Sessio II - Un-masking the Medicis

As Avicellus remains concealed in the shadows, the figure steps into the dimly lit warehouse. The stranger is tall and clad in a long, dark cloak with a hood pulled low, obscuring their face. The heavy fabric sways slightly as they move, suggesting a purposeful and fluid gait. The light from a few lanterns glints off the polished leather boots that make soft, almost inaudible footsteps.

From his vantage point, Avicellus notices the figure pause briefly, scanning the room. The cloaked individual seems to be assessing the surroundings, perhaps ensuring they are alone. Then, they stride confidently towards the crates with the intricate carvings.

The figure stops beside one of the crates, kneels, and begins to examine the carvings closely, tracing the patterns with a gloved hand. They mutter something under their breath, too soft for Avicellus to hear clearly. After a moment, the figure stands and produces a small, leather-bound book from within their cloak. Flipping through the pages rapidly, they seem to be consulting something, occasionally glancing back at the carvings.

Avicellus recognizes that the figure's movements and focus on the crates suggest a familiarity with their nature. The stranger appears to be someone knowledgeable, possibly even an expert in whatever enchantments or properties these crates possess.

Avicellus takes a chance. He speaks up from his hiding place, “Lorenzo, I presume?”

Avicellus's voice cuts through the silence of the warehouse, catching the cloaked figure off guard. The figure freezes momentarily, then turns slowly toward the sound.The dim light reveals a man in his mid-thirties, with sharp, calculating eyes peeking from under the hood. His hand instinctively moves to a concealed weapon under his cloak, but he pauses when he hears the name "Lorenzo."

"Who’s asking?" he replies, his voice a mixture of caution and curiosity. "Show yourself. Are you with the Medicis, or do you have some other interest in this shipment?"

As he steps out from his hiding place, Avicellus notices the man relaxing slightly, yet still wary. Lorenzo’s demeanor suggests he’s accustomed to dealing with unexpected situations, but he’s clearly on edge given the circumstances. The crates around them seem untouched, though the magical carvings on them emit a faint glow in the low light, hinting at their concealed power. The air is thick with tension and the lingering scent of aged wood and dust.

Lorenzo awaits Avicellus’s response, his eyes scanning him from head to toe. It’s clear that any wrong move or misstep in conversation could escalate the situation.

“I am neither friend nor foe of the Medicis,” Avicellus says. “They add much value in the form of stability, but stability can sometimes be taken too far. Word has it that ‘Lorenzo’ has information and insight on what might be the wisest course for Florence to follow as regards the Medici family and this cargo, specifically.”

Lorenzo narrows his eyes, evaluating Avicellus’s words. After a tense moment, he lowers his guard slightly, though his hand remains near his hidden weapon.

"I see," Lorenzo says slowly, clearly weighing his next words carefully. "You speak like a man who knows the delicate balance of power in Florence. But these are dangerous waters you're wading into."

He steps closer, his gaze intense and searching. "The Medici have their eyes everywhere. If you know about this shipment, you must understand its value extends beyond mere coin or trinkets. These artifacts," he gestures to the crates, "hold power. Power that could tip the scales in Florence’s delicate political dance."

He continues, "These masks and statues, enchanted and potent, are more than just artifacts. They can influence minds, sway decisions, and even instill fear or loyalty. The Medici plan to use them to secure their grip on power, ensuring their rule remains unchallenged. But not everyone agrees that their continued dominance is what's best for the city."

Lorenzo's voice lowers to a near whisper. "There are those who believe Florence needs a different path, one where power isn't concentrated in the hands of a few. These artifacts, if placed in the right hands, could be used to level the playing field, to inspire change, and to shift the balance."

Avicellus steps from his hiding place. “I am acquainted with both the perils of ‘wading into dangerous waters’ as well as the powers of a mask. Perhaps an alliance for the sake of Florence is in order. What is your intention with this cargo tonight?”

Lorenzo's eyes widen briefly in surprise as Avicellus steps into view, but he quickly composes himself, assessing the mage with a discerning gaze. The tension in the warehouse is palpable, the air thick with the weight of their conversation.

"My intention?" Lorenzo begins, his voice calm but laden with the gravity of the situation. "Tonight, my plan was to ensure these artifacts do not fall into the wrong hands — specifically, those of the Medici, or anyone who would use them to oppress rather than uplift."

He takes a step closer to one of the crates, resting his hand on its worn surface. "I intended to secure the shipment and transport it to allies who believe in a Florence where power is more evenly distributed. These artifacts could help us rally support, protect our cause, and challenge the Medici's dominance.

“And how do you propose that these new governors be restrained from becoming more despotic than the Medicis once they have access to such magical power?”

Lorenzo looks thoughtful at Avicellus's question, his fingers tapping lightly on the crate's edge as he formulates his response.

"Your concern is valid, and one I've wrestled with myself," he begins, his voice measured. "Power has a way of corrupting, and magical artifacts like these could easily become tools of oppression rather than instruments of liberation. That is why it’s crucial to have safeguards in place."

He steps back from the crate, gesturing with one hand as he speaks. "First, the distribution of these artifacts should be limited and controlled. They would not be handed over to any single individual or faction but rather shared among a coalition of trusted leaders, each holding a piece of the power — a system of checks and balances."

"Second," he continues, "we would establish a council, comprising representatives from various sectors of society: the guilds, the clergy, the nobility, and the commoners. This council would oversee the use of these artifacts and hold each other accountable, ensuring that no single group can dominate."

Lorenzo's gaze fixes on Avicellus, his eyes earnest. "Lastly, transparency and education are vital. The people of Florence must be aware of the existence and potential of these artifacts, and how they are used. Knowledge is a powerful deterrent against tyranny."

“It sounds to me like you have a plan to achieve a better Florence, and certainly these safeguards will be necessary to ensure that such a bold move avoids the most tragic of unintended consequences. I once worked tirelessly and at great risk to save my beloved Florence from the plague. I would like to ensure that I have a place in this new Florence you are building. Shall we consider each other allies, then?”

Lorenzo listens intently, his expression softening as Avicellus speaks. When Avicellus finishes, Lorenzo nods slowly, a thoughtful smile forming on his lips.

"An ally with the skills and dedication to Florence as you possess would be invaluable," he replies, extending his hand towards Avicellus. "Your experience with the plague shows your commitment to the city's welfare, and I believe that together, we can navigate these turbulent waters to create a Florence that thrives in both prosperity and justice."

As their hands clasp in a firm shake, the air around them seems to hum with a newfound sense of purpose. Lorenzo's grip is strong, a silent affirmation of their pact.

"To secure a place in this new Florence," Lorenzo continues, "we must first ensure that this cargo is used wisely and that the Medici's hold is carefully dismantled. Your expertise in magic and healing will be crucial in this endeavor."He releases Avicellus's hand and takes a step back, his demeanor growing more serious. "But know this: the path ahead will not be easy. The Medici have eyes and ears everywhere, and their power is deeply entrenched. We must proceed with caution and wisdom."Lorenzo pauses, then gestures to the crates. "Tonight, we must move these artifacts to a safe location where they can be studied and prepared for their role in our plan. I would value your assistance in this. Will you help me transport them to our safe house, and ensure they remain undetected?"

Avicellus agrees to assist Lorenzo in moving the artifacts.

Lorenzo nods, clearly relieved and appreciative of Avicellus’s willingness to help. “Thank you, Avicellus. Your assistance is invaluable. We need to move quickly to avoid detection.” He walks over to one of the crates and motions for Avicellus to join him. Together, they carefully lift the first crate, its weight surprisingly manageable, though still requiring effort. As they carry it towards the back entrance, Lorenzo speaks in a hushed tone.“The safe house isn’t far. It’s a small warehouse near the river, owned by an associate who supports our cause. Once there, we can begin our preparations to study the artifacts and understand how best to use them.”

The night air outside is cool and still, and the streets of Florence are eerily quiet. As they make their way through the narrow alleys, the city’s grandeur looms around them, a silent reminder of the power they are challenging.As they approach the safe house, Lorenzo suddenly stops, signaling Avicellus to do the same. He peers around a corner, then turns back to Avicellus, his expression tense.“Stay here and keep an eye on the crates,” he whispers. “I’ll make sure the coast is clear.”Lorenzo moves ahead, disappearing into the shadows. Avicellus stands guard, listening intently for any signs of trouble.

After a few tense moments, Lorenzo reappears and waves him forward. “It’s safe,” he says. “Let’s get these inside.”Once they are within the safe house, a modest but sturdy structure filled with various goods and supplies, Lorenzo guides them to a secluded room in the back. There, they set the crates down and take a moment to catch their breath.“Here we are,” Lorenzo says, wiping sweat from his brow. “We’ll need to inspect the artifacts soon, but first, we should secure this place and ensure no one followed us.”As Lorenzo begins to check the windows and doors, Avicellus has a moment to reflect on their task and consider the next steps.

Having seemingly earned Lorenzo’s trust by helping him in his plot, Avicellus asks for more specific details about the plan.

Lorenzo pauses from his security check, turning to face Avicellus. He nods, understanding the need for clarity and transparency given the risk involved.

“Of course,” Lorenzo says, gesturing for Avicellus to sit at a nearby table. He joins him, leaning in to speak in a low, measured tone, “our immediate goal is to keep these artifacts hidden and safe while we gather our allies and resources. The masks and statues have significant magical properties that could grant immense power to whoever controls them. The Medicis sought to use them to solidify their control, but in our hands, they could be a tool for liberation.” Lorenzo’s eyes gleam with a mix of excitement and caution as he continues. “The masks are said to grant their wearer enhanced perception, possibly even glimpses into the future. The statues, on the other hand, hold enchantments that can bolster a leader’s charisma and influence, making them persuasive beyond normal means. Imagine a leader with both foresight and the ability to inspire unwavering loyalty—a leader we could choose, someone who would work for the people of Florence.”

He takes a deep breath, his expression becoming more serious.“But these are not toys. The power they offer can corrupt, which is why we need to be careful. We must study them, understand their limitations and dangers, before deciding how to use them. Our plan involves a few steps. First, we need to rally those who oppose the Medicis but also understand the responsibility that comes with wielding such power. We can’t let these artifacts fall into the hands of another despot. Then, we’ll need to decipher their full potential and any hidden dangers. This will require the help of skilled scholars and mages. Your knowledge of magic will be invaluable here. Once we understand the artifacts, we can plan our next move—whether it’s to use them directly, find a way to neutralize their power, or keep them hidden as leverage against the Medicis. Lastly, we know that the Medicis won’t sit idly by. We need to prepare for the possibility of confrontation, whether it’s through diplomacy or, if necessary, force.”

Lorenzo leans back, giving Avicellus a moment to absorb the information.“Your role could be crucial in both the study and the strategy phases,” he says. “Your knowledge and perspective could help us avoid the very pitfalls we fear. What do you think, Avicellus? Are you ready to dive deeper into this mission?”