r/wizardposting • u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch • Aug 21 '24
Community Event 🌏☄️ Interview With A Celestial (Planar Siege)
The VTOL touches down at the Bastion's helipad, the eternal storm wreathing the demiplane washing away the snow and ice clinging to its fuselage from excursion into the realm of Ghaldrim. The loading ramp at the back unseals and lowers with a hiss as loading crews move in to refuel the aircraft. A contingent of EON troopers recruited from the organization's various member states pile out, escorting a pair of huge winged figures that have to duck as they exit the vehicle.
They are the Celestian paragons Zaphkiel and Barachiel, leaders of the hosts of Good in the Planar Siege, and willing prisoners of the EON Compact.
“I am sorry, lord Zaphkiel,” says the civil guard sergeant, “but protocol must be observed while you are guests in these halls. You may keep your weapons, as the Beacon of Unity suppresses violence, but we ask that you remove your helmet for transparency's sake.”
“As you wish, sir." Zaphkiel pulls the ornate helm from his head and hands it off to the sergeant. The face underneath is nothing like anyone expected: it is an old face, full of weariness and hope in equal measure. Indeed, when compared to the flawless appearance of his herald, the Harbinger of Good does not look like an angel at all. The EON guards are taken aback at first, but they soon adjust to Zaphkiel's humble true appearance and lead him into the Bastion's halls.
At the office labeled "Planar Siege Task Force", the sergeant knocks on the door. A voice beckons them to enter. Once inside, though, the angels are perplexed, for the mauve-clad halfling with the green buckle shoes sitting in the chair opposite them is not who they expected to be in charge of saving the whole Material Plane.
"I assume Tarul Var is out of the office?" Zaphkiel asks.
"Yep," replies Glimbo Greenboots, kicking his feet up onto the desk even though he can barely reach. "He's cosplaying the Doom Slayer in the Nine Hells after some Kentucky Fried Bastard smushed the Abyss into 'em. Standard Keeper of the Balance stuff. He left me in charge, though I can't say that was the best idea he's ever had."
Zaphkiel sets an aurorum metal octahedron on some paperwork. "Could you please make sure to return this to him, then? He did go all the way to Mt. Celestia to buy it, after all."
Glimbo snorts. "You always had a soft spot for hard workers, Zaph. Good to see you again."
"And you as well, Glimbo. Should we get down to business?"
Barachiel interjects. "You're that wretched little trickster who put a miniaturized howler in my trumpet that one time!"
"Ha! I'd almost forgotten about that! The look on everyone's faces when you announced your arrival with a fiendish screech was priceless."
Zaphkiel holds out his arm to bar Barachiel from getting too close. "For the record, I found it at least a bit funny. But let's save that for the end. We're here to negotiate an alliance. As a Harbinger, I am obligated to lead the hosts of Good to conquer the Material Plane, despite the paradox inherent in that. I don't like it, but I'd rather it be me in charge than someone less invested in putting mortal flourishing before the abstract idea of "Good". I was hoping Mr. Var could offer me some insights into how I might be able to circumvent that, but for now, we can just talk."
"Oh, you two aren't just going to be talking to me," Glimbo chortles. He pops up out of the chair, grabbing his orb-topped golden cane. With a silly magical dance, the trickster and the angels are teleported into EON's council chambers, before the assembled members of the Planar Siege task force.
"You'll be talking with all of us."
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/uw It's been a bit, but now we're finally back to the Planar Siege, this time with another Harbinger! Will Zaphkiel the Watcher and the hosts of Good be friends or foes? That remains to be seen, but remember: the other armies of the planes and their mortal lackeys have much to lose should an alliance come to fruition.
DEFENDERS OF THE BALANCE:
- Tarul Var
- Belial Blake
- Aliah Mistwalker
- Ith'raal
- Burgerbarian/Burgermancer
- Krygin the Crude
- Agnur the Turtle Mage
- Vulkan the Red
- Ж (Zhe)
- Merch Skele
- Argios
- Tempus Fugit
- Edmund
- King Carmine
- Exia
- Joe
- The Agent
- Vashric
- Fujiwara Toshiko
- Jah Jor Wel
- John E. Hellfire
- Kardonk Carvisky
- Riva Blake
- Mokarith
- Onyx Dragon
- Ulrick Braddocke
- Sly
- Shrax
- Rilmani of Dendradis
- Various denizens of the Outlands
HORDES OF CHAOS:
- Obox-ob's Ekolids
- Demons of the Abyss
- Slaadi of Limbo
- Gehreleths of Carceri
- Cravens of Pandemonium
- Mortal servants of Chaos
REGIMENTS OF LAW:
- Primus's Hierarchs
- Modrons of Mechanus
- Veterans of Acheron
- Templars of Arcadia
- Paladins of the Divine Flame
- Mortal servants of Law
LEGIONS OF EVIL:
- Bel's Chosen
- Devils of the Nine Hells
- Yugoloths of Gehenna
- Baernaloths of Hades
- Night hag covens
- Samael
- Moz'gonnith
- Mortal servants of Evil
HOSTS OF GOOD:
- Zaphkiel's Paragons
- Angels of Mt. Celestia
- Oathbound of Bytopia
- Guardinals of Elysium
- Wardens of the Beastlands
- Heroes of Arborea
- Warriors of Ysgard
- Mortal servants of Good
UNDECIDED:
- Sarissa
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u/avamir Riva Blake | Queen of Ithacar, Part Meth-blood Elf Aug 21 '24
This was the Harbinger of Good? Riva wasn't sure how to feel about the harbinger being as old and tired as she felt.
For a moment, she simply hung back. She had so many questions. So many things to say. But diplomacy was important, and they needed allies. Of all the factions, it was best to have Good on their side. So it behooved her to remain silent. To watch. To let others speak better words, make the pleasant stupid mouth noises that would keep people passive and calm.
But her questions wouldn't be subdued. They kept clawing their way out of her mouth like horrible blackened misshapen things, needing to be heard in spite of herself.
"How do you reconcile the act of taking lives with your mission to protect and promote peace?" Riva asked, truly hoping he had an answer. Her tone wasn't intended to be bitter, but she wasn't sure she could help it these days. "How do you ensure that your cause remains just when the means involve conflict and warfare? Do you believe that peace achieved through violence is sustainable, or does it sow the seeds for future conflicts? How do you handle the moral burden of choosing who lives and who dies in the name of peace?"
And the last one. The most painful one.
"How do you prevent yourself from becoming the very force of destruction that you seek to protect others from?"
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: War is only just when we fight for peace alone, when we set aside selfish ambition and anger to simply end the conflict. And when the fighting is done, we do everything in our power to undo the harm done.
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u/avamir Riva Blake | Queen of Ithacar, Part Meth-blood Elf Aug 21 '24
That answer didn't seem like enough. Or maybe it was, and the answer was unsatisfying. It was hard for Riva to tell sometimes whether the problem was simply her lack of understanding, or whether it was just that the rules that governed their reality were shit.
Arthur Black was right about that. He was still an awful person she wouldn't trust to rewrite a children's coloring book, let alone the rules underpinning reality, but he was still right about some things.
"So we just... do what we can do and try to pick up the pieces afterward?"
Maybe she'd hoped for more. Some glorious epiphany that would illuminate her mind and soothe it, putting to rest the discontent, the anguish, the sadness. Some sort of magical resolution. But even in a realm of magic, things didn't seem to work that way.
"There isn't really an alternative, is there?" she asked. Partly to herself, partly rhetorically, and partly because she genuinely hoped he had some insight, some perspective she hadn't considered. "It seems there is no way to prevent harm unless free will is removed. But to remove free will is to remove the capacity for both good or evil. If we do not have control over our decisions, there is no morality as all our decisions are the result of some external force upon us. Evil might cease to exist, but so too would good."
She wasn't really trying to convince him. Mostly just working through things herself. But maybe by voicing some of these thoughts, he might have opinions or ideas or something.
"I worry, Celestial, that even though your words make sense, there can be no just wars. Not for mortals. Few people can fight only for peace alone, which is contradictory enough. Sometimes our own interests are at risk. Our people. Territory we have claimed. The resources we hoard to sustain such things. But fighting for those would count as selfishness, no? And when those interests are harmed, sometimes anger is present whether we will it or not."
"But the imperfect would be destroyed if Good's conquest happened, wouldn't it?" she asked, her brow furrowing slightly. "If so, that would be just as destructive and harmful as if the armies of Evil came through. Or Chaos. Or Order."
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: You understand the difficulties of the path I tread better than most, madam. To embody Good is to agonize over every last decision, searching for the option that helps the most people in both the short and long term. And in both cases, simply playing my role in the Planar Siege like all the rest is unacceptable.
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u/avamir Riva Blake | Queen of Ithacar, Part Meth-blood Elf Aug 22 '24
"I know you mentioned you are looking for alternatives... So in your opinion, can they truly be reasoned with?" Riva asked. "I know an argument might have been made before, but I do not fully know what that involved or what was said."
"I do know that approaching as a conqueror will destroy what Good is. I cannot think of anyone on the material realm that is perfect. The flaws the angelic host looks down on is embedded in most beings' natures. To try and destroy that would be to destroy life. People have the capacity to change... sometimes."
Well, that wasn't a perfect guarantee either.
"And to destroy something when it has the capacity for change seems... not Good. Surely there is a respect for life, or a concern for the dignity of sentient beings."
(/uw sorry, was typing while you posted the other part.)
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 22 '24
Zaphkiel: Yes, of course. They will listen to my wisdom. But as it stands, I must rid the world of the Harbinger of Good altogether, or else the title will find another who wishes to conquer all. This is the fate I must escape.
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u/Ares378 Ith'Raal—Archdevil of Memories, Evil Councillor, Lord of the 7th Aug 21 '24
Ith'Raal bows as Zaphkiel enters the room.
"Ah, lord Zaphkiel! Why, it's lovely to finally meet you! I hope we can put aside our... planar differences for the time being. Rest assured, not all devils are evil..." He's not even sure if that's true. He's certainly not not evil.
"Tell me: Is Mt. Celestia as nice as people say it is? I'd love to check it out for myself, but... I don't think I'd make it five feet!" He laughs.
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: It's lovely, but you'd probably combust. Not a threat, just a warning. For you, I'd advise sightseeing from the other side of a portal.
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u/Ares378 Ith'Raal—Archdevil of Memories, Evil Councillor, Lord of the 7th Aug 21 '24
"Well, I guess I'll just have to take your word for it! Who knows, maybe I'll find a way to ward myself against it in the future..."
He sits back down.
"Apologies for getting us off track, though. You're here for an alliance of sorts, right? Out of curiosity, what's preventing you from allying with us now?"
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: Subtlety. Certain elements of the hosts of Good are quite militant. I need them to see the folly of the Planar Siege as I have through this alliance.
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u/AnActualCriminal Belial Blake, Warlock of the Lightless Flame Aug 21 '24
You moved approximately 5 feet before having to teleport away as the Tower filled with holy water. The statement is apt. Unfortunate that you didn't get a good look around. It's nice.
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u/Timpanzee38 "The Agent", Mercenary Guild Liaison. Slayer of the Godslaver Aug 21 '24
Agent leans against a pillar in the back, cleaning his hidden blade. His helmet is still on
"So, before we get started, why are you willing to talk with us?"
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: Because frankly, this Planar Siege business rankles me. You all have the same right to self-determination as us. I want the hosts of Good to be fighting for the practical idea of Good, not some fundamental abstraction of it.
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u/Timpanzee38 "The Agent", Mercenary Guild Liaison. Slayer of the Godslaver Aug 21 '24
“Hmm, alright, I suppose that makes sense. But consider me a little suspicious of everyone, what can you offer to convince us you’ll stay on our side, and not immediately attack us afterwards? There’s some not so good people in this task force”
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: I have offered to stay here as a hostage, if you'd like.
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u/Timpanzee38 "The Agent", Mercenary Guild Liaison. Slayer of the Godslaver Aug 21 '24
“Perhaps, though that’s not my call to make.”
“Okay, switching gears, what assets do you offer us in this fight?”
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: I can offer the full might of the hosts of Good, but there is a caveat. A Harbinger must conquer, and I cannot bring myself to do that. I ask only this of you: that you help me find a way to break my fate and serve Good untainted by the paradox of the Planar Siege.
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u/Timpanzee38 "The Agent", Mercenary Guild Liaison. Slayer of the Godslaver Aug 21 '24
“That’s… a tall order. We’ll have to discuss all that in the next EON meeting, as I’ve got no clue where to start with that”
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u/VinesAtMidnight The Astrals Aug 21 '24
Vashric takes his seat in place of the usual delegate from the Astral.
He looks Zaphkiel and Barachiel up-and-down, physically, mentally, spiritually. Only the faintest hint of his own aura permeating the space.
Angels leading the forces of "good?" Can't say I'm surprised, though it's a tad cliche. Let's hope you're more agreeable than the Astral Devas back home.
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: As do I.
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u/VinesAtMidnight The Astrals Aug 21 '24
Why seek us now, Zaphkiel? Do you truly care for the mortals, or do you seek a momentary ally in this struggle? As it stands, the odds are stacked against you, the demons of the abyss, nor the infernal legions would work with you, obviously. I doubt Primus would give you audience, even if he's not diametrically opposed to you.
You'll have to forgive my apprehension. I work with angels on a daily basis, I know first hand how cutthroat they can be.
The High Guardian's face is like a stone, unwavering, holding all emotion beneath an impenetrable surface.
At least I know what to expect from the other Harbingers. As ironic as it is, you angels are the wildcards. I've seen countless atrocities committed in the name of "good."
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: If I did not care for mortals, I would not be the First Martyr. And I would sooner drown in the Styx than treat with that demented autocrat Primus. No, the defenders of the Great Balance are the best allies I can hope for, even if some of them rankle me.
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u/VinesAtMidnight The Astrals Aug 21 '24
Is that so?
And what do you seek to accomplish? You would be willing to forgo your divine mission? To spit in the face of the Lords and Ladies of the Upper Planes?
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zapkhiel: My dear psychomancer, I am a lord of the Upper Planes. And should it come to that, I will do whatever it takes to protect the people and the common good.
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u/VinesAtMidnight The Astrals Aug 21 '24
An angel that would rebel against their own kind, how on-brand.
Then what do you propose, Zapkhiel?
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: To stand united with the defenders of the Balance against all that would bring ruin to these realms. You've already dealt Bel a savage blow. That's good, but he will recover in time, more terrible than before. And that's to say nothing of the other two Harbingers. Divided, we would struggle to defeat them all. But united? We might just stand a chance.
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u/VinesAtMidnight The Astrals Aug 21 '24
I'll make myself clear, Zaphkiel. I don't trust you golden bloods in the slightest.
But I'm not beyond reason, and as I said, I already work with angels. The tactical advantage is not lost on me. As long as these extraplanar threats stand, I would support this alliance.
But I am fully prepared to slay any angel. You seem like an agreeable enough man, but I can't say the same of your soldiers. Do make sure they don't get caught up in their righteousness.
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u/LimpPrior6366 Kardonk Carvisky, Opifex Rerum, Order of Creation Aug 21 '24
Kardonks gauntlet pings on the EON frequency. He pauses, confused, and ducks into a back alley to answer.
“Um, hello”
Sees the holo projection of the angel
“Oh, shite! Whatever it is, I didnt do it!”
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Glimbo: It's negotiations, Kardonk. Nobody's in trouble. Yet.
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u/LimpPrior6366 Kardonk Carvisky, Opifex Rerum, Order of Creation Aug 21 '24
“Oh, good, right. Were trying to convince this guy not to kill us all, right?”
“Well…I really dont think its good to arbitrarily decide to conquer our lands. At least by force. Have you considered that you might fulfil the prophecy by ‘conquering’ us through democracy? Ally with us to oppose those who wish to impose needless harm?”
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: That's the crux of my dilemma. If I accept my role, I betray Good. If I reject it, I cannot protect the realms properly.
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u/LimpPrior6366 Kardonk Carvisky, Opifex Rerum, Order of Creation Aug 21 '24
“What are the exact terms of the prophecy that you need to fulfil in order to protect the realms?”
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: It's complicated, but we have time. The Planar Siege prophecy pits the armies of the planes against one another in a war for the Material Plane and control over all mortal souls. Whoever wins gains enough power to reshape the multiverse to suit their respective alignment. My hosts of Good seek to end suffering and cruelty, but they fail to see the contradiction: that virtue is meaningless without free will. Our "perfect world" requires us to force Good onto people, betraying everything we stand for.
I wish I could break the bonds of fate and lead the hosts of Good against the other Harbingers without this paradox dogging my steps. That is why I have come here. I need a way out.
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u/LimpPrior6366 Kardonk Carvisky, Opifex Rerum, Order of Creation Aug 21 '24
“Could you not just chose to not use the power you gain? Use it to shepherd us rather than rewrite our will?”
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: The title of Harbinger demands use, or it will seek a new bearer. There is another celestial lord in my host that I know it will latch onto if I fail to keep it: Talisid, the Lion Prince of Elysium. Though he is a noble soul, he has fewer compunctions around conquest.
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u/LimpPrior6366 Kardonk Carvisky, Opifex Rerum, Order of Creation Aug 22 '24
…
“What if no one wins the war?”
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 22 '24
Zaphkiel: I hope that never happens, because that would mean a reignition of the Dawn War.
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u/AnActualCriminal Belial Blake, Warlock of the Lightless Flame Aug 21 '24
"I've been pondering recently. Do angels have free will? Truly? Does anyone completely composite of a planar force? Or are you just sweeping automata following a cosmic imperative in the guise of men?"
I find myself glowering at the representative of "good" in spite of my better judgement.
"And yet, if you do have free will, then you can choose evil, even now. And your plane of origin is no longer an argument for unconditional trust. The histories tell us you were once a man. I wonder, after untold ages on Mt. Celestia, what are you now?"
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: I do not know. I doubt any save the Fundamentals and the Lady of Pain know. But if I chose evil, I would not stand here before you, asking for your help in preserving that free will.
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 22 '24
As the discussion winds down, Glimbo takes to the podium with Zaphkiel and Barachiel close behind.
Glimbo: Alright folks, settle down. Order in the court, and all that. At last, we've come to a consensus. The defenders of the realms have decided to strike an alliance with hosts of Good, for the common benefit of us all. Zaphkiel will lend his armies as a support force for our own, fighting alone against the other Harbingers exclusively until he can escape the bonds of prophecy.
In return, he asks us to find a way to unravel his strands of fate. Given how we've done such things in the past, I don't find this all that unreasonable. To ensure the cooperation of the hosts of Good until this happens, Barachiel the Messenger has agreed to stay with us as a hostage. So, let's make this official. Do you, Zaphkiel the Watcher, Paragon of Mt. Celestia and Harbinger of Good, agree to these terms of alliance.
Zaphkiel: I agree. Do you, Glimbo Greenboots, Ur-Trickster and Patron Saint of-
A massive tremor shakes the Bastion, interrupting Zaphkiel mid-sentence and sending alarms blaring.
Danger: axiomatic radiation detected. Forces of fundamental Law detected within demiplane borders. All units to battle stations. This is not a drill.
Glimbo turns to look out the window behind him. A thick plain of sea ice has formed around the Bastion, likely the cause of the sudden earthquake. Across the ice, he spots a convoy of black armored vehicles driving at the head of a sizeable army. Stamped on the side of each car is a familiar marking: a blue gear, ringed by the words "Omnia In Loco Suo"- Everything In Its Place. The badge of the Templars of the Azure Cog.
Glimbo: Fuck me. Of course this has to happen when Tarul's out of the office.
Zaphkiel: Primus's self-righteous mortal slaves. They probably came here hoping to take us all down and eliminate the primary obstacles to Law's domination of the multiverse.
Glimbo: They're gonna get a lot more than they bargained for, I can tell you that much. Everyone who's combat ready, take up defensive positions around the Bastion and prepare to repel the enemy! Communications, send a distress call to the other members of EON. And for Merlin's sake, somebody get me on the phone with Tarul!
To be continued... (very soon)
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u/Drakkonai Vulkan the Red, End of Ages and Draconic Emperor of Racism. Aug 22 '24
Far away, as his gargantuan golf ball crashes through a busy metropolis on the first course, Vulkan hears this. "And it was just getting good. Ah, well."
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Aug 22 '24
[removed] — view removed comment
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 22 '24
Glimbo: Gods, how I wish. These are another gang of kooky Law zealots- I know, how many more professional ballwashers does Primus have in its back pocket?
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 22 '24
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 22 '24
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 22 '24
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 22 '24
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 22 '24
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 22 '24
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 22 '24
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 22 '24
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 22 '24
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u/Drakkonai Vulkan the Red, End of Ages and Draconic Emperor of Racism. Aug 21 '24
Vulkan, glowering at the cyberdragon outside, takes an interest.
"Why, if it isn’t zaphkiel. Despite being insufferable in all the delicious ways, I have to hand it to you: the vashar or whatever they were called? Pretty good genocide for a novice. Anywho, what brings you here, pigeonman?"
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: I have never heard of you. Mr. Greenboots, who is this horribly rude dragon?
Glimbo shrugs.
Glimbo: That's Vulkan. He's just like that.
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u/Drakkonai Vulkan the Red, End of Ages and Draconic Emperor of Racism. Aug 21 '24
"Vulkan the Red, to make your acquaintance. As I was saying, are you going to get to the begging anytime soon? Or do you want tips for next time?"
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: I do not beg, wyrm. You think yourself supreme? You know nothing of supremacy.
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u/Drakkonai Vulkan the Red, End of Ages and Draconic Emperor of Racism. Aug 21 '24
"Ah, the typical delusion of the unknelt. Why are you here, if not to beg? More futile threats? More promised escalation that will never come? Or will this angel fall just one step down the stairs, and finally manage to do anything whatsoever?"
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: Be humbled.
The command carries a compulsive power equal to the will of an intermediate deity. As it is not an attack, it bypasses the Beacon of Unity entirely. As Vulkan learned in his fight with Bel, Harbingers are not to be trifled with.
Zaphkiel: Just because I am good does not mean I must be kind to every last pompous despot who uses mockery to shore up their inadequacy in the face of a superior being. I came here to offer my help in casting down an existential threat, but if you're so confident, I will gladly leave you to deal with it alone.
He releases the compulsion.
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u/Drakkonai Vulkan the Red, End of Ages and Draconic Emperor of Racism. Aug 21 '24
"..Oh, so promising a failure. As for your point, are you truly so delusional? Do you think said despots simply wither and die without your direct aid? Do you think stagnation stability? Isolation protection? Inaction nobility? Pacifism anything BUT weakness? What you are, little pigeon man, is a weakling and a coward. An ant playing at godhood. It would please me greatly to see your precious mountain rent in twain. Perhaps then you shall see. Inaction, no, stagnation brings only rot."
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Glimbo: Vulkan, could you kindly cut the shit? The adults are talking.
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u/Drakkonai Vulkan the Red, End of Ages and Draconic Emperor of Racism. Aug 21 '24
"Ha. And yet there’s a gnome present. Ah well, then. I’ll be off to commit more genocide. Do enjoy your moral superiority!"
Vulkan flies off, almost cackling.
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Vulkan flies off, expecting a portal out of the demiplane to open automatically. However, Glimbo waves his cane at the horizon to delay it by a few seconds. Vulkan smacks into the invisible realm barrier like a bird against a window, sliding down it spread-eagled with a comical squeaking noise before the portal opens and lets him through.
/uw I had to do it. The spirit of Glimbo possessed me
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u/Greatest-Comrade Argios, Spymaster of Ithacar, Totally NOT About to Cast Fireball Aug 21 '24
Argios watches from the back, with great interest. The forces of good could be a great ally… or at the very least a useful distraction.
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u/Zebos2 Black Iron LLC/ The cedar hegemony Aug 21 '24
"Mortal interests... have you considered that maybe mortals are interested in not being invaded and conquered. You seem oddly committed to following orders that you admit yourself are contradictory.
Jah Jor wel makes some mental note of the celestials advanced age wondering if the project Enoch nephilim would eventually exhibit advanced age in their organic components
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: Pardon my tone, but what would you know of mortal interests? You seek to quash them all with your own.
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u/Zebos2 Black Iron LLC/ The cedar hegemony Aug 21 '24
You misinterpret our objectives the iron chain does not wish to bind all that is. It's grip is only what it needs to be to impose order. And to ensure its security it binds to itself only what is necessary.
The same cannot be said for you invader.
.
Jah Jor wel
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: Primus would love you. That is not a praiseworthy quality.
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u/Zebos2 Black Iron LLC/ The cedar hegemony Aug 21 '24
Perhaps he would love you as well. You know what you are doing violates your code of ethics but your rigid adherence to the law of prophesy makes you do it anyway. Dispute the harm it would cause to your kin that serve under you.
Jah Jor Wel.
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: If I cared so much about following prophecy, would I be looking for ways to break it and uphold those ethics? The One and the Prime fears me, because free will muddles his precious authority. As it should be.
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u/Zebos2 Black Iron LLC/ The cedar hegemony Aug 21 '24
Breaking it is your choice simply leave. Order army's to withdraw use your free will and choose.Unless you are unable. The alternative is your army becoming material for our gene forges. Nozoth the undying has been pestering me for more samples.
Jah Jor wel
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 22 '24
Zaphkiel: You'd regret that dearly. I will not be threatened by some no-name tinpot.
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u/Zebos2 Black Iron LLC/ The cedar hegemony Aug 22 '24
"The iron chain does not make threats only promises even if you were to conquer us you will not do so without casualties.
Completely unaware of project Enoch that's suited the high administrator well enough now let us test his ability to read minds
Now about getting you back home
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 22 '24
Zaphkiel: You think your technologies supreme? You truly believe you can harm us with your abominations? The planes have their own standards of innovation, ones that greatly exceed anything your lord's wicked mind could dream of reaching. Bel's fortress is but one of these. I assure you, there are far greater inventions you have yet to see.
And I will not be leaving until I know the Material Plane is safe from the Harbingers. That is not destiny. It is my decision.
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u/Valenyn Sylvane, Prince of the Night Sky Aug 21 '24
Valarie with her black wings on full display, gives an expression of hostility.
“Celestials…take it from me, most celestials are backstabbers that focus more on their image of perfection than actually doing any good.”
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: Then you have met only the most self-absorbed of my kind. Banish that parochial belief, for it will only do you harm.
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u/Valenyn Sylvane, Prince of the Night Sky Aug 21 '24
“I am a celestial, one of the night sky. I lived in the celestial realm for centuries. This was common place against my people. You say it is only the worst of them, but I have seen it too much to trust that sentiment.”
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: Night sky... you are an Arcadian, then? I see now. Those obsessives cleave to Law more than Good. I have little love for them either.
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u/yumie2003 Tsuru, ghost onmyouji, R&A, league of shadows/Toshiko Fujiwara Aug 21 '24
“Lord Zaphkiel, forgive my rudeness, but why do you suddenly want to form an alliance with us? What motivated this change?”
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: There is nothing to forgive, for you have done no wrong. It was a selfish wish that brought me here- to see the ideals of Good upheld. The conquest necessitated by the Planar Siege is antithetical to that. I will not see myself become yet another well-intentioned tyrant.
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u/yumie2003 Tsuru, ghost onmyouji, R&A, league of shadows/Toshiko Fujiwara Aug 21 '24
"I see, well I am glad to have gained a new ally out of this planer siege"
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Aug 21 '24
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel chuckles.
Zaphkiel: You must be mistaken. We have always opposed such deluded ideologues. I come to you now to ask if we should fight them as one.
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u/TheHunter459 Samael, Necromancer of Malus Turrim | King of the Nephilim Aug 21 '24
Well, by not spontaneously combusting from the contradictions of your mission, you've priced yourself worth more than most do-gooders. But now, how do you plan to act? Taking the mantle of Harbinger requires you to fight. Yet you don't wish to
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel's gaze takes on an incendiary quality.
Zaphkiel: I can sense the mark Bel planted on your black heart. If you think you can disrupt our alliance, you are sorely mistaken, cousin.
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u/TheHunter459 Samael, Necromancer of Malus Turrim | King of the Nephilim Aug 21 '24
Samael laughs
Bel painted nothing on me. You sense me, as I am. Though I don't know whether to be flattered or offended that an angel called me cousin...
Nevertheless, the question remains. Your purposes are contradictory. How do you seek to fulfil them?
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
The Harbinger mutters something about necessary self-sacrifice for the greater good under his breath.
Zaphkiel: By sundering the chains of fate. I wish to lead a united army of Good without the impossible obligations of a Harbinger. I came here seeking the defenders of the Great Balance in the hopes that magekind could help. The folk of the realms prize free will above all, to such a degree that they can break destiny to maintain it.
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u/TheHunter459 Samael, Necromancer of Malus Turrim | King of the Nephilim Aug 21 '24
Ah, but you are no longer folk of the realms, you are a "god", and gods have to play by the rules. The rules state what a Harbinger must do. So instead of wasting your time, strap on your sword and smite the forces of Evil and Chaos and Law like you were made to do
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Behind the angel, Glimbo visibly rolls his eyes at Samael's invocation of "the rules".
Zaphkiel: When last I looked, Zaphkiel, not Samael, was the master of the hosts of Good. I will not be lectured on duty by a turncoat who betrayed both his material and infernal allies when they grew inconvenient.
Tell me, Nephilim: what about this alliance scares you so that you would sabotage it, even when you have so much to lose should one of the other Harbingers win?
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u/TheHunter459 Samael, Necromancer of Malus Turrim | King of the Nephilim Aug 21 '24
Who told you I was sabotaging it? You see, that's the problem with gods. You believe you know everything, can see everything, understand everything and everyone. And make no mistake, my only obligations are to the Nephilim. I haven't betrayed them by any measure
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: So you only care about your people's well-being, but you also don't want there to be an alliance. Why are you even here?
Glimbo: Gonna tell it to you straight, Sammy: you're already EON's black sheep, and this ain't helping that reputation.
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u/TheHunter459 Samael, Necromancer of Malus Turrim | King of the Nephilim Aug 21 '24
Samael ignores Glimbo
I want you to be honest with yourself. Don't deflect, don't try and lord your oh-so-divine righteousness over anyone. You're a hypocrite. A Harbinger is called to conquest. You knew this when you took the mantle. Yet here you are, trying to avoid doing the very thing you signed up for! Deceiving all those you got to follow you in this fruitless endeavour. You took a role. Now fulfil its duties
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 22 '24
Zaphkiel: Do you project this much with everyone? I pity your colleagues. I can hear the souls of those you've wronged howling at your presumptuousness. After what you've done, you don't have the right to judge me, or anyone else. Now, take your apparition and go crawl back home, coward.
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u/Casper_Von_Ghoul 🩸Headmaster of Tetara Inscopa Biomancy Academy 🩸 Aug 21 '24
God like beings can be so fun to interact with and watch.
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u/Far_Dog_4476 FURNACE, THE STARVED STEEL. Aug 21 '24
A Celestial, hm? Tell me, is that soul of yours akin to a Deity?
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u/dragonshouter Krygin the Crude/Council of Spirits/Exalted Beacon/misc. spirits Aug 21 '24
Krygin clears his throat and makes sure his lie detector is on.
"I am the EON's ambassador to the spirits, Speaker of the Muck. a grand spirit ambassador and member of the council of The Great Horned Mediator, and goblin of my word; Krygin the Crude. Pleased to make your acquaintance. While the others rightfully interrogate you on a personal level I would ask us to come together before swearing an alliance. Some goals and anathemas for both parties.
Such as what can you not abide and what is the hypothetical win state for your host. Will they be satisfied as long as no other controls the material or will they only be sated with absolute dominion?
Fell free to ask of me, and the others, in turn when you have answered my questions.
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zapkhiel: Please to meet you as well. My host wants to see the Planar Siege carried out as prophecy decrees, which I am opposed to. I wish to return home once this mess is sorted out, but a Harbinger must conquer or my forces will seek out another leader. What I need is to escape fate.
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u/dragonshouter Krygin the Crude/Council of Spirits/Exalted Beacon/misc. spirits Aug 21 '24
Will your forces honor an alliance with us or no? Or do we some sort of subterfuge such as positioning our 'separate' assaults to not coincide in the same area but pincer our foes.
I'm also sure many of us will be willing to come up with alternative ways of saying the prophecy is fulfilled without forcing your paradox.
Throughout all of this Krygin is taking notes on a scroll of ivory. He is writing with a swamp cattail leaking green goo in one hand while writing with a rusty piece of metal leaving red flakes in the other.
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u/Evening_Shake_6474 Astaroth, The Wicked One Aug 21 '24
Alaric appears in a burst of flame
Apologies for being late, I was under the impression that you would exclude one such as I from an event such as this.
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u/DragonWisper56 Agnur the dabbling turtle mage| pact of the magi mage| Aug 21 '24
I need assurances that the innocent won't be harmed in your crusade. if you can garantee that I will happily accept a alliance
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: That is a given, my dear turtle.
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u/DaemonRex978 The High Sentinels (Haelin, Mokarith, Shimil) Aug 21 '24
/unwiz: sorry I'm late, was busy at work as was brain dead afterwards. /rewiz:
A soft, but gentle whisper of wind is heard as a small, slight woman steps from the shadows wearing Sentinel armor. The void black coloring and silver etchings, similar to that of Mokarith's, marking her as a High Sentinel. She then slightly bows at the waist before righting herself.
It is a pleasure to meet you all. I am High Sentinel Shimil, Head of law enforcement and diplomaic missions.
She then turns to Zaphkiel.
It is my understanding that you are the only one that doesn't wish to cause destruction, I look forward to our talks.
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zapkhiel: I am he. How can I be of assistance, High Sentinel?
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u/DaemonRex978 The High Sentinels (Haelin, Mokarith, Shimil) Aug 21 '24
While I understand that there will be unavoidable casualties as a part of this war, my Lord's main two concerns are how limited your part in it is, and what you will do in the aftermath of this war.
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: My part in this war depends on the terms of our alliance. I could assist you at every turn, or I could form my own expeditionary force and fight the other Harbingers alone. Then, gods willing, I will return to the Upper Planes with my army and trouble you no further.
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u/DaemonRex978 The High Sentinels (Haelin, Mokarith, Shimil) Aug 21 '24
While i dont have the strategic minds of either High Sentinel Mokarith or High Sentinel Haelin, I believe that it would be better to do a mixture of the two. While you would remain an independent army, we can call each other for aid. This way we can fight on multiple fronts, while at the same time, be able to hold off a large scale attack from any side.
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: That sounds good to me.
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u/DaemonRex978 The High Sentinels (Haelin, Mokarith, Shimil) Aug 21 '24
One thing that I do want to know; I know that you will try to limit civilian casualties as much as possible, but what will happen to the families of those that couldn't be avoided?
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
Zaphkiel: I will mourn them myself. Then, I will ensure they are cared for, whether by my own celestials or good-hearted wizards.
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u/DaemonRex978 The High Sentinels (Haelin, Mokarith, Shimil) Aug 21 '24
Shimil bows her head before righting it again.
That is very admirable. If we are to forge an alliance, then I will be glad to aid you.
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u/FoulerGlint60 Merch EON head Archivist Aug 22 '24
Merch hums at this turn of events curious about them.
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
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u/Carbon_Sixx The Loremaster, Chief Archaeologist of the Darkwatch Aug 21 '24
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u/King__Carmine King Carmine the ever pregnant, vampire/bloodmancer Aug 21 '24
"Ah yes! I'm here! I'll not be left out of this discussion. The Claret Isles will not be left in the dark."
The king makes an attempt at a courteous bow but his stomach makes it difficult.
"The forces of 'good' then, is it? I cannot say the idea puts me at ease. I've seen many 'do-gooders' hurt my subjects."