Session 19
General Summary
Standing amidst the scene of destruction at what used to be the Northeastern gate, the Deep end spoke with one of the guards who informed them on exactly what happened in their absence. The threat – a creature they've termed the "River Leviathan" – appeared suddenly, seemingly more interested in causing destruction. Although the region of Varoona is known to be populated with Reaper Leviathans, no one has every seen this type of Leviathan before... which is concerning. Callon seemed incredibly exhausted, having arrived to assist in the fight and then working overnight to resolve the aftermath.
The Bay Guard was weighing multiple options on what to do with the creature's corpse. Auntie Four and Bella Five have offered to buy the creature's parts, but Chef Celtra Hylandria suggested using the creature to feed the people. Some vindictive citizens have also suggested just burning it to spite the creature. Portia also suggested - almost bitterly and unconvincingly - that it be sacrificed.
Approaching the priestesses and acolytes, Portia seemed incredibly solemn as she tended to the bodies that were able to be recovered from the rubble. How dare someone attack her city. When it was implied that Rani and the entire party knew of Portia's real identity, she whispered that this attack was not her doing. She invited the party to speak with her in a more private setting.
Portia led the party to a small back room where she resumed a form more reminiscent of the Goddess of the Sea. Before the Dread King, Varoona often faced off with her greatest rival... "Omen": a dark blue dragon-like creature with massive wings, two front legs equipped with wicked claws, and a mass of tentacles where hind legs would be. The River Leviathan was one of Omen's creatures... but Varoona can still feel Omen's steady breathing as he slumbers beneath the waves. This cannot be Omen's doing...
Varoona mentioned, frustrated, that she appears to be missing some of her "sight". She could not see this creature nor can she find her enemies despite knowing they are out on her waves. She fears that she has dallied too long in mortal form and must shortly return to her divine domain. Perhaps there... her sight will return to her.
Newt assisted Callon and the Bay Guard after visiting Erwin with The Widow. The old gnome mentioned checking up on the ship's engine for regular maintenance. The Widow brewed some potions and acquired some sewer rats for Auntie Four. Rani wrote some letters before reuniting with Ezra, who was quite happy to see her, immediately sweeping her into a hug and a quick kiss. They worked on the basics of their festival performance before retreating to Ezra's hidden spot at the edge of the city. Moira assisted the temple with overseeing the rites of the dead and also assisting with the influx of grieving family and friends.
Moira, with help from The Widow (Rani was busy so he'll have to do) did some research on the Dread King and hunger-based diseases. It seems there is no historical documentation of what the Dread King was like... the history is incredibly vague. As for the disease... nothing seems to quite match up with what Moira knows of her "symptoms".
Rani spoke with Portia regarding Moira's situation and her concern that this Olivantha infected Moira. Varoona was perplexed... she hadn't felt anything odd with Moira. When she returns to her realm, she will endeavor to see what can be done.
Moira worked on cooking a bit, Rani practiced for her performance, and Newt tried real hard to learn how to swim better with his wings.
Moira sent a message to Denarya, informing her about Olivantha. She received a short response. Once she's resolved an issue, Denarya will be returning to Varoona. Moira also sent a message to Jeramy, inquiring about a forge. After a couple of somewhat endearingly awkward messages sent back and forth, it seems the King will allow them to utilize one of the forges in Sotto Varoona.
Cali returned on the 12th and brought copious amounts of mail including:
- A Bag of Holding from High Priest Ossosî
- A letter from Tafadzwa
- A confirmation (receipt) for 2 dozen sand seals
Hello Rani and friends! I hope you are well! Circe says I should first thank you for warning us about the tall, blue overgrown lizard – her words, not mine! I, for one, thought it best to stay in my office the whole time, but Circe didn't seem too angry so I believe everything went quite well. And my brother requested that I update you. The issue with the animals hasn't been... well, resolved, per se, but the True Followers are keeping it in check for the moment. He and the local shamans were unable to gleam anything from whatever you found in the old truffle caverns (he was vague with me - or he told me and I forgot, who knows). Regardless, an "expert" is supposed to be arriving in the near future from the Institute in Lark'Hal. Anyway, I've told Cali to show you the confirmation! Through much effort (and I mean copious amounts of proposals and plenty of begging), I believe we've modified one of our paddocks to be suitable for sand seals and my oder has been approved! Tulpar is very excited! Thank you for this SPECTACULAR idea! If you are ever in the area again, know that you are always welcome. And who knows, next time you come by... Tulpar may be able to burrow! Warm Regards, Tafadzwa of Clan Ezust'HoldAdditionally, there was an envelope enclosed for Rani. It seems someone from the University of Eredet is interested in the position Rani has offered...
Name: Telatrix "Trix" Mountain Strider Race: Tabaxi Age: 19 Specialty: Gadgets and engines pertaining to locomotion; technological and arcane interface Education: Second-year at the University of Eredet with modest (B equivalent) GPA Notable Achievements: Honorary mention at her debut at the Tudas Expo"Trix" included a handful of recommendation letters and a sketch illustrating "Trix's Tech Talker – creating a communication line with technology. Sometimes saying "good engine" or "bad engine" can work!" In other news, it seems a shipment of ceremonial armor was stolen before it could reach Port Oceana. Captain Faumea Valdove released a statement, which identified the primary suspect as local pirates. While asking around for information on the pirates, Rani found the Temple in odd spirits... it seems Portia collapsed, released a cry, and then fainted. She has since locked herself in a back room. They've never seen the priestess feeling unwell. When Rani went to see Portia, she whispered that Omen's greatest creation had been awoken. The Goddess felt it for a brief moment, but her sight failed her once again. She knows not where it is. After imploring Rani to assist when the time comes to face this great beast, Varoona returned to her realm. Meanwhile, Moira asks the real important questions: Has Thanatos committed murder? The Widow awoke on the familiar golden platform to find Therarask frantically moving about, seemingly in quite the tizzy about their appearance and urgently needing to get ready. The Widow asked if the Deep End could still bounty hunt in spite of festival rules. Dramatically, Therarask waxed on about the lack of attention they receive... and its their festival! San Futas is now in full swing! The streets are decked out with roses and drapes in pink, gold, and red! Calypso offered her wardrobe to those in need. Newt donned the Captain's bedazzled outfit down to the bedazzled rapier. Rani covered the swarms in gold glitter and allowed them to form her an elegant, eye-catching gown. Moira went a bit more risky, letting Cali choose a golden crop top and a somewhat scandalous skirt. The Widow adorned a "high-fashion" outfit constructed - with Cali's help - out of whatever he found at the beach. The Deep End headed to the Gladiator Ring with Calypso. Upon arriving, they were met by a gorgeous elven man with long flowing hair who introduced himself - quite flirtatiously and forwardly - as "Belle". He's a "facilitator" at the Festival and his only job is to ensure that everyone indulges to the fullest extent in Therarask's festival. Rani met an old acquaintance: Noel and her gang have finally made it to Varoona - and just in time for gladiatorial combat! Newt fought to save Zephus from a gaggle of priestesses. He was quite thankful and ended up painting a cool eye design on Newt's wings while they watched the subsequent bouts. Rani fought for Ezra, who immediately jumped to his feet - enamored - when Rani felled a large red dragonborn warrior. He seems... open to allowing Noel to join them. Bell put himself upon the Rose Throne and the Widow jumped down to fight. To the Widow's surprise and irritation, Moira - on a spur of the moment decision - also decided to fight. Belle promptly deemed that all those fighting must forsake armor... and clothing. After attacking each other and somewhat working together to take out a large, muscled foe... The Widow took down Moira with a couple of well-placed eldritch blasts. With encouragement from Noel, Rani sat on the throne. It seems many heavy-hitters were waiting for the supposed "Champion of Ragna's Coliseum" to enter the ring. Noel didn't seem perturbed in the slightest as her skin seemed to take on a more molten appearance. After toying with her foes, she expertly dispatched them, proving that she has, in fact, earned that title. It seems Rani likes them fiery. The Widow has won the company of Belle for the day, Rani the company of Ezra and Noel the company of Rani... and Ezra by extension, and Newt has won Zephus' company... ...and Moira has Drone #367... who seems to be acting odd.
Rewards Granted
The magic item requested from Oshiv'Ran has finally arrived! This Bag of holding is more "earthy" in design, made of leather dyed in shades of brown and green. It has a beautiful tribal pattern – in white –of a stag head with antlers that extend across the whole "flap" of the bag, turning into the branches of a great tree adorned with leaves and flowers near the edges. The clasp for the bag is a little bronze carved stag head.
Missions/Quests Completed
San Futas has arrived! According to The Widow – who heard it straight from Therarask – the mission is to give Therarask the attention they rightfully deserve... by fully enjoying the festival of debauchery and hedonism!
Report Date
23 Sep 2021
Primary Location
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