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Tower of Babel: A Bronze Age Space Civ Quest

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Allrighty! So vote's open! I'm gonna make a plan where i switches out Tower to the Star for City-Fortress. I think the overall describtion of City-Fortress is going to work much better if it's done before Tower to the Star, and it might work well with Straightening the Earth, since it's describtion mentions how it is about making it even more a part of the earth of Cradle itself.

Both Tower to The Star and City-Fortress would be using the MP point in this case, which is often a lot easier to move around compared to the AP, so i overall don't think it's going to be a huge loss. That being said, it will only be 1 out of 2 points for city-Fortress, and i'm currently not willing to move away the point from Mind of Bronze, since i want to finish that one as well.

A short overview though for people. Both plans uses the Basis for all as their groundline, since that includes all the "Path of Elements" and "Gift of Health" actions, so we'll have done all the concerns in that department, as well as getting all the synergie bonuses we might potentially get from finishing the Path of Elements in one go.

The other actions is Temple-Maze to Xipe topec, since i want to have full bonus before we start doing expiditions, a Mind of Bronze since it's just one MP point, and it seems like a really interesting and cool idea. It is explicity more about making one to see what it can do, so it end result is a tad up in the air but it's easy to make so, it fits in nicely.

Other then that, we're doing Gorv, with our Void-Fortress Citalee. Dawn Watcher mentions he want to see Storm greater then what you can see on Cradle, and Gorv is the planet that's mentioned to having storm's on it, so this seems like the most obvious solution to that. Given we're also doing the final Purify the Storm action with Dawn Watcher, this might combo, but i wouldn't expect that.

Dawn Watcher is going on Purify the Storm and Abandonner of Distance on fires of Earth. Since this is what most people seems to generally think is the better solution for those two. I'll admit i'm still slightly leaning towards swapping them, but i think the popular consensus probaly got a better right of this then me, so on those two actions they are going.

Dreaming Architect is going on Straightening the world, which i think is going to be absolutly vital. The last action for Straightening the world is about the spiritual realm, which is about the Gods of the Order. Which very much is a part of the Tower That think's expertise. While Philosphers do always work together in projects, i think a hero represent a much better co-operation part of this, so i think for the best possible result in integrating and straightening the spiritual realm, we need a hero of the Tower that Think assinged to the Straightening.

Now for the Heavens vote, i'm gonna vote for reminding the mundanes about the meaningless they had at the start of the cycle of rebirth. And the one that was written by ThreeThird. I don't think i fully agree with ThreeThird's assassment, but we are testing two solutions per turn, and we probaly got around 6-8 attempts at this, so i think it's important to get in different and radically varied solutions in here, so we can get as much information as possible. So here i think we should attempt radical ideas, even if they might seem wild. Though, we should keep to some level of common sense(As much as a Philospher might have)

The spawn is mostly going to be a, "no we aren't doing that". I don't got much of a extended reasoning here, except that i think going any further would strife against the order's cultural reasoning against heavy-handed methods nor am i willing to actually want to create spawns like that, due to the hedonistic concerns it might generate.

The eye is Chains of Obidence. I think we do Chain of obidience and then folliow up with introspecive, it could potentially cause some interesting results(Though probaly not, untill we finally start puitting some AP into the Eye actions at the start of the next cycle).

Really excited to see how this is going to turn!


[X] Plan A Fortified Tower as the cycle finishes.
-[X] Sowing the Fields of Tomorrow [Mundane] [Living Tower] [Singing Shepherds]
--[X] Pasture of Tomorrow [0/1] [Gardeners, Healers], -1MAP
-[X] City of Growth and Health [1/2] [Use 1 Scale] [Living Tower ; Tower that Think] [Gardener; Healers;Potiooners] [Path of the Elements], -1 AP
-[X] Fires of the Earth [0/1] [Sundial Tower] [Path of the Elements], -1AP [Abandonner of Distance]
-[X] Straightening of the World [3/4] [Mundane] [Sundial Tower] [Precises] [Path of the Elements] [Gardeners], -1AP [Dreaming Architect]
-[X] Purify the Storm [2/3] [Path of the Elements] [White Tower; Living Tower], -1AP [Dawn Watcher]
-[X] Build the Heavenly Cities [Mundane]
--[X] City-Fortress [Sundial Tower, Tower that Think] [Precises] [0/2], -1MAP
--[X] Temples of the Lesser Gods [Elementals] [1/2] [Tower that Think] [Precises], -1 Conclave MAP
-[X] Temple-Maze of Xipe Topec [Mundane][Tower that Think] [0/1], -1 Archeology Point
-[X] Mind of Bronze [Mundane] [0/1], -1MAP
-[X] Gorv, Forge of the Titans, -Citalee


[] Plan A Tower High as the cycle finishes.
-[] Sowing the Fields of Tomorrow [Mundane] [Living Tower] [Singing Shepherds]
--[] Pasture of Tomorrow [0/1] [Gardeners, Healers], -1MAP
-[] City of Growth and Health [1/2] [Use 1 Scale] [Living Tower ; Tower that Think] [Gardener; Healers;Potiooners] [Path of the Elements], -1 AP
-[] Fires of the Earth [0/1] [Sundial Tower] [Path of the Elements], -1AP [Abandonner of Distance]
-[] Straightening of the World [3/4] [Mundane] [Sundial Tower] [Precises] [Path of the Elements] [Gardeners], -1AP [Dreaming Architect]
-[] Purify the Storm [2/3] [Path of the Elements] [White Tower; Living Tower], -1AP [Dawn Watcher]
-[] Build the Heavenly Cities [Mundane]
--[X] Temples of the Lesser Gods [Elementals] [1/2] [Tower that Think] [Precises], -1 Conclave MAP
-[] Temple-Maze of Xipe Topec [Mundane][Tower that Think] [0/1], -1 Archeology Point
-[] A Tower to the Stars [Mundane] [Every Towers] [0/6, at least 2 of the total used must by AP and not MAP], -1MAP
-[] Mind of Bronze [Mundane] [0/1], -1MAP
-[] Gorv, Forge of the Titans, -Citalee

[X] [Heaven] Upon the Cycle of Rebirth, all the needs of the mundanes were filled, and thus they sought purpose from the Order. To be craftsmen was the Task that the Order gave back unto them. Let us ensure that the mundane does not forget the senseless lack of meaning that permiated their society upon having their needs fufilled. The reasons why all the mundanes of this world practices the art of creation and the Joy that comes with it.

[X] [Heaven] The Philosophers of old promised Paradise, but to spare the rod, spoils the child. Each God-City is a ripening fruit, sweet & filling, but let us not let it rot on the vine in our wish for it to grow sweeter. Instead let us till the land & plant them in fertile soil. From temples, mountains; From parks, Forest; From cannels & fountains, lakes & rivers. Each City containing a world, spreading inward instead of sprawling outward. Each neighborhood & district a city or town on to itself. Let us invoke the memories & legends of the old kingdoms & the elements of the world to birth a realm, let what was lost be born anew grander than what was.

Edit: Changing Spawn-lovers to Mythril's vote

[X] [Spawn-Lovers] It is not the duty of the Order to infringe upon the life of Mundanes. They have their teachers in Precise, in Shepherds, in many others. They have the examples of what can be achieved through pursuit of Knowledge and Wisdom. Through those teachers and those examples, a messege can be sent, one not from the looming throne, but through simple rumour: that the Spawn, after all, were made to labour and not to be people; that to lay with one would be like lay with a hammer or a chisel; that for those reason no Love can be found from the Spawn, merely fleeting satisfaction; that while not wrong or forbidden, it is not an attitude to be carried if one seeks Perfection. And should the Lovers accept that and still follow through with their pursuits, well... let's just do it quietly.
 
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[X] Plan A Fortified Tower as the cycle finishes.

[X] [Heaven] Upon the Cycle of Rebirth, all the needs of the mundanes were filled, and thus they sought purpose from the Order. To be craftsmen was the Task that the Order gave back unto them. Let us ensure that the mundane does not forget the senseless lack of meaning that permiated their society upon having their needs fufilled. The reasons why all the mundanes of this world practices the art of creation and the Joy that comes with it.

[X] [Heaven] The Philosophers of old promised Paradise, but to spare the rod, spoils the child. Each God-City is a ripening fruit, sweet & filling, but let us not let it rot on the vine in our wish for it to grow sweeter. Instead let us till the land & plant them in fertile soil. From temples, mountains; From parks, Forest; From cannels & fountains, lakes & rivers. Each City containing a world, spreading inward instead of sprawling outward. Each neighborhood & district a city or town on to itself. Let us invoke the memories & legends of the old kingdoms & the elements of the world to birth a realm, let what was lost be born anew grander than what was.

[X] [Spawn-Lovers] Let it be know the Order will not be providing spawns for such purpose. Spawns were created to help and guide the people of this world with the labour. Let us not give them such tasks.
 
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[X] Plan A Fortified Tower as the cycle finishes.

[X] [Spawn-Lovers] ...No. To reshape a Spawn for such a cause or desire would be... dismissive of both their purpose and our effort. But, should a person desire to take on aspects of a Spawn... It would require much work from the Living Tower, but it could be done.

[X] [Heaven] Upon the Cycle of Rebirth, all the needs of the mundanes were filled, and thus they sought purpose from the Order. To be craftsmen was the Task that the Order gave back unto them. Let us ensure that the mundane does not forget the senseless lack of meaning that permiated their society upon having their needs fufilled. The reasons why all the mundanes of this world practices the art of creation and the Joy that comes with it.
 
Remember the two most voted [Heavens] are tested! So for heavens you should approval votes for all the ones you find interesting. We should probaly get around 6-8 heavens tested before it's finished in my guess, so we should get plenty of different things tested there
 
[X] Plan A Fortified Tower as the cycle finishes.
[X] [Spawn-Lovers] ...No. To reshape a Spawn for such a cause or desire would be... dismissive of both their purpose and our effort. But, should a person desire to take on aspects of a Spawn... It would require much work from the Living Tower, but it could be done.

[X] [Heaven] Upon the Cycle of Rebirth, all the needs of the mundanes were filled, and thus they sought purpose from the Order. To be craftsmen was the Task that the Order gave back unto them. Let us ensure that the mundane does not forget the senseless lack of meaning that permiated their society upon having their needs fufilled. The reasons why all the mundanes of this world practices the art of creation and the Joy that comes with it.

[X] [Heaven] The Philosophers of old promised Paradise, but to spare the rod, spoils the child. Each God-City is a ripening fruit, sweet & filling, but let us not let it rot on the vine in our wish for it to grow sweeter. Instead let us till the land & plant them in fertile soil. From temples, mountains; From parks, Forest; From cannels & fountains, lakes & rivers. Each City containing a world, spreading inward instead of sprawling outward. Each neighborhood & district a city or town on to itself. Let us invoke the memories & legends of the old kingdoms & the elements of the world to birth a realm, let what was lost be born anew grander than what was.
 
[X] Plan A Fortified Tower as the cycle finishes.
[X] [Spawn-Lovers] ...No. To reshape a Spawn for such a cause or desire would be... dismissive of both their purpose and our effort. But, should a person desire to take on aspects of a Spawn... It would require much work from the Living Tower, but it could be done.

[X] [Heaven] Upon the Cycle of Rebirth, all the needs of the mundanes were filled, and thus they sought purpose from the Order. To be craftsmen was the Task that the Order gave back unto them. Let us ensure that the mundane does not forget the senseless lack of meaning that permiated their society upon having their needs fufilled. The reasons why all the mundanes of this world practices the art of creation and the Joy that comes with it.

[X] [Heaven] The Philosophers of old promised Paradise, but to spare the rod, spoils the child. Each God-City is a ripening fruit, sweet & filling, but let us not let it rot on the vine in our wish for it to grow sweeter. Instead let us till the land & plant them in fertile soil. From temples, mountains; From parks, Forest; From cannels & fountains, lakes & rivers. Each City containing a world, spreading inward instead of sprawling outward. Each neighborhood & district a city or town on to itself. Let us invoke the memories & legends of the old kingdoms & the elements of the world to birth a realm, let what was lost be born anew grander than what was.
 
OldShadow said:
Relentless Pursuit of Arété [Caused by Awaken the Abodes of Man + Crowing of the Hive Empress] : Freed from the limitations of labors for survival and privations, the Mundanes now dedicate themselves to the pursuit of perfection in one's labor, one position in life being determined by their achievements in craft, from smiting to bricklaying.
Maximum Mundane Population that this World can hold is equal to the Available Scale.
Mundanes on a World can now be used on Mundane Works, projects made not by arcane arts but skilled craftsmanship.
Produce one Mundane Point for each 5 Mundane Population.
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Slight question! Since we've gotten the Order of rightous travel now, we get a Mundaine point every 4 population. Should that maybe be added into here, for clarification sake on the Census for cradle?
 
I don't have enough time or mental space to assess the action plans, unfortunately, but I want to put down my piece regarding the social issue

[X] [Heaven] It is not the pursuit of Paradise by the Mundanes that is troubling, but the fear that without direction or limitation inhabitants of such Paradise would, through mindless indulgement in baser desires, lose the Spark of Highest Wisdom that makes us what we are. The Order does not deny the Mundanes right of rest, pleasure and entertainment - aren't there theaters, parks and art houses everywhere in God-Cities? Isn't there a decree that coffee, spice and silk, among other joys of life, be offered to those who show skill, aptitude and industriousness? So will it be with the Paradise - once built, it will be accessible to anyone for a limited time, determined by appropriate jury according to needs, skills and work of each individual and to be reassessed in time as the need for labour decreses and the pursuit of Wisdom progresses. Thus we ensure the greatest fruit born from labours of the people of Cradle, Mundane and Philosopher alike, shall be given to as many as can be trusted not to waste such a gift.

[X] [Spawn-Lovers] It is not the duty of the Order to infringe upon the life of Mundanes. They have their teachers in Precise, in Shepherds, in many others. They have the examples of what can be achieved through pursuit of Knowledge and Wisdom. Through those teachers and those examples, a messege can be sent, one not from the looming throne, but through simple rumour: that the Spawn, after all, were made to labour and not to be people; that to lay with one would be like lay with a hammer or a chisel; that for those reason no Love can be found from the Spawn, merely fleeting satisfaction; that while not wrong or forbidden, it is not an attitude to be carried if one seeks Perfection. And should the Lovers accept that and still follow through with their pursuits, well... let's just do it quietly.

TLDR: Heaven is for rent for our cream of the crop, like all other luxuries so far; Spawn-Lovers can have their toys if they accept that they are just toys and others might judge them for building their lifes around vibrator-equivalent.
 
Mithrill said:
I don't have enough time or mental space to assess the action plans, unfortunately, but I want to put down my piece regarding the social issue

[X] [Heaven] It is not the pursuit of Paradise by the Mundanes that is troubling, but the fear that without direction or limitation inhabitants of such Paradise would, through mindless indulgement in baser desires, lose the Spark of Highest Wisdom that makes us what we are. The Order does not deny the Mundanes right of rest, pleasure and entertainment - aren't there theaters, parks and art houses everywhere in God-Cities? Isn't there a decree that coffee, spice and silk, among other joys of life, be offered to those who show skill, aptitude and industriousness? So will it be with the Paradise - once built, it will be accessible to anyone for a limited time, determined by appropriate jury according to needs, skills and work of each individual and to be reassessed in time as the need for labour decreses and the pursuit of Wisdom progresses. Thus we ensure the greatest fruit born from labours of the people of Cradle, Mundane and Philosopher alike, shall be given to as many as can be trusted not to waste such a gift.

[X] [Spawn-Lovers] It is not the duty of the Order to infringe upon the life of Mundanes. They have their teachers in Precise, in Shepherds, in many others. They have the examples of what can be achieved through pursuit of Knowledge and Wisdom. Through those teachers and those examples, a messege can be sent, one not from the looming throne, but through simple rumour: that the Spawn, after all, were made to labour and not to be people; that to lay with one would be like lay with a hammer or a chisel; that for those reason no Love can be found from the Spawn, merely fleeting satisfaction; that while not wrong or forbidden, it is not an attitude to be carried if one seeks Perfection. And should the Lovers accept that and still follow through with their pursuits, well... let's just do it quietly.

TLDR: Heaven is for rent for our cream of the crop, like all other luxuries so far; Spawn-Lovers can have their toys if they accept that they are just toys and others might judge them for building their lifes around vibrator-equivalent.
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Click to shrink...

Huh, i really like that spawn vote. That's really in-line with how the mundane society with it's focus around craftmanship is based upon. It's really nicely written for the culture we've made so far. That's great one Mithrill
 
[X] Plan A Fortified Tower as the cycle finishes.

Although I think the whole arcology things might accelerate heaven construction, I don't really have a better idea of what to put in there instead.

[x] Chains and Obedience [Eye]
Perhaps this might help when we do introspection later?

[X] [Spawn-Lovers] Let it be know the Order will not be providing spawns for such purpose. Spawns were created to help and guide the people of this world with the labour. Let us not give them such tasks.

I have my doubt on how effective Mithrill's spawn vote might be, consider those Mundanes must already know that this is a mere "relieve of carnal need" and not "love." Additionally, saying Spawn "were made to labour and not to be people" is not really an attitude I want to foster when we just birth a spawn god-historian.

[X] [Heaven] The Philosophers of old promised Paradise, but to spare the rod, spoils the child. Each God-City is a ripening fruit, sweet & filling, but let us not let it rot on the vine in our wish for it to grow sweeter. Instead let us till the land & plant them in fertile soil. From temples, mountains; From parks, Forest; From cannels & fountains, lakes & rivers. Each City containing a world, spreading inward instead of sprawling outward. Each neighborhood & district a city or town on to itself. Let us invoke the memories & legends of the old kingdoms & the elements of the world to birth a realm, let what was lost be born anew grander than what was.

[X] [Heaven] The Mundanes urge to build Heavens are not one dissimilar to our - to reach the perfection. But to reach the perfection that is the Source-of-All, one need to to work the many paths, to be all and know all. The Heavens, through might seem perfect at first glace, are a mere isolated controlled world. Thus, heaven can not become true perfection, but a mere simulacra, for it remains beholden to imagination of "perfection" that is born from limited idea of imperfect world. It then act as inhibition, a false lure, that obstructed the path to Source-of-All by inducing compliance with the vision of false utopia. Yet, false they maybe, we can not denial Mundanes wish to create one, thus we shall encourage exchange of what Heavens of different culture and faith look like, organise meeting between the heaven-builders of different creed and nations, creating tie of ideas and knowledge between different emerging heavens so that the Heavens they construct will not be isolated, but connect.

I also throw my idea of what to deal with Heavens as well, focusing on creating connection that would hopefully still existed once Heaven finished construction. I also intend it to be a bit of complementary to Sa'kage's option by encourage different culture's idea of heavens to mix together and hopefully create something better than sum of it part.

I don't think my option is going to be vote in this turn, but I am going to put it now just in case other people might want to build on/change wording between the turn.
 
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[X] Plan A Fortified Tower as the cycle finishes.
[X] [Heaven] Upon the Cycle of Rebirth, all the needs of the mundanes were filled, and thus they sought purpose from the Order. To be craftsmen was the Task that the Order gave back unto them. Let us ensure that the mundane does not forget the senseless lack of meaning that permiated their society upon having their needs fufilled. The reasons why all the mundanes of this world practices the art of creation and the Joy that comes with it.
[X] [Spawn-Lovers] ...No. To reshape a Spawn for such a cause or desire would be... dismissive of both their purpose and our effort. But, should a person desire to take on aspects of a Spawn... It would require much work from the Living Tower, but it could be done.
 
[X] Plan A Fortified Tower as the cycle finishes.

[X] [Spawn-Lovers] ...No. To reshape a Spawn for such a cause or desire would be... dismissive of both their purpose and our effort. But, should a person desire to take on aspects of a Spawn... It would require much work from the Living Tower, but it could be done.
 
IamtooSleepy said:
[X] Plan A Fortified Tower as the cycle finishes.

Although I think the whole arcology things might accelerate heaven construction, I don't really have a better idea of what to put in there instead.

[x] Chains and Obedience [Eye]
Perhaps this might help when we do introspection later?

[X] [Spawn-Lovers] Let it be know the Order will not be providing spawns for such purpose. Spawns were created to help and guide the people of this world with the labour. Let us not give them such tasks.

I have my doubt on how effective Mithrill's spawn vote might be, consider those Mundanes must already know that this is a mere "relieve of carnal need" and not "love." Additionally, saying Spawn "were made to labour and not to be people" is not really an attitude I want to foster when we just birth a spawn god-historian.

[X] [Heaven] The Philosophers of old promised Paradise, but to spare the rod, spoils the child. Each God-City is a ripening fruit, sweet & filling, but let us not let it rot on the vine in our wish for it to grow sweeter. Instead let us till the land & plant them in fertile soil. From temples, mountains; From parks, Forest; From cannels & fountains, lakes & rivers. Each City containing a world, spreading inward instead of sprawling outward. Each neighborhood & district a city or town on to itself. Let us invoke the memories & legends of the old kingdoms & the elements of the world to birth a realm, let what was lost be born anew grander than what was.

[X] [Heaven] The Mundanes urge to build Heavens are not one dissimilar to our - to reach the perfection. But to reach the perfection that is the Source-of-All, one need to to work the many paths, to be all and know all. The Heavens, through might seem perfect at first glace, are a mere isolated controlled world. Thus, heaven can not become true perfection, but a mere simulacra, for it remains beholden to imagination of "perfection" that is born from limited idea of imperfect world. It then act as inhibition, a false lure, that obstructed the path to Source-of-All by inducing compliance with the vision of false utopia. Yet, false they maybe, we can not denial Mundanes wish to create one, thus we shall encourage exchange of what Heavens of different culture and faith look like, organise meeting between the heaven-builders of different creed and nations, creating tie of ideas and knowledge between different emerging heavens so that the Heavens they construct will not be isolated, but connect.

I also throw my idea of what to deal with Heavens as well, focusing on creating connection that would hopefully still existed once Heaven finished construction. I also intend it to be a bit of complementary to Sa'kage's option by encourage different culture's idea of heavens to mix together and hopefully create something better than sum of it part.

I don't think my option is going to be vote in this turn, but I am going to put it now just in case other people might want to build on/change wording between the turn.
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Click to shrink...

The heavens is a good idea, but i wonder of this might actually best be served as part of the last vote heavens vote before we finish it. When we got a bunch of different Heavens set up allready, and then we mix them, instead of doing that first. Since this relies on previous established heavens. I think it's a really good idea though

Edit: hm yeah. I think we should try to remember this for the last Heaven turn and put in this/varriation of it
 
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  • Voting
    • Scheduled vote count started by OldShadow on Apr 12, 2024 at 9:58 AM, finished with 14 posts and 9 votes.
    • [X] Plan A Fortified Tower as the cycle finishes.
      -[X] Sowing the Fields of Tomorrow [Mundane] [Living Tower] [Singing Shepherds]
      --[X] Pasture of Tomorrow [0/1] [Gardeners, Healers], -1MAP
      -[X] City of Growth and Health [1/2] [Use 1 Scale] [Living Tower ; Tower that Think] [Gardener; Healers;Potiooners] [Path of the Elements], -1 AP
      -[X] Fires of the Earth [0/1] [Sundial Tower] [Path of the Elements], -1AP [Abandonner of Distance]
      -[X] Straightening of the World [3/4] [Mundane] [Sundial Tower] [Precises] [Path of the Elements] [Gardeners], -1AP [Dreaming Architect]
      -[X] Purify the Storm [2/3] [Path of the Elements] [White Tower; Living Tower], -1AP [Dawn Watcher]
      -[X] Build the Heavenly Cities [Mundane]
      --[X] City-Fortress [Sundial Tower, Tower that Think] [Precises] [0/2], -1MAP
      --[X] Temples of the Lesser Gods [Elementals] [1/2] [Tower that Think] [Precises], -1 Conclave MAP
      -[X] Temple-Maze of Xipe Topec [Mundane][Tower that Think] [0/1], -1 Archeology Point
      -[X] Mind of Bronze [Mundane] [0/1], -1MAP
      -[X] Gorv, Forge of the Titans, -Citalee
      [X] [Heaven] Upon the Cycle of Rebirth, all the needs of the mundanes were filled, and thus they sought purpose from the Order. To be craftsmen was the Task that the Order gave back unto them. Let us ensure that the mundane does not forget the senseless lack of meaning that permiated their society upon having their needs fufilled. The reasons why all the mundanes of this world practices the art of creation and the Joy that comes with it.
      [X] [Heaven] The Philosophers of old promised Paradise, but to spare the rod, spoils the child. Each God-City is a ripening fruit, sweet & filling, but let us not let it rot on the vine in our wish for it to grow sweeter. Instead let us till the land & plant them in fertile soil. From temples, mountains; From parks, Forest; From cannels & fountains, lakes & rivers. Each City containing a world, spreading inward instead of sprawling outward. Each neighborhood & district a city or town on to itself. Let us invoke the memories & legends of the old kingdoms & the elements of the world to birth a realm, let what was lost be born anew grander than what was.
      [X] [Spawn-Lovers] ...No. To reshape a Spawn for such a cause or desire would be... dismissive of both their purpose and our effort. But, should a person desire to take on aspects of a Spawn... It would require much work from the Living Tower, but it could be done.
      [X] [Spawn-Lovers] It is not the duty of the Order to infringe upon the life of Mundanes. They have their teachers in Precise, in Shepherds, in many others. They have the examples of what can be achieved through pursuit of Knowledge and Wisdom. Through those teachers and those examples, a messege can be sent, one not from the looming throne, but through simple rumour: that the Spawn, after all, were made to labour and not to be people; that to lay with one would be like lay with a hammer or a chisel; that for those reason no Love can be found from the Spawn, merely fleeting satisfaction; that while not wrong or forbidden, it is not an attitude to be carried if one seeks Perfection. And should the Lovers accept that and still follow through with their pursuits, well... let's just do it quietly.
      [X] [Spawn-Lovers] Let it be know the Order will not be providing spawns for such purpose. Spawns were created to help and guide the people of this world with the labour. Let us not give them such tasks.
      [X] [Heaven] It is not the pursuit of Paradise by the Mundanes that is troubling, but the fear that without direction or limitation inhabitants of such Paradise would, through mindless indulgement in baser desires, lose the Spark of Highest Wisdom that makes us what we are. The Order does not deny the Mundanes right of rest, pleasure and entertainment - aren't there theaters, parks and art houses everywhere in God-Cities? Isn't there a decree that coffee, spice and silk, among other joys of life, be offered to those who show skill, aptitude and industriousness? So will it be with the Paradise - once built, it will be accessible to anyone for a limited time, determined by appropriate jury according to needs, skills and work of each individual and to be reassessed in time as the need for labour decreses and the pursuit of Wisdom progresses. Thus we ensure the greatest fruit born from labours of the people of Cradle, Mundane and Philosopher alike, shall be given to as many as can be trusted not to waste such a gift.
      [x] Chains and Obedience [Eye]
      [X] [Heaven] The Mundanes urge to build Heavens are not one dissimilar to our - to reach the perfection. But to reach the perfection that is the Source-of-All, one need to to work the many paths, to be all and know all. The Heavens, through might seem perfect at first glace, are a mere isolated controlled world. Thus, heaven can not become true perfection, but a mere simulacra, for it remains beholden to imagination of "perfection" that is born from limited idea of imperfect world. It then act as inhibition, a false lure, that obstructed the path to Source-of-All by inducing compliance with the vision of false utopia. Yet, false they maybe, we can not denial Mundanes wish to create one, thus we shall encourage exchange of what Heavens of different culture and faith look like, organise meeting between the heaven-builders of different creed and nations, creating tie of ideas and knowledge between different emerging heavens so that the Heavens they construct will not be isolated, but connect.
    Click to expand...
     
  • Voting
    • Huh, didn't take my "Eye" vote into account. Well, what i wanted won regardless. I'm really excited for this result turn now. All the Path of Elements stuff we've been doing is finally reaching the center line! I'm so curious too all the flavour writing for that, because the flavour in this quest is so cool!~
     
    I kind of hope we get some interesting projects out of the idea of splicing humans with Spawn, just because I think it'll let us do some cool stuff and will help with some of our problems with colonization, since we may be able to adapt our mundanes to survive in more extreme environments.
     
    dgr11897 said:
    I kind of hope we get some interesting projects out of the idea of splicing humans with Spawn, just because I think it'll let us do some cool stuff and will help with some of our problems with colonization, since we may be able to adapt our mundanes to survive in more extreme environments.
    Click to expand...
    Click to shrink...

    My read is that we won't. This doesn't quite seem like the sort of quest that would involve our humans getting gene-spliced(abit with magic). Though, i might be wrong about that. They seemed more aimed towards being able to change our servants, not ourself. The true philosphical flesh they've mentione a few times might be linked to this kind of thing though
     
    On the other hand, I am wondering how many people is going to take up our offer to become spawn.. and whatever we will have to spend the AP on them or not.
     
    I'm really curious on how our concerns are going to look like next turn. Because we've fufilled The Gift of Health. We've done everything in the perfecting Cradle except Awaken the forest, but i'm unsure if that's going to be moved to intrested or if we're unlocking more Cradle prefection actions, after this. And, we're purifying the storm, which wonder how that's going to turn out. If exploring Gorv is going to unlock more storm refirment actions or not.

    Since we have spend a scale to make the workings when we originally captured the storm's. And the Philospher drawback is that once we've used a scale and cast the Workings, we can't take it back, only refine it further.

    I had been tinker with plans for next turn, but we've done so much stuff, that i think any plan i'd make now, would be to focused on the stuff we currently got, and not what we may unlock. Espesically, if we do manage to hit gold and get the Mountain Tower. Which is going to unlock a whole lot of new stuff.
     
    Our primary medium-term goal would probably be finding more Scale. With how things are organized on Cradle, we will only have space for 1-2 major Workings. And we will need way more than that if we are to throw down with Kings.
     
    Yeah. We should have about 7ish scale left again on Cradle, assuming we don't get other max increase scale projects. but given it took 4AP on the first of those actions, i'm gonna assume those will be expensiveeee like Straigthening.

    That being said, we want to include around 4ish scale as useable scale per turn, so we got around 3 scale to play around with. Which isn't a lot, but also projects which consume scale aren't everywhere. So, i think it's not something we need to panic about right now, at the very least.
     
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    Tales of Lesser Apprentices: Aralu learning.
  • Sidestory
    • Tales of Lesser Apprentices: Aralu learning.


    Aralu tried to stand still, as the elderly Philosopher, so aptly named Silk-Singer walked around her, an inspecting eye with a sharp critical gaze surveying her form, more specifically her clothes. After what felt like hours passed, the older man stopped.

    "Satisfactory, for a lesser apprentice. The fabric is still not made to satisfactory standards, but your knowledge on how to bind them together, so their energies are in harmony is passable. We shall see if you pass the final test." The man waved, a sign of her being dimissed, as Aralu took a step back nervously before hurriedly walking out the door.

    Into a grand hall, where spider-spawns crawled atop the ceiling, and apprentices as well as Philosopher alike with song and words were binding the Spawns to their command. There under the gaze of Philosopher Master's great works of fabric were weaved, not just for the Living Tower, but all the Order.

    Robes made with a spider-spawn that had laid in water collected under full moon for a year, so that the White Tower may read the patterns of Arva as much as possible, from fabrics that had been entwined into maps made by mundane craftsmen and then carefully extracted into robes where in the smallest of stiches beyond the sight of mundane men, elaborate patterns they were re-created for the Sundial Tower.

    And where, singing stories and tales without rest, tailors knit robes for the Tower that Thinks, so that even the tiniest of strings may know the meaning and understanding of song. All the while the occasional member from the other Tower walked among, giving their insight to the weavers.

    This was but one of the many lesser duties of the Living Tower. For theirs was the seat of Prosperity. To ensure that the Order have all the regents and materials they may require. The clothes and fashion were as such delicately made, so they may truly been in tune with the Philosopher and their Tower. Such work was far to important to be left for mundane, or even apprentices hands.

    Of course, that was for the Philosophers, those that had passed the tests and oaths of the Order, and ascended unto the higher ranks. For the lesser apprentices, they had to make the robes themselves. This had been but the latest attempt of Aralu's tailoring.

    For all that she had been talented in mixture and creation of elixirs, it did not extend as much to the other purview of the Living Tower. Fifty times she had presented her attempts before the Silk-Singer, and each time she had been sent back into the halls. It was mind-numbing. To attempt so many times, and yet to fail and having to do it again.

    To sing to the spider-spawns, for even the slightest hesitation or misplaced tone was enough to unravel your work, all the while you had to block out the rest of the hall. And each time you made a mistake you were sent back. Had it not been for the potions, who's energies she could feel coursing through her body even now, she was sure she would have fainted by now.

    After all, several of her fellow lesser apprentices, had fainted. To be carried out by the Spawns. Until they awoke again, and then were dragged back in. One was not allowed to leave until one had made one's own robes after all.

    Still, there was more to be done.

    ----------

    The laws of the Order were absolute. Within the Living Tower, there was a room for apprentices. Where upon the walls themselves, the floor, the furniture, the roof and glass words were written. In letters of ink, carved with hammer into copper, etched with charcoal upon papyrus. All the laws lesser apprentices were expected to know.

    Re-chant them.
    Memorize them.
    Speak them.
    Dream of them.

    Though most of the rooms within the Living Tower had apprentices and Philosopher alike, in this room there was only a solitary Philospher, standing harshly at the top of some stairs. Where the glare of the sun, shone through elegantly made glass, depicting Arva. The silvery sister-moon of Cradle. With inches of words reflected in the shine.

    There, with harsh word the Philosopher, Law-Adjudicator would stand as judge over the lesser apprentices. With eyes that felt like they penetrated both soul and flesh, few people could withstand it. And more then one, would quake before his stare. "What is the law, that was made upon the Third Quarter from the Cycle of Growth."

    And as he loomed over her, sweat dripping upon her lips Aralu swallowed nervously. "A Empress seldom stand over a single land. A Crown must be made for all the lands". Pacing, Law-Adjudicator stood before her. Everything the man did, was designed to throw her off, to make her nervous, to forget. "What is the spirit of that law?"

    Of all the Tools of the Living Tower, Cultivation of Life was one. The Transformation, which is what Aralu was talented in was another. The final tool, law-making was the creation of laws which bound all beings. Especially the Spawns "That all that sight may see, is the Empress's domain..?" She hesitated, at the end.

    And though one may wish it, against the eyes of the Philosopher, naught escaped. "You fail" Simply and without emotion the man spoke. "Return, when you know all the laws of this room, when you understand all the laws of this room, when the laws have been writen into the Flesh and understood by the Spirit". With that, the man turned around, as he descended like a specter upon another unsuspecting apprentice, the harsh words following moments later, and a weak stutter from the most recent victim.

    Sighing, though making sure it was not show externally, Aralu kneeled. Her hands pressing into the ground, as the black ink seemed to almost seep into her hands from the floor. Not that it was easily visible, stained black as they were already from the previous attempt. "When the Sun turns high, It is the Law of the Order that-" She began to recite from the floor.

    Until they knew the laws of the Order. Until they could speak them without a moment of hesitation, and could speak them while understanding what they meant. They were not allowed to leave. For the Living Tower, guardian of the Order's Laws.

    --------

    It was not all learning however under grueling taskmasters. For all that they were lesser apprentices, their flesh still weak and so far away from true Philosophical flesh they still stood far above even the mundanes. As such, many of the lesser duties of the Order were theirs to carry out. Important to be done, for the Order would not, could not neglect their duties, yet not so urgent that they could afford to squander the ever limited and small supply of Philosophers on them.

    Aralu stepped forward, the sea of mundanes parting before her as her footsteps resounded in the hall, broken only by the sound of muttering from the crowd and coughs. Though the Doom may have been vanished, and the last remains of it's scar's were being purged by the Sundial Tower as they spoke, illness still clung bitterly to humanity. A companion, or foe far older then even the Doom.

    Where Songbirds, with mythical senses could feel the growing weakness in the spirit as a result of the failing Flesh. If left unchecked, it would grow larger and larger. Like a Beast that consumed without end. To let the Flesh, be it of mundane or philosophical suffer and weaken like that, was antithetical to the Living Tower.

    Sadly, the plans for Alchemist or even the Teacher's desires for healers had yet been accepted by the Order's Conclave. And they were still far to few to truly put the illness to sword and flame. So, many illness could not be given proper due, but when the Songbirds warned of sickness that grew like the ones from tales of Old. Where entire cities suffered and died, where terror filled passages was written upon clay. When God-Cities warned their masters. They were sent upon the cities.

    To purge with alchemy and skill the sickness that feastered. And this, this was something Aralu truly thrived in. For it was familiar, like stepping into a house from her memories. She had been doing this since she was born. In this, she was less like a lesser apprentice, and but mere steps away from the Philosophers. With gentle motions, "Drink this", she spoke as the young woman in front of her began to eagerly drink, cheeks flushed from the heat.

    "Timonax, bring me the plants" She commanded, as the mundane assistant hurried away. Wiping her hand, she started to walk away after casting a last glance at the woman. Making sure she had drunk everything as ordered and weren't reacting badly. Some people, simple were to frail.

    Satisfied, her hand went into her robe, bringing forth the mortar and pestle. Cracked and old but still holding together...She had not found it in herself to throw away the old gift from the Old man. With panting steps, Timonax returned, clutched a new batch of herbs in his hands.

    She stared for a moment. It had been but a few steps, a pittance and yet the man was already breathing fatigued. Had mundane men always been so..fragile. Lost in the Living Tower the last few years as she had been, it took a moment for ancient memory to return.

    Of her Father, of the children she had played game with. The men in the harbor carrying vases and goods. And underneath her mask, she could not help but frown for the briefest of moments. They had been. Like crocks of glass. Tired from mere minutes of works, when they of the Living Tower were tested and had to train until even hours of work would not phase them. Why did the mundanes not train as much?

    She turned, as with expert motions that would have left the child she had been, amazed with skill far out-stripping the old man that had taught her once upon a time. She crushed the herbs and mixed it with water. Her skill at this had only grown by leaps and bounds under the guidance of the Living Tower. Such that other would inquire and ask her for advice. She stopped at the bed of the next person, kneeling beside the person.

    This is why it was important. Why Mixer of Truth had accepted her. So that one day, even these mundanes may have elevated and enlightened away from their frail flesh. So that it may give rise to ever grander spirit. To a vessel capable of hosting true enlightenment.

    One day Aralu would ascend past the rank she bore. One day she would accept the name Transmuter-of-Weakness. She would ensure that such weakness would not have a grip among the lands of the Order. That was her mission. Why her veins and heart was like that of a Cauldron. And like a cauldron, she would transform the world.

    -------

    A vast desert stood before her. A suffocating heat, like that from the newly forged elemental Gods enveloped her. Her lips smacked dryly wordleslly. The Philosopher stood in front of her, his robes fluttering in the wind. Somehow, impossible as the floating sand grains parting before him, refusing to stick, even as Aralu felt ever more dragged down.

    "Tell me apprentice, do you know what the Seat of the Living Tower is?" It must have been rhetorical. It was one of the first things any person were told when entering the Living Tower. Imposed she doubted even the biggest of fools in the tower wouldn't know. "Four were the seats divided among the Towers. The seat of Prosperity is the Living Tower's." Still, she dutifully responded.

    The man replied back at her words. "You speak the words, but you do not yet understand them. We, the Living Tower gather the materials for the Order, so that they White Tower may cast their workings. We shape the land, so that the Sundial Tower may correct them. We give unto the mundanes their tools and materials, so they may shape lesser work for the Order and feed the Tower that Think with their stories."

    The man stopped, as the desert stretched endlessly across in front of him. "Before us, mundanes suffered from hunger, illness. Before us, Philosopher could cast but the weakest of workings, deprived of their reagents and land. Before any person is allowed to ascend and become a Greater apprentice, to have a chance at becoming a Philosopher. They must understand this singular truth"

    He turned around, brown eyes staring at her. "You are to walk across this dessert...Or swear an oath to never purse the art of the Order ever again and leave the Order" Aralu stared, her throat already feeling parched, as her eyes swung between the man and the ever-yellow glare from the snads. One should not speak without due cause, and yet, the heat suffocating-"I don't have any water on me, or was giving any message about this. I have no tools, besides my mortar.-" She couldn't help herself.

    The man nodded "And when Doom came unto our lands, neither message nor warning was given. People had to flew with what mere materials they had upon them. Step forward child, learn the lesson of the Doom, understand the gift of prosperity we have given, or leave us forevermore."

    In the end.
    It wasn't a choice.
    She stepped forward.
    She had a goal.
    A desire to know Enlightenment.

    ---------

    How long was she there, she did not know. The sun erased all before it's glare. More then once, she fell down and had to crawl her way up. Her robes tattered and ruined, grains of sand slowly digging their way through what she had so carefully weaved. She couldn't help but bemoan that she hadn't done a better job. Perhaps it was the final task from the Silk-Singer.

    Water was but found in the mere dropplets. Small puddles, and what little she could pluck from the plants along the way, guided by the teachings from the Living Tower. It was never quite enough. She could delay the specter of death, who's footstep she could steadily feel behind her gaining, but never enough to push him away.

    And more then once, she would stumble, falling into the sand upon having her foot caught. She had been shocked, but eventually she came to grimly accept it. Of the rotting corpse's, bones of fellow apprentices. All across the desert, hidden underneath dunes. Their fate all to apparent, and the fate that awaited her if she should stop. Throughout it all, the hunger gnawed at her bones. "Leave or die-" as the Philosopher had warned her.

    In the haze of the sun, visions of the past haunted her. The Shepard, "Even the looniest of deserts have life my friend, you merely need to ask.". Spurred by the words, she would find scorpions, poisons and deadly. But she knew poisons, and so with tools she would purify it. Not enough to neutrlize it, but close enough. Coughing blood, she was still preserving.

    "What kind footsteps are that? Have you learned nothing on the precise movements in that Tower." The Precise would bark, as Aralu would adjust her pace. Stumbling and crawling slowly, ever so gradually reducing over the days. Until, she could walk almost unhindered….Even then, she would find herself face down in the dessert, passed out with her memory lacking of when. Failed by a body that could not adapt to the heat.

    But when she fell, there was always a soft hand, tugging her upward. "You have learned much, child. But you are not using it in tandem yet." The Keeper would chide, gently even in memory. "You must remember my lessons, a Philosopher of the living Tower-" Aralu finshed the sentence.

    "-Is a master of Law… A Philospher of the Living Tower is a master of Cultivation. A Philosopher of the Living Tower is a Master of Transmutation."

    Even so, it was not enough. Had it been days, months, years? She did not know, in the haze but eventually, past the hills of sand she crawled. Her robes were gone, mere scants left from the harsh walk. Her throat were dry, as lips bleed. Limbs thin and slender, the hunger having gnawing on all that was her. There, a man came serenly.

    Mixer of Truth. Like a godly judge from old tales he stood above. Wrenching herself up to her feet, Aralu stood before him, swaying. "Have you endured?" He spoke simply. She closed her eyes, as "I..I have endured."

    Solemnly, the man nodded. "All apprentices of the Living Tower are made to walk across this desert. So they can understand the hunger of the Doom, the despair man felt when every day felt like it was it's last. When there was no end in sight...Do you understand."

    "Yes...We of the Living Tower are the one with tasked with Prosperity. So none may ever feel this again" It was etched into her flesh. The Understanding of her Duty. Of what she must never forsake.

    The Mixer of Truth stood there for a moment, feeling the sensation of wind across his cheek. "Then you are ready. I welcome you once more Aralu. To the understanding of Enlightenment. May you bear the title of Greater apprentice, so you may one day shed the mundane name you bear now."

    She stepped forward. Past the graveyard of bones, that hid underneath the desert.



    Author Notes:

    So! Slightly late compared to my usual stuff, but i've been very busy. I wanted to try and make a snippet of every turn with what Aralu was doing. Just slight tidbits of what i felt like an apprentice ship with the Living Tower, might be.

    Learning all the laws, learning to command spawns, and so forth. Even stuff that is really deadly. I felt like the Living Tower would have something to ensure that people understand why prosperity was required. Espesically, as prosperity spreads and their newer apprentices become children that haven't really know suffering and lack of goods.

    Mostly a neutral piece, where Aralu learns of the differnent things. As she grows, i think the more political aspect of the factions would grow and become more apparent. Maybe. I do have plans to at least attempt writing one for every turn. Hope it felt true to the Living Tower. Was going a lot on my own guess-work, on how i might thought parts of the training would be like.

    I have been writing another piece...but uh. I think i may have gone overboard and chosen something way to ambitious for my own skill. We will see
     
    Last edited:
  • Sidestory
    • Sa'kage said:
    Tales of Lesser Apprentices: Aralu learning.


    Aralu tried to stand still, as the elderly Philosopher, so aptly named Silk-Singer walked around her, an inspecting eye with a sharp critical gaze surveying her form, more specifically her clothes. After what felt like hours passed, the older man stopped.

    "Satisfactory, for a lesser apprentice. The fabric is still not made to satisfactory standards, but your knowledge on how to bind them together, so their energies are in harmony is passable. We shall see if you pass the final test." The man waved, a sign of her being dimissed, as Aralu took a step back nervously before hurriedly walking out the door.

    Into a grand hall, where spider-spawns crawled atop the ceiling, and apprentices as well as Philosopher alike with song and words were binding the Spawns to their command. There under the gaze of Philosopher Master's great works of fabric were weaved, not just for the Living Tower, but all the Order.

    Robes made with a spider-spawn that had laid in water collected under full moon for a year, so that the White Tower may read the patterns of Arva as much as possible, from fabrics that had been entwined into maps made by mundane craftsmen and then carefully extracted into robes where in the smallest of stiches beyond the sight of mundane men, elaborate patterns they were re-created for the Sundial Tower.

    And where, singing stories and tales without rest, tailors knit robes for the Tower that Thinks, so that even the tiniest of strings may know the meaning and understanding of song. All the while the occasional member from the other Tower walked among, giving their insight to the weavers.

    This was but one of the many lesser duties of the Living Tower. For theirs was the seat of Prosperity. To ensure that the Order have all the regents and materials they may require. The clothes and fashion were as such delicately made, so they may truly been in tune with the Philosopher and their Tower. Such work was far to important to be left for mundane, or even apprentices hands.

    Of course, that was for the Philosophers, those that had passed the tests and oaths of the Order, and ascended unto the higher ranks. For the lesser apprentices, they had to make the robes themselves. This had been but the latest attempt of Aralu's tailoring.

    For all that she had been talented in mixture and creation of elixirs, it did not extend as much to the other purview of the Living Tower. Fifty times she had presented her attempts before the Silk-Singer, and each time she had been sent back into the halls. It was mind-numbing. To attempt so many times, and yet to fail and having to do it again.

    To sing to the spider-spawns, for even the slightest hesitation or misplaced tone was enough to unravel your work, all the while you had to block out the rest of the hall. And each time you made a mistake you were sent back. Had it not been for the potions, who's energies she could feel coursing through her body even now, she was sure she would have fainted by now.

    After all, several of her fellow lesser apprentices, had fainted. To be carried out by the Spawns. Until they awoke again, and then were dragged back in. One was not allowed to leave until one had made one's own robes after all.

    Still, there was more to be done.

    ----------

    The laws of the Order were absolute. Within the Living Tower, there was a room for apprentices. Where upon the walls themselves, the floor, the furniture, the roof and glass words were written. In letters of ink, carved with hammer into copper, etched with charcoal upon papyrus. All the laws lesser apprentices were expected to know.

    Re-chant them.
    Memorize them.
    Speak them.
    Dream of them.

    Though most of the rooms within the Living Tower had apprentices and Philosopher alike, in this room there was only a solitary Philospher, standing harshly at the top of some stairs. Where the glare of the sun, shone through elegantly made glass, depicting Arva. The silvery sister-moon of Cradle. With inches of words reflected in the shine.

    There, with harsh word the Philosopher, Law-Adjudicator would stand as judge over the lesser apprentices. With eyes that felt like they penetrated both soul and flesh, few people could withstand it. And more then one, would quake before his stare. "What is the law, that was made upon the Third Quarter from the Cycle of Growth."

    And as he loomed over her, sweat dripping upon her lips Aralu swallowed nervously. "A Empress seldom stand over a single land. A Crown must be made for all the lands". Pacing, Law-Adjudicator stood before her. Everything the man did, was designed to throw her off, to make her nervous, to forget. "What is the spirit of that law?"

    Of all the Tools of the Living Tower, Cultivation of Life was one. The Transformation, which is what Aralu was talented in was another. The final tool, law-making was the creation of laws which bound all beings. Especially the Spawns "That all that sight may see, is the Empress's domain..?" She hesitated, at the end.

    And though one may wish it, against the eyes of the Philosopher, naught escaped. "You fail" Simply and without emotion the man spoke. "Return, when you know all the laws of this room, when you understand all the laws of this room, when the laws have been writen into the Flesh and understood by the Spirit". With that, the man turned around, as he descended like a specter upon another unsuspecting apprentice, the harsh words following moments later, and a weak stutter from the most recent victim.

    Sighing, though making sure it was not show externally, Aralu kneeled. Her hands pressing into the ground, as the black ink seemed to almost seep into her hands from the floor. Not that it was easily visible, stained black as they were already from the previous attempt. "When the Sun turns high, It is the Law of the Order that-" She began to recite from the floor.

    Until they knew the laws of the Order. Until they could speak them without a moment of hesitation, and could speak them while understanding what they meant. They were not allowed to leave. For the Living Tower, guardian of the Order's Laws.

    --------

    It was not all learning however under grueling taskmasters. For all that they were lesser apprentices, their flesh still weak and so far away from true Philosophical flesh they still stood far above even the mundanes. As such, many of the lesser duties of the Order were theirs to carry out. Important to be done, for the Order would not, could not neglect their duties, yet not so urgent that they could afford to squander the ever limited and small supply of Philosophers on them.

    Aralu stepped forward, the sea of mundanes parting before her as her footsteps resounded in the hall, broken only by the sound of muttering from the crowd and coughs. Though the Doom may have been vanished, and the last remains of it's scar's were being purged by the Sundial Tower as they spoke, illness still clung bitterly to humanity. A companion, or foe far older then even the Doom.

    Where Songbirds, with mythical senses could feel the growing weakness in the spirit as a result of the failing Flesh. If left unchecked, it would grow larger and larger. Like a Beast that consumed without end. To let the Flesh, be it of mundane or philosophical suffer and weaken like that, was antithetical to the Living Tower.

    Sadly, the plans for Alchemist or even the Teacher's desires for healers had yet been accepted by the Order's Conclave. And they were still far to few to truly put the illness to sword and flame. So, many illness could not be given proper due, but when the Songbirds warned of sickness that grew like the ones from tales of Old. Where entire cities suffered and died, where terror filled passages was written upon clay. When God-Cities warned their masters. They were sent upon the cities.

    To purge with alchemy and skill the sickness that feastered. And this, this was something Aralu truly thrived in. For it was familiar, like stepping into a house from her memories. She had been doing this since she was born. In this, she was less like a lesser apprentice, and but mere steps away from the Philosophers. With gentle motions, "Drink this", she spoke as the young woman in front of her began to eagerly drink, cheeks flushed from the heat.

    "Timonax, bring me the plants" She commanded, as the mundane assistant hurried away. Wiping her hand, she started to walk away after casting a last glance at the woman. Making sure she had drunk everything as ordered and weren't reacting badly. Some people, simple were to frail.

    Satisfied, her hand went into her robe, bringing forth the mortar and pestle. Cracked and old but still holding together...She had not found it in herself to throw away the old gift from the Old man. With panting steps, Timonax returned, clutched a new batch of herbs in his hands.

    She stared for a moment. It had been but a few steps, a pittance and yet the man was already breathing fatigued. Had mundane men always been so..fragile. Lost in the Living Tower the last few years as she had been, it took a moment for ancient memory to return.

    Of her Father, of the children she had played game with. The men in the harbor carrying vases and goods. And underneath her mask, she could not help but frown for the briefest of moments. They had been. Like crocks of glass. Tired from mere minutes of works, when they of the Living Tower were tested and had to train until even hours of work would not phase them. Why did the mundanes not train as much?

    She turned, as with expert motions that would have left the child she had been, amazed with skill far out-stripping the old man that had taught her once upon a time. She crushed the herbs and mixed it with water. Her skill at this had only grown by leaps and bounds under the guidance of the Living Tower. Such that other would inquire and ask her for advice. She stopped at the bed of the next person, kneeling beside the person.

    This is why it was important. Why Mixer of Truth had accepted her. So that one day, even these mundanes may have elevated and enlightened away from their frail flesh. So that it may give rise to ever grander spirit. To a vessel capable of hosting true enlightenment.

    One day Aralu would ascend past the rank she bore. One day she would accept the name Transmuter-of-Weakness. She would ensure that such weakness would not have a grip among the lands of the Order. That was her mission. Why her veins and heart was like that of a Cauldron. And like a cauldron, she would transform the world.

    -------

    A vast desert stood before her. A suffocating heat, like that from the newly forged elemental Gods enveloped her. Her lips smacked dryly wordleslly. The Philosopher stood in front of her, his robes fluttering in the wind. Somehow, impossible as the floating sand grains parting before him, refusing to stick, even as Aralu felt ever more dragged down.

    "Tell me apprentice, do you know what the Seat of the Living Tower is?" It must have been rhetorical. It was one of the first things any person were told when entering the Living Tower. Imposed she doubted even the biggest of fools in the tower wouldn't know. "Four were the seats divided among the Towers. The seat of Prosperity is the Living Tower's." Still, she dutifully responded.

    The man replied back at her words. "You speak the words, but you do not yet understand them. We, the Living Tower gather the materials for the Order, so that they White Tower may cast their workings. We shape the land, so that the Sundial Tower may correct them. We give unto the mundanes their tools and materials, so they may shape lesser work for the Order and feed the Tower that Think with their stories."

    The man stopped, as the desert stretched endlessly across in front of him. "Before us, mundanes suffered from hunger, illness. Before us, Philosopher could cast but the weakest of workings, deprived of their reagents and land. Before any person is allowed to ascend and become a Greater apprentice, to have a chance at becoming a Philosopher. They must understand this singular truth"

    He turned around, brown eyes staring at her. "You are to walk across this dessert...Or swear an oath to never purse the art of the Order ever again and leave the Order" Aralu stared, her throat already feeling parched, as her eyes swung between the man and the ever-yellow glare from the snads. One should not speak without due cause, and yet, the heat suffocating-"I don't have any water on me, or was giving any message about this. I have no tools, besides my mortar.-" She couldn't help herself.

    The man nodded "And when Doom came unto our lands, neither message nor warning was given. People had to flew with what mere materials they had upon them. Step forward child, learn the lesson of the Doom, understand the gift of prosperity we have given, or leave us forevermore."

    In the end.
    It wasn't a choice.
    She stepped forward.
    She had a goal.
    A desire to know Enlightenment.

    ---------

    How long was she there, she did not know. The sun erased all before it's glare. More then once, she fell down and had to crawl her way up. Her robes tattered and ruined, grains of sand slowly digging their way through what she had so carefully weaved. She couldn't help but bemoan that she hadn't done a better job. Perhaps it was the final task from the Silk-Singer.

    Water was but found in the mere dropplets. Small puddles, and what little she could pluck from the plants along the way, guided by the teachings from the Living Tower. It was never quite enough. She could delay the specter of death, who's footstep she could steadily feel behind her gaining, but never enough to push him away.

    And more then once, she would stumble, falling into the sand upon having her foot caught. She had been shocked, but eventually she came to grimly accept it. Of the rotting corpse's, bones of fellow apprentices. All across the desert, hidden underneath dunes. Their fate all to apparent, and the fate that awaited her if she should stop. Throughout it all, the hunger gnawed at her bones. "Leave or die-" as the Philosopher had warned her.

    In the haze of the sun, visions of the past haunted her. The Shepard, "Even the looniest of deserts have life my friend, you merely need to ask.". Spurred by the words, she would find scorpions, poisons and deadly. But she knew poisons, and so with tools she would purify it. Not enough to neutrlize it, but close enough. Coughing blood, she was still preserving.

    "What kind footsteps are that? Have you learned nothing on the precise movements in that Tower." The Precise would bark, as Aralu would adjust her pace. Stumbling and crawling slowly, ever so gradually reducing over the days. Until, she could walk almost unhindered….Even then, she would find herself face down in the dessert, passed out with her memory lacking of when. Failed by a body that could not adapt to the heat.

    But when she fell, there was always a soft hand, tugging her upward. "You have learned much, child. But you are not using it in tandem yet." The Keeper would chide, gently even in memory. "You must remember my lessons, a Philosopher of the living Tower-" Aralu finshed the sentence.

    "-Is a master of Law… A Philospher of the Living Tower is a master of Cultivation. A Philosopher of the Living Tower is a Master of Transmutation."

    Even so, it was not enough. Had it been days, months, years? She did not know, in the haze but eventually, past the hills of sand she crawled. Her robes were gone, mere scants left from the harsh walk. Her throat were dry, as lips bleed. Limbs thin and slender, the hunger having gnawing on all that was her. There, a man came serenly.

    Mixer of Truth. Like a godly judge from old tales he stood above. Wrenching herself up to her feet, Aralu stood before him, swaying. "Have you endured?" He spoke simply. She closed her eyes, as "I..I have endured."

    Solemnly, the man nodded. "All apprentices of the Living Tower are made to walk across this desert. So they can understand the hunger of the Doom, the despair man felt when every day felt like it was it's last. When there was no end in sight...Do you understand."

    "Yes...We of the Living Tower are the one with tasked with Prosperity. So none may ever feel this again" It was etched into her flesh. The Understanding of her Duty. Of what she must never forsake.

    The Mixer of Truth stood there for a moment, feeling the sensation of wind across his cheek. "Then you are ready. I welcome you once more Aralu. To the understanding of Enlightenment. May you bear the title of Greater apprentice, so you may one day shed the mundane name you bear now."

    She stepped forward. Past the graveyard of bones, that hid underneath the desert.



    Author Notes:

    So! Slightly late compared to my usual stuff, but i've been very busy. I wanted to try and make a snippet of every turn with what Aralu was doing. Just slight tidbits of what i felt like an apprentice ship with the Living Tower, might be.

    Learning all the laws, learning to command spawns, and so forth. Even stuff that is really deadly. I felt like the Living Tower would have something to ensure that people understand why prosperity was required. Espesically, as prosperity spreads and their newer apprentices become children that haven't really know suffering and lack of goods.

    Mostly a neutral piece, where Aralu learns of the differnent things. As she grows, i think the more political aspect of the factions would grow and become more apparent. Maybe. I do have plans to at least attempt writing one for every turn. Hope it felt true to the Living Tower. Was going a lot on my own guess-work, on how i might thought parts of the training would be like.

    I have been writing another piece...but uh. I think i may have gone overboard and chosen something way to ambitious for my own skill. We will see
    Click to expand...
    Click to shrink...
    Very nice, this omake is canon.

    The life of an apprentice in training is one of grueling work and constant trials, all the time not taken by chores occupied by harsh, almost torturous lessons. Failure is always an option. There is a reason why so many apprentices do not become Philosophers.
    I thought about the canonicity of the trial through the desert, but the Living Tower tends to be quite callous, and it's a good lesson on the importance of Prosperity.

    Each apprentice of each Towers must learn the importance of their Tower's Seat and what happens when its function is not fulfilled, when Doom comes.
    Those of the Sundial must learn what happens when evils are not banished and people are not protected. There is the lesson of Wars and Disasters.
    Those of the White must learn what happens when Philosophers are not united and when they succumb to their flaws. There is the lesson of Strife and Sorcery.
    Those of the Tower that Think must learn what happens have no hope, no dreams, nothing to support them. There is the lesson of Savagery and Despair.

    Little Aralu will remember her lessons well, that will either allow her to survive the price of disasters and her potential mistakes...or ensure her sacrifice resonates long and strong.
    Also, a little freebie from the QM : Using teaching methods that may be classified as torture will cause a few debates amongst "good" technological civilizations.
     
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