Session 86
General Summary
Early Morning Conversations
Moira finds herself dreaming of a dance amidst the red light of a distant setting sun. As the dream begins to fade, the silver-haired woman – the only thing now visible – begins to speak, but her words fade and dissolve as her image flickers. Immediately, a deep voice from within asks – or perhaps demands – more energy. Moira throws her metaphorical dreaming hands up and says take it! Do what you gotta do little buddy! And the Dread King does.
As Moira and Ghilani sorted out the journal, Declan gave Rani a "subtle" physical thumbs up and a mental thumbs up before backing THE FUCK out of the conversation between Rani and Newt. Carefully, Rani mentions that Leon did have a bit of a point. We aren't subtle and we aren't stealthy. Are we prepared to deal with this threat right here and now? I know you care a lot about Volo, but if anyone can hold out against the Doctor's will... it's him. The people we're up against – they seem to know EXACTLY how to pull our strings. Rani is concerned that there is something in Tel'Rhea that they keep pulling the group away from. All it took was Moira saying one thing about my family to me and we were off to Lark'Hal. All it took was one hint about Volo being taken... and off to Eredet we went. We're going to do what we can – do everything in our power – but it may not be immediate.
Newt sighs. Look, it's not JUST about Volo. This is also about my dad and about Oksha. Sure, my dad SAID he's going to keep Oksha safe, but who knows for how long? Newt needs to find a way to get that door closed. He's not sure how he feels about his dad having the power that he currently has or what will happen if he gets more. Rani emphasizes that they will do a thorough search today... but depending on how that goes, let's make plans to go to Nacheevi. If we have more of the map unlocked, then I can check for more people and make sure they are where they are supposed to be. I can't check on Ironborn while he's in Nacheevi.
Rani also mentioned, hey, I'm not too keen on the "calling out Lollith" plan. She seems far to volatile and unpredictable for that. And by the way, totally planning on killing her. Yeah, Newt's completely on board with that at this point. She's done some pretty fucked up things since he's met her. With a general plan, the parents (and Newt) resolve to head to the Tower Citadel, telling Ghilani and Moira to catch up when they've finished with the Journal.
May I call you Annanias, then?As the dream is then permitted to fade, Moira finds herself standing in a vaguely familiar cold space, though it doesn't feel quite as cold as before. Standing in front of her is a more defined, but still shadowy, humanoid shape. The hint of a jawbone, the outline of a nose, the glow of his eyes, flowing hair... all is now visible as the Dread King – Annanias – seems a bit more tangible. One armed lifts and a very familiar image appears in his hand – a warping in the space, vaguely the shape of a six-pronged star.
I did not have a name... It was given to me. She gave it to me. For I am the Void.If you didn't have a name, how did you meet her? How did you find her? That, Annanias is not certain. It suspects perhaps other fragments of it have retained those memories. Regardless, it would like to find her... or whatever is left of her. Your friend has her journal. Perhaps she wrote of Annanias there. Perhaps that may have more information than this fragment's broken memories can provide. Annanias elaborated that does not fully grasp the concept of what humanoids call "emotions". However, he is grateful and – as Moira enthusiastically reiterates that she's damn committed to helping him (now) – promises to help Moira in return. With that bit of memory restored, Annanias feels less volatile than before. While Moira wakes up exhausted, she doesn't feel quite as drained as the last time this happened.
As Moira and Ghilani sorted out the journal, Declan gave Rani a "subtle" physical thumbs up and a mental thumbs up before backing THE FUCK out of the conversation between Rani and Newt. Carefully, Rani mentions that Leon did have a bit of a point. We aren't subtle and we aren't stealthy. Are we prepared to deal with this threat right here and now? I know you care a lot about Volo, but if anyone can hold out against the Doctor's will... it's him. The people we're up against – they seem to know EXACTLY how to pull our strings. Rani is concerned that there is something in Tel'Rhea that they keep pulling the group away from. All it took was Moira saying one thing about my family to me and we were off to Lark'Hal. All it took was one hint about Volo being taken... and off to Eredet we went. We're going to do what we can – do everything in our power – but it may not be immediate.
Newt sighs. Look, it's not JUST about Volo. This is also about my dad and about Oksha. Sure, my dad SAID he's going to keep Oksha safe, but who knows for how long? Newt needs to find a way to get that door closed. He's not sure how he feels about his dad having the power that he currently has or what will happen if he gets more. Rani emphasizes that they will do a thorough search today... but depending on how that goes, let's make plans to go to Nacheevi. If we have more of the map unlocked, then I can check for more people and make sure they are where they are supposed to be. I can't check on Ironborn while he's in Nacheevi.
Rani also mentioned, hey, I'm not too keen on the "calling out Lollith" plan. She seems far to volatile and unpredictable for that. And by the way, totally planning on killing her. Yeah, Newt's completely on board with that at this point. She's done some pretty fucked up things since he's met her. With a general plan, the parents (and Newt) resolve to head to the Tower Citadel, telling Ghilani and Moira to catch up when they've finished with the Journal.
Investigation Status: Tower Citadel
Rani makes a pitstop to her good, new friends at the city office to pick up and peruse some sewer plans. With about an hour of pouring over them, she feels she has a good idea of how to navigate down there (at least, generally). The trio then descended into the Temple of The One. Given it's the lowest floor of the Tower Citadel, perhaps they can find some secret doors. Rani posts up at various points around the room near the Tower of the One – looking quite casual as she casts Clue. There's certainly plenty of foot traffic down here, but no obvious footprints that vanish into a wall or anything of the like that she notes. Newt looks around for ghosts. There's a few people with 1-2 clingers, but nothing like what Newt's currently got going on. There's no disguising the quite obvious "feeling up" of the walls as Declan pokes around for any indents or places where its... not quite symmetrical. It seems quite symmetrical though.
An Acolyte approaches: Can I... help you with something? Newt and Rani are quick to swing in. Oh, I'm so SORRY! Can you imagine that he was worse than this before? High Priestess Thalassa had such an issue with him! Declan explains that he's... just trying to get a feel for the layout, you know? For when... when he builds his own temple one day! A temple to... devotion? Huh, should he actually build a temple? Or at least do some interior design for the volcano? As the Acolyte departs, a bit surprised, but not necessarily disbelieving, the trio continued their sweep through the rest of the Temple periphery.
Meanwhile, Ghilani and Moira made their way to High Lord Valdove's office. The elven man seemed to be on his way elsewhere. While a High Lord, he does serve on a variety of other councils and committees on the general day-to-day affairs, generally those involved with the District of Varoona. Is Ivan around? The High Lord responds that no, he left a few days ago. Oshiv'Ran's High Lord is overseeing clan reintegration. Perhaps you could consult the district or tower of Oshiv'Ran if you have questions to ask? Ghilani says that's a great idea and, as Valdove departs the elevator, calls out: "Have a great day at work!"
Ghilani and Moira then went to the satellite tower of Oshiv'Ran. Moira recognized the first floor as a market similar to one in Oshiv'Ran – they even have a pop-up of Cheese & Quackers! After wandering for a bit, they found a jeweler. This style of necklace – in the old days – was often used as a symbol of engagement. Nowadays, it's application has become broader, but they still remain prominent, personal pieces. Often, they include clan symbolism. He mentioned that the hound may indicate clan Zver'Behepka. Others may prefer to use symbols of their career or personal interests. The man offered to repair it, but the duo ultimately decided to decline. And maybe don't mention that we're trying to find who this necklace belongs to... we got it.
Reconvening in the Temple of The One (now with apples and cheese), the Deep End entered the Grand Priest's office. So we're about to finish up with the temples – the Grand Priest interrupted. Would you wish to partake in the old traditional rites when you finish? It's not perhaps exactly the same, but, as he's been thinking about it, there was a time when people undertook this pilgrimage as a means of physically making all parts whole. The old pilgrimages ended here. Perhaps that may help in your journey, similar or different as it may be? Rani says she's not sure – definitely nothing over the top or a spectacle – but if it might help then it's worth looking into. While you are looking through the old records, could you perhaps see if there's anything on Ah'Shal? Was Baladon not helpful? Eh well, maybe the records here are different. Can you look for a key and a door? Both could be symbols of Ah'Shal. Aepius will see what he can find.
What's your jurisdiction on the Council and in the Tower Citadel? Aepius explained that he holds religious authority. I mediate the council, but technically have very little actual political power. Your... um... broadcast had little of religious affairs in it. Regarding the Citadel, he has jurisdiction over the Temple floor, but doesn't have any broader reaching authority.
Is there anyone on the Council that you don't trust? Well, you shouldn't necessarily trust anyone. Aepius seemed to dislike Delkova – despite what the High Lord of Tel'Rhea would like you to believe, Tel'Rhea has over stepped her bounds (Aepius was familiar with antagonists and does support that Tel'Rhea would have one despite what she would like the world to think). Aepius also does not trust Briar whatsoever and does not seem amused at all by their antics. Lady La'Talenna's departure was sudden, but it seemed more likely to be her taking advantage of a moment out of the spotlight to return home. Pulling out the necklace, Ghilani asked if the Grand Priest recognized it? Aepius mentioned that it resembled Oshiv'Ran style. Do you know if Ivan wore anything? Aepius thought for a moment, but the Grand Priest hasn't spared the shifter enough thought to particularly notice his accessory choices. Plus, he wears that big bulky cloak most of the time. Ah yes, "Bear of the South", after all.
The Grand Priest, who seemed to be dancing around directly bringing up the broadcast, asked how everyone was doing? You have a lot on your shoulders, clearly. Ghilani is SO happy; you're the FIRST person to ask us that! There is a lot going on and they're wading through all of it. Aepius seemed sympathetic towards the group. He inquired of Declan: have your questions about rules been answered? Not yet, but I think I may have found... a work around? Be careful of ending the rules... they may snap back.
The group mentioned potentially traveling to Nacheevi in the near future; Any pointers? Aepius explained that Nacheevi is a God of Order and of Law (you may have missed that from only interacting with Ironborn). Be cautious of displaying chaos in the streets and be very mindful of the laws. The trial process can be quite lengthy... and may take weeks or, in bad cases, months. If you have any other needs within religious domains, do not hesitate to reach out. Check back iin whenever you return. If he has found anything of note, Aepius will share.
An Acolyte approaches: Can I... help you with something? Newt and Rani are quick to swing in. Oh, I'm so SORRY! Can you imagine that he was worse than this before? High Priestess Thalassa had such an issue with him! Declan explains that he's... just trying to get a feel for the layout, you know? For when... when he builds his own temple one day! A temple to... devotion? Huh, should he actually build a temple? Or at least do some interior design for the volcano? As the Acolyte departs, a bit surprised, but not necessarily disbelieving, the trio continued their sweep through the rest of the Temple periphery.
Meanwhile, Ghilani and Moira made their way to High Lord Valdove's office. The elven man seemed to be on his way elsewhere. While a High Lord, he does serve on a variety of other councils and committees on the general day-to-day affairs, generally those involved with the District of Varoona. Is Ivan around? The High Lord responds that no, he left a few days ago. Oshiv'Ran's High Lord is overseeing clan reintegration. Perhaps you could consult the district or tower of Oshiv'Ran if you have questions to ask? Ghilani says that's a great idea and, as Valdove departs the elevator, calls out: "Have a great day at work!"
Ghilani and Moira then went to the satellite tower of Oshiv'Ran. Moira recognized the first floor as a market similar to one in Oshiv'Ran – they even have a pop-up of Cheese & Quackers! After wandering for a bit, they found a jeweler. This style of necklace – in the old days – was often used as a symbol of engagement. Nowadays, it's application has become broader, but they still remain prominent, personal pieces. Often, they include clan symbolism. He mentioned that the hound may indicate clan Zver'Behepka. Others may prefer to use symbols of their career or personal interests. The man offered to repair it, but the duo ultimately decided to decline. And maybe don't mention that we're trying to find who this necklace belongs to... we got it.
Reconvening in the Temple of The One (now with apples and cheese), the Deep End entered the Grand Priest's office. So we're about to finish up with the temples – the Grand Priest interrupted. Would you wish to partake in the old traditional rites when you finish? It's not perhaps exactly the same, but, as he's been thinking about it, there was a time when people undertook this pilgrimage as a means of physically making all parts whole. The old pilgrimages ended here. Perhaps that may help in your journey, similar or different as it may be? Rani says she's not sure – definitely nothing over the top or a spectacle – but if it might help then it's worth looking into. While you are looking through the old records, could you perhaps see if there's anything on Ah'Shal? Was Baladon not helpful? Eh well, maybe the records here are different. Can you look for a key and a door? Both could be symbols of Ah'Shal. Aepius will see what he can find.
What's your jurisdiction on the Council and in the Tower Citadel? Aepius explained that he holds religious authority. I mediate the council, but technically have very little actual political power. Your... um... broadcast had little of religious affairs in it. Regarding the Citadel, he has jurisdiction over the Temple floor, but doesn't have any broader reaching authority.
Is there anyone on the Council that you don't trust? Well, you shouldn't necessarily trust anyone. Aepius seemed to dislike Delkova – despite what the High Lord of Tel'Rhea would like you to believe, Tel'Rhea has over stepped her bounds (Aepius was familiar with antagonists and does support that Tel'Rhea would have one despite what she would like the world to think). Aepius also does not trust Briar whatsoever and does not seem amused at all by their antics. Lady La'Talenna's departure was sudden, but it seemed more likely to be her taking advantage of a moment out of the spotlight to return home. Pulling out the necklace, Ghilani asked if the Grand Priest recognized it? Aepius mentioned that it resembled Oshiv'Ran style. Do you know if Ivan wore anything? Aepius thought for a moment, but the Grand Priest hasn't spared the shifter enough thought to particularly notice his accessory choices. Plus, he wears that big bulky cloak most of the time. Ah yes, "Bear of the South", after all.
The Grand Priest, who seemed to be dancing around directly bringing up the broadcast, asked how everyone was doing? You have a lot on your shoulders, clearly. Ghilani is SO happy; you're the FIRST person to ask us that! There is a lot going on and they're wading through all of it. Aepius seemed sympathetic towards the group. He inquired of Declan: have your questions about rules been answered? Not yet, but I think I may have found... a work around? Be careful of ending the rules... they may snap back.
The group mentioned potentially traveling to Nacheevi in the near future; Any pointers? Aepius explained that Nacheevi is a God of Order and of Law (you may have missed that from only interacting with Ironborn). Be cautious of displaying chaos in the streets and be very mindful of the laws. The trial process can be quite lengthy... and may take weeks or, in bad cases, months. If you have any other needs within religious domains, do not hesitate to reach out. Check back iin whenever you return. If he has found anything of note, Aepius will share.
Investigation Status: We're the White Masks Now
After an hour of looking through the remains of the crumbled Tower of Judas, the Deep End feels quite confident that there are no secret entrances... only the remnants of a wishing will. Rani flicks a gold coin down into it. Annanias is confused by the action. The District of Judas, located nearby, is surrounded by a seemingly recently constructed, temporary-wall-made-permanent. Attention immediately falls on the group as they enter... so newt becomes a malnourished large dog and the rest of the group are disguised as more poor, downtrodden folks than well-off, well-known heroes with copious amounts of magic itemts on their person (worth small fortunes alone).
Poking around with Rani on the rooftops and Newt moving a bit ahead on the ground, they note some graffiti, but not obvious symbolism associated with the white masks, don't notice any obviously SUS behavior, and don't notice anything magical or particularly out of place. Ghilani eventually goes up to a family and asked if they had seen this person. He then used magic to make it look like he... wasn't using magic to show a replica of one of the people Rayen had found. No, but if they haven't been seen in some time, odds are they aren't coming back... but maybe it'll be different this time. Ghilani then asked if they wanted an apple. When the woman's face lit up, Ghilani passed out a bunch of his food. As he was leaving, he heard the woman say: "I wonder if he's a white mask without a mask... only the white masks bother to give us food nowadays." Turning right back around immediately, Ghilani asked: Hey, have you SEEN the White Masks recently? You know, because they're obviously SO GREAT and... I wanted to meet them? They haven't been seen recently, unfortunately.
With the sun near setting time, the Deep End ducks into some rubble and takes on the form of the white masks before they slipped into the sewers... or the overrun ruins beneath the new city. Much of it is crumbled and in ruins, but Rani is able to navigate – the basic layout still seems to hold.
Poking around with Rani on the rooftops and Newt moving a bit ahead on the ground, they note some graffiti, but not obvious symbolism associated with the white masks, don't notice any obviously SUS behavior, and don't notice anything magical or particularly out of place. Ghilani eventually goes up to a family and asked if they had seen this person. He then used magic to make it look like he... wasn't using magic to show a replica of one of the people Rayen had found. No, but if they haven't been seen in some time, odds are they aren't coming back... but maybe it'll be different this time. Ghilani then asked if they wanted an apple. When the woman's face lit up, Ghilani passed out a bunch of his food. As he was leaving, he heard the woman say: "I wonder if he's a white mask without a mask... only the white masks bother to give us food nowadays." Turning right back around immediately, Ghilani asked: Hey, have you SEEN the White Masks recently? You know, because they're obviously SO GREAT and... I wanted to meet them? They haven't been seen recently, unfortunately.
With the sun near setting time, the Deep End ducks into some rubble and takes on the form of the white masks before they slipped into the sewers... or the overrun ruins beneath the new city. Much of it is crumbled and in ruins, but Rani is able to navigate – the basic layout still seems to hold.
Every now and then, there seems to be a footprint scattered amidst the rubble. After about an hour – and halfway back through the sewers – Ghilani hears the faintest, faraway rumble. Newt elected to go out slightly ahead to keep an eye out for traps. After another hour or so of travel, Ghilani noted that... there are portions of the wall that don't seem QUITE as old as they should be. Odd. Eventually, a half hour later, they arrived at a dead end, a cave-in.
Declan poked around the rubble and confirmed... that it is, in fact, rubble. Ghilani casted Detect Magic... and was IMMEDIATELY swamped with heavy magic: Enchantment, Illusion, and HEAVY Abjuration. Ghilani goes – guys. This is abjuration. We're in it now. Ghilani managed to pinpoint the bit of illusion within the magic concoction: a portion of the wall near the rubble. Throwing a rock at it, it doesn't seem to reveal anything odd.
Talking via the mind, Newt said that he's down to charge forward, but the rest of the group seems to hesitate. We should regroup, fake that we're frustrated and come back in the morning. Why can't we not go now? We are NOT READY, is the general statement thrown out. Declan then threw a few rocks at various portions of the wall and loudly declared that "it's getting late, maybe we should come back tomorrow and look elsewhere. This is CLEARLY a dead end..." Rani and Moira jump in, also pretending to be frustrated. After standing in the ruined hallway for a good bit... they eventually elected to leave.
Declan poked around the rubble and confirmed... that it is, in fact, rubble. Ghilani casted Detect Magic... and was IMMEDIATELY swamped with heavy magic: Enchantment, Illusion, and HEAVY Abjuration. Ghilani goes – guys. This is abjuration. We're in it now. Ghilani managed to pinpoint the bit of illusion within the magic concoction: a portion of the wall near the rubble. Throwing a rock at it, it doesn't seem to reveal anything odd.
Talking via the mind, Newt said that he's down to charge forward, but the rest of the group seems to hesitate. We should regroup, fake that we're frustrated and come back in the morning. Why can't we not go now? We are NOT READY, is the general statement thrown out. Declan then threw a few rocks at various portions of the wall and loudly declared that "it's getting late, maybe we should come back tomorrow and look elsewhere. This is CLEARLY a dead end..." Rani and Moira jump in, also pretending to be frustrated. After standing in the ruined hallway for a good bit... they eventually elected to leave.
Ready or Not, Here We... Gather Allies
Back on the boat, there is a heavy moment of tension and silence. Newt is adamant that they go NOW. We found it. We know where he is. What are we waiting for? Let's go in and get this shit done. Declan, however, feels otherwise. We are NOT READY. Newt counters: When have we EVER been ready for anything? And look, we're doing fine. Declan also countered: I waited weeks to go see Thera because I knew I wasn't ready. Just, please, TRUST me. We are NOT ready.So what then? We sit here and wait? For how long? While we wait, he can make moves that we won't know about. Declan sighs: he's already making moves we don't know about. I can't give you a timeline, but we NEED more time. We need more information. Volo will be fine. I have faith he'll hold out. Newt, frustrated continued: And are you implying that I don't have faith in one of men who fucking shaped me into who I am? No, that's not what I'm– Declan, promises to put everything he has into this. Just TRUST ME. And if we disagree with you, does that somehow mean we don't trust you? This CLEARLY isn't a matter of trust. Moira jumps in to reinforce Newt. The Doctor has done and will do horrible things. We can stop him. Why shouldn't we?
Newt then turns: Rani, what do YOU think? After a heavy moment of silence, Rani marks that the unknown can be terrifying. The desert has swallowed people, but a step in the Wasteland was the start of a journey. Rani is concerned that going in will be fine... but they won't be able to get out. What if we have to leave someone behind? Will we leave more of us behind trying to save as many of us as we can? This could be a great victory... or our tomb. Rani would rather not die to the Doctor... and even more than that, she'd prefer to not be alive with The Doctor either.
Ghilani chimed in: How are we going to gather information then? Declan isn't sure. Maybe Nacheevi or Tel'Rhea can provide information. Rayen and his associates are on it as well - perhaps they will learn more with a little more time.
With the group seemingly at an impasse, they decided to sleep on it. Rani stayed up, slipping her ring onto Moira's finger before going to sleep. True to form, the Lady of Dread made an "appearance". Are you willing to concede the items I requested? Rani asked why she wanted it? The Lady of Dread seems a tad bit annoyed: I'm very busy. Well, I'll give it to you depending on what you want it for. The Lady of Dread merely hummed, a hint of frustration in her tone. Rani woke cold and feeling a bit hallow. She slipped the ring back onto her own finger.
In a more pleasant dream, Declan collapsed into Thera. Oh, bad day? We're all in a big dispute right now. That's unfortunate... though, you know you can always come home? Declan shakes his head: Nope, can't. I can't leave them. Hey, can you feel people's devotions? Besides mine, of course? Oh yes, of course I can - I AM the God of Devotion. Any devotion that like... rubs you the wrong way? Well, I do have to say I'm not a fan of stalkers. They can be particularly nasty. How about a Doctor's devotion to his work? Hm, that specific one I can't feel. Not even to the vague East? You said you felt its devotion, so I thought... Thera cuts in, well that was a long time ago. What was it's devotion? For what it was... for the war it caused... I was surprised that its devotion... was love. And Declan woke up.
Newt woke early in the morning to fly around and clear his head. Upon waking, Ghilani asked if he had done anything weird in his sleep, but everyone shrugged and said no. What is going on? Why am I trancing longer than normal?? Declan touched base with Six. Can you go to Caliban? Why? We need you to go into the Gold Dragon Estate and get a teleportation circle. Discretion is needed, yes? Well, if I don't get distracted it could be fine. Six agreed. She hasn't seen Two in some time anyway, but only after the potion. Declan thanked her before she screamed out "THAT'S WRONG" and closed the dream talk.
Moira casted Augury and asked: If we go into the Doctor's Lab now, ya know, how would that go? There's an initial wave of Caliban's presence, but it feels distant and unclear. And then a deep voice responds: "Weal and Woe, for all of you, some of you, or none of you... but for me, woe". Hey, that's good– wait, what? Annanias responds that he felt compelled to respond and was tapping into Moira's innate abilities.
Another discussion is then had about what to do. Newt mentioned that it would be very out of character for us to just leave. We should go back down at least to poke around a bit more – perhaps get a call and have to go elsewhere. Play it up a bit. Then, we can go to Nacheevi and then to Tel'Rhea... but no more than 4 days away from Eredet. We can call allies and alert people to keep an eye on everything here. Ghilani mentioned that even if the Doctor was to close up shop and leave, there would be at least something left that they can potentially piece together. We do know he needs Villám... Lollith was causing issues there in Elios.
Newt then sends to Lux: Any place we can meet that is secure and away from prying eyes? Oh, well, there is this VERY convenient and secure place! The only other person is the one who is already always listening to Ghilani! The Compound of Blood. Hey Ghilani, can you please ask Primus to ask Lux through the blood witch walkie-talkie network if there is a place CLOSER TO EREDET? Ghilani, somewhat hesitant, does so. Primus mentioned that either Lux's floor in the Tower Citadel or the red light district would be suitable. Also, hey Primus, do you know why I'm trancing longer than usual?? Oh, I have a theory. The more you use your innate abilities, the less powerful your... "elven imprinting" of your mother, so to speak, is. Don't worry, you won't lose your longevity.
Before going in, Rani mentioned they should consider gathering other powerful spellcasters that they trusted. Perhaps Serene? And perhaps Azrail, if he's available. Ghilani then sent to Serene. How's Olivantha doing? She's in and out. Serene may be able to rouse her long enough for the group to speak with her. Serene is willing to stay in Carmenthia. Ghilani mentioned needing to speak to Serene about something... what a coincidence... I also need to speak to you about something.
Ghilani chimed in: How are we going to gather information then? Declan isn't sure. Maybe Nacheevi or Tel'Rhea can provide information. Rayen and his associates are on it as well - perhaps they will learn more with a little more time.
With the group seemingly at an impasse, they decided to sleep on it. Rani stayed up, slipping her ring onto Moira's finger before going to sleep. True to form, the Lady of Dread made an "appearance". Are you willing to concede the items I requested? Rani asked why she wanted it? The Lady of Dread seems a tad bit annoyed: I'm very busy. Well, I'll give it to you depending on what you want it for. The Lady of Dread merely hummed, a hint of frustration in her tone. Rani woke cold and feeling a bit hallow. She slipped the ring back onto her own finger.
In a more pleasant dream, Declan collapsed into Thera. Oh, bad day? We're all in a big dispute right now. That's unfortunate... though, you know you can always come home? Declan shakes his head: Nope, can't. I can't leave them. Hey, can you feel people's devotions? Besides mine, of course? Oh yes, of course I can - I AM the God of Devotion. Any devotion that like... rubs you the wrong way? Well, I do have to say I'm not a fan of stalkers. They can be particularly nasty. How about a Doctor's devotion to his work? Hm, that specific one I can't feel. Not even to the vague East? You said you felt its devotion, so I thought... Thera cuts in, well that was a long time ago. What was it's devotion? For what it was... for the war it caused... I was surprised that its devotion... was love. And Declan woke up.
Newt woke early in the morning to fly around and clear his head. Upon waking, Ghilani asked if he had done anything weird in his sleep, but everyone shrugged and said no. What is going on? Why am I trancing longer than normal?? Declan touched base with Six. Can you go to Caliban? Why? We need you to go into the Gold Dragon Estate and get a teleportation circle. Discretion is needed, yes? Well, if I don't get distracted it could be fine. Six agreed. She hasn't seen Two in some time anyway, but only after the potion. Declan thanked her before she screamed out "THAT'S WRONG" and closed the dream talk.
Moira casted Augury and asked: If we go into the Doctor's Lab now, ya know, how would that go? There's an initial wave of Caliban's presence, but it feels distant and unclear. And then a deep voice responds: "Weal and Woe, for all of you, some of you, or none of you... but for me, woe". Hey, that's good– wait, what? Annanias responds that he felt compelled to respond and was tapping into Moira's innate abilities.
Another discussion is then had about what to do. Newt mentioned that it would be very out of character for us to just leave. We should go back down at least to poke around a bit more – perhaps get a call and have to go elsewhere. Play it up a bit. Then, we can go to Nacheevi and then to Tel'Rhea... but no more than 4 days away from Eredet. We can call allies and alert people to keep an eye on everything here. Ghilani mentioned that even if the Doctor was to close up shop and leave, there would be at least something left that they can potentially piece together. We do know he needs Villám... Lollith was causing issues there in Elios.
Newt then sends to Lux: Any place we can meet that is secure and away from prying eyes? Oh, well, there is this VERY convenient and secure place! The only other person is the one who is already always listening to Ghilani! The Compound of Blood. Hey Ghilani, can you please ask Primus to ask Lux through the blood witch walkie-talkie network if there is a place CLOSER TO EREDET? Ghilani, somewhat hesitant, does so. Primus mentioned that either Lux's floor in the Tower Citadel or the red light district would be suitable. Also, hey Primus, do you know why I'm trancing longer than usual?? Oh, I have a theory. The more you use your innate abilities, the less powerful your... "elven imprinting" of your mother, so to speak, is. Don't worry, you won't lose your longevity.
Before going in, Rani mentioned they should consider gathering other powerful spellcasters that they trusted. Perhaps Serene? And perhaps Azrail, if he's available. Ghilani then sent to Serene. How's Olivantha doing? She's in and out. Serene may be able to rouse her long enough for the group to speak with her. Serene is willing to stay in Carmenthia. Ghilani mentioned needing to speak to Serene about something... what a coincidence... I also need to speak to you about something.
Report Date
23 Jun 2023
Primary Location
Secondary Location
Related Characters
The Dread King's Dream
For a moment, all you see is gold... and then your vision makes out blurry figures standing in front of a large window. Beyond it, you can just make out a setting sun casting a beautiful red hue into the room. At the edge of your vision, a pale-skinned hand holds a goblet, swirling it absentmindedly. Around your vision – in a large room with features you can't quite distinguish, besides the windows, of course – are a large number of people and the sounds of their hushed conversation seems to surround you.
It is clear that there are two different groups of people. One appears more rigidly and ostentatiously dressed. Crisp tunics with gold accents or regal gowns of various colors with even more gold. The second appears to prefer more freeing clothing in vibrant colors with some metallic trim, if any. Teals, pinks, oranges, and all manner of colors.
Drums echo through the room and you watch as the people around begin to dance. The more rigidly dressed take up near the edge of the room, content to watch, while those in vibrant garments pull those wearing holy regalia to the floor to dance. A melody intertwines with the drums – an upbeat tune. A figure twirls past with a gown lined in gold, a smile on her face as she drags someone with gold regalia behind her.
A hand appears in your peripheral and the vision moves to find the silver-haired woman standing there with her hand outstretched and a soft grin on her face. Gold trinkets hang from her hair, neck, and wrists, reflecting light in a mesmerizing fashion. Her dress is of the same vibrant colors that adorn the other figures that continue to move just beyond her. Her head tilts to the side and you’re not sure if you hear the jewelry clink or imagine the noise it should have made. You see the coins, gold wells, and four-leaf clovers… and the familiar touch of silver with stars peaking out.
You hear the clink of a glass being set down before a larger, pale hand takes hers and the vision’s point of view shifts from being level with the woman’s shoulders to well over a foot above her. Holding the hand, she seems to move through the room. Some figures – those with regalia – easily stop to lower their head as they move out of the way. Those dressed in vibrant colors continue their dance unperturbed, simply twirling out of the way as the woman guides the vision forward. The beating of drums resurfaces, louder and clearer. A figure enters your view and pauses behind the silver-haired woman, leaning down near her ear. Her skin is somewhat darkened and her hair obscured by teal and light blue cloth, but for a moment you swear she seems familiar.
You're crude, Soyolmaa!
The glint of metal on the woman’s hips catches your eye. You focus on it and see the handle of a sword in its scabbard on her waist. In the back of your mind, you feel it try to pull your gaze back to the silver-haired woman. Why does that handle seem so familiar?
Gifts turned for destruction. Look here.
The silver-haired woman clears her throat as she reaches her other hand towards you. And then you begin to dance and spin about the room, drawing closer and closer until the only thing in your vision is this woman’s face, seemingly unfazed, but a slight flush to her cheeks. As your vision fades, you begin to hear her voice and a much deeper voice respond.
May I... May I call you- NO. I need more energy. My memory... it is RIGHT THERE.
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