Session 18 - Hitch, Woe, and Moira

General Summary

Into the Dream Loop

Gathered in the Hall of Seasons, Aiaoue distributes her most recent cooking. Aura notes that they should make themselves comfortable. Yenush does not hesitate to sprawl across the floor. Aura notes that the Evads experience the Seasonal Convergence over and over... and over again. If we die in the dream loop will we die out here? Aura surmises it depends on the amount of "shock" that carries over to your actual body. As everyone settles doesn near the unconscious body of Eden, the Void Maiden reminds them to draw out the corruption. She will be watching.

It only takes a few minutes of singing, chanting, and magic for everyone to suddenly go unconscious. After getting hit with a strong wave of vertigo, the sounds of conversation and distance music are heard. And then everyone stumbles into the Hall of Sprawling Seasons... but it's fulli of people and the walls, one monotone, are full of color. The chill of winter hangs in the air. And everyone feels a little different.

Aiaoue – Entering from the Root marked by a Yuan-Ti man with a deck of cards, she's assumed the appearance of a male Kalashtar Matchmaker.
Arkyn – Entering from the Root marked by a woman and wolf on one side and a broad-shouldered man on the other, he's assumed the appearance of a female lycanthrope Keeper of Woes.
Cadence – Entering from the Root with figures of death and bog, she's assumed the appearance of a male Gyésar ("Bog Child").
Milo – Entering (atop a horse) from the Root marked by a Yuan-Ti man with a deck of cards, he's assumed the appearance of a female Shadar-Kai Tor Khanna.
Teagan – Entering from the Root with figures of death and bog, he's assumed the veiled appearance of a female drow Gravesinger.
Yenush – Entering from the Rooth with a shorter, orderly individual on one side, he's assumed the form of a female, winged leonin Menseya.

Aiaoue freezes for a moment, as a whistle cuts through the sounds around her. It is familiar. And then, as if interupting a stream of consciousness, Aiaoue hears Alcide. He is caught off guard when Aiaoue responds to him. You can hear me? Do you remember what happened? Alcide recalls that he was waiting at the hatch for Aiaoue and then he blacked out. Aiaoue notes that the Dark Sun people were there. And when Alcide starts breathing again, she'll be able to go back, but she won't be there. But find Omen. Never a more terrifyingly amazing duo than you and Omen. Alcide, despite the bizarre situation, seems to take comfort and joy in the fact that he's at least been "behind Aiaoue's nose" this whole time.
Aftering finding each other in alternate bodies, Aiaoue flagged down an attendant. What events are going on? The attendant is VERY happy to have a Matchmaker in Grand Aetheria. There are so many Spring Aetherians just waiting for their other half! She highlights key events across Grand Aetheria, including magical displays at the school, parties at the Watering Grove, a 5-course meal at the Aetheria Ballroom, and... Buzzbur Races.

Loop 1: Morning

Yenush and Teagan both head to the Hall of Seasons; Yenush could get used to the new wings. When Teagan randomly whips out his hammer, there's a bit of a distortion in the loop. When they arrive, they find offerings of mead, wine, and food laid out before a woman laughing and holding a mead horn: Saffra, goddess of Autumn. Teagan drifts closer to someone with authority while Yenush joins the offering line... and almost immediately regrets it. KITTY! Awe, you just need some scritches. Did your father send you? Yenush gets the sense that his "father" doesn't necessarily get along with Saffra. He makes an offering of Bourbon, which Saffra takes happily. Although Saffra tries to get Yenush to stay, he dips out. Teagan tries to get information on the Hall of Seasons schedule. Eden should be present at night. Odd that a Gravesinger's so interested in Eden.
Arkyn visits the Sih'Tava School where displays of totemic carving and magical displays have been arranged. Arkyn goes up to a Spring Eladrin who shows off some carvings and magic. When Arkyn inquires about a souvenir, they mention that everything here is for display only. Any tips on talking to Eden? Any Icebreakers? They seem taken aback by the question and don't have any particularly informative answers. Arkyn swings over to Eden who is relatively chill and laidback, but seems adamant on doing his duty (he promised his mom and divine responsibilities, you know?). So you can't show me around? Oh no, I have things to do, but enjoy yourself!
Milo arrives at the Bennu to find a veiled huntress overseeing a group of lycnathropes (playfully?) tearing into one another. Trying to embody the image of a threatening warrior, Milo posts up and observes in the silence. Meanwhile, Cadence visits the Shrine to the Fallen. There, she finds Vale blessing graves and mourning with families. She gets some looks, though Vale seems to pay her presence very little mind.
Aiaoue heads to the Watering Grove where she notes an Autumn Eladrin very begrudingly overseeing a group of aarakocra as they flit about in the baths. Aiaoue wastes no time in using her new telepathic abilities to encourage an awkward couple. Afterwards, she sits down with the Autumn Eladrin. Sienna is in charge of making sure Illana's people (the aarakocra) have an enjoyable time without eating everything in Grand Aetheria. Although upset by the task, she seems adamant to see it through as it was given to her by Saffra. Oh, by the way, I heard there was a Triton noble in town? I'm not sure if that's why you're here. Swinging by the bar, Aiaoue pokes for further information. Eden's never been known to have a romantic match, the picture of more childish pursuits. There's an undelrying current of whether or not Eden will stay true to his duties.

Loop 1: Afternoon

Yenush, Teagan, and Milo head to the Park where they find a vast array of food stalls have been set up offering moss delights, honey-themed foods, fruity beverages, and seasonal sap on tap. Yenush notes the presence of a group of lycanthropes, overseein by a veiled huntress. Falling into step behind her, the woman notes that he is hunting the wrong prey. She motions to one lycanthrope who has not shifted back to a more hybrid or humanoid form in some time. When moonlight falls, my silver bolt will fly. Primal savagery cannot prevail; a Valkyrie should understand. Speaking of, Yenush inquires about anyone of Faust's people. The huntress notes that she heard rumor of a Yuan-Ti disrupting some of the gambling. That may be who you're looking for. Good hunting.

Teagan finds Sienna frantically attempting to stop various (now drunk) aarakocra from choking on food that is far too large for them. Inquiring once more about Eden, Sienna wagers he's around here somewhere, but it's been centuries since her Spring years. She'd be far more informative on Saffra. Well, an Autumn Eladrin would obviously have some tea, right? Sienna notes that she heard there was a Prince from Malachor's lands. Best your steer clear, she's heard that the royalty tend to ask too much of gravesingers. BUT, if you do end up finding and talking to him, let him know that Sienna is DTF.

Cadence, Arkyn, and Aiaoue head to the Hall of Seasons, where Vale now rests upon his "throne" and is receiving offerings of wisdom. Everyone joins the line. To varying degrees, the trio each offers their stories, and the wisdom within, to Vale and receive a boon in turn. Before leaving the Hall of Seasons, Aiaoue introduces Arkyn to Alcide, telepathically. Arkyn is the friend she's had the longest and her family's a bit too far away. When the topic of age comes up – specifically Alcide's age – Aiaoue turns somber.

Loop 1: Evening

Yenush heads to the Bennus and is horrified to find that Saffra is there. The goddess of Autumn immediately begins making "Ps-ps-ps" noises at him. After one mention of "disappointing your father", Yenush decides to fuck it. He takes a sip of the offered drink and begins to drunkenly brawl. Saffra is delighted. When the fighting finally ceases and sobriety returns, Yenush asks Saffra about Eden. Why is everyone so interested in her nephew? Saffra is positively unhelpful, more focused on trying to get Yenush to join her at the Watering Grove.

Cadence continues to pursue Vale and finds him at the school, a winter chill in the air. Ice sculptures have filled the open space, displayed alongside carved works. Cadence eventually moves to talk to Vale, his winter Aetherian "guard" not deterring her approach. Vale apologizes for the distrustful glances; it is difficult for many to grasp the domains of Death. Regardless, Vale assures Cadence her kind are welcome. Though night will fall soon enough. Cadence inquires about how one of her kind would go about approaching Eden. Vale notes that there is no need to obscure oneself; better to be forthcoming.

Aiaoue, Milo, Arkyn, and Teagan decide to experience a 5-course meal. Upon entering, they find a three-story ballroom with tables and boots arranged to seat as many people as possible for the meal. A small group of mostly half-individuals is performing. The main performer, while giving a flawless performance, seems more interested in scanning the crowd for something other than applause and approval. Aiaoue clocks the triton drinking near the fountain and beelines towards him. When Iri (of the 4th Spire) notes who has sat down next to him, he seems appalled. UGH, play the strings of someone else's love life why don't you. Iri is here for a good time, a nice fuck, and to not think about his fiance. Iri is quick to disparage Adore and seems frustrated with someone he calls Amore or Immortan, of the Eternal Spire. You don't know who Amore is? Aiaoue quickly mentions that she's had a recent head injury. And she's not here to stop Iri. Aiaoue, instead, telepathically messages the main performer: My friend here thinks your're cute. You free later? With arrangements made, Iri seems far more open to Aiaoue.

Milo delays ascending to the second story, but Arkyn and Teagan approach the booth adjacent to what is clearly a royal retinue. As they approach, Prince Valtaris calls out. Ah, Gravesinger! Come, sit. After putting a dome of silence up, Valtaris went straight to business: As a Gravesinger, it is in your best interests to assist me, as the Prince of Mal Mavkazan. The Book has been in the clutches of Mal Kerrym for too long and we all know how slow Malachor is at responding appropriately. Mal Kerrym will abuse the Obsidian Company. Teagan is taken aback by all of the words Valtaris just said very quickly. Arkyn is also confused. Teagan asks if Valtaris would explain, for his friend. Valtaris hails from the lands of Malachor; specifically from the capital of Mal Korvian. The Obsidian Company are those who have sold their soul to vengeance; they rise with Tamasvi. Hence why it is imperative that a Gravesinger oppose Mal Kerrym keeping the Book.

Anyway you can impersonate me so I can slip off to do other things rather than keeping up an image? Arkyn sighs. Just got rid of Disguise Self 3 days ago. Quite a lack of Foresight for someone of the silver path. Regardless, Teagan expresses a willingness to help to which Valtaris is relieved. When Milo makes his way up the stairs, he is greeted with respect by Valtaris. The Prince notes that it's been some time since he's seen someone with the Mark. Teagan then mentions that Sienna, an Autumn Eladrin, would like to fuck Valtaris. Hm, he prefers his women be direct and to the point to his face.

Loop 1: Night

Aiaoue and Milo head to the Hall of Seasons. There, they find Eden presiding from his "throne". Aiaoue approaches and offers a cat's cradle penguine to Eden, who seems delighted by it. Do you know penguins mate for life? Anyone around here in need of a pebble? Eden notes that his mother is forever looking for her eternal flame, you know? When Milo arrives at the front of the offering queue, he drops to a need. On behalf of his grandmother, he offers to face anyone of Eden's choosing in combat the following day. Eden jokingly offers his mother as a combatant and when Milo doesn't back down, adopts a bit more serious tone. A fight, definitely. Eden's glad Vicky still seems to have some good ones to pick one. Hopefully you don't have to use that mark. While observing Eden, Aiaoue notes that when the commotion outside kicks up, Eden sighs, but ultimately returns to his responsibilities.

Teagan heads to the Archives, escorted by Valtaris. While the prince goes to talk to Vale, Teagan desperately tries to find something of use by hurling things around. Havask, the librarian, arrives to offer his assistance. Conveniently, Valtaris is at the opposite end of the Archives so Teagan besseches his help. Havask is delighted! What an interesting inquiry! This morning he helped find accounts of murder and now schemes! Delightful! With Havask's help, Teagan is able to brute force his way to some information on inheritence and lineage that might be useful in the proper context? Valtaris is grateful, placing a mark on Teagan's hand before departing with his retinue.

Before leaving, Teagan speaks with Vale. Have you ever seen a god die? It's not a thought Vale has entertained. He doesn't like to think about the possibility of that occuring to his daughters and his grandson. If you were to die, as a thought exercise, what would you like to happen? Vale notes that he'd like to be frozen in the Frozen Vale, his wisdom preserved and accessible by all.

Arkyn, Cadence, and Yenush head to the park and watch the Buzzburs race through the canopy. And by sheer luck, Arkyn stumbles into a win in the "try and race a Buzzbur league".

And as the loop ends, the group stumbles into the Hall of Sprawling Roots once more. The tiefling yelling about jewelry as she sits in front of a Vendetta-like behemoth. And Teagan finds that his mark persists.

Report Date

24 Jan 2025

Primary Location

Grand Aetheria

Secondary Location

The Last Remnant of the Evad

Related Characters

Alcide's Theme

Alternate Appearances

Aiaoue: A broad-shouldered kalashtar with sun-kissed skin. His white hair is in dreadlocks decorated with tropical flowers and gold jewelry. His garments are vibrant, patterned, and layered, with tassels that swish whenever he moves.
Arkyn: Donning robes lined with fur, this Keeper prefers to remain in her humanoid form. Her fiery red hair, tipped in white is kept intricately braided, with silver ornaments and feathers positioned throughout. An aura of calm radiates from her as she stands, back straight and regal.
Cadence: A "Bog Child" standing just shy of 5 feet tall. His hair is matted with knots and adorned with bramble and mushroom. His left arm is made of bark and his right leg covered in lichen. Portions of his simple, eclectic clothes are covered in lichen, mushroom, and other muck.
Milo: A true Shadar-Kai woman who has received the Mark, which adorns her face. Half her head is shaved and the hair that remains white as snow. One eye is milky white. Besides her worn riding boots, she has left her riding leathers behind, instead donning patterned garments and a fur cloak.
Teagan: A drow woman with patches of rocky skin that darkens like obsidian. Her hair is long, wispy, and dyed white, a stark contrast against the dark gray robes. A translucent black veil obscures her face, and casts a shadow over her view of the world.
Yenush: A female leonin with feathered wings. Her breastplate protects her chest, but keeps her back clear, permitting her wings free movement. Her clothing is both woven textiles and the pelts of other creatures, in a myriad of patterns.

Dream Cast

See the image gallery at the bottom for reference art. A Spring Eladrin – A young floral Eladrin in their spring years and an abjuration student that respects Eden's skills as the "master of abjuration".
THE Sienna Rose – An Autumn floral Eladrin burdened with the task of keeping watch of Illana's people. Although clearly frustrated with her task, she is adamant on seeing it through. Any revelry with her will have to wait for another festival.
Havask – A Winter bestial Eladrin who is just beginning to show the signs of old age. Although a festival is occurring, Havask seems unperturbed by missing it. The archives are exciting!
Irirangi ("Iri") of the Fourth Spire – A triton noble disgruntled with the matchmakers of Adore. He seems to be in Grand Aetheria to fuck around (literally) despite having a fiance.
Prince Valtaris Mal Mavkazan – A regal drow donning robes of white and accompanied by a retinue. He's a to-the-point individual who is looking to get a leg up on a rival family in the interest of preventing abuse of power over the Obsidian Company.
A Huntress – Face obscured, she watches a group of lycanthropes. Should any be consumed by primal instinct, she will be ready. Her hand always on her crossbow.
A Performer – Donning somewhat scandalous garments, his body says relaxed and languid, but his eyes are alert and searching. Information is his fee.