Session 70
General Summary
Back to Themiscyron
Having taken the Rites of Devotion, Therarask is quick to continue the tour of Pleasure Row. They took Declan to Haven for its only proper to visit as its so important to Lucille. Beyond the front lounge is a sprawling garden with tiger statues and pools connected by flowing lazy rivers. In the center of the garden, there are two statues toasting over a stretch of the winding river. One is clearly Therarask – enchanted to appear like they are floating – and the other is Lucille. After offering a non-alcoholic option to toast, Declan made a comment about not being able to pull of tiger stripes. Grumbling and pouting, Therarask hopped into the lazy river, floating down. Per tradition, the two toasted beneath the statues.
While Ghilani and Ismera were busy with the book, Rani and Rodric composed a letter to Ironborn. Rani very much thinks that he's just throwing a dramatic, unnecessary tantrum. Why should they rush to go deal with it? Rani then went to the theater, leaving a note to Lady Vi'Har at the desk this time. A few minutes later, she was given the option of any seat she desired (including a box). Although the Lady Vi'Har cannot join her, she hopes Rani will enjoy the Theater once more. Rani chose to see the currently running romantic comedy.
Perhaps in revenge for the tiger stripe comment, Therarask brought Declan to the theater and they watched a tragedy. Therarask remarked that the village still exists to the West as far as they are concerned. Neither they nor Primus are perfect and they both had a bit of a... falling out, shall we say? There was additional discussion of blood hunters. Whether or not you are a true hunter depends on the definition... though Therarask did drop the conversation.
While once Rani avoided Declan to avoid hanging out with him, she now avoids him to not disrupt his happiness. Growth.
In the morning, Therarask was a bit of a bitch, being clingy and attempted to persuade Declan to stay. What harm is one more day? Do you really have to go? However, they did acquiesce for the quicker Declan leaves, the quicker he can return. But why not take the long way out at the very least? Declan asked for honesty and then asked if it was just the deaths that made them crack. Therarask didn't have a clear answer. They are uncertain, but they know the deaths certainly didn't help. They felt angry, devastated, pained, annoyed, possessive, and incredibly vindictive against those who had taken Declan away from them... but Beloveds have died in the past and they did not crack. They will think about it though. In turn, Therarask asked if Declan truly wasn't angry for what they did to Sylvia. He will be if he can't get her back... which is why Thera is going to help. Therarask said they will try, but Ah'Shal doesn't dedicate much time to speak with "frivolous gods"... she is incredibly busy after all. If you do go visit the Goddess of Death, be prepared to wait in line or invoke her annoyance and perhaps anger if you choose to cut. And watch the blue one.
With the whole group reunited, they resolved to head to Themiscyron. After pspspsps-ing for Chain and not managing to entice him to appear, they found another guide... and realized that perhaps Chain was up charging for his services. The travel through the Jungle, however, was much quicker and smoother this time, though Rani noticed that the path through the Jungle was a bit different than last time. On the first night in the Jungle... Moira dreamed. Or perhaps it dreamed and Moira was simply accompanying it. The voice within her and the voice in the dream seemed to synchronize. Did... it hurt her?
In the morning, Moira felt heavy, but it wasn't her... she tried to check in with her parasitic buddy... but it didn't respond. While messaging Newt, he admitted that he was being hunted and so the group told him to start going to Eredet... and Newt began flying. Ghilani held up his rose to Moira and one of the petals turned a mix of purple and blue with a scattering of silver spots like stars. Her love for him is unique. Once prison buddies, always prison buddies.
At the edge of Themiscyron, Ismera said goodbye, remarking that this adventure had been fun. They had forgotten how fun and enjoyable hands-on learning can be. Ghilani gave Ismera a big hug to which Ismera happily returned. Do try not to die, Ghilani. In response, Ghilani said that he was a blanket of Death ward and its the same colors as Ismera – but not intentionally! Ismera, with a final goodbye, then walked to the largest opening in the market, turned into a large teal dragon and gave quite a few people a scare, and then took to the skies, vanishing into the distance.
Given the late hour, the Deep End spent some time shopping in the market, purchasing a sexy cat burglar outfit, some tight fitting black fur pants, and a set of cat pajamas: a desert cat for Rani, a snow leopard for Moira, a clearance set that smells faintly like smoke for Newt, a vampire cat for Ghilani, and a lion with a full, prominent mane for Declan. Don't worry, Thera has their own covered. The owner of the shop tried to pitch the leotard to Moira, but she's not convinced she can pull of leopard print. When orgies were mentioned, the owner recommended Thrasos' Rest, but upon hearing of mega bed... she drew her own conclusions, saying "Oh".
Further discussions were then had about why the group's denial of the orgy in Ragna hasn't come up more. Moira attempted to scry on The Doctor... she feels like it worked... but couldn't see or hear anything. Odd.
While Ghilani and Ismera were busy with the book, Rani and Rodric composed a letter to Ironborn. Rani very much thinks that he's just throwing a dramatic, unnecessary tantrum. Why should they rush to go deal with it? Rani then went to the theater, leaving a note to Lady Vi'Har at the desk this time. A few minutes later, she was given the option of any seat she desired (including a box). Although the Lady Vi'Har cannot join her, she hopes Rani will enjoy the Theater once more. Rani chose to see the currently running romantic comedy.
Perhaps in revenge for the tiger stripe comment, Therarask brought Declan to the theater and they watched a tragedy. Therarask remarked that the village still exists to the West as far as they are concerned. Neither they nor Primus are perfect and they both had a bit of a... falling out, shall we say? There was additional discussion of blood hunters. Whether or not you are a true hunter depends on the definition... though Therarask did drop the conversation.
While once Rani avoided Declan to avoid hanging out with him, she now avoids him to not disrupt his happiness. Growth.
In the morning, Therarask was a bit of a bitch, being clingy and attempted to persuade Declan to stay. What harm is one more day? Do you really have to go? However, they did acquiesce for the quicker Declan leaves, the quicker he can return. But why not take the long way out at the very least? Declan asked for honesty and then asked if it was just the deaths that made them crack. Therarask didn't have a clear answer. They are uncertain, but they know the deaths certainly didn't help. They felt angry, devastated, pained, annoyed, possessive, and incredibly vindictive against those who had taken Declan away from them... but Beloveds have died in the past and they did not crack. They will think about it though. In turn, Therarask asked if Declan truly wasn't angry for what they did to Sylvia. He will be if he can't get her back... which is why Thera is going to help. Therarask said they will try, but Ah'Shal doesn't dedicate much time to speak with "frivolous gods"... she is incredibly busy after all. If you do go visit the Goddess of Death, be prepared to wait in line or invoke her annoyance and perhaps anger if you choose to cut. And watch the blue one.
With the whole group reunited, they resolved to head to Themiscyron. After pspspsps-ing for Chain and not managing to entice him to appear, they found another guide... and realized that perhaps Chain was up charging for his services. The travel through the Jungle, however, was much quicker and smoother this time, though Rani noticed that the path through the Jungle was a bit different than last time. On the first night in the Jungle... Moira dreamed. Or perhaps it dreamed and Moira was simply accompanying it. The voice within her and the voice in the dream seemed to synchronize. Did... it hurt her?
In the morning, Moira felt heavy, but it wasn't her... she tried to check in with her parasitic buddy... but it didn't respond. While messaging Newt, he admitted that he was being hunted and so the group told him to start going to Eredet... and Newt began flying. Ghilani held up his rose to Moira and one of the petals turned a mix of purple and blue with a scattering of silver spots like stars. Her love for him is unique. Once prison buddies, always prison buddies.
At the edge of Themiscyron, Ismera said goodbye, remarking that this adventure had been fun. They had forgotten how fun and enjoyable hands-on learning can be. Ghilani gave Ismera a big hug to which Ismera happily returned. Do try not to die, Ghilani. In response, Ghilani said that he was a blanket of Death ward and its the same colors as Ismera – but not intentionally! Ismera, with a final goodbye, then walked to the largest opening in the market, turned into a large teal dragon and gave quite a few people a scare, and then took to the skies, vanishing into the distance.
Given the late hour, the Deep End spent some time shopping in the market, purchasing a sexy cat burglar outfit, some tight fitting black fur pants, and a set of cat pajamas: a desert cat for Rani, a snow leopard for Moira, a clearance set that smells faintly like smoke for Newt, a vampire cat for Ghilani, and a lion with a full, prominent mane for Declan. Don't worry, Thera has their own covered. The owner of the shop tried to pitch the leotard to Moira, but she's not convinced she can pull of leopard print. When orgies were mentioned, the owner recommended Thrasos' Rest, but upon hearing of mega bed... she drew her own conclusions, saying "Oh".
Further discussions were then had about why the group's denial of the orgy in Ragna hasn't come up more. Moira attempted to scry on The Doctor... she feels like it worked... but couldn't see or hear anything. Odd.
Declan Curses All That Flies (The White Masks)
In the morning, the Deep End went to speak with Artemilla of the Ascetics. Donning a full set of bronze-like armor, Artemilla is covered from head to toe and stands with perfect posture. They have heard rumors about the white masks using the Ascetics as a ploy to target drunk and otherwise intoxicated revelers. If the group has experience with these white masks and a willingness to deal with them, Artemilla is willing to assist.
Artemilla believes that true pleasure can only be found through discipline and reflection. Why are they here then? They are bound to the island. Artemilla is Therarask's antagonist and seems to be oddly intertwined with Declan's lifespan. Artemilla has had a few odd fainting spells... Artemilla is one of many to hold the title of Euseban, a moniker held in honor of Euseba, a woman who's heartbreak caused her so much pain that she ascended into another type of being. They seems to hold the belief that gods should be above petty mortal dramatics. Would you be willing to go to Therarask and give them therapy? Artemilla was willing. It would be easy for her to get there as the Jungle cannot misguide them and the Golden Mist cannot tempt them.
A discussion of antagonists was then had. Omen did some good for Varoona. Ismera and Carmenthia are on good terms. Perhaps tell Therarask about the therapy, but phrase it more like their antagonist relationships? Vad's probably a bad example.
Returning back to Themiscyron, the group did a lap around the city, listening for rumors. They ended up at Deap Sea Aphrodisiacs, speaking to Saril, the tabaxi owner. The group got some oysters and some caviar. The Effel Kelpie caviar seems to be particularly potent... if the warming and tingling sensation that Ghilani felt from the tiniest amount is anything to go by. After Moira healed her leg, she offered them a serving of the luxury item for free and a second dose at a discount. Declan warned Saril of the white masks and she agreed to keep a look out. She's seen them lurking, but its hard to convince people to take things seriously if they don't want to. Its the way of the city.
Moira happened to notice some invisible markings... and a smiley face? Once Ghilani cast Comprehend Languages and Moira pointed out the invisible portion... it seems to be Thieves' Cant. Most of it seems to be notes on who to task for good services at Thrasos' Rest and comments on drugs. Moira contemplates sending to Janos to ask him what drugs he meant. In the distance, a large vessel with the figurehead of a bronze dragon begins to pull into port.
As evening descends, the group collects Artemilla – now donning a shield – and begins to explore the port city looking for any lurking white masked individuals. They don't seem to be very subtle... popping up in alleyways, but not exactly trying to conceal themselves. However, Declan (alert for once) and Rani were drawn to a white masked figure on a roof at the opposite side of the port with a bow drawn. Declan was able to jump in front of Ghilani as Rani managed to shoot the massive arrow out of the way, just barely missing Declan. Rani waved... and the white masked figure with the shadow of wings behind them, waved back.
Ghilani teleported everyone over to the figure and found that they had moved quickly. They didn't show any signs of running, but upon Ghilani casting, they vanished. Shortly thereafter, the white masks appeared in an alleyway once again. Following after the masked figure, the group was led to a small clearing outside with multiple white masked figures lingering.
The white masked individual with the wings and bow revealed herself to be Lollith (or "Lollie" if you prefer). Unfortunately, you haven't done enough for The Doctor to send his pride and joy out to get you. She seemed to enjoy taunting Declan with the impressive nature of this creature, so capable of ripping heads off! The White Masks are getting ready to leave so perhaps we can just have a nice chit chat! No need to fight! Lollith was a bit disappointed that the blue one isn't here... she'll have to let her father know. Lollith seems familiar with the Clock Lady and remarked that The Doctor doesn't like her all that much.
Upon springing into attack mode, Lollith promptly flew straight up and out of the range of most attacks and spells. Rodric took multiple hits and Ghilani ended up being a melee wizard, but dealt substantial damage to many of the white masks now with blood soaked bone claws. With Ghilani unconscious and bleeding out, Rani taunted Lollith: "I ruined your perfect shot on Ghilani". And so Lollith drew back her bow, but shifted her aim from Rani to land a brutal strike through Ghilani's heart before she flew off over the Jungle.
Rani managed to follow her partially with just enough time to see her vanish... she didn't seem to cast like Ghilani or Moira. Is someone else moving her around?
On one of the bodies, a note:
Artemilla believes that true pleasure can only be found through discipline and reflection. Why are they here then? They are bound to the island. Artemilla is Therarask's antagonist and seems to be oddly intertwined with Declan's lifespan. Artemilla has had a few odd fainting spells... Artemilla is one of many to hold the title of Euseban, a moniker held in honor of Euseba, a woman who's heartbreak caused her so much pain that she ascended into another type of being. They seems to hold the belief that gods should be above petty mortal dramatics. Would you be willing to go to Therarask and give them therapy? Artemilla was willing. It would be easy for her to get there as the Jungle cannot misguide them and the Golden Mist cannot tempt them.
A discussion of antagonists was then had. Omen did some good for Varoona. Ismera and Carmenthia are on good terms. Perhaps tell Therarask about the therapy, but phrase it more like their antagonist relationships? Vad's probably a bad example.
Returning back to Themiscyron, the group did a lap around the city, listening for rumors. They ended up at Deap Sea Aphrodisiacs, speaking to Saril, the tabaxi owner. The group got some oysters and some caviar. The Effel Kelpie caviar seems to be particularly potent... if the warming and tingling sensation that Ghilani felt from the tiniest amount is anything to go by. After Moira healed her leg, she offered them a serving of the luxury item for free and a second dose at a discount. Declan warned Saril of the white masks and she agreed to keep a look out. She's seen them lurking, but its hard to convince people to take things seriously if they don't want to. Its the way of the city.
Moira happened to notice some invisible markings... and a smiley face? Once Ghilani cast Comprehend Languages and Moira pointed out the invisible portion... it seems to be Thieves' Cant. Most of it seems to be notes on who to task for good services at Thrasos' Rest and comments on drugs. Moira contemplates sending to Janos to ask him what drugs he meant. In the distance, a large vessel with the figurehead of a bronze dragon begins to pull into port.
As evening descends, the group collects Artemilla – now donning a shield – and begins to explore the port city looking for any lurking white masked individuals. They don't seem to be very subtle... popping up in alleyways, but not exactly trying to conceal themselves. However, Declan (alert for once) and Rani were drawn to a white masked figure on a roof at the opposite side of the port with a bow drawn. Declan was able to jump in front of Ghilani as Rani managed to shoot the massive arrow out of the way, just barely missing Declan. Rani waved... and the white masked figure with the shadow of wings behind them, waved back.
Ghilani teleported everyone over to the figure and found that they had moved quickly. They didn't show any signs of running, but upon Ghilani casting, they vanished. Shortly thereafter, the white masks appeared in an alleyway once again. Following after the masked figure, the group was led to a small clearing outside with multiple white masked figures lingering.
The white masked individual with the wings and bow revealed herself to be Lollith (or "Lollie" if you prefer). Unfortunately, you haven't done enough for The Doctor to send his pride and joy out to get you. She seemed to enjoy taunting Declan with the impressive nature of this creature, so capable of ripping heads off! The White Masks are getting ready to leave so perhaps we can just have a nice chit chat! No need to fight! Lollith was a bit disappointed that the blue one isn't here... she'll have to let her father know. Lollith seems familiar with the Clock Lady and remarked that The Doctor doesn't like her all that much.
Upon springing into attack mode, Lollith promptly flew straight up and out of the range of most attacks and spells. Rodric took multiple hits and Ghilani ended up being a melee wizard, but dealt substantial damage to many of the white masks now with blood soaked bone claws. With Ghilani unconscious and bleeding out, Rani taunted Lollith: "I ruined your perfect shot on Ghilani". And so Lollith drew back her bow, but shifted her aim from Rani to land a brutal strike through Ghilani's heart before she flew off over the Jungle.
Rani managed to follow her partially with just enough time to see her vanish... she didn't seem to cast like Ghilani or Moira. Is someone else moving her around?
On one of the bodies, a note:
With the turning weather, I understand the difficulties in your collection of resources on the island. Hauls scheduled to arrive on the desert coast are promising. For the benefit of our great Order, I would permit an increase of your activities within my jurisdiction. Should the childish "lord" be unable to provide you transport, it would be in your best interest to do something for me. There is an item I desire that you should seek to acquire in the event you have the opportunity to apprehend the batch of meddling fools and the desert rat. In due time then, Your Lady of Dread
Report Date
03 Feb 2023
Primary Location
Secondary Location
Related Characters
A Rom-Com & A Tragedy
The White Rose Theater is currently hosting Breakfast with Therarask:
The Black Rose Theater is currently hosting Kreousa's Curse:
This play follows the lighthearted life of Lucille as one of the popular escorts and favored of Therarask. The young woman enters into the habit of getting breakfast with the God of hedonism, though it takes her the entire play to realize who her breakfast partner is. The play follows, specifically, a 10-day period where Lucille realizes she has fallen in love at first sight with a tourist fated to leave Pleasure Row one day. With advice – often ludicrous – from Therarask, the rom-com follows her whirlwind affair with the very oblivious target of her affections. The play ends with Lucille's legacy – Haven – being almost magically built over night, a mythological founding for the largest, most prestigious pleasure house on Therarask.
The Black Rose Theater is currently hosting Kreousa's Curse:
This play opens with a young Kreousa leading a band of people through the Jungles of Therarask as they head West. She recounts the tale of her bitter rivalry with her three sisters and how it drove them apart and away from Pleasure Row. They happen upon the remains of an abandoned village. Kreousa, the young tabaxi, sees it as a blessing and a sign from Therarask that she is destined to create something glorious. The first act follows the group as they begin to rebuild on top of the ruins. Strange things begin to occur: whispers in the night, a chilling foreboding sensation, the feeling of being watched, brushes of a nailed hand against one's skin, and water turning briefly to blood. Kreousa ignores all of the signs and advice from her companions, so certain in herself. At the end of the first act, one of the women with Kreousa is possessed, eyes turning blood red. At the start of the second act, the possessed woman laments the horror of what she must commit. For upon their eradication they swore vengeance upon all who tried to settle upon their ancient home – to disturb the blood that rests here. Why did Kreousa not heed the warnings? Now all will be met with despair. A blood tirade follows with each woman – one by one – being possessed by spirits of blood... until only Kreousa remains. "Indulge in your fantasies, but you erred when you allowed them to cloud your vision. Blinded you are. Damned you shall be." And as Kreousa falls, the possessed women drive daggers into their own stomachs and the stage bleeds red.
Stephen Rolls, Moira Dreams
For a moment, all you see is gold... a great resounding thud echoes through your mind. Your vision discerns shapes in the gold and figures... In your periphery... guards? They are dressed in dark black – perhaps obsidian – armor. As quickly as they enter your periphery, they fade. The forms of multiple women take shape. The silver-haired woman is seated on a bench, handkerchief pressed to her nose as three other women seem to glance wearily between the silver-haired woman and your vision. Your point of view begins to move, through your vision remains on the silver-haired woman. Pacing? A deep voice – familiar – mutters with responses that you can't make out from the silver-haired woman. And then in perfect timing, your vision's voice and the voice in your head say: "Then look again."The three other women seem emboldened, moving to get between your vision and the silver-haired woman. Yet she removes the handkerchief and lifts her other hand. Her lips move, but you hear no sound. The other women, though, nod slightly and withdraw to the edge of your vision, blurring. The silver-haired woman shifts her posture, allowing her hands to rest on her knees, palms up, as she straightens her spine. She looks upward and you watch as her eyes roll back. You can see the filigree on her gown and headdress – symbols of Judas: four leaf clovers, gold coins amidst intricate gold swirls. Beneath the gold, a hint of silver. A crescent moon amidst stars. Blood stains the handkerchief.For a moment she is still... then her eyes twitch and her body begins to jerk slightly. Her fingers randomly touch her palms. Her nose begins to bleed. There is movement in your periphery once again, but all you discern is the wave of a dark armored hand and the movement stops. The woman begins to convulse, spitting blood from her lips as she falls forward to the ground, shaking. There are hands on her, holding her and grabbing at her.There is a breath, a shaky exhale that you can't tell who released it. And then the silver-haired woman's eyes return as she quickly rolls over to retch on the ground. The other women huddle over her, holding back her hair and holding her shoulders. One of them glances up and meets your gaze – fear and outrage in her eyes. But your gaze falls only on the silver-haired woman as she looks up, regality tarnished by the blood and bile on the corners of her mouth. Expression unreadable, her lips begin to move... but the words never reach you. Her lips still moving, she coughs more blood, falling forward to retch once more. There is a pause as your vision looks down at the weak form being corralled in the arms of the other women. But then the vision turns, armored individuals falling into your periphery again. As the gold consumes your vision, the sound of heavy footsteps is covered by chants and cheers... you strain to hear the words as your vision begins to strain to black. Although you cannot make out the chants and cheers... you hear behind you: "High Priestess... High Priestess? Please, miss, please wake up." And within you: "I... hurt her?"
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