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SEPTEMBER TDM + SETTING UPDATES
BEARING FRUIT (NEW CHARACTERS ONLY)
It starts out as a pleasant dream. You’re in your favorite place, with your favorite people. It’s a moment of idyllic comfort.
The light starts to fade, but only in time to see as the leaves cradling you immediately start to soften and crumble, and with it comes a torrent of dirt. Soft, loamy soil starts to fill the space around you in the dark as you’re buried. Or, rather, you already were. You reach out through the dirt desperately, and your hands finds a root, so you pull while you clutch that precious crystal so close that it almost feels like it sinks into you (in your panic, you don’t notice that it does). You reach out again, and this time, your hand hits open air and plenty of sturdy roots around to grab.
From a seed you’re born, and like a sprout, you make your way out of the ground.
And once you’ve clawed your way out of the soft earth and the roots, nearby, you see the soil shift. Another hand comes up to grasp desperately for something, anything, just as you had been.
You wake with a start, cradled by soft, velvety plants, and sticky with a sap that smells faintly of honey and iron. You can see the veins of the leaves that hold you, lit warmly and gently by what looks like a crystal embedded above you. Yet, it’s odd, because that crystal calls to you. When you reach out to touch it, it’s warm. Familiar. Important. You don’t know why, but you know you must hold onto this, because now it feels wrong for it to be suspended in these leaves. So, you pull it out.And then, it goes wrong.
The sky turns dark above, and as you look up, you see the black expanse of space spotted with faraway pinprick lights of stars. Yet, they’re not stars. You’re certain. They’re watching you. A billion eyes all looking down, and they spill forth as if sky itself was a dam holding back those dark waters. You reach back to the people you’re with, but they’re frozen in place. Their eyes are black, reflecting only the expanse of dark eyes.
So you run, even though you know you won’t escape it. You glance back and see it not overtaking, but consuming. The landscape around you is being devoured, and you can see it cracking apart. The world itself is breaking, and it cracks under your feet. You fall, and the billion eyes chase after you until the darkness swallows you whole. There’s agony as if you’re being ripped apart, and then—
You cannot see. You cannot feel. You simply are. Yet even so, impossibly, a woman’s voice speaks gently.
I’m sorry it couldn’t be saved. But, come, it’s time to wake.
The light starts to fade, but only in time to see as the leaves cradling you immediately start to soften and crumble, and with it comes a torrent of dirt. Soft, loamy soil starts to fill the space around you in the dark as you’re buried. Or, rather, you already were. You reach out through the dirt desperately, and your hands finds a root, so you pull while you clutch that precious crystal so close that it almost feels like it sinks into you (in your panic, you don’t notice that it does). You reach out again, and this time, your hand hits open air and plenty of sturdy roots around to grab.
From a seed you’re born, and like a sprout, you make your way out of the ground.
And once you’ve clawed your way out of the soft earth and the roots, nearby, you see the soil shift. Another hand comes up to grasp desperately for something, anything, just as you had been.
TWO CITIES, ALIKE IN DIGNITY
With the new Shard-Bearers present or en route, it is Kathova and Cetina that approach the established ones, requesting that they form mentorships with the new souls to assist them with the integration process. To this end, they have both provided a centralized zone in both Highstorm and Springstar for a small, casual meet-and-greet to be held before the new Shard-Bearers are unleashed upon Kenos as a whole.
Additionally, as Springstar and Highstorm are holding their events on different days, it is possible for the knowledge-hungry to participate in both informational sessions -- the tones and opinions held by both cities are doubtless to differ, and some Shard-Bearers who have chosen to harmonize with either faction may even find their way to the opposing faction's session as well.
However, for those who have attended such events in the past, they'll note a marked difference—Only newly arrived Shard-Bearers and members of the faction are welcome. If you're a member of the opposite faction, you'll be questioned and ultimately turned away. If you want to join the party, you'll have to be a little sneakier, it seems.
The welcoming party is in the Seat of the Tribune, with tables draped in white-and-gold-trimmed fabrics fare filled with fare typical to Springstar's slowly fading winter -- fruits and wines, savory smoked meats and roasted vegetables, and large bowls of soups like youvarlakia and fasoalda have been lain out to encourage forum participants to snack as they speak. There are plenty of grains and other dishes that elude to an abundant harvest from Alenroux. The atmosphere is ambient with informality and friendliness, though topics will inevitably stray towards philosophic or political, Springstar's meeting grounds are decorated with handsome chaise lounges and slouching klismos chairs in small, intimate groupings. This is a forum in the classical sense, where people are encouraged to speak freely, no matter the topic. Though excitement charges the air, the gathering at the Seat is much more muted than what transpires outside the center of the city.
The mood in Springstar as a whole is jubilant, with not just a party at the seat of the tribune, but elsewhere, including the Psychagogía district. Parties line the streets, establishments that overflow with bodies, drink, and libations of all sorts. There is a sense of excitement in capturing the latest oracle, and the people seem to treat the shard-bearers of Meridian somewhat reverently, and new ones, they will pull aside and explain with excitement about how the Shard-Bearers captured the oracle (with varying degrees of accuracy) and how it is because of them that they will be seen to victory. Cyrus’s name, however, still comes with notes of disdain. It’s clear that the Tribune has not bought much good favor by their victory, and instead, if any ask, or follow the threads, they will hear the names Desmond Ó Ruadháin and Agapitos Voreen as likely successors to the Tribune. However if one asks how that happens… details become a bit more muddy. Apparently, the role of the Tribune is for life. And apparently, the denizens of Springstar trust the Shard-Bearers to see the oracles through, and still see Cyrus as a weak link in their chain.
There are few places to be seated in the Manor's courtyard, resulting in a milling of bodies as they flow and ebb between smaller gatherings, clustering in small-to-large groups with small platters and shimmering flutes of drink held in their hands. Yet, as you look, you’ll see that the selection is also quite interesting. The foods and drinks on offer are from a multitude of worlds, and so you may find a new favorite! Or something not suited to your palate at all. It’s at least a chance to be adventurous. If you try something and don’t like it, might not want to say that out loud, lest you insult someone who’s from that world.
The city itself is more muted than usual. The last dregs of Highstorm’s chill summer are coming to an end, and the cold is an opportunity for Highstorm’s denizens to batter in more frequently, and the chill may have something to do with the lost oracle. Though, if asked, they’ll say nothing of the sort, of course! In opposition to Springstar’s mixed jubilation and doubt, Highstorm’s denizens seem determined that lady Yima will see them through, and that one loss is no reason to fall into despair. Though they are still disappointed, and will say so. Though blame does not seem to have a target, mere disappointment filters through the city, as they start preparing for winter. The prices seem higher, whether one is looking for potions, supplies, or even small trinkets from the The Antiques & Baubles Market. Things seem… leaner in a sense. There’s nobody starving on the streets in Highstorm, but the control of Alenroux continues to lead to tense relations, even though a compromise seems to have been recently reached between the two factions.
Additionally, as Springstar and Highstorm are holding their events on different days, it is possible for the knowledge-hungry to participate in both informational sessions -- the tones and opinions held by both cities are doubtless to differ, and some Shard-Bearers who have chosen to harmonize with either faction may even find their way to the opposing faction's session as well.
However, for those who have attended such events in the past, they'll note a marked difference—Only newly arrived Shard-Bearers and members of the faction are welcome. If you're a member of the opposite faction, you'll be questioned and ultimately turned away. If you want to join the party, you'll have to be a little sneakier, it seems.
SPRINGSTAR, αιώνιος ήλιος
In Springstar, the seat of the Tribune becomes available for such a forum. While a section of the building itself has been reserved for the meeting between fresh faces and experienced Shard-Bearers alike, the hustle and bustle of Heliopolis continues around them -- acolytes still gather their robes and tomes, hurrying from their quarters to lessons. A score of young militants march in step across the yard to the training grounds.The welcoming party is in the Seat of the Tribune, with tables draped in white-and-gold-trimmed fabrics fare filled with fare typical to Springstar's slowly fading winter -- fruits and wines, savory smoked meats and roasted vegetables, and large bowls of soups like youvarlakia and fasoalda have been lain out to encourage forum participants to snack as they speak. There are plenty of grains and other dishes that elude to an abundant harvest from Alenroux. The atmosphere is ambient with informality and friendliness, though topics will inevitably stray towards philosophic or political, Springstar's meeting grounds are decorated with handsome chaise lounges and slouching klismos chairs in small, intimate groupings. This is a forum in the classical sense, where people are encouraged to speak freely, no matter the topic. Though excitement charges the air, the gathering at the Seat is much more muted than what transpires outside the center of the city.
The mood in Springstar as a whole is jubilant, with not just a party at the seat of the tribune, but elsewhere, including the Psychagogía district. Parties line the streets, establishments that overflow with bodies, drink, and libations of all sorts. There is a sense of excitement in capturing the latest oracle, and the people seem to treat the shard-bearers of Meridian somewhat reverently, and new ones, they will pull aside and explain with excitement about how the Shard-Bearers captured the oracle (with varying degrees of accuracy) and how it is because of them that they will be seen to victory. Cyrus’s name, however, still comes with notes of disdain. It’s clear that the Tribune has not bought much good favor by their victory, and instead, if any ask, or follow the threads, they will hear the names Desmond Ó Ruadháin and Agapitos Voreen as likely successors to the Tribune. However if one asks how that happens… details become a bit more muddy. Apparently, the role of the Tribune is for life. And apparently, the denizens of Springstar trust the Shard-Bearers to see the oracles through, and still see Cyrus as a weak link in their chain.
HIGHSTORM, луны-близнецы
Eternally in opposition, Highstorm provides the Manor's courtyard as the setting for their informational meeting. Formality is of utmost importance here, with attending Zenith loyalists and residents dressed in beautiful, albeit austere attire -- they are, after all, standing before Lady Yima's home. A buffet-style luncheon is spread alongside one of the largest reflecting pools, wherein you may gaze and find your memories revealed in retrospect upon the water's surface. Soft tunes filter over the courtyard, and if the sounds of them sound familiar – perhaps remind one of home? That’s because they are! Yima’s musicians seem to be able to pilfer strings and strands of music, and weave it all together expertly, to give both new arrivals and old friends reminders of their home.There are few places to be seated in the Manor's courtyard, resulting in a milling of bodies as they flow and ebb between smaller gatherings, clustering in small-to-large groups with small platters and shimmering flutes of drink held in their hands. Yet, as you look, you’ll see that the selection is also quite interesting. The foods and drinks on offer are from a multitude of worlds, and so you may find a new favorite! Or something not suited to your palate at all. It’s at least a chance to be adventurous. If you try something and don’t like it, might not want to say that out loud, lest you insult someone who’s from that world.
The city itself is more muted than usual. The last dregs of Highstorm’s chill summer are coming to an end, and the cold is an opportunity for Highstorm’s denizens to batter in more frequently, and the chill may have something to do with the lost oracle. Though, if asked, they’ll say nothing of the sort, of course! In opposition to Springstar’s mixed jubilation and doubt, Highstorm’s denizens seem determined that lady Yima will see them through, and that one loss is no reason to fall into despair. Though they are still disappointed, and will say so. Though blame does not seem to have a target, mere disappointment filters through the city, as they start preparing for winter. The prices seem higher, whether one is looking for potions, supplies, or even small trinkets from the The Antiques & Baubles Market. Things seem… leaner in a sense. There’s nobody starving on the streets in Highstorm, but the control of Alenroux continues to lead to tense relations, even though a compromise seems to have been recently reached between the two factions.
SETTING UPDATES
In both locations, information passes between all in a forum, spread and disseminated among the masses - it's a good opportunity for city residents, faction loyalists and interested new parties to share and share alike. Once the meet-and-greet has concluded, twin missives from both faction leads are read out -- invitations for all present to explore the cities to their heart's content, and warnings about stumbling ill-prepared ( or at all ) into the Below, or worse yet, the Beyond. As Shard-Bearers new and old take in their cities, they'll all see it change throughout the month...
OOC, these are all updates to the setting at large that players both new and old are free to interact with as little or as much as they wish! Feel free to use them as prompts on this post, in your characters on-going lives and arcs, or just let them go "that's none of my business" and ignore it. The world of Kenos is shaped by our playerbase, and these are some of the wider reaching effects of various player plots and actions.
OOC, these are all updates to the setting at large that players both new and old are free to interact with as little or as much as they wish! Feel free to use them as prompts on this post, in your characters on-going lives and arcs, or just let them go "that's none of my business" and ignore it. The world of Kenos is shaped by our playerbase, and these are some of the wider reaching effects of various player plots and actions.
THE BLIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL
Since the Blight’s conclusion, both cities have undergone a fair bit of effort to reconstruct the districts and buildings that were destroyed in the Blight, though Springstar seems a touch further along than Highstorm, due to Shard-bearer efforts. The unusual weather pockets present previously have very nearly all disappeared, though there are some patches still present, lingering in the areas still somewhat ravaged by the Blight. The pockets seem to be losing their effects now, and if one finds themself within, will experience a mild slowing down or speeding up of time. Visions still appear within the small bubbles, reflections of dear ones or important events, though they seem to be only memory, though anyone within the bubble can bear witness.FURTHER DETAILS
OOCly, characters can still stumble into small bubbles of time, though they are fewer and far between than they were 3 months ago! These time bubbles still have some time-warping energy, and will continue to allow characters to either speed up or slow down, depending on player preference! In addition, the time bubbles are no longer bringing back remnants of Kenosians past, but there is still the chance of some memory reflections to briefly manifest in the bubble. They will come from player characters as a whole, and are purely up to whatever is fun for you! Think of it as brief flickers of memory sharing, they can be as brief or as distorted as you like! Think of this as the last gasp of the Blight, as it withers away thanks to the concentrated efforts of all shard bearers!
CHECKS AND BALANCES
Alenroux continues to improve, and with the new balance between both Springstar and Highstorm, the separate island is safer than ever! The tensions between both factions seem to have reduced over the island, thanks to the efforts of several shard bearers, and the populace seems to be warming to both factions once again.FURTHER DETAILS
After the resolution of the first Kenos Ambassador agreement, the balance of power in Alenroux is already starting to shift. The island already has a much more evenly-matched number of military forces from both Springstar and Highstorm, the number of troops in the area has reduced significantly. The number of monsters does not seem to have increased at this time, which bodes well for the area. The uptick of Highstorm locals has certainly led to more food flowing into Highstorm than had before, and the people seem pleased with the arrangement – for the moment! The small murmurs of discontent and unrest seem to have alleviated at this time. Though some still seem uncomfortable with the amount of troops, they seem less willing to say that out loud. Though nights in Alenroux will possibly never be wholly safe, the threats seem more manageable, though nobody will ever turn down Shard-Bearer assistance in a pinch!
TO INFINITY – AND BEYOND
Rumbling about temples being erected in the Beyond, which lies outside of Highstorm’s city limits, close to another that had been erected previously. Not one shrine out there, but two it seems. It shines like the sun when the moonlight catches it just right, and it’s visible over the line of trees that marks the edge of the Beyond. The more brave and curious of Highstorm’s denizens have started making more treks into the Beyond for both shrines, and the fact that most come back unharmed seems to encourage others to follow. And for those that may not be able to make the trek safely, there's an opportunity to make a bit of money by leading the way to the shrines and offering the curious pilgrims protection from the Beyond's dangers. There’s rumbling amongst them – Quetzalcoatl – Set – the names of gods of worlds long past, and though there are not many that will stray from Highstorm’s resident deified figure – Lady Yima – there are enough that it’s easy to catch pilgrimages out to the temple, and to visit them yourselves, as well!FURTHER DETAILS
Quetzalcoatl erected a bright and gigantic temple right next to Set's in the Beyond! Right next to Highstorm! I'm sure that's fine and will not have any diplomatic consequences in the future! Both gods have been drawing in new curious individuals – some who may be worshippers with time – and it's drawn the curiosity of many.
SMALLER CHANGES
GRAND LARCENY
An uptick in crime between both Springstar and Highstorm has both the Legion and Yima’s own private guard scrambling as they struggle to find rhyme or reason behind the latest crime spree taken up in both cities. Though there doesn’t seem to be a specific source, local chatter suggests that it might be coming from a mysterious underground, though most can’t say where... there’s vague gestures, and remarks about Below, without any concrete details. Those who are familiar with – or find out about – Kowloon, may find plenty of stolen items within Kowloon’s markets, though if asked, the keeper will simply shrug and say they retrieved it from a reputable source. Who? Well, they don’t know, they don’t remember their face. I’m sure this is fine and won’t lead to trouble later down the line!
Completely unrelated, those who are known to be or obviously affiliated with Springstar continue to encounter difficulty in Kowloon. It’s become a touch more brazen – more pickpocketing, even higher prices, or even some outright derisiveness from some businesses, although they seem to be centered more around Draumahol, and the further one gets from the business in the underground city (or as far as one can get) the more willing businesses seem to engage with those from Springstar, and the more… apologetic they are about higher prices, though they do still seem to be across the board.
FAE MISCHEIF
It’s not just the underground that seems to be reeling from a spike of theft, though this one seems more obvious – and innocuous! Faeries from the Greenwood Yard seem to still be reeling from recent Shard-Bearer intrusions, so bearers new and old may find small items of varying importance are missing. They’ll generally come with a calling card; a small note that is part threat and part invitation for a game, to come find them within the Greenwood Yards. After hearing about the issue, a certain potion shop owner sets up a small stall by the yards, and will offer to help the shard bearer with their predicament – for a price, of course! Better have a few gold coins on you!
The owner will offer bearers a round-trip to tiny town yet again, to retrieve whatever was stolen, though this time it comes with no visions, and generally the fairies will consider things to be even, if bearers come to retrieve it with politeness and a request for it to be returned. If a bearer threatens them… well. Let’s hope you brought a friend along to help with this fae threat, then!
OOC NOTES
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kenoslogs.
IT WASN'T ACTUALLY 1/2
He could ask more about it, but he gets the general point of Zenith pretty well. He has some ideas about the kind of people it naturally attracts just based on Silco. So, rather than that, he focuses on the lighter side of the conversation.
…Well, “lighter” by comparison, at least. ]
Wait, no shit? [ Tezcatlipoca clicks his tongue in disappointment. ] Just my fuckin’ luck, I guess. I was hoping to pick up the arms dealer gig again…
[ There’s a slightly petulant note to his voice, and tbh it’s probably reminiscent of Set, I can’t lie. They’re the same in this kind of stupid arena. ]
I mean, up close and personal, I get what you mean. That’s how I fight when I need to, but modern weaponry like guns, they’ve got a crude charm.
no subject
They do.
[ He agreed, simply. ] Perhaps you will find someone who can build them, hm? The technology is not... quite there for true weaponry, but the supplies are, from my understanding.
[ AKA: while jinx was here, how much did he listen to?
A lot. ]
I would not count your interests out just yet, but they may be more difficult than you anticipated.
no subject
Well, I can build ‘em. Give me some time with any weapon and I can break it down, no problem. Privilege of being a god of conflict—There’s no weapon I can’t wield and repurpose.
[ …Now, can he use them well is a different matter. We don’t need to get into the fact that his aim with guns is awful. ]
Just a pain in the ass, considering I just spent the better part of the past year going through the process of setting all that up where I’m from.
[ Which was a lot of hard work, dammit! Tezcatlipoca may be an almighty, all-powerful god, and that was especially true in Mictlan, but there were limits. He still had to reverse engineer all of Koyanskaya’s guns himself, get the factories set up, teach the Ocelotl how to even use them… He loves guns, and that’s motivation enough, but going through that all over again doesn’t excite him. Especially since he doesn’t have Koyanskaya’s top-shelf gods to pilfer this time around… ]
Well. Before I go wasting my time with all that, any idea how long this Oracle gig is supposed to last? Not worth setting up some gunsmiths if it’s all going to be wrapped up in the next week.
no subject
I do not expect it to resolve that quickly, should the... pattern not continue, hm? Every month and a half, we have seen some sort of... [ His lips twitched with a dry, humorless bite. ] Incident.
You should have some time, should you find that's where your interests lie. I believe there are some... [ His lips twitch, now, considering something he's heard in the past, but there's a depth to it. Something in the man's expression that's there and then passes, barely something that can be caught. He's considering some of the things he's heard from the things Jinx told him.
Let's be real, that wound is never actually closing. ]
Well, there are some down in Kowloon who can offer supplies, hopefully, they would allow you to jump ahead on some of the more...onerous tasks of creation.
no subject
...Though it helps that he has no context for what this could be. Not yet, anyways. ]
I'll think about it, at least. I can tell this whole place uses magic easy, so if they've got some magic that's about as destructive as a gun? I can let it be. If not, duty calls, probably.
[ He shrugs, since that does seem like a good way to fulfill his compulsions to remain as a neutral entity that stokes conflict more than participate in it. Of course, his side would get the better pick of stock... But that just means the other side has to work harder to deal with it. Easy. Though when it comes to mechanics of how to get this operation started, he does lightly grin again mischievously. ]
...'Course, it's never cheap getting that kinda operation off the ground, and I assume that'd be no different here. You give me the impression of a businessman, so what would you say about maybe getting in on the ground floor, hm?
no subject
[ A half-smile. It's still lacking in total enthusiasm, muted. It's too close to the recent change, his hand gone, his daughter gone, a lot of little things that stack up to make a completely out of control man that is Silco, even if he hides it under layers, and layers of insincere control. It leaves him appearing mostly in control, but every expression is too controlled, too fake, too... something. ]
Well, far be it from me to shirk at supporting my fellow new Zenites, hm? [ His hand gestured, and the shoulder of his other rolled, as if he were aiming to do so with the other, except. He can't. It remains in the pocket.
Silco always did try to minimize his traumas. Physical or otherwise. ]
Especially if we can use it to make it a problem for your sibling.
no subject
Oh, sure. Toss a couple AK’s into the right hands and it’s anyone’s problem. Me, I prefer a snazzy pistol, but you can’t beat the killing power of an AK. Or if we’re real lucky, maybe I can throw a rocket launcher together. Those things are badass.
[ Though it’s a little muted since Tezcatlipoca’s natural temperament seems to be rather calm, the enthusiasm is clear in his voice. He loves guns. At least once he’s Harmonized, he’ll get his pistol as a freebie, he figures, but developing a nice little arsenal… It makes his heart happy.
…Though he does wonder if he might have to offer some to Set too. He’ll have to evaluate just how people do without them, he guesses. It’s no fun to make this totally one-sided in firepower. ]
So, yeah. If you’re my main investor, you get first pick. Fair’s fair with business.
no subject
As it is, he lifted a shoulder. ]
I will simply have to see what you come up with, but I would be more than happy to get something to...bolster our security.
You will see soon enough, I think. We have something that everyone down here wants, in Shimmer. Unsurprisingly, the people of Kowloon are as powerless and hungry for it as others who enjoyed it.
[ It's not easy, getting his mind focused solely on something like this, but he does so. He forces it, and there's only the slightest of tightening around one eye, as he tries to move this away from something he knows... perhaps not a ton about, but enough that there's more than a passing familiarity. ]
rattles this sad rat
Shimmer? Drug, I assume?
[ He flicks the cigarette into the cistern that runs in the middle of the path, and as he considers whether to grab another… Nah, he decides. But he does finally take the sunglasses off to pop into his jacket pocket. There’s not exactly much to see at this point where the darker lenses hide anything, but he’ll admit, it probably looks a little silly.
Though, now that he’s taken them off, Silco might also get a better idea of why he wears them. Tezcatlipoca’s eyes are a very light blue in a way that’s not at all a natural color in the same way that the brilliance of Quetzalcoatl’s green eyes isn’t quite natural. As modern as he’s dressed, it’s only his eyes (and teeth, when you can see the feline fangs) that mark him as something else. Tezcatlipoca isn’t a humble god, but he does prefer to be a little incognito when he’s out and about. ]
hands u a pringles can in solidarity
He doesn't say anything to that, of course. He notes it, files it away, and moves on. It's like watching a rat scramble out of the garbage heap, find a piece of something shiny and interesting, and it skitters away immediately, to hoard it away somewhere. That's what Silco's like, watching a man grasp and grip everything, but he kept most of it to himself. he has never really been the type to give too much up, not without motivation, anyway. ]
Yes, it is a drug. It was popular in my hometown of Zaun, and thanks to the combined minds here... [ A twitch of his lips, and a roll of his shoulders. ] We're making it a reality here too.
I can only best describe it as liquified power.
aztec sibling double header
But. Regardless. Neither matters to him with how Silco elaborates.
He’d assumed Shimmer was just your standard kind of drug. Get fucked up and either go crazy or go to sleep. Either way, he likes ‘em, especially if they’re something he can smoke. But power… That gets a clever little gleam in Tezcatlipoca’s eyes that’s interested in vicious. ]
Yeah? Now we’re talkin’. I like guns, but anything that’s power or a weapon, that’s my shit.
[ Literally. It doesn’t come across in his words, but he does tend to consider such things with some ownership. ]
What kinda power are we talkin’? Physical? Magical? Some other fun third option from another world?
no subject
It's pure chemical. There is no magic to it, but it does make those who are weak powerful enough to handle gunshots with barely a glance off. They are stronger, lightning-quick, and more durable.
I suppose you could call it physical, but it is addicting.
[ Tezca does not sound like the type to hesitate, and he is an ally besides. Silco feels no shame in copping to the truth of what Shimmer can do. ]
On the powerful, it... makes you more. I have not had as much of an opportunity to experiment with too many shard-bearers yet. They... resist such things. [ Straight edge kids. ] But were it necessary? We'd find out rapidly.
no subject
That’s some impressive shit. There’s some magecraft that can get you those kinda results, but that’s not easy. If you made a Mystic Code in chemical form, I assume people are goin’ crazy for it. Well, minus the Shard-Bearers, I guess, but sounds like they’re missing out on a major edge.
[ Because indeed, Silco’s assessment is correct that Tezcatlipoca isn’t the sort to hesitate. It’s made crystal clear with how he continues, though. ]
If you’re lookin’ for a volunteer, count me in. I gotta give it a try, at least.
[ Even guessing that Silco is understating its addictive quality, Tezcatlipoca doesn’t care. In part, it’s something like his sense of honor. If it’s a weapon, it’s under his purview, so it’s his duty to experience using it. He’s an arms dealer, whatever form those arms come in, but he’s not going to hand out something that he doesn’t understand. But also in part, it just sounds like a good time. He can don his armor and go a little crazy. What’s not to love about that?
…Well, for his side of things, at least. Whoever is on the receiving end of it won’t feel the same at all, since he’d eviscerate them. He’s at least not the type to hide that, though. ]
Just so long as you got a place for me to go run wild, that is. I don’t exactly go easy on people normally, and by the sounds of it, there’d be no hope if I’m hopped up on Shimmer.
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Good news. We have one of those here in Kowloon, as well. Ryad. You'll likely encounter it sooner rather than later. Free for all, as long as you don't attack someone who has free passage.
[ Honestly, Shimmer's addictive qualities were of less use to bearers anyway. Silco thought of them as useful for the Zaunites, who needed something to soothe the pain of their lives, and the addictive qualities were the power and abilities that came with it. It was good for his people — and honestly the more powerless amongst Kowloon's denizens — because it gave them something they didn't have before. An Avenue to power.
Though, it's still fucking addictive, but those with power were already somewhat resistant to it, or if they had it in unique ways, such as himself, or Sevika. ]
I'll be happy to let you give it a try anytime. Some shard-bearers have been working to build up a resistance to the negative effects, and I can guarantee that some of them have become literal destructive waves, when they use it.
Though, it is not often. Perhaps you'll recognize what they do not, hm?
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Well, you’ve just got everything a guy could want down here, don’t ya? Say less.
[ He laughs, so clearly, that’s slang… Thank you to the manga for giving me the gift of knowing he says things like “drip”. ]
I can at least make a good guess that I’d be on the “destructive wave” end of things. That’s kinda my whole deal once I’m wearing my… Eh, we’ll just call it battle regalia. Don’t want to spoil the surprise.
[ He laughs again, but it’s more of a snicker, since he knows his
second ascensionbattle armor is kind of a lot. But he’s also sure that from the sounds of it, that’s the only way he’d be able to try out this Shimmer stuff without having some serious problems. It’s a fair trade, though. If he were his full self, there’s no way it would even affect him. A reinforced but otherwise very human body had its ups and downs. ]Actually— [ The though of his own divinity makes him consider something, and the snicker turns to a slyer smile. ] Set knows about this place, I hope? Could tear through a buncha people, sure, but he’d be more of a real challenge. We’re the same kind of god, so I’m sure if I tossed him a challenge down here, he’d accept.
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He does. [ He said, simply. Does Set know one of the secrets of Draumahol enough to allow his way into the belly of Kowlooon whenever he wants? Yes, but nobody knows that. ]
Though, I think the tunnels of the below may be more interesting. Creatures, addicts, danger around every turn...
[ He gestured, back at the tunnels. ] One wrong turn on the way can send most to an early grave. That might be more... fun, for you two. Don't you think?
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What, afraid we’ll punch a hole through the place?
[ He doesn’t miss the redirect, after all! But he snickers before he adds: ]
That’s fair, actually. We’d probably bring the place down. Don’t know for sure since it’s not like Set and I have met in person yet, but just have a feeling is all. Never met a god with the same domains as me, and I have to assume the World had a reason for that.
[ And because of that, he nods. ]
But, yeah, sounds like a shitton of fun either way.
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Hm.
[ He answers his question with a non-answer, but as he looked away to the walls, there's a distinct moment where he can almost imagine the two of them breaking them down, rushing through, and completely obliterating all of the concrete and constructed walls around them.
He can nearly see it. The spray of concrete exploding as Set launched himself through the walls on a one-way path to take out Tezca, the both of them grappling. In his mind, he only knows of Set's powers, but he can imagine Tezca with a gun while Set sends a spray of sand to make the shot fly wide. His eyes track the imaginary tableau, before — ]
Likely, although if the two of you can avoid disrupting my efforts too much, hm? I plan to use this place for my own little war, after all.
[ His lips curl, his voice low. Over the din of Kowloon, it's almost impossible to hear. ]
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Oh, yeah?
[ Tezcatlipoca drifts close again, and those pale eyes are sharp with approval and interest. Kowloon may be close, and sure, maybe it’s a marvel… But what Silco offers is far better than any of that. ]
Just with what you’ve said so far, I’ve got some idea— [ Because who would make Shimmer? Who would want it? ] But what kind of battleground are we talking? ‘Cause you never know. We could add fun to it.
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I bet you could.
[ That he didn't doubt. If Tezca was as powerful as Quetz, and just as deadly as to stand against her constantly, he would add a great deal of uncontrollable, incredible power, to the mix. Silco had never seen the full might of Quetz's power, and perhaps he never would. But he did know that she had it, for who else could establish a temple like she had, right outside of Highstorm? ]
Eventually, we'll be taking it to Springstar. Or rather... [ His laugh is insidious, now. Mean. ] I think they'll require us to retaliate there.
[ That's the hope, anyway. He wants to see Springstar's boots down in the depths of Kowloon, to see them attack, so he can find reason to bring it topside. ]
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Yet though he favors warmongers because of how they serve him and empower him, the mean note in that laugh is a different matter. Silco has his reasons to want this, naturally. But whatever they are, Tezcatlipoca feels certain that they're poor ones. Selfish, misguided, whatever they might be, that's where they diverge.
...Practically speaking, it doesn't matter. It's a detail that Silco is unlikely to ever notice or understand the nuance of. But it does make him unworthy of the god's blessing. Not that he's getting the impression that Silco would want it or think to ask for it, though. ]
Well, sounds like I fell into the company of the right guy! You got a grudge against Quetzalcoatl, you're tryin' to start an all-out war... Start offering hearts and I might be obliged to kiss you.
[ Is he joking? Who knows! ]
You must be popular in Kenos. [ nope, that's definitely a joke, he can tell no one likes this guy probably ]
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He's lost his daughter, his hand... the world can burn, for all he cares. ]
Please don't.
[ He says, drily. His lips twitch, annoyed, before he shrugged, happy to diffuse that. ]
I'm not. Then again, I've never been well-liked. [ A quirk of his lips, now. ] Likely for the same reasons that war gods seem to enjoy my presence, really.
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Well, yeah, probably. You're practically already worshiping us, and with that kinda offering? You might as well be our priest.
[ He's teasing, though. Maybe Silco could be for Set, but the impression he's gotten so far says that Silco wouldn't be suitable for him. After all, though Tezcatlipoca certainly had a large overlap with the domain of war, there was a nuance as the god of conflict that separated him. It wasn't war that he oversaw—it was the chaos and the change that came from it, and he's not sure that Silco cares about that so much.
...Plus, as far as he's concerned, that position is already filled. He doesn't think anyone would ever be able to surpass Daybit. If that's him being sentimental too, fuck it.
Though the thought makes does his smile softer, even if why is a secret. ]
You seem pretty comfortable in it, though. Not even because you've been in it a long time, but more because you don't give a shit what other people think about you. Divine stuff aside, that's just the kinda people I like to hang out with, personally. More fun that way.
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You would enjoy most people where I'm from, I think.
[ He said it with a roll of his shoulder, and he starts fishing into his coat for one of his own cigars, bereft of one for too long. He placed it between his teeth, even as he spoke. ]
The remarkable thing is that I'm not even unusual when it comes to we Zaunites. [ Two fingers of his remaining hand make a motion, that cuts the end of the cigar off, like a small slice of air, before he lit it with his fingers pressed to the end. ]
I have more important things to do, than worry about how palatable I am. If that's what war gods appreciate, then...
[ A shrug. ] Perhaps it's a shame we did not have any in Zaun, then. You all would have loved us.
the realization that tezca would use modern slang continues to be a blessing
[ That, and Silco’s fondness for Kowloon. It’s not a place where many people would feel comfortable, but Silco is perfectly at ease here. Part of that is probably Silco’s influence in the area, sure, but he also has the ease of someone who has always lived in places like this. ]
Well, if nothing else, I’ll be making up for lost time from the sounds of it! ‘Course, I’m a tough love kinda guy, but I have a feeling that’s suitable too. I want people to be strong, but you don’t get stronger without trials to overcome, yeah?
[ He grins again, but now that they’re heading down into Kowloon proper on its main “street”, his eyes are drawn upwards as he looks at the tall, ramshackle buildings that line it. He repeats a phrase that he likes, since it’s the easiest way to sum up what he’s all about. ]
Putting it another way, I’m the god of all who strive to survive. So, this place? It’s perfect for me. Way better than those orderly cities upstairs. Gotta give my thanks that you brought me here. Would have made it eventually, I'm sure, but nothing like getting the grand tour from someone who knows it well.
ohhhh my god i love him
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cw: casual... suicide mention... shakes my head.......
cw: casual............suicide.................contemplation, i guess????
🤝 normal
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i close my eyes at fate/shit I'M SORRY JILL
HELP LMAOOO
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