Episode 30
General Summary
The Unlikely Association gather around Atlas as he recovers from his ordeal inside the mirror. Some questions are asked about what they saw in the looking glass, and Atlas shares the details of his - up until now - unknown past.
Marty notices that at some point during all this, a section of the plinth at the end of the chamber has risen slightly. Realising what needs to be done, the rest of the group proceed to enter the mirrors, each experiencing an alternate reality of an unknown fear. One by one the members of the party successfully pass their challenge, each revealing a part of themselves that in many cases, they did not know were there to begin with.
Weddy McDowel and Symon Argent are also required to take the challenge it seems, and Weddy manages to pass hers without issue. Symon on the other hand is not so successful, as he maintains a lie throughout his challenge. With all of the challenges taken, the plinth finally raises up to its full height, allowing a new staff to be taken. Symon attempts to take the staff at first, but is forced back by some magical means. As everyone else is able to touch it, it is confirmed that for Symon, the journey has ended.
The party head over to the elevator once more, inserting their new Staff of Striking into the panel, which lowers them down to the next floor. This level of the ruins seems to belong to Hostetta, goddess of war. Depictions of warriors in battle can be seen carved into the walls of a corridor, which has a number of doors leading off of it. Three smaller doors on the left each have a face carved into them, which seem to gradually become more defined and detailed as the corridor goes on. The single double door on the right bares the symbol of Hostetta; two swords arranged in a 'X'. At the end of the corridor, a statue of Hostetta can be seen adorned in magical leather armour, wielding a magical shield and hilt of a sword. The items are identified as being Gargoyle Leather Armour, a Sentinel Shield and a Sunblade.
The party decide to leave these items for now, and head for the large double doors. The Staff of Striking is inserted into a hole in the door, which opens to reveal a small antechamber. Another inscription reads:
"Defeat thyself, before the truth unravels you."
Realising that they must fight themselves, the group decide to take a long rest. Refreshed, the party push on - leaving Weddy behind as the explorer fears her lack of combat skill will only hinder them.
The party pass through the antechamber, finding themselves in a small colosseum-type fighting arena. An illusionary crowd appears, as the party's dopplegangers apparate on the opposing side. There are noticeable differences to these duplicates however, as many of them demonstrate different abilities to the party's own.
After a long and arduous battle, the duplicates are defeated. The party are presented with their prize by a spectral warrior; a Staff of Withering.
Thoroughly worn-out, the group exit the arena to find Weddy eagerly awaiting them.
Rewards Granted
Report Date
03 Jul 2020
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