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We are all either users or the used. For most, their role is accepted from birth, choosing to either obediently conform or break the norm. However, it is not always so easy to decide who the manipulators and the manipulated are. Some are determined to gain control from those who refuse to relinquish it. The power struggle that ensues is a violent one, and only the cleverest prevails. To this end, the puppeteer often shrouds himself in a veil of obedience and loyalty while the true toy is too blinded by arrogance to see the strings pulling them through another man's machinations.
A few days ago, I was certain I was in control; the Legionnaires could not touch me, the Black Hand would not dare to, the other Red Wizards were too blinded by their own ambitions to see my own, and any other organization simply could not hold a candle up to what Thay is capable of. But lately, the walls are closing in on me. Like a poor chess move recognized in hindsight, I realize that the Black Hand is gaining influence over the enclave; consequently, they are gaining influence over myself. I am finding more and more of my colleagues who follow Bane. Furthermore, the temple of Kossuth is being taken over, and though I only pay lip service to Kossuth in order to maintain a public image, the implications of the temple being taken over are all the same. To top it all off, the Aurillites are trying to occupy Aquor, and I do not like their barbaric filth.
It turns out the mountain I stood on was not the solid rock I once thought it to be. However, I was not so arrogant to consider this a possibility. In fact, I have made plans to stifle the presence of the Black Hand and the Aurillites, as far as the enclave goes. For the past week, every single move and word has been carefully calculated to ensure the best interests of Thay are safeguarded. Josirah, a Conjurer like my great grandfather, is an unknowing tool for my success as her skills are invaluable. Her well being must be ensured. Everything else... well, that will unfold in time. I have been careful. I have been flawless with my calculations. Everything hinges on the cataclysmic events that are soon to happen.
During this time, everyone will be able to ask him or herself and know the answer for sure: am I the user or the used?
A few days ago, I was certain I was in control; the Legionnaires could not touch me, the Black Hand would not dare to, the other Red Wizards were too blinded by their own ambitions to see my own, and any other organization simply could not hold a candle up to what Thay is capable of. But lately, the walls are closing in on me. Like a poor chess move recognized in hindsight, I realize that the Black Hand is gaining influence over the enclave; consequently, they are gaining influence over myself. I am finding more and more of my colleagues who follow Bane. Furthermore, the temple of Kossuth is being taken over, and though I only pay lip service to Kossuth in order to maintain a public image, the implications of the temple being taken over are all the same. To top it all off, the Aurillites are trying to occupy Aquor, and I do not like their barbaric filth.
It turns out the mountain I stood on was not the solid rock I once thought it to be. However, I was not so arrogant to consider this a possibility. In fact, I have made plans to stifle the presence of the Black Hand and the Aurillites, as far as the enclave goes. For the past week, every single move and word has been carefully calculated to ensure the best interests of Thay are safeguarded. Josirah, a Conjurer like my great grandfather, is an unknowing tool for my success as her skills are invaluable. Her well being must be ensured. Everything else... well, that will unfold in time. I have been careful. I have been flawless with my calculations. Everything hinges on the cataclysmic events that are soon to happen.
During this time, everyone will be able to ask him or herself and know the answer for sure: am I the user or the used?
-pg. 852 Private Musings, Ramza Xantheus, age 22