lime]“That many higher level wizards working in conjunction with one another would be hard to keep quiet. I’m sure we’d have heard rumors, at least.”[/Color] Ophee shook her head from side to side slowly. [Color=Lime]“Unfortunately, while you all are coming to reasonable conclusions I think you are looking too far. My master has reason to believe that the slaves are going no further than Fenneress and even Barghost.”[/Color] Brandt nearly choked on the water that he was sipping as Ophee suggested that the land of Barghost involved slave trade. [Color=Lime]“What? Your master cannot be serious! As evil as the land of Quehalost is, the land of Barghost is just and righteous! While demons and dark lords rule Quehalost in an eternal struggle for power, the land of Barghost is led by divine agents who seek righteousness and justice above all else. Slavery would be crushed as soon as it was discovered.”[/Color] Ophee shrugged her shoulders. [Color=Lime]“That is what I told my master when he suggested that citizens of Barghost might be involved. But he was adamant that his contact had told him quite definitely that the slaves are occasionally shipped into Barghost. He suggested that it may be possible that the slaves are being used underground or in other areas where visibility is not quite so prevalent.”[/Color] Charis shook her head in disagreement. [Color=Orange]“I remember Ausaphaborishan’s valley. I find it nearly impossible that such a land could hold such an evil.”[/Color] Rhema looked at the problem through a more pragmatic lens. [Color=PaleGreen]“Unfortunately, through the means of things like the magic of Semeion and Brandt or even the intimate powers that I wield this is possible. I find it difficult to believe, but not impossible.”[/Color] Ischarus returned the conversation back to the original roots. [Color=LightBlue]“And we cannot rule out the possibility, however so small. But, Ophee, you say that you will find this slave trade by looking for a duplicitous woman? Do you know more than that?”[/Color] Ophee nodded and replied to Ischarus’ question. [Color=Lime]“Yeah. I was told that the duplicitous woman was once almost a slave herself. In fact, she still carries the mark of her slavery with her no matter where she goes. My master says that this woman is even so bold as to carry the mark openly. My master says that it should be able to be seen by anyone who knows what to look for.”[/Color] Charis’ curiosity was piqued by Ophee’s statement regarding the boldness of the woman. [Color=Orange]“Do you know what to look for? It seems like a mark of slavery would be so rare that it shouldn’t be hard to track down.”[/Color] Semeion concurred. [Color=Plum]“I agree. It might appear as a simple tattoo at first glance, though. If there truly is a slave trade going on through the city of Fingerdale, the marks for slavery would probably appear similar enough to a normal tattoo to be overlooked by anyone who isn’t looking for a mark of slavery specifically. However, it would be distinct enough so that a slaver would easily identify it on sight.”[/Color] Iasho agreed with Semeion’s conclusion. [Color=Lime]“That would certainly make sense from a business perspective. The thing that I find curious is that this woman doesn’t take any steps to hide her own tattoo. I find that particularly strange.”[/Color] Ophee grinned at the older man’s words. [Color=Lime]“I asked the same thing of my master. He said that the one who contracted his services had little answer for that question in particular. There is some thought that the woman earned her place among the slavers by betraying her own people rather than entering slavery herself. She didn’t want to betray her own people, but she couldn’t deal with the possibility of being a slave herself. Thus, she arranged a bargain with the slavers. She agreed to betray the location of her own people and help to bring them into slavery so long as she did not have to go herself.”[/Color] Charis nodded as she thought she understood Ophee’s rationale. [Color=Orange]“So the woman took the mark anyway to represent her guilt? She did it as a permanent reminder for herself of the evil that she performed to save her own skin?”[/Color] Ophee shook her head in disagreement. [Color=Lime]“In truth, my master suggested that his source provides a much more sinister reason than you suggest. Your words would indicate that the woman had guilt for her actions and realized the evil within them. My master suggested that what you propose isn’t what actually happened. He said that the story is actually that the woman was so eager to avoid slavery by selling her own people into slavery that even the slavers were embarrassed by her willingness to betray her own people. So, they accepted her terms and marked her as a slave anyway. She never served as a slave, but she was marked as one even still. Of course, I understand from my master that this explanation is probable, but speculation at its core nonetheless.”[/Color] Brandt continued to look displeased at the news which Ophee had brought forth. [Color=Lime]“I still don’t like what this represents. I’ve worked and studied in Fingerdale for many years now. I’ve yet to hear of this before today. Of course, I don’t pretend to know everything that happens, but surely something this evil would at least have come before my desk in the form of a rumor if nothing else. Furthermore, my father dragon has dwelled in Barghost for my more years than I have been alive and I’d have certainly thought that this is the kind of thing that would have gotten a sniff from him. Do you mind if I investigate this a little among the people and records of my temple, Ophee?”[/Color] Ophee shrugged. [Color=Lime]“Doesn’t matter to me so long as I am informed of what you find. I’ll need to report back to my master in the Wizard’s College.”[/Color] Brandt nodded in agreement and Ischarus spoke for the party. [Color=Lightblue]“Keep us informed as well. This is the type of fight that we typically like to undertake. Besides, fighting that kind of evil in our own land may have profound ramifications in the Quehalost, at least potentially.”[/Color] Ophee shook her head in agreement. [Color=Lime]“I’ll take all the allies I can get. The quicker I dig up information on this, the more my master will be pleased. I appreciate your offers for help.”[/Color] [Sblock=Color-Free Speech Section] Once the hugs were given out and the group was gathered once more around the table – this time with Ophee – Rhema turned to their newest arrival and altered the conversation. “So, is your master’s business private or is it a matter of public knowledge? I am curious about what kind of work you do for the wizard in Eberdeen.” Ophee smiled at Rhema’s inquisitiveness. “Oh, I can certainly speak about my mission, although I doubt that you all will be able to help me. You see, my master has instructed me to find a certain woman of duplicity.” Charis snickered at Ophee’s description. “You make it sound so mysterious! She’s a ‘woman of duplicity.’ What’s that supposed to mean? Does she lead a double life?” Ophee and the rest of the gathered people laughed at Charis’ suggestion. “No, not exactly. Although in truth you aren’t very far off. Apparently there is an anchor to a slave trade organization residing somewhere here in the region that I oversee for my master. My master doesn’t know exactly how the slaves arrive here in Fingerdale, but the person that my master’s services are being contracted for does know that this area is a major hub of activity.” Brandt frowned. “Slaves passing through this area? That is a bit disturbing to me to be honest. We haven’t had a substantial problem with slavery since the lords of Tongra were united in the Confederacy of Tongra hundreds of years ago. Before then the lords would raid each other’s lands in an attempt to undermine their economy and morale. If people were taken during the raid, they often became slaves to the households that were responsible for organizing the incursion. But that regime hasn’t been around for centuries. Certainly there isn’t any current market for slaves in Tongra.” Ophee shook her head in disagreement. “Well, my master did tell me that the slavers are not exactly well known. That is why my master talents and my services were needed to find them. The slaves are kept here long enough for them to trade hands, and then they are sent abroad.” Ischarus looked as though he were in deep thought. “It actually sounds as the type of fight that we try to disrupt ourselves. We are completely opposed to slavery and tyranny of any kind, and would gladly fight against it. If you are successful in your search, let me know. I’d gladly have a hand in the disruption of any slave trade.” Ophee smiled and nodded at Ischarus’ support. “I will be sure to tell my master. He can pass along the information to the person that has contracted out my master’s services.” Semeion wasn’t satisfied with the way the discussion of Ophee’s newest job was wrapping up. “Does your master know how these slaves are leaving Fingerdale? I’d be absolutely surprised if they were leaving by land. Driving slaves through a land where slavery isn’t acceptable tends to be rather obvious. I’d bet the slaves were being moved by sea, to be honest.” Brandt chuckled as his mind registered Semeion’s oversight. “Or by magic, Semeion. Don’t forget your first love, after all.” A look of obvious disappointment passed over Semeion’s face as everyone else enjoyed another good laugh. Semeion smiled back to Brandt and corrected his earlier conclusion. “I suppose that teleportation magic may well be the method of travel. It would certainly be safe and unrecognizable, that’s for sure.” Brandt nodded and continued with Semeion’s conclusion. “But, that still leaves out the question of where. If they are going by the sea, then they could be headed anywhere. But if they were leaving by teleportation magic, well that would narrow the span of movement. Teleportation magic has its range limitations. I doubt that the slaves could be leaving the land of Enigmatica by the means of teleportation magic.” Iasho nodded in agreement as Brandt spoke. “I agree, although I’ve lived near enough to the port to know that it could be possible at the very least. With the right map and the right services of a disreputable captain, it would be possible to ship slaves out of the port to an uncharted island. Teleportation magic might get them the rest of the way.” Semeion also nodded as Iasho spoke. “Or, perhaps they have multiple places from which they teleport. If a wizard of high enough power visits any of the uncharted islands in the sea and becomes familiar enough with its location, they could teleport unerringly from the mainland to the island. Another wizard could be waiting for them to complete the trip and complete the deal. For the system to work well and be profitable, that would require a few wizards of high power working together. They would burn through their magical aptitude pretty quickly teleporting people across the seas like that.” Brandt agreed, but spoke to the logistics of what Semeion proposed. “That many higher level wizards working in conjunction with one another would be hard to keep quiet. I’m sure we’d have heard rumors, at least.” Ophee shook her head from side to side slowly. “Unfortunately, while you all are coming to reasonable conclusions I think you are looking too far. My master has reason to believe that the slaves are going no further than Fenneress and even Barghost.” Brandt nearly choked on the water that he was sipping as Ophee suggested that the land of Barghost involved slave trade. “What? Your master cannot be serious! As evil as the land of Quehalost is, the land of Barghost is just and righteous! While demons and dark lords rule Quehalost in an eternal struggle for power, the land of Barghost is led by divine agents who seek righteousness and justice above all else. Slavery would be crushed as soon as it was discovered.” Ophee shrugged her shoulders. “That is what I told my master when he suggested that citizens of Barghost might be involved. But he was adamant that his contact had told him quite definitely that the slaves are occasionally shipped into Barghost. He suggested that it may be possible that the slaves are being used underground or in other areas where visibility is not quite so prevalent.” Charis shook her head in disagreement. “I remember Ausaphaborishan’s valley. I find it nearly impossible that such a land could hold such an evil.” Rhema looked at the problem through a more pragmatic lens. “Unfortunately, through the means of things like the magic of Semeion and Brandt or even the intimate powers that I wield this is possible. I find it difficult to believe, but not impossible.” Ischarus returned the conversation back to the original roots. “And we cannot rule out the possibility, however so small. But, Ophee, you say that you will find this slave trade by looking for a duplicitous woman? Do you know more than that?” Ophee nodded and replied to Ischarus’ question. “Yeah. I was told that the duplicitous woman was once almost a slave herself. In fact, she still carries the mark of her slavery with her no matter where she goes. My master says that this woman is even so bold as to carry the mark openly. My master says that it should be able to be seen by anyone who knows what to look for.” Charis’ curiosity was piqued by Ophee’s statement regarding the boldness of the woman. “Do you know what to look for? It seems like a mark of slavery would be so rare that it shouldn’t be hard to track down.” Semeion concurred. “I agree. It might appear as a simple tattoo at first glance, though. If there truly is a slave trade going on through the city of Fingerdale, the marks for slavery would probably appear similar enough to a normal tattoo to be overlooked by anyone who isn’t looking for a mark of slavery specifically. However, it would be distinct enough so that a slaver would easily identify it on sight.” Iasho agreed with Semeion’s conclusion. “That would certainly make sense from a business perspective. The thing that I find curious is that this woman doesn’t take any steps to hide her own tattoo. I find that particularly strange.” Ophee grinned at the older man’s words. “I asked the same thing of my master. He said that the one who contracted his services had little answer for that question in particular. There is some thought that the woman earned her place among the slavers by betraying her own people rather than entering slavery herself. She didn’t want to betray her own people, but she couldn’t deal with the possibility of being a slave herself. Thus, she arranged a bargain with the slavers. She agreed to betray the location of her own people and help to bring them into slavery so long as she did not have to go herself.” Charis nodded as she thought she understood Ophee’s rationale. “So the woman took the mark anyway to represent her guilt? She did it as a permanent reminder for herself of the evil that she performed to save her own skin?” Ophee shook her head in disagreement. “In truth, my master suggested that his source provides a much more sinister reason than you suggest. Your words would indicate that the woman had guilt for her actions and realized the evil within them. My master suggested that what you propose isn’t what actually happened. He said that the story is actually that the woman was so eager to avoid slavery by selling her own people into slavery that even the slavers were embarrassed by her willingness to betray her own people. So, they accepted her terms and marked her as a slave anyway. She never served as a slave, but she was marked as one even still. Of course, I understand from my master that this explanation is probable, but speculation at its core nonetheless.” Brandt continued to look displeased at the news which Ophee had brought forth. “I still don’t like what this represents. I’ve worked and studied in Fingerdale for many years now. I’ve yet to hear of this before today. Of course, I don’t pretend to know everything that happens, but surely something this evil would at least have come before my desk in the form of a rumor if nothing else. Furthermore, my father dragon has dwelled in Barghost for my more years than I have been alive and I’d have certainly thought that this is the kind of thing that would have gotten a sniff from him. Do you mind if I investigate this a little among the people and records of my temple, Ophee?” Ophee shrugged. “Doesn’t matter to me so long as I am informed of what you find. I’ll need to report back to my master in the Wizard’s College.” Brandt nodded in agreement and Ischarus spoke for the party. “Keep us informed as well. This is the type of fight that we typically like to undertake. Besides, fighting that kind of evil in our own land may have profound ramifications in the Quehalost, at least potentially.” Ophee shook her head in agreement. “I’ll take all the allies I can get. The quicker I dig up information on this, the more my master will be pleased. I appreciate your offers for help.” [/Sblock] [/QUOTE]
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