Diablotin 2 session 47

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Summary

Session

Session date:
Diablotin date:

Prologue

Solos


[DiablotinNarrator] Middle of First month. Weather's probably cold and crappy. Let's do this thing ;)

  • Ysabeau has arranged to meet with Terral Eichorn at the Society.
  • Terral shows up slightly late for your meeting.
  • Ysabeau stops reading whatever she was and stands up, smiling and extending her hand towards him.

[Ysabeau] Good afternoon, M. Eichorn. Thank you so much for agreeing to meet with me. [Terral] Good day, Mlle. Chanuier.

  • Terral shakes your hand politely.

[Ysabeau] Please, have a seat.

  • Terral sits down.

[Ysabeau] I was excited to hear that you have a particular interest in magical creatures, at our year-end meeting.

  • Ysabeau says as she sits down and arranges her skirts about her.

[Terral] Yes, well, really creatures of all sorts, but the magical ones are perhaps the most interesting. [Ysabeau] It was a very fortunate coincidence, seeing as M. Walter is planning this excursion to Kholm. [Ysabeau] Will you be going, M. Eichorn? [Terral] No, I'm afraid my work obligations don't permit me the time.

  • Ysabeau nods.

[Ysabeau] Very well, I am glad I requested this meeting, then.

  • Ysabeau smiles.
  • Terral smiles back, a bit uncertainly.

[Ysabeau] I *am* going and, as I've never travelled to that region before, I am curious to know what sort of creatures we might expect to meet there? [Ysabeau] I'd like to be well-prepared for all contingencies. [Ysabeau] I'm especially interested in gorgons, which, I understand, still exist in a remnant population in the Silver Desert. [Terral] Well, I've never been to Kholm, but I have read about the region.

  • Ysabeau nods.

[Ysabeau] That's fine. Have you read enough to know what creatures we might expect to meet there? [Terral] The Silver Desert is some distance west of Kholm, of course, and even if there are gorgons there, I would find it somewhat unlikely they would survive in more civilized areas.

  • Ysabeau nods.

[Ysabeau] Of course. [Terral] But, from anything I have heard, Kholm is quite sparsely populated, and so I suppose it's possible...

  • Ysabeau nods.

[Terral] Kholm is mainly cold steppes, some areas are more wooded in the foothills of the mountains. [Ysabeau] What species are native to the steppes?

  • Ysabeau pulls out her notebook and holds her pen poised above it.

[Terral] As for mundane creatures, it is populated mainly by tlaluk, which are large herbivores of the northern plains and steppes that are semi-domesticated and herded by the inhabitants, as well as animals that will no doubt be more familiar to you - wolves and lynx are the main predators, and smaller animals such as rabbits, goats...

  • Ysabeau nods.

[Terral] Apart from the ordinary wolves, there is a distinct variety called 'winter wolves', which possess a cold breath and bite. [Ysabeau] Is that so? [Ysabeau] Are they more aggressive than their ordinary cousins? [Ysabeau] I remember that most animals such as wolves kept well away from a human group of any size, when I travelled as a child... [Terral] They are more intelligent, and quite a bit larger than normal wolves. They can certainly be a threat to groups of humans. [Ysabeau] Are they weak to fire or heat?

  • Ysabeau takes notes as he speaks.

[Terral] Like many animals adapted to cold climates, they are vulnerable to heat, yes.

  • Ysabeau nods.

[Ysabeau] Do they have any other weaknesses it would be good to know about, in case they attack? [Terral] Apart from fire? None that I'm aware of. [Ysabeau] Thank you. [Ysabeau] Are there any other species we should be aware of? [Ysabeau] If not then maybe I'll go back to gorgons... even though our chances of encountering them are slim. [Terral] Oh, there are many... I'm particularly interested in rumours that dragons may survive in the northern mountains and deserts. [Ysabeau] Oh? [Ysabeau] Well, I will certainly keep my eyes open for those! [Ysabeau] I'll let you know if we see any. I'm sure others in our party would be fascinated in them, too. [Terral] Yes, well, stories are vague... some may be sightings of the frost salamander, which is a large lizard-like creature - but it is certainly no dragon, for it is relatively unintelligent and has no breath weapon. [Ysabeau] Do they have wings like dragons do? [Terral] No, I don't believe they do.

  • Ysabeau nods.

[Terral] There are also particular varieties of undead that are peculiar to the cold regions of the north. [Ysabeau] Do they have any magical attacks? Why are they called frost salamanders? [Terral] They emanate cold, hence the name. [Terral] As for humanoids, there are tribes of goblins that live in the north - they have thicker furs and a distinct booming call that can be heard over many miles.

  • Ysabeau will take notes on everything.

[Ysabeau] Goblins are... furry? [Terral] Well, I suppose a fairer term would be that they are hairy. [Ysabeau] Ah, okay.

  • Ysabeau laughs.

[Terral] The northern ones have more abundent hair :) [Ysabeau] Do they have large feet, too? [Terral] I don't know about that...

  • Ysabeau smiles.

[Ysabeau] I was just teasing there, from stories I've heard of abominable snow-humanoids with large feet. [Ysabeau] ... [Ysabeau] Do they really exist? [Terral] I have heard similar stories. If they do, I think they must be further north, in the mountains. Certainly I've never heard of one being killed or captured by humans.

  • Ysabeau nods.

[Ysabeau] Back to gorgons, though I know the likelihood of meeting them is extremely small... [Ysabeau] Are they sentient? Can they be rationalized with or spoken to? [Ysabeau] Or do they turn to stone first, ask questions later... [Terral] Yes, from anything I have read, they are intelligent, and one can communicate with them. [Ysabeau] Is there a way to communicate with them safely? [Terral] By post.

  • Terral suggests dryly.
  • Ysabeau smiles.

[Ysabeau] I've heard stories of using mirrors... is there any basis in truth for such ideas? [Terral] I suppose it's possible it could work. [Terral] I wouldn't really care to try it myself. [Ysabeau] Well, I'll see about getting a scroll of stone-to-flesh in case it doesn't, then. ;)

  • Terral nods.

[Terral] Well, I'm afraid I have to be getting to work, Mlle. Chanuier. I hope your trip is successful. [Ysabeau] Yes, thank you M. Eichorn. One last, hopefully quick question - do gorgons have any weaknesses should we encounter any that are hostile? [Terral] I believe they are not especially physically strong. [Ysabeau] Thank you. I'll be sure to let you know if we see any dragons. [Terral] Thank you. [Ysabeau] Is there anything else I could look for while we're there, as a thank-you for your time? [Terral] That's not necessary. I enjoyed it :)

  • Ysabeau smiles.

[Ysabeau] I'll catch you as soon as we get back to let you know if we did see anything interesting! :) [Ysabeau] Take care, M. Eichorn. [Terral] Very well, I'll be looking forward to it.

  • Terral departs.


[DiablotinNarrator] Seth, you wanted to talk to your employer...

  • Seth_ will clean himself up properly before heading to the Kizer mansion.
  • Seth_ will also have made an appointment - not just dropping in!
  • Leonien will be waiting for you at the appointed time and place, then.

[Seth_] Good morning, Your Grace. [Leonien] Good morning. [Seth_] I trust that the hectic pace of life before the weddings has abated? [Leonien] Things have certainly been somewhat more peaceful these past couple of weeks. [Seth_] I am pleased to hear it. [Leonien] And how are you, M. Argo? [Seth_] I am ... well. In fact, it is my current state of affairs that brings me to seek audience with you, however. [Leonien] Oh? [Seth_] Perhaps you have heard that I have recently left the service of Prince-Imperial Menard? [Leonien] I had indeed heard such a rumour. I wondered if it was true. [Seth_] Indeed, it is.

  • Leonien eyes you.

[Leonien] This is quite... unexpected. [Seth_] I assure you, Your Grace, that this decision was carefully considered, and also that it does not reflect any disparagement of the esteem in which I hold you, the Prince-Imperial, or your noble house. [Seth_] It is a personal decision. [Leonien] Hm. [Leonien] Are you expecting me to find another post for you? [Seth_] No, Your Grace, certainly not. [Leonien] Let me put it another way: I will find another post for you. [Seth_] Ah. Well, Your Grace, perhaps, before we proceed, further explanation is in order. [Leonien] ... Very well. [Seth_] As you are aware, I, the Princess Ilphere, and our compatriots spent some time in an unusual situation in the Shadow Plane.

  • Leonien nods.

[Seth_] And around that same time, I discovered, or rather, I came into a particular capacity.

  • Leonien listens.

[Seth_] (does this chamber have stone walls anywhere?) [Leonien] (the floor is probably stone, if nothing else...) [Seth_] Permit me to demonstrate.

  • Seth_ slips between the cracks for a moment, then reemerges.

[Leonien] o_O [Leonien] I... see. [Seth_] As well as this capacity ... well, to put it bluntly, it is as if I have a particular or special communion with the city itself. [Leonien] In what way does this ... 'communion'... manifest itself? [Seth_] It is as if I have a greater sense of the city and its denizens ... and as well, while within the city, I have no need for food, drink, or sleep. [Leonien] Hrm. [Leonien] M. Argo, these are most fascinating revelations. [Seth_] Indeed. [Leonien] How many others know of this ability? [Seth_] My compatriots on the trip. The Prince-Imperial. Ahh ... one or two others, that is all. [Leonien] One or two others? [Seth_] I have told two others, one of whom is the Warlord herself. Of course, I cannot control what others may say. [Leonien] Hm. Well, that is not *so* bad. [Leonien] What is your intention in telling me this, then? [Seth_] In part, to explain my leaving Menard's service. I need time to research and investigate what is happening to me, and to understand its implications. [Seth_] As well, I am sure that some within the palace would be very upset should they learn of my power, if I were still living in the palace.

  • Leonien nods.

[Leonien] Yes... should they learn of it. [Seth_] I do not pretend that I should be able to keep it a secret that I possess these powers, not a complete secret. [Seth_] But of course, given that the Prince-Imperial knows, I assumed that once he gets settled back into the city, he would raise the subject with you himself. I felt you should hear about this from me, Your Grace. [Leonien] That was the right instinct. [Seth_] I should be clear, Your Grace. I am, and remain, in your service. [Leonien] Good. [Leonien] Glad to hear it. [Seth_] However, I cannot justify the untrammeled invasion of others' privacy that an unscrupulous lord might ask of his humble servant.

  • Leonien gives a brief rasp that might be a laugh.

[Leonien] You don't want to spy on people, is that what you're telling me? [Seth_] I ... would be reluctant to use this power too frequently for such ends. If the need were truly great, then I could and would do so. [Leonien] Hm. [Leonien] The funny thing about spying - it's hard to know what's important until you've already seen it. [Seth_] Despite this change, I am beholden to the laws of the city and the Empire, of course.

  • Leonien nods.

[Seth_] I have always found, when researching a topic, that unless one knows what one is looking for, one is unlikely to learn much new. [Leonien] Perhaps at the time... but in retrospect, things may become important that did not seem so before. [Seth_] As always, I will keep my eyes and ears open for matters that might be of interest to you, Your Grace. Is there anything in particular that draws your attention at present? [Leonien] Not immediately. Where are you now residing, should I need to contact you? [Seth_] Currently I am residing in a place where I can have as much privacy as possible while I research my recent experiences. Letters for me can be left at the Rhenean Antiquarian Society, and I will also endeavour to visit here frequently in the immediate future. [Seth_] As well, I may ask for a few letters for me to be sent here, to allow me to retrieve them. [Leonien] Very well. Thank you for the ... update. I shall endeavour to think of tasks that will make use of your newfound skills. [Seth_] You are welcome, Your Grace. Oh ... one last thing: Have you heard whether your young kinsman Theron Rademacher has made a full recovery from his illness? [Leonien] I have heard that he is recuperating. His family are certainly quite concerned about his health.

  • Seth_ nods.

[Seth_] I am glad to hear it. [Seth_] Thank you, as always, Your Grace, for your valuable time and advice.

  • Leonien nods.

[Leonien] Good day, M. Argo. [Seth_] Good day, sire.

  • Seth_ departs.


[DiablotinNarrator] Sanadhil, you are alone at home one evening when Dozilva appears.

  • Sanadhil starts as she does, looking up from his notes

[Dozilva] Hello.

  • Sanadhil smiles as he recovers from being startled

[Sanadhil] Hello - I wondered when I miht see you again. [Dozilva] Is it a bad time? [Sanadhil] Of course not.

  • Sanadhil marks his pages and sets aside what he was working on.
  • Dozilva smiles.

[Dozilva] Did you miss me? [Sanadhil] Oh... maybe a little.

  • Sanadhil shuffles over so that she can sit beside on hm the divan if she likes
  • Dozilva will join you.

[Sanadhil] And you? [Dozilva] Maybe a little ;)

  • Sanadhil smiles again

[Sanadhil] how have you been? [Dozilva] I am well. And you? [Sanadhil] The same. busy.

  • Dozilva nods.

[Sanadhil] We are preparing to go on an expedition in a week or so - I'm glad you're here now, I was afraid you might come after I'd left/ [Dozilva] Oh? Where is it you are going? [Sanadhil] To Kholm - invesitgating the site of some ruins that another scholar found on an old map of the area. [Dozilva] That sounds interesting. [Dozilva] Ruins of what? [Sanadhil] it's north west from here, up close to the mountains [Sanadhil] We're not entirely certian - that's half the interest.

  • Dozilva nods.

[Sanadhil] There is a very slim, but exciting, possibility that we might find another arch, or some link to the peope who came here and ... well, evicted your peopole, i suppose. [Dozilva] Another Arch? [Sanadhil] They are supposed to have come from that direction. [Dozilva] Hm. [Sanadhil] well, maybe. [Sanadhil] There is a theory that it might not be the only one - or that there may have been other sililar conduits for communing with the gods. [Dozilva] Fascinating... [Sanadhil] It would be very exceptional if the one random ruin discovered by someone unrelated just happened to contain it.... but that doesn't mean I can't be hopeful :) [Sanadhil] It is.

  • Dozilva smiles at that.

[Sanadhil] I would still love to know what records the shadar Kai might have from that time [Dozilva] I have bring you another book... very old, a great ... thinker?

  • Dozilva draws a small book from her sleeve.

[Sanadhil] You have? [Dozilva] I thought you might like.

  • Sanadhil was about to say something else, but looks like his brain has been completely derailed as he takes it, carefully

[Sanadhil] Thank you... [DiablotinNarrator] The book's title is 'Sympathy and Antipathy'. [Sanadhil] a philosophy book? [Dozilva] What is 'philosophy'?

  • Sanadhil opens it gently

[Sanadhil] Philosophers are, well, great thinkers, who question why things are the way they are. [Dozilva] Ah. Then yes, a philosophy book.

  • Sanadhil tries to think of how to translate into Shadar kai, and will if he can

[Sanadhil] (Is the book itself old, or just, like an old text but a more recent copy?) [DiablotinNarrator] (the copy itself doesn't seem especially old) [Sanadhil] (okay) [Sanadhil] where does this come from? [Dozilva] From my home.

  • Sanadhil nods

[Sanadhil] thank you. [Dozilva] You are welcome.

  • Sanadhil sets it down for now.

[Sanadhil] Is it something you follow? [Dozilva] Not follow... but I try to learn from?

  • Sanadhil nods

[Dozilva] It has wisdom, but is not always right ;) [Sanadhil] who is? [Dozilva] The book.

  • Sanadhil smiles

[Sanadhil] It was a rhetorial questions [Sanadhil] no one is always right.

  • Dozilva smiles.

[Dozilva] Some think they are. [Sanadhil] (is she talking about me? ;p) [DiablotinNarrator] (hee, you don't think so) [Sanadhil] (good :V) [Sanadhil] that just proves my point. [Sanadhil] I'll read it carefully, in any case. [Dozilva] Good :) [Sanadhil] So, did you take time off of work again? [Sanadhil] I don't even know if you have to be there... regularly? [Dozilva] I work some time, then have break some time.

  • Sanadhil frowns, because he had been thnking 'every day', but that doesn't make any sense.

[Dozilva] Now is my break time :)

  • Sanadhil ndos

[Sanadhil] how much time do you have? or does that even make sense? [Dozilva] I will go back tomorrow. [Dozilva] Should be enough time.

  • Sanadhil nods

[Sanadhil] Would you like some dinner? [Sanadhil] or, something to eat, in any case. [Dozilva] Yes, thank you. [Sanadhil] did you want to stay here, or go se more of the city? [Dozilva] What do you want?

  • Sanadhil smiles

[Sanadhil] It might be easier to talk if we stay here, but more of interest somewhere else? [Sanadhil] I'm happy either way. [Dozilva] Well... we will come back here, and have time to talk then, yes?

  • Sanadhil nods

[Sanadhil] very well then - I dont' have the ring any more, but I have a spell that does much the same thing

  • Dozilva nods.

[Sanadhil] I...

  • Sanadhil loks at her again.
  • Dozilva looks back at you.

[Sanadhil] This whole situation is rather unique, isn't it? [Dozilva] Maybe so... [Dozilva] It is unusual. [Sanadhil] yes... And I'm really not sure what exactly the situation entails? [Dozilva] You wish to know my intentions?

  • Sanadhil smiles

[Sanadhil] I suppose so, yes. [Sanadhil] Your intentnions, your expectations... [Dozilva] I like you. You are handsome, and you know how to please me, and your mind is clever.

  • Sanadhil nods

[Dozilva] If you are willing, I will continue to visit you. We will learn each other better. In time... then maybe we will want to be together more. [Sanadhil] Alright. [Dozilva] Then we will have decisions. But not right now.

  • Sanadhil nods, seeming a little relieved, perhaps.

[Dozilva] Is that what you want? [Sanadhil] Yes. [Sanadhil] I feel very similar [Sanadhil] . o O (I think?) [Dozilva] Good.

  • Sanadhil smiles.

[Sanadhil] so... dinner then? [Dozilva] Yes, please. [Sanadhil] Do you want to look the same as last time? [Dozilva] If it pleases you :) [Sanadhil] alright then

  • Sanadhil will cast seeming on her, then.
  • Dozilva admires your work ;)

[Sanadhil] (I don't know what she is wearing, but if it is too odd I can make it look a little more socially acceptable to look at :p) [DiablotinNarrator] (heh, ok)


[DiablotinNarrator] Ilphere, when you return you find, among a million other messages, a note from Theron. He says you are free to visit him at your leisure. [Ilphere] Excellent...!

  • Ilphere will find a time to go and see her cousin.
  • Theron is in his rooms at home. He is dressed and seated by the window, but looks as though he's been unwell - pale, with dark circles beneath his eyes, and perhaps a bit thinner than you last saw him.

[Ilphere] Hello cousin... [Theron] Ah, Ilphere. Safely returned from your trip? [Ilphere] (it's been what, 2-3 weeks?) [Ilphere] Yes, thank you...! [DiablotinNarrator] (yeah, about 3 weeks) [Ilphere] How are you feeling...? [Theron] I've been better. [Theron] And you? [Ilphere] I am well enough... I found the experience very unsettling, but it seems that this... whatever it is, affects you more strongly than any of us. [Theron] It seems so... [Ilphere] What did you see, on that night...?

  • Ilphere asks gently.

[Ilphere] Or... experience, I suppose. [Theron] It was as if there was a ... presence, I suppose. A powerful force, all around me.

  • Ilphere nods.

[Theron] The very walls of the palace were writhing with it. [Theron] It grew dark, and everthing felt like it was closing in around me. [Theron] My head felt like it would split.

  • Ilphere listens attentively.

[Theron] The noise ... the pressure... I'd never felt anything that powerful. [Ilphere] You heard the broken wheel, then... [Theron] Was it like that for you too?

  • Theron nods.

[Ilphere] Very similar... I don't believe it was quite as painful for me, but I was quite frightened...

  • Ilphere confesses.

[Theron] Why us? [Ilphere] I am not... entirely sure, but I have a theory. [Theron] I'm listening... [Ilphere] There is something in the Rademacher bloodline that ties us to the Arch, or one or more of the entities that dwelled within it... [Theron] But if it's something in our blood, then why didn't it do the same to my brother and sister... your mother...? [Ilphere] This, well... I do not know whether to call it a taint... I believe it was 'activated' when we passed through the Arch as part of our activities with the order. [Theron] Ah... [Ilphere] I know that Yanina also dreams, although her experiences are much milder than even my own. [Ilphere] I do not know what determines the strength of the connection, though.

  • Theron nods.

[Theron] Why the Rademachers, though? [Ilphere] I am sure that the Smith from your dreams is an ancient Rademacher patriarch. [Ilphere] I believe that it is with him that it originates. [Theron] Bastard. [Ilphere] He... wants us to do something... I don't know what. [Ilphere] To set something right. [Theron] Something he messed up? [Ilphere] Possibly... I haven't been able to find enough original texts yet to say. [Ilphere] 'The Wheel Must Turn True...'

  • Theron nods.

[Theron] These things.. they all blend together in my mind. The wheel, the arch, the serpent coiled... circles. [Ilphere] Yes... [Ilphere] The first night on the Down, I saw the stars spinning like a wheel...

  • Theron nods.

[Theron] I've seen that too. [Ilphere] Sanadhil told me of a man who has begun to paint strange rings... [Ilphere] I just recalled it now... [Theron] Oh? [Ilphere] Yes, an artist... [Ilphere] I don't think he is part of the Order but... he may have some connection as well. [Ilphere] I cannot believe it slipped my mind...! [Theron] Well, if you remember it, let me know, I suppose. [Ilphere] Auguste Vautrin... [Theron] I don't recognize the name. [Ilphere] I think I will pay him a visit... You would be welcome to come with me, if you are interested... [Theron] I'll see how I'm feeling.

  • Ilphere nods.

[Ilphere] Have you... have you had any more dreams since the wedding...? [Theron] To be honest, I've been trying not to sleep.

  • Ilphere looks sympathetic.

[Ilphere] I am sorry... :/

  • Theron shrugs.

[Theron] I wonder if Phedre could explain what's happening. [Ilphere] When I spoke to her about my own visions last, she seemed interested but offered no answers...

  • Theron nods.

[Ilphere] But perhaps if we were to tell her we felt the presence of Vrag - which I strongly believe is what that was - she would put more effort in... Then again, she would more than likely try to make our visions and experiences fit her own needs... [Ilphere] I should tell you as well... I am going to Kholm. There is to be an expedition there, to some recently discovered ruins. It is believed that the founders of Diablotin may have come from or through that area.

  • Theron nods again.

[Ilphere] Sanadhil and I speculate that... that there may be another Arch. [Ilphere] Or many more. [Theron] Another one?

  • Theron looks as perplexed as if you'd said there was another sun.

[Ilphere] After reading what you had written about the Arch buried in the sand... Well, it is a long shot, but we must investigate the possibility. [Theron] I felt like I was trying to uncover it... but like I'd never succeed. The sand kept sliding, blowing to cover it again.

  • Theron recalls.
  • Ilphere nods.

[Ilphere] Perhaps we will find nothing... [Theron] I hope you find something that provides some answers. [Ilphere] I will take any chance to find an answer to this... [Theron] Thank you. [Ilphere] And I will tell you if I do discover anything, of course...! [Theron] I appreciate it. [Theron] Safe travels. [Ilphere] I hope you feel better soon. [Theron] Thank you.


[DiablotinNarrator] Guillame, in your efforts to locate the elusive Raina, you have been visiting the places she's said to haunt... abandoned buildings, cemetaries...

  • Guillame feels nostalgic

[DiablotinNarrator] On this particular day, you make the trip outside the city to the Saltgrove, the burial place of the Patriarchs and Matriarchs. [DiablotinNarrator] It is a wooded, somewhat marshy area, though fortunately at this time of year the ground is fairly solid. [Guillame] . o O (I can't believe I used to have the time to just explore these places...)

  • Guillame looks for the surer footing regardless

[DiablotinNarrator] The oldest graves are simple burial mounds with stone tablets... the later ones, more elaborate stone monuments, some with statues and lenthy inscriptions.

  • Guillame 's survival is awful, but his search is pretty good
  • Guillame stops here and there to read some inscriptions

[DiablotinNarrator] The place is quiet, actually quite peaceful, the smell of salt in the air and the sound of birds. [DiablotinNarrator] (You can make a Search check, sure)

  • Guillame rolls 1d20+15: (20)+ 15 = 35

[DiablotinNarrator] You notice a figure lying alongside one of the tombs - you wouldn't even have seen her if you hadn't been lucky enough to glance in that direction just as she moved. Her clothing is a simple cloak that matches the ground quite well.

  • Guillame chooses a path that will take him closer to her, but not directly to her, to try and see if she's watching him
  • Girl seems absorbed in her own little world, not paying much attention to you. As you approach, you can see that she's tending the grave, removing bits of moss and debris from the stones.
  • Guillame tries to get a good look, to see if she might be Raina
  • Girl 's head is bowed, but her hair is black, like your dream!Raina's was, long and tangled.
  • Girl is murmuring something quietly to herself as she works.

[Guillame] Hello...?

  • Girl looks up, startled. Her eyes are mismatched, like your sister's, green and white.

[Girl] What is it? [Guillame] My name is Guillame Rionet - I'm looking for someone called Raina, and I wondered if... she might be you?

  • Guillame is pretty sure he's found her

[Girl] Yes... [Guillame] Well, there's two things I wanted to find you for, see. Maybe more, but two that's important right now, and the most important is that... I was once somebody that made a promise to find you, and so I did.

  • Guillame blinks and shakes his head, startled at how easy it is to remember how Willem and Raina talked to each other.
  • Raina_ looks puzzled.

[Raina_] I think I know you. [Guillame] From a dream? [Raina_] I don't know...

  • Raina_ shakes her head.

[Raina_] I think so? But maybe not.

  • Guillame moves closer and offers his hand.
  • Raina_ shys back slightly.

[Raina_] Dreams aren't always dreams. [Raina_] This isn't a dream, is it? [Guillame] Well, the person I was knew someone who was you. Which I know sounds crazy, but it's true. [Guillame] I don't think it is, no, but you're right - it's hard to tell sometimes.

  • Guillame puts his hand back in his pocket, and sits down.
  • Raina_ goes back to picking moss off the weathered stone, but keeps glancing at you, either nervously or curiously, it's hard to tell.

[Raina_] So you promised me you'd find me... what was the other reason? [Guillame] Well, it's less altruistic than the first reason. It's pretty selfish, actually. You're a seer, and so is my little sister, and I really need to find somebody that can help her to learn about what that means. [Guillame] And how to handle it.

  • Raina_ giggles at that.

[Raina_] You can't handle the visions - all you can do is accept them. [Raina_] Walk through them. [Guillame] Well, that's exactly the kind of thing that she's going to need to know, and I'm sure there's plenty more you could warn her about.

  • Guillame takes out his notepad and writes it down anyway.

[Raina_] I think I heard they used to know how to control them. [Raina_] But they forgot. [Raina_] Or maybe I forgot... [Raina_] I forget. [Guillame] I heard that too. Your grandfather told me. [Raina_] Grandfather... He tried his best.

  • Raina_ shakes her head.

[Guillame] I expect he did. He seems a very dutiful kind of man. [Raina_] He did the old ways, even after the old ways were gone. [Guillame] I want to bring them back. [Raina_] He took me to the white room. [Guillame] Maybe not as they were, but so that they're ours again. [Guillame] He... the white room? [Raina_] Buried under the ground... [Guillame] . o O (O_o) [Raina_] He did the rite... I saw things there...

  • Guillame thinks about Char in Saraknyel...
  • Guillame listens
  • Guillame takes notes!

[Raina_] He said it didn't work. [Raina_] But I think it did... something changed... [Guillame] What changed? [Raina_] The visions changed. [Raina_] I changed. [Guillame] Is that when you couldn't control it any more? [Raina_] I don't know.

  • Raina_ 's hands tremble as she rips a piece of moss into tiny shreds.

[Guillame] There's a third reason, come to think of it, but it's much less important to me and more important to my friends, and to do with the dreams and the fate of the world and that.

  • Guillame changes the subject for a while
  • Raina_ tilts her head to one side, looking puzzled.

[Guillame] We all had a dream together - somebody else's dream, of another place, ruled by the snake god. [Guillame] And... there were some people there who are people here, just different. And you're one of them. [Raina_] Oh? [Guillame] That's when I promised, see - the me that was there promised the you that was there. [Guillame] She said she dreamed about you...

  • Raina_ nods.

[Raina_] How was it different than here? [Guillame] It was... well, a simplistic answer would be to say that it was worse, but really it was just different. [Guillame] There's a different race in charge - Vrag's people, the Shadar-Kai. [Guillame] They have a more brutal culture - humans are mostly slaves there. [Raina_] Oh. [Guillame] Some of them, you and me included, lived as outlaws, trying to fight for freedom. [Guillame] Well, I don't know if we were fighting for freedom, but we lived with people who were.

  • Raina_ finishes the cleaning of this particular tomb.

[Raina_] I have to go. [Guillame] Can I find you here again, or is there somewhere better? [Raina_] Maybe. [Raina_] I'll send you a message. [Guillame] Ok. Guillame Rionet - you can send it to my house, or to the Rhenean Antiquarian Society. Or maybe you can find a way to send it somewhere else where I'll find it, I don't know. [Guillame] I'm going to tell Silvia about you, and what you said.

  • Raina_ nods, then turns into a bird and flies away.
  • Guillame :o ... :D
  • Guillame takes a look at the grave that she was cleaning before he leaves.

[DiablotinNarrator] The tomb she was cleaning is so worn that the wheel carved into its surface looks like nothing more than a circle. [DiablotinNarrator] The name on it - Thaleus Rademacher. [Guillame] Hum. [Guillame] . o O (Stop that!)


[DiablotinNarrator] Alma, you wished to speak to Brother Sirron, having read his book.

  • Alma will have at least read some of it when she had the time!
  • Sirron is a short, rather homely man of about thirty years old.

[Alma] Good afternoon, Brother. :) [Sirron] Sister Alma, it's a pleasure.

  • Alma assumes we're meeting at the society.

[DiablotinNarrator] (sure) [Alma] I'm glad you had the time to spare to chat. [Sirron] It's no trouble. [Alma] I've been reading some of your book when I have the time, very interesting. [Sirron] Ah, glad you're enjoying it. [Alma] It's a very interesting topic, one I find myself drawn to. [Sirron] The lure of knowing the future, grasping hidden truths, is quite understandable.

  • Sirron says, somewhat pompously.

[Alma] It takes a very strong spirit to be comfortable with uncertainty. [Sirron] Very true.. and yet, one of the great ironies of divination is that it can often lead to greater uncertainty, not less. [Alma] Isn't that said of all knowledge, though? That for every question answered, two new ones arise? :) [Sirron] That does seem to be the case. [Sirron] Well, what can I help you with, Sister? [Alma] Are you familiar with my own particular abilities? The ones for which I consulted Theodore Sleyght? [Alma] I was wondering if, in your study of divination, you might have come across any abilities that are similar. [Sirron] I have not heard about your abilities, no.

  • Alma nods.

[Alma] Well, when I was a girl, I found I had the ability to receive impressions from objects, about their current and past owners. I can also receive similar impressions from rooms themselves. [Alma] It's not magic, though... [Alma] At least not a kind I'm familiar with. [Alma] I have a copy of some of Mr. Sleyght's notes here...

  • Alma will pull them from her bag and set them on the table.
  • Sirron examines them.

[Alma] It began before my training within the church, though not before my calling. [Sirron] Hm, very unusual... [Sirron] I have heard of a few cases that are similar, but I have never been able to confirm or deny them. [Alma] Oh? [Alma] Past or contemporary? [Sirron] Past. Certain accounts from long ago of people who would sense strong emotions in particular places, say.

  • Alma looks a little disappointed.

[Sirron] I could pass the references on to you, once I track them down again. [Alma] I would appreciate anything you could pass on :) [Sirron] Certainly. This is all quite fascinating! [Alma] It is... and I appreciate as much evidence as I can get that I'm not just crazy :) [Sirron] Well, I doubt that. [Sirron] You seem quite sane, and these experiments suggest you are not deluded. [Alma] True, but it's an oddity... not that the world is without those. [Sirron] Indeed, indeed.

  • Alma will chat with him about oddities like the fact that buildings register and that she can tell that people are from outside the Church, etc.

[Sirron] Do you feel that your powers come from the gods? [Alma] When I was younger, just as I was beginning my training, I thought they must. [Alma] I realised that was a little... presumptuous, and so I have come to terms with the uncertainty :) [Sirron] That is very... sensible, I suspect. [Sirron] Thank you for bringing this to my attention, Sister. Perhaps an appendix in the next edition of my book :) [Alma] I'm at your service, if you'd like to ask me questions anytime :) [Sirron] Thank you.

  • Alma considers how to put this discreetly

[Alma] Would you know how one might prevent visions? [Alma] Say, if someone were beset by disturbing visions, and dreams, caused by an incredibly powerful magical source. [Sirron] Prevent visions?

  • Sirron ponders.

[Sirron] I suppose an anti-magic field or something of the sort. [Sirron] Do you have visions that are troubling you? [Alma] No, nothing I see comes unbidden... though I do know someone who is troubled by such things, and I felt I should look into what might prevent them. [Alma] I was present during one episode, and the magic was... unbelievably strong. [Sirron] Well, I will consider the matter, and let you know if I think of anything apart from straightforward anti-magic.

  • Alma nods

[Alma] He would be exceedingly grateful, I imagine :)

  • Sirron nods.

[Sirron] Farewell, Sister. I hope we can speak again soon. [Alma] Enjoy your day, Brother :) [Alma] I'm certain we will!

  • Sirron departs.