→ oo2

[imperialwill]

This City is quite tiring. The most ridiculous curses - how are these Deities ruling this place? Honestly.

But thankfully, I've had an excellent host during my stay here. Luke's taught you well, Guy.

Though I could have done without the handcuffs, thank you. How rude to deprive me of my shower. Really. What kind of ruler imposes such things on

Comments

[sandmullet]

One with little right to rule.

[imperialwill]

I completely agree, kind citizen.

Unfortunately, it seems we have no choice in the matter. Some people are just unfit to be rulers, deities or not.

[sandmullet]

Gaara.

... Pft. I would kill them, but it must not be possible. They have the strength to rule, at least.

[imperialwill]

Ah, it is a pleasure to meet you, Gaara. I am Natalia, princess of Kimlasca.

An assassination? There are certainly more peaceful ways, Gaara. Negotiations, conferences - violence breeds only violence.

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[sandmullet]

... "Likewise", as Kazekage of Sand Village.

[sandmullet]

We were stolen "mysteriously" from our worlds and brought to this city to be manipulated by "curses" into fueling a giant clock. Without even considering the other normal citizens, the abductions of two leaders should be considered only as acts of war.

[imperialwill]

What you say certainly holds logic, but as leaders I believe we have a duty to think in terms of peace. Perhaps we hold some greater purpose here, after all.

For our countries, yes, Gaara?

[sandmullet]

While we waste time thinking in terms of peace, our disappearances may be throwing my village and your country into disarray. This may be an elaborate plan of attack, with so many capable individuals made easy prisoners here.

Should this behavior be condoned? Displaying weakness in the face of opposition only hurts the country.

[imperialwill]

Yes, a previous "disappearance" of mine nearly threw my country into war with Malkuth.

I am well aware that such behavior should not be condoned. However, war should only be used as a last resort. You risk killing thousands of citizens and depleting resources.

Perhaps a trustworthy adviser could watch over your village until your return. It is not all hopeless.

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[sandmullet]

Do you think anyone would fight for the deities? If they proved mortal the only thing that would keep me from attempting an assassination would be the loss of a possible means of exit.

[sandmullet]

I never lost hope. It will not be long before a new Kazekage is appointed.

[imperialwill]

You are nearing the end of your term? But you look perfectly healthy. Young, too.

[sandmullet]

No. Sand Village cannot wait for the return of the Kazekage. Should news of my disappearance reach other countries and villages, Sand will appear weak. The next strongest and most suitable will take control and ensure regularity.

[imperialwill]

I understand, now.

At the very least, you know your village will be in capable hands.

Surely there must be some good to staying here. With the exception of the curses, it's like a regular city.

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[sandmullet]

...

[sandmullet]

Yes, Sand will survive.

But ... How is that "good"?