Session 30
General Summary
Rani and Ezra went on a romantic dinner date to Luminescence in Sotto Varoona. As the lights in the restaurant dimmed, small bioluminescent creatures began to ascend from the depths of the Drop-off, casting a beautiful display of dancing lights throughout the entire restaurant. Over their meal, Ezra asked Rani to join him for the Opening Ceremonies and asked what events she wished to participate in, if any. Rani asked Ezra if – since he's a man and good at dating – he would speak with Ghilani as she concerned about his interest in a prisoner named Azhi. Ezra isn't sure how helpful he can be... but he'll certainly try.
Luminescence Reference:
After getting a couple's massage and strolling through the underwater city, Ezra informed Rani that the Collective is mobilizing resources to various locations: Ah'Shal, Caliban, Carmenthia, Lark'Hal and Ragna. Before then, the Collective is sending operatives to Varoona. Given that the Deep End has brought some attention to themselves... he asked Rani to remind them to be careful. He would hate to see Rani hurt, directly or indirectly.
As promised, Ezra attempted to speak with Ghilani. There's a sliding scale of "bad". Like, for example, one time a prostitute I knew on Therarask gave someone an STI- you... you don't know what that is? How old are you anyway? Yes, forgiveness and seeing good in people are certainly virtues... but perhaps some people, for the greater good, need to be let go... Ezra seemed very interested in the information that Ghilani provided on Porysis' slave dealings.
A seance - led by Newt - was attempted. A cold, chilling sensation filled the air. Long, sharp nails dug into everyone's shoulders. Moira remarked: "Your mom has really long nails..." After Ghilani yelled "turn it off", Moira turned undead and the sensation appeared to fade... Newt's not sure how to talk to spirits other than his own, it seems.
On the morning of the 8th of Var'Tempus, the Deep End was summoned by the High Priestess who requested they travel north to a town called Red River. The Pirate Lord posted a threat to the High Lord. Although her old friend has ensured her of his safety, she is not convinced. In addition to being a part of history, Thalassa promised a 200 gold (each) reward for assisting her in ensuring the safety of the High Lord and the other passengers aboard the Iron Arrow.
MISC: Moira dedicated some time to praying to Caliban; Newt placed orders for a cloak, a potion, and a tattoo design; The Widow finally returned looking and feeling like an old man; Ghilani shared some information regarding Porysis' slave dealings and a note from "The Doctor".
Traveling North
After making camp a little ways outside the city, Rani and the Widow mind-linked to have "super-secret parent talk" and Moira mind-linked with Ghilani. Meanwhile, Newt pretended to be an adult and set up camp. After mind-link time, the party had some important deep conversations including (1) why it's important not to steal and (2) WTF, why are you connected to the Dread King? Moira seems to pity it and mentioned that it could be a source of knowledge. However, Rani doesn't think she should stay connected to it. If she does, she certainly should at least let Rani or The Widow know. At least let someone know. After The Widow had gone to bed, Newt and Moira mind-linked to talk about... relationships with gods. Do you like... ever feel sexually attracted to your gods? Moira does not - or has ever - feel that way. What's going on? I feel like there's both information we're not telling each other. And neither of them admitted information to the other. Therarask mentioned speaking to Magnus if you must investigate the Dread King. Ugh, but I guess if it's for the children... Caliban seemed irate with Moira. Why did you send your mother figure to berate me? When Moira pushed further about the Dread King and the silver-haired woman, Caliban snapped. Do you know realize there is a reason I do not go into my own city anymore? Why I keep to myself in this old decrepit temple? You mortals don't understand how much pain you cause. When Moira asked what happened to her... Caliban responded: "She never came back". On the road, The Deep End encountered a group of workers traveling home to Varoona after working in Red River. With the tracks complete, there's really no reason to stay. Later, they encounter a downtrodden looking family on a wagon pulled by a mule. One of them appears to be sick and she mentioned symptoms that were quite familiar to Moira: insatiable hunger, low energy, and feeling cold. They are traveling to Carmenthia to seek healing as nothing, so far, seems to have worked. Rani expresed concern about the swarm. It's not quite sadness... it's something else. Regardless, they seem to know when the Dread King is active within Moira. Moira told the fragment that she could not permit it to take energy from her anymore and, thus, was backing out of their deal. It expressed confusion... did she not agree to help it remember? It agreed to become dormant. Newt confessed - randomly over dinner - that he had taken and read The Widow's secret. Newt apologized, admitting that he considered the Widow a close friend. And that's saying a lot! Newt doesn't let many people in; he never really had a chance until now. And he doesn't even know The WIdow's fucking name! That's why he'd taken the secret. He apologized again and understands if The Widow needs to be angry with him, even not speak to him... but Newt still has his back. Newt, did however, also throw Moira under the bus for knowing while Rani attempted to mediate (she has a stellar track record for mediation). As they rode into town, The Widow - via mind link - told Ghilani his name. On the morning of the 13th, you arrived at the town of Red River.The Iron Arrow
The Iron Arrow is a massive behemoth of dark wood and metal with 11 cars, all outfitted for various purposes. Upon arrival, several individuals of note stood out:- Ghilani recognized a middle-aged gnome, Dr. Paramount, who was a notable member of the engineering department at the University of Eredet. He, however, didn't recognize her half-elf associate.
- Two familiar looking dwarves entered the first car. They appear to resemble Caishen Ironbound.
- The High Lord disembarked with four guards. From his disposition, it's no surprise that his daughters seem to portray him in ill light. He seemed unconcerned with the threat made to his life.
Captain Porysis, Per request, I have sent to you an experiment by the name of Jaakobah. Do not be too alarmed by his ghastly appearance. I assure you that he is fully capable of carrying out the tasks with which you have been burdened. My recommendations on his handling:As such, I should also request that, upon completion of this necessary business in Varoona... please do dispose of Jaakobah for me. You, of course, will understand that space is limited and I cannot waste it on those that are significantly less profitable than newer subjects. Regards, The Doctor.
- Should you fear he be falling out of line, simply remind him that his failure will result in my displeasure. If I am displeased, he falls further from attaining the perfection he so desperately desires.
- It is advantageous that you are a slaver. Should you have any undesirable cargo, I'd advise you send them to Jaakobah. He is more... docile, shall we say, when he's recently bathed in blood.
- Do not hesitate to give him the most dangerous of missions. He is but one of my many failures after all.
Report Date
27 Jan 2022
Primary Location
Dear High Lord Aedric Whatever, Your boring, brooding face is the last thing I – and the whole city for that matter – want to see in the month of our bitch goddess Varoona! It is of my esteemed opinion that you should remain in the North where you haughty, stuck-up, and stuffy nobles should be! Do some drugs, live a little. I hear Eredet is lovely in Var'Tempus... But if you do decide to come to Varoona, I do think it's polite that I inform you that I will: 1. Maim you 2. Kill you 3. Feed you to the fish (before cremation of course, ha) Have a splendid day, oh glorious High Lord,Hugs, Kisses, and Plenty of Drugs,The Scourge of the Sea, Pirate Lord, JL
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