I had the same feeling, but... I had to be certain, with the way things change here.
[He exhales a little sigh of relief, there.]
At least that gives me an idea of who else I need to protect. [A pause, before:] Shishimaru and I decided to try to protect any gods who fell to zero, after what happened to Fortune. We have yet to speak with Ruin, but considering the standings... we intend to make an effort. I will try to ensure we find a way to keep Luke safe, while we're at it.
... we've spoken on occasion, but yesterday was the first time we've truly exchanged information, I think. He asked if I intended to come back to you, but he's apparently aware of my current ability, so I believe he understands why I have not.
[With a shake of his head, he adds, quieter:]
He told me someone had forced his hand in defection and that he was considering joining you, but... I suppose I should have been more convincing. With him, and with Nito-kun when he needed to follow someone new.
No, it's alright. As long as Luke stays safe, I don't mind my position.
[Ioonnn...]
I merely asked because I gave him some information that I don't think has come to light in any other regard. I wanted to speak with you, first, in case there's any confusion or misunderstanding.
I've made an alliance with another deity--one that's proven to be more assertive where it comes to recruiting followers to their cause. They've assured me that, in the event of their victory, I'll be given the platform that I need to work in tandem with them, as their mediator.
--are you able to tell me which one you've made this agreement with? I cannot say I dislike it as a backup plan, but I do hope that you will not rely on it much.
I still hope to win this on my own, so this is merely...a means to ensure that I can contribute with as much dedication as I may to the betterment of our future world, as well as the futures of my followers.
[Ishi takes a minute or two to consider that-- and eventually, he nods. The concern is still there, but it is somewhat eased.]
He hasn't struck me as the sort to go back on an agreement, so-- if it should come to the worst, and if I should fail you fully in the end... I'll at least support him for that. But I do not intend to let such a thing happen.
[Another pause, before:]
I have a couple of related questions, actually, if you are able to answer them.
First... it's evidently possible to be unaffected by curfew in order to kill, or we wouldn't have anyone but Merriment's following doing so. Are there other circumstances under which it can be broken?
I see. That's unfortunate, then... I'd hoped to find a way to bring Luke along with us to keep an eye on him, if he's willing, but I do not especially want to carry him around all night.
[like, he will? absolutely he will. but that is going to be a problem if he's gotta.]
I will see what I can do for him, then. I wasn't entirely joking about just carrying him if it comes to that.
But that relates to my other question, actually-- I am not sure how far favors are allowed to extend, but would it be possible for a god to allow the use of their abilities by someone who's not currently a follower? Even if just temporarily.
Though I must warn you in advance, if we end up protecting another god, I-- do not know what the situation will be. I would prefer not to bring you directly into any danger, so... perhaps we could leave him with you? You aren't vulnerable, so it would be less dangerous than having him with us, potentially near someone who is.
Certainly! Truth be told, I'd be glad for the company, myself.
[It's much less lonely than sitting around wondering if someone you love is being stabbed.]
I'd absolutely keep him safe. Especially now that I'm a god...I'm a little bit better at defending myself. Even if the rules keep me from interfering, I can still put up a good front.
I suppose letting us know if anything should happen would be interfering, wouldn't it... but regardless, you're certainly the person I would trust most with his well-being.
I'll speak with him about it, though I doubt he would say no.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
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[for the memories as much as the song itself, really. but as he takes a seat, there's definitely concern written on his face.]
I came to speak with you about something else, though. Luke is still with you, isn't he?
[he really doesn't want to think he'd be the one who left, but.]
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[Ion's cheeks light up in a fate flush, a touch of sadness, but maybe some other indescribable emotion, swirling in his eyes. He nods.]
Yes, he hasn't gone anywhere. I have a feeling he'd be hard pressed to leave even if I asked him to.
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[He exhales a little sigh of relief, there.]
At least that gives me an idea of who else I need to protect. [A pause, before:] Shishimaru and I decided to try to protect any gods who fell to zero, after what happened to Fortune. We have yet to speak with Ruin, but considering the standings... we intend to make an effort. I will try to ensure we find a way to keep Luke safe, while we're at it.
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[Ion bows his head, his hands touched together in his lap. Still bowing, silent, Ion pauses before speaking again.]
Do you exchange information quite often with Ray?
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[With a shake of his head, he adds, quieter:]
He told me someone had forced his hand in defection and that he was considering joining you, but... I suppose I should have been more convincing. With him, and with Nito-kun when he needed to follow someone new.
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[Ioonnn...]
I merely asked because I gave him some information that I don't think has come to light in any other regard. I wanted to speak with you, first, in case there's any confusion or misunderstanding.
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[ION. PLEASE.]
--but what is it you'd like me to know?
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I've made an alliance with another deity--one that's proven to be more assertive where it comes to recruiting followers to their cause. They've assured me that, in the event of their victory, I'll be given the platform that I need to work in tandem with them, as their mediator.
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[Ion smiles.]
Cunning.
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He hasn't struck me as the sort to go back on an agreement, so-- if it should come to the worst, and if I should fail you fully in the end... I'll at least support him for that. But I do not intend to let such a thing happen.
[Another pause, before:]
I have a couple of related questions, actually, if you are able to answer them.
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[In typical fashion, he's as open and honest as a well-read book.]
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The only way that curfew can be broken is with an intent such as that--to eliminate another competitor on behalf of your aligned god.
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[like, he will? absolutely he will. but that is going to be a problem if he's gotta.]
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[But, you know, the Obvious Problem with that.]
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[He shakes his head, with a soft sigh.]
I will see what I can do for him, then. I wasn't entirely joking about just carrying him if it comes to that.
But that relates to my other question, actually-- I am not sure how far favors are allowed to extend, but would it be possible for a god to allow the use of their abilities by someone who's not currently a follower? Even if just temporarily.
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[Ion pauses, thoughtful.]
I wouldn't be much use for physical strength, but I can help...at least keep you company.
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[Ishi offers him a warm smile, there, grateful.]
Though I must warn you in advance, if we end up protecting another god, I-- do not know what the situation will be. I would prefer not to bring you directly into any danger, so... perhaps we could leave him with you? You aren't vulnerable, so it would be less dangerous than having him with us, potentially near someone who is.
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[It's much less lonely than sitting around wondering if someone you love is being stabbed.]
I'd absolutely keep him safe. Especially now that I'm a god...I'm a little bit better at defending myself. Even if the rules keep me from interfering, I can still put up a good front.
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I'll speak with him about it, though I doubt he would say no.
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[Ion lets out a breath, his hands going over his heart. Slowly, he smiles.]
I wish I could give you any more direct help than I'm allowed, but at least, if nothing else, I can perhaps be a deterrent.