The Gentleman VS The Law Master
Ophelia tugged at her blouse’s cuffs and straightened her coat as she stalked down the stone passageway. Her immaculate appearance was one of the many weapons she employed during battles such as these. Battles without sword and shield but with outcomes that could be just as dire. This battle certainly had dire stakes. She was taking a gamble that could end everything she had built over the past two decades and potentially cost her her life. Her hands twitched at her side, seeking but not finding the comforting coolness of the hilts of her rapiers. She had foregone her weaponry, as it would only prove a hindrance to the facilitation of civil conversation. But, she still retained a powerful weapon, one she had found over the years to be more potent than magic, more devastating than steel, and worth more than gold. Information.
She turned down the stark passageway into a more furnished hallway, her heeled boots clicking on the now-tiled floor. This particular section of the Circle’s labyrinth was rarely inhabited by anyone other than herself and her most trusted compatriots. It had been particularly empty as of late, after Tarma’s betrayal. Today, the entirety of the city’s council as well as a contingency of Watch and APS guards were present. Recent events had seemingly created allies of the most unlikely sort, and these circumstances were dangerous enough for her to shelter the Council, not as prisoners, but as guests.
At least the APS members were familiar enough to her as they had proven themselves trustworthy in the past. Although, she had yet to fully ascertain the position Dingus maintained in the APS after being revealed as a spy and informant. They seemed to be tolerating him for the time being.
Where she stood with the Council is a different matter. She currently had the upper hand as they were clearly at her mercy, but this would not always be the case. Ophelia knew she had to tread carefully to ensure that she would be in a favorable position after they were reinstated. If that were even a possibility. She supposed her future position wouldn’t matter if they failed and demons were truly behind the coup.
She didn’t have legitimacy or status to wield against the council, but she could leverage the fair amount of intelligence she possessed. After all, the Gentleman’s Circle, while being a guild for thieves, assassins, smugglers, and rogues, was first and foremost an information network that she often exploited. The one wildcard was the presence of Isemay. Thinking of her former friend filled her with dread as she prepared for the coming negotiations. Luckily, Isemay would not be participating in the present conversation, and being in that unsettling position could be avoided for now.
Making a sharp right turn she entered the first door on the left without knocking or announcing herself. She inhaled sharply and smiled broadly, better to start with a show of dominance. She didn’t want to be seen as deferential, but rather as a peer.
“Councilor Runecoat, I apologize for keeping you waiting. I had a few items that needed my attention. Shall we begin?”
Let the battle commence.
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Lawmaster and Councilor Orintha Runecoat sat rigidly in the small, well-appointed meeting room. As finely furnished as the setting was, she would have thought she was in the sitting room of a manor. It was certainly a far cry from the sewers not too far from where she now sat. In a comfortable armchair next to a cheery fireplace. Damn, this chair was comfortable. She couldn't afford to get comfortable here and sat up straighter. It was an absolute wonder that this place existed at all without the city’s knowledge, without her knowledge. She begrudgingly had to commend Ophelia Saloth’s abilities, or alternatively acknowledge law enforcement's incompetency in rooting out the criminal enterprise. The failure for which she also bore responsibility brought a slight scowl to her face. She tried to shift into a position that would appear imposing, difficult to accomplish given her short stature and the poor quality of the mismatched clothing she wore. “Did you need anything, Councilor?” Lt. Lagrave asked, responding to Orintha’s movements. One of the small blessings that Orintha could count on was the steadying presence of the lieutenant, which gave her some semblance of security, allowing her for the moment to imagine her situation was anything approaching normal. “I’m fine, thank you, Lieutenant.” Another small blessing was being seated in the room first with a guard and Lt. Lagrave at her back. The Gentleman had to approach, giving her somewhat of an upper hand. Small and seemingly petty advantages like this were crucial in this game. Politics. Orintha gritted her teeth. Her passion for ensuring a fair and efficient judicial system in a city ruled by law was always dampened by playing this particular game. But as much as she abhorred it, she had learned how to win. She looked up as the door handle rattled, indicating the arrival of her opponent.
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G = the Gentleman/ Ophelia
R = Orintha Runecoat
L = Lt. Lagrave
Italics indicate thoughts and are not spoken out loud.
*Action/noise* G: “Councilor Runecoat, I apologize for keeping you waiting. I had a few items that needed my attention. Shall we begin?” R: “No bother, I was just taking a moment to admire the accommodations. It appears you have excellent taste, despite the rough exterior of your establishment.” G: Ahh, a backhanded compliment. How original. “How kind of you to say.” R: “Please, have a seat.” There, I’ve established control over the room, next the flow of conversation. “It would be best for us to get right to the heart of the matter and discuss terms as soon as possible. As you know, time is not exactly on our side.” G: “Of course. *Sits* Again, my sympathies for the circumstances you currently find yourself in. I truly hope to be of assistance, for a price of course.” R: She certainly doesn’t waste time before getting to her ‘price.’ Doesn’t she realize what’s at stake? “I hope so as well, especially given that the consequences should we not succeed in retaking the city. It would be just as devastating for yourself and your colleagues.” G: “I understand that perfectly well, though it doesn’t lessen my duty to ensure fair compensation for my people’s labor, as well as their security.” R: Strange sense of ‘duty’ for a renowned criminal. “With this in mind, let's discuss terms that will be favorable to both parties. I can be accommodating, to a certain extent. Where would you like to begin?” G: *With a flourish, traces a glowing glyph into the air and retrieves a neat stack of parchment from a small dimensional pocket.* “I have taken the liberty to draw up some terms based on our discussions last night for you to review.” R: *Taking the document and reading for a bit.* “These aren’t the numbers we discussed. For mercenary fees, this is exorbitant and to be candid, I don’t believe the Council has enough disposable funds to pay this.” G: “I will be candid as well. It is going to take a heavy incentive for my people to be persuaded to join your cause. They are, after all, not soldiers, but highly specialized individuals. For them to go into battle is no small risk on their part. In addition, they must be compensated for the income that they will lose as a result of joining this small revolution and leaving behind their criminal careers. As you well know, my people do exceedingly well for themselves. Besides, and my apologies for being blunt, it is not as though you have many options available.” R: ‘Exceedingly well’ indeed! They are nothing but common thieves and grifters. “That may be the case, but 300 gold is simply not realistic given the number of people we are talking about employing. Plus, I cannot guarantee the state of the treasury given that the current occupants in the seat of power have free access to the Capitol’s purse. Even if the treasury were to be untouched, a great portion of it is allocated for emergency preparedness.” G: I should remind her of her position. *Gestures broadly* “And this would not constitute ‘an emergency?’” R: “I believe you know very well the emergency to which I refer. The very best I can offer is 100 gold per head, and again that gold is contingent on signing an oath to cease criminal undertakings after the contract.” G: “I’m sympathetic to your situation, and I perhaps can offer to subsidize 100 gold per head with my own fortune. Of course, we would have to discuss how that would impact the privileges I am afforded after the reinstatement of the Council. Still, I have discussed it with a few members of my inner circle, and I do not believe that anything less than 300 gold will suffice.” R: She is willing to go as far as offering her own coin? Perhaps she wants this more than I realized. “Truly all I can guarantee is 100 gold, however, could we make up the difference by offering housing and job placement? Your people will need gainful employment afterward.” G: Housing and job placement assistance, who knew it would take this much to push them into doing right by people? “I think that would be sufficient for the majority of the Circle. However, there would have to remain the option to simply receive the total sum of gold.” R: “That would be doable, so long as those who ask for the full amount are in the minority. Otherwise, we would have to look into scheduling payments over some time. This, of course, could be discussed afterward.” G: “So, the agreement is for me to contribute 100 gold per head, for the council to guarantee 100 gold per head in addition to housing and job placement, with the option to forgo said services and receive 100 gold instead.” R: “Agreed. Now, as for eligibility….” The Gentleman and the Lawmaster continued negotiating terms for a period of a few hours. The debate grew more intense during discussions of how the pardon of circle members would be adjudicated. The pair eventually agreed to a full pardon, except for violent crimes of passion (assault, murder, etc.) that did not constitute an “assassination.” Political privileges for Ophelia were also discussed and included a seat on the council to be established for the Tiefling Quarter, a full pardon for all crimes, and a permanent advisory role. G: “I believe that covers all of the necessary terms. I will have them drawn up and sent to you to look over and discuss with your colleagues.” R: “Yes, I will need to get approval from the rest of the Council, at least those of us that are conscious, on the final deal. Especially regarding the monetary component.” G: OK, now for the hard part. Be delicate, but unyielding. “I would also implore you to carefully consider the sincerity of yourself and your colleagues concerning upholding this bargain upon your successful reinstatement. I understand it would be too easy to go back on such an agreement, even written and signed, made with a criminal organization. In such a circumstance, I would have no choice but to retaliate.” R: *Narrows eyes* Here it is. “Is that a threat?” G: Obviously, yes. “I would rather consider it an unwritten clause in our agreement, a natural consequence to breaking your word.” R: “And what, may I ask, is the nature of this ‘unwritten clause’?” G: “It's rather simple. In my position, I have access to a great deal of information. Information that could be potentially damaging to certain reputations. I believe the phrase is ‘If I’m going down, then I’m taking you with me.’” R: *Sits silently for a moment* G: “And I assure you, it is no bluff. As you may have deduced from our conversation over dinner last night, I have information that would be incredibly damaging to Commander Sylren, and also, I believe, to the Head Councilor. Similarly, the past relationship between Councilor Thompson and my second hand is something I doubt she would like publicized. Even you, as righteous as you are, have skeletons in your closet.” R: Shit. “I have never done anything that would even approach a scandal.” G: She thinks quite highly of herself. Let’s see how she reacts to this. “Hmm, I doubt Victor Marcone shares that opinion. Or did you forget how you bent your own rules? How hypocritical of the Lawmaster to not abide by a code, which she partially authored, no less.” R: *Stiffens, visibly surprised* How could she have possibly known about that? “Marcone was a monster. I did the right thing getting him off the streets.” G: “Even monsters, according to your laws, have rights. In all honesty, I wholeheartedly agree with your decision. If you hadn’t addressed that particular issue, I would have stepped in myself. However, I am unsure if everyone will be as sympathetic as myself. After all, fabricating evidence is quite an egregious act.” R: “You’ve made your point.” G: “Excellent, and I do sincerely apologize for resorting to such means. However, I am sure you understand the position I’m in.” R: You aren’t sorry in the slightest. “Yes, I understand very well.” G: “Well, with that business concluded I will take my leave. I believe you are familiar with the way back to your accommodations. *Waits for a nod from Lt. Lagrave.* Wonderful. I will see you at dinner tonight. Have a pleasant afternoon.” *The Gentleman exits the room* R: *Mutters under breath* “Fuck” L: “Councilor?” R: “Sorry, let's get back to the others. We have much to discuss... And, Brigit, I can count on your discretion regarding what was discussed here, correct?” L: “Of course, Councilor.” *Pauses a moment and then with more emotion* “Although I will say, if I may, the one thing I agreed with her about was that you did the right thing. That man was a monster.” R: “Thank you. I wouldn’t change my decision now, even if I could.” *The two exit the room and head back to the living quarters.*
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Lawmaster and Councilor Orintha Runecoat sat rigidly in the small, well-appointed meeting room. As finely furnished as the setting was, she would have thought she was in the sitting room of a manor. It was certainly a far cry from the sewers not too far from where she now sat. In a comfortable armchair next to a cheery fireplace. Damn, this chair was comfortable. She couldn't afford to get comfortable here and sat up straighter. It was an absolute wonder that this place existed at all without the city’s knowledge, without her knowledge. She begrudgingly had to commend Ophelia Saloth’s abilities, or alternatively acknowledge law enforcement's incompetency in rooting out the criminal enterprise. The failure for which she also bore responsibility brought a slight scowl to her face. She tried to shift into a position that would appear imposing, difficult to accomplish given her short stature and the poor quality of the mismatched clothing she wore. “Did you need anything, Councilor?” Lt. Lagrave asked, responding to Orintha’s movements. One of the small blessings that Orintha could count on was the steadying presence of the lieutenant, which gave her some semblance of security, allowing her for the moment to imagine her situation was anything approaching normal. “I’m fine, thank you, Lieutenant.” Another small blessing was being seated in the room first with a guard and Lt. Lagrave at her back. The Gentleman had to approach, giving her somewhat of an upper hand. Small and seemingly petty advantages like this were crucial in this game. Politics. Orintha gritted her teeth. Her passion for ensuring a fair and efficient judicial system in a city ruled by law was always dampened by playing this particular game. But as much as she abhorred it, she had learned how to win. She looked up as the door handle rattled, indicating the arrival of her opponent.
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G = the Gentleman/ Ophelia
R = Orintha Runecoat
L = Lt. Lagrave
Italics indicate thoughts and are not spoken out loud.
*Action/noise* G: “Councilor Runecoat, I apologize for keeping you waiting. I had a few items that needed my attention. Shall we begin?” R: “No bother, I was just taking a moment to admire the accommodations. It appears you have excellent taste, despite the rough exterior of your establishment.” G: Ahh, a backhanded compliment. How original. “How kind of you to say.” R: “Please, have a seat.” There, I’ve established control over the room, next the flow of conversation. “It would be best for us to get right to the heart of the matter and discuss terms as soon as possible. As you know, time is not exactly on our side.” G: “Of course. *Sits* Again, my sympathies for the circumstances you currently find yourself in. I truly hope to be of assistance, for a price of course.” R: She certainly doesn’t waste time before getting to her ‘price.’ Doesn’t she realize what’s at stake? “I hope so as well, especially given that the consequences should we not succeed in retaking the city. It would be just as devastating for yourself and your colleagues.” G: “I understand that perfectly well, though it doesn’t lessen my duty to ensure fair compensation for my people’s labor, as well as their security.” R: Strange sense of ‘duty’ for a renowned criminal. “With this in mind, let's discuss terms that will be favorable to both parties. I can be accommodating, to a certain extent. Where would you like to begin?” G: *With a flourish, traces a glowing glyph into the air and retrieves a neat stack of parchment from a small dimensional pocket.* “I have taken the liberty to draw up some terms based on our discussions last night for you to review.” R: *Taking the document and reading for a bit.* “These aren’t the numbers we discussed. For mercenary fees, this is exorbitant and to be candid, I don’t believe the Council has enough disposable funds to pay this.” G: “I will be candid as well. It is going to take a heavy incentive for my people to be persuaded to join your cause. They are, after all, not soldiers, but highly specialized individuals. For them to go into battle is no small risk on their part. In addition, they must be compensated for the income that they will lose as a result of joining this small revolution and leaving behind their criminal careers. As you well know, my people do exceedingly well for themselves. Besides, and my apologies for being blunt, it is not as though you have many options available.” R: ‘Exceedingly well’ indeed! They are nothing but common thieves and grifters. “That may be the case, but 300 gold is simply not realistic given the number of people we are talking about employing. Plus, I cannot guarantee the state of the treasury given that the current occupants in the seat of power have free access to the Capitol’s purse. Even if the treasury were to be untouched, a great portion of it is allocated for emergency preparedness.” G: I should remind her of her position. *Gestures broadly* “And this would not constitute ‘an emergency?’” R: “I believe you know very well the emergency to which I refer. The very best I can offer is 100 gold per head, and again that gold is contingent on signing an oath to cease criminal undertakings after the contract.” G: “I’m sympathetic to your situation, and I perhaps can offer to subsidize 100 gold per head with my own fortune. Of course, we would have to discuss how that would impact the privileges I am afforded after the reinstatement of the Council. Still, I have discussed it with a few members of my inner circle, and I do not believe that anything less than 300 gold will suffice.” R: She is willing to go as far as offering her own coin? Perhaps she wants this more than I realized. “Truly all I can guarantee is 100 gold, however, could we make up the difference by offering housing and job placement? Your people will need gainful employment afterward.” G: Housing and job placement assistance, who knew it would take this much to push them into doing right by people? “I think that would be sufficient for the majority of the Circle. However, there would have to remain the option to simply receive the total sum of gold.” R: “That would be doable, so long as those who ask for the full amount are in the minority. Otherwise, we would have to look into scheduling payments over some time. This, of course, could be discussed afterward.” G: “So, the agreement is for me to contribute 100 gold per head, for the council to guarantee 100 gold per head in addition to housing and job placement, with the option to forgo said services and receive 100 gold instead.” R: “Agreed. Now, as for eligibility….” The Gentleman and the Lawmaster continued negotiating terms for a period of a few hours. The debate grew more intense during discussions of how the pardon of circle members would be adjudicated. The pair eventually agreed to a full pardon, except for violent crimes of passion (assault, murder, etc.) that did not constitute an “assassination.” Political privileges for Ophelia were also discussed and included a seat on the council to be established for the Tiefling Quarter, a full pardon for all crimes, and a permanent advisory role. G: “I believe that covers all of the necessary terms. I will have them drawn up and sent to you to look over and discuss with your colleagues.” R: “Yes, I will need to get approval from the rest of the Council, at least those of us that are conscious, on the final deal. Especially regarding the monetary component.” G: OK, now for the hard part. Be delicate, but unyielding. “I would also implore you to carefully consider the sincerity of yourself and your colleagues concerning upholding this bargain upon your successful reinstatement. I understand it would be too easy to go back on such an agreement, even written and signed, made with a criminal organization. In such a circumstance, I would have no choice but to retaliate.” R: *Narrows eyes* Here it is. “Is that a threat?” G: Obviously, yes. “I would rather consider it an unwritten clause in our agreement, a natural consequence to breaking your word.” R: “And what, may I ask, is the nature of this ‘unwritten clause’?” G: “It's rather simple. In my position, I have access to a great deal of information. Information that could be potentially damaging to certain reputations. I believe the phrase is ‘If I’m going down, then I’m taking you with me.’” R: *Sits silently for a moment* G: “And I assure you, it is no bluff. As you may have deduced from our conversation over dinner last night, I have information that would be incredibly damaging to Commander Sylren, and also, I believe, to the Head Councilor. Similarly, the past relationship between Councilor Thompson and my second hand is something I doubt she would like publicized. Even you, as righteous as you are, have skeletons in your closet.” R: Shit. “I have never done anything that would even approach a scandal.” G: She thinks quite highly of herself. Let’s see how she reacts to this. “Hmm, I doubt Victor Marcone shares that opinion. Or did you forget how you bent your own rules? How hypocritical of the Lawmaster to not abide by a code, which she partially authored, no less.” R: *Stiffens, visibly surprised* How could she have possibly known about that? “Marcone was a monster. I did the right thing getting him off the streets.” G: “Even monsters, according to your laws, have rights. In all honesty, I wholeheartedly agree with your decision. If you hadn’t addressed that particular issue, I would have stepped in myself. However, I am unsure if everyone will be as sympathetic as myself. After all, fabricating evidence is quite an egregious act.” R: “You’ve made your point.” G: “Excellent, and I do sincerely apologize for resorting to such means. However, I am sure you understand the position I’m in.” R: You aren’t sorry in the slightest. “Yes, I understand very well.” G: “Well, with that business concluded I will take my leave. I believe you are familiar with the way back to your accommodations. *Waits for a nod from Lt. Lagrave.* Wonderful. I will see you at dinner tonight. Have a pleasant afternoon.” *The Gentleman exits the room* R: *Mutters under breath* “Fuck” L: “Councilor?” R: “Sorry, let's get back to the others. We have much to discuss... And, Brigit, I can count on your discretion regarding what was discussed here, correct?” L: “Of course, Councilor.” *Pauses a moment and then with more emotion* “Although I will say, if I may, the one thing I agreed with her about was that you did the right thing. That man was a monster.” R: “Thank you. I wouldn’t change my decision now, even if I could.” *The two exit the room and head back to the living quarters.*
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