At the Rose Stage: Guardok looks over the bag and the book, as does Rubina. "I don't see anything. But given the dust, seems this bag has been here a while. The book is a few years old too, no sign of who it belonged to."
Guardok would notice that the book seems to be magical.
In Kollema Hall: The man sets the book down and stands as he hears you. "Yes, I'm Arvol. I mean Professor Flintwind." He starts to step around the desk and walks towards you. At his side is a simple rapier and as he comes closer, you notice his coat, though it resembles the usual Lorehold uniforms, is actually leather armor. He appears to be a young man, perhaps in his later twenties.
"You must be Malvyn Darkhold," he says to the Tiefling. Then he turns to the Earth Genasi. "And Guardok. I'm very glad you both came. Aithne has told me a bit about you. Well, Malvyn mostly. Though I am a little bit familiar with your exploits."
He glances back towards his desk a moment, then motions towards the door. "If you would bear with me, why don't we walk a bit?"
He follows you back out the door, locking it behind himself. "It's not far,"
he says. He continues talking, a bit awkwardly at times, as he goes. "Is this your first visit to the Lorehold campus? What are your impressions? I hear you might be interested in joining Lorehold Malvyn? What about you Guardok?"
You go a different way from the office than you came in. A door leads to a narrower stair heading down in a curved path. It goes past where you would have expected the flow you entered at. Only at that point do you pass doors that seem to lead to other floors. But you go past those until you get to the 5th level.
Stepping out of the stairwell, you seem to be underground. The walls here are natural stone, though cut very smoothly. Little globes attached to the walls radiate light. You pass several doors and a couple of hallways intersect your path. "A number of professors have their research workshops down here. I'm afraid I tend more towards field work though."
You soon come to a door with mayoral light shining through. Stepping outside, you see a steep cliff behind you and Kollema Hall far above at the top. There are a number ofbuildings here along the path. "Some of our classrooms, housing for students, there's a cafeteria," Professor Flintwind says. But soon you make a quick turn and find you areat the edge of the broad chasm you crossed over earlier. The bridge you crossed is a short distance away, and we'll above you.
"Pillardrop," he says. "Do take care," he says as he steps onto a rope bridge that seems to be attached to an extremely large statue on one side and your aren't surehow it's supportedon the other end as it drops out of sight above the deep, deep drop. "We're almost there, really."
You walk with the face of this statue right beside you. With the noise at knee height, the eyes are just about at the top of your heads. (Well, Malvyn's at least.) At the end of the rope bridge are stone stairs leading to another rope bridge that crosses to the other side of the chasm. You go into a tunnel, down some stairs and see a handful of doorways.
Coming up to the second door on the left, the professor pauses and opens the door. "Welcome to my home. Or, my little apartment here at Strixhaven at least." He calls inside. "We're here!"
He motions for you all to enter inside. The space is not huge by any means, but compared to your dorm room it's big. There's a sitting room, a small kitchen and dining room beyond, and two doors leading to other rooms. Plus, clearly the highlight, a large deck opens off the sitting room with a view of the Pillardrop chasm.
As you step in, Professor Flintwind, the Mrs. Flintwind, is also there. "I glad you made it Malvyn. And you too Guardok. can I get you anything?"
Arvol steps in and closes the door behind him. "I suppose you're wondering what this is all about?"
"A waste to leave items of magic such as these forgotten in a store cupboard", Guardok replies and swings the bag onto his shoulder. "It looks magical, Mal. What do you think it is, a spell book?".
Guardok follows Professor Flintwind, eyeing up the rapier that hung from the man's belt in a similar manner to his own.
When asked of his impressions he shrugs, "It is impressive, especially if you like statues and books I guess. It is not somewhere I plan to come myself. I have been a little torn between Silverquill and Primary personally. Might I ask, you are wearing armour and a weapon, that seems unusual for this place. I would have expected reading glasses and a quill from the folks who live here", he says with a chuckle.
When they arrive at their destination, he gives the lady Professor Flintwind a bow, "Thank you for inviting us. I am intrigued as to why, you are right, but I guess I would be grateful for a drink first. Whatever you have to hand".
Professor Flintwind (Arvol) initially responds to Guardok's chuckle and question with a laugh of his own. "I hope it will be a few more years before I need reading glasses! And I do enjoy books. But I find learning about history out in the world is more interesting. And sometimes historical sites are not in the best neighborhoods!" He smiles as he continues to lead you both along. "The armor may not be strictly necessary here. But I get tired of all the formal robes."
"Well, I always have tea," the female Professor Flintwind responds. "If that's ok." She steps towards the kitchen. "Or I can get you something cold. Water, fruit juice." She looks to Malvyn, "Anything for you?"
Feeling a bit uncomfortable with taking things that doesn't belong to him, even if they are indeed forgotten, the curious purple-skinned tiefling still quickly looks through the Silverquill Primer and then puts it in his shoulder bag for later study, giving Guardok a grateful smile. Having snuck into the Dapplewing manor didn't make him the most rule-abiding student anyway. "Not a spell book but still quite an interesting read I would expect. As you say, they are probably forgotten and if anyone would miss them we will of course return them."
"Indeed my friend, my sort of place. If all goes according to plan I will call this college my home next semester." Malvyn says with a nod to Guardok.
"Yes first visit actually, it's all quite impressive." He politely answers Professor Flintwind, quite impressed with the scenery on their way to the Flintwind apartment.
"Thanks for inviting us Professors." He says, looking between Arvol and Aithne as he enters their home. "And tea will be fine thank you." He adds, trying to remain calm but almost bursting with curiosity over why he was here.
Arvol motions for both Guardok and Malvyn to sit down. "I'm sure you're wondering about the reason for the strange message and this visit."
As he's speaking, Aithne bring the pot of hot water and several cups. She sets them out on a little table then pours the steaming liquid in each. "I had hoped to have you all visit us in Heavenfell. But alas, the term passed by quickly."
As Aithne steps away, Arvol continues. "Your actions during some of these campus incidents this year had already caught our attention. Then my wife happened to overhear a bit of Malvyn's questions about the Strixhaven administration. Since you've been investigating these incidents, I presume the question was linked?"
Aithne interrupts, her voice soft. "Sorry to interrupt, would anyone want a touch of honey to sweeten their tea? There's milk too." Arvol nods to her briefly, gives her a smile and pushes his cup a bit towards her for her to add both. "Not too much honey," he says. She just gives him a look as though she clearly already knew.
Arvol continues, "The question you ask is perhaps an intetesting one. But I'm wondering if you were really looking to learn about a certain secretive group that does tend question Strixhaven and its operation?"
Guardok looks between the two Professors, wondering why exactly they are so interested. And also how they knew Mal was asking around, because as far as he is aware Mal only asked close friends that he thought he could trust.
"Before we say anything, I would like to know why you are so interested", he asks. He looks to Arvol particularly as he asks, "And why you feel the need to be armed and armoured right now?".
He is obviously concerned at the intentions of the Professors right now.
"See?" Aithne says to her husband. "I'm not the only one that thinks it's weird to wear armor all the time." She then turns to Malvyn. "I do apologize, I heard you say something to Drazhomir at the Biblioplex."
She then looks at Guardok. "As to why we're so interested, I guess first is that Arvol and I, and our friends, had a similar experience starting here at Strixhaven. Since seeing what you did at Orientation, we've had an interest in what was going on."
Arvol then speaks up, seeming to feign displeasure at Aithne poking fun at his attire. "Really, the leather armor is just like the Lorehold faculty uniforms!"
He grows a bit more serious though as he continues. "Really, I do just always wear this. And the rapier is just in case. I know most at Strixhaven rely on magic if anything were to arise. But I'm far better with a sword than with magic."
Aithne grins. "My little swashbuckler! Though he sells himself short. Over the years he's picked up a trick or two in his magical studies."
Arvol shrugs. "I suppose," he says to Aithne but then he looks closer at his visitors. "The reality is, I do wonder sometimes if there might be dangers about. So it is in part out of caution. The same caution that led to us talking here rather than the main campus or even my office."
"We'd like to help you," Aithne says. "And try to keep you and your friends safe. There is a secret group out there that has ill-will towards Strixhaven."
Malvyn looks between the professors with a smile. Former students like themselves, now married and both professors at Lorehold, would be interesting to know them and their exploits better indeed. "No honey thanks, but please, tell us now about this secret group. I'm not saying we are quite ready to do anything about it, we're merely first year students, but so were the two of you I guess." He says with a small chuckle. "We do want to help if we can, help to stop these incidents that has forunately not yet led to any deaths. I must admit the administration has seemed to taken rather lightly on them, considering them not much more than what you should expect at Strixhaven, but I understand if they merely aren't ready to trusts mere first year students like ourselves with the truth of their real concerns. Either way, I admit I'm dying to know more about what goes on behind the scenes at Strixhaven. I suppose I have gotten a taste for secrets since I started to work for the Strixhaven Star. Sorry, I'm a bit nervous and am talking too much, please continue."
"We don't intend to ask you to do anything more than what it seems you have already been doing." Arvol continues after listening to Malvyn. "At least, from what Aithne has said it sounds like you've at least tried to do some investigation into what's behind the incidents that you have thwarted." He grins. "Not sure I have any great secrets of Strixhaven to divulge. But I hope it might help in some way."
Having made sure everyone has their tea the way they want it, Aithne takes a seat, holding her own cup as it cools. She speaks. "After some strange events while we were students, we had done some investigating of our own. And we found little at first. But over the years we developed some sources outside of Strixhaven. Both Heavenfell and Feradorn have decent libraries. And there are a few things in their archives that do not seem easy to find in the Biblioplex."
Continuing she says, "Most importantly is an organization that appears to have formed many years ago that is still rather veiled about what they do. Their purpose seems to be to uncover and wield forbidden magics. That is, magic that Strixhaven has deemed to be forbidden. As a result, the group seems to harbor ill-will against Strixhaven and their writings seem to attack the institution."
Arvol now jumps in. "We have never found any real evidence to link things that happened while we were students to this group. And it would be pure speculation at this point to think they are involved in this year's incidents. But it just seems to fit with their ideals." He shrugs, "Your recent questions, if they follow from your investigation, only make me think there might be more reason to suspect them. They are called the Oriq. And from what I can tell, they can be found all over Arcavios. Though perhaps more so in some cities than others."
Guardok relaxes at the explanation about always wielding arms and armour, finding he is the same most of the time. If he hadn't come straight from class with the intention of visiting professors, he would likely be wearing his now.
"That makes sense. I am a bit of a swashbuckler myself", he says with a smile. "If you ever have time to help me train, I would appreciate it", he asks politely.
"Forbidden here I am assuming because it is dangerous or immoral? As students, all we can really do is try and keep an eye out for more incidents and be prepared to counter them. For example, the Rose Stage Festival is coming up. That would be a perfect time to strike, but we have found nothing suspicious as yet. What has happened so far can easily be put down to student pranks, but did you know that evidence went missing from the labs, as well? That is unlikely to be a student. After all this time, you must have some suspicions as to who on the staff are part of this".
He watches the Professors closely, trying to tell if they are not being truthful.
(Malvyn tries to recall if he has ever read anything about the Oriq, Arcana/History: 8 )
"Yes, the part with evidence disappearing is particularly disturbing. If it is the Oriq it would mean they have infiltrated Strixhaven on a dangerous level, but I suppose it could also be the current administration not wanting mere students as ourselves poking into matters that is beyond us. I can only assume you two are loyal to Strixhaven and share their beliefs about forbidden knowledge?" Malvyn says, curious to see how the professors respond.
(Malvynhas read of various uprisings in the history of Arcavios, but nothing specific about the Oriq. As best you each can tell, the professors both seem to be speaking truthfully.)
Arvol smiles at Guardok's request to help train. "Hmm, perhaps we could find time. You know, I recently met a young goblin that has been accepted for next year's class. I know he trained with the blade as well. He might be a good sparring partner as well. But I will see if I can find a bit of time myself."
It's Aithne that then answers the Earth Genasi's question. "Yes, forbidden magics are typically those that are considered unethical. Being highly dangerous or destructive is often a consideration. There are also things that might feed off the life force of others, such as things like blood magic." She then turns to Malvyn. "As for our own opinions about forbidden knowledge, I would say you are essentially correct. The university has good reasons behind keeping forbidden knowledge restricted."
"Wow, so you are proactively trying to catch the culprits now? Good thinking," Arvol says. "And I suppose the Rose Festival would make sense. Perhaps if they haven't done anything yet you could use some sort of scrying to alert you. Or something." He then furrows his brow. "But what do you mean about evidence missing from the labs? I'm afraid I don't really have much to do with the main campus labs."
"Nor do I," Aithne adds. "Though to kind of answer a question you had Guardok, we do think there must be Oriq that have infiltrated Strixhaven, both faculty and students. Most of what we have is speculation though. We are pretty sure that they target students who are struggling. So, we think at least one, if not more, of the professors assigned for tutoring those who are at risk of failing must be involved. Others too. We have a couple of suspects, but I would rather not say who."
"A goblin!", Guardok replies a little excited. "It would be good to spar with someone my own size, I like the idea of that. Of course, bugger works as well".
He takes a sip of his tea whilst he listens.
"I don't know much about forbidden magics, and don't really want to. I am more leaning towards Primary, maybe Silverquill because I do like acting", he says when talk turns to topics such as blood magic.
"Scrying would be great, but not something I am able to do. Perhaps if we were fourth years this would be easier", he replies with a chuckle. "Unless you are offering to help?".
"Oh yes, the labs. We found a substance at the scene of the pranks and took it to the lab to be identified. But when we went to get the results were told the sample had vanished", he says with a shrug. "I am not sure if anyone there is even looking into that", he says and look to Mal in case he remembers how they left it.
"Tutors would make sense. Those students might already be a little disillusioned with Strixhaven I guess. I understand not telling us who you think are involved, but I am curious exactly what you do want right now? It has been good to compare notes a little, but I expect under the circumstances it is fair to say we are all a little cautious. I mean, you seem really nice, but you could be members of this Oriq trying to befriend us to keep tabs on us for all we know.", he says with a nervous smile, hoping he hasn't insulted them.
"Well, we sincerely want to prevent any more of these incidents but I have to be honest. I still feel I don't know enough to fully take a stand in all this." Malvyn continues after listening to the others. "I of course am grateful for even being here at Strixhaven, finding a new life for myself with good friends and...but admittedly I'm still here because I want to learn and understand, and while I can see there is knowledge that is dangerous, who should decide what knowledge is dangerous and not? Also, supressing knowledge might be worse than spreading knowledge about it so that people know how to deal with it. This forbidden knowledge will find it's way out eventually, one way or another." He says with a hint of difiance in his tone. "I don't expect you to agree with me, or perhaps even understand my point of view, but I thought that transparance about where I stand in this would be best for everyone if we are to cooperate. That being said I do hope we can be of help with protecting the peopke of Strixhaven from this terror. I don't believe we have any solid leads though and as my friend pointed out we are not yet powerful enough to scry, closest thing would be our friend Mei who dreams about things that could be helpful, but her dreams are unreliable at best. So, any suggestions where we go from here, apart from staying vigilant and be present at this festival?"
Guardok is a little surprised that Mal feels that way.
"Perhaps it is not just what knowledge is dangerous that we should be asking, but who can be trusted with knowledge that could turn out to be dangerous", he wonders aloud.
The professors seem to take any suspicions you may have in stride. "Always best to be cautious," Arvol says. "I suppose you will have to determine for yourselves how far to trust us. And you are right Guardok, while Strixhaven takes a very staunch stance about prohibiting certain knowledge, it is more of a case of being a gatekeeper as to who does get access to certain kinds of knowledge. Or maybe even more importantly, who should be the gatekeeper to that knowledge." He shrugs, "To me it's a fair argument, but for the most part I think Strixhaven is taking a cautious approach that is prudent."
He glances over to Malvyn, "It is not entirely a democratic process for sure. The Founder Dragons hold an immense sway over what happens. And the Oracle that they select. My understanding is that the current leader of the Oriq had been in line to become Oracle. He was not selected, as Jadzi is now our Oracle. But a part of their complaint is a disenchantment over how things work."
"Or just sour grapes," Aithne interjects.
Arvol chuckles, "Or that. I have heard that the Archaics are the souls of former Oracles. And that they magically go back through time, so that some Archaics are manifestations of future Oracles. If that's the case, and somehow the dragons are able to comprehend that, then maybe there is something to how it all works." He laughs again, "Anyhow, that is getting a bit off topic. I don't really disagree much with how the University protects knowledge of dangerous magic. But there is a surprising lack of information about the Oriq or even incidents such as the ones you two have dealt with. And then the loss of the samples from the magic labs only adds to the list. Perhaps in part they're trying to not alarm students. But I do fear that for one reason or another, Strixhaven as an organization is not really in a position to guard against this group."
Aithne then steps into the conversation. "To perhaps get to the point. You are right to ask why we're even talking to you. I do think we could provide some help, such as scrying on the Rose Stage to thwart any attempts there. We'll have to see what we could do to help you there. And perhaps we could provide you help or coordinate in the future. But from the questions you were asking Malvyn, it seems you must know something about the Oriq. It's one thing to suspect a group behind the incidents. But quite another to have down many of their same philosophical arguments. We were hoping if you did know something you might be able to share a little bit."
(OOC - Sorry, thought I'd posted this yesterday! Or something like it, since I'd typed up a response and now don't see it anywhere. Anyhow, didn't mean to go so long without a post there.)
"I'm afraid I feel like having been put in a dilemma. For what it's worth I do trust your good intentions here, but I feel I don't know much about neither the Oriq nor how the current admnistration feel about that group exactly. Is the group as such illegal? I must admit I do know a bit more than already divulged, but revealing it, even to the two of you, seems unfair if the information would not be used in a fair way. Let's say you would find out I had been duped into helping the Oriq in some way, how would that be seen by you and the administration?" The purple-skinned tiefling asks the professors.
"I will be honest, I know very little of the working of Strixhaven. No-one I know has ever been before. I am just here to make the most of what is offered, not to debate it. It's like visiting the circus, you see what you see. If you don't like it, don't go", Guardok muses.
"As for trust, I guess actions do speak louder than words. You know of our actions, that is why you asked to meet us, but you still won't tell us any names of those you suspect. If you can do something to help us keep the Rose Stage festival safe, that would certainly help me trust you both, but what we really need is to make use of your status and position. For example, two professors looking into the labs losing samples would get further than some first year students", he says and then frowns. "In terms of knowing about the Oriq, we only heard that name today, so you are way ahead of us there".
He knows what he said is a bit opposing to Mal suggesting he knows more, but there is nothing right now to prove everything is indeed linked together. It could all just be coincidence. In fact, the only thing that would prove all this if the name Professor Hopplefepple came up.
"Without that trust, it is difficult to see how far this alliance can go, though. Are you sure you can't give us a name of a Professor you suspect?".
Arvol sits back a bit in his chair, glancing over at Aithne before he replies. "Your caution is understandable," he begins, seeming to carefully consider his words. "Simply saying the Oriq are illegal is a bit of a stretch. Generally, groups are not themselves illegal but the things they do. While few at Strixhaven speak much about the Oriq, I would say that their activities are not usually tolerated on campus."
"As for what would happen if you hypothetically were duped into help the Oriq, I think there would be consequences for any actual wrongdoing or harm you caused." Arvol pauses, "Frankly, I could see the University trying to convince such a student that they had overblown the aims of the group and that it was not really an issue. But I believe the focus would be on getting the student back on track in their studies and away from the group."
Aithne adds, "If it were my choice, the most important thing for a student that was found to be involved with that group would be to help them. I can't imagine they would be happy for their secrets to be revealed." She looks at Malvyn, "If you were truly duped, then I think you could be forgiven your mistake."
"As for helping you with the Rose Stage, I have been thinking about that," she continues. "There's an old spell I've heard of called Magic Mirror. You can enchant a silver mirror to basically show you distant things. I believe we could set something up for you to be able to watch the Rose Stage. Although, the drawback would be someone is going to have to watch the mirror."
She then turns to look at Arvol, and he subtly nods to her before speaking. "If it helps you, we could tell you a name we suspect. There's a handful of suspects. Like I said, we believe there are some amongst those that work with students in need of remedial help and we've narrowed that list down some. But it's likely some on our list are not involved. We're working through it. But there is one name that we have become fairly certain about, through connections in other places. It is Professor Johenne Totsky. I'm not sure what you could do with that information, but perhaps that can serve as a token to start to build trust between us."
Aithne laughs, "If you doubts though, I can't imagine that helps though."
At the Rose Stage: Guardok looks over the bag and the book, as does Rubina. "I don't see anything. But given the dust, seems this bag has been here a while. The book is a few years old too, no sign of who it belonged to."
Guardok would notice that the book seems to be magical.
In Kollema Hall: The man sets the book down and stands as he hears you. "Yes, I'm Arvol. I mean Professor Flintwind." He starts to step around the desk and walks towards you. At his side is a simple rapier and as he comes closer, you notice his coat, though it resembles the usual Lorehold uniforms, is actually leather armor. He appears to be a young man, perhaps in his later twenties.
"You must be Malvyn Darkhold," he says to the Tiefling. Then he turns to the Earth Genasi. "And Guardok. I'm very glad you both came. Aithne has told me a bit about you. Well, Malvyn mostly. Though I am a little bit familiar with your exploits."
He glances back towards his desk a moment, then motions towards the door. "If you would bear with me, why don't we walk a bit?"
He follows you back out the door, locking it behind himself. "It's not far,"
he says. He continues talking, a bit awkwardly at times, as he goes. "Is this your first visit to the Lorehold campus? What are your impressions? I hear you might be interested in joining Lorehold Malvyn? What about you Guardok?"
You go a different way from the office than you came in. A door leads to a narrower stair heading down in a curved path. It goes past where you would have expected the flow you entered at. Only at that point do you pass doors that seem to lead to other floors. But you go past those until you get to the 5th level.
Stepping out of the stairwell, you seem to be underground. The walls here are natural stone, though cut very smoothly. Little globes attached to the walls radiate light. You pass several doors and a couple of hallways intersect your path. "A number of professors have their research workshops down here. I'm afraid I tend more towards field work though."
You soon come to a door with mayoral light shining through. Stepping outside, you see a steep cliff behind you and Kollema Hall far above at the top. There are a number ofbuildings here along the path. "Some of our classrooms, housing for students, there's a cafeteria," Professor Flintwind says. But soon you make a quick turn and find you areat the edge of the broad chasm you crossed over earlier. The bridge you crossed is a short distance away, and we'll above you.
"Pillardrop," he says. "Do take care," he says as he steps onto a rope bridge that seems to be attached to an extremely large statue on one side and your aren't surehow it's supportedon the other end as it drops out of sight above the deep, deep drop. "We're almost there, really."
You walk with the face of this statue right beside you. With the noise at knee height, the eyes are just about at the top of your heads. (Well, Malvyn's at least.) At the end of the rope bridge are stone stairs leading to another rope bridge that crosses to the other side of the chasm. You go into a tunnel, down some stairs and see a handful of doorways.
Coming up to the second door on the left, the professor pauses and opens the door. "Welcome to my home. Or, my little apartment here at Strixhaven at least." He calls inside. "We're here!"
He motions for you all to enter inside. The space is not huge by any means, but compared to your dorm room it's big. There's a sitting room, a small kitchen and dining room beyond, and two doors leading to other rooms. Plus, clearly the highlight, a large deck opens off the sitting room with a view of the Pillardrop chasm.
As you step in, Professor Flintwind, the Mrs. Flintwind, is also there. "I glad you made it Malvyn. And you too Guardok. can I get you anything?"
Arvol steps in and closes the door behind him. "I suppose you're wondering what this is all about?"
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard || Iromae Quinaea, Cleric
Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
"A waste to leave items of magic such as these forgotten in a store cupboard", Guardok replies and swings the bag onto his shoulder. "It looks magical, Mal. What do you think it is, a spell book?".
Guardok follows Professor Flintwind, eyeing up the rapier that hung from the man's belt in a similar manner to his own.
When asked of his impressions he shrugs, "It is impressive, especially if you like statues and books I guess. It is not somewhere I plan to come myself. I have been a little torn between Silverquill and Primary personally. Might I ask, you are wearing armour and a weapon, that seems unusual for this place. I would have expected reading glasses and a quill from the folks who live here", he says with a chuckle.
When they arrive at their destination, he gives the lady Professor Flintwind a bow, "Thank you for inviting us. I am intrigued as to why, you are right, but I guess I would be grateful for a drink first. Whatever you have to hand".
Professor Flintwind (Arvol) initially responds to Guardok's chuckle and question with a laugh of his own. "I hope it will be a few more years before I need reading glasses! And I do enjoy books. But I find learning about history out in the world is more interesting. And sometimes historical sites are not in the best neighborhoods!" He smiles as he continues to lead you both along. "The armor may not be strictly necessary here. But I get tired of all the formal robes."
"Well, I always have tea," the female Professor Flintwind responds. "If that's ok." She steps towards the kitchen. "Or I can get you something cold. Water, fruit juice." She looks to Malvyn, "Anything for you?"
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard || Iromae Quinaea, Cleric
Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
"I hear that", Guardok replies to to Arvol Flintwind.
Guardok merely nods in acceptance of the tea.
Feeling a bit uncomfortable with taking things that doesn't belong to him, even if they are indeed forgotten, the curious purple-skinned tiefling still quickly looks through the Silverquill Primer and then puts it in his shoulder bag for later study, giving Guardok a grateful smile. Having snuck into the Dapplewing manor didn't make him the most rule-abiding student anyway. "Not a spell book but still quite an interesting read I would expect. As you say, they are probably forgotten and if anyone would miss them we will of course return them."
"Indeed my friend, my sort of place. If all goes according to plan I will call this college my home next semester." Malvyn says with a nod to Guardok.
"Yes first visit actually, it's all quite impressive." He politely answers Professor Flintwind, quite impressed with the scenery on their way to the Flintwind apartment.
"Thanks for inviting us Professors." He says, looking between Arvol and Aithne as he enters their home. "And tea will be fine thank you." He adds, trying to remain calm but almost bursting with curiosity over why he was here.
Arvol motions for both Guardok and Malvyn to sit down. "I'm sure you're wondering about the reason for the strange message and this visit."
As he's speaking, Aithne bring the pot of hot water and several cups. She sets them out on a little table then pours the steaming liquid in each. "I had hoped to have you all visit us in Heavenfell. But alas, the term passed by quickly."
As Aithne steps away, Arvol continues. "Your actions during some of these campus incidents this year had already caught our attention. Then my wife happened to overhear a bit of Malvyn's questions about the Strixhaven administration. Since you've been investigating these incidents, I presume the question was linked?"
Aithne interrupts, her voice soft. "Sorry to interrupt, would anyone want a touch of honey to sweeten their tea? There's milk too." Arvol nods to her briefly, gives her a smile and pushes his cup a bit towards her for her to add both. "Not too much honey," he says. She just gives him a look as though she clearly already knew.
Arvol continues, "The question you ask is perhaps an intetesting one. But I'm wondering if you were really looking to learn about a certain secretive group that does tend question Strixhaven and its operation?"
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard || Iromae Quinaea, Cleric
Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
Guardok looks between the two Professors, wondering why exactly they are so interested. And also how they knew Mal was asking around, because as far as he is aware Mal only asked close friends that he thought he could trust.
"Before we say anything, I would like to know why you are so interested", he asks. He looks to Arvol particularly as he asks, "And why you feel the need to be armed and armoured right now?".
He is obviously concerned at the intentions of the Professors right now.
"See?" Aithne says to her husband. "I'm not the only one that thinks it's weird to wear armor all the time." She then turns to Malvyn. "I do apologize, I heard you say something to Drazhomir at the Biblioplex."
She then looks at Guardok. "As to why we're so interested, I guess first is that Arvol and I, and our friends, had a similar experience starting here at Strixhaven. Since seeing what you did at Orientation, we've had an interest in what was going on."
Arvol then speaks up, seeming to feign displeasure at Aithne poking fun at his attire. "Really, the leather armor is just like the Lorehold faculty uniforms!"
He grows a bit more serious though as he continues. "Really, I do just always wear this. And the rapier is just in case. I know most at Strixhaven rely on magic if anything were to arise. But I'm far better with a sword than with magic."
Aithne grins. "My little swashbuckler! Though he sells himself short. Over the years he's picked up a trick or two in his magical studies."
Arvol shrugs. "I suppose," he says to Aithne but then he looks closer at his visitors. "The reality is, I do wonder sometimes if there might be dangers about. So it is in part out of caution. The same caution that led to us talking here rather than the main campus or even my office."
"We'd like to help you," Aithne says. "And try to keep you and your friends safe. There is a secret group out there that has ill-will towards Strixhaven."
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard || Iromae Quinaea, Cleric
Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
Malvyn looks between the professors with a smile. Former students like themselves, now married and both professors at Lorehold, would be interesting to know them and their exploits better indeed. "No honey thanks, but please, tell us now about this secret group. I'm not saying we are quite ready to do anything about it, we're merely first year students, but so were the two of you I guess." He says with a small chuckle. "We do want to help if we can, help to stop these incidents that has forunately not yet led to any deaths. I must admit the administration has seemed to taken rather lightly on them, considering them not much more than what you should expect at Strixhaven, but I understand if they merely aren't ready to trusts mere first year students like ourselves with the truth of their real concerns. Either way, I admit I'm dying to know more about what goes on behind the scenes at Strixhaven. I suppose I have gotten a taste for secrets since I started to work for the Strixhaven Star. Sorry, I'm a bit nervous and am talking too much, please continue."
"We don't intend to ask you to do anything more than what it seems you have already been doing." Arvol continues after listening to Malvyn. "At least, from what Aithne has said it sounds like you've at least tried to do some investigation into what's behind the incidents that you have thwarted." He grins. "Not sure I have any great secrets of Strixhaven to divulge. But I hope it might help in some way."
Having made sure everyone has their tea the way they want it, Aithne takes a seat, holding her own cup as it cools. She speaks. "After some strange events while we were students, we had done some investigating of our own. And we found little at first. But over the years we developed some sources outside of Strixhaven. Both Heavenfell and Feradorn have decent libraries. And there are a few things in their archives that do not seem easy to find in the Biblioplex."
Continuing she says, "Most importantly is an organization that appears to have formed many years ago that is still rather veiled about what they do. Their purpose seems to be to uncover and wield forbidden magics. That is, magic that Strixhaven has deemed to be forbidden. As a result, the group seems to harbor ill-will against Strixhaven and their writings seem to attack the institution."
Arvol now jumps in. "We have never found any real evidence to link things that happened while we were students to this group. And it would be pure speculation at this point to think they are involved in this year's incidents. But it just seems to fit with their ideals." He shrugs, "Your recent questions, if they follow from your investigation, only make me think there might be more reason to suspect them. They are called the Oriq. And from what I can tell, they can be found all over Arcavios. Though perhaps more so in some cities than others."
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard || Iromae Quinaea, Cleric
Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
Guardok relaxes at the explanation about always wielding arms and armour, finding he is the same most of the time. If he hadn't come straight from class with the intention of visiting professors, he would likely be wearing his now.
"That makes sense. I am a bit of a swashbuckler myself", he says with a smile. "If you ever have time to help me train, I would appreciate it", he asks politely.
"Forbidden here I am assuming because it is dangerous or immoral? As students, all we can really do is try and keep an eye out for more incidents and be prepared to counter them. For example, the Rose Stage Festival is coming up. That would be a perfect time to strike, but we have found nothing suspicious as yet. What has happened so far can easily be put down to student pranks, but did you know that evidence went missing from the labs, as well? That is unlikely to be a student. After all this time, you must have some suspicions as to who on the staff are part of this".
He watches the Professors closely, trying to tell if they are not being truthful.
Insight: 3+4=7
(Malvyn tries to recall if he has ever read anything about the Oriq, Arcana/History: 8 )
"Yes, the part with evidence disappearing is particularly disturbing. If it is the Oriq it would mean they have infiltrated Strixhaven on a dangerous level, but I suppose it could also be the current administration not wanting mere students as ourselves poking into matters that is beyond us. I can only assume you two are loyal to Strixhaven and share their beliefs about forbidden knowledge?" Malvyn says, curious to see how the professors respond.
(Insight: 5 + student dice: 2 )
(Malvyn has read of various uprisings in the history of Arcavios, but nothing specific about the Oriq. As best you each can tell, the professors both seem to be speaking truthfully.)
Arvol smiles at Guardok's request to help train. "Hmm, perhaps we could find time. You know, I recently met a young goblin that has been accepted for next year's class. I know he trained with the blade as well. He might be a good sparring partner as well. But I will see if I can find a bit of time myself."
It's Aithne that then answers the Earth Genasi's question. "Yes, forbidden magics are typically those that are considered unethical. Being highly dangerous or destructive is often a consideration. There are also things that might feed off the life force of others, such as things like blood magic." She then turns to Malvyn. "As for our own opinions about forbidden knowledge, I would say you are essentially correct. The university has good reasons behind keeping forbidden knowledge restricted."
"Wow, so you are proactively trying to catch the culprits now? Good thinking," Arvol says. "And I suppose the Rose Festival would make sense. Perhaps if they haven't done anything yet you could use some sort of scrying to alert you. Or something." He then furrows his brow. "But what do you mean about evidence missing from the labs? I'm afraid I don't really have much to do with the main campus labs."
"Nor do I," Aithne adds. "Though to kind of answer a question you had Guardok, we do think there must be Oriq that have infiltrated Strixhaven, both faculty and students. Most of what we have is speculation though. We are pretty sure that they target students who are struggling. So, we think at least one, if not more, of the professors assigned for tutoring those who are at risk of failing must be involved. Others too. We have a couple of suspects, but I would rather not say who."
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard || Iromae Quinaea, Cleric
Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
"A goblin!", Guardok replies a little excited. "It would be good to spar with someone my own size, I like the idea of that. Of course, bugger works as well".
He takes a sip of his tea whilst he listens.
"I don't know much about forbidden magics, and don't really want to. I am more leaning towards Primary, maybe Silverquill because I do like acting", he says when talk turns to topics such as blood magic.
"Scrying would be great, but not something I am able to do. Perhaps if we were fourth years this would be easier", he replies with a chuckle. "Unless you are offering to help?".
"Oh yes, the labs. We found a substance at the scene of the pranks and took it to the lab to be identified. But when we went to get the results were told the sample had vanished", he says with a shrug. "I am not sure if anyone there is even looking into that", he says and look to Mal in case he remembers how they left it.
"Tutors would make sense. Those students might already be a little disillusioned with Strixhaven I guess. I understand not telling us who you think are involved, but I am curious exactly what you do want right now? It has been good to compare notes a little, but I expect under the circumstances it is fair to say we are all a little cautious. I mean, you seem really nice, but you could be members of this Oriq trying to befriend us to keep tabs on us for all we know.", he says with a nervous smile, hoping he hasn't insulted them.
"Well, we sincerely want to prevent any more of these incidents but I have to be honest. I still feel I don't know enough to fully take a stand in all this." Malvyn continues after listening to the others. "I of course am grateful for even being here at Strixhaven, finding a new life for myself with good friends and...but admittedly I'm still here because I want to learn and understand, and while I can see there is knowledge that is dangerous, who should decide what knowledge is dangerous and not? Also, supressing knowledge might be worse than spreading knowledge about it so that people know how to deal with it. This forbidden knowledge will find it's way out eventually, one way or another." He says with a hint of difiance in his tone. "I don't expect you to agree with me, or perhaps even understand my point of view, but I thought that transparance about where I stand in this would be best for everyone if we are to cooperate. That being said I do hope we can be of help with protecting the peopke of Strixhaven from this terror. I don't believe we have any solid leads though and as my friend pointed out we are not yet powerful enough to scry, closest thing would be our friend Mei who dreams about things that could be helpful, but her dreams are unreliable at best. So, any suggestions where we go from here, apart from staying vigilant and be present at this festival?"
Guardok is a little surprised that Mal feels that way.
"Perhaps it is not just what knowledge is dangerous that we should be asking, but who can be trusted with knowledge that could turn out to be dangerous", he wonders aloud.
The professors seem to take any suspicions you may have in stride. "Always best to be cautious," Arvol says. "I suppose you will have to determine for yourselves how far to trust us. And you are right Guardok, while Strixhaven takes a very staunch stance about prohibiting certain knowledge, it is more of a case of being a gatekeeper as to who does get access to certain kinds of knowledge. Or maybe even more importantly, who should be the gatekeeper to that knowledge." He shrugs, "To me it's a fair argument, but for the most part I think Strixhaven is taking a cautious approach that is prudent."
He glances over to Malvyn, "It is not entirely a democratic process for sure. The Founder Dragons hold an immense sway over what happens. And the Oracle that they select. My understanding is that the current leader of the Oriq had been in line to become Oracle. He was not selected, as Jadzi is now our Oracle. But a part of their complaint is a disenchantment over how things work."
"Or just sour grapes," Aithne interjects.
Arvol chuckles, "Or that. I have heard that the Archaics are the souls of former Oracles. And that they magically go back through time, so that some Archaics are manifestations of future Oracles. If that's the case, and somehow the dragons are able to comprehend that, then maybe there is something to how it all works." He laughs again, "Anyhow, that is getting a bit off topic. I don't really disagree much with how the University protects knowledge of dangerous magic. But there is a surprising lack of information about the Oriq or even incidents such as the ones you two have dealt with. And then the loss of the samples from the magic labs only adds to the list. Perhaps in part they're trying to not alarm students. But I do fear that for one reason or another, Strixhaven as an organization is not really in a position to guard against this group."
Aithne then steps into the conversation. "To perhaps get to the point. You are right to ask why we're even talking to you. I do think we could provide some help, such as scrying on the Rose Stage to thwart any attempts there. We'll have to see what we could do to help you there. And perhaps we could provide you help or coordinate in the future. But from the questions you were asking Malvyn, it seems you must know something about the Oriq. It's one thing to suspect a group behind the incidents. But quite another to have down many of their same philosophical arguments. We were hoping if you did know something you might be able to share a little bit."
(OOC - Sorry, thought I'd posted this yesterday! Or something like it, since I'd typed up a response and now don't see it anywhere. Anyhow, didn't mean to go so long without a post there.)
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard || Iromae Quinaea, Cleric
Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
"I'm afraid I feel like having been put in a dilemma. For what it's worth I do trust your good intentions here, but I feel I don't know much about neither the Oriq nor how the current admnistration feel about that group exactly. Is the group as such illegal? I must admit I do know a bit more than already divulged, but revealing it, even to the two of you, seems unfair if the information would not be used in a fair way. Let's say you would find out I had been duped into helping the Oriq in some way, how would that be seen by you and the administration?" The purple-skinned tiefling asks the professors.
"I will be honest, I know very little of the working of Strixhaven. No-one I know has ever been before. I am just here to make the most of what is offered, not to debate it. It's like visiting the circus, you see what you see. If you don't like it, don't go", Guardok muses.
"As for trust, I guess actions do speak louder than words. You know of our actions, that is why you asked to meet us, but you still won't tell us any names of those you suspect. If you can do something to help us keep the Rose Stage festival safe, that would certainly help me trust you both, but what we really need is to make use of your status and position. For example, two professors looking into the labs losing samples would get further than some first year students", he says and then frowns. "In terms of knowing about the Oriq, we only heard that name today, so you are way ahead of us there".
He knows what he said is a bit opposing to Mal suggesting he knows more, but there is nothing right now to prove everything is indeed linked together. It could all just be coincidence. In fact, the only thing that would prove all this if the name Professor Hopplefepple came up.
"Without that trust, it is difficult to see how far this alliance can go, though. Are you sure you can't give us a name of a Professor you suspect?".
Persuasion: 17+5=22
Arvol sits back a bit in his chair, glancing over at Aithne before he replies. "Your caution is understandable," he begins, seeming to carefully consider his words. "Simply saying the Oriq are illegal is a bit of a stretch. Generally, groups are not themselves illegal but the things they do. While few at Strixhaven speak much about the Oriq, I would say that their activities are not usually tolerated on campus."
"As for what would happen if you hypothetically were duped into help the Oriq, I think there would be consequences for any actual wrongdoing or harm you caused." Arvol pauses, "Frankly, I could see the University trying to convince such a student that they had overblown the aims of the group and that it was not really an issue. But I believe the focus would be on getting the student back on track in their studies and away from the group."
Aithne adds, "If it were my choice, the most important thing for a student that was found to be involved with that group would be to help them. I can't imagine they would be happy for their secrets to be revealed." She looks at Malvyn, "If you were truly duped, then I think you could be forgiven your mistake."
"As for helping you with the Rose Stage, I have been thinking about that," she continues. "There's an old spell I've heard of called Magic Mirror. You can enchant a silver mirror to basically show you distant things. I believe we could set something up for you to be able to watch the Rose Stage. Although, the drawback would be someone is going to have to watch the mirror."
She then turns to look at Arvol, and he subtly nods to her before speaking. "If it helps you, we could tell you a name we suspect. There's a handful of suspects. Like I said, we believe there are some amongst those that work with students in need of remedial help and we've narrowed that list down some. But it's likely some on our list are not involved. We're working through it. But there is one name that we have become fairly certain about, through connections in other places. It is Professor Johenne Totsky. I'm not sure what you could do with that information, but perhaps that can serve as a token to start to build trust between us."
Aithne laughs, "If you doubts though, I can't imagine that helps though."
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard || Iromae Quinaea, Cleric
Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer