EliteCommander

Call of the Hunt [EliteCommander and Muttonhawk]

Meesei simply laughed at the both of them. "You know, I do not think you will have too much trouble getting along here. There are simply a few things you do need to learn. Our society is not as different from yours as you may have once thought, but there are still some important differences, if you truly want to fit in. Luckily for you, our people are not impatient with outsiders. We have had a few of them over the years."

Meesei gave a look back towards the tables. "Feasts like these usually just end when enough people feel like leaving, so there is nothing compelling us to remain. I have had enough...socializing to accomplish what I wanted today. I can show you around the clan and point out what I can. I just need to speak for a few moments to one or two others back at the feast. I will let you do the same, then we can meet back in the town square in the Silent City. It should not be crowded, especially now."

---

After returning to the feast, Meesei did not remain for much longer. She spoke to a few of the clan leaders that she had not yet addressed directly, then quietly pulled Rhazii aside for a few moments to inform him that she wanted to have a few words with him later. Her tone was not exactly angry, but it was enough to perhaps make him worried.

Once she was finished at the feast, Meesei headed back to the Silent City square, just as she had told Marod and Lunise. Although, they would not find her in quite the way they might have been expecting. She was sitting down, leaning back against a stone wall, and looking up towards the orb above the city. Most notably, she was in her lycan form. Even sitting, her size and strength were more imposing than most lycanthropes. Lunise had seen Meesei transformed before, but it would be the first time that Marod had seen her as a werewolf. Still, he was familiar enough with werewolves that it was doubtful he would mistake her for anyone else, at least not once she stood up.

---

Ri'kalesh's gaze went back towards the tables, though they were far enough away that he could only barely make out part of Do'rhajul's head through the crowd. "It's not about debts, it's about what is fair. It's about what you have earned. Saving Ri'kalesh and his entire clan proves that you are acting in what you believe is our best interest. You might still be wrong, but you have proved yourself capable, and that is why Ri'kalesh is giving you this chance."

Finally, Do'rhajul turned his head in a way that Ri'kalesh could get a good look at his face, though he did not give a definite outward reaction to it. "If this is the path we are taking, then Khajiit will say that he would want the hold that Vile has over Do'rhajul's soul to be removed. Our lord Hircine should be the one to judge his final fate."

Call of the Hunt [EliteCommander and Muttonhawk]

Meesei gave a nod towards Marod and Lunise in turn. "Excellent. I am glad for any diplomatic assistance I can get. The Emperor's terms may not sit well with some clan leaders. Though, there are only a few clans we shall need to worry about. Clans in Hammerfell, Morrowind, and Black Marsh will not be an issue, since they will not be affected by any agreements. For Dominion clans, well, I suppose we will have to see what terms the Dominion has in mind. I already took the liberty of ensuring that we have some more long-term quarters available for you, just in case."

There was some comfort for Meesei in receiving some positive news for a change. She did not expect that their agreements with the Empire and Dominion would be as widely controversial as the matter with Do'rhajul, at least. That resistance would be more locally concentrated in specific clans. She guessed that there would actually be many members of many clans who would be excited about the prospect of being able to return to the Empire in some official capacity, particularly those who did not follow Hircine as strongly. There were many members of Imperial clans that were loyal, or at least content, citizens of the Empire prior to their turning. They joined the clans out of necessity, but what they were proposing would open up new options for them.

After a few moments, a light smile crossed Meesei's face. "Although, if you are to be long term guests, I will need to teach the both of you how to live among us."

---

Ri'kalesh's silence, even after Sabine finished her explanation, was likely to do little to calm her. When he finally did speak, his voice still did not carry any obvious sympathy, nor signs of forgiveness. However, when he finally did speak, his words were calm and clear. "Ri'kalesh does believe you, Sabine. He knows you, your kindness, your peaceful nature. He believes the words you speak. But you can still be wrong." He said, his eyes narrowing. "You never even knew all of the people that his actions killed. It wasn't just Do'ajee, and it wasn't just torture. You never knew all of the people in Senchal. Friends, family, elders, children. Do those crimes get erased because he thought he was doing it for good reasons? Do you think you would have spared him if he had killed members of your pack?"

Ri'kalesh shut his eyes, breathing out slowly. "But every man, woman, and child in Ri'kalesh's clan also lives because of you. Were it anyone else, this one would not stand for it. Even if it meant blood, Khajiit would have justice. But, he would not even be here to have this anger were it not for you. Even when he thinks you a fool...Ri'kalesh cannot deny you in any good conscious. The debt we owe you is greater than the demand for justice."

Call of the Hunt [EliteCommander and Muttonhawk]

The gravity of the letter's contents made Meesei's visage stoic and severe almost on reflex. Even without the Emperor right in front of her to see her read it, she was not keen on giving away any of her thoughts as she processed it. In many ways, the letter was good news, even with its caveats. Certainly, there was nothing present within that would make a deal unfavorable, if it meant being able to stop Vile. Indeed, Meesei would have been willing to accept much worse terms to ensure Vile's defeat. The greatest issue for her, of course, would be convincing Imperial clans of the need. Not all would be opposed, but she foresaw some arguments ahead of her. Fortunately, it would not be until after the war that the more serious issues would likely arise.

Meesei was still looking at the letter when she finally spoke. "You are certainly a persuasive one, Marod, I shall grant you that." She commented as she neatly folded up the letter again. She would not be the only one that needed to read it. "And I suppose I can give you an answer, Lunise. It seems that the Empire will be willing to engage in dialogue with your people. As I will need to as soon as I can. There is much for me to think about in this, but...the important part is that we have half of our army. Now we just need the rest."

Meesei focused more directly on Marod. "I have a point-of-contact in the form of an Imperial Legate, but something tells me that he shall not be staying in my clan. Do you think that Saras was correct, and that you will be a more...long-term guest here? Having had time to think about it, I do think that it would be beneficial to have you here." She said, giving a glance to Lunise as well. "Both of you. You are capable diplomats, and familiar faces to many of those who may require persuasion."

---

Ri'kalesh was nothing if not patient, though he was far from being forgiving based only on what he had heard so far. There was one sign of success, at least, in the fact that he was not dismissing what she said outright. His expression was critical, but he was listening to her, quite closely. "So your mission was not even focused on the General, you say? Ri'kalesh has not heard of this 'Yerig', but he sounds to be an honorable man. He is also not this one's concern."

"Ri'kalesh knows what happens to Vile's captives. You do not need to describe it for him to know what happened to you. What he does not know is why this has happened. What has made Do'rhajul worthy of his continued life? Ri'kalesh knows you, Sabine. He knows who you are, and he knows you are not going to act without reason. What is that reason?" Ri'kalesh asked.

Call of the Hunt [EliteCommander and Muttonhawk]

"Hmm, I suppose I should be glad for any progress we can make at this point." Meesei commented before being handed the letter by Marod. She looked at it for only a moment before flipping it over in her hand and dragging a single claw across the seal. The fact that she was receiving a personally addressed letter from the highest echelons of the Imperial government did not seem to affect her to much of a degree. She also did not mind reading it in front of the others, though she would have to finish the letter to know if it was something she would be free to share, or if it was something to keep close to her chest. Certainly, no one was going to be reading it over her shoulder.

Ri'kalesh's harsh gaze was likely doing little to calm Sabine's nerves, and it did not seem like anything she said so far was going to make it subside. He had his arms crossed, his eyes fixed on hers. With a Khajiit's features, particularly their teeth, they had an easy time appearing to be angry or intimidating, even when not intending to be. At this point, Sabine could only guess if he was doing so on purpose. "Ri'kalesh would hope you remember. If you did not, he would question any friendship you claim to have with us. Now, Ri'kalesh would prefer you stop reminding him of the pain of his past, and start talking about Do'rhajul in the present. You have this one's full attention."

Call of the Hunt [EliteCommander and Muttonhawk]

Meesei gave a silent nod in response to Marod, not wanting to call any more attention to their conversation from those around them. It would not be long before their plans to coordinate more closely with the Empire and Dominion would be announced to the other clan leaders, but that would not be until after they had a definite answer from both parties.

The feast had been going on long enough that it was not too much trouble for Meesei to step away with Marod and Lunise without drawing too many eyes from the other clan leaders. Certainly, Meesei made sure that they were not followed, and that there was no one else within earshot when she finally spoke up quietly. "My apologies for dragging you away from the festivities. I just wanted to get your impressions of your superiors so far, in regards to dueling for the right to carry the axe. I will be ready to participate at any time, and I do not have any preference as to where it will take place. After the duels are concluded is when I intend to announce our plans to the rest of the clan leaders."

There was a few seconds before Ri'kalesh replied. He finished the last of the wine he had, then let out a long breath, looking straight ahead. "Convenient. Ri'kalesh was going to ask the very same of you, Sabine."

Ri'kalesh had not eaten much, but had no qualms leaving the rest behind as he stood from the table, following after Sabine. Even his walk was harsh, almost angry, much like his expression. There was an intensity in his large eyes that was somewhere approaching anger...though not quite. He waited for them to reach somewhere that was acceptably private, though he did not wait for her to speak. "If anyone else had done this, Ri'kalesh would be calling for their head. Or at least, challenging them for the right to correct their mistake himself. But you earned Ri'kalesh's friendship, his respect. That is why you have earned the right to explain yourself."

Star Wars - Lawless Galaxy

I think that the Paradise is currently in orbit above Ilos Minor.

Call of the Hunt [EliteCommander and Muttonhawk]

The Dunmer huffed briefly, taking a drink from his wine before replying. "Well I certainly have no intention of dragging my clan into any war that is not forced onto us. Thinking about it now, I suppose general war fatigue may help keep things quiet after this is over. Most everyone is tired of the fighting." The Dunmer's eyes moved farther down to the other end of the table, towards the Riften clan leader. "Except for perhaps the Nord. I don't think Steel-Heart was terribly impressed with Do'rhajul's talk of 'loyalty' to the Empire in his past life, considering that little war he fought in to try and oust the Empire from Skyrim."

The Dunmer did not allow Fendros much time to respond before he actually started to eat his meal, giving only a few seconds after starting to comment once more. "At any rate, I think I have taken enough of your time. It has been...enlightening. I have enough trust in your competence to not make any trouble over this."

Geran's smile remained in seeming defiance of Sabine's attitude. "Indeed he is, and he is reputed to be a fine warrior, and I am certain he would be a perfectly fine Champion. I simply think you would be better."

The pair had been talking for long enough that Geran filled up his half-empty cup once more before finally moving away from the wine cask. He started to move past Sabine, but stopped for a few seconds to place a hand gently upon her shoulder. "I can see this is a lot for you to take in at once, Sabine. I understand. I encourage you to think about this; really go through all the details. I hope you forgive my criticism, but I think your close relationship with Meesei may make it more difficult for you to see her flaws. Just remember, taking Meesei's position would not necessarily hurt her in any way. Indeed, any good master, any good parent longs for the day that their child finally surpasses them. And if you are the better leader, then it will be more likely for your family to survive this war intact. Just think on it, and if you find that you believe I am right, then you need not speak to me. You can go to Meesei directly." Without another word, Geran continued on back to his seat.

For the most part, the feast was going well enough. Politics aside, the average member of the clan perhaps did not think as much on the effects or implications of Do'rhajul's defection. It had certainly been a starting point of conversation for many, but it was still a social affair, and most groups did end up moving on to more mundane topics. Despite not being terribly impressive in itself, the main course was still a popular success for the mere novelty of being able to eat a dragon. For some, that fact alone was enough for them to declare it a culinary masterpiece.

Eventually, Meesei found herself calm enough to take part in the feast as well in more of a capacity than just keeping up appearances. She did enjoy catching up with Ri'kalesh's pride, though Ri'kalesh himself remained distant, hardly speaking but a few words after the announcement. When Meesei finished her plate, she stood as though to go refill her wine, but not before walking over closer to Lunise and Marod. "Ah, Lunise, Marod, before I forget, and while I have you here, were you able to address that matter we spoke of a few days ago?" She asked, keeping her words vague while they were within the range of others' hearing. "I believe that is something we need to speak of in private, as soon as possible."

Star Wars - Lawless Galaxy

Basically kind of. More of a space-based resort in an old Providence class ship.

Call of the Hunt [EliteCommander and Muttonhawk]

The Dunmer did not break eye contact with Fendros. "You mistake my words for threats, Fendros. They are a warning. No matter my own thoughts, I do not see a world where Do'rhajul can be tolerated forever. His actions affected too many. If someone murdered your son, for how long would you be able to resist enacting our revenge if the opportunity was in front of you, every single day? That overgrown cat never killed anyone close to me, so I can think...rationally about this. But you would be foolish to think that you can reason with every grieving parent or sibling among us. You need not say any more to me, but I would heed my warning. You had best plan for when this is all over."

Geran laughed, his attitude completely in opposition to Sabine's. "Well, that would be why I am speaking to you right now. I am hoping you will see why we need you right now. Meesei is exceptionally capable, but right now, we need a calm, collected leader. I know that you are willing to make sacrifices, and take great risks for the benefit of our clans. You have shown that indisputably. That you do not want to be Champion is, in fact, a laudable trait. People who want to claim that kind of power often do so for selfish reasons, but you would be doing it out the need to help your people. You are someone who wants to help others more than you want to help yourself, and that is why we need you."

Call of the Hunt [EliteCommander and Muttonhawk]

The Dunmer acknowledged the joke, though he did not laugh. "I do not think I shall be getting ahead of myself, not when Vile's minions may end up solving the problem for us before it is all over. Hopefully the former general will not prove to be too competent. If there is any shred of honesty in his words, he may not be too cautious with his own life." He remarked. The Dunmer finally took a few moments to pay attention to his own meal as he cast his gaze further down the table. "If that fails, perhaps the lizards can take him. They are certainly always eager to do anything the Champion says."

Although he was not budging from his opinion, Geran was patient through Sabine's objections and remained just as friendly in his attitude. He smiled, speaking softly and staying respectful towards Sabine. "Unfortunately, my grievances are that she is quick to anger and behaves irrationally when angered. That is not a wise grievance to bring up with someone who is quick to anger, yes? I do not doubt her power, and if I were to confront her, I know she would demand that I challenge her authority in the traditional way. I cannot defeat her in a duel, nor would I wish to try. I have no desire to try and take her position myself; I am humble enough to admit that I would not be a good candidate to be the Champion. But what I can see is your potential. You have proven your power to everyone here, and to me, you have shown your wisdom. Meesei, she loves you. I have seen the evidence of that firsthand." He said, pointing a finger to his blackened eye. "I believe that, if you decided to become the Champion, you would need only ask and she would make it so."