PSL (private)

[perfectpower]

[It's a sleepy planet in the far off reaches of space, one that doesn't even have an official designation yet due to its recent discovery. The people of that planet haven't even developed wide-use electricity yet, much less space travel, so until recently they had been largely ignorant of the politics of space. Aeons, paths, the different factions, it's all very new to the residents of this world. And given their own internal politics, many are reluctant to embrace the stars.

On its own, this planet is rather unassuming. One large continent broken up into 5 distinct countries, along with several chains of islands spread out in the water. There are a few small religions worshipping various gods, but most people just respect the spirits of nature and have a healthy fear of the magic-users that live among them. Thanks to all the magic, technological advancements are slower than usual. Why develop lighting systems when someone can just summon a ball of light? Of course, 'slower' doesn't mean 'stopped'. Eventually this planet would have developed into a more modern society, given a few more centuries. But the sudden appearance of the IPC is sure to jumpstart that.

Why are the IPC here? Well at first it was just a small task force making contact with a previously-dark planet. They do probes like this often, trying to find out if there's anything useful on the planet or if the people are worth bringing into the modern galaxy. It was pretty close to being a write-off, just a stamp of "wait a couple centuries and see what they do", and the planet would have been left alone entirely. But on the last day of evaluation, one of the members of the task force made a discovery that shook the team to its core.

Mana stones.

They didn't know where they came from. Any witch or wizard who they talked to wouldn't reveal their sources for these stones. But mana stones were used to boost the magical ability of a witch or wizard, and to a frightening degree.

One of the task force members put a mana stone the size of their thumb into their ship's energy source. It powered the entire ship for a month.

The promise of a new, compact energy source is too tempting. How could the IPC not jump at this chance? After all, the only ones even using the mana stones were witches and wizards, and they were outnumbered by humans a thousand to one. Powerful as they may be, it would be easy to get the people of this backwater planet to make a deal that would benefit the IPC greatly.

Which is why, at the current time, Aventurine has been sent to this planet. For diplomatic purposes, of course, these things go better if a contract is signed and people agree willingly. Who else would be better to sweet-talk the king and the wizard-prince into making this deal than the IPC's very own gambler?]

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ok actual thread here

[perfectpower]

[Of course, the king and the prince aren't alone here. The Sage, the representative of a special group of wizards, is present as well. They seem much more nervous than the king and prince though, and they fidget with the hem of their coat as they wait for the meeting to start. Prince Arthur offers them a reassuring smile, and they smile nervously in return.

The king will be the one to make any final decisions probably, but it is the young prince that greets Aventurine, nodding his head in the man's direction. Despite being only 18, he's very polite and seems to know the ways of negotiations.]

"Thank you for coming all the way out to see us. It's an honor to host a guest from the stars."

[These aren't the only people present at the meeting though. While he isn't at the front greeting the IPC and Aventurine, Bradley is still lingering in the back of the grand hall. He's more of an observer than a participant for now, only brought in because the Sage feels better having a sharpshooter around in case anything goes wrong. And indeed, Bradley is packing heat: the large rifle resting casually on his shoulder isn't just for show. If things go to shit, he will defend the Prince and the Sage.

(What about the king? Eeeeh, Bradley doesn't care as much about that old fogie. He's on his own.)]

[sorte]

[ this is a tale as old as time, and Aventurine plans on making sure it's another one for the esteemed records of the IPC's history rather than a sealed dossier tossed into the restricted archives on planets that have failed to be peacefully assimilated. For make no mistake, the IPC will not leave this place empty-handed after what they stumbled upon. If Aventurine cared even a little about anyone or anything on this planet, he might actually feel some pressure in regards to the outcome.

( Or... you know, not. )

He takes note that the prince may not be the Final Word in all of this, but that he is well-equipped in social affluence and persuasion nevertheless— and so there's a high chance that he is well-liked and respected among the people of this world beyond simply being their prince. If true, then his own power of influence can't be discarded as necessarily inferior to the King's in the long run. One more chip on the table, and one more stake in the game to consider carefully on how he uses them.

As for the nervous Sage... Aventurine is not yet sure what to make of this individual, but he understands that they also play a role, and that the prince genuinely seems fond of them enough to attempt to extend reassurance. They probably are worth gathering the favor of, as well, beyond the principle of their position.

Aventurine merely smiles in response to the greeting, offering a polite bow of respect. ]

On behalf of the Interastral Peace Corporation, please accept my utmost gratitude for granting us such an audience. Allow me to properly introduce myself: I am Aventurine, a member of the IPC's Non-Performing Asset Liquidation Specialists. My hope is that I can demonstrate the value of a collaborative partnership between our two respective parties that will lead to boundless prosperity and opportunity for this planet and it's habits for many generations to come.

[ although he can't tell from his position, it would be unwise not to expect someone or something here in this chamber is at best wholly uninterested in anything but the IPC leaving empty-handed and never coming back. For a brief moment, he scans his surroundings from the corners of his eyes, not able to actually pinpoint anyone just yet as a potential source of trouble, but anyone who catches his glance will certainly feel the warning crawl up their spine: he knows you're there, and he won't stop looking for the likes of you until he has you right where he wants you.

To think at least one of the three players—The king, the prince, and the Sage— doesn't have some kind of backup plan already lurking would be an unacceptable level of arrogance even for the worst of the IPC. Aventurine isn't even close to that level. ]

[perfectpower]

[Non-performing asset liquidation specialist? Bradley doesn't like the sound of that. He won't discount that the title could be just a title, and that his actual job is something else, but Bradley has performed his own kind of 'asset liquidation' in the past and he can guess what that means. The warning glance sure helps to reinforce that. Bradley is tempted to speak up there, but he'll give the Prince and the Sage time to do their thing first.

Regardless, he's decided to go be buddy-buddy with this IPC representative later, to see what he's up to.

For now though, the Prince is smiling and giving a heartfelt response to Aventurine's words.]

"That is our hope too. The stars have been previously inaccessible to us, and getting a Jumpstart towards the future would benefit us. Though I must ask: what is it you seek from us? The cooperation of witches and wizards? Or is it something else?"

[Prince Arthur is kind and optimistic, but he isn't a fool. If the IPC is asking for cooperation, then it's because they want something from his people. He just hopes that Aventurine isn't actually looking for witches and wizards, because they are a notoriously uncooperative bunch. He can't promise cooperation himself, given his duties as the Prince. And of the few wizards that do cooperate, they all have duties to protect this world from the Great Calamity already. It's a tough spit to be in, Arthur kind of hopes the IPC just wants resources.]

[sorte]

[ Aventurine would swear up and down it's just a title as he's not here representing his department specifically at this time, but that would come with a hefty silent yet hanging threateningly overhead. If he could read the minds of these people in the room, he'd be glad to know at least someone here has some kind of survival instinct enough to be taking such notes, already.

Aventurine smiles at Arthur's question giving his head a light shake. ]

No, nothing so incredible a task, I assure you!

The IPC already gains plenty by you becoming a member of the Free Trade alliance with our assistance, although I won't lie and say that we aren't very interested in having a priority trade agreement on one of your resources.

It's come to our attention that this planet has a very unique one, one that provides incredible opportunity to push the planet into the future of trade between the stars at an even more accelerated pace than we had initially calculated. [ Which originally might as well have been zero, but they don't really need to know that. ] I have been informed this resource is not a staple for the majority people of this world, either, which makes it even more significant as a valuable, if true.

Of course, the IPC would need you and your council to verify such a claim. [ opening his hand, he reveals a single mana stone, one that had been taken back to the IPC for analysis. ] I admit we are in the dark concerning them as a whole, but that's also why I'm here. I need to better understand this item and its use in your world. Is it a free resource with ample supply, for example, and does it truly provide little value to those that are not considered "witches" or "wizards?" Our priority is to make this planet and its people wealthier and more secure on all fronts, not deplete an actual critical resource due to any misunderstandings.

Unfortunately, the witches and wizards we attempted to gain knowledge from initially were quite unhelpful, so forgive me for coming into this matter with such ignorance.

[perfectpower]

[Yeah, that sounds about right. Most of the witches and wizards of this world are assholes who prioritize themselves over everyone else. Anyone sniffing around about mana stones, a valuable power source for wizards and witches, would get shut down immediately. Tricks of the trade and all.

The Prince casts a look to the Sage, one that bears some confusion. It's not that he doesn't understand, but moreso that several items fall under that description. The Sage, however, seems to understand what Aventurine is getting at, and that is when they speak up:]

"Mana stones, you mean?"

[It's the only 'resource' that makes sense in the context of what Aventurine said. Everything else is too specific to certain wizards or certain countries. But it's also the resource that they really don't want to talk much about, due to certain factors about the stones themselves.

The Prince, realizing what the resource is, has a lightbulb moment and looks back to Aventurine.]

"Yes, those have pretty much no use to normal humans. Wizards and witches use them to power up their magic, but for beings with no magic they're pretty much a fancy paperweight. I don't really have much else on them though. You see, I only recently came into my magic, and a lot of this is new to me as well. If you want information on mana stones or other magical artifacts though, I know of a few wizards who might be of more help than myself."

[In the back, Bradley frowns. Being that he's in the room, he can guess that he's the one who will be called upon for this. But then again, that might be for the best: Bradley may not be book smart, but he's really good at understanding people. If this representative from the IPC has nefarious plans, he's the one who would probably pick up on it. Not to throw shade at the Prince or any of the other wizards, but most of them are babies compared to him.]

[sorte]

A mana stone, is it? [ Aventurine asks, twirling the stone thoughtfully amidst his fingers. Yes, that was what they referred to them as, but he wasn't sure if that was just a half-assed nickname that had no real meaning. Judging by what they do, though, sounds like the name is very literal and self-explanatory. That's all Aventurine needed to confirm, honestly, to make sure these were indeed useless to the majority of individuals. As far as the IPC is concerned, they're free for the taking now if they can't get them willingly offered to them, but Aventurine can't just cut them off and end it there. He is supposed to be negotiating, afterall, and this world isn't in dire enough straits that he can go at this heavy-handedly. Closing his fingers around the stone, he offers an agreeable smile to the suggestion. ]

Although I wouldn't want to add to their schedule if they are busy, I would be happy to speak with them if they are willing. This is the only resource the IPC has a personal interest in acquiring on some level, the rest should be fully allocated towards this world's personal prosperity.

[perfectpower]

[At that, both the Prince and the Sage glance over to where Bradley is standing, back by some of the pillars further into the large room. Having been called out, he sighs and steps forward, speaking with a more relaxed accent compared to the Prince and Sage, who have been speaking more formally.]

's fine, the Sage is holdin' my leash anyway.

[Unlike most of the wizards, who can come and go at will, Bradley has extra steps he has to take. So he might as well say something here and be useful, if only to have some control over the narrative.]

Unless any of your men are secretly wizards, I'd advise to stay away from mana stones. Handlin' them's one thing, but usin' 'em is a bad idea for humans. You'll die, slowly and painfully.

[Just. Putting that out to start with. He doesn't want some foolish human to suffer a cruel death because they tried to use a mana stone.]

Beyond that, it's hard to call 'em a resource. They're pretty rare, and even a witch or wizard who knows where to find 'em might only find a couple every year. 's not like you can just mine into the earth to find 'em or anythin'. And especially with the Great Calamity comin' up soon and all, we Sage's Wizards have to use any we find.

[He gestures to the Prince. Speaking of which, Aventurine would be able to see a mark on the back of Arthur's right hand. And if he looks carefully, he'll see the very ends of that same design poking out under the bottom of Bradley's shirt when he walks. His mark appears to be on his left flank, based on those small bits poking out.]

[sorte]

[ That's definitely not per of the narrative Aventurine wants to hear concerning their abundance, but that also doesn't really say much. Afterall, at least for the IPC, the mana stone already has shown give a lot just for a little. And even if they are finite, there nothing saying these the IPC can't find a way to regenerate these stones or figure out how to cultivate them on their own at some point. Yes, Aventurine is far from deterred, although he tilts his head slightly in question nevertheless. ]

Hm? I was not aware these could be used in any way by a normal human to cause them danger to begin with, but your concern is touching and appreciated.

[ aventurine knows it's not said out of concern at all— but that's all the more reason to word it as such.

he doesn't miss the marks, either, tucking them away for later. For now, he has bigger things to focus on.]

As for the 'Great Calamity'... is this place's only hope to manage it via cooperative wizards and witches? I wouldn't mind an introduction to what this looking event entails, either.

[ this could get very interesting, very fast. ]

[perfectpower]

[Oh, how that makes Bradley grin.]

Ya hear that, Sage? He wants to see the Great Calamity.

"I don't think that's such a good idea-"

Now c'mon. He's reportin' to some big group, right? Maybe they'll know a thing or two about how to deal with the Great Calamity. 'sides, we're only about a month away from the next one, right? He wouldn't even have to wait long.

[He's rather cheerful while talking up this idea, despite everyone else sounding or looking apprehensive. He does have a point though: it would be faster to just show Aventurine how things work around here than it would be to tell it to him. He would get a more accurate image of the world in the process too.

The Prince seems to realize that this is true, and he will cut in here to speak:]

"It would be unwise to sign any treaties before we deal with the next Calamity anyway, there's too much instability around that time. Mr. Bradley is right, the best possible choice would be to let thim and his men stay for now."

[Bradley is absolutely beaming at being told he's right. Because he is right, and he's getting the recognition he deserves.]

's not like I'm doin' anything important 'till the Great Calamity shows up anyway. I could keep an eye on him. What do ya think, Peacock? I bet you and I could get along real well.

[Given how Bradley looks right at Aventurine when he says that, it's pretty clear that 'Peacock' is how he's addressing Aventurine.]

[sorte]

[ So it's like that, is it?

Not exactly the swift conclusion Aventurine was looking for—he's certainly seen better places to waste his time especially as he doesn't even get phone service on this damn rock, afterall— but this does beat having to listen to them all fumble words and attempt to tiptoe around their explanations, and the further headache of trying to pick apart the fact from fiction. ]

The IPC also can't continue negotiations without more information on this matter, especially if it's a recurring incident. I appreciate the opportunity.

[ he offers a small nod of respect towards the prince . ] I'll be sending my men back rather than cause further unrest with the civilians with their loitering as I imagine they wouldn't enjoy the suspense, anyway.

[ Turning his gaze to Bradley, Aventurine's charming smile becomes suddenly razor sharp, playing with his sleeve cuff idly. ]

...As for me, it appears I'll be in your capable hands, Mr. Bradley. I just ask you to be gentle, my feathers ruffle so easily~. [ Aventurine doesn't even give the prince or the sage a chance to suggest other arrangements: Aventurine's already found the most interesting person in this room, and he won't settle for anyone else. If he's going to be stuck here for a month or so, then he's going to get the most of out of it every way he can.

Luckily he's quite used to 'Peacock,' and he's more than delighted by the idea that he'll be the one to remind Bradley that peacocks have rather nasty talons when trifled with once the time comes. ]

[perfectpower]

[It works perfectly for Bradley too. He loves and supports his Prince, but that kid really assumes the best all the time. With people from the stars who may or may not have bad intentions, a hand like Bradley's is needed. He can drip-feed information just enough to keep Aventurine interested, while also not revealing too much until he learns more about this mysterious man.

It's a gamble, to be sure. Aventurine could figure out what he is doing and just stab him in the back and go bully the Prince and Sage into bending to his demands. But Bradley is betting on the fact that Aventurine has to at least keep up appearances for now, until any contract is signed. All things considered, it's not the worst gamble he's made.

He's also gabling that, once Aventurine sees the Great Calamity, he'll understand why the witches and wizards of this world hold onto their mana stones tightly.

Grinning, Bradley goes to loop an arm around Aventurine's shoulder in an overly-friendly gesture.]

Don't worry, I'll take care of ya. Now c'mon, it's time to introduce you to the best place that this city has to offer.

[It's a bar. Bradley will absolutely be taking Aventurine to a bar if he lets him.]

[sorte]

[ it's a good gamble on Bradley's part—Aventurine does have to keep up appearances that the IPC is very much against taking anything by force and that this world has a great deal of control in what does or doesn't ultimately happen to it. Even if he catches on to the other's intentions, Aventurine indeed can't go bully the Sage and the Prince into anything unless someone drastic occurs.

As for his understanding in regards to the mana stones, also a fair and valid gamble, but whether that will matter much to Aventurine is going to be where the stakes truly matter. So Bradley has one high risk bet outstanding of two, which really, is not bad in terms of the general odds at this point. ]

Oh? Nice, lead the way. [ he's totally letting him take him, and this better be an amazing bar that isn't going to get his coat filthy. ]

[perfectpower]

[It's probably not as extravagant as some of the places Aventurine has been, but by the standards of this world it's pretty nice. Pristine wood furniture and countertops meet the pair as they enter. The flickering lights above may look like electric bulbs at first, but a second glance reveals no wiring, and instead a soft hum of magic. If Aventurine can sense it because I honestly have no idea if path striders count as 'magical' or not, the magic feels in line with the 'magic' of the aeons. Though picking out which aeon is responsible for all of this will be difficult.

The bartender is there, polishing some glasses and setting out common drink ingredients. It's a bit too early for an evening rush, but he is clearly preparing for it. He does perk up when he sees who walks in through.]

"Oh? It's a bit early isn't it, Bradley? And who's this here with you?"

[Grinning, Bradley uses the hand already draped over Aventurines's shoulder to pat said shoulder.]

This guy's gonna be stayin' with us for a little while! He's curious about wizards and the Great Calamity. Gotta treat him right an' give him the best booze, right? Western Barkeep.

[The barkeep smiles knowingly at that introduction.]

"If you're to be Bradley's companion for the time being, then I'm sure he gave you a ridiculous nickname as well. What shall I call you then?"

[sorte]

[ it's certainly more than good enough, and Aventurine is at least pleasantly surprised by it—and the bartender is quite easy on the eyes, too, which makes it better. Although Aventurine does briefly glance to the lights he doesn't have much time to assess them before he realizes he's being addressed.

Ah, good to know this guy is always like this, for starters, concerning the nicknames. Helps better understand the type of individual he's dealing with. ]

'Peacock' if you want to stick to his way of naming etiquette. [ is the good-natured response from the IPC employee. ] Aventurine if you don't.

[ Aventurine doesn't seem overly concerned one way or another, it rolls off his shoulders easily enough.

He's definitely interested to try whatever alcohol this world has to offer, though. There always a chance for something wildly unique, but more often than not it's also quite a good starting point to realize that worlds are often able to be quite similar despite the odds more than most care to admit.

Right now, either is welcome. Afterall, he's going to have to report to Diamond tomorrow about the results of the negotiations, so starting early on drinking?

Completely acceptable. ] I'm going in blind here, so I'll take whatever is recommended by the handsome barkeep. Price is not a concern, I'm buying tonight.

[perfectpower]

[Flattery, is it? The bartender gives a sly smile before reaching for a couple bottles. He's run bars for a long time, he knows how to play this game.]

"That's a bold statement, Bradley will drink you broke before you know it."

[Bradley let's out a sharp, amused laugh as he let's go of Aventurine's shoulder and moves to sit at the bar.]

If I'm not payin' then I'll have my usual. Thanks Shylock.

[So Bradley can say names when he wants to, it seems. Shylock will mix up some kind of bubbly mixed drink that is layers of pink and light blue, and when drank it will taste of grenadine and blueberry syrup mixed with vodka and some kind of bubbly beverage.

Meanwhile, Bradley gets a glass of whiskey in ice, and it ends up as a bit of a show too because Shylock uses his magic to make a round ball of ice for Bradley's glass.]

[sorte]

[ Flattery will get you everywhere, is one of Aventurine's mottos, an honestly lost art as everyone is already expecting from everyone to be interacting with them something, anyway. Unfortunately, bartenders tend to be the most elite of the immune kind, but that's all the more reason to sweet talk them, in Aventurine's eyes.

Aventurine's eyebrows raise in mock surprise at this revelation, and even moreso at Bradley's order with him glancing from Shylock to Bradley. ] Your usual? Really? Is that your way of going easy on me?

[ With them sitting down, Aventurine watches with interest. The barkeep's stock seems to be old and new world classics, which is a rather nice feeling of familiar in an unfamiliar place& mdash; especially with things like that! pulling his rose-color glasses off now, his striking eyes watch the ball of ice with keen interest. It's a bit ludicrous to him, really, how only a handful minority of this world is capable of using magic, but it's used so fluidly by those that have its capability. ]

How fascinating ... [ They have machines that make ball ice where he comes from, but it's not as fancy or entertaining watching a machine spit one out as it is a good-looking individual that's already tending to one's drink. ]

We'd consider that a nice personal touch back where I'm from... is this just the norm here?

[perfectpower]

"It's the norm here at least. Bar Bennett is open for all, but a lot of magic-users come through here. The Sage's Wizards in particular make a habit of coming here on certain nights."

[Bradley pipes in here, adding a bit more context.]

Except for the tinies, they're all too young for the bottle. Could you imagine the Prince gettin' wasted in here?

[Shylock chuckles in response. It is indeed an amusing mental image.

After that, Bradley takes a sip of his drink and let's out a satisfied 'aaaah' afterwards. The drinks are always good, but after all the business today they're particularly satisfying.]

Tomorrow I'll show you a couple'a places that're important to this world. That should help you with that report of yours. But tonight, you can buy me another dozen drinks or so.

[His first drink is his usual, but who's to say what the next ones will be.]

[sorte]

The Sage's wizards? [ Aventurine implores, recalling that Bradley did seem have a particular connection to the Sage. The prince made sense by default, but there was reason for the other to defer towards the Sage rather than the prince directly. The Stoneheart listens attentively, taking a brief glance around the bar to take in the general atmosphere since there aren't many around to people watch at this time. If Shylock's commentary about Bradley's ability to drink is any indication, though, there should be plenty of time for that when the crowds arrive.

And speaking of, Aventurine cants his head back towards Bradley, the corners of his smile gaining that sharp edge again that's ever so slightly predatory. Challenging. ] By all means, Mr. Bradley, I encourage you to use me to your advantage and drink to your heart's content tonight. [ It's time for a crash course in just how easy (or hard) it is to get a wizard drunk, it looks like. Luckily, Aventurine's got deep enough pockets to be certain he'll get an exact number before he's cleaned out. ]

[perfectpower]

"You met the Prince, correct? Did you see the mark on the back of his hand? Anyone with that mark is a wizard who works with the Sage to fight the Great Calamity. The Sage leads us in that fight, and every year we save the world from destruction."

[There is no visible mark on Shylock, but the way he speaks about the Sage's Wizards is a good sign that he is also one.

Grinning, Bradley tilts his glass towards Aventurine in a cheers motion.]

Let's see who lasts the longest then.

[There aren't many people present currently. A couple people are milling about, finishing a conversation before they decide what to drink. A couple more walk in, see Bradley sitting at the bar, and quickly move into a booth to avoid the man. But there is also a man with longer purple hair, sitting at a table and looking pleased with himself as he scribbles something on some paper. It might be a bit more difficult to see, but this man has one of those marks on his right palm.]

[sorte]

[ Aventurine pauses a moment. Every year?

He can't help but make a face at that. It'll certainly make the IPC have reevaluate if this place is worth the hassle, although despite them calling it the 'Great Calamity', if they deal with it every year maybe there's a huge discrepancy in what these people consider both great and a calamity compared to what the IPC would?
Only time will tell. ]

How many of there are of you Sage's Wizards?

[ Aventurine tilts his glass in response to Bradley before taking a drink from with a very polite bitchslap of a side comment added for... fun. ] Mhm, but you're going to lose.

[perfectpower]

[In about a month he'll find out for himself just how great the calamity is.]

Twenty-one. There's twenty spots, which is four from each of the five countries, but we got a pair of twins takin' up one spot in the North. I'm from the North, and the Barkeep here is from the West. The Prince is a Central wizard too. You'll see 'em all around here, we've got a manor we stay in nearby.

There's a couple'a extra rooms, so you'll be able to stay there for now too. Just don't piss off the wrong guy, Or else you'll be a burn mark on the ground before you know it.

[He means the other Northern wizards there. Aventurine will soon find out just how violent they are. Bradley is pretty tame in comparison to them.

He will finish his drink in one long drink, and then set the glass down on the table somewhat roughly.]

Gimme somethin' special this time, got it?

"Of course."

[Shylock makes him some kind of red drink, which Bradley will take and sip on.]

[sorte]

[ Aventurine lets a sound of disbelief escape. ] Ha—? You got a lot of assumptions about me in these warnings of yours, my friend!

What are you saying? Do I look like the type of guy who regularly pisses people off? I know I'm out of my league. [ he says, folding his arms in an overall bit of what looks like a mild pout, actually.

He gestures at Shylock. ] Why can't I stay with him, instead? I bruise easy, and I paid a lot for this coat, I don't know if I like the idea of staying with a bunch of people who get mad for no reason and have access to anything resembling fire magic.

[ He really doesn't want any of them knowing he's a pathstrider—it'd just complicate things. It's best they just think he's a useless pencil pusher, so the less chance of butting heads with other people the better.

Yeah, he'd like some sympathy for his plight here. ]

[perfectpower]

[The smile on Shylock's face is both polite and also says 'suffer'.]

"Your out of luck there, sir. I also live in the manor."

[Bradley also chimes in there, leaning in close to fake-whisper to Aventurine:]

His boyfriend can be kinda scary too, best not get too close.

[At that, Shylock sighs and shakes his head, with a 'what can you do?' vibe.]

"Oh hush, Murr is perfectly nice and also not my boyfriend."

[sorte]

[ Aventurine nods knowingly at the not-so-subtle whisper seemingly to be in complete understanding. The not-my-boyfriend comments goes right through the window without it even being sure Aventurine heard it. Boyfriends are very troublesome and need to be watched out for.

Pushing his shoulder against Bradley, he sighs dramatically. ] Hey, on second thought, maybe you can't drink that much, afterall. I need you to make sure I don't get squashed by your friends on my first night here. Don't forget I gotta survive for a month!

[ It seems like it will be a rather run-of the-mill evening for this place, Aventurine concludes, judging by the state of things. That's fine and good he supposes, he has no need to rush things and even if he doesn't really care, it would be with at least getting to better understand what makes this planet's heart beat.

The only truly unfortunate thing here is he has to wait an entire month before he can do much of anything. A month is a long time, well enough to turn the tables against him if he's not careful as much as for him to stack the scales irrevocably in his favor. Finishing his drink, he nods before gently pushing his empty glass away. ]

Anyway, I might as well keep pace if I'm stuck with him all night—I'll have whatever you gave him, too.

[perfectpower]

"Very well."

[The bartender makes Aventurine a whiskey on the rocks and the red drink Bradley currently has. He is still smiling politely. He absolutely did that on purpose.]

"Enjoy."

[Bradley, now leaning against Aventurine's shoulder, starts snickering. Good luck not drinking too much tonight.]

[sorte]

[ Ah ...

w e l l

t h e n .

Aventurine supposes he walked right into that one and smirks almost helplessly. He did get exactly what he asked for, so no backing out. ]


Touché. [ he says as he lifts the whiskey in a gentle cheers manner towards Shylock for his stunt before drinking it. While he's still sure his wallet is going to outlast even the both of them, he admittedly can't say he's so sure about his own sobriety is going to come even close.

...Oh well, it's time to fuck around and find out. Bottoms up and all that. What could possibly go wrong here. ]

[perfectpower]

[Take the gamble, Aventurine.

But no, they all taste great but they're just normal drinks with a normal alcohol content. No alcohol bombs meant to get him wasted quick. So if he can hold 3 normal alcoholic drinks he'll be fine.

Bradley is also finishing up his own drink while Aventurine drinks his own. He'll give the blond a cheers in return before drinking from it.]

There's an extra room on the 5th floor, directly opposite of mine. It's at the end of the hall so you'll only have one obnoxious neighbor. It should have a bed at least, dunno about anything else in it.

[sorte]

[ Three normal drinks he can do!

Twelve or so might be a stretch if Bradley makes it there, though. If is a strong word currently, of course. There's still ten to go to get there for the wizard.

At least they taste nice. And as much as Aventurine likes high stakes, if he has to, he'll call off his drinking well before he reaches the indignity of getting sick. He knows how to pick his battles, especially having already picked up on that these individuals are way way older than he is. He can't pinpoint a number on either of them, exactly but he's putting them both well over the average human lifespan for starters. That's a lot of time to hone your drinking skills and alcohol tolerance.

( How lucky it is that Aventurine prefers older men. )

He hums for a moment, taking quick mental note. That's convenient for being a pain in Bradley's ass when he feels like it, at least. And he has every intention of making himself a pain in the ass when it suits him. A little less so if he wants to go snooping around on his own, but hey maybe his appointed chaperone won't care much if Aventurine pretends to keep his nose clean. He hasn't really been able to make a good judgement yet on what kind of person he's dealing with. ]

You sure know how to sell it, Mr. Bradley. Remind me not have your name listed as a contact for opinions on best local advertising pitches.

Are there any rules I should know about at this place? Curfews, restrictions, compliances, social obligations, unique etiquette—the usual basics.

[perfectpower]

Hmm...

[Bradley swirls his drink around in his hand as he considers this. There's quite a lot of social obligations and etiquette, it's true, and Bradley knows them decently well. The primary reason why being that he often breaks social norms on purpose to get a reaction out of people. But it's hard to adequately describe them all on demand like that, he's sure he'll miss something important without realizing.

Still, he'll try, if only to keep the conversation going.]

The biggest restriction is gonna be on me. As we get closer to the Great Calamity, I gotta stay close to the others to be ready for a fight at a moment's notice. Beyond that, don't go tellin' people you're associatin' with wizards if you're not in the company of one. There's a whole lotta people who don't like wizards and who'll give you shit for stayin' with us. If I'm there I can protect you from it, but dependin' on the country they can be pretty awful.

[He takes a sip of his drink, and then he suddenly remembers:]

Oh yeah! I'm on work release so we gotta clear any travel plans with the Sage, since they're the one holdin' my leash until my time is served. Takin' off unannounced is just gonna get me thrown back behind bars.

[sorte]

Oya? So you aren't seen as protectors of this world by the common folk necessarily. Interesting. [ completely unsurprising and he can guess why and that it has nothing to do with the Sage's wizards. Still, it's worth confirming since it's quite impressive that they would harm people associated with wizards that are quite dangerous to their own well-being arguably. ]

Annndddd... you're a criminal! [ Aventurine says it with such a happy wonderous childelike understanding kind of tone, as if suddenly everything in the universe now makes sense. ] You're on some kind of community service probation, then?

[perfectpower]

It's a weird situation. They know it's up to us to save their asses every year, but they're afraid of us for our power.

[He will not mention how many witches and wizards of the past have given the humans a very valid reason to be afraid of magic-users.

Speaking of which, he just sighs and waves off Aventurine's amusement.]

Yeah, yeah. 's not too exciting, some rich bastards just got upset when I took their riches from 'em. That's probably why they let me out on work release anyway.

[He can't imagine that he would have been released at all if he had been a mass-murderer or something. At least petty crimes like felony theft can be forgiven if you're the savior of a world.]

[perfectpower]

[In the course of a week, Aventurine has been able to meet all of the Sage's wizards and learn a bit about their inter-personal relationships. From young teens to men over 2,000 years old, it seems like wizards of all ages and experience levels have been pulled in to fight this 'Great Calamity'. And also in that time, Aventurine would have been able to learn at least the basics of the geopolitical structure of the world. The Sage's wizards have a home in the Central country, the Western country doesn't like that all of that power is consolidated into one country like that (especially when that country isn't their own). Northern and Southern don't feel strongly either way about this conflict: as long as the wizards continue to fight the Great Calamity, then they can live wherever they want to. The Southern country feels this way because they want to encourage cooperation among everyone, while the Northern country cares more about results than politice. And Eastern...well, as long as the wizards aren't in their country, they don't care what happens.

All of them are interested to meet Aventurine and learn of the IPC, but don't seem to think much of it beyond that. The consensus seems to be that having contact with people from space is amazing, but they don't think the IPC will be able to stop the Great Calamity or change their everyday lives in any meaningful way. Which probably means it will be easier to take advantage of them in the future, but that's a problem for later down the line. And there's a few keen eyes watching out for signs of trouble as well, so it won't be a complete cakewalk to take control of this world.

The main obstacle is that magic is just so versatile that it can be hard to plan around. In a week alone, Bradley has shown off how he can teleport objects to himself, how he can control the elements (specifically water one time, as he was putting out a fire one of the teenagers made accidentally while practicing magic), how he can change shape with magic (and he looks just as wild as a woman as he does as a man, interestingly enough), and how magic can be used to regulate body temperature no matter how hot or cold a location is. And, from how he talks about it, it's clear that every witch and wizard can do these things and much more. The limits seem to be in how creative a magic-user is. It's amazing, but it is also uneding.

But after a week of learning about the world and just experiencing everyday life, things change. One afternoon, shortly after lunch, Bradley is working in the courtyard with a couple of the teenage wizards, showing them how to freeze water into ice. Aventurine is welcome to watch, of course, but the class is cut short by the Sage running out in a hurry.]

"Bradley! There's been a sighting! Heathcliff and Cain are already headed that way, but they might need backup!"

[At those words, the two young teens start to look worried, but Bradley notices this and is quick to let out a confident laugh. They have nothing to fear as long as Bradley is here.]

About time! I almost thought they were gonna skip us this year.

[He pats the kids on their heads and tells them to go find the others. They both nod and scurry off, and Bradley looks to Aventurine with a grin.]

Looks like it's showtime. You ready to see your first Calamity monster?

[Ready or not, Bradley is already summoning a broom.]

[sorte]

[ what's interesting the most to Aventurine is how ingrained the magic is with those who use it yet very few individuals of this world are capable of doing so. if nothing else, being a wizard or witch on this planet seems to make daily life much more convenient. so why hasn't the trait spread more among the population? where did it even pop up in this planet's evolutionary history?

so many interesting things he could contemplate, and he thinks he knows exactly the scholar that would actively engage in such a topic of conversation if he were present.

he's not, though, and suddenly the leisure time to wonder things out of pure curiosity is gone.

Aventurine's interest is still piqued, though, especially with how the entire atmosphere changes at the announcement.

(and while he says nothing about Bradley's show of bravado to the students, he does take notice of it. cute. he'll tuck that away for later.)

the gambler can easily agree with one thing that comes out of Bradley's mouth: finally, indeed! he smiles in response to the question, although it's hard not to full out grin like Bradley if only because Aventurine has also maybe been getting just a little bit stir crazy waiting around for something to hit the fan. ]

But of course, and I would never miss a worthwhile performance, especially by a friend. I'm also looking forward to finally seeing what the Calamity has to offer the IPC in terms of unique challenges.

[ whether they turn out to be far more difficult or not isn't really what Aventurine means, either. without a doubt, since magic is so unpredictably used, he is convinced the threats requiring magic to quell them are equally unpredictable.

and who loves unpredictability more than a gambler? ]

[perfectpower]

[Unpredictable is a good way to put it. Aventurine will find out just how unique the challenges are in short order.

Once the kids have run off to go gather the other wizards, Bradley heads to the courtyard and summons his broom. It's not too difficult to ride together- in their week of down time Bradley has taken Aventurine once or twice, and it's no more difficult than riding a bike or motorcycle- though this time as Bradley gets ready and waits for Aventurine to climb on he'll issue a word of warning:]

Depending on how annoying this calamity monster ends up being, I might have to fly a bit crazy. Hang on tight unless you wanna end up face-first in the ground.

[Bradley doesn't mind bringing Aventurine along, but the message is clear: Aventurine better keep up if he doesn't want to get left behind and picked up later once the fight is over.]

[sorte]

Got it, don't get distracted.

[ Aventurine interprets the warning back to Bradley as he gets on behind him. He doesn't ask any further details, figuring that it's easier for both of them if he just waits until they're there. It seems like calamity monsters can vary greatly which means he's better off not trying to preemptively understand what the threat is.

Although he does think of one thing last minute, asking nonchalantly. ]

How big is it, anyway?

[perfectpower]

We'll see. The early ones are usually small, but they can get pretty big.

[The flight there, though fast, is pretty uneventful. Bradley has been flying brooms for a long time, so he can keep them upright and on track easily. It's only when he spots something in the distance that he starts to slow down, changing to more of a cruising speed than a fast one.]

Well look at that, it's good-sized after all! That'll make the fight more interesting.

['Good sized' is an understatement. The amalgamation of clockwork and fancy accessories towers over them even while they're in the air. It's hard to get a sense of the true height, thanks to the moving gears, but it's at least a good thirty feet tall. And from the looks of it, Bradley and Aventurine are the first ones there too.

The clockwork monster had been slowly hovering in the general direction of the capitol city, but as soon as the pair arrive its attention turns to them. Though it doesn't have eyes, it seems to look right at them, trying to decide what to do with them.]

sorry please don't feel the need to reply after so long aah.

[sorte]

Whoa—

[ that is far larger than Aventurine was expecting, if he's honest. 'Good-sized' is an extreme understatement. He also isn't really sure what to make of this thing, considering it's not exactly the type of magically best he was expecting. She, the idea of a monster made of mechanical parts isn't a new idea, necessarily, but he guesses he was just expecting someone more traditional... like a dragon, maybe? Something that you clearly can kill over maybe having to dismantle? ]

...Can it actually see us somehow, or is it sensing you...?

[ maybe it senses Aventurine, too, but he's not going to assume that especially since he's been doing a good job not making it known he has any capabilities to show off as a pathstrider.

The fact the monster seems to actually contemplate their presence rather than simply attack is also surprising to the Stoneheart— and more than a little concerning. It's it has the restraint to 'think,' that means it could be one of two unsavory situations Aventurine prefers not be part of this encounter:

1. It's a full machine and needs inputs from an outside source to control it and either give it proper command to act on things or it's not capable of being even semi-autonomous and requires a puppeteer at all times.



or

2. Its fully autonomous and capable of higher thought where it can assess situations, which makes it a lot more dangerous in dealing with.

Neither of these are particularly positive things, as even the first option would mean there is someone or something else that needs to be hunted down.

For the moment, the IPC executive expresses none of this, choosing to simply play dumb and hope both his concerns are not applicable here. Afterall, he still doesn't understand the magic in this place, so it's highly possible this is just a big... golem-like creature, for a lack of a better comparison that just needs to be taken out, no more no less. ]

No worries! I too disappear for long bits of time

[perfectpower]

It's probably intimidated by how strong I am. If not, then it should be!

[Hang on tight, Aventurine, because Bradley is steering the broom to fly closer. The gears keep turning, and the head of this monster turns ever so slowly to follow the pair as they zip around. Definitely some kind of conscious being, and it seems to be waiting for something.

Brad's keen eyes watch for any changes in the monster's behavior, but so far it seems to be staying still. Hmm.

Eventually, after a couple passes around, Brad pulls back and leaves the two of them hovering in the air at about eye-level compared to the monster.]

Something smells fishy. Usually these things start attacking as soon as anyone shows up.