first ⚡ a topic on summoning

[ramuhs]

Type: Text
Sender ID: ramuhs
To: General public
Subject: Summoning other creatures and people
Warnings: None except maybe FFXVI spoilers in their respective threads?

[// PUBLIC PORTION //]
A curious question to my fellow riftfarers — to those who are capable of "summoning" or calling upon powerful beings or even people, how does it work in your world? Any particular requirements? Contracts?

And have you any luck doing so while here? Any changes you've discovered?

[This is a general broadcast type post, so anyone can threadhop if they'd like to swap stories or anything! Cid will be reading everything...with very keen interest.]

[// PRIVATE TO FFXVI CAST //]

In case you're wondering what this is about, while on that ghost ship a girl somehow managed to summon me from a rock she had—materia she called it. She also knew about Ramuh and some of the other Eikons from our world.

Given there was no warning and that she might not be the only one, thought I should give everyone a heads up. For now I'll be trying some tests with her to see how it works and will share the results.

Comments

[ramuhs]

[Well, this is actually rather interesting to read, even if it feels more like a letter (and now why does he feel inclined to reply in kind?). Pacts...exchange of favors... If they could establish something like that so they have more control if not cut this whole thing in the process, that would be ideal.

Hmmm.]

Thank you, Gale, this was quite insightful, really.

How do you make these pacts you mentioned? Does it involve magic or some kind of written contract? Exchange of blood?

Sincerely,
Cid

[Oh he really is replying in kind—have a text letter back! (what it's a kind of fun change of pace—)]

[netherese]

[Gale is thrilled to receive a letter in turn, especially given that the person writing it seems genuinely interested in what he has to say! He often has a great deal to say about any given topic, but some of his companions have more patience for it than others.

Naturally, his answer is not brief.]

Truly, it's my pleasure. Anything I can do to offer a wizard's perspective. I know I'm quite interested to learn about magic and all things adjacent as they are in other worlds. Knowledge is to be shared!

Pacts vary depending on the entity, but I'm most familiar of those made with devils or fiends. Those do tend to be written contracts, though it's a soul that's being bound. Devils make even the most ruthless magistrate seem like a mewling kitten in comparison. Other patrons may make different demands. Some of these entities come from planes so far beyond our own, the very concept of them is foreign to most. There are also Archfey, and dealing with the fey in any capacity tends to be risky at best. Many might demand a trade or a sacrifice.

At your service,
Gale of Waterdeep

[ramuhs]

Making pacts with devils or entities from other planes. I admit it's hard to believe, yet not so hard at the same time. Since you mention demands and sacrifice, I'd also question why anyone would take such risks, but I know the answer to that as well.

But from the sounds of it, it seems there is least some negotiation, with the one they wish to bind having the upper hand to bargain and the power to refuse or accept. Is that always the case or were there exceptions to create a forced contract?

Ever grateful,
Cid

[netherese]

No doubt you've known many who would have taken such risks, if they had the opportunity. Desperation alone can be quite a motivator, though there are always other reasons, as well. Greed, power, loss... it all depends on the person in question.

While I've never experienced a forced contract myself, I have summoned a few exotic creatures that weren't quite as amenable to being called upon as others. In those cases, a prompt banishing to return them to whence they came has been the best course of action. What you're speaking of, however... I'm certain there are devils who have managed such a thing, though they do love their fine print.

I take it you're asking because of personal experience, or at least observation?

Intensely Curious,
Gale of Waterdeep

[ramuhs]

Unfortunately such opportunistic individuals are found in any world and in any time, with the rest forced to deal with their messes.

[Clearly he doesn't think very well about such things.]

But also unfortunately, you are correct. Had a bit of a "sudden summon" experience myself back on that ghost ship. It wasn't even intentional, or at least the poor girl was expecting a different form of the one she was trying to call.

Victim of Misfortune,
Cid

[netherese]

Worrisome, to say the least. Is this the first time such a thing has happened to you? Your calm approach makes me think otherwise. No judgment intended, of course. It sounds as though circumstances are well beyond your control.

Amicably Concerned,
Gale of Waterdeep

[ramuhs]

Flattered at your assessment, but no, this was indeed the first time. However, it was indeed the first time. Suppose I have enough experience in general to know it's better to learn more about the problem to figure out a solution than panic. And getting that control back is my top priority.

Wizened Old Man,
Cid

[netherese]

If there is any way I can be of aid, I would very much like to assist. Conversation and conjecture are one thing, but I'm a wizard of considerable talent and experience. I may be able to help further in this regard, if I'm able to learn more about the entity in question.

Humbly,
Gale of Waterdeep

[ramuhs]

[Cid taps his fingers against the desk for a moment before responding.]

Then it would likely be easier to speak in person. One can only convey so much over texts, and you've already shared you have ample knowledge on the subject.

If you are not against a meeting, of course.

Appreciative,
Cid

[netherese]

I would be more than happy to meet you at your convenience. I agree; there is only so much that can be done while conversing in this manner, and admittedly, I find I quite prefer face-to-face. These devices are still quite new to me, and while I believe I've got the hang of them, sometimes it's simply best to do things the old-fashioned way.

Ready and willing,
Gale of Waterdeep

[ramuhs]

I'm a bit fond of these devices myself. Can only go so far with a courier or an owl.

I've got a few things lined up, but I can send you a time and place.

Paladin or Corsair?

Surprisingly busy,
Cid

[netherese]

Perfect. Whenever is convenient for you; I'm still quite new to this place myself, but have found ways to keep myself surprisingly busy, as well. Regardless, being a newer arrival means I have the luxury of things being rather flexible.

Paladin, though I've friends among the Corsairs. I'm passing familiar with some of their haunts on Eltrut.

In the spirit of cooperation,
Gale of Waterdeep

[ramuhs]

Ah, I had a feeling you would be. I'm on Corsair, so Eltrut would be a better place. I know a few good pubs and taverns as well, perhaps one you've been through before.

For our purposes, however, I would suggest a smaller venue — The Hollowed Shell. Serves some good food as well.

Ever willing,
Cid

[netherese]

I suppose I do have that air about me, don't I?

It sounds perfect for our purposes. I've been meaning to stop in and try their offerings, as well; consider this two birds well-struck with one stone. The next time you're free to spend some time in Eltrut, simply say the word and I shall make the arrangements at your convenience.

Warmest regards,
Gale of Waterdeep

[ramuhs]

I'll send word soon, and will be looking forward to this discussion.

Ta-ra,
Cid