[video | day 386]

[yggdrasilvips]

[When Skuld appears on Asgard's network, she is the picture of regal composure - perfectly groomed and solemn of face, a far cry from the dirty, soot-covered refugee that arrived the day before. Only when she speaks can some of the frayed edges be noted, but never to the point of hysteria; she is still a queen, and this is a royal duty.]

Travellers of Asgard. For those whom I did not have the pleasure of meeting on my last occasion to visit this city, my name is Skuld, and I am ruler of the elven kingdom of Alfheim. While it pleases me to speak with all of you again, I must regretfully inform you that it is on a very dire matter indeed.

[She glances down at her hands, ensuring that they are still steady where she's folded them in her lap, then back up again with iron determination.]


Until now, you have faced the full brunt of this war, and done so with admirable - no, remarkable strength and courage. It appears that time has come to an end. I reach out to you now because Alfheim is under siege, and while we have had some time to rebuild our ranks after the first major siege of Asgard, it has not been enough. The forests burn, the city is swiftly giving way, and I fear that Surt's power will overwhelm us completely. It appears that two options remain to me at this time, both of which will require some aid: either the city shall be reclaimed by force, or it shall be relinquished and those who remain within its walls brought to safety behind Asgard's borders.

[Here her expression changes - not exactly softening, but allowing a hint of compassion.]

Know this, however - I truly believe that the pride and autonomy of the Traveller population not only do you great credit, but are of the utmost importance in keeping peace among those who would save Yggdrasil and all it supports. I have not come to claim the repayment of any unspoken bargain; when my own forces rallied to support Asgard, I did not make that choice with the expectation of reciprocation, nor did I ever plan to hold it over the city's collective head should danger reach my own walls. I appeal only to your good nature, and to our mutual desire to see the safety and balance of all worlds restored, that everyone may return to the lives they are truly meant to lead. Should you choose to come to our aid, I would only have you do so of your own volition, and the choice of which path to take shall rest entirely with those who will travel it.

I have spoken my piece on the matter. Those who choose to assist shall receive instruction and assistance from the rulers of this city; to all of you, whatever your choice, I wish you good day and safety for yourself and your loved ones in these troubled times.


[And indeed, her speech is done. The gods will be backing her on matters relating to Asgard, which will likely be the most pressing concerns for those that live here, but she will take any questions about Alfheim directly. And of course, it will likely be her who tries to soothe those angered by this speech.]

Comments

[becauseichooseto]

Well, we would certainly be glad to offer your people refuge. [He is cautious though.] But I think you'll understand that we'd like to get a better picture of what is occurring in your city.

[yggdrasilvips]

Most certainly. That you offer your kindness before your discretion speaks volumes, sir, and I respect it greatly.

[She inclines her head graciously, then gets back down to business.]

The Fire Giants have invaded fully, both wood and residence. They seek to destroy but also to occupy our land, because their own has been devastated by a natural disaster, and because it lies closer to Asgard. This is very much a tactical move on Surt's part.

[Her mouth twitches downward just a touch.] Many lives have already been lost. Without the aid of Asgard's rulers, I feel sure I should have been among them.

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[liquidsky]

[Interesting. He has numerous reasons for wanting to see more of this place, explore Alfheim, perhaps become a more complete picture of this place. Besides, there is always chaos during battle and never a better opportunity to strike, should he be able to, when he's sure most of his enemies are bound to volunteer for this. However, he also works on a budget.]

Will weapons be provided?

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[yggdrasilvips]

[She's not a regular to these devices, so pardon her if she remains on video.]

Those who should choose to attempt a reclamation of Alfheim would most certainly be armed, as well as retaining the abilities they have been given within this city.

[tumbler]

Can it be reclaimed?

[yggdrasilvips]

No battle is ever completely without hope. I would not seek to encourage my allies into certain death, I can promise that much.

It will be difficult, perhaps beyond any difficulties faced here thus far. But with the spirit and strength that Asgard's travellers have shown in their own battles, I do not believe it impossible.

[servesthehuman]

What would happen if Alfheim was destroyed? How much of an advantage would that give Surt?

I do not mean to be callous, but I would like to know how much danger we might be in, if you were to fail.

[yggdrasilvips]

Mr. Burnett. [It is merely an acknowledgement that she remembers him, because they are both aware that now is no time for small talk.]

Should Alfheim fall, Surt would have a large base of operation closer to Asgard, and whatever fuel could be rescued from his wanton destruction. [Just the tiniest tremble of anger in her voice. She is an elf before a queen, and those forests are beloved to her.] Alfheim is far more than a city. There are forests and mountains that stretch much further than the borders of any region the travellers have visited thus far.

Beyond the currency of territory, of course, many able warriors would be lost long before they could serve in the final battle of Ragnarok. I speak in terms of practicality because you do, Mr. Burnett; they are my subjects, and the thought of losing them grieves me most deeply, but the time and place for grief have never been before a loss.

[Video]

[ghani]

Do you believe that it is a realistic expectation to have that your city can be reclaimed with our aid?

[Video]

[yggdrasilvips]

[She believes this is a question she will face often, but this one asks with such wisdom that it does not disturb her to answer again.]

Regardless of the threat faced by my kingdom, I would not act in desperation. I only ask what I believe can be accomplished, for the fate of Yggdrasil remains much more vital than that which I may call my own, and to weaken Asgard at this time on an impossible mission would prove fatal to both.

[Video]

[okamichild]

[ All Ame can hear is "forests burn" and "the city is swiftly giving way". he worries, not only because it's a forest but because Alfheim is an old forest, with so much fauna and flora, care for by the Elves. ]

I will go. [ no matter what everyone else decides ]

What is actually happening? [ he wants to know more ]

[Video]

[yggdrasilvips]

Ame, you must not be rash. [She remembers this boy's love for forests, and while her own heart aches with understanding when she hears the determination in his voice, this is not what she wants.]

A single warrior, even one with such determination and heart, would be flattened beneath Surt's boot in an instant. Please, promise me you will not seek out Alfheim alone.

[At his question, she once again lowers her head. The answer will only enflame him further, she fears.]

Their interest is only in the territory, not what history or beauty may reside there. They are razing everything within reach to the ground, and no attempt at recruitment is being made with my people. All will be destroyed and rebuilt in the image Surt wishes.

[livedtwice]

Do you have a plan?

[It's not even a question of "yes" or "no." Harry believes they will go help. Of course they will.]

[yggdrasilvips]

Battle plans are being drawn for both choices, although I believe one of the gods may be better equipped to speak on such a matter. They know the strengths and weaknesses of their force, while I am best suited to offering information on both the current situation and the terrain, however those may be of assistance to them.

I can say this: Surt attacks with but one strategy, and that is brute force. While it would likely be near impossible to overwhelm his forces, your first thought was a very wise one. It is cunning that will win this battle, should it occur.

[realmenknitplushies]

...I ain't gonna sit around if this is happenin' to you folks. Sure. I'll do what I can. But... what can we do to help you?

[yggdrasilvips]

[The plain, sure manner of his speech charms her, so although this is best answered by one of Asgard's leaders, she finds she has to speak as well.]

You have a kind spirit, but also a brave one. I can see why you were chosen.

Much will depend on the abilities you have been given here, and perhaps even more on the choice that is made by all travellers of Asgard. But the gods here will find a way for you to be of use if it is what you wish. There are many fronts in every battle, each as important as the other.

[bythewaves]

[ a city of Elves. He wonders how much like his own people it is, but that is beside the point right now. Will you fight, Makalaure? whispers the memory of his brothers Will you stain your hands again?
the forests burn he sighs back what choice do I have? ]

You have my sword lady, if you think one blade to be of any use. [ bow ] Maglor, at your service.

[yggdrasilvips]

Each and every blade will most certainly be of use, brave Maglor. [She dips her head in answer to the bow, oddly comforted by the formality of the offer.] You are clearly one accustomed to battle, which means that you will be invaluable indeed.

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[exiling]

[ Daenerys has seen the consequences to letting neighboring cities fall to enemy hands, and then of those refugees swarming to the next city's gates. She feels for this queen - though it's the fear for her own home that ultimately make her decision. ]

I have not been here as long as most others, and though I am no warrior I do know of war. It would be unwise of us to let your city fall. [ Hadn't she just told someone that she found it hard to sit idle? ] You have my support.

[ Swordsman or not, she'll find a way to contribute. ]

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[yggdrasilvips]

[She is quite beautiful enough to be one of the elves herself, this one, and her words show their own truth. Skuld nods solemnly, though also kindly, at the offer of support.]

It is unfortunate to hear of others so intimately acquainted with war, but very much to our benefit. Myself and my people thank you for your support, as do all the peoples of Yggdrasil who would see the world tree flourish again.

[Video]

[madcuriosity]

Oh your majesty! I was so worried when first I saw you! Your home was attacked? [She frowns, so much for peace.] I'm so sorry about your home! [Surely they could do... something?]

[Video]

[yggdrasilvips]

[Sweet Alice. She still cringes slightly at having children witness and live through such things, especially those who would have been spared in their own homes.]

I am quite well, Alice, I assure you. [She even smiles, though her heart isn't quite in it.] I thank you for your concern, both for myself and for Alfheim.

[Then the smile slips back into a more serious expression.] It is not yet beyond rescue, but the task will be great. That is why all must choose to take it on as one. And it will be equally important for some to remain here and watch over Asgard, lest another enemy see its gates emptying.

[In other words, you stay home, young lady.]

[Video]

[cyan_maid]

[Jane wants to ask about Skuld, about these elves of hers and their kingdom. Her curiosity demands it. But she listens and thinks, and when she finally responds, it's with the knowledge that now is most certainly not the time to ask.

Besides, anything with fire makes her think of those fire giants. If they're the ones doing this...]

Ma'am? I'm sorry to ask, but - what can we do? To help, I mean.

[Video]

[yggdrasilvips]

There is no need for apology. [She manages a small smile.] The wish to help is the greatest gift I could receive in this time.

Much assistance will be required regardless of which plan is enacted. Aside from those skilled in battle, we will require healers and caregivers for the wounded, supplies either for rebuilding or for the refugees, tacticians to aid with strategy - and I understand that there are those under Sigyn's care who are gifted with skills in plant growth. [There's the tiniest downward twist to her mouth, but it quickly corrects.] It will do my people good to see some green near them, whether it be in their own homes or here. Our love for the forests runs deeper than most could understand.

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[littlesurvivor]

[Clementine's eyes widen in fear and worry, but she is determined and curious as to how they can help. Surely they would? They can't ignore this.]

Um, I can...I can heal? If I can help, I mean. We have to, right? I mean, you wouldn't be asking if you didn't need help, so....

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[yggdrasilvips]

[This is the youngest child she's seen yet, and that frightened look strikes right to the core of Skuld's heart.]

You do not 'have to' do anything, child. There is a third choice which I left unspoken, but which the city may yet take. Above all, I will not force anyone's hand.

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[discrepant]

[After silently watching and observing the way she was currently handling herself, Soushi could not help feel sympathy towards her and her people. However, it was only for the simple fact that he fully understands the cruel force Surt can offer to an individual as he was killed by him firsthand.]

The feeling is mutual. It is a true pleasure to be given the chance to hear from you again, Skuld-sama. I do hope you were able to get some rest. [But he is certain she might not have been able to do so as he can tell she was feeling concern for her people and situation. Just like any good ruler would.]

There is no need for you to praise us or try to move our hearts to offer our assistance. It will be a pleasure to protect your home and forcefully request for Surt to leave. I am certain many of us will have great pleasure in doing so. [Then he can't help wonder.] How many of your people are currently trapped in Alfheim?

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[yggdrasilvips]

Thank you, Soushi. [She gives a graceful nod.] My time in the interim has been much more restful than yours, I fear, and I believe it may have led to complacency. This strike has come as a greater shock than it should.

[The outpouring of support she's received already is almost overwhelming, except that she's always seen this spirit in the travellers of Asgard. When Soushi offers his as well, she finds it in her heart to smile, but the question means that it's short-lived.]

Only a handful were able to escape with me. The rest remain, and as I said, we have rebuilt our own armies as much as possible - still, Surt has shown uncommon cleverness in his choice of target. The woods are with us everywhere in Alfheim, thus the fuel for his destruction is plentiful.

[Video]

[unbrokenwheel]

[Leo has been sitting quietly listening to everyone's points while he sketches parts and things he thinks he might need. Whether anyone goes or not, he can't sit back and ignore someone's home being destroyed. It hits too close to home.]

Whenever the plans are drawn, I'll be there. I got a few questions if you don't mind. [He pulls out a long sheet of paper and sets a pen to it.] What parts of your home are burning the fastest and what natural defenses or safeguards could be used to make putting out the fires easier? Or that we need to watch for in case they trip and we don't have the tools to keep them from getting us.

[Video]

[yggdrasilvips]

[It's a bit disorienting, having someone agree to help so quickly that they're onto plans before she's even digested the acceptance. But she gathers herself, pondering the questions and offering the best response she can.]

The most vital and most dangerous areas are one and the same: the forests. We have always kept them free of waste and deadfall, so they do not burn as quickly as they might, but they are more ancient than the beings that live in Yggdrasil and sacred to us elves. Anything we have built can just as easily be rebuilt.

That said, the evacuation of the city is clearly just as vital. I can ensure that you have a map of our aqueducts and natural water sources, and we have instruments of war that may be repurposed to extinguish the fire, though they, too, are fashioned of wood. They will have to be used quite cleverly in order to maximize their purpose. Do not fear that we want for water, however, for our technology is purely steam-based - none will be held in reserve if you may find some way to make use of it.

[She smiles a little, although not entirely out of humour.] I fear that you will not find a land more poorly equipped to deal with an assault by flame. But I know this land more intimately than my own hand, and you will have it mapped to the very last detail if it will be of use.

[hedoesntrow]

I'm in. They overrun that city, who's to say this one won't be next? [And Booker isn't overly invested in Asgard itself, but Elizabeth is here so he's ready to do whatever it takes to keep them all safe.]

[yggdrasilvips]

That is a very real risk, and you are wise to see it. I thank you for your support, sir. [She nods courteously, a bit earnestly.]

Video

[izanyagi]

[Souji was not a warrior by choice. It had only been through circumstances that the events had happened in his own world. But he wouldn't stay here idle while innocents were killed. As much as it pained him, and sometimes hoping that it wouldn't have to come to this - he wasn't stupid enough either to just think they'd been called around to stop on or two attacks. Destroy or Heal...

He takes the time to read all the other messages to get a good grasp of who she is and what questions have been answered so far. So that explains all the ash lately. Souji still has a lot of growing to do. Being in a war at his age, he won't just rush headfirst into things either.]

Skuld Denka...I want to help as well. How many to you believe are still left in your kingdom, and how long can they hold on? [He hates even having to ask her this. There's an obvious pain that can be heard in his voice. He just wishes he could save everyone...]

[video]

[yggdrasilvips]

Before this attack, my people numbered approximately five thousand. That number has been reduced by at least one hundred, likely more since I left.

[And she hates answering, but she maintains her composure.]

Given the nature of the attack and the structure of our land and society, I believe it will take mere days for Alfheim to be reduced to ash.

[Video]

[tonsofpun]

Are you kidding me? If we let them take the city, not everybody will get out, right?

[She can't believe how much this lady is glossing over what's happening -- Ellie's fought giants before, and without her powers. Far be it from her to stand by and do nothing at all.]

Yeah, fuck that, I'm helping. What's the plan?

[Video]

[yggdrasilvips]

[It's not so much glossing over as trying to avoid any reactions of pure panic - she's trying to keep things as rational as possible, but that does mean understating, and she's not surprised that some are picking up on it. Considering the children who have replied so far, it's even less of a surprise that one so young should be the one to call her out directly.]

A full evacuation would indeed be difficult in the middle of such a battle, and believe me when I say that the loss of even one of my own kind grieves me beyond measure. I cannot allow such emotions to cause me to undervalue the lives of those who reside in Asgard, however. There must be a balance struck.

[And again, the frank language has its own charm for someone from such a formal home. She can't hold back a smile.]

How you might best be of aid will depend largely on your skillset, both innate and god-given. Once a decision has been made, the leaders of this city will direct you. For the moment, however, I thank you from the bottom of my heart both for your frank words and your firm support.

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[therightchoice]

I'm not very good at fighting.

[ This is kinda a bald-faced lie, but also not really. See: Antichrist. ]

But I can make supplies? Like bandages and stuff, I can draw thing and make 'em real.

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[yggdrasilvips]

[As with the other children who have spoken, she feels a moment of hesitation, so it's a relief when this one immediately chooses a support role.]

We will require supplies of every sort, in great measure. Your assistance will be invaluable regardless of which path we take.

[video;]

[sassgardian]

I do admit I'm rather new to this, but my sword is indeed still yours if you would have it, my Lady.

[And said without the slightest hint of hesitation: as if he could have said no and ever forgiven himself. One home really isn't terribly different from the other when they both stand as that beacon of hope that he would have to be be, truthfully, blind to deny. He can't say no, even if, by some strange altered circumstance, he had been inclined to in the first place. Cry for help: check. From beautiful people: HELLO. Bonus, and check.]

[video;]

[yggdrasilvips]

I would have any warrior brave and noble enough to offer himself, sir. Indeed, eve those who would come to me with a deep fear in their hearts should be accepted and encouraged just as eagerly. No offer of support shall go to waste.

[She bows her head in gratitude.]

[windbreak]

Charge in right away, or sit by and let you burn... There's really no other options...?

[She strikes him as someone to trust - and besides, he's so far out of his depth it's not even funny - so maybe he just doesn't get it. He hopes he just doesn't get it.]

[yggdrasilvips]

Time is not a luxury that Alfheim has been afforded in this matter, I regret to say. The attack was swift, and the damage spreads twice as swiftly. That any options remain is a blessing in and of itself.

[video]

[needsnoheadsman]

[He doesn't hesitate.]

My sword is yours, Your Grace, as is anything else you may require of me. What would you have us do, to drive out those that invaded your home?

[video]

[yggdrasilvips]

I thank you, sir, as do my people. Warriors will be very much in demand should the city be reclaimed by force.

Orders themselves will be given by the gods of this city, as you are the wards of Asgard, and thus not mine to command. They will come swiftly, however, once the decision has been made.

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[afrozendance]

[Being driven away from home, losing loved ones... it's something that Ninian can sympathize with. And she wants to give a hand to those in need.]

I... I understand, milady. My healing powers are at your service.

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[yggdrasilvips]

They will be greatly needed, and appreciated beyond measure. I thank you with all my heart.

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[subecho]

[ Elves. Why - elves. ]


What... enough. What proof do you bring that this is no trickery?

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[yggdrasilvips]

[In truth, she'd expected suspicion long before this. Her response is firm, but in no way defensive.]

As we do not have such devices as Asgard's in my land, I cannot show you any visual representation of the devastation. But you may see the few refugees we have been able to rescue at the city's hospital in Sigyn, and they will verify my claims. The gods will also speak in my name, if any of them have earned your good faith, and the very ash that falls from the sky offers some proof.

[Video]

[comeonthensexy]

Do you want to reclaim it?

[Video]

[yggdrasilvips]

[A frank question, and a difficult one. But as much as she does not wish to sway people with emotional pleas, she must answer honestly.]

The sight of our forests, older than any who walk the surface of this land, quickly disappearing in a storm of flame, is perhaps the most devastating thing any elf can imagine. That these flames should also reach the city and harm my people grieves me even more deeply. Yes, sir, my deepest wish would be that we might salvage whatever remains.

War is no place for wishes, however, and none have the right to place the lives of others beneath the lives of those they claim as their own. Asgard will choose as it sees fit.