With This Ring (Young Justice SI) (Thread Fourteen)

Darko · Feb 4, 2025

Vaermina said:
No, it does, that's why he only shows up for brief cameo's and then leaves.

It was made to be perfectly safe, so yes.

Did he make it in mind so that a pregnant woman can use?

Mr Zoat · Feb 4, 2025

7th May 2013
08:28 GMT -2

Huh. Looks like Sephtian's workshop has been expanded.

From one main enchanting space to a dozen or so, and there are a lot fewer people working at each one. I'm not completely sure how that's possible; he had some ideas for automation, but magic doesn't respond well to that sort of thing, generally speaking. The soul of a human caster capable of bridging the gap between the corporeal and the ideal form is a fundamental part of… Atlantean magic, at least, and most other forms of non-evil magic. Unclean magic can bind souls to skip that step, but that doesn't sound like Ahri'ahn's thing, and it would be a fairly large departure from normal Atlantean conduct. Not to mention being very illegal.

And a problem with not actually being a magician myself and with not actually having permission to enter high security areas is that I can't just invite myself in, or do the equivalent of walking up to a nuclear bomb technician and asking them what they do every day.

And I don't have permission to invite someone else, and I can't get good enough recordings…

I hold out my hands, and the skull helmet appears in them.

"Desperate, are we?"

"You're a convenience, Nabu. Like a public toilet. I need your knowledge of magic."

"Atlantis, risen. To see it with my own eyes. I wonder what calamity will send it back to the sea floor? Perhaps it will be you."

…

I mean… Probably.

I'm getting a few curious looks from security guards outside of the workshop, but they seem content to not take any official action for now. I give them a polite nod, then return my attention to the helmet. "Do I need to put you on, or can you work as you are now?"

"You will need to put me on."

"I've dealt with fey before, Nabu. Answer the question."

"I-. Ouagh-! No-! No, you don't need to put me on, not unless you actually want to do anything with my magic. I can't defeat the weakest ward like this but if for some reason they haven't warded something then I can perceive it without further aid!"

"Thank you."

"Do you enjoy making me suffer?"

"Yes."

"Oh? How heroic."

I turn him around so that he's facing the factory. "Just do your job, or I'll see if I can completely blank your personality."

One of the guards is casting some sort of spell… Looks like a magic detection spell of some sort. I guess she's wondering what I'm doing. I don't think it's illegal, but my knowledge of Atlantean law comes from before Ahri'ahn reappeared and it's quite possible that things have changed. Nabu's just watching, but as an inherently magic being that's probably enough for him.

"Ah, that's actually interesting."

"What is?"

"I suspect that it's too sophisticated for you to understand."

"Try me."

"Rather than create and bind each rune individually, they've created an environment where that rune is omnipresent which allows it to impress on the artefact. They would have to have several moderately capable wizards maintaining and observing the effect, but it would be far more efficient in terms of throughput."

"That doesn't sound like apprentice work."

"Of course it's not."

So they eliminated the low-skilled jobs that existed under the old system, and replaced them with a smaller number of more highly skilled jobs. I never… Checked where the old employees came from originally… Normal population flows don't really apply to Atlantean city-states, where the cities have vast areas of empty space between them and a long history of insularity, but it wouldn't be surprising for a national capital to have a higher level of immigration. Not from the surface, and the world underwater doesn't have a place to get low skilled immigrant manual labour from…

"Anything unduly risky about doing things that way?"

"No."

"How about unusually risky? Or riskier than manually binding each enchantment?"

"There are fewer checks on the process. The initial imprint will be weaker. Some might not take at all. But that should correct itself due to the combined strength of the other enchantments."

"How about in terms of the structure of reality?"

"It's all contained. In fact, hold me up and turn me around."

I hesitate for a moment, and then do so.

"Yes, yes, I see. They're deliberately-. What metaphor might you understand? … Intruding on the arcane realms, as a human sewer intrudes in the world of worms and moles."

"That sounds like something that has risks associated with it."

"Only if you care about gods or spirits. Do they?"

"Yes, in the sense that they hold them in contempt. Do you think that spirits will react violently?"

"Some will, but I doubt that will be a problem. Elemental beings seldom learn things, while it looks like whoever made this has been learning a great deal."

"So the system is stable enough that they can't interfere with it."

"They can't interfere with it easily. And anyone who can create something like this would be perfectly capable of striking back. I imagine that most spirits will respond by pulling away from the world… But I would speculate that would be insufficient."

"Why?"

"The attitude. This isn't just materialism. Someone who would make something like this in a factory that was working perfectly well before… This is felling a forest because you hate squirrels. This is spite."

"So he hates elementals and so is probably going to annex their homes."

"If I had hands, I'd shake his."

I dismiss him, sending his spiteful soul back into my ring. Okay, that's-.

"Orange Lantern?"

I look up as an Atlantean walks out of the gates. Male, perhaps fifty, and other than the lack of hair anywhere on his head he looks to be in good physical health.

"Yes? Can I help you?"

He stops a short way from me, looking a little puzzled before realisation dawns. "You don't recognise me."

"No? I'm sorry, should I?"

"It's me." I.. don't-. "Professor Sephtian."

Darko · Feb 4, 2025

Mr Zoat said:
Rather then create

"than"

Mr Zoat said:
The attitude. This isn't just materialism. Someone who would make something like this in a factory that was working perfectly well before… This is felling a forest because you hate squirrels. This is spite."

Well Ahri'ahn does dislike them.

Ardy · Feb 4, 2025

Hah! So Paul was right when he said they just weren't trying hard enough to turn Atlantian non-purebloods into purebloods

Ahriman: git gud scrubs

Z000 · Feb 4, 2025

when did Paul have Nabu skull

i though he kill him dead dead instead of shoving his soul back inside his dead corpse and then shoving his skull into his pocket to rot

Vaermina · Feb 4, 2025

Mr Zoat said:
From one main enchanting space to a dozen or so, and there are a lot fewer people working at each one. I'm not completely sure how that's possible; he had some ideas for automation, but magic doesn't respond well to that sort of thing, generally speaking. The soul of a human caster capable of bridging the gap between the corporal and the ideal form is a fundamental part of… Atlantean magic, at least, and most other forms of non-evil magic. Unclean magic can bind souls to skip that step, but that doesn't sound like Ahri'ahn's thing, and it would be a fairly large departure from normal Atlantean conduct. Not to mention being very illegal.

Paul thinking he actually knows anything about magic continues to be amusing.

Stsword · Feb 4, 2025

Z000 said:
when did Paul have Nabu skull

i though he kill him dead dead instead of shoving his soul back inside his dead corpse and then shoving his skull into his pocket to rot

No, he left Nabu braindead. Spiritually speaking. Killing him would have allowed another lord of order to show up. Constantine took it, which gave him trouble after inheriting Klarion's position as a lord of chaos.

This is Nabu's evil twin doppelganger from Earth-666, who abandoned order for nihilistic bloodlust thanks to demonic corruption. It's not Nabu's skull, it's the Helm of Fate mutated to look like a skull thanks to demonic corruption.

Chojin Patriarch · Feb 4, 2025

Mr Zoat said:
7th May 2013
08:28 GMT -2

Huh. Looks like Sephtian's workshop has been expanded.

From one main enchanting space to a dozen or so, and there are a lot fewer people working at each one. I'm not completely sure how that's possible; he had some ideas for automation, but magic doesn't respond well to that sort of thing, generally speaking. The soul of a human caster capable of bridging the gap between the corporal and the ideal form is a fundamental part of… Atlantean magic, at least, and most other forms of non-evil magic. Unclean magic can bind souls to skip that step, but that doesn't sound like Ahri'ahn's thing, and it would be a fairly large departure from normal Atlantean conduct. Not to mention being very illegal.

I'm sure some part of OL is impressed at the efficiency, but I can't imagine this is entirely conventional. I'm guessing someone made some base-level improvements in the whole process. But was it Sephtian or Ahri'ahn or someone else?

And a problem with not actually being a magician myself and with not actually having permission to enter high security areas is that I can't just invite myself in, or do the equivalent of walking up to a nuclear bomb technician and asking them what they do every day.

And I don't have permission to invite someone else, and I can't get good enough recordings…

He does have some magical options, even if they aren't perfect for the task. It's just a matter of which Construct to pick...

I hold out my hands, and the skull helmet appears in them.

"Desperate, are we?"

Ah, the demonic Nabu from Earth-666. Presumably because it's far more knowledgeable and less scrupulous.

"You're a convenience, Nabu. Like a public toilet. I need your knowledge of magic."

"Atlantis, risen. To see it with my own eyes. I wonder what calamity will send it back to the sea floor? Perhaps it will be you."

Knowing Narrative causality, he probably will manage to cause a cataclysm somehow.

…

I mean… Probably.

After all, if Ahri'ahn's up to no good, OL's obligated to assist in the attempts to bring him down.

I'm getting a few curious looks from security guards outside of the workshop, but they seem content to not take any official action for now. I give them a polite nod, then return my attention to the helmet. "Do I need to put you on, or can you work as you are now?"

"You will need to put me on."

At least they aren't pulling the 'You don't belong here' thing. Presumably because he has Ahri'ahn's tacit approval to be here. Like a mystical passport or security clearance...

"I've dealt with fey before, Nabu. Answer the question."

"I-. Ouagh-! No-! No, you don't need to put me on, not unless you actually want to do anything with my magic. I can't defeat the weakest ward like this but if for some reason they haven't warded something then I can perceive it without further aid!"

Heh. Yes, never trust such simple replies. Always get them to clarify down the the smallest detail.

"Thank you."

"Do you enjoy making me suffer?"

"Yes."

Given the things you did, and your nature even before the demonic infections... He may not be able to punish the local Nabu, but this one is an acceptable target.

"Oh? How heroic."

I turn him around so that he's facing the factory. "Just do your job, or I'll see if I can completely blank your personality."

I suspect it wouldn't be too hard. Certainly, it'd let him echo the local Nabu.

One of the guards is casting some sort of spell… Looks like a magic detection spell of some sort. I guess she's wondering what I'm doing. I don't think it's illegal, but my knowledge of Atlantean law comes from before Ahri'ahn reappeared and it's quite possible that things have changed. Nabu's just watching, but as an inherently magic being that's probably enough for him.

And since he technically can't use magic in this state, he won't disrupt the workings going on inside.

"Ah, that's actually interesting."

"What is?"

Do share, in terms your master can understand.

"I suspect that it's too sophisticated for you to understand."

"Try me."

After all, all he has to do is destroy you for a moment to get the memories... Probably not fun, but he could.

"Rather then create and bind each rune individually, they've created an environment where that rune is omnipresent which allows it to impress on the artefact. They would have to have several moderately capable wizards maintaining and observing the effect, but it would be far more efficient in terms of throughput."

Ah. And presumably, they moves pieces from chamber to chamber to change the runes in place. A literal assembly line.

"That doesn't sound like apprentice work."

"Of course it's not."

Ironic, then. The original plan was using apprentice-level casters in bulk to distribute the load, wasn't it?

So they eliminated the low-skilled jobs that existed under the old system, and replaced them with a smaller number of more highly skilled jobs. I never… Checked where the old employees came from originally… Normal population flows don't really apply to Atlantean city-states, where the cities have vast areas of empty space between them and a long history of insularity, but it wouldn't be surprising for a national capital to have a higher level of immigration. Not from the surface, and the world underwater doesn't have a place to get low skilled immigrant manual labour from…

Who's to say Sephtian didn't put ads out for positions with 'basic magical skills needed, training on the job provided'.

"Anything unduly risky about doing things that way?"

"No."

Don't trust such a short answer. Detail, Nabu, detail.

"How about unusually risky? Or riskier than manually binding each enchantment?"

"There are fewer checks on the process. The initial imprint will be weaker. Some might not take at all. But that should correct itself due to the combined strength of the other enchantments."

But it allows for rapid production compared to the old setup.

"How about in terms of the structure of reality?"

"It's all contained. In fact, hold me up and turn me around."

That implies something needing to be contained for safety reasons. Or something being kept out.

I hesitate for a moment, and then do so.

"Yes, yes, I see. They're deliberately-. What metaphor might you understand? … Intruding on the arcane realms, as a human sewer intrudes in the world of worms and moles."

Only a problem if it's leaking, surely? But the analogy is apt. A space they are aware of but cannot enter because it's too hard to force through.

"That sounds like something that has risks associated with it."

"Only if you care about gods or spirits. Do they?"

Hoo boy. What's the top bosses got them doing, I wonder...

"Yes, in the sense that they hold them in contempt. Do you think that spirits will react violently?"

"Some will, but I doubt that will be a problem. Elemental beings seldom learn things, while it looks like whoever made this has been learning a great deal."

So unless something is extremely powerful, at which point it's a problem for everyone not just the factory, they're largely safe.

"So the system is stable enough that they can't interfere with it."

"They can't interfere with it easily. And anyone who can create something like this would be perfectly capable of striking back. I imagine that most spirits will respond by pulling away from the world… But I would speculate that would be insufficient."

Why, because it's pulling them in like a magnet? Or is it like an itch they need to scratch, yet can't because they can't get to it?

"Why?"

"The attitude. This isn't just materialism. Someone who would make something like this in a factory that was working perfectly well before… This is felling a forest because you hate squirrels. This is spite."

...Okay, the metaphorical equivalent of taunting someone from behind a fence. It's like they want powerful spirits to attack.

"So he hates elementals and so is probably going to annex their homes."

"If I had hands, I'd shake his."

Not a glowing recommendation of his character.

I dismiss him, sending his spiteful soul back into my ring. Okay, that's-.

"Orange Lantern?"

I look up as an Atlantean walks out of the gates. Male, perhaps fifty, and other than the lack of hair anywhere on his head he looks to be in good physical health.

Ah, a supervisor? Or the one responsible for this whole setup?

"Yes? Can I help you?"

He stops a short way from me, looking a little puzzled before realisation dawns. "You don't recognise me."

Should he? Did you recently get a haircut or something?

"No? I'm sorry, should I?"

"It's me." I.. don't-. "Professor Sephtian."

Huh. I didn't expect that. I guess that's why Ahri'ahn was okay with him being promoted - he's no longer a piscine-Atlantean...

Well, then. Looks like they really are working on refining the adaption spells. I expect Sephtian was one of the earliest successes, or underwent one of the first 'corrective' treatments to turn him fully humanoid. The question being how stable the transformation is and whether it an be remotely revoked... I get the feeling this is Ahri'ahn's plan for a lot of Atlaneans. The useful ones, at least.

Thundersmight94 · Feb 4, 2025

Mr Zoat said:
"Orange Lantern?"

I look up as an Atlantean walks out of the gates. Male, perhaps fifty, and other than the lack of hair anywhere on his head he looks to be in good physical health.

"Yes? Can I help you?"

He stops a short way from me, looking a little puzzled before realisation dawns. "You don't recognise me."

"No? I'm sorry, should I?"

"It's me." I.. don't-. "Professor Sephtian."

I thought Professor Sephtian was against being changed into a pureblood Atlantean? Is Arion going through the process of altering those he finds more useful/interesting into Purebloods out of convenience or utility?

Ngamer11 · Feb 4, 2025

Mr Zoat said:
"Orange Lantern?"

I look up as an Atlantean walks out of the gates. Male, perhaps fifty, and other than the lack of hair anywhere on his head he looks to be in good physical health.

"Yes? Can I help you?"

He stops a short way from me, looking a little puzzled before realisation dawns. "You don't recognise me."

"No? I'm sorry, should I?"

"It's me." I.. don't-. "Professor Sephtian."

This reminds me of a fic I was recently reading called Manpower. In one chapter, the main character mentions briefly doing a few jobs for a black KKK member who had biokinesis which didn't work on himself. He thought the best way to do God's work was to literally turn willing black people white.

Mr Zoat · Feb 4, 2025

Darko said:
"than"

Thank you, corrected.

Lord Ernest · Feb 4, 2025

Mr Zoat said:
"It's me." I.. don't-. "Professor Sephtian."

This is some next level racism, isn't it. The impression I get is that Racist Arch-Wizard decides who is useful/worthy and then changes them or allows them to change to pureblood, the rest of the people is getting segregated to other city states.

It might be that the workers the Illustres is noticing in the enchantment fabric are non-pureblood atlanteans from other cities, transfered here and changed as well.

Ngamer11 said:
This reminds me of a fic I was recently reading called Manpower. In one chapter, the main character mentions briefly doing a few jobs for a black KKK member who had biokinesis which didn't work on himself. He thought the best way to do God's work was to literally turn willing black people white.

I remember that, some funny expy of Uncle Ruckus from The Boondocks, right? And yes, this sounds just like that, but instead of willing, Ahri'ahn seems to have done it to someone apparently useful to his endeavors.

Lokpik · Feb 4, 2025

I'm curious about a few things with the xman Paul, has he given himself an intrinsic power yet, like recreating the supersoldier formula or the the formula Felecia hardy's father memorized ? Also his scans of super tech is probably loaded with a lot of incredible things.

There is a mutant tattoo artist whose power is power bestowal ( he tattoos symbols on people and they get the power he associates with the symbol.)

Leon is a mutant:

Power Bestowal
through
Iconic Imagery
: Leon can grant superhuman powers to others through drawing iconic symbols. This is usually done through tattooing images onto others. These tattoos then give whatever power Leon believes them to bestow. However, each tattoo drains a little bit of Leon's will as each tattoo and corresponding power is an extension of his will. The upper limits of Leon's powers are not defined. He was able to give multiple powers to nearly one hundred individuals, and empower a reasonable facsimile or approximation of the Phoenix Force before falling into a coma. These superpowered tattoos include:

Rose Floral Scent from a rose tattoo on the lower back of an unnamed young woman.[1]

Extreme Nausea and Vomiting from a biohazard symbol on Ink's right hand.[7]

Super Strength from lines similar to the banding on Colossus' organic steel flesh on Ink's left forearm and hand.[8]

Combustion from "explosive" symbol tattooed on Ink's right bicep,[7] and on Carlos Rodriguez' left fist.[4]

Telepathy from two lightning bolt tattoos on Ink's temples. Taken from a comic book depiction of psychic abilities (actually an early Marvel Comics publication image of Professor Xavier).[9]

Self-Propelled Flight from feathered wings on Ink's back.[10]

Protective Force Field from a shield tattoo on Carlos Rodriguez' right antecubital forearm.[1]

Enhanced Speed and Razor Sharp Claws from Cheetah-style spots over the torso of Cheetah of the Y-Men.[2]

Optic Blast from discharge marks around the left eye of Julio Rodriguez of the Y-Men.[1]

Enhanced Agility from webbing patterns, reminiscent of Spider-Man, on the elbows "Spider-Man" of the Y-Men.[1]

Bullet Discharge from a tattoo of a 9mm on the right hand of Hand-Gun of the Y-Men.[2]

Breathing Fire from a dragon tattoo on the chest and arms of Dragon-Breath of the Y-Men.[1]

Concussive Discharge from triangular tattoos on the forearms, wrists and hands of Laser-Fist of the Y-Men.[1]

Healing from a Caduceus symbol on Ink's left hand.[1]

Phoenix Force Approximation from a Phoenix symbol over Ink's right eye.[1]

The interesting thing is he doesn't want to do heroics himself but Paul being Paul might be able to pay him to to give himself and others a tattoo and power.

Though I have another question if he can replicate cloned tissue of the x gene can he replicate certain mutants powers. Cyclops absorbs solar energy allowing his eyes to open portals to another dimension full of whatever his optic blast is, could Paul replicate the necessary tissue let it absorb solar energy and then use it at need either in grenade format or in something like a drone?

It reminds me a lot of the reckoners book series ( they could make devices using epic DNA to replicate powers of the epic)

Agumentic · Feb 4, 2025

Mr Zoat said:
"It's me." I.. don't-. "Professor Sephtian."

I suppose Ahri'ahn is consistent in his view that people's inner ability, as he judges it, should be reflected in their outer appearance.

Vaermina · Feb 4, 2025

Lokpik said:
I'm curious about a few things with the xman Paul, has he given himself an intrinsic power yet, like recreating the supersoldier formula or the the formula Felecia hardy's father memorized ? Also his scans of super tech is probably loaded with a lot of incredible things.

The Super Soldier Serum wouldn't do good things to an Orange ring user.

Cuchulin · Feb 4, 2025

Vaermina said:
The Super Soldier Serum wouldn't do good things to an Orange ring user.

No, but the super soldier serum would help others such as MJ Watson, Debra Whitman, Matt Murdoc, Nick Fury, Rocket Racer, Black Marvel/Omar Moseley, Destroyer/Keene Marlowe and Hobie Brown.

Ardy · Feb 4, 2025

Cuchulin said:
No, but it would help others such as MJ Watson, Debra Whitman, Matt Murdoc, Nick Fury, Rocket Racer, Black Marvel/Omar Moseley, Destroyer/Keene Marlowe and Hobie Brown.

….none of whom he knows in that parallel

BlackCoat13 · Feb 4, 2025

Thundersmight94 said:
I thought Professor Sephtian was against being changed into a pureblood Atlantean? Is Arion going through the process of altering those he finds more useful/interesting into Purebloods out of convenience or utility?

No. If I'm remembering the conversation right P. Sephtian and another animal form hybrid were talking to the MC, and the MC asked if they would be willing to take a conversion to a pureblood if it became available. The other hybrid was a bit offended, but Professor Sephtian was willing to consider it. When the other Atlantean got offended at him, Sephtian brought up that the hybrid types have to breed amongst their own hybrid types and that creates problems such as inbreeding and low populations, and that Sephtian's type had, if I'm remembering correctly, like, less than ten people left in it.

So I'm pretty sure he actually would take a pureblood transformation.

Antares1883 · Feb 4, 2025

Is there a reason he hates Gods and Elementals so much?

Ngamer11 · Feb 4, 2025

BlackCoat13 said:
No. If I'm remembering the conversation right P. Sephtian and another animal form hybrid were talking to the MC, and the MC asked if they would be willing to take a conversion to a pureblood if it became available. The other hybrid was a bit offended, but Professor Sephtian was willing to consider it. When the other Atlantean got offended at him, Sephtian brought up that the hybrid types have to breed amongst their own hybrid types and that creates problems such as inbreeding and low populations, and that Sephtian's type had, if I'm remembering correctly, like, less than ten people left in it.

So I'm pretty sure he actually would take a pureblood transformation.

I forgot about this. Assuming he's still under Ahri'ahn's influence, what are the chances he'll try to stay this way even after being freed?

Wivk · Feb 4, 2025

Ngamer11 said:
He thought the best way to do God's work was to literally turn willing black people white.

Like Syndrome? When everyone is the superior race, no one is!

Silveraith · Feb 4, 2025

Antares1883 said:
Is there a reason he hates Gods and Elementals so much?

He's the child of one; might be parental issues.

RichardWhereat · Feb 5, 2025

Lord Ernest said:
I remember that, some funny expy of Uncle Ruckus from The Boondocks, right? And yes, this sounds just like that, but instead of willing, Ahri'ahn seems to have done it to someone apparently useful to his endeavors.

Sephtian would definitely be willing. He complained some time ago about the inability to find a mate who was compatible with him, but was not related to him.

BR549 · Feb 5, 2025

Chojin Patriarch said:
Or Scott's eyelids when he closes his eyes. Or when he puts his hands in front of his eyes when he looses his visor or glasses. His power doesn't turn off, after all. Unless that little bit of brain damage got repaired.

Apparently some more recent interpretations of the X-Men have Scott's power Just Work That Way. Which is dumb, of course.

Mr Zoat · Feb 5, 2025

7th May 2013
08:32 GMT -2

I blink.

"Huh?"

"Yes, it's a fairly… Big change, isn't it?" He reach up with his right hand and… Runs it over his scalp. "Having hair is a new experience, and one which I do not care for."

"You don't.. have hair."

"Yes, but now I have to shave it rather than just being naturally hairless." He lowers his hand to his upper lip. "I tried growing a moustache to replace my barbels, but it wasn't the same."

"How did..? You change?"

"Well, as I'm sure you remember, most of the transformation spells devised to allow Atlanteans to survive under water were either created by Lord Ahri'ahn personally or were based on his work. As a result, he understands them very well."

"I thought they were… Locked in, or something?"

"Ahri'ahn wasn't idle during his absence. With, ah… Proper preparations, those can be worked around. Which he knew how to do."

"So…" I look around. "Is it just you, or are there other people who've gone through the change as well?"

"'The Change'." He smiles. "Very ominous. This isn't a surface world genetic rewrite, it's removing the essence of the manta from me. Far less traumatic."

"Even..? Psychologically?"

He looks around. "It has taken a little getting used to; walking around in the air and under the sun. My…" His right hand comes up again. "Lack of fins and barbels, and… The placement of some of my muscles is different now. And having my weight press down on me like this; if I wasn't a Pureblood I don't think I would be strong enough to support myself."

"Huh."

He smiles. "It is difficult to come to terms with, isn't it?"

"In the generality, no. I am aware of Atlantean biomancy. In the specific, yes. I mean, I…"

I have my ring compare the maps of his face before and after and… Yes, once I adjust for the parts that were removed or added, it's still his face. And his voice is similar, adjusted for the lack of water and the change in the structure of his torso. But…

Whaw.

"So..? Is this becoming more common, or is it just a few people, or..? What?"

"Just a few, unfortunately. At the moment Ahri'ahn needs to oversee each transformation personally, and he has many demands on his time. I was offered it because he wants to keep me in Poseidonis, and because the population of mantafolk is so small. Some… Others might choose it, but most would rather keep their own shape. That is… Why most of them chose to leave Poseidonis."

"I was wondering about that."

"It may be possible to wear a water manipulation artefact all day, but it is not practical." He frowns faintly. "Was that not the obvious explanation?"

"It was one of them. The other was that Ahri'ahn wanted them gone."

His brow smooths as he nods. "Ah… Yes. For a man of his era, it would not be… Entirely strange if he held such beliefs, out of a sense of Poseidonian primacy if nothing else. But I have not seen him display any awkwardness in his dealings with the 'impure', including me."

"That's something of a relief. How are..? Things..? Other things, I mean."

"I've been too busy to pursue a romantic relationship. My work has progressed in a new and strange direction, but I suspect that the Anti-Life did that to a great many people."

"Including the man who started it."

He blinks. "You..? Left him alive?"

I nod. "He fell under an unnatural mental influence. He was only partially responsible for the start, and by the end he had no control over what was happening. He's working as a delivery driver now."

"Hm." He takes a moment to think that over. "I suppose that it is useful work, at least. I hope that you will understand that I am… Surprised, at you being so merciful."

"The technique we used exposed me forcefully to some more uplifting emotions. Plus… It showed me that he didn't actually want any of this to happen. He just wanted to be a slightly better mugger. I didn't see any point in killing him. Particularly when -as you say- he could do useful work." I shrug. "And when he said that he regretted the whole thing, I knew that he was telling the truth, and genuinely wanted to reform. I mean, if killing him would have ended it faster then I would have killed him, but it.. wouldn't."

"I doubt that most people would care."

I shrug. "Perhaps not. But honestly, a lot of people weren't themselves during that whole period. I think more people would understand than you might think once what happened was explained to them."

"Mm." He nods. "Oh, would you please pass on my apologies to Ted Kord? I don't know if Ahri'ahn has told you yet, but-."

I nod. "No working with outsiders for the foreseeable future. N.-. The Orange Lantern Corps is working out an agreement for sourcing wizards elsewhere, and… I don't think that weather control needs to be our top priority right now anyway."

"Perhaps your new source could send people to work for KordTech? Depending on the distance involved."

I nod slowly. "I'll ask, but… His requirements are a bit less significant."

"But they are also less involved in killing people. That is a significant hurdle for any people."

I nod. "You're right. I'll mention it. It would also be less politically significant for their queen. Weather control versus… Warship transportation."

"Your war continues, then?"

"Oh yes. That's going to be continuing for several decades. It's happening over a vast area of space, and neither side is anything like tapped out."

"Your enemies have not developed magic of their own?" I shake my head. "I know that you said that magic is rare in the universe, but it surprises me that an empire of their size could not find anyone to assist them."

"That's probably to do with the mind control techniques and extermination campaigns. If there were magic users in their space, they're long dead now. And getting mercenaries would have similar issues; they don't have non-Reachians alive in their space."

"I'm still surprised that no one will take the chan-ce…" He frowns. "You didn't know that I was here. What brings you to the factory?"

"I wanted to see what had happened to the place. Ahri'ahn isn't sure that he wants to allow me to continue purchasing ammunition."

"I'm afraid that if he has blocked the sale-."

"No, no, I quite understand. With King Orin out of contact, I'm not surprised that it looks like a security risk."

He nods. "While you are here, would you like to look around? This place ultimately exists due to your intervention after all, and you cannot copy the magic involved yourself."

I smile. "You know what? I would. Thank you."

Chojin Patriarch · Feb 5, 2025

Mr Zoat said:
7th May 2013
08:32 GMT -2

I blink.

"Huh?"

"Yes, it's a fairly… Big change, isn't it?" He reach up with his right hand and… Runs it over his scalp. "Having hair is a new experience, and one which I do not care for."

So the baldness isn't because he's freshly humanoid, it's because he shaves. That's fair, not everyone deals well with haircare. Especially when you have other things to worry about, like work.

"You don't.. have hair."

"Yes, but now I have to shave it rather than just being naturally hairless." He lowers his hand to his upper lip. "I tried growing a moustache to replace my barbels, but it wasn't the same."

Not everyone likes having lip hair getting up their nose or in their mouth, yes.

"How did..? You change?"

"Well, as I'm sure you remember, most of the transformation spells devised to allow Atlanteans to survive under water were either created by Lord Ahri'ahn personally or were based on his work. As a result, he understands them very well."

Wait, did he really just 'As you know' OL? I suppose he's enjoying the surface life...

"I thought they were… Locked in, or something?"

"Ahri'ahn wasn't idle during his absence. With, ah… Proper preparations, those can be worked around. Which he knew how to do."

Huh. I suppose it's not easily scaled up, though.

"So…" I look around. "Is it just you, or are there other people who've gone through the change as well?"

"'The Change'." He smiles. "Very ominous. This isn't a surface world genetic rewrite, it's removing the essence of the manta from me. Far less traumatic."

"Even..? Psychologically?"

Interesting. So the original change was more 'add to recipient' than 'modify'.

He looks around. "It has taken a little getting used to; walking around in the air and under the sun. My…" His right hand comes up again. "Lack of fins and barbels, and… The placement of some of my muscles is different now. And having my weight press down on me like this; if I wasn't a Pureblood I don't think I would be strong enough to support myself."

Good to see him adapting so well, then.

"Huh."

He smiles. "It is difficult to come to terms with, isn't it?"

Eh, OL's made more radical modifications.

"In the generality, no. I am aware of Atlantean biomancy. In the specific, yes. I mean, I…"

I have my ring compare the maps of his face before and after and… Yes, once I adjust for the parts that were removed or added, it's still his face. And his voice is similar, adjusted for the lack of water and the change in the structure of his torso. But…

What about the spiritual? OL should know what Sephtian's desire network looks like, one quick check with his permission...

Whaw.

"So..? Is this becoming more common, or is it just a few people, or..? What?"

And would everyone accept it? I bet the Sharks of Nanauve would be likely to refuse, given their adaptions, both physical and cultural...

"Just a few, unfortunately. At the moment Ahri'ahn needs to oversee each transformation personally, and he has many demands on his time. I was offered it because he wants to keep me in Poseidonis, and because the population of mantafolk is so small. Some… Others might choose it, but most would rather keep their own shape. That is… Why most of them chose to leave Poseidonis."

To be fair, there are so few, they're practically one family.

"I was wondering about that."

"It may be possible to wear a water manipulation artefact all day, but it is not practical." He frowns faintly. "Was that not the obvious explanation?"

Also the social matters. The whole matter of finding compatible romantic paramours.

"It was one of them. The other was that Ahri'ahn wanted them gone."

He brow smoothes as he nods. "Ah… Yes. For a man of his era, it would not be… Entirely strange if he held such beliefs, out of a sense of Poseidonian primacy if nothing else. But I have not seen him display any awkwardness in his dealings with the 'impure', including me."

So no signs of discomfort around 'fish-folk'? Either he's actually not that speciest, or he's hiding it well.

"That's something of a relief. How are..? Things..? Other things, I mean."

"I've been too busy to pursue a romantic relationship. My work has progressed in a new and strange direction, but I suspect that the Anti-Life did that to a great many people."

Heh. Shed the biggest problem getting in the way of a love life, only to be so busy with work that he can't date anyway... Such is life.

"Including the man who started it."

He blinks. "You..? Left him alive?"

What would killing him provide? A momentary satisfaction in those who wouldn't know him in a police lineup? The man he was basically died when Darkseid took him over anyway.

I nod. "He fell under an unnatural mental influence. He was only partially responsible for the start, and by the end he had no control over what was happening. He's working as a delivery driver now."

"Hm." He takes a moment to think that over. "I suppose that it is useful work, at least. I hope that you will understand that I am… Surprised, at you being so merciful."

Heck, if he was aware enough of what he was doing under control, I'm amazed he didn't kill himself.

"The technique we used exposed me forcefully to some more uplifting emotions. Plus… It showed me that he didn't actually want any of this to happen. He just wanted to be a slightly better mugger. I didn't see any point in killing him. Particular when -as you say- he could do useful work." I shrug. "And when he said that he regretted the whole thing, I knew that he was telling the truth, and genuinely wanted to reform. I mean, if killing him would have ended it faster then I would have killed him, but it.. wouldn't."

No profit in it, and OL is nothing if not focused on results, not costs.

"I doubt that most people would care."

I shrug. "Perhaps not. But honestly, a lot of people weren't themselves during that whole period. I think more people would understand than you might think once what happened was explained to them."

Such as just about anyone who was Justified. They know what it's like to have everything about you pushed aside in subservience.

"Mm." He nods. "Oh, would you please pass on my apologies to Ted Kord? I don't know if Ahri'ahn has told you yet, but-."

I nod. "No working with outsiders for the foreseeable future. N.-. The Orange Lantern Corps is working out an agreement for sourcing wizards elsewhere, and… I don't think that weather control needs to be our top priority right now anyway."

At this stage, just getting supply infrastructure back on track is the priority. Improving minimum quality of life is a close second. Luxuries like weather control is a long way off.

"Perhaps your new source could send people to work for KordTech? Depending on the distance involved."

I nod slowly. "I'll ask, but… His requirements are a bit less significant."

Though it's likely they'd need NEMO transport to get there and back.

"But they are also less involved in killing people. That is a significant hurdle for any people."

I nod. "You're right. I'll mention it. It would also be less politically significant for their queen. Weather control versus… Warship transportation."

I expect they'll have people willing to do one or the other.

"Your war continues, then?"

"Oh yes. That's going to be continuing for several decades. It's happening over a vast area of space, and neither side is anything like tapped out."

Heck, the Reach are barely moving onto a wartime footing. This level of resistance is probably rare, and the machine of war moves slowly at first.

"Your enemies have not developed magic of their own?" I shake my head. "I know that you said that magic is rare in the universe, but it surprises me that an empire of their size could not find anyone to assist them."

"That's probably to do with the mind control techniques and extermination campaigns. If there were magic users in their space, they're long dead now. And getting mercenaries would have similar issues; they don't have non-Reachians alive in their space."

And most smart mercenaries have the sense not to work for the Reach if they can help it.

"I'm still surprised that no one will take the chan-ce…" He frowns. "You didn't know that I was here. What brings you to the factory?"

"I wanted to see what had happened to the place. Ahri'ahn isn't sure that he wants to allow me to continue purchasing ammunition."

Plus, discreetly checking people out. Not that he'd say that to anyone.

"I'm afraid that if he has blocked the sale-."

"No, no, I quite understand. With King Orin out of contact, I'm not surprised that it looks like a security risk."

And with any luck, Ahri'ahn may allow limited purchases or usage.

He nods. "While you are here, would you like to look around? This place ultimately exists due to your intervention after all, and you cannot copy the magic involved yourself."

I smile. "You know what? I would. Thank you."

As long as he isn't likely to disrupt anything. But if the workshops are as robust as they seemed, it shouldn't be a problem.

Surprising that Ahri'ahn went to this much trouble. I guess he recognises that Sephtian is a once-in-a-century magical visionary. Or at least has the PR sense to show some graciousness towards 'less advantaged Atlanteans'. Really hard to be sure which, even at this stage. Hopefully we get to see what Orin has to say to the league, or at least get a report on the encounter.

He brow smoothes as he nods.

His brow smooths as he nods.

Mr Zoat · Feb 5, 2025

Chojin Patriarch said:
His brow smooths as he nods.

Thank you, corrected.

Darko · Feb 5, 2025

Chojin Patriarch said:
And most smart mercenaries have the sense not to work for the Reach if they can help it.

Yeah, when one of the defining traits of your civilization is mind control and genocide, it's best for others to stay away from you.

ShadowScion626 · Feb 5, 2025

The more I read about this arc, the more I hope that Ahri'ahn DOESN'T end up as an enemy. So far, he doesn't seem to be doing anything wrong. He's offered a fixed version of his spell to any who wants it, raised Atlantis from the ocean floor with no casualties or evil Intent, and has been cordial and even friendly to Paul in his discussions with him. The only iffy thing might be his pureblood tendencies, but so far he seems to be doing a fine job of not lashing out due to them or letting them affect his actions.

Since we don't have any proof beyond timing and coincidence to suggest he may be the one using mind control, necromancy, and hypnosis on the Sharkians, I'm going to assume innocent until proven guilty and not immediately blame him. I sincerely hope this doesn't end up as Ahri'ahn being another villain that has to be brought down.

NightmareWarden · Feb 5, 2025

ShadowScion626 said:
The more I read about this arc, the more I hope that Ahri'ahn DOESN'T end up as an enemy. So far, he doesn't seem to be doing anything wrong. He's offered a fixed version of his spell to any who wants it, raised Atlantis from the ocean floor with no casualties or evil Intent, and has been cordial and even friendly to Paul in his discussions with him. The only iffy thing might be his pureblood tendencies, but so far he seems to be doing a fine job of not lashing out due to them or letting them affect his actions.

Since we don't have any proof beyond timing and coincidence to suggest he may be the one using mind control, necromancy, and hypnosis on the Sharkians, I'm going to assume innocent until proven guilty and not immediately blame him. I sincerely hope this doesn't end up as Ahri'ahn being another villain that has to be brought down.

If he has dabbled in necromancy but not become a master, then he could be a solid ally in the future. Someone other then Dr Mist and Giovanni Zatara to counter the weirded messes. I think he might become something similar to Dr. Doom, after he pisses off enough white-and-black morality superheroes. Not a super close comparison, but the intelligence, country of resources, magical and material knowledge... Yeah, let's just hope the eventual courting from Sinestro works out in Paul's favor.

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