EVENT #6: PEACE ON THE HORIZON

[abraxasmods]

Event #6 - EVENT INFO

go to the OOC event info and plotting post

---

Those that agree to attend the Summit will travel via portals to the designated location, which is out in the open in neutral territory. Plenty of pretty mountains and flowers. A magic field is erected over this area. Characters can only enter and exit at designated portals. It is not possible to leave this encircled area, which will also negate teleportation and portal spells. Plus, you don't want to embarrass your faction by sneaking out of bounds!

Before entering, all will be given a pin that designates what faction they belong to. This pin is not only color-coded but enchanted so that even should the appearance change, mages from any faction can identify who is who. The Summoned will be required to wear this pin at all times during the Summit.

The Summoned will be offered a comfortable tent to stay in during the 3-day Summit period! There's also a communal bath and a lounge to enjoy. A simple but tasty complimentary breakfast is provided for everyone, and additional meals can be bought from the faction booths or at the lounge. See the Neutral Section detailed below for more.

As noted, CHARACTERS MAY CHANGE FACTIONS USING THIS EVENT. To switch factions, please reply to the comment here. See the OOC post (link above) for details or questions!

The "Peace" Summit

An open plain flanked by mountains to the north and south, a large circular area has been fenced off. Large poles embedded into the earth are connected with magical rings, drooping heavy in the middle as if the ethereal chains have real weight. The area is divided into thirds, each section a mass of colorful tents and booths. In the center is a large wooden stage. All attendees must sit through this keynote speech. It's only polite.

The Prime Minister of the Free Cities begins the opening address. In formal military regalia she's the first to address the crowd, raising her arms high to command attention. She's smiling.

+ Marlo's Speech

"We'd like to start by welcoming all of you. For those that don't know me, I'm Marlo Renier, Prime Minister of the Free Cities. With me are Councilwoman Winifred Bordeaux of the Solvunn Communities and Queen Ellya Gladwin of the Kingdom of Thorne. We come together today in the spirit of good will. We may be divided by borders but we're all neighbors. We all share this continent. We may not always share the same opinions or agree on everything but who does? There's one thing we do agree on though - nobody is looking to start trouble. That's about the last thing anybody needs right now. That's why we're all here today. A show of good faith, a display of trust, and hopefully the first step on a long road of diplomacy and mutual understanding. And we all expect everybody on their best behavior and to conduct themselves in the spirit of this Summit.

I'm going to turn things over to Councilwoman Bordeaux now. Thank you, and you all should come check out what the Free Cities has to offer! Councilwoman?"

Marlo steps aside for the representative of Solvunn to take center stage.

+ Winifred's Speech

Winifred steps forward, nodding hear head to Marlo before turning her attention to the gathered crowd. Her own attire is modest, a dress of ivory and forest green adorned with hundreds of embroidered flowers and a velvet bodice in a deep wine red.

"Thank you, Prime Minister. Some of you are likely only to know of Solvunn due to the terrible circumstances surrounding Eifstide, for which we must humbly apologize. It was not our intention to cause such pain and happened merely by accident. While that does not take away what has occurred, we do hope that we can move forward together to create a brighter, more connected continent. All of us has something to share with each other, and it is my sincerest hope that we may learn from you, as well.

The Gods smile upon the unification of our mighty communities! May we be blessed with a friendship of longevity and prosperity!. For those of you curious as to what Solvunn can do for you, look no further than this Summit's festivities. It is my pleasure to let Queen Ellya of Thorne conclude todays formalities."

+ Queen Ellya's Speech

When it's Queen Ellya's turn to speak, she addresses the crowd with hands folded. For this occassion she's worn an elaborate gown of bright blue shot through with silver that seems to shift and move through the fabric.

"Such inspiring words, truly. I can only echo the sentiments put forth before me. I hope that this Summit shows to one and all that Thorne intends no aggression toward our fellow kingdoms. Certainly, through collaborative efforts such as this, understanding can be found. Tensions can be resolved. Even between such opposite minded cultures. I am confident that these few days will be very illuminating for each and every one of you. I urge you to go forth with eyes and ears open, to ensure all that can be learned is. Enjoy yourselves. Indulge yourselves. Educate yourselves. The festivities will now commence!"

Spreading her hands towards the audience, Queen Ellya slowly steps back to her place with the others.

From here on out, the festivities commence! Characters are encouraged to freely explore each faction's section as they please - and of course, to be respectful of their neighbors. They're all friends here, after all.

Mingle & Activities

Every faction has their own setup of booths and displays that feature a variety of activities and items. Booths open in the morning and close a couple hours after sundown in the evenings. Attendants at each place will be friendly, although some may notice that while the Summoned wander more freely, there is very little intermingling among the locals of each faction. The occasional dirty look may be exchanged when no one's looking and those with keen eyes might find evidence of petty bits of vandalism.

Click to expand the sections below for a description of each area.

Thorne Section

Each booth in Thorne's section are adorned with opulent fabrics in the same blues and silvers of the Queen's dress. Magically lit lanterns are strewn on the fronts and within tents and will change colors throughout the day and over the course of the weekend. Regardless of the weather, being beneath the awnings is always pleasant as if indoors in a properly warmed and ventilated room. Nothing is left wanting. Luxury and ease through the use of magic is emphasized.

Though not calling out any who wander the aisle, any who approach a booth will be greeted with a pleasant smile. Mages are eager to show off their magicks by the use of spells, staves, wands, and magical enchantments from ancient tomes. A booth from Hayle University gives demonstrations and short lectures on the hour every hour, letting the Summoned know that with enough practice they, too, can become a Master of Magicks.

For those who came with a full coin purse, there are fine wines, expensive tapestries and fabrics, sparkling accessories and more available for purchase. If you're feeling hungry, it is highly suggested that you try the decadent and delicately dressed dishes comparable to what's served in Castle Thorne itself.

Along with magic shows, the most popular booth is that of the Pondering Orb. Form an orderly line and wait for your turn to approach the orb. All will be allotted five whole minutes to think their deepest thoughts as they lay their hands upon the orb and ponder. The little bit of tingling that you feel and the faint glow that grows the longer you touch it just means that it's working.

Free Cities Section

The Free Cities area can be heard from nearly all the other sections, alive with sound and activity. There's a state of carefully balanced chaos between the different booths and lanterns are connected by long wires, powered by generators placed proudly out in front - in almost direct competition to the magical light show that Thorne has been putting on. It's just a bit of friendly rivalry, of course. There's nothing wrong with having such a strong reliance on magic, even if it seems rather outdated.

Attendants are eager to show off all their grand innovations, including meals in a can (main course and dessert all in one dubious goop can!) and a small variety of old-style guns. They are the only faction displaying these weapons. In addition, they'll talk about the impressive level of productivity their workers provide in the name of progress. Naturally, no one is forced to work overtime. It's only that their people are so dedicated to their work, even a common factory worker will go out of their way to help science and innovation. The Summoned are encouraged to consider joining a nation with such a high level of ambition, and there's always room for everyone in their powerful military.

To commemorate the event, those participating can stamp their bronze with a fancy gear pattern. It takes about fifteen seconds to press and renders the bronze worthless to spend, but what's more valuable than a souvenir? There is a sign that says No refunds if you aren't happy with the result, although if the machine happens to swallow your coin, you will be given a new bronze to stamp free of charge. Isn't that generous?

Solvunn Section

Solvunn's booths are covered with handmade tablecloths in various styles - quilted, patchwork, crochet, and intricate embroidery. Enchanted candles of all shapes and sizes float and illuminate the area, some changing color as the day goes on. When the sun sets, all the candles take on a shade that imitates moonlight.

Those who are running booths will call out to anyone who approaches, ushering them to the booths in order to ply them with friendly conversation and small samples of their wares. For the right price, there are specialty honeys, cheeses, candies, and all other manner of goat-based products. A few booths also have goat's milk soaps, lotions, and candles. Ask a Solvunnite about what good a goat is and they'll tell you everything. The mages are equally more than happy to show off their mastery, though not just in flashy elemental magic. Mages fond of divination, tealeaf readings, and interpreting tarot will offer one-on-one demonstrations, especially if you've some coin to spare.

This year, Solvunn has decided to extend its Spring Equinox celebration to the other Abraxans at the Summit! Everyone is encouraged to join in the festivities as now is the time for observing the balance of day and night. This celebration is devoted to new life - new community members, additions to their flocks, and the bringing of goodwill for the year's crops. A maypole is erected at the center of the celebration and if it stays upright until the following festival, it's taken as a sign that the community's harvest will be bountiful.

Additionally, the shrine of Lyfbringr has been erected with paintings and several small statues depicting an androgynous god that appears as an amalgamation of man, flora, and fauna. The shrine is enclosed in a tent that is half bright cheery colors and darker monochromatic shades.

Representatives of Solvunn stand by to weave colorful ribbons or rings of flowers into people's hair or tie small bells onto their wrists. There are many baby goats frolicking in a temporary paddock that guests are free to mill about in. The Summoned are invited to consider a life among a peaceful neighborly commune where help and friendship are right at your doorstep!

Neutral Section

This area is meant for everyone to mingle, but the Summoned will find they're mostly the only ones here as the locals prefer to stay within their factions. It's lightly decorated with no particular colors or emblems of any one faction. Ample ambient lighting gives the place a warm glow once the sun goes down. Wooden benches are placed sporadically between the different designated areas, making sure that no one has to go far to find a place to rest their feet.

The Lounge Tavern is open at noon for 2 hours for lunch, and then again at sunset in the evenings, where anyone can come to have a drink or a meal. Beneath the protection of a large, open air tent, seating is provided in the form of more wooden benches and long shared tables, as well as a few stools. Vintages, ales, and meads from each of the factions are available to enjoy. A few recreational activities are available, as well, such as darts and dice games. The tables and seats are placed close together, to encourage mingling and talk among each other. Though the bar is staffed by NPC volunteers, all are expected to bus their own tables when they leave.

The Sleeping Tents are where the Summoned will return to for the night to sleep. Each tent has large number of pillows, throws, and a few large mats that can be arranged as desired for optimal comfort. The ground itself is lined in animal pelts, mostly sheep and goat, making it soft and inviting. They are indeed shared, but there's plenty of room for everyone. Each tent can fit about 8-10 people - or more, if you cozy up.

The Communal Baths open in both the evenings and in the mornings for a few hours each, which is effectively an open bathhouse pool. The pool is dug into the ground itself and lined with special tile manufactured from the Free Cities, hailed for its ability to hold water without the use of special sealant. The waters are magically warmed to the ideal temperature using enchanted stones from Thorne that create a natural border around the edges, and soap (made of goat's milk, courtesy of Solvunn) and towels are provided. Here, those attending can bathe as well as use it as a mingle.

Summit Events

Meant to be a "collaboration" between the factions, the Summit also offers activities that take place on the main stage where the speeches were initially given.

Raffle

The Summoned will be provided a single courtesy raffle ticket, which they can use to enter the raffle contest. Additional tickets will cost an extra 5 bronze coins. To enter the raffle contest, fill out the comment here and we will RNG your prizes!

Regardless of luck, all those who enter will receive all 3 (one of each) of the following consolation prizes:

• Inkless Quill: Provided by Thorne, this is a magical quill that never runs out of ink...sort of. It'll work for about a month of heavy use before it runs out of juice. The Thorne sigil will automatically watermark any pages that this quill is used to write on.
• Tote Bag & Charm: Provided by Solvunn, this soft woven tote bag comes with a small handmade charm depicting a sigil of one of the old gods. If asked what the god or sigil means, the only answer is that you will know when your time comes.
• Glow Ring: Provided by the Free Cities, this ring will adjust to fit any finger size. It comes with a round orb instead of a jewel that can light up on command and act as a powerful torch or flashlight. Very powerful. People have gone blind by looking directly into it for too long.

An Escaped Creature

On the second day of the event, rumor has it a small creature has gone loose! The offender in question is this little fellow, who is the size of a small poodle. The Summoned are asked to help find and catch him, if at all possible. He's noted to be harmless if mischievous, but all those in the area are warned to be careful for if he's startled, the animal will eject a magical plume from his quills that can cause one of the following temporary effects: excessive sneezing, a change in hair color, glitter bombed, or to emit a constant glowing aura.

No one knows where he came from or who brought him, but ask any of the faction attendants and they'll be liable to start pointing fingers at the other side. Nonetheless, all those who make an effort to help catch him will be thanked and available mages may attempt to help with the side effects.

If you want your character to make a real attempt at catching him, reply to the comment here by Feb 20th and we'll RNG who eventually catches him. If your character fails, however, they must take one of its side effects for the rest of the day. The choice as to which one is yours! The winner will be rewarded with a token bottle of wine for their troubles or a very fancy dessert if they don't drink.

Comments

[frontlinetitties]

[Wouldn't be the first time. Some things are worth dying for!

The little goat chomps on Alucard's shirt, whilst another chooses that moment to headbutt Gideon in the arm, and yet a third steps on her leg. Quite deliberately.]

Unruly little fuckers, that's what they are.

[She says, as she gently pushes the goat back onto the ground.]

I kinda like 'em. They remind me of someone.

[There's the flash of her crooked grin.]

And hey, it's worth looking into. Even if there's nothing to find, it might keep her Unholiness busy for a little while. Might get her interested in something.

[And if she's interested and engaged, perhaps she'll want to stay.]

[frontlinetitties]

Of course I would.

[She says it without hesitation. There's no need to think it through-- The Lord do so and so to me, and add more also, if aught but death part me and thee. They're in it for the long haul, but--]

That doesn't mean I've gotta agree that her ideas are good ones. A lot of them suck, actually. And I'd rather be in a place where the intentions are plain, you know? The Free Cities aren't exactly subtle in their stance. Who the fuck knows what Solvuun really want from all this. And I feel like it'd be easier to make it not our business in a big, over-populated place. I get the feeling that in Solvuun we'll just be dragged into all kinds of shit we're not looking for.

[She says, despite the niggling feeling that keeping out of the Free Cities' affairs may be more difficult than she's making it sound.]

But yeah. If she insisted we go somewhere else, I'd kick up a fuss and tell her what I think of it. But I'd be there in a heartbeat.

[lackingtalent]

[He does step back, yes.

At least two steps- and he can hardly help it. Fandaniel's tendency to get close- very close, disturbs in a subconscious way. It works and it works well. Feeling, sentiment, even thought and logic has absolutely no say in Hythlodaeus' creation of adequate space between them with those two steps. It's simply instinct. Simply subconscious- sense more than anything- to step away from something unknown.

And as for the way he is looked at- as if the shapes of his face are being recorded rather than simply regarded- he truly does not like it. So. He turns, in order to get Fandaniel the aforementioned towel which is a few more steps away, folded in a neat pile and set out with very many others for the day to come.

And as he returns:]

It would appear we are at an impasse. Of course, my view is that before all of this washing away, death, destruction, and the ever-so-unstoppable slow march of time you've taken great pains to describe- a hypothetical building can be built, and completed- for the sheer challenge of it. It can be lived in for the joy of it. A love can indeed be loved for the pleasure of it.

The fact it is to become nothing, eventually, does not change the fact it was. Nor the fact that it gave you something while it stood.

[For without little joys along the way, life was something close to what Fandaniel described. Maybe not quite so dire. That view had to be something else entirely- yet close. He hands over the towel, at arm's length.]

Yet in the spirit of moving forward and not treading the same arguments, for I think you above such- Perhaps I will.

[A faintly rueful smile follows.]

I imagine it will be painful. Yet it does not diminish what joy once existed.

[lackingtalent]

[Ah, he has all the time in the world for flattery- when it is true. And in Sephiroth's case, not a single word has been false. Yet still. He listens, placing his elbow on one of the parts of the table that are not soaked with liqueur, and resting his chin in his hand.

He's settled in for a story. Yet the briskness of Sephiroth's tone, the matter-of-fact way of which he describes such things, it's telling.]

Do you love your planet? Have you explored it? Have you learned of its secrets, its histories, its peculiarities?

[lackingtalent]

[A small laugh follows.]

Well. I suppose a more apt term would be your precursor. For if I recall correctly, you did have quite a few improvements to make upon the original design... at least there. Here, without your guidance, it seems they've simply gone bigger. And elected for more barrels.

[He would think it strange, as well, that two entirely unconnected peoples seem to have come to the same conclusion as to the definitive way to render an enemy permanently gone. Yet it is not strange. Guns, it seemed, were both effective, relatively quick, and simple to operate. Anyone could use one. ...Ease, simplicity, and effectiveness were universal.

He listens to Emet-Selch explain further- nodding where appropriate- and indeed, while the subject is certainly not anything he can even, in his most charitable sort of mood, feign that much interest in, the way the other explains it is. Emet-Selch has a quality to his voice that has been so sorely missed, after all. A way of explaining things both well and interestingly, and Hythlodaeus finds he can listen to him without interruption, without even the faintest flicker of boredom, no matter the subject.

He's following. He's contemplating, and he's thinking. And when the explanation comes to a close, he finds himself offering something playful.]

Were I a particularly gifted mage, I suppose the way to overcome would be clear. I'd simply wait until all weapons were assembled and ready, and then I would change the land that they are placed on. ...A slope would be my choice. A muddy one. Preferably leading down to a quickly flowing river. Or better yet, a sinkhole.

[He smiles then, and leans, just slightly, to place his head upon the other's shoulder. ...Well. Or he would. For there's something pointed, a guard perhaps? Upon it which is unexpected. He blinks then, placing his glass down and regarding the robe.

He had not seen it before. While similar to Amaurotine robes, at least in function, it is decidedly more armored via a number of pieces worn on the shoulders mostly- all curved wickedly, all intrinsically wrought. But designed to hurt an assailant just as much as they were to protect the wearer. The markings on the robe, as well...

He has not seen them before. Yet they call Zodiark to mind. Lightly, he places his glass down and touches one of the shoulder pieces. Ah, it disattaches like...]

May I?

[His voice is considered, gentle.]

[cryptsleeper]

[yeah, that's fair

Alucard tries to reach over to get the one that's Mr. Headbutt, but that just makes him the target instead. So it goes, being mobbed by tiny goats. There are worse, crueler fates.]

Present company, or someone I've not met?

[It is a genuine question, asked as the headbutter bleats into his ear.]

I am going to live in hope in that regard. But I won't make suggestions, as I don't know her well enough to think of such ideas.

[cryptsleeper]

[Alucard lets out a soft noise, but the look on his face is sparkly one of something seemingly wistful. He's not heard those kind of loft goals for a while now, and they're sincere.]

Yes, it is. [It is impossible for it not to be worth it.] And that leaves humanity more time for art and exploration.

[cryptsleeper]

It'll lighten the hair, rather than darken it. But I take your point.

[Hector he's said you had nice hair and you're going to look the gift horse in the mouth!?]

[cryptsleeper]

As you like.

[Alucard, being not inclined to strangers invading his personal space at the best of times, makes a pointed effort not to lean back in attempt to get just a little bit more breathing room for himself. He's not going to fault a drunken man for not reading body language well either - although he will be annoyed about it quietly.

At the offering of the dart, Alucard has to wonder if there's another way to make his point. He takes it, careful to keep his fingers to himself, and then takes a side step. It is a better angle for the board, and there's no one passing through.

When the dart hits the board, it isn't a great hit - but he hit it from a decent distance away all the same.]

With all due respect, that seems ill advised and unfair.

[gynvael]

[ Geralt blinks once, like the same thought is crossing his mind. Because. Mm. All he'll say is, there's a reason succubi have willing patrons and can live quiet lives unbothered if they aren't being flagrant about their habits.

Perhaps their old god is really a succubus. Wouldn't be the first time someone's mistaken a monster for a god. ]

Not even bread could keep him in check back then. [ Jaskier simply pocketed them for a nibble.

He rolls his head back, turning to peer at her. Something about the way she says it makes him pause. A him. He looks contemplative. As with most things which hold significance to him, he speaks of what's between him and Jaskier rarely. ]

He's a good friend. [ Maybe friend sounds like a denial, but that's not his intent; it's acknowledgement, in the only way he knows. He hasn't got...people, relationships, as others do. No one he grew up with does. It isn't unlike how he refers to Vesemir as his mentor even though that doesn't come near what the old man truly is to him. Jaskier pushed into his life—persistent, unyielding, a fucking nuisance at first—and now here they are. Someone who grew important to him. Someone who will be there when he needs them. (It was once the same with Yennefer, but that—that, he no longer knows. It isn't even a broken heart. It runs deeper.)

Lately, he's found others, growing in importance. Julie included. Everyone who's stuffed into that tent. If he thinks about, if he had to really define anyone who means something significant, they all simply fall under family for him. Kinship, by choice. ]

[gynvael]

That we were a threat.

[ He doesn't especially care if he's believed or not; it's not his job to herd people about, to make them see what lies underneath. There will always be those too blind. But something about this man is...

Perhaps it's the uncertainty Geralt can sense from him. A wavering between what he wants to believe. ]

And what picture are you hoping to see?

[gynvael]

[ He raises an eyebrow. Interesting. What is this person to her? Someone she grew up with? Family?

He won't comment, really, on the nature of her relationship. He doesn't know it, doesn't know her especially well, either. But a hefty sort of loyalty in the manner she describes is. Hm. Perhaps it's because he can't imagine it for himself, the idea that he'd follow someone who he frequently sees as making shit decisions. But then, he's never followed anyone at all. Vesemir might be the extent of it—but even that has its limits now that he's no longer a child.

The matter of which place is better, he leaves unaddressed. Instead, he looks contemplative. ]

She'd do the same for you?

[endcaller]

[Fandaniel snatches the towel from Hythlodaeus, crouches, and starts rubbing the edges of his cloak. He could use magic and dry himself in an instant but having a physical prop in his hand adds to theatricality of the moment.]

Not a debater, I see. Nor am I.

I hear there are entire groups devoted to the art. Do they talk in circles too? Hmm, maybe they are simply more talented in the field of rhetoric.

I am more of a poet, really. I prefer my art to speak for me.

[He stands and starts walking down the path. As he passes Hythlodaeus he thrusts the towel against the other man's chest so he can take it back.]

Perhaps, one day, it shall.

Ah...

[As if suddenly forgetting something he stops and twirls where he stands to face Hythlodaeus again.]

Miserable conversation aside it was a pleasure meeting you, Hythlodaeus. Maybe I will see you again.

Until then....bask in this joy of yours. Such emotions are fleeting.

[With a jester-like grin that is all teeth and no cheer he waves, turns, and continues walking off down the path.]

[a_better_man]

[Mat shakes his head.]

Just a clear one I can make some sense of.

[And hopefully doesn't end up with him dead. Really, his wants and goals are very few and simple. He's not a demanding man. He'd just like to be somewhere he feels reasonably safe, as he hasn't had that in a very long time.

Arguably, not since he was small.]

I'm no stranger to being in the care of what may be vipers. But least them, back home...I knew and understood who they were. Knew to what extent I could trust'em, knew that at least they did have my safety in mind and care about it even if for the wrong reasons. I can't say that now.

[a_better_man]

I've heard more rumors and gossip about Thorne today than I've heard about anything else.

[Mat lowers his own voice, angling himself into Jesper and taking a few steps away from the stalls, leading their conversation a bit further from potentially open ears.]

Seems everyone has something to say about them. But they aren't locking anyone up, and I've asked folks who've been here in Thorne longer. About what they want and what we're supposed to be doing. They all say 'nothing'.

[Which is madness. He can't accept that they're just status symbols, or something to wave around to impress the other countries. Not with everything he's learned and what he's seen around the castle. But everyone outside of Thorne tells a different story, and assures him that the mages and royals only want Summoned to use.]

We live in the lap of luxury, what we ask for is given to us...worst offense I've seen so far is they don't want us wandering off outside the city walls on our own.

[techmaturgy]

[Just because he won't build weapons doesn't mean he's unaware of how they work. If people have questions, he's happy to answer, though it's not without his general distaste for weaponry, his opinion seeping into his explanations more often than not.

Still, Viktor is happy to provide explanations when prompted, and he's about to give the usual rundown, when this time he's stopped. Ah. Maybe he should be relieved to find someone else with some familiarity. Maybe he's a little irritated at the interruption, but ultimately he can't resist answering questions.]

I would take it apart and repurpose the materials.

[The answer comes immediately, like he doesn't even have to think about it--but it is honest, as he can't really think of a better improvement to the design than eliminating its lethal potential entirely.]

[techmaturgy]

[This isn't the first he's heard or seen of magic user's abilities being dampened, though he doesn't have enough evidence one way or another to determine what might be the cause. Logically, the Singularity is probably the cause, but the fact that these abilities don't disappear entirely is heartening. It means he has more to work with.

But, that's another thought for a later time. There's still plenty about Hector's demonstration that has him curious.]

Forged life? What do you mean?

[He can make some educated guesses, but it all sounds so fantastical that it's probably better just to ask for an explanation.]

[nadine_he_loves]

[Nadine is grateful to move on in conversation. She's trying hard to get some distance from the darker and heavier thoughts this weekend.]

Uh...I'm still not sure what I think about this world's gods. They weren't a big part of daily life in Nott, and don't seem to be part of daily life at all in Cadens. But I've only been there a week or so.

[The Free Cities could be full of weird religion, how would she know? She's spent her time there just settling in and figuring out the neighborhood she now lives in.]

They influence a lot in Solvunn, don't they?

[gynvael]

If only we all considered what cost.

[ They shrine doesn't strike him as any stranger than what's found elsewhere, though. Plenty of small villages worship or seek a higher power. The Free Cities, pushing their grand army, feels equally cult-like.

He's wondered who might go where. Most have settled in by now. Hard to uproot their lives to go elsewhere. ]

Are you looking elsewhere?

[gynvael]

[ His brows furrow. He is not a stranger to those who find cover amongst people who would only use them, for a semblance of safety. He gets the temptation. He gets why it's done. It just isn't a feeling he understands on an intimate level—something he's never wanted for himself, could never imagine wanting. Whatever safety might be found there can never be worth the cost. And it's unlikely to last. ]

Thorne wants you for what ends you can serve. If they have to drown you in their riches to get it, they will do so. But these other places are no better. [ A brief pause passes. ] You don't need their protection. You were brought here because they need you. And if it were me, the last thing I'd do is give an inch of myself to them.

[ If Thorne thought them worthless, they'd have executed them on arrival. They were kept for a reason, even caged. They were allowed to drop unannounced into quiet settlements and city borders. He's not about to believe they can get away with too much—something tells him the instant they prove more trouble than they're worth, this entire Summoned process will be abandoned and those pulled through erased—but that doesn't mean they need to cave into those who have agreed to host them or owe anyone a fucking thing. It isn't out of charity. ]

[standvastig]

[He nods slowly as he's provided more information about Thorne and the Free Cities, making a reminder to himself to take a look at the available maps again; he isn't familiar enough with the world to have even known that there is a city far south of Castle Thorne.]

Thus we are caught in whatever plans they have against one another.

[Disappointing, but he is coming to accept that this is not as uncommon as he would like it to be.]

You mentioned that you knew people that were in the Free Cities. Were they also from Thorne? How did you know they had made their way over there?

[His knowledge of modes of communication in this world are pretty much still nonexistent. For all he knows, she could had sent a carrier pigeon. Somehow.]

[leitstern]

[It rises in his throat: venomous bile towards the thought of waging war for a nation of men. Conflict is less on today's agenda - impersonal as it is - than the thought of using these three free days to relax and unwind.

Hate lacks its place here. Hostilities were left behind when he departed. His anger directed against those deemed guilty. It makes his answer both stark and simple.]

Sated.

[His appetite for war is not what it was. With his old friend living in the same kingdom what reason has he to fight?]

[a_better_man]

I haven't given them anything.

[Why does everyone seem to think that anything short of open hostility is some admission or trusting or agreeing with Thorne? Blood and ashes, he doesn't even remember the names of the king and queen, if he had ever learned them. But what's he supposed to do, not eat?]

I haven't even been in this world long enough to need to trim my beard yet. I live within their walls, but I can't see that keeping my head down and eating their food and bathing in their water is some sort of agreement of allegiance. It isn't as though I believe what they tell me. I know damn well they're full of shit.

[Matrim Cauthon is not particularly special. And if he is, because he hasn't entirely ruled out his potential to be the Dragon, it's not for any reasons any good person would want him. If that's the case, he's just a tinder shed in wait of a lightning strike. He will bring doom and destruction.]

I may be young, and I may be from the back of beyond, but I'm not that great a fool.

[gynvael]

[ If he clocks the defensiveness, it only draws a vague shrug out of him. Only one of them was asking for a clear picture, brought up the extent of trustworthiness and safety he's found in the past. Geralt gave his answer; if the boy doesn't like it, that's not his problem. ]

If you know they're full of shit, what does it matter the perfume they've sprayed?

[ Look, maybe he's missing something, but he doesn't see how any of this paints an unclear image. Thorne, like the other nations, have their own designs. Whether that involves pampering or imprisonment to further their ambitions, to him, there's no difference. They still want something. They're still keen on doing what they must to get it. That doesn't mean its people are full of monsters.

Nations do not need its people to act unkindly of their own volition. They only need them to go along or look the other way when the time comes. And most did, while half of them were held in the dungeons. ]

[sealingpower]

[Zelda immediately shoots up, sitting with her head buried in her hands.]

"Oh, Link. It was horrible! The Calamity is soon to be upon us, and I'm not ready!"

[She sobs, her shoulders shaking as she tries to breathe through her tears.]

What am I to do? I still haven't heard the slightest sound of Her voice, nor felt an inkling of Her power!