Session 60
General Summary
Exploring the University of Eredet
After leaving behind Mistress 8 and her behemoth, Vendetta, Ghilani lead the group back into the city of Eredet and to the University of Eredet. Moving past the newer buildings and dodging arcane skiffs, the Deep End arrived at a small, older-looking building. At the top floor, Ghilani knocked on the door to Serene's office, pretending to be a student swinging by to ask about that "Extra Credit". The jest seemed to lighten Dr. Valdove's mood as she invited the Deep End in, welcoming them to Eredet (and a welcome home to Ghilani).
Dr. Valdove walked through her talking points and what she hopes the party might contribute:
- What is to be done about the plague? The animals in the forests of Oshiv'Ran and the people of Carmenthia are all suffering. Why has nothing been done? This disease is more akin to a possession, of sorts. She would invite the Deep End to speak of matters pertaining to the plague as they have been in both Oshiv'Ran's holy forest and provided aid in Carmenthia.
- While this possession has ripped apart our people and lands... others have derived power from it. Most notably, the blond assassin and the Pirate Lord have derived some aid and seem to have been empowered by forces beyond what would be expected of them. She would invite the Deep End to speak as they had multiple encounters with Olivantha and were on the ground during the Siege.
- Serene's Solution. The binding crystals are leaky and failing and have permitted this plague to spread - harming the land and people while other benefit. The crystals must be found and the fight taken to them. Yet, we should not forget that their are powerful figures who might oppose such action.
Dr. Valdove's hope is to stress the urgency of resolving two issues: the threat of those who have potentially benefited from the Dread King and the urgency of ending the plague. She would avoid preparing for all out war by destroying the threat beforehand. Do not mention that the fragment recognized Rani or that Moira currently houses a particularly large piece of it.
When asked about how being a Beloved would be received by the Council, Dr. Valdove does not think it will do any harm nor earn you any favors. Regarding the Council, High Lady La'Talenna is in need of aid and might owe the Valdoves a favor, or at least that's what her father says. Serene believes that no such favor is owed, she was simply doing her duty. She also finds High Lord Delkova to be overbearing... but if the women speak to him, he should bend to their desires... for the most part. No one on the Council is strongly religious, but be wary of how you phrase things in front of the Grand Priest.
Ghilani took the entire group to the Fowell Observatory and Aviary. It contains a massive scope that – as Ghilani pointed out – is monitoring the Barrier. The space also features star maps and star charts and various other scopes that can be used to view the stars and other heavenly bodies. Ghilani thought that Moira would like this place. But that's not all, there is also an aviary! And it features a multitude of normal and obscure avian creatures. While pondering, Moira was smacked on the hamstring by a small owl-folk who asked what she was doing. Do keep your distance, if a bird bites you, then shame on you. He promptly walked away.
Rani and Widow went to find Mario's family, as they were feeling particularly guilty about that matter. They didn't need to travel far from the University to reach a quaint abode. A woman with dark black hair answered and, although seemingly reluctant, permitted both of them entry into her modest home. Widow gave the letter and watched as the woman broke down and cried, holding her hand to her mouth to muffle the sound. Rani apologized for the loss and Widow offered his services if there is anything she needs. She thanked them and emphasized that her son would never have done what he was accused of.
Meanwhile, Moira and Ghilani devised an elaborate ruse. Moira posed as a regal guard escorted Ghilani to one of the librarians, where Moira began to introduce Ghilani as a very important person who should be given access to the restricted section on behalf of Dr. Valdove and her very important, secret research. Dr. Vivek-Tallis recognized GHilani and then asked if Moira was Ghilani's girlfriend, which prompted a very loud exclamation of "ABSOLUTELY NOT". The librarian checked in with Serene and then Ghilani frantically sent to Serene who reluctantly allowed him access to one thing. Dr. Vivek-Tallis brought out a spell book of evocation, which Ghilani was briefly allowed to peruse. Moira was presented with an "ancient artifact"... a magical picture book of Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.
When asked about how being a Beloved would be received by the Council, Dr. Valdove does not think it will do any harm nor earn you any favors. Regarding the Council, High Lady La'Talenna is in need of aid and might owe the Valdoves a favor, or at least that's what her father says. Serene believes that no such favor is owed, she was simply doing her duty. She also finds High Lord Delkova to be overbearing... but if the women speak to him, he should bend to their desires... for the most part. No one on the Council is strongly religious, but be wary of how you phrase things in front of the Grand Priest.
Ghilani took the entire group to the Fowell Observatory and Aviary. It contains a massive scope that – as Ghilani pointed out – is monitoring the Barrier. The space also features star maps and star charts and various other scopes that can be used to view the stars and other heavenly bodies. Ghilani thought that Moira would like this place. But that's not all, there is also an aviary! And it features a multitude of normal and obscure avian creatures. While pondering, Moira was smacked on the hamstring by a small owl-folk who asked what she was doing. Do keep your distance, if a bird bites you, then shame on you. He promptly walked away.
Rani and Widow went to find Mario's family, as they were feeling particularly guilty about that matter. They didn't need to travel far from the University to reach a quaint abode. A woman with dark black hair answered and, although seemingly reluctant, permitted both of them entry into her modest home. Widow gave the letter and watched as the woman broke down and cried, holding her hand to her mouth to muffle the sound. Rani apologized for the loss and Widow offered his services if there is anything she needs. She thanked them and emphasized that her son would never have done what he was accused of.
Meanwhile, Moira and Ghilani devised an elaborate ruse. Moira posed as a regal guard escorted Ghilani to one of the librarians, where Moira began to introduce Ghilani as a very important person who should be given access to the restricted section on behalf of Dr. Valdove and her very important, secret research. Dr. Vivek-Tallis recognized GHilani and then asked if Moira was Ghilani's girlfriend, which prompted a very loud exclamation of "ABSOLUTELY NOT". The librarian checked in with Serene and then Ghilani frantically sent to Serene who reluctantly allowed him access to one thing. Dr. Vivek-Tallis brought out a spell book of evocation, which Ghilani was briefly allowed to peruse. Moira was presented with an "ancient artifact"... a magical picture book of Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.
While walking back to rejoin the kids, Widow asked Rani about what she would do if she had to keep a secret that was slowly eating at her from the inside, but you really can't tell anyone even if you feel like telling would help someone? This was followed by a back and forth where Widow desperately waxed and waned on whether he should tell Rani... but eventually he settled for: "just know it pained me not to tell you when I eventually tell you". He promised to cross the continent to tell her in person when the time comes. Rani thinks he should just use sending.
Arriving at the Valdove townhome, it seems relatively pristine. A large portrait hangs in the foyer, showing the High Lord Aedric Valdove, an unfamiliar elven woman, and three familiar, albeit slightly younger, girls: Circe, Calypso, and Serene. After determining what bedroom to use (Calis'), they found some old Varoonan's Lettuce and crafted Megabed.
Arriving at the Valdove townhome, it seems relatively pristine. A large portrait hangs in the foyer, showing the High Lord Aedric Valdove, an unfamiliar elven woman, and three familiar, albeit slightly younger, girls: Circe, Calypso, and Serene. After determining what bedroom to use (Calis'), they found some old Varoonan's Lettuce and crafted Megabed.
Conversations at the Tower Citadel
After receiving masks to match their Ragna finery, the Deep End entered a grand ballroom... and then were promptly announced to the entire hall. They were then approached by High Lord Aedric Valdove, his limp particularly bad as he leans quite heavily on his cane. He offered to introduce them to High Lord Ivan of Oshiv'Ran.High Lord Ivan of Zver'Behekpa is a bear of a man standing well over 6 feet tall and build like a bodybuilder. The shifter has heard of the Deep End from his daughters, yes, though he does not seemed to have listened too strongly to Nadia. When do you plan to convene the Council? After mentioning that they are in no rush and don't wish to be hasty, Ivan adopted a more stern expression. He mentioned that while they dally, his people will continue to suffer. Perhaps they should keep that in mind. He then excused himself... seemingly quite stressed and concerned.
And then they split the party!
Ghilani spoke with an ostentatious individual dressed like a jester... who also called himself Jester. He claims to be a small governmental official responsible for the rules and regulations of the District of Therarask. He seemed very intrigued by The Deep End, having heard of them and their exploits. He asked a variety of questions about the Council meeting and what Ghilani's opinions are on the situation, his friends, and moving forward. When the jester promptly departed, Ghilani followed. He seems fun.
Rani approached Emir Maletshatsi, a genasi man from Lark'Hal. He was pleased to meet and speak with her as he has been quite happy to hear of the Deep End exploits and the part that Rani has played among them. He will anxiously await the tales that no doubt will be told about her in the near future. Along that line, he is inclined to support a fellow warrior and citizen of Lark'Hal... though the "within reason" was unspoken. He expressed a brief moment of concern for High Lady La'Talenna. If Rani would wish to speak further, there is a lounge and gallery in the tower of Lark that she might enjoy. Rani is more than welcome to find him there on the morrow.
Moira approached a beautiful elven-looking man surrounded by a gaggle of beautiful women discussing the luxuriousness of his hair and exchanging hair care tips. High Lord Jasper Delkova offered to get Moira a drink. He is overly polite almost to the point of being annoying, deferring to Moira. If he might be frank, he mentioned a nasty affair where two of her traveling companions insulted a Lady of Life – a truly terrible, unforgivable offense. Moira excused it as them being "embarrassed and stupid" and of course she will speak to them about it. High Lord Delkova seems confident that Moira has them under control, though he still believes that they will need to beg forgiveness for the slight. Before he departed, he mentioned that Moira is beautiful as she is.
Widow was intercepted by an old friend, Mary, who immediately asked if he wanted to see her scar. Mary mentioned that she is here with her friend, High Lady Sephira La'Talenna... and Rayen, who made a face upon seeing Widow before composing himself. High Lady La'Talenna is quite concerned with the plight of her people... it feels wrong to be here while her people are suffering. Widow expressed a desire to help her and to provide her aid. He asked for more details and specifics so he might better plead her case. Although she wants to believe what Mary has said to be true, her trust must be earned and she must hear Dr. Valdove's plan. Regardless, she wishes to see the plague removed... which Dr. Valdove seems to believe she has a solution. She then asked about Vetulátos and considered it unfortunate that Widow did not know much about him. As Widow left, he noticed that there is clearly a blade in the back of the Yuan-Ti woman's dress.
Rani and Newt left the party early. Widow took a moment to dance with Mary, asking about her new relationship. She was getting laid and now she's not, which is upsetting. Widow can relate. She's been looking into things here, but it has proven to be difficult. She's having to be particularly careful and it's hard to snoop in the Citadel. She doesn't wish to stress the High Lady La'Talenna, so she hasn't spoken to her about the details of her trip to Eredet. Also, don't say anything about the 4th ward, okay? Moira tried to cast sending to her sister and didn't get a response... she's probably in the Tower Citadel?
Ghilani spoke further with Jester in a small alcove. What do you want Ghilani? What is your dream? Jester slid a card with the number one and a bloostain on it to Ghilani. Jester's voice then changed... and Ghilani, as he suspected, was speaking to High Lord Lux Briar. They claimed to be devoted to the island and warned Ghilani that perhaps Moira should have a response ready if someone asks about her relationship with the Pirate Lord... And they, themselves, might mention some interesting tidbits just to stir the pot. They are not fond of the Grand Priest and mentioned that they delight in the face that Jasper isn't sure how to act around them given the fluidity of their gender identity.
The three that remained – Ghilani, Moira, and Widow – saw a masked man appear on an illusory screen similar to the ones in the Coliseum. After pulling a microphone to his mouth... it seems the Deep End are the topic of this episode:
Before ending the broadcast, Cahareth asked a wise, well-loved member of the Varoonan community about the Deep End:
Meanwhile, Rani explored the District of Lark'Hal, overhearing a tidbit about the late council member from Caliban. Newt flew up to a secluded location and messaged dad: What's my mom's name? Atu responded that her name is Lavathi Azure, a tiefling who, as far as he knows, resides in Eredet.
In the morning, before the others had awoken, Newt spoke with Ghilani about what Mistress 8 had tasked him with. He would be willing to pledge himself to Ghilani rather than another blood witch. They have known each other for months after all... but why is Ghilani special? Why do the blood witches care about him so much? Ghilani said that they seem to believe that he can save them. After saying that he feels comfortable with newt – as the others wouldn't understand – Ghilani revealed that he has been tasked with killing a Chosen... or dissuading them. Congratulations to Oksha by the way! He also mentioned that the blood witches seek to replace the pantheon. When Newt mentioned that he has his vendetta and intends to take Ah'Shal's place, Prius One spoke to Ghilani... tell Newt that loyalty would be rewarded. You have found a knight in shining armor... if not covered in a bit of smog. Ghilani walked through his list of Chosen that he had received.... Would Newt help him take out Angelos Dun'Mar? They both have a bone to pick with him. They pinky promised.
Meanwhile, Moira slept peacefully.
Ghilani spoke with an ostentatious individual dressed like a jester... who also called himself Jester. He claims to be a small governmental official responsible for the rules and regulations of the District of Therarask. He seemed very intrigued by The Deep End, having heard of them and their exploits. He asked a variety of questions about the Council meeting and what Ghilani's opinions are on the situation, his friends, and moving forward. When the jester promptly departed, Ghilani followed. He seems fun.
Rani approached Emir Maletshatsi, a genasi man from Lark'Hal. He was pleased to meet and speak with her as he has been quite happy to hear of the Deep End exploits and the part that Rani has played among them. He will anxiously await the tales that no doubt will be told about her in the near future. Along that line, he is inclined to support a fellow warrior and citizen of Lark'Hal... though the "within reason" was unspoken. He expressed a brief moment of concern for High Lady La'Talenna. If Rani would wish to speak further, there is a lounge and gallery in the tower of Lark that she might enjoy. Rani is more than welcome to find him there on the morrow.
Moira approached a beautiful elven-looking man surrounded by a gaggle of beautiful women discussing the luxuriousness of his hair and exchanging hair care tips. High Lord Jasper Delkova offered to get Moira a drink. He is overly polite almost to the point of being annoying, deferring to Moira. If he might be frank, he mentioned a nasty affair where two of her traveling companions insulted a Lady of Life – a truly terrible, unforgivable offense. Moira excused it as them being "embarrassed and stupid" and of course she will speak to them about it. High Lord Delkova seems confident that Moira has them under control, though he still believes that they will need to beg forgiveness for the slight. Before he departed, he mentioned that Moira is beautiful as she is.
Widow was intercepted by an old friend, Mary, who immediately asked if he wanted to see her scar. Mary mentioned that she is here with her friend, High Lady Sephira La'Talenna... and Rayen, who made a face upon seeing Widow before composing himself. High Lady La'Talenna is quite concerned with the plight of her people... it feels wrong to be here while her people are suffering. Widow expressed a desire to help her and to provide her aid. He asked for more details and specifics so he might better plead her case. Although she wants to believe what Mary has said to be true, her trust must be earned and she must hear Dr. Valdove's plan. Regardless, she wishes to see the plague removed... which Dr. Valdove seems to believe she has a solution. She then asked about Vetulátos and considered it unfortunate that Widow did not know much about him. As Widow left, he noticed that there is clearly a blade in the back of the Yuan-Ti woman's dress.
Rani and Newt left the party early. Widow took a moment to dance with Mary, asking about her new relationship. She was getting laid and now she's not, which is upsetting. Widow can relate. She's been looking into things here, but it has proven to be difficult. She's having to be particularly careful and it's hard to snoop in the Citadel. She doesn't wish to stress the High Lady La'Talenna, so she hasn't spoken to her about the details of her trip to Eredet. Also, don't say anything about the 4th ward, okay? Moira tried to cast sending to her sister and didn't get a response... she's probably in the Tower Citadel?
Ghilani spoke further with Jester in a small alcove. What do you want Ghilani? What is your dream? Jester slid a card with the number one and a bloostain on it to Ghilani. Jester's voice then changed... and Ghilani, as he suspected, was speaking to High Lord Lux Briar. They claimed to be devoted to the island and warned Ghilani that perhaps Moira should have a response ready if someone asks about her relationship with the Pirate Lord... And they, themselves, might mention some interesting tidbits just to stir the pot. They are not fond of the Grand Priest and mentioned that they delight in the face that Jasper isn't sure how to act around them given the fluidity of their gender identity.
The three that remained – Ghilani, Moira, and Widow – saw a masked man appear on an illusory screen similar to the ones in the Coliseum. After pulling a microphone to his mouth... it seems the Deep End are the topic of this episode:
"Rani Al-Himma is one of our very own – desert born and raised, so I'm inclined to believe she deserves all of the praise that I've heard. Although a couple seasons behind on the fashion scene, clearly, her swordplay isn't so easily outmatched." "Newt, now Von'Della. He might have a new last name, but nothing's going to blot out the stench of his past so easily. It's clear as day that he's just Diavolo 2.0, but with a gun and fur instead of an axe and scales. Though, he's welcome to prove me wrong." "Moira doesn't even need to be in water to be drowning, though that seems to be a common trend in her report card. Clearly, however, this country bumpkin understands the staples of good food and good comedy. Perhaps a career change is in order?" "Ghilani is 5 foot of accident prone, twice-broken glass held together by expired glue. I'm honestly a bit shocked that he hasn't fractured a finger on a rose thorn. Yet, is that not the basis upon which all the great mages of history have been built? If he lasts the year... he might just be the next one." "The Widow is hardly more than a lost, out-of-touch man. In all honesty, I'm surprised he gets anywhere given he's only got one foot to walk on... the other always in his mouth. Someone has to have a foot fetish though... else how else would they have found that blond menace?"
Before ending the broadcast, Cahareth asked a wise, well-loved member of the Varoonan community about the Deep End:
"The Deep End? Who the Fu- OH. They're all fucking weird. I'd choose my snails over them any day" – BERT.
Meanwhile, Rani explored the District of Lark'Hal, overhearing a tidbit about the late council member from Caliban. Newt flew up to a secluded location and messaged dad: What's my mom's name? Atu responded that her name is Lavathi Azure, a tiefling who, as far as he knows, resides in Eredet.
In the morning, before the others had awoken, Newt spoke with Ghilani about what Mistress 8 had tasked him with. He would be willing to pledge himself to Ghilani rather than another blood witch. They have known each other for months after all... but why is Ghilani special? Why do the blood witches care about him so much? Ghilani said that they seem to believe that he can save them. After saying that he feels comfortable with newt – as the others wouldn't understand – Ghilani revealed that he has been tasked with killing a Chosen... or dissuading them. Congratulations to Oksha by the way! He also mentioned that the blood witches seek to replace the pantheon. When Newt mentioned that he has his vendetta and intends to take Ah'Shal's place, Prius One spoke to Ghilani... tell Newt that loyalty would be rewarded. You have found a knight in shining armor... if not covered in a bit of smog. Ghilani walked through his list of Chosen that he had received.... Would Newt help him take out Angelos Dun'Mar? They both have a bone to pick with him. They pinky promised.
Meanwhile, Moira slept peacefully.
The Return of the NDA
The Deep End arrived at the Temple of the One in the morning. Rani took a moment to pray at the carving of Lark and then placed a gold coin offering at the carving of Judas – a broad-shouldered man with slicked back hair and an orange and gold tunic. There's a lot of gold on the carving.
Soon after arriving, a middle-aged man with mostly human-looking ears dressed in ornate robes and carrying a staff bearing symbolism of The One. Grand Priest Aepius escorted them to a private chamber beyond the statue of The One to speak.
The Grand Priest didn't seem too taken aback by the NDA that emerged... but he was taken back by the map. He was shortly then shocked by Rani's mention of where the got the map and the diary: The Wasteland. He doesn't have much insight on the journal, but... as he drew forth his staff to look at the map, noticed something that shocked him. He also then paused on Moira and his eyes widened. He cleared his throat and momentarily chose to ignore it.
The map is most likely from the Grand Priest Ihyesult himself. There are legends – and in time it has become unclear if they are more myth or actual history – that Ihyesult was the last to speak directly to The One and that he received divine secrets required to access the Temple of The One... which has long since left this plane. The premise of The One is "all parts made whole", with the "whole" being The One. Rani is on a pilgrimage, yes, but it is more than that. She is symbolically uniting the parts of the pantheon. You, Rani, may be the first to speak to the One directly... in millenia. The Grand Priest expressed a willingness to assist Rani on this endeavor and mentioned that Ihyseul gave sacred tokens, perhaps keys, to his Council of Eredet: Kiera Hallal (Ah'Shal), Wisteria Rose (Tel'Rhea), Fi-Fi-Female Fowell (Elios), and Ghidoran Once-Gold (Caliban).
Then addressing the silent elephant in the room, the Grand Priest did vaguely recall Moira. He assured the group that he would keep this affair secret, so long as the group's interest still align with the High Lord Valdove. There are those that believe the Dread King could be the antagonist of The One. If there exists a being of Creation... it stands that there may be a being of Destruction.
Regarding the Council, the Grand Priest is concerned for Lady La'Talenna. He is fond of the philosophical conversations they have and respects her intellect and independence. He worries for her and the state of her people. On the other hand, the Grand Priest does not trust nor like Lux Briar, mentioning that they have a tendency to impersonate other members of the Council. He also is not fond of Jasper Delkova as he appears to boast about the superiority of the Mother Goddess too much.
The Grand Priest then asked after a rumor... did you see an illusory clock in Caliban? He revealed that he is slightly worried for the High Lord Valdove as he expressed that he often heard clocks at the edges of his trances... the Grand Priest has not seen the High Lord experience any lapses like the others he has heard of. Perhaps they have a mutual interest if Rani is or was haunted by this Lady of clocks. The Grand Priest will let them know if he learns anything in his travels after the Council meetings.
The Council will convene the following morning.
The map is most likely from the Grand Priest Ihyesult himself. There are legends – and in time it has become unclear if they are more myth or actual history – that Ihyesult was the last to speak directly to The One and that he received divine secrets required to access the Temple of The One... which has long since left this plane. The premise of The One is "all parts made whole", with the "whole" being The One. Rani is on a pilgrimage, yes, but it is more than that. She is symbolically uniting the parts of the pantheon. You, Rani, may be the first to speak to the One directly... in millenia. The Grand Priest expressed a willingness to assist Rani on this endeavor and mentioned that Ihyseul gave sacred tokens, perhaps keys, to his Council of Eredet: Kiera Hallal (Ah'Shal), Wisteria Rose (Tel'Rhea), Fi-Fi-Female Fowell (Elios), and Ghidoran Once-Gold (Caliban).
Then addressing the silent elephant in the room, the Grand Priest did vaguely recall Moira. He assured the group that he would keep this affair secret, so long as the group's interest still align with the High Lord Valdove. There are those that believe the Dread King could be the antagonist of The One. If there exists a being of Creation... it stands that there may be a being of Destruction.
Regarding the Council, the Grand Priest is concerned for Lady La'Talenna. He is fond of the philosophical conversations they have and respects her intellect and independence. He worries for her and the state of her people. On the other hand, the Grand Priest does not trust nor like Lux Briar, mentioning that they have a tendency to impersonate other members of the Council. He also is not fond of Jasper Delkova as he appears to boast about the superiority of the Mother Goddess too much.
The Grand Priest then asked after a rumor... did you see an illusory clock in Caliban? He revealed that he is slightly worried for the High Lord Valdove as he expressed that he often heard clocks at the edges of his trances... the Grand Priest has not seen the High Lord experience any lapses like the others he has heard of. Perhaps they have a mutual interest if Rani is or was haunted by this Lady of clocks. The Grand Priest will let them know if he learns anything in his travels after the Council meetings.
The Council will convene the following morning.
Report Date
21 Oct 2022
Primary Location
Secondary Location
"Did you hear? Caliban finally resolved their election issue. I wonder what the new representative will be like. The last one was a bit odd... made more frequent visits to the District of Carmenthia than his own. I wonder how the arrival will stir up the Council."
Jester:
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