>>6316464
You are Phaere Delyl, and this was not your first plan. It was, however, your third plan, for your mighty intellect has devised several contingencies for this exact occasion. "My plan was flawless, sister. The hunter from the plane of Acheron whom I hired from Mechanus was the perfect match against Jezyrene... yet a powerful mage numbers amongst her allies, for it was banished!" You exclaim, raising your index finger in the air for emphasis, despite the fact that your elder sister has her back turned away from you.

"Allies?" Asks the arch-priestess, unable to suppress the genuine surprise in her voice despite her usually severe manner. "Indeed, Matron Mother!" You state, placing your hands at your hips. "Why, my incredibly reputable sources have recently informed me that she is the city's new favorite, a hero amongst humans and halflings and dwarves. They have named her their champion, and they say she even has a true warrior of Eilistraee in her retinue. How are we to gain the upper hand when she has a city at her back and a warrior of the Dark Dancer at her side?" You ask quizzically, intent on provoking her to action.

Vierna takes the bait, standing upright as her hands wring her scepter in repressed anger. Steadying her breathing, the arch-priestess answers. "I will prepare our army for a campaign," she responds sternly. "And you, sister, my trusted lieutenant, will explain how you intend to contribute to this endeavor to make up for your recent failure, lest I end you here and now."

You wring your hands and smile sheepishly, minimizing your profile in spite of the fact that your sister cannot see your anxiety and submissive posture. "I- I assure, sister, I have many reliable allies to call upon for this very occasion! Allies not of our people, whose trustworthiness is without question, S-so long as we reward them generously..." you state confidently.

"Tell me - who are these allies?" She asks directly. You have a few in mind - but who should you contact first?
>I speak of my contacts in the Zhentarim, a human mercenary company who can field the finest soldiers that money can purchase outside of the Underdark.
>I refer of course to a powerful orcish warlord. He has offered me many favors in exchange for obscure lore, and will gladly do so again.