Over such beauty, wars are fought. With such power, wars are won.

Gilded Lotus

"The perfection of the lotus reminds me of my hopes for this world . . . and my failures. I will not rest until I've atoned for them."
—Karn

"The lotus is a potent but ephemeral source of power. To preserve its potency, lacquer carefully with a conductive coating."
—*Hurkyl's Metaphysics, vol. II*

"The ancient Necron race has achieved this pinnacle of elegance through their relentless pursuit of utility."
—Tech-Priest Darvin, executed for heresy 1256998.M41

The mage entered into a contract with the golden flower. She could wield its considerable power, but all would be lost should a single petal fall.