Session 19 - Connecting the Dots
General Summary
The Morning of the Second Loop
Cadence lingers in the Hall of Sprawling Roots, moving towards the tiefling woman. Unable to compose her expression, the tiefling woman's – Erian – face briefly contorts in a mixture of shock and mild disgust. Despite her initial reaction, when Cadence asks about Companions, Erian responds that they come from Orestia and that her people in Ira Xand prefer the gem-prolific mutants. After complimenting Erian's jewelry, the tiefling woman launches on a demonstration, at the end of which Erian notes that Cadence is the best of her people that Erian has met. Cadence will take that as a compliment. Say, if you see a radiant-looking individual, would you snag me a sunstone? Cadence asks what she'd get in return. Erian notes that she'd give Cadence a once-in-a-lifetime chance to own a piece of her jewelry.
Yenush rolls up to the Bennu where the lycanthropes are (playfully?) tearing into one another while the veiled huntress stands nearby. Have you seen a Yuan-Ti individual? The huntress notes that it's a bit too early for someone of that nature to be lurking about. However, the Huntress notes that there are official, sanctioned fights taking place here in the afternoon. Perhaps the one you hunt will be here then. Yenush posts up at the Bennu to wait.
Aiaoue visits the Anyasat where she finds a minotaur-like Summer Eladrin in charge as well as Chasca, the goddess of summer. Aiaoue (aka Hitch) moves over to Chasca who seems of the notion that Matchmakers tend to wait until young ones are a little bit older. Aiaoue notes that she's helped with hatchings and water births, perhaps she can help. Chasca notes that perhaps some of the couples here could use reminders of their love to break through the stess of a new family. Of course, if Aiaoue is looking to do any actual matchmaking, Chasca is forever looking and Adore has never led her astray before. Her top three qualities are: passionate and action oriented, witty and cunning, and preferably someone shorter (an easy ask for someone as tall as Chasca). Perhaps... Prince Valtaris? Aiaoue moves amidst families and finds that many recognize (and respect) her position.
Teagan heads over the School where he has a conversation with Vesa Marigold (Mari for short). They offer an overview of some of their spring carvings. Afterwards, Teagan notes that Eden tends to folic about, his focus a bit scattered yet his presence here seemingly sufficient for most affairs. Approaching Eden, the god of spring notes its a bit early for Teagan to be up and about. Eden offers him a shot before kicking him over the edge. Teagan is looped around the branch by vines and smaller branches of the Grand Aetheria tree before floating back down to the main branch. That's not something you usually see in your more earth-bound culture, aye? Teagan offers to perhaps take over for Eden, to which the god of spring asks for a demonstration of magic. Teagan molds earth in response. Eden summons a ward around him. He does more Abjuration types of things. Regarding the Buzzbur races, Eden will be unable to attend, but mentions that he'll be in the park later today.
Arkyn heads down to the Shrine of the Fallen where he finds Vale making his rounds. While moving between graves, Arkyn asks if his assistance would be needed. Vale would gladly accept such assistance. As Arkyn goes grave to grave, the weight of sorrow and woe gets heavier and heavier upon his shoulders. So much woe. Afterwards, Arkyn notes that he heard the CRAZIEST rumor that Kesar'Arrat was super upset with Otsana? Vale finds that hard to believe; they will bicker like siblings but the Woeful Traveler is always endeared to his sister. Odd, you would have more insight into that? Arkyn notes that he's NEW and he's been away for awhile. Also, hey, so I heard about this curse where this individual kept taking things... she thinks she might have pissed off a god. Do you know which one? Vale notes that it could be many. Kaos and Faust come hand in hand and are prone to sticky fingers. Yet, if it is more broad than gambling, Prospera is a likely bet. Give her until the next economic surge and the curse will lift. Otherwise, you can always offer her moonstones. She covets those. Arkyn reboots. The dots align. OH. She just wants my stones.
Milo heads to the Archives where Havask gladly shows him to books on ancestry. While browsing, Milo notes a masked figure donning all black robes. The masked man carries a lumpy bag with him that is ever so slowly dripping some kind of liquid. Milo, personifying a tough warrior, tries to gauge the body. The masked man comments that he's not planning to take any more heads. You've killed plenty as a Tor Khanna. Milo responds that he doesn't CARRY AROUND those he's killed. The masked man notes that it is a gift and he is merely lingering here until he can leave with his escort, the Gyésar.
The Afternoon of the Second Loop
Aiaoue lingers in the Anyasat. Soon enough, a large Companion moves in. The children immediately begin to climb and frolic about the creature, who seems entirely unperturbed. Erian arrives with her spread of jewelry. She seems very happy to see a Matchmaker. Aiaoue notes that even Matchmakers have hobbies and she's interested in hearing about the far-off places she'll never get a chance to travel to. Erian explains she hails from Ira Xand, the City of Luxury. As Erian was born blessed of Ira Alexandria, the Jeweled goddess, she was given a companion pup shortly after her birth. There is nothing more sacred than the bond between mortal and Companion. When Erian dies, so too will Zafir. Of course, Erian notes that Matchmakers would be welcome in Ira Xand. Aiaoue mentions that she has a mentor who made jewelry. You wouldn't happen to be taken apprentices. Erian might might consider such an offer... if you get her a sunstone off the radiant one lingering around here. She'll even throw in a sample of her work.
Arkyn swings by the Park and finds the veiled Huntress overseeing the group of lycnathropes. The Huntress notes that when night falls, her silver bolt will fly. Why? Can't you just talk to him? The Huntress notes that you cannot help someone who does not want help. If he falls into the clutches of primal savagery, the huntress will ensure that only he feels its pain and woe will not spread across the festivities. The huntress notes that she could use the assistance of a Keeper. Arkyn agrees.
Teagan lingers at the school and recognizes the royal retinue of Prince Valtaris. Without hesitation, Teagan goes over to the Prince, silences him with a finger, and informs him succinctly that he knows what the Prince wants. OH? After placing them within a Private Sanctum, Valtaris asks for Teagan's demands, which is to follow Eden and note any wavering in his commitment to responsibility. The Prince seems perplexed by that, but orders one of his retinue to fulfill the task. Shall we tour the school grounds together then?
The Bennu shifts to Summer with the arrival of Chasca, who presides over the fighting contests that begin. Yenush notes that people have begun betting on the fights. Amidst the crowd, he notes a triton focused on finding a drink... and a Yuan-Ti woman. Drifiting closer, Yenush notes her placing bets and slipping gold and other small trinkets from pockets. With an iron grip, Yenush stops that. The Yuan-Ti woman's face immediately goes white with fear before she yells: "CHASCA! THIS VALKYRIE WOULD LIKE TO FIGHT!" As Yenush talks his way out of fighting (Chasca's not mad, she's just disappointed), the Yuan-Ti womans lips away.
Milo follows the masked assassin down to the Shrine of the Fallen as Cadence arrives there as well. The masked assassin, "Red", goes from grave to grave beseeching souls to forsake the Gates of Malachor in favor of Eresh. "Red" seems pleased to see Cadence. When the sun sets, he will head towards the Hall of Sprawling Roots in preparation for their departure. "Red" plans to make his final offer to Eresh on behalf of his King and all those of the Headless Hall. And of course, the Gyésar are welcome to anything on his person after that.
The Evening of the Second Loop
Milo heads to the Hall of Seasons where he finds Chasca presiding. Joining the line, Milo makes the same offer as he did to Eden: to fight anyone of Chasca's choosing. The goddess of summer would gladly arrange for such a spectacle. She will search for a suitable champion. Milo's only additional request is to ensure Eden is present. Chasca is happy to do so once the festivities have abated. Milo feels either a bit more charismatic or a bit stronger.
Cadence heads to the Hall of Sprawling Roots with "Red". You seem a bit more experienced than me. When asked how old she is, Cadence notes she's in her "spring years" and "Red" returns that he is in his "winter years". Well, any wisdom to share? Quick cut of the throat efficiently kills your target, know your organs, and – if you don't want to risk giving up information after you death – make sure they don't ever get your head. As the sun fully sets, Cadence and "Red" head through the root of death and bogs.
Teagan drifts over to the Park and notes that Eden seems to flit about the park just as he did the school. However, he seems to be supervising Vesa. Approaching the Spring Eladrin, they explain that they are ensuring the wards are sufficient on the plants here. With the influx of people and pathogens, it is ever so important to keep them protected. Perhaps I could help? Although appreciated, Vesa is unconvinced by the offer. Please, enjoy the festivities. Have you tried the Aetheria fruit? Eh, once or twice. Well it's best the third time.
As Arkyn follows the huntress to the Watering Grove, he decides to ask her name: Brito. Yenush also heads to the Watering Grove. While Brito and Arkyn post up to observe the lycnathropes amidst the party, Yenush stalks over to the table where the Yuan-Ti woman is clearly gambling... and losing by the looks of it. When she goes to pick someone else's pocket, Yenush drops down and puts a stop to that. As Yenush intimidates the Yuan-Ti woman and Arkyn observes, Brito suddenly loads her crossbow with a silver bolt. You're just going to shoot HERE? I won't miss. The bolt fires. Arkyn Vortex Warps. And as the beast falls, Arkyn suppresses everyone's emotions. Yenush and the Yuan-Ti woman forget about their game of cat and snake for a second.
Brito, unaffected, moves to collect the body, offering Arkyn a bit of silver "for the Silver Path". The lycanthropes seem somber when they come to. Otsana just allows this? One of the lycanthropes notes that they must find balance between sanity and lunar madness. It is a reluctant acceptance of what they see as inevitable. Meanwhile, Yenush manages to snag the Yuan-Ti woman before she can run again. After temporarily putting her under house arrest, Yenush decides to fully arrest her and hauls her out of Grand Aetheria.
Aiaoue returns to the ballroom and takes a different approach: Hey handsome. Cleo notes Aiaoue's arrival and returns the mild flirtation in kind. Of course, Cleo is a bit more interested in information before fun. Given that they serve within the same divine domain, so to speak, perhaps he can entrust such a task to Aiaoue. Cleo would like to know the real reason Valtaris is here (Teagan is down to rat Valtaris out, no loyalty), who "Red" killed, and the real reason Suvan is here lingering. Before departing, Aiaoue throws Iri's name into the ring for a good time. Alcide is proud of Aiaoue! She did great! Iri is not in the same mindset. GO AWAY. He seems very confused (once again) when Aiaoue offers to help him hook up and cheat. Why do you have a fiance? Iri, exasperated: because you matchmakers gave me one! Adore says this and so it is! You've meddled in all of the Triton nobility! And Amore does nothing! Why don't you just call it off? You can't just unfiance a fiance. Iri proceeds to have a breakdown but cheers up when Aiaoue seems sympathetic to his plight.
The Night of the Second Loop
Arkyn heads to the Hall of Seasons where he tries to entice Eden with very LOUD side comments about the Buzzbur races happening outside. While Eden does perk up at the mention of it, he seems devoted to his task. Arkyn suspects that preventing Eden from ever getting to the Hall of Seasons might cause the god to slip.
Teagan, once again, finds himself back in the Anyasat. There, Chasca is happy to put him to work, though only a little. Chasca needs this distraction. After leading Teagan to some laundering that needs done, Teagan asks about Eden's father. The goddess sighs and notes that Eden's father did not ascend. It was millenia ago and she has long since forgotten his name.
Milo enters the Bennu to find Cleo and his entourage lounging about in modest peace. You're a bit far from your Plains, Tor Khanna. After some back and forth, Cleo notes that while Milo is inclined to war drums and battle, he is more attuned to whispers on the wind and battles fought in that regard. This festival has been relatively unfruitful, unless, of course, Milo has information to share? What do I get in return? Cleo offers nothing, but makes an off-handed comment about potentially losing something of value. As Milo notes that he's more inclined to actual battle, Cleo takes that as a challenge, but Milo steps down from a spar. Oh well then.
Aiaoue arrives in the Watering Grove to find that Saffra has arrived and Iri is also here plastered. Aiaoue mixes a "get sober quick" drink which takes Iri from blasted to sober. Ugh, why did you do that? Why don't we go somewhere? Oh, okay. Aiaoue has a pow-wow with Alcide. If we're both in agreement on this, it's not in violation of our vows. Alcide agrees. Perhaps you trip him? Aiaoue remembers she has a net. Iri is perplexed that Aiaoue led him to the Hall of Sprawling Roots. Aiaoue proposes carrying Iri and he's not opposed. After stealthily getting the net around a portion fo him, she hoists him into a fireman's carry and books it for the root. Iri begins to rage and rant.
...And the loop resets. Cadence finds an amulet in her hand. Yenush finds a pin. Aiaoue finds a pair of rings bound together. And Arkyn still has the silver shard.
"So much woe."
"Deploy the Prince"
"I can't just un-fiance!"
Report Date
07 Feb 2025
Primary Location
Secondary Location
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.
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