Author Topic: Xefr's Adventures: Existential Crisis  (Read 8523 times)

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guest28

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Re: Xefr's Adventures: The grey meatbags
« Reply #15 on: May 24, 2016, 07:33:56 pm »
The Soul's Eclipse accepted the hail, but was silent for a moment. Aboard its bridge, Xefr had closed his eyes, for they were not needed now. He gazed outwards with his powers instead, seeing all the lifeforms before him, and zeroing in on the Admiral's mind. With this, he could use telepathy to speak to her directly. Xefr's tone was dull and average, "Greeting Grand Admiral Rymera. I suppose I do have one request as of now, could you not refer to me as a lord? I have not earned such a title, just Xefr will do. But otherwise, there are no problems. Lead on to your Stardome Admiral, I will have my vessel follow."

Beside him, the Guardian Shard leaned into his Technology counterpart. "Is he actually in a good mood? He doesn't usually go this long without a sigh or something." Rolling his eyes, the other energy dragon responded, "Of course not you dunce, but the essentials shard has always been polite. The prospect of new knowledge probably has him distracted from the normal thought processes. Now shut up fool, I want to listen." This prompted a growl from the warrior of course, but it fell on deaf ears.

guest9

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Re: Xefr's Adventures: The grey meatbags
« Reply #16 on: May 24, 2016, 07:55:00 pm »
The Admiral responded in a reluctant tone, quite estranged by the psionic voice "Erm, as you wish L-  ...Xefr. We will land in eastern Urva; Lord Rysannox thought it would be fitting if the meeting was conveyed in an ancient Valx Sanctuary."
The convoy descents into Shyr's atmosphere and flies above the great Urvan desert, soon appear the Eastern mountains and a large ancient structure, a group of Ghashyr stands near the entrance...
Spoiler: The Valx Sanctuary of Saint Mo'Tze'Khan (hover to show)
The Ships land near the old sanctuary and a dune of sand covers everything, only some figures appear inside the dune walking towards the spaceships. At the center of the group, Rysannox is yet again responsible to meet a different species  ..though this time is different, as this species is not new to Ghashyr. Captain Erixen gets out of his spaceship followed by his paladin and first-mate "An honour to meet you my lord." he kneels before Rysannox and takes his hat off. Rysannox however is turned towards the alien vessel... "I hope that what you say is true Captain Erixen, my father does not forgive and never forgets."

guest28

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Re: Xefr's Adventures: The grey meatbags
« Reply #17 on: May 24, 2016, 08:17:00 pm »
Soul's Eclipse parked itself over the Sanctuary, and stood still. It made no visible intent of landing, as it did not need to. On the ground, another brilliant, and blinding, flash of light appeared a little away from the structure's entrance. After it cleared, there stood Xefr, as well as the two energy dragons in their normal garb, though his gaze was fixated on the ancient building. He studies it for a few seconds, before turning his eyes to the Ghashyr. His voice has more energy in it this time, lined with curiosity, "Hello there young ones. What exactly is this place? Your Admiral said it was a Sanctuary, but is that its only purpose?" Behind him, the Guardian Shard suppresses his groan of boredom. 

guest9

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Re: Xefr's Adventures: The grey meatbags
« Reply #18 on: May 24, 2016, 08:54:41 pm »
The Ghashyr gasp at the presence of a dragon, Rysannox quickly comes closer to the giant reptile, his mind filled with questions...
He reaches his hands in a welcoming gesture "It is true then! Dragons have returned! I am Echopalad of her Greatness the Talmyr, Rysannox of House Galgatyen; I welcome you, dear Xefr, and I shall answer your question;  ...this was a sanctuary, it is only a pilgrimage sight for Fire-Worshipers nowadays. You see Xefr, this building housed one of the greatest and wisest dragons of Shyr  ..nothing like the late Dragons."  ...now standing only a few meters away from Xefr, the middle-aged Ghashyr politician adopts a more relaxed, yet curious tone.. "You claim you do not know anything about this place?"

guest28

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Re: Xefr's Adventures: The grey meatbags
« Reply #19 on: May 25, 2016, 09:34:51 pm »
As Rysannox drew closer, Xefr's head turned downwards maintain eye contact. He has a curious tone of his own, "Can't say I do, never seen such a structure. I've seen many sanctuaries before, of all designs and shapes, but this is one I do not recognize. And you say it was once a residence, but now it is a place of pilgrimage? Interesting, maybe I can speak with one of the pilgrims some time. Though if this place was for a wise dragon... Perhaps I do not belong here... But enough of that, go back to what you said before, there is something I wanted clarified. What exactly do you mean by 'return' and 'late' dragons?" The yellow eyes are brimming with anticipation. The two energy dragons seem interested as well, leaning over so that they may stare directly at Rysannox.

guest9

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Re: Xefr's Adventures: The grey meatbags
« Reply #20 on: May 26, 2016, 05:22:23 pm »
A few Ghashyr of the welcoming committee mutter "Saints forgive us!" as Xefr makes his question. Rysannox doesn't seem to share their guilt, he sighs and continues "Well, as a Light-Believer it is hard for me to describe the events with clarity, before a Dragon nonetheless. At least I shall try... You see Xefr, Shyr was home to two species once  ...the kin of Shyr and the kin of Paer, Ghashyr and Valx. The first Valxes, or dragons as they're widely called, were wise, benevolent and peaceful, but after the revalation of the Eternal Fire their power grew and their thirst for power and madness followed suit...
Soon however my primogenitors, the Taggarens, through guidance by the God of Light's hand, led a 'Purge of Darkness' that would liberate the masses from evil and bring balance between the Forces of Darkness and the Holy Light. Sadly the crusade caused feelings of hatred and zealotry on both sides, leading to a battle-to-the-death of which I believe you can guess who survived."  ...he turns for a moment to a man wearing red robes and a crown shaped as flames, but before Rysannox could talk, the old Ghashyr in robes started preaching... "Eternal shall be the Fire that burns in every soul! The kin of saints has returned!" he bows before Xefr "Perhaps you do not know why an old Ghashyr bows before you Valx, but accept my apology in behalf of all Ghashyr  ...all souls are sacred" he then turns with a vile look towards Rysannox and  his guards  "...even if some do not regret the crimes of their pre-incarnations."

guest28

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Re: Xefr's Adventures: The grey meatbags
« Reply #21 on: May 26, 2016, 08:58:09 pm »
Xefr looks up to the sky, and closes his eyes. His tone is lined with sadness, but not a hint surprise, "I suppose I should have expected it. They would be far from the first to perish at the hands of conflict over religion. It is a standard of life, sentience begets violence, and violence is soon followed by tragedy. I have seen such patterns occur far too many times in my travels. But..." Xefr's gaze turns down to the bowing Ghashyr, and his tone softens, "...if it is my forgiveness you seek, I give it to you and all your kind freely. Even this horrid event could have been far worse, I know that well. At least some life still blooms here, which means mistakes can still be corrected, and the cataclysmal pattern averted. Now then, you were right robed one, I do not know why you bow before me. Could you tell me?"
Next to Xefr, the energy dragons reacted as well. The Warrior Dragon was staring upwards into space, unsure of how to respond. There are look anger in his eyes, as well as guilt. The other however, was clearly perplexed by the robed preacher. He was looking at the bowing Ghashyr with a gaze of curiosity and confusion.

guest9

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Re: Xefr's Adventures: The grey meatbags
« Reply #22 on: May 27, 2016, 05:01:39 pm »
The robed Ghashyr smiled and responded in a calm friendly voice, while looking at all spirits and finally at Xefr "Thank you! I was sure that a Saint would not seek revenge and would forgive...   ...as for your query-" Rysannox starts feeling quite uncomfortable with how the conversation develops and before the old Ghashyr could respond, he interrupted in a rather cold voice "Ehem, yes  ..the past is the past, and I think we should put religion aside. The important think here is that Dragons, a normal species, exist  ...and I would like to know more about the relations modern Dragons could have with the Empire. How would they influence our society and how their society would be influenced by ours."
The old Ghashyr enraged raises his hand in protest "Even by your standards as a Light-Believer, this is outrageous! Knoweledge is your faith's greatest tenet and you scorn it for politics...  ..our guest asked a question and I shall answer"
Rysannox seems rather aggravated by the old coot but decides to remain silent... for some reason showing portions of respect to someone who is just a heathen. The robed Ghashyr then turns back to Xefr.. "A simple bow is nothing but a symbol of accepting one's own mortality in front of someone who has been wronged, it is not about being respectful, or inferior -as most Ghashyr would claim-  ..but a symbol of tranquility and accepting your divine, yet equal stature with the universe  ...you may have not been yourself wronged by us, but you are a Valx, and even if you were not related to the Valxes in Shyr, you bear their name, their stature and soul within. I can feel it, as all souls are divine and connected in varying degrees, being torn and reborn together through the Eternal Fire."
Rysannox rolls his eyes and continues in a rather snarky tone "Thank your for explaining what bending your back means to fire-worshipers, Grand Priest Ezhensayn  ..now if we're done with the reincarnation mumbo-jumbo and proselytizing our guest, could we perhaps focus on our situation? It is imperative that we do..."

guest28

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Re: Xefr's Adventures: The grey meatbags
« Reply #23 on: May 27, 2016, 10:41:57 pm »
Xefr grins, and seems amused. "Yes, thank you Grand Priest. Knowledge is important..." The dragon's voice trails off, as it becomes more distant. It is like he now speaks to himself more than anybody else, "...yet with too much, it becomes a heavy burden, never to be lifted..." Xefr then snaps back to the actual conversation, and his voice goes back to normal as he redresses Ezheansayn, "And while I would like to know more about your religion and its beliefs some other time, right now Rysannox is right. Politics are an annoying matter, but they do exist for a reason, like all other things. Now then..."
The golden eyes turn to Rysannox, "I'm sure your explorer already told you this, but I do not represent anybody besides myself. I am a wanderer, not a Lord, but I believe I can provide advice. The Dragons from my native land prefer to keep to the areas of space they already own, so no reason to worry about Conquest and Expansionism, even with your troubling history towards my kind. But, one thing I can assure you is that they would be very interested in trade, both that of physical goods and information. That would most likely prove to be the extent of their influence. Of course, I know little of your society, so maybe there could be more, and I have little idea what effects yours could have on ours, as I know little of your nation."
The Warrior Dragon seemed like he wanted to speak, but decided against it. His other energy counterpart glances at him, as if warning him to stay quiet, but loses interest quickly and returns to the conversation.

guest9

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Re: Xefr's Adventures: The grey meatbags
« Reply #24 on: May 28, 2016, 08:04:43 pm »
Both Ghashyr appear to be satisfied by the old Drake's response for their own reasons. Rysannox claps his hands a bit and in a gleeful tone he addresses the giant reptile "Ah, this is most delightful! Where there is trade, peace follows!  ...I can trust that when you return you will notify the good Dragons of your land that we are interested in a mercantile association with them. No? ...However, before we start discussing trade terms, we should discuss and understand our situation. You see Xefr, the news that Dragons exist could have tremendous repercussions, positive-or-negative, for both of our species. As I was saying..."
Ezhensayn jumps once again in the conversation - this time Rysannox did not made any attempt to interrupt him... "Precisely! This is why I ask of you Xefr, in behalf of her greatness the Talmyr, to stay with us here in Shyr; assume protection of this sanctuary that by right of blood belongs to you, begin your journey of becoming a Saint of the Eternal Fire and unveil the mysteries of the divine cosmic powers that are entrusted within every soul.   ...It is your destiny to correct the wrongs of both my people and yours, bury the hatchet deep and restart a New Age of Dragons with you as our guide!"
 
Rysannox starts worrying and deeply regretting that he let Ezhensayn come along. While he discreetly facepalms, a fair Ghashyr lady wearing a simple white hooded robe who was listening to the discussion, emerges from the welcoming committee. She looks at Xefr with a serene smile, her voice being quiet and fragile.. "Wisdom means not repeating the mistakes of the past. What the Grand Priest suggests is sure to bring yet more violence  ...I think it would be tamer and wiser to refuse the temptation and admit that your species is not predestined to rule over others, or in any way more close to divinity. Since regardless of species, we're all born as unique individuals whose actions will be judged whether worthy of divinity -or not- upon death   ...divinity is earned through deeds, it is not freely given upon birth!"
Rysannox turns to the two Ghashyr "And I suggest not to be interrupted again..."

guest28

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Re: Xefr's Adventures: The grey meatbags
« Reply #25 on: May 30, 2016, 10:40:34 pm »
Xefr's smile fades, and his gaze turns to the stars. His voice is tinted with regret, "So, you two ask me to make a decision? Alas, that is not my choice to make. I am not the one who may decide such things, as I am merely a visitor here and I cannot stay for any reason. I already know too much of the cosmos, and it is for that reason my own journey is made. The answers I seek are not here, and will forever be beyond my reach, until I repent for sins of my own. Ask another Dragon to become your Saint, Grand Priest, for I am not able nor worthy of it. That destiny can never be mine. But do not be discouraged, it is a grand offer, and I am sure others of my kind will gladly learn your ways and follow you on your journeys. And for you, madam, I  say the same. A wanderer does not speak for his kind, and I am not one to decide whether or not my race is divine or built to rule. Speak your words to any who come after me, for they shall choose whether or not my kind will be your saints. My fate lies elsewhere."
The Dragon returns his eyes, which now seem less lively than before, to Rysannox. His voice has mostly returned to a calm and normal tone, but not entirely. "Now then, please continue. I want to know everything you can tell me, this way the Dragons of my land with positions of power can make informed decisions and choices, so we may both benefit and refrain from harming your society or our own. Specifically, I want to hear about these repercussions you mentioned."
Behind him, the warrior spirit seems to be squirming, while the other energy dragon stares at him with a look of concern.

guest9

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Re: Xefr's Adventures: The grey meatbags
« Reply #26 on: May 31, 2016, 02:50:20 pm »
The two religious authority figures remain silent, with Ezhensayn being shocked that his offer was turned off  ...and the Light priestess shrugging and going back with the rest. As the old priest realises, he just bows and talks in a slightly disappointed tone "If you so wish Xefr, you will always have our respect, loyalty and love too, if you so wish." He smiles and moves to the side.
Rysannox assumes again his rather joyful smile "Ah, I'm beginning to like you even more Xefr! It was wise of you to reject both of them  ...this was just a small test with two minor Imperial priests in service of House Galgatyen to see how an actual dragon would deal with our religious dichotomy  ...the real High priests of the Eternal Fire and the Church of Light would never accept to stand beside each other ...and I dared not inform them."
The middle-aged Ghashyr clears his throat and slightly ashamed continues "I think you can forgive this rude deception I set up, but it was the only way I could get a minor idea of what kind of Dragon I have in front of me. Now about the repercussions   ..this is why I set up this small play in the first place  ..you see the Church of Light has already lost its political domination as House Valxaryen rose to power, if Dragons suddenly made a comeback and claimed Sainthood they would also lose spiritual domination. ....And we don't want to make the Church of Light feel threatened, if you catch my drift!"
Captain Erixen who stand nearby and watches the warrior dragon suddenly speaks up "Ehm, may ask what are you searching for Xefr? I'm an explorer I've come along quite a lot peculiar sight!"

guest28

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Re: Xefr's Adventures: The grey meatbags
« Reply #27 on: May 31, 2016, 09:15:56 pm »
Xefr's expression softens, and a tinge of relief can be heard in his voice. "Ah, it was merely a jest? That's good. Do not worry, I forgive you, as it would be foolish to simply trust me on my word alone. And I understand your position. You are of course worried that I may cause a uproar and disrupt the social order. Rest assured, that is far from my goal, and I do not wish to witness another civil war in my lifetime. But I believe I have made my stance on your religious matters clear, and I hope that is enough to maintain the peace. That is all I can do to satisfy your people and ruler."
Xefr's gaze then turns to Erixen, and a tinge of regret replaces the relief, "I'm sorry Captain, but I already know you lack the information I seek. In my lifetime of searching, thousands of years, I have not found it. The knowledge I need to end all the problems of this universe. I have seen so much suffering, so much pain, so much horror, and far too much death for little reason. The horrid things I have seen are legion and will never stop, until I figure out how to end it all. No more pain, no more terror, no more war, no more killing... That is what I seek. The means to rid this universe of all its problems."
The Warrior Spirit continues struggling against nothing, now with his head down, eyes closed, and muttering something in his draconic language. His counterpart seems conflicted, as if unsure on what to do. Xefr doesn't make any visible reaction, but by the sigh it is clear he noticed what goes on behind him.

guest9

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Re: Xefr's Adventures: The grey meatbags
« Reply #28 on: June 01, 2016, 09:24:50 am »
The weathered Ghashyr politician, satisfied that the drake didn't take this the wrong way, is ready to give a response, but as his captain makes his intriguing question and Xefr immediately responds to it, he remains silent and worried...  Erixen and Rysannox look at each other for a while, slightly confused, only for the Echopalad of the Empire to get out a short awkward laugh "Heh! I'm indeed glad on your decision regarding our religions  ..but this quest of yours reminds me of my ancestors  ...you see, they were similarly dissatisfied with the darkness existing in the world, so they went on a quest similar to yours; to rid the cosmos of darkness and illuminate all of existence! The problem was that their interpretation of illumination.. well.." Rysannox, feeling uncomfortable, suddenly stops  "..err, I think we should change the subject, it is a rather macabre one."

guest28

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Re: Xefr's Adventures: The grey meatbags
« Reply #29 on: June 01, 2016, 04:00:42 pm »
Xefr's demeanor remains unchanged, and his voice is calm as he redresses Rysannox. "I agree, this is a subject I'd rather avoid myself, but first allow me to ease your mind. I do not intend to make the same mistakes I have seen so many make. I will accomplish my goals without the use of violence. I will not inflict what I wish to stop. Now then, let's move on, such things are not good to speak of. Tell me about your society or culture. I want to make sure I can converse with your peoples properly without causing offense by accident. Oh, and I believe your captain here and others mentioned a Talmyr, yes that's what it was. Is that your ruler?"
The Warrior Dragon has mostly returned to normal by this point, though he is visibly uncomfortable.