Mist Harbor Library Lectures - 2021-05-22 - Understanding Power (log)

The following was the fifth lecture in the Mist Harbor Library lecture series, where Talinvor was the guest speaker, which was given on 05/22/5121. Topics covered in this lecture series must be lore-based, but are otherwise left to the discretion of the speaker. This lecture discusses the topic of power from an educational perspective, with an approach to defining and understanding how it can be used for good or evil intentions. The speaker uses props and offers examples of how power is wielded in Elanthia as well as how to learn to gain it.

This log has been edited to remove excess noise and chatter. Some engagement and digression has remained to reflect impact.

"Understanding Power"

[Library, Meeting Hall]

A trio of wide stairs lead down from a wide archway into this brightly lit room. A small podium stands atop a small dais opposite the archway, and several cushioned benches have been arranged throughout the space, each offering an excellent line of sight. A number of elliptical windows line the walls of the hall, and a rich crimson-patterned carpet covers the entirety of the floor underfoot. You also see an ebonwood case with arabesque ivory inlay and talon-footed cabriole legs and a small table with some stuff on it. Also here: Barrister Faerinn, Lady Meliyara who is sitting, Juspera, Yukito who is sitting, Master Hats, Lady Landrai who is sitting, Loremaster Rohese, Phanna who is sitting, Envoy Vaikhen who is sitting, Rmalie who is sitting, Kothos who is sitting, Akenna who is sitting, Archious who is sitting, Tabubu who is sitting, Arianiss, Relic Hunter Ordim who is sitting, Serseri who is sitting, Magister Raelee, Yardie who is sitting Obvious exits: none

Rohese graciously greets, "Good afternoon."

Rohese softly begins, "As the Library's Loremaster, it gives me great pleasure to welcome you to the next in our lecture series."

Rohese wrinkles her nose.

Rohese softly exclaims, "It's wonderful to see so many of you here today!"

Rohese lightly explains, "As I'm sure you are all aware by now, the aim of this series is to provide a platform for imparting knowledge and encouraging discussion."

Rohese gently reminds, "I ask that everyone be considerate to our speaker, as well as those who comment or ask questions."

Rohese softly continues, "All opinions are welcome and encouraged, as long as they are courteously expressed."

Rohese uneasily says, "As always, I am grateful that our speaker agreed to be here today and I'm sure he does not wish me to give some flowery introduction."

Rohese clears her throat.

Rohese tightly introduces, "So without further ado, please give Talinvor a gracious Library welcome."

Rohese nods respectfully to you.

You take a few steps toward a small podium.

Speaking thoughtfully to Rohese, you say, "Thank you for the invitation."

You take a deep breath.

You slowly and deliberately empty your filled lungs.

You tuck the spiced blood wine into a small pocket inside of your silver-buckled longcoat.

You incline your head.

You introduce, "She'ri. Afternoon. My name is Talinvor. I am a misri de gnosa - a master of knowledge and a Loremaster from the city of Sharath. I've been invited by Loremaster Rohese of Mist Harbor to offer enlightenment on a concept that most people -think- they understand."

You stride a few steps forward.

You clench your fist.

You recite emphatically:

   Power

You survey the area.

You ask, "We know this word, but what kinds of power are there? What does it mean, and how can we acquire it?"

You nod once.

You rub your chin thoughtfully.

You say, "So what do we think of when we use the word 'power'? Raise your hand, if you think you know."

Rohese glances around the room.

Ordim fidgets.

Serseri raises her hand.

You squint.

Arianiss raises his hand.

You nod at Serseri.

Speaking hoarsely to you, Serseri says, "Control."

You nod.

Archious raises his hand.

You say, "Good."

You nod at Arianiss.

(Yardie sits on his hands, his posture taut at he listens.)

Arianiss says, "Getting others to do your desire, control, yes."

Yukito gazes at you.

You grin at Arianiss.

You say, "Right, we'll get into that detail further in my lecture."

You nod once at Arianiss.

You nod at Archious.

Vaikhen sheepishly asks, "The ability to enact your will on the world?"

You grin at Vaikhen smugly.

Faerinn says, "That sounds like magic with more whips and chains."

Rohese wrinkles her nose.

Aendir grins.

Mirkk shifts his weight.

Kothos smirks at Faerinn.

Rmalie tilts her head toward you, examining you intently as the tip of one ear twitches briefly.

Akenna says, "I would say it is the ability to overcome your own shortcomings."

Rohese smiles at Akenna.

You say, "These are all good answers."

You grab a flute of spiced blood wine from a small pocket inside of your silver-buckled longcoat.

You take a drink from your spiced blood wine. Your mouth is pervaded by the taste of spices found on the barren plains of Rhoska'Tor.

You ask, "But let's get into it, shall we?"

You tuck the spiced blood wine into a small pocket inside of your silver-buckled longcoat.

Classes of Power

You add, "Starting with the more physical facets of power, this would be literal strength, or force of will. It can be used to inspire or intimidate others as an instructor, a guard, a scout, an assassin or even as a war leader. It is a self-generated form of power and can be applied to power of the body and the mind. Among the Dhe'nar's Warrior Caste, this is where they excel."

You nod sagely.

You comment, "Knowledge is the foundation of power throughout many tenants of magic. Book knowledge, practical application, understanding the flows, even discovering secrets...all this is the purveyance of our Temple Caste, though the Loremasters often end up with much of this influence as well. Knowledge is power, as they say."

You grin wryly.

You admit, "Manipulation is the focus of the Warlock Caste - our wizards and bards. While wizards manipulate the elements, our bards are skilled at manipulating people via charisma and music."

You add, "Getting things or getting others to apply your will is one of the most difficult forms of power, as it requires effort to build that control. This can be accomplished through feats of engineering, alchemy, and magic on one side, as mainly the expertise of wizards."

Yardie quietly repeats, "Manipulation."

(Talinvor holds up one hand, palm up as if weighing something.)

You say, "On the other is manipulation of people themselves," his other hand raising with his palm up as if weighing and comparing. "Often it is through the mastery of emotions, using resources, and even as simply as the use of music to enhance it - which is the expertise of bards."

Faerinn says, "That sounds like magic with more whips and chains."

You examine your fingernails.

You thoughtfully say, "One might suggest this is a bad thing - to manipulate people. However, it can be used positively as well - such as calming or encouraging someone."

Speaking to Faerinn, Yardie says, "No. Not necessarily."

You give a sidelong glance at Faerinn.

Speaking to Faerinn, you say, "We'll get to whips and chains for you, soon enough."

Vaikhen appears to be trying hard not to grin.

Archious casually observes his surroundings.

You chuckle.

You say, "So in summary - three classes of power so far: Strength of Will, Knowledge and Manipulation."

Rohese glances between Faerinn and yourself.

(Talinvor ticks off the count on his fingers.)

You say, "Here is where I deviate from my typical lesson."

Rohese inclines her head.

Archious raises an eyebrow.

(Talinvor strolls to the left, clapping his hands together once and then turns to face the crowd. His fingers wrapping around to clench them together, he presses his knuckles to his lips.)

You reveal, "What Dhe'nar do NOT have however, is power based on traditional authorities - such as by monarchy, inheritance, or religion. This is the fourth class of power."

With exaggerated slowness you take a deep breath, then pinch the bridge of your nose.

You note, "Traditional authorities do not necessarily have a bearing on qualification for the role, but are accepted, enacted and defended by society anyway, despite the outcomes."

You add, "This is the kind of power that the Dhe'nar rejected when the elven Houses divided - giving power based on inherited monarchies along specific lineages."

You thoughtfully say, "The humans then, having been 'allowed' to live in regions allotted to them by those same elves, ended up mirroring a similar monarchical structure."

You mention, "So we note - four types of power."

(Talinvor ticks off numbers again on his fingers.)

You say, "Force of Will, Knowledge, Manipulation and Inheritance."

You lean against a small podium.

Wielding/Enforcing Power

You say, "Wielding power can be done in many ways as we know. It can be seen behind armies, behind catastrophes, and behind leaders of all kinds. It can be used for good or ill, regardless of the type."

You add, "Now power is really the ability to have one's will carried out, despite the resistance of others. This can be done utilizing the means of power."

You say, "As was mentioned earlier."

You propose, "Power can be coercive - where it is held by threat or force, but breeds resentment. It could be held by a tyrannical leader, a mob of people, or via blackmail."

You remove a shadow grey Dhe'nar training whip from in your mesh weapons harness.

Aendir rests a gentle hand on Rohese's arm.

Serseri nods slowly.

You tilt your training whip side to side, making the light play off it.

Yardie glares at you.

You show Faerinn your training whip.

With an adept flick of the wrist, you crack a shadow grey Dhe'nar training whip, producing a startlingly loud sound!

Akenna frowns.

Tabubu arches one eyebrow at Yardie in an expression of sardonic amusement.

Vaikhen's face turns slightly pale.

Akenna stands up.

Ordim's cheeks take on a slightly flushed tone.

You say, "We see this activity often when Wehnimer's is involved. Pressuring the citizenry to carry on under martial law for example, or simply showing up in force to instill authority can have adverse effects and may cause rioting, civil disobedience and new leaders to rival with."

Akenna just went through a wide archway.

Yukito nods slowly to you.

Yardie cracks his knuckles!

You say, "This kind of power is also demonstrated on a smaller scale, but no less effective. An employee, a soldier, a friend, a child - being requested to do something distasteful, but fear the loss of a job, accusations of sedition, loss of a friend, or loss of a parent's love."

You say, "This is called enforced compliance."

Rmalie furrows her brow.

You put a shadow grey Dhe'nar training whip in your mesh weapons harness.

You say, "Reward power is the opposite of coercive. It is power by incentive. money, privileges, respect and praise, which can all be a part of it."

Rohese nods in agreement at Aendir.

You say, "This is the role that the Aventurers' Guild plays. We do undesired tasks for rewards."

You grab an Adventurer's Guild voucher pack from a small pocket inside of your silver-buckled longcoat.

You tap an Adventurer's Guild voucher pack, which is in your right hand.

Vaikhen rubs his chin thoughtfully.

You tuck the Guild voucher pack into a small pocket inside of your silver-buckled longcoat.

Rmalie smirks at you!

You say, "This is called bribed compliance."

You chuckle.

Rohese furrows her brow.

You say, "Power can be referent too, which is the power of a role-model. This is using interpersonal skills, such as charisma to gain admiration. Gaining admiration can be done for evil deeds as well as for good ones."

You wryly say, "I prefer morally grey."

You grin crookedly.

You continue, "Many heroes and villains throughout our history have tapped into this power. This is especially attractive for religious organizations who may have a specific calling or personality that chimes well with someone and makes behaviors challenge social moralities as well as the concept of justice."

Yardie slowly repeats, "Morally.....grey."

You say, "This is called voluntary compliance."

Vaikhen agrees with you.

You remove a candied wild black rose from in your black suede case.

You glance at the wild black rose in your hand.

You tuck the wild black rose into a small pocket inside of your silver-buckled longcoat.

You grab a glowing dark crimson rose from a small pocket inside of your silver-buckled longcoat.

You offer your dark crimson rose to Landrai, who has 30 seconds to accept the offer.

You glance at Landrai.

You carefully place a glowing dark crimson rose on the floor.

Landrai attempted to accept a glowing dark crimson rose, but you're not holding it anymore!

Landrai picks up a glowing dark crimson rose.

You remove a leather book from in your spidersilk pouch.

You gaze thoughtfully at your leather book.

You say, "The skill and knowledge of a learned expert gives way to the power of information. This can be in the form of a teacher, historian, an alchemist, a healer, or any such professional expertise that someone may have above the simple layman."

Landrai glances at you.

Yukito signals, "No, no. He was onto something with the candied rose. Then again... was that bribery again."

Yukito clears his throat.

You say, "The more expertise someone has, the more they gain respect and trust in being the person to go to for advancement or education."

Serseri begins chuckling at Yukito!

You signal, "Yes."

You say, "But the power isn't in the knowledge itself as some would have you believe. Instead, it is the consequence of what and who is being influenced. Those in turn can teach others."

Yukito blushes a pink shade at you.

Ordim giggles to himself.

You say, "As a Loremaster of my culture, I tend this role quite often and have been a considerable influence to not only my knowledge, but to my opinions as well. Thus, solidifying my power and respect among the next generation."

Starletdawn tilts her head toward you, examining you intently as the tip of one ear twitches briefly.

You put a leather book in your spidersilk pouch.

You muse, "Granting knowledge unto others is a very effective means to be a role-model, which is one of our archetypes of power."

You say, "But this also calls into play why a lot of cultures possess restrictions on how that knowledge can be used so that this power can be controlled and maintained. It could be the restrictions to the Great Library among Dhe'nar, the Enchiridion Valentia of the Faendryl or the various sects and organizations of the human empire."

Serseri smiles crookedly.

You say, "This power can be used for good or evil as well. Education can be sharing truth or it can emphasize propaganda."

Starletdawn adopts an agreeable expression.

You say, "This called influential compliance."

Serseri hoarsely says, "...or perpatrate ignorance."

You grin crookedly at Serseri.

Speaking wryly to Serseri, you ask, "Still control, and thus power neh?"

Serseri nods to you.

You say, "Finally, power can be persuasive. This is encouragement to promote people to do what they want anyway. This could be coaxing them to finally read that book they've been putting off, drink so much that they start singing about Sam, or prompting them to take revenge on someone."

You say, "This type of power is generally issued by someone the recipient trusts and cares about, but also can be employed by someone skilled at listening and observing the wants and behaviors of the recipient to encourage action that works in the favor of the one with power."

Rohese glances around before lowering her eyes.

Rohese clears her throat.

You offer, "This can be used positively or negatively - to encourage a good behavior or to coax into a bad one."

Rohese blushes a rosy pink hue to the tips of her ears.

You give a sidelong glance at Rohese.

You say, "This is called tactical compliance."

You nod.

You grab a flute of spiced blood wine from a small pocket inside of your silver-buckled longcoat.

You take a drink from your spiced blood wine. A faint tingling sensation fills your mouth -- not entirely pleasant, but wholly characteristic of the traditional blend of spices pervading the spiced blood wine.

You clear your throat.

You tuck the spiced blood wine into a small pocket inside of your silver-buckled longcoat.

Building Power

You inform, "Now let's discuss how to build power, when you don't have it."

Rohese glances at you and babbles, apparently unable to form a coherent thought.

Ordim adopts an agreeable expression.

Rmalie raises an eyebrow in your direction.

You wryly say, "I'm sure this is probably the part you all -really- wanted to hear anyway."

Serseri chuckles.

Meliyara gazes in amusement at you.

You try hard not to grin.

Vaikhen chuckles.

You slowly and deliberately empty your filled lungs.

(Talinvor taps a finger to his lips in thought.)

Rmalie gives a half-hearted grin.

(Yardie stares at the ground, his gaze stern and serious.)

You sagely say, "Money buys power, as they say. So, if you have control over resources that others need, you can build your power. This can be via currency, equipment, shops, homes, or even knowledge of particular skills."

Rohese presses a hand to her chest, inhaling and exhaling slowly.

You add, "Influence is another means to build power. Convincing important people to join your cause will encourage others to follow suit. Well seeded organizations of power stem from drawing in those people that are already role models."

You note, "The means to maintain power is to be clear on reward and punishment. These could be as gentle or as deadly as the leader who holds power. Reward could just as easily be a bottle of wine, as the elimination of a rival. Punishment could be removal of privilege, or your own demise."

You say, "Also, take advantage of a power play. That is, seize an opportunity when one is given. An opponent that can be caught unaware, is easier to tackle than one that is prepared for defense. This subversion plays out constantly in business and political agendas but is probably one of the most difficult to time right."

You elaborate, "Offense is the best defense, so it goes when it comes to power."

You say, "Finally, draw in your opposition." Sweeping out his arm, he gathers it close to him again. "Give legitimacy to their concerns, talk to them about plans."

You add, "In redirecting their angst toward you, it is easier to learn their objectives to entice them to switch sides. If you can't entice them, help them gain traction in a direction that doesn't impact your own agenda. This way you gain allies and eliminate them as rivals."

You silkily ask, "Or you could just sabotage. But who would do that?"

Rohese furrows her brow.

Serseri smirks.

You smirk.

You shake your head, clucking your tongue.

Rmalie frowns at you.

Ordim compulsively brushes his hands all over his body, sending a sprinkling of crumbs into the air.

You grab a flute of spiced blood wine from a small pocket inside of your silver-buckled longcoat.

You tilt your spiced blood wine side to side, making the light play off it.

Rohese glances away.

You take a drink from your spiced blood wine. Your mouth is pervaded by the taste of spices found on the barren plains of Rhoska'Tor.

Rohese closes her eyes for a moment.

You take a drink from your spiced blood wine. A faint tingling sensation fills your mouth -- not entirely pleasant, but wholly characteristic of the traditional blend of spices pervading the spiced blood wine.

That was the last of it!

You nod appreciatively.

You lean against a small podium.

You rub your chin thoughtfully.

Summary

You prompt, "So now we have the classes of power: Force of Will, Knowledge, Manipulation and Inheritance. Then the methods of enforcing power: coercion, reward, referent and persuasion."

You reflect, "Lastly the ways to build power: Money, influence, repercussions, opportunity and redirection."

(Ordim tries to count on his fingers.)

Ordim furrows his brow.

You add, "You will triumph if you understand all of these principles of power - and if you are willing to use them."

Starletdawn fidgets.

You incline your head.

You appreciatively say, "Thank you all for coming."

(various applause)

Q and A

Rohese attends to her leather gown, making the gown as presentable as possible.

Rohese walks to stand behind a small podium.

You lean back.

You select a spot on one of the cushioned benches and settle into its soft cushions.

Rohese tightly says, "I am sure you will all join me in thanking our presenter, Talinvor, for such a ... thoughtprovoking presentation on power."

Stretching your arms out in front of you, you rotate your shoulders forward and roll your neck in an attempt to loosen the tension in your neck and shoulders.

You incline your head.

Vaikhen quietly admits, "A ... challenging topic. But well-delivered."

Shaelethe applauds you politely.

Tabubu tilts her head in your general direction, but all you see of her face are the shadows cast by the hood of her cowl.

Rohese nods in agreement at Vaikhen.

Rohese softly asks, "Now, does anyone have any questions?"

Rohese smiles.

Rohese glances around the room.

Ordim fidgets.

Serseri raises her hand.

Kothos winks at Yardie.

Starletdawn smiles.

Rohese takes a few steps to her left.

Rohese nods.

Landrai carefully places a glass of ginger white wine on the floor.

Rmalie tilts her head toward Serseri, examining her intently as the tip of one ear twitches briefly.

Rohese smiles at Serseri.

[ed. note - Landrai provides Talinvor with refreshment, more blood wine and some bacon jerky - among his favorites.]

Faerinn says, "That sounded an awful lot like slavery but with extra steps."

Tabubu arches one eyebrow at Faerinn in an expression of sardonic amusement.

Yukito signals, "Not at all."

Yukito looks over at Faerinn and shakes his head.

Speaking irritatedly to Faerinn, Yardie says, "Deception without the whip is just as bad as slavery with it, Barrister."

Speaking hoarsely to you, Serseri says, "I have heard it said... that the limits of one's power are often defined by the limits of what one is willing to do. Be it beliefs, morality, religion... the thing you won't do is the limit to your power. I'd be interested in hearing what you have to say on that subject."

Rmalie looks thoughtfully at Serseri.

Starletdawn nods at Serseri.

Vaikhen glances at Serseri.

Vaikhen nods thoughtfully.

Tabubu quietly asks, "You are asking about honor?"

Tabubu peers quizzically at Serseri.

Speaking hoarsely to Tabubu, Serseri says, "Not at all."

Speaking to Serseri, you say, "As there are many paths to power, you are only held back by your own ambition."

Serseri furrows her brow.

(Yardie rubs his temples, then gives Faerinn an irritated look.)

Rohese politely counters, "Or moral code perhaps?"

Rmalie ponders.

Speaking hoarsely to Rohese, Serseri says, "That is one possible limit, yes. There are others."

Rmalie softly says, "Fear can be a limitation."

Serseri nods at Rmalie.

Ordim fidgets.

Speaking hoarsely to Rmalie, Serseri says, "Indeed."

Vaikhen rubs his chin thoughtfully.

Speaking to Rohese, you say, "You yourself hold power as a role model, Rohese. You have influence and respect. You are a member of several organizations that benefit from your presence."

Rohese inclines her head.

Shaelethe laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.

Starletdawn nods in agreement.

Serseri hoarsely says, "Cultural inhibition... personal taste... code... fear... revulsion... there are many places where we limit ourselves."

Speaking reluctantly to you, Rohese agrees, "I suppose so but I would hate to think of that as power."

Rmalie smiles at Rohese.

Rohese wrinkles her nose.

Speaking to Serseri, Yardie repeats, "Fear."

Rmalie agrees with Serseri.

Starletdawn smiles at Rohese.

Rohese laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement from Yardie.

Serseri shrugs.

Speaking to Rohese, Kothos says, "I think of it as appreciation and gratitude. You are a wonderful friend and host."

Kothos kisses Rohese tenderly on the wrist.

Speaking kindly to Kothos, Rohese says, "Bless you."

Rohese gives Kothos a lingering kiss on the cheek.

Speaking hoarsely to Rohese, Serseri says, "Having power and choosing to wield it are not the same thing."

Rohese softly asks, "Isn't there a saying that you catch more flies with honey than vinegar?"

Rohese raises an eyebrow.

Juspera says, "Rohese is like the vaalin lockpick of hosts."

Starletdawn grins.

You grin at Rohese.

Rmalie grins.

Kothos grins at Juspera.

Rohese giggles softly at Juspera.

Vaikhen smiles at Juspera.

Aendir grins.

Speaking to Juspera, Kothos says, "An apt aphorism."

Hats gives a sidelong glance at Juspera.

Serseri examines her fingernails.

Starletdawn says, "And I was just about to ask where the power of being female fits into this equation..."

Landrai smiles.

Starletdawn grins.

Darcena abruptly says, "I tend to agree that it is power and those of us who shy away from that definition do so because we only think of power in negative terms."

You nod in agreement at Darcena.

Speaking softly to Starletdawn, Rohese says, "An interesting question."

Rmalie nods slowly at Darcena.

Speaking to Darcena, you say, "An astute observation."

Darcena embarrassedly says, "Sorry. I didn't mean to blurt that out like that."

Phanna smiles at Darcena.

Darcena says, "I was just thinking REALLY hard about it."

Ordim giggles.

Yardie glances at Darcena.

Darcena lowers her face into the palm of her hand.

Speaking kindly to Darcena, Rohese says, "You are free to blurt out anytime."

Ordim raises his hand.

Phanna says, "There is nothing inherently bad about power, just as there is nothing inherently bad about a blade, or magic."

Tabubu quietly says, "Not all of us."

Darcena stands up.

Darcena gives Rohese a friendly hug.

Rmalie smiles at Darcena.

Serseri hoarsely says, "Power... is no different than mana, or a hammer, or bread. They have a purpose, and that purpose can be corrupted as easily as not, or left idle."

Kothos nods at Phanna.

Rohese smiles at Darcena.

Speaking to Darcena, you add, "But you are correct in all means. There are many aspects of power and many paths to it. I mentioned several times how it can be used for good or ill."

Speaking to Darcena, Yardie says, "I...it gives us pause to consider why we do the things we do."

Kothos grins at Juspera.

Rohese softly asks, "Ordim, you have a question?"

Talinvor internally groans.

Rmalie nods slowly at Serseri.

Rohese nods politely at Ordim.

Ordim nods in agreement at Rohese.

Ordim turns to face you.

Speaking to you, Darcena says, "I was listening."

Darcena nods to you.

You give a sidelong glance at Ordim.

Starletdawn tilts her head toward Ordim, examining him intently as the tip of one ear twitches briefly.

Landrai softly says, "It all comes back to that word... choices."

Yukito tilts his head toward Ordim, examining him intently as the tip of one ear twitches briefly.

Speaking to you, Ordim inquires, "When I ask you for copper wine and you give it to me, who has the power and what type is it?"

Serseri furrows her brow.

Tabubu laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.

Rmalie looks thoughtfully at Ordim.

Tabubu glances away.

Tabubu briefly draws down the edges of her gauzy cowl.

Tabubu takes a drink from her spiced blood wine.

Speaking to Ordim, Darcena asks, "Doesn't that depend on -why- the person is complying?"

Speaking to Landrai, Yardie says, "That word, to me, has deceptive properties to it, but I digress."

Darcena grins at Ordim.

Vaikhen cocks his head.

Speaking softly to Landrai, Rohese says, "Oh my, don't remind me of that lecture."

Speaking to Darcena, Ordim confirms, "Maybe!"

Rohese presses a hand to her chest, inhaling and exhaling slowly.

You chuckle.

Speaking to Ordim, Darcena whispers aloud, "Did he really give you wine? I want some, too."

Speaking to Ordim, you say, "Voluntary and influential."

Serseri hoarsely says, "Choice is a funny thing... our choices beget new choices, and we guide ourselves into ever-narrowing passages, until we are at last stuck in a rut, so to speak, moving forward for lack of any perceived alternative."

Ordim points at an ebonwood case with arabesque ivory inlay and talon-footed cabriole legs.

Speaking to Darcena, Ordim says, "He brought some for everyone this time."

Ordim nods understandingly to you.

Landrai softly says, "We all have power in some way or another, but it is a choice in how to use it or not."

Darcena squints at you.

Speaking to Darcena, you say, "Only one left for you."

Rohese glances around the room.

You tap an ebonwood case with arabesque ivory inlay and talon-footed cabriole legs.

Speaking to Serseri, Yardie says, "It's possible that some have no choice at all."

Tabubu takes a moment to observe you.

Ordim blurts, "Talinvor teaches terrible tricks through tough teachings, tempering tepid thoughts terrifically!"

Ordim twitches, trying to control a vocal outburst, before settling into a disdained grumble while regaining composure.

Rohese relievedly says, "I'm glad Traiva isn't here today."

Rohese lets out a sigh of relief.

Darcena collects a glass of pomegranate wine from a large compartment inside the ebonwood case.

Darcena snorts!

Darcena plops a glass of pomegranate wine into a large compartment inside the ebonwood case.

Darcena collects a flute of spiced blood wine from a large compartment inside the ebonwood case.

Speaking to Rohese, Kothos says, "She would have some opinions to offer, yes."

Hats glances appraisingly at Ordim.

Darcena says, "I missed it in the crowd."

Speaking hoarsely to Yardie, Serseri says, "There is always a choice... but as I observed before, we exclude some choices for ourselves by self-inflicted limitations."

Ordim sets about preparing himself to be as presentable as possible.

Speaking to you, Arianiss asks, "Would you say that ultimate power is the removal of power in others?"

Speaking carefully to Serseri, Yardie asks, "So you mean to tell me that kids being killed by krolvin had a choice?"

Ordim tilts his head in Yardie's general direction, the folds of his hood obscuring his expression from view.

You glance at Arianiss and rub your chin thoughtfully.

Yukito ponders.

Speaking hoarsely to Yardie, Serseri says, "They absolutely did. They may not have -known- they had a choice... but that is not the same."

Yukito raises his hand.

Meliyara looks thoughtfully at Yukito.

Rohese nods in agreement at Landrai.

Tabubu tilts her head in Yukito's general direction, the folds of her hood obscuring her expression from view.

Tabubu gives a sidelong glance at you.

Speaking irritatedly to Serseri, Yardie says, "I am not hearing this. A child being slaughtered as he or she carries on his or her day has a choice. Happenstance does exist."

Speaking to Arianiss, you say, "Neh, removing power from another is a limit. Only one function of power. Ascension beyond the Drakes and Arkati is the goal of Dhe'nar. That to us, is the epitome of power."

Speaking hoarsely to Yardie, Serseri says, "And as an aside... you continue to throw the crimes of the Krol in my face. If you have something to say to me, stop with the cowardice and say it. Otherwise, desist."

Arianiss nods.

Starletdawn shifts her weight.

Rmalie blinks.

Serseri glances at a golem-bone inset walking stick capped with a charred krolvin skull in her hand.

Vaikhen glances between Yardie and Serseri.

Serseri hoarsely says, "I am no friend of the Krol. As I believe I have made clear."

Speaking wryly to Arianiss, you say, "But I see that as a wry jibe into functions of slavery though."

Speaking quietly to you, Tabubu says, "It is the Way."

You smirk.

Darcena takes a drink from her spiced blood wine.

Darcena turns around.

Speaking to Serseri, Yardie says, "I speak plainly as fact, because it happened. I do not direct it at you, and I apologize if you feel I did such. That said, it happened, and the implication that a child has a choice is upsetting to say the least."

Darcena glances over her shoulder at you.

Darcena says, "Thanks for the wine."

Defender of Mist Harbor Darcena just strode through a wide archway.

You nod.

Starletdawn glances at a wide archway.

Speaking hoarsely to Yardie, Serseri asks, "Tell me... have you ever fallen in combat?"

Speaking to you, Arianiss says, "Not from me at the least."

Rohese soothingly reminds, "Now now, let's try to keep tempers in check, please."

You incline your head.

Ordim whispers aloud, "This is a great topic!"

Ordim beams!

Aendir smiles.

Rohese makes a soothing shushing sound!

Hats folds his arms over his chest.

Speaking hoarsely to Rohese, Serseri says, "I am not angry. Yet."

Starletdawn grins at Ordim.

You grin at Ordim.

Vaikhen politely says, "Apologies to those present, but I'm not certain this is the venue to discuss recent events. It's impolite to the speaker."

Rohese smiles at Serseri.

Rohese nods in agreement at Vaikhen.

Speaking to Serseri, Yardie answers, "Yes. Fighting. I have."

Speaking hoarsely to Yardie, Serseri asks, "Would you say it ever happened as a result of your own mistake?"

Rohese softly asks, "Do we have another question for our speaker?"

You glance between Serseri and Yardie.

Rohese glances around the room.

Speaking to Serseri, Yardie says, "Yes. But I am an adult."

Vaikhen raises his hand.

Serseri chuckles.

Rohese nods at Vaikhen.

Tabubu chortles softly at some secret joke.

Rohese smiles at Vaikhen.

Yukito signals, "Pardon, this may take someone sharing this with all, but I'd like to ask something to clarify... So... if the classes of power include Manipulation and Inheritence... say a ruler that is abusing their power over people.. and they use coercion and rewards to control people... and their people in turn cannot gain money, cannot use influence, and cannot gain opportunity..."

Yukito shifts his weight.

You take a drink from your spiced blood wine. Your mouth is pervaded by the taste of spices found on the barren plains of Rhoska'Tor.

Serseri hoarsely says, "Cogninite dissonance at it's finest. I'm done."

Starletdawn takes a moment to observe Vaikhen.

Rohese smiles at Yukito.

Arianiss nods at Yukito.

Speaking to Serseri, Yardie asks, "Whether people think so or not. Are you suggesting that a child should have fought back?"

**(author's note: it seemed prudent to simply answer questions related to the subject of the lecture, and not get led into unrelated tangents.)

Speaking to you, Vaikhen inquires, "Would you say that those with power have any level of inherent responsibility to use it for good?"

Arianiss says, "Yukito is asking if..."

Rmalie stares at Yardie.

Hats gazes in amusement at Tabubu.

Serseri turns away from Yardie, ignoring him.

Meliyara says, "Yukito asks for clarification: if the classes of power include Manipulation and Inheritence... say a ruler that is abusing their power over people.. and they use coercion and rewards to control people... and their people in turn cannot gain money, cannot use influence, and cannot gain opportunity..."

You signal, "I'll address that in a moment, Yukito."

Yukito signals, "Then people might rdirect their anger.. or attempt to retaliate, or otherwise force repercussions?"

Yukito nods to you.

Vaikhen blushes a nice shade of light pink.

Serseri hoarsely says, "I tried. Despite all reasons to do otherwise."

Meliyara adds, "Then people might redirect their anger, or attempt to retaliate, or otherwise force repercussions."

Speaking quietly to Yukito, Vaikhen says, "My apologies, I didn't mean to interrupt."

Yukito blushes a nice shade of pink.

Tabubu takes a moment to observe Yukito.

Rmalie smiles at Yukito.

Speaking softly to you, Rohese says, "It seems you have stirred up quite a discussion."

Yukito bows to Vaikhen.

Rohese nods understandingly at Shaelethe.

Vaikhen smiles at Yukito.

Vaikhen stands up.

Speaking wryly to Vaikhen, you say, "They say with power, comes great responsibility. It is up to the ones with power in how they decide to wield it. If used for evil, it is often fate that guarantees a hero to thwart it. Many stories of the people demonstrate how an unjust ruler was toppled."

Speaking to Rohese, Ordim whispers aloud, "He should stir up some more copper wine."

Ordim giggles to himself.

Rohese gazes in amusement at Ordim.

Tabubu quietly says, "There is no good or bad, merely right or wrong."

Vaikhen ponders.

Rmalie appears to be struggling to keep a straight face as she glances at Ordim.

You curiously ask, "Does that answer your question?"

Vaikhen nods once to you.

Vaikhen selects a spot on one of the cushioned benches and settles into its soft cushions.

Speaking politely to you, Vaikhen says, "Thank you."

Rohese folds her hands.

Landrai softly says, "Good, bad... right, wrong... perception."

Tabubu gives a sidelong glance at Landrai.

Speaking curiously to Yukito, you ask, "Did I answer yours as well?"

Yukito nods politely.

You incline your head.

Ordim signals, "Brother Talinvor certainly does have a knack for stirring a crowd."

You grin at Ordim smugly.

Meliyara cocks her head at Hats.

Ordim giggles.

Yukito signals, "I was thinking also of how it comes down to how we are driven into corners."

You signal, "Dhe'nar bard. It's right there in my job description."

Serseri starts chuckling at you!

Meliyara laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement from you.

Yukito signals, "Are options stripped from us?"

You cock your head at Yukito.

Serseri signals, "We make, or refuse, our own options, and I think that was the point."

Meliyara asks, "Yukito says that he was also thinking of how it comes down to how we are driven into corners. Are options stripped from us?"

Aendir signals, "Some lack the self-control to look at a topic objectively, I suppose."

Rohese smiles quietly to herself.

Serseri nods at Aendir.

Yukito signals, "When the power at top is very oppressive, and there is so much weight, people can only delude themselves, or fight back."

Vaikhen looks thoughtfully at Yukito.

Yukito nods slightly.

Meliyara says, "Yukito adds that when the power at the top is oppressive, people can only delude themselves or fight back."

Yardie glances at Yukito.

Vaikhen frowns.

You rub your chin thoughtfully.

Vaikhen nods understandingly.

Serseri hoarsely says, "Indeed... but just as raw earth, under great pressure, becomes the hardest of diamonds..."

Ordim fidgets.

Speaking to Serseri, Yardie says, "On that....I agree."

Yukito signals, "If you want to manipulate, or lead, you have to give people options... I think?"

Serseri hoarsely says, "So too do people harden as they are pressed."

Yukito looks thoughtfully at you.

Rohese looks thoughtfully at Serseri.

Ordim signals, "Controlled options, yes. Illusions of options."

Yukito nods at Ordim.

Meliyara says, "Yukito says he thinks that if you want to manipulate or lead, you must give people options."

You say, "Power is a tool, like any other. The Aelotoi were an oppressed people, but they kept their faith and they kept their resolve. They are now one of the fiercest people you could meet."

Vaikhen smiles at you.

You cock your head at Yukito.

Vaikhen adopts an agreeable expression.

Yukito signals, "They were given freedom. They will fight for it."

Serseri hoarsely says, "A sword is a tool with great power, if wielded rightly; wielded wrongly, or without finesse, it can as easily turn in your hand and cut you."

Speaking to you, Yardie says, "Do you think they wanted that fiercesness at the cost of their own oppression? Asking for a brother of mine."

Vaikhen glances at Yardie.

Faerinn signals, "Freedom is never given."

Meliyara says, "Yukito says that the aelotoi were given freedom and will fight for it."

You say, "Oppression is not forever. Tyrants die, opportunities arise. Allies join."

Faerinn signals, "Freedom is only fought for."

Tabubu quietly says, "The world moves on."

Aendir grins.

You signal, "Freedom is only understood by those who had to fight for it, eii."

Yukito signals, "Thank you very much for this lecture. I was... uncertain about Dhe'nar ideals before. This was much deeper than I imagined it would be."

Yukito nods politely to you.

You nod appreciatively at Yukito.

Ordim signals, "Freedom is the most powerful illusion. There is no true freedom, only what you've decided to settle on giving up."

Serseri agrees with Ordim.

Meliyara looks thoughtfully at Ordim.

Meliyara signals, "Is that not in itself a form of freedom?"

Speaking hoarsely to Ordim, Serseri says, "As I am prone to say... a conclusion is just a place where you got tired of thinking."

Rohese softly asks, "Any more questions for our speaker?"

Speaking to Serseri, Ordim agrees, "Thats why I can't make up my mind!"

Ordim giggles.

Rohese glances around the room.

Speaking hoarsely to Ordim, Serseri says, "Congratulations, you're free. I think."

Rohese graciously says, "Then I am sure you will all join me in thanking our presenter, Talinvor, for such a ... Thought provoking presentation on power."

Rohese smiles.

Speaking to Serseri, Ordim says, "Correct I'm an Ordim."

Ordim nods once.

Ordim taps himself on the chest.

(more applause)

You incline your head.

Rohese warmly says, "As always, thank you all so much for coming and I hope to see you all next month when we will have another equally fascinating topic to discuss."

Vaikhen politely says, "Many thanks to our host and the speaker."

Phanna says, "Thank you for hosting such a thoughtful discussion."

Speaking hoarsely to Rohese, Serseri says, "Thank you for arranging this, and for your courage is what some would no doubt call a controversial decision."

Speaking to Rohese, Yardie says, "Do you mind if I stay here a while? I need to ponder and absorb all of this."

Speaking to you, Ordim agrees, "Thank you for the copper wine!"

Rohese softly says, "You are all very welcome to stay."

Speaking in Dhe'narsi, Tabubu quietly says, "Well done Lorekeeper, as always a pleasure to hear you speak."

Tabubu nods to you.

Speaking quietly in Dhe'narsi to you, Tabubu says, "Walk in Power."

Yardie musingly says, "I just sat in a lecture, that implied that slavery......is a choice."

(author's note: The astute should note that Yardie is incorrect on the last sentence here. That was not the topic at all. I ended the log here, particularly because it reflects directly how interesting it was to watch how the audience's own preconceptions and opinions altered what they thought or believed what Talinvor actually stated. We saw a doubling down on particular character beliefs and opinions, various arguments, questions of morality as well as complete tangents of topic. I hope the discussion was as thought-provoking as I intended and I am grateful to Rohese's player for providing the platform.)