The Leviathan
From afar, the former emperor of the Cabal observes the Sol system atop a lavish golden barge overflowing with food, drink, and relaxation. He invites only a select few to join him in his mirth making, and Fireteam Crescendo has caught his eye. But in order to prove themselves worthy of an audience with him, they must first complete a number of requests. Only then are they permitted onto the Leviathan, and only then will they be shown the true nature of Calus' intent.
Plot points/Scenes
- Recover the two remaining artifacts.
- Assist the Loyalists in recovering the third artifact.
- Entertain Emperor Calus.
Themes
This is the first chance that the part will have to feel out of their league, especially if they disrespect Calus on his Leviathan or try to leave. The theme of this arc is that the party learns they may need an ally of Calus' strength.
Structure
Exposition
Emperor Calus' private treasure stores have been pillaged by a defector contingent that escaped his Leviathan to the planet below. Calus wants them dead, along with his treasures returned. The defector contingent's motivation is to try and enter the good graces of Empress Caiatl, as they are aware her arrival is imminent.
The reason Calus wants to meet with the party is that he wants to add to his collection of Shadows, and the ketch-stealing exploits of the party thus far have made an impactful first impression. The coincidence of Judge being among them, and the timing of the theft on top of it, align perfectly to the Emperor's motivation of not only further testing his potential Shadows but also retrieving his lost wealth while punishing the thieves that took from him.
Calus' reason for putting the party through combat trials while on the Leviathan is a combination of good old-fashioned Cabal tradition, as well as gaining barometers on the potential power of these Guardians. Calus can opt to not offer a Shadow position to members of the party that underperform. He is offering an explanation of his contribution to a partnership by showcasing his planning capabilities and military prowess through the combat trials. If members of the party hold back or elect not to showcase their contributions, Calus will be offended by this.
The reason Calus wants to meet with the party is that he wants to add to his collection of Shadows, and the ketch-stealing exploits of the party thus far have made an impactful first impression. The coincidence of Judge being among them, and the timing of the theft on top of it, align perfectly to the Emperor's motivation of not only further testing his potential Shadows but also retrieving his lost wealth while punishing the thieves that took from him.
Calus' reason for putting the party through combat trials while on the Leviathan is a combination of good old-fashioned Cabal tradition, as well as gaining barometers on the potential power of these Guardians. Calus can opt to not offer a Shadow position to members of the party that underperform. He is offering an explanation of his contribution to a partnership by showcasing his planning capabilities and military prowess through the combat trials. If members of the party hold back or elect not to showcase their contributions, Calus will be offended by this.
Conflict
The conflict of this adventure comes in two forms. The first is the Party vs Enemy conflict of fighting the defectors and fighting the Vex, and engaging in combat on the Leviathan.
The other is the Party vs Party conflict that should arise from the events of their visit to the Leviathan. The confusion of combat contrasted with the lack of outward hostility from Calus. The way Calus seems to be favoring Judge while Judge seems to have no sway over Calus' demeanor. Then any tension that comes out of character desires to remain/depart from the Leviathan.
The other is the Party vs Party conflict that should arise from the events of their visit to the Leviathan. The confusion of combat contrasted with the lack of outward hostility from Calus. The way Calus seems to be favoring Judge while Judge seems to have no sway over Calus' demeanor. Then any tension that comes out of character desires to remain/depart from the Leviathan.
Rising Action
The events of patrolling Nessus are the rising action of this arc. Between the varied encounters of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat, including the Insight Terminus strike, the party is building towards finally arriving on the enormous golden ship looming above Nessus.
Climax
Arriving onto the Leviathan, expecting Calus' help or open arms, only to be tested in combat trials.
Falling Action
Defeating the automaton of Calus and being able to finally speak with him about the personal matters they brought with them. Making a decision about becoming Shadows.
Resolution
The party departs the Leviathan.
Components
Goals
| Character | Goal |
|---|---|
| Arifaris Radelt | Gain more influence with powerful and persuasive figures. |
| Bentley Fender | Interact more with the void energy inside him to see how he can quell its appetite. |
| Cloak | Continue providing for the House of Light. |
| Ernesto Fettuccini | Continue gaining clout as an influencer. |
| Judge-17 | Speak with Calus about the contents of Zelle's book. |
| Zelle Phim | Ingraciate herself to the rest of the fireteam. |
Plot type
Arc: The Leviathan
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