Advice from an Arrow

[Chambers]

Having agreed the time and date with Asclepius the Moros waits on the balcony of his boat house for the arrow to arrive, commanding a pleasant view of the still waters of the Marina and the walk down to his lot, the sense of peace emanating from the Hallow in the bay itself was always something that soothed his own nerves and worries, helped to compose him and tackle the tasks that came his way as mighty or difficult as they might be. Suited in a loose grey waist coat and breathable cotton shirt undone at the collar the hierarch gives a sense of relaxed formality as he waits quietly for his guest to arrive.

As for his sanctum itself. Docked in Sacramento Marina, the lot number furthest down the mooring and in something of a contrast to its carbon fiber, plastic and steel cousins the vessel of wood rests in the still grey waters, reflecting the blue sky, the scent of water and the sound of the river moving past just outside the inlet of the marina offer tantalizing close refreshments from the summer heat.


The lower balcony has been boarded to create an additional interior room and the wooden door that upon which is painted the crafts name. XXXVXCVXCVC. In a neat and professional hand. Another way that the Indian style boat stands out from the remaining craft is the signs of habitation. Few patrons of the marina make it there home full time but with the arrival of summer many of the patrons have their vessels out on the water, coming and going or host small quiet gatherings aboard their respective vessels.


Still an sense of unbroken peace perminates the area, something that seems to subtly influence the happenings of the marina. After his declaration that his sanctum was located in the marina and the place itself was his responsibility the Moros had also made it clear the hallow within was his own to maintain and care for. The presence of which would explain the unseen senses of any mage getting close alerting them to something supernatural.

Asclepius Jombot

[Asclepius]

It was a new Experience for the Arrow, usually his dealings with the Hierarch were initiated by himself or in a collective with other mages. On this occasion, he was requested for a matter that needed his assistance. It would be no surprise at the boost to his own ego at such a request. However, while he did indulge in such thoughts, the Arrow could not help but wonder what this meeting was for?

I wonder... is this finally the follow up for the matter with the blade at the wax work show? Perhaps this could be a fact gathering effort over the destruction of the banisher that attacked Aurora? No that would surely involve her at this meeting. Could it be something involving the seer at the hospital? Or am I thinking too much and this is simply a matter to discuss the plans for the Golden Consilium.

Time would only tell what the Arrow was to discuss. After gathering the information to Chambers sanctum following guidance from the Corkboard as advised in the letter. He pulled up in his car and parked in the marina' car park, He dressed in a black T-shirt and paired it with some blue jeans. He took a little time to take in the views as he walked to the docks as this was the first time visiting this place and knowing what Chambers planned to do at some point in the future... he would likely not be able to return safely for some time.

After a small walk to identify the correct dock and scout the correct boat, he took a moment to take in the beautiful vessel that Chambers had made a sanctum for himself. As with any boat the name was something worth looking at, but unsurprisingly Chambers had no simple name for his vessel. It had been a while since the Arrow had looked at Roman numerals and so it did not immediately jump out to him what the combination meant.
Such a shame this boat is destined for the bottom of this marina. Such a great sacrifice for such an uncertain gain, I don't know if I could make the same decision so readily...

Not wanting to take too long and keep the Hierarch waiting, he looked for a way to alert the man inside. He would simply call out but there was a certain peace in the area, the signs of life in the other boats made him feel like a disturbance and attention was not something Chambers would want brought upon his boat. Unsure of what the etiquette was in regards to boarding a boat, the Arrow reached out to knock on part of the boat that was in reach in order to alert of his presence. He stood waiting, and observing the vessel and surrounding waters, while the occupant came to greet him.

[Chambers]

Once the arrow is spotted making his way down the to the slip that at which the Hierarch's boathouse sanctum was moored the Moros himself had risen from his seat on the upper balcony and begun the descent through the trapdoor into the workshop below, which can be heard to close with a sharp wooden impact. Thus the Shaman does not have wait long at all before the door opens to show Chambers who stands aside to allow entry. "Thank you for coming, please." Gesturing into and through the initial room to a second door beyond.

The air tastes of stone dust. No electronics or light sources are found within bar that which bleeds through from the trapdoor in the ceiling. Various hammers and chisels are hooked neatly on the walls, stacks of different gain sand paper are carefully filed and crates of large rocks take up two corners. A single large work surface dominates the centre of the space on which sits a cushioned box currently empty. A single unmarked door leads in the residence proper, on which hangs a heavy full body leather apron.




Once through the second door the scene that greets the visitor is one of a far more comfortable open plan space. The main living area is full of natural light, what little is offered on such a day, with a full wall window by which an armchair is set up, along the interior wall the galley which now has a well supplied spice rack and various recipes cards stuck to cupboard doors, and food storage. A plush sofa against the wall bordering the workshop. Pots, pans and the over sized stone dragon spatula from the summer BBQ hang from the elevated ceiling, a coffee table holds dominion in the center, and small units clutter around the seating arrangements, providing both surfaces and draws for storage. The air has a hint of roses, clove and cinnamon. It is only once inside and both doors are firmly closed does any further communication come. "Please take a seat. Before we get going can I get you anything, a drink or something to eat." His was after all a declared sanctum and the rights of hospitality were going to be observed accordingly.

[Asclepius]

The calm waters lightly rippling as the boat floated at its dock, the Arrow's gaze fixed upon a small leaf that followed the waters flow. He did not have to wait long as Chambers had made his way swiftly to the door at his knock. “Thank you for having me.” The gesture from the Hierarch was followed and he stepped inside swiftly.

No words were offered until Chambers had guided them to the room of which he wanted to make conversation. Tools and crafts placed around in the eyeline were something of interest, the Arrow had seen very little of Chambers outside of the formality of the Circle. This peek behind the curtain was somewhat eye opening as he believed Chambers to be a bookworm of sorts. The taste of dust in the air began to paint the picture that these were not some recent hobby taken up and that these tools and various sand paper were the signs of either a deep seated passion or perhaps some sort of income.

A second door passed and it was as if passing through a garage to enter into a living room. The open plan of this relaxing space seemed to be more welcoming then the rough and darker workshop type space that he was being lead through. Another window into Chambers it seemed could be piece together from the decorations that laid about the space. The abundance of natural light seemed to suggest to the Arrow that this was the public facing sort of space, an area of which chambers felt comfortable presenting to others and decorating the space with his proud achievements, as suggested by the dragon spatula that hung from the Ceiling. In contrast to the dust in the last room, the aroma of roses and cinnamon was a welcome scent to the Arrows senses, it provided a little sense of calm to the somewhat tense feeling that already existed inside the Arrow.

Chambers broke the short silence first, he was a man of his word as he offered refreshments. As Arrow spoke he took a seat in the plush sofa, assuming that the captain of this boat would prefer the armchair. “Thank you, just a glass of water for me if possible.”

The Arrow gave it a moment for Chambers to return with some water and have a seat before addressing why he was here, his nerves and curiosity had grown and he feared that this was going to be some bad news. I can't imagine this is a telling off, this no doubt has to be some sort of information sharing situation. “I was surprised to receive your summons, what is it I can help you with? Assuming we are free to talk at will here.” Better to hear the man say it rather then just speak without any thought to it. Otherwise that is how you get compromised. The Arrow spoke in loose terms until conformation came in, a small precaution just in case.

[Chambers]

At the request, simple as it is a glass is taken from one of the overhead cupboards filled with water from a bottle and placed on the coffee table nearest to the seat the arrow had taken. "There, we go. I rather fancy a cup of tea myself, would you mind if a put a pot on?" Water might have been requested but it still felt a little unsociable to put more effort into his own beverage then those of his guests.

Taking up a position by the galley so he could face the Asclepius more easily rather then talking at his sideways from the armchair the heirarch seems all in all quite calm and composed under no great rush or stress. But none the less takes a few moments to mull over his choice of words. "I will explain in full the reason I have asked you here, however first I need advice you are best placed to give, but I need to as in as unbiased way as can be managed." And clearly that seemed to mean withholding something for the time being as presumably to not alter or impact the Shamans views. In due course however he speaks again. "First I think it best if I ask, what do you know about the position and duties of sentinels within a consilium?" While it would be nice to assume every mage ha a solid and working grasp on such matters, his experience in Sacramento had made it apparent that assumption really could make fools out of any body, and consequently better to ask and ascertain where Asclepius stood in this regard.

[Asclepius]

His request was fulfilled, not that he had any thoughts that Chambers would deny him. To his knowledge he had neither disrespected or insulted the Hierarch and thus there would be no cause for denial. “Thank you very much, Please by all means have yourself a cuppa. I have no commitments after this so I am happy to take as long as we need.” A slight laugh as the Arrow had clocked his own usage of the term cuppa as a reference for tea. Man I haven't said that in a while, not since before moving out here in the US.

It seemed that Arrow was wrong and Chambers did not want to claim the armchair for himself, no matter, he was quite comfortable on the plush sofa. Some key details stood out on chambers behaviour and demeanour. While he had yet to see any real signs of stress on Chambers as of yet, there was no previously identifiable gestures or looks that hinted that this was a topic on a sensitive manner. The quiet calm and composed presentation that Chambers was showing suggested to the Arrow that in some small way this was of something in an official capacity. The Arrow listened with his full attention given to the Hierarch as he began. More omission of details? Well I suppose he at least stated why this time and that I will get the full picture eventually. I suppose it is fine for now. “Fair enough, I will save my prying questions until you are satisfied with what you have heard.” A sudden look of surprise as the word sentinel was mentioned.

OMG, this is it! All of my efforts within the Consilium have finally come to bloom. My dealing with the Banisher and my help in cleaning up the mess in the cottage, Even the help with Corns belongings in the hospital. Chambers has seen me to be suitable for a higher standing within the Consilium. This is Fantastic! People will look to me for help and I will have the satisfaction of knowing that I can handle what they could not. Why must we dance around this? Just hurry and offer me the position now Chambers!

“I know that I read in the Charter that you drafted with the help of others that, A sentinel's role is that of safeguarding the Consilium and those that call it home. I think that it operates in similar beliefs to the Arrows Order but differs on a few small points. Like, its sole job is to only protect the mages and their sanctums and it works under the official orders of the Hierarch where as, the Arrows believe in protecting more then just the mages of the Consilium and I believe we have the right to deny any requests offered our way if we don't believe them to align with our interests, not fully sure on that last point but that doesn't matter too much. Do I have the right of it however?” It had crossed the Arrows mind that maybe this was a test to see if he had remembered that the Charter was freely made available when it was finished. Nevertheless the Arrow spoke confidently and had a big smile on his face.

[Chambers]

A nod of appreciation is given and the Moros turns his back but only to begin filling a teapot with water and setting it to the boil, he does not talk while his back is briefly turned that would be rude. "Thank you, I do find talks go smoother with a cup of something." It gave a easy opportunity to take a few extra moments to think, to slow things down to be careful and considered in delicate matters. "I hope not to keep you to terribly long. The mater while important is only a single matter today." That he was aware of at any rate.

With matters at the galley attended to now Chambers will stroll over to the armchair and settle himself, the water had a little time till it boiled yet. He sits himself diagonally so he can still face the arrow more or less. "I do not doubt you well have some but yes they might well be answered by the time we are done, you might have more who knows." A gentle shrug is given. "There is no harm in asking me once we have discussed what needs to be discussed but I may not answer." It would depend entirely upon the questions.

Attentive listening is given as the arrow speaks his understanding of the sentinel position and it was suitable to a surface level but some key elements were missing. A nod is given. "Firstly as hierarch I can make my will known to the consilium and expect it to be adhered to however I do not have the authority to command the arrows as an order to something as arrows, only as members of the consilium." Of course arrows tended to have certain skill sets that made them better for particular tasks and so when such task come up members of the arrow would likely be the port of call but he was not arrow himself he had no authority within their internal ranks.

Another pause follows as he tents his fingers in front of him and shakes his head slowly. "That is not the only job of the sentinels no. They o protect the consilium and its mages yes, when we are attacked they are the ones called to drop everything and rush to the defense, or the counter attack." Already an important addition. "They are also the enforcers of consilium rulings." A sharp look is given to make sure this is understood. "In this city that would mean my rulings at the moment." It was unlikely he would be heirarch forever of course. "If someone is banished they chase them out, if a sanctum is to be raided, grimoires confiscated, punishments of any kind dolled with the exception of execution. That is their task also." Leaning back a little into his seat. "I'll take a pause here for questions about sentinels and their roles. It is important this is understood before we proceed." As with any area of consilium politics and position it was a bit more complex the first appeared and rushing forward without the required understanding would render the day rather meaningless.

[Asclepius]

A sip from a cup was always a welcome comfort to any conversation. More often then not, this was the reason that the Arrow asked for a simple drink or food, something to help provide a non awkward reason for a pause. “I agree. No matter the choice of drink, it always adds to the conversation.” Seems the matter that Chambers wanted to get to the root of, was a simple one. “It is quite fortunate that you needed some assistance because I have been meaning to contact you for a matter that I have as well. Fear not, it is nothing urgent or serious. A simple matter of whether it is best to distribute some information or not. If possible and we have time, could we discuss it after this current matter?” The Arrow may have had the time to chat, but he did not know the schedule of the Hierarch, so better to ask first.

For the matters of questions, it was reassuring that Chamber's would at least hear out his questions. Whether he got answers is another matter, in any case he could only ask. “Understandable, I shall withhold them for the end. I do also recognise that not all information is free for me to hear and I respect if you choose not to answer any question I may have.” Would he be annoyed if Chamber's did not answer? A little but at the end of the day it might not be any of his business.

A smile formed upon hearing that, if nothing else, the Arrow had the right idea of a couple of details. More importantly that he correctly remembered that Chamber's indeed did not have the Authority to command the Arrows as an order. “Thank you for the clarity on the difference, I figured it was the case. Given the numbers of our Consilium it is easy to forget the proper format that it would usually follow, should the Hierarch make his will known to their fellow Consilium members.”

An eyebrow raised in response to the further details that Chamber's lead onto. Hmm, I do already have that innate readiness to a call for action, a benefit of working as an EMT. I already demonstrated that I will happily partake in coming to the aid of another member, we have not had the chance to counter attack anyone yet but I would totally be down for something like that. This is sounding more and more like a perfect role for me, he truly has thought about this greatly if he has chosen me for this role. The sharp gaze noted and its meaning was speculated by the Arrow. Does he think that I have done something to make me unsuitable to enforce any rulings? Could it be because I voice a disagreement with a plan he had presented? No surely not, he brought that up for opening a debate about it. As Chambers continued the meaning of his words became clear. Oh I get it, if he lays down the law and makes a judgement call, you don't question it and follow his expressed will while he seats in the Hierarch role. That's completely fine then, I do that anyway. I specifically made it known to him that even if I disagree with his assessment on something that I would loyally follow his orders. Maybe that's why he stated it, to make sure I was still loyal to his word.

With Chambers expressing a break to comment on any questions, the Arrow offered his words on what was spoken on currently.“I see, well I suppose that dropping everything to aid or counter attack does come part and parcel with the protection of the Consilium but I am glad for the necessary clarification. I imagine that the role of the enforcer would need to steel themselves against any sort of kindness when it comes to examples of enforcement that you gave. While your outline of some examples of what the sentinel would be expected to do. Is it expected that the sentinel follow such orders without question? Or is there room to understand why some of the orders have been given? Like for example if a sanctum needed to be raided, would the sentinel be given an explanation as to why this is to be carried out?” Better to ask before given the role otherwise I might get in trouble and lose it.

[Chambers]

Sitting now at comfort one eye occasionally turning to keep watch over the kettle mounted to his galley oven, on the look for when it began to steam the conversation takes a turn he had not expected but was none the less ready enough for, people usually had matters to discuss with the hierarch. "Naturally we can discuss anything you wish to bring up. Although unless you want me to base my advice on that alone I will need a little more to go off." He could and would give such advice if the arrow was hesitant to provide any further context but it would be equally limited in it's scope.

An appreciative nod is given as Asclepius agrees to gold questions for the moment and affirms he understands the nature of this conversation. "We are far from conventional that much is without doubt, but that does not mean we nee to depart from tired and tested methods entirely." The charter he thought had done well to blend the traditional consilium model with needs of Sacramento's awakened population. "I doubt I have accounted for everything but it certainly seems to have improved our organisation if nothing else." And hopefully that structure, that foundation would be enough to weather the storms that battered them.

His hands settle neatly in his lap as he listens to the arrows expression of understanding and following questions. "Kindness or favoritism would not be good traits when enforcing punishments no. Sentinels for all of their hard work and risk can earn a bad name because of that part of their role." Not for the first time the mans seeming desire for openness gives the Moros a hint of concern, the secretive lives of mages did not do well when all was shared and exposed. "There is no expectation or requirement for the sentinels to be told any more then a hierarch, or councilor, is willing to share with them. It is expected for the sentinel to perform the task assigned to the mas priority regardless." And yes that could mean going in uninformed or without optimal awareness. "It is a dangerous thankless position all in all." But one he did respect.

Which brings him to the point, no sense beating around the bush. "As you no doubt are aware I can appoint up to two sentinels from those who are willing to take on the position." Any more seemed excessive but asking one mage alone to shoulder the burden had felt like to cruel an ask. "One such mage has made it known to me they are willing and have asked to be tested for the position." The list could not be all that long given the city had less the ten acknowledged mages. "As the council has the right to advise me on matters I called a meeting and among other things it was agreed your view should be asked about this mage, that and some sensitive information shared for your own safety." He was still polite but their was focus, purpose to his speech now and he watched the arrow carefully for his response.

[Asclepius]

Working up the words to describe properly what he was trying to talk about with Chambers, He took some moments to mull it over. At the end of the day chambers was right, if he was to help then he would need to know what it was. “I understand, sorry... it is nothing urgent or anything. I have been trying to think of a safe way to convey a particular skill, that skill is the ability to speak in sign language. I have recently learned it for a couple of purposes mage related and non mage related purposes, but I wondered if it is best to keep silent on it and and only reveal it when we meet someone that requires it. I can see no one better then yourself to discuss such a matter on, because of the fact that this will be useful for you to know regardless but also because I respect your wisdom and guidance.” There was a reason he was voted as the Hierarch after all.

Conventional methods were proven to be something that worked for a wide array of issues, but it was not a blanket solution. “There is always room for innervation but when such creativity and what not fail to meet the goals, then I see no harm in returning back to what has been proven to give acceptable outcomes.” He took a moment to take a drink of the water offered to him. “If it were possible to account for everything, then battles and conflicts would not come to bloodshed, instead they would be simulated and won without ever drawing a sword.” Well that sort of idea doesn't account for the human errors of the mind, honour, dignity and mostly the will to overcome the odds.

The Arrow nodded, it was the price a sentinel paid for such a position. “No one likes a figure of authority and I doubt a sentinel would keep many favours with people when utilised in such ways. However it is a small price to pay for accountability, which would keep the Mages in check and defended.” If you don't want a bad time with a sentinel then just don't do bad things to draw attention to yourself. Could I drop the kindness and favouritism that I have grown these past years? Perhaps but those that hold me in warm regard would also understand what the role would demand of me and maybe give me a pass on my lack of warmth. Honestly I can still see myself as the number one candidate.
He asked for the sake of clarity but in his heart he knew the answer. “Well, I did expect as much but honestly I understand. As you stated, the sentinel carries out the orders and that is all.” Even with my grievances I could still get past that little hurdle so this is still no deterrence for me.

The Arrow remained still at the mention of two sentinels, he still sat engaged and attentive to hear chambers comments. Two sentinels eh? I wonder if he will choose a second or if he will stick to the one?
As Chambers continued however the smile on the Arrows face slowly began to drop into a more neutral look with every passing word. Okay I take it back, I don't think they have thought about this enough... what do you mean someone has already asked? Why did they not just pick me! I didn't even know we were looking to fill the position! How dare someone rob me of something that I didn't know I wanted until the start of this conversation!
Despite his internal frustration, the Arrow did his best to compose himself while he spoke. “Oh... Oh so there was someone enquiring for the position and is to be tested?” His mind raced as he began to speculate on who could have been the mage based on the fact that he was to be consoled as a character reference for this position. “Well, I suppose it is the least I can do for the mage hoping for this position. I can only say that I thank yourself and the council for thinking of me at least, in relation of this matter. Where would you like to begin?” I can't believe this... not only is this me not being offered the position but I now have to advocate for another to get this sentinel role.... what kind of sick joke is this.