Session 14 - Campfires, Nests, and Date Night
General Summary
Countdown to Departure
Arkyn wakes up with weight centered on his ribcage and the feeling of a hand pressed firmly to the base of his neck. Sayah is not particularly thrilled with Arkyn's choice of a conversation ender yesterday. Did you not realize how much of a mood killer it is to say "Hi, Sayah, I'm going to die, now Shhhh"? Arkyn corrects his statement to: "I'm going to go on the IRON ARROW into the miasma" and Sayah relents. As an apology, Arkyn mentions that he plans to "butter Sayah up" to which she seems intrigued. Arkyn spends a good portion of his morning seeking out the best "nest spot" he can find as well as a spot for a "beachless beachside campfire spot".
Arkyn goes to find Aiaoue and asks her about the best approach to build a nest. Aiaoue mentions that Arkyn could see about importing sheep from Glance. None of the materials Aiaoue mentions - sheep's wool, grass - seems to be in abundance here. However, Marcia or the Pica brothers may have nice blankets and other bedding that could be useful. Arkyn does so, grabbing some bedding from Marcia and trading wooden sculptures for a collection of mismatched pillows from the Pica brothers. Meanwhile, Aiaoue goes about beginning her new plant growth ritual and sings sea shanties that - from a distance - sound lovely and enchanting... wait, did the lyrics just talk about bodies feeding Omen's children? Huh.
Teagan decides to ask Jeff to the "prom" (the Iron Arrow) to which Jeff agrees. Sure, he can provide Teagan with an alternative perspective. Stopping by at Syrio's place, the blacksmith seems to have been at work constructing an alternative craft space. Teagan explains how they found a cauldron with another fluid surrounded by water when they were in "underwater hell". Syrio nods and points to some drawn runes and a set of pipes that would suggest Syrio is along the same thought process. Hey, man, why don't you talk, by the way? After rubbing his throat, Syrio briefly mentions a past injury. Also, I'm going to say this and leave: You're a good blacksmith, you don't HAVE to work with Ademar. Teagan, true to his word, does in fact leave.
Teagan heads to the bar in the late morning to find Jin, per usual, asleep at the bar. After writing a quick note requesting that Jin prevent people from taking his things, Teagan grabs Jin by the shoulders and passes out. He hears confused grumbles from Jin as they swap roles. Teagan has the best, restful, undisturbed 12 hour sleep of his life.
Cadence finds Diamont in the Church. She expresses her concern for Aria. Diamont notes that while Aria joined the Church, she is connected directly to the Void Maiden and not directly to the broader Church. Diamont offers some reassurance that the Void Maiden will protect Aria. Cadence, however, expresses some doubt in that. Can she really though? Diamont's disposition shifts, almost oddly so. Have you stood directly in the presence of Caliban's power? Do you doubt him? The Void Maiden is our goddess; if she does not wish for enemies to approach her, they will know only complete and total destruction. Cadence thanks Diamont and prays to Caliban. There is the faint sensation of calming moonlight upon her.
Yenush heads over to the Iron Arrow in the morning. Oddly, Vendetta is nearby and Ironborn seems more focused on outfitting the behemoth with a harness of sorts. Once within the bowels of the Iron Arrow, Yenush asks Yelkin if he's ever had a "Ping". Please tell me Yenush that you are NOT referring to attraction to someone as a "PING" now. Yenush backtracks and reluctantly explains that he had a "ping" with Ademar. Also, why does Ademar know things about you? Or imply that he did? Yelkin shrugs. Ademar seems to make knowing things his business and given that Eight doesn't just let ANYONE regularly come and go from her pocket dimension, Yelkin's not surprised that Ademar took an interest. Regarding dreams, Yelkin hasn't had any - at least not any he'd share with Yenush. Their conversation devolves into sibling bickering that essentially ends with "I'm older by 3 years and 2 inches taller". "Fuck you man".
Yenush notes Jin moving away from Eight's door with a box as he goes to pick up the locket he requested (and then gifts it to Milo). He then heads to the Ohn'Lee clinic, entering to find that – after 2 VERY hectic days – Viren is finally patientless. Yenush, after a long pause, asks if Viren would like to go on a date. After going beet red (per usual), Viren begins to perform a diagnostic on himself, which confuses Yenush. Eventually, Viren agrees. Great, how about tomorrow, I'm EXHAUSTED.
Milo swings through the tavern to talk to Jin. Teagan is there, passed out at the bar. Milo mentions that there may be a solution to their "afflictions" and it would lie within the miasma. On that note, would you be up for going on the Iron Arrow? Jin smirks: Ah, I see. You want the tavern on the go, aye? Regardless, Jin agrees. In light of nearly burning down his entire tavern, he probably should find a solution. Though, he's felt incredibly energetic today, more so than he has in a long while. You wouldn't happen to know anything about this Omen iconography I found, eh?
In pursuit of beachless campfire, Arkyn also goes to Jin, but for alcohol. Teagan remains passed out at the bar. After collecting some beer, Arkyn stares at Teagan's pockets. Jin steps in; no stealing from the sleeping man. Arkyn mentions that it would be a good prank - we have a "father-son" bond! Jin's aura shifts as he delivers a firm "No". Arkyn leaves with his booze and nothing from Teagan's pockets.
Gathered around the campfire, Sayah joins the group. Teagan is back to being tired after his 12 hour sleep (the real fantasy) and cracks cold ones. Yenush offers everyone shots and Sayah easily snags Arkyn's before he notices. Teagan asks Sayah where she sees herself in 5 years. She didn't think she'd get that far. Sayah is from a nomadic clan (to which Cadence relates perhaps she'll see the forests again one day. As the night winds down, Yenush stops Aiaoue. So I asked Viren on a date (YOU DID, I'M SO PROUD). Yenush asks if Aiaoue could cook for their picnic date tomorrow, to which Aiaoue agrees. Just treat Viren well.
The following day, Cadence seeks out Quill and finds him down by the Shipyard. Did I come talk to you drunk? Quill confirms that Cadence did swing by. After expanding a bit more on the dragon situation in the deep dark, deep down, Cadence asks about dreams. She explains that she seems to be cursed (or possessed) by a goddess of death from here. Quill mentions that, in dreams, he sees a land that he does not recognize and sees dragons with features he does not know. They seem to glitter like crystalline gems in the sky. Quill notes that he has known love (his parents, most notably), but he has never felt a pain that feels as though half of you is dying. When asked about what sort of god it might be, the best Quill can offers is Storms. The lightning is normal for him – he's a bronze after all – but other bits are a not QUITE him.
Cadence asks Quill if he prays. Ehhhhh... praying is really not Quill's thing. Sure, Caliban's the god of the moon and all, but the Lunar Queen... now she embodies the moon. Cadence expresses her concerns about Aria and her doubt in the Void Maiden. Well, do you believe Caliban is the final arbiter of fate or that mortals hold the final say? Quill mentions that he met the previous High Oracle when he was young. Through her, Caliban acted. Still, Cadence is itching to leave and mentions that she would have run into the miasma if not for the train. Quill notes that his father could have gone after his grandmother... both would have met their death. It is often foolish to be brazen and rash, as easy as it may be. We each walk the path of our own fate; have faith that Caliban does not only write tragedies. Regarding the curses, Quill believes Cadence could find a means to control it. Quill also notes that Cadence might want to consider telling her family to avoid the Red Dragon Clan during their visit to Porcelain Avenue.
Yenush heads to work on the Iron Arrow and notes that Ironborn is definitely outfitting Vendetta with something. After getting Ironborn's attention, the old dwarf notes that Eight has offered to send Vendetta. The behemoth is capable of supporting an MWD array, conveniently does NOT need food to survive, and can carry a pocket dimension to shield passengers from the miasma.
Milo swings by Eight's to chat, thanking her for the locket. What do you know about gods and the miasma? Eight mentions that she surmises the miasma is here for the same reason it was once on Dremora: a dead god... well, that or a broken one. What do you mean broken? Eight notes that the Great Mother is not as whole as one might suspect. Eight has an "eyewitness account" so to speak of the state of the Great Mother. Regarding broken gods on Jalasar, Eight knows the Void Maiden killed a god and that creature was monstrous, not humanoid (as almost all the gods are). Do you have dreams? Eight mentions that she is not like Milo; she is immortal and of a different order. Plus, she does not sleep. Though, you are afflicted? Eight offers to suppress Milo's curse, if he is so concerned. Milo offers a bit more of his blood. As he leaves, Eight notes that Milo should cherish her for as long as he has her... and then closes her door.
Arkyn swings by Dunebrook to ask about the dagger of Otsana. Dunebrook has heard the name in passing, but doesn't consider it within her area of expertise. Someone from Caliban might know, however. And so, Arkyn finds Quill. Do you know anything about a dagger of Otsana? After a moment of buffering, Quill lights up: "Oh, the rat dagger!". What? Quill explains that the past High Oracle – when she was still up and moving – used to hide behind corners and jump out at young wyrmlings and acolytes as a rat. It was from the dagger. Quill isn't certain if it was moved to Caliban's inner Temple or if it was buried with the previous High Oracle. Arkyn mentions sending people to fetch the dagger, if it wasn't buried with her, of course. Quill waves off the notion. You can't just send strangers into the Temple of Caliban to claim an artifact.
Did you hear about the dragon? Quill deadpans. The what? Arkyn notes that when they were in "underwater hell", they saw a dragon chained and bound in the Abyssal temple. When Quill asked for more description, Arkyn noted that Aiaoue would know more. And so, Aiaoue gets a visit from Quill. After relaying what she knew of the dragon, Quill seems to freeze up as small bits of lightning crackle across his form. He thanks Aiaoue and heads off.
Cadence finds Quill once more in the evening, in the middle of his evening swim. If she was to ask Quill to go on the Iron Arrow, he'd probably say no right? Quill mentions that technically, if he was acting as his father's heir, he would be practically obligated to obey the request of a cleric of Caliban. Cadence mentions that she doesn't want to command Quill to do anything. Quill has a reason to pursue going into the miasma; he hasn't gotten any answers sitting here. So, if Cadence desires his blade, he'll board the Iron Arrow.
Date Night
Yenush slicks his hair back and dons his "court room" fancy attire. He swings by Sinner's Choice and grabs Omarosa's contribution to finish assembling his gift for Viren. He tucks it away as he goes to grab Viren. Opening the door, Viren clearly was drawing from the fashion of both his sister and Ademar (though a bit more tasteful and modest). What music do you like Viren? Although the healer is fine with jazz, it has certain associations. He likes anything with a good melody and a solid drumbeat. After dropping that tidbit to Milo, Yenush leads Viren down to the shore.
Do you want to dance? Viren's never really danced before, but does agree. Although initally embarassed, Viren almost immediately shifts as he's given a task to learn. He very quickly picks up on the rhythm and, although far from perfect, does pick up the general steps quickly. Afterwards, Yenush proposes playing a game. You draw a higher card, you ask a question and vice versa. Yenush asks why Viren became a healer. Viren notes that he and Omarosa had little; his options were odd herbal remedies, or learn how to treat himself. Beyond being an enforcer, what do you want of your future? Yenush notes that he has tremendous respect for his warforged mentor, Query, but he'd like to be more than just his career at some point. Have a family and kids. What are you favorite memories with your sister? Viren notes that it's more of a collection. Most people don't like Omarosa, but she is the way she is because of Viren. He cherishes the moments where she is able to live without the all-consuming need to ensure his safety. What's your favorite drink? Viren likes apple cider and any fruity cocktaill. What is your ideal future? What does your ideal life look like? Yenush notes that when he was young, it would have been taking over his parents' forge.
Yenush pulls out his gift for Viren who panics as he did not prepare a gift in return. Viren seems very taken aback at the gift, which features Omarosa, Aiaoue, Syrio, and Yenush. Viren is amazed and grateful; he's never been given anything remotely like this before. As the date winds down, Yenush leans in for a kiss and, by a miracle, Viren does not short-circuit. On their way back to the clinic, Viren's confidence is still relatively low, but Yenush picks up the hint that Viren would like to hold hands. A very successful date... only marred by the fact the Yenush mentions he'll be going on the Iron Arrow in a few days.
Meanwhile, in a recently built nest, Arkyn has a serious talk with Sayah. Arkyn appreciated the conversation they had when Sayah was distraught. Oh, you liked it when I was upset? Nooo, I appreciated that you were open with me. Sayah notes that it's difficult for her to be open (hence why Arkyn appreciates it so much). Arkyn notes that he was told by Auntie to kill the source of his problem. He fears that touching Sayah will have the same ramifications as what happened to his sister. Taking Arkyn's hand, Sayah notes that less time will have passed by the time Eight's ring fails... and whatever has a hold on her is unlikely to go down to Arkyn's affliction without a fight. Arkyn asks if Sayah would go on the Iron Arrow with him. You really do know how to ask a girl on a date, don't you? Sayah agrees, mostly because she doesn't seem to trust Arkyn to look out for himself. Aw, you like me. Careful, I might– You might steal my heart? You can't steal what's already yours.
Report Date
22 Nov 2024
Primary Location
Related Characters
Letter to Milo
Milo, Well, I sure hope my words bring you joy! Would be a bit concerning if they were anything other. I can’t have you doubting why you married me now can I? Oh, hun, that’s a bold promise to make. You do remember the festival is only a few days away, right? Of course, I’d love to have you there, but perhaps I was being a bit bold in my last letter. Rumor on the wind says that the Queen’s embroiled in some family drama and her appearances might be a bit restricted. Still, I have booked a ferry! Marcus could use some time outdoors away from the skiffs and city hubbub. And don’t fret too much, hun. If you can’t make this one, then I’ll treat it as a promise to go the next one – rain or shine! Two failures aren’t that frequent, but I won’t lie and say I don’t find that alarming. And nightmares? I’ve known you quite some time and I don’t recall you ever having any fondness – or dislike – for horses, nor any particularly notable interaction with them. Even less so one clearly meant for battle. I’m sorry, hun, I’m afraid I don’t have any insight to offer, but I know you; you’d cross the continent for a thread of a story to pull. I’m sure you’ll grab the end of this one’s thread soon enough. And then it’ll be just a matter of time. I’ve little confidence in my abilities to do what a machine has clearly been specially designed to do (albeit imperfectly). That said, a little shot of a pick-me-up never hurts. Though, I will say: I’ve never been particularly fond of Antonio. Perhaps it’s a bit uppity of me to say, but he’s always struck me as the greasy sleazebag type trying to cover up the smell of grime by wearing that awful cologne and wearing atrocious “designer” garb. Not that I expected him to raise a stink, but he was particularly helpful and far more agreeable than I recall. It has been nearly a year now since I’ve been to the Gazette. I am excited to read what you write, hun! You’ve always had a way with words that I envy (lovingly, of course). And I’m certain Marcus will love to read them… when he can read. Take care of yourself! Love, Chloe P.S. Come on, hun. It’s your choice, of course, but a band could be fun~
Letter to Cadence
Cadence, Finally, the daughter remembers to write to her mother. It took you long enough, but how I will revel in the fact that you wrote to me over your father. So, for that, I’ll forgive you for taking so very long. Fighting? You’ve always had a strong will and a bit of fire behind your bark, but fighting? Oh, a part of me loathes that I can envision you doing so when you could be mastering the flute. I jest… because another part of me is proud. If this is the path you are destined to walk, then it pleases me to know you are not alone. Though, by The One, you have only yourself to blame for being stuck in once place! Oh, I’m quite well. Your father is as well, though he certainly misses you. We both do. We were in the middle of packing up to travel once more when I received your letter. The drakes grow restless, and a few have attempted to hitch themselves up. Anxious little creatures. There have been a few who have left and a few who are preparing to leave. For as much as we miss you, take your time. Your father certainly did. We will be moving towards Porcelain Avenue. Now that winter abates and the weather favorable, the drakes will protest far less. I’ve heard ill tidings from Caliban, however. There is always tension among the Dragon Clans, but rumors on the wing suggest they are mounting. Still, unless it is dire, nothing beats the trade on Porcelain Avenue. I shall do what I can to visit his Temple on your behalf. Stay safe and do practice your flute. Love, Mom
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