Ssarak Dyreackthanose --- Jarkel Tharscalera, the Scorched Land’s rightful Emperor’s selected diplomat, stood across the room. The whole time he could feel the heat of the opposing official glaring into his back and caused his wings to fold defensively about himself. It didn’t help he was distinctly aware, due to the examination, that he was much smaller and thinner compared to many of his kin. Some would say he was the runt in the race litter. He stood just barely six and a half foot high, his scales black and wings slightly tattered from his experience with both protecting his cart and bartering attempts gone horribly wrong. It didn’t help his image gave off an ambiance that cried sneaky and snake in many co-trader’s eyes. This alone made cooperation greatly difficult without others judging him or second guessing how others he worked with felt, his mind lingered upon the white Eysire youth. She had pure white scale color with a narrow snout and two straight horns pointed from her skull, and wings thin and over double the width of most Esyire’s commonly was. She was currently conversing with the Eania diplomat while Jarkel was mentally bracing for his with the Djarkel’s. Though as reliable source before arriving, Jarkel had learned about the nation’s troubles. Personally, he knew there were various troubles throughout Tiien, many he learned first hand as a merchant, as he felt their chances of gaining favor with the college over the Chieftain’s was pretty slim at best. Though his mission was strictly to better the Emperor’s own chances at ruling the Scorched Lands, his secondary object was to gain allies through the various diplomat’s troubles. After all, the college wouldn’t and couldn't handle everyone’s problems and in that truth, there was an opportunity to have been made. A chance to gain allies should the school become their worst enemy in the upcoming future. The mage college might’ve been able to stay neutral, even create a working relationship out with Eania and Djarkel, but the Emperor had made it clear to every single of his followers: When it came to the Scorched Lands future… anyone who was against it, would one day become an enemy. To ignore that fact was a risk to everything they had come to work for. It didn’t help faith in the College, by all the nations, had been shaken thanks to the last Opening Feast. He, like many others, had heard about the demon attack during the opening feast. How easily their loyalty quickly dissolved to the current demonomancer teacher and they ended up turning on the very students, ones they were assigned to defend. Among those thoughts, he couldn’t help but noting the strange absence of the headmaster Khan Jevarath. Was this Esyire, a powerful and favorite of the archmage Ovak, really as badly injured as he was lead to believe? The consideration was unsettling to anyone. The possibly was only concreted farther by the fact the archmage was up and walking around, many believed he was on his death bed due to his disappearance a few years back. Shock was the first among many other emotions that swam within his and likely other diplomats’ heads, their curiosity ignited by the appearance. It was then he noticed another Esyire, the same blood school as himself, approached him. Jarkel, briefly out of habit, considered drawing his hefty axe from his waist back but resisted. He preferred to use his tongue instead of his blade since it was far more useful and sharper. Jarkel paused long enough for the Esyire to catch up to his position then bowed his head in custom greeting, followed by his name. “Jarkel Tharscalera.” Just as he had done with the first diplomat, Ssarak approached the Emperor's representative with a respectful, polite posture. The representative was notably small, moreso than even the Esyire woman with him. His scales marked him as having Lues mageblood, which, for many, was enough to generate distrust. Of course, Ssarak obviously did not hold such a prejudice. Once the diplomat greeted him, he returned the bow. [color=f7941d]"Ssarak Dyreackthanose. A pleasure to meet you. You are the representative of the Emperor, correct?"[/color] He asked, his tone not suggesting that he held any negative opinion towards this Emperor. Jarkel chose his words well, each one was slick with caution, and due to his experience held little reason for suspicion. He wasn’t here as an enemy of the College unless they intended to make him one. Sadly, he wasn’t eager to be attacked verbally or physically by another who didn’t line up with his views. “You’re either a follower, recent citizen of the Scorched Lands or have been talking with the so called ‘Scorched Lands’ diplomat. I’m leaning to the last one myself. So, my only question now is why the curiosity, Mr. Dyreackthanose? Forgive the rather blunt statements but few Esyires tend to approach me out of good will. It’s often a desire to insult, provoke, or satisfy a need to extend their knowledge. As you can guess, only one of those reasons ever end well for me. Which is yours?” If the Esyire was intending on any of the negative reasons and pushed for a result that aligned with it, Jarkel intended to put the matter to rest. One way or another, even if the chance to ally with the college was lost. Inwardly, Ssarak was not certain of what he would think about this Emperor, or his representative. He had heard the other diplomat's case against him, and had went along with it, but he knew it would be foolish to make a judgment before hearing both sides. However, he did have his worries. Namely the fact that this Emperor had risen so suddenly, and intended to rule the Scorched Lands as a sole leader. If those were true, then for Ssarak, it would cast doubt on any of his other goals. Jarkel himself seemed to be blunt, but reasonably polite. Although, given that he was of Lues mageblood, Ssarak made sure to keep his wards strong. [color=f7941d]"I understand. I can see how many would be far from polite to someone in your position."[/color] Ssarak responded. [color=f7941d]"I confess, I was speaking to the other diplomat. I have been living away from the Scorched Lands for several years now, so I have been unaware of the events that have transpired in that time. I simply want to know more about the Emperor, and what he stands for. The Jev gave me his case and, as you would expect, it was not complimentary. I wish to hear your side. I have heard that the Emperor is challenging our traditions, which...intrigues me."[/color] He explained. Given that Ssarak was a younger individual, he hoped to establish himself as one who could be dissatisfied with the traditions of the older generations, which was precisely the kind of person the Emperor seemed to be recruiting. “Naturally I wouldn’t expect anything different from those who are against our views. It’s part of the reason the Emperor wanted to send another to represent our views and become acknowledged as an independent power, one that might one day overthrow its oppressors.” Jarkel said, his arms crossed over his narrow chest. He studied the Esyire, mentally determining Ssarak’s age by several factors from battle damage to no fading luster in his scales. In Jarkel’s mind it put Ssarak at about somewhere in his twenties or earlier thirties at oldest, his hand gestured for Ssark to take a seat. Thankfully many chairs were made for the Esyire structure and it made telling a lengthy explanation easier. When Ssarak sat down, Jarkel continued. “The Emperor is a powerful Esyire that just appeared from the wilderness one day. how he managed to survive is a mystery as few Esyire ever venture there to explore it. Slowly he made his way to Felldor with claims to an ancient bloodline and a right to the throne. Sadly, there’s no proof since the bloodline was believed wiped out centuries ago. The last child, heir of the chieftain that started the Esyire government, was believed tossed over a cliff side and was never found. His body believed consumed by the elements and wildlife. The strange part is that the Emperor knew much of the story details that few ever knew, he even looks like the chieftain with the same yellow-gold plates, magic and more. He claims the Esyire government has turned from its people and its origins, stolen by the clan’s ancestors long ago. He wants to eliminate the neutrality we have in Tiien, because we can’t reap the benefits of allies and trade without risking ourselves. The perks are worth the pay off in the end as long as we come to a mutual agreement. The Emperor truly believes we can. In addition, all clans will be unified and able to practice any skills they feel is suitable for them. Not just the trade they were born into. It’s miserable to see a child fail at his or her destined trade. They are viewed with low expectations, disgusts and worse which makes uniting the clans all the more important. It eliminates that distrust and increase respect. Other negativity is that the government takes far too long to establish laws, action and more when given the task by their civilians. They don’t get what needs to be required done. However, with the right leader, choices could be simply be made in weeks instead of months. Defenses established in week of an attack instead of the clan nearly being wiped out in the next week or longer. Long before the troops were ever sent out… Think how how many would be saved a cruel in that time saved alone? However, the currently running electives are afraid their influence would be lost among the Emperor’s rule and deny this option before ever considering it. They never once sat down to vote upon it as I witnessed it myself. They merely spat in my muzzle and escorted me out the gates, telling me to never come back to the capital again.” Ssarak listened in silence to Jarkel's emotionally charged speech. He was either quite passionate about his Emperor, or skilled in acting. He could see the appeal of many of the points that Jarkel described, particularly in combining clans and seeking to work with allies. With the rising demon threat in Tien, the Esyire would need to work with the other races, for everyone's sake. However, some of the details about the Emperor immediately raised some suspicion in Ssarak's mind. Even Jarkel admitted that the Emperor arrived seemingly from nowhere, and he wished to rule as a singular leader. Ssarak could easily believe that the Jev diplomat would make the Emperor out to be worse than he actually was, both of those points were suspicious on their own. Regardless, he needed to appear supportive in order to gain Jarkel’s confidence. [color=f7941d]”I see, so he is challenging the traditions. It is not a…comfortable goal, and I wish it were not necessary, but my time here makes me fear that it will be. The demon attack last year, I lived through it. I saw the sheer power that those demons held. Had they attacked anywhere else in Tien, I have no doubt they would have succeeded. This college, as strange as it may seem, is now perhaps the safest place in Tien against those demons, as its leaders have prepared against future attacks. But, more to the point, I fear those demons are a threat to far more than just the college. The largest of the creatures that day could have ravaged all of Tien on its own. Chaos has arisen all across the continent, and all at once, which has weakened our ability to fight back. It all seems too convenient for it to be unrelated. The Esyire will need to join together with our allies to face this foe, or we will be destroyed. ”[/color] Ssarak explained. He was curious what the diplomat would say about the threat of the demons, and if this Emperor was aware of it. Jarkel examined Ssarak for lies, noting the earnest expression and then lowered his own head. His arms rested on his bent knees when he spoke kindly, a tint of hope in his voice. “That is why the clans need to be united, so they can be stronger. Else they all crumble until no one is left, save the demons. The Emperor’s theory is a phenomena is happening and the Veil weakening, explaining the increase of demonic activity over the years. It will only grow worse if we are still divided. However, we have no clue as to the reason why. It could the numerous demonomancers or abuse to the world, even the gods themselves." He took a breath, his hand reached up to scratch his scaly under chin and his words were flowing again. "No one can know for sure. In addition to seeking aid from the college, purely for that reason you pointed out, I’m suppose to make contact with Djarkel, Eania and any other nation officials that are willing to help. You know these massive outbreaks aren’t just happening in the Scorched Lands but everywhere. The College, as powerful as it is, can’t handle all their needs. I already aim to plan a meeting date to have the Djarkel official meet with the Emperor. Hopefully, with the right persuasion, a possible pact between the Esyire’s aligned under the Emperor and Djarkel can be made. If we help them in their time of need then they might be willing to help us to reclaim our homeland.” Ssarak nodded in understanding, being sure to show his interest, particularly on the points of making aliances with Djarkel and Eania. Even Ssarak had to admit that, with the threat of the demons looming over Tien, the idea of a war leader for the Esyire was appealing. After all, it would not matter what kind of government the Esyire had if they were destroyed by a demonic invasion. However, he still had to keep in mind the possibility that this Emperor had been influenced by these demons. [color=f7941d]"It is comforting to know that there are others in Tien who recognize the threat of the demons. However, just like the college, many of the other nations are facing their own struggles, and understandably, they will likely be concerned with their own stability before that of other nations. But, at least the attempt is being made. Tien will be stronger if it can stand together."[/color] It was not greatly difficult for Ssarak to remain convincing, as there was truth to what he said. Whether or not the Emperor should be the one to lead the Esyire, it was likely they would need to make alliances outside of their homeland. [color=f7941d]”At any rate, I do have other questions regarding claims I heard about the Emperor; concerns that you may be able to address. As the sole leader, the Emperor would be able to effectively make decisions in the coming war, but having a single, unrestricted leader could invite tyranny. I have heard that the Emperor is incredibly powerful, greatly capable, but not immortal. He may be able to handle the burden of power, but it is possible his successors could be unworthy of the position and cause harm for the Esyire. How would the Emperor address those concerns?”[/color] He questioned, making sure his tone was inquisitive instead of accusatory. “Indeed. The Emperor figured if we were first willing to lend a hand over our own needs, than we might secure an ally in either Djarkel or Eania. Which if everything goes well, they will aid us in gaining control of the Scorched Lands. They can cut off supply routes, trade and more to cripple their forces and allow us to overwhelm them with less bloodshed.” Jarkel calmly said with a hint of coldness, adding a bit to the end. “The Emperor is patient enough to wait for his rightful place until his allies’ issues are primarily sorted out and when they are able to aid us of course.” He paused to listen to Ssarak’s inquiry, chuckling as he knew they had already settled that issue. “It’s rather simple. A child, made from his own and another worthy bloodline, would be raised into the role. Isolated from the more negative influences, he or she would be fully able to rule correctly over the Scorched Lands. All youths reflect their parentage and nature through how they were raised. By controlling these factors, the child will grow up into the ideal ruler every time. This is a fact you, yourself, can vouch for because I can see you’re a fine warrior but imagine if your own history was altered. Instead of being raised a warrior, you were a merchant or scroll born, would your skill set and behavior still be that of a warrior? A leader’s teachings as well as his blood will affect greatly how he serves the people. Though if a child proves unworthy, or fails expectations, the throne can be passed through civilian minority vote to the next candidate. Each of the Emperor’s lineage will be expected to bear many heirs for this reason alone. One of them is likely to be an ideal fit.” Jarkel's answer to Ssarak's question was not a strong one, though he did not intend to let him know of that opinion. Expecting to be able to raise children perfectly, for generation after generation, was not something Ssarak felt was possible. And, if he had many heirs, then that would invite the possibility of future civil wars, since there would be multiple claims to the throne. But, Ssarak had his answer to that question, so he could move on to the next. Forging alliances was something that would likely be necessary in the future, but to do so to the extent that the Emperor seemed to intend could cause problems. [color=f7941d]"I see, it is good that he has considered the problem. Succession is a...dangerous issue for any government. Incompetent or malicious leaders can destroy a society. I am curious about these alliances, though. It does not seem possible to forge a military alliance with both Djarkel [i]and[/i] Eania, given their hatred for one another. If we make an alliance with only one, would that not require us to enter their war as well?"[/color] Ssarak questioned. Jarkel's eyebrow raised, his expression stated he knew the obvious answer as his next statement proved it. "Yes, but no alliance is without risk. Eliminating either Eania or Djarkel might be a sacrifice that is required. Currently their war doesn't benefit anyone, even themselves, and getting them to stop isn't possible either. They have been fighting a war for so long, there's little else they can accept now. Unless you're expecting a miracle,anyone trying to convince those two nations to cooperate and 'play' well together will find that task impossible. If you don't believe me then I suggest you talk and see where your words lead you." He sighed in reaction to his bitter, but truthful words. He continued with a calm passion though he truly believed this was the best course of action. "Without allies, we'll risk being wiped out by the demons or worse, our own nation. The Chieftain will not allow us to exist because we put at risk what he sees to be important. Survival should hold more values than our past, yet he can't see that. Blind to it." [color=f7941d]"I wish there were another way."[/color] Ssarak responded, turning his head to the side and letting out a sigh. [color=f7941d]"But, the world does not bend to our wishes, not unless we make it. I agree that the Esyire will have to change; it is unavoidable. These demons are going to force the change, no matter what we think about it. I will be honest with you, I do not know if the Emperor's solutions are perfect. I do not know if there is a such thing as a perfect solution. But...we have to do [i]something[/i]. This threat is not like anything we have faced, and we will not be able to approach it as we have other challenges in the past. I want to help my people. I want to help the Esyire in any way I can. Although, from here at the college, I am not sure what I can do. I am only a student here, and while I have been of service to the college, it is not as if I can control who they aid. Still, there might be something I can do from my position here. If a student of the college wished to help you, what would you advise they do?"[/color] Ssarak asked. He elected to not show [i]absolute[/i] support for all of the Emperor's policies and intentions in order to make his reaction seem more believable. Instead, he decided to show that he had some reservations about aspects of the Emperor's beliefs, but was willing to help regardless. Someone who simply agreed with everything Jarkel said might be considered more likely to be lying. "No one's solutions are perfect." Jarkel admited in earnest, his tone calm and friendly. Even he knew the flaws and dangers in such an alliance but in his trade, there wasn't a gain without a risk or loss. One couldn't learn if they refused to change their approach. This was true in all aspects in life, and a fact the old government in the Scorched Lands refused to accept. "We can only attempt it and try to adapt as we move forward in the end. However, refusing to do that will only result in death and I can't bare to see that for the Esyires." At the mention of wanting to help with the college, Jarkel studied him closer. "I assure you, any little mention or nudge will add up in the end. Until the College becomes our enemy by joining our enemies, we don't intend to give up parleying for support. However, if you can inform of us should the College swing one way or the other, it would be appreciated. I would hate for the Emperor's and my own continual effort to remain as nothing more than a waste of energy. If the College decides to support the Scorched Lands Chieftain than we have altered plans to deal with those complications should they come to pass. Is there anything else you like to be enlightened about?" Ssarak shook his head. [color=f7941d]"No, I do not believe so. If a question comes to me later, I may ask, but only if you are not busy with other matters. I would not wish to interrupt you during negotiations, after all. And, I will tell you if I learn anything of interest. Though...actually, I do have one question. If the College does elect to aid the Chieftain, what would the Emperor do in response, and what would it mean for Esyire students here, such as myself and the Vitamancer with you? The student of the Jev diplomat informed me she was here to be a student as well."[/color] Jarkel's eyes shifted away, his face unreadable for the first time within the whole conversation. He looked upon the Vitamancer, his eyes settled there for several minutes until finally he returned to Ssarak's. "Something is ready in the even we are forced to fight the College, something the Emperor suggested. We can't allow a threat as large as the College to become an object in our way to save the world and ourselves. It's a saddening fact if they chose to go against us but one we've not ignored. However, the details aren't an issue in the least. All Esyire students will be recalled before the plans are implicated." Depression seemed to seep into his posture, his thoughts turned inward at knowing the vitamancer's orders. He feverishly hoped she would never have to put them into motion or the rune to prevent the Psychomancers from interfering in the steps to carry it out. It might end up costing her life during the plan but it woudl heavily cripple the College, stalling their threat and aid to their enemies. It was something Jarkel hated to be have been resorted to in the end for change. [color=f7941d]"I...understand. I will not ignore the request to recall in the event it is given. I thank you for the warning."[/color] Ssarak said after a brief moment to think. His tone was similar to that of Jarkel, as it was natural for the direction the conversation had taken. Evidently, Ssarak's presentation of himself had been convincing for the diplomat to admit having such a plan. Although, it did make sense that Jarkel would expect an Esyire to have greater loyalty to the Scorched Lands than the College. Indeed, that was not far from the truth, as Ssarak did greatly care about his people, but he differed in what he believed would be best for them. [color=f7941d]"Although, what would happen if the College does not agree to a specific alliance with the Emperor, but also does not ally with the Chieften? If they remain neutral in our fight? The College does have a history of not choosing sides in conflicts between nations, and, as you said, it is quite powerful. That power would be useful in the fight against the demons, and in that fight, everyone in Tiien would be on the same side."[/color] "I pray they know neutrality isn't option. In the past, they might've managed it but I doubt it will last. At some point, either Eania or Djarkel, someone will push for them to chose a side and they should be careful which side they pick. Because if they still insist on being isolated from the rest of Tiien than they will burn, no one will want a single power like the College to become a future threat to them." Jarkel's tone was heavy and warning, his head bowed when he was forced to deliver the message of warning. "Then, at least, Tiien will have a common enemy." [color=f7941d]I do not like to admit it, but I do fear you are correct."[/color] Ssarak responded, his tone once again matching Jarkel's, but this time it required no acting. The diplomat's words were much more likely to be true than Ssarak would have liked. [color=f7941d]"The world...it seems to be reaching a pivotal moment. With chaos arising across Tiien, and the threat of demons looming over us, no one will be untouched by this. Who is to say who will remain standing after all of this is over? I suppose all there is for me is to do what I can to ensure that the Esyire are among them. Thank you for your time."[/color] "I wish you good luck, Ssarak Dyreackthanose. With your history, you'll need it." Jarkel stated calmly than rose from his seat to continue his command and back up plot.