Sorry for the long delay. Work has been draining to say the least. Now I'm back and hopefully can get the last few chapters up soon and draw this story to a close. Never intended for the story to draw out this long, but I guess that's part of the creative process. You can't rush it along without risking inconsistencies or unrealistic character development.
Welcome back! Don't fret about the delays, we are quite accustomed to such minor inconveniences here.
The chapter is good, the Emperor is being slowly (or maybe not that slowly anymore) subverted by Ben. Soon enough, he will ensnare her completely and she'll transform into a grandma who spoils her grandchild. What's next, baking Christmas cookies, together with the other children?
Sorry for the long delay. Work has been draining to say the least. Now I'm back and hopefully can get the last few chapters up soon and draw this story to a close. Never intended for the story to draw out this long, but I guess that's part of the creative process. You can't rush it along without risking inconsistencies or unrealistic character development.
Welcome back! Don't fret about the delays, we are quite accustomed to such minor inconveniences here.
The chapter is good, the Emperor is being slowly (or maybe not that slowly anymore) subverted by Ben. Soon enough, he will ensnare her completely and she'll transform into a grandma who spoils her grandchild. What's next, baking Christmas cookies, together with the other children?
Although not directly related to Outsider, now I really want to see Gowron slowly but surely turn into a softie. Problem is a Klingon turning soft is likely to be 'replaced' by a 'klingon promotion' (someone will 'off' him).
I once found a meme where Gowron was declaring that he would never return federation terrirory he gained during the brief fed/klingon spat over Cardassia. Then Sisko shows him a datapad and says, "Here is your receipt for your week at Risa, the massages, and the manicures."
Defeated, Gowron regretfully replies, "You can have your territory."
Sorry for the long delay. Work has been draining to say the least. Now I'm back and hopefully can get the last few chapters up soon and draw this story to a close. Never intended for the story to draw out this long, but I guess that's part of the creative process. You can't rush it along without risking inconsistencies or unrealistic character development.
Welcome back! Don't fret about the delays, we are quite accustomed to such minor inconveniences here.
The chapter is good, the Emperor is being slowly (or maybe not that slowly anymore) subverted by Ben. Soon enough, he will ensnare her completely and she'll transform into a grandma who spoils her grandchild. What's next, baking Christmas cookies, together with the other children?
Minor inconveniences? Ya’ don’t say!
Baking Christmas cookies? Possibly. Most likely turn him to the Union side so they can rule the galaxy as father and… oh whoops wrong storyline..
I mean as adoptive ruler parent and warrior-servant!
The first step to commencing his training is by exploiting the Terran simulations of Halo warfare, Grand Theft Umiak Cruiser and Metroid (Loroi menfolk’s wet dream).
The first step to commencing his training is by exploiting the Terran simulations of Halo warfare, Grand Theft Umiak Cruiser and Metroid (Loroi menfolk’s wet dream).
Then, the Loroi discover how elves they are depicted in MMOs, and decide that Earth does certainly need some orbital "redesigning".
It was well into the afternoon at the West Islet of Ginazaigo by the time the Emperor’s shuttle touched down at the mansion’s landing pad. The Emperor’s armed escort of Stinger aircraft would make a surveillance patrol before landing.
Greywind rose from her seat.“Come, Ben.”
Ben nodded, hopping off his perch. “Okay. Can we finish the comic later?”
“We shall see, Ben,” said Greywind. As silly as human fiction was, Greywind found Batman’s acts of heroism and commitment to upholding order within the city-state of Gotham mildly entertaining. Especially intriguing was the Batman’s Mizol-like intelligence combined with the brilliance of a Listel and stamina of a Soroin, which made him a formidable combatant. The Emperor handed the Batman comic back to Link. >Take these to my private chambers in the mansion.<
Link nodded in compliance. She too managed to sneak a few glances at the colorful pages the Emperor and Ben had read. The two characters that stuck out the most was the Batman warrior’s young ‘sidekick’ (as Ben called him), Robin, whom Link bashfully thought to be so handsome. The other was the obscenely, deranged Joker antagonist, who reminded Link of a nightmarish melor clad for a Whitecap festival.
“Ben, you go with Cotton,” Greywind instructed.
“Are we going to meet the loroi kids?” Ben asked.
“Soon. First I have work to do. We will meet again later today. So be good.”
Ben nodded. “I’ll be extra, extra good.”
>Cotton,< Greywind sent. >Take Ben to his assigned room. But avoid exposing him to the children here. I prefer Ben be presented later when the children are properly prepared.<
>Emperor, won’t they see him now as we enter the mansion?< Cotton asked.
>Not likely. The children are occupied with their lectures for the time being.<
>Understood, your highness.<
-
The ambassadors were escorted to the guest lounge while the Emperor and her Chiefs of Staff went elsewhere. While the ambassadors were being entertained with Deinar music and dance and brought exquisite refreshments by the Soroin servants, it was not enough to distract all of them from the annoying fact that the loroi were conducting business without them. Although it was not the first time loroi had discussions behind closed doors, it did not inspire trust between the alien emissaries and their loroi superiors.
Cha, being the Golem that he was, just sat and enjoyed the telepathic and audible tunes washing over him. Famiris seemed content on just gorging on some imported berries that made his feathers quiver. Arekka were odd, even to the other races. Kablon also just sat back enjoying the Deinar music and dancing.
“Look at those exotic positions,” said Dermo. “Amazing how flexible a loroi body can be. Right, Ziga?”
Ziga, saying nothing, stared blankly into space. Not paying attention to the loroi delicately plucking strings or blowing harmoniously into flutes. Or the acrobatic loroi showing off their dance and bending with seemingly impossible pliability.
Happening to notice Ziga’s distracted state of mind, Dermo asked, “You don’t like the show? Ziga?”
Ziga snapped out of his trance. “Forgive me. What did you say?”
“You’ve been silent for the whole trip, Ziga. What’s the matter?”
“I cannot help but find it odd that the Emperor and her Staff should be having a meeting without us.”
“It’s not the first time, Ziga.” Dermo took a sip of Deinar wine. “We just observe and report back to our respective peoples what we see.”
“Only what our loroi superiors want us to see.”
“That is the price we pay to keep our places by Greywind’s side and stay within the ruling cabinet’s good graces. As long as it does not inconvenience us, let them do as they please.”
Ziga stared down Dermo. “Do as they please? Should they do as they please with Ben?”
“Are you still thinking about that little human? Ziga, let it go. Ever since arriving on Deinar, you’ve been obsessing over that little savage.”
“The little brother is not a savage,” Ziga said defensively. “He is a victim. And a child being taken care of by a people whom he does not understand.”
“And that is bad… how?”
“Dermo, do you not consider it odd that, following Ben’s rescue, the Emperor suddenly decides to change course to Deinar?”
Dermo took a sip of wine before answering flatly, “So?”
“Dermo, have you no concern for the little brother?”
“There is no point in being concerned, Barsam. Ben is in no danger here. And even if he was, so what? Look around you, Ziga. We are surrounded by loroi who know and anticipate everything we think and feel. By the time you realized Ben was in danger, the loroi would stop you before you could even flinch. Why jeopardize your status and position as ambassador over a trivial thing? So fall in line. Take a load off and enjoy yourself.”
Even as Dermo forgot about the Barsam and slouched in his seat to enjoy the Loroi’s entertainment, Ziga could not let go. Perhaps the Neridi was right. Maybe it was pointless worrying about things that were out of Ziga’s control. It would be easier just to entrust Ben’s safety to the loroi. But Ziga knew from his time aboard the Mobile Capital that those in power only safeguarded what was valuable. So if the Emperor was safeguarding Ben, it could only mean that he was valuable to the Emperor. The question was why? What did Ben possess that the Emperor wanted?
-
>I can’t believe it,< sent Stormcry.
Upon arrival, the Emperor led her twelve Councilors and Chief of Staff to a secure conference hall, away from the mansion’s other occupants. Servants and guards were ordered to leave, including the Emperor’s Attendant. Though she was met with some distrust by the Diaderets, only Tempo was permitted to attend at Greywind’s command. Greywind had just finished explaining what she and Tempo had been doing ever since bringing Ben aboard Cry of the Wind. And shared the telepathic imagery of what she had experienced while bonding with Ben in the dreamscape.
>If this is true,< sent Brightsword, >then what is the human doing here? It should be sent to a secure facility where it can be properly studied. Mezan would be the ideal location to keep the human.<
>Brightsword, where is your head?< sent Greywind. >It would be only a matter of time before other Commanders found out the human was being held captive and use such information to undermine us. Too many Torrais are eager to exploit every opportunity to discredit our ruling cabinet.<
>Then why keep the human here at all?< sent Brightsword.
>Because keeping Ben in plain sight will be easier than trying to lock him up in a secret lab,< sent Greywind.
The Council regarded their Emperor with a mix of intrigue and skepticism.
>Think about it,< sent Greywind. >Imagine if we not held Ben as our captive, but raised him.<
>You mean… raise him here… at the creche?!< sent Oirel Lodestone.
>I do.<
>Preposterous,< sent Stormcry. >Remember when the civilians were making motions to possess human orphans? The rest of the Council would not allow it. What makes you think they’ll allow us to keep a human child at a loroi creche.<
>They must if the Union’s constitution allows it,< sent Greywind.
>How so?< asked Brightsword.
The old Emperor turned to her Sentinel. >Tempo, when First Emperor Loremark agreed to the terms presented by the First Interspecies Convention, what was the last article written into the constitution?<
Tempo answered, >In the event a sapient child of any species does not have access to appropriate caregivers, all sapient races (including loroi) are obliged to provide that child with whatever care it needs. Indeed, loroi have the option of adopting said children.<
>Stars!< sent Lodestone. >Emperor, you want to adopt the human?!<
>I do,< Greywind sent back.
Stormcry sent incredulously, >It is ludicrous!<
>It is brilliant,< Greywind defended her point. >And, in the long-run, will make it far easier to keep Ben here on Deinar.<
>But no one adopts aliens,< sent Lodestone. >The few loroi that have tried faced horrific impracticalities. Besides, that law only applies to Union members and subjugated races. Ben is neither. At best the human is a refugee, but that is not enough to stop the Terran authorities from demanding him back once they learn we have one of their own.<
>If I may interject, honorable Councilors,< sent Tempo. >But the Terrans could not demand Ben back if he belongs to the Union.<
>How so, Mizol Torimor?< sent Brightsword.
Tempo continued, >While many races remain strictly as subjugated or independent allies, there are occasionally subjects or defectors who want to embrace the Union as full members. When First Emperor Loremark and the Alien Assembly founded the constitution, numerous amendments had to be added. Among them was the right to seek Union citizenship. Even if Ben were the citizen of an outside nation, he still has the right to join the Union if he consents.<
>Correct,< sent Greywind. >And besides, since it seems quite evident that Ben is the child of a pirate, it suggests that he was born outside of Terran territory. Therefore, he is the citizen of no nation. Since he now lives within our territory, that places him under our jurisdiction.<
>So… if Ben seeks citizenship with the Union,< sent Spirit of Fire, >then that would qualify him for adoption.<
>Exactly,< sent Greywind.
>But I still don’t understand why it matters that you should adopt him, Emperor,< sent Lodestone.
>Because other than learning how to better bypass the human lotai,< sent Greywind, >Ben may have other potential uses.<
>Like what?< sent Brightsword.
>Imagine if our ruling cabinet possessed an elite unit of warrior servants raised and taught to serve and protect us. So long as the human lotai is active, we can utilize it. We could have operatives carrying out espionage missions for us without detection. Our own personal guardians immune to telepathic attacks.<
>And disgrace the proud lineage of our sisters in arms?!< Brightsword sent. >With a human?!<
>Brightsword,< Greywind warned. >I caution you to choose your words carefully. While I am proud of our warrior heritage, it would be arrogant, indeed ignorant, to deny that we have relied partially on the aid of fighters from other races to wage our campaigns. Think about the Barsam mercenaries of Agumo Conference contractors that provided escort for cargo freighters. Or the Plutocrat legions of Kabel that patrolled the fronts of the Tinza Sector. What a difference does it make if we employ humans among our ranks as well?<
A Diaderet named Darkside nodded with a smirk. >It seems… feasible. And such humanity servants, if indeed loyal, could be deployed into Terran territory to monitor the TCA’s activities for us.<
>When you put it that way,< sent Spirit of Fire, >I admit the idea is enticing. Risky, but potentially very rewarding.<
>Wait a moment,< sent Stormcry. >In case anyone has forgotten, humans are terrific liars. Even if we raised Ben here at the creche, even if it swears loyalty to us, that does not mean the human will be truthful. On top of that, it may not qualify to be a warrior in the end.<
>In as much as half of all loroi have failed the trials,< sent Greywind. >I am aware of the potential risks. And am willing to take it. Ben is merely the first of more to come.<
>More?!< sent Stormcry.
>If one human child has a weakness in their lotai, how many others do you think there could be? It is a long shot, yes, but worth exploring.<
>But, Emperor, the TCA would never allow us to adopt human children.<
>We don’t need children from the TCA,< Greywind shot back. Eyes went wide as Greywind sent out her idea.
>In the uncharted regions of the Great Wastelands,< Lodestone sent mildly shocked. >The Terran Raiders! You’re suggesting we take human children from the pirates!<
>Right on, Lodestone.<
>But that would be abduction,< objected Brightsword. >The humanity envoys and universalists of the Alien Assembly would be outraged.<
>Wrong,< Greywind corrected her. >The pirates of the Wastelands are criminals. Their children are victims born into unfortunate circumstances not of their choosing. We would not be abducting, but rescuing them. Bring them to our territory, swear them in as citizens of the empire and they would be ours. We also have the option of screening children that show promise versus those that are certain to be a liability. Any undesirable children we can simply send back to TCA space.<
>But the Terrans would still suspect us,< Brightsword insisted.
>What if we employed humans that could act as part-time guardians with the TCA’s approval?< sent Spirit of Fire. >There are a number of humans working on the colonies along Union borders. If we employ them and show them what we want them to see, they could vouch for us. And be none the wiser.<
>That is doable,< sent Greywind, pleased with the suggestion.
>But sooner or later, the Terrans are liable to demand to know why the Emperor is adopting human children,< sent Lodestone.
>We will officially declare,< sent Greywind, >that we have made a safe haven for humanity children conceived or abducted by human pirates. To promote the idea that humanity and loroi can coexist. You would be surprised how many humans love public displays of philanthropy.<
>You mean a publicity stunt?!< sent Brightsword. >Dishonest and disgraceful.<
>Perhaps,< Darkside chimed in. >But it would work. And deflect suspicions. Who would denounce an act of charity?<
The old Emperor could feel the atmosphere of the room slowly turn in favor of her plan.
>There will undoubtedly be many issues that need to be addressed,< sent Greywind. >But with time can be rectified. All I need is the support and complete discretion of all my Diaderets.<
Silence permeated the room as each Councilor considered Greywind’s plan.
>Emperor, there is an issue that must be addressed,< sent Brightsword. >Ever since that human, Ben, has come into our company, I cannot help but worry over your… state of mind.<
The room fell deathly silent. Even though she concealed it on her face, Greywind went stiff as she locked eyes with Brightsword.
>Oh?< Greywind asked.
>Emperor, have you not realized how much time you have spent to simply be with that human? One might think that you’ve been taken by him.<
That made the old Emperor’s eyes vex. >Taken? What do you mean by that?<
>Emperor, you and this human have been bonding subconsciously ever since his arrival. With all due respect, how can you be sure it is not influencing your decisions?<
Greywind rose from her chair. >You dare accuse me of being so weak-minded?! That I would allow a human child to overturn my decisions as commander and chief?!<
>Well, I certainly hope not. But your abnormal behavior as of late might prove otherwise,< Brightsword shot back. The dead silence in the room along with the serious looks from the other loroi was all the inclination Brightsword needed to add formally, >Your highness.<
>Peace, comrades,< Lodestone sent, rising to her feet. >Peace! Brightsword, you are inclined to your opinion. But be mindful that you are addressing our emperor. For the sake of your position, I suggest you apologize.<
For a long moment, Brightsword just stared at Lodestone. Allowing her anger to deflate, Brightsword simply sent back, >My apologies.<
>Anyway,< sent Lodestone, >while I highly doubt that Greywind would ever be so susceptible to telepathic influence, assuming the human is even capable of that, it seems only fair to request the Emperor to scrutinize herself.<
Greywind looked at her cousin, stunned that she would side with Brightsword.
>Emperor, I have backed every one of your decisions and defended you to the bitter end,< Lodestone sent sincerely. >But Brightsword makes a valid point. You have said yourself that you value my honesty. Now are you absolutely certain that the human has not affected your judgement? Not even in the slightest? If we are to support your plan, we must be assured that you are of sound mind!<
Resisting the urge to tighten her fists, Greywind stared back at her cousin before switching her gaze down at the table. >I… would be ignorant to completely deny the possibility,< sent Greywind begrudgingly. >But I know my own mind. I have not lost focus on my duties. If there were even a chance that my psyche has been compromised, it would be obvious to me by now.<
>If I may make a counter argument, your highness< sent Darkside. Greywind granted it. >Even if the human could somehow influence your behavior or decisions, does it not seem logical that the human could be influenced in turn?<
Greywind swung her gaze up at Darkside. >What are you suggesting?<
>Emperor, I would propose a test,< sent Darkside. >As a way to confirm that the human has no sway over you, I suggest for the Emperor to exercise her powers of influence on Ben.<
>Influence what exactly?< sent Greywind. >The bond only works during sleep. How would we even know we influenced Ben?<
>What about memory editing and power of suggestion?< sent Darkside. All eyes fell on Darkside for making such a suggestion. Several Diaderets wanted to object, but Darkside defended her position, >I understand it seems… not entirely ethical… but it would not be the first time it has been done. When administered correctly, memory editing has helped us gain favorable results when dealing with difficult leaders and commanders. Loroi and alien alike.<
A Diaderet named Brightray spoke out, >You’re suggesting that we inflict a psychological injury on a human child just to prove a point?<
>It is not an injury,< Darkside defended. >Memory editing merely convinces a target to overlook details or be convinced of things that are not there. In some cases memories can we wiped out or suppressed. And 'power of suggestion' is merely a Mizol's way of more directly making a subject compliant. According to the Emperor, Ben seems to be distressed over his abandonment. So why not alleviate the human’s troubles by erasing its memory of its mother? On top of that it would incline the human to embrace its new caregivers.<
>Darkside is not mistaken,< sent Spirit of Fire. >It would also prove that humans may be malleable for our future attempts to delve into other human minds should we learn how to more effectively bypass the human lotai. Imagine what we could accomplish if we can influence humanity emissaries. Political figures. Military officers. And the juicy intel we could gain.<
Now the idea of keeping Ben became more enticing to the assembled loroi as they exchanged their excitement. Even though Brightsword found it intriguing, she was still reluctant to bless it.
Greywind called order to the table. >Quiet! It is not your place to dictate what I will and will not do with Ben.< Silence permeated the group as the loroi regarded their Emperor with mixed feelings. Greywind sat back down. >But… the point is made. If you require a demonstration, then a demonstration you shall have. Under two conditions. First that you all agree to support this plan and keep this information confidential.< Greywind smashed her fist onto the table to emphasize. >Strictly confidential! And second: the manner in which Ben's mind is tampered will be done my way.< She stuck up an index finger for emphasis. >My way!<
>Emperor, even if we can keep this secret, what about our other fellow Diaderets spread across the Union?< asked Lodestone. >We are obliged to bring them up to speed as well.<
>None of you need concern yourselves with that,< Greywind assured them. >I will take it upon myself to inform the rest of the Council of our discovery and project when we are all assembled at our next congression. You just keep your mouthes shut in the mean time.<
>But if they do not approve this project-<
>They will!< Greywind was dead serious. >Believe me, they will.<
A few Diaderets shivered slightly. They knew Greywind always got what she wanted one way or another.
After a minute of contemplation, Lodestone answered first, >I admit I still have reservations about this plan. But I support my Emperor and kin to the bitter end. And if it will strengthen our position agains the TCA, then it will be worth the effort. I approve the plan.<
Spirit of Fire answered, >I approve.<
Darkside sent, >Most definitely.<
Stormcry, after a change of heart, also sent, >I approve as well.<
Though reluctant, Brightray also gave in. >Approved.<
The other Diaderets followed suit and approved the Emperor’s plan. Save for one.
>Brightsword,< Greywind cautioned. >I expect all my Councilors’ compliance.<
Brightsword made one last challenge. >Before I concede, Emperor, I must know one more thing. What is all this for?<
>For the Union,< sent Greywind. >And our best interests.<
>No, Emperor, I mean when it comes to humanity. To the TCA. What is our end goal?<
Greywind briefly contemplated before giving her answer, >Has it not been obvious, Brightsword? Ever since discovering humanity, half the Torrais want to subjugate the humans. The other half want war with the TCA. Even after defeating the Hierarchy, the effects of the war has left many Commanders shaken. Itching for combat. They would have no problem culling off entire colonies just to bring humanity under our control. But the short-sighted idiots don’t realize what it will cost. Not in lives. Not in fuel. Not in ships. Not in money or resources. But the very Union itself. We barely escaped a horrific fate at the hands of the Hierarchy. And humanity’s aid turned the tide against the Shells when the loroi and its allies were pushed to their breakpoints. The Assembly was willing to accept the price we paid for the Great War because submitting to the Hierarchy would have meant slavery… and a slow, laborious, agonizing road to extinction. Now many aliens, both members and subjects alike, are looking for an excuse to dissolve the Union and break away. The Union can only work if its peoples believe in it. The aliens accepted a war for survival. But they will not accept a war we wage in the name of conquest. Our newest generation of warriors are thirsty for violence. It will take years, decades perhaps, of reconditioning before they can be placated. If we go to war with humanity, the carnage could reach catastrophic levels. Even if we try to implement restrictions, we cannot hope to control every action the warriors do in Terran space, far from our directive. Imagery of the battles and deaths of billions of humans will horrify and shake the Assembly to its very foundation. And it is we, my fellow Chiefs, who will be blamed if we approve war to begin with. It is my hope that we may yet persuade humanity to join the Union. With some coercion as it is bound to be necessary. By bypassing the human lotai, not only could we exploit human secrets, we could influence key human figures to be more compliant. And distinguish which humans may be more useful versus those detrimental to our cause. Thus avoid unnecessary conflicts with manageable human population groups and relieve ourselves of humans far too liable for us to handle. Ben will give us what we need to make that happen. And with some luck, perhaps more human children will help us achieve that goal faster. But only if I have your approval.<
Brightsword sighed in defeat. The point seemed abundantly clear and she knew it was unwise to go against Greywind. >I approve, Emperor.<
>Very good.< Greywind rose from her seat. >This meeting is adjourned. And I look forward to seeing you all again for afternoon festivities.< The old Emperor rose from her seat. The Councilors retired to their respective quarters.
Tempo hurried to the Emperor’s side and sent with concern, >Emperor, are you sure you want to attempt this?<
>You do not approve, Tempo?< sent Greywind.
>I…< Tempo hesitated. >I cannot deny my reluctance. But I am dutifully bound to you and will do what is expected of me.<
>We must do this, Tempo. From what I have seen, Lagertha may very well be long gone. I must assume Livewire shall return without her. The sooner Ben can let go of his mother, the easier it will be for him to embrace the loroi.<
>As you wish, Emperor. But what about Listel Cotton?<
>Cotton does not need to know,< sent Greywind. >For the time being at least. Now come! I will have a word with Ben in private.<
Last edited by Snoofman on Sat Oct 28, 2023 2:48 am, edited 12 times in total.
So Greywind wants to raise her own mamluks, as a group of elite warriors that are invisible to sanzai? It is actually quite interesting, especially if they can learn to control their lotai.
So Greywind wants to raise her own mamluks, as a group of elite warriors that are invisible to sanzai? It is actually quite interesting, especially if they can learn to control their lotai.
Funny how in another fic, she decided to banish problematic civilian Loroi to the human worlds, and they ended becoming humanity's greatest assets against the Union under the surnane "Reforged".
Regardless of Greywind's brilliance, I still believe she is underestimating both Ben's influence over her, and his reaction when he finds out what the Emperor is doing.
The only thing worse than having a mom willing to sell you as an asset...is getting a new mother who is also going to use you as an asset.
Last edited by raistlin34 on Tue Jan 11, 2022 8:59 am, edited 1 time in total.
Funny how in another fic, she decided to banish problematic civilian Loroi to the human worlds, and they ended becoming humanity's greatest assets against the Union under the surnane "Reforged".
Regardless of Greywind's brilliance, I still believe she is underestimating both Ben's influence over her, and his reaction when he finds out what the Emperor is doing.
The only thing worse than having a mom willing to sell you as an asset...is having a new mother figure using you as an asset as well.
In fact, this is what people do all the time in one way or another. The main thing is to remain fairly transparent in our actions and maintain the proper degree of mutual trust and respect.
In Dragungfa's fics, the expulsion of civilian opposition and the subsequent allowance of other civilians to emigrate into human space was largely a political decision, the alternative to which was a war with an unknown outcome and the guaranteed collapse of the Union. Under pressure from the Loroi "war" faction, which Graywind tried to resist with varying degrees of success.
Compromise solutions, and even those contained in such a time trouble , have never been particularly good, but the fact that they cost the Union as a whole and Loroi in particular so dearly is a pure coincidence in the long run.
It's funny that in fact it was an expression of the will of the Loroi themselves ... which they later regretted!
Funny how in another fic, she decided to banish problematic civilian Loroi to the human worlds, and they ended becoming humanity's greatest assets against the Union under the surnane "Reforged".
Yes, dragoongfa's fanfics are excellent, but sadly, there weren't any updates recently.
Regardless of Greywind's brilliance, I still believe she is underestimating both Ben's influence over her, and his reaction when he finds out what the Emperor is doing.
The only thing worse than having a mom willing to sell you as an asset...is having a new mother figure using you as an asset as well.
If she words this well enough, it might even work. If not, she's a Mizol, I think that there are mountains of skeletons from people that she "disappeared". Just kidding.Or am I?
It's funny that in fact it was an expression of the will of the Loroi themselves ... which they later regretted!
This was also an ideological decision. After all, the civilians have the stigma of being "failed" warriors. Getting rid of such pathetic ballast sounded like a good idea at first.
“Hold still, Ben,” said Cotton. “Link is almost done. ”
Link snipped Ben’s golden hair, since he was in need of a trim. After being shown to his new room, Cotton and Link (who had been excused momentarily from her usual duties by the Emperor’s side) washed Ben and now were dressing him for his formal introduction to the loroi children. Now Ben was dressed in a white jumpsuit with gold linings around the wrist sleeves and boot collars. His old shoes were replaced with white boots that slipped onto his feet as smooth as silk.
Giving Ben’s hair one last snip, Link brushed the loose strands from his neck and shoulders before taking a step back to inspect him.
>Excellent work, Link,< sent Cotton.
>It is one of many essential skills as the Emperor’s Attendant, Listel Cotton,< Link answered, impressed with her own handiwork. >But his outfit is still incomplete. Brush his hair while I fetch the final piece.<
Handing the comb to Cotton, Link searched the wardrobe while Cotton brushed Ben’s hair to the side.
“You look so handsome, Ben,” Cotton said with a doting smile. “The girls here are going to love you.”
>Don’t make him too handsome or they might love him too much,< joked Link as she draped his shoulders with an elegant, white cape with black lining along the edges and a reversible, golden surface underneath.
The door slid open to Ben’s room as the Emperor entered with Tempo in tow.
>Your highness,< Cotton and Link sent, bowing formally.
>How is Ben?< Greywind asked.
>All ready,< sent Cotton, turning Ben to face the Emperor.
>If I may say so, Emperor, we might have a tough time keeping the young ones off of him,< Link sent with a grin.
Although Link and Cotton laughed at the joke, Greywind gave Link a not so amused look. >Attendant.<
Link grunted awkwardly as she suppressed her laugh, assuming formal posture. >Forgive me, Emperor.<
>Cotton, I must speak with Ben alone,< Greywind ordered. >Wait outside with Tempo. And you, Attendant.<
>As you command,< sent Cotton, placing the comb down. “Ben, I will be right back.”
Cotton and Link followed Tempo out of the room. But not before Greywind added, >One more thing. Let us avoid sharing the details of Lagertha and Grind with the creche's occupants. For now at least.<
Now alone, Greywind took a seat on Ben's bed.
“Come, Ben,” she patted the mattress. “Sit with me.”
Ben plopped down on the bed beside the old Emperor.
“You look very handsome, Ben,” said Greywind. And it was true. The little boy resembled a Nedatan Nilodi.
Ben bashfully cringed, feeling patronized. “Meh,” he grumbled. “I don’t like being called handsome.”
Greywind raised an eyebrow. “What is wrong with being handsome?”
“It’s embarrassing.”
“Nonsense,” Greywind insisted. The little human did not cease to surprise her with alien mannerisms. “Never reject a compliment if it is true. Anyway, I hope you like your new room.”
Ben shrugged. “I guess.”
It did not take sanzai to recognize Ben’s downed mood. “What sort of response is that?”
“Sorry,” he mumbled.
“What is wrong, Ben?”
Silence.
“Ben,” Greywind reclaimed his attention. “Remember that loroi do not like to be lied to. If something is bothering you, tell me.”
Ben was silent as he cast he gaze down to the floor.
“Does it have… something to do with your dream last night?” Greywind asked.
Ben gave no answer.
“Please tell me.”
Giving in, Ben nodded in confirmation. “Yeah.”
“Let me guess,” Greywind concluded. “You are sad about your mother. Is that what is wrong?”
He nodded again. “I just miss her.”
“Ben, look at me.” When he refused to look, Greywind gently commanded, “Look at me.”
Ben obeyed, turning to meet the Emperor’s cerulean gaze.
“What are you scared of?” said Greywind.
“I-” Ben barely avoided a whimper. “I’m scared… I’m never going to see her again.”
“You do not know that, Ben,” said Greywind. “There is still hope.” She knew there probably wasn’t. Judging by what she saw in the dreamscape, she could guess that the loroi she dispatched to track down Ben’s abductors were likely to return without Lagertha. But better to placate Ben with hope than tear it away. As much as Greywind despised false hope, it was sometimes better than none at all. “And besides… even if we cannot find her… you must remember. You are surrounded by people who care about you.”
Ben was silent a moment. “I care about you too.”
“I am touched,” said Greywind. “And there is something else I want to ask you.”
“What?”
“Ben, until we find Lagertha, you need someone to watch over you. Are you happy being with us?”
“Yeah,” said Ben with a nod. “Really!”
“Then, Ben… how would you like to be adopted?”
“Adopted?”
“Yes. I want you to stay here on Deinar. And become part of my family.”
Ben’s eyes went wide with surprise. “Your family?”
“Yes, Ben.”
“You mean… does that mean you’ll be like a second mom?”
“I… suppose you could say that… yes.”
A part of Ben, exhilarated by this news, was eager to say yes. The other was reluctant. “Emperor? What about Earth? Will I still get to go there?”
Greywind chose her next words carefully, “One day. But you are still too young. And, as you probably remember, moving between star systems seems to make you ill. Space travel seems too dangerous for you… for now. When you are older and can travel through space without any problems, you may have the opportunity to travel to Earth.”
“Promise?”
“I promise.” Though not likely to happen, thought Greywind. The years Ben had ahead of him gave Greywind and her compatriots all the time they needed to educate and train him. Long enough that Ben would eventually give up on his desire to see the human home world.
Ben thought about Greywind’s offer. “Do… do I have to answer now?”
“Soon,” said Greywind. “But I will give you time to think about it.”
“Emperor, if I say no…… will you hate me?”
Greywind was mildly shocked. “Certainly not. I only want you to be safe. But Ben… it would make me happy if you say yes. And I know the children of the island here will be happy to meet you as well.”
“Okay. I’ll think about it.”
“Now… are you ready to meet the loroi children?”
Ben nodded with a bit more vigor. “Yup.”
“Very good,” said Greywind, rising from the bed’s edge. “And one more thing. Can you do me a favor?”
“Sure!”
“It is best if you do not talk about Lagertha. Or Grind.”
That was an odd request to Ben. “Why not?”
“It seems to me,” Greywind pointed out, “that thinking about them makes you sad. Is that right?”
Ben thought it over before shrugging. “I guess.”
“So then… let us forget about sad memories for a while. And think about the good things we have here. In fact, if you are polite to the girls you are about to meet, I will give you a reward.”
“Really?!” Ben perked up. “What is it?”
“I will take you to see the water polo windsurfing tournament in a few days.”
“What’s… waga-podo-windskyping?”
“Water polo windsurfing!” Greywind corrected him. “It is one of the greatest sports in the Union.”
“You mean like soccer?”
Greywind had no idea what soccer was, but assumed this was a Terran sport. “Yes. Something like that. Have you ever seen a sport tournament before?”
“Nuh-uh,” Ben shook his head. “I mean… not a real one.”
“Well, if you are polite to the girls, I will show you.”
Ben hopped off the bed. “How do I be polite?”
“Well… the best way is to be kind… and happy.”
Ben suddenly found a new resolve and was determined to impress Greywind. He decided to let go of his worries and bad memories for the time being. “Then I’ll be extra polite.”
“I am pleased to hear that. Come along then!”
“I’m gonna’ be extra, extra polite,” Ben said as he skipped after Greywind. "Wait! Just one more thing!"
Greywind looked down at him. "What?"
"Emperor... if I do say yes to being adopted... and if you do find Mom... I... I don't want you to think I don't like you... but-"
"Ben, just say what you want."
"Well... if you do find Mom... even if I'm adopted by you... can I please go back to her?"
Greywind was silent a moment. She answered tenderly, "Ben, I only want what is best for you."
Interpreting that as a 'yes', Ben smiled. "Emperor, you're the best."
Rejoining Tempo, Cotton and Link in the corridor, the five made their way to the Gardens.
Last edited by Snoofman on Fri Mar 11, 2022 8:31 pm, edited 3 times in total.
My guess they'll be fascinated by an alien who looks like a Loroi, but doesn't/can't sanzai. With an introduction that is momentarily awkward because that's how they try to talk to him at first. Also, has Ben been (lol) learning any Trade? Certainly none of the Loroi children will know English.
Any theories on what loroi children may be like? I'm open to anybody with ideas!
They will go, "Yay, a new toy!" Children can be cruel...
Seriously, though, I can picture a number of reactions and problems:
1. They will be confused by a telepathically mute, yet still similar being, and I doubt that they are very good in spoken Trade, not to mention English.
2. He won't fit into the Loroi gender roles, he may look like the "weaker" sex, but he'll have the mannerisms of the "stronger" one.
3. Humans age much slower, at about half the Loroi rate, so his apparent age and maturity level won't correspond to what the children may assume.
The caretakers would need quite some time to explain it all to the Loroi children, but will it be enough? I'm curious about your goals and the direction of this development.
1. They will be confused by a telepathically mute, yet still similar being, and I doubt that they are very good in spoken Trade, not to mention English.
Yeah, i think same. If adults can have some kind of speaking skills, then expecting the same from children, who are quite likely not too skilled in sanzai for this moment, is at least optimistic.
On the other hand, it will be a huge incentive!
2. He won't fit into the Loroi gender roles, he may look like the "weaker" sex, but he'll have the mannerisms of the "stronger" one.
Children's psychic is plastic, they aren't rigid their mind and accepted this faster. To this process helping fact what Ben is visibly different for Loroi, and childs may marker, what they can link to differ.
If i understanding Jim right, Loroi children don't different for humans childs by fundamental level. With right support to adult Loroi this situation will progress normally.
3. Humans age much slower, at about half the Loroi rate, so his apparent age and maturity level won't correspond to what the children may assume.
The caretakers would need quite some time to explain it all to the Loroi children, but will it be enough? I'm curious about your goals and the direction of this development.
Speak for physioloogy age or mental? Because situation is vise versa for real... Regardless, human children can also grow up mentally earlier than the generally accepted limits, however, often under stressful conditions, and even if they are constantly surrounded by more mental adults, the level of which the child wants to match ...
On the other hand, watching Loroi "adults" in the comics, for example, Talon and Spiral (and the same Soroin or Beryl ...), I would not say that they are significantly ahead of people of comparable age, adjusted for the speed of development and a gender roles. The fact that "according to papers" our familiar pilots are 13-14 years old is not important if they behave like quite 17-19 year old humans who have grown up all their lives in conditions of an active war and with the idea that they will get into this war and are almost guaranteed to she will die young.
Since Ben is not "read" in sanzai, he will be perceived by his appearance, and according to her, he is perceived quite adequately.
True, I almost guarantee a much greater acuteness of the teenage problem "girls grow up faster"...
Children's psychic is plastic, they aren't rigid their mind and accepted this faster. To this process helping fact what Ben is visibly different for Loroi, and childs may marker, what they can link to differ.
If i understanding Jim right, Loroi children don't different for humans childs by fundamental level. With right support to adult Loroi this situation will progress normally.
Children, or at least Human ones, are highly aware of differences. Ben will be in a strange position, he is not too different to be recognized as an alien on the first glance, but still different enough to be perceived as an Outsider.
Speak for physioloogy age or mental? Because situation is vise versa for real... Regardless, human children can also grow up mentally earlier than the generally accepted limits, however, often under stressful conditions, and even if they are constantly surrounded by more mental adults, the level of which the child wants to match ...
Both, actually. Loroi children mature faster, both mentally and physically. His physical age (according to Loroi standards) will be far ahead of his mental age, not to mention that his numerical age of 6 years would mean that he is a "teenager". That's when the Loroi girls join a diral band. They are fully grown by the age of eight when they finish the diral phase. Then the young warriors enroll in a caste academy and will be considered full adults at 12 when they finish.
Children, or at least Human ones, are highly aware of differences. Ben will be in a strange position, he is not too different to be recognized as an alien on the first glance, but still different enough to be perceived as an Outsider.
Much depends on the position of adults. If adults themselves demonstrate rejection and neglect, children read this and behave accordingly. If adults demonstrate tolerance and sympathy, children, in general, adhere to the same line of behavior.
Aberrations have a place to be, nowhere without them, but these are precisely the exceptions.
Considering that in the Loroy environment it is much more difficult to hide the true attitude towards something, and for the negative, especially if it is clearly manifested, you can get hit on the head from Greywind, plus Ben rather evokes sympathy from most of the Loroi he meets (and antipathy is caused rather by ideological reasons and rivalry than by himself), so I don't expect any big problems in this direction.
Both, actually. Loroi children mature faster, both mentally and physically. His physical age (according to Loroi standards) will be far ahead of his mental age, not to mention that his numerical age of 6 years would mean that he is a "teenager". That's when the Loroi girls join a diral band. They are fully grown by the age of eight when they finish the diral phase. Then the young warriors enroll in a caste academy and will be considered full adults at 12 when they finish.
I don't think this will be a problem. Ben does not show signs of infantilism, besides, stress and a rather demanding Loroi society will surely spur the formation of personality.
Visually, human children roughly correspond to the children of the loroi (adjusted for the speed of development, of course), including mentally, so "visually" it will correspond. As for the relationship "Loroy-human" ...
Children who are ready to go to diral are mature enough to understand the concept of "he is different", especially in the loroi society, which, in fact, has been living side by side with aliens for about a thousand years. During such a time, even in the extremely conservative environment of the loroi, the necessary conceptual drift will occur.
In addition, Ben, in general, is larger than Loroi. Not only boys, but also the vast majority of girls. Even with a difference in development, it will not stand out much during the period of development and growth, and at the final stages it has a chance to even exceed the average value.
Again, I do not foresee serious problems, especially against the background of the rather firm position of the Emperor on his issue.
Much depends on the position of adults. If adults themselves demonstrate rejection and neglect, children read this and behave accordingly. If adults demonstrate tolerance and sympathy, children, in general, adhere to the same line of behavior.
Aberrations have a place to be, nowhere without them, but these are precisely the exceptions.
Considering that in the Loroy environment it is much more difficult to hide the true attitude towards something, and for the negative, especially if it is clearly manifested, you can get hit on the head from Greywind, plus Ben rather evokes sympathy from most of the Loroi he meets (and antipathy is caused rather by ideological reasons and rivalry than by himself), so I don't expect any big problems in this direction.
I doubt that the adult caretakers are experienced in handling alien children. But, children can also make their own decisions.
I don't think this will be a problem. Ben does not show signs of infantilism, besides, stress and a rather demanding Loroi society will surely spur the formation of personality.
Visually, human children roughly correspond to the children of the loroi (adjusted for the speed of development, of course), including mentally, so "visually" it will correspond. As for the relationship "Loroy-human" ...
Children who are ready to go to diral are mature enough to understand the concept of "he is different", especially in the loroi society, which, in fact, has been living side by side with aliens for about a thousand years. During such a time, even in the extremely conservative environment of the loroi, the necessary conceptual drift will occur.
In addition, Ben, in general, is larger than Loroi. Not only boys, but also the vast majority of girls. Even with a difference in development, it will not stand out much during the period of development and growth, and at the final stages it has a chance to even exceed the average value.
Again, I do not foresee serious problems, especially against the background of the rather firm position of the Emperor on his issue.
Forced early (psychical) maturation is not without issues, especially if the child has to deal with some trauma as well. Anyway, this will depend on the age of the other children.
I doubt that the adult caretakers are experienced in handling alien children. But, children can also make their own decisions.
In this case, the attitude itself is important, and not the methods of education or something else. Yes, children have their own opinion. I can even suggest that Loroi children are less inclined to idealize adults, however, it is quite possible that the opposite is also true.
But, if they are similar, in general, to human children (which I have not yet seen rebuttals from Jim), then in general it is the attitude of adults that is decisive in relation to something new and still unknown.
At least until Ben starts interacting more closely with his environment.
Forced early (psychical) maturation is not without issues, especially if the child has to deal with some trauma as well. Anyway, this will depend on the age of the other children.
Indeed. However, as a psychotherapist, I can say that any growing up is somehow traumatic. In Ben's case, the injury has ALREADY happened, and one of the worst for a child. Whether other shocks are disruptive or destructive depends both on the environment and on Ben himself, but in my observation the environment as a whole treat him with care, and he himself is quite stable, so, again, I do not see a problematic dynamic.
Ben is still in denial and repression, but the Loroi have generally done a pretty good job with trauma, especially in terms of the fact that none of them are specialists in psychology and therapy.
Well, from the point of view of TREATMENT, both Greywind and Tempo are quite proficient in psychology - the profession obliges ...
In any case, returning to the topic of the discrepancy between external data and the actual state of affairs when trying to transfer the evaluation criteria of Loroi to Ben - I see no problems. Why - in general, I writen above.
Children can be cruel...