MP Game - Yarnspinners

[CuriousCat]

Machaka: Turn 15

"Master, a messenger from Man has arrived," nervously stated the messenger. He recalled the previous messenger from Caelum and the foul mood Cetewayo had displayed as a result. After the past months' military failures, the messenger was justifiably concerned that being near the god could soon become dangerous to one's health.

"Yes, show him in." Cetewayo again wished for the splendor of the Capital. After the military failures, the camp wasn't terribly impressive as an example of imposing military might. Of course, rumors reported that Man may have had a few stumbles recently, even, if rumor were to be believed, to the loss of their false god. Of course, that would only be temporary. Even the pitifully weak priests of Man would see that their deity returned.

Cetewayo was, again, concerned. Man was rumored to be the most powerful faction in the world. Even with the temporary loss of their leader... it would not do to 'upset' them. Diplomacy was so - distasteful. However, in this case it was more than necessary. It might be the only hope for survival. Regardless, he would not be a beggar. His nation was not without resources. Hopefully, allies could yet be found and the current situation remedied. In the mean time though, enemies would be most unfortunate.

The man entered. He was indeed a man. However, there was something almost imperceptibly subtle that hinted at something else. Cetewayo knew that few others in the world at this time would notice these slight differences. An even smaller number would have the necessary experience to know the fact to which these differences hinted. Cetewayo, however, was from a time long past and had seen the Tuatha himself. Indeed, he remembered the potency of their magic. Thankfully, their time had passed. However, these men had inherited more than a little of that magic, along with an air of otherness and an oh so slight exotic cast to their features.

The herald announced, "The honored emissary, Olwin of the Vale, representative of the faction of Man." Olwin performed an acceptable obeisance, nothing extravagant, yet not disrespectful.

"Welcome to our lands Olwin." stated Cetewayo as he observed the young man. Olwin was obviously a bit warm. The lands of the Machaka were uncomfortable for most races. However, this man was not suffering as the emissary from Caelum had suffered. Olwin did betray some arrogance as well. However, it was more the condescension of the 'Civilized' toward the tribal 'primitive' instead of the disdain for an inferior form of life the winged messenger had evidenced. Again, Cetewayo wished to be in the Capital. Balakavo would have driven such assumptions of superiority out of this one. Indeed, these were cross-breed woodsmen! Cetewayo forced himself to control his temper before anything unfortunate could happen. This man did represent the most powerful nation in the region, if not the world, after all. He continued, "Would you care for some refreshment?" as he gestured to a tray bearing an assortment of libations.

The selection included the native Kaf, heated of course, as well as a variety of chilled drinks, some imported from the Vale itself. To Cetewayo's surprise Olwin reached out and lifted the cup of Kaf. He inhaled the aroma and displayed obvious pleasure. Either the man was an accomplished actor or he enjoyed the smell. Olwin then replaced the cup. "Kaf is a rare treat that is indeed a welcome refreshment during the winter in my homeland. However, in this heat it would not be so refreshing. Instead, if you would not think less of me, I will partake of this excellent vintage." stated Olwin as he selected the best of the chilled wine from the Vale.

The two continued rather meaningless pleasantries until finally arriving at their business. "My mistress does not desire war at this time," stated Olwin, "However, if you commit an offense against our dominion, such offense will bring swift retribution from the Vale."

"Indeed, I would expect nothing less," responded Cetewayo.

An eon of meaningless formalities and pleasantries later Cetewayo was again alone with his thoughts. Reconstituting the army was first priority. However, gathering more intelligence about the world situation had to remain a high priority as well. Rumor could only tell him so much. More concrete information would be required.