video; un: ratchet (post attack on palace)

[neveroutwrenched]

[It's midday a few days after the battle when the feed comes to life. Ratchet is settled in the forest on the outskirts of the city, blaster pistol laid in the grass by his feet. Behind him, the trees are covered in scorch marks from his target practice... though truthfully, Ratchet was more interested in blowing off steam than working on his aim.

The race for a cure, the political intrigue, organizing a breakout... it was a lot of hurry up and wait while plans were worked out by those Orbers who'd proven themselves essential. The energy inside the palace walls was the taut, nervous kind that made Ratchet want to disappear into the middle of nowhere and shoot stuff until he got his head on straight.

He was still riding that adrenaline when he begins to speak, tail swishing involuntarily. Addressing a crowd -- even an invisible one -- wasn't in his comfort zone.]

Hey. Hi. [He waves.] Everyone's got a lot on their plates right now, so let me just say right off the bat: that this doesn't have to do with any of that. I promise, this is like... negative important. So if you're looking for the latest news on what's going on at the palace or in Yuryeong or whatever, you can probably skip this one.

[ There goes his tail, swishing harder. Yep, he was nailing this. ]

Anyway... We're dealing with a multiverse spanning AI here, right? Like, I get that part. But... isn't it a little crazy how many people here can straight up do magic? Like, is that a condition of admission? Because if it is, I think there was some kind of mistake when it picked me up. [It's a joke, but maybe not as much of one as he tries to make it sound.] I'm a great mechanic, don't get me wrong. I guess you could say I'm a wizard with engines, but I don't think that really counts when there are... actual wizards around.

[That wasn't offensive, right? "Wizard"? Sitting up a little straighter, Ratchet figures it's time to get to the point.]

So, I guess I'm trying to figure that part out. What did everyone on this team do, back on your worlds? Doctor? Culinary auteur? Unpaid intern? What do you think made the AI pick you for this?

... And if there's anyone else out there feeling a little powerless right now, you're welcome to come fire off a few rounds with me. [He holds up the gun with a lopsided grin.] It's not a magic wand or anything, but y'know. Still fun.

audio; un: lanxichen | post-palace attack

[calmness]

[ignore the long pause before this one realizes that he needs to talk to the device! there's a learning curve here.

when he speaks, xichen's voice is steady and soft but tinged with sadness he cannot hide.]

Greetings.

I have spent time with Lord Suk-Ju and have information that may be of use for our purposes. If it has already been shared, I apologize for the repetition.

During our discussion, he has shared his agitation that others around him, including Lady Jeung-Sun, -- were in his words -- too weak to do what it takes to ensure prosperity of Gyeongje and keep its reputation from tarnish. While I had not expected it, he is willing to do whatever is necessary to restore what has been lost. This includes the demolition of the outer district. It is clear there is already blood on his hands.

[a pause, the sound of a deep breath to reel in anger. toeing the lines here and spywork are not easy, especially for a man who leads a clan who forbid lying but there are lives at stake here.]

Additionally, I was able to communicate some of the spirits on the palace grounds. Only the guards responded to my inquiry. Some died in the attacks on the palace, others shortly following. Those that died in the attacks wished to assure me that their deaths were mistakes and those who died after affirm that their deaths served a purpose. That it had to be done.

I am unclear to what this means, unfortunately.

I do, however, have a request. Is anyone available to assist in helping settle the lingering spirits? A few have laid out requests that would help them pass to the other side but there are too many to handle alone.