[Video] First summoning- the arrival of Mr. Mandrake

[knew_anyway]

[The video switches on to show a nice looking young man- in his late teens, it looks like, though the bags under his eyes seemed out of place for someone so young. His hair is black and short, his expression, his posture- everything curt and straightforward. Like a business transaction.]

Adstringendum.

[He holds up a few papers, as if showing

Comments

[video]

[unreadability]

[Glances at his conversation with Jean Louis, briefly.]

Perhaps it would be more rewarding to focus on the government designs found in our various worlds of origin. As subjects in Adstringéndum, we are mere immigrants. The greatest strength we possess is the seed to development which we have brought with us.

[video]

[knew_anyway]

That is true- but would it not be more logical to use those seeds to develop a cohesive civilization of their own? It's nice that people uphold diverse values, but separated like this, we are vulnerable and weak.

[video]

[unreadability]

I have nurtured similar hopes, of course - and certain, past events have indeed forced us to form alliances. It is when normalcy reestablishes itself that this important unity is too quickly forgotten.

[video]

[knew_anyway]

Then it should be forgotten no longer. The next time something happens to cause us to band together, I'll monitor the results closely and try to learn from it.

[video]

[unreadability]

Having occupied the position of unofficial secretary for my father since I debuted, I shall gladly offer my assistance in notation and archiving.

[video]

[knew_anyway]

[A pause.]

...may I have your name, Ma'am?

[video] 1/2 SORRY

[unreadability]

[A corresponding pause. Pursing her lips, she is obviously considering her response.]

[video]

[unreadability]

Mireille. Barrault. Daughter of Luxembourgian president, Philippe Barrault.

[video] no worries!

[knew_anyway]

It's good to meet you. As I stated, my name is John Mandrake. I'm- [There's a beat of silence, before he continues, shaking his head.] -I'm a magician seated in the Prime Minister's council.

[He gives her a little half-smile and nods.]

So I know a thing or two of politics and power.

[video]

[unreadability]

Although I have been born into the political circles, my place is not at the centre of power, Monsieur Mandrake. If you wish to establish yourself at the front, I am fully satisfied with providing practical support.

[video]

[knew_anyway]

Hm.

[Although, mere weeks ago he would have leaped at the opportunity- that causes him to pause, to consider her words, and the words of people who had known him. In the end, Nathaniel lets out a little sigh and glances off in thought.]

We'll have to see how things unfold. I'm uncertain at this point if placing anyone 'at the front' will do much good.

[video]

[unreadability]

At times, it is an inescapable role to play. Especially here. We are faced with battles that only few are capable of fighting and even fewer able to win.

[video]

[knew_anyway]

[And he's already thinking about it. How he would get people to follow him- how he would win over their trust and pull them together as a community. The temptation for power is there, strong, emboldened by her words.

Nathaniel bites his lip.]

I will not deny it if it is thrust upon me. I believe that I can be a suitable leader- moreso than many others here- if it comes to that. But... let's not think too far ahead. I've only just arrived, after all.

[A slight smile.] But I appreciate it.

[video]

[unreadability]

And yet, you have been thrown directly into action, isn't that so?

[A reference to his... studies. It is not a mocking comment. She, more so than most, is familiar with the need to meet the realities without hesitation.]

[video]

[knew_anyway]

In a manner of speaking, yes.

[He watches her curiously.]

[video]

[unreadability]

Many counter their arrival with stunned denial or stubborn wariness. It is understandable, but altogether ineffective.