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abraxaslogs2022-02-17 07:49 pm
abraxasmods) wrote in abraxaslogs2022-02-17 07:49 pm
Entry tags:
- !event,
- !npc,
- aerith gainsborough; the sun,
- alucard; the hierophant,
- amos burton; the lovers,
- anakin skywalker; judgement,
- byleth eisner; the devil,
- cirilla of cintra; the devil,
- dante; the devil,
- edelgard von hresvelg; the emperor,
- fandaniel; the hanged man,
- father maxwell; the wheel of fortune,
- geralt of rivia; the hanged man,
- gideon nav; strength,
- goro; the chariot,
- harrowhark nonagesimus; the magician,
- hector; the magician,
- hendrik; death,
- himeka sui; the fool,
- hythlodaeus; the empress,
- inej ghafa; the hierophant,
- jaskier; the sun,
- jasper; judgement,
- jesper fahey; the wheel of fortune,
- jordan hennessy; the moon,
- julie lawry; the wheel of fortune,
- kylo ren; the tower,
- leonard mccoy; the lovers,
- link; strength,
- mat cauthon; the wheel of fortune,
- nadine cross; the world,
- peter parker (mcu); strength,
- princess zelda; the high priestess,
- rhy maresh; the lovers,
- rinwell; the magician,
- ronan lynch; the moon,
- sam wilson; justice,
- samus aran; strength,
- sasarai; judgement,
- sephiroth; the tower,
- shuten-douji; the devil,
- stephen strange; death,
- thancred waters; strength,
- tony stark; the magician,
- viktor; death,
- wen kexing; the tower,
- yennefer of vengerberg; the chariot,
- zhou zishu; strength
EVENT #6: PEACE ON THE HORIZON
Event #6 - EVENT INFO
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!
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.
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.
"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."
"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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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!
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.
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:
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.
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.
no subject
Goro watches him seat himself upon the ground, but remains standing. "You have, but it is fine." He replies dismissively. "I am more interested in knowing how you have been finding the Free Cities since our last meeting."
no subject
"All of this talk of technology and yet they offer me toys that are barely more advanced than sticks and stones."
He looks out into the shadows at the surrounding layout of the Summit.
"Not that Thorne or Solvunn are any more appealing, mind you. There is, at least, fire in the belly of the Free Cities so I think I shall stay."
Then he looks up at Goro, having to lean to one side to actually get a view of the warrior's face.
"Why do you ask? Are you worried that the wizards and the farmers have persuasive arguments for joining them?"
no subject
After a few moments consideration, he turns to meet Fandaniel's gaze. "And I think I may have a means of stoking that fire into something more...useful. Do you know of the man named Viktor?"
no subject
"I do, in fact, know a man named Viktor. Is he a friend of yours?"
no subject
He turns to regard the grounds of the summit, behind them. "I do not know what the purpose of this summit truly is, but I do not believe peace is the end goal. Not with a prize like the Singularity hanging in the balance, and each nation philosophically at odds over what to do with it. War is coming, and I have been doing my best to ensure the Cities are prepared for when it does. With the weapons I hope Viktor can design, we would be in a most advantageous position." He strokes his chin with an upper hand in thought.
"Abraxas is a powderkeg and all I need is the right spark to send it everything up in flames." Eifstide had not been the rallying cry Goro had hoped it would be. No, if the Free Cities were to be pushed to war, Goro would need something bigger. Something bloodier.
And it was beginning to become apparent that in the end, if no such crisis was forthcoming, Goro might have to take it upon himself to create one.
no subject
Fandaniel snorts.
War isn't quite his end goal, he has his mind set on the Singularity. With the relic's power in his hands he can undo Etheirys. He can undo everything. With the relic, he'll have another chance to achieve his great work.
Getting there will be complicated, of course. He needs time to understand the Singularity and study its power. He will need distractions, he will need machinery capable of reading and interacting with the relic. History has taught him that war will gain him both. Armed conflict tends to be very distracting and very demanding of new technology.
People will die but, well, when Fandaniel is done with the Singularity everyone will be dead.
"If war is your desire then you shall have to be delicate about how you handle Viktor. The man did not seem fond of weapons when I mentioned the subject. Not that I pressed him much on the matter."
He stretches his arms over his head.
"Mm. You are right, however, that this summit likely won't amount to much in the way of peace. They aren't negotiating, they are posturing and analyzing one another. After all of these displays every faction will have a clearer idea of what the others are capable of. And gathering all of us Summoned together makes it easier for them to sow seeds of sedition amongst each other's ranks. How frightening!"
Fandaniel clearly isn't frightened by the idea. If anything he sounds intrigued.
no subject
"Ambition is necessary for what I aim towards. The Singularity is too valuable a prize to be left to squabbling humans to fight over. It is a power unmatched by any of the Realms. Of Armageddon itself. There can be no peace while that power remains unclaimed." He nods at Fandaniel. "Agreed. They claim high-minded ideals, but truly they all want war. But they all lack the will to take the first necessary step."
After a moment, he steps closer. "We spoke of war at the Cadens Base." Enough for Goro to believe Fandaniel has at least some understanding of its tides and flow. "I wonder...how might you go about convincing the Free Cities to take that first step? Call a thought experiment." He offers, but he's watching Fandaniel very closely, very...intently.
no subject
Fandaniel leans backward, planting his palms into the grass. Convincing nations to move first is easier said than done. As an Ascian he's had to do it many times; sometimes through sweet, well-directed truths, sometimes through trickery, sometimes by stepping aside as Emet-Selch became a ruler.
"If one were to rely on, say, an unfortunate accident to ignite the lust for battle then the accident would have to be magical in nature. A magical strike on the outpost closest to the Singularity that could be easily attributed to a cadre of mages from Thorne should suffice. Such a strike must needs be carried out by a wizard that can cloak his presence...
"Cadens would want to retaliate and Thorne would be forced to search its own ranks in case the strike was indeed conducted by one of their own."
He gasps and lifts his silver gaze toward Goro, his expression a jester-like imitation of worry.
"Oh! All strictly hypothetical, of course! A thought experiment, as you say."
no subject
"The timing would need to be precise as well. Not now. Not with the three nations so loudly clamouring for peace." The summit is a farce, but one Goro must let play out for the time being. "And other matters to make sure are properly in place." But what those matters are, he doesn't seem eager to share.
Turning back to Fandaniel, he regards the robed human appraisingly. "If such a wizard were to be found, and, for the greater good, be willing to carry out such a...drastic, but necessary action, I imagine he or she would require something in return." He ventures. "I wonder what payment that might be."
Just carrying on with the hypothetical exercise, naturally.
no subject
Fandaniel looks around them, out towards the distant tents and the rustling of night guards protecting the kiosks.
"A peace summit presents a perfect opportunity. What better time to march an army on an enemy than while their leaders and their powerful summoned guardians are away? Why, I wouldn't be surprised if all sides were thinking the same thing. Perhaps we will all be returning to cities under siege."
Then he looks back up at Goro. He feels like the other man is staring at him the way a horse breeder would look over a potential purchase.
"As for the matter of our hypothetical wizard friend... Hm. Coin would be a proper motivator, I would suspect. Isn't it always? Resources can be costly, as can bending the right ears...or deafening ears to one's presence. Of course with a reward of coin covering one's tracks becomes all the more necessary... But I suppose the topic of laundering is a tad outside the purview of our little thought experiment."
no subject
But that is a conversation not to be had here. "Depending on the amount of coin and where it was taken from. And surely, discretion would be essential on the part of the mage. Not to arouse suspicions." Goro replies, watching the Ascian. "An interesting thought experiment to be sure. But enough of that for now. Tell me, Fandaniel. Have you yet been introduced to the Horizon?" It's an abrupt switching of gears...except no gears are being switched at all.
Where prying ears and eyes could be better nullified.
no subject
"Discretion would be no issue for a mage with talent," he says.
"And the Horizon... I have not yet had the honor of visiting, no."
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[HA-HA! Foreshadowing.]
"But I must warn you, the first time will be..." He thinks for a moment, face crinkling in thought as he searches for the right word. "Different." He settles on. "You will be more...exposed, than you may like." And not in the naked sense. "But if you wish it, I can guide you there. It makes communication easier...and assures privacy." That last part is really the most important.
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"I confess I do find the concept of this place most fascinating and would like to witness it with my own eyes. I wonder, however, in what way I will be exposed if you take me there? Not that I fear danger, my lord... If danger comes I simply wish to be prepared."
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He watches Fandaniel, curious to see how he reacts to this knowledge. "But in that first time, should anyone happen upon you...anyone who may know you, you will not know them, or any history that you have. As I said. Exposed."
He looks up at the night sky. "However, at this time of night, I surmise there would be few others out and about, at least outside of their own domains. I could return for you shortly before morning, guide you out, and no one would be the wiser. If you wish to go, now would be the most...opportune time to do so."
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"I will be a lonely soul with no memory and limitless creation magic in a world akin to a dream...? Is that all?"
Anyone who is not an Ascian would probably find that scenario frightening, Fandaniel is only more intrigued.
"Very well. I am ready."
He's not sure what will happen to him, all he knows is that a version of him with no memories would be either beautiful or horrific... Most likely horrific, he decides. Not even losing his memory will strip him of his despair.
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He looks up at the moonlit sky. It's past midnight now. "I will deposit you and take my leave. I will return shortly before sunrise to escort you out. You will have plenty of time to indulge your urge to create in the meanwhile."
And then once that's done, it will be far easier for Goro and Fandaniel to speak privately.