Session 90
General Summary
Round & Around the Grove We Go
Tel'Rhea, annoyed and damn near enraged, tree stepped out of Tolvaj's ensnarement before she animated the entirety of nature around everyone. Ghilani found himself stunned, restrained, and then confused. While everyone else attempted to navigate their way out of the annoying nature – Rani giving herself a pep talk behind the Wall of Thorns – Tolvaj moved quickly to pursue the Goddess of Death, hopping across the Grove with ease alongside the Mother Goddess.
Ghilani, once unconfused, pursued Tolvaj and Tel'Rhea, getting real up close. Mother, why are you SO concerned with killing me when there is a monstrosity in your very own Grove? When there is a monster RIGHT in front of you? How can you still come after me? Tel'Rhea fixed him with a stern look... Is that your ploy? To ignore the hand you played in bringing it here? In consorting with it against me? How dare you. Tolvaj also then turned. I am so HURT, Ghilani. As it abandoned the Goddess in favor of Ghilani – begging the mother's forgiveness – a familiar sensation rippled out from around Tolvaj... as the guards soon converged afterward.
The Dread King finally got his wits together and argued that yes, it is a being of destruction... but perhaps I can put that destruction to use for you? Perhaps I can destroy what threatens you? Referring to Tolvaj, Tel'Rhea didn't seem completely convinced. As Newt approached, Tel'Rhea sighed. Finally, one of Ah'Shal's here to finally do what I have asked. Ghilani pleaded with Tel'Rhea. What have the blood witches ever done to you? They have only helped! What of Six? She fixed your own High Priestess! And what of Eight? Do you know how many people she has fed to that creature of hers? Do you know how she has harassed my lands? And more importantly, what of Primus? What of Primus, Ghilani?
Tel'Rhea retreated away from Tolvaj, emerging and binding Annanias to the ground. Right as Tel'Rhea was about to grab a hold of Moira when Declan shoved Moira away, much to the clear annoyance of Tel'Rhea. Meanwhile, Newt moved to grab Ghilani, pulling him free of Tel'Rhea's guards before flying up and over the Wall of Thorns. Hey, WTF is going on?
Tel'Rhea resumed her attempt on Moira. I can see you are struggling. Permit me to help. And then Annanias was gone and Tel'Rhea recoiled. Ugh, there we go. While not perfect, this is better. Tel'Rhea passed through the Wall of Thorns with ease to see Ghilani dangling with newt and Tolvaj merely waiting below. Rani and Declan were quick to pursue. Rani spoke: Family is everything. My mother means so much to me. I feel like I can only say this because I feel as though I've already been a mother, but you need to be a better mother. The One has clearly hurt you and you may feel you are supporting what The One wished for you and the world – breaking your own tenets in the process – but it is hurting you. We can speak to The One. We are so close. We can fix the souls trapped in the Wasteland. What Moira has... it is but a small piece. There is another that has been planted in soils of destruction, vengeance, and anger. Moira has chosen to place hers in soils of another nature. Ghilani has always been full of life. He has only ever been kind. Why can you not extend him a chance?
Tel'Rhea paused, but ultimately remained silent. Declan opened Rani's bag and pulled out the map. I will give up whatever questions of my own in favor of yours. They are more important – as a symbol that I AM still devoted to this pantheon, to this world, and to the gift I was given. With that, Tel'Rhea walked towards Ghilani, grabbed him, and vanished into the ground. Tolvaj, seeing the change in situation, vanished in a mass of swirling motes before skittering off somewhere into the Grove.
Ghilani, once unconfused, pursued Tolvaj and Tel'Rhea, getting real up close. Mother, why are you SO concerned with killing me when there is a monstrosity in your very own Grove? When there is a monster RIGHT in front of you? How can you still come after me? Tel'Rhea fixed him with a stern look... Is that your ploy? To ignore the hand you played in bringing it here? In consorting with it against me? How dare you. Tolvaj also then turned. I am so HURT, Ghilani. As it abandoned the Goddess in favor of Ghilani – begging the mother's forgiveness – a familiar sensation rippled out from around Tolvaj... as the guards soon converged afterward.
The Dread King finally got his wits together and argued that yes, it is a being of destruction... but perhaps I can put that destruction to use for you? Perhaps I can destroy what threatens you? Referring to Tolvaj, Tel'Rhea didn't seem completely convinced. As Newt approached, Tel'Rhea sighed. Finally, one of Ah'Shal's here to finally do what I have asked. Ghilani pleaded with Tel'Rhea. What have the blood witches ever done to you? They have only helped! What of Six? She fixed your own High Priestess! And what of Eight? Do you know how many people she has fed to that creature of hers? Do you know how she has harassed my lands? And more importantly, what of Primus? What of Primus, Ghilani?
Tel'Rhea retreated away from Tolvaj, emerging and binding Annanias to the ground. Right as Tel'Rhea was about to grab a hold of Moira when Declan shoved Moira away, much to the clear annoyance of Tel'Rhea. Meanwhile, Newt moved to grab Ghilani, pulling him free of Tel'Rhea's guards before flying up and over the Wall of Thorns. Hey, WTF is going on?
Tel'Rhea resumed her attempt on Moira. I can see you are struggling. Permit me to help. And then Annanias was gone and Tel'Rhea recoiled. Ugh, there we go. While not perfect, this is better. Tel'Rhea passed through the Wall of Thorns with ease to see Ghilani dangling with newt and Tolvaj merely waiting below. Rani and Declan were quick to pursue. Rani spoke: Family is everything. My mother means so much to me. I feel like I can only say this because I feel as though I've already been a mother, but you need to be a better mother. The One has clearly hurt you and you may feel you are supporting what The One wished for you and the world – breaking your own tenets in the process – but it is hurting you. We can speak to The One. We are so close. We can fix the souls trapped in the Wasteland. What Moira has... it is but a small piece. There is another that has been planted in soils of destruction, vengeance, and anger. Moira has chosen to place hers in soils of another nature. Ghilani has always been full of life. He has only ever been kind. Why can you not extend him a chance?
Tel'Rhea paused, but ultimately remained silent. Declan opened Rani's bag and pulled out the map. I will give up whatever questions of my own in favor of yours. They are more important – as a symbol that I AM still devoted to this pantheon, to this world, and to the gift I was given. With that, Tel'Rhea walked towards Ghilani, grabbed him, and vanished into the ground. Tolvaj, seeing the change in situation, vanished in a mass of swirling motes before skittering off somewhere into the Grove.
Tel'Rhea's Temporary Trust
Rani immediately utilized Primeval Awareness and was able to sense a larger "blob" of Celestial amidst the mass of Celestial pings. Newt affirmed her direction choice from his own connection with Ghilani.
Ghilani found himself in a nature-based living space as Tel'Rhea emerged and unceremoniously dropped him on the ground. The Mother Goddess seemed to move about the space, gathering ingredients and items: as promised, I will attempt to fix you – husk-like as you are. What does Primus want? Ghilani explained that Primus just wants to stay in this world. To coexist... to keep living. What is so wrong with that? Do you not see what happened the last time a being of that ilk arrived here? In The One's world? There was a war. A devastating one, mind you. A creature of such ilk, if left unchecked, will spread their influence out like an unsavory, wretch plague, a blight... a hive. Can you control them? Ghilani paused. I'm not sure, but I will try. I won't let them do the harm you seem so convinced that they will do. Tel'Rhea paused. Then prove it. Break the connect between you and both of the hunters. Did they tell you that you would be able to? Yes, I should... at least I can break one of them. I don't know if I can break Declan's... that would be up to Six. Very well. I will allow your friends in and, as proof, you will sever that tie...
Tel'Rhea lifted a hand and pulled in the rest of The Deep End. Everyone stood there for a moment as Ghilani approached Newt. I'm sorry, but I have to break the blood bond to prove to her that I can control Primus in some capacity. Newt told Ghilani to make whatever choice you feel you need to make. I have your back regardless. Ghilani strained and struggled for a moment before finally finding the connection. Newt then unceremoniously coughed up blood and felt the connection to Ghilani fade (Newt will always have a connection to Ghilani though, he asserted). Ghilani apologized for the blood on the floor. Tel'Rhea fornwed. I am the Goddess of Mothers and of Childbirth... I don't care about blood on my floors.
As the Mother Goddess sunk into a seat, she seemed a bit smaller than normal. Rani asked if Tolvaj was actually Tel'Rhea's child. The Goddess sighed. No, I do not know where it came from. I have tried to destroy it, but clearly that is not feasible. Do you know what you have done – what you have risked – by bringing it here? You mortals cannot fathom it, if that being got a hold of me. It is not the same as Ragna and her parasite.
Rani pulled out the Map and presented it to Tel'Rhea, who froze momentarily. We just need two more temples and... we can speak with them. We'll tell them how much they hurt you– No. You must ask them to return. This world was shattered... I have felt so for some time. If there was a being who could fix it, it would be The One. Tel'Rhea, holding her stomach, seemed to incredibly small as she explained that she has... failed. Not because she abandoned her tenets. She has seen one war, then another, the rise of a destructive being again and then the threat of Primus. Perhaps only The One can fix all of this. Mend the cracks and restore the world.
Tel'Rhea turned once more to Ghilani. Have you ever stopped to ask why your mother put up such wards? Why she warded an entire city? Even if she was not blessed of the greatest gift, I am privy to all mothers' please... and I heard hers when she died. Holding out her hand, Ghilani hesitantly took it. The Mother Goddess pulled him closer and placed a single finger to Ghilani's forehead, the markings there begin to glow more vibrant. She was still a mother, regardless of her choices. At the very least, for her, I will give you this extension of my trust, temporary and fleeting. Know, that if you break it, I will not spare any resources in removing you. Ghilani felt a bit more protected.
Moira thanked the Goddess. Moira's not sure she can convince Tel'Rhea, but this thing... it has memories. And it seemed to hold genuine care for someone with The One's gift. That has to mean something, right? Something worth pursuing? Tel'Rhea thought. If it has memories... I do not remember the war, none of the gods and goddesses do. But perhaps it does... I do not know how Judas died, but I know that he was never buried. perhaps it remembers what happened.
Newt then asked what Tel'Rhea knew about Vainheart. Tel'Rhea frowned. How did you learn that name? From a library. Tel'Rhea muttered, that Goddess... Long ago, the undead roamed this continent. Ah'Shal and her Executioners rightfully sought to eradicate them. i do not know his father, but she only ever had one son, this being you call Vainheart. he was tasked to lead Ah'Shal's Executioners... and instead of killing the undead, he collected them. he became warped into one himself. I told Ah'Shal to kill him, but it seems that is not the case. Newt remarked that he is currently attempting to close the door. Tel'Rhea is aware of Atu – finding him annoying and much too talkative. That door has been open for a long time. If we do not know how to close it, then perhaps The One might know how to close it. Or perhaps, if The One left a map, they also left something else.
Ghilani piped up. You should really go talk to Ah'Shal. Tel'Rhea sighed, looking forlorn. I do not think that is wise while she is in company.
Declan assured Tel'Rhea that he did not make the decision regarding his soul likely. He'll do what he can to ensure Ghilani is guided. This pantheon, this world, he's not had something to live for in so long. Tel'Rhea thanked him – it is appreciated.
As the others departed, Ghilani stayed behind, producing a vial with the faintest trace of orange and gold, interspersed with black and violet. Tel'Rhea took it... how did you... I sense it. The faintest trace. Ghilani said that he and another mage may know how to bring him back. Tel'Rhea smiled sadly. There is not enough of that, but if you can, do so. Since Judas died, I feel a piece of me has been dead as well. Ghilani offered Tel'Rhea a flower before departing... only to come back shortly thereafter to give her a hug. You would do well to grow a spine, child.
Tel'Rhea lifted a hand and pulled in the rest of The Deep End. Everyone stood there for a moment as Ghilani approached Newt. I'm sorry, but I have to break the blood bond to prove to her that I can control Primus in some capacity. Newt told Ghilani to make whatever choice you feel you need to make. I have your back regardless. Ghilani strained and struggled for a moment before finally finding the connection. Newt then unceremoniously coughed up blood and felt the connection to Ghilani fade (Newt will always have a connection to Ghilani though, he asserted). Ghilani apologized for the blood on the floor. Tel'Rhea fornwed. I am the Goddess of Mothers and of Childbirth... I don't care about blood on my floors.
As the Mother Goddess sunk into a seat, she seemed a bit smaller than normal. Rani asked if Tolvaj was actually Tel'Rhea's child. The Goddess sighed. No, I do not know where it came from. I have tried to destroy it, but clearly that is not feasible. Do you know what you have done – what you have risked – by bringing it here? You mortals cannot fathom it, if that being got a hold of me. It is not the same as Ragna and her parasite.
Rani pulled out the Map and presented it to Tel'Rhea, who froze momentarily. We just need two more temples and... we can speak with them. We'll tell them how much they hurt you– No. You must ask them to return. This world was shattered... I have felt so for some time. If there was a being who could fix it, it would be The One. Tel'Rhea, holding her stomach, seemed to incredibly small as she explained that she has... failed. Not because she abandoned her tenets. She has seen one war, then another, the rise of a destructive being again and then the threat of Primus. Perhaps only The One can fix all of this. Mend the cracks and restore the world.
Tel'Rhea turned once more to Ghilani. Have you ever stopped to ask why your mother put up such wards? Why she warded an entire city? Even if she was not blessed of the greatest gift, I am privy to all mothers' please... and I heard hers when she died. Holding out her hand, Ghilani hesitantly took it. The Mother Goddess pulled him closer and placed a single finger to Ghilani's forehead, the markings there begin to glow more vibrant. She was still a mother, regardless of her choices. At the very least, for her, I will give you this extension of my trust, temporary and fleeting. Know, that if you break it, I will not spare any resources in removing you. Ghilani felt a bit more protected.
Moira thanked the Goddess. Moira's not sure she can convince Tel'Rhea, but this thing... it has memories. And it seemed to hold genuine care for someone with The One's gift. That has to mean something, right? Something worth pursuing? Tel'Rhea thought. If it has memories... I do not remember the war, none of the gods and goddesses do. But perhaps it does... I do not know how Judas died, but I know that he was never buried. perhaps it remembers what happened.
Newt then asked what Tel'Rhea knew about Vainheart. Tel'Rhea frowned. How did you learn that name? From a library. Tel'Rhea muttered, that Goddess... Long ago, the undead roamed this continent. Ah'Shal and her Executioners rightfully sought to eradicate them. i do not know his father, but she only ever had one son, this being you call Vainheart. he was tasked to lead Ah'Shal's Executioners... and instead of killing the undead, he collected them. he became warped into one himself. I told Ah'Shal to kill him, but it seems that is not the case. Newt remarked that he is currently attempting to close the door. Tel'Rhea is aware of Atu – finding him annoying and much too talkative. That door has been open for a long time. If we do not know how to close it, then perhaps The One might know how to close it. Or perhaps, if The One left a map, they also left something else.
Ghilani piped up. You should really go talk to Ah'Shal. Tel'Rhea sighed, looking forlorn. I do not think that is wise while she is in company.
Declan assured Tel'Rhea that he did not make the decision regarding his soul likely. He'll do what he can to ensure Ghilani is guided. This pantheon, this world, he's not had something to live for in so long. Tel'Rhea thanked him – it is appreciated.
As the others departed, Ghilani stayed behind, producing a vial with the faintest trace of orange and gold, interspersed with black and violet. Tel'Rhea took it... how did you... I sense it. The faintest trace. Ghilani said that he and another mage may know how to bring him back. Tel'Rhea smiled sadly. There is not enough of that, but if you can, do so. Since Judas died, I feel a piece of me has been dead as well. Ghilani offered Tel'Rhea a flower before departing... only to come back shortly thereafter to give her a hug. You would do well to grow a spine, child.
Getting Ready for Our Doctor Appointment
After assisting the guards with the removal of Tolvaj, Ghilani said "you suck", while Rani consoled the bones: "Sorry, I'd rather have life". With that taken care of, the group took some time to go shopping for some healing potions. Quickly stopping by at Six's, Rani found some bags amidst her hoarded piles of unorganized stuff... and had everyone put a little bit of themselves inside. JUST in case something goes wrong! We can be brought back! Rani goes to set it down before Declan collects it; let's put it by her book. That's the only vaguely organized room in this whole place.
Declan then pulled Ghilani aside. Look, you deserved honesty right now. Do you know what Primus plans to do? Why they have you out collecting blood? Ghilani said yeah, they need to re-tether themself to the world. Declan said no... I don't think that's it. They made you... to take over you. They need you – something of this world – and I think they will destroy you to get it. Ghilani seemed shaken – no, that can't be the case. They wouldn't do that. Declan seemed confident that it's definitely a possibility. Declan's been reading between the lines and with what Kalé warned... what he previously thought now seems more like a full truth than a half-truth. Ghilani paused. Why would you tell me this then? Declan emphasized that Ghilani is important. Yes, Declan wants his own happiness, but Ghilani's happiness matters too. Maybe, if you're ready for it, you can ensure Primus doesn't take you over completely. Speaking of Primus, Ghilani noticed that he hasn't heard from them. While piloting Declan via mustache... Ghilani managed to hear, warbled and distorted: What has she done to you? The voice seemed mildly alarmed and perhaps a tiny bit irritated.
Rani took a moment to chat with her swords. What ELSE did Anonymous get wrong? Suraksha isn't sure but that's definitely not right. They know that much. Vinaash isn't sure what task was given, just that Dysis and Soyolmaa were a united front. But those big things? Maybe taking out those would help. Everything seems foggy, but they felt a bit better after those.
Newt asked the group if they had any pressing matters to attend to. Nah, we're just gonna stay the night at Six's. Moira had planned to go to Caliban... but Annanias seems a little distant? Hard to reach? He probably just needs some sleep. Newt mentioned crossing the bridge to go to Ah'Shal's domain – they are right here after all. The group agreed and, upon arriving, Rani detected quite a few fiends. What are they doing top side? A handful of them bow as they move past. They don't seem to be doing anything cruel or odd, just moving through the city like normal folks.
The Deep End found the Temple in a slightly more cleaner state and the soul-line seemingly moving much more efficiently than before. Within the office, they found Ah'Shal seated at her desk with Atu nearby. Ah, what a surprise! Welcome! What can we do for you? Newt then asked, how much of your army needs to come through? Atu paused before turning to Hithvessa. he assured Newt that they are holding his Fortress. Perhaps three-quarters of his forces are still on the other side. he has been guarding this door for far belong Newt's lifetime... which perhaps is not the greatest benchmark. Regardless, Newt should have more faith in his ol' dad! And what's going on with the fiends top side? Oh yes, shape-changers, though not my best two. Newt then ducked out to speak with Oksha.
By best two... do you mean Ikaris and his brother? Oh yes! They should be in Elios by now. Rani then asked how much Atu knows about Oshiv'Ran? Unfortunately, very little. Great. Rani left to go talk to someone else about the necklace: Thyron. The other three stayed behind, moving to talk to Ah'Shal and ignoring Atu, much to his displeasure, which he makes very known. Ghilani says hey... guess what. Do you know who we talked to? You survived Tel'Rhea... a feat in and of itself. Declan asked about Ah'Shal's scars. I have had them for two decades. i do not know how to fix them. As I told you before. I became envious of life. It consumed me. Ah'Shal suspected that her cracking was not tied to breaking her tenets, but a facet of her personality. Ghilani mentioned that perhaps Ah'Shal and Tel'Rhea should talk. Atu piped up – completely serious – you know what happened last time. Is that truly for the best?
Declan then, being honest, mind linked with Ah'Shal and informed the Goddess that Tel'Rhea knew about Vainheart. Ah'Shal froze. What? Get out. Get OUT. Moira left PROMPTO. Ghilani, confused, was escorted out by Declan. As Atu closed the doors, he went to say something before deciding otherwise, and closing them.
Meanwhile, Newt found Oksha tending to the line of souls. Why are you back? She is pleased to see him. Newt asked if she's been alright. Oksha assured him that she has been fine. She has simmered down and is pleased that she can help here. Your father is... nice, but a lot. Yeah. Newt asked if there's anything off about him? Look, this whole relationship between Newt and his dad started this relationship on a lie. Who knows what else he could be lying about! Oksha offered a bit of honesty: You have a tendency to lie and I do not hold that as your only facet of character. Newt paused: true, father like son I guess. Regardless, Oksha explained that Atu had been nothing but helpful, honestly. He had not once left Ah'Shal's office and seemed adamantly focused on helping her. Oksha asked Newt about Ah'Shal's tenets. This time, he managed to name a few domains beyond Death. Oksha smiled. That's better, but you still have a lot of work to do. I do believe in you though. With a final hug, Newt left Oksha to her work.
Rani found Thyron with his feat in the edge of the river. You are a man who got around, right? Oh, I most definitely did. Have you ever gone to Oshiv'Ran? Do you recognize this necklace? Thyron doesn't and they soul they then ask doesn't. Good luck finding whatever it is you need from that!
Returning to the city, Ghilani cuts through the poorer district, stopping to talk to a young girl with a basket of withered flowers. She offered one as a condolence to Ghilani when he mentioned his mother. Ghilani magically produced a flower and offered it to her. Oh, I will give this one to Rust Bucket! Oh, Rust Bucket? The girl seemed a bit sad. She hasn't seen Rust Bucket in some time. Hugh. Ghilani dragged the group to Crossbones – that's where he saw Rust Bucket before. Lady Crossbones seemed to have acquired a nice set of large arms to adorn the back of her bar. She recognized Ghilani and approached. She too hasn't seen Rust Bucket in some time. Been a bit different round here. Mirage and Blitz haven't been around either. Moira, can you scry on the bounty hunters?
Returning to Tel'Rhea, Rani made a stop in a library – hyper focused on the necklace. The hound is most certainly a clan symbol of Zver'Behepka – a symbol of their hunting hounds. The other two, however, do not match any clans. Perhaps they mean something else?
Moira scried on Rust Bucket and found him in the process of getting repaired by a gnomish man in a workshop of sorts. She's unable to scry on Cordelia, but found Mirage standing amidst smog just watching. Ominously. Seemed they're okay? Ghilani isn't convinced. Hey Rust Bucket, what happened? What does "Per Protocol" mean? What's the status quo? Through a series of messages, Rust Bucket explained that the general status quo has experienced somewhat of a shift. He has been in worse and will be fine. Per Protocol relates to his underlying set of protocols... you overrode the kill protocol randomly. Congratulations.
In preparation for the following morning, Declan dreamed Six. She's just arrived in Caliban. Declan hugged her, thanking her for taking him in. You say this with such sadness. I just wanted to tell you that I love you and that I appreciate you. I love you too. Now, go be a dumb, stupid idiot boy who swings a weapons real good, yes? This dragonborn is also so very sad. He's in love with Ghilani, that's probably why. OHHhhhhhh.
Moira sent to Yue, expressing her love for her. Yue responded that she loves Moira as well. There will be baked goods waiting for her – all her favorites – whenever she returned home next.
Declan forced a dream with Therarask, recreating one of Thera's memories of a past life: brunch and dancing in the rain. Thera is quick to pick up on something being very, very wrong. As Declan kissed Thera, he professed his love and expressed how they had saved him. Thera squinted. Why do you make that sound like a goodbye? You know you don't have to go. But that's the thing, I do. Then at least promise me you will come back.
In the morning, the Deep End wakes. Best not be late to your doctor appointment!
Declan then pulled Ghilani aside. Look, you deserved honesty right now. Do you know what Primus plans to do? Why they have you out collecting blood? Ghilani said yeah, they need to re-tether themself to the world. Declan said no... I don't think that's it. They made you... to take over you. They need you – something of this world – and I think they will destroy you to get it. Ghilani seemed shaken – no, that can't be the case. They wouldn't do that. Declan seemed confident that it's definitely a possibility. Declan's been reading between the lines and with what Kalé warned... what he previously thought now seems more like a full truth than a half-truth. Ghilani paused. Why would you tell me this then? Declan emphasized that Ghilani is important. Yes, Declan wants his own happiness, but Ghilani's happiness matters too. Maybe, if you're ready for it, you can ensure Primus doesn't take you over completely. Speaking of Primus, Ghilani noticed that he hasn't heard from them. While piloting Declan via mustache... Ghilani managed to hear, warbled and distorted: What has she done to you? The voice seemed mildly alarmed and perhaps a tiny bit irritated.
Rani took a moment to chat with her swords. What ELSE did Anonymous get wrong? Suraksha isn't sure but that's definitely not right. They know that much. Vinaash isn't sure what task was given, just that Dysis and Soyolmaa were a united front. But those big things? Maybe taking out those would help. Everything seems foggy, but they felt a bit better after those.
Newt asked the group if they had any pressing matters to attend to. Nah, we're just gonna stay the night at Six's. Moira had planned to go to Caliban... but Annanias seems a little distant? Hard to reach? He probably just needs some sleep. Newt mentioned crossing the bridge to go to Ah'Shal's domain – they are right here after all. The group agreed and, upon arriving, Rani detected quite a few fiends. What are they doing top side? A handful of them bow as they move past. They don't seem to be doing anything cruel or odd, just moving through the city like normal folks.
The Deep End found the Temple in a slightly more cleaner state and the soul-line seemingly moving much more efficiently than before. Within the office, they found Ah'Shal seated at her desk with Atu nearby. Ah, what a surprise! Welcome! What can we do for you? Newt then asked, how much of your army needs to come through? Atu paused before turning to Hithvessa. he assured Newt that they are holding his Fortress. Perhaps three-quarters of his forces are still on the other side. he has been guarding this door for far belong Newt's lifetime... which perhaps is not the greatest benchmark. Regardless, Newt should have more faith in his ol' dad! And what's going on with the fiends top side? Oh yes, shape-changers, though not my best two. Newt then ducked out to speak with Oksha.
By best two... do you mean Ikaris and his brother? Oh yes! They should be in Elios by now. Rani then asked how much Atu knows about Oshiv'Ran? Unfortunately, very little. Great. Rani left to go talk to someone else about the necklace: Thyron. The other three stayed behind, moving to talk to Ah'Shal and ignoring Atu, much to his displeasure, which he makes very known. Ghilani says hey... guess what. Do you know who we talked to? You survived Tel'Rhea... a feat in and of itself. Declan asked about Ah'Shal's scars. I have had them for two decades. i do not know how to fix them. As I told you before. I became envious of life. It consumed me. Ah'Shal suspected that her cracking was not tied to breaking her tenets, but a facet of her personality. Ghilani mentioned that perhaps Ah'Shal and Tel'Rhea should talk. Atu piped up – completely serious – you know what happened last time. Is that truly for the best?
Declan then, being honest, mind linked with Ah'Shal and informed the Goddess that Tel'Rhea knew about Vainheart. Ah'Shal froze. What? Get out. Get OUT. Moira left PROMPTO. Ghilani, confused, was escorted out by Declan. As Atu closed the doors, he went to say something before deciding otherwise, and closing them.
Meanwhile, Newt found Oksha tending to the line of souls. Why are you back? She is pleased to see him. Newt asked if she's been alright. Oksha assured him that she has been fine. She has simmered down and is pleased that she can help here. Your father is... nice, but a lot. Yeah. Newt asked if there's anything off about him? Look, this whole relationship between Newt and his dad started this relationship on a lie. Who knows what else he could be lying about! Oksha offered a bit of honesty: You have a tendency to lie and I do not hold that as your only facet of character. Newt paused: true, father like son I guess. Regardless, Oksha explained that Atu had been nothing but helpful, honestly. He had not once left Ah'Shal's office and seemed adamantly focused on helping her. Oksha asked Newt about Ah'Shal's tenets. This time, he managed to name a few domains beyond Death. Oksha smiled. That's better, but you still have a lot of work to do. I do believe in you though. With a final hug, Newt left Oksha to her work.
Rani found Thyron with his feat in the edge of the river. You are a man who got around, right? Oh, I most definitely did. Have you ever gone to Oshiv'Ran? Do you recognize this necklace? Thyron doesn't and they soul they then ask doesn't. Good luck finding whatever it is you need from that!
Returning to the city, Ghilani cuts through the poorer district, stopping to talk to a young girl with a basket of withered flowers. She offered one as a condolence to Ghilani when he mentioned his mother. Ghilani magically produced a flower and offered it to her. Oh, I will give this one to Rust Bucket! Oh, Rust Bucket? The girl seemed a bit sad. She hasn't seen Rust Bucket in some time. Hugh. Ghilani dragged the group to Crossbones – that's where he saw Rust Bucket before. Lady Crossbones seemed to have acquired a nice set of large arms to adorn the back of her bar. She recognized Ghilani and approached. She too hasn't seen Rust Bucket in some time. Been a bit different round here. Mirage and Blitz haven't been around either. Moira, can you scry on the bounty hunters?
Returning to Tel'Rhea, Rani made a stop in a library – hyper focused on the necklace. The hound is most certainly a clan symbol of Zver'Behepka – a symbol of their hunting hounds. The other two, however, do not match any clans. Perhaps they mean something else?
Moira scried on Rust Bucket and found him in the process of getting repaired by a gnomish man in a workshop of sorts. She's unable to scry on Cordelia, but found Mirage standing amidst smog just watching. Ominously. Seemed they're okay? Ghilani isn't convinced. Hey Rust Bucket, what happened? What does "Per Protocol" mean? What's the status quo? Through a series of messages, Rust Bucket explained that the general status quo has experienced somewhat of a shift. He has been in worse and will be fine. Per Protocol relates to his underlying set of protocols... you overrode the kill protocol randomly. Congratulations.
In preparation for the following morning, Declan dreamed Six. She's just arrived in Caliban. Declan hugged her, thanking her for taking him in. You say this with such sadness. I just wanted to tell you that I love you and that I appreciate you. I love you too. Now, go be a dumb, stupid idiot boy who swings a weapons real good, yes? This dragonborn is also so very sad. He's in love with Ghilani, that's probably why. OHHhhhhhh.
Moira sent to Yue, expressing her love for her. Yue responded that she loves Moira as well. There will be baked goods waiting for her – all her favorites – whenever she returned home next.
Declan forced a dream with Therarask, recreating one of Thera's memories of a past life: brunch and dancing in the rain. Thera is quick to pick up on something being very, very wrong. As Declan kissed Thera, he professed his love and expressed how they had saved him. Thera squinted. Why do you make that sound like a goodbye? You know you don't have to go. But that's the thing, I do. Then at least promise me you will come back.
In the morning, the Deep End wakes. Best not be late to your doctor appointment!
Report Date
21 Jul 2023
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