Eternal
Now that you’re with the Emperor alone, you focus a little more on how much different he looks from the image in your mind.
He does not have the “ever youthful” look you might’ve expected for someone that has an unnaturally long life span (Like an elf for example), yet he is not some ancient looking old man either. He looks to be about fifty years old and maintains a full head of white hair (if short) and neatly trimmed white facial hair. The rest of his physical appearance is difficult to tell due to his “royal clothing” which consists of simple black cotton robe. He looks more like a monk than the ruling figure he really is.
Given that he seems to be walking around just fine and has no great fat belly, you’d guess he’s at least in fit condition for someone his age. He’s a lot more jovial than you expected as well. You guessed he would be quite grim or serious. Not that you have too many people to compare him to, but he’s definitely much friendlier than anyone you’ve ever encountered.
Despite his friendliness, you’re still standing there unsure of what to ask him.
“Hmm, you seem to be at a loss on what to ask me, so I’ll help you out. I mean if we are to work directly together wouldn’t you like to know a little more about me?” The Emperor asks.
“Well I’ve been told so much already that I probably know all I need to.” You reply.
“Ah, but I can tell by your eyes studying of me, I know your expectations were shattered.”
“Well I don’t know if shattered is the right word…but yes you are much different than I expected.”
“Heh, you probably thought I’d look more like one of those statues out there. Some giant golden warrior that breathed fire and welded a glowing sword. Or perhaps some sort of wizened arch mage with a long white beard down to the floor.”
“Well I suppose those might be more accurate descriptions that I expected.”
“It’s okay, it’s all part of keeping everyone guessing. Did you know there are some people that don’t believe I exist at all? It’s true. Everyone has their beliefs.”
“But why not show yourself and prove to everyone that you exist, so that everyone may know your greatness?”
“Because the more visible you are, the more likely you’ll be assassinated that’s why. Learned that during the first few decades of running the Empire. I know it’s difficult for you to understand, but there are many that would like to see the Empire fall and me dead assuming they believe I really exist. Some of these people live right here in the Empire. Don’t worry though; all traitors will be eventually be sorted out in good time.”
“But you’re the Emperor, you’ve lived for centuries! You are all powerful and knowledgeable, could you not instantly destroy any assassins?”
“It is true I have lived for centuries, and it is true I am powerful and very knowledgeable. But I AM human. I am not the invulnerable godlike figure some might believe. The mightiest can always make a mistake that can cause their down fall, while the meekest can always get lucky and bring down those much more powerful. Besides, I don’t really have time to destroy every assassin that would want to kill me; I have so many other things to accomplish, running the Empire being one of the more pressing. So I learned long ago that it would be better if I became a recluse to the point of becoming a figure of semi-myth. I’ve always preferred my own company anyway and I’d say its been working out fairly well given that the Empire is still up and running right?”
“I suppose so.”
Feeling more comfortable, you begin to ask more questions.
“But even if you’re not a god, you give the appearance of one through mystery and such. Why not create a proper religion where people would worship you. I have learned that religion is an effective tool to keep people in line.”
“Ha ha, glad to see your training wasn’t just limited to fighting. You are correct of course, but I have my reasons for not pursuing such an agenda. One of which is religion just lead to more trouble even if you’re the god of one. I could go on about our Shadow Guard branch and our complicated history with it as an example, but we’ll get to them in time I imagine.”
“So how is it that you’re able to live so long? Magic I assume?” you ask.
“Your assumption isn’t too far off, it’s a little more complex than just magic though. Its something I can’t fully explain to you at this time, but there will come a day when you will learn more about it.” The Emperor replies.
“So it is true then, you have always ruled the Empire?”
“The Empire, yes. This land? No. When I first arrived here nobody ruled it, Quala was a simple land filled with equally simple people. They didn’t really have any idea of a centralized authority and lived in small communities all over the place. I saw potential here where nobody else did, so I set things in motion to create the Empire. Then when Quala was tamed I moved on to other places, such as Delerg, Nalin, Arat and Rask. Where there was lawlessness and backwardness there now exists order and civilization.”
“Everyone should be grateful to you for making life better.” You say.
The Emperor smiles at your comment, but then leans forward in his chair with a serious expression.
“Yes, they all should be grateful. Half of the people probably would’ve been still living in their own filth and dying of plagues, while the other half would’ve been conquered and eaten by the growing orc population had I not intervened and brought those green idiots under heel and tamed them. The elves may very well complain about being oppressed, but quite frankly if it weren’t for me giving them a place in my Empire, they’d be easy prey for their mercenary svelk brethren who take every opportunity to hunt them down. I could go on about how the Empire has been nothing but good for everyone, but I won’t bother, because it doesn’t matter. I don’t need their gratefulness. I don’t need their love or praise. I don’t need anything except their loyalty and obedience. THAT is the most important thing. Can’t ever get enough of those two qualities it seems. Or at least those that do harbor such qualities tend to either betray them at some point, or are so idiotic that they can’t do anything except the simplest of tasks. Fortunately I have many simple tasks for such people and not so many complex ones that I can’t do myself. Let us not dwell on such depressing matters though and move on to other subjects.”
You get the impression that the Emperor is done talking about himself for now. So you don’t ask him about his “arrival” reference, still you can’t help wonder about it since it implies he’s not native to the area. Where did he originally come from? Where is his original home and why did he leave it?
You proceed to ask him of how many others are allowed to directly see him.
“Not many as you can tell and you’re a brand new edition. Over the years I’ve managed to decrease the direct contact list now to three, though Jacob Mol is the only one that sees me with any regularity. I believe you’re familiar with him.”
“Yes.”
“He’s basically the one who reports all my orders to other advisors and generals and they in turn pass orders down to their subordinates. There isn’t too much to say about him. He’s a man from humble beginnings and not very interesting really. Though he’s perhaps a little more ambitious than some of his predecessors that have occupied the similar position. He was dedicated enough in his desire to serve me directly that he poisoned his predecessor because he just couldn’t wait for him to die of old age.”
“He poisoned his superior?”
“Yes, at least I think it was poison, anyway it was about thirty years ago and there have been so many poisonings over the centuries that I can’t be expected to remember all of them. Needless to say he got the job and he’s proven himself very loyal though lately he’s been lacking in the efficiency area. I think old age is catching up to him, but then I suppose time eventually does that with us all.”
“Who are the other two?”
“Ah, the other two aren’t human, so they don’t suffer the frailties that normally come with our races pitifully short lifespan… well normally short lifespans anyway. One of them has been with me from the beginning; he’s a derro by the name of Marik. I’m not sure if they taught you about that dwarven race, but I doubt it given how most people don’t know much about them. Anyway you’ll probably have the opportunity to learn more about them soon enough since they are allies to the Empire. Long story, I’ll tell it to you some other time. As for Marik, he’s a mad bastard even by derro standards, but fortunately he’s probably more loyal than Jacob. Still, its best not to be in his company too long, because he really is bat shit crazy.”
“And who is the other one?”
The Emperor pauses before speaking.
“Well, the other one you’re also familiar with, quite intimately from what I’ve heard. That had to be confusing as hell for you during the middle of your little fight.”
“Wait, not…” you say suddenly realizing who he’s talking about.
“Yeah, her.”
“She’s one of your most trusted and loyal?!”
“Heh heh, hell no she isn’t. She’s a svelk, she’s a liar, an opportunist and would betray her own parents if it suited her, and from what she’s told me, she did. However she’s also efficient, greedy and likes power. The last two are what keep her in my pocket. She’s well paid for her position and her position is obviously very high. She’s provided very valuable services for the Empire in the past. Vital ones even.”
“But what’s to stop her from trying to kill you or trying to take over?”
“Other than she knows the fact that I’m more powerful than her and could slap her down? This is the best she’s ever going to do. The svelk had their day in the past, but that’s long gone. They’re barely tolerated as the nomadic mercenaries they are, the highest position of power most of them ever obtain are mercenary captain nowadays. She’s got it made here, she gets to come and go as she pleases when I need her for some special task and can lord it over people when someone disrespects her. She can basically be herself. Her true svelk nature in all its sadistic glory. Plus I’m pretty sure she’s mainly hangs around because she’s got a crush on me anyway.”
“Really?” you ask.
The Emperor starts laughing.
“Ha ha ha ha! No! That black-hearted bitch doesn’t love anything or anyone. Probably not even herself. But hey, I can’t say as I blame you for falling for her wiles, you’re a young guy and you’d be a damn fool to not take the opportunity to copulate with a svelk, especially one as experienced as her.”
“I’d… uh rather not talk about that.” You say.
“Of course. A man is entitled to his privacy and private thoughts on various things. I know that better than anyone. Anyway, we can chitchat about nonsense later; I think we should start discussing more important matters like your long future here. Sound good?”
“Yes, I’d like that.” You say eager to change the subject to anything else.
He does not have the “ever youthful” look you might’ve expected for someone that has an unnaturally long life span (Like an elf for example), yet he is not some ancient looking old man either. He looks to be about fifty years old and maintains a full head of white hair (if short) and neatly trimmed white facial hair. The rest of his physical appearance is difficult to tell due to his “royal clothing” which consists of simple black cotton robe. He looks more like a monk than the ruling figure he really is.
Given that he seems to be walking around just fine and has no great fat belly, you’d guess he’s at least in fit condition for someone his age. He’s a lot more jovial than you expected as well. You guessed he would be quite grim or serious. Not that you have too many people to compare him to, but he’s definitely much friendlier than anyone you’ve ever encountered.
Despite his friendliness, you’re still standing there unsure of what to ask him.
“Hmm, you seem to be at a loss on what to ask me, so I’ll help you out. I mean if we are to work directly together wouldn’t you like to know a little more about me?” The Emperor asks.
“Well I’ve been told so much already that I probably know all I need to.” You reply.
“Ah, but I can tell by your eyes studying of me, I know your expectations were shattered.”
“Well I don’t know if shattered is the right word…but yes you are much different than I expected.”
“Heh, you probably thought I’d look more like one of those statues out there. Some giant golden warrior that breathed fire and welded a glowing sword. Or perhaps some sort of wizened arch mage with a long white beard down to the floor.”
“Well I suppose those might be more accurate descriptions that I expected.”
“It’s okay, it’s all part of keeping everyone guessing. Did you know there are some people that don’t believe I exist at all? It’s true. Everyone has their beliefs.”
“But why not show yourself and prove to everyone that you exist, so that everyone may know your greatness?”
“Because the more visible you are, the more likely you’ll be assassinated that’s why. Learned that during the first few decades of running the Empire. I know it’s difficult for you to understand, but there are many that would like to see the Empire fall and me dead assuming they believe I really exist. Some of these people live right here in the Empire. Don’t worry though; all traitors will be eventually be sorted out in good time.”
“But you’re the Emperor, you’ve lived for centuries! You are all powerful and knowledgeable, could you not instantly destroy any assassins?”
“It is true I have lived for centuries, and it is true I am powerful and very knowledgeable. But I AM human. I am not the invulnerable godlike figure some might believe. The mightiest can always make a mistake that can cause their down fall, while the meekest can always get lucky and bring down those much more powerful. Besides, I don’t really have time to destroy every assassin that would want to kill me; I have so many other things to accomplish, running the Empire being one of the more pressing. So I learned long ago that it would be better if I became a recluse to the point of becoming a figure of semi-myth. I’ve always preferred my own company anyway and I’d say its been working out fairly well given that the Empire is still up and running right?”
“I suppose so.”
Feeling more comfortable, you begin to ask more questions.
“But even if you’re not a god, you give the appearance of one through mystery and such. Why not create a proper religion where people would worship you. I have learned that religion is an effective tool to keep people in line.”
“Ha ha, glad to see your training wasn’t just limited to fighting. You are correct of course, but I have my reasons for not pursuing such an agenda. One of which is religion just lead to more trouble even if you’re the god of one. I could go on about our Shadow Guard branch and our complicated history with it as an example, but we’ll get to them in time I imagine.”
“So how is it that you’re able to live so long? Magic I assume?” you ask.
“Your assumption isn’t too far off, it’s a little more complex than just magic though. Its something I can’t fully explain to you at this time, but there will come a day when you will learn more about it.” The Emperor replies.
“So it is true then, you have always ruled the Empire?”
“The Empire, yes. This land? No. When I first arrived here nobody ruled it, Quala was a simple land filled with equally simple people. They didn’t really have any idea of a centralized authority and lived in small communities all over the place. I saw potential here where nobody else did, so I set things in motion to create the Empire. Then when Quala was tamed I moved on to other places, such as Delerg, Nalin, Arat and Rask. Where there was lawlessness and backwardness there now exists order and civilization.”
“Everyone should be grateful to you for making life better.” You say.
The Emperor smiles at your comment, but then leans forward in his chair with a serious expression.
“Yes, they all should be grateful. Half of the people probably would’ve been still living in their own filth and dying of plagues, while the other half would’ve been conquered and eaten by the growing orc population had I not intervened and brought those green idiots under heel and tamed them. The elves may very well complain about being oppressed, but quite frankly if it weren’t for me giving them a place in my Empire, they’d be easy prey for their mercenary svelk brethren who take every opportunity to hunt them down. I could go on about how the Empire has been nothing but good for everyone, but I won’t bother, because it doesn’t matter. I don’t need their gratefulness. I don’t need their love or praise. I don’t need anything except their loyalty and obedience. THAT is the most important thing. Can’t ever get enough of those two qualities it seems. Or at least those that do harbor such qualities tend to either betray them at some point, or are so idiotic that they can’t do anything except the simplest of tasks. Fortunately I have many simple tasks for such people and not so many complex ones that I can’t do myself. Let us not dwell on such depressing matters though and move on to other subjects.”
You get the impression that the Emperor is done talking about himself for now. So you don’t ask him about his “arrival” reference, still you can’t help wonder about it since it implies he’s not native to the area. Where did he originally come from? Where is his original home and why did he leave it?
You proceed to ask him of how many others are allowed to directly see him.
“Not many as you can tell and you’re a brand new edition. Over the years I’ve managed to decrease the direct contact list now to three, though Jacob Mol is the only one that sees me with any regularity. I believe you’re familiar with him.”
“Yes.”
“He’s basically the one who reports all my orders to other advisors and generals and they in turn pass orders down to their subordinates. There isn’t too much to say about him. He’s a man from humble beginnings and not very interesting really. Though he’s perhaps a little more ambitious than some of his predecessors that have occupied the similar position. He was dedicated enough in his desire to serve me directly that he poisoned his predecessor because he just couldn’t wait for him to die of old age.”
“He poisoned his superior?”
“Yes, at least I think it was poison, anyway it was about thirty years ago and there have been so many poisonings over the centuries that I can’t be expected to remember all of them. Needless to say he got the job and he’s proven himself very loyal though lately he’s been lacking in the efficiency area. I think old age is catching up to him, but then I suppose time eventually does that with us all.”
“Who are the other two?”
“Ah, the other two aren’t human, so they don’t suffer the frailties that normally come with our races pitifully short lifespan… well normally short lifespans anyway. One of them has been with me from the beginning; he’s a derro by the name of Marik. I’m not sure if they taught you about that dwarven race, but I doubt it given how most people don’t know much about them. Anyway you’ll probably have the opportunity to learn more about them soon enough since they are allies to the Empire. Long story, I’ll tell it to you some other time. As for Marik, he’s a mad bastard even by derro standards, but fortunately he’s probably more loyal than Jacob. Still, its best not to be in his company too long, because he really is bat shit crazy.”
“And who is the other one?”
The Emperor pauses before speaking.
“Well, the other one you’re also familiar with, quite intimately from what I’ve heard. That had to be confusing as hell for you during the middle of your little fight.”
“Wait, not…” you say suddenly realizing who he’s talking about.
“Yeah, her.”
“She’s one of your most trusted and loyal?!”
“Heh heh, hell no she isn’t. She’s a svelk, she’s a liar, an opportunist and would betray her own parents if it suited her, and from what she’s told me, she did. However she’s also efficient, greedy and likes power. The last two are what keep her in my pocket. She’s well paid for her position and her position is obviously very high. She’s provided very valuable services for the Empire in the past. Vital ones even.”
“But what’s to stop her from trying to kill you or trying to take over?”
“Other than she knows the fact that I’m more powerful than her and could slap her down? This is the best she’s ever going to do. The svelk had their day in the past, but that’s long gone. They’re barely tolerated as the nomadic mercenaries they are, the highest position of power most of them ever obtain are mercenary captain nowadays. She’s got it made here, she gets to come and go as she pleases when I need her for some special task and can lord it over people when someone disrespects her. She can basically be herself. Her true svelk nature in all its sadistic glory. Plus I’m pretty sure she’s mainly hangs around because she’s got a crush on me anyway.”
“Really?” you ask.
The Emperor starts laughing.
“Ha ha ha ha! No! That black-hearted bitch doesn’t love anything or anyone. Probably not even herself. But hey, I can’t say as I blame you for falling for her wiles, you’re a young guy and you’d be a damn fool to not take the opportunity to copulate with a svelk, especially one as experienced as her.”
“I’d… uh rather not talk about that.” You say.
“Of course. A man is entitled to his privacy and private thoughts on various things. I know that better than anyone. Anyway, we can chitchat about nonsense later; I think we should start discussing more important matters like your long future here. Sound good?”
“Yes, I’d like that.” You say eager to change the subject to anything else.