Role

Chapter 2

As she gets old, Sulye has become more introspective. This isn't saying
much since she has never been the most contemplative or introspective
person to begin with, but she is at least moving in that direction. In
particular she has begun to question the nature of "strength", an concept
around which so much of her life has cenetered thus far. Sulye endeavors
always to be "strong" and hates "weakness". But what does it mean to be
"strong"? What does it mean to be "weak"?

"Strength" cannot refer solely to physical strength, or else Sulye would
have to admit she's one of the weakest people on the face of Thera. Felar
are not known for their ability to lift heavy objects. And yet, it also
cannot merely refer to cunning either. Many there are who plan and scheme
and yet are utterly without the means to carry through on their plots.

Is "strength" primarily strength of "spirit"? Remaining stoic in defeat?
The willingness to face overwheling odds? Many there are among the maran
who are "powerful", and yet restrain that power in ways Sulye considers
foolish and moralistic. Does this mean they are weak, or does
self-restraint have nothing to do with the idea of strength? Or is it
perhaps even an aspect of strength?

And so Sulye has decided to seek the input of others. Specifically, those
who have at their disposal such great power that they could extinguish her
without a second thought, like the smallest, most insignificant candle.
Some might even relish the thought. Surely these, whose experiences span
countless eons stretching back before her own birth, are in a unique
position to comment on the nature of strength.

The main question, then, is: at what cost will this knowledge come?