Session 89
General Summary
Solution: Brute Force
Running towards the family symbol, which wasn't currently glowing, Rani procured and presented all of the letters from her family. She paused... waited... and nothing happened. She then took on a more tree-like appearance, a Guardian of Nature one might say. Still, nothing happened. Time for Plan B. Meanwhile, beyond the gazebo, from the cluster of trees on one of the small islands amidst the water, three huge trees stepped forward. They stooped down to pick up rocks and then hurled them at the gazebo. Two of them careened wide, but one struck, cracking and breaking a portion of the gazebo. From the water, rolling mounds emerged, slowly beginning a lethargic trudge towards the gazebo.
Declan moved immediately out of the gazebo with the hope of drawing attention to himself. We need to protect the seedling! Ghilani, watching the first boulder strike, put up a Wall of Force to protect the gazebo... or at least 20 feet of the 50 foot tall gazebo. Moira seemed stuck partially in T-Pose mode. The seedling grew about 5 feet.
Rani moved up on one of the approaching mounds and used "Larkadelics" before calling out to the trees. I'll be with your shortly. Declan was approached by another mound. The trees, undeterred by the small humanoids, continued to hurl rocks at the gazebo. Ghilani moved to fire bolt a tree by curving the flame around the edge of the Wall of Force. A moment after a successful strike, a creature of wood emerged from one of the pillars near Ghilani and bonked him real good two times. The tree grew another 5 feet.
Pushing forward, Rani managed to fully get the attention of the trees by scolding them. There's a sapling in there! You could be such good friends! What would Tel'Rhea think of this behavior? Declan was, meanwhile, engulfed by one of the mounds. Ghilani moved away from the new creature and tried to get Moira to get between them. The creature missed Moira and then decided to just hop onto the tree... which didn't seem to grow.
As the fertility symbol glowed in the background, the Deep End continued their onslaught. Rani scolded the trees enough that they fell into a temporary stupor. Satisfied with her scolding, she returned to the aid of the gazebo and those within. Declan managed to cut his way out of the mound just to be attacked by two more. Ghilani (and Moira) managed to remove the one creature stuck on the young tree and it continued to grow... before three more pesky wooden creatures showed up.
With everyone back on the sapling, Ghilani sent multiple fireballs towards the trees before Scattering everyone in the gazebo, Declan got to swim again, and Moira used her shield to stun and slow pretty much everyone (making the DM's job very, very easy). Rani casted Web to catch any falling rubble from the damage gazebo to protect the growing tree below. Ghilani felt something sigh and depart, the clacking of its joints detectable as it moved towards the tree. There, it seemed to cast something before it clattered back to Ghilani. Moira decided to water the plant. This time, the tree seemed to grow a lot more. Perhaps only 15 feet shy of the top of the gazebo.
Hey, Tolvaj... what's up? I have solved it, is Tolvaj's simpmle response. After removing the trees and most of the other enemies – the Wall of Force standing resolute the entire time – the tree finally grew enough to pass through the roof of the gazebo. And everyone was then consumed by bright light.
The Deep End stood amidst a forested area. The faint scent of flowers filled the air with an undercurrent of pine and other earthy notes. The group heard birds in the distance and could just make out the shapes and forms of animals within the trees. A clearing stood before the group with a prominent structure that seemed to reach up and grace the sky, stuck at the point between day and night. The structure at the center was partially covered by moss with tannish-white stones sticking out. The structure appeared to be a pyramid, composed of 9 levels. Immediately, the Deep End identified the symbols scattered about on the lowest level of the pyramid as the symbols of the gods. Hey, we know the gods! As they move, Declan and Moira note a plaque in Celestial:
Declan moved immediately out of the gazebo with the hope of drawing attention to himself. We need to protect the seedling! Ghilani, watching the first boulder strike, put up a Wall of Force to protect the gazebo... or at least 20 feet of the 50 foot tall gazebo. Moira seemed stuck partially in T-Pose mode. The seedling grew about 5 feet.
Rani moved up on one of the approaching mounds and used "Larkadelics" before calling out to the trees. I'll be with your shortly. Declan was approached by another mound. The trees, undeterred by the small humanoids, continued to hurl rocks at the gazebo. Ghilani moved to fire bolt a tree by curving the flame around the edge of the Wall of Force. A moment after a successful strike, a creature of wood emerged from one of the pillars near Ghilani and bonked him real good two times. The tree grew another 5 feet.
Pushing forward, Rani managed to fully get the attention of the trees by scolding them. There's a sapling in there! You could be such good friends! What would Tel'Rhea think of this behavior? Declan was, meanwhile, engulfed by one of the mounds. Ghilani moved away from the new creature and tried to get Moira to get between them. The creature missed Moira and then decided to just hop onto the tree... which didn't seem to grow.
As the fertility symbol glowed in the background, the Deep End continued their onslaught. Rani scolded the trees enough that they fell into a temporary stupor. Satisfied with her scolding, she returned to the aid of the gazebo and those within. Declan managed to cut his way out of the mound just to be attacked by two more. Ghilani (and Moira) managed to remove the one creature stuck on the young tree and it continued to grow... before three more pesky wooden creatures showed up.
With everyone back on the sapling, Ghilani sent multiple fireballs towards the trees before Scattering everyone in the gazebo, Declan got to swim again, and Moira used her shield to stun and slow pretty much everyone (making the DM's job very, very easy). Rani casted Web to catch any falling rubble from the damage gazebo to protect the growing tree below. Ghilani felt something sigh and depart, the clacking of its joints detectable as it moved towards the tree. There, it seemed to cast something before it clattered back to Ghilani. Moira decided to water the plant. This time, the tree seemed to grow a lot more. Perhaps only 15 feet shy of the top of the gazebo.
Hey, Tolvaj... what's up? I have solved it, is Tolvaj's simpmle response. After removing the trees and most of the other enemies – the Wall of Force standing resolute the entire time – the tree finally grew enough to pass through the roof of the gazebo. And everyone was then consumed by bright light.
The Deep End stood amidst a forested area. The faint scent of flowers filled the air with an undercurrent of pine and other earthy notes. The group heard birds in the distance and could just make out the shapes and forms of animals within the trees. A clearing stood before the group with a prominent structure that seemed to reach up and grace the sky, stuck at the point between day and night. The structure at the center was partially covered by moss with tannish-white stones sticking out. The structure appeared to be a pyramid, composed of 9 levels. Immediately, the Deep End identified the symbols scattered about on the lowest level of the pyramid as the symbols of the gods. Hey, we know the gods! As they move, Declan and Moira note a plaque in Celestial:
Whether it be the blazing sun or the chill of the moon, Life is first above all and Death awaits at its fall.Tel'Rhea was selected first and some radiant damage was taken. Then Death... and that seemed correct. OHHHH, It's a pyramid and the top of the pyramid should be Tel'Rhea. Got it. The Deep End brute forced their way, making selections based partially on elemental association and perhaps on who Tel'Rhea may value most? Eventually, they reached the top. Tolvaj commented that their chosen approach was interesting. You never asked for its feedback, but it is proud of Ghilani. Regardless, you made it...
Oh, Great Mother, What is Your Deal?
Guarded by three eladrin figures, the Mother Goddess rested upon a throne built from the roots of an overturned tree. One arm was wrapped protectively around her stomach and a shawl of flowers cascaded over her shoulders, covering much of her chest and arms. Her dark green hair cascaded over one shoulder and graced the moss-covered cushion of her throne. A full-face mask – decorated with eladrin-like features – covered her entire face. A faint pink glow emated from the eyeholes.
Rani stepped forward first to greet the mother. Oh Great Mother... you don't see much beyond your Grove nowadays do you? Tel'Rhea's head tilted. To what do you refer? Well, your own high priestess couldn't get pregnant until recently. Tel'Rhea assured Rani that she sees well beyond her Grove. All is well in the Lands and House of Life. Are you aware that there is a man distorting life? Stealing souls? Oh, and how do you know this? We have captured and interrogated some with the help of talented mages. We need your help, though. Of course, dear. As a mother, I am always willing to help my children. She offered Rani and Declan a smooth stone with the mark of Tel'Rhea. Rani, to confirm, quickly pulled out the map and saw the region of Tel'Rhea lit up. Tel'Rhea seemed to wait patiently top her throne, unmoving.
Have you remembered anything? Ah yes, I have. The Great Mother explained that souls were denied an after life and that creature was responsible. And here you stand, having brought a piece of it into my Grove. Her gaze turned to Moira. You poor, poor child. You are in need of help. I can see it... eating away at the greatest gift mortals have ever been given: a soul, the last gift from The One. Moira assured her that no, she's fine. It's... it's not that bad. And don't children have the right to make their own choices? Rani stepped in to support that argument. We may not be millenia, like you, but we are still adults. Of course you are, by your own standards. But sometimes, mothers must do what is best for their children. And for you, dear, THAT must be removed.
Moira stood her ground. And lose the chance to learn about this? So many are dying and we have this opportunity to learn. You are concerned about those dying? Then why are you here, when there are people in Elios dying still? Rani interposed herself between Moira and the guards as they moved to seize Moira. Put your weapons away. Do not drawn them here whilst in my Grove. Well, this is going nowhere.
Ghilani then stepped forward awkwardly and the full force of Tel'Rhea's gaze shifted. Is there anything I can even say to change your mind on me? You are an abomination. This is The One's world where they bestowed upon mortals their greatest gift. But you were built from the dead, stitched together by a mockery – by "blood". You are more akin to the undead that used to roam this continent. When did you start hating me like this? From the moment her wards dropped and you wandered into my flower beds with the stench of undeath around you. If you won't value what I have to say, then would you at least value the other gods? Ghilani pulled out all the stones he had previously received: Therarask, Ragna, Carmenthia, Caliban, Nacheevi, Lark, Ah'Shal... Tel'Rhea paused. Ah'Shal has proven to be misguided before.
Ghilani mentioned that Ah'Shal is in a bit of a tough spot. The door has been opened... she's been hurt and she doesn't have her keys and scepter. What? And you were there and did nothing? Ghilani threw his hands up – what was I supposed to do? We were outnumbered! And the door to the House of the Undead and Undying is open, by the way- WHAT? I told her to kill him. Regardless, you pose a threat. This being you serve, she poses a threat to me and to my children. While you live, that threat remains. I must protect my children first and foremost. It is in The One's interests. Thus, I shall have your head and assist your other friend. My condolences to the rest of you.
What have you specifically remembered to give you any right to make these claims? Oh, have you all not been listening? Very well, as a mother, I shall lay it out plain for you children. During the war, many died. It is the unfortunate nature of that barbarish thing. Many who died... their souls were simply gone. How would YOU even know? Because, dear children, it was a sacred holy thing entrusted upon me by The One. I am aware of all souls. I feel when they are snuffed out. When they are taken... though I cannot say if they were destroyed or merely moved beyond my reach. What if they could be recovered? There are a lot of "what ifs" you rest upon with that conjecture.
Rani, taking advantage of the Goddess' distraction elsewhere, mage hand bonked the mask off Tel'Rhea's face. Tel'Rhea froze. How dare you lay a hand – arcane or otherwise – upon my person. Clearly, you are SICK, Tel'Rhea. Let us help you. You, too, must recognize that! Oh, have you helped? What I see before me are insolent children, misguided and lost... children who fail to recognize the most sacred and holy gift of The One. I, as a mother, am not above disciplining my children and that... is what I WILL DO.
Rani stepped forward first to greet the mother. Oh Great Mother... you don't see much beyond your Grove nowadays do you? Tel'Rhea's head tilted. To what do you refer? Well, your own high priestess couldn't get pregnant until recently. Tel'Rhea assured Rani that she sees well beyond her Grove. All is well in the Lands and House of Life. Are you aware that there is a man distorting life? Stealing souls? Oh, and how do you know this? We have captured and interrogated some with the help of talented mages. We need your help, though. Of course, dear. As a mother, I am always willing to help my children. She offered Rani and Declan a smooth stone with the mark of Tel'Rhea. Rani, to confirm, quickly pulled out the map and saw the region of Tel'Rhea lit up. Tel'Rhea seemed to wait patiently top her throne, unmoving.
Have you remembered anything? Ah yes, I have. The Great Mother explained that souls were denied an after life and that creature was responsible. And here you stand, having brought a piece of it into my Grove. Her gaze turned to Moira. You poor, poor child. You are in need of help. I can see it... eating away at the greatest gift mortals have ever been given: a soul, the last gift from The One. Moira assured her that no, she's fine. It's... it's not that bad. And don't children have the right to make their own choices? Rani stepped in to support that argument. We may not be millenia, like you, but we are still adults. Of course you are, by your own standards. But sometimes, mothers must do what is best for their children. And for you, dear, THAT must be removed.
Moira stood her ground. And lose the chance to learn about this? So many are dying and we have this opportunity to learn. You are concerned about those dying? Then why are you here, when there are people in Elios dying still? Rani interposed herself between Moira and the guards as they moved to seize Moira. Put your weapons away. Do not drawn them here whilst in my Grove. Well, this is going nowhere.
Ghilani then stepped forward awkwardly and the full force of Tel'Rhea's gaze shifted. Is there anything I can even say to change your mind on me? You are an abomination. This is The One's world where they bestowed upon mortals their greatest gift. But you were built from the dead, stitched together by a mockery – by "blood". You are more akin to the undead that used to roam this continent. When did you start hating me like this? From the moment her wards dropped and you wandered into my flower beds with the stench of undeath around you. If you won't value what I have to say, then would you at least value the other gods? Ghilani pulled out all the stones he had previously received: Therarask, Ragna, Carmenthia, Caliban, Nacheevi, Lark, Ah'Shal... Tel'Rhea paused. Ah'Shal has proven to be misguided before.
Ghilani mentioned that Ah'Shal is in a bit of a tough spot. The door has been opened... she's been hurt and she doesn't have her keys and scepter. What? And you were there and did nothing? Ghilani threw his hands up – what was I supposed to do? We were outnumbered! And the door to the House of the Undead and Undying is open, by the way- WHAT? I told her to kill him. Regardless, you pose a threat. This being you serve, she poses a threat to me and to my children. While you live, that threat remains. I must protect my children first and foremost. It is in The One's interests. Thus, I shall have your head and assist your other friend. My condolences to the rest of you.
What have you specifically remembered to give you any right to make these claims? Oh, have you all not been listening? Very well, as a mother, I shall lay it out plain for you children. During the war, many died. It is the unfortunate nature of that barbarish thing. Many who died... their souls were simply gone. How would YOU even know? Because, dear children, it was a sacred holy thing entrusted upon me by The One. I am aware of all souls. I feel when they are snuffed out. When they are taken... though I cannot say if they were destroyed or merely moved beyond my reach. What if they could be recovered? There are a lot of "what ifs" you rest upon with that conjecture.
Rani, taking advantage of the Goddess' distraction elsewhere, mage hand bonked the mask off Tel'Rhea's face. Tel'Rhea froze. How dare you lay a hand – arcane or otherwise – upon my person. Clearly, you are SICK, Tel'Rhea. Let us help you. You, too, must recognize that! Oh, have you helped? What I see before me are insolent children, misguided and lost... children who fail to recognize the most sacred and holy gift of The One. I, as a mother, am not above disciplining my children and that... is what I WILL DO.
Children in Need of Discipline
Perturbed by Rani interrupting her and giving her lip (as she perceived it), Tel'Rhea – still not moving from her throne – restrained Rani in a rising set of roots and vines. Rani then immediately had her swarm move her out. Declan then read Tel'Rhea her tenets. Do you not abide by these? Do you not value all life? If you are a protector, why are you choosing violence? Dear child, I did not choose violence. You struck at me first. I will do what I must to protect my children. To protect what The One left in my care.
Is this all because I do not fit within the boundaries you drew? Tel'Rhea turned to Ghilani. Can you control the being you serve? Can you command it? Can you command Primus? Ghilani isn't certain. Tel'Rhea sternly responded: then I must make a decision that IS certain. Tel'Rheas guards moved forward to begin dragging Ghilani closer to the throne, while grabbing Moira as well. Moira shoves the eladrin's face out of the way. We have a right to choose! Yes, it may have caused destruction a long time ago, but can it not change? It has! He has! Tel'Rhea responded by summoning a Wall of Thorns, isolating Ghilani from the rest.
Rani, coming out of her recently implemented Timeout, pleaded with Teal'Rhea. Please, you must do better for all those who look to you. I understand the weight you must be carrying; the burden you must be under – placed upon you by an absent father. And the weight from the loss of a brother. Tel'Rhea seemed to pause. This task was given to me by The One. I have attempted to extend my aid to you and you have refused. And... I did not hear an apology. Rani, stood firm. I don't apologize unless I feel they are justified. But, Rani IS sorry that Tel'Rhea has been carrying this burden alone... not for interrupting the Goddess or for being hoenst.
Declan then landed on his knees in front of Tel'Rhea. She glanced down. This is not what motherhood should be. Tel'Rhea looked at Declan with a look of pity. You, too, are misguided. You have given your soul to them and yet you still believe you are a true servant of the tenets and of The One. Declan asserted that no, he loves Therarask. He is not misguided. He has not given that up. Oh, but dear, you have. You sold your soul, that beautiful gift, to the one your "friend" serves. Do you see what the being you follow has done? Tel'Rhea turned to Ghilani. Warped and distorted the most sacred gift? You are complicit.
Moira managed to escape the grasp of her captor (quite easily), ascending above to get a better lay of the land. Ghilani, however, was brought towards Tel'Rhea who finally stood from her throne. Standing in front of Ghilani, she placed both hands on his face. You are nothing more than a husk. You are devoid of The One's greatest gift. A husk. But I don't feel like a husk. I don't think I'm broken. I don't need fixed. Tel'Rhea sighed. I shall attempt to rectify it. Do not worry. Perhaps it is not too late to grant you a piece of The One's greatest gift. Although her touch is delicate, the feeling of vines and roots digging through the mind is uncomfortable, especially as they begin to pull – almost tearing – and the blood threads.
Rani and Declan simultaneously decided on Plan C: Hug. As Rani hugged the Goddess, however, she flinched away. One of your swords is tainted. Declan went for a more firm bear kind of hug, dragging the Goddess away from Ghilani. Tel'Rhea was NOT pleased with that, delivering the equivalent of a backhand to Declan... who was promptly reminded of his early childhood and life growing up.
As Ghilani removed himself from the grasp of his eladrin buddies... Tolvaj appeared. Ghilani, I have brought you safely... to MY grove. Oh Mother, I can remove these pests for you. I merely request a place in the Grove once more. Tel'Rhea seemed initially repulsed, but after glancing around, seemed to change her mind. Very well, restrain the Khalashtar girl. As you wish, Mother. Unless.... Ghilani, can you offer me a better deal?
And Ghilani DOES offer! Fuck it, he's NOT broken. What do you want Tolvaj? It responded: I want HER. Ghilania greed... and Tolvaj then changed its tune, releasing screaming motes from his rib cage before appearing on top of Tel'Rhea, ensnaring her in a bony cage. Tel'Rhea fixed Ghilani and the others with a heated look as the screaming motes seemed to particularly affect her. The guards, in response, immediately rushed to Tel'Rhea's aid.
Meanwhile, Moira takes a moment to turn inward. Hey bud, how do you feel about pleading your case? Annanias is confused. Would you like me to... take control? Sure, man. Moira finds herself in a cold chamber with swirling blackness. Moira's body slumps before snapping back with blackened eyes, veins, and a jagged crown forming. So, I was told to plead my case.
Are Declan and Rani still on Plan Hug? Are Ghilani and Tolvaj now an iconic duo? What Plan is Moira on? How did they manage to cram minutes of talking into 6 seconds? Stay tuned for "The Deep End and unconventional combat encounters".
Is this all because I do not fit within the boundaries you drew? Tel'Rhea turned to Ghilani. Can you control the being you serve? Can you command it? Can you command Primus? Ghilani isn't certain. Tel'Rhea sternly responded: then I must make a decision that IS certain. Tel'Rheas guards moved forward to begin dragging Ghilani closer to the throne, while grabbing Moira as well. Moira shoves the eladrin's face out of the way. We have a right to choose! Yes, it may have caused destruction a long time ago, but can it not change? It has! He has! Tel'Rhea responded by summoning a Wall of Thorns, isolating Ghilani from the rest.
Rani, coming out of her recently implemented Timeout, pleaded with Teal'Rhea. Please, you must do better for all those who look to you. I understand the weight you must be carrying; the burden you must be under – placed upon you by an absent father. And the weight from the loss of a brother. Tel'Rhea seemed to pause. This task was given to me by The One. I have attempted to extend my aid to you and you have refused. And... I did not hear an apology. Rani, stood firm. I don't apologize unless I feel they are justified. But, Rani IS sorry that Tel'Rhea has been carrying this burden alone... not for interrupting the Goddess or for being hoenst.
Declan then landed on his knees in front of Tel'Rhea. She glanced down. This is not what motherhood should be. Tel'Rhea looked at Declan with a look of pity. You, too, are misguided. You have given your soul to them and yet you still believe you are a true servant of the tenets and of The One. Declan asserted that no, he loves Therarask. He is not misguided. He has not given that up. Oh, but dear, you have. You sold your soul, that beautiful gift, to the one your "friend" serves. Do you see what the being you follow has done? Tel'Rhea turned to Ghilani. Warped and distorted the most sacred gift? You are complicit.
Moira managed to escape the grasp of her captor (quite easily), ascending above to get a better lay of the land. Ghilani, however, was brought towards Tel'Rhea who finally stood from her throne. Standing in front of Ghilani, she placed both hands on his face. You are nothing more than a husk. You are devoid of The One's greatest gift. A husk. But I don't feel like a husk. I don't think I'm broken. I don't need fixed. Tel'Rhea sighed. I shall attempt to rectify it. Do not worry. Perhaps it is not too late to grant you a piece of The One's greatest gift. Although her touch is delicate, the feeling of vines and roots digging through the mind is uncomfortable, especially as they begin to pull – almost tearing – and the blood threads.
Rani and Declan simultaneously decided on Plan C: Hug. As Rani hugged the Goddess, however, she flinched away. One of your swords is tainted. Declan went for a more firm bear kind of hug, dragging the Goddess away from Ghilani. Tel'Rhea was NOT pleased with that, delivering the equivalent of a backhand to Declan... who was promptly reminded of his early childhood and life growing up.
As Ghilani removed himself from the grasp of his eladrin buddies... Tolvaj appeared. Ghilani, I have brought you safely... to MY grove. Oh Mother, I can remove these pests for you. I merely request a place in the Grove once more. Tel'Rhea seemed initially repulsed, but after glancing around, seemed to change her mind. Very well, restrain the Khalashtar girl. As you wish, Mother. Unless.... Ghilani, can you offer me a better deal?
And Ghilani DOES offer! Fuck it, he's NOT broken. What do you want Tolvaj? It responded: I want HER. Ghilania greed... and Tolvaj then changed its tune, releasing screaming motes from his rib cage before appearing on top of Tel'Rhea, ensnaring her in a bony cage. Tel'Rhea fixed Ghilani and the others with a heated look as the screaming motes seemed to particularly affect her. The guards, in response, immediately rushed to Tel'Rhea's aid.
Meanwhile, Moira takes a moment to turn inward. Hey bud, how do you feel about pleading your case? Annanias is confused. Would you like me to... take control? Sure, man. Moira finds herself in a cold chamber with swirling blackness. Moira's body slumps before snapping back with blackened eyes, veins, and a jagged crown forming. So, I was told to plead my case.
Are Declan and Rani still on Plan Hug? Are Ghilani and Tolvaj now an iconic duo? What Plan is Moira on? How did they manage to cram minutes of talking into 6 seconds? Stay tuned for "The Deep End and unconventional combat encounters".
Report Date
15 Jul 2023
Primary Location
Secondary Location
Related Characters
Tel'Rhea's Pyramid of Values
The pyramid seems to present the order of value that Tel'Rhea places upon the other gods and goddesses of the pantheon. Those, at least, within her domain of Life. While some of the choices may be obvious, the reasoning for others has not yet been acquired...
From the bottom of the pyramid up:
- Ah'Shal – For Death is the end of Life
- Ragna – War, that vile, destructive thing.
- Therarask – Is it just for the chaos they bring? Does she not like the sex?
- Lark
- Varoona
- Oshozi
- Carmenthia
- Nacheevi
- Tel'Rhea – For Life stands above all
Tel'Rhea's Grove
Tel'Rhea's Throne
Recovered Memories
The First Life is the purest thing and an unfortunate circumstance that Death must occur. Still, the second life – the After Life – is a blessing, even for those in the Unclaimed Sea of Souls. With IT... there is simply nothing. There is no second life. There is no life at all. Only nothingness. And you have brought a piece of it into my Grove.
The Cracked Mother Goddess
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