Session 68
General Summary
Another Day on Pleasure Row
Upon returning from the Compound of Blood, Ghilani finds himself alone in Haven as Lux quickly departs. Tapping the teal scale, Ghilani messaged Ismera sounding mildly distressed. Where did everyone go???
After leaving the Theater and exchanging some final thoughts on the immaculate play, the Deep End was approached by a theater attendant. If they had known that the Deep End was coming to watch the performance, they would have most certainly secured you a box! However, everyone seemed quite pleased with their seating; It was much easier to see everyone's reactions to everything after all. The attendant then mentioned that one of the Theater Board members wished to speak with them: The Lady Vi'Har. Ismera, in the middle of this conversation, received a message and - in a panic - booked it out. When there was a casual mention of Ismera being a dragon and the attendant seemed very taken back. Declan and Rani both immediately responded at the same time:
After leaving the Theater and exchanging some final thoughts on the immaculate play, the Deep End was approached by a theater attendant. If they had known that the Deep End was coming to watch the performance, they would have most certainly secured you a box! However, everyone seemed quite pleased with their seating; It was much easier to see everyone's reactions to everything after all. The attendant then mentioned that one of the Theater Board members wished to speak with them: The Lady Vi'Har. Ismera, in the middle of this conversation, received a message and - in a panic - booked it out. When there was a casual mention of Ismera being a dragon and the attendant seemed very taken back. Declan and Rani both immediately responded at the same time:
Declan: "Like a Dragon in Bed." Rani: "Like a Dragon Mother... but a Father."
Ismera quickly made it to Haven, bursting into the lounge. How did things go with your "friend"? Also, are you and Newt together? Nah, he's just my knight. Regarding this "friend", everything went well, but Ghilani has good news and bad news. He then promptly turned into Ismera – in the middle of Pleasure Row. The good news is that he now knows he's a changeling or has changeling like abilities. The bad news is he doesn't know how long he'll live now. Regardless of the length of his life, Ismera is happy to be friends with Ghilani no matter how long he lives.
Back at the Theater, the rest of the group spoke with the Lady Amalia Vi'Har, a gorgeous fire genasi woman who was flattered to be considered Ezra's sister, but no, she's his mother. She was very blunt in stating her displeasure that the Deep End did not think to announce their presence, sending a particular look at Rani. Despite this, she was willing to offer her home for them to stay in. When Declan questioned if she would be able to accommodate the large number of them, the woman fixed him with a look. Do you think I would offer if I couldn't accommodate? Do I look like someone who can't accommodate you? Speaking briefly with Rani, she mentioned that her husband was responsible for the behind the scenes and all the stage lighting and effects. And they have met... just under different pretenses.
When Lady Vi'Har had departed, Rani – panicking slightly – had Moira message Ezra about his mom. Is she the type to trap her house? Flowers? What should she do? She'd always thought she'd be meeting the parents, you know, with Ezra here. Upon receiving the message, Ezra seemed a bit shocked, but his mother can be a bit of a diva for lack of a better word. There shouldn't be traps and flowers couldn't hurt.
Once reunited, the Deep End quickly picked up flowers and some baked goods on the way to a very nice manor nestled in the Jungle. Upon request, a few housekeepers were more than happy to arrange some Theraskian Kings in the traditional megabed format. There's not a lot of walking space, but who needs that? With rest on the horizon, Rani had Moira send a message to Chain: if he has wings, then they know his half-brother. Chain really would love to know what drugs Rani's smoking. Also, rate him 5 stars!
Once situated on megabed, Ghilani updated Declan. If you'd like to become a real bloodhunter for Six, then he can take you to the blood witch coven. Declan was confused. He's already Six's bloodhunter. Doesn't seem like Six cares much about that. Besides that, Ghilani is a changeling! He then promptly shifted into a few forms, settling in on Declan and mimicking his voice. He then settled in his pure changeling form, adorned with red stitches. Turning to the two newbies, Ghilani promptly declared that "snitched get stitches" so don't go talking about this. Ghilani seems to be like this because Primus used a lot of changelings in their creation. The group then mused whether or not the Doctor might be connected to Primus. Ghilani then panicked and asked Primus how long it took them to make them. Oh, maybe 727 years – a mere blink for them. Ghilani was the first success after a line of many failures... and of course they recycled the parts. Ghilani, now sweating, asked if the people were willing. Primus paused. In the end, they were. It is all for a good cause.
Declan requested – or perhaps demanded – that everyone swear not to harm Therarask. Everyone mostly agreed, though Ghilani pointedly mentioned that he isn't about to let Therarask kill him. In response, Declan told him to just run then if Therarask gets violent, but Ismera piped in that if Carmenthia had wished it... you wouldn't have left her Library. It is her domain just as the volcano is Therarask's. Plus, you seemed to have no qualms with beating me to a pulp to get out. Ismera understands where they stand with Declan. Plus, they are a god, they are not so fragile as a mortal.
Rani slips Moira a loaf of bread as she drifts off to sleep... praying to Caliban the boring, traditional way in the absence of angry-eyebrow bird. Be aware, my volcanic sibling will put on a show.
In the morning, the Deep End found a very tall, broad man cooking in the kitchen, preparing an immaculate spread of food set perfectly on neatly arranged plates and silverware. Isidore Tuz'Dayrin is the stage manager for many of the performances at the Theater and is pleased to hear the group enjoyed the performance last night. He was quick to speak to Rani. How is Ezra? Where is he? Is he keeping himself out of too much danger? He seems aware of Ezra's chosen line of work, though is not involved himself. He was quite happy to hear Rani speak about Ezra and for what its worth, he offers his blessing. And do not worry too much about Amalia. She is a diva – hasn't grown out of it unfortunately – and was offended that you didnot reach out to her despite having met. Still, she did appreciate the flowers and we shall see how long we might keep them alive. So long as you are here on Pleasure Row, Isidore is happy to host. Before heading back to the Theater, he wished the Deep End luck.
Back on Pleasure Row, the Deep End headed to the Temple of Therarask. An Acolyte was more than happy to find the High Priestess for them and most waited, though Ghilani and Ismera got a massage. High Priestess Tayanna is a woman who claims to be older than Declan, but certainly looks younger. She speaks with a melodic voice and a charming lilt. Declan requested to speak to her in private, with Rani there (to which Rani whispered that it is very important relationship advice). She recommended some of the classes the Temple has to the others through a partnership with Haven. Ghilani and Ismera took her up on the offer, attending a BDSM (Boys Doing Something Masculine) class. The other three chose to go shopping as Rodric attempted to bond with Moira over their shared devotion to their respective deities. Azrail tried to spy, but learned that in the Temple of Therarask... consent is very, very sexy.
Declan wanted to know about Therarask and the High Priestess seemed to be at least somewhat aware of what was going on and was well aware of who Declan was. However, she seemed more concerned with keeping Pleasure Row as it was – delights and fancies that she loves. When Declan said that he planned to fix the problem, the High Priestess was quick to be blunt: Do you have a spine? Oh dear, if you bow at their feet and take what is given to you as you have in the past... if you simply continue to hem and haw... the hinge will rust and break and you will lose whatever chance you once had. Rani encouraged Declan to ask what he really wants and to think about what he wants from Therarask. She has been doing her best to be a safe place for him and to leave her judgement at the door. After talking through the matter, they turned to find that the High Priestess had departed.
Meanwhile, Ismera tied up Ghilani and then, while arranging flowers, offhandedly mentioned that there are Rites of Devotion you can take in the Temple here... and they can be romantic, familial, or platonic. As they stood before a Priestess of Devotion, Ghilani asked what Ismera wanted their rites to be to which Ismera INSISTED that Ghilani should go first... but no, Ghilani couldn't possibly! Ismera should start! Regardless of how long Ghilani may live, Ismera will always count him their first and best friend. Regardless of what may happen during his travels and journey, Ghilani swore the same. And so they got married.... platonically. Ismera seemed very happy.
Reuniting in the Temple, the group stood in an old amphitheater with a statue of Therarask at the edge of the Golden Mist. After being warned about the more volatile nature of the Mist as of late, the group entered into the Golden Mist.
Back at the Theater, the rest of the group spoke with the Lady Amalia Vi'Har, a gorgeous fire genasi woman who was flattered to be considered Ezra's sister, but no, she's his mother. She was very blunt in stating her displeasure that the Deep End did not think to announce their presence, sending a particular look at Rani. Despite this, she was willing to offer her home for them to stay in. When Declan questioned if she would be able to accommodate the large number of them, the woman fixed him with a look. Do you think I would offer if I couldn't accommodate? Do I look like someone who can't accommodate you? Speaking briefly with Rani, she mentioned that her husband was responsible for the behind the scenes and all the stage lighting and effects. And they have met... just under different pretenses.
When Lady Vi'Har had departed, Rani – panicking slightly – had Moira message Ezra about his mom. Is she the type to trap her house? Flowers? What should she do? She'd always thought she'd be meeting the parents, you know, with Ezra here. Upon receiving the message, Ezra seemed a bit shocked, but his mother can be a bit of a diva for lack of a better word. There shouldn't be traps and flowers couldn't hurt.
Once reunited, the Deep End quickly picked up flowers and some baked goods on the way to a very nice manor nestled in the Jungle. Upon request, a few housekeepers were more than happy to arrange some Theraskian Kings in the traditional megabed format. There's not a lot of walking space, but who needs that? With rest on the horizon, Rani had Moira send a message to Chain: if he has wings, then they know his half-brother. Chain really would love to know what drugs Rani's smoking. Also, rate him 5 stars!
Once situated on megabed, Ghilani updated Declan. If you'd like to become a real bloodhunter for Six, then he can take you to the blood witch coven. Declan was confused. He's already Six's bloodhunter. Doesn't seem like Six cares much about that. Besides that, Ghilani is a changeling! He then promptly shifted into a few forms, settling in on Declan and mimicking his voice. He then settled in his pure changeling form, adorned with red stitches. Turning to the two newbies, Ghilani promptly declared that "snitched get stitches" so don't go talking about this. Ghilani seems to be like this because Primus used a lot of changelings in their creation. The group then mused whether or not the Doctor might be connected to Primus. Ghilani then panicked and asked Primus how long it took them to make them. Oh, maybe 727 years – a mere blink for them. Ghilani was the first success after a line of many failures... and of course they recycled the parts. Ghilani, now sweating, asked if the people were willing. Primus paused. In the end, they were. It is all for a good cause.
Declan requested – or perhaps demanded – that everyone swear not to harm Therarask. Everyone mostly agreed, though Ghilani pointedly mentioned that he isn't about to let Therarask kill him. In response, Declan told him to just run then if Therarask gets violent, but Ismera piped in that if Carmenthia had wished it... you wouldn't have left her Library. It is her domain just as the volcano is Therarask's. Plus, you seemed to have no qualms with beating me to a pulp to get out. Ismera understands where they stand with Declan. Plus, they are a god, they are not so fragile as a mortal.
Rani slips Moira a loaf of bread as she drifts off to sleep... praying to Caliban the boring, traditional way in the absence of angry-eyebrow bird. Be aware, my volcanic sibling will put on a show.
In the morning, the Deep End found a very tall, broad man cooking in the kitchen, preparing an immaculate spread of food set perfectly on neatly arranged plates and silverware. Isidore Tuz'Dayrin is the stage manager for many of the performances at the Theater and is pleased to hear the group enjoyed the performance last night. He was quick to speak to Rani. How is Ezra? Where is he? Is he keeping himself out of too much danger? He seems aware of Ezra's chosen line of work, though is not involved himself. He was quite happy to hear Rani speak about Ezra and for what its worth, he offers his blessing. And do not worry too much about Amalia. She is a diva – hasn't grown out of it unfortunately – and was offended that you didnot reach out to her despite having met. Still, she did appreciate the flowers and we shall see how long we might keep them alive. So long as you are here on Pleasure Row, Isidore is happy to host. Before heading back to the Theater, he wished the Deep End luck.
Back on Pleasure Row, the Deep End headed to the Temple of Therarask. An Acolyte was more than happy to find the High Priestess for them and most waited, though Ghilani and Ismera got a massage. High Priestess Tayanna is a woman who claims to be older than Declan, but certainly looks younger. She speaks with a melodic voice and a charming lilt. Declan requested to speak to her in private, with Rani there (to which Rani whispered that it is very important relationship advice). She recommended some of the classes the Temple has to the others through a partnership with Haven. Ghilani and Ismera took her up on the offer, attending a BDSM (Boys Doing Something Masculine) class. The other three chose to go shopping as Rodric attempted to bond with Moira over their shared devotion to their respective deities. Azrail tried to spy, but learned that in the Temple of Therarask... consent is very, very sexy.
Declan wanted to know about Therarask and the High Priestess seemed to be at least somewhat aware of what was going on and was well aware of who Declan was. However, she seemed more concerned with keeping Pleasure Row as it was – delights and fancies that she loves. When Declan said that he planned to fix the problem, the High Priestess was quick to be blunt: Do you have a spine? Oh dear, if you bow at their feet and take what is given to you as you have in the past... if you simply continue to hem and haw... the hinge will rust and break and you will lose whatever chance you once had. Rani encouraged Declan to ask what he really wants and to think about what he wants from Therarask. She has been doing her best to be a safe place for him and to leave her judgement at the door. After talking through the matter, they turned to find that the High Priestess had departed.
Meanwhile, Ismera tied up Ghilani and then, while arranging flowers, offhandedly mentioned that there are Rites of Devotion you can take in the Temple here... and they can be romantic, familial, or platonic. As they stood before a Priestess of Devotion, Ghilani asked what Ismera wanted their rites to be to which Ismera INSISTED that Ghilani should go first... but no, Ghilani couldn't possibly! Ismera should start! Regardless of how long Ghilani may live, Ismera will always count him their first and best friend. Regardless of what may happen during his travels and journey, Ghilani swore the same. And so they got married.... platonically. Ismera seemed very happy.
Reuniting in the Temple, the group stood in an old amphitheater with a statue of Therarask at the edge of the Golden Mist. After being warned about the more volatile nature of the Mist as of late, the group entered into the Golden Mist.
The Golden Mist & the Volcano Diva
Although able to navigate the first bit of the Golden Mist together, they were met with temptations and desires that pulled four of them apart and off into the Golden Mist, leaving Declan and Azrail together. After being tempted and enticed by visions of what they desired, the group found themselves alone as their visions seem to become slightly more hostile and aggressive... willing to drag them into temptation and away from their path... by force if needed.
Ezra: "Ah... how you wound me, Rani." Ezra sets down the basket and slowly, with the dramatic tension of a dancer, draws his swords. "There's so much tension in your shoulders. You need to relax. I love you. I'm doing this for you."
Jeremy: The Kereselló falls eerily motionless and for the briefest moment, his skin seems to ripple and bubble, as if there is something moving underneath the surface before he, without word or emotion, charges you.
Sephira: Her face turns cold and her eyes darken. Wordlessly, she draws a long blade from the back of her dress, gliding her hand over it lightly. "Are you leaving my service now, Azrail? I'm afraid I can't allow that. You know too much."
Dr. Valdove: Serene's eyes immediately fill with sorrow before they are replaced with intense anger. Her skin begins to lose its color as she slams the book closed. "Do you think we are that different? Do you think you no longer need me? Allow me to remind you... I am your superior."
Varoona: Thunder rumbles and shadows fall over the ship. You hear concerned shouts and cries. Varoona's eyes glow and crackle like lightning. "I have sunk ships and drowned sailors. I have flooded and laid waste to my own city... And you deny me?"
?: The figure stopes in their patrol, metal-covered face turning to face you as they, without word or hesitation, draw forth a bladed staff and begin to move with purpose towards you.
Declan didn't even get a chance to draw his weapons before he was dominated and waltzed right into the full scene of his desires. Rodric, on the other hand, ran through of his own volition after two rounds of engaging the metal-masked figure. Rani tapped her necklace and, not seeing the light flicker on the Ezra across from her, moved in. Ghilani, Rani, and Azrail were all coerced or dragged int the temptation that awaited them. Moira, able to delay Jeremy, pushed through the wall of Mist itself, choosing to continue moving forward rather than temptation... and she was greeted by a large tiger with golden stripes clutching a pink and red lantern in its mouth. Together, they travelled to collect the rest of the group lost within the Golden Mist. Following the tiger, they were brought to the ruins of a town. Given her status as faculty-adjacent to a history professor, Rani would estimate that these ruins are well over 2000+ years old.
Within the shell of the volcano, a large chamber has been carved out with pillars of volcanic rock carved with scenes of revelry and debauchery. While the chamber seems to feature no doors, there is a dried up, broken fountain in the middle with an inscription on it in Sylvan:
Rani was the first to approach the fountain and offering her necklace. She pleaded her devotion to Ezra, promising that, although now far apart, they will both be together again. The room around her suddenly came to life, filled with golden light. The pillars seemed to echo with enchanting music. Across from where she entered, a door appeared... bound closed by a women clutching multiple thorny vines that pierced her dark skin and allowing the blood to drip down to the ground beneath her. Rani then asked: Lucille? (to which Moira would echo a few moments later). Ghilani offered his token of Devotion and swore that he would always pass his final test. He would always come back. Azrail pleaded his devotion to keeping the Deep End safe. Rodric presented his devotion to his deity, Nacheevi, and to proper Order. Moira presented Callon's hair tie. Declan offered the nipple piercing and promised that they are his and he is theirs.
After being convinced of Declan's determination and the group's intent, Lucille loosened her hold on the doors to the Inner Sanctum, allowing the Deep End to enter. Despite the sun being blocked entirely by the dark walls of the volcano, a jungle thrives within. Golden figures engage in delights and revelries in marble and stone structures scattered throughout the trees. Progressing through a series of statues, the tiled path lined with gold begins to ramp upward until the Jungle breaks and reveals a throne in front of a cascade of magma. The God of Pleasure sits, reclined against one side of the throne. One hand rests on the arm rest, jeweled and ring-covered figures tapping against the metal there. In the other hand, they swirl a glass of deep crimson liquid. They are shirtless, yet covered in gold, copper, and bronze jewelry, decked out in rubies carved in the shape of roses and dripping in tassels of gold. Their left eye is composed entirely of gold with the faintest of cracks around it. The entire right side of their face is covered by an ornate, jeweled mask... only the glow of a gold eye visible beneath.
Within the shell of the volcano, a large chamber has been carved out with pillars of volcanic rock carved with scenes of revelry and debauchery. While the chamber seems to feature no doors, there is a dried up, broken fountain in the middle with an inscription on it in Sylvan:
Beyond illusion and trivial delights, plead thy devotion and prove its might. For only the devoted may earn an early glance at golden splendor.
Rani was the first to approach the fountain and offering her necklace. She pleaded her devotion to Ezra, promising that, although now far apart, they will both be together again. The room around her suddenly came to life, filled with golden light. The pillars seemed to echo with enchanting music. Across from where she entered, a door appeared... bound closed by a women clutching multiple thorny vines that pierced her dark skin and allowing the blood to drip down to the ground beneath her. Rani then asked: Lucille? (to which Moira would echo a few moments later). Ghilani offered his token of Devotion and swore that he would always pass his final test. He would always come back. Azrail pleaded his devotion to keeping the Deep End safe. Rodric presented his devotion to his deity, Nacheevi, and to proper Order. Moira presented Callon's hair tie. Declan offered the nipple piercing and promised that they are his and he is theirs.
After being convinced of Declan's determination and the group's intent, Lucille loosened her hold on the doors to the Inner Sanctum, allowing the Deep End to enter. Despite the sun being blocked entirely by the dark walls of the volcano, a jungle thrives within. Golden figures engage in delights and revelries in marble and stone structures scattered throughout the trees. Progressing through a series of statues, the tiled path lined with gold begins to ramp upward until the Jungle breaks and reveals a throne in front of a cascade of magma. The God of Pleasure sits, reclined against one side of the throne. One hand rests on the arm rest, jeweled and ring-covered figures tapping against the metal there. In the other hand, they swirl a glass of deep crimson liquid. They are shirtless, yet covered in gold, copper, and bronze jewelry, decked out in rubies carved in the shape of roses and dripping in tassels of gold. Their left eye is composed entirely of gold with the faintest of cracks around it. The entire right side of their face is covered by an ornate, jeweled mask... only the glow of a gold eye visible beneath.
After so many months of being in the company of MY Beloved, the Deep End has finally deigned me with a visit... Come, let me see who my dearest values more than time with me...
Pointedly ignoring Declan, Therarask seemed to go through each member of the group one by one. If one declined to twirl for the God... they were compelled to. When Declan attempted to cut in and stop Therarask, they were promptly silenced and compelled to remain out of the way until Therarask had deemed their "inspection" complete. Rani assured Therarask that she will never treat the one she loves like a puppet on strings. Therarask glanced pointedly at the magma below before informing Rani that they will keep that in mind.
Finally, Therarask turned their attention to Declan, upset and irked that all of their hard work had been replaced by the crafts of their sisters. Declan mentioned that its hot here... can't be wearing the coat. But regardless, he is wearing what will keep him safe. Oh, safe? Declan mentioned the Dread King. If you would only open your eyes Therarask! The music at the periphery falls suddenly silent as Therarask stands. If you insist on pursuing a phantom of a bygone era that took an entire pantheon to defeat... well, surely... a single god would be nothing for you? If you are so capable? Summoning a golden foil from the mist and flinging the mask into the magma below, Therarask begins to descend from their throne, a maniacal look in their eye.
Rani: "A fitting companion for one born of my lands. Perhaps when he shows you another of his quiet places... you would take the Rites of Devotion in full? Or perhaps you'll tip the scale and seal his destruction? Ah, a suspenseful romance in the making, isn't it?"
Moira: "I need you Moira. Her fate... it torments me. I cannot find peace. You wouldn't abandon him now, would you? After all, you are my cowardly brother's knight in... repainted armor."
Azrail: "All you have to do is ask. Or perhaps you're so far beneath her that she's never really noticed you? Is that what you fear? Rejection? A bruise you'd only have to bare for a short while..."
Ghilani: "I am sure she would be so very proud of you... Mother's are often so very quick to overlook their children's... oddities after all. And... oh? Well, perhaps Ah'Shal would fancy a new lover."
Finally, Therarask turned their attention to Declan, upset and irked that all of their hard work had been replaced by the crafts of their sisters. Declan mentioned that its hot here... can't be wearing the coat. But regardless, he is wearing what will keep him safe. Oh, safe? Declan mentioned the Dread King. If you would only open your eyes Therarask! The music at the periphery falls suddenly silent as Therarask stands. If you insist on pursuing a phantom of a bygone era that took an entire pantheon to defeat... well, surely... a single god would be nothing for you? If you are so capable? Summoning a golden foil from the mist and flinging the mask into the magma below, Therarask begins to descend from their throne, a maniacal look in their eye.
Fancy a dance in the volcano, dearest? Your friends are invited.
Report Date
20 Jan 2023
Primary Location
Secondary Location
The Golden Mist
Rani
The Golden Mists reveal the broken form of Olivantha, seated on a bed, awake and conscious. On the ground... the Pirate Lord, tied and restrained looking defeated. Janos looks at you: "Well, you've done it! Ruined all my fun! I suppose it's only fair... Ask away, don't you want to know how I did it all? The Siege? The Madame?"expectantlyA familiar figure takes shape, a picnic basket tucked in the crook of his arm with a bottle of wine poking out from underneath the lid. Ezra seems finely dressed, but also practical. "There you are! Are you ready? There's a spot in the Jungle I used to go to when I was young... a private sanctuary. I'd like to share it with you... if you'd join me?"
Moira
A scene amidst the Golden mist unfolds. A busy kitchen. Chefs along a line. The smells are intoxicating and the food looks amazing... and then an older elven woman steps in front of you, a teal pseudodragon on her shoulder. She motions to an empty spot in the line behind her. "Well? It took you long enough. Are you here to prove your worth? Prove there is a true chef behind that apron?"
Amidst newly built walls now repainted with scenes of stars, the moon, a group of misfits gather around a table. The twins fiddle with some sort of contraption they only half-heartedly keep hidden. Your sister has a seat at the end of the table, dressed no longer in green, but blue. Yue begins to pass out food as Caliban steps in front of you. "Moira! Excellent! Yue just finished dinner. She said she made you favorites!" He, with a smile, motions for you to sit.
The sound of water floods your ears. You see a whale leap out of the water and land, sending water spraying everywhere. And then a familiar figure donning blue robes adorned with various whales turns and, upon noticing you, smiles broadly. They wave enthusiastically and motion for you to join them within the waves.
Azrail
The Golden Mist gives way to a starry sky. Perched in front of the display – in front of an open blank space – is a large bronze greatwyrm with scales tipped with stars and starlight. The dragon's great head lowers to look at you. "Your efforts and skills have been recognized. The God of the Stars might grant your desire. Come, together we can draw your legacy amidst the night sky."
Two older, gnomish figures take shape, each with an arm around the other. They smile fondly at you, faces filled with pride. "Oh, look how much you've grown, Azrail. How much we must have missed. Surely, you can spare a moment to chat with your old man? Your mother and I have missed you dearly." They both extend a hand out to you.
Glancing up from a desk is Lady Sephira. Per usual, she dons a flowing gown of teal decorated with serpent scales. She stands, regal as ever and smiles fondly at you, hand gliding across the top of the desk. "Azrail. It's quite late. Is there something you need to ask of me?" She motions for you to draw near.
Ghilani
"Why bother writing those letters to me? You already had friends, anyway." The Mist parts and you see Azhi, dressed in green and shackled... eyes downcast. "All I've done is failed. Forced my daughter to bare my burdens... what little light you offered, I quickly snuffed out." Parvathian is seated, a cage of his own mind and making. And you look down... the Golden Mist offers you a key. Free them? Save them? Do you want that power to help?
A pedestal lifts from the Golden Mist, a stream of gold that fades to crimson falling off of it. Atop it rests a book – your spellbook, but open to a page you do not recognize. Next to it, 9 vials of blood. The Mist parts beyond the pedestal and you watch a river of blood flow downward int the earth. Figures arise from the blood: Two, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Ten. And they all speak: "You were meant to guide us to our future, Ghilani. The power to aid the First of Us..." They invite you forward.
You hear the sound of what can only be casting before the Mist parts. Dr. Valdove pauses, though her spellbook remains hovering in front of her. When she glances at you, she is as tired-looking as always, but there is a glimmer of hope in her eyes that you haven't seen before. "I have longed for this day... we have both lost someone dear, Ghilani, but together perhaps we can reclaim them." She extends a hand to you.
Declan
The Golden hues of the Mist give way to vibrant, lush green and from it a figure. Adorned in flowers, hair littered with leaves... the Mother Goddess. "Therarask may claim your next life then the very moment you are born." She examines a flower in her hand before shrugging, glancing towards you. "If that is what you desire... let us discuss. Perhaps I shall strike the rule from the records." She motions for you to approach.
You hear the familiar sounds of rummaging, but as the Mist parts you are met with the cleanest room in the treehouse. The large tome rests in front of you, closed: the color unchanged from the last time you saw it. "There you are, my dumb stupid idiot boy!" She appears out of nowhere, her head the only thing visible above the book and its perch. She lifts a claw, drags it across her palm, and allows a drop to drip onto the cover. "Well now, are you going to just stand there gawking? Open it! We can find the answers together, yes?"
The smell of salt and the sound of rolling waves overwhelms your senses. The Golden Mist parts and first you see the gold lined wooden wheel and, beyond that, you see the bow of a boat stretching out over rolling waves. People of all sorts move about the deck in front of you, but a whistle catches your attention and draws your eye to port. "Why have you delayed setting sail? Remember, you and the volcano diva owe me favors." The Goddess of the Sea stands, scale covered limbs exposed as she wears only the thinnest dress. "No time to waste, Captain."
Rodric
It has been some time, but when the Golden Mist reveals familiar gardens, clustered around a desert oasis, you recognize the gardens your mother tends to. The water is inviting and there is an atmosphere of peace. It would be just so easy to lay down. To relax. Could five minutes really hurt?
There's the sound of rhythmic tapping that breaks through the Mist first and then there is Ironborn seated behind the familiar desk of his home estate. "For your years of service, not only your freedom to do what you wish, but an estate of your own." He holds out a piece of paper – just out of your reach. "I trust you will make wise choices of your own for now, free of my guidance." Ironborn stands and waits.
The sounds of hammers on metal, rhythmic and in order. The perfectly times arrival of the public skiff system. The perfectly ordered streets of Nacheevi appear through the Mist. Everything is as it should be. Through the streets you see a vaguely familiar figure, on patrol. They nod to you. Certainly you should be on your way? The wheel must turn and you have a place within the Ordained Order.
The Cracked God of Pleasure
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