Session 59
General Summary
Final Days in the Coliseum
One evening, Ezra took Rani atop one of the large statues on the upper walls of the Coliseum. Along with wine, cheese, fruits, and chocolates, he shared one of the "quiet places" of the world that he had found. There may be no fireworks or dramatic theatrics, but there isn't anyone he wishes to share such moments and places with. He assured Rani that he does not begrudge her for what happened. It takes strength to face what the world has thrown at her and continue to smile, to watch over friends, to dance, to perform, to care and to feel. Although they may be apart, there will be many more nights together in the future.
Suraksha and Vinaash recounted their "tale". They were forged by Matron Seven and traveled with a silver-haired woman for a time. They were gifted to a woman who looked like Rani... but wasn't Rani. An 80% match is pretty good, however, so they assisted Soyolmaa. There was a war. They remember battles, but nothing concrete. And then they were traveling and all they saw for many years was the inside of a tent. In their boredom, they began to slumber... until around 2 decades ago where they awoke for a brief moment.
Widow climbed the statue of Ragna and prayed to the Goddess of War with the hope of informing her of the current situation. Most notably, that the Dread King has returned. he then left a note, hidden, at the shrine to Therarask. When you want to talk, I'm here.
Newt, realizing that babysitting isn't going to cut it, spoke to Noel and Leon about making some extra coin. Leon was willing to trade gold for information on the Warrior Elite, as he is navigating the transition of power and trying to ease the weight on his sister's shoulders. After multiple days of creeping and spying, Newt learned that Leon pays very well. In a "show of good faith", Leon warned Newt that should Moira lose control of that thing inside of her... he will kill her without hesitation.
Having taken Cheveyo's trinket of carved bone, Newt gave Moira Callon's hair tie. It seems fitting as he views her as a sister. Moira now sports a tiny little ponytail, slightly off-centered on the top of her head.
Ghilani took up residence in Cheveyo's old shop for a day and... realized that Cheveyo must have had some trick to be able to charge as low of a price as he did for the spells he was casting. Apparently, he and Bonebreaker are "chill"... for now. Ghilani spent some time learning sign language from Matron Seven, who explained that blood witches draw power from the blood in their veins, while others, like Moira, draw power from the soul – their gods only allowing them to access it. Ghilani is unique in that he currently draws upon both. Ghilani also checked in with Ismera - he does know Bonebreaker! The sounds of pages turning can be heard faintly in the background.
The Pirate Lord has been spotted! After pursuing a small fleet, the Grand Admiral was ambushed. Forced to return to Dragontide, the Grand Admiral - according to Nadeen - plans to return to the high seas as soon as possible to pursue the Pirate Lord. The House of Jade, unfortunately, will have to wait.
Moira spoke with Widow again about the Dread King and deals. Before she attempted to contact it once more, the two took a trip to see Magnus. The Dread King? On the other side of the continent? Bah, well the war IS bad for business. They call him the Dread King, but his side apparently calls him the Ascendant King. Moira disconnected after hearing another name. Widow then asked if Therarask had ever cracked. Magnus, as if discussing a terrible secret, revealed that Therarask has had bad foundation days. Why would you think about it as god or mortal? Magnus simply views it as "they are mine" and "I am theirs".
Moira then informed the group about her plans to make the deal with the Dread King.
An Interlude in Varoona
The Deep End departed Ragna and did NOT inform their crew. As they arrived on the boat, one crew member screamed while another fell over board. In the same vibe, the portal to Chaos Reigns finally opened! They quickly said their goodbyes to the crew.Four has apparently implemented a slide for the party's arrival and (according to Five) has been waiting for quite some time to test it. Four is delighted to see them all again. Although Chaos Reigns is still located near the hole int he wall, repair efforts have commenced. Five provided tattoo updates for Newt and Widow. Meanwhile, Four is pleased with Ghilani's progress, but warned that mistress 8 will test his resolve. And, of course, she is always willing to accept blood... but perhaps you should keep some for yourself?
Rani arrived to speak with Four and promptly embarrassed Ghilani by telling Four about how he responded "blood" when the consorts asked about what his preference was. Unfortunately, Four cannot assist Rani, but speak respectfully to 8 and perhaps do not mention the gods and your service to them. There has been no change in Moira's "possession". Four thinks Moira would have a 10% chance of survival if she was to try and remove it. Moira knows when she's being stared at with the "see-all eyes".
Newt went to check on Lady Von'Della. She has been researching during almost every moment of her free time. She is doing what she imagines most grieving people do: keep themselves distracted so they cannot think about their grief. She believes that there may be a "backdoor" of sorts into Ah'Shal's domain and random slivers into hell are said to open up every now and then, but they seem unpredictable. Newt convinced her to get out of her home and she treated the entire group to dinner at Dragolée. Moira's cooking earned a nod of respect from Chef Hylandria.
After picking up fish bowl ingredients, the group broke into Cali's cabana. While drinking, Moira suddenly grabbed the Widow and asked "Do you trust me" before attempting to scry on Therarask. Her eyes turned a brilliant gold and she was met with darkness and an oppressive heat. She could feel a warm, almost burning caress on her face and shoulders. Why are you here, Caliban's little cleric? Lucille's resolve will weaken eventually and I will bring him here... Moira attempted to convince Therarask that they should not take the Widow if he does not wish to go. Therarask, enraged, declared, "HE'S MINE", before Moira snapped out of it... faint burn marks on her face where Therarask's fingers had lingers.
Widow immediately expressed concerned, gently demanding to know what Therarask had done. Moira explained what had occurred like a party girl describing a minor inconvenience that happened at the party last weekend. There is no excuse for the behavior, but Widow is more convinced now that something is very wrong. This isn't them.
Rani arrived to speak with Four and promptly embarrassed Ghilani by telling Four about how he responded "blood" when the consorts asked about what his preference was. Unfortunately, Four cannot assist Rani, but speak respectfully to 8 and perhaps do not mention the gods and your service to them. There has been no change in Moira's "possession". Four thinks Moira would have a 10% chance of survival if she was to try and remove it. Moira knows when she's being stared at with the "see-all eyes".
Newt went to check on Lady Von'Della. She has been researching during almost every moment of her free time. She is doing what she imagines most grieving people do: keep themselves distracted so they cannot think about their grief. She believes that there may be a "backdoor" of sorts into Ah'Shal's domain and random slivers into hell are said to open up every now and then, but they seem unpredictable. Newt convinced her to get out of her home and she treated the entire group to dinner at Dragolée. Moira's cooking earned a nod of respect from Chef Hylandria.
After picking up fish bowl ingredients, the group broke into Cali's cabana. While drinking, Moira suddenly grabbed the Widow and asked "Do you trust me" before attempting to scry on Therarask. Her eyes turned a brilliant gold and she was met with darkness and an oppressive heat. She could feel a warm, almost burning caress on her face and shoulders. Why are you here, Caliban's little cleric? Lucille's resolve will weaken eventually and I will bring him here... Moira attempted to convince Therarask that they should not take the Widow if he does not wish to go. Therarask, enraged, declared, "HE'S MINE", before Moira snapped out of it... faint burn marks on her face where Therarask's fingers had lingers.
Widow immediately expressed concerned, gently demanding to know what Therarask had done. Moira explained what had occurred like a party girl describing a minor inconvenience that happened at the party last weekend. There is no excuse for the behavior, but Widow is more convinced now that something is very wrong. This isn't them.
Moira then turned around and spoke to the being within her. It lightly berated her for her fickle nature. Although it recognized the name "Ascendant King", it is not the one it searches for... but it is familiar. There were many who called it that... friends, allies, perhaps. It took the deal and reformed into a humanoid figure with broad shoulders wreathed in shadow with violet hues. A six-pointed, jagged crown appeared atop its head as it eyes opened to glow in swirling shades of violet. It promised to only be present when it needed to be and would otherwise leave Moira to her devices. It simply wishes to remember. It mentioned that it had taken control of her to speak to the spirit man and then to Matron 7. It was trying to find a way to remove itself safely, but still be able to accomplish its goals.
After speaking with Vith, arranging for more bullets to be made, and giving him a moment to process the sentience of Rani's swords, the Deep End returned to the boat.
Rani and Widow kicked Newt out of the crow's nest to have a heart-to-heart over some tea. Widow told Rani about his life, starting from the beginning. He spoke of his shitty dad, Six and bounty hunting, meeting and marrying Sylvia... and being saved by Therarask. In the beginning, they did things to show that they cared. And it must be hard to remember it all and have to deal with a fool. It's why Widow is so willing to excuse their actions. Rani emphasized that Widow is a good person who deserves good things. He should remember that. Widow told Rani to call him Declan. It's time he reclaimed that name.
Ismera was consulted. The name of the necromancer is Vainheart, the Undying Tyrant. Unfortunately, all Ismera can see is smog, which suggests he is located within Ah'Shal's domain. Perhaps the Lady of Death has stricken the knowledge from the records. As the group passed beneath the bridge linking Tel'Rhea and Ah'Shal, Rani shoved both Newt and Ghilani below deck.
Welcome to the Capitol City of Eredet
The Capitol city of Eredet is a sprawling metropolis built upon a cliffside overlooking the Neg'Varos Bay. It is the largest city on the continent with the Tower Citadel serving as its centerpiece. A testament to the continent that it represents, the city is divided into districts that represent each of the major regions of Dremora as well as all members of the Dremoran pantheon. A small portion of the city exists beyond the city's walls: the District of Varoona. As The Diving Board pulled into port, everyone but Widow (who was busy sorting out the crew and docking) noticed an eerie red glow from beyond the edge of the city.
Towering over the entire city of Eredet is the Tower Citadel, the meeting place of the continent and city leadership and government. The large central tower is surrounded by 12 satellite spires, one of which appears to have fallen in on itself. The large doors to the Tower Citadel stand open, although flanked by many guards.
After ascending upwards, the Deep End met with High Lord Aedric Valdove. All of the council members are now present in the city and can generally be found within the Tower Citadel. There are social galas held in the ballroom almost every evening if you wish to try and speak with any of the Council members before the formal meeting is called. He advised only doing so if it will be do the benefit of his daughter's cause. Ghilani would know best where to find her. The High Lord provided the following information on the Council:
After ascending upwards, the Deep End met with High Lord Aedric Valdove. All of the council members are now present in the city and can generally be found within the Tower Citadel. There are social galas held in the ballroom almost every evening if you wish to try and speak with any of the Council members before the formal meeting is called. He advised only doing so if it will be do the benefit of his daughter's cause. Ghilani would know best where to find her. The High Lord provided the following information on the Council:
- Grand Priest Aepius (Eredet) – An old family friend who generally serves as a peacekeeper, mediator, and tiebreaker at meetings. Emphasizing religious security can only help ensure the Grand Priest is on their side.
- High Lord Carter Steelwind (Ah'Shal) – Lacks any and all spine. He listens to two voices: High Lord Ironborn and the Overlords of Ah'Shal. Should High Lord Ironborn speak louder, the Overlords may be held at bay... at least for a time.
- High Lord Vetulátos (Caliban) – If he is anything like the late High Lord Kestial, he anticipates an alliance be struct between Ah'Shal and Caliban.
- High Lady Sephira La'Talenna (Carmenthia) – A woman who commands respect and is dedicated to serving her people. Her people are desperately in need of aid, but she does not wish to feel backed into a corner. She is indebted, somewhat, to Dr. Valdove for her aid.
- High Lord Pekk Nozhawk (Elios) – He keeps himself on a high perch literally and figuratively. Tension has been rising between Elios and the continent. Aedric has tried to improve relations, but Pekk seems to want none of it. He is proud. He will not ask for aid, nor will he easily accept it.
- High Lord Emir Maletshatsi (Lark'Hal) – A charming and mellow earth genasi and member of the earth genasi royal family. Although not sure what his agenda is, Aedric believes that phrasing the issue as a "once-in-a-lifetime" opportunity, may motivate the mellow genasi to act.
- High Lord Kuan-Ti Ironborn (Nacheevi) – A brilliant man and friend, but often doesn't see the... human parts of problems. He is concerned that when his daughter presents the issue, that Kuan-Ti will prefer to prepare for war. Perhaps it needs to be phrased as an opportunity for advancement without warfare.
- High Lord Ivan of Zver'Behepka (Oshiv'Ran) – A family friend of the Valdoves and a man who defers to family values. Although he won't admit it, he is immensely worried about Antiek'Vee Forest. Promising urgent aid may secure his support.
- High Lady Tatsuya (Ragna) – She thinks only with her brawn and has no political tact. She is a warrior of Ragna, however, and appealing to that may get her to think, for once.
- High Lord Jasper Delkova (Tel'Rhea) – Aedric and he do not get along because of... family matters. The eladrin man is more likely to listen to women than to men, but believes that all women should desire to be in Tel'Rhea. He must want something for himself though.
- High Lord Lux Briar (Therarask) – An enigma. Although on good terms, Aedric does not trust them. They enjoy trauma, drama, and causing problems. If you can discern their motives, you may gain the upper hand.
Remember, you are representing not just yourselves, but Dr. Valdove and the High Lord... and perhaps the entire Council in the future.
The Blood Witch of Binding
Rani tracked down the origin of the eerie red glow and Ghilani immediately, without hesitation, approached. A massive behemoth appeared, dropping its camouflage as it opened its mouth. Within, Ghilani found a door and the entire group entered. Within the behemoth, there is a small shop illuminate by low light. Jewelry and other trinkets line the walls. Porysis appeared from a hallway, seemingly in good condition and unfazed by the arrival of the individuals who bested him. A moment later, a regal woman with pale skin and a hard, cold look in her eye appeared. Mistress 8 invited each of the group to speak with her.
It is time to test Ghilani's resolve. Are you committed to the path of blood? If you are, then it is time to prove it: Kill a Chosen of a god. Or, if you are unwilling to spill blood, you may also convince them to abandon their devotion. When this has been completed, Mistress 8 will give her blood. Despite the grand nature of the task, 8 has faith in Ghilani. She has not had hope for many years, but Ghilani's presence alone has granted it to her once more.
Mistress 8 is pleased that Newt wishes to see the Goddess of Death killed... she would also like to see that become a reality... but who would you replace the Goddess with? If you had to choose between your soul and blood, what would you choose? When Newt offered himself to bear the curse of divinity, Mistress 8 seemed amused. You cannot raise yourself to divinity... but there are those who can. If Newt gets the weapon from Matron 7... she will bind its will to Newt, though contract terms may apply.
You are Blessed of a god, but you are blind to the path you walk. Mistress 8 asked Rani, if she had the power, which god of the pantheon would you replace? Rani responded with Judas, which seemed to amuse the blood witch. What good is the god of gold? Of commerce and of wealth? Family matters more. Mistress 8 did not agree, but seemed amused by the "clever" response. She agreed to bind a ring to Rani that would accomplish what she desires... alongside a contract, of course.
Mistress 8 was particularly skeptical of Widow and it seemed to sour her mood. When he responded that he couldn't and wouldn't choose between the woman who raised him and the god that claimed him... she remarked that it is unfortunate that Six's blood hunter has been "compromised". What will you do if you are faced with that decision? Widow doesn't believe it is a case of all or nothing. Mistress 8 dismissed him.
How interesting that you have dealt with this being within you. Do you recognize what it is? No, you still defer to these charlatans of gods... a mockery of the divine... and are blind to what true divinity really is. Do you not think that Caliban will do to you what he did to his people? Let us hope that your faith will be enough. Do keep Ghilani safe, at the very least. The look of mild disgust didn't seem to waver from Mistress 8.
If you need to find the Mistress 8 again... you simply must speak Vendetta's name.
Rumors
- I’ve heard that the 7-key talisman they have at the Mortuary is a fake. If that’s true, I wonder where Kiera hid the real talisman? Or do you think it was lost? Or stolen?
- Every botanist says that flowers have their own language and that the flowers of Gradnma Wisteria’s statue speak the clearest… but it just sounds like gibberish to me.
- Lady Elixyveth may be a noble in name only, but no one can draw magic from the yarn like she does. I hear she’s on a blanket-making phase.
- It’s ironic that the most popular tea lounge in the District of Caliban is named after Ghidoran Once-Gold, the dragonborn who supposedly abandoned his clan to marry a crazy kalashtar man. They say he could eat 3x Ghidoran’s weight every day.
- They say that Grand Priest Ihlyesult was the last to speak to The One… do you think he buried that secret with him? Or gave it to the first Council?
Report Date
14 Oct 2022
Primary Location
Secondary Location
Response from Six
Apologies are a waste of words! Especially when you're bound to do it again! The world is funny, yes? We spend out whole lives saying "I shall never be THAT". I tell you DON'T picture an owl with a ball gown. But you DO! Same concept. You think I will NEVER be that, and then you are. What do YOU want to be? What do YOU want to become? Think different. Think like a blood witch! And I'm sure you will disappoint me more. So no apologies! Actions speak much louder! I'll hear them from here. Responsibility? Your fault? Did you choose to be born "Beloved"? NO. Did you choose to live thousands of lives? NO. Did they go against their nature? Hm. What is the nature of divinity, hm? What makes a deity... a deity? Is it immortality? Power? If it is, then shall I be Goddess Six from now on? Or is it something else? Rani is a good desert cat. Talk more, yes. Those words are not a waste. You should know, dumb, stupid, idiot boy... that saving people is what I do. Now, it's past time for you to save yourself. A dead blood hunter is no good to me! But no matter what happens, you will always be my dumb, stupid idiot boy. With so much love from you MOM, Six.
The Journal
Juhd'Hon 1000 YAR Caliban always appeared to me as a kalashtar man of simple means. He was always dressed in a black, dark blue, or purple tunic with simple silver trim. He had silver hair like mine that he kept pulled back at the nape of his neck and eyes that glittered like the stars. Sometimes, I would permit him to have freckles or perhaps imagine him with a scar. He always humored me. We would drink sake and stare at the moon, speaking of fortune, fate, and the tides. Judas is… different. He is tall and broad, with a chiseled jaw, striking blue eyes, and strawberry blond hair that he keeps somewhat short and slicked back. Like his High Priestess, he seems to have a fondness for gold. His robes are lined with the most ostentatious filigree and his clothes made of the finest material. I find myself trying to picture him in a simple orange tunic… but he didn’t humor me. We walked the grounds of his Temple. He was polite and charming, a picture of wealth and grace. I asked him about setting up an apiary and he agreed. I asked him if he wished to drink sake with me under the moon. I confess, I had hoped to offend him by speaking of my rituals with another deity. He laughed and smiled. Now I supposed I must have sake with him. Dysis
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