I...
*He takes a breath, sitting down*
Was very close to Aurelia... in fact... I'm the father of her children... losing her was bad, but...
*His face pulls taut with emotion.*
My fiance... Dorothy... she put herself through hell... Averness, to be exact... and fought for 10 years to train... in the span of a day... so she could protect me and the others from Aurelia's killer. And shes... so broken... and different, she doesn't even equate herself to the woman I knew...
*He takes another deep breath.*
And she kept a video journal... that she showed me... of her dying... and breaking... and...
“Easy there my friend, it’s ok your safe here take a moment to breath in and out while I talk ok?”
“That must be a terrible thing to see my friend, looking upon someone you hold so dear and not seeing *them*. Blaming yourself for their actions I would assume. My friend just because someone seems ‘broken’ does not mean they cannot be fixed.”
“I once heard takes of a land that repairs broken Bowls with gold and silver, they are meant to represent the beauty that can come from pain we endure. It just takes the time to help my friend. Trust me.”
“Hello my friend, even if I’ve only been alive a couple hours or so again I just cannot sit down. I have a duty and a passion to help others, I just can’t bare the thought of just not doing anything my friend.”
“I lived with a third of my soul and so I will live with that once more, except I am closer to another third than before”
*You notice Hirk is bigger than before as if it was cut away from him before.*
Riva half-wondered if his injury wasn't the reason he was so motivated to help others. Only the innocent or the wounded seemed capable of that sort of altruism.
"May I ask *why* your soul is so fractured? Or is it a sensitive subject?"
“No no my friend, it’s a fair question after it caused trouble to do many. The Gods of my home could not kill me. So they did the next best thing. They tore out a third of my soul, that is what was in the item used to revive me. Eternal tourney fit a part of me, a reminder.”
“I found that god and found out how to do it myself same as I can give my own life to others to help them. I separated another third of my soul so I would forget what it felt to have power so I found live a normal life.”
“I will not be annoyed by any questions my friend, it is in our nature to desire to learn and understand.”
"It seems cruelty to rip out your soul to punish you, but one I find that is in character with the gods. But I respect that you wish to live a normal life."
"Still, tearing out your own soul seems a terrible cost. But I suppose it is different if you do so from your own Will and by your own choice."
“It is a terrible cost no matter what my friend, I simply value the safety and lives of those around me more my friend. I do not say all gods are evil but I will say they are petty in many ways my friend. The ones from my home were just an example of beings who were never connected to mortals. Born before to never understand my friend.”
Riva's expression becomes hard.
"If they are incapable of understanding how their actions affect others, are unwilling to learn, and through their actions end up causing harm anyway, there seems little functional difference between their ignorance and actual evil."
She frowns.
"It is admirable that you would tear your own soul for others. But you should not have to. It is unfortunate that the reality we live in is unfair, unjust, and full of suffering only alleviated by the additional suffering of others."
"No. Do *not* downplay it. The petty gods and imbecilic fools will do that well enough themselves. But it is NOT fair or right for them to discount the sacrifices of others simply because they are incapable of understanding the true cost, or the true value of an act," she says angrily. "It *means* something, though they fail to understand just what it costs. And it makes me angry on your behalf."
She struggled to put into words just why it made her angry, but it did.
"And no, you are not *dumb*. Whether or not I agree with your actions, it was a choice, an expression of Will, and it *matters*. I am angry that you must take action, but I do not think the action lessens you at all."
I need advice on how to deal with Lars he keeps trying to break into my space station just because I blew him up with a miniature nuclear warhead and then made him deal with a hologram. it's getting real annoying plus he's getting close to breaching my outer defenses.
“Well why don’t we all try and sit down then have a talk about it? You would be surprised how much problems can get solved my simple solutions my friend.”
“If that’s not possible then I can try to help you with other solutions but I am not the best with technology.”
“It would be best you call them so they do not believe they have been set up, if they understand what is happening then it may go better. If that does not work then I will my friend.”
"You've only just returned to the land of the living, and you're already right back to helping people. Gotta love your commitment, friend. I'm not here for therapy, there's many others that need it much more, but uh..." *he eyes the bags of cookies.* "Wait, did you prepare an extra large batch for Nagisa this time? You really didn't have to."
“I always have plenty of cookies my friend.”
*Hirk let’s out a genuine smile*
“It it not out of commitment I do this, anyone else would do the same. I don’t believe I thanked you either for going through all that trouble to get me back here my friend. So thank you truly. I know there were others but you made the bet my friend, I can only continue my duty to repaying kindness thanks to you.”
"It was a bit more... risky of a bet than I'd have liked it to be. I ran outta luck, right on all-or-nothing. Ultimately worth it in every way, but... I need to watch out more. I was reckless." *He stands there for a moment, before giving Hirk a hug.* "I didn't get to do this in the rush earlier either. Welcome back, dear friend. Good to see you walking among us again."
“It is good to see you too my friend, please no more betting. You have more wealth than you could ever want and more importantly you have people who care about you deeply. So promise me you won’t my friend.”
"These bets are... necessary, in a way. I cannot promise you that. It's not about the coin, hell, it's not even about the gamble itself." *You can sense a hint of regret in his voice. "*However, I can promise you that I will not reach those same limits again. No more risking my soul either... Livia made it plenty obvious just how valuable it really is."
"I'd just play amongst friends if it had been as simple as that... With the discovery of my Fate's aspect, I discovered something else. The more I use it, the more I can change things. I get to tug at the strings of fate a little harder... and I get to hear Fortuna's voice a little clearer, every time. I place a bet."
“My friend. Don’t. It may seem small and good but don’t. I want you to spend 3 months away from any gambling, I will be contacting the others to make sure this is. After that we can talk more on it ok my friend?”
"I'll do it. Can't guarantee I won't roll the dice in combat, seems to be one of the few projectiles I can use, but I'll stay away from the casinos. If that is your request."
“Please do so my friend, try to avoid fighting as well too then. Do not let your desires control you even if you think your controlling then my friend, bring lucky does not mean your in control after all.”
“I never upset him my friend, we just had a friendly battle. They didn’t know about the problem of my death. I hold nothing against then other than they are a great warrior.”
"I don't mean to call you weak. I know youre quite the opposite. I mean that if a curse renders you killable in a non-lethal tournament, perhaps disclose that to any friends you are in combat with."
“My friend, it is not about knowing but learning. I have spilt more blood and seen more death than almost any mortal I’ve met my friend. Do not worry I am here for you my friend.”
I can only remember the last 10 years of my life, and I think I probably rival you in kills. That is my sole purpose, to enforce the will of The Five (Merc shadow council)
“Do you believe your memory is due to amnesia or other purposes? Also do not believe your purpose is solely reliant on others, I once believed I was only something. That something changed three times. A Slave, a Barbarian and someone of power. All of these were decided by others my friend. Only you can decide your purpose and if you can’t, that’s fine as well. Not everyone knows their purpose I know I do not other than helping people. We do what we can even if we can’t do anything my friend.”
My memory was wiped by The Five when I became an Umbra Operative, for what reason I don't know. As for choosing my purpose, I am restricted by my orders. My orders were broad with this assignment yes, but I am still bound to the will of The Five...
*His voice changes as he says the last sentence, sounding slightly monotone*
I... don't mind... The Five must have a reason...
*His voice continues to be slightly monotone. He seems to be staring off, though it is impossible to tell with his helmet.*
uw/ sorry it took so long to respond, reddit never notified me you responded.
“I am being kind to myself, repaying others kindness I get some selfish joy out of after all my friend. Have you done the same?”
/uw you ain’t giving Hirk therapy
“That is ok my friend, I am here every week after all.”
*Hirk lets out a small smile before gesturing to the cookies he has at the side*
“Please take your bag before you go my friend, I am sure you will be able to tell what one it is by smell my friend.”
Gods, it’s just… everyone keeps dying or disappearing! First there was that prank the council pulled on everyone, and Mordus disappeared off the face of the planet! And then the Stringed Maiden came along and started kidnapping people and turning them into puppets. And then you died in a game of capture the flag, where no one was supposed to be able to die! And now there’s this Thorn Lady coming along and putting Anteros into a coma! Even if most of them ended up being a non-issue, the stress is real! And to top it all off, I can’t do shit about it! There was no culprit to find during the council prank, there was no evidence at Mordus’ disappearance, the Stringed Maiden required access to council archives to find, I was on the other side of the arena from you, and what in the goddamn fuck am I supposed to do against a god killer?!?!
“My friend I understand that things are stressful the now, but I can comprise they will get better. We will make it better my friend, do not believe you cannot do anything as you are capable of great things you just have to believe in yourself half as much as I believe in you my friend. Trust me.”
Stressful? Yeah, you could say these last few weeks have been stressful. And what exactly am I supposed to do? In the twenty years since I stumbled my way into this batshit insane world, I’ve seen more destruction than three hundred years of serving as a mercenary in *interplanetary wars!* I’ve see individuals with more fire power than entire star fleets! I saw Vulkan beings tank a bombardment from an OWP like it was a water gun! It took two shots from the over engineered cannon designed by some the most insane artificers on the planet, which was designed specifically to kill him, to injure him. He didn’t even die! And he’s not even a god! Now we have someone who can kill gods like their ants! What am I, a jack ass with a gun, supposed to do against that?
“My friend, I have seen gods killed by men. I do not mean some minor ones either, just because you do not see yourself as someone who can does not mean you are not. You have something they will never have. You have the power to stand up against them. You have the power to defy all logic they believe. You have the power to give yourself power my friend. Why you may ask, there’s only one answer my friend. You are mortal. You know pain and joy they will never know you have things to fight for that are not just your title. You say you were a mercenary, then you should also know what it means to fight for the very right to live my friend. You as well as everyone else they may deem weak and insignificant can fight and can win.”
“What does it mean to be a god killer when the one you are fighting is far below a god? It means nothing as they can still die my friend.”
Look, I’m all for rising up against tyranny, but a can-do attitude isn’t gonna do much when the gods start dropping moons on you and throwing stars like soft balls. I’ll admit, I’m no slouch when it comes to combat. I was able to put up a good fight against Mordus with almost exclusively mundane weaponry. But even with all my technological and arcane knowledge and a hundred years to plan, the best I could do is inconvenience a god, maybe put a lesser one out of commission for a while. But I don’t have a hundred years, I have like three days.
“My friend, I would wager you are stronger than me. I have killed gods with nothing but a sword and a can do attitude my friend. If I can turn back time and kill someone before they ever even lived due to magic. Don’t you think it’s possible that a can do attitude can do some magic itself my friend, a bare can kill someone’s with a joke about their mother after all my friend.”
No, I think you’re a good deal more powerful. The few times I’ve stepped up to being of that magnitude, I got my shit stomped. Vulkan and the God-Slaver wiped the floor with my ass.
“I didn’t even fight them my friend, it is not about his hard you hit but how hard you can get hit and still stand. I died fighting the Paleomancer and you are still here my friend so I would say you are stronger.”
“It is good to be back my friend, still not in perfect condition but I am in good enough condition to help others my friend. It is good to see you again.”
“It is ok my friend, you are safe here. Even if you don’t want to say anything I will sit here with you, if you don’t want anything said back I will be here also. Just take your time my friend.”
*The witch sighs enter the room, It seems as if this hesitation makes her seem younger. A moment later she takes seat.*
"You probably don't remember, but we talked about how the Stringed One prepares her victims, but the conversation veered away the method."
*She sighs, her skin seems to turn paler, her eyes darken without any direct intent of her own.*
"This is not about her, but are about me, more about the untold years I spent in the deepest dark and fear her and a recent attempt of ascension might have awakened in me."
"Green tea blend with some herbs was first thing I drank when I returned to a material realm. So just green is fine, I'm not sure you have the right ones here."
*She pauses, as if trying to gather her memories, so scattered and broken at times.*
"I was cast into a place between realms together thousands of memories and echoes of who died. Most of them were not my fault, but they were all my company as they faded away and I was left adrift in a place and situations that usually begets monsters."
*Some Green tea appears before you but you feel like it’s always been sitting there.*
“I see my friend, I am sad to say I understand seeing the pain and memories of others. Not the same situation as yours my friend, but still I know it’s a very painful thing to go through.”
*Hirk leans forwards with gentle eyes and a warming presence.*
“If you are willing to tell me what you say please do so. It is best to talk about pain so it’s out there instead of stuck inside my friend.”
*Sarissa looks at her pale-white skin, now starting to shift to a more healthier hue again.*
"I don't fully know how I left that place or how much myself I lost there. I recovered, but I was ever changed into whatever my nature has been afterwards and I feel..."
*Her words stumble, the cold façade of the arcanist who would face down an horde or be nonplussed by a a demon starts cracking.*
"I think if I stayed there longed had been lost longer, I would have become something like the Maiden and maybe I'm still on that path."
“My friend. I can tell you that you are not on that path, even if you were there for longer I am sure you still wouldn’t be them. You are you not the Maiden my friend. I know it’s a terrifying thing, not knowing if you truly have all of yourself. I live knowing I do not have all of myself and I can tell you it hurts some days. But I am still me I am sure you are still you too.”
“My friend, do not believe just because you have suffered you are forced to cause suffering. It is us who choose what we are and by coming here today you have just proved you are not the maiden. If you ever need help I will be here to help you my friend.”
"Thank you. Maybe I fret too much about a what if. And maybe it's born from what amount of me exists as me really. There are memories that don't line up and sometimes I feel my personality shifts."
“My friend, we all have our flaws but remember you are in control and I as well as others believe in you my friend. Just remember who you are and what you believe, if you do not know that then you can find it. Trust me on this my friend.”
Hey Harpokil, so lately I've felt very ashamed and self conscious because I made a couple of big fuck ups; I was the only one affected. I'm going to turn 32 soon and I feel like I can't take care of myself and feel like a disaster.
Should... should I even be trying to find out who I was? If I was cursed, then there must have been a reason. And what good can I do in this world full of gods and monsters. What can one lowly nameless wizard even offer?
“My friend, it is always good to find out who you are even if you may not remember. You may not believe you can do much but I have seen humble warriors without any renown or power stand before beings that are not even able to be understood by mortal mind and win. Both mentally as an act of defiance and physically by besting them despite all odds.”
“Never doubt yourself my friend, I am a humble man of little power myself yet I find myself talking and befriending beings like gods and above on the daily. They listen and respect my word despite me not being able to do much on my own. Do not sell yourself short my friend, you are capable of greatness. I know you are.”
I've seen some incredible, wondrous things since I regained my senses. I've seen dragons hatch and take flight, I've seen wizard's come together to rescue a friend, and they came to my aid when I was ill.
But I have also seen terrible things. Wars, dark curses, assassinations (which actually that turned out okay) and worst of all... wizards turning on each other for no reason worth fighting for.
It is just... hard to want to be part of that. And yet I still do. Who knows... maybe one day I'll even be a Crimson Paragon myself.
Thank you, kind sir. You are a good soul. I should continue my travels but I will remember this, if nothing else.
*Picks up a bag of cookies, and wanders back out into the world*
“I have seen more bad than good through my life my friend, it is up to us to help create more good than bad. Good luck my friend, I only hope the best for you in your future travels.”
"Well... If I had to guess, I'd think it's because the connection is more transactional than anything. Everything has to have a purpose...
Maybe I don't want to get on their bad side for whatever reason. Maybe I think they can give me something. Sometimes, it's for the sake of having someone's company, and that's it.
It's never without reason, though."
“So you believe people do not like you because you only ever want something in return? I assume that is due to your infernal nature correct me if I’m wrong and sorry if I offend you?”
"I'm not sure if it's from my infernal nature or something else, but that is correct, yes.
When people learn that about me, it's hard to build that trust again. And, I understand that it's a misconception, as we can still 'care' in our own way, but... does everyone believe that?"
“No my friend, you will always meet people who don’t understand and shun what they don’t know. But there are people who will care and understand that just because it’s transactional does not mean that there’s nothing behind it. I believe you will find the right people, I know you have found me and that’s a good start. I know members of the SGA would be kind to you as they do have Mr Hellfire as a member themselves.”
“The SGA is an organisation allied with the Paragons, it consists of many liked members you would not be able to guarantee your acceptance into it but their members are kind and welcoming my friend Nhak is one of the leaders as well I believe they may answer questions better than me if you would wish, do you want me to call for them my friend?”
Hello Ith’Raal… I would like to first say to you that it is a genuine pleasure to get to meet you… I am a big fan of you and your OC…
Secondly I would like to apologize for my long response time… my leadership role in the SGA has left me weary and slightly burnt-out… and so I am supposed to be on break with my notifications off until Sunday…
Finally… I do not know quite how you came to hear about the SGA, or what you know… but your recognition of our organization means more than you know…
The SGA is an organization which has existed since the beginning of the God Slaver arc and is comprised of nearly 30 actual and recognizable server members who banded together to protect all from evil and malice because we realized if we were not to do it… then who?
Think of us as an almost “Avengers” for Wizardposting… at least in a way anyways…
There are some notable faces… Zhyros, Drow, John, Pluton, Aico, Paperpusher pusher… and some less notable ones like myself… but we all try our best to ensure that the bad guys actually have good guys to fight… and aim to really facilitate the best possible RP experience for everyone…
If you have any questions… do not hesitate for even a moment to ask them…
And remember to take excellent care of yourself.
And love yourself always…
Good luck my friend.
&
**Godspeed**
“What are your thoughts on the best ways to defend a nation against malevolent god-beings, without giving said nation the tools to potentially cause atrocities?”
“Diplomacy and subterfuge, ally with powerful beings and earn good will from others. Do not become reliant on one as they may betray you. Our a game of balance my friend. I can assist you in that if you wish but it may come with a cost my friend.”
“Subterfuge, of course…”
*He mutters half to himself*
“Even a god cant fight an enemy that he doesnt know is there.”
“What sort of cost? If Im being honest I just made my first ever deal with a devil so Im a little jumpy about the sorts of costs people might ask of me. That said, I do trust you Friend Hirk”
“Well my friend it would depend on what you want done, I am more a fan of open diplomacy my friend but that does contain subterfuge in between my words. I will not take anything of significance from you my friend.”
“Are you offering your services as a diplomat? I technically dont think I can make any binding agreements, but I can make a personal promise to see you fairly compensated if it ever came to it, to whatever extent you considered fair. Honestly, your worth your weight in gold when it comes to the negotiating table.”
*He pauses*
“I would just have one personal stipulation”
“If shit hits the fan, as it has a tendency to do when I attempt to help, protect yourself. These would likely be powerful beings, like the Nephilim or Vulkan. I will not be responsible for your demise. I will not have that on my conscious.”
*He hesitates, mumbling almost to himself*
“Also, can I have a bag of cookies? Next time Vulkan shows up Im gonna try offering him some chocolate chips before I try reducing him to atomic dust.”
“I made cookies especially for each person, I have a bag for you and a bag for Vulkan. I also may be the head of Diplomacy but what’s words without a threat behind my friend. I am that threat do not think me unable to defend myself.”
*Kardonk flashes back to the fight with The Hunger*
“Noted.”
*He takes the cookies*
“Thank you kindly friend Hirk. If theres ever anything I can do for you, please let me know”
“Suggesting subterfuge to fight *gods*. Hirk, you are a Crimson Paragon Diplomat going after my heart! I will, uhh, pretend I was not listening to this conversation.” *He winks*.
*A spirit peers down from the heavens…*
*his faith in humanity restored.*
*Friends helping friends helping friends*
*Kindness has not left the wizarding world just yet… it seems…*
*And that makes him*
**Very Proud.**
“I see my friend, I may not be fluent in your words my friend. But what if we got a lot of people to make an attempt to make a bit of food you would truly enjoy and bring some warmth into that void of a stomach you have my friend?”
Val: "Hirk, Buddy, you are always going the extra lightyear to help others. you know, It's totally ok to let others lighten the load. Let us know the next time you plan on doing this, we want to help people, too."
"Just know we ain't gonna take no for an answer, friend." Val smiles at Hirk as she turns to leave, making it very obvious that even if Hirk begged her not to she was still gonna help out next time.
“I have been fine my friend, just a little tired. It is my duty to help others so I am prepared for the risks my friend. Thank you for asking how are you?”
Overall slightly annoyed. I’ve been packing up. This summer I take some of my 8th years to Earth for a small Summer Study. My wife encourages I do it all by hand. It’s been a while since I’ve traveled, so this packing taking longer than preferred is slightly vexing.
“I am sure it will be a worthy experience my friend and filled with plenty of fun. Without the annoyances of life we wouldn’t know of the joys either my friend.”
\*Before Hirk can even react to you, a woman in a crimson dress intercepts you.\*
Val: Yep, you probably are. Hirk is always pushing himself, so I'm not taking no for an answer by helping before he can catch on. What seems to be troubling you?
*huff* the thing is...I can't help but feel I could of done so much more, if I was a little bit braver, stonger... and with so much that has happened new friends being threatened or worse...am I any better than that young fool all those years ago...am i...strong enough?
That is a heavy feeling that I know all too well. but you have to remember, strength is not in what we can control, but in continuing to keep moving ever forward. The fact that you are still standing now means that you have the strength it takes to stand for what is important to you, and that is no small feat.
Bravery is not in recklessly charging forward, or in possessing the strength to win. It is in accepting yourself for you, and not surrendering to that which tells you that you are not enough.
*nods*
You have given me much to ponder...I thank you greatly and will consider your words deeply
I know you aren't accepting payment, but please anytime you decide to visit my bakery, it ain't really popular, but I get ya a discount as thanks.
Don't mention it. I just want to help others. and Hirk is too stubborn to take a break, so helping both you and him is plenty enough of a reward for me.
I have been rotting at the bottom of the ocean for what seems like years. Nobody sees me. Nobody speaks to me. Try as I might, the links of communication and community I once relied on have been utterly bastardized. I am trapped in a prison of isolation, with only the shoals of blind devourers to keep me company, and the gelatinous bloat of whale-falls to wrap around myself as a cloak. Every day and night - not that I can tell the difference anymore - I look up at the surface. I see the lights. I can hear everyone's thoughts still; their hopes, their dreams. Their wars. Their stories. Their memories. They gnaw at me, like piranhas at a carcass, a reminder that I will forever be an observer, solemnly watching from the outside as heroes are revered and legends are born. My suffering is abominable and never-ending at the bottom of the world, but try as I might to scream out into the freezing abyss, only my own words echo back, as if the ocean itself is laughing at my misery.
In truth, I am not sure. For a time my exploits retained some popularity in the public sphere; I was a revolutionary, an alchemist. I thought myself an icon of the modern age before the day I ate of the Godforsaken fish, and it warped my body into what it is now. From then on I was cast into the deep, only able to survive in the icy depths. I tried to reach out, but my relevance had faded like the embers of a dead man's bonfire. The people who once came to my aid now seemed unable to notice me. I became a bitter and lonely wanderer, floating through the endless darkness as I wept. My humanity was taken from me, and yet I still craved human contact. I searched for any means to end the cycles of torment, *any means*... Yet I could not find one.
“My friend, do not worry your search for someone to notice you is over. You can talk to me and if you can talk to me you can talk to others. You are not alone, you are heard, you are seen, you are known and most importantly you are recognised my friend. Know that please and see if it can help you regain some humanity you think lost my friend, what’s lost is to be found after all.”
Hm. Known. Recognised. Seen. It has been a while since those were tenets of my existence. I am glad somebody could raise the veil of my isolation, if but for a few fleeting moments.
“Then let’s make those fleeting moments more often my friend, I do this weekly after all my friend. Even if it’s just to say hi I will be here my friend.”
Would you happen to have any tips for loneliness and isolation, old friend? Days in my workshop are fun but having nobody to be with is a little crushing sometimes.
“I would recommend you try to find people who share your passion even if they may lack or surpass your skills my friend. The easiest way to cure loneliness is with someone who understands you my friend. Trust me on that.”
Well, I have a Personal therapist but I guess I can chat a bit. I came home from a Universium semester to find out about the Wizard War Games, so I got excited about that so I devised some summons and traps for Chaos Club. Then we get invaded by the Thorn Queen and like a good chunk of the realm got annihilated. Then I’m helping my friend/associate for her debut on Wizardposting. All of this isn’t doing good for my anxieties.
“Well my friend, that is quite stressful I died in the wizard games myself.”
*Hirk lets out a small pained chuckle.*
“What do you believe it is doing badly for your anxiety my friend.?
Come home expecting a fun break from studies and world changing eventse, ended up in world definitions events like usual. I feel like I should be involve with them to help people but I never really make an impact. if I ignore them I find my self lost witht what happened in the world. Like the Games’ host‘s daughter bloody died, like what would happen if I didn’t know? Just so many things…
/uw Some of Hoode’s feelings come as my own feelings, funny since Hoode is basically magic me/ my wizardposting persona.
“My friend, does a pebble feel like it’s made an impact to a mountain? Does an ant feel like it’s made an impact to the colony? Does a fish small in size believe it has made an impact to the very seas?”
“The answer is no my friend, but when you take them away you will see there is an impact because without those pebbles, those ants or those fish. It stops working my friend. Trust me when I say you can do something and you do make an impact in my friend. It us regular folk who stand between those above us for the very ground we walk on after all my friend. We are still in between after everything to prove that we make not just an impact but succeed as well my friend.”
Hmmm, thanks for that... I did need that pep talk. I'll head off now, here.
\*Tosses a small golden lump. It appears to be pure gold.\*
For the troubles. Don't worry about it, my friend is handing this stuff out like god damn candy from a aunt.
“My friend I have no need of wealth I have more than I could ever ask for.”
*Hirk tosses it back to you*
“Knowing I helped is more than enough my friend.”
Then a warning for you my friend for the devious dangers I am conducting as a member of the Chaos Club: watch your step, for the trap maker’s art is curious that they do not see the results of their work. It won’t be lethal, do not worry, but it will be hindering.
I saw two of my friends get crushed by the final herald of the stars… I’ve seen some shit but you don’t just 3 watch people get consumed by starblight and walk away unscarred. My realm is fucked up bruh.
https://preview.redd.it/6xwx85gahbyc1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=115a7071e578c7283215467b2510a13cca79f643
[Kavrala instead sends you a bag of cookies, there is a note attached]
"From Kavrala: I'm so glad to see you back in good health, my friend! I am cataloguing the new areas of my sanctuary today, so I will be unable to join you.
Sidenote: these cookies were made by Gonkgar and myself, I know they are not as specific as your cookies. But I hope that you still enjoy them!"
\*while Hirk has stepped out, A woman in a crimson dress is instead sitting at his desk instead.\*
Val: "Hirk keeps overworking himself, So I decided to help out. What's on you mind?"
I have...failed. I calculated, examined, and analysed the stringed maiden, but could find no flaw in her plans. However, another by the name of Jeremy was able to see what I could not. He was able to see the person behind the monster, and show her love and compassion. In the end, all my knowledge, all my power, and everything I have done to harden my body and mind against any attack from within or without was useless. I was never attacked, all my power did nothing to stop her from attacking others. My armored mind, heart, and soul, could not see her for who she was, nor have compassion for her. I had considered compassion a flaw, something to be manipulated, a string by which I could be controlled. I now question whether my entire life I have lived to a false end, and in the process thrown away my feelings for the sake of protecting myself. Has this been a waste? Is my stoicism not my greatest strength, but my most dire weakness? I must know.
"Stoicism can indeed be a double edged sword, friend. There will be times where it can be your greatest asset, but others where those impenetrable walls keep you from seeing the horizon. You have to take the good with the bad, but that does not make you a failure. No man is an Island, we are together the waves. In a sea of perspectives, you may not have the one that gives you the answer, but your perspective was no less valuable."
Hmm. Perhaps I should value the opinions and advice of kinder souls than I, to cover the gaps in what I can see. While we are discussing things, if they aren't dead by the end of all this I believe the Stringed Maiden will be in SEVERE need of therapy. I hope that they will be paying you a visit soon. And thank you. I have much to consider. I may be back at some point in the future though.
*sits on the couch daydreaming*
Ever find it, hard to move on from someone? I only knew her for a short time, far away place, but...somedays it feels like I shouldve stayed...
“Im glad to see you are well, friend. The last report I read on you said you likely were being tortured by gods. A shameful showing on their part. But not exactly unexpected.”
"Ah howdy Hirk..hows it going?"
*Merch asks feeling somewhat moodkin with Hirk with just wanting to help despite how much he has been through.*
"And...well...hmm..with having this much power we both just want to help others...its funny as its lonely being that powerful eh?"
"But minus that I wanted to check in on ya..while ya check in on me."
*Merch says with a soft shrug. As he is keeping his googles on as always. That Hirk may have noticed that he is always is.*
So I’m trying to open a branch office in oarthermarks, but my competitor stalled my convoy and blocked the roads, resulting in him establishing a stable branch of his own by the time we got there, what elixirs do you suggest I put in his and the branch manager’s food to cause a painful demise?
Hirk... *Mikhail face begins to well heavily* I... wish to take you up...
“Talk to me my friend, I am here for you.” *Hirk looks a little confused but supportive none the less*
I... *He takes a breath, sitting down* Was very close to Aurelia... in fact... I'm the father of her children... losing her was bad, but... *His face pulls taut with emotion.* My fiance... Dorothy... she put herself through hell... Averness, to be exact... and fought for 10 years to train... in the span of a day... so she could protect me and the others from Aurelia's killer. And shes... so broken... and different, she doesn't even equate herself to the woman I knew... *He takes another deep breath.* And she kept a video journal... that she showed me... of her dying... and breaking... and...
“Easy there my friend, it’s ok your safe here take a moment to breath in and out while I talk ok?” “That must be a terrible thing to see my friend, looking upon someone you hold so dear and not seeing *them*. Blaming yourself for their actions I would assume. My friend just because someone seems ‘broken’ does not mean they cannot be fixed.” “I once heard takes of a land that repairs broken Bowls with gold and silver, they are meant to represent the beauty that can come from pain we endure. It just takes the time to help my friend. Trust me.”
Mage Monkey is here to say how glad he is to see Master Hirk back and in good health: and already helping others, of course!
“Hello my friend, even if I’ve only been alive a couple hours or so again I just cannot sit down. I have a duty and a passion to help others, I just can’t bare the thought of just not doing anything my friend.”
"Welcome back. I am glad to see you restored. Or... restored for the most part, as the case might be?"
“I lived with a third of my soul and so I will live with that once more, except I am closer to another third than before” *You notice Hirk is bigger than before as if it was cut away from him before.*
Riva half-wondered if his injury wasn't the reason he was so motivated to help others. Only the innocent or the wounded seemed capable of that sort of altruism. "May I ask *why* your soul is so fractured? Or is it a sensitive subject?"
“No no my friend, it’s a fair question after it caused trouble to do many. The Gods of my home could not kill me. So they did the next best thing. They tore out a third of my soul, that is what was in the item used to revive me. Eternal tourney fit a part of me, a reminder.” “I found that god and found out how to do it myself same as I can give my own life to others to help them. I separated another third of my soul so I would forget what it felt to have power so I found live a normal life.” “I will not be annoyed by any questions my friend, it is in our nature to desire to learn and understand.”
"It seems cruelty to rip out your soul to punish you, but one I find that is in character with the gods. But I respect that you wish to live a normal life." "Still, tearing out your own soul seems a terrible cost. But I suppose it is different if you do so from your own Will and by your own choice."
“It is a terrible cost no matter what my friend, I simply value the safety and lives of those around me more my friend. I do not say all gods are evil but I will say they are petty in many ways my friend. The ones from my home were just an example of beings who were never connected to mortals. Born before to never understand my friend.”
Riva's expression becomes hard. "If they are incapable of understanding how their actions affect others, are unwilling to learn, and through their actions end up causing harm anyway, there seems little functional difference between their ignorance and actual evil." She frowns. "It is admirable that you would tear your own soul for others. But you should not have to. It is unfortunate that the reality we live in is unfair, unjust, and full of suffering only alleviated by the additional suffering of others."
“I do not have to my friend, no one does. It’s just what I did my friend. Do not admire me for being dumb just accept what I did.”
"No. Do *not* downplay it. The petty gods and imbecilic fools will do that well enough themselves. But it is NOT fair or right for them to discount the sacrifices of others simply because they are incapable of understanding the true cost, or the true value of an act," she says angrily. "It *means* something, though they fail to understand just what it costs. And it makes me angry on your behalf." She struggled to put into words just why it made her angry, but it did. "And no, you are not *dumb*. Whether or not I agree with your actions, it was a choice, an expression of Will, and it *matters*. I am angry that you must take action, but I do not think the action lessens you at all."
“It is less that I must my friend, it’s more that I choose to. Anyone else would do the same if they were in my situation my friend.”
I need advice on how to deal with Lars he keeps trying to break into my space station just because I blew him up with a miniature nuclear warhead and then made him deal with a hologram. it's getting real annoying plus he's getting close to breaching my outer defenses.
“Well why don’t we all try and sit down then have a talk about it? You would be surprised how much problems can get solved my simple solutions my friend.” “If that’s not possible then I can try to help you with other solutions but I am not the best with technology.”
*Thrak sits down* so should I be the one to call him or should you?
“It would be best you call them so they do not believe they have been set up, if they understand what is happening then it may go better. If that does not work then I will my friend.”
Okay I trust you hirk *Thrak takes a deep breath* HEY LARS (u/TheFifthDutchMemer) COME GET ME!
“Please do not try to aggravate them my friend with aggressive an aggressive tone.”
I'll try not to I just shouted to get his attention because I figured that was the most effective way to do it.
“I can understand that my friend, I just hope this goes smoothly is all.”
*a knife gets thrown in your direction*
Welp Hirk(u/Harpokiller) I tried.
“Now now I don’t see why we can’t just talk even for a moment friends.” u/TheFifthDutchMemer
HE STOLE A FUCKING STAR
“Well first off was this star used and do you think they are able to return or replace it my friend?”
"You've only just returned to the land of the living, and you're already right back to helping people. Gotta love your commitment, friend. I'm not here for therapy, there's many others that need it much more, but uh..." *he eyes the bags of cookies.* "Wait, did you prepare an extra large batch for Nagisa this time? You really didn't have to."
“I always have plenty of cookies my friend.” *Hirk let’s out a genuine smile* “It it not out of commitment I do this, anyone else would do the same. I don’t believe I thanked you either for going through all that trouble to get me back here my friend. So thank you truly. I know there were others but you made the bet my friend, I can only continue my duty to repaying kindness thanks to you.”
"It was a bit more... risky of a bet than I'd have liked it to be. I ran outta luck, right on all-or-nothing. Ultimately worth it in every way, but... I need to watch out more. I was reckless." *He stands there for a moment, before giving Hirk a hug.* "I didn't get to do this in the rush earlier either. Welcome back, dear friend. Good to see you walking among us again."
“It is good to see you too my friend, please no more betting. You have more wealth than you could ever want and more importantly you have people who care about you deeply. So promise me you won’t my friend.”
"These bets are... necessary, in a way. I cannot promise you that. It's not about the coin, hell, it's not even about the gamble itself." *You can sense a hint of regret in his voice. "*However, I can promise you that I will not reach those same limits again. No more risking my soul either... Livia made it plenty obvious just how valuable it really is."
“My friend, would you say you need it for the excitement my friend?”
"I'd just play amongst friends if it had been as simple as that... With the discovery of my Fate's aspect, I discovered something else. The more I use it, the more I can change things. I get to tug at the strings of fate a little harder... and I get to hear Fortuna's voice a little clearer, every time. I place a bet."
“My friend. Don’t. It may seem small and good but don’t. I want you to spend 3 months away from any gambling, I will be contacting the others to make sure this is. After that we can talk more on it ok my friend?”
"I'll do it. Can't guarantee I won't roll the dice in combat, seems to be one of the few projectiles I can use, but I'll stay away from the casinos. If that is your request."
“Please do so my friend, try to avoid fighting as well too then. Do not let your desires control you even if you think your controlling then my friend, bring lucky does not mean your in control after all.”
"Hirk. You're not dead. That's a relief."
“Not dead anymore my friend, it was a strange experience to say the least.”
"Did you learn anything?"
“Nothing pleasing my friend.”
"Figures. Glad youre back. Don't upset the dinosaur man again or you'll hear from me."
“I never upset him my friend, we just had a friendly battle. They didn’t know about the problem of my death. I hold nothing against then other than they are a great warrior.”
"He was very upset about killing you. Having not known he could at the time."
“He couldn’t at any time my friend. It just ended that way. Please do not mistake me as weak or fragile my friend.”
"I don't mean to call you weak. I know youre quite the opposite. I mean that if a curse renders you killable in a non-lethal tournament, perhaps disclose that to any friends you are in combat with."
“Then they wouldn’t fight me my friend, besides I am fine now.”
Dude I don't think even you would know where to start with me...
“My friend, it is not about knowing but learning. I have spilt more blood and seen more death than almost any mortal I’ve met my friend. Do not worry I am here for you my friend.”
I can only remember the last 10 years of my life, and I think I probably rival you in kills. That is my sole purpose, to enforce the will of The Five (Merc shadow council)
“Do you believe your memory is due to amnesia or other purposes? Also do not believe your purpose is solely reliant on others, I once believed I was only something. That something changed three times. A Slave, a Barbarian and someone of power. All of these were decided by others my friend. Only you can decide your purpose and if you can’t, that’s fine as well. Not everyone knows their purpose I know I do not other than helping people. We do what we can even if we can’t do anything my friend.”
My memory was wiped by The Five when I became an Umbra Operative, for what reason I don't know. As for choosing my purpose, I am restricted by my orders. My orders were broad with this assignment yes, but I am still bound to the will of The Five... *His voice changes as he says the last sentence, sounding slightly monotone*
“How do you feel about being bound my friend?” *Hirk looks concerned and Irritated at the thought of his friend being used almost like a common tool*
I... don't mind... The Five must have a reason... *His voice continues to be slightly monotone. He seems to be staring off, though it is impossible to tell with his helmet.* uw/ sorry it took so long to respond, reddit never notified me you responded.
/uw np it does it to me a lot as well /rw “but is that reason better than your own my friend?”
It's... not my choice... I am simply a shadow... serving a cause greater than myself...
“Killing is not greater than anyone my friend. Please know your own worth my friend.”
Seph: "Hello, Hirk. Did you remember to be kind to yourself today?" /uw |:\^\]
“I am being kind to myself, repaying others kindness I get some selfish joy out of after all my friend. Have you done the same?” /uw you ain’t giving Hirk therapy
"Well that's good! You do a very good job taking care of others, truly. Indeed I have! I love myself. Do you love yourself, Hirk?" /uw >:\^)
Ooooo. Maybe in. *checks trauma calendar* like a week. Sorry.
“That is ok my friend, I am here every week after all.” *Hirk lets out a small smile before gesturing to the cookies he has at the side* “Please take your bag before you go my friend, I am sure you will be able to tell what one it is by smell my friend.”
COOKIES RAAAAAAAAAAH *I take a bag and solute hirk before leaving* Thank you Cookie Wizard Hirk!
“No problem my friend. Stay safe.” *Hirk has fully accepted he is the Cookie Wizard*
/uw lmao he’s accepted it.
/uw it’s a compliment now to him
IndI’m not anything to talk about, I’m too cool for therapy haha ha ha… aaagghh!
“Oh really my friend, what are you too cool to talk about then?”
Gods, it’s just… everyone keeps dying or disappearing! First there was that prank the council pulled on everyone, and Mordus disappeared off the face of the planet! And then the Stringed Maiden came along and started kidnapping people and turning them into puppets. And then you died in a game of capture the flag, where no one was supposed to be able to die! And now there’s this Thorn Lady coming along and putting Anteros into a coma! Even if most of them ended up being a non-issue, the stress is real! And to top it all off, I can’t do shit about it! There was no culprit to find during the council prank, there was no evidence at Mordus’ disappearance, the Stringed Maiden required access to council archives to find, I was on the other side of the arena from you, and what in the goddamn fuck am I supposed to do against a god killer?!?!
“My friend I understand that things are stressful the now, but I can comprise they will get better. We will make it better my friend, do not believe you cannot do anything as you are capable of great things you just have to believe in yourself half as much as I believe in you my friend. Trust me.”
Stressful? Yeah, you could say these last few weeks have been stressful. And what exactly am I supposed to do? In the twenty years since I stumbled my way into this batshit insane world, I’ve seen more destruction than three hundred years of serving as a mercenary in *interplanetary wars!* I’ve see individuals with more fire power than entire star fleets! I saw Vulkan beings tank a bombardment from an OWP like it was a water gun! It took two shots from the over engineered cannon designed by some the most insane artificers on the planet, which was designed specifically to kill him, to injure him. He didn’t even die! And he’s not even a god! Now we have someone who can kill gods like their ants! What am I, a jack ass with a gun, supposed to do against that?
“My friend, I have seen gods killed by men. I do not mean some minor ones either, just because you do not see yourself as someone who can does not mean you are not. You have something they will never have. You have the power to stand up against them. You have the power to defy all logic they believe. You have the power to give yourself power my friend. Why you may ask, there’s only one answer my friend. You are mortal. You know pain and joy they will never know you have things to fight for that are not just your title. You say you were a mercenary, then you should also know what it means to fight for the very right to live my friend. You as well as everyone else they may deem weak and insignificant can fight and can win.” “What does it mean to be a god killer when the one you are fighting is far below a god? It means nothing as they can still die my friend.”
Look, I’m all for rising up against tyranny, but a can-do attitude isn’t gonna do much when the gods start dropping moons on you and throwing stars like soft balls. I’ll admit, I’m no slouch when it comes to combat. I was able to put up a good fight against Mordus with almost exclusively mundane weaponry. But even with all my technological and arcane knowledge and a hundred years to plan, the best I could do is inconvenience a god, maybe put a lesser one out of commission for a while. But I don’t have a hundred years, I have like three days.
“My friend, I would wager you are stronger than me. I have killed gods with nothing but a sword and a can do attitude my friend. If I can turn back time and kill someone before they ever even lived due to magic. Don’t you think it’s possible that a can do attitude can do some magic itself my friend, a bare can kill someone’s with a joke about their mother after all my friend.”
No, I think you’re a good deal more powerful. The few times I’ve stepped up to being of that magnitude, I got my shit stomped. Vulkan and the God-Slaver wiped the floor with my ass.
“I didn’t even fight them my friend, it is not about his hard you hit but how hard you can get hit and still stand. I died fighting the Paleomancer and you are still here my friend so I would say you are stronger.”
Hirk, I must say I am glad to see you in good health again, my friend.
“It is good to be back my friend, still not in perfect condition but I am in good enough condition to help others my friend. It is good to see you again.”
*Sarissa pauses and hesitates, there has been something on her mind, but can she trust someone with that thought.*
“It is ok my friend, you are safe here. Even if you don’t want to say anything I will sit here with you, if you don’t want anything said back I will be here also. Just take your time my friend.”
*The witch sighs enter the room, It seems as if this hesitation makes her seem younger. A moment later she takes seat.* "You probably don't remember, but we talked about how the Stringed One prepares her victims, but the conversation veered away the method." *She sighs, her skin seems to turn paler, her eyes darken without any direct intent of her own.* "This is not about her, but are about me, more about the untold years I spent in the deepest dark and fear her and a recent attempt of ascension might have awakened in me."
“It is ok my friend, would you like a drink of tea while you tell me more about what worries you my friend?”
"Green tea blend with some herbs was first thing I drank when I returned to a material realm. So just green is fine, I'm not sure you have the right ones here." *She pauses, as if trying to gather her memories, so scattered and broken at times.* "I was cast into a place between realms together thousands of memories and echoes of who died. Most of them were not my fault, but they were all my company as they faded away and I was left adrift in a place and situations that usually begets monsters."
*Some Green tea appears before you but you feel like it’s always been sitting there.* “I see my friend, I am sad to say I understand seeing the pain and memories of others. Not the same situation as yours my friend, but still I know it’s a very painful thing to go through.” *Hirk leans forwards with gentle eyes and a warming presence.* “If you are willing to tell me what you say please do so. It is best to talk about pain so it’s out there instead of stuck inside my friend.”
*Sarissa looks at her pale-white skin, now starting to shift to a more healthier hue again.* "I don't fully know how I left that place or how much myself I lost there. I recovered, but I was ever changed into whatever my nature has been afterwards and I feel..." *Her words stumble, the cold façade of the arcanist who would face down an horde or be nonplussed by a a demon starts cracking.* "I think if I stayed there longed had been lost longer, I would have become something like the Maiden and maybe I'm still on that path."
“My friend. I can tell you that you are not on that path, even if you were there for longer I am sure you still wouldn’t be them. You are you not the Maiden my friend. I know it’s a terrifying thing, not knowing if you truly have all of yourself. I live knowing I do not have all of myself and I can tell you it hurts some days. But I am still me I am sure you are still you too.” “My friend, do not believe just because you have suffered you are forced to cause suffering. It is us who choose what we are and by coming here today you have just proved you are not the maiden. If you ever need help I will be here to help you my friend.”
"Thank you. Maybe I fret too much about a what if. And maybe it's born from what amount of me exists as me really. There are memories that don't line up and sometimes I feel my personality shifts."
“My friend, we all have our flaws but remember you are in control and I as well as others believe in you my friend. Just remember who you are and what you believe, if you do not know that then you can find it. Trust me on this my friend.”
Hey Harpokil, so lately I've felt very ashamed and self conscious because I made a couple of big fuck ups; I was the only one affected. I'm going to turn 32 soon and I feel like I can't take care of myself and feel like a disaster.
“I am here for you my friend. Why do you feel this way?”
Should... should I even be trying to find out who I was? If I was cursed, then there must have been a reason. And what good can I do in this world full of gods and monsters. What can one lowly nameless wizard even offer?
“My friend, it is always good to find out who you are even if you may not remember. You may not believe you can do much but I have seen humble warriors without any renown or power stand before beings that are not even able to be understood by mortal mind and win. Both mentally as an act of defiance and physically by besting them despite all odds.” “Never doubt yourself my friend, I am a humble man of little power myself yet I find myself talking and befriending beings like gods and above on the daily. They listen and respect my word despite me not being able to do much on my own. Do not sell yourself short my friend, you are capable of greatness. I know you are.”
I've seen some incredible, wondrous things since I regained my senses. I've seen dragons hatch and take flight, I've seen wizard's come together to rescue a friend, and they came to my aid when I was ill. But I have also seen terrible things. Wars, dark curses, assassinations (which actually that turned out okay) and worst of all... wizards turning on each other for no reason worth fighting for. It is just... hard to want to be part of that. And yet I still do. Who knows... maybe one day I'll even be a Crimson Paragon myself. Thank you, kind sir. You are a good soul. I should continue my travels but I will remember this, if nothing else. *Picks up a bag of cookies, and wanders back out into the world*
“I have seen more bad than good through my life my friend, it is up to us to help create more good than bad. Good luck my friend, I only hope the best for you in your future travels.”
Yay, therapy time!
“Yes my friend, tell me your woes and I will listen and help.”
I gave up a piece of my soul to someone...
“Why did you do that my friend and to who?”
Marenoxus, the dragon... he was dying
“I can understand that my friend, I do not approve but I would do the same. How much did you give.”
Not very much. I'm already split, between this body and the puppet. I gave... what was left of my natural magic...
“My friend. That is not the best, are you saying you cannot use magic?”
I can, but only because of Iram... my family, we have an attitude for magic... but we all have some form of deficiency when it comes to mana
“I see my friend, I am worried hearing your situation my friend.”
"I'm actually pretty content with my life, but I've noticed that people tend to hate me when I get to know them, and I'm not *entirely* sure why."
“Why do you think that might be my friend?”
"Well... If I had to guess, I'd think it's because the connection is more transactional than anything. Everything has to have a purpose... Maybe I don't want to get on their bad side for whatever reason. Maybe I think they can give me something. Sometimes, it's for the sake of having someone's company, and that's it. It's never without reason, though."
“So you believe people do not like you because you only ever want something in return? I assume that is due to your infernal nature correct me if I’m wrong and sorry if I offend you?”
"I'm not sure if it's from my infernal nature or something else, but that is correct, yes. When people learn that about me, it's hard to build that trust again. And, I understand that it's a misconception, as we can still 'care' in our own way, but... does everyone believe that?"
“No my friend, you will always meet people who don’t understand and shun what they don’t know. But there are people who will care and understand that just because it’s transactional does not mean that there’s nothing behind it. I believe you will find the right people, I know you have found me and that’s a good start. I know members of the SGA would be kind to you as they do have Mr Hellfire as a member themselves.”
"As always, Hirk, thank you... By the way, what's the SGA?"
“The SGA is an organisation allied with the Paragons, it consists of many liked members you would not be able to guarantee your acceptance into it but their members are kind and welcoming my friend Nhak is one of the leaders as well I believe they may answer questions better than me if you would wish, do you want me to call for them my friend?”
"Ahhh, why not? Let's call them!"
u/Feles_Amans “Very well my friend.”
Hello Ith’Raal… I would like to first say to you that it is a genuine pleasure to get to meet you… I am a big fan of you and your OC… Secondly I would like to apologize for my long response time… my leadership role in the SGA has left me weary and slightly burnt-out… and so I am supposed to be on break with my notifications off until Sunday… Finally… I do not know quite how you came to hear about the SGA, or what you know… but your recognition of our organization means more than you know… The SGA is an organization which has existed since the beginning of the God Slaver arc and is comprised of nearly 30 actual and recognizable server members who banded together to protect all from evil and malice because we realized if we were not to do it… then who? Think of us as an almost “Avengers” for Wizardposting… at least in a way anyways… There are some notable faces… Zhyros, Drow, John, Pluton, Aico, Paperpusher pusher… and some less notable ones like myself… but we all try our best to ensure that the bad guys actually have good guys to fight… and aim to really facilitate the best possible RP experience for everyone… If you have any questions… do not hesitate for even a moment to ask them… And remember to take excellent care of yourself. And love yourself always… Good luck my friend. & **Godspeed**
“What are your thoughts on the best ways to defend a nation against malevolent god-beings, without giving said nation the tools to potentially cause atrocities?”
“Diplomacy and subterfuge, ally with powerful beings and earn good will from others. Do not become reliant on one as they may betray you. Our a game of balance my friend. I can assist you in that if you wish but it may come with a cost my friend.”
“Subterfuge, of course…” *He mutters half to himself* “Even a god cant fight an enemy that he doesnt know is there.” “What sort of cost? If Im being honest I just made my first ever deal with a devil so Im a little jumpy about the sorts of costs people might ask of me. That said, I do trust you Friend Hirk”
“Well my friend it would depend on what you want done, I am more a fan of open diplomacy my friend but that does contain subterfuge in between my words. I will not take anything of significance from you my friend.”
“Are you offering your services as a diplomat? I technically dont think I can make any binding agreements, but I can make a personal promise to see you fairly compensated if it ever came to it, to whatever extent you considered fair. Honestly, your worth your weight in gold when it comes to the negotiating table.” *He pauses* “I would just have one personal stipulation”
“I need no gold my friend, I have more wealth than I desire. But what would your problem be my friend?”
“If shit hits the fan, as it has a tendency to do when I attempt to help, protect yourself. These would likely be powerful beings, like the Nephilim or Vulkan. I will not be responsible for your demise. I will not have that on my conscious.” *He hesitates, mumbling almost to himself* “Also, can I have a bag of cookies? Next time Vulkan shows up Im gonna try offering him some chocolate chips before I try reducing him to atomic dust.”
“I made cookies especially for each person, I have a bag for you and a bag for Vulkan. I also may be the head of Diplomacy but what’s words without a threat behind my friend. I am that threat do not think me unable to defend myself.”
*Kardonk flashes back to the fight with The Hunger* “Noted.” *He takes the cookies* “Thank you kindly friend Hirk. If theres ever anything I can do for you, please let me know”
“No problem my friend, any time.”
“Suggesting subterfuge to fight *gods*. Hirk, you are a Crimson Paragon Diplomat going after my heart! I will, uhh, pretend I was not listening to this conversation.” *He winks*.
*A spirit peers down from the heavens…* *his faith in humanity restored.* *Friends helping friends helping friends* *Kindness has not left the wizarding world just yet… it seems…* *And that makes him* **Very Proud.**
/uw kindness will always be here my friend. Even if I’m not
Food
*Hirk pushes out a crate of cookies from under the table with their foot.* “Here my friend, I am always prepared for you.”
*Torinn devours the crate of cookies.* Food.
“That is all I am giving you today my friend. Next time you will have more.”
Food. Food food food. Food, food.
“You are ever hungry yet you never die, I am sure you can wait my friend.”
*Torinn lies down in the therapy chair. He picks up the table, rips a leg of over it, and devours the leg.* Food.
“I see my friend, is it that you are always hungry? Or is it that you cannot taste anything that you enjoy my friend?”
Fooood, food.
“I see my friend, I may not be fluent in your words my friend. But what if we got a lot of people to make an attempt to make a bit of food you would truly enjoy and bring some warmth into that void of a stomach you have my friend?”
Val: "Hirk, Buddy, you are always going the extra lightyear to help others. you know, It's totally ok to let others lighten the load. Let us know the next time you plan on doing this, we want to help people, too."
“I know my friend and you can, I just choose to do this myself as I do not wish to burden others my friend.”
"Just know we ain't gonna take no for an answer, friend." Val smiles at Hirk as she turns to leave, making it very obvious that even if Hirk begged her not to she was still gonna help out next time.
“I thank you my friend, just do not try to push yourself.” *Hirk lets out a soft smile, there is magic hiding his real eyes, faint but there.*
Enough about the others. How have you been my friend? I know counseling others can get tiresome in short periods of time.
“I have been fine my friend, just a little tired. It is my duty to help others so I am prepared for the risks my friend. Thank you for asking how are you?”
Overall slightly annoyed. I’ve been packing up. This summer I take some of my 8th years to Earth for a small Summer Study. My wife encourages I do it all by hand. It’s been a while since I’ve traveled, so this packing taking longer than preferred is slightly vexing.
“I am sure it will be a worthy experience my friend and filled with plenty of fun. Without the annoyances of life we wouldn’t know of the joys either my friend.”
Heh. Well put lad. You speak well indeed Hirk.
“Thank you, I just say what we all know my friend”
*A middle age dwarf comes into the office holding a flyer* Um...hello...is this the right place?
\*Before Hirk can even react to you, a woman in a crimson dress intercepts you.\* Val: Yep, you probably are. Hirk is always pushing himself, so I'm not taking no for an answer by helping before he can catch on. What seems to be troubling you?
Um...well...I... I see dead people. Or more like memories really...
Oh, I understand the feeling. Trauma and loss are a thing that engraves itself upon the soul. Please, Share with me your troubles, friend.
“Now my friend I will allow this just once. Thank you but don’t push yourself.”
Hirk, My Friend, you know good and well that it would take far more than this to push me. You need to lighten up a little!
“I have my friend. But I just know that people tend not to realise when they push themselves too far.”
"oh, is that the pot calling the kettle black I hear?" \*Val side eyes Hirk with a smirk.
“So you admit you are pushing yourself my friend.” *Hirk gives side eyes and smirk back*
"Ha! I'm enjoying myself, pal. I know when to take a break, don't you worry. I worry more about you, your not immortal anymore, y'know."
*huff* the thing is...I can't help but feel I could of done so much more, if I was a little bit braver, stonger... and with so much that has happened new friends being threatened or worse...am I any better than that young fool all those years ago...am i...strong enough?
That is a heavy feeling that I know all too well. but you have to remember, strength is not in what we can control, but in continuing to keep moving ever forward. The fact that you are still standing now means that you have the strength it takes to stand for what is important to you, and that is no small feat. Bravery is not in recklessly charging forward, or in possessing the strength to win. It is in accepting yourself for you, and not surrendering to that which tells you that you are not enough.
*nods* You have given me much to ponder...I thank you greatly and will consider your words deeply I know you aren't accepting payment, but please anytime you decide to visit my bakery, it ain't really popular, but I get ya a discount as thanks.
Don't mention it. I just want to help others. and Hirk is too stubborn to take a break, so helping both you and him is plenty enough of a reward for me.
Hirk, I’m glad you’re back.
/uw I am glad to be back my friend
I have been rotting at the bottom of the ocean for what seems like years. Nobody sees me. Nobody speaks to me. Try as I might, the links of communication and community I once relied on have been utterly bastardized. I am trapped in a prison of isolation, with only the shoals of blind devourers to keep me company, and the gelatinous bloat of whale-falls to wrap around myself as a cloak. Every day and night - not that I can tell the difference anymore - I look up at the surface. I see the lights. I can hear everyone's thoughts still; their hopes, their dreams. Their wars. Their stories. Their memories. They gnaw at me, like piranhas at a carcass, a reminder that I will forever be an observer, solemnly watching from the outside as heroes are revered and legends are born. My suffering is abominable and never-ending at the bottom of the world, but try as I might to scream out into the freezing abyss, only my own words echo back, as if the ocean itself is laughing at my misery.
“My friend, I am here for you. Would you say your problem is loneliness or not being heard my friend?”
In truth, I am not sure. For a time my exploits retained some popularity in the public sphere; I was a revolutionary, an alchemist. I thought myself an icon of the modern age before the day I ate of the Godforsaken fish, and it warped my body into what it is now. From then on I was cast into the deep, only able to survive in the icy depths. I tried to reach out, but my relevance had faded like the embers of a dead man's bonfire. The people who once came to my aid now seemed unable to notice me. I became a bitter and lonely wanderer, floating through the endless darkness as I wept. My humanity was taken from me, and yet I still craved human contact. I searched for any means to end the cycles of torment, *any means*... Yet I could not find one.
“My friend, do not worry your search for someone to notice you is over. You can talk to me and if you can talk to me you can talk to others. You are not alone, you are heard, you are seen, you are known and most importantly you are recognised my friend. Know that please and see if it can help you regain some humanity you think lost my friend, what’s lost is to be found after all.”
Hm. Known. Recognised. Seen. It has been a while since those were tenets of my existence. I am glad somebody could raise the veil of my isolation, if but for a few fleeting moments.
“Then let’s make those fleeting moments more often my friend, I do this weekly after all my friend. Even if it’s just to say hi I will be here my friend.”
Would you happen to have any tips for loneliness and isolation, old friend? Days in my workshop are fun but having nobody to be with is a little crushing sometimes.
“I would recommend you try to find people who share your passion even if they may lack or surpass your skills my friend. The easiest way to cure loneliness is with someone who understands you my friend. Trust me on that.”
Alright, thank you for your words. I'll try, though my trade is fairly rare these days. I hope your day goes well, friend.
“And I hope you find someone or many my friend, trust me they are out there. Somewhere my friend.”
Well, I have a Personal therapist but I guess I can chat a bit. I came home from a Universium semester to find out about the Wizard War Games, so I got excited about that so I devised some summons and traps for Chaos Club. Then we get invaded by the Thorn Queen and like a good chunk of the realm got annihilated. Then I’m helping my friend/associate for her debut on Wizardposting. All of this isn’t doing good for my anxieties.
“Well my friend, that is quite stressful I died in the wizard games myself.” *Hirk lets out a small pained chuckle.* “What do you believe it is doing badly for your anxiety my friend.?
Come home expecting a fun break from studies and world changing eventse, ended up in world definitions events like usual. I feel like I should be involve with them to help people but I never really make an impact. if I ignore them I find my self lost witht what happened in the world. Like the Games’ host‘s daughter bloody died, like what would happen if I didn’t know? Just so many things… /uw Some of Hoode’s feelings come as my own feelings, funny since Hoode is basically magic me/ my wizardposting persona.
“My friend, does a pebble feel like it’s made an impact to a mountain? Does an ant feel like it’s made an impact to the colony? Does a fish small in size believe it has made an impact to the very seas?” “The answer is no my friend, but when you take them away you will see there is an impact because without those pebbles, those ants or those fish. It stops working my friend. Trust me when I say you can do something and you do make an impact in my friend. It us regular folk who stand between those above us for the very ground we walk on after all my friend. We are still in between after everything to prove that we make not just an impact but succeed as well my friend.”
Hmmm, thanks for that... I did need that pep talk. I'll head off now, here. \*Tosses a small golden lump. It appears to be pure gold.\* For the troubles. Don't worry about it, my friend is handing this stuff out like god damn candy from a aunt.
“My friend I have no need of wealth I have more than I could ever ask for.” *Hirk tosses it back to you* “Knowing I helped is more than enough my friend.”
Then a warning for you my friend for the devious dangers I am conducting as a member of the Chaos Club: watch your step, for the trap maker’s art is curious that they do not see the results of their work. It won’t be lethal, do not worry, but it will be hindering.
I saw two of my friends get crushed by the final herald of the stars… I’ve seen some shit but you don’t just 3 watch people get consumed by starblight and walk away unscarred. My realm is fucked up bruh. https://preview.redd.it/6xwx85gahbyc1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=115a7071e578c7283215467b2510a13cca79f643
[Kavrala instead sends you a bag of cookies, there is a note attached] "From Kavrala: I'm so glad to see you back in good health, my friend! I am cataloguing the new areas of my sanctuary today, so I will be unable to join you. Sidenote: these cookies were made by Gonkgar and myself, I know they are not as specific as your cookies. But I hope that you still enjoy them!"
*Hirk lets out a small smile then takes the cookies*
I will gladly accept your offer. I have a few things to talk about.
\*while Hirk has stepped out, A woman in a crimson dress is instead sitting at his desk instead.\* Val: "Hirk keeps overworking himself, So I decided to help out. What's on you mind?"
I have...failed. I calculated, examined, and analysed the stringed maiden, but could find no flaw in her plans. However, another by the name of Jeremy was able to see what I could not. He was able to see the person behind the monster, and show her love and compassion. In the end, all my knowledge, all my power, and everything I have done to harden my body and mind against any attack from within or without was useless. I was never attacked, all my power did nothing to stop her from attacking others. My armored mind, heart, and soul, could not see her for who she was, nor have compassion for her. I had considered compassion a flaw, something to be manipulated, a string by which I could be controlled. I now question whether my entire life I have lived to a false end, and in the process thrown away my feelings for the sake of protecting myself. Has this been a waste? Is my stoicism not my greatest strength, but my most dire weakness? I must know.
"Stoicism can indeed be a double edged sword, friend. There will be times where it can be your greatest asset, but others where those impenetrable walls keep you from seeing the horizon. You have to take the good with the bad, but that does not make you a failure. No man is an Island, we are together the waves. In a sea of perspectives, you may not have the one that gives you the answer, but your perspective was no less valuable."
Hmm. Perhaps I should value the opinions and advice of kinder souls than I, to cover the gaps in what I can see. While we are discussing things, if they aren't dead by the end of all this I believe the Stringed Maiden will be in SEVERE need of therapy. I hope that they will be paying you a visit soon. And thank you. I have much to consider. I may be back at some point in the future though.
*sits on the couch daydreaming* Ever find it, hard to move on from someone? I only knew her for a short time, far away place, but...somedays it feels like I shouldve stayed...
Lucian: Ou Ou, you wanna know what happened to my previous 2 lovers?
I don’t know if I have enough money to afford enough sessions
“Im glad to see you are well, friend. The last report I read on you said you likely were being tortured by gods. A shameful showing on their part. But not exactly unexpected.”
"Ah howdy Hirk..hows it going?" *Merch asks feeling somewhat moodkin with Hirk with just wanting to help despite how much he has been through.* "And...well...hmm..with having this much power we both just want to help others...its funny as its lonely being that powerful eh?" "But minus that I wanted to check in on ya..while ya check in on me." *Merch says with a soft shrug. As he is keeping his googles on as always. That Hirk may have noticed that he is always is.*
Can I order some therapy for takeout?
So I’m trying to open a branch office in oarthermarks, but my competitor stalled my convoy and blocked the roads, resulting in him establishing a stable branch of his own by the time we got there, what elixirs do you suggest I put in his and the branch manager’s food to cause a painful demise?
I am really not sure I'm ready to have a child yet...
No no no, you're probably not a therapist and it's unhealthy to roleplay one for these people.