(2022-12-09) Interviews of Aiseia Stormhammer and Samarith Felbinder

Details

Author:	inkie
Summary:	What it says on the tin.
Rating:	M for Mature 17+

Ben ambles punctually down the stairs, his guild tabard fresh-pressed, his shirtsleeves rolled, his hair… well. His hair is present. Some of it. It looks… neater than the last time either Elo or Jo saw him?
[Ben]: Afternoon.
Jocoza waves at Ben. "Welcome!"
Jocoza gestures Ben to a chair and glances back over at Elo. "So, we've got the two candidates today."
Ben doesn't take a chair. He takes up his usual spot behind Elohad's chair, at his shoulder.
Jocoza shuffles up the applications. "There's a dwarf and a human, both women."
[Elohad]: A dwarf! That's wonderful.
Ben nods. "The human woman's Sam Felbinder, yeah?"
[Elohad]: … Felbinder. Really?
Elohad lets out a long, drawn-out sigh.
[Ben]: … you will see, sir. Think you'll like her. She ain't a warlock. She is a witch.
[Ben]: Hunts demons down.
[Jocoza]: Huh, okay. But then why Felbinder instead of Felkiller?
[Ben]: Because it is hard to kill one, you know? They just pop back into the nether, can start all over again.
[Ben]: What she does is bind 'em up, kind of indefinite.
[Ben]: In a kind of trap.
[Elohad]: I am not sure "witch" is a word I associate with Cobalt Company either, if we're being honest.
[Ben]: Probably she will have to explain it.
[Elohad]: Hm.
[Jocoza]: And it sounds like you've talked to her quite a lot, then? You like her?
[Ben]: She comes by Bruuk's. Knows me, Sil, Mr– Sir Atley, few of the others.
[Ben]: She has been down to Westfall to hunt out a doomguard in the Defias, along with our Lireen.
[Elohad]: Oh, I heard a little about that group. I was a little annoyed at first because I'd hoped to send Cobalt Blade into the mines when they were ready, you know, for symbolism. But they… aren't ready, so I guess it's good that someone took care of it.
[Ben]: She takes what she does pretty serious, I reckon.
[Ben]: Don't seem to take much else too serious. Funny girl.
[Jocoza]: The Blade's coming together though. *Jo smiles* Three of five. I haven't found a likely mage yet, but I have high hopes of running into someone soon.
[Elohad]: Lireen's recommendation does carry some weight. It's hard to call a two-and-a-half-century old dwarf who's defended two collapsing capital cities foolish.
[Ben]: … also my recommendation.
Ben nods gravely.
[Elohad]: Ben, you know I love you, but you're a little… soft on people sometimes. Particularly warlocks.
[Elohad]: Though it was a good call, you booting Sandy after that… little incident.
Jocoza makes a 'hmm' sound and taps her fingers together.
[Ben]: On Sandy I ain't soft. I did put up with him so long as he was squad, because wasn't my call who made squad an' I trust captains' judgement. Tell me Miss Coit is a problem, though.
[Elohad]: She seems to be doing all right.
Elohad grudgingly admits.
Ben nods firmly.
[Jocoza]: I haven't seen anything that looked troubling in the reports.
[Elohad]: She's a good girl, I think. Or trying to be.
[Elohad]: And she's smart, which is important when dealing with demons.
Elohad doesn't say the thing that is going unsaid.
Elohad would never insult Sandy like that.
[Elohad]: It's just pretty rare to find someone who's smart… and good… and a warlock. Vanishingly rare.
[Ben]: She is a good girl. Maybe it is different that she got a different start to things than Sanders, too. Reckon he come up pretty… you know. Miss Coit come over a tough road an' she learned to be tough. And smart.
[Jocoza]: Okay, that's good. I was a little nervous promoting her, you know. But her teacher said she'd be reliable, and he's 7th, so…
[Elohad]: Still blows my mind they'd let a warlock captain a 7th Legion unit…
[Jocoza]: Hi Auralind!
[Auralind]: What is this about a warlock?
[Elohad]: The one on my squad. Lena.
[Auralind]: Ah, yes. Coit.
[Elohad]: She's been surprisingly little trouble. Stuff like, if someone asks her to dismiss a demon she just… does. No fuss.
Jocoza looks at Elohad with pleased surprise. "That's good to hear."
Ben glances over to Auralind and nods respectfully. "Ish-nolah, ma'am."
Auralind tries not to cringe at Ben's greeting. She really, really tries.
[Auralind]: Ishnu alah, Ben.
Ben smiles at Auralind. Not that she can tell. He was also really, really trying.
[Jocoza]: And we've got a witch to interview today. But first! The dwarf, a paladin!
[Elohad]: Ooooh, you didn't say she was a paladin. Can I hire her sight unseen? *He grins.*
Aiseia rushes in, obviously trying not to be late.
[Elohad]: Oh! and… there's the sight. Being seen. Hello.
Elohad rises and bows respectfully to Aiseia.
Jocoza hops up as well, so Aiseia won't be the shortest one in the room. "I take it you're… Aiseia Stormhammer?"
Ben straightens from the back of Elohad's chair and grins at Aiseia, raising his… one eyebrow. "Well, if it ain't Ace."
[Elohad]: C'mon in and find a seat! Grab an apple if you like, or some cheese, there on the table.
[Aiseia]: Thank you, sir, mister– Oh light. You're Sir Elohad!
[Elohad]: I… yes, that's me.
Elohad smiles warmly.
[Aiseia]: You did the best theatricals in Azeroth!
Aiseia is stunned.
Jocoza giggles. "Your reputation continues, Elo."
[Ben]: Does the best merc outfit, too.
[Ben]: Just can't stop doin' the best.
Elohad laughs in surprise. "Well! That is not what I was expecting you to know me for, but… goodness, that's nice to hear after all these years."
Elohad gestures to the chair next to him. "Theater lovers get to sit next to me."
[Aiseia]: I love the theatre! So much! It's wonderful! Oh, my goodness.
Elohad has clearly already hired her, in his mind.
Ben grins at Aiseia again.
Auralind settles on the floor.
Aiseia is all a-flutter.
Jocoza hops back up into her chair. "We do these interviews sitting to avoid neck strain."
[Elohad]: Except Ben. He always stands.
Ben resumes leaning casually on the back of Elohad's chair. He nods gravely.
Elohad stage whispers, "I've never asked why."
[Jocoza]: Ben, if I stop looking at you, just assume it's the neck hurting. *Jo giggles.*
Aiseia nods. "To be ready, I imagine."
[Ben]: Got to have your back, sir.
Ben nods approval at Aiseia.
Jocoza shrugs. "We're safe in here."
[Ben]: It is metaphorical. Figural? You know.
[Aiseia]: But what if something happens out there? Sir Ben has a head start.
[Ben]: … oh, I ain't a Sir yet, miss. 'Preciate you, though.
[Jocoza]: I… suppose. *Jo nods.* So let's get going? Ace, is it? What brings you to Cobalt company?
Elohad listens intently to Aiseia.
[Aiseia]: I met Lireen out in the field, and one thing followin' another, we wound up on a demon hunt in the Defias hideout in Westfall.
Jocoza nods. "We heard about that. It was good work!"
[Aiseia]: And then it occurred to me. You are all doing big work in Outland. And I thought I had to be ready for that. But there's a lot to do right here.
[Auralind]: That is very true.
Elohad nods emphatically.
[Aiseia]: Keeping things swept up, you know?
[Jocoza]: Oh absolutely. We are an Azerothian company, doing work in Outland. Azeroth always matters.
[Elohad]: I think it's crucial, actually. We don't want to be seen as having abandoned our home.
[Aiseia]: And there's all kinds of trouble. Dark Irons. Defias running about. Horde. Trouble in Theramore…
[Elohad]: We're really grateful for what you did in the Mines. I was trying to get a group together to check the place out, but… things kept falling apart. I owe everyone who took part in it.
[Aiseia]: I… it just happened, Sir. We found out, it just seemed natural.
[Jocoza]: And yes, there's always work to do, everywhere. And we value people who see things that need to be done, and then they just do them.
[Elohad]: Lireen was mayyyybe a little free in throwing Cobalt's name around, but it did get quick results, so I won't quibble. *He grins.*
[Aiseia]: I think she's thinking that a good set of hands should be put to work where they can.
Elohad nods. "I do tend to agree."
[Jocoza]: My next question would be what you propose to bring to the Company, but… we know you're a paladin, and one of ours has worked with you in the field.
[Elohad]: I'm curious how you came to be a paladin, if you don't mind telling us.
[Aiseia]: I don't really fit in with my family.
[Elohad]: What are they like?
Elohad seems fine being nosy as all get out.
Jocoza waits patiently for Ace to explain, a friendly smile on her face.
Aiseia laughs. "They love me, but I'm the odd one. I don't smith, I don't trade, and my sister's prettier than I am. They tried, but… I Iiked the combat training we got the best."
Ben tilts his head and watches Aiseia shrewdly.
[Aiseia]: So I hung around to learn more. And the Light took to me, so here I am.
[Aiseia]: If it hadn't, I'd still do this. Fighting, I mean.
[Elohad]: So the Light just came naturally to you? *He looks almost envious.*
Ben does too. He looks enviously at her over Elohad's envious head.
[Aiseia]: It's… I just… when they said, ‘open your heart,’ I said, ‘all right,’ and it works?
[Elohad]: Don't get me wrong, I think it's great. It's just… My first wife described my training as me ‘beating my head against a wall until something cracked and the Light poured in.’
Auralind pinches her lips tightly to prevent herself laughing.
Ben studies the top of Elohad's head. Possibly for a crack?
Elohad 's head would make cracks quite obvious. There do not seem to be any.
[Jocoza]: I think it sounds lovely. *Jo smiles* The opening your heart part, that is.
[Aiseia]: I worry that if I question it too much I'll lose the knack.
[Elohad]: That's me and writing. So…. I'll let it go. *He grins.*
[Elohad]: I keep hoping I'll discover the Secret… but I guess there's no figuring it out.
[Aiseia]: Oh, not me! It's all grand in my head, but it never winds up that way on paper.
Elohad chuckles at Aiseia.
[Elohad]: I wrote ‘The Cat's Lashes’ in less than two weeks, believe it or not. But I digress…
[Jocoza]: Do you… have a specialization as a paladin?
Aiseia looks to Jososa. "I have tried healing, and right now I'm trying defensive heavy combat. I like both of them. I might try the way of retribution later."
Jocoza looks impressed. "Versatile as well."
[Elohad]: I've tried all those myself. Nothing wrong with versatility, yeah.
[Elohad]: I eventually settled into a healer role, but I've tried it all.
Ben scrubs a hand over his shorn hair a little unhappily. He nods. "Versatile's good."
[Elohad]: I think knowing the other disciplines actually helps me be a better healer, because I've played the roles of the people I'm healing.
[Elohad]: Ben here's more of a specialist, but that's good too. I'd trust him to protect any of us.
[Aiseia]: I have to confess that I like the fighting. Everything else goes away. I see differently. It's a challenge.
Elohad nods at Aiseia.
[Ben]: The fightin's where I come from, too.
Aiseia looks up at Ben. "It's clearer. You know? You can't worry about other things. It's you, and the job in front of you."
Ben nods with firm fellow-feeling at Aiseia and breaks into a crooked grin.
[Ben]: 'Zactly.
[Elohad]: And you seem young — can probably take more punishment than I can.
[Elohad]: If you want any guidance along that path, and you don't have any good mentors yet, I recommend Sevastyn Black. He's who I send all our young paladins to if they need guidance. He's a dear friend and… well, pretty much a saint.
Auralind quietly listens, ears flicking here and there. Her dimly-lit eyes never seem to focus on anything in particular.
[Elohad]: You wouldn't know he's a saint to look at him though. Might take him for a lumberjack or a bouncer.
Jocoza giggles.
[Aiseia]: Looking saintly takes a lot of hairstyling.
[Aiseia]: My sister can tell you.
[Elohad]: And he has a lot of hair. *This time, the envy isn't subtle.*
Ben drags a hand ruefully across his own shorn crop again.
[Jocoza]: Okay, so let's move on. *Jo glances at the hair-envy guys.* Ace, is there any sort of person you couldn't work with, or sort of work you're not willing to do?
[Auralind]: I have found there is a certain freedom in being unburdened with concerns about image.
[Elohad]: We never formally introduced Lt. Mistwalker, did we. She's a Hyjal veteran, and a longtime Sentinel.
Elohad smiles warmly at his old friend.
Elohad 's smile is audible in his voice, luckily.
[Jocoza]: Oh gosh, I just jumped right into the interview, yes.
Auralind bows her head in greeting. "Elune adore."
Aiseia nods at Auralind. "But there is value in the deliberate use of appearance. People judge– and they can be fooled by appearances."
Elohad peers at Ace with new respect at this sign of strategic thinking.
Ben is also studying Ace with respect… and sharp interest, now.
[Auralind]: Precisely my point, Ace. Rid yourself of reliance upon appearance as a measure of value, and it will set you free of such deceptions.
Aiseia thinks. Her expression is ruffled with conflict, but then she says, "May I ask a question?"
[Elohad]: Of course!
[Jocoza]: Sure, go ahead.
[Aiseia]: Sometimes charging straight in limits your flexibility in what you can do. But other, quieter methods are seen as dishonest, even if the careful background move does the job with less loss.
[Aiseia]: How do you balance the two?
[Elohad]: Ooooh, I like this one.
Elohad scratches thoughtfully at his scraggly, unpaladinly beard.
Ben folds his arms on the back of Elohad's chair to lean more closely and intently, watching Ace.
[Elohad]: How do I balance it is a different answer from, how does Cobalt Company balance it. Which should I answer?
Elohad grins wickedly at Aiseia.
Aiseia tilts her head. "Now that's an interesting answer. Of course I want to know both."
[Auralind]: Indeed, they are different questions. For me it is simple. My people do not share the view that stealth is somehow dishonorable.
Aiseia nods.
[Elohad]: And I've always been a planner. I have a plan A and B and C before I even get started, usually. And my first plan is usually the one that's a little… less direct. I kill only if it's necessary. Not really the Lightbringer's way, but the Light hasn't given up on me yet, so.
Aiseia nods. "The Light's way is to shine on things. But sometimes it's better if all that shiny is a big distraction."
Ben smiles faintly at Aiseia.
[Elohad]: As for Cobalt Company, by nature we're flexible. Depending on the mission, we might go rushing in and overwhelm with direct force, like we did in the Deadmines two years ago. Or we might be sneaky and subtle, and never get credit for what we did.
[Elohad]: …Like some things I won't mention.
[Elohad]: That's why we hire all types. Well, almost all types. Not death knights or anything, haha.
Aiseia shrugs one shoulder. "I've been doing a few things for people who like their work secret. I've been thinking about it a lot."
[Jocoza]: We also have the benefit of fielding multiple teams, so we can do both. Like the recent missions where Ben and Elo were working the spymaster angle while Auralind's team did the direct approach.
Ben nods.
[Elohad]: And sometimes it's two teams but both are brute force. Hammer and anvil.
[Elohad]: Nothing wrong with subtlety. We have good relations with SI:7 and even the Assassins' Guild.
Jocoza nods. "I'm more of a 'set things on fire and blink out' girl, but I appreciate the planning, too."
Aiseia looks a bit relieved.
[Elohad]: We always try to assign people to the jobs that suit their styles the best.
[Aiseia]: I like the whole ‘Bruiser for the Light’ thing. I do! But I also like the quiet and effective. I think they're partners.
Elohad nods.
[Elohad]: Is there anywhere in particular you'd like to do work in the near future, Ms. Stormhammer? Any part of the world you'd like to travel to, et cetera?
[Aiseia]: I'm a bit itinerant right now. But there's something wrong at Scarlet Monastery.
[Aiseia]: And I don't think I'm tough enough to fight my way in there.
[Elohad]: That place is impossible to clean out completely, far as I can tell. The Scarlets are… tenacious. We can look into it again though.
Ben nods. "Was one've my first jobs for Cobalt, back in the day."
Auralind curls a lip at the mention of the Scarlet Crusade.
[Aiseia]: As long as people believe the idea, they will continue.
[Ben]: They just keep comin' back. Fucken roaches. Pardon my Common.
Aiseia grins. "It's all right."
[Jocoza]: Uh, I should also mention we have a few ex-Scarlets on our roster. Emphasis on ex, though.
Elohad frowns, but doesn't comment.
[Aiseia]: It's got to be tough to walk away from!
[Aiseia]: It's hard to realize that you're not doing what you thought you were.
Elohad seems deeply uncomfortable with this topic, for some reason, falling unusually silent.
[Aiseia]: It's all right, though. Not my business unless they feel I'm worth telling.
Ben glances down at the top of Elohad's head.
Jocoza notes Elo's expression and turns back to Ace. "But yes, we can certainly look into the monastery."
[Elohad]: Any other areas that interest you, with smaller jobs, while we look into the Monastery more?
[Aiseia]: For the moment, I'm doing some investigating into the Defias, who have a hideout outside Theramore.
[Elohad]: Theramore eh? I think Prospector Stillwall said something about heading out that way. You should try and connect with him.
[Aiseia]: Oh, I'd love partners!
[Jocoza]: They're still out that way? That group gets into everything it seems.
[Auralind]: They must still be recruiting. That is disturbing.
[Elohad]: Yeah. They dug in there pretty deep when they were involved in the king's abduction; it doesn't surprise me that they're still clinging to the territory.
Ben straightens again. "Defias," he growls. "I am mostly Outland side right now but if I am ever over here you let me know you need a hand. I am always up for it."
[Elohad]: But yes, when you're out there, check at the inn for a Prospector Brannagen Stillwall. If he's not drinking there he'll be by soon enough.
[Elohad]: He's with the Explorers' League, and apparently he's taken a fascination to that swamp recently.
[Aiseia]: I can look for him!
[Aiseia]: Excellent. I have some rumors about Razormanes? but not enough information.
[Elohad]: Worth checking into.
[Ben]: Also just so's you know — Prospector Stillwall is a hell of a fellow, but don't take it personal if he… forgets your name a lot, an' shit. Or what day it is or where he left his socks.
Elohad chuckles at Ben.
[Jocoza]: Alright, for this interview I think we've covered the bases. Any more questions for Ace? Or Ace, any questions for us?
[Elohad]: I have no questions. *He grins.*
[Aiseia]: Do I just keep on running about, training and doing good deeds? or will there be something specific I should keep an eye on?
[Aiseia]: Also, how do I meet more people?
[Jocoza]: Well, there's a lot, let me see…
[Elohad]: It's kinda both. Once you're signed on with us, you can drop our name to anyone who needs help, and they'll trust you.
[Elohad]: But also we sometimes send people specific assignments.
Jocoza nods at Elohad.
[Elohad]: Coming by HQ or Bruuk's is a good way to meet other folks, find out where they plan to travel and if you wanna tag along..
[Jocoza]: As for meeting people, we can direct to people with similar interests, like Elo did Stillwall.
[Ben]: And if you get word of a big job you can't handle on your own, like in the marsh, you can contact the Company for hands, too.
[Elohad]: Yep.
[Jocoza]: We also host social events from time to time. I… um, I run a science club.
Elohad smiles at Jocoza.
Aiseia nods. "Also. This is information that might be important."
[Jocoza]: Oh? *Jo shuts up and listens to Ace.*
Elohad listens intently to Aiseia.
[Aiseia]: My family, the Stormhammers of Ironforge, are expanding their interests from crafting and trading into politics. As such, they are working hard to make advantageous connections to increase influence. I… haven't told anyone about this.
[Aiseia]: I didn't realize what they were doing, at first, until I was in the field, but I know now. And I understand that can have implications for intelligence.
[Elohad]: Well, Cobalt Company is definitely an… advantageous connection. The question is, do you want your family to be connected to us or not? We can play it however you prefer.
[Elohad]: We can downplay your name in communications if you'd rather your family not be entangled with us… or we can embrace that connection if that's what you want.
[Ben]: Wait, the Ironforge Stormhammers? Like… the smithin' ones?
Ben stares.
Aiseia nods. "Yes. The same."
Ben straightens away from Elohad's chair with a low whistle and looks Ace up and down, wide-eyed.
[Jocoza]: We… also have a senator's daughter in our ranks. An Ironforge senator's daughter.
[Elohad]: Would you say they lean… conservative or progressive…?
Elohad scratches at his beard again.
[Aiseia]: I would say that they lean… ambitious.
[Elohad]: Heh.
[Elohad]: Well, if they're good folks, being connected to us couldn't hurt 'em.
Aiseia raises uncomfortable shoulders. "They'll lean whichever way helps them rise. At least, that's what I am worrying about."
[Elohad]: Well, maybe we can help steer them toward the Light, hm?
Elohad smiles warmly.
[Aiseia]: I think that would be best. yes. That's what I want to do.
[Aiseia]: I wanted you to know because it could cause entanglements later.
Elohad nods.
[Elohad]: If you want, I can start sending them our weekly updates, so they can see all the good we're doing, and they can keep tabs on the type of people you've signed on with.
[Elohad]: We leave anything really classified out of the newsletter; family and supporters are welcome to read it. I think it would help them see there are honest and Light-blessed ways of getting things done in the world.
Aiseia relaxes even more. "That's good."
[Elohad]: Cobalt Company has risen pretty far without ever doing anything terribly underhanded, and so I think we'd be a good example.
[Elohad]: I think that about settles it then. I'll send word out to Theramore so Prospector Stillwall knows to keep an eye out for you. *He reaches into the top drawer beside him.* Here's the paperwork, just sign and return within the week.
Elohad passes her the official application, Code of Conduct, etc.
Aiseia takes the papers and grins. "Thank you!"
[Jocoza]: I think that's a pretty good read of the room, but any objections, anyone?
Aiseia looks up, hopefully.
Auralind arches an eyebrow in Elohad's direction.
[Elohad]: Oh right, I'm supposed to wait for a vote. Oops. *He grins.*
[Elohad]: Sorrryyyy.
[Auralind]: Ace, are there any people or groups of people you feel you could /not/ work with?
[Aiseia]: I don't know. I think everyone would be after the same thing, right?
Elohad nods emphatically.
[Jocoza]: In our company, of course. But yes, what Auralind said.
[Auralind]: We ask because, for example, many people have an issue working with warlocks.
[Elohad]: Yes, what are your thoughts on warlocks? Particularly that one that went with you into the mines?
[Aiseia]: Oh! No. Warlocking's a tool, isn't it? And if a hexer's having trouble, who better backup than me?
Elohad scratches his beard thoughtfully at her rhetorical question.
Ben smiles warmly at Aiseia and pointedly does not look down at Elohad's head this time.
[Aiseia]: I keep people safe. That's what I do.
Ben nods approval.
[Elohad]: Well, all right then. Seems pretty settled to me.
[Elohad]: Welcome to Cobalt Company, Stormhammer.
[Auralind]: Ahem.
[Auralind]: Shall we vote?
Auralind is a stickler for procedure!
Elohad siiiiiiiiighs.
Aiseia beams. "You should vote."
[Elohad]: I vote yes.
[Ben]: … you do, sir?
Elohad gives Ben a Look.
Aiseia tries not to laugh.
Ben is a f*cken angel, look at his halo.
[Jocoza]: I vote yes.
[Ben]: I vote yes also.
Elohad gives Auralind a Look she can probably feel.
Auralind tries not to smirk with amusement at the Look. "I also vote yes."
[Jocoza]: Then now you can say it Elo. *Jo giggles*
[Elohad]: WELCOME TO COBALT COMPANY!
Elohad does that with his arms and everything.
Auralind laughs.
Aiseia cheers at Elohad!
Elohad laughs at Aiseia.
[Aiseia]: Hurrah! Oh this'll be grand!
Ben grins at Aiseia.
Elohad grins at Aiseia.
[Elohad]: Good luck and let me know how it goes in Theramore.
Elohad salutes Aiseia with respect.
[Jocoza]: Looking forward to working with you. Let us know if you have any more questions, or if you need anything!
[Ben]: An' hey, hope you will come by Bruuk's again? Would not mind knowin' you some more, miss.
[Aiseia]: I will! And I'll meet you at Bruuk's!
Elohad beams happily.
[Elohad]: So before we let in our next interviewee… Stormhammer, what's your read on her? The warlock, Sam.
[Ben]: She is not a warlock, sir. I told you.
Ben folds his arms across his chest.
[Elohad]: She had a demon with her, right?
[Aiseia]: She's smart and she wants — I don't want to say revenge. but it has that drive.
[Aiseia]: She needs to track down this dreadlord and stop him.
[Elohad]: Hm, interesting. Thanks for the insight.
Aiseia holds up a hand. "My worry is that in a choice, she'll pick getting the dreadlord."
[Jocoza]: Over helping her teammates?
[Elohad]: We can ask!
Aiseia shrugs shoulders up higher. "Not intentionally."
[Aiseia]: But this is important to her. She'll need support.
[Jocoza]: We're about to talk to her next.
[Elohad]: She should be here any minute, right?
[Elohad]: You can stay if you want.
[Elohad]: Might be nice to have the perspective of someone who's actually worked with her on a dangerous mission.
[Auralind]: I fear I must go. My time is short. The Cenarion Expedition has requesting my aid again. There is trouble brewing in Blade's Edge Mountains and they are stretched thin.
Elohad nods at Auralind.
[Elohad]: I'll just vote twice.
Elohad grins wickedly at Auralind.
[Jocoza]: Oh, well thanks for coming over to Ironforge. It's always good to have you.
[Auralind]: You know my concerns regarding war– *Sigh.* Someone who deals with demons.
[Elohad]: I do. And I share them.
Ben mutters something about people not being warlocks. But, like, to himself.
Auralind nods.
[Jocoza]: We'll keep it in mind, for sure.
[Elohad]: I won't approve her unless I think you'd be willing to give her a shot.
[Auralind]: En'shu falah nah.
Aiseia smiles at Elohad. "It's good to meet you, Sir."
[Elohad]: Stormhammer, you wanna stick around for Sam's interview, or have you got places you need to be?
[Elohad]: We certainly don't mean to keep you. Just know that this place is a home for you anytime you want it, and your opinion matters to us.
Ben nods.
[Aiseia]: I only bring it up about Sam because the easiest way to prevent a problem is to know how to avoid it.
Elohad nods at Aiseia.
[Elohad]: I think you're going to fit in here just fine, Stormhammer.
Samarith calls out. "Knock, knock? Anyone home?"
[Ben]: An' if you ever need, y'know. A home apart from the one you got now, people've quartered here befo–
Ben glances up.
[Aiseia]: This is important. Very important. And now I need to go!
[Jocoza]: We're down here! Come on in!
[Samarith]: Oh good, I found the right place. Oh, hey Ace!
Ben smiles at Samarith. "Afternoon, miss."
[Aiseia]: Hi Sam! I'm in!
Aiseia hops off the chair. "Good luck!"
Elohad salutes Aiseia with respect.
[Elohad]: Travel safe and stay in touch!
[Jocoza]: Samarith Felbinder, I assume?
Elohad eyes Samarith up and down.
[Samarith]: Yes, ma'am. I'm Samarith Felbinder. Hey there, Hazan… or, uh… Mr. Hazan? Sir?
[Ben]: Hazan's okay. Ain't your Lieutenant. Yet.
[Elohad]: I'm Elohad Ference, founder of the Company and its co-captain. Pleased to meet you.
Elohad gives a brief, formal bow.
[Jocoza]: And I'm Captain Jocoza Sparkwire.
Jocoza waves cheerily from her seat.
[Samarith]: Nice to meet you both!
[Ben]: I like your blouse.
[Jocoza]: Come, have a seat. Grab an apple if you're hungry. *She gestures at the food table.*
Samarith eyes the apples. "Oh, sure! Thanks!"
Samarith grabs an apple then takes a seat.
Samarith chooses the seat Ace was in. Lucky Elo!
Elohad is absolutely delighted, I'm sure.
Ben props his elbow to lean on the back of Elo's chair again. He looms.
[Jocoza]: Alright, so we do know about your mission with Lireen in the Deadmines. What made you want to join Cobalt Company exactly?
[Samarith]: Honestly? Lireen did. Well, I should say working with her daughter, and then Lireen kind of put it into perspective.
[Elohad]: How so?
Elohad 's manner is much less warm and effusive for some mysterious reason.
[Samarith]: I've been working on my own for a long time, and it's been alright. But… some things just haven't worked out. Working with Maisha was such a different experience. Then when we got that team together and had our mission in the Deadmines… it was pretty eye-opening.
[Jocoza]: In what way?
[Samarith]: I didn't realize how much I missed having people to lean on. Good people, I mean. Spend too much time around brigands and ne'er-do-wells and you learn to rely only on yourself.
[Elohad]: Mm, that can be dangerous.
Ben nods somberly at Sam.
Samarith sighs and nods. "Yeah. I won't lie. It's gotten me into some tight spots."
[Jocoza]: Yes, knowing how to trust people is very important.
[Elohad]: How did you feel about the people you worked with in the mines?
Elohad is watching and listening to her carefully. He seems to be listening to more than just her words.
[Samarith]: Oh, they were great! Mai and I make a great team. Ace there is an absolute dream; she took great care of us. Lireen is a pro. And Bruss was a wildcard we didn't expect, but I'm glad he came along. He really knew his stuff.
Samarith is relaxed in her chair, one leg crossed over the other.
[Elohad]: Yeah, we invited him recently to the Company. I always love to have another shaman in the ranks.
[Samarith]: Yeah? Good choice there, Captain.
[Elohad]: Uh, thanks. Actually, I guess with Stormhammer… now the whole team has joined us. Not counting you, as of yet.
[Samarith]: Well, here's hoping.
Elohad looks to Jo. Now he's fine with her asking all sorts of questions.
[Jocoza]: Alright, so. Let's hear a bit about your qualifications. We've already heard some interesting things from Ben, but what would you bring to the Company?
[Samarith]: Well, I'm young but I have a lot of worldly experience. I was a mage of the Kirin Tor, but the war ended that. Since then I've studied a variety of magical practices… yes, including under warlocks, to address the kodo in the room… but primarily a form of witchcraft.
Elohad 's brow shoots up at the Kirin Tor bit.
[Jocoza]: Okay, can you tell us more about this form of witchcraft?
[Elohad]: Also, how precisely did the war end your Kirin Tor affiliation?
[Samarith]: Alright… uh… which do you want me to answer first?
[Elohad]: Take your pick.
[Samarith]: Let's go chronologically. It'll make more sense. So… the Kirin Tor.
Elohad listens intently to Samarith.
Samarith sighs, a bit of sadness coloring her. "I was a rising star in the Violet Citadel. Seriously, they used to say I'd be on the Council of Six one day. But when the Scourge closed in on my hometown… I'm from Corin's Crossing, in Lordaeron, you see…"
Elohad 's eyes tighten slightly.
Jocoza looks at her with sympathy.
[Samarith]: I asked for leave to go protect my family. But I was denied. They wanted everyone on hand in Dalaran. I couldn't just leave my family to die, though… so I left against orders.
[Elohad]: Ah.
[Jocoza]: I think that's understandable… and if you'd stayed in Dalaran. Well, there's always what-if's.
Samarith nods grimly.
[Samarith]: I got to Corin's Crossing ahead of the Scourge… but I didn't get them out before the attack. I…. um… I only managed to get my little brother and sister out.
[Samarith]: Anyway… by the time my sister and I got back to Dalaran, the Kirin Tor was not too happy with me.
[Elohad]: Right. They don't seem very forgiving.
Ben is watching Sam, his expression neutral, just listening.
[Samarith]: They're not. They put me under arcane probation, which severely limited my magic… and still does. It was never lifted… and then Dalaran was attacked.
Elohad nods the nod of one who remembers it well.
[Jocoza]: And then that leads into the 'what kind of witchcraft'. I assume you're still able to do some magic?
[Samarith]: Before I get into that, there's a part I left out because it's a whole story unto itself, and if I went into every detail we could be here for hours. But I want to be up front with you.
Elohad waits for it…
[Samarith]: Before returning to Dalaran, we holed up with some other refugees, led by this fellow, Lorganth. Reeeeal charismatic type. The sort everyone just worshipped, hung on his every word. You know the type.
[Jocoza]: I know they can make problems, yes.
Ben narrows his eyes.
Samarith 's eyes darken. "He convinced everyone demonology could be used to stop the Scourge." She sighs, shaking her head. "We were desperate, trapped… and stupid. I was wary, but I went along with it. Even I was under his spell."
[Jocoza]: So… he had a bunch of refugees… summon demons? *Jo's eyes widen.*
Elohad 's mouth is set in a grim line.
[Samarith]: Long story short… turns out Lorgan wasn't a man. He was a dreadlord. When I questioned him and he threw me out… I saw through his disguise.
[Samarith]: But I couldn't face a nathrezim on my own… especially not with a cult of warlocks behind him, and I had Lindy, my sister, to protect.
Elohad 's eyes are saucers.
[Jocoza]: So. You didn't summon a demon.
Samarith grits her teeth at Jo's question, and is suddenly fighting tears. "I… didn't say that. Ah, fuck…" She wipes her eyes. "Sorry. I really didn't want to get into this part."
Ben leans forward over Elo's chair, concerned.
Elohad peers at Samarith searchingly.
Jocoza winces at having caused tears, but glances at Elohad. Be tough on warlocks, Jo. "Then… it was only after, that you realized."
Samarith takes a breath to steady herself. "I told you… I got my sister and my brother out of Corin's Crossing. Well… I did successfully summon a demon… and I couldn't control it. And now… I only have my sister." She gives a curt little nod.
Elohad studies her for a moment, quiet, his eyes sad.
Ben leans back again, pained.
[Samarith]: That's when I turned against Lorgan, and he threw me out.
[Jocoza]: He must've known that would happen. So many people entirely untrained, someone was going to lose control.
Elohad says softly, "You aren't the only one among us who feels responsible for the death of family. Not by a long shot. The question is, how do you move forward from that?"
Samarith nods to Elo. "After Dalaran, we went to Stormwind and I left Lindy in the care of other Lordaeronian refugees. Then I started to train. I couldn't use the full breadth of the magic the Kirin Tor had taught me any more. So I need to find other paths."
[Jocoza]: The witchcraft.
Samarith nods. "One lesson Lorganthius did teach me was that demons could be controlled, but what I refused to do was bind one to myself. I needed another method. Nor would I let myself fall under the sway of another man like him."
[Samarith]: So, I did study with warlocks. I learned their ways, enough to understand how it worked. But then I took that knowledge with me while I found new teachers who would help me learn to use it in better ways. Ways to use it against demons.
[Jocoza]: So you're 'felbinder', but you don't actually have any demons bound to you?
[Samarith]: That's right.
Ben nods once at Sam.
Elohad sits back in his chair, looking thoughtful.
Jocoza looks to Elohad, trying to gauge his take on this.
[Elohad]: Did you or did you not have a demon with you in the Deadmines?
[Samarith]: I did. I summoned an imp and bound it to this talisman ring on my finger. And when I was done with it, I trapped it… in this… my Nether Box.
Elohad 's brow climbs toward what might once have been his hairline.
Samarith holds up the silvery, box-shaped pendant with maze-liked patterns around her neck.
Ben doesn't even twitch this time at the mention of Sam's nether box. He is the Moste Professional, Serious Business.
[Elohad]: This method you use — why isn't it used by other warlocks?
[Jocoza]: And can it get out, and an inopportune time?
[Samarith]: One, because other warlocks like having a singular demon bound to them they can summon over and over. Two, because I invented it and I'm still improving upon it.
[Jocoza]: So it could fail, if it's experimental.
[Samarith]: A demon did escape the very first iteration of the Nether Box. But I improved it, and they have been secure ever since. You see, the box simulates the Twisting Nether inside, and is essentially an endless labyrinth that continuously leads them inward.
[Samarith]: Anything can potentially fail. But if you want to review my designs I'll gladly show them to you. You might need my help to understand them.
[Elohad]: We have people.
Elohad says this in the tone of one who does Not Want To Understand Demon Stuff.
[Jocoza]: Warlocks, and engineers. I'm a mage and an engineer myself, and I'd like to see your designs.
[Jocoza]: So in short, what you bring in a practical sense is a certain type of magic, and the ability to compel demons.
Samarith nods. "I'd like to think I also bring a certain degree of 'thinking outside the box', if you'll pardon the figure of speech."
Elohad 's lips do twitch, a bit, at that.
[Ben]: And an understandin' of demons an' fel magics without an urge to tote around demons like pets yourself.
Samarith nods to Ben. "'Zactly."
Elohad scratches at his beard.
Ben glances down at Elo's head and arches his eyebrow.
[Samarith]: Let me be clear. I hate demons. The Scourge? It was a weapon. But the Legion held that weapon.
[Jocoza]: Alright, let's move on to the next question. Are there any types of work or sorts of people you can't work with? Like, how would you manage with an actual warlock, now?
[Samarith]: Not gonna lie, I'm not a fan of most warlocks. But I've met a few with good heads on their shoulders. When they've got the right attitude, some of them okay. You just have to keep a close eye on most of 'em. Demons are always whispering and looking for a way in. Always.
Elohad nods grimly.
Elohad continues to gently rake his nails over his beard, his eyes a little distant.
Samarith looks to Elohad in particular, but glances to all of them. "I get that you may be cautious of me. I'm used to that. All I can say is that we're on the same side. And… I can't do this alone anymore."
[Jocoza]: Alright, then. Elo, Ben, do you have any questions from your side?
[Jocoza]: I mean, that are relevant to the hiring question.
Elohad sighs softly, and looks over his shoulder at Ben.
[Ben]: I do not believe I do. I have had occasion to talk with Miss Felbinder prior several times an' am aware of her theories an' workin'.
Ben is in serious mode.
Elohad looks Sam in the eyes, very grave.
[Elohad]: I once did something of which I am very ashamed, and I did it for my family. It also came to no good. You… don't seem susceptible to temptation, and so I'm inclined to give you a trial run at the very least.
Samarith smiles warmly to Elohad. "That's more than a lot of folks have given me."
Ben nods once, mildly, and pats the top of Elohad's chair. He smiles faintly at Sam.
[Elohad]: I hope you understand, though, that people will be wary, will watch you closely. We let warlocks in at the start, and some of them have made… very questionable decisions. Are you able to endure the suspicion that generates?
[Samarith]: I deal with suspicion all the time…like people thinkin' I'm a warlock.
Samarith winks.
Elohad gives her a tight smile, but a smile nonetheless.
Jocoza nods. "Then before we take a vote, Samarith, do you have any questions for us?"
[Samarith]: So yeah, I do have a question.
Elohad nods.
[Samarith]: That mission in the Deadmines. I was actually looking for Lorganthius. He's the dreadlord that infiltrated the Defias. But he escaped, apparently to some other branch of his cult network. Would Cobalt Company be willing and able to help me track this bastard down and finally end him?
[Elohad]: Yes.
Samarith smiles gratefully.
Jocoza nods. "Ending a dreadlord is in our interests. We killed one in the Scarlets, a while back."
Ben nods firmly.
[Elohad]: That however, engenders a few questions in return. This is clearly very personal to you. Will you tolerate it if someone else gets to him before you do? And if you have to choose between revenge and the safety of your teammates, would you let him get away again?
[Samarith]: I'm not fixated on the killing blow or anything. But… I don't want to kill him. That'll just send him back to the Twisting Nether so he can return one day to start all over again. I want to trap him.
[Samarith]: Though, if I'm honest, I don't know if my box is powerful enough to trap a dreadlord.
Ben 's mouth does twitch this time. Inappropriate, Ben. He looks away.
[Elohad]: Failing that, I'm led to understand that it can take more powerful demons quite a long time to reemerge. I've never known of a specific dreadlord haunting Azeroth twice.
[Samarith]: Maybe, but I don't want to curse future generations to deal with him either. But… I do have some other ideas. But we can discuss those later. As to your other question….
Elohad listens intently to Samarith.
[Samarith]: I never had to worry about teammates before, because I deliberately chose to work alone, just for that reason. But I'm not too proud to admit when I'm wrong.
Elohad nods slowly.
[Samarith]: I can't do this alone.
[Elohad]: Well, that's the kind of thing Cobalt Company excels at. Things that can't be done alone.
[Samarith]: Yeah… I'm getting that impression. Heh.
Elohad looks to Jo and Ben.
[Jocoza]: Alright, time to vote?
Samarith throws up her hands with fingers crossed.
[Elohad]: I think it is time, yes.
[Ben]: Y'all know my vote.
Samarith looks hopefully to Jo.
[Elohad]: Have you ever voted no in your life, Ben?
[Ben]: Yessir.
Jocoza looks at Ben skeptically.
[Ben]: … I have.
[Jocoza]: I vote yes. And Elo? Trial run?
[Elohad]: Yes. I have to go with my gut on this, and this just… feels different to me.
[Samarith]: I get that a lot.
Samarith wiggles in her seat, doing a little victory dance.
Ben grins at Sam.
[Elohad]: I'd like for you to keep us fully informed on all your experiments, though, and if possible, I'd like for you to work with either Calduin Bennet OR Zath Tyrrell.
Elohad really wants you to work with his alts.
[Samarith]: Sure. Who're they?
[Elohad]: They are our current… consulting demonologists.
[Elohad]: Zath Tyrrell is a practicing warlock who summons demons, but he is also a Captain in the 7th Legion.
[Elohad]: Calduin Bennett is a demonology instructor who does not summon demons but is very knowledgeable about them.
[Samarith]: Ahh… mind if I meet 'em before you tell them about my work? Me and warlocks… don't always mesh so well. Though that Cal fellow sounds like he might be my kind of fellow.
[Samarith]: Fellow… fellow. Saying fellow too much.
[Elohad]: You may look either of them up and approach them however you prefer.
[Samarith]: Now I can't stop… fellow…
Elohad 's lips twitch.
Jocoza giggles.
[Samarith]: Sorry. Right, yes. I'll do that.
[Jocoza]: Anyway, Welcome to Cobalt Company, Samarith.
[Jocoza]: And let us know if you run into any questions, or you need any help!
[Samarith]: Excellent. Thank you. You won't regret it.
Elohad nods, but doesn't actually say the word 'welcome.'
[Ben]: Hey, welcome, Sam.
Ben leans heavily on Elo's chair. He said it for both of them.
Samarith grins at Ben. "Thanks, Hazan. Er… what do I call you now?"
[Ben]: Now you call me Lieutenant. If we are workin'. Otherwise you just call me Ben, like everyone does.
Elohad reaches into the drawer and passes Sam the usual paperwork.
[Elohad]: Just return those within the week, if you would.
[Samarith]: Oooh… heeey. Yaay… paperwork.
Samarith forces a smile.
Elohad gives her a crooked smile in return.
[Elohad]: Get used to it.
Samarith chuckles.
Elohad makes warlocks do EXTRA paperwork. Even warlocks who say they aren't warlocks.
[Jocoza]: Speaking of paperwork, I probably have some waiting in one of my offices. Anyone need a tear in space to anywhere, before I head out?
[Elohad]: I sure wish you wouldn't phrase it like that, Jo.
Jocoza giggles.
Ben grins from Elo to Jo and back again.
[Jocoza]: Well, but do you?
[Elohad]: I'm headed home to see Nir and Dane.
Elohad jerks his head to the right.
[Ben]: I do not. I got a meetin' here in the city.
Ben pats the back of Elo's chair again and straightens.
[Jocoza]: Alright. See you all soon!
[Samarith]: Well, I'll get out of your hair and go write this up.
[Ben]: Will see y'all around, yeah? Ma'am, Sir. Sam.
Ben nods.
[Elohad]: Take care everyone.
[Samarith]: You too, chief!
Elohad leaves in a perfectly normal manner.