Planet Zar: Nexus

⦿ Janardan hated returning to Lomeelas. The gods here were plenty powerful in their own right and he had misgivings about his ability to deceive them. Or escape them, if it came to that. Al'kahinath's soothing mind-presence lessened the sting.

⦿ Janardan donned his previous disguise, shrinking to the shriveled form of an elderly elvish man, a fine cloak of blue and gold wrapped around his shoulders.

⦿ Al-Kahinath: I've heard other search riders have come through Lomeelas

⦿ Janardan: I'd send search riders from the Refugium if I thought it was safe. These people need help.

⦿ They quiet as Zaifeth exits her temple, striding purposefully across the moors toward them. She is proud and strong in her countenance. Janardan steadies himself with a hand on Al-Kahinath's side.

⦿ Zaifeth: You've come to check on the shadowling?

⦿ Janardan: And bring you news. Cassimir has been gathering additional forces off world. The Nexus is opening up again, which is as much a boon to him as it is to you. Lomeelas needs allies beyond dragons.

⦿ Zaifeth frowns but nods.

⦿ Zaifeth: Cassimir once had The Lord. Perhaps it's time Lomeelas tried to contact off worlders as well.

⦿ Janardan forced himself not to react to the mention of  his old moniker.

⦿ Al-Kahinath, via telepathy: She doesn't know, everything is okay.

⦿ Janardan, via telepathy: It's not, but I'm working on it.

⦿ Janardan: My bond Al'Kahinath hails from the Vella Crean. They're actively searching for diplomatic partners across the Nexus and have clutches on their sands precisely for that purpose. I can bring candidates of your choosing to them.

⦿ It's difficult offering the Vella Crean. Janardan carries his resentment for Shy's meddling with Al'Kahinath, but not all parts of the Vella Crean are influenced by Shy and an entire population shouldn't be shunned because of Janardan's personal grudge with one man. Al'Kahinath is far more forgiving than her bond. Janardan carries the scars of his battle with the Death Court in his true form, acidic burns up his arms and sides. Fortunately, shapeshifting is enough to hide it. There's not a trace of the battle in this elvish disguise.

⦿ Zaifath considers the offer.

⦿ Zaifeth: I believe I have a pair who would do well. They've been integral in helping Persze learn to harness his abilities, perhaps they'd enjoy dragons of their own.

⦿ Al'Kahinath - a blue in their heart, despite their golden hide - extends their mind toward the temple and brushes the thoughts of the inhabitants. They feel a surge of chaotic energy push back - Persze - but it's not will ill-intent.

⦿ Al'Kahinath: I'm no search dragon, truly, but there are many people with potential in your temple.

⦿ Zaifeth smiles.

⦿ Zaifeth: I choose my closest followers carefully. I'll speak to them. When would they need to leave?

⦿ Janardan: Soon, if possible. They'll have things to learn if they're going to bond.

⦿ Zaifeth: The end of the month, then. Persze will be leaving for Vacillate to spend time with Alaram. Can you return then?

⦿ Janardan: Any time you need me, my lady.