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Into the Moral Darkness: (Now a Completed Story!)
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<blockquote data-quote="Nonlethal Force" data-source="post: 3570174" data-attributes="member: 35788"><p>Rhema twisted the ring on her finger just after watching Semeion disappear. She hadn’t wanted to watch any of his conflict. For one reason or another, that was the battle she was most concerned about. As she twisted the ring on her own finger, she hoped for his sake that that the size differential would be able to be overcome.</p><p></p><p>Ehre was not quite as large as Barra. Judging from the view she could get from the crystal ball, Rhema thought that they would be about the same height. If it came to a physical contest, it didn’t appear that there would be a clear favorite.</p><p></p><p>However, Rhema also knew that it shouldn’t have to come to physical blows. If her mind was strong enough, and Ehre’s mind pliable enough, Rhema should be able to talk her way through Ehre’s defenses. She knew that the best way to make the encounter seem more legitimate would be to start from the very beginning. So, Rhema had used the ring and the vision from the crystal ball to teleport herself down the road from Ehre’s house. That way, Ehre could watch her approach if she happened to be looking to the street.</p><p></p><p>Rhema safely appeared in Reignsburg. Mentally, she knew that she wasn’t far from Archis’ potatoes and the <em>Cachinnating Roadhouse</em>. She would have loved to take a side trip to get herself a bit of a snack, but time would not be on her side. It was important to get to Ehre quickly and win her trust in case the wizard in Eberdeen happened to be taking note of the party’s advances upon his servants.</p><p></p><p>Ehre’s house demonstrated that she was a person of considerable means. The fact that she lived in a house all her own and not an apartment was indication enough. However, as Rhema approached the outside of the building she could see the signs of her wealth. Her house sat on a relatively large piece of land for being within the city limits. Behind the house, Rhema thought that she could make out signs of a grape arbor. Earlier in its life, the house had been surrounded by a split rail fence and the fence had recently been repainted.</p><p></p><p>Rhema approached the house from the front walk. She knocked on the door and stepped back, waiting for Ehre to answer the door. She waited several seconds before hearing footsteps approach the door from the inside. A woman answered the door, but Rhema could tell immediately that the woman wasn’t Ehre.</p><p></p><p>In spite of being caught by surprise, in her mind Rhema worked up a new plan for entry. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“Good morning, I’m looking for the lady of the house. Perhaps you can help me out. I have a message for Ehre, and was told that she lived her at this residence.”</span></p><p></p><p>The woman on the other side of the threshold curtseyed quickly and nodded. <span style="color: Lime">“The lady Ehre is in today, would you be willing to come in and sit while I announce your presence to her?”</span></p><p></p><p>Rhema smiled, but she also knew that speed was of the essence. She didn’t want Ehre to have time to contact the wizard in Eberdeen, if that was even a possibility. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“Certainly.”</span> As Rhema continued, her voice changed in tone ever so slightly. Her words became laced with the mental powers that Rhema wielded. If Ischarus had been present, he’d have recognized it immediately. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“Although I do have other business to attend, so please convey my urgency to your lady.”</span></p><p></p><p>When the woman curtseyed again, Rhema knew that the mental suggestion had worked. Ehre’s servant didn’t know why, but she was suddenly a bit averse to making Rhema wait too long. Rhema hadn’t planted fear into the woman’s mind, but she had planted a distinct displeasure towards keeping Rhema waiting. Fear would have aroused suspicion when the servant went to Ehre; but displeasure would simply indicate the significance of the message that Rhema brought.</p><p></p><p>Rhema’s ears tracked the woman’s footsteps through the house. It was clear that Ehre’s servant had been trained well. She walked the uncarpeted wooden floors with a soft step. However, Rhema was still able to here the woman ascend the stairs, and she could hear the slight creaking of the wooden slats above her as the woman traversed the hallway to the room where Ehre was waiting for her. Rhema heard the soft knock on the door, and she began to hear a soft discussion regarding her presence.</p><p></p><p>Several moments later, Rhema heard a pair of footsteps retracing the path that Ehre’s servant had earlier walked. Rhema smiled a bit smugly, knowing that her mental suggestion had gotten a response far quicker than would have normally occurred. Had Rhema simply left it at the servant’s discretion, Rhema would have likely been kept waiting for several minutes while Ehre ensured that she was presentable as a lady of a manor. </p><p></p><p>Once Rhema could hear that Ehre was coming, she quickly brought to mind another mental power that she had mastered. Her eyes closed as she envisioned the layout of the house. Thanks to the ability of Master Searthu’s crystal ball, Rhema was able to know the layout of the house to great detail. Her mind’s probe sought out the location where she knew Ehre and her servant walked. </p><p></p><p>The telepathic probe lingered for just a moment over the mind of the servant woman. Rhema could hear the servant woman’s thoughts as if they were being spoken to her directly. <span style="color: Lime">“Phorii be praised, lady Ehre didn’t make the lady downstairs wait! Now I can get back to my chores in the kitchen.”</span></p><p></p><p>Rhema’s lips parted in a gratified smile. The servant obviously had some kind of faith, and she also knew that the god Phorii that had been praised was known for his alignment in the same family as those that Brandt and Charis served. At least the servant could be trusted to act honorably in most circumstances.</p><p></p><p>Rhema’s mind probe paused for a moment so that it could hover over Ehre. The mind probe also managed to pick up on Ehre’s conscious thoughts as if they were being spoken directly to her. <span style="color: Lime">“For Vaina’s sake, this woman had better be important. No servant of mine suggests that I forego the assumed delay before making my presence known.”</span></p><p></p><p>Rhema could tell that Ehre had not been pleased to be thrown out of her normal routine, but that was something that she could manage. She also assumed that Vaina was the name of the servant woman who walked in front of her. She would need to be careful and not let the name slip out in conversation since she had not been told the name.</p><p></p><p>Rhema stood as the servant woman and Ehre descended the steps. Vaina descended the steps quickly. The urgency was in part a response to Rhema’s earlier mental suggestion, but it was also so that she could ready herself in the room and announce her lady before she arrived. As if choreographed, Ehre’s steps slowed on the staircase in order to allow time for her presence to be announced.</p><p></p><p>The servant woman reached the bottom of the steps and proceeded down the hallway until she turned the corner into the room where Rhema had been asked to remain. <span style="color: Lime">“Milady, I announce the arrival of the mistress of the house, Lady Ehre.”</span> She curtseyed once more and Rhema smiled. Lady Ehre brushed past her servant without any recognition of the announcement and stopped as she saw Rhema before her.</p><p></p><p>Lady Ehre was dressed in a simple, yet exquisite, dress. The maroon fabric was expensive and delicate, but the dress had been cut so as to be functional. The fabric held loosely to Ehre’s body to allow her the freedom to move, yet when Ehre was not in motion the fabric hung straight to look formal.</p><p></p><p>The reason that Ehre had stopped, of course, was the instant disconnect in regard to the way that Rhema was dressed. Rhema was not dressed in the manner that Ehre had expected. She had assumed that a visitor of enough importance to cause her servant to toss out the standard protocol of appearances would be rather impressive. Rhema’s leather coat and simple leggings showed her to be nothing more than a common merchant or an errand girl. </p><p></p><p>Rhema could see that Ehre was doing the best to control her disgust with the whole proceeding so far. The fact that her mind probe was still reading Ehre’s thoughts helped her as well. She would need to diffuse the irritation before earning her trust.</p><p></p><p>Rhema spoke first, rather than waiting to be greeted by Ehre. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“Lady Ehre, forgive my appearance. I have come on a long journey to see you. In fact, there are only five others like me traveling across all of Tongra. To be completely honest, you are the only person in all of Reignsburg to receive a visit from anyone who has been given my task. If you can find it in your noble upbringing to forgive the fact that I have been dressed to meet the rigors of the road, I will tell you why my message is of the utmost urgency.”</span></p><p></p><p>Ehre’s posture and facial expression eased. Rhema had effectively played up to Ehre’s vision of her own self-importance that she could not refuse. With a gesture, Ehre dismissed Vaina. <span style="color: Lime">“I do have some time, please have a seat. If at any time I can offer you a drink, let me know and I’ll have my servant come and arrange it for you.”</span></p><p></p><p>Rhema smiled, and politely waited for Ehre to be seated first. After the simple display, Rhema sat down and began to speak. She was surprised with how easily Ehre had been placated. If this was any sort of indication, this visit might be easier than she thought. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“I have a story that I think you would be interested in hearing.”</span> Just to make sure that she had Ehre’s attention, Rhema had added her mental powers to the suggestion.</p><p></p><p>Rhema’s suggestive power didn’t work on Ehre, but it didn’t matter. Ehre was interested enough already. She didn’t need help being interested in a message for which she was the only recipient in Reignsburg. <span style="color: Lime">“Go on, do tell. Who is your message from?”</span></p><p></p><p>Rhema grinned. This would be the moment of truth. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“My message is regarding a woman in Fingerdale named Opheiluka.”</span> Ehre’s facial expression changed from one of self-indulgence to one of shock. Rhema could easily identify the change in expression and took advantage of it. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“And, by your expression I can tell that you know Opheiluka.”</span></p><p></p><p>Ehre responded, forgetting her stately performance so far. <span style="color: Lime">“Opheiluka? But she is dead!”</span></p><p></p><p>Rhema smiled. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“There are some who would have you believe that. I have come to tell you the truth. In fact, I do not think I need to explain to you why I have been sent to only you here in Reignsburg, do I?”</span></p><p></p><p>Ehre shook her head. <span style="color: Lime">“And our master? He is the one who sent you to me? That is strange, he normally uses magic to contact me directly.”</span></p><p></p><p>Rhema smiled smugly. She would add her mental powers to this sentence, and hopefully it would seal Ehre’s cooperation. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“He is not ‘our’ master, Lady Ehre. He is your master. He is one of those who would like you to believe the lie that she is dead. I would suggest that you come with me and find out the truth for yourself. I have been sent to you not by the wizard in Eberdeen, but by Opheiluka herself.”</span></p><p></p><p>There was a little hesitation on Ehre’s part, and Rhema decided to once more apply her mental power to the lady’s ability to make a decision. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“Come with me, Lady Ehre. I have come a long way to tell you the truth. Come with me.”</span></p><p></p><p>Ehre slowly rose to her feet. <span style="color: Lime">“Very well. I will go with you. Will I be traveling with you on horse or carriage? I’ll need to dress appropriately in either case.”</span></p><p></p><p>Rhema smiled and extended the finger that housed the golden ring. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“Actually, neither. If you would be so kind as to hold my hand, I will take you to Opheiluka this very moment by magic.”</span></p><p></p><p>[Sblock=Color-Free Speech Section]</p><p>Rhema twisted the ring on her finger just after watching Semeion disappear. She hadn’t wanted to watch any of his conflict. For one reason or another, that was the battle she was most concerned about. As she twisted the ring on her own finger, she hoped for his sake that that the size differential would be able to be overcome.</p><p></p><p>Ehre was not quite as large as Barra. Judging from the view she could get from the crystal ball, Rhema thought that they would be about the same height. If it came to a physical contest, it didn’t appear that there would be a clear favorite.</p><p></p><p>However, Rhema also knew that it shouldn’t have to come to physical blows. If her mind was strong enough, and Ehre’s mind pliable enough, Rhema should be able to talk her way through Ehre’s defenses. She knew that the best way to make the encounter seem more legitimate would be to start from the very beginning. So, Rhema had used the ring and the vision from the crystal ball to teleport herself down the road from Ehre’s house. That way, Ehre could watch her approach if she happened to be looking to the street.</p><p></p><p>Rhema safely appeared in Reignsburg. Mentally, she knew that she wasn’t far from Archis’ potatoes and the Cachinnating Roadhouse. She would have loved to take a side trip to get herself a bit of a snack, but time would not be on her side. It was important to get to Ehre quickly and win her trust in case the wizard in Eberdeen happened to be taking note of the party’s advances upon his servants.</p><p></p><p>Ehre’s house demonstrated that she was a person of considerable means. The fact that she lived in a house all her own and not an apartment was indication enough. However, as Rhema approached the outside of the building she could see the signs of her wealth. Her house sat on a relatively large piece of land for being within the city limits. Behind the house, Rhema thought that she could make out signs of a grape arbor. Earlier in its life, the house had been surrounded by a split rail fence and the fence had recently been repainted.</p><p></p><p>Rhema approached the house from the front walk. She knocked on the door and stepped back, waiting for Ehre to answer the door. She waited several seconds before hearing footsteps approach the door from the inside. A woman answered the door, but Rhema could tell immediately that the woman wasn’t Ehre.</p><p></p><p>In spite of being caught by surprise, in her mind Rhema worked up a new plan for entry. “Good morning, I’m looking for the lady of the house. Perhaps you can help me out. I have a message for Ehre, and was told that she lived her at this residence.”</p><p></p><p>The woman on the other side of the threshold curtseyed quickly and nodded. “The lady Ehre is in today, would you be willing to come in and sit while I announce your presence to her?”</p><p></p><p>Rhema smiled, but she also knew that speed was of the essence. She didn’t want Ehre to have time to contact the wizard in Eberdeen, if that was even a possibility. “Certainly.” As Rhema continued, her voice changed in tone ever so slightly. Her words became laced with the mental powers that Rhema wielded. If Ischarus had been present, he’d have recognized it immediately. “Although I do have other business to attend, so please convey my urgency to your lady.”</p><p></p><p>When the woman curtseyed again, Rhema knew that the mental suggestion had worked. Ehre’s servant didn’t know why, but she was suddenly a bit averse to making Rhema wait too long. Rhema hadn’t planted fear into the woman’s mind, but she had planted a distinct displeasure towards keeping Rhema waiting. Fear would have aroused suspicion when the servant went to Ehre; but displeasure would simply indicate the significance of the message that Rhema brought.</p><p></p><p>Rhema’s ears tracked the woman’s footsteps through the house. It was clear that Ehre’s servant had been trained well. She walked the uncarpeted wooden floors with a soft step. However, Rhema was still able to here the woman ascend the stairs, and she could hear the slight creaking of the wooden slats above her as the woman traversed the hallway to the room where Ehre was waiting for her. Rhema heard the soft knock on the door, and she began to hear a soft discussion regarding her presence.</p><p></p><p>Several moments later, Rhema heard a pair of footsteps retracing the path that Ehre’s servant had earlier walked. Rhema smiled a bit smugly, knowing that her mental suggestion had gotten a response far quicker than would have normally occurred. Had Rhema simply left it at the servant’s discretion, Rhema would have likely been kept waiting for several minutes while Ehre ensured that she was presentable as a lady of a manor. </p><p></p><p>Once Rhema could hear that Ehre was coming, she quickly brought to mind another mental power that she had mastered. Her eyes closed as she envisioned the layout of the house. Thanks to the ability of Master Searthu’s crystal ball, Rhema was able to know the layout of the house to great detail. Her mind’s probe sought out the location where she knew Ehre and her servant walked. </p><p></p><p>The telepathic probe lingered for just a moment over the mind of the servant woman. Rhema could hear the servant woman’s thoughts as if they were being spoken to her directly. “Phorii be praised, lady Ehre didn’t make the lady downstairs wait! Now I can get back to my chores in the kitchen.”</p><p></p><p>Rhema’s lips parted in a gratified smile. The servant obviously had some kind of faith, and she also knew that the god Phorii that had been praised was known for his alignment in the same family as those that Brandt and Charis served. At least the servant could be trusted to act honorably in most circumstances.</p><p></p><p>Rhema’s mind probe paused for a moment so that it could hover over Ehre. The mind probe also managed to pick up on Ehre’s conscious thoughts as if they were being spoken directly to her. “For Vaina’s sake, this woman had better be important. No servant of mine suggests that I forego the assumed delay before making my presence known.”</p><p></p><p>Rhema could tell that Ehre had not been pleased to be thrown out of her normal routine, but that was something that she could manage. She also assumed that Vaina was the name of the servant woman who walked in front of her. She would need to be careful and not let the name slip out in conversation since she had not been told the name.</p><p></p><p>Rhema stood as the servant woman and Ehre descended the steps. Vaina descended the steps quickly. The urgency was in part a response to Rhema’s earlier mental suggestion, but it was also so that she could ready herself in the room and announce her lady before she arrived. As if choreographed, Ehre’s steps slowed on the staircase in order to allow time for her presence to be announced.</p><p></p><p>The servant woman reached the bottom of the steps and proceeded down the hallway until she turned the corner into the room where Rhema had been asked to remain. “Milady, I announce the arrival of the mistress of the house, Lady Ehre.” She curtseyed once more and Rhema smiled. Lady Ehre brushed past her servant without any recognition of the announcement and stopped as she saw Rhema before her.</p><p></p><p>Lady Ehre was dressed in a simple, yet exquisite, dress. The maroon fabric was expensive and delicate, but the dress had been cut so as to be functional. The fabric held loosely to Ehre’s body to allow her the freedom to move, yet when Ehre was not in motion the fabric hung straight to look formal.</p><p></p><p>The reason that Ehre had stopped, of course, was the instant disconnect in regard to the way that Rhema was dressed. Rhema was not dressed in the manner that Ehre had expected. She had assumed that a visitor of enough importance to cause her servant to toss out the standard protocol of appearances would be rather impressive. Rhema’s leather coat and simple leggings showed her to be nothing more than a common merchant or an errand girl. </p><p></p><p>Rhema could see that Ehre was doing the best to control her disgust with the whole proceeding so far. The fact that her mind probe was still reading Ehre’s thoughts helped her as well. She would need to diffuse the irritation before earning her trust.</p><p></p><p>Rhema spoke first, rather than waiting to be greeted by Ehre. “Lady Ehre, forgive my appearance. I have come on a long journey to see you. In fact, there are only five others like me traveling across all of Tongra. To be completely honest, you are the only person in all of Reignsburg to receive a visit from anyone who has been given my task. If you can find it in your noble upbringing to forgive the fact that I have been dressed to meet the rigors of the road, I will tell you why my message is of the utmost urgency.”</p><p></p><p>Ehre’s posture and facial expression eased. Rhema had effectively played up to Ehre’s vision of her own self-importance that she could not refuse. With a gesture, Ehre dismissed Vaina. “I do have some time, please have a seat. If at any time I can offer you a drink, let me know and I’ll have my servant come and arrange it for you.”</p><p></p><p>Rhema smiled, and politely waited for Ehre to be seated first. After the simple display, Rhema sat down and began to speak. She was surprised with how easily Ehre had been placated. If this was any sort of indication, this visit might be easier than she thought. “I have a story that I think you would be interested in hearing.” Just to make sure that she had Ehre’s attention, Rhema had added her mental powers to the suggestion.</p><p></p><p>Rhema’s suggestive power didn’t work on Ehre, but it didn’t matter. Ehre was interested enough already. She didn’t need help being interested in a message for which she was the only recipient in Reignsburg. “Go on, do tell. Who is your message from?”</p><p></p><p>Rhema grinned. This would be the moment of truth. “My message is regarding a woman in Fingerdale named Opheiluka.” Ehre’s facial expression changed from one of self-indulgence to one of shock. Rhema could easily identify the change in expression and took advantage of it. “And, by your expression I can tell that you know Opheiluka.”</p><p></p><p>Ehre responded, forgetting her stately performance so far. “Opheiluka? But she is dead!”</p><p></p><p>Rhema smiled. “There are some who would have you believe that. I have come to tell you the truth. In fact, I do not think I need to explain to you why I have been sent to only you here in Reignsburg, do I?”</p><p></p><p>Ehre shook her head. “And our master? He is the one who sent you to me? That is strange, he normally uses magic to contact me directly.”</p><p></p><p>Rhema smiled smugly. She would add her mental powers to this sentence, and hopefully it would seal Ehre’s cooperation. “He is not ‘our’ master, Lady Ehre. He is your master. He is one of those who would like you to believe the lie that she is dead. I would suggest that you come with me and find out the truth for yourself. I have been sent to you not by the wizard in Eberdeen, but by Opheiluka herself.”</p><p></p><p>There was a little hesitation on Ehre’s part, and Rhema decided to once more apply her mental power to the lady’s ability to make a decision. “Come with me, Lady Ehre. I have come a long way to tell you the truth. Come with me.”</p><p></p><p>Ehre slowly rose to her feet. “Very well. I will go with you. Will I be traveling with you on horse or carriage? I’ll need to dress appropriately in either case.”</p><p></p><p>Rhema smiled and extended the finger that housed the golden ring. “Actually, neither. If you would be so kind as to hold my hand, I will take you to Opheiluka this very moment by magic.”</p><p></p><p>[/Sblock]</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Nonlethal Force, post: 3570174, member: 35788"] Rhema twisted the ring on her finger just after watching Semeion disappear. She hadn’t wanted to watch any of his conflict. For one reason or another, that was the battle she was most concerned about. As she twisted the ring on her own finger, she hoped for his sake that that the size differential would be able to be overcome. Ehre was not quite as large as Barra. Judging from the view she could get from the crystal ball, Rhema thought that they would be about the same height. If it came to a physical contest, it didn’t appear that there would be a clear favorite. However, Rhema also knew that it shouldn’t have to come to physical blows. If her mind was strong enough, and Ehre’s mind pliable enough, Rhema should be able to talk her way through Ehre’s defenses. She knew that the best way to make the encounter seem more legitimate would be to start from the very beginning. So, Rhema had used the ring and the vision from the crystal ball to teleport herself down the road from Ehre’s house. That way, Ehre could watch her approach if she happened to be looking to the street. Rhema safely appeared in Reignsburg. Mentally, she knew that she wasn’t far from Archis’ potatoes and the [I]Cachinnating Roadhouse[/I]. She would have loved to take a side trip to get herself a bit of a snack, but time would not be on her side. It was important to get to Ehre quickly and win her trust in case the wizard in Eberdeen happened to be taking note of the party’s advances upon his servants. Ehre’s house demonstrated that she was a person of considerable means. The fact that she lived in a house all her own and not an apartment was indication enough. However, as Rhema approached the outside of the building she could see the signs of her wealth. Her house sat on a relatively large piece of land for being within the city limits. Behind the house, Rhema thought that she could make out signs of a grape arbor. Earlier in its life, the house had been surrounded by a split rail fence and the fence had recently been repainted. Rhema approached the house from the front walk. She knocked on the door and stepped back, waiting for Ehre to answer the door. She waited several seconds before hearing footsteps approach the door from the inside. A woman answered the door, but Rhema could tell immediately that the woman wasn’t Ehre. In spite of being caught by surprise, in her mind Rhema worked up a new plan for entry. [Color=PaleGreen]“Good morning, I’m looking for the lady of the house. Perhaps you can help me out. I have a message for Ehre, and was told that she lived her at this residence.”[/Color] The woman on the other side of the threshold curtseyed quickly and nodded. [Color=Lime]“The lady Ehre is in today, would you be willing to come in and sit while I announce your presence to her?”[/Color] Rhema smiled, but she also knew that speed was of the essence. She didn’t want Ehre to have time to contact the wizard in Eberdeen, if that was even a possibility. [Color=PaleGreen]“Certainly.”[/Color] As Rhema continued, her voice changed in tone ever so slightly. Her words became laced with the mental powers that Rhema wielded. If Ischarus had been present, he’d have recognized it immediately. [Color=PaleGreen]“Although I do have other business to attend, so please convey my urgency to your lady.”[/Color] When the woman curtseyed again, Rhema knew that the mental suggestion had worked. Ehre’s servant didn’t know why, but she was suddenly a bit averse to making Rhema wait too long. Rhema hadn’t planted fear into the woman’s mind, but she had planted a distinct displeasure towards keeping Rhema waiting. Fear would have aroused suspicion when the servant went to Ehre; but displeasure would simply indicate the significance of the message that Rhema brought. Rhema’s ears tracked the woman’s footsteps through the house. It was clear that Ehre’s servant had been trained well. She walked the uncarpeted wooden floors with a soft step. However, Rhema was still able to here the woman ascend the stairs, and she could hear the slight creaking of the wooden slats above her as the woman traversed the hallway to the room where Ehre was waiting for her. Rhema heard the soft knock on the door, and she began to hear a soft discussion regarding her presence. Several moments later, Rhema heard a pair of footsteps retracing the path that Ehre’s servant had earlier walked. Rhema smiled a bit smugly, knowing that her mental suggestion had gotten a response far quicker than would have normally occurred. Had Rhema simply left it at the servant’s discretion, Rhema would have likely been kept waiting for several minutes while Ehre ensured that she was presentable as a lady of a manor. Once Rhema could hear that Ehre was coming, she quickly brought to mind another mental power that she had mastered. Her eyes closed as she envisioned the layout of the house. Thanks to the ability of Master Searthu’s crystal ball, Rhema was able to know the layout of the house to great detail. Her mind’s probe sought out the location where she knew Ehre and her servant walked. The telepathic probe lingered for just a moment over the mind of the servant woman. Rhema could hear the servant woman’s thoughts as if they were being spoken to her directly. [Color=Lime]“Phorii be praised, lady Ehre didn’t make the lady downstairs wait! Now I can get back to my chores in the kitchen.”[/Color] Rhema’s lips parted in a gratified smile. The servant obviously had some kind of faith, and she also knew that the god Phorii that had been praised was known for his alignment in the same family as those that Brandt and Charis served. At least the servant could be trusted to act honorably in most circumstances. Rhema’s mind probe paused for a moment so that it could hover over Ehre. The mind probe also managed to pick up on Ehre’s conscious thoughts as if they were being spoken directly to her. [Color=Lime]“For Vaina’s sake, this woman had better be important. No servant of mine suggests that I forego the assumed delay before making my presence known.”[/Color] Rhema could tell that Ehre had not been pleased to be thrown out of her normal routine, but that was something that she could manage. She also assumed that Vaina was the name of the servant woman who walked in front of her. She would need to be careful and not let the name slip out in conversation since she had not been told the name. Rhema stood as the servant woman and Ehre descended the steps. Vaina descended the steps quickly. The urgency was in part a response to Rhema’s earlier mental suggestion, but it was also so that she could ready herself in the room and announce her lady before she arrived. As if choreographed, Ehre’s steps slowed on the staircase in order to allow time for her presence to be announced. The servant woman reached the bottom of the steps and proceeded down the hallway until she turned the corner into the room where Rhema had been asked to remain. [Color=Lime]“Milady, I announce the arrival of the mistress of the house, Lady Ehre.”[/Color] She curtseyed once more and Rhema smiled. Lady Ehre brushed past her servant without any recognition of the announcement and stopped as she saw Rhema before her. Lady Ehre was dressed in a simple, yet exquisite, dress. The maroon fabric was expensive and delicate, but the dress had been cut so as to be functional. The fabric held loosely to Ehre’s body to allow her the freedom to move, yet when Ehre was not in motion the fabric hung straight to look formal. The reason that Ehre had stopped, of course, was the instant disconnect in regard to the way that Rhema was dressed. Rhema was not dressed in the manner that Ehre had expected. She had assumed that a visitor of enough importance to cause her servant to toss out the standard protocol of appearances would be rather impressive. Rhema’s leather coat and simple leggings showed her to be nothing more than a common merchant or an errand girl. Rhema could see that Ehre was doing the best to control her disgust with the whole proceeding so far. The fact that her mind probe was still reading Ehre’s thoughts helped her as well. She would need to diffuse the irritation before earning her trust. Rhema spoke first, rather than waiting to be greeted by Ehre. [Color=PaleGreen]“Lady Ehre, forgive my appearance. I have come on a long journey to see you. In fact, there are only five others like me traveling across all of Tongra. To be completely honest, you are the only person in all of Reignsburg to receive a visit from anyone who has been given my task. If you can find it in your noble upbringing to forgive the fact that I have been dressed to meet the rigors of the road, I will tell you why my message is of the utmost urgency.”[/Color] Ehre’s posture and facial expression eased. Rhema had effectively played up to Ehre’s vision of her own self-importance that she could not refuse. With a gesture, Ehre dismissed Vaina. [Color=Lime]“I do have some time, please have a seat. If at any time I can offer you a drink, let me know and I’ll have my servant come and arrange it for you.”[/Color] Rhema smiled, and politely waited for Ehre to be seated first. After the simple display, Rhema sat down and began to speak. She was surprised with how easily Ehre had been placated. If this was any sort of indication, this visit might be easier than she thought. [Color=PaleGreen]“I have a story that I think you would be interested in hearing.”[/Color] Just to make sure that she had Ehre’s attention, Rhema had added her mental powers to the suggestion. Rhema’s suggestive power didn’t work on Ehre, but it didn’t matter. Ehre was interested enough already. She didn’t need help being interested in a message for which she was the only recipient in Reignsburg. [Color=Lime]“Go on, do tell. Who is your message from?”[/Color] Rhema grinned. This would be the moment of truth. [Color=PaleGreen]“My message is regarding a woman in Fingerdale named Opheiluka.”[/Color] Ehre’s facial expression changed from one of self-indulgence to one of shock. Rhema could easily identify the change in expression and took advantage of it. [Color=PaleGreen]“And, by your expression I can tell that you know Opheiluka.”[/Color] Ehre responded, forgetting her stately performance so far. [Color=Lime]“Opheiluka? But she is dead!”[/Color] Rhema smiled. [Color=PaleGreen]“There are some who would have you believe that. I have come to tell you the truth. In fact, I do not think I need to explain to you why I have been sent to only you here in Reignsburg, do I?”[/Color] Ehre shook her head. [Color=Lime]“And our master? He is the one who sent you to me? That is strange, he normally uses magic to contact me directly.”[/Color] Rhema smiled smugly. She would add her mental powers to this sentence, and hopefully it would seal Ehre’s cooperation. [Color=PaleGreen]“He is not ‘our’ master, Lady Ehre. He is your master. He is one of those who would like you to believe the lie that she is dead. I would suggest that you come with me and find out the truth for yourself. I have been sent to you not by the wizard in Eberdeen, but by Opheiluka herself.”[/Color] There was a little hesitation on Ehre’s part, and Rhema decided to once more apply her mental power to the lady’s ability to make a decision. [Color=PaleGreen]“Come with me, Lady Ehre. I have come a long way to tell you the truth. Come with me.”[/Color] Ehre slowly rose to her feet. [Color=Lime]“Very well. I will go with you. Will I be traveling with you on horse or carriage? I’ll need to dress appropriately in either case.”[/Color] Rhema smiled and extended the finger that housed the golden ring. [Color=PaleGreen]“Actually, neither. If you would be so kind as to hold my hand, I will take you to Opheiluka this very moment by magic.”[/Color] [Sblock=Color-Free Speech Section] Rhema twisted the ring on her finger just after watching Semeion disappear. She hadn’t wanted to watch any of his conflict. For one reason or another, that was the battle she was most concerned about. As she twisted the ring on her own finger, she hoped for his sake that that the size differential would be able to be overcome. Ehre was not quite as large as Barra. Judging from the view she could get from the crystal ball, Rhema thought that they would be about the same height. If it came to a physical contest, it didn’t appear that there would be a clear favorite. However, Rhema also knew that it shouldn’t have to come to physical blows. If her mind was strong enough, and Ehre’s mind pliable enough, Rhema should be able to talk her way through Ehre’s defenses. She knew that the best way to make the encounter seem more legitimate would be to start from the very beginning. So, Rhema had used the ring and the vision from the crystal ball to teleport herself down the road from Ehre’s house. That way, Ehre could watch her approach if she happened to be looking to the street. Rhema safely appeared in Reignsburg. Mentally, she knew that she wasn’t far from Archis’ potatoes and the Cachinnating Roadhouse. She would have loved to take a side trip to get herself a bit of a snack, but time would not be on her side. It was important to get to Ehre quickly and win her trust in case the wizard in Eberdeen happened to be taking note of the party’s advances upon his servants. Ehre’s house demonstrated that she was a person of considerable means. The fact that she lived in a house all her own and not an apartment was indication enough. However, as Rhema approached the outside of the building she could see the signs of her wealth. Her house sat on a relatively large piece of land for being within the city limits. Behind the house, Rhema thought that she could make out signs of a grape arbor. Earlier in its life, the house had been surrounded by a split rail fence and the fence had recently been repainted. Rhema approached the house from the front walk. She knocked on the door and stepped back, waiting for Ehre to answer the door. She waited several seconds before hearing footsteps approach the door from the inside. A woman answered the door, but Rhema could tell immediately that the woman wasn’t Ehre. In spite of being caught by surprise, in her mind Rhema worked up a new plan for entry. “Good morning, I’m looking for the lady of the house. Perhaps you can help me out. I have a message for Ehre, and was told that she lived her at this residence.” The woman on the other side of the threshold curtseyed quickly and nodded. “The lady Ehre is in today, would you be willing to come in and sit while I announce your presence to her?” Rhema smiled, but she also knew that speed was of the essence. She didn’t want Ehre to have time to contact the wizard in Eberdeen, if that was even a possibility. “Certainly.” As Rhema continued, her voice changed in tone ever so slightly. Her words became laced with the mental powers that Rhema wielded. If Ischarus had been present, he’d have recognized it immediately. “Although I do have other business to attend, so please convey my urgency to your lady.” When the woman curtseyed again, Rhema knew that the mental suggestion had worked. Ehre’s servant didn’t know why, but she was suddenly a bit averse to making Rhema wait too long. Rhema hadn’t planted fear into the woman’s mind, but she had planted a distinct displeasure towards keeping Rhema waiting. Fear would have aroused suspicion when the servant went to Ehre; but displeasure would simply indicate the significance of the message that Rhema brought. Rhema’s ears tracked the woman’s footsteps through the house. It was clear that Ehre’s servant had been trained well. She walked the uncarpeted wooden floors with a soft step. However, Rhema was still able to here the woman ascend the stairs, and she could hear the slight creaking of the wooden slats above her as the woman traversed the hallway to the room where Ehre was waiting for her. Rhema heard the soft knock on the door, and she began to hear a soft discussion regarding her presence. Several moments later, Rhema heard a pair of footsteps retracing the path that Ehre’s servant had earlier walked. Rhema smiled a bit smugly, knowing that her mental suggestion had gotten a response far quicker than would have normally occurred. Had Rhema simply left it at the servant’s discretion, Rhema would have likely been kept waiting for several minutes while Ehre ensured that she was presentable as a lady of a manor. Once Rhema could hear that Ehre was coming, she quickly brought to mind another mental power that she had mastered. Her eyes closed as she envisioned the layout of the house. Thanks to the ability of Master Searthu’s crystal ball, Rhema was able to know the layout of the house to great detail. Her mind’s probe sought out the location where she knew Ehre and her servant walked. The telepathic probe lingered for just a moment over the mind of the servant woman. Rhema could hear the servant woman’s thoughts as if they were being spoken to her directly. “Phorii be praised, lady Ehre didn’t make the lady downstairs wait! Now I can get back to my chores in the kitchen.” Rhema’s lips parted in a gratified smile. The servant obviously had some kind of faith, and she also knew that the god Phorii that had been praised was known for his alignment in the same family as those that Brandt and Charis served. At least the servant could be trusted to act honorably in most circumstances. Rhema’s mind probe paused for a moment so that it could hover over Ehre. The mind probe also managed to pick up on Ehre’s conscious thoughts as if they were being spoken directly to her. “For Vaina’s sake, this woman had better be important. No servant of mine suggests that I forego the assumed delay before making my presence known.” Rhema could tell that Ehre had not been pleased to be thrown out of her normal routine, but that was something that she could manage. She also assumed that Vaina was the name of the servant woman who walked in front of her. She would need to be careful and not let the name slip out in conversation since she had not been told the name. Rhema stood as the servant woman and Ehre descended the steps. Vaina descended the steps quickly. The urgency was in part a response to Rhema’s earlier mental suggestion, but it was also so that she could ready herself in the room and announce her lady before she arrived. As if choreographed, Ehre’s steps slowed on the staircase in order to allow time for her presence to be announced. The servant woman reached the bottom of the steps and proceeded down the hallway until she turned the corner into the room where Rhema had been asked to remain. “Milady, I announce the arrival of the mistress of the house, Lady Ehre.” She curtseyed once more and Rhema smiled. Lady Ehre brushed past her servant without any recognition of the announcement and stopped as she saw Rhema before her. Lady Ehre was dressed in a simple, yet exquisite, dress. The maroon fabric was expensive and delicate, but the dress had been cut so as to be functional. The fabric held loosely to Ehre’s body to allow her the freedom to move, yet when Ehre was not in motion the fabric hung straight to look formal. The reason that Ehre had stopped, of course, was the instant disconnect in regard to the way that Rhema was dressed. Rhema was not dressed in the manner that Ehre had expected. She had assumed that a visitor of enough importance to cause her servant to toss out the standard protocol of appearances would be rather impressive. Rhema’s leather coat and simple leggings showed her to be nothing more than a common merchant or an errand girl. Rhema could see that Ehre was doing the best to control her disgust with the whole proceeding so far. The fact that her mind probe was still reading Ehre’s thoughts helped her as well. She would need to diffuse the irritation before earning her trust. Rhema spoke first, rather than waiting to be greeted by Ehre. “Lady Ehre, forgive my appearance. I have come on a long journey to see you. In fact, there are only five others like me traveling across all of Tongra. To be completely honest, you are the only person in all of Reignsburg to receive a visit from anyone who has been given my task. If you can find it in your noble upbringing to forgive the fact that I have been dressed to meet the rigors of the road, I will tell you why my message is of the utmost urgency.” Ehre’s posture and facial expression eased. Rhema had effectively played up to Ehre’s vision of her own self-importance that she could not refuse. With a gesture, Ehre dismissed Vaina. “I do have some time, please have a seat. If at any time I can offer you a drink, let me know and I’ll have my servant come and arrange it for you.” Rhema smiled, and politely waited for Ehre to be seated first. After the simple display, Rhema sat down and began to speak. She was surprised with how easily Ehre had been placated. If this was any sort of indication, this visit might be easier than she thought. “I have a story that I think you would be interested in hearing.” Just to make sure that she had Ehre’s attention, Rhema had added her mental powers to the suggestion. Rhema’s suggestive power didn’t work on Ehre, but it didn’t matter. Ehre was interested enough already. She didn’t need help being interested in a message for which she was the only recipient in Reignsburg. “Go on, do tell. Who is your message from?” Rhema grinned. This would be the moment of truth. “My message is regarding a woman in Fingerdale named Opheiluka.” Ehre’s facial expression changed from one of self-indulgence to one of shock. Rhema could easily identify the change in expression and took advantage of it. “And, by your expression I can tell that you know Opheiluka.” Ehre responded, forgetting her stately performance so far. “Opheiluka? But she is dead!” Rhema smiled. “There are some who would have you believe that. I have come to tell you the truth. In fact, I do not think I need to explain to you why I have been sent to only you here in Reignsburg, do I?” Ehre shook her head. “And our master? He is the one who sent you to me? That is strange, he normally uses magic to contact me directly.” Rhema smiled smugly. She would add her mental powers to this sentence, and hopefully it would seal Ehre’s cooperation. “He is not ‘our’ master, Lady Ehre. He is your master. He is one of those who would like you to believe the lie that she is dead. I would suggest that you come with me and find out the truth for yourself. I have been sent to you not by the wizard in Eberdeen, but by Opheiluka herself.” There was a little hesitation on Ehre’s part, and Rhema decided to once more apply her mental power to the lady’s ability to make a decision. “Come with me, Lady Ehre. I have come a long way to tell you the truth. Come with me.” Ehre slowly rose to her feet. “Very well. I will go with you. Will I be traveling with you on horse or carriage? I’ll need to dress appropriately in either case.” Rhema smiled and extended the finger that housed the golden ring. “Actually, neither. If you would be so kind as to hold my hand, I will take you to Opheiluka this very moment by magic.” [/Sblock] [/QUOTE]
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