Bolstered by the Grail Principle's unnatural charisma, the Forge-Long's arguments to their fellows to defect became all the harder to resist. Having learned of the splitting of the Liar's cabal, the Great Serpent's faithful in the service of the Delver and Anaconda experienced their own schisms as well, some joining the growing secession movement while others remained steadfast, drawing even the serpents into the growing conflict. The Delver, in her compassion, allowed those of her court which had joined her from the court of her progenitor to go free. She would brook no chains upon those she loved, and the Delver is all-loving. Had this been all that happened, the Serpents might have stayed reasonably aloof from the all-consuming conflict. Alas, it was not to be so. One of her released Long, convinced that the Delver needed to be destroyed to bring the Great Serpent back, attempted to utilize Forge-power stolen from the Engine’s machines to strike her down. Even as he cut into her neck, the Delver forgave him, and attempted to soothe his sorrow. A loyal Name of the Delver struck him down, and began the unceasing pursuit of those who would have his mistress killed.