The new nerd overlord for the Rifts and the Veil project

[circleprodigy]

FORM: Sending Crystal
SENDER: Inessa Serra
RECIPIENT: Any, but priority given to project members. 
WHAT: Announcing her new position
WHEN: Now
WHERE: Kirkwall, the Gallows
NOTES: Project Page

[And now for Inessa's calm, professional tone as she makes her own announcement.]

Good morning. This is Inessa Serra, and I have been granted leadership of the Rifts and the Veil project, replacing Clarke Griffin. The room she had claimed -center tower, third floor- will remain in use, for easing the transition. As to what I expect, it's quite simple. I would rather give you needed flexibility rather than micromanage, though if you desire direction I will do my best to advise. I wish to see everyone in a role they are invested in and enjoy, rather than flounder.

At this time, I believe our priorities ought remain on the shards and learning what we can of them to assist their bearers. To that end, I wish to gather as much information as possible regarding how and when they were acquired, along with complete records of any changes undergone since then. A voluntary survey will be made; if you have opinions as to what it ought contain, you're encouraged to share them. All such information will continue to be encoded, to ensure the safety and privacy of those involved. 

 If you have questions or issues, I maintain an open-door policy. 

Comments

[circleprodigy]

They...weren't taking the lyrium voluntarily. Some were captured by Venatori, and forced to ingest it. [There's a wince in her voice as she leans back, and Garahel whines a little.] Overdosing on lyrium has similar ill effects; I believe there was a report about a shapeshifting rifter who could not control herself in that state, and attacked her allies.

[On to a less grim topic....]

From what I've seen, the shards can evolve to create a defensive barrier, which can deflect projectiles. The other ability creates bursts of energy that can inflict physical damage. Thus far, only those two abilities have been observed. We've yet to see if there will be more.

[faithlikeaseed]

...Maker's blood. That's--awful. [If he needed any more reason to dislike the Venatori.] Did you get them all back? The rifters they'd captured.

[Less grim and more theoretically interesting, to boot.]

Huh! It "evolves"--so does it change in some way, so you know which rifters can and can't do what?

[circleprodigy]

Yes, I was told as such. I wasn't there for it, but in the end, the Venatori paid for what they did.

[Not nearly enough, as the slight hardness in her tone might indicate. Whatever compassion Inessa has to spare, it's not for the Tevinter fanatics.]

I have heard of at least one native shardbearer undergoing such a change. Multiple rifters have done so, though they remain a relatively small amount. Beyond that, I have no concrete details to give. That's what I aim to correct with the survey. Such evolutions have gone unstudied in too many cases.

[faithlikeaseed]

Good.

[Not much compassion lost here with Myr, either.]

Right, right. I imagine with the, [his voice falters a little; he tips his face down, as if considering his half-empty teacup,] disorder it's been difficult to keep track of these things. A survey's a practical idea.

I'll be interested in hearing what comes of it.

Now that I'm up to date, what d'you need me to do to best help your efforts on this?

[circleprodigy]

[She pauses, stirring her tea.]

It's often in my nature to assume I can handle all on my own, but this project has me admitting that it will take more heads than mine to coordinate it efficiently. I could use an assistant, someone with a sharp memory and organizational skills, who can familiarize themselves with the project members and ensure that all have a role they can manage. Would you be interested in this position?

[faithlikeaseed]

[He looks briefly taken aback by the offer, but to his credit, doesn't protest or demur. He trusts her judgment.]

I would be. The paperwork might be a little difficult, [he punctuates this with a smile,] but I'll work something out.

[circleprodigy]

[There's a smile in her voice as she responds.]

I can see about obtaining the services of a scribe. It shouldn't be too difficult, I believe.

[Garahel looks up and barks, evidently enthusiastic about more time around Myr.]

[faithlikeaseed]

[He brightens further at the suggestion.] That would do.

And-- [He breaks off to laugh at Garahel's interruption.] --yes, we'll be spending a lot more time together, won't we? --I'm ready to start whenever you've need of me. Though, ah, I'm sure you've noticed I keep strange hours. [Thankfully he's on the diurnal side of his wandering schedule right now. But that won't last.]

[circleprodigy]

I have, yes. That doesn't bother me, however. When your hours overlap with mine, we'll coordinate as best we can...and when they do not, I'll appreciate reports as they're needed. Having someone who does not always share my hours could even be a boon; there might always be someone available for the project, after all.

[faithlikeaseed]

Good thought. It'll just be a matter of finding a scribe who can keep up with me. [An entirely solvable problem.]

Anything else we need to hash out? [Because if not he's finally going to get into--and share--those cookies he brought; they're distracting with how good they smell.]

[circleprodigy]

Not at this time, no.

[She smiles, likewise getting distracted by the smell. Garahel may be trying -and failing- to discreetly sniff at them.]

I say we've earned a tea and cookie break, haven't you?

[faithlikeaseed]

[He lifts his teacup in salute.] You're the boss--but the suggestion's got my full approval.

[And there's definitely some to spare for Garahel.]