Post by The Master Tactician on Feb 9, 2013 12:27:55 GMT -5
Slowly, arduously, the Grand General got to his feet, leaning heavily upon his cane. He narrowed his eyes at Varus: the callous tone, the unfounded pride. But the archer's impenitence was irrelevant, however irritating. Terms had been met, and so, inscrutable behind his mask of poise, Swain prepared to speak.
"Noxus has not forgotten the past calamities of the Ionian people." His voice, though quiet, rang out over the assembly, authoritative, determined. "On behalf of my country, I hereby issue a state apology for the needless violence Ionia endured under the campaigns of Boram Darkwill." He folded his hands over his cane. Crimson eyes fixed across the stage, upon Irelia and Karma, bearing a flame of dignified resolve. "We understand--perhaps better than most--that the national wounds of war run deep. But we hope that, out of tragedy, prosperity will rise."
The general brought his fist to his shroud, lowered his head, cleared his throat with a hacking cough. Upon regaining his composure, he paused briefly, re-affixing his gaze upon the Ionian delegates with something akin to condolatory solemnness. "Consider this a declaration of Noxus' commitment to peace with Ionia. May no more needless blood be shed between our two great nations." At his shoulder, his fiendish familiar ruffled her feathers. He remained standing, glancing to Ethan as though to signal the conclusion of his address.
Post by Ethan Ramseyt on Feb 10, 2013 7:53:33 GMT -5
Holding the floor only as long as was necessary to allow the Grand General's words to sink in, unsurprised by the content of his speech. Relations between Ionia and Noxus had been shakier in past years but they were by no means calm recently. The amount of administrative paperwork he'd had to file throughout the course of his life dealing with nothing more than the bickering between summoners for the two areas is far greater than he'd ever willingly admit. Reports of violent threats, simple pranks, everything one could imagine short of murder. "Fools." Was the only word that crossed his mind.
Deciding that enough time had passed to allow Swain's decision to sink in, he waved a hand toward the Ionian table, giving them the floor to respond in whatever way they should see fit. Still, he was uncertain exactly how the pair would go about their response. They appeared so different in their views on Noxus. The potential for peace, he wagered, would win out in the end, despite the grievous wounds that had previously hung in ever Ionian's heart.
That was the hope, anyway
Last Edit: Feb 10, 2013 8:00:58 GMT -5 by Ethan Ramseyt
Do not falter from the path of peace, justice and truth will set you free.
Post by The Will of the Blades on Feb 10, 2013 13:12:19 GMT -5
Irelia carefully listened to Swain as his words were being decrypted in her mind. She could feel the orchestration of a plan behind those lies and she couldn't trust Swain at all, mainly because all this peace speech seemed sudden to her and it should be examined with caution before making any decision. She let out a sigh, giving him a cold glare as she lifted her head up and stood tall, slowly moving towards the General's table with a look of distrust and anger showing up on her facial expressions before taking a halt just a couple of steps away while keeping her gaze locked on him.
The Captain wasn't satisfied with his speech and excuses, it didn't seem convincing to her at all. It was almost irritating to listen to him while he thought that everyone in this room were naive enough to believe him and she felt insulted because of that. Her eyes shifted around the room, looking at Demacian representatives then at Karma herself before lying once more on the Noxian leaders, and with an irritated, provocative tone, she started to speak.
"I have to say Swain, you worked pretty hard on those words didn't you? Unfortunately, others may believe you but I... don't. You may ask me why, and I may answer this: Because we don't trust you. What could possibly indicate that you aren't preparing a whole plan to invade Ionia again and expand your powers throughout Valoran? What could possibly show us that you aren't a mass of backstabbers that are ready to ravage us as soon as you can? What could tell us, that you are different from your predecessor, Boram Darkwill?"
A smirk slowly crept across the Captain's lips as she spat out from her throat.
"Nothing!"
She turned her back to the Noxian delegates and moved away to her own seat. While she remained on her feet, she glanced at Karma briefly before looking back at Swain, her cold glare still exposed as she carried on with her speech.
"Words are nice and all, but they don't speak louder than actions, and so far you have proved nothing to earn our trust Grand General."
Post by The Master Tactician on Feb 10, 2013 17:05:49 GMT -5
The general's gaze remained impassive as Irelia spoke, fixed upon her indignant expression, shrewdly studying her face. When she finished, he replied evenly, his tone dignified but apologetic. "No one denies the tragedies Ionia suffered at my country's hand, madame. For that, we seek to atone. We can only attempt to move forward with new direction and mutual respect. Your caution is expected, your devotion to your homeland honorable. Consider that I, also, am a patriot grown weary of wasteful death."
He raised his brows as he uttered these words, crimson eyes wide in a deliberate display of sincerity. "I have not yet earned Ionia's trust, but nor have I done anything to break it--and nor will I. Let this be the first of many steps towards peace between us--the ushering in of a new era, in which there is no need for the bloodshed of either citizens or soldiers."
The general's gaze remained impassive as Irelia spoke, fixed upon her indignant expression, shrewdly studying her face. When she finished, he replied evenly, his tone dignified but apologetic. "No one denies the tragedies Ionia suffered at my country's hand, madame. For that, we seek to atone. We can only attempt to move forward with new direction and mutual respect. Your caution is expected, your devotion to your homeland honorable. Consider that I, also, am a patriot grown weary of wasteful death."
He raised his brows as he uttered these words, crimson eyes wide in a deliberate display of sincerity. "I have not yet earned Ionia's trust, but nor have I done anything to break it--and nor will I. Let this be the first of many steps towards peace between us--the ushering in of a new era, in which there is no need for the bloodshed of either citizens or soldiers."
Most curious, Grand General. Senior Summoner Hildebrand Runeblood would make his statement clearly, cutting through the din of the onlookers reacting to the words between the two parties. You speak of peace, of a new era devoid of needless bloodshed. Grand words, Grand General, but merely words. The man sitting quietly on the sidelines would speak up, standing to meet the gaze of all those around. The League of Legends and the Institute of War were created at the behest of the people of Valoran to stop the ruthless conflict of the Rune Wars, and halt the further devastation of Runeterra. The summoner motioned to the accused, to Varus as he continued.
This man stands before you accused of a terrible crime indeed. He has killed citizens of your land, and you are right to seek justice for his actions against the peace we have attempted to forge. However... Hildebrand adjusted his robes and sighed, clearing his throat. This man is a product of your nation, Grand General. The blood on your nation's hands is great, as are the atrocities committed by its soldiers in the name of conquest and subversion.
The history of your nation is filled with examples similar to Ionia, Grand General. Freljord has faced the might of your army as it attempted to exterminate a vast portion of its population. Demacia has been an enemy of your land for as long as history can be told. Hildebrand then turned his side to Swain, looking over his shoulder to motion to the Institute behind them. This institution seeks to prevent such atrocities from befalling the citizens of Runeterra, and it is with a heavy heart that we admit to failing to protect your nation from the hand of a man indeed created by it. He looked to the Demacian Party and the Noxian Party.
Even more, it is regrettable that this institution, forged and birthed from a world in pain, and suffering at the hands of war and strife, was corrupted by two influential individuals for selfish and despicable ends. Hildebrand sighed, bowing his head in apology. We have failed Runeterra itself in that regard, but these events have opened our eyes to the very real threat of corruption and sabotage within the League itself. The Senior Summoner would rise, his blue eyes meeting Swain's with his characteristically icy glance.
And yet, despite our flaws, our mission remains the same, and we are dedicated to maintaining this peace. He did not blink as he continued to speak, his voice even, and his eyes frozen in his stare. So, you see, Grand General, it is quite curious that you have chosen to back out of the covenant that your nation agreed to follow in order to usher in a new era of peace...in the interest of ushering in a new era of peace. He paused momentarily to take a small breath, his eyes still locked onto Swain's, unmoving, analyzing, calculating every twitch and movement of the Noxian head of state. After all, would not you agree that goals are better attained by two parties working together, rather than separately, if even for the same goals?
Post by The Master Tactician on Feb 11, 2013 21:03:59 GMT -5
Swain lifted his chin, his expression one of inscrutable composure as the man spoke. He shifted his weight, leaning heavily upon his cane, the slight tremor of his withered body apparent to those nearest. "I have made no attempt to deny the wounds wrought by Darkwill's imperial regime. Indeed, my heart is heavy for those bereaved, but progress must begin today, with this statement of our commitment to peace."
Crimson eyes narrowed, meeting the summoner's contrasting icy gaze. "That is the singular purpose for Noxus' presence here today: to state our intent of reconciliation in response to The Arrow's. This is neither the time nor the place to detail the failings of your esteemed organization--or my country's grievances with it." The slightest hint of disdain darkened his tone. "Though, perhaps, if the High Councilor wishes," his gaze flickered momentarily towards Vessaria, "further discourse can be arranged. As I have said, my country is willing to work with the Institute for the betterment of Valoran, but no longer for it."
Some of the accompanying High Command representatives offered gruff nods of agreement. Having spoken, the Grand General lowered himself back into his seat, laid his cane against the desk and interlaced his fingers before him.
"Grand General, certainly you do not believe that you worked FOR the League." Hildebrand raised a brow. "The idea was that all of Valoran work together, using the Fields of Justice as a means to settle conflict without the need for war, and without further devastation to our homes.
Hildebrand crossed his arms, speaking matter-of-factly. "I am certain that your actions of pulling your support from that covenant have troubled many in high places. If the Fields and the statues created by all Valoran's City States are not sufficient in your eyes to solve what you see are problems...this troubles us."
"If a decree against outright war, and strict guidelines denoting how conflict must be solved, backed by all members of the League, are not enough for you, Grand General, perhaps you could tell this delegation what is, in your own wisdom." Hildebrand would motion to the delegation of summoners and champions from all the city states present. "If it is reason enough for you to turn your back on this institution, it must be an epiphany of some sort. And, knowing such a concept would surely help better all our lives by knowing exactly what that might be."
Hildebrand would then look back to Swain, his eyes just as cold and analytical as they were before. "So, please, Grand General, enlighten us. Share with us your wisdom for how you believe the peace of Valoran can be better served by splitting from the one institution who's only goal is, in fact, the very peace you claim to seek." Hildebrand would pause momentarily, before continuing. "You have our ear, Grand General, and we await your reasoning...
Post by The Master Tactician on Feb 11, 2013 23:27:40 GMT -5
The general did not stand to speak. If the summoner's thinly veiled jeers irked him, he did not give any outward display of annoyance.
He narrowed his eyes from his seat, gnarled hands still clasped on the table before him. "Surely," Swain growled, his usual stately tone weighted with warning, "You don't wish to have the Institute's shortcomings aired in public here and now." His burning gaze flashed purposefully towards the High Councilor.
"YES! The mudslinging is gonna begin!" Titus thinks in his head with excitement. With Swain's growling tone and Hidelbrand's pressing words against the Grand General, Titus eagerly awaits for whatever argument is going to arise. He looks at the door that leads to the outside and gains the feeling in his mind to sabotage the Ionian and Noxian carriages.
Post by Vessaria Kolminye on Feb 11, 2013 23:37:00 GMT -5
Vessaria merely watched on as the hearing escalated to newer heights. Ethan appeared to be handling it surprisingly well, but she had not foreseen such outward animosity. Though her gaze did not tremble from their hold on the Grand General, her attention briefly flickered to the empty seats beside her. Swain's response was, as usual, concise and sly. Whether or not he was to be believed was not the topic of debate; more so, it was the why Vessaria was especially interested in. To apologize for a past action that was not your own was a cunning move. Whether or not this declaration would mean anything when the time came remained unknown to her, but she had no doubt that Swain had something planned. The Institute had every reason to be wary.
When he had finished speaking, she turned to look at the Ionian representatives. But she knew what the reaction would be. Her hand twitched as Irelia stood, her pace moderate yet there was no mistaking the smouldering anger reflected in her eyes. The Ionian's reply was a stark contrast to Swain's formal tone. She did have a point, but Vessaria simply sighed to herself. Though the Captain was a good leader, she lacked the tact known to many great generals. Nonetheless, perhaps this trait was what made her so formidable. Yet, Ionia should have known better than to offer one so affected by the wars. Revenge clouded reason, and Irelia had thrown all caution to the wind.
Attention was diverted once again, this time to the Senior Summoner she had seen from time to time. Though his words were true, she could not help but frown ever so slightly. Swain had said her very thoughts - he had presented a rather unnecessary reel of information. It was true - without Noxus, the League's ultimate goal had been set back. Peace was difficult to obtain when control was not commanded over one of the most prominent city states, especially one who seemed to be at the base of every unfortunate occurrence.
Finally, Vessaria stood, commanding silence with the simple action. She took a moment's pause, this time sweeping her eyes visibly over the crowd then to the tables. Ionia, with their grim hate and vengeance on their mind. Noxus, with their cunning wheels turning. Demacia and the Grey Order. The Summoners, the accused - all there to witness the statements of peace that seemingly meant nothing to them. Whether or not she believed it, she did not show it. Instead, she began to speak, her voice sharp and impassive.
"While Senior Summoner Runeblood speaks the truth, so does the Grand General. There is no need to speak of the Institute's purpose during the hearing." Her lips twitched, though the only move she made was to fold her arms loosely. "While Noxus is responsible for the amelioration of the past, we cannot hold him accountable for the mistakes that marks his nation's history." Though she did not state that Varus was at fault, she did not agree that Noxus was to blame either.
"For reconcilement to begin, Ionia must first admit that violence begets violence. We are here to mend what has been broken." She turned to address Irelia, "I will simply remind you that should Ionia find itself in need of our protection, the Institute will do everything within its power." Vessaria was aware that she was making a bold statement, but it seemed as if Ionia had forgotten. The Institute of War was to remain a neutral party, yet Noxus' secession meant that they would be able to assist Ionia if the time came. It also offered the League a similar reassurance.
"We are not here to force Noxus back into the League. We are here because the Arrow believed mistakenly that his actions righted a wrong." The look in Swain's eyes did not go unnoticed.
Post by Hildebrand Runeblood on Feb 12, 2013 0:05:00 GMT -5
"As always, your words speak truth, and contain much wisdom, High Councilor." Hildebrand bowed respectfully as Vessaria finished her own words. "Noxus is free to carve its own path through life. Our job, as the peacekeeping entity, is to ensure that Valoran is kept safe and secure."
His eyes rose to meet Swain's. "I will be the first to admit we have indeed been forced to endure our own shortcomings over the past few months, and, while I am curious as to what the Grand General believes is so terrible that he believes pulling out of the covenant is more beneficial than remaining a part of it, the High Councilor speaks the truth."
He addressed the delegations. "I believe all of us must remember that we have dedicated ourselves to peace in Valoran, and indeed all of Runeterra. With that in mind, we should not let the actions of one man, or even one city-state undo all that we have worked to achieve."
"In these difficult and trying times, we must remember our goals of lasting peace, and strive to uphold those beliefs, above all else." That said, Hildebrand would take his seat, his eyes glancing to Swain's once more before returning to the rest of the delegation.
Post by Ethan Ramseyt on Feb 13, 2013 20:39:43 GMT -5
Ethan stood from his chair slowly, quietly looking across everyone who had gathered for the hearing. While the distraction had been masterfully quelled by Vessaria, it was clear that there was very little left for either side to say. Karma had been strangely withdrawn but he supposed there was likely a very good reason for that. She did not appear to be a thoughtless woman, if reports were anything to base his assumption off of.
The subtle chatter of the crowd ground to a halt as he raised a hand, clearing his throat for a moment before speaking. Their time here was drawing to a close and things needed to see some form of conclusion.
"People of Valoran. Let it be known that this summit is nearing its end. All concerned parties have spoken what they wish and the exchange of the guilty party is complete. Unless there are any final comments from Varus or the representatives of Ionia or Noxus," A quick pause to give the Diamond Summoner a look, "You may all depart as you see fit."
Rather than simply seat himself again, he attempted to catch the Grand General's attention, a hefty stack of letters and officially-sealed documents in his hand, as if on offer to the other man. A simple reminder for after the conclusion, that there was much paperwork required of the soon-to-be-former Champion for both his nation and those that would be joining him in their exodus from the League.
Do not falter from the path of peace, justice and truth will set you free.
Karma merely watched the proceedings, her face remained impassive, a stark contrast to Irelia's fiery outburst. She was aware of the expectant looks on the faces of some key figures, but she deemed it imprudent to join in on criticizing Swain's proposal. Despite this, she was quite surprised with the turn of events . She expected a more hostile approach from the Grand General, but a declaration of peace? Unheard of, yet he still managed to weave his speech into a convincing one.
Peace, it was a prospect she never came across during the invasion of Ionia, it was a promise of safety for her people, to properly recover from the wounds of war. But to hear it from the mouth of Swain, the word had somehow became twisted, corrupted. Boram was a dangerous man, but he was a pale shadow to the likes of Swain. The thought of her people living peacefully with Noxus under his leadership became nauseating.
She studied the Grand General, but nothing can be derived from those eyes that were filled with ambition, a fact that frustrated her greatly. Once again she was reminded of the commander that invaded the southern villages. She could read his emotions like an open book, he was so full of frailty, so easy to convince. But Swain was in a totally different league , this one is frail of body but not of mind, she cannot second-guess him, let alone know what conspires in his mind.
Karma gave the Grand General a look of grudging respect. She then fixed her gaze on Irelia, it was an expression that encouraged restraint.
"Compose yourself Irelia, as prideful as he is, Swain would not reveal his true intentions to us anytime soon, let the river run its course and we will act accordingly.''
Post by The Master Tactician on Feb 17, 2013 15:10:35 GMT -5
The General remained seated, his jaw extended as he tongued the raw new space between his molars, pensive, calculating. He scanned the crowd as many rose, his grip upon his cane tightening when his gaze came to rest over the Demacian table, the royal entourage. The briefest flash of contempt tightened his wizened features, but it quickly dissolved again behind his mask of poise. He tore his gaze away for the approaching summoner, his stack of papers, and lifted his chin in dignified acknowledgement.
Some of the High Command generals began to get to their feet, to stretch and grip uneasily at their empty weapon holsters. Still, Swain remained seated, gnarled hands clasped, as he awaited the preamble of the letter-bearing gold summoner.
Post by Ethan Ramseyt on Feb 20, 2013 14:58:55 GMT -5
Once the majority of the crowd had begun moving to disperse, Ethan stood and approached the Noxian table, the clutch of letters still in his hand. He greeted the various faces of the High Command individually when he arrived, giving a quick and respectful nod to each, before finally doing the same to greet Swain.
The twine bound stack of envelopes were clearly of particular importance, obvious both from the thickness of the paper and official Institute seal that held them closed as much by the way the summoner handled them, as though at any moment they could blow away like so much sand or simply shatter into thousands of irretrievable pieces.
"Here are the dismissals from active Champion service. They're to remain sealed until delivered, obviously, but they all say the same thing, names and titles aside," Ethan stopped speaking for a moment to give the Grand General a quick look, as if to gauge him, then continued, "I've also taken the liberty of including a Free Agent caveat in each of the letters. Fairly simple, it states that if any champion should wish to remain in active service, that they are able to do so as an agent free of Noxus' jurisdiction at the price of citizenship."
Nothing he said contained any flickers of particular inflection, but the words were clearly a jab at the man's pride. While Ethan held a fair bit of respect for the gnarled diplomat, he didn't agree with his choices in the slightest. If even one of the Noxian champions decided to remain with the League, Ethan would gladly consider that proof enough of his suspicion that Noxus' universal interest were not at heart.
Do not falter from the path of peace, justice and truth will set you free.
Welcome to Maelstrom, Original Characters, Summoners and Champions alike. We are a divergent setting roleplay forum for the ever-popular MOBA by Riot, League of Legends. This means we are based in Riot canon, but your characters' actions can have a real, lasting impact on the world. Together, the Maelstrom community endeavors to bring the League of Legends setting and characters to life through collaborative storytelling and meaningful development. We welcome you along for the ride.
Hang out in a citystate, visit the Institute of War, explore the uncharted recesses of Runeterra. Whatever you decide, good luck, have fun and happy writing.
hello new skin yes. gonna work out some kinks but let me know what you guys think. it's not all that flashy but i didn't really like the tabs so the side bar is back. oh and the cbox has also made it's appearance. -rurin.
Maelstrom was created by Swain. Written content is copyrighted to their creators on this site. The skin is created by Wolf and mini-profile template by Kuroya of Gangnam Style. The board and thread remodel is by Kagney and has been heavily edited by Rurin. League of Legends is owned by Riot Games. Maelstrom does not claim ownership to any images used unless stated otherwise.
cbox
Chat box has been removed for the time being. Please contact me at Wyerden@gmail.com, or skype name DearCryophoenix with for any questions or concerns.
