Session 98
General Summary
Last Days in Sun's First Grace
Upon returning to Sun's First Grace, Rani heads to the Shrine to Caliban. Once there, she laid out the old Bhediya fabric and placed both her swords on top. As she began to meditate, she asked both multiple questions. When did Soyolmaa come here? Vinaash recalled that the Dread King's War had already begun when Soyolmaa came here. Further, they only ever came here once and there certainly wasn't enough time to focus on the map. Why was Soyolmaa slated for Execution? He felt that she had betrayed him. That she had betrayed his cause. And what was his cause? Suraksha responded "making war for the sake of war". Vinaash responded that Soyolmaa prevented him from "upholding an oath". When asked who specifically they were referring to, Suraksha responded Judas as Vinaash responded Annanias. As Moira walked into the Shrine to ask further about the fast travel between the Temple of Elis and the Temple of Caliban that used to exist, Rani had a thought.
Meanwhile, Ghilani and Declan returned to the Egg Basket where Ghilani orders the largest plate of food they offer (to which Tyto gives it on the house). Upholding the tenets of Elis, Ghilani ate the whole thing. Newt spent some time amidst the hunters and other Elians on top of Hunter's Gift. In the later hours, they seemed to abandoned their crafts and work in favor of performances and storytelling. As the Deep End all convened that night in the pods, Moira checked in with her buddy and pal. How are you doing? Annanias felt... resolved. As if he has a purpose now. He informed Moira that he wished to find her and that he has faith that Moira will continue to assist.
Rani asked to hold swords with Moira, who agreed. With swords in hand, Rani offered introductions between the swords, Moira, and Annanias, who reluctantly emerged to say "hello" per request. When Rani asked if they felt any "familiarity", Suraksha noted that it seemed odd as Annanias and Vinaash simultaneously commented: "You're me". Annanias claimed that Vinaash is a small fragment and... different. It is hard to say exactly. Regardless, neither shared a desire to execute anyone in the pod, don't you worry!
Newt found himself in an incredibly dark place – not even darkvision could discern anything. Standing in water, there was no current, yet still the sensation of one. It is vaguely familiar. And then a green light emerged, revealing the silhouette and then the more detailed form of the Goddess of Death seated at her desk within the heart of her domain.
Meanwhile, Declan returned to the dream platform. Oh my goodness, back so soon? Have you spoken to Varoona? Unfortunately, she is quite fixated on a missing Pirate Lord who manages to avoid her gaze. After discussing the Pirate Lord, Therarask mentioned that if the map – something created by The One – cannot find the Pirate Lord, then he must be in possession of something equal and opposite. A bit of The Void would most certainly qualify. When Therarask mentioned that they are very busy, Declan pried. Obviously, they have very important god things to do... like pruning the Jungle trees.
In the morning, Ghilani received a return message from Ismera. Carmenthia said that the Void is likely the Dread King and that she sent a warrior to fight... they never returned. Rani mindlinked with Declan: I think we should all know the Doctor's identity. We should all know who we're dealing with. Ah yes, well, he's the Grand Priest everyone. Ghilani floundered as he was in the process of getting the normal wards up and Moira immediately looked around for invisible scrying things. Moira mentioned that he is also the one who infected her (in an intentional unnatural way not a random unnatural way). Was he able to do it so easily and quickly because Moira is a khalashtar? There was further discussion about it means for the Grand Priest to be The Doctor. Is he faking is way through the priesthood of The One? ...Or is this the kind of Priest The One wanted all along? Regardless, Rani emphasized that the Grand Priest CANNOT know that the map is complete.
As the group moved to speak with the Light Master, Newt arranged for an escort to the heart of the blizzard. Sage seems as short and to the point as normal. Navigating down a side hall of the Chieftain's Perch, the Deep End arrived in a three-story chamber lined with jars of Villám shards encased in ice. A small aarakocra was perched in the center, seemingly fixated on the shard of Villám attached to the end of the staff he carried. Oh, welcome! How can I help you? The young Rowbyn seemed delighted when the group expressed an interest in learning about Villám. He informed them of how to properly care for Villám. They keep it stored in ice cold water to suppress its electrical properties. Refined Villám can be altered to glow (as he touched his staff) or to detonate an an electrical field. When asked about the Villám mine situation, Rowbyn informed them that if he had any martial prowess, he would beat them. Rani asked that if a lot of Villám got damaged, but the mines were retaken, would that be okay? Rowbyn visibly composed himself, but one tear escaped: Yes, if it MUST be done.
After being shown Rowbyn's favorite piece of Villám (it's shaped like a bird) and perusing the gift shop, the Deep End departed. At Hunter's Gift, they spoke to some of the older hunters about Hornbeak. Olkka, an aarakocra elder, mentioned that Hornbeak had a way with Szorm'Szor (or so he claimed) and was a talented hunter. A shame that he lost his mother when he was so young. Now that I think about it, I don't believe I ever knew who the father was. Peculiar. Newt was able to quickly locate Rhovahk who, reluctantly, agreed to gather Jhaxton (and one other Elian) to help carry the group through the Anwar-Dai.
Almost immediately after take off, Ghilani asked Rhovahk who is mother was. The Elian responded that he doesn't know his mother. His father, Rhosstan, told him that she left. Ghilani then posed the possibility of... maybe Elis is your mom. Rhovahk immediately moved to Newt and Declan to confirm that Ghilani wasn't on some kind of drugs this morning. As Ghilani mentioned Rhovahk's nose thing and how he seems fine now and how his feather coloration matches Elis', Rhovahk seemed to pause. Why would my father lie then? Ghilani responded: To keep you humble maybe. That seemed to hit. Rhovahk blue screened.
Ghilani decided to speak with Primus. As he willed a connection to establish, there was the uncomfortable sensation of thorns prying themselves from his mind and then the full force of Primus' anxiety. They are just happy Ghilani is fine, well, and safe. Though they expressed clear displeasure at Tel'Rhea (the thorny bitch). Primus informed Ghilani that Nine has perhaps 3 days until she withers and dies. Do hurry. Primus offered to send Lux as a quick means of travel to the Compound of Blood. Ghilani asked about the tethering... it's analogous to champions and gods right? Yes... analogous. Did blood come first or did you? Primus explaiend that blood is the form they took upon arriving in this world. What will happen when you are tethered? Like the roots of a tree I will stretch across this continent. I will be stronger. You will be stronger. We will be stronger.
Meanwhile, Ghilani and Declan returned to the Egg Basket where Ghilani orders the largest plate of food they offer (to which Tyto gives it on the house). Upholding the tenets of Elis, Ghilani ate the whole thing. Newt spent some time amidst the hunters and other Elians on top of Hunter's Gift. In the later hours, they seemed to abandoned their crafts and work in favor of performances and storytelling. As the Deep End all convened that night in the pods, Moira checked in with her buddy and pal. How are you doing? Annanias felt... resolved. As if he has a purpose now. He informed Moira that he wished to find her and that he has faith that Moira will continue to assist.
Rani asked to hold swords with Moira, who agreed. With swords in hand, Rani offered introductions between the swords, Moira, and Annanias, who reluctantly emerged to say "hello" per request. When Rani asked if they felt any "familiarity", Suraksha noted that it seemed odd as Annanias and Vinaash simultaneously commented: "You're me". Annanias claimed that Vinaash is a small fragment and... different. It is hard to say exactly. Regardless, neither shared a desire to execute anyone in the pod, don't you worry!
Newt found himself in an incredibly dark place – not even darkvision could discern anything. Standing in water, there was no current, yet still the sensation of one. It is vaguely familiar. And then a green light emerged, revealing the silhouette and then the more detailed form of the Goddess of Death seated at her desk within the heart of her domain.
As I suspected. A being such as It would possess such capabilities. Though even what you have faced is a shadow of Its true strength, else there would be none of your soul left. Or, perhaps, you were strong enough to resist Its attempt to devour your entire soul. If that had occurred, even I could not have brought it back. Do not fret, It has merely stolen the essence of your soul. In time, I imagine, it will rediscover itself. Your soul is more... resilient than most. I shall retether you to the Realm of the Dead.Newt found a small carved rat in his hand... a soul trinket. And a moment later, Ah'Shal returned Thyron's Keys. After being momentarily distracted by a figure seated at her desk, Ah'Shal informed Newt that what nearly happened to him... did happen to her last true executioner.
Meanwhile, Declan returned to the dream platform. Oh my goodness, back so soon? Have you spoken to Varoona? Unfortunately, she is quite fixated on a missing Pirate Lord who manages to avoid her gaze. After discussing the Pirate Lord, Therarask mentioned that if the map – something created by The One – cannot find the Pirate Lord, then he must be in possession of something equal and opposite. A bit of The Void would most certainly qualify. When Therarask mentioned that they are very busy, Declan pried. Obviously, they have very important god things to do... like pruning the Jungle trees.
In the morning, Ghilani received a return message from Ismera. Carmenthia said that the Void is likely the Dread King and that she sent a warrior to fight... they never returned. Rani mindlinked with Declan: I think we should all know the Doctor's identity. We should all know who we're dealing with. Ah yes, well, he's the Grand Priest everyone. Ghilani floundered as he was in the process of getting the normal wards up and Moira immediately looked around for invisible scrying things. Moira mentioned that he is also the one who infected her (in an intentional unnatural way not a random unnatural way). Was he able to do it so easily and quickly because Moira is a khalashtar? There was further discussion about it means for the Grand Priest to be The Doctor. Is he faking is way through the priesthood of The One? ...Or is this the kind of Priest The One wanted all along? Regardless, Rani emphasized that the Grand Priest CANNOT know that the map is complete.
As the group moved to speak with the Light Master, Newt arranged for an escort to the heart of the blizzard. Sage seems as short and to the point as normal. Navigating down a side hall of the Chieftain's Perch, the Deep End arrived in a three-story chamber lined with jars of Villám shards encased in ice. A small aarakocra was perched in the center, seemingly fixated on the shard of Villám attached to the end of the staff he carried. Oh, welcome! How can I help you? The young Rowbyn seemed delighted when the group expressed an interest in learning about Villám. He informed them of how to properly care for Villám. They keep it stored in ice cold water to suppress its electrical properties. Refined Villám can be altered to glow (as he touched his staff) or to detonate an an electrical field. When asked about the Villám mine situation, Rowbyn informed them that if he had any martial prowess, he would beat them. Rani asked that if a lot of Villám got damaged, but the mines were retaken, would that be okay? Rowbyn visibly composed himself, but one tear escaped: Yes, if it MUST be done.
After being shown Rowbyn's favorite piece of Villám (it's shaped like a bird) and perusing the gift shop, the Deep End departed. At Hunter's Gift, they spoke to some of the older hunters about Hornbeak. Olkka, an aarakocra elder, mentioned that Hornbeak had a way with Szorm'Szor (or so he claimed) and was a talented hunter. A shame that he lost his mother when he was so young. Now that I think about it, I don't believe I ever knew who the father was. Peculiar. Newt was able to quickly locate Rhovahk who, reluctantly, agreed to gather Jhaxton (and one other Elian) to help carry the group through the Anwar-Dai.
Almost immediately after take off, Ghilani asked Rhovahk who is mother was. The Elian responded that he doesn't know his mother. His father, Rhosstan, told him that she left. Ghilani then posed the possibility of... maybe Elis is your mom. Rhovahk immediately moved to Newt and Declan to confirm that Ghilani wasn't on some kind of drugs this morning. As Ghilani mentioned Rhovahk's nose thing and how he seems fine now and how his feather coloration matches Elis', Rhovahk seemed to pause. Why would my father lie then? Ghilani responded: To keep you humble maybe. That seemed to hit. Rhovahk blue screened.
Blizzard Run 2.0
Rhovahk and Jhaxton bring The Deep End to a dilapidated hunting lodge. Luckily, the pods still appeared to be in good shape and with ample enough room to fit everyone. And the sendings began. Moira sent to Auriga Fel, asking about the previous Greatwyrm of the Stars: Andromeda. Auriga responded that it Andromeda was his mother. It was a great honor to serve Caliban in battle, though he knows not where she fell. Moira sent a follow up, prodding more about the rider. Auriga responded that he was too young to have known the rider, but only true Chosen of Caliban, Oracles with a warrior's training, were granted the honor of being a dragon rider. After a moment of thinking, Moira recalled a name: Ayumi. Dysis mentioned her once. Is that the Lady of Dread? When told, Rani responded that all a name really does her at this point... it give her a name to put on a gravestone. A few weeks ago, Rani probably wouldn't have said that.
Newt sent an update to Oksha, who mentioned that she thought she saw him briefly. Atu seemed much like his normal self, unperturbed by the happenings. He was cut off as he began to mention something about Warlords. Newt mentioned Atu's comment. Moira recalled that Atu mentioned that his Creator God was... not really in the picture anymore. Declan expressed his concerns about the fiends Atu was bringing over. Do we really want another army running around the continent? Also, Atu's phrasing... is it that he wants to die or that he wants Ah'Shal? Newt has been sitting on a list of questions that he has been meaning to ask and plans to soon... if anyone wnats to contribute, feel free. Time to have a heart-to-heart with good ol' dad.
Touching base with Six, she seems perfectly fine. Did you know my dad was in prison? Oh! Six mentioned that she kept "tabs" on both of Declan's parents, but he never asked. She felt his "blood" leave and then enver return. If he's below Nacheevi, he won't ever come back up! Six told Declan to stay warm. If his ears fall off she's replacing them with cat ears! Meanwhile, Ghilani attempted to prey to Tel'Rhea. He felt as though someone was watching him for a moment as he did so. He then chose to write: Who did you send into the war? Somehow, in writing, Tel'Rhea's annoyance and mild disdain are clear: "My daughter".
Beginning the trek into the blizzard, Moira, Rani, and Jhaxton definitely felt the effects of the bitter, biting cold in this area. After wondering through the snow for perhaps an hour, three large silhouettes appeared amidst the swirling blizzard. Three incredibly large Szorm'Szor stepped free of the snow, stopping near the group. A silhouette obscured by a thick cloak and a bird-like mask sat atop the center one. The figure signed that they were the provided escort and invited the group to hitch a ride if they desired. Ghilani decided to pick a snow ball fight with Rhovahk, missing at first and then hitting on the second attempt. As Ghilani laughed, Rhovahk silenced him. Traveling faster through the snow on top of the Szorm'Szor, the Deep End soon broke free of the worst of the wall of snow.
Built into the mountainside at the heart of the blizzard is an old, crumbling palace covered in ice. Although it is slightly warmer once inside, there was still a pervasive, lingering cold. Removing their mask and cloak, a relatively tall aarakocra was beneath. I'm the one you're hear for right? Hornbeak led them down halls carved into the exterior of the mountain to an ice covered parlor, though he was able to light a fire. Hornbeak initially seemed a bit standoffish, vaguely answering questions and deflecting. Is there anything about you that doesn't have to do with the Szorm'Szor? Yes, my mother died when I was three. Oof. He requested that the group wait here while he went and fetched the others.
Surprisingly, everyone remained... except Rani's Arcane Eye, which moved down corridors. It's odd, while the entire space is covered in ice and cold, there is evidence of an attempt at homeliness. Upon Hornbeak's returned, he brought Sage, who seemed to be cold and annoyed. When Newt tried to convince her to talk to Atu (or at least listen) before going in for the kill, she responded: Oh, and just drink tea? Sage gladly accepted the tea Rani offered. Sage emphasized that she can't fail her Clan. She'd like to be able to go back there one day.
When pressed further, Hornbeak eventually acquiesed and led the Deep End to an ice-covered throne room... where a tall, aarakocra woman was vainly attempted to remove ice with a... frozen broom. The Lady of Winter seemed a bit frazzled and off, but kind nontheless. She referred to Hornbeak as Telvon, which roughly translates to "Winter's Heart" (or perhaps "my heart" given her title). Hornbeak seemed oddly on alert, though trying to be casual about it, as Rani updated the Lady of Winter with some news. She told of another blizzard in Caliban and of their efforts in Ragna. Eventually, the Lady of Winter shuffled off to get everyone some furs – they must be cold!
What... is going on? Hornbeak sighed. Look, she's doing better. Since the five years that he's been here, she's significantly improved... but having so many people here is certainly a strain and a risk. He rarely has visitors. When asked about the reflection, Hornbeak explained that that entity is known as the Wrath of Winter. It is a violent creature. When the topic of antagonists was raised, Hornbeak mentioned that she seems to... desperately try to fight against the traits that make her the opposite of Elis... but often to no avail. Hornbeak has found purpose here and, while the offer of help is appreciated, it seems there are much more pressing matters going on in the world.
With Sage and the two creepy twin uncles now in tow, the Deep End returned with Hornbeak's escort atop the Szorm'Szor. Newt offered Hornbeak a bullet, a token of sorts. In exchange, Hornbeak offered one of the feathers from the mask he wears. With a final wave, Hornbeak vanished back into the blizzard. Sage was incredibly happy to be out of the storm. Moira remembers that she can Word of Recall back... but we'll have to leave the uncles behind. Declan mentioned that hey, we could just kill them, you know?
Newt informed Ikaris and Ikaron that they'll be left behind. The two don't seem to mind much. One of them will be returning to Ah'Shal and the other will not. When pressed as to where they are going, they both responded that since Newt and the others were not forthcoming with information, they will choose to withold their information for now. With a nod, they strolled off together... perfectly and creepily in sync.
Returning to the boat, The Deep End found a gift waiting alongside a note: "for your good behavior". Some of their items were returned. As Moira kicked up the boat into magical gear, Ghilani deciphered another journal entry. Rani checked the locations of Lollith (Elios), Soyolmaa (nothing), and Ayumi (nothing). Declan and Ghilani talked about Ghilani's decision. Should he try and talk to Primus? Newt spoke with Sage about the situation further. She reluctantly agreed to humor a conversation. Newt mentioned that he's not sure he wants to rule, as Atu said. Sage thinks that's fair: those of strong draconic blood are fit to rule. Newt is also struggling to decipher Atu's intentions and the desire to potentially help people. Sage suggested helping the people and cutting off Atu's head. That's why you hunt the and kill the buck, but leave the doe. Sage also seemed disappointed that none of their other siblings were combat oriented... except Lollith.
Newt sent an update to Oksha, who mentioned that she thought she saw him briefly. Atu seemed much like his normal self, unperturbed by the happenings. He was cut off as he began to mention something about Warlords. Newt mentioned Atu's comment. Moira recalled that Atu mentioned that his Creator God was... not really in the picture anymore. Declan expressed his concerns about the fiends Atu was bringing over. Do we really want another army running around the continent? Also, Atu's phrasing... is it that he wants to die or that he wants Ah'Shal? Newt has been sitting on a list of questions that he has been meaning to ask and plans to soon... if anyone wnats to contribute, feel free. Time to have a heart-to-heart with good ol' dad.
Touching base with Six, she seems perfectly fine. Did you know my dad was in prison? Oh! Six mentioned that she kept "tabs" on both of Declan's parents, but he never asked. She felt his "blood" leave and then enver return. If he's below Nacheevi, he won't ever come back up! Six told Declan to stay warm. If his ears fall off she's replacing them with cat ears! Meanwhile, Ghilani attempted to prey to Tel'Rhea. He felt as though someone was watching him for a moment as he did so. He then chose to write: Who did you send into the war? Somehow, in writing, Tel'Rhea's annoyance and mild disdain are clear: "My daughter".
Beginning the trek into the blizzard, Moira, Rani, and Jhaxton definitely felt the effects of the bitter, biting cold in this area. After wondering through the snow for perhaps an hour, three large silhouettes appeared amidst the swirling blizzard. Three incredibly large Szorm'Szor stepped free of the snow, stopping near the group. A silhouette obscured by a thick cloak and a bird-like mask sat atop the center one. The figure signed that they were the provided escort and invited the group to hitch a ride if they desired. Ghilani decided to pick a snow ball fight with Rhovahk, missing at first and then hitting on the second attempt. As Ghilani laughed, Rhovahk silenced him. Traveling faster through the snow on top of the Szorm'Szor, the Deep End soon broke free of the worst of the wall of snow.
Built into the mountainside at the heart of the blizzard is an old, crumbling palace covered in ice. Although it is slightly warmer once inside, there was still a pervasive, lingering cold. Removing their mask and cloak, a relatively tall aarakocra was beneath. I'm the one you're hear for right? Hornbeak led them down halls carved into the exterior of the mountain to an ice covered parlor, though he was able to light a fire. Hornbeak initially seemed a bit standoffish, vaguely answering questions and deflecting. Is there anything about you that doesn't have to do with the Szorm'Szor? Yes, my mother died when I was three. Oof. He requested that the group wait here while he went and fetched the others.
Surprisingly, everyone remained... except Rani's Arcane Eye, which moved down corridors. It's odd, while the entire space is covered in ice and cold, there is evidence of an attempt at homeliness. Upon Hornbeak's returned, he brought Sage, who seemed to be cold and annoyed. When Newt tried to convince her to talk to Atu (or at least listen) before going in for the kill, she responded: Oh, and just drink tea? Sage gladly accepted the tea Rani offered. Sage emphasized that she can't fail her Clan. She'd like to be able to go back there one day.
When pressed further, Hornbeak eventually acquiesed and led the Deep End to an ice-covered throne room... where a tall, aarakocra woman was vainly attempted to remove ice with a... frozen broom. The Lady of Winter seemed a bit frazzled and off, but kind nontheless. She referred to Hornbeak as Telvon, which roughly translates to "Winter's Heart" (or perhaps "my heart" given her title). Hornbeak seemed oddly on alert, though trying to be casual about it, as Rani updated the Lady of Winter with some news. She told of another blizzard in Caliban and of their efforts in Ragna. Eventually, the Lady of Winter shuffled off to get everyone some furs – they must be cold!
What... is going on? Hornbeak sighed. Look, she's doing better. Since the five years that he's been here, she's significantly improved... but having so many people here is certainly a strain and a risk. He rarely has visitors. When asked about the reflection, Hornbeak explained that that entity is known as the Wrath of Winter. It is a violent creature. When the topic of antagonists was raised, Hornbeak mentioned that she seems to... desperately try to fight against the traits that make her the opposite of Elis... but often to no avail. Hornbeak has found purpose here and, while the offer of help is appreciated, it seems there are much more pressing matters going on in the world.
With Sage and the two creepy twin uncles now in tow, the Deep End returned with Hornbeak's escort atop the Szorm'Szor. Newt offered Hornbeak a bullet, a token of sorts. In exchange, Hornbeak offered one of the feathers from the mask he wears. With a final wave, Hornbeak vanished back into the blizzard. Sage was incredibly happy to be out of the storm. Moira remembers that she can Word of Recall back... but we'll have to leave the uncles behind. Declan mentioned that hey, we could just kill them, you know?
Newt informed Ikaris and Ikaron that they'll be left behind. The two don't seem to mind much. One of them will be returning to Ah'Shal and the other will not. When pressed as to where they are going, they both responded that since Newt and the others were not forthcoming with information, they will choose to withold their information for now. With a nod, they strolled off together... perfectly and creepily in sync.
Returning to the boat, The Deep End found a gift waiting alongside a note: "for your good behavior". Some of their items were returned. As Moira kicked up the boat into magical gear, Ghilani deciphered another journal entry. Rani checked the locations of Lollith (Elios), Soyolmaa (nothing), and Ayumi (nothing). Declan and Ghilani talked about Ghilani's decision. Should he try and talk to Primus? Newt spoke with Sage about the situation further. She reluctantly agreed to humor a conversation. Newt mentioned that he's not sure he wants to rule, as Atu said. Sage thinks that's fair: those of strong draconic blood are fit to rule. Newt is also struggling to decipher Atu's intentions and the desire to potentially help people. Sage suggested helping the people and cutting off Atu's head. That's why you hunt the and kill the buck, but leave the doe. Sage also seemed disappointed that none of their other siblings were combat oriented... except Lollith.
Report Date
13 Oct 2023
Primary Location
Secondary Location
Related Characters
Ah'Shal's Memories
"In years past, I have accepted whoever was remoately willing to oversee my will in the realm of the living. Angelos and Xavier were perhaps the closest to the ages of the past. Diavolo, at least, reliably at a distance to be called upon, if needed. My last true Executioner... never returned to me. I imagine what nearly happened to you... did happen to him. And perhaps It took a piece of me as well."
Villám Gift Shop
The following items are available for purchase or barter through Light Master Rowbyn:- Villám Arrow – An arrow embedded with a drop of ice water and Villám, dealing extra lightning damage on impact (20 gold per arrow or bolt)
- Phoenix Villám Arrow – A more magical piece of ammunition that also does additional lightning damage... and returns to your quiver (850 gold)
- Bag of Sundrops – Little bags of light (200 gold)
Journal Entry
Today... was odd, as everything seems ot be nowadays in my life. Judas and I have addressed religious matters together before – it is my right as High Priestess. While we have certainly grown closer over the past few years, I never thought he’d consider me a true… confidant, especially after my rejection of his proposal. After nearly a week of being at the periphery of my day-to-day life, he suddenly pulled me aside to discuss a sensitive personal matter. I am uncertain how I should take it. Perhaps Judas should be awarded for catching an Oracle off guard. Or perhaps Caliban saw fit to play a joke on me. Is it odd when the god you are the other half of – who you refused to marry – requests advice on how to handle a spurned ex-lover? When Caliban and I would drink sake under the full moon, we often discussed personal matters… but they were never about lovers. After recounting his tale – which I feel would be rude to share even in my private recollections – he asked my opinion. He must have sensed my confusion and been amused. I have never seen him… smirk like that. He doesn’t do that. It was both endearing and… humbling. I am a High Priestess yet I was reminded that he is a God. What advice could I possibly give? Yet I gave it anyway, perhaps to spite him and that new smirk. I find it’s always wise to be gentler, especially to those who are young and naïve. I was that way once. But, while what I said applied to this young ex-lover of his…. There was another reflected in the shine of Judas’ eyes. She shares the same silvery-white hair as me… but shorter and scruffy and void of all adornment. She is thin, sickly, tired, confused, and weak… I feel as if I can look into her eyes. She is far away. She is different. Yet… she felt like home. Whoever you may be, my words are for you and for whomever holds sway over your being.Dysis Judas
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