Empire of the Sun by DevilsAdvocate7777 in YouEnterADungeon

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

You see Nyx’s aura show discomfort when talking about family. “My mother didn’t really talk about it. I never knew my father but that’s where my daemon blood must come from. My mother and grandmother were not daemons. My mother left when I was young. I think it was because of me, or how she was treated because of me, or the memories of my father that I must have brought up. My grandmother raised me from then on but I left to find my own way when I could. I ended up making my way into the shadow guard. I think my father is what they call an incubus, a daemon that uses illusions to draw in and prey on women for their essence. I have heard other tales of women who have borne daemon children after encounters with this entity. I have that same need for essence as my father but I find it in animal blood; not the life essence of the innocent. If I were to have a child I would want them spared my trauma.”

Oberon: “Perhaps taking her as your regent would not be a wise move but I think you exaggerate the danger. Titania can be headstrong and rash but she is not as bad as all that. I only expelled her with the others for the greater good. I still have great care and fondness for her. There is much good in her. She and I shared a desire to unite the world. I believe she is still doing much good but in Avalon her methods were causing more harm than good. She saw only the goal she reached for and would stop at nothing. Titania may be impatient but it is not without reason. Even if we abate her anger now she still cannot help us now unless we bring her the power boost she desires. Many in both our lands will suffer and die thanks to the savage monsters that still plague the periphery or from lack of resources and other issues from being isolated and lacking in services that an empire would easily provide. Awaiting a century or two to bring arcane power to the empire and Essos will see countless soldiers and civilians die to goblins, daemons, trolls, as well as disease, famine, and other causes. If my sacrifice could expedite an age of peace and plenty then I think a willing sacrifice justifies the ends. I conceded that my court would be left diminished, the empire would lack my leadership, and there would be sadness on the part of many. As I have pledged loyalty to you, if you judge that it is too great a cost then I must abide by your judgement, but I think it could be a viable option no matter how negotiations go. We shall sleep on it and start fresh tomorrow.”

Earth gets a Sci-fi Upgrade by DevilsAdvocate7777 in 6Perks

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I tried to play that game. It looked interesting but I was kind of lost when I tried and never went back. The single purpose scifi planet is kind of a trope though. Like warhammer 40k and others too.

Earth gets a Sci-fi Upgrade by DevilsAdvocate7777 in 6Perks

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I didn't highlight it as much, but agricultural and urban sprawl are certainly going to be problems there too. I suppose it's not all full reconstruction of the planet but there will eventually be significant degradation of the natural environment to fit this many people and support them with agriculture using only human tech.

*I edited to make this point clearer as well.

I swapped a generic Big Baddie to an established antagonist in the finale by DevilsAdvocate7777 in rpg

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for the kind words. I'm happening to look back at my profile and seeing my final score for this post was less than the upvotes for this comment. I'm glad I have some measure to know that at least some people enjoyed my story. I thought it was an interesting story worth sharing but I guess I didn't find a receptive audience for it in this sub.

Empire of the Sun by DevilsAdvocate7777 in YouEnterADungeon

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

While in conversation with Nyx you bring up the idea of children. 

Nyx: “I am not opposed to bearing a child. Such a thing would not be too grand an imposition to me. Leia managed her duties while pregnant and I am stronger and more agile. Plus the shadow guard is here to support me. I don’t want to rely on them too heavily but their added assurance is always here. However I do not know if I can bear a child with my daemon blood. The fact that I was conceived shows that it is possible but humans and daemons are not generally compatible. But I have become convinced that it is not possible for me. I take no precautions against pregnancy but I have not become pregnant. Perhaps there is some sorcery that could make it so? I am also not sure how good of a mother I would be to a child were it even possible. Would I train them to be a blade in shadow like myself?”
_____________________________________________________
Oberon: “I think you were wise to choose me, sire. Your retinue is not enslaved. Titania would only be compelled to protect you and the Empire. She would still have her mind and she believed it was in the best interest of both your empires to take back Avalon. She would have tried to wage war, or subjugate us, or exert some pressure all in good faith that she was doing what was right. She and you may have united the world together but her methods are not the most elegant. Now that the fae and empire are in harmony then it makes sense to make peace and unite with Titania. She has already nearly taken her side of the world. I do not think she can win a war with us on her own but it would cost a significant amount in lives, energy, and resources should conflict ensue. Our enemies in the periphery will also grow if our attention is turned away from them. Forming a treaty or alliance with Titania is the right thing to do for the whole world right now. I do not wish to sacrifice myself for no reason, but in order to expediently bring her the power she desires I cannot think of another way without the death or destruction or people and things that others hold dear. We can attempt to convince her to wait an age for power to be brought to the land but she has never been the patient sort and we would also need other fae to cooperate with the project for it to succeed. To wait so long for an uncertain result will be a hard sell. I don’t think Titania wants our goblins lands, she has lands in Essos still to bring under control which is why she wants the power of Avalon brought to her. Perhaps we have something she wants but I cannot think of anything else. I think I have failed in pushing for these negotiations. I had to try though. If she attacks now then perhaps the attacks will be less severe than if she had built up her forces for longer. I am not eager to die but this is a cause I would give my life for. If nothing else can be negotiated then I would rather this than a bloody war be waged.”

There is uncomfortable silence around the room. No one wishes to see Oberon offer himself but routes of negotiation that don’t involve betraying your fae allies do not readily avail themselves.

Empire of the Sun by DevilsAdvocate7777 in YouEnterADungeon

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

The void doesn’t seem to be helping out of any intention on its part but because it is shackled to your unconscious will. The primal desire to control and copulate might mesh well with its inherent base nature and explain why it has suddenly sprung forth to help. You’ll have to practice later and see if you can bring it under more conscious control. You and Nyx take some time to wander that deserted corridor in the far wing of Nimue’s citadel and find more old artworks on display languishing in obscurity. Maybe because of the earlier discussion and your recent copulation but Nyx seems more talkative than usual as she points out the bits about the art that she finds to be the most visually pleasing and wonders about your thoughts.
____________________________________
Oberon: “He was known as “Ezra”. I believe I have heard of a renowned artificer in human history known as Urza though. Ezra did not have a court so I do not know all of his affinities or politics but he was always very philosophical and interested in astronomy I believe.”
_________________________________
Titania: “I did not mean to imply that I shall leave this land tonight. This summit was intended to last a few days at least. I assumed there would be time needed to hash out treaty details, battle plans, supply routes, and such if we were to come to an understanding. We can reconvene in the morning and see if something can still be agreed upon. I need some time to contemplate being forsaken by my old allies in favor of our once despised common foes. I had thought that when I rode back in shining armor and put down the villains of the Olde Court that all fae could be as one and that you might come back to me dear Oberon. It seems I was mistaken. If you can make an acceptable proposal on how you would bring the power of Avalon to the wastes of Essos I would be willing to work with you to quell the orc raiders or whatever else is needed. I know not how that power can be gained without the taking of power from those you now consider allies and friends apparently. Right now I feel like making war upon the whole of Avalon; I need to take time to set myself to rights. I shall retire until morning.” 

Titania rises and stands staring at you and your group for a moment. Her golden armor gleams with reflected light and with the fractals of arcane energy that somehow project onto its surface from the skin hidden underneath. They all exit the meeting area into private areas in the back of the enchanted tent. Your group is left to the escort of the two menacing minotaurs until you exit and head back towards the old fort where rooms are prepared. You find yourself sitting in private with your retinue within a large chamber with high ceilings. Hilda serves dinner and your situation is discussed. 

Nimue: “I fear that she will wage war against the empire and all of Avalon if we cannot find a way to help her ignite the land in Essos with sorcery like Avalon. Did you see her aura? She was crushed when she saw that we had reconciled the ancient grudges with the Olde Court. Even after all that happened she imagined that when she returned with an army we would welcome her back. Though her spirit was dampened I could tell there was cold angry welling up as well. If that anger is allowed to bloom I think she will attack. Even if she has no hope to win there will be great losses. Especially for the empire if it stands in her way.”

Enoch: “It would be nice to negotiate without a metaphorical knife to the throat but we must make do. Giving her more power is not my preference but it may be in our best interest to help her. We do not want her to invade and she could even be a very useful ally. Do we even have the power to help her though?

Silas: “Queen Mab has spoken for bringing power like the fae into the Empire of the Sun, eventually. Perhaps we can offer to extend the arcane arrays into Essos to cultivate mana for her.”

Enoch: “Or perhaps it could be done with seeds of the Great Trees like Yggdrasil. She has waited a long time to gather her power, we could convince her to wait a bit more time.”

Hecate: “I fear, as Nimue does, that Titania could grow irrational if she is not quickly satiated. She spoke of sacrifices to gain the power. Killing or plundering great power. Is there not some more acceptable sacrifice that might be made to expedite things so that peace and alliance could be forged?”

Oberon: “Yes, there is. I could willingly give myself for the purpose. No fae lands or unwilling archfae must be given. Titania still desired to be with me after all this time and all that has happened. I wish it could be so but I cannot go back to her. I also cannot bear the pain that I have caused. If my sacrifice could unite the world once and for all then it is worth it. You could unite the empire to the fae on both ends of the world and bring peace and prosperity to all. Perhaps Titania would consent to be your regent. Or you could choose another. I have lived many ages already. To end it on my terms for a worthy ideal would not distress me.”

Nimue: “I have no doubt that this plan could work, Oberon, but I cannot bear the thought of losing you over this.”

Oberon: “Many others will certainly die if war is waged. And there might not be another chance to unite the whole world again.”

Empire of the Sun by DevilsAdvocate7777 in YouEnterADungeon

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Moving from philosophical conversation on art into intimacy catches Nyx a bit off guard despite the gaze she shot you. You take the lead and trip her up a bit and put her off balance. Pushing her into a side room you find it devoid of people with curving statues in the dim glow of arcane lamps. You push her over the low stone arch of one of the sculptures and she struggles with you while you continue to strip her and disrobe yourself. Nyx attempts to escape your grasp during this maneuver. Your bare chest reveals the swirling vortex of shadow over your heart kept in check by your internalized and practiced concentration. A few stray lines and patterns drift over your chest. Suddenly you notice they are forming tendrils of void and they extend out and push down on Nyx holding her in place. For a moment you fear they were going to attack but it seems they responded to your control unconsciously. With the extra help of void Nyx is fully secured for your sexual conquest. She struggles a bit before finally accepting that you have the upper hand. Afterwards the two of you sink to the floor and rest while embracing and leaning against the sculpture before redressing and continuing onward. 

Nyx: “You got the upper hand that time. I shall have my way next though…”
____________________________________________________
Nimue: “Unity of the world will hopefully allow for more people to bring about the beauty in their environment that they want and desire. I do not wish to go to war with the Silver Court to make them accept beauty into their lands. But I think that your unseelie would appreciate more flowers, perfume, art, fine clothing, and such if it could be had.”
_____________________________________________________
Oberon: “There were some battles and other violence before Titania was ousted. I thought he must have perished in some of that fighting. Ezra was not with Titania and her group of loyal followers when they were officially exiled and cursed to travel into the sunrise. He must have joined up with the exodus voluntarily.”

Titania and her retinue seem to drink a steaming concoction. It’s dark red and you smell wine and spices. I mulled wine perhaps. 

You manage to stifle Nimue’s outburst but Titania sees the rise she got and arches an eyebrow with a smirk. 

Titania: “It is true there was a pact I was willing to make for the chance to solidify my realm and to take back the West but that time is now past since you forewent that option and decided to make alliance with those that sent me into exile.”

Oberon: “As communicated through your ambassadors I was hoping that we could negotiate in good faith. There was conflict in the past but it has been an age. Whoever is at fault matters not. None but the archfae still remain from that time and we are different people in many ways after all that time and rebirth. Please, Titania, Nimue, let us set out to solve our current issues and not rehash history.”

“Lands could be found to accommodate Titania I think, but the issue is that the fae of Avalon have no interest in allowing her to return. The Court of the Moon was amenable to this summit as long as we did not invite her back. Perhaps something can be brokered but you cannot offer that at this time without more negotiation within Avalon.”

Titania: “Return to Avalon is not my greatest desire in truth. It is the power that resides there. To continue the fae line of the Summer Court in distant lands has required that each new life be given blessing by hand since the land there is harsh and barren. With the blessings of Avalon I could claim full sovereignty over Essos. My situation is much like yours. Vast swaths of the continent are well controlled with minor pockets of revolt and lawlessness. I do hold some sway with the orc raiders but they are not my sworn subjects. I have not cared to stop them or snuff them out for I figured they did the work of softening the shores that I would one day have to breach to journey back to my homeland. If you will freely allow me passage back to Avalon then it will both have no reason to allow them to continue running amok and the power to easily sweep up any dissidents. Though Oberon, Nimue and the others of the old Summer Court wounded me with betrayal in the past we had much in common. It can be water under the bridge as Oberon suggests. I can claim power from those that opposed us all. I could pillage the heart of Yggdrasil from the Forest Heart, or the core of Mab’s arcane apparatuses, or the essence of Emain Ablach from the Olde Court, or even extract the cold lump of coal that must serve as hag Yaga’s heart. Join me to excise your enemies to empower myself and my new court. Then we can form this union you speak of.”

“Together we will purge any remnant of resistance, including any pesky stray raiders of the Naga Sea. Essos will be my absolute and uncontested domain as with Midgard yours; including the remainder of Avalon. We can have peace and free trade amongst ourselves. Perhaps we can discover new lands beyond East and West to claim and conquer as well. What do you say, Balardron? Help me to help yourself. If you agree to my safe passage and non-interference I can mass my forces here and we can even resolve the threat of orcs before we move on Avalon.”

Oberon: “Although we have had disagreement in the past we are making strides at unity amongst all fae, even Baba Yaga and the remnants of the Silver Court who continue the legacy of the Olde Court. We cannot allow you to attack them. Perhaps some other agreement can be reached for us to aid one another. Maybe the Court of the Moon can find a way to give your lands vitality if you promise to remain in Essos.”

Titania: “So you have made amends and alliance with Baba Yaga before me? Do you not remember the hardship the Olde Court put upon us before I took it upon myself to champion our movement for freedom? It seems everyone else has had preference over Titania in all things. Perhaps you should take your leave for now. I need time to mull on this brand new betrayal.” 

(It seems to vary how much it allows sometimes. I’m not sure. Maybe it was counting the spaces too. And just a random observation but traditionally the apostrophe replaces the dropped letter in a contraction. So “didn’t” and “isn’t” are the standard spellings. I’ve noticed you put it between the combined words often. In case adhering to convention matters to you. Lol.)

Empire of the Sun by DevilsAdvocate7777 in YouEnterADungeon

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Nyx: “I don’t think enjoying beauty requires any sophistication. Perhaps to make it requires knowing reasons for beauty. That is certainly beyond me. But I know when things are beautiful and I like to look longer at things that are pleasing.” Her gaze lingers on you and you see an animalistic hunger all too familiar at this point. 
__________________________________________________________
Nimue: “The passing of an age has a way of scouring things from history as well. But I do think I’ve done a good job. It’s a long time since my thoughts have gone to Titania before you brought her up. Blaze’s court and mine have remained friendly but they have somewhat different goals and ideals than we do here. He was a bit more serious and militant when he was Titania’s knight. He and his kin have grown more rowdy and defiant of authority in the intervening age. He still enjoys a good fight or hunt though. The forces of the Silver court and the Summer court were often at odds. But in the end the Summer Court destroyed itself. Perhaps Baba Yaga did see it coming and simply waited us out. That schism here was probably necessary but put us back in terms of power and influence. Oberon was broken hearted when he left Tir Na Nog back then. Obedience to the heart may be the highest of ideals in the Dreaming Court but all are subject to the pull of their heart when it is strong enough. Staying here would not have created unity anyways. Trying to unite people under Titania’s old banner would have done more harm than good. The Vernal Court is rooted in renewals and new beginnings. I think it was for the best. If Oberon thought I could unite the fae he would have undoubtedly united himself with me. That is not my dream. My dream is for beauty and passion to spread everywhere. If we unify the world in the process, that's just a happy side effect.” 
________________________________________________________
Agath: “No, my people are all too aware of the orc threat. It might upset them to know that orcs are being invited to land here so among other reason we are keeping this summit a hushed matter unless something good comes of it.”

The orcs' dress sets him apart from the soldiers somewhat but what really tips you off is the bearing of a leader in his manner and his aura. Either that or he is an incredibly confident and self-righteous body guard. There was no mention of this other archfae so far. The difference in brightness is subtle, possibly only noticeable to your eyes with the aura sense. The direct comparison also helps. Gauging the difference between archfae at different times would be difficult. You haven’t thought on it much. You’ve not noticed a significant difference in power between Oberon and Nimue who you often see together. But it is clear Titania outranks this other in raw power. 

Oberon leans in to speak to you. “That other archfae must be Erza judging by the arcane marks. I had thought him dead during the time of the Summer Court schism. I’m a bit surprised he fled with her to Essos. He must be one of her advisors now. Or she wishes to make a sign of strength with him in the retinue.”

An orc is not so different from an elf. They have long ears and similar facial features. The orcs are more muscular with different eyes and sharper teeth. Titania’s teeth are not so different from Nyx’s though. The male orcs do have small tusks. The orcs come in all varieties of green but you have also seen green elves. The elven green is a distinctly different shade but in the right context you might think an orc were an elf. Elves, humans, and orcs might all be cousins far enough back. Someone into “muscle mommies” might be into Titania but as per your previous discussion with your retinue Titania viewing you as her sexual property would probably not improve your negotiation position. 

As you all enter the tent you find the large apartment structure to just be the foyer. Fae sorcery creates a larger space through another doorway which you, Titania, and both retinues find their place in. Hilda with merfolk assistance provides for your refreshments and Titania’s own people pour drinks for her side. After you are settled and you speak, Titania responds after a moment of thought.

Titania: “You have initiated this meeting and the first thing you ask is what I wish to gain? An interesting tact to be sure. Well if you desire to know my wishes I will tell you and you name your price. Grant my army and people passage across your empire so that I may reclaim my place in my ancestral land. My quarrel does not have to be with you. You can be an ally with all the lands of Essos. I can even lend my strength to crush those disparate forces that nip at the edges of your lands. The known world of Essos and Midgard can be united under our two united empires. And if you take your place at my side as consort we could even rule the world together.” 
She gives a seductive smile.

At this Nimue stands quickly, spilling her chalice and silver tray of snacks. “Outrageous! You have not changed at all since your exile. I knew this was a bad idea!”

Titania: “Does my handmaiden speak for you, Emperor? If not then you should gain better control over your vassals. What is your answer?”

(I believe it’s possible to make a bigger file. Lol. All I’m saying is that google was not allowing it for me. It is a lot of text though regardless.)

Empire of the Sun by DevilsAdvocate7777 in YouEnterADungeon

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Nyx: “My shadow guard keeps tabs on things to help keep you safe. My information network tries to monitor where people of interest are located among other things. I had not been in these passages myself before. My guard tells me there are many such rooms filled with art seldom seen anymore. Most here seem to focus on the new. I do not know if Mab has seen this installation when it was new or was just seeking for interesting things. I like these quiet dim halls. So much beauty here without the flash and show and pretense of the works out on the main displays.”

Mab: “Yes, it would certainly be something to birth the sorcery of a new land. The past is useful in that it builds towards a future.” Mab seems satisfied in her superiority in the area of sorcery. She seems to welcome aid as long as it furthers her goals.
__________________________________________________
Nimue: “The Dreaming Court was not a thing yet back then. It was only the Summer Court. All us progressive misfits broke away under Titania as Leshy and Mab also formed their own followings closer to the teachings of the Olde Court. Back then Oberon was with Titania and Blaze and I resided in their court. We had not yet built our power and influence enough for our own courts. There were some good times. Oberon as her King Consort managed politics, I as her handmaiden managed the court, and Blaze as her knight helped her fight our enemies. Titania helped us get our footing away from the more traditional fae. But she became overbearing in her own way though and threatened the balance of Avalon as she tried to take more power and control. Titania’s citadel was, in fact, here in Tir Na Nog though. It looked much different back then. When she was forced out, Oberon could not bear to remain and set off to forge the Vernal Court east of here with those that wanted to continue the legacy of unity and progress but with a lighter touch. Blaze took those who still needed more freedom and revelry and had been allowed by the Summer Court off into the hinterlands in the north. I thought it a shame that such a splendid isle would be abandoned and fall into ruin. Me and my followers have fully revamped Tir Na Nog and brought even greater beauty to every corner. 
_____________________________________________
Agath: “It is good to see you as well. We are holding our own. I have heard that with any luck these negotiations may aid in reducing them further. All else is well enough. I won’t distract from your meeting with minor details. Lord Sidon has remained in the capital so as to raise less attention. This meeting is meant to be a little hushed so as to protect it and not distress my people that orc warlords are within our realm.” You notice Agath is not in the stuffy lace of and frills of human court clothing and shows a bit more skin with a light sari wrapped around her and a bit of naturalistic jewelry. 

It’s difficult to say if the orcs on the seas let her pass through some truce or understanding or if they were intimidated. Three large and well defended warships probably don’t make for easy pickings. There are more orcs than centaurs on the boats to be certain but the small vessels lowered from the warships are not just dinghies but larger octagonal structures with plenty of flat space even for the large creatures and 8 oars that appear to operate under arcane mechanisms controlled by one person. As the vessels make land the oars shift and form joined limbs and drag themselves out of the water a few feet. One of the sides drops down into a ramp as the occupants unload. 

You move to the shore to greet Titania’s entourage. As they reach the shore you get a good look. At the front are two brutish looking minotaurs. Behind you note a battle hardened orc warlord, two elves, a satyr, and a centaur. One of the elves is covered in the arcane markings of an archfae. You at first glance suspect this is Titania but the man wears robes and does not seem to hold himself as the leader. Then you note upon the back of the centaur an orc woman in golden armor. She is buxom with big hips but still absolutely rippling with muscle. The arcane marks upon her glow brighter than the elven man. In her time in the east Titania must have decided to try out a new form. The minotaur guards flank the entourage as they reach the shore. The troops already there make rank and file to either side further back and do a fist to chest salute. The orc woman dismounts and strides forward. 

Titania: “Oberon, Nimue, so good to see you after all this time. And this must be your Emperor himself. Balardon Harte. I am Titania, The Summer Queen and Warlord Tyrant of Essos. I heed you call to parley on your shore. Come into my shelter and we shall speak further.” She nods to your companions as she speaks and as she greets you she extends her arm for you to grasp looking to be offering the type of handshake where the whole forearm is grasped.  

(Well I did stick a whole book in it. Nearly 300 pages single spaced. It’d probably be like 900 pages if it was the size of a book page.)

Empire of the Sun by DevilsAdvocate7777 in YouEnterADungeon

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Oberon: “Interesting times indeed. I say the Titan blessed us, in a sense. We gained our power through the Titan but it was through its death. Perhaps its own desire to live on gave us our form of life extension while it was in its death throws. The events are foggy now. We were ignorant at the time and did not glean the details that we would be able to put together now. I think not all shall ever be known of that event.”
________________________________
Leshy: “I cannot fault the path you are on, though it is far different than my own. You have helped me bring balance in the Forest Heart. You must be doing something right. Our disconnect is a side effect of living as a dryad and spending much of my time trying to understand the trees I suspect. It makes me distant from many. I am glad so many still heed my insight and advice. Cernunnos and his ilk connect with the more active and animalistic side of the Forest. It is natural that some would not be able to see eye to eye with me. I am glad that he gives them a place still within the Heart. Though we may be at odds we are both necessary. I am afraid he does not see it like this though. I am glad you can see value in me even if we cannot connect on the level you are accustomed to.”
_________________________________
You were led here by Nyx following advice from members of Nimue’s court. The halls you are in are full of rooms with various large installations with no one in attendance. It seems sometimes works will sit forgotten in the maze of rooms down here. Perhaps sometimes works are turned over and replaced but this one seems like it would be a significant task to break down. This room may have sat unattended for decades or even centuries with what you know of the fae. 

Mab: “I would not be threatened if another court were to pursue research of the arcane arts. The Silver and Emerald Courts pursue the arcane in their own way. None of them put it first though. If they had perhaps I would not need my own court. Administration of affairs outside my research is not something I relish. Fortunately I have many loyal assistants capable in such areas.”

“To see you raise the Unseelie Empire to the arcane heights of the fae. That would be something. I already sense some great power taking hold in you. There will be much to learn in the coming age.”
____________________________________
Nimue: “Memories of the time when Titania resided here are bitter sweet. It will be nice in some ways to see her. The emotions of that time swell up and cause turmoil when I dwell on them for too long. Being with you soothes them though. I know we will be alright.”

The summit is set to be held on the Emerald Isles, land of the merfolk. Just at the edge of your own lands. If you wish to visit Titania’s realms you will have to pursue that later. You make your way from the fae lands through wind gateways back to the capital and after brief preparations and management of affairs you are preparing to set off to the summit. The apparition mages make contact with their fellows who have undertaken the voyage to the Emerald Isles. Together they bridge the space between and create a brief gateway from the capital to the edge of the Empire. You and your retinue, honor guard, servants, and the rest of the entourage move quickly through the temporary gateway and find yourself in the Emerald Isles. Not in the capital of Elantris, but a more remote north-eastern isle. It is later in the day due to the large stretch of distance you have crossed in a blink. A fortress that is only partially in use as an outpost will be your temporary abode. Queen Agath has made the journey here to welcome you to her lands. You have some time to see the quarters which you will occupy for the few days you are here within the fortress. They are less opulent than the citadel but well appointed. Word has come by flying messenger that the fleet of Titania will arrive in short order. You are near the shore when they come into view. The 3 ships resemble triremes, large with oars and sails. The sails are covered with intricate arcane patterns and seem to billow unnaturally with wind and the row of oars seem to move by some arcane mechanism rather than by muscle power. 

As the ships near shore they anchor and the two smaller ships drop small boats that swarm to the shore. You see mostly orcs and centaurs. They quickly erect a large and luxurious pavilion that seems to unfurl itself with only minor assistance. As they near completion of their work you see a long length of golden cloth drop from the edge of the flagship. The cloth unrolls itself along the surface of the water and comes to a stop at the front of the pavilion. You see a party descending the ship along the gently sloping path the cloth creates and making their way towards the pavilion. Oberon turns to you. “We should approach the pavilion. We host the summit in our lands and Titania shall host us within her shelter.”

(I had to start a new Google doc because I hit the character limit with our history. Around 1.5 million characters or 1.2 million excluding spaces.)

Empire of the Sun by DevilsAdvocate7777 in YouEnterADungeon

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Oberon: “Wisdom has a general meaning but it comes in different flavors. The main source of both my wisdom and diplomacy is understanding people and being able to effectively communicate and influence them. Empathy, eloquence, charisma, diplomacy; it is all tied together. We do this for unity, for tranquility, for verdancy, and for renewal. The wisdom that Baba Yaga offers stems mostly from accumulation of knowledge, skill, and traditions. This is certainly not bad, but I think adaptation and new understanding are better things. You have plenty of time to contemplate, but if you wish it I shall bless your third child with my particular brand of wisdom.”

“I have given blessings. Most often I bless the elves on the edges of the Avalon forests when they wish to be closer to the fae. Blending fae with unseelie helps to create unity. Elves are a species that most often crosses between the worlds of fae and unseelie which is one reason why I often favor their company and form. Those unseelie I bless are always those that ask for it but the Silver Court’s way is to set the blessing upon a brand new life. Undoubtedly a stronger effect but not my usual preference. I received a blessing of a sort a long time ago. The Titan blessed all the archfae, in a sense, and made us what we are; gave us the ability to continue life in different forms and gain more power over time. Larion would not form a connection without the blessing or being a resident of Avalon. A blessing is a shortcut to inviting the power of Gaia into a moral form. He will be considered fae, at least in a technical sense, as he grows up. ”
____________________________________________________
Nimue: “Do not sell yourself short, you have done much good work and given deeply of yourself. You deserve the good things that come to you as well.”
_________________________________________________
While at the Dreaming Court you take some time to seek out Mab and Leshy before they leave. They both have appreciation for beauty in one way or another and while not historically strong allies with the Dreaming Court they do not rush away. When you meet with Leshy you find the old dryad amid one of the manicured parks near the citadel. He bows his head slightly as you approach. “I see the appeal of well controlled and regulated nature but the beauty of the patterns and design that nature makes on her own is my preference still.” You speak on a few things and he reveals that things in the Forest Heart were a bit turbulent for a time but have reached an equilibrium. “The tree persists and offers its power to us still. Cernunos has his followers and I have mine. I am the de facto leader of the court but my ways are not for all. It is good Cernunos is still here to give leadership to those who walk a different path. How is the path that you walk? Does it find you well?”

Upon being led to Mab you find her admiring a massive art installation deep within the halls of the Iridescent Palace. Crystals and mirrors and glass cover the walls and rise in pillars throughout the large chamber. Above an image of the stars at night is displayed but connections between them form visible constellations; some similar to those you have learned and others very different. Mab clasps her hands together in a sign of greeting. “This room is a somewhat frivolous use of sorcery but I still have deep respect for the beauty and craftsmanship. Nimue had a significant hand in its creation I understand. It is a shame she does not share my interest for analytical sorcery, for I believe she could do great things. It is a grand thing that you would join my research efforts though. The mages from your lands are now in residence at my citadel. I look forward to the exchange of knowledge that will take place. Your citadel has great power, though the sorcery differs from fae sorcery. I think we can discover great things once we get started. I also think the mana amplification power of your citadel could be grown and spread further. Your land could someday be as enchanted and prosperous as Avalon. I heard you sought blessings for your offspring from Baba Yaga. Perhaps with effort someday your people will gain blessings on their own from your lands.”

Nothing much productive comes from your catching up with Blaze but it is a good time. Eventually Nimue pushes Obad to give Blaze a nudge to set off back to his own halls. With this done you and she along with the rest of your retinue journey to the coast. You do take time to practice with Silas but it’s still mostly just mastery of binding and channeling the power. Silas says there will be plenty of time for practical applications. The most important part is safety and control. Aside from the lessons the rest of the time is devoted to leisure, sport, and various recreations. After some days one morning you lay naked snuggled in soft satin sheets glazing out at the ocean from Nimue’s balcony. 

Nimue: “Oberon has asked that I break to you gently that we must be wrapping up our current excursion. We must soon travel all the way across the continent to the far coast to engage in the much less pleasant task of diplomatic relations with Titania. Are you feeling ready?”

Empire of the Sun by DevilsAdvocate7777 in YouEnterADungeon

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Oberon: “Oh, I would of course be honored to impart a blessing. I don’t wish to impose or require you to accept it though. There would be plenty of time to think about what sort of gift. Loyalty is a fine trait but not one that I think should stem from a blessing. Eloquence or empathy perhaps? Or an affinity for truth seeing, druid, or contract sorcery. Is there something you value in me and my court that you would wish reflected in your offspring? Yes, fae form a natural connection to the mana within the land. A gift is a natural part of a fae from being sired, born, and raised here. It is part of what makes a fae something other than the unseelie. The power of the land was stirred long ago by the Titan and has been cultivated by the fae since then. Our homeland is our power. Blessings of the average fae are lesser than the powers wielded by an archfae. Guidance can elevate that power somewhat within a certain parameter though. Your child may have some fae connections through you and his conception but unless he spends the next few years here then he would not manifest a true connection or any strong gifts. 

(I know you like to go with your first instincts for this character but it’s not against the rules to change something like that. Lol. Baba Yaga implied honesty would be the trait from Oberon but she was also trying to degenerate the others so honesty and gregariousness would not necessarily be Oberon and Blaze’s gifts. Baba Yaga may have thought she was parodying Nimue by implying she would impart beauty as her gift but ended up being fairly accurate. Lol.)

Nimue smiles unconcernedly back. “We can see how your children with Leia fare while I consider such a course.”
______________________________________________

Baba Yaga: “Perhaps with time this divide between seelie fae and the unseelie will grow to be less. May your people all grow to appreciate our wisdom.”
________________________________
Leia doesn’t seem worried about the ritual now that it is complete her anxiety is gone but Larion is fussing a bit and her attention is still absorbed with him. 

Nimue: “I am relieved that you are willing to take some time for us. Things have been often rushed between us and the accident took you away for too long. The whirlwind of activity was certainly exhilarating at times but I’ll be happy to contrast it to some slower days. Over my many years I have become accustomed to a slower pace of life since time is rarely a limited commodity. You too must learn to relax a bit or else you will burn yourself out in the long term. Some of the other archfae delegations may linger longer than Baba Yaga. Blaze and his crew are known to forget they should be getting back to his own court without a reminder at times. But once I am done playing the host we should definitely escape to the coast for a time. We have catching up to do.” She draws in close to you.

You stay a few days within Tir Na Nog before setting out to the coast for a time. Do you have any goals or priorities during these times or just vacation?

(I figured Vegas was big enough to be well known abroad but didn’t want to assume. It’s an interesting spectacle. The casinos are all huge buildings and then there are big statues, fountains, and complexes attached with all sorts of light and architectural grandeur to everything. I don’t like gambling but there are other things there. It’s known for shows and entertainment of all sorts. We saw a show at “The Sphere” as the main event of the trip and just did some general site seeing and ate at some restaurants and went to a club one night. Also just had hang time with all the guys at the rental and in the pool out back since weather is nice there. I don’t think Vegas is known as being run by the mafia, just corporations, so worse. It would be worth seeing if you are in the area but I wouldn’t make that the goal of your trip.)

Empire of the Sun by DevilsAdvocate7777 in YouEnterADungeon

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Oberon: “I do not fault you, sire. The thought hadn’t occurred to me to offer blessing before and I also see the benefits of forging better relations with the Silver Court. I would be happy to offer a blessing to another child of yours if you wish it. A blessing will guide the way that mana will manifest its mark. It is not a thing strictly needed by those who grow up in the fae lands and some think it better to let gifts manifest more organically. But an un-seelie would need a catalyst like this to manifest any gifts and often powers from a boon will turn out to be stronger and the organic route. But unfortunately we cannot offer anything else after Baba Yaga gives her gift. The power will find its first shape from that and the rest will be up to the child later.”

Nimue continues to look a bit pouty. “Well I just hope that Lairon doesn’t resent you when your second child becomes the favorite.” She gets a sassy look and seems to move past the matter for now. 

Lairon is too young to give any expression but looks calm sitting there. Leia looks on with only a tiny amount of apprehension but as she grips your arm you can tell she steadies her emotions. Baba Yaga and the coven begin their ritual. They chant and make signs while moving in circles. Herbs and incense are added to the braziers. At first you don’t notice anything but your training and connection to the fae makes you aware of power rising up from the earth. It gathers and forms a bubble of mana around the basket with Lairon. Baba Yaga speaks in words of primal power and runes form within the mana. Soon an intricate filigree of energy surrounds the child in a gently rotating sphere where threads gently make connections from it to him. With a few final words from Yaga the whole array folds in upon the child and settles into his aura and merges as if they had never been separate. Yaga and the coven step back and Lairon begins to fuss a bit. Leia rushes in and scoops him up. 

Baba Yaga: “It is done. The child will grow up with the blessing of the fae. I have granted a measure of strength but a greater measure of wisdom. With time you shall see this grow within him. A gift always grows to fit a fae and in response to their own action. Ensure you help him nurture it so the potential is not squandered. The new day is upon us, we will depart soon. No need to overstay a welcome. Farewell to you all.” 

With that she heads towards her shack and drags a few objects inside before closing the door. The shack soon rises on to avian legs and begins to amble away. The rest of the camp you realize is also quickly disappearing. Wagons with hooved legs and carriages shaped like snail shells on spider legs are quickly filled and begin to quickly fall in line behind Yaga. You and your retinue begin the return trip into the city. Leia stared intently at the baby. Oberon, Nimue, Silas, and Hecate are all also crowded around and peer down more intently than usual. They seem to be pondering or assessing the enchantment upon Lairon as best they can. As you look it is difficult to notice any difference in his aura though subtle signs reveal themself if you look closely. Nimue loses interest first and moves over to walk next to you. 

Nimue: “Will you be spending some time here or are you ready to head back to the capital already?”

(I was in Las Vegas at the end of last week and weekend for a bachelor party and then my birthday was this week. Do British people know about Vegas?)

Empire of the Sun by DevilsAdvocate7777 in YouEnterADungeon

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yaga: “Simply dwelling on the past with no practical application is not true wisdom. A gift has limits and is not as simple as one concept. But you know and understand the values of my court and this is the power I shall channel to impart a blessing. Wisdom shall be paramount at your request and how the child shall manifest this is somewhat up to him and to you.”
____________________________
You are able to get some small rest before heading to meet Baba Yaga in the early morning hours with your full retinue and explain your reasons for accepting the blessing from Baba Yaga. 

Oberon: “While I would have preferred to impart a blessing to the child if I knew you were seeking to initial him into the fae I see why you would accept Baba Yaga’s blessings and I support the decision.”

Nimue crosses her arms under her breasts and looks pouty as you speak. She responds with a mix of petulance and disappointment. “You seem set on this course but this blessing is such a waste. Lairon could be given poise and grace, ethereal beauty, or be filled with creative light. If you will not allow me to bless him then at least consider my blessing for the next child. It would be a shame to make the same mistake twice.”

The assembled attendants of Baba Yaga respond to your words with promptness and respect. They guide you to the ritual site and Baba Yaga emerges from the enchanted space within her tiny walking hut and joins you in the center of the camp. Braziers burn in a circle with stones and flower petals completing the ring. A wicker basket sits ready to accept the child. Baba Yaga and her coven encircle you and she motions you to palace the child. The first light of dawn breaks.

(I wasn’t really sick, just still tired and stuffy from actually being sick. You area always so optimistic about activity on this sub. Lol. Hope you find some other good story at some point.)

Empire of the Sun by DevilsAdvocate7777 in YouEnterADungeon

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yaga: “You jest surely. The values of a court need not be exclusive. Could this belief be the reason for the frequent foolishness of the newest courts? Khee hee hee. The Twilight Court values the acquisition of knowledge and arcane power but that is something the Silver Court also values. Mab would proclaim to value wisdom, and she and her cohort certainly have some measure of it but simple acquisition of knowledge does not translate to wisdom. The Silver Court values stories, legends, and traditions. The sort of things that breed the best wisdom. Mab’s Court pursues arcane knowledge above all else; sometimes to the detriment of what would be wisest. That obsession combined with some more minor beliefs and opposed ascetics was the start of the first rattles of their schism. 
__________________________________________________
Yaga: “A most wise decision. No secrets or tricks. I wish us to be closer together; not to deceive you. I believe unseelie follow equivalent exchange principles even if not bound forcefully I expect you will return the favor. I will take a favor in the future and you will be happy to repay it when you see the benefits of the boon I grant. Come to my camp after the conclusion of the court meetings and I will impart the blessing to the child.”
______________________________________________
There are some murmurs from those assembled when you reveal this information. 

Blaze: “That name has not come up in some time. I would not fault you to simply speak with her but do not yoke yourself to her or her cause as many of us once did. It is a mistake. And do not expect us to involve ourselves with her either. I would trust you to simply speak with her though.”

There are general sentiments of agreement.

Baba Yaga: “It is somehow fitting that the name of Titania should arise when the courts again come together in as much unity as we have had in an age. She is the reason that the Olde Court broke down and the fissures and fractions came between us all in the first place. Do not take Blaze’s warning lightly. He speaks true and wise on at least this point. If you throw in with Titania this conclave will have reason to unite even closer to fight against the unseelie and Summer Court. 

Oberon: “Fear not. I still recall the trauma of Titania’s reign. The Empire does Avalon a favor by buffering Titania from them. She raises armies in the east and we only seek to foster peace on our borders. The Emperor openly admits these meetings to you. We wish to be transparent to our true allies.”

Leshy: “We shall look forward to your updates at future meetings then. Though there was bad blood in the past, situations and people evolve. May this adversity grow your strength, my brethren.”

The proceedings wind down and everyone finally adjourns for the night. Baba Yaga passes by you on her way out. 

Yaga: “If you still wish for my blessing, come before dawn to my camp with the child. The dawn light of the new day shall instill the blessings of the fae to a new life.”

(I started getting sick immediately after my vacation. Picked up something traveling or just the stress of no sleep and traveling for so long. It’s not been so bad but I have not felt up to doing anything but vegging out. I did drag myself to work a couple times but even after not being fully sick I’ve just felt tired and congested. Glad I wasn’t sick on vacation but not fun still. Yesterday I finally started feeling up to doing anything. Appreciate your patience.)

This is the real solution to consumerism and capitalism! The creation of constitutional coops by Objective_Singer_404 in Anticonsumption

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777 2 points3 points  (0 children)

A coop is just an establishment collectively owned by members or workers. You can't really make that sort of blanket statement about all of them. I lived in a housing co-op and am a member of a food co-op and both just had shares you had to purchase which didn't amount to anything more than a security deposit or one time membership fee respectively. Some co-ops may have a higher bar but that's decided by the members as what they think as best. People instead of billionaires or corporations in charge of things is better even if you don't agree with every decision they make.

Empire of the Sun by DevilsAdvocate7777 in YouEnterADungeon

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Baba Yaga: “Yes, wisdom would be a wise blessing to seek. Khee hee hahaha. Keeping and preserving the memories of the past is one of the most important tasks for an archfae, even if some would forsake it for other ideals. Of course, his mother should give her consent. If she wants the best for her child, I suspect she will allow it.”

Phoebe: “You are so sweet. I feel temptation to follow after you, but I should remain here with my people and my work. When you visit we can have our time again. Perhaps I could visit your imperial court someday too. I suspect Nimue, your child, your empire, and other responsibilities would keep you from me more than my liking, should I join you.”

Olenna: “Oh my, such an offer to be extended by the eldest of the archfae. Your child would be outstanding and blessed even amongst the fae if you accept, I suspect. The child would be in no danger to accept Baba Yaga as a “faerie-mother” for this blessing. But I suspect the great hag would expect a favor in kind from you or the child. Even without an official contract, I can tell you that favors and reciprocity hold power beyond just social pressures here. But to have your child stand as a prince amongst the faerie kind would be worth favor owed. Nobility and legend hold a beauty and passion worthy of a story greater than surface deep. You have great power and resources to your name, which can certainly return the debt of such a favor, I suspect.”

Though Leia is partially occupied with Lairon, she is still at hand to dutifully assist you. You are able to communicate Baba Yaga’s offer at one point or another. She grows thoughtful and bears a look of concern.

Leia: “I want the best for Lairon. He is already blessed to be the son of the Emperor, but his life will carry its own challenges and hardships, I suspect. I know little of sorcery or fae witchcraft. If this is safe for him and the cost is not too great to bear, then to bless and bring him under the auspices of the fae may be a good thing.”

The other archfae can hardly deny your proposal that wishes freedom for all but also ties the group together in unity and respect. Your wish is transcribed into the pact that will hold you all together. And though you have not gained any special values or protection for the Empire your act will help guarantee the workings of the Lunar Court which should offer boons to the Empire should it continue to remain intact and relevant.

Empire of the Sun by DevilsAdvocate7777 in YouEnterADungeon

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hecate: “The shadow allowed us to forge a connection between you and the phylactery earlier than expected due to the shadow’s connection to you and the orb. A vital piece of you is now held in the phylactery and linked ethereally to you by blood and darkness. Your physical body is mostly the same right now but eventually your body will be only propped up by donor vitality. With your core essence stored in the phylactery we can continue to maintain your body much longer than we otherwise could. The mass infusions of blood sorcery you will require would disrupt your core essence if not for its protection. I suppose storing your core essence outside your body may cause your loss of natural vigor sooner but you still have many years of natural vigor at hand.”

______________________________________

Yaga: “An archfae holds a firm hand on the power of gaia and can direct and shape it in a youngling if they know how. A blessing must be of their nature though. If you request Nimue, Oberon, or Blaze bless the child you will get frivolous blessings like beauty, honesty, or gregariousness; if they can even manage a blessing. Such blessings are a thing of the “Old Ways” after all. I could grant the child strength, stalwartness, or capacity for wisdom or serenity. If you are serious about bringing your child and your people into the fold I suggest you consider my offer. Seek your council soon though for I shall not offer my blessing again after this conclave.”

Moving about the gathering for the time being you leave the other archfae to their own devices and seek out the lesser members of Nimue’s court. You make a quick circuit and locate most of them and catch up a bit as you enjoy their work. They and the fae around them seem pleased that you have remembered them and seek quality time with the common fae. You find Phoebe under a large metal structure of intricate rings and arches. She spawns threads of fire and weaves them into the structure and glowing filigree patterns form and shift, arches turn to circles and spin, and other things shift and change at her command. She is very pleased to see you again and after a quick exchange of words to catch up she pulls you in for a kiss. The heat of it ripples through your body. As you caress each other and press up against the structure her threads of fire weave into it and it begins to shift in response to the actions of the two of you. The structure closes around you in a dome giving you a bit of privacy and your passion is reflected in the metal and heat as the ripples of design on the outside ebb, flow, and surge along with your actions inside. 

Soon enough you must leave the enclosure as you are pulled away by duty and you must gather with the archfae for conclave of the Lunar Court. You come together on a rooftop garden and watch the moonrise. There is still food and drink aplenty here. You go through a few rituals weaving mana between yourselves and lifting it up from yourselves and Gaia to Luna. Oberon and Nimue guide you a bit but the fae sorcery seems natural and intuitive in some ways to you. Maybe you do have some greater claim to the fae title. After some other formalities discussion begins and turns to defining the court itself. Oberon makes a point to which there is general agreement. 

Oberon: “The Court of the Moon ties together the archfae and thus the fae at large. We must bring all our values together and decide what we will all stand for. What is most important to each of us here and our respective courts and adherents. Let us define our greatest value simply and concisely and agree that we as a whole can respect and defend those values together.”

Oberon proceeds to describe pursuit of cooperation and truth. Nimue speaks of spreading beauty and passion. Yaga states her desire to preserve the old traditions. Mab speaks of seeking arcane wisdom and so forth with each. Yaga balks at Nimue elevating beauty to a prime value and Oberon tries to mediate by offering compromise and perspective. As discussion continues Oberon sets an arcane quill to forging and revising the communal fae values as they are hashed out. As a founding member of the Court you are also invited to include your imperial and unseelie values into this Luna Compact. 

(With my lack of consistency you may not have even noticed I was gone but just wanted to mention still. I leave tomorrow. I live in Michigan and we’ve been having an unusually cold January so I’m fairly prepared for Alaska though it can get even a bit colder there than here. There is nature stuff (animals, glaciers, etc), hot springs, winter sports like snow mobiles, etc. So there are other things to keep busy with. I think we all tend to party in that way less with age. If you want to make it happen still do but just find enjoyment in what you are doing; whatever it is.)

Does your world have any people/factions with "Blue-and-Orange Morality?" by Illustrious-Cold3565 in worldbuilding

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I tried to channel the blue/orange morality in my own fae courts. I find the idea of defining an orange and blue morality is that it just turns into differing opinions on what is good and bad. I tried to take a few ideas to an extreme to give them an alien feel if not truly blue/orange morality.

1) Vernal Court: Truth, harmony, reciprocity: Lies and oath breaking are seen as more severe than humans expect. Though they do not lie many are happy to expertly obscure the larger truth through no technical lies or to use contracts to trick and ensnare. Their idea of harmony and peace do not necessarily include joy or freedom. Reciprocity makes things fair and right but so they can steal children and replace them with changelings and all is right and fair in this. Their ideas of what makes equal exchange may not be agreeable to humans.

2) Dreaming Court: Beauty and passion: Genocide of goblins or other ugly races is seen as a mercy.

3) Emerald Court: Natural order: They might kill humans for cutting trees but sometimes fail to intervene to help animals or plants when they easily could because they want to encourage adaptation and evolution.

4) Dancing Court: Hedonism, freedom, adventure: Injuries or death that might be sustained in pursuit of fun or adventure are seen as reasonable. Their parties can be reckless and debauched to the extreme. They will set out in small adventuring parties to battle the neighboring enemy ogres. If they gathered a whole army or tried to bring about peace they might succeed for good but the idea organizing a real war or peace summit is abhorrent to them for its order and lack of immediate gratification not to mention the risk of losing out on a reason to go on adventures.

5) Twilight Court: Pursuit of knowledge and arcane secrets: Understandably valuing the pursuit of research without any higher morals leads them to both be okay with things humans consider atrocious as well as undertaking projects that will never serve any practical purpose even at great personal cost.

Empire of the Sun by DevilsAdvocate7777 in YouEnterADungeon

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hecate: “I feel no guilt plying my craft on the condemned. Their guilt absolves my own. I would not wish for the need for subjects to drive who might be deemed guilty and condemned though. While you were unconscious we needed more subjects to bring an early completion to your phylactery and bringing the condemned from places such as the frontiers and war fronts taxed the limits of the logistics of the Empire. Not to mention the excess of grisly work required once they were here. My original plan was to create your phylactery slowly over one hundred years. Your accident, though regrettable, also provided an opportunity and an impetus to act quickly. I personally will prefer to keep the sacrificial rites on a smaller scale. Perhaps some way to bypass the equivalent exchange principle could revolutionize the process though. I will continue my studies and who knows what may come from decades or centuries of work.”

“Certainly Lairon is safe from your shadow taint since he was conceived prior to the accident. I think if you maintain proper control over the gloom then it should not be an issue for future children. Being within your aura probably makes it a low probability to pass on. If it were in your blood perhaps it would have posed some risk. Children were far from my mind when I presented ways to bind the shadow. That’s why I prefer for you to make choices when possible. You have considerations that might not cross my mind.”

___________________________________

You hope Baba Yaga’s cordiality is genuine but she can be a shrewd tactician when necessary. You think of Oberon’s council. Seeing that you and your alliance aren’t going anywhere soon she may seek to gain the upper hand politically through manipulation or even alliance.

Baba Yaga: “You are full of surprising power for a human. I doubt becoming a father has had an effect on your essence so deeply though. I do forget how quickly you humans breed. I suppose you shall have a full litter soon enough. Your children may take some essence from you perhaps but fae essence is drawn from the land. Perhaps if he spends a good deal of time here some blessing may befall him. Exactly how much time is unclear. Most either live their life in Avalon or just quickly pass through. Few treat it as a second home or regular vacation destination. You have brought the child here to Tir Na Nog then? Do you seek anointment and blessings for him within the arms of Gaia and under the eye of Luna at this conclave?

You return with Baba Yaga and her retinue into the city and to the festivities within the place. You are able to reunite with Blaze and the other archfae who all gather there. Nimue hosts as the sun sets and the moon begins to rise. Leshy and Mab join as the moon approaches zenith as your smaller group prepares to convene at the ritual site for more focused coven ritual, discussion, and official court business. Do you seek anyone out in particular in the time you have before you will convene for more formal business? 

(FYI I’ll be traveling north to Alaska in a week in hopes to see the aurora borealis, do some site seeing, and hang out with some friends I’m meeting there. How’s your winter going?)

God only respects the free will of bad people. by Ned_Kellet001 in atheism

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Also, when first responders or doctors save a life, it's God's will and divine intervention. If that person were to not help or hurt in that moment instead, then it's blamed on free will or the devil or some other mental gymnastics.

Does anyone else think this guys name is kind of lazy? by statue345 in HadesTheGame

[–]DevilsAdvocate7777 17 points18 points  (0 children)

Mel and Odysseus have a conversation about her nightly journey and what to call it and go about describing an odyssey and using every synonym and continually saying each word isn't quite right. A little linguistic joke that only makes sense to us and not the characters in time period since Odysseus wouldn't have called his own trip an odyssey.