EVENT #6: PEACE ON THE HORIZON

[abraxasmods]

Event #6 - EVENT INFO

go to the OOC event info and plotting post

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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

[funbreaker]

[ Hythlodaeus?

While that revelation alone does answer a number of questions, it also creates so many more. It takes all of Thancred's self control to not outright gape in response, though he does not do a perfect job of it, seeing how Hythlodaeus comments explicitly on his bewildered look.

Not that anyone could blame him. He's had his fair share of shocking discoveries over the past few days alone.

Himeka's told him a decent amount about Hythlodaeus already, claiming that he'd been a helpful and at times lighthearted presence during her time spent in the far past, in Elpis. (Something to do with shark designs, as well?) How anyone could be the closest friend of someone like Emet-Selch Thancred still could not understand, but he will admit that Hythlodaeus isn't setting off instant alarm bells like the other Ascians.

Of course, he isn't an Ascian. He gave himself up to Zodiark in an attempt to save his kind, and Himeka had found his shade wandering on the surface of the moon. Which explains nothing about how he knows anything about Thancred or what his future holds.

There is a brief delay before he responds to the man's suggestion, but he does get there, nodding a few times in agreement as he makes for the shrine's exit, hardly able to remove his gaze from the Ancient as he moves. ]

It sounds as if there's a great deal we need to discuss, yes.

[ Thus, they make their way over to the stall in question. Thancred takes only a small sample of the tea, not seeing a need to spend any of his coin on a full order when he imagines he'll be too distracted to drink much of it. There's a small table set up nearby, so he settles into one of the chairs and pins Hythlodaeus down with a stare as soon as he's joined by him. ]

What you said before made it sound as if the two of us had met. [ His brow furrows, and he imagines his implied question is quite clear. How? ]

[lackingtalent]

[Oh, a few tales had been shared of him!

He'd have Thancred told that he would personally consider himself most unworthy, yet regardless. He makes his way, amiably enough, to the aforementioned stall, though in a manner distinctly different to Thancred's own.

While the other man seems to be staring holes through him (or seems to be looking at him as if he has sprouted another head) he appears altogether different. Meandering, somewhat, (What could be said. This was Solvunn's stall, so of course a few of the villagers recognize him as he passes and their greetings are, of course, returned, alongside customary questions of lambing and customary offers of assistance with this or that as required.) and really, his demeanor altogether seems far too casual for someone which, really, should be the enemy.

Yet he is no enemy.
That, once they're seated, is the first thing he would like to put out into the open.]

Firstly, there is very little need for alarm. I, and the last of us, were guided to your fragment's Underworld when He [Zodiark.] was corrupted by the one that ended up with the seat of Fandaniel. Guided to the star thus, we decided to finally begin our journey.

[A wry smile.]

Well. Most of us. I and someone else decided to stay put for the time being. ...And, I was taken here. Regifted life... even my old vessel. And I must assure you, I have no intention to harm you or yours. There's really no need to look at me quite like that.

[And as he takes a menu, and begins a cursory examination of the teas...]

...Do you recall what transpired on your moon? Or have I misstepped once more?

[funbreaker]

[ While it's brief enough, Thancred does observe as Hythlodaeus kindly speaks to each and every Solvunn native who approaches him on the short walk. It appears, then, that he has already made a name for himself in the commune. To what end Thancred could not say, though if he's to believe Himeka's judgment of the man, then it could simply be out of the kindness of his own heart.

This is someone who chose to give himself over to a god for the sole purpose of saving his people. Would Thancred not have done similarly in such a position?

Once Hythlodaeus joins him, he thankfully begins to speak of events that Thancred is aware of: Fandaniel's actions on the moon and what must have taken place when Zodiark was destroyed. It makes sense that all of those Ancient souls would have then finally been able to join the Lifestream, finally put to rest. Yet Hythlodaeus had remained?

It's up to Thancred to determine if Hythlodaeus is a threat, and so while he will take those words at face value for now, he doesn't trust them implicitly. Yet this man may have vital information, and so he'll need to trust him at least enough to ask for that.

He shakes his head and clears his throat. ] You have not. I'm aware of what took place there, though I was not present when Fandaniel threw himself into the abyss and bound himself to Zodiark. I arrived shortly after and heard the broad strokes from Himeka. [ Yet another instance of when he should have been there, yet arrived a hair too late. Thancred pauses then, frowning to himself as he glances down at the table and then takes a small drink from his tea sample. ] Not that she remembers any of that here. Surely you've already determined that much?

[lackingtalent]

That is well, then. I must confess, I'd little idea what to say should this recap to be news to you.

[A smile follows, small but meant- simply from the perspective of Thancred being, well, the only person he's met from the sundered Eitherys so far that he doesn't have to hold his tongue around. ...At least partially. For there was some things Thancred did not know of.

Still! Good enough for him to concentrate on the menu! And his elbow finds its way to the table, his head rests within an upturned hand... and his gaze lowers. Oh, there are so many choices.]

Yes. I did not sense your presence there. ...I'm glad of it.

[He does not explain why. For how could he, to someone that wouldn't understand the measure of what could be detected by the soul? What he had sensed on the moon alongside Fandaniel was uniquely horrifying. ...And yes. The presence had made him worry for Himeka.

Abruptly, he turns the menu so Thancred can view it. And as he slides it across the table, a long (too long) finger is pointed toward a picture of something green. Matcha?]

I have. Yet she is aware of other things. Emet-Selch, for instance. I... would prefer if her future is kept hidden. Much depends on her, after all. Were a single element approached differently... our star's fate, in her time, may yet change.

....What would you suppose this tastes like?

[Having his curiosity indulged is important after all.]

[funbreaker]

[ There is some small sense of relief in having found someone who knows about as much as Thancred does, though he expects that there will be large gaps in knowledge on either side. He can't say he knows how much a soul sacrificed to Zodiark, then released, could have known of the goings-on of the star, and yet they seem to have at least a small patch of common ground.

That doesn't mean that Thancred won't still be keeping his guard up. This is a professed friend of Emet-Selch's, after all, and while Himeka had insisted in her retelling that the Ascian had been quite different all those thousands of years ago, Thancred still views it as cause to be wary.

From his quite unique perspective of the Ascians, or who they used to be.

Why Hythlodaeus is glad Thancred was not present, he doesn't quite follow, his brow twitching in slight confusion — though the conversation continues to Himeka quickly enough. While he does understand Hythlodaeus' point and had made such considerations himself, the truth of the matter is that when she was looking at him with eyes desperate for answers, he couldn't just turn her away.

He gives a brief shake of his head and lets out a breath. ] It's a bit too late for that. I'm not willing to withhold everything from her, though rest assured I haven't shared all of it. [ Mainly because it would be far too much to cover in a single conversation, and she'd had plenty to catch him up on as well.

Thancred tilts his head at Hythlodaeus, watching him closely. ] Given that Fandaniel himself is here, there are certain things she should know. Does she know who you are, at least?

[ And are they truly going to have a conversation about tea amidst all this? Thancred glances down at the menu with a small sigh. ]

... It exists on Etheirys as well. It's primarily enjoyed in Hingashi. As you might guess, it has a certain earthy taste, slightly bitter but with a hint of sweetness. It might be an acquired taste, but I'd say it's worth trying.

[ He leans back in his chair and glances off for a moment, processing how surreal it is to be speaking with an Ancient about tea of all things. ]

[lackingtalent]

Hm.

[His eyebrows do furrow, but they smooth easily enough. After all- taking issue with Thancred's verbosity after the fact was very akin to crying over spilled milk. Nothing could be done for it, so he is quick to recover.

...And he does have a point. Fandaniel, or in his mind the creature with the ruined soul that wears the title of far greater men, is of concern. Allowing Himeka to be unknowing with regard to him is nothing short of cruelty.

And oh, he was asked a question.]

Yes, though I believe her knowledge of me is more knowledge of the shade that was created in my likeness. You're aware of it, I hope? The one who resides in the First's recreation of Amaurot. [Strange. He can't help but feel the corner of his mouth quirk upward.] I've the architect to thank for the fact it was well-made enough for her to not be disconcerted by my presence.

...Oh, and the tea sounds delightful. Would you like some as well, or are you content with your sample?

[And. If Thancred thought the sudden subject change to tea was surprising, what Hythlodaeus says next might give him whiplash.]

...I only wish that the other colour at the edges of your soul could try some as well.

[More's the pity, in his mind. Yet to be fair to him, he doesn't know.]

It's not exact. It's more destroyed than anything, yet certain characteristics do resemble someone... who was rather important.

[funbreaker]

[ Right, the simulacrum in Amaurot. Thancred is aware of it, and nods to confirm that. He hadn't interacted with it much himself, but he does recall Himeka speaking about her conversations with the lingering echo of what felt like a friend. ]

There's a similar recreation of Amaurot here, in the Horizon. Though I'm sure you're already aware of that.

[ He's speaking around Emet-Selch for now, if only because he would rather not get himself worked up when he's doing his very best to keep an open mind — for Himeka's sake, if nothing else, and because there is another pressing question he must still ask.

When more directly offered a cup of matcha, Thancred hesitates for a moment. It doesn't feel right to accept anything from this man, and a decline is on the tip of his tongue when —

That comes out of Hythlodaeus' mouth.

Thancred is halfway out of his seat, hands braced on the table between them, before his mind catches up with himself. It does make sense that Hythlodaeus would be able to see right into his soul, Thancred is aware of what Ancients and Ascians alike can do, and yet to be accosted with that information without warning...

Slowly, he sinks back down into his chair while letting out a long exhale. This is why he didn't want to do this. ]

... So I've been told. He was one of the Unsundered along Emet-Selch [ there it is ], as you no doubt well know. [ He drags a hand across his eyes. ] Along with the fact that he had a propensity for hopping from body to body as he pleased. [ Surely that will be explanation enough, as much as he hates to discuss this sort of thing on a good day. ]

[lackingtalent]

[Oh, was there.

He did not know- actually- as much as he wanted to conceal the accident of his own Horizon (for yes. Mare Lamentorium was far from a deliberate effort on his end- more something that had simply happened.) from those he held dear, it simply hadn't been an option to ask them about theirs for fear they would ask of his. And as much as he would wish to show surprise at the existence of a third Amaurot, he does not. For it is not really a surprise at all. More something that simply makes him smile.

So smile he does.
That is, until Thancred reacts like that. That elicits some surprise, actually. So as he looks to the man, suddenly roiling and agitated and ...wounded, somewhat(?) he folds his hands upon his lap. And calmly:]

Do forgive me for looking. And do accept my apologies for any offense I have given by doing so. It's quite an old habit, and-

[But Lahabrea. He had not known the man, personally. How elevated he was made him nigh unapproachable to those of lesser station. Yet he knew of him. Like all citizens of Amaurot, he knew Lahabrea and his Words intricately by reputation. He, specifically, knew him by concept submissions. And submissions, quite frankly, were just as good of a tool of measure as peering at someone's soul.]

Yes. Lahabrea was the most esteemed of the Convocation of Fourteen. Magnificent, and brilliant beyond measure. The very best of them, in fact. Yet possessive of a gentle soul.

[His voice lowers. As do his glowing eyes. And for the first time in this one's company, his voice is uncertain.]

...From living body to living body, you say?

[He was aware it was possible. He even remembered the concept.

Saw, intricately- as was his way, the danger, the irreversible toll on the one that traversed beyond the boundaries of their vessel- the very real- nigh guaranteed- prospect of death to the host when abandoned. And... He had not wanted to approve it. But the application, for use only in the direst of circumstance...

Objectively, he had little choice. But even this recollection does not make his horror any less apparent. For it is the same horror that he experienced when seeing Emet-Selch's new form- before he had been assured that, in Emet-Selch's case, the methods had been improved upon.

But this- it's worse. This was no improved version. There were no safeguards via the usage of clones specifically created for the task. And what Thancred described was even worse than the concept, actually. For the concept was intended for original body to living body, not, as Thancred worded it, hopping around as pleased.

The dangers associated with that...
The thought alone has his usual loquacious manner simply fail him. His eyes stay low for quite a while, before he exhales, slowly- almost soundlessly.]

...For what it is worth, I am glad you survived.

[Even if he is saddened that Lahabrea- or at least, the figure he remembered Lahabrea once was- did not.

Someone does come over, inquiring as to the order of tea- yet his answer is distracted, quiet. And once they leave-]

...How did you survive, may I ask? I've not heard of such a thing.

[funbreaker]

[ Literally staring into someone's soul, an old habit? Thancred would like to challenge that, and yet he knows that it's most likely the unaltered truth. The way the Ancients lived and perceived the world is something he only barely understands, and he has little more than what he saw in a recreated Amaurot and Himeka's secondhand accounts from which to draw. The Ancients are given to simply looking without asking, and Emet-Selch had seen the exact same scars on Thancred's aether.

Yet the apology doesn't do much to make him feel better, nor does the sweeping praise of Lahabrea. Maybe he had once been a man deserving of such comments, Thancred could hardly speak to that. The version of him thousands of years after the fact had been a twisted husk of his previous self. Thancred understood well that Ascians looked at those who'd been sundered and saw something that wasn't even human or even alive. With that in mind, it's not so shocking that Lahabrea had been willing to snatch up any body that might serve his purposes.

In Thancred's case, he can only assume the idea was to stay the hands of the Scions and the Warrior of Light, to make them hesitate enough that he would be able to get the upper hand by using a friend against them.

It's all quite far in the past for him by now, but it's not as if Thancred will ever truly be able to let it go. Watching Himeka's body being used as a puppet by Zenos had ripped open those old wounds anew.

He nods mutely at Hythlodaeus' first question, suddenly wishing very much that he was anywhere but here, but he may as well get through this uncomfortable conversation in full so that they don't have to revisit it. He pinches the bridge of his nose, hoping that this will somehow be the last time he has to relive it. ]

Lahabrea used my body as a means of confronting those close to me, Himeka and the other Scions. They were ultimately able to defeat him, at least to the point of driving him out of me. [ That was not, in fact, the end of him. Thancred had not been present for that moment, though he'd drilled Himeka about it after the fact, once they'd reunited. ] I could not begin to tell you the specifics of how I survived. I suspect you can see that more clearly than I ever could.

[ Thancred doesn't know how readable the scarring on his soul is, but he does know that he owes Himeka his life. He can only hope he's done his best to repay that debt by now. ]

[lackingtalent]

[Oh, he has a lot to think about- and an awful lot to query. For to him, the fact that Emet-Selch, Lahabrea, and Elidibus had initially survived the Sundering was news he was still contemplating.

Emet-Selch, thus far, had spared him the circumstances, spared him the awful knowledge of the task the convocation had seen fit to undertake. Therefore, he was unaware, even, of what a Rejoining even was. All he had known, through mire and fog within Zodiark, was that their savior was growing stronger. That their imprisonment would be over. That they were close- so close- to becoming whole and meeting those loved and lost once again.

So it is tempting to speculate.
His exposure to Fandaniel- or, in his view, the creature which had been assigned the seat of better men- was fresh in his mind. And he had wondered, privately, if what Thancred speaks of with regard to his dealings with Lahabrea was a similar sort of situation. Someone unworthy was elevated to the station. Someone with flaws, inconsistencies, that simply could not-

-Oh.

He's been silent for quite a while. His contemplation, his silent search for answers, for reasons as well, is cut short by the arrival of the tea. Two mugs of it, actually- for if Thancred was content enough with his sample, the worst to come from his refusal would be some wasted leaves and water, a few of the curious metal discs which served as currency here. And so he offers the second mug to him.

...As well as a question.]

If I may ask something else of you...

[Whether or not Thancred takes the offered drink, he will wrap his hands around his own. And he will stare down at it.]

Himeka told me of her dealings with the Convocation as we met on the moon. And...

[His gaze moves up. A thin smile dances across his lips- though with the expression within his eyes, it seems sad.]

...I have an understanding that there were quarrels. With Lahabrea, Emet-Selch, and Elidibus, all. I would like to know why.

[funbreaker]

[ No doubt all of this information has given Hythlodaeus a great deal to think about, and that is why he's fallen so quiet, his previous amiable nature somewhat muted. Thancred truly can't imagine what it would be like to hear the fates of those you had known (or even known of in a more general sense), when thousands of years had passed and they were likely not even recognizable in many ways, if at all. In that sense, he can understand what Hythlodaeus might be going through right now, even if all this talk of Ascians is only serving to ruin his own appetite.

The cup of tea arrives the same, as Hythlodaeus had seen fit to order it for him. Thancred lets out a small sigh as he grabs the mug and slides it closer to him. He won't let it go to waste, especially since matcha goes down easily enough.

Thancred takes a sip as he considers Hythlodaeus' question. It's extremely broad, and also not a subject that Thancred believes himself to be any sort of expert in. Quite the contrary, in fact. Just because an Ascian had possessed him once, just because he'd been forced to sit back in his own body as it was used for nefarious deeds, does not mean that he understands much about the relations between the three Unsundered.

He lowers the mug, then lets out a scoff and shakes his head. ]

Emet-Selch would be far better equipped to answer that question than me. Why do you not ask him?

[ Thancred suspects there is a reason that Hythlodaeus doesn't want to go to the source on this, but if it's all the same to him, he would rather this not turn into Talk About Ascian Hour. Not that he should have expected anything different. ]

There is something else. Something that I need ask you, based on your words earlier. You said I was pulled out of the Underworld — I assume this was on Ultima Thule? Does that mean we were able to stop Meteion?

[lackingtalent]

[There is a reason indeed. Emet-Selch is cared for. Immensely, unquestionably, absolutely. Therefore, he has a mind to spare his feelings- rather than asking him to dredge up details on something that must have been extremely painful emotionally as well as physically.

Yet Thancred has misunderstood his question. His own fault, he's more than certain. To illuminate:]

Because I wish to know of three quarrels in particular. Emet-Selch is but one. All three came to blows with Himeka... from what I was told during our brief chat on the moon. Yet we could not speak for long enough for me to ask why.

[A faint pause. And his grip tightens around his mug.]

So, presuming you have been with her for long enough to have witnessed the result- I would like to ask if you know.

[And there it is. Confirmation that he has absolutely no idea, at all, of the Rejoinings, save for a feeling (unexplained, of course) of Zodiark's power increasing. Nor does he know of... anything, actually, since the Sundering- save for what he has gleaned from watching Himeka from the Underworld himself.

There's a gap, essentially- between the Sundering and his true death. More like a chasm.

Ah. But he is asked a question. His eyes raise from the mug, and meet Thancred's. There were concerns about altering Eithery's outcome by dispensing information which might have things done differently, yes. But...

Well.]

An excellent question. And it is one I do not know either!

[A faint smile- a glint of amusement in his eyes follows, yet he does not laugh. No doubt this one is feeling vaguely toyed with. So he sets himself to explaining.]

When she reached journey's end and could not proceed any further, I and Emet-Selch were called. We provided a means of which she could reach the Metia- and some encouragement besides for her to bring you and your comrades back. As half-faded souls of the dead, you see, we could not hope to stand against what the Metia had become. Therefore, we thought it prudent to say our goodbyes and return to our journey. ...Unfortunately, I was brought here shortly afterward.

[A light tapping of his fingers on the mug.]

One of your number, a young girl, I believe- was quite vexed! and vocal about her expectations not being met. Far be it any business of mine, but one of these days, I imagine her face may very well stick like that. She should be warned, for it would be a pity.

[But. His smile fades, his fun had, and instead, his eyes meet Thancred's in gentle seriousness.]

I cannot tell you if your efforts were successful. I can only tell you what I believe. That the hopes of all souls of Eitherys, living and dead, are with you, your faction, and Himeka. And while I regrettably know little of you- I know Himeka [Hemera.] is not the sort to disappoint. I believe in her- I trust in her, and I know she will be successful.

... And as she trusts in you, so shall I.

[funbreaker]

[ As Hythlodaeus clarifies his question, Thancred realizes why there is a sense of confusion between them. He wishes to know why Himeka had been in opposition to the three Unsundered, why there was conflict in the first place. From Thancred's perspective, the Ascian threat has existed for so long that he could barely understand why it would be a question at all, and yet Hythlodaeus is coming at it from a very different place.

There is a lot he does not yet understand, and a lot that Emet-Selch has apparently neglected to share with him. Not that Thancred should be surprised, as he's the sort of person who would rather always paint himself in the best light, despite all of his faults.

It's likely that Hythlodaeus is not going to like the answer to his question, and yet if he's that curious to know, Thancred won't withhold the information from him. Especially now that he is also receiving the answers he so desires. He listens carefully and while some of the details do not yet make sense to Thancred (they were brought back, from where? what had happened to him and the others?), it does sound as if his last memories were not his final moments.

(That little tangent about Alisaie does bring a smile to his face, in spite of everything. It's good to know that some things will never change.)

He is still alive, back home, as far as any of them know. And while Hythlodaeus is not able to tell him whether or not they're successful in averting the Final Days, they are actually viewing the unknown future in quite similar fashions. ]

I also believe. In her. If anyone could bring us back from the brink, it's Himeka. And if you were somehow able to ensure that she had her fellow Scions on her side as she faced down despair, then I suppose I owe you my thanks.

[ Thancred will admit that much, though he makes no further reference to Emet-Selch. Having to owe that Ascian anything is not a concept he can swallow down so easily, and he will need a moment or two to process. ]

As for your question... [ He lets out a long sigh and takes another sip of the matcha. The warmth in his chest is a balm now, even if he hadn't been willing to openly ask for it at first. ] Do you understand what it is the Unsundered wanted to do? Their goal was to bring back the world they knew, before everything had been rent into shards. However, doing so meant bringing about calamities within the shards as they are now, destroying everything we know.

[ He shakes his head slowly and lets his eyes fall shut for a moment. ] Just as they fought for their peoples, so did we fight for ours. There was no true way to see eye-to-eye, not when our wants were so diametrically opposed.

[lackingtalent]

[He smiles.]

I believe your thanks would be best placed toward Emet-Selch. For after all, it is my understanding that he tasked my shade with granting her the crystal he forged. Without it, she would not have been able to use Azem's power.

[And.. that is probably not what Thancred wanted to hear. To say he's noted an irritation there is an understatement. So, despite himself, his hand raises to his face in a gentle laugh.]

Rest assured, I'll not trouble you with the task. Instead, I shall pass on the sentiment. You may thank me for that, if you feel so inclined!

[But ah. His mirth is cut short. For when Thancred speaks, and he answers, he finds his amusement dead in his throat. The tea- his first sips of it anyway, seem all the more bitter than it really should be.]

That such was even possible after Hydaelyn doomed us...

[He can't feign his open wonder. That bringing their star back from even Hydaelyn's final blow to it is... staggering. And he cannot help it, for this is the first time he'd even heard the proposal. His mug is placed down again, and he finds his eyes drifting away in contemplation.

Was it... all that different from the original plan to nurture fledgling life upon their star, and render all of those tiny lives unto Zodiark in exchange?

He can see the logic behind it. He can see how the exchange of these lives instead could be judged as a worthy one by those forced unto desperate measures. Yet his eyes glance upward to the Hyuran, this strangely stunted, sickly-looking thing with strange markings upon his bizarre, fragile-looking body, he sees his eyes lower. And thus, he bids himself speak.]

... I believe it an impossible situation. For whoever the victor may have been, a terrible tragedy would have occurred. ...And our star would have lost something important regardless.

[A faint pause.]

...Will you tell me of it? Our star, through your eyes. Does it know happiness?

[funbreaker]

[ The idea of Thancred having to owe Emet-Selch thanks — or anything at all — is enough to draw a sour look from him as he sips at his drink. He sets down the mug with extra force and shakes his head. ]

I would rather you not tell him anything at all, actually.

[ His interaction with the Ascian has been limited to a single meeting in the Horizon, when his memories had been stripped from him and he didn't know any better. He does intend to find him during this summit to make a few things clear, as he's already told Himeka, but he has yet to be able to bring himself to follow through on that. Granted, he still has some time.

It's always odd to hear Hydaelyn's actions spoken of so negatively, especially now that Thancred has seen her with his own eyes. He's been addressed by her, even. He'd experienced both her conviction and her compassion firsthand through her test, and oddly enough, he'd never felt closer to her than when she'd left them to carry on without her.

Hythlodaeus does understand one thing, though, which is that there had been no way to find a compromise between Emet-Selch's goals and their own. Thancred will even acknowledge that there had been tragedy in his loss, even if it had also marked the Scions' victory.

And then, then he is asked about Etheirys. Thancred smiles at that, something wry and a touch melancholy, as he slowly rubs his fingers across the side of his mug. After a pause, he nods. ]

It also knows great sorrow. There are senseless deaths. People turn on each other against their better judgment. And yet we find a reason to live in spite of that. We find small moments of true joy among the suffering. Some would even say that it's those harder times that give the happier ones meaning.

[ Then he looks up, leveling a confident stare on Hythlodaeus' uncanny purple eyes. ]

That is why despite everything, we have fought tooth and nail for it. For our right to exist. We have been tested, time and again. [ By Emet-Selch. By Elidibus, and Fandaniel, and Hydaelyn. ] And we have always, always triumphed.

[ That is why he believes Himeka will be able to do it. She'll find a way to conquer Meteion, to overcome despair itself. ]

[lackingtalent]

[Oh, and such a look it is! Were he to have known Thancred better (or at all, actually) he more than likely would have found a reason to say something (playfully) untoward. Yet he does not. And it is a good thing- for there appears no love lost there.

Hydaelyn, however, is something that brings about no small amount of conflict for him. Venat, after all, was a dear friend to him. Though Hemera, yes. But also on her own merit.

He had not taken her stance at the Final Days. Differing philosophies, a conflict of morals. Nothing more. Yet what Venat, through Hydaelyn, did to Zodiark, to his people, (even with the benefit of death and with all of the relevant information unclouded) was an act that he saw as cruel. Unspeakably so.

Yet even if he bears the same animosity toward the figure as the Convocation, he differs in one crucial element. He does not bear any ill will toward her children.

Especially not when Thancred answers his question like that. He finds himself smiling, faintly, in turn.]

I have every confidence your people will overcome the trial we could not. Ours, after all, depend on it just as much as your own!

[And...]

We share the same star, each and all of us. Regardless of the form of which it takes now. And each of us has a part to play in protecting it.

Not as large as Himeka's, most certainly! ...Yet I think she will prevail. It would quite the disappointment were everything to be cut short now... and from what I recall of her, she's never one to disappoint.

[funbreaker]

[ Thancred takes in that response, lets it settle for a moment, and nods slowly. He truly cannot find any point to argue with there, and it's not as if he sat down here expecting a fight. Hythlodaeus' perspective is far different from the likes of Emet-Selch and Elidibus, who had simmered in their duty and what needed to be done to carry it out for centuries upon centuries.

He even manages a small smile, one that is truly for Himeka more than anything else, as he lifts his mug and takes a long sip from it, finishing it off. ]

She certainly is not. [ There may be some disappoint in him still not knowing the outcome for certain, but that is hardly Himeka's fault. Or Hythlodaues', for that matter. The Ancient has confirmed at least one important detail for him, and Thancred will have to be satisfied with that. ]

I think that's enough for now, don't you? [ He can only take so much of all this, and while he's certain both of them could ask each other further questions, the day is dragging on and he needs some time to gather his thoughts. He stands from his seat and fans his coat out, dusting himself off with his hands before he gives Hythlodaeus a parting glance. ] If there's aught else you wish to discuss with me, you're free to find me in the Horizon.

[ Thancred may not know what the future will hold, back home or in this place, but he is fairly certain that he and Hythlodaeus have no quarrel between them. (Unlike the problem that is Fandaniel.) At least he's established that much. ]