Session 53
General Summary
To Avoid Civil War
Asleep in the comforts of mega-hospital bed, Widow found Therarask waiting, seated on the familiar couch on the usual golden platform. Although their expression is hard to read, their body posture was more tense than normal and they were oddly not sipping on any form of alcoholic beverage. They agreed with Widow that they don't particularly feel like fighting and dismissed the nipple piercing... but WHY were you speaking to a mad Greatwyrm? And why dd you not think to tell me? If the Widow has finished with Caliban, you'll come to my island, yes? I am still waiting on your in-person apology... Therarask seemed a bit bothered with Widow's refusal despite him assuring the god that when he comes to the island... he wants to stay. Why does it have to be you to hunt this Doctor? To be in danger? You say this is your love for me... I think it is for your PRIDE. A crack formed beneath Therarask's right eye as the dream faded.
In the morning, the Deep End checked in with Ghilani. Are you aware that you look a tad bit different when you die? Clearly, that's what happens when you die. Ghilani seems unaware of the stitches and patchwork that he is composed of. Taking the magnifying glass and running it over Ghilani's body, there is the faintest trace of magic from where the stitch marks were. Newt then returned Ghilani's brooch and mentioned that Parvathian is a "big sad boi" right now.
Newt and Moira left first to go and speak with Ikaris (Newt's "evil uncle"), but noticed a slight commotion on Porcelain Avenue. During the wee hours of the morning, someone apparently drew a large clock on the ground. The illusory clock produced a rhythmic ticking noise and, from the middle, a feminine, sultry voice said on repeat:
Newt and Moira left first to go and speak with Ikaris (Newt's "evil uncle"), but noticed a slight commotion on Porcelain Avenue. During the wee hours of the morning, someone apparently drew a large clock on the ground. The illusory clock produced a rhythmic ticking noise and, from the middle, a feminine, sultry voice said on repeat:
"In due time then... desert rat."
Moira panicked and immediately let Rani know through a bit of blubbering.
The familiar blue tent was still positioned outside the Temple of the High Oracle. Unfortunately, he does not have another charm at the ready, but he is pleased to hear that it worked well. He will be moving to Therarask after the Festival of Fates and promised to keep Newt updated. He'll most certainly be needing backup in the future.
Reuniting on Porcelain Avenue, Newt noticed two teacups had been placed in the front window of the Porcelain Tea House: Gold and Black. Lady Cyra, however, is not at the tea house. Ghilani left a note and the brooch with the hostess – Parvathian can tell him in person.
The Deep End found and spoke with Lady Cyra. She thanked them for their assistance and although saddened and apologetic that Ghilani (and Newt) died, she is also incredibly grateful for what they've done. Regarding what occurred during the night, Parvathian plans to present Shenzi's body as evidence and to then execute Mencius for "dishonorably consorting with outside forces" to rig the election. Should everything go as planned in the Tea House, Tetsuya will have no choice but to agree. When asked if Tetsuya will be punished, Lady Cyra responded with "not in the way you might hope." He will, however, suffer dishonor for this action... which the Dragon Clans are not soon to forget.
Widow doesn't seem interested in talking about why he's acting a bit down despite Rani's attempts to get him to talk. Instead, Rani and Widow trained with the Moon Guard, undertaking four rigorous hours of running, sparring, obstacle courses, and a series of movements and forms. The Grand Admiral was impressed by their performance and invited them back again. Ghilani provided excellent cheering from the sidelines: "Let's go Rani, she's the rock. If you underestimate her, she'll kick you in the... face!"
Newt and Moira got bored of watching the training and left 15 minutes in. At the execution, Parvathian presented both Shenzi's corpse and Mencius. After declaring the crime and the punishment to follow, Tetsuya stepped up with an axe as Mencius was forced down onto a wooden black. For his final words, Mencius stared straight ahead and declared:
With the moon in the sky, the festivities recommenced with the Burning of Fate. A guard permitted the group into the Temple Courtyard as the great silver Greatwyrm flew overhead. Tensions rose quickly as Yue arrived and a heated conversation then ensued between Xanthe, Yue, and Philphrosyne (with a mildly confused Auriga seated nearby). Parvathian, seemingly tense, also joined the conversation before returning to his clan to speak with his daughter.
With the Gold Dragon Clan suffering a disgrace, debate broke out amidst the Dragon Clan leaders in attendance. Rani approached and spoke with Philphrosyne. When Kar has had a moment to collect himself, she will speak with him them. The blizzard is slowly retracting as they speak. And of course, she can get those items back. Kar has never said no to her before. As everyone burned their fate, Xanthe stared daggers into Moira.
Moira checked in telepathically with Yue. Apparently, some poor communication occurred. Yue assured her, though, that everything would be fine. Yes, this was the right thing... but perhaps the wrong timing. Caliban, and Moira, have much to learn. Consider this a learning experience.
Lady Cyra is frantic as many people appear to be jumping ship in light of her clan's disgrace. There has only ever been one other instance when a High Oracle was replaced while still alive... and that was overseen directly by Caliban and under special circumstances. This... this disgraces her clan. Or, at least, the Dragon Clans will choose to see it that way. She is worried for her chances and for the sanity of her father. The party debated whether or not they too should jump ship... should they throw their lot in with Bronze instead?
While sorting out what to do, a gold dragonborn guard delivered a bouquet and the brooch to Ghilani, looking slightly somber as he did so. Through flowers, Parvathian delivered a message: "I'll never forget you" (Pink Carnation), "I cannot be with you" (Two-Toned Carnation), "Resignation, Goodbye" (Cyclamen), Delicate Beauty (Hibiscus), "Family and Familial Duty" (Pink Azalea), and "Please forgive me" (Purple-Hyacinth).
Divide and conquer is the name of the game as the Deep End speaks with various Dragon Clan leaders. Jahdiel plans to vote for Green. He believes the Grand Admiral should be on the sea. Plus, Vetulátos is a good politician... and he's old. If he dies, it presents an opportunity for the White Dragon Clan. Tetsuya is also set in his decision and seemed pleased with what has occurred to the Gold Dragon Clan. Copper and Silver are unwilling to vote for Green, but have interpreted the Oracle situation as a sign that Gold is perhaps not the best choice. They will vote for Bronze. Guarava, after having a heated conversation with Parvathian, is perturbed by the dishonor the Gold has suffered. Perhaps it is a sign that he should rekindle his relationship with his fellow chromatic Clan leaders. He will vote Green. Finally speaking with Parvathian, they put the "final nail in his coffin", convincing him to vote against his own daughter.
When the ashes had finally settled – Xanthe carried off to the Old District and Yue escorted within the Temple of the High Oracle – Vetulátos was declared the winner after a tie and a debate.
Newt and Moira got bored of watching the training and left 15 minutes in. At the execution, Parvathian presented both Shenzi's corpse and Mencius. After declaring the crime and the punishment to follow, Tetsuya stepped up with an axe as Mencius was forced down onto a wooden black. For his final words, Mencius stared straight ahead and declared:
"May the King come and claim dominion over the land."Tetsuya separated his head from his body soon after.
With the moon in the sky, the festivities recommenced with the Burning of Fate. A guard permitted the group into the Temple Courtyard as the great silver Greatwyrm flew overhead. Tensions rose quickly as Yue arrived and a heated conversation then ensued between Xanthe, Yue, and Philphrosyne (with a mildly confused Auriga seated nearby). Parvathian, seemingly tense, also joined the conversation before returning to his clan to speak with his daughter.
With the Gold Dragon Clan suffering a disgrace, debate broke out amidst the Dragon Clan leaders in attendance. Rani approached and spoke with Philphrosyne. When Kar has had a moment to collect himself, she will speak with him them. The blizzard is slowly retracting as they speak. And of course, she can get those items back. Kar has never said no to her before. As everyone burned their fate, Xanthe stared daggers into Moira.
Moira checked in telepathically with Yue. Apparently, some poor communication occurred. Yue assured her, though, that everything would be fine. Yes, this was the right thing... but perhaps the wrong timing. Caliban, and Moira, have much to learn. Consider this a learning experience.
Lady Cyra is frantic as many people appear to be jumping ship in light of her clan's disgrace. There has only ever been one other instance when a High Oracle was replaced while still alive... and that was overseen directly by Caliban and under special circumstances. This... this disgraces her clan. Or, at least, the Dragon Clans will choose to see it that way. She is worried for her chances and for the sanity of her father. The party debated whether or not they too should jump ship... should they throw their lot in with Bronze instead?
While sorting out what to do, a gold dragonborn guard delivered a bouquet and the brooch to Ghilani, looking slightly somber as he did so. Through flowers, Parvathian delivered a message: "I'll never forget you" (Pink Carnation), "I cannot be with you" (Two-Toned Carnation), "Resignation, Goodbye" (Cyclamen), Delicate Beauty (Hibiscus), "Family and Familial Duty" (Pink Azalea), and "Please forgive me" (Purple-Hyacinth).
Divide and conquer is the name of the game as the Deep End speaks with various Dragon Clan leaders. Jahdiel plans to vote for Green. He believes the Grand Admiral should be on the sea. Plus, Vetulátos is a good politician... and he's old. If he dies, it presents an opportunity for the White Dragon Clan. Tetsuya is also set in his decision and seemed pleased with what has occurred to the Gold Dragon Clan. Copper and Silver are unwilling to vote for Green, but have interpreted the Oracle situation as a sign that Gold is perhaps not the best choice. They will vote for Bronze. Guarava, after having a heated conversation with Parvathian, is perturbed by the dishonor the Gold has suffered. Perhaps it is a sign that he should rekindle his relationship with his fellow chromatic Clan leaders. He will vote Green. Finally speaking with Parvathian, they put the "final nail in his coffin", convincing him to vote against his own daughter.
When the ashes had finally settled – Xanthe carried off to the Old District and Yue escorted within the Temple of the High Oracle – Vetulátos was declared the winner after a tie and a debate.
practitioner
As Widow's unconscious body floated between them, Dr. Valdove informed them that her father is returning to Eredet on the Iron Arrow. he wants to send a political message that he is not intimidated by those who wish him dead. She thinks it's stupid, but her father is bull-headed... she can't stop him. Regardless, now they might have a moment to find something to punch and release some stress. Clearly, the Deep End needs it.
High Lord Valdove requests their presence when he convenes the High Dremoran Council. Dr. Valdove will present her findings in the hope of getting the High Council to take some form of action, somewhat quickly. Her father has enemies and he believes that another opinion from people who were present at all major locations of occurrences – the attempted assassination and binding crystals in Oshiv'Ran, the Siege of Varoona, and the plague of Carmenthia – might prevent them from making decisions purely out of resentment for him. When asked about who the High Lord is on good terms with, Serene mentioned the following people: Grand Priest Aepius, High Lord Kuan-Ti Ironborn, High Lord Ivan of Zver'Behepka, and High Lord Lux Briar. Regarding the representatives of Ah'Shal and Tel'Rhea, Serene responded that High Lord Carter Steelwind is focused on one thing: maximizing output and production from Ah'Shal. And High Lord Jasper Delkova... well, just get a woman to speak on your behalf and he'll give you no problems.
Serene offered to aid with travel. She will be running errands for the next two weeks and could provide a teleport spell if needed. Before letting the party rest, she planned to reconvene in the morning and requested to have a research discussion with Ghilani (and Rani, if she has updates for Prof. Dunebrook) at some point.
Rani expressed a concern that she may have angered the Dream Lady. That message was for her as she has found a way – albeit temporarily – to prevent her from finding her.
Newt rolled Widow over and pointed out the scars on Widow's back. Ghilani figured they are from a couple days ago.
After Ghilani asked if they could keep a secret, Rani assured Rani that she won't ever intentionally tell someone. Newt also assured Ghilani, saying that he will "lie until my teeth bleed for you, Ghilani". Once Calibird had left, Ghilani told the group that the voice he hears is the voice of Primus One. Is Primus One still alive... in a way, yes. After asking if Primus One was aware of what Ghilani is, she asked if he would like to hear a harsh truth?
Rani expressed a concern that she may have angered the Dream Lady. That message was for her as she has found a way – albeit temporarily – to prevent her from finding her.
Newt rolled Widow over and pointed out the scars on Widow's back. Ghilani figured they are from a couple days ago.
After Ghilani asked if they could keep a secret, Rani assured Rani that she won't ever intentionally tell someone. Newt also assured Ghilani, saying that he will "lie until my teeth bleed for you, Ghilani". Once Calibird had left, Ghilani told the group that the voice he hears is the voice of Primus One. Is Primus One still alive... in a way, yes. After asking if Primus One was aware of what Ghilani is, she asked if he would like to hear a harsh truth?
"I trained your mother. She hid you behind wards to keep you safe and it killed her. She slowly withered... as my power drains. I loved her, Fairest Fifteen. And then Tel'Rhea could see you for what you are. You, my dear, were never born, you were made. You are a mockery of Tel'Rhea's definition of life. But you were made perfect. And I will always be with you."Ghilani fainted.
As the Festival of Fates draws to a close... the Deep End should really patent that "Theraskian King".
Report Date
02 Sep 2022
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