Session 77
General Summary
Sendings, Sendings and... Even More Sendings
Everyone collectively woke up in the morning and after Moira – looking exhausted as if she hadn't slept at all – explained that Clock Lady visited her and she called her a coward... I'm so sorry, but out families might be in danger. Rani, a bit panic, assures her that honestly, she probably would have done the same. But now... time to send a lot of sendings.
Rani pulled out her sending stones, first messaging her mother to warn her about white masks and other potential danger. Be careful of anyone who comes asking about me. Also, may see you soon! Rani's mother responded that she is with the Bhediya north of the city. Should thye be concerned about the young man who came by claiming to be Rani's boyfriend? With that brought up, Rani sent to Ezra. Be on alert and see you soon. Oh? I'm with your dad right now and your mother is with the Bhediya. Ezra started to ask something else before it cut off. The final sending was to Zephus. Are you in the Heart of the Desert? We'll be in the city soon. Zephus mentioned being outside the city on a Sivat, near the Sea of Moving Art.
Moira sent a warning to Yue. I made a mistake. Can you please avoid leaving the Temple for a little bit? Yue assured Moira that there is ample guard at the Temple. But what happened? I love you as well. She then followed up with another message to her sister, Meena. There may be someone after you wishing to harm you. Tell Vetulatos. Meena seemed confused, but sure, she'll inform him. Clearly, no one would waste the time to kill or harm her, she's quite certain.
Ghilani sent – perfectly business-like – to Ironborn with an update on the Deep End's progress with the crystals in Ah'Shal. Ironborn seemed mildly pleased, mentioned that he planned to speak to Ironbound and Steelwind, and assured Ghilani that he is now in the Deep End's court. Ghilani then sent to Ismera. Hey, I almost died again. Do you know anything about Annanias? Ismera seemed rightfully alarmed at yet another brush with death. They, unfortunately, do not know that name, but will consult the library.
Newt sent to Lady Von'Della. He informed her that he had spoken to the Lady of Death and is closer to bringing Callon back. Lady Von'Della informed him that she should not give her false hop, but if he speaks truth, she will do whatever she can to help.
With sendings finished, the Deep End departed and made their way to the House of Death with T-posing Declan in tow. After hunting down Oksha, she was happy to see them. Oh? You're taking me to go see the Lady of Death this time? Good. Back down the chute, they find that the broken large black doors no longer have any black and green smoke beyond... only the ruins of a temple remain. Perhaps once this was a true place of actual worship to the Goddess of Death Ah'Shal.
Although Ah'Shal herself does not appear, hundreds of green eyes belonging to rats, corvids, and spiders appear scattered amidst the room. The Lady of Death's voice echoes all around. You have returned, what is it I can assist with? Rani inquired about whether or not the Goddess had remembered anything. The Lady of Death recalled sealing it here. She is both guard and gatekeeper, what is one more thing to look after? And who would look here in what has become of her city? However, she did not recall the name Annanias nor any means of closing the door. Of course, if it was easy, she would have closed the door already, but the Goddess of Death wagers that an item similar to Rani's map may be capable of doing so. Although she cannot speak to the full state of bodies upon death (such as those missing limbs and screaming about a Doctor), she has had odd souls arrive. Not too unfamiliar from what is occurring to Moira and with what she sees in Ghilani. To Moira, she advised her to be careful for that thing has latched deep into her soul. Regarding bringing back souls without her notice, Ah'Shal is very aware of all souls that pass through her gates. She would be aware if they were removed. However, a long time ago, she ceded a portion of her domain. If they were sent there, she could be unaware, but... she finds it odd that anything would leave that portion of her domain. Regarding Oracles... perhaps you are speaking to the wrong deity.
Newt inquired about Executioners, specifically Diavolo. Ah'Shal reminisced briefly about a time when she had "good, true" Executioners, but now she will take what she can get. In a time long past, she could call a loyal army to her side, but things have changed. The nature of her deal with Volo does not permit her to dictate his actions and, given events, is well and truly retired... save for emergency circumstances. Volo desires legacy. To Ah'Shal, the only legacy she cares about is where one's soul goes, but Volo values a legacy of a different kind. You are mortal and would know what would get his name written into books independent of his Clan. Perhaps you can persuade him. When asked about what Newt could do to serve her, Ah'Shal told him that it is the same as before. Find a way to close the door. As the group leaves – Oksha pleased that Ah'Shal does seem to be okay with Newt now – there is no voice that speaks in Newt's mind... only silence.
Newt, Rani, and Declan go to arrange a conversation with Volo. In the meantime, they sent Ghilani and Moira to talk to Six about Savant Three. The blood witch of Lark'Hal is a halfling woman who tended to dress in Lark'Hal fashion, as far as Six is aware. Three had a unique ability to give, take, and develop skills. Primus seemed bitter about going to Lark'Hal. Also... is there someone or something lurking in the glades and woods off the main paths in Tel'Rhea? Something certainly had eyes on Ghilani as they walked through.
With Moira too exhausted, Ghilani got the group back to Eredet. Rani quickly ran to go make a few purchases while the others met with Dr. Valdove in her office. Newt asked how her "meditating" is going. She is doing very well thank you. And thank you for the update this time, she will most certainly pass it along to her father. For the moment, she is on hold with High Lord Nozhawk, though he certainly has been more receptive as of late. Lark'Hal? Yes, she can get them that teleportation circle. The group tries to persuade Serene to rest briefly. The world can wait for a day. Dr. Valdove assures them that she will rest, but not quite yet. And with the teleportation circle drawn, the Deep End teleported to the Heart of the Desert.
After pretending to be a student inquiring about grades and scaring Marcella, the Deep End entered her office. The gnomish professor was just in the process of responding to Rani's inquiries. I assure you we returned perfectly fine from the Wasteland and even made it past the outpost. And I'm sure Tatya will tell you that he did excellent, which he did, but I feel I am obligated to inform you that he also tripped and fell down a sand dune right after we made it out. However, the miasma is known to have... effects. This is the first time Prof. Dunebrook has experienced them. They began with nosebleeds. She heard Tatya call out Rani's name questioningly and she saw the silhouette of a woman with long flowing hair (she assumes with how the silhouette changed). She did not have a chance to poke further. Clearly, the device will need further refinement.
Regarding the Old Temple of Judas, Prof. Dunebrook has every reason to believe that the temple would be located in the City of Fortune, but she has been checking ruins along the way just to be safe. Eventually, when her device has been updated and upgraded (curse her teaching and seminar obligations), they can make the final push to the City of Fortune together. Prof. Dunebrook assured Rani that she will be around – we can do a full debrief. By the way, any colleagues who would want the journal and who like clocks and tea? Well, anyone in the department would take any chance to get their grubby hands on it, and tea is quite popular amidst residents of Lark'Hal and clocks are quite essential for academics in need of alarms. If Prof. Dunebrook isn't available, Dr. Khalil is also back on campus know and he is somewhat of a collaborator at this point.
Rani took the group to her home in the Northern part of the city. The house seems very much the same with a herb cabinet in a alcove off the entry and textiles strewn about, but the painting of Hamida and Timur is new, but also familiar. Rani's father was quick to move out of the ktichen and scoop her up into a hug. Look at you! And welcome everyone! Timur is the only one home as Hamida is with Lakshmi and the rest of the Bhediya, and Tatya went out to the Blue Sandstone lounge with his friends.
With Moira put to bed on a flatbread pillow, everyone else sat down for dinner. Tatya and his sand seals! He's so set on this sand seal dueling. He inquired if anyone had skill with swords and Newt was pleased to name every weapon he knows how to use while Ghilani pulled out some blood magic. Timur didn't seem to react to the blood magic besides making a vaguely generic hand gesture as he explained that he had not been gifted with the "MAGIC". That was always something Tatya was good at. Timur seems to be very interested in gossip and mentioned that there's quite a bit of discussion on who will marry first: Queen Phaedra Ossaho'Mok or Princess Aerope. Ghilani stopped him with a "Who are these people?" Timur took a step back and gave a brief explanation of how Lark'Hal works. The region is run by four royal families who hold four major positions: High Lord, First Advisor, Prime Minister, and Monarch. Queen Phaedra is of the water genasi family and she beat out her older cousin, Katreus, for the throne. Katreus' daughter, Aerope, has recently come of age. And of course, there's always fire genasi family drama. The First Advisor's son left to become a priest and apparently spurned a lovely noble form Lark'Hélez in the process. The poetry she writes... the passion!
The Deep End then explored the North Market, watching the central fountain come to life to show a relic of time past: an exchange between traders from the City of Fortune and the City of Art. They then all caught sand seal taxis and hauled it over to the South side. There, in the Southern Market, they took note of an odd building adorned with metal pipes and red banners emblazoned with a familiar bronze mask and microphone.
Entering the Blue Sandstone Lounge feeling super stealthy, Tatya is easy to identify amidst his friends: a fire genasi boy, a human-looking boy, a woman dressed in Bhediya-like clothing, and a wealth tiefling girl. Tatya and his friends appear to be slightly drunk and enjoying themselves as they talk and laught. Rani posts up invisible nearby as Ghilani moves up to the bar, sends drinks over to Tatya's table, and – looking like Azhi – gave a flirtatious wink and a wave when Tatya and the two girls glance over. A discussion is had before the tielfing woman approaches. Oh, you aren't interested in me? Well honey, I'll tell him that you aren't worth his time. Plus, he's got his eye on another anyway.
With that plan down the drain, Rani resolved to wait until Tatya stood up. She didn't have to wait long as a masked man dressed in red stepped into the lounge. The Charismatic Cahareth immediately drew substantial attention... including from Tatya. Seeing her moment, Rani sent the swarm to take her younger brother down, leaning over him. Oh, did you trip? How convenient for you that I, the graceful sibling, was here to catch you! Oh crap you're actually here! Scrambling up, Tatya cleared his throat. Obviously, he meant to do that. And I told Ezra about how you completely wiped out during your first sand seal lesson, but Rani quickly countered: at least I didn't end up under its butt. It was its STOMACH. Ugh. So who's this girl you're in love with now Tatya? Oh well, we're both TAs and she's amazing. I'm certain she's the one this time! I can just feel it in my bones! Have you ever been in love? Tatya seemed a bit taken aback when Newt said yes. Of course, they must all try sand seal dueling, to which Rani assured Tatya she would win, but Tatya seemed confident... speaking of sand seal dueling, if you DO know Cahareth, think you could get me an interview? Prove that you're actually famous like you claim?
The moment the trio approached Cahareth, his mask turned and he motioned them forward. The Deep End, a pleasure. How about an interview? Damn, that was easy. Sure, your brother can come along, though it is a small studio. Where did you get your mask? Does it have a fan? The mask is perfectly equipped and was made just for me – some artificers at LIMA.
As Moira laid in bed, she reached out to her now named buddy and pal, Annanias. Moira assured him that she promised to help. Yes, you have helped... after you stopped hemming and hawing, but yes, for now our goals are aligned and Moira has proven adequate. If something ever happens, will you promise not to harm my friends? Yes. You would be the only one at risk should our interest no longer align. But if you are in pursuit of truth, then I will be honest and warn you if our paths diverge. He mentioned that the Lady of Dread has a piece of him. He could sense it. Moira assured Annanias that she made a promise to him and to Caliban and she will do everything she can to keep it. Moira... is a good host.
In the morning – still feeling tired – Moira chose to rest with T-posing Declan. Rani took the other two to the Bhediya people who have set up their tent city outside the North Gate of the Heart of the Desert. After finding her mother, Hamida, and catching up with her sister, Lakshmi, who has grown as a tattooist, Rani spoke with the Grandmothers... and unburdened every single detail of her journey. The three Grandmothers informed Rani that her faily is fully capable of taking care of themselves. However, given that they know Rani and that she speak truthfully, they seem to consider the threat that Rani is presenting. Of course, you must keep in mind that the less you know, the less you have control over, but if you learn more, than more things will come into your control. Perhaps you should look inward. Regardless, if they have pears (Eltartem) they can ensure a ritual to bring back and save Rani's family is in place should trouble befall them, but if the danger lurks in the City, perhaps it would be better for the entire family to stay with the Bhediya for a time? Mirza promised to bring the matter forward to the entire Yassam – the formal collection of all the tribes Grandmothers.
Regarding the swords and ancestry, they had not spoken before Rani. Remember the balance. Destruction is often required to protect someone and often choosing to protect someone or something leads to the destruction of something else. It is a delicate balance and difficult to walk, but certainly they spoke your name for a reason. Remember that you have all reason to stride forward with confidence, but there is a thin line between confidence and arrogance... and arrogance may doom you.
Ghilani inquired about blood witches. In their time, the Grandmothers have not known an active blood witch... and the concepts of blood magic are not widely known or discussed. Seems the histories have been "white-washed". Hamida seemed a bit irked, but with a heavy sigh relented. Take a day, enjoy the city and tonight we should have a nice supper. Hamida promised to ensure Tatya comes home. Newt, meanwhile, asked the Grandmother's if any of them wanted to shoot a gun.
Traveling to the North Market, Rani took the entire group to get new clothes more appropriate to the city. Obviously, she has to go to her Uncle's textile store. Upon arrival, her uncle seems to be working on an incredibly large, ornate gown, but stopped when Rani noted that "perhaps right there needs touched up". Of course, he is happy to prepare clothes on the house. Of course he loves Tatya, but please knock him down a peg or two? Newt phoned Oksha really quick to see what scents she likes... the ocean since it was the first thing she saw. Moira definitely needs that over-billowing fabric. Return tomorrow and your friends shall have their new garments. When Rani asked about Cahareth, her Uncle has never seen it, but if anyone would know it would be Timur, he is such a fan of all the gossip.
Returning to Prof. Dunebrook, Rani proceeds to update her on everything, showing her both the journal and the map. She says "Bert" as an example and Newt immediately sighs "Anyone but him!". The name Annanias is mentioned and Prof. Dunebrook raises a brow. Has this "Annanias" signed the NDA? Oh, no, but he certainly will sign it... the next time we talk to him. Prof. Dunebrook seems interested in how everything connects... Rani found both artifacts, but how are they linked? Why was the journal with the map? If Moira is seeing dreams of the City of Fortune and this priestess and the journal has discussed it, we just need to push further. But still, Rani seems to be at the center of it upon initially assessing the pieces: both items, the swarms, and the swords... Prof. Dunebrook will think further on this. Anything to help with getting to the City of Fortune would be imperative to uncover before they set back out into the Wasteland.
Heading to the Tempe, the trio split. Rani searched for her missing locusts and found them outside a door on the third story. Inside, she found a great tree with multiple spiles and three women wreathed in gold. They tried to speak and Rani heard the whisper of words, but couldn't make anything out. They offered her golden sap and Rani drank it, feeling inspiration settle across her. When she asked to stay, the women nodded.
Meanwhile, Ghilani found his way into a room painted entirely with dancing figures. It almost comes alive, but the moment the metallic scent register, all Ghilani sees is crimson red and Primus speaks with nearly uncontrolled and boiling rage.
Rani pulled out her sending stones, first messaging her mother to warn her about white masks and other potential danger. Be careful of anyone who comes asking about me. Also, may see you soon! Rani's mother responded that she is with the Bhediya north of the city. Should thye be concerned about the young man who came by claiming to be Rani's boyfriend? With that brought up, Rani sent to Ezra. Be on alert and see you soon. Oh? I'm with your dad right now and your mother is with the Bhediya. Ezra started to ask something else before it cut off. The final sending was to Zephus. Are you in the Heart of the Desert? We'll be in the city soon. Zephus mentioned being outside the city on a Sivat, near the Sea of Moving Art.
Moira sent a warning to Yue. I made a mistake. Can you please avoid leaving the Temple for a little bit? Yue assured Moira that there is ample guard at the Temple. But what happened? I love you as well. She then followed up with another message to her sister, Meena. There may be someone after you wishing to harm you. Tell Vetulatos. Meena seemed confused, but sure, she'll inform him. Clearly, no one would waste the time to kill or harm her, she's quite certain.
Ghilani sent – perfectly business-like – to Ironborn with an update on the Deep End's progress with the crystals in Ah'Shal. Ironborn seemed mildly pleased, mentioned that he planned to speak to Ironbound and Steelwind, and assured Ghilani that he is now in the Deep End's court. Ghilani then sent to Ismera. Hey, I almost died again. Do you know anything about Annanias? Ismera seemed rightfully alarmed at yet another brush with death. They, unfortunately, do not know that name, but will consult the library.
Newt sent to Lady Von'Della. He informed her that he had spoken to the Lady of Death and is closer to bringing Callon back. Lady Von'Della informed him that she should not give her false hop, but if he speaks truth, she will do whatever she can to help.
With sendings finished, the Deep End departed and made their way to the House of Death with T-posing Declan in tow. After hunting down Oksha, she was happy to see them. Oh? You're taking me to go see the Lady of Death this time? Good. Back down the chute, they find that the broken large black doors no longer have any black and green smoke beyond... only the ruins of a temple remain. Perhaps once this was a true place of actual worship to the Goddess of Death Ah'Shal.
Although Ah'Shal herself does not appear, hundreds of green eyes belonging to rats, corvids, and spiders appear scattered amidst the room. The Lady of Death's voice echoes all around. You have returned, what is it I can assist with? Rani inquired about whether or not the Goddess had remembered anything. The Lady of Death recalled sealing it here. She is both guard and gatekeeper, what is one more thing to look after? And who would look here in what has become of her city? However, she did not recall the name Annanias nor any means of closing the door. Of course, if it was easy, she would have closed the door already, but the Goddess of Death wagers that an item similar to Rani's map may be capable of doing so. Although she cannot speak to the full state of bodies upon death (such as those missing limbs and screaming about a Doctor), she has had odd souls arrive. Not too unfamiliar from what is occurring to Moira and with what she sees in Ghilani. To Moira, she advised her to be careful for that thing has latched deep into her soul. Regarding bringing back souls without her notice, Ah'Shal is very aware of all souls that pass through her gates. She would be aware if they were removed. However, a long time ago, she ceded a portion of her domain. If they were sent there, she could be unaware, but... she finds it odd that anything would leave that portion of her domain. Regarding Oracles... perhaps you are speaking to the wrong deity.
Newt inquired about Executioners, specifically Diavolo. Ah'Shal reminisced briefly about a time when she had "good, true" Executioners, but now she will take what she can get. In a time long past, she could call a loyal army to her side, but things have changed. The nature of her deal with Volo does not permit her to dictate his actions and, given events, is well and truly retired... save for emergency circumstances. Volo desires legacy. To Ah'Shal, the only legacy she cares about is where one's soul goes, but Volo values a legacy of a different kind. You are mortal and would know what would get his name written into books independent of his Clan. Perhaps you can persuade him. When asked about what Newt could do to serve her, Ah'Shal told him that it is the same as before. Find a way to close the door. As the group leaves – Oksha pleased that Ah'Shal does seem to be okay with Newt now – there is no voice that speaks in Newt's mind... only silence.
Newt, Rani, and Declan go to arrange a conversation with Volo. In the meantime, they sent Ghilani and Moira to talk to Six about Savant Three. The blood witch of Lark'Hal is a halfling woman who tended to dress in Lark'Hal fashion, as far as Six is aware. Three had a unique ability to give, take, and develop skills. Primus seemed bitter about going to Lark'Hal. Also... is there someone or something lurking in the glades and woods off the main paths in Tel'Rhea? Something certainly had eyes on Ghilani as they walked through.
With Moira too exhausted, Ghilani got the group back to Eredet. Rani quickly ran to go make a few purchases while the others met with Dr. Valdove in her office. Newt asked how her "meditating" is going. She is doing very well thank you. And thank you for the update this time, she will most certainly pass it along to her father. For the moment, she is on hold with High Lord Nozhawk, though he certainly has been more receptive as of late. Lark'Hal? Yes, she can get them that teleportation circle. The group tries to persuade Serene to rest briefly. The world can wait for a day. Dr. Valdove assures them that she will rest, but not quite yet. And with the teleportation circle drawn, the Deep End teleported to the Heart of the Desert.
Lark'Hal - Home to Art, Rani's Family, and White-Washed History
Even though the sun is beginning to set, the heat in the desert is heavy, especially after traveling from Eredet where winter reigns. Unlike the capital city and Ah'Shal, there is a more historical vibe that remains in Lark'Hal. The streets are colorful and flanked by lanes of sand where sand seals with riders cruise by. Moving through campus, students move about carrying art supplies, books, and more. Beyond a wall, the tops of massive, ornate buildings stand. In a small, older building on campus, Rani brought the group to meet Prof. Dunebrook, the gnomish professor for whom she works.After pretending to be a student inquiring about grades and scaring Marcella, the Deep End entered her office. The gnomish professor was just in the process of responding to Rani's inquiries. I assure you we returned perfectly fine from the Wasteland and even made it past the outpost. And I'm sure Tatya will tell you that he did excellent, which he did, but I feel I am obligated to inform you that he also tripped and fell down a sand dune right after we made it out. However, the miasma is known to have... effects. This is the first time Prof. Dunebrook has experienced them. They began with nosebleeds. She heard Tatya call out Rani's name questioningly and she saw the silhouette of a woman with long flowing hair (she assumes with how the silhouette changed). She did not have a chance to poke further. Clearly, the device will need further refinement.
Regarding the Old Temple of Judas, Prof. Dunebrook has every reason to believe that the temple would be located in the City of Fortune, but she has been checking ruins along the way just to be safe. Eventually, when her device has been updated and upgraded (curse her teaching and seminar obligations), they can make the final push to the City of Fortune together. Prof. Dunebrook assured Rani that she will be around – we can do a full debrief. By the way, any colleagues who would want the journal and who like clocks and tea? Well, anyone in the department would take any chance to get their grubby hands on it, and tea is quite popular amidst residents of Lark'Hal and clocks are quite essential for academics in need of alarms. If Prof. Dunebrook isn't available, Dr. Khalil is also back on campus know and he is somewhat of a collaborator at this point.
Rani took the group to her home in the Northern part of the city. The house seems very much the same with a herb cabinet in a alcove off the entry and textiles strewn about, but the painting of Hamida and Timur is new, but also familiar. Rani's father was quick to move out of the ktichen and scoop her up into a hug. Look at you! And welcome everyone! Timur is the only one home as Hamida is with Lakshmi and the rest of the Bhediya, and Tatya went out to the Blue Sandstone lounge with his friends.
With Moira put to bed on a flatbread pillow, everyone else sat down for dinner. Tatya and his sand seals! He's so set on this sand seal dueling. He inquired if anyone had skill with swords and Newt was pleased to name every weapon he knows how to use while Ghilani pulled out some blood magic. Timur didn't seem to react to the blood magic besides making a vaguely generic hand gesture as he explained that he had not been gifted with the "MAGIC". That was always something Tatya was good at. Timur seems to be very interested in gossip and mentioned that there's quite a bit of discussion on who will marry first: Queen Phaedra Ossaho'Mok or Princess Aerope. Ghilani stopped him with a "Who are these people?" Timur took a step back and gave a brief explanation of how Lark'Hal works. The region is run by four royal families who hold four major positions: High Lord, First Advisor, Prime Minister, and Monarch. Queen Phaedra is of the water genasi family and she beat out her older cousin, Katreus, for the throne. Katreus' daughter, Aerope, has recently come of age. And of course, there's always fire genasi family drama. The First Advisor's son left to become a priest and apparently spurned a lovely noble form Lark'Hélez in the process. The poetry she writes... the passion!
The Deep End then explored the North Market, watching the central fountain come to life to show a relic of time past: an exchange between traders from the City of Fortune and the City of Art. They then all caught sand seal taxis and hauled it over to the South side. There, in the Southern Market, they took note of an odd building adorned with metal pipes and red banners emblazoned with a familiar bronze mask and microphone.
Entering the Blue Sandstone Lounge feeling super stealthy, Tatya is easy to identify amidst his friends: a fire genasi boy, a human-looking boy, a woman dressed in Bhediya-like clothing, and a wealth tiefling girl. Tatya and his friends appear to be slightly drunk and enjoying themselves as they talk and laught. Rani posts up invisible nearby as Ghilani moves up to the bar, sends drinks over to Tatya's table, and – looking like Azhi – gave a flirtatious wink and a wave when Tatya and the two girls glance over. A discussion is had before the tielfing woman approaches. Oh, you aren't interested in me? Well honey, I'll tell him that you aren't worth his time. Plus, he's got his eye on another anyway.
With that plan down the drain, Rani resolved to wait until Tatya stood up. She didn't have to wait long as a masked man dressed in red stepped into the lounge. The Charismatic Cahareth immediately drew substantial attention... including from Tatya. Seeing her moment, Rani sent the swarm to take her younger brother down, leaning over him. Oh, did you trip? How convenient for you that I, the graceful sibling, was here to catch you! Oh crap you're actually here! Scrambling up, Tatya cleared his throat. Obviously, he meant to do that. And I told Ezra about how you completely wiped out during your first sand seal lesson, but Rani quickly countered: at least I didn't end up under its butt. It was its STOMACH. Ugh. So who's this girl you're in love with now Tatya? Oh well, we're both TAs and she's amazing. I'm certain she's the one this time! I can just feel it in my bones! Have you ever been in love? Tatya seemed a bit taken aback when Newt said yes. Of course, they must all try sand seal dueling, to which Rani assured Tatya she would win, but Tatya seemed confident... speaking of sand seal dueling, if you DO know Cahareth, think you could get me an interview? Prove that you're actually famous like you claim?
The moment the trio approached Cahareth, his mask turned and he motioned them forward. The Deep End, a pleasure. How about an interview? Damn, that was easy. Sure, your brother can come along, though it is a small studio. Where did you get your mask? Does it have a fan? The mask is perfectly equipped and was made just for me – some artificers at LIMA.
As Moira laid in bed, she reached out to her now named buddy and pal, Annanias. Moira assured him that she promised to help. Yes, you have helped... after you stopped hemming and hawing, but yes, for now our goals are aligned and Moira has proven adequate. If something ever happens, will you promise not to harm my friends? Yes. You would be the only one at risk should our interest no longer align. But if you are in pursuit of truth, then I will be honest and warn you if our paths diverge. He mentioned that the Lady of Dread has a piece of him. He could sense it. Moira assured Annanias that she made a promise to him and to Caliban and she will do everything she can to keep it. Moira... is a good host.
In the morning – still feeling tired – Moira chose to rest with T-posing Declan. Rani took the other two to the Bhediya people who have set up their tent city outside the North Gate of the Heart of the Desert. After finding her mother, Hamida, and catching up with her sister, Lakshmi, who has grown as a tattooist, Rani spoke with the Grandmothers... and unburdened every single detail of her journey. The three Grandmothers informed Rani that her faily is fully capable of taking care of themselves. However, given that they know Rani and that she speak truthfully, they seem to consider the threat that Rani is presenting. Of course, you must keep in mind that the less you know, the less you have control over, but if you learn more, than more things will come into your control. Perhaps you should look inward. Regardless, if they have pears (Eltartem) they can ensure a ritual to bring back and save Rani's family is in place should trouble befall them, but if the danger lurks in the City, perhaps it would be better for the entire family to stay with the Bhediya for a time? Mirza promised to bring the matter forward to the entire Yassam – the formal collection of all the tribes Grandmothers.
Regarding the swords and ancestry, they had not spoken before Rani. Remember the balance. Destruction is often required to protect someone and often choosing to protect someone or something leads to the destruction of something else. It is a delicate balance and difficult to walk, but certainly they spoke your name for a reason. Remember that you have all reason to stride forward with confidence, but there is a thin line between confidence and arrogance... and arrogance may doom you.
Ghilani inquired about blood witches. In their time, the Grandmothers have not known an active blood witch... and the concepts of blood magic are not widely known or discussed. Seems the histories have been "white-washed". Hamida seemed a bit irked, but with a heavy sigh relented. Take a day, enjoy the city and tonight we should have a nice supper. Hamida promised to ensure Tatya comes home. Newt, meanwhile, asked the Grandmother's if any of them wanted to shoot a gun.
Traveling to the North Market, Rani took the entire group to get new clothes more appropriate to the city. Obviously, she has to go to her Uncle's textile store. Upon arrival, her uncle seems to be working on an incredibly large, ornate gown, but stopped when Rani noted that "perhaps right there needs touched up". Of course, he is happy to prepare clothes on the house. Of course he loves Tatya, but please knock him down a peg or two? Newt phoned Oksha really quick to see what scents she likes... the ocean since it was the first thing she saw. Moira definitely needs that over-billowing fabric. Return tomorrow and your friends shall have their new garments. When Rani asked about Cahareth, her Uncle has never seen it, but if anyone would know it would be Timur, he is such a fan of all the gossip.
Returning to Prof. Dunebrook, Rani proceeds to update her on everything, showing her both the journal and the map. She says "Bert" as an example and Newt immediately sighs "Anyone but him!". The name Annanias is mentioned and Prof. Dunebrook raises a brow. Has this "Annanias" signed the NDA? Oh, no, but he certainly will sign it... the next time we talk to him. Prof. Dunebrook seems interested in how everything connects... Rani found both artifacts, but how are they linked? Why was the journal with the map? If Moira is seeing dreams of the City of Fortune and this priestess and the journal has discussed it, we just need to push further. But still, Rani seems to be at the center of it upon initially assessing the pieces: both items, the swarms, and the swords... Prof. Dunebrook will think further on this. Anything to help with getting to the City of Fortune would be imperative to uncover before they set back out into the Wasteland.
Heading to the Tempe, the trio split. Rani searched for her missing locusts and found them outside a door on the third story. Inside, she found a great tree with multiple spiles and three women wreathed in gold. They tried to speak and Rani heard the whisper of words, but couldn't make anything out. They offered her golden sap and Rani drank it, feeling inspiration settle across her. When she asked to stay, the women nodded.
Can you see now, dear? This is what they wish to do to my blood. To me... to us. Can you see now, Ghilani? She forgave them for the Purge. A greater kindness than I will ever be capable of. How much paint – how much blood do you think it took to paint this mockery? Can you see it now, dear? This is what your kindness will be met with.
Enraged at the realization, Ghilani hounds an attendant. Oh, this piece was made with the Muses' Paint. How did you get the paint? We receive it since we're the Temple of Lark... From WHOM? The royal families. Which ONE? I don't know?!
Report Date
31 Mar 2023
Primary Location
Secondary Location
A Letter from Tatya
One thing? Only one thing? One thing? Only one thing? Hm, I might suspect your head is full of sand! I will certainly have a degree, but I’m more than certain that my sand seal racing skills have far surpassed yours! And I’m willing to wager that I can disarm you before you can even land a single hit. Is it age getting to you? Feel free to bask in my youthful glow that I’m sure shines through this letter! Oh, and, just so you know, I – unlike you – did not fall into any ruins and got us back in record time! What is your definition of normal? Have you heard Baba talking to people our age? That’s not normal, but it’s also completely normal. But yes, I honestly believe Prof. Dunebrook tells you more than she tells me. LIMA may promote collaboration… but there’s a sense of “pick your battles” hidden in that fine print. Baba’s cheap swordplay tricks he’s resorted to using on me (cause I’m better than him now) feel more honest than some of the academics I’ve spoken to. In all my sagely, brotherly advice, maybe treat them more like Lakshmi? I know we’d both rather fall on a patch of cacti than fight Lakshmi. But feel free to visit and I’ll beat you and then you can pay for the first round! I am thriving, thank you. I think I’m really onto something with this sand seal dueling. If we can just iron out a few tiny details, it could make a real sport! OH. I’m certain I found the love of my life. I know I’ve said that four five times before, but you know what they say, sixth times the charm! Lakshmi is well – she has some new tattoos. She offered a little tattoo charm to me for protection. I think I want a little sand seal with a sword in his mouth. She’d appreciate hearing from you. Even better, I think she – and me – would appreciate seeing you. I do miss you as well. You can always dump your burdens on me if you need to. You might be the oldest, but that doesn’t mean you’re unbreakable… or unbeatable, as I have proven so masterfully.Rani, I swear I heard your voice somewhere you couldn't possibly be. I-Stay safe and come back in good enough shape to try out sand seal dueling! Tatya P.S. – I’m going to tell Ezra everything ;P
Tatya's Friends
Rumors & Gossip
The First Advisor was in full support of this... excessively liberal spending agenda. Perhaps her age is catching up to her? Perhaps we need another Advisor to balance the recklessness and frivolity of the Queen's youth? Ignatia is clearly not what she once was.
I remember the days when he used to run across the city in the dead of night to smoke and perform in hole-in-the-wall taverns. Or race sand seals and flirt with almost everyone! The city was more vibrant with him here. Still... the title of High Lord suits him. I think King would suit him better.
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