[@Geos]

While Lans bowing was a bit of a cultural faux pas, the other orcs took it in stride, having received plenty of bows from non-orcs, and having given some in return so as not to offend.

[color=f26522]"Lord Hannery? West of Men?"[/color] Councillor Graft asked, realizing a bit of Lans upbringing, [color=f26522]"Councillor Bron Silversmith will be the best person to ask concerning the whereabouts of human noblemen. Other than that, if he lives, then seeking him out in Omega is as good a place to start as any. As for your next two requests, there isn't much time before you and the other accursed are expected to set out, and my men are busy protecting the surrounding lands. Any training you might receive in a few days from a pre-occupied mentor would probably do little to help. As for the rite..."[/color] Graft shudders a bit, remembering his own, [color=f26522]"An adult undergoing the rite is rare, yes, it should be more painful that a child's rite, but care must be taken to not kill the rite-goer. There is no shaman in the City of Light who who could organize such a rite, even orc children born since the calamity have had their rites postponed. if you seek to undergo the rite, you would be better served to seek a shaman in Sarm's Tears. But perhaps, we can partially fulfill your third, as well as your fourth request. When you set out, a host of escorts will accompany you and the other accursed. A few from among my ranks have volunteered for the mission. Seek out their captain, Tandrik. She can train you along your journey, and teach you our ways."[/color]

When Lans dropped to his knees, the whole tent blustered, with a few guards reaching over to lift him back to his feet. Orcs bowed often enough out of formality to the other races, but kneeling was a different matter. Graft had a quaint, amused look on his face, betraying his childish sense of humor, but one of his advisors glared and the child regained his composure. Clearing his throat, Graft added, [color=f26522]"An orc only kneels when dead. Stand tall and stand proud, Lans the Ghukzoul, and welcome back to the fold."[/color]

[hr]
[@Fiya]

Councillor Gudrun scowled at Rehsif's final question, and leaned back in her seat. [color=fff200]"I am a politician and a businesswoman. I leave pondering about faith and the gods to those more inclined to do so, so it strikes me as ironic that on this point I have more understanding than some of the other councillors. There is a certain degree of mystery and liberation, to leave decisions up to matters beyond your control. Like casting lots, or gambling, there is a randomness, or fate if you prefer, in the outcome. Some might try to influence your decision, but we councillors agreed to leave the decision up to the accursed themselves: you and the other three, something, that [i]should[/i] be beyond our control. This was something the gods themselves decided. Ironic isn't it? The gods themselves leaving it up to fate? Don't tell the harpy councillor I said that, he'd hang me for a witch. So there you have it. If you're dead set on going to Thromburg first, you'll have to convince your fellows that that is the rational choice. Or perhaps, they will convince you of another route? Whatever you choose, your escort will follow."[/color]