Nac Mac Feegle: It is good to have you back. Don't worry, many people are busy this time of year. There will be time to catch up. (I am catching up now because of computer problems that took some time to correct. Thanks for being willing to talk to Thomas Hobbes -- I hope we can get him and James Heard back. I do owe you a reply to a previous post.)
NAC MAC FEEGLE:
[sblock]
The senior representative among the Baklunish ambassadors, Umar ben Hatim of Zeif, bows low before Cobb Darg, Mayor of Irongate and the leader of the Iron League.
"We look forward to establishing good relations with you and the other member nations of the Iron League. I believe that there will be great trials for both our peoples, but I believe that we can meet them by standing together.
If I may make a suggestion, I believe there are those among your neighbors who will stand with you. Perhaps past differences can be put aside. A few wise words can often resolve misunderstandings. If you so desire, the Baklunish Empire can add our voice to yours in approaching your neighbors."
"Some might ask why the Iron League matters to those in a land thousands of miles away. Besides the inherent dignity and sovereign rights possessed by your citizens, there is much about the Iron League that is worthy of praise. Your member nations are tolerant of diverse views and cultures. In the face of adversity, the peoples of the Iron League have learned to stand together. If you so desire, we will stand with you in these times of change. May you Lord Mayor Cobb Darg, your city of Irongate, and all the peoples of the Iron League be blessed with peace and prosperity."
The ambassadors bow low, and depart unless Cobb Darg has further questions.
At about the same time, ambassadors arrive on the Isle of the Phoenix with a message and gifts much like those presented to Cobb Darg. (OOC: You might be amused to know that there are no level, alignment, or racial information for Cobb Darg in the Living Greyhawk Gazetteer. Also, among the rumors is that there is some secret related to his ancestry. So, use the information as you see fit.)
[/sblock]
ELUVAN:
[sblock]
Eluvan wrote:
A large alliance would seem to be beneficial to all involved. But various facotrs must be borne in mind. If all the forces of order and reason band together, we may have much to fear from the reaction of those who stand for chaos and darkness. If they are forced together by strong opposition and present a united front against our own, the results could be cataclysmic. I will not rule out the possibility of forming such an alliance, or its worth, but it should not be done rashly. I would also ask that the motivations of prospective allies be examined. Many would make themselves seem harmless in these times, when truthfully the luscious tree they appear as hides a great serpent in the roots. Above all, it should be remembered that the enemy of our enemy is our friend only so long as that common cause exists. Put your trust not in all those who would band with you to destroy a common foe, for many would as soon stick a dagger in your own back the moment the struggle has been won.
"Your words are wise. However, I have received reports of a greater alliance of the forces for chaos and darkness. Most of our likely foes may already be united. A larger alliance of nations that stand for order, reason, and the rights of their peoples could be kept secret until it needs to be revealed. There are neighbors to both our powers as well as others whom I believe would stand with us."
"There are many nations and leaders whom I can only count on to fight a common threat -- until the second the common foe is defeated. Sometimes, it is best to allow someone you distrust to speak, so that you can at least learn something in between their lies. There are many whom I trust only to follow their traditional paths of death and deception."
"In the matter of a greater alliance of nations, I would suggest greater consultation on these matters with those whom we both can rely on. However, I fear that those who covet our nations may already be prepared to put aside their differences "
[/sblock]
BUGBEAR:
[sblock](OOC: I am putting up previously written posts. So, it is too late for an Al'Akbar visit tonight. The computer is working great, by the way. Would you like the visit to be a public post?)
A message arrives in Rel Mord.
"I would ask permission for a diplomatic visit at your earliest convenience to discuss matters of concen to us both."
Al'Akbar.
[/sblock]
AIRWHALE AND ZELDA
[sblock]
Airwhale wrote:
[sblock]
"Ginsel, Seat of power of the Grayspace alliance welcomes your
powerfull embisies, and thanks you for your gifts.
In return, we offer you gifts of our own. You will find in your
quarters magically contained elemental fire and water from Liga, our
sun, as well as some large dimonds from this planet. We would ask
that you not break the elemental containment here... for the fire can
be, as you might expect, quite hot.
We welcome trade from your people, however, be aware that other partys
have begun negotiation for exclusive trade rights in your area, and we
may not be able to honor those commitments for long. We view your
group as being a stablizing force in Oerth, and, as such, we would be
happy to negotiate with you in all matters of trade and military
affairs. We are also concerned about reports of an alliance of the
false god Iuz and major powers of the underdark. We fear that this
would be a highly destablizing force in all of the sphere.
You are encouraged to set up an embassy here, and we look forward to
continued contact with your nation. We would ask to hold on sending
any missionarys until we have a better grasp of the culture of your
people.
We welcome news from Oerth. We especially welcome news regarding your
views on your neighbors, Nyrond and The Triumvirate Rebellious. Do
you enjoy good relations with them? Would you recomend attempts to
initiate relations with these two powers?
Finally, we are curious if you had any millitary objectives on Oerth.
While our forces are not able to take an army on their own, we may be
able to provide valuble assistence should your goals and ours match."
[/sblock]
Al'Akbar's reply:
[sblock]
To the leaders of the Greyspace Alliance
From Al'Akbar, the High Cleric, the Restorer of Righteousness, Emperor of the Malkuvah Baklunim, the restored Baklunish Empire
Greetings, leaders of the Greyspace Alliance. I was glad to receive your tidings from Ginsel, and I pray that all is well among the members of your alliance. I am honored by your great gifts, and shall treasure them with the respect that they deserve.
I would like to establish trade relations with you, however, I would be wary of establishing exculsive trade relations with any party. These can sometimes not have the benefits that both parties desire. As for trade, the trading house of Mouquollad Consortium has trade houses in the Flanaess and beyond - trading as far as Ta Neteru (OOC: Erypt), the Celestial Imperium of Tsian, and further even to the elven lands of the Far West. I believe that any exclusive agreement would tend to hem in your trade possibilities.
In some lands, the Mouquollad Consortium, the great trade organization of the Baklunish nations, have small areas set aside which are under their rule. In turn, the land granting such rights has representatives granted the same rights among my nations. This is much like your arrangements with the city of Irongate. I would like to propose that each of us to explore the possibility of such an arrangement. We both could benefit from our respective trade contacts, and at the same time respect the rights of one another. We can at least discuss arrangements that meet with our mutual approval. I am ready to hear any proposal you have to offer.
I am honored that you believe that I am a force for stability on Oerth. I am aware of the plotting of Iuz , many underdark factions, and others. I believe they seek to work together to seize the surrounding lands and then each will likely betray his fellow. If they were to accomplish this, peace and prosperity on much of Oerth would be a thing of the past. You should know that the most amusing description of Iuz that I have ever heard came from Zagyg. Zagyg once described Iuz as an appetite that has not yet found any limit. Sadly, there are many on Oerth and Greyspace who would match this description. I am concerned that Iuz and his allies will try to move against many of my neighbors and myself soon.
I would be pleased to establish embassies among the members of your alliance. I respect and understand your concerns about missionaries. My proposal was strictly to have some of my worshippers and priests to serve the needs of the diplomats. However, I can instead give an ambassador a device to directly contact me. If you so wish, I can provide you with such a device as well although diplomats can give you their impressions as well. If you so desire, I can provide a tour of the Baklunish lands and assist you in better understanding my culture.
As for the issues of the Triumvirate Rebellious and Greater Nyrond, I gladly share my knowledge and counsel with you. I think perhaps it is best to begin with the saying of the legendary Baklunish poet Amir Bahr-al Djahiz. When the Baklunish Empire was young, he wrote: "Character is destiny."
There is some evidence for this, based on my experiences and observations. Consider the Triumvirate Rebellious. Lord Rary was once a member of the Circle of Eight, among the mightiest wizardly orders on Oerth. Yet at a peace conference in the City of Greyhawk, Rary betrayed two of his oldest friends and associates, killing the archmagi Tenser and Otiluke. Similarly, he seized the Bright Lands and killed many of its former leaders. Additionally, Rary and Robilar had many years earlier freed Iuz from his imprisonment in what they at the time claimed to be an accident. Reports say that Tenser urged them not to release the mysterious figure they found in the ruins of Castle Greyhawk until they learned more. Lord Robilar and Lord Rary did not listen, and ended up having to fight Iuz as Tenser fought against them.
There has also been some tension between Lord Rary and Lord Robilar. Some years ago, Rary ordered some of Lord Robilar's personal guard to find what had happened to troops sent to a dead city. Robilar, in a fit of anger, killed a blue dragon whom Rary sought as an ally.
Eli Tomorast is known to work with the demon lord Kerzit. His primary interests seem to be wealth and power. With Rary and Robilar, he infiltrated the City of Greyhawk and caused its government to fall apart from within. Even now, as I have tried to establish diplomatic relations with the Triumvirate Rebellious, I hunt for their agents in my lands. This should be but one of many concerns of any who would seek to deal with the Triumvirate Rebellious. To be blunt, I fear that the agents of the Triumvirate Rebellious might try to insinuate themselves within the Greyspace Alliance - to serve the ends of their lords.
As for Greater Nyrond, I have found King Seth Rhynnon to be a very reasonable man, open to a variety of views. He has helped to ensure legal trade in his territory and is prepared to take a stand against those who would bring war to his borders and those of his neighbors. I do not believe that King Rhynnon would be the first to start a fight, but I believe he would finish it. I would trust him to honor his agreements before I would trust the uncertain and unreliable Triumvirate Rebellious.
Furthermore, King Rhynnon has offered his assistance to the Celestial Imperium of Tsian in their time of need. The Celestial Imperium, the most populous of Oerth's nations, is in a state of disarray. I have sent a dispatch to them, offering my help as well. Efforts to stabilize the country would be most beneficial. In addition to helping the people, stabilizing efforts could help provide better opportunities for commerce. The Celestial Imperium is a large market for goods, and has many fine products that are sold throughout Oerth. I would ask you to join me in efforts to stabilize the Celestial Imperium. It would benefit the people, gain us influence with the rulers, and help to ensure commerce and prosperity for the citizens of the Imperium as well as ourselves. So, I believe we can act with compassion and in our own self interest in this matter. I have found that stable societies that protect their citizens tend to be more prosperous than tyrannical regimes. They are also less of a threat to their neighbors.
As for military matters, I plan to stand with my allies. I am uncertain of the disposition of Orcreich and the Khanates, which border my lands as well as those of the Celestial Imperium. They may choose to invade both our lands. Similarly, I am concerned about the forces of the Wolf Lord in the mountains to my east and a vampire led faction in the mountains to my south. The illithid seek dominance as always, in their ultimate goal of victory over all. Iuz and his allies may well threaten my neighbors, and I must honor my treaties of alliances. Also, I fear that the cult of the Whispered One (OOC: Vecna) or the Whispered One himself may strike in these uncertain times. So, I would greatly welcome a military and trade pact with the Greyspace Alliance. Indeed, I think I can also suggest some nations that might also desire better relations with the Greyspace Alliance for both military and economic reasons.
I look forward to meeting with your representatives, and for our peoples to gain a greater understanding of each other. It is my hope that we can become allies as well as friends. For I fear the time is coming soon where we will need to stand together for the benefit of all our peoples against those who would see us dead or in chains. May the peoples of the Greyspace Alliance be blessed with peace and prosperity.
Yours in peace and friendship,
Al'Akbar
(Here is a summary of Al'Akbar's faith. This entry for Al'Akbar is adapted from an entry from the Living Greyhawk Gazetteer, pages 164-165 and some other information as well.
Al'Akbar
(High Cleric, Restorer of Righteousness), LG demigod of Guardianship, Faithfulness, Dignity, and Duty.
Al'Akbar (ahl AHK-bar) first appeared as a wanderer in the days following the Invoked Devastation. His prayers for help for his people were answered by the deity Al'Asran and other gods, who charged him to restore the Baklunish people to the path of righteousness and dignity. He was given the fabled Cup and star-shaped Talisman that now bear his name. He taught that true religion includes proper devotion to the gods, protection of the community, and guidance of the faithful. He also assisted in the founding of cities, the healing of the sick, and in trying to help the Baklunish people survive as a people and as a culture in the aftermath of the Twin Cataclysms. In the fullness of the years, he allowed his own mosque to be constructed where his followers began to call upon his name in their prayers. Shortly afterwards, he ascended to take his place among the gods, although he remains a demigod out of respect for the rest of the pantheon. His symbol is an image of the cup and talisman artifacts, which are an eight-pointed star and a jeweled cup.
Be as a vessel of kindness and emblem of devotion, for the righteous man is both steadfast and merciful. Be not as the untutored nonbeliever, but rather heed your superiors, and submit to their wisdom and guidance. Let the faithful strive always to nurture the seed of Good in the soil of Law, that by doing so they are received into the Garden of Al'Akbar.
The faith of Al'Akbar dominates the Baklunish culture with its sense of community and propriety. They teach Ancient Baklunish as the language of poetry and learning; they are generally well disposed toward other faiths. Two historical branches of this faith exist. The followers of the Exalted Faith recognize the supremacy of the holy caliph (the ruler of Ekbir); they are masters of rhetoric and diplomacy, with high regard for academic achievement. Followers of the True Faith defer to the authority of the Grand Mufti of the Yatils, taking a more fundamental approach to religion that emphasizes hard work, plain speech, and obedience. More obscure divisions exist among Paynim dervishes. It is known that Al'Akbar has worshippers of good and neutral alignment, and that some of the worshippers are not just Baklunish humans. Humans of other races, and such nonhumans as elves, dwarves, gnomes, halflings, half-orcs, orcs, and kobolds, have been known to follow Al'Akbar's teachings and to respect his faith. The faith of Al'Akbar is known for its great tolerance of good and neutral faiths and in treating other faiths and cultures with respect.
Clerics of the Exalted Faith usually bear the title of qadi, and tend toward lawful good or neutral good. Clerics of the True Faith are called mullahs, and strongly favor lawful neutral. Both types hold office as ministers, judges, scholars, and teachers in civil government, while also serving as healers, advisers, and guardians for the military. Adventuring clerics are tolerant of non-believers, though they are still expected to uphold the ideals of the faith. Ritual prays may be made at dawn and dusk.
Domains: Good, Healing, Law, Protection. The chosen weapon of Al'Akbar's clergy is the falchion.
His paladins are known to be skilled healers, as well as brave warriors. They are closely allied with the paladins of Azor'alq, the neutral good hero god of Light, Purity, Courage, and Strength.[/sblock]
Airwhale wrote:
[sblock]OOC:Okay, quick answers. I'm going to be traveling for most of
tomorrow. I'll write a more detailed post then:
> In some lands, the Mouquollad Consortium, the great trade organization of
> the Baklunish nations, have small areas set aside which are under their
> rule. In turn, the land granting such rights has representatives granted
> the same rights among my nations. This is much like your arrangements with
> the city of Irongate. I would like to propose that each of us to explore
> the possibility of such an arrangement. We both could benefit from our
> respective trade contacts, and at the same time respect the rights of one
> another. We can at least discuss arrangements that meet with our mutual
> approval. I am ready to hear any proposal you have to offer.
I believe that our needs may become apparent after this conference
between your neighbors... By the way, we are curious... why all this
fuss over a body of water?
> I am honored that you believe that I am a force for stability on Oerth. I
> am aware of the plotting of Iuz , many underdark factions, and others. I
> believe they seek to work together to seize the surrounding lands and then
> each will likely betray his fellow. If they were to accomplish this, peace
> and prosperity on much of Oerth would be a thing of the past. You should
> know that the most amusing description of Iuz that I have ever heard came
> from Zagyg. Zagyg once described Iuz as an appetite that has not yet found
> any limit. Sadly, there are many on Oerth and Greyspace who would match
> this description. I am concerned that Iuz and his allies will try to move
> against many of my neighbors and myself soon.
We are as well. Rather than open conflict, we would prefer these
militaristic alliances to turn against themselves. Do you know how
committed they are to their alliance? Have you tried to contact this
new government of mind flayers in the underdark that we have heard of?
They are traditional opponents of the drow.
Also, do you know how the Scarlet brotherhood plots?
> I would be pleased to establish embassies among the members of your
> alliance. I respect and understand your concerns about missionaries. My
> proposal was strictly to have some of my worshippers and priests to serve
> the needs of the diplomats. However, I can instead give an ambassador a
> device to directly contact me. If you so wish, I can provide you with such
> a device as well although diplomats can give you their impressions as well.
> If you so desire, I can provide a tour of the Baklunish lands and assist you
> in better understanding my culture.
Priests are welcome to serve the needs of your diplomats.
> There is some evidence for this, based on my experiences and observations.
> Consider the Triumvirate Rebellious. Lord Rary was once a member of the
> Circle of Eight, among the mightiest wizardly orders on Oerth. Yet at a
> peace conference in the City of Greyhawk, Rary betrayed two of his oldest
> friends and associates, killing the archmagi Tenser and Otiluke. Similarly,
> he seized the Bright Lands and killed many of its former leaders.
> Additionally, Rary and Robilar had many years earlier freed Iuz from his
> imprisonment in what they at the time claimed to be an accident. Reports
> say that Tenser urged them not to release the mysterious figure they found
> in the ruins of Castle Greyhawk until they learned more. Lord Robilar and
> Lord Rary did not listen, and ended up having to fight Iuz as Tenser fought
> against them.
>
> There has also been some tension between Lord Rary and Lord Robilar. Some
> years ago, Rary ordered some of Lord Robilar's personal guard to find what
> had happened to troops sent to a dead city. Robilar, in a fit of anger,
> killed a blue dragon whom Rary sought as an ally.
>
> Eli Tomorast is known to work with the demon lord Kerzit. His primary
> interests seem to be wealth and power. With Rary and Robilar, he
> infiltrated the City of Greyhawk and caused its government to fall apart
> from within. Even now, as I have tried to establish diplomatic relations
> with the Triumvirate Rebellious, I hunt for their agents in my lands. This
> should be but one of many concerns of any who would seek to deal with the
> Triumvirate Rebellious. To be blunt, I fear that the agents of the
> Triumvirate Rebellious might try to insinuate themselves within the
> Greyspace Alliance - to serve the ends of their lords.
We have come to the same conclusion, and we do fear this alliance of
evil wizards. However, we do not view them as big of a concern as
Iuz.
> Furthermore, King Rhynnon has offered his assistance to the Celestial
> Imperium of Tsian in their time of need. The Celestial Imperium, the most
> populous of Oerth's nations, is in a state of disarray. I have sent a
> dispatch to them, offering my help as well. Efforts to stabilize the
> country would be most beneficial. In addition to helping the people,
> stabilizing efforts could help provide better opportunities for commerce.
> The Celestial Imperium is a large market for goods, and has many fine
> products that are sold throughout Oerth. I would ask you to join me in
> efforts to stabilize the Celestial Imperium. It would benefit the people,
> gain us influence with the rulers, and help to ensure commerce and
> prosperity for the citizens of the Imperium as well as ourselves. So, I
> believe we can act with compassion and in our own self interest in this
> matter. I have found that stable societies that protect their citizens tend
> to be more prosperous than tyrannical regimes. They are also less of a
> threat to their neighbors.
We will contact the Celestial Imperium regarding this. We are not
sure if this will curry any favor, however... The ruling cast of this
empire seems to have been taken over by heartless mercenaries.
> As for military matters, I plan to stand with my allies. I am uncertain of
> the disposition of Orcreich and the Khanates, which border my lands as well
> as those of the Celestial Imperium. They may choose to invade both our
> lands. Similarly, I am concerned about the forces of the Wolf Lord in the
> mountains to my east and a vampire led faction in the mountains to my south.
> The illithid seek dominance as always, in their ultimate goal of victory
> over all. Iuz and his allies may well threaten my neighbors, and I must
> honor my treaties of alliances. Also, I fear that the cult of the Whispered
> One (OOC: Vecna) or the Whispered One himself may strike in these uncertain
> times. So, I would greatly welcome a military and trade pact with the
> Greyspace Alliance. Indeed, I think I can also suggest some nations that
> might also desire better relations with the Greyspace Alliance for both
> military and economic reasons.
We agree that there are many nations which could possibly stand in an
alliance with all of us, but we fear this would solidify an alliance
of evil against us. Again, we would prefer the forces of evil to take
care of each other, if that is possible.
> I look forward to meeting with your representatives, and for our peoples to
> gain a greater understanding of each other. It is my hope that we can
> become allies as well as friends. For I fear the time is coming soon where
> we will need to stand together for the benefit of all our peoples against
> those who would see us dead or in chains. May the peoples of the Greyspace
> Alliance be blessed with peace and prosperity.
We fear the same. Dark times may have fallen on the entire sphere.
[/sblock]
Al'Akbar's response:
[sblock]
Al'Akbar sends a reply within hours of receiving the letter from the leaders of the Greyspace Alliance.
I look forward to better understanding your needs, and helping to meet them. As for the summit, the dispute is not over water, but borders. The League of Athyr, Greater Nyrond, the territory of the Triumvirate, the Empire of Iuz, and some drow territory are on or border the Nyr Dyv. The Triumvirate wishes for legitimacy and recognition of its territory claims, Iuz seeks his advantage, as does the drow. I fear the summit will accomplish little.
Like yourselves, I would prefer that these militaristic nations fight amongst themselves. However, they may put their disputes aside for the goal of conquest. (OOC: The new government of the mind flayers arises in Turn 1 with the Sealing of Greyspace.) I have contacted the illithid and have received no reply. The Solistarrim and the Scarlet Brotherhood are silent. I do not know their plans. Only Iuz and the drow responded to my warnings that the Whispered One or his cult may strike. The drow and I have diplomatic relations and trade, all so I can keep an eye on them. Eclavdra will help against the Whispered One -- whose agenda contradicts that of her goddess. (The drow want a world that is alive, so they can rule over it.) Iuz apparently believed I was a fraud and tried to send a succubus to me as a concubine. (I sent the creature back as I do not kill ambassadors unless they attack. Besides, I had to convey a message to Iuz.) I suspect the Solistarrim and the Scarlet Brotherhood are playing their own separate game as are the illithid. I do not think they will support Iuz.
I can provide priests who have served in diplomatic missions. They can meet they needs of the diplomatic staff, and will know how to interact with your people. May I also send priests of two hero deities in my service Azor'alq and Daoud. (OOC: Go to
http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=lg/articles/lg20030521deitiessearch for some information. There are some hero deities you and Zelda can claim.)
We can only hope that the Triumvirate Rebellious may work against Iuz, who has a hatred for Greyhawk and has fought Rary and Robilar in the past.
I do believe there is a need to help the people of the Celestial Imperium. However, the rulers do seem a bit distant and uncaring. I believe they must choose between being mercenaries or serving their people.
It might be best for an alliance to keep itself secret. I fear that our common foes will put aside their differences just long enough to unit long enough for war and conquest. Also, it seems that they are uniting to a significant degree.
My divinations show a time of great turmoil. I believe that those who would fight the coming darkness should stand together, if first in secret. There may be far worse than Iuz and the Wolf Lord to contend with soon.
May I ask about your requirements for an embassy and consulates? I am prepared to work with you to ensure that you have access to the Baklunish Empire for trade and diplomacy.
It is my hope that we can weather the coming storm. May you and all the peoples of the Greyspace Alliance be blessed with peace.
Al'Akbar.
[/sblock]
[/sblock]
EDENA OF NEITH:
[sblock]
I will respond to the drow arriving at Zeif. (I spent yesterday getting the computer working well, and had a lot to do today.) However, I think Eclavdra would know that Ekbir, not Zeif, is the capitol of the Malkuvah Baklunim, the Baklunish Empire.)
[/sblock]
MELKOR:
[sblock]
Al'Akbar turns to Prince Rothgar Darksteel and smiles politely. "Many tales speak of the skilled work, determination, and courage. Yet few speak of the courtesy of your people. I am honored by your gifts."
"As for your proposal, my government will take it under advisement. King Darksteel and Lord Gallador are wise to be concerned about the Whispered One and Acererak. However, I will contact your government and ask for you when we have reached a decision on this momentous offer. I look forward to seeing you soon. I would ask that you take the gifts for your father and I have a gift for you as well."
Several men bring a small chest of ancient duergar workmanship before Prince Rothgar. "You will find a rare work that should be treasured, for it was considered ancient even a thousand years ago. Inside is a book dating from your people's earliest times. This is one of the earliest copies of
Steel Axes and Iron Wills: The War of the Duergar Against the Illithid. Its tales of your people's courage should be an inspiration to all duergar."
"May the duergar be blessed with peace and prosperity. I await your return Prince Rothgar and shall contact you soon, so you can inform your father, King Darksteel, and his ally Lord Gallador that we have an appropriate and full response to this offer of a pact between our two powers."[/sblock]
RIKANDUR AZEBOL:
[sblock]
After the succubus has delivered her message, Al'Akbar addresses her.
"I am a happily married man with three wives and have no need or desire fro a concubine, let alone one who hails from the Abyss itself. Tell Emperor Iuz that I am prepared to work with him and many others against the Whispered One. However, his other offers must be considered in light of how his representative tried to enter into this palace. Did your lord like the gifts that accompanied my letter?"
"Gifts," Bruha says nervously. "I was not told about any gifts."
"You will return to your lord in Dorakaa and bear my message to him -- after you are escorted to the front gates of the palace. There you will be able to teleport back to Emperor Iuz's lands. You will be watched and guarded until you lead. You will maintain a human form until you teleport away. I will be watching you. Go now. Tell your lord that I do find one virtue in you: you are loyal to him."
The hero deities Azor'alq and Daoud look at the succubus doubtfully, and escort the obviously nervous succubus to the palace gates. She teleports away without glancing backwards at the palace.
(OOC: So, now you have to decide a critical issue. Was it an orc that took the goods or Olidimarra, the god of theives, pulling a fast one on Iuz and Al'Akbar.
)
[/sblock]
![:]](http://www.enworld.org/forum/images/smilies/devious.png "Devious :]")
