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Children of Vecna
2021-02-23T02:18:44Z
<p>Ratri: /* Marakinth */</p>
<hr />
<div>A D&D 5e run brought to you by my fabulous former coworkers.<br />
<br />
D&D Beyond character link: https://www.dndbeyond.com/profile/LadyRatri/characters/44705859<br />
<br />
=Irrin Soshenkra Vasri=<br />
<br />
Fallen Aasimar Sorcerer with a black dragon bloodline, wandering the countryside of [https://forgottenrealms.fandom.com/wiki/Shou_Lung Shou Lung]. He wanders almost like someone in search of something...<br />
<br />
==Backstory==<br />
<br />
===Home===<br />
<br />
Hsiang lies on the northern edge of the Wak'an peninsula, between the Yellow Sea and the Celestial Sea. I practically grew up on the beach. It was just me and my mom really, but we were very close to my aunt Reyla and my cousin Faeona. Faeona's dad and mine had left on day on a great adventure, and never returned. We had a lot to talk about, Faeona and I, even as children. I guess our moms did too.<br />
<br />
The earliest memories I have were lying in the sand on the beach, staring at the brightness of the sky through closed eyelids, listening. My mother would play lute, and Faeona would sing, and the ocean would sing with her, and the whole world would dance around us. I could feel it spinning and tilting and whirling, night into day, stars swirling around us like a whirlpool. My mother said I had an "overactive imagination" when she talked to the other parents in the village.<br />
<br />
I loved my cousin's voice.<br />
<br />
====Thallaza====<br />
<br />
I was ten years old the first time I heard a second voice join the song. Soft and ethereal, it was unlike any other singing I had heard -- even Fae's voice couldn't sing like that.<br />
<br />
At the end of the song, my mother put her hand on my shoulder. When I looked, she was smiling.<br />
<br />
"It's your turn, love." She tilted her head down the shoreline, to where a tall woman with rich blond hair stood, staring intently at me with brilliant blue eyes. She gestured for me to come walk with her. I looked to my mother, confused, but she just smiled and squeezed my shoulder "It's ok, Irrin. She's the kindest soul I know."<br />
<br />
I went.<br />
<br />
"My name is Thallaza," she said. Her voice was somehow still musical, even when she spoke plainly.<br />
<br />
"Uhm." I sounded ridiculous. Why couldn't I make reasonable words? "Nice to meet you...uh, ma'am. I'm Irrin." I felt my face flush as soon as I said it.<br />
<br />
"Yes, love. I'm aware." I could hear the smile in her soft voice. I looked up sharply, and just for a moment, like an overlay on top of the real world, her skin shone silver, her hair glowed bright gold, and her eyes lit up like sapphires in the sun. The immaterial glow of wings, more a suggestion than a reality, unfurled from her back, huge and bright and feathered. "I'm your guardian angel." She paused. "And your great-grandmother. Well, more generations removed than that, but it pains me to keep count these days."<br />
<br />
"My..." I blinked stupidly.<br />
<br />
"Ages ago, I had a child with a man from Hsiang. She chose to make her home here, and her family has stayed ever since. I watch over them. I spoke to your mother, when she turned ten, and told her the same story. As she said, today, it is your turn to hear a little bit about your past." Somehow, we had come to the very point of the peninsula, despite it being easily several days' journey away. She gestured to a wide, flat rock near a long, flat tidepool. "Sit with me? There are some stories I love to tell..."<br />
<br />
I still loved my cousin's voice more.<br />
<br />
====The First Lapse====<br />
<br />
I resented my mother for leaving me alone. Mom needed materials for her woodwork shop, and she had to journey to Lo Shan to get them. Of course she did. If she didn't stock the shop, we didn't eat. That didn't matter. I still resented it.<br />
<br />
I resented Aunt Reyla for falling sick the day my mom left. Fae needed to take care of her mom. I would've done the same, if it were my mom who was sick and Aunt Reyla who was away. That didn't matter. I still resented it.<br />
<br />
I resented the ocean for singing all the louder, without my mother and Fae to accompany it. Of course it continue to beat the shore, to advance and swirl and recede. What choice did it have? That didn't matter. I still resented it.<br />
<br />
I resented her lute for sitting, silent, in her room. I seethed. I boiled. I didn't understand what rage was. I didn't understand who I was anymore. The world swirled and spun and spiraled around again. Someone had pulled the plug, and everything was running together down the drain. What are those crashing noises? Why are there splinters in my hands? Why is Fae looking at me with such grown-up worry in her eyes?<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
Slowly, I realized the room around me was in complete disarray. I was still holding the neck of the lute in my hands -- cracked and splintered, the body smashed, the strings connecting some of the fragments together.<br />
<br />
"What..." Fae whispered. "Irrin. What did you do?"<br />
<br />
I looked up at her, confused, overwhelmed, and words would not come. Tears came more easily. She walked across the room in three strides, and just silently hugged me, until I could speak again.<br />
<br />
"What do I do Fae? I don't know what happened. I just...want to fix it."<br />
<br />
Fae looked at me, and smiled. "So fix it, then." She looked me straight in the eyes. "You have at least two more days before your mom gets back. Do whatever you can to make this right again. You have a guardian angel -- speak to her, and maybe she can give you guidance. Just don't expect her to do the work for you." She kissed my forehead. "I believe in you, Rin."<br />
<br />
"Thank you," I whispered. She had said that before, and it had always felt right. Today, for the first time, I didn't feel like I deserved it.<br />
<br />
She stood, and turned to leave. "I just came to get some supplies for my mom. She's getting better." Fae paused, just outside the door in the hallway, and looked back. "I'll come check on you? Tonight maybe?"<br />
<br />
"Thank you." I had a tingling little feeling I'd be saying that to Fae a lot.<br />
<br />
"Chin up, Rin." she said, and disappeared back down the stairs.<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki> <br />
<br />
Hours later, the room was straightened and cleaned. Every item was put away, neater than it had been before. The bed was made, the desk was cleared. There was nothing else left to do, except...every shard, every splinter, every shred that was once her beautiful lute was laid out on her desk. Broken and useless.<br />
<br />
I stared at it. I swore at it. I wracked my brains for anything I could do. I had tried to glue the neck once, but that only made it worse, and there was no way it would ever work on the shattered body of the instrument. I sat in the opposite corner of the room, staring at the desk, moonlight streaming in through the window as though to highlight the horrible thing I had done. I closed my eyes, and thought to myself -- Thallaza, please give me hope. I don't know what to do. I don't know what I am. I need help. Please, help me. I thought it over and over.<br />
<br />
And then she was sitting next to me, glowing dimly silver, just like the moon.<br />
<br />
"I'm so sorry, Irrin. Truly, I am. What you are facing today is not easy." She took my hand in hers. "Your blood is at war with itself. I should have seen it sooner, but...my line has always chosen travelers, and I have never known their histories." She shook her head.<br />
<br />
"But...can you help me?" I asked her.<br />
<br />
Her face took on a deep sadness. "I can be here with you, Irrin. I will always be here with you. Please, never forget that. No matter what happens, no matter what you do, I will always be with you. But, I cannot solve this for you. What I can say is this: your problem and its solution are inseparable. You have the power to make amends. You will always have the power to make amends, if you choose to. So, if that is what you truly wish, you must keep trying."<br />
<br />
She sat with me, in silence, holding my hand until I woke up, somehow knowing what I needed to do.<br />
<br />
I sat at the desk, and lined up all the shards like the pieces of a puzzle. Slowly, painstakingly, I found where each piece needed to go, what it connected to. I started at the bottom, holding the two smallest pieces together. I closed my eyes, and focused my mind, and a tiny burst of magic flowed through my fingers. The two smallest pieces joined, like new. I took a deep breath, and picked up the next piece. And the next. And the next.<br />
<br />
The sun was sinking, and I was covered in sweat, re-aligning and attaching the neck of the lute, when I heard a gasp at door. It was Fae, checking on me again.<br />
<br />
"Rin...how?" she asked.<br />
<br />
"Just like you said." My voice sounded strained. I realized I must look an absolute mess. "I asked my guardian angel." She watched as I mended the neck, then repaired each string in turn, then slumped unwilling right out of the chair and onto the floor. I'm lucky the room is small -- with a few swift steps, she caught me before my head hit the floor.<br />
<br />
====The Second Lapse====<br />
<br />
I disliked Dei the first time I met him. Fae thought he was pretty, and I had to agree with that, but I still didn't like him. She thought I owed him a chance. Right up until she didn't anymore.<br />
<br />
She was in tears when she told me about it. I couldn't even process all the words, like some strange haze had descended. There was a film over the world, separating me from everything else. He had cajoled, he had plied her with drink, he had carefully gotten her alone. He had pushed her, pulled her, left marks on her wrists. I wasn't sure if she said he had actually kissed her, or just that he tried. He didn't care how many times she said no. He had slapped her across the face. She leaned on my shoulder and sobbed.<br />
<br />
No one makes my Fae cry like that. The anger was strange, cold, unfamiliar.<br />
<br />
By coincidence, it was the next day, late in the evening, that I chanced upon him up a side street. No one else was there. The sky was dark, the moon was new, and my anger was terrifying in its speed. Magic surged, and acid covered him, before I even registered the thought. He gasped, and another bubble of acid flew from my hand to splash him. He never even saw me -- he just fainted, his skin burning and clothes dissolving in spots, as the second bubble burst over him.<br />
<br />
I stood, stock still, not even breathing. For an instant, I didn't even regret it. That instant scared me the most. Then, Thallaza's voice came back to me, in my mind.<br />
<br />
"You will always have the power to make amends, if you choose to."<br />
<br />
I crept up to him. He was still alive. All I could do was tear a strip from my cloak and bind his wounds. He seemed stable. He was breathing when I left.<br />
<br />
I'm not proud of the way I fled. In the years since, I've come to realize I was running away from myself, more than anything else. I was lucky -- he lived, though he wasn't pretty anymore. No one ever learned who was behind the attack.<br />
<br />
====The Final Straw====<br />
<br />
"Rin, you know I get to pick who I care about, regardless of your approval."<br />
<br />
"I know Fae, I just don't want you getting hurt."<br />
<br />
"I can take care of myself you know." Her face flushed, and her eyes sparkled brightly. She stabbed at the sand with a stick, digging aimlessly.<br />
<br />
"Whatever, you don't even want my opinion, I get it."<br />
<br />
"That's not what I said, and you know it."<br />
<br />
"It might as well be. You talk to me less and less. You listen to me less and less. Every day, Fae. Don't try to tell me otherwise."<br />
<br />
"I'm allowed to spend time with other people, Rin." Her voice was growing quiet and dangerous.<br />
<br />
"Yeah." I couldn't keep the disgust out of my voice. I couldn't look at her either. I was so busy trying to push that feeling back down, I didn't feel the rage coming. She saw it first.<br />
<br />
"...Rin?" The sharp, steely tone was gone, replaced with fear. I didn't answer.<br />
<br />
"Rin, it's...it's going to be ok." Her soothing voice was too little, too late, and I was too late to stop the cold anger rising again in the pit of my stomach. I turned my eyes on her, in all my fury, fingers already tingling.<br />
<br />
I remember a clear vision of the terror on her face, looking in my eyes, the ocean outlined behind her, meeting the sky in the distance, completely out of place against the fluffy white clouds. In that moment of terror, she turned and fled, and I stopped her.<br />
<br />
"DON'T YOU DARE RUN FROM ME."<br />
<br />
The words felt strange, but the meaning was clear. A ray frost sprang from my hand, and she slowed. Another, and another, and she fell. I stood, rooted to the spot. By the time I unfroze, I swear the sun had moved in the sky. She was still lying there, frost in her hair, face down in the sand. She couldn't breathe like that. Why wasn't she breathing? Why wasn't she moving? Why couldn't I wake up from this nightmare?<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
I brought her to the only temple in town. I had wiped the frost out of her hair, off her shirt. I had brushed the sand from her face. Her eyes were already closed, her beautiful eyes, or I may not have been able to look at her at all. Tears streamed openly down my face. I carried her in as gently as I could, trying to convince myself she was sleeping.<br />
<br />
The priest in attendance took one look at me, at her, and silently went to fetch the high priest. He too seemed to assess and judge in a single glance, and bade me bring her back to an empty room with a bed and some medical supplies. I laid her gently on the bed, arranging her gently into a comfortable sleeping position, without even thinking about it.<br />
<br />
"What happened, son?" He was a gentle old man, with wrinkles and gray hair and wise eyes. My mouth must have been working like a fish, but no words came out. "Take your time," he said. He looked her over, then turned back to me, clearly waiting for an answer.<br />
<br />
"I...She...She's dead," I whispered.<br />
<br />
"Yes," he replied.<br />
<br />
"I can't fix it," I whispered.<br />
<br />
"No," he replied.<br />
<br />
"Can you help her?" I asked, my voice hollow and unfamiliar.<br />
<br />
"Perhaps." His eyes seemed to stare straight through me, for a moment, and then focus again on my face. "I have the skill, but there is a cost that must be paid. We are a small temple, and unfortunately do not have the means to perform such advance magic as the raising of the dead without funds."<br />
<br />
Fresh tears slid down my face. "How...how much...does it cost?"<br />
<br />
He raise his eyebrows. "Five hundred gold pieces."<br />
<br />
I think I fainted for a moment. I'm pretty sure I somehow slumped to the floor. I definitely buried my face in my hands and sobbed. He waited patiently, as if it weren't a done deal that he should just kick me out now.<br />
<br />
"Well?" he said. "What will you do?"<br />
<br />
I was quiet for a long time. He waited.<br />
<br />
"Someone older and wiser than I once told me, 'You will always have the power to make amends, if you choose to.'" I looked at him, and he looked at me, and I could tell he knew exactly what had happened on that beach. He knew who I was. He knew what was buried inside me.<br />
<br />
"And is that what you are choosing to do, by coming to me for assistance?"<br />
<br />
"Yes. Please. I'll do whatever I can. I'll give you whatever I have. But please -- she can't wait for me to find that much money, I can't..." my voice broke.<br />
<br />
"Of course." He spoke softly, with an intense look. "I can Raise her today, but you may not like the terms of the agreement I would require."<br />
<br />
"Anything." My voice was finally strong and fierce, with the knowledge that there was something I could do.<br />
<br />
"Even a Geas?" he asked quietly.<br />
<br />
My heart skipped a beat. With the barest hesitation, I nodded.<br />
<br />
"Very well. You will work off your debt for a year and a day. You will be required to tithe something each day. You may work here for credits, or bring money, as you choose. You may not journey more than a day's walk from Hsiang without my permission. When your debt is paid, I will release you from the Geas."<br />
<br />
I nodded again.<br />
<br />
"I must have your word that you understand and agree."<br />
<br />
"Yes. I understand, and I accept your terms." It felt like I had just sold my soul, despite it being damaged goods.<br />
<br />
"Very well." He murmured a soft prayer, gestured to me, and re-stated his directive to pay the debt. Then he turned to a locked cabinet in the corner, and retrieved a flawless diamond. It fractured the sunlight, scattering it around the room in fleeting rainbows, like nothing I had ever seen. Fae would have loved seeing the light dance. He prayed again, and it dissolved into dust, and Fae's eyes opened.<br />
<br />
"Welcome back, my child," the high priest said, taking her hand reassuringly.<br />
<br />
I buried my face in my hands again. I didn't even deserve to look at her. I couldn't even choke out an apology. What was there to say? She already knew everything. No words could change what I had done.<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
I ripped apart my room, finding every random coin I'd ever lost in my pillows, everything I could possibly sell for a penny. I put a page on the odd-jobs board in town -- farm work, furniture repair, fixing any odds and ends. I cashed in all my memories at the pawn shop for two shiny gold pieces, and brought them with my loose change back to the temple that night.<br />
<br />
There was a different attendant out front. I asked if I could speak with the high priest. At first he refused, but when I said, "Please Father, I owe him a debt," he grew quiet. He went into the back, then returned and allowed me to enter.<br />
<br />
I went to the same room. The high priest was here, but Fae was gone.<br />
<br />
"She was feeling stronger with a bit of rest, and has gone home to her mother," he said, when my eyes involuntarily lit on the empty bed. "She's a feisty one, isn't she? I see a bright future for her." His eyes twinkled.<br />
<br />
"I've brought my first payment," I said meekly. I handed him my coins.<br />
<br />
"Well, that's promising." He took a scroll from the desk. "What is your name, son?"<br />
<br />
"Irrin." He wrote it, and paused. He looked at me, expectantly.<br />
<br />
"Oh," I said. "Uhm. Irrin Shoshenkra Vasri."<br />
<br />
"Well, Mr. Vasri, I will ensure all of our attendant priests know your name, and to note down your daily tithe. That way, you will not have to explain yourself nor wait for me each time."<br />
<br />
"Yes, sir, Father, sorry to have bothered you again."<br />
<br />
"It's no bother, son. You will request me again when you bring your last payment, and otherwise are not required to do so." I could feel the tingle as his voice changed to issue a command.<br />
<br />
"Yes Father."<br />
<br />
===Home No Longer===<br />
<br />
My mother didn't understand how I worked so hard and never had any money, but I was an adult now, and I wasn't about to tell her the whole story. She knew I was hiding something -- but whatever she thought it was couldn't be as bad as the truth.<br />
<br />
Aunt Reyla too could tell something was up between us. Fae had just told her mom "someone" had attacked her on the beach, and then she woke up again at the temple, with the high priest holding her hand. She said it was too confusing, all a blur beforehand, but I could see in her eyes that she remembered just fine. My mom and Aunt Reyla would exchange glances every time Fae and I spoke to each other, the emptiness in our voices ringing loud and clear.<br />
<br />
And then there was Thallaza.<br />
<br />
She was the only one I never felt judging me. It's hard to describe what it is to have a literal angel in your life. It became clearer and clearer to me through the year that compassion and hope were the true colors of her aspect. On the toughest days, she would come back to my dreams, just to sit by me, to hold my hand or let me lean on her shoulder. And the next morning, invariably, I would awake more rested, calm, and ready to begin again.<br />
<br />
====All Debts Means All Debts====<br />
<br />
I counted the days left, and the debt left. I worked days, I worked nights, I skipped meals. I had a deadline to meet, and failure was not an option. I had no plan for the rest of my life, just one clear vision of myself leaving Hsiang of my own free will and not looking back. When the last month arrived, I put a calendar up on my wall, and crossed off each day.<br />
<br />
It was four days before the deadline when I arrived at the temple and asked the attendant if I could speak with the high priest. He smile, squeezed my shoulder almost fondly, and went to find him. A moment later, I was whisked back to his office once more.<br />
<br />
"You've grown, young Mr. Vasri." <br />
<br />
Perhaps I had. He looked the same. I bowed my head.<br />
<br />
"Am I to understand you are ready to settle the last of your debt?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, Father."<br />
<br />
He withdrew his scroll from the desk. "I believe eight gold pieces remain -- a not insubstantial sum. I was worried you may not make it." He peered at me intently, uncomfortably.<br />
<br />
"As I'm sure you know, much of my work has been in repairs. Due to the unfortunate storm damage to some of the homes up Farmview last weekend, my work was in high demand."<br />
<br />
"And so, of course, you were able to raise your prices?"<br />
<br />
I raised my eyes. "I let my customers set my wage, Father, when their need is no fault of their own." He had never commanded that I earn the money fairly, but I knew I would be judged if I did not.<br />
<br />
"It takes a strong soul to make amends, without turning around and doing injury, however mild, to another." He smiled. "Place the final sum on my desk," he commanded. Almost without thinking, I did as he required. He glanced at the coins, quickly confirming the count, and marked down the amount in his scroll. He read through it once more, I suppose to check the figures and be sure everything was added correctly. He drew two lines at the bottom, and signed on one of them.<br />
<br />
"Please review and confirm you agree your debt to the temple has been fairly paid in full. If you are satisfied, you may sign your name."<br />
<br />
I had been over the numbers in my own head so many times, all I needed to see was that he had a zero at the bottom of the page. I signed.<br />
<br />
"Irrin Shoshenkra Vasri, I release you from your Geas. You have kept your promise and paid your debt. Any who ask here shall be told that your word sound." I could feel the change, a subtle shift in the world around me, like the difference between looking at the sky through a glass windowpane or the open air. One weight had been lifted from my shoulders, only to be replaced by another.<br />
<br />
My debt was paid, but I had not finished making amends.<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
It was the same spot on the beach. I had considered whether she would come at all, whether she would be more likely to if I chose a different place, but ultimately, I needed to close this in the same place I had opened it. My debt was paid, my bags were packed, my room was cleaned, and the note to my mother was already sitting in the middle of my desk. The only thing left was the hardest part of all. I stared out at the ocean, my mind blank.<br />
<br />
"Rin?" It was softer than I'd heard her voice in a year.<br />
<br />
"Fae." I turned to face her.<br />
<br />
"Rin, if this is -- "<br />
<br />
"Please, Fae." She fell silent. "Fae, I..." You'd think I would have rehearsed this, planned where to start, played it over and over in my head. But no, here I was, with no words.<br />
<br />
"Rin, you don't have to."<br />
<br />
"Yes, I do. I'm sorry, Fae. I never apologized to you. There are no words that could ever be enough, and so I didn't try, and I should have. I should have tried every day. Every single day, I should have found you to say I'm sorry." It came out all at once, words tumbling on words.<br />
<br />
We were both quiet for a moment. Rae had such a strange look on her face, like she couldn't figure out what I was thinking.<br />
<br />
"I miss you, Rin," she finally said. "I just want my cousin back."<br />
<br />
I shook my head. "I don't think I am who you think I am anymore, Fae." She shook her head, and took a breath to speak, but I plowed on before she had the chance. "If I find your Rin out there, Fae, I'll bring him back for you. In the meantime...well, congratulations on your engagement. I see how you love him. And he takes care of you. You'll be safe together. Without me."<br />
<br />
I watched her eyes slowly fill with tears, when she realized I was leaving. Just like her dad. Just like my dad.<br />
<br />
"Rin -- ""<br />
<br />
"Please," I said again.<br />
<br />
She huffed in irritation. "They never came home. Please. Please be careful out there."<br />
<br />
I smiled, but it was a pale, empty smile. "I have a guardian angel, Fae. I'll be fine."<br />
<br />
"Yeah, but she clearly doesn't keep you out of trouble."<br />
<br />
"No, she doesn't," I said, turning around to leave. "But she's always, always there to help me pick up the pieces and put them back together."<br />
<br />
===Marakinth===<br />
<br />
Yentai had yet another of the usual dim, crowded taverns you find in every town. I suppose it's the only type of establishment my budget allows. Though, there is occasionally something comforting about being surrounded by so many people without having to actually talk to any of them.<br />
<br />
He spotted me first. Brass Dragonkin. I didn't ask, but I'm sure it was the eyes. It's always the eyes. He had a lot of questions, about some monastery up in the mountains that I'd never heard of, and some great evil who attacked it. I did honestly wish I could help -- he flared with such intensity when he asked about the massacre. And yet, he didn't seem disappointed when I had no helpful information.<br />
<br />
"Anything you want me to say to it, if I ever meet this evil of yours? I'm pretty accomplished at swearing in Draconic, if that's your style," I said.<br />
<br />
"Just let me know. I will find a way to destroy it if I ever find out who was behind the attack." Ok, so, not much for a snide joke I guess. I can live with that. At least he has a goal.<br />
<br />
Once he figured out I had absolutely no useful information for him, I assumed he'd disappear back into the crowd, on to the next target for interrogation, but no. He seemed resigned, like this same conversation had played out in every dim, crowded tavern in every town. He was content to drink and talk. It was good to spend a little time with someone who knows the world isn't all sunshine and roses and glory.<br />
<br />
Turns out, he was heading north also. I'm not sure either of us necessarily asked the other to travel together so much as we both arrived at the idea around the same time, and started talking as though it was agreed. Certainly, it would be nice not to travel alone for a while. At least as far as Kai Shan.<br />
<br />
====On the road====<br />
<br />
After so long traveling alone, it does take a while to get used to another person being there all the time. The random noises, the annoying habits, the snoring at night...although, for some reason, with Marakinth, there wasn't as much pressure to keep up the mask I wear in public. I think that's why the arrangement worked at all. It was a relief to travel with someone who didn't need to fill the air with words all the time. Knowing what he'd seen, from the things he asked about his monastery...well, it did explain a lot about why he found me in that crowd.<br />
<br />
I'd forgotten how much easier it is to set up and break down camp with two people, rather than doing all of it alone. He had a lyre with him, this Marakinth character, which seemed to be quite important to him. I didn't pry, of course. How hypocritical would that be? It was pleasant to have some music while cooking over the fire, on the days we managed to take a rabbit or some other small game. He's a better hunter than I am, and it was certainly nice to rely less on dried rations. Within a few days, we had tacitly worked out a routine for setting up and breaking down camp, and fell into a comforting daily rhythm.<br />
<br />
As we sat one night, with the fire burning down and the darkness deepening, I had taken out my woodcarving tools and gone to work on a small chunk of the spare firewood. Kin was tuning his lyre, in the otherwise quiet night, when there was an unexpected THUNK, and an off-pitch tone followed by an odd moment of silence. He mumbled something I didn't quite catch, but when I glanced up, it was clear something had gone wrong with one of the strings on his lyre. His jaw was clenched, and his eyes narrow, as the normal outdoor sounds reclaimed the silence.<br />
<br />
"Do you have a spare?"<br />
<br />
"No," he growled. I raised my eyebrows, and he sighed. "Not this gauge. It's broken too many times."<br />
<br />
"May I?" I must've looked appropriately thoughtful, or respectful, or something like that, when I held out my hand. Somewhat to my surprise, he actually handed me his prized possession. I looked it over. The highest string was stretched -- unusable, but not entirely broken. I unwound it carefully from the tuning peg, removed the peg, and looked it over. Not only was this peg thicker than the others, it had a rough spot where the string wrapped.<br />
<br />
As I chose a tool from my kit, and started to shape the peg, where the string would wrap, I could've sworn I could feel Kin holding his breath. I thinned the peg, smoothed it carefully, and began re-wrapping the string. Before pulling it taut, I paused to cast Mending, to repair the damaged section, then slowly brought the string up to tension. It held, and the adjustment was smoother and finer. Kin was looking at me strangely when I held the instrument out to him.<br />
<br />
"A...friend of mine played lute." I'm pretty sure I looked away, as he took the lyre back from me. "The construction is surprisingly similar. I'm no skilled artisan, to be sure, but a small adjustment can go a long way. You should find it easier to tune that string from now on."<br />
<br />
He adjusted it carefully, and plucked a few chords. The string sounded like new.<br />
<br />
He was still playing when I went to sleep that night.<br />
<br />
====Bandits====<br />
<br />
Kin heard them first, and raised the alarm. Well, really it was more of a mix between an indignant bellow and a sharp battle cry, but it served its purpose. It brought me flying up out of my bedroll in an already wide-awake state, in time to see at least a half-dozen bandits swarming into our clearing. They approached almost in formation, like some kind of combat unit who had trained together, not just your average highway thugs. I assessed the situation quickly, thanking my lucky stars I was not facing this onslaught alone.<br />
<br />
As I was gathering my wits to act, and forming a plan, I heard Kin growl under his breath about the fire dying down, and saw him stumble in the dark. Right, Dragonkin need light. I can do that. I reached out and put a yellow, sunlight-tinted glow on my tent. It was enough to light the clearing at least. I could see his eyes lock on target, taking in the scene the same way I had, calculating a plan.<br />
<br />
I can only assume they couldn't see Kin clearly in his bedroll, and just saw a camp of two with minimal weapons and simple gear. They probably thought it would be easy money to swipe some stuff and ride on.<br />
<br />
They were mistaken.<br />
<br />
Seeing the group coming at him in formation, the Dragonkin took up his spear, but didn't ready it immediately. First, he took a deep breath and unleashed his fire on the front of the group. With the whole attacking force suddenly looking a lot crispier than they had a moment ago, and the front line swiftly approaching that spear, I threw an Acid Splash at the back of the line.<br />
<br />
Kin brought his spear up to meet the front line's charge, and I started targeting the rest of the back line with rays of frost, focusing on any who tried to run away. A few solid hits from my companion, and one lucky Chaos Bolt from me, and the attacking force was reduced to a pile of corpses.<br />
<br />
We stood a moment, catching our breath, looking at the fallen attackers.<br />
<br />
"Well. Now what?" I asked. Kin shrugged. "Now we dig a big hole, I guess," I muttered. Not how I wanted to spend my night, but even though we spoke precious few words before daybreak, I think both of us were keenly aware of how that fight would've gone without the other there to fight alongside.<br />
<br />
====Kai Shan====<br />
<br />
(arriving at town, deciding to stick together longer)<br />
<br />
===Into the Jungle===<br />
<br />
(heading into the Hai Jungle)</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Children_of_Vecna&diff=16721
Children of Vecna
2021-02-22T01:38:17Z
<p>Ratri: /* All Debts Means All Debts */</p>
<hr />
<div>A D&D 5e run brought to you by my fabulous former coworkers.<br />
<br />
D&D Beyond character link: https://www.dndbeyond.com/profile/LadyRatri/characters/44705859<br />
<br />
=Irrin Soshenkra Vasri=<br />
<br />
Fallen Aasimar Sorcerer with a black dragon bloodline, wandering the countryside of [https://forgottenrealms.fandom.com/wiki/Shou_Lung Shou Lung]. He wanders almost like someone in search of something...<br />
<br />
==Backstory==<br />
<br />
===Home===<br />
<br />
Hsiang lies on the northern edge of the Wak'an peninsula, between the Yellow Sea and the Celestial Sea. I practically grew up on the beach. It was just me and my mom really, but we were very close to my aunt Reyla and my cousin Faeona. Faeona's dad and mine had left on day on a great adventure, and never returned. We had a lot to talk about, Faeona and I, even as children. I guess our moms did too.<br />
<br />
The earliest memories I have were lying in the sand on the beach, staring at the brightness of the sky through closed eyelids, listening. My mother would play lute, and Faeona would sing, and the ocean would sing with her, and the whole world would dance around us. I could feel it spinning and tilting and whirling, night into day, stars swirling around us like a whirlpool. My mother said I had an "overactive imagination" when she talked to the other parents in the village.<br />
<br />
I loved my cousin's voice.<br />
<br />
====Thallaza====<br />
<br />
I was ten years old the first time I heard a second voice join the song. Soft and ethereal, it was unlike any other singing I had heard -- even Fae's voice couldn't sing like that.<br />
<br />
At the end of the song, my mother put her hand on my shoulder. When I looked, she was smiling.<br />
<br />
"It's your turn, love." She tilted her head down the shoreline, to where a tall woman with rich blond hair stood, staring intently at me with brilliant blue eyes. She gestured for me to come walk with her. I looked to my mother, confused, but she just smiled and squeezed my shoulder "It's ok, Irrin. She's the kindest soul I know."<br />
<br />
I went.<br />
<br />
"My name is Thallaza," she said. Her voice was somehow still musical, even when she spoke plainly.<br />
<br />
"Uhm." I sounded ridiculous. Why couldn't I make reasonable words? "Nice to meet you...uh, ma'am. I'm Irrin." I felt my face flush as soon as I said it.<br />
<br />
"Yes, love. I'm aware." I could hear the smile in her soft voice. I looked up sharply, and just for a moment, like an overlay on top of the real world, her skin shone silver, her hair glowed bright gold, and her eyes lit up like sapphires in the sun. The immaterial glow of wings, more a suggestion than a reality, unfurled from her back, huge and bright and feathered. "I'm your guardian angel." She paused. "And your great-grandmother. Well, more generations removed than that, but it pains me to keep count these days."<br />
<br />
"My..." I blinked stupidly.<br />
<br />
"Ages ago, I had a child with a man from Hsiang. She chose to make her home here, and her family has stayed ever since. I watch over them. I spoke to your mother, when she turned ten, and told her the same story. As she said, today, it is your turn to hear a little bit about your past." Somehow, we had come to the very point of the peninsula, despite it being easily several days' journey away. She gestured to a wide, flat rock near a long, flat tidepool. "Sit with me? There are some stories I love to tell..."<br />
<br />
I still loved my cousin's voice more.<br />
<br />
====The First Lapse====<br />
<br />
I resented my mother for leaving me alone. Mom needed materials for her woodwork shop, and she had to journey to Lo Shan to get them. Of course she did. If she didn't stock the shop, we didn't eat. That didn't matter. I still resented it.<br />
<br />
I resented Aunt Reyla for falling sick the day my mom left. Fae needed to take care of her mom. I would've done the same, if it were my mom who was sick and Aunt Reyla who was away. That didn't matter. I still resented it.<br />
<br />
I resented the ocean for singing all the louder, without my mother and Fae to accompany it. Of course it continue to beat the shore, to advance and swirl and recede. What choice did it have? That didn't matter. I still resented it.<br />
<br />
I resented her lute for sitting, silent, in her room. I seethed. I boiled. I didn't understand what rage was. I didn't understand who I was anymore. The world swirled and spun and spiraled around again. Someone had pulled the plug, and everything was running together down the drain. What are those crashing noises? Why are there splinters in my hands? Why is Fae looking at me with such grown-up worry in her eyes?<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
Slowly, I realized the room around me was in complete disarray. I was still holding the neck of the lute in my hands -- cracked and splintered, the body smashed, the strings connecting some of the fragments together.<br />
<br />
"What..." Fae whispered. "Irrin. What did you do?"<br />
<br />
I looked up at her, confused, overwhelmed, and words would not come. Tears came more easily. She walked across the room in three strides, and just silently hugged me, until I could speak again.<br />
<br />
"What do I do Fae? I don't know what happened. I just...want to fix it."<br />
<br />
Fae looked at me, and smiled. "So fix it, then." She looked me straight in the eyes. "You have at least two more days before your mom gets back. Do whatever you can to make this right again. You have a guardian angel -- speak to her, and maybe she can give you guidance. Just don't expect her to do the work for you." She kissed my forehead. "I believe in you, Rin."<br />
<br />
"Thank you," I whispered. She had said that before, and it had always felt right. Today, for the first time, I didn't feel like I deserved it.<br />
<br />
She stood, and turned to leave. "I just came to get some supplies for my mom. She's getting better." Fae paused, just outside the door in the hallway, and looked back. "I'll come check on you? Tonight maybe?"<br />
<br />
"Thank you." I had a tingling little feeling I'd be saying that to Fae a lot.<br />
<br />
"Chin up, Rin." she said, and disappeared back down the stairs.<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki> <br />
<br />
Hours later, the room was straightened and cleaned. Every item was put away, neater than it had been before. The bed was made, the desk was cleared. There was nothing else left to do, except...every shard, every splinter, every shred that was once her beautiful lute was laid out on her desk. Broken and useless.<br />
<br />
I stared at it. I swore at it. I wracked my brains for anything I could do. I had tried to glue the neck once, but that only made it worse, and there was no way it would ever work on the shattered body of the instrument. I sat in the opposite corner of the room, staring at the desk, moonlight streaming in through the window as though to highlight the horrible thing I had done. I closed my eyes, and thought to myself -- Thallaza, please give me hope. I don't know what to do. I don't know what I am. I need help. Please, help me. I thought it over and over.<br />
<br />
And then she was sitting next to me, glowing dimly silver, just like the moon.<br />
<br />
"I'm so sorry, Irrin. Truly, I am. What you are facing today is not easy." She took my hand in hers. "Your blood is at war with itself. I should have seen it sooner, but...my line has always chosen travelers, and I have never known their histories." She shook her head.<br />
<br />
"But...can you help me?" I asked her.<br />
<br />
Her face took on a deep sadness. "I can be here with you, Irrin. I will always be here with you. Please, never forget that. No matter what happens, no matter what you do, I will always be with you. But, I cannot solve this for you. What I can say is this: your problem and its solution are inseparable. You have the power to make amends. You will always have the power to make amends, if you choose to. So, if that is what you truly wish, you must keep trying."<br />
<br />
She sat with me, in silence, holding my hand until I woke up, somehow knowing what I needed to do.<br />
<br />
I sat at the desk, and lined up all the shards like the pieces of a puzzle. Slowly, painstakingly, I found where each piece needed to go, what it connected to. I started at the bottom, holding the two smallest pieces together. I closed my eyes, and focused my mind, and a tiny burst of magic flowed through my fingers. The two smallest pieces joined, like new. I took a deep breath, and picked up the next piece. And the next. And the next.<br />
<br />
The sun was sinking, and I was covered in sweat, re-aligning and attaching the neck of the lute, when I heard a gasp at door. It was Fae, checking on me again.<br />
<br />
"Rin...how?" she asked.<br />
<br />
"Just like you said." My voice sounded strained. I realized I must look an absolute mess. "I asked my guardian angel." She watched as I mended the neck, then repaired each string in turn, then slumped unwilling right out of the chair and onto the floor. I'm lucky the room is small -- with a few swift steps, she caught me before my head hit the floor.<br />
<br />
====The Second Lapse====<br />
<br />
I disliked Dei the first time I met him. Fae thought he was pretty, and I had to agree with that, but I still didn't like him. She thought I owed him a chance. Right up until she didn't anymore.<br />
<br />
She was in tears when she told me about it. I couldn't even process all the words, like some strange haze had descended. There was a film over the world, separating me from everything else. He had cajoled, he had plied her with drink, he had carefully gotten her alone. He had pushed her, pulled her, left marks on her wrists. I wasn't sure if she said he had actually kissed her, or just that he tried. He didn't care how many times she said no. He had slapped her across the face. She leaned on my shoulder and sobbed.<br />
<br />
No one makes my Fae cry like that. The anger was strange, cold, unfamiliar.<br />
<br />
By coincidence, it was the next day, late in the evening, that I chanced upon him up a side street. No one else was there. The sky was dark, the moon was new, and my anger was terrifying in its speed. Magic surged, and acid covered him, before I even registered the thought. He gasped, and another bubble of acid flew from my hand to splash him. He never even saw me -- he just fainted, his skin burning and clothes dissolving in spots, as the second bubble burst over him.<br />
<br />
I stood, stock still, not even breathing. For an instant, I didn't even regret it. That instant scared me the most. Then, Thallaza's voice came back to me, in my mind.<br />
<br />
"You will always have the power to make amends, if you choose to."<br />
<br />
I crept up to him. He was still alive. All I could do was tear a strip from my cloak and bind his wounds. He seemed stable. He was breathing when I left.<br />
<br />
I'm not proud of the way I fled. In the years since, I've come to realize I was running away from myself, more than anything else. I was lucky -- he lived, though he wasn't pretty anymore. No one ever learned who was behind the attack.<br />
<br />
====The Final Straw====<br />
<br />
"Rin, you know I get to pick who I care about, regardless of your approval."<br />
<br />
"I know Fae, I just don't want you getting hurt."<br />
<br />
"I can take care of myself you know." Her face flushed, and her eyes sparkled brightly. She stabbed at the sand with a stick, digging aimlessly.<br />
<br />
"Whatever, you don't even want my opinion, I get it."<br />
<br />
"That's not what I said, and you know it."<br />
<br />
"It might as well be. You talk to me less and less. You listen to me less and less. Every day, Fae. Don't try to tell me otherwise."<br />
<br />
"I'm allowed to spend time with other people, Rin." Her voice was growing quiet and dangerous.<br />
<br />
"Yeah." I couldn't keep the disgust out of my voice. I couldn't look at her either. I was so busy trying to push that feeling back down, I didn't feel the rage coming. She saw it first.<br />
<br />
"...Rin?" The sharp, steely tone was gone, replaced with fear. I didn't answer.<br />
<br />
"Rin, it's...it's going to be ok." Her soothing voice was too little, too late, and I was too late to stop the cold anger rising again in the pit of my stomach. I turned my eyes on her, in all my fury, fingers already tingling.<br />
<br />
I remember a clear vision of the terror on her face, looking in my eyes, the ocean outlined behind her, meeting the sky in the distance, completely out of place against the fluffy white clouds. In that moment of terror, she turned and fled, and I stopped her.<br />
<br />
"DON'T YOU DARE RUN FROM ME."<br />
<br />
The words felt strange, but the meaning was clear. A ray frost sprang from my hand, and she slowed. Another, and another, and she fell. I stood, rooted to the spot. By the time I unfroze, I swear the sun had moved in the sky. She was still lying there, frost in her hair, face down in the sand. She couldn't breathe like that. Why wasn't she breathing? Why wasn't she moving? Why couldn't I wake up from this nightmare?<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
I brought her to the only temple in town. I had wiped the frost out of her hair, off her shirt. I had brushed the sand from her face. Her eyes were already closed, her beautiful eyes, or I may not have been able to look at her at all. Tears streamed openly down my face. I carried her in as gently as I could, trying to convince myself she was sleeping.<br />
<br />
The priest in attendance took one look at me, at her, and silently went to fetch the high priest. He too seemed to assess and judge in a single glance, and bade me bring her back to an empty room with a bed and some medical supplies. I laid her gently on the bed, arranging her gently into a comfortable sleeping position, without even thinking about it.<br />
<br />
"What happened, son?" He was a gentle old man, with wrinkles and gray hair and wise eyes. My mouth must have been working like a fish, but no words came out. "Take your time," he said. He looked her over, then turned back to me, clearly waiting for an answer.<br />
<br />
"I...She...She's dead," I whispered.<br />
<br />
"Yes," he replied.<br />
<br />
"I can't fix it," I whispered.<br />
<br />
"No," he replied.<br />
<br />
"Can you help her?" I asked, my voice hollow and unfamiliar.<br />
<br />
"Perhaps." His eyes seemed to stare straight through me, for a moment, and then focus again on my face. "I have the skill, but there is a cost that must be paid. We are a small temple, and unfortunately do not have the means to perform such advance magic as the raising of the dead without funds."<br />
<br />
Fresh tears slid down my face. "How...how much...does it cost?"<br />
<br />
He raise his eyebrows. "Five hundred gold pieces."<br />
<br />
I think I fainted for a moment. I'm pretty sure I somehow slumped to the floor. I definitely buried my face in my hands and sobbed. He waited patiently, as if it weren't a done deal that he should just kick me out now.<br />
<br />
"Well?" he said. "What will you do?"<br />
<br />
I was quiet for a long time. He waited.<br />
<br />
"Someone older and wiser than I once told me, 'You will always have the power to make amends, if you choose to.'" I looked at him, and he looked at me, and I could tell he knew exactly what had happened on that beach. He knew who I was. He knew what was buried inside me.<br />
<br />
"And is that what you are choosing to do, by coming to me for assistance?"<br />
<br />
"Yes. Please. I'll do whatever I can. I'll give you whatever I have. But please -- she can't wait for me to find that much money, I can't..." my voice broke.<br />
<br />
"Of course." He spoke softly, with an intense look. "I can Raise her today, but you may not like the terms of the agreement I would require."<br />
<br />
"Anything." My voice was finally strong and fierce, with the knowledge that there was something I could do.<br />
<br />
"Even a Geas?" he asked quietly.<br />
<br />
My heart skipped a beat. With the barest hesitation, I nodded.<br />
<br />
"Very well. You will work off your debt for a year and a day. You will be required to tithe something each day. You may work here for credits, or bring money, as you choose. You may not journey more than a day's walk from Hsiang without my permission. When your debt is paid, I will release you from the Geas."<br />
<br />
I nodded again.<br />
<br />
"I must have your word that you understand and agree."<br />
<br />
"Yes. I understand, and I accept your terms." It felt like I had just sold my soul, despite it being damaged goods.<br />
<br />
"Very well." He murmured a soft prayer, gestured to me, and re-stated his directive to pay the debt. Then he turned to a locked cabinet in the corner, and retrieved a flawless diamond. It fractured the sunlight, scattering it around the room in fleeting rainbows, like nothing I had ever seen. Fae would have loved seeing the light dance. He prayed again, and it dissolved into dust, and Fae's eyes opened.<br />
<br />
"Welcome back, my child," the high priest said, taking her hand reassuringly.<br />
<br />
I buried my face in my hands again. I didn't even deserve to look at her. I couldn't even choke out an apology. What was there to say? She already knew everything. No words could change what I had done.<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
I ripped apart my room, finding every random coin I'd ever lost in my pillows, everything I could possibly sell for a penny. I put a page on the odd-jobs board in town -- farm work, furniture repair, fixing any odds and ends. I cashed in all my memories at the pawn shop for two shiny gold pieces, and brought them with my loose change back to the temple that night.<br />
<br />
There was a different attendant out front. I asked if I could speak with the high priest. At first he refused, but when I said, "Please Father, I owe him a debt," he grew quiet. He went into the back, then returned and allowed me to enter.<br />
<br />
I went to the same room. The high priest was here, but Fae was gone.<br />
<br />
"She was feeling stronger with a bit of rest, and has gone home to her mother," he said, when my eyes involuntarily lit on the empty bed. "She's a feisty one, isn't she? I see a bright future for her." His eyes twinkled.<br />
<br />
"I've brought my first payment," I said meekly. I handed him my coins.<br />
<br />
"Well, that's promising." He took a scroll from the desk. "What is your name, son?"<br />
<br />
"Irrin." He wrote it, and paused. He looked at me, expectantly.<br />
<br />
"Oh," I said. "Uhm. Irrin Shoshenkra Vasri."<br />
<br />
"Well, Mr. Vasri, I will ensure all of our attendant priests know your name, and to note down your daily tithe. That way, you will not have to explain yourself nor wait for me each time."<br />
<br />
"Yes, sir, Father, sorry to have bothered you again."<br />
<br />
"It's no bother, son. You will request me again when you bring your last payment, and otherwise are not required to do so." I could feel the tingle as his voice changed to issue a command.<br />
<br />
"Yes Father."<br />
<br />
===Home No Longer===<br />
<br />
My mother didn't understand how I worked so hard and never had any money, but I was an adult now, and I wasn't about to tell her the whole story. She knew I was hiding something -- but whatever she thought it was couldn't be as bad as the truth.<br />
<br />
Aunt Reyla too could tell something was up between us. Fae had just told her mom "someone" had attacked her on the beach, and then she woke up again at the temple, with the high priest holding her hand. She said it was too confusing, all a blur beforehand, but I could see in her eyes that she remembered just fine. My mom and Aunt Reyla would exchange glances every time Fae and I spoke to each other, the emptiness in our voices ringing loud and clear.<br />
<br />
And then there was Thallaza.<br />
<br />
She was the only one I never felt judging me. It's hard to describe what it is to have a literal angel in your life. It became clearer and clearer to me through the year that compassion and hope were the true colors of her aspect. On the toughest days, she would come back to my dreams, just to sit by me, to hold my hand or let me lean on her shoulder. And the next morning, invariably, I would awake more rested, calm, and ready to begin again.<br />
<br />
====All Debts Means All Debts====<br />
<br />
I counted the days left, and the debt left. I worked days, I worked nights, I skipped meals. I had a deadline to meet, and failure was not an option. I had no plan for the rest of my life, just one clear vision of myself leaving Hsiang of my own free will and not looking back. When the last month arrived, I put a calendar up on my wall, and crossed off each day.<br />
<br />
It was four days before the deadline when I arrived at the temple and asked the attendant if I could speak with the high priest. He smile, squeezed my shoulder almost fondly, and went to find him. A moment later, I was whisked back to his office once more.<br />
<br />
"You've grown, young Mr. Vasri." <br />
<br />
Perhaps I had. He looked the same. I bowed my head.<br />
<br />
"Am I to understand you are ready to settle the last of your debt?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, Father."<br />
<br />
He withdrew his scroll from the desk. "I believe eight gold pieces remain -- a not insubstantial sum. I was worried you may not make it." He peered at me intently, uncomfortably.<br />
<br />
"As I'm sure you know, much of my work has been in repairs. Due to the unfortunate storm damage to some of the homes up Farmview last weekend, my work was in high demand."<br />
<br />
"And so, of course, you were able to raise your prices?"<br />
<br />
I raised my eyes. "I let my customers set my wage, Father, when their need is no fault of their own." He had never commanded that I earn the money fairly, but I knew I would be judged if I did not.<br />
<br />
"It takes a strong soul to make amends, without turning around and doing injury, however mild, to another." He smiled. "Place the final sum on my desk," he commanded. Almost without thinking, I did as he required. He glanced at the coins, quickly confirming the count, and marked down the amount in his scroll. He read through it once more, I suppose to check the figures and be sure everything was added correctly. He drew two lines at the bottom, and signed on one of them.<br />
<br />
"Please review and confirm you agree your debt to the temple has been fairly paid in full. If you are satisfied, you may sign your name."<br />
<br />
I had been over the numbers in my own head so many times, all I needed to see was that he had a zero at the bottom of the page. I signed.<br />
<br />
"Irrin Shoshenkra Vasri, I release you from your Geas. You have kept your promise and paid your debt. Any who ask here shall be told that your word sound." I could feel the change, a subtle shift in the world around me, like the difference between looking at the sky through a glass windowpane or the open air. One weight had been lifted from my shoulders, only to be replaced by another.<br />
<br />
My debt was paid, but I had not finished making amends.<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
It was the same spot on the beach. I had considered whether she would come at all, whether she would be more likely to if I chose a different place, but ultimately, I needed to close this in the same place I had opened it. My debt was paid, my bags were packed, my room was cleaned, and the note to my mother was already sitting in the middle of my desk. The only thing left was the hardest part of all. I stared out at the ocean, my mind blank.<br />
<br />
"Rin?" It was softer than I'd heard her voice in a year.<br />
<br />
"Fae." I turned to face her.<br />
<br />
"Rin, if this is -- "<br />
<br />
"Please, Fae." She fell silent. "Fae, I..." You'd think I would have rehearsed this, planned where to start, played it over and over in my head. But no, here I was, with no words.<br />
<br />
"Rin, you don't have to."<br />
<br />
"Yes, I do. I'm sorry, Fae. I never apologized to you. There are no words that could ever be enough, and so I didn't try, and I should have. I should have tried every day. Every single day, I should have found you to say I'm sorry." It came out all at once, words tumbling on words.<br />
<br />
We were both quiet for a moment. Rae had such a strange look on her face, like she couldn't figure out what I was thinking.<br />
<br />
"I miss you, Rin," she finally said. "I just want my cousin back."<br />
<br />
I shook my head. "I don't think I am who you think I am anymore, Fae." She shook her head, and took a breath to speak, but I plowed on before she had the chance. "If I find your Rin out there, Fae, I'll bring him back for you. In the meantime...well, congratulations on your engagement. I see how you love him. And he takes care of you. You'll be safe together. Without me."<br />
<br />
I watched her eyes slowly fill with tears, when she realized I was leaving. Just like her dad. Just like my dad.<br />
<br />
"Rin -- ""<br />
<br />
"Please," I said again.<br />
<br />
She huffed in irritation. "They never came home. Please. Please be careful out there."<br />
<br />
I smiled, but it was a pale, empty smile. "I have a guardian angel, Fae. I'll be fine."<br />
<br />
"Yeah, but she clearly doesn't keep you out of trouble."<br />
<br />
"No, she doesn't," I said, turning around to leave. "But she's always, always there to help me pick up the pieces and put them back together."<br />
<br />
===Marakinth===<br />
<br />
Yentai had yet another of the usual dim, crowded taverns you find in every town. I suppose it's the only type of establishment my budget allows. Though, there is occasionally something comforting about being surrounded by so many people without having to actually talk to any of them.<br />
<br />
He spotted me first. Brass Dragonkin. I didn't ask, but I'm sure it was the eyes. It's always the eyes. He had a lot of questions, about some monastery up in the mountains that I'd never heard of, and some great evil who attacked it. I did honestly wish I could help -- he flared with such intensity when he asked about the massacre. And yet, he didn't seem disappointed when I had no helpful information.<br />
<br />
"Anything you want me to say to it, if I ever meet this evil of yours? I'm pretty accomplished at swearing in Draconic, if that's your style," I said.<br />
<br />
"Just let me know. I will find a way to destroy it if I ever find out who was behind the attack." Ok, so, not much for a snide joke I guess. I can live with that. At least he has a goal.<br />
<br />
Once he figured out I had absolutely no useful information for him, I assumed he'd disappear back into the crowd, on to the next target for interrogation, but no. He seemed resigned, like this same conversation had played out in every dim, crowded tavern in every town. He was content to drink and talk. It was good to spend a little time with someone who knows the world isn't all sunshine and roses and glory.<br />
<br />
Turns out, he was heading north also. I'm not sure either of us necessarily asked the other to travel together so much as we both arrived at the idea around the same time, and started talking as though it was agreed. Certainly, it would be nice not to travel alone for a while. At least as far as Kai Shan.<br />
<br />
====On the road====<br />
<br />
After so long traveling alone, it does take a while to get used to another person being there all the time. The random noises, the annoying habits, the snoring at night...although, for some reason, with Marakinth, there wasn't as much pressure to keep up the mask I wear in public. I think that's why the arrangement worked at all. It was a relief to travel with someone who didn't need to fill the air with words all the time. Knowing what he'd seen, from the things he asked about his monastery...well, it did explain a lot about why he found me in that crowd.<br />
<br />
I'd forgotten how much easier it is to set up and break down camp with two people, rather than doing all of it alone. He had a lyre with him, this Marakinth character, which seemed to be quite important to him. I didn't pry, of course. How hypocritical would that be? It was pleasant to have some music while cooking over the fire, on the days we managed to take a rabbit or some other small game. He's a better hunter than I am, and it was certainly nice to rely less on dried rations. Within a few days, we had tacitly worked out a routine for setting up and breaking down camp, and fell into a comforting daily rhythm.<br />
<br />
As we sat one night, with the fire burning down and the darkness deepening, I had taken out my woodcarving tools and gone to work on a small chunk of the spare firewood. Marakinth was tuning his lyre, in the otherwise quiet night, when there was an unexpected THUNK, and an off-pitch tone followed by an odd moment of silence. He mumbled something I didn't quite catch, but when I glanced up, it was clear something had gone wrong with one of the strings on his lyre. His jaw was clenched, and his eyes narrow, as the normal outdoor sounds reclaimed the silence.<br />
<br />
"Do you have a spare?"<br />
<br />
"No," he growled. I raised my eyebrows, and he sighed. "Not this gauge. It's broken too many times."<br />
<br />
"May I?" I must've looked appropriately thoughtful, or respectful, or something like that, when I held out my hand. Somewhat to my surprise, he actually handed me his prized possession. I looked it over. The highest string was stretched -- unusable, but not entirely broken. I unwound it carefully from the tuning peg, removed the peg, and looked it over. Not only was this peg thicker than the others, it had a rough spot where the string wrapped.<br />
<br />
As I chose a tool from my kit, and started to shape the peg, where the string would wrap, I could've sworn I could feel Marakinth holding his breath. I thinned the peg, smoothed it carefully, and began re-wrapping the string. Before pulling it taut, I paused to cast Mending, to repair the damaged section, then slowly brought the string up to tension. It held, and the adjustment was smoother and finer. Marakinth was looking at me strangely when I held the instrument out to him.<br />
<br />
"A...friend of mine played lute." I'm pretty sure I looked away, as he took the lyre back from me. "The construction is surprisingly similar. I'm no skilled artisan, to be sure, but a small adjustment can go a long way. You should find it easier to tune that string from now on."<br />
<br />
He adjusted it carefully, and plucked a few chords. The string sounded like new.<br />
<br />
He was still playing when I went to sleep that night.<br />
<br />
====Bandits====<br />
<br />
Marakinth heard them first, and raised the alarm. Well, really it was more of a mix between an indignant bellow and a sharp battle cry, but it served its purpose. It brought me flying up out of my bedroll in an already wide-awake state, in time to see at least a half-dozen bandits swarming into our clearing. They approached almost in formation, like some kind of combat unit who had trained together, not just your average highway thugs. I assessed the situation quickly, thanking my lucky stars I was not facing this onslaught alone.<br />
<br />
As I was gathering my wits to act, and forming a plan, I heard Marakinth growl under his breath about the fire dying down, and saw him stumble in the dark. Right, Dragonkin need light. I can do that. I reached out and put a yellow, sunlight-tinted glow on my tent. It was enough to light the clearing at least. I could see his eyes lock on target, taking in the scene the same way I had, calculating a plan.<br />
<br />
I can only assume they couldn't see Marakinth clearly in his bedroll, and just saw a camp of two with minimal weapons and simple gear. They probably thought it would be easy money to swipe some stuff and ride on.<br />
<br />
They were mistaken.<br />
<br />
Seeing the group coming at him in formation, the Dragonkin took up his spear, but didn't ready it immediately. First, he took a deep breath and unleashed his fire on the front of the group. With the whole attacking force suddenly looking a lot crispier than they had a moment ago, and the front line swiftly approaching that spear, I threw an Acid Splash at the back of the line.<br />
<br />
Marakinth brought his spear up to meet the front line's charge, and I started targeting the rest of the back line with rays of frost, focusing on any who tried to run away. A few solid hits from my companion, and one lucky Chaos Bolt from me, and the attacking force was reduced to a pile of corpses.<br />
<br />
We stood a moment, catching our breath, looking at the fallen attackers.<br />
<br />
"Well. Now what?" I asked. Marakinth shrugged. "Now we dig a big hole, I guess," I muttered. Not how I wanted to spend my night, but even though we spoke precious few words before daybreak, I think both of us were keenly aware of how that fight would've gone without the other there to fight alongside.<br />
<br />
====Kai Shan====<br />
<br />
(arriving at town, deciding to stick together longer)<br />
<br />
===Into the Jungle===<br />
<br />
(heading into the Hai Jungle)</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Children_of_Vecna&diff=16720
Children of Vecna
2021-02-22T01:33:21Z
<p>Ratri: /* Home */</p>
<hr />
<div>A D&D 5e run brought to you by my fabulous former coworkers.<br />
<br />
D&D Beyond character link: https://www.dndbeyond.com/profile/LadyRatri/characters/44705859<br />
<br />
=Irrin Soshenkra Vasri=<br />
<br />
Fallen Aasimar Sorcerer with a black dragon bloodline, wandering the countryside of [https://forgottenrealms.fandom.com/wiki/Shou_Lung Shou Lung]. He wanders almost like someone in search of something...<br />
<br />
==Backstory==<br />
<br />
===Home===<br />
<br />
Hsiang lies on the northern edge of the Wak'an peninsula, between the Yellow Sea and the Celestial Sea. I practically grew up on the beach. It was just me and my mom really, but we were very close to my aunt Reyla and my cousin Faeona. Faeona's dad and mine had left on day on a great adventure, and never returned. We had a lot to talk about, Faeona and I, even as children. I guess our moms did too.<br />
<br />
The earliest memories I have were lying in the sand on the beach, staring at the brightness of the sky through closed eyelids, listening. My mother would play lute, and Faeona would sing, and the ocean would sing with her, and the whole world would dance around us. I could feel it spinning and tilting and whirling, night into day, stars swirling around us like a whirlpool. My mother said I had an "overactive imagination" when she talked to the other parents in the village.<br />
<br />
I loved my cousin's voice.<br />
<br />
====Thallaza====<br />
<br />
I was ten years old the first time I heard a second voice join the song. Soft and ethereal, it was unlike any other singing I had heard -- even Fae's voice couldn't sing like that.<br />
<br />
At the end of the song, my mother put her hand on my shoulder. When I looked, she was smiling.<br />
<br />
"It's your turn, love." She tilted her head down the shoreline, to where a tall woman with rich blond hair stood, staring intently at me with brilliant blue eyes. She gestured for me to come walk with her. I looked to my mother, confused, but she just smiled and squeezed my shoulder "It's ok, Irrin. She's the kindest soul I know."<br />
<br />
I went.<br />
<br />
"My name is Thallaza," she said. Her voice was somehow still musical, even when she spoke plainly.<br />
<br />
"Uhm." I sounded ridiculous. Why couldn't I make reasonable words? "Nice to meet you...uh, ma'am. I'm Irrin." I felt my face flush as soon as I said it.<br />
<br />
"Yes, love. I'm aware." I could hear the smile in her soft voice. I looked up sharply, and just for a moment, like an overlay on top of the real world, her skin shone silver, her hair glowed bright gold, and her eyes lit up like sapphires in the sun. The immaterial glow of wings, more a suggestion than a reality, unfurled from her back, huge and bright and feathered. "I'm your guardian angel." She paused. "And your great-grandmother. Well, more generations removed than that, but it pains me to keep count these days."<br />
<br />
"My..." I blinked stupidly.<br />
<br />
"Ages ago, I had a child with a man from Hsiang. She chose to make her home here, and her family has stayed ever since. I watch over them. I spoke to your mother, when she turned ten, and told her the same story. As she said, today, it is your turn to hear a little bit about your past." Somehow, we had come to the very point of the peninsula, despite it being easily several days' journey away. She gestured to a wide, flat rock near a long, flat tidepool. "Sit with me? There are some stories I love to tell..."<br />
<br />
I still loved my cousin's voice more.<br />
<br />
====The First Lapse====<br />
<br />
I resented my mother for leaving me alone. Mom needed materials for her woodwork shop, and she had to journey to Lo Shan to get them. Of course she did. If she didn't stock the shop, we didn't eat. That didn't matter. I still resented it.<br />
<br />
I resented Aunt Reyla for falling sick the day my mom left. Fae needed to take care of her mom. I would've done the same, if it were my mom who was sick and Aunt Reyla who was away. That didn't matter. I still resented it.<br />
<br />
I resented the ocean for singing all the louder, without my mother and Fae to accompany it. Of course it continue to beat the shore, to advance and swirl and recede. What choice did it have? That didn't matter. I still resented it.<br />
<br />
I resented her lute for sitting, silent, in her room. I seethed. I boiled. I didn't understand what rage was. I didn't understand who I was anymore. The world swirled and spun and spiraled around again. Someone had pulled the plug, and everything was running together down the drain. What are those crashing noises? Why are there splinters in my hands? Why is Fae looking at me with such grown-up worry in her eyes?<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
Slowly, I realized the room around me was in complete disarray. I was still holding the neck of the lute in my hands -- cracked and splintered, the body smashed, the strings connecting some of the fragments together.<br />
<br />
"What..." Fae whispered. "Irrin. What did you do?"<br />
<br />
I looked up at her, confused, overwhelmed, and words would not come. Tears came more easily. She walked across the room in three strides, and just silently hugged me, until I could speak again.<br />
<br />
"What do I do Fae? I don't know what happened. I just...want to fix it."<br />
<br />
Fae looked at me, and smiled. "So fix it, then." She looked me straight in the eyes. "You have at least two more days before your mom gets back. Do whatever you can to make this right again. You have a guardian angel -- speak to her, and maybe she can give you guidance. Just don't expect her to do the work for you." She kissed my forehead. "I believe in you, Rin."<br />
<br />
"Thank you," I whispered. She had said that before, and it had always felt right. Today, for the first time, I didn't feel like I deserved it.<br />
<br />
She stood, and turned to leave. "I just came to get some supplies for my mom. She's getting better." Fae paused, just outside the door in the hallway, and looked back. "I'll come check on you? Tonight maybe?"<br />
<br />
"Thank you." I had a tingling little feeling I'd be saying that to Fae a lot.<br />
<br />
"Chin up, Rin." she said, and disappeared back down the stairs.<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki> <br />
<br />
Hours later, the room was straightened and cleaned. Every item was put away, neater than it had been before. The bed was made, the desk was cleared. There was nothing else left to do, except...every shard, every splinter, every shred that was once her beautiful lute was laid out on her desk. Broken and useless.<br />
<br />
I stared at it. I swore at it. I wracked my brains for anything I could do. I had tried to glue the neck once, but that only made it worse, and there was no way it would ever work on the shattered body of the instrument. I sat in the opposite corner of the room, staring at the desk, moonlight streaming in through the window as though to highlight the horrible thing I had done. I closed my eyes, and thought to myself -- Thallaza, please give me hope. I don't know what to do. I don't know what I am. I need help. Please, help me. I thought it over and over.<br />
<br />
And then she was sitting next to me, glowing dimly silver, just like the moon.<br />
<br />
"I'm so sorry, Irrin. Truly, I am. What you are facing today is not easy." She took my hand in hers. "Your blood is at war with itself. I should have seen it sooner, but...my line has always chosen travelers, and I have never known their histories." She shook her head.<br />
<br />
"But...can you help me?" I asked her.<br />
<br />
Her face took on a deep sadness. "I can be here with you, Irrin. I will always be here with you. Please, never forget that. No matter what happens, no matter what you do, I will always be with you. But, I cannot solve this for you. What I can say is this: your problem and its solution are inseparable. You have the power to make amends. You will always have the power to make amends, if you choose to. So, if that is what you truly wish, you must keep trying."<br />
<br />
She sat with me, in silence, holding my hand until I woke up, somehow knowing what I needed to do.<br />
<br />
I sat at the desk, and lined up all the shards like the pieces of a puzzle. Slowly, painstakingly, I found where each piece needed to go, what it connected to. I started at the bottom, holding the two smallest pieces together. I closed my eyes, and focused my mind, and a tiny burst of magic flowed through my fingers. The two smallest pieces joined, like new. I took a deep breath, and picked up the next piece. And the next. And the next.<br />
<br />
The sun was sinking, and I was covered in sweat, re-aligning and attaching the neck of the lute, when I heard a gasp at door. It was Fae, checking on me again.<br />
<br />
"Rin...how?" she asked.<br />
<br />
"Just like you said." My voice sounded strained. I realized I must look an absolute mess. "I asked my guardian angel." She watched as I mended the neck, then repaired each string in turn, then slumped unwilling right out of the chair and onto the floor. I'm lucky the room is small -- with a few swift steps, she caught me before my head hit the floor.<br />
<br />
====The Second Lapse====<br />
<br />
I disliked Dei the first time I met him. Fae thought he was pretty, and I had to agree with that, but I still didn't like him. She thought I owed him a chance. Right up until she didn't anymore.<br />
<br />
She was in tears when she told me about it. I couldn't even process all the words, like some strange haze had descended. There was a film over the world, separating me from everything else. He had cajoled, he had plied her with drink, he had carefully gotten her alone. He had pushed her, pulled her, left marks on her wrists. I wasn't sure if she said he had actually kissed her, or just that he tried. He didn't care how many times she said no. He had slapped her across the face. She leaned on my shoulder and sobbed.<br />
<br />
No one makes my Fae cry like that. The anger was strange, cold, unfamiliar.<br />
<br />
By coincidence, it was the next day, late in the evening, that I chanced upon him up a side street. No one else was there. The sky was dark, the moon was new, and my anger was terrifying in its speed. Magic surged, and acid covered him, before I even registered the thought. He gasped, and another bubble of acid flew from my hand to splash him. He never even saw me -- he just fainted, his skin burning and clothes dissolving in spots, as the second bubble burst over him.<br />
<br />
I stood, stock still, not even breathing. For an instant, I didn't even regret it. That instant scared me the most. Then, Thallaza's voice came back to me, in my mind.<br />
<br />
"You will always have the power to make amends, if you choose to."<br />
<br />
I crept up to him. He was still alive. All I could do was tear a strip from my cloak and bind his wounds. He seemed stable. He was breathing when I left.<br />
<br />
I'm not proud of the way I fled. In the years since, I've come to realize I was running away from myself, more than anything else. I was lucky -- he lived, though he wasn't pretty anymore. No one ever learned who was behind the attack.<br />
<br />
====The Final Straw====<br />
<br />
"Rin, you know I get to pick who I care about, regardless of your approval."<br />
<br />
"I know Fae, I just don't want you getting hurt."<br />
<br />
"I can take care of myself you know." Her face flushed, and her eyes sparkled brightly. She stabbed at the sand with a stick, digging aimlessly.<br />
<br />
"Whatever, you don't even want my opinion, I get it."<br />
<br />
"That's not what I said, and you know it."<br />
<br />
"It might as well be. You talk to me less and less. You listen to me less and less. Every day, Fae. Don't try to tell me otherwise."<br />
<br />
"I'm allowed to spend time with other people, Rin." Her voice was growing quiet and dangerous.<br />
<br />
"Yeah." I couldn't keep the disgust out of my voice. I couldn't look at her either. I was so busy trying to push that feeling back down, I didn't feel the rage coming. She saw it first.<br />
<br />
"...Rin?" The sharp, steely tone was gone, replaced with fear. I didn't answer.<br />
<br />
"Rin, it's...it's going to be ok." Her soothing voice was too little, too late, and I was too late to stop the cold anger rising again in the pit of my stomach. I turned my eyes on her, in all my fury, fingers already tingling.<br />
<br />
I remember a clear vision of the terror on her face, looking in my eyes, the ocean outlined behind her, meeting the sky in the distance, completely out of place against the fluffy white clouds. In that moment of terror, she turned and fled, and I stopped her.<br />
<br />
"DON'T YOU DARE RUN FROM ME."<br />
<br />
The words felt strange, but the meaning was clear. A ray frost sprang from my hand, and she slowed. Another, and another, and she fell. I stood, rooted to the spot. By the time I unfroze, I swear the sun had moved in the sky. She was still lying there, frost in her hair, face down in the sand. She couldn't breathe like that. Why wasn't she breathing? Why wasn't she moving? Why couldn't I wake up from this nightmare?<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
I brought her to the only temple in town. I had wiped the frost out of her hair, off her shirt. I had brushed the sand from her face. Her eyes were already closed, her beautiful eyes, or I may not have been able to look at her at all. Tears streamed openly down my face. I carried her in as gently as I could, trying to convince myself she was sleeping.<br />
<br />
The priest in attendance took one look at me, at her, and silently went to fetch the high priest. He too seemed to assess and judge in a single glance, and bade me bring her back to an empty room with a bed and some medical supplies. I laid her gently on the bed, arranging her gently into a comfortable sleeping position, without even thinking about it.<br />
<br />
"What happened, son?" He was a gentle old man, with wrinkles and gray hair and wise eyes. My mouth must have been working like a fish, but no words came out. "Take your time," he said. He looked her over, then turned back to me, clearly waiting for an answer.<br />
<br />
"I...She...She's dead," I whispered.<br />
<br />
"Yes," he replied.<br />
<br />
"I can't fix it," I whispered.<br />
<br />
"No," he replied.<br />
<br />
"Can you help her?" I asked, my voice hollow and unfamiliar.<br />
<br />
"Perhaps." His eyes seemed to stare straight through me, for a moment, and then focus again on my face. "I have the skill, but there is a cost that must be paid. We are a small temple, and unfortunately do not have the means to perform such advance magic as the raising of the dead without funds."<br />
<br />
Fresh tears slid down my face. "How...how much...does it cost?"<br />
<br />
He raise his eyebrows. "Five hundred gold pieces."<br />
<br />
I think I fainted for a moment. I'm pretty sure I somehow slumped to the floor. I definitely buried my face in my hands and sobbed. He waited patiently, as if it weren't a done deal that he should just kick me out now.<br />
<br />
"Well?" he said. "What will you do?"<br />
<br />
I was quiet for a long time. He waited.<br />
<br />
"Someone older and wiser than I once told me, 'You will always have the power to make amends, if you choose to.'" I looked at him, and he looked at me, and I could tell he knew exactly what had happened on that beach. He knew who I was. He knew what was buried inside me.<br />
<br />
"And is that what you are choosing to do, by coming to me for assistance?"<br />
<br />
"Yes. Please. I'll do whatever I can. I'll give you whatever I have. But please -- she can't wait for me to find that much money, I can't..." my voice broke.<br />
<br />
"Of course." He spoke softly, with an intense look. "I can Raise her today, but you may not like the terms of the agreement I would require."<br />
<br />
"Anything." My voice was finally strong and fierce, with the knowledge that there was something I could do.<br />
<br />
"Even a Geas?" he asked quietly.<br />
<br />
My heart skipped a beat. With the barest hesitation, I nodded.<br />
<br />
"Very well. You will work off your debt for a year and a day. You will be required to tithe something each day. You may work here for credits, or bring money, as you choose. You may not journey more than a day's walk from Hsiang without my permission. When your debt is paid, I will release you from the Geas."<br />
<br />
I nodded again.<br />
<br />
"I must have your word that you understand and agree."<br />
<br />
"Yes. I understand, and I accept your terms." It felt like I had just sold my soul, despite it being damaged goods.<br />
<br />
"Very well." He murmured a soft prayer, gestured to me, and re-stated his directive to pay the debt. Then he turned to a locked cabinet in the corner, and retrieved a flawless diamond. It fractured the sunlight, scattering it around the room in fleeting rainbows, like nothing I had ever seen. Fae would have loved seeing the light dance. He prayed again, and it dissolved into dust, and Fae's eyes opened.<br />
<br />
"Welcome back, my child," the high priest said, taking her hand reassuringly.<br />
<br />
I buried my face in my hands again. I didn't even deserve to look at her. I couldn't even choke out an apology. What was there to say? She already knew everything. No words could change what I had done.<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
I ripped apart my room, finding every random coin I'd ever lost in my pillows, everything I could possibly sell for a penny. I put a page on the odd-jobs board in town -- farm work, furniture repair, fixing any odds and ends. I cashed in all my memories at the pawn shop for two shiny gold pieces, and brought them with my loose change back to the temple that night.<br />
<br />
There was a different attendant out front. I asked if I could speak with the high priest. At first he refused, but when I said, "Please Father, I owe him a debt," he grew quiet. He went into the back, then returned and allowed me to enter.<br />
<br />
I went to the same room. The high priest was here, but Fae was gone.<br />
<br />
"She was feeling stronger with a bit of rest, and has gone home to her mother," he said, when my eyes involuntarily lit on the empty bed. "She's a feisty one, isn't she? I see a bright future for her." His eyes twinkled.<br />
<br />
"I've brought my first payment," I said meekly. I handed him my coins.<br />
<br />
"Well, that's promising." He took a scroll from the desk. "What is your name, son?"<br />
<br />
"Irrin." He wrote it, and paused. He looked at me, expectantly.<br />
<br />
"Oh," I said. "Uhm. Irrin Shoshenkra Vasri."<br />
<br />
"Well, Mr. Vasri, I will ensure all of our attendant priests know your name, and to note down your daily tithe. That way, you will not have to explain yourself nor wait for me each time."<br />
<br />
"Yes, sir, Father, sorry to have bothered you again."<br />
<br />
"It's no bother, son. You will request me again when you bring your last payment, and otherwise are not required to do so." I could feel the tingle as his voice changed to issue a command.<br />
<br />
"Yes Father."<br />
<br />
===Home No Longer===<br />
<br />
My mother didn't understand how I worked so hard and never had any money, but I was an adult now, and I wasn't about to tell her the whole story. She knew I was hiding something -- but whatever she thought it was couldn't be as bad as the truth.<br />
<br />
Aunt Reyla too could tell something was up between us. Fae had just told her mom "someone" had attacked her on the beach, and then she woke up again at the temple, with the high priest holding her hand. She said it was too confusing, all a blur beforehand, but I could see in her eyes that she remembered just fine. My mom and Aunt Reyla would exchange glances every time Fae and I spoke to each other, the emptiness in our voices ringing loud and clear.<br />
<br />
And then there was Thallaza.<br />
<br />
She was the only one I never felt judging me. It's hard to describe what it is to have a literal angel in your life. It became clearer and clearer to me through the year that compassion and hope were the true colors of her aspect. On the toughest days, she would come back to my dreams, just to sit by me, to hold my hand or let me lean on her shoulder. And the next morning, invariably, I would awake more rested, calm, and ready to begin again.<br />
<br />
====All Debts Means All Debts====<br />
<br />
I counted the days left, and the debt left. I worked days, I worked nights, I skipped meals. I had a deadline to meet, and failure was not an option. I had no plan for the rest of my life, just one clear vision of myself leaving Hsiang of my own free will and not looking back. When the last month arrived, I put a calendar up on my wall, and crossed off each day.<br />
<br />
It was four days before the deadline when I arrived at the temple and asked the attendant if I could speak with the high priest. He smile, squeezed my shoulder almost fondly, and went to find him. A moment later, I was whisked back to his office once more.<br />
<br />
"You've grown, young Mr. Vasri." <br />
<br />
Perhaps I had. He looked the same. I bowed my head.<br />
<br />
"Am I to understand you are ready to settle the last of your debt?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, Father."<br />
<br />
He withdrew his scroll from the desk. "I believe eight gold pieces remain -- a not insubstantial sum. I was worried you may not make it." He peered at me intently, uncomfortably.<br />
<br />
"As I'm sure you know, much of my work has been in repairs. Due to the unfortunate storm damage to some of the homes up Farmview last weekend, my work was in high demand."<br />
<br />
"And so, of course, you were able to raise your prices?"<br />
<br />
I raised my eyes. "I let my customers set my wage, Father, when their need is no fault of their own." He had never commanded that I earn the money fairly, but I knew I would be judged if I did not.<br />
<br />
"It takes a strong soul to make amends, without turning around and doing injury, however mild, to another." He smiled. "Place the final sum on my desk," he commanded. Almost without thinking, I did as he required. He glanced at them, quickly confirming the count, and marked down the amount in his scroll. He read through it once more, I suppose to check the figures and be sure everything was added correctly. He drew two lines at the bottom, and signed on one of them.<br />
<br />
"Please review and confirm you agree your debt to the temple has been fairly paid in full. If you are satisfied, you may sign your name."<br />
<br />
I had been over the numbers in my own head so many times, all I needed to see was that he had a zero at the bottom of the page. I signed.<br />
<br />
"Irrin Shoshenkra Vasri, I release you from your Geas. You have kept your promise and paid your debt. Any who ask here shall be told that your word sound." I could feel the change, a subtle shift in the world around me, like the difference between looking at the sky through a glass windowpane or the open air. One weight had been lifted from my shoulders, only to be replaced by another.<br />
<br />
My debt was paid, but I had not finished making amends.<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
It was the same spot on the beach. I had considered whether she would come at all, whether she would be more likely to if I chose a different place, but ultimately, I needed to close this in the same place I had opened it. My debt was paid, my bags were packed, my room was cleaned, and the note to my mother was already sitting in the middle of my desk. The only thing left was the hardest part of all.<br />
<br />
"Rin?" It was softer than I'd heard her voice in a year.<br />
<br />
"Fae." I turned to face her.<br />
<br />
"Rin, if this is -- "<br />
<br />
"Please, Fae." She fell silent. "Fae, I..." You'd think I would have rehearsed this, planned where to start, played it over and over in my head. But no, here I was, with no words.<br />
<br />
"Rin, you don't have to."<br />
<br />
"Yes, I do. I'm sorry, Fae. I never apologized to you. There are no words that could ever be enough, and so I didn't try, and I should have. I should have tried every day. Every single day, I should have found you to say I'm sorry."<br />
<br />
We were both quiet for a moment. Rae had such a strange look on her face, like she couldn't figure out what I was thinking.<br />
<br />
"I miss you, Rin," she finally said. "I just want my cousin back."<br />
<br />
I shook my head. "I don't think I am who you think I am anymore, Fae." She shook her head, and took a breath to speak, but I plowed on before she had the chance. "If I find your Rin out there, Fae, I'll bring him back for you. In the meantime...well, congratulations on your engagement. I see how you love him. And he takes care of you. You'll be safe together. Without me."<br />
<br />
I watched her eyes slowly fill with tears, when she realized I was leaving. Just like her dad. Just like my dad.<br />
<br />
"Rin -- ""<br />
<br />
"Please," I said again.<br />
<br />
She huffed in irritation. "They never came home. Please. Please be careful out there."<br />
<br />
I smiled, but it was a pale, empty smile. "I have a guardian angel, Fae. I'll be fine."<br />
<br />
"Yeah, but she clearly doesn't keep you out of trouble."<br />
<br />
"No, she doesn't," I said, turning around to leave. "But she's always, always there to help me pick up the pieces and put them back together."<br />
<br />
===Marakinth===<br />
<br />
Yentai had yet another of the usual dim, crowded taverns you find in every town. I suppose it's the only type of establishment my budget allows. Though, there is occasionally something comforting about being surrounded by so many people without having to actually talk to any of them.<br />
<br />
He spotted me first. Brass Dragonkin. I didn't ask, but I'm sure it was the eyes. It's always the eyes. He had a lot of questions, about some monastery up in the mountains that I'd never heard of, and some great evil who attacked it. I did honestly wish I could help -- he flared with such intensity when he asked about the massacre. And yet, he didn't seem disappointed when I had no helpful information.<br />
<br />
"Anything you want me to say to it, if I ever meet this evil of yours? I'm pretty accomplished at swearing in Draconic, if that's your style," I said.<br />
<br />
"Just let me know. I will find a way to destroy it if I ever find out who was behind the attack." Ok, so, not much for a snide joke I guess. I can live with that. At least he has a goal.<br />
<br />
Once he figured out I had absolutely no useful information for him, I assumed he'd disappear back into the crowd, on to the next target for interrogation, but no. He seemed resigned, like this same conversation had played out in every dim, crowded tavern in every town. He was content to drink and talk. It was good to spend a little time with someone who knows the world isn't all sunshine and roses and glory.<br />
<br />
Turns out, he was heading north also. I'm not sure either of us necessarily asked the other to travel together so much as we both arrived at the idea around the same time, and started talking as though it was agreed. Certainly, it would be nice not to travel alone for a while. At least as far as Kai Shan.<br />
<br />
====On the road====<br />
<br />
After so long traveling alone, it does take a while to get used to another person being there all the time. The random noises, the annoying habits, the snoring at night...although, for some reason, with Marakinth, there wasn't as much pressure to keep up the mask I wear in public. I think that's why the arrangement worked at all. It was a relief to travel with someone who didn't need to fill the air with words all the time. Knowing what he'd seen, from the things he asked about his monastery...well, it did explain a lot about why he found me in that crowd.<br />
<br />
I'd forgotten how much easier it is to set up and break down camp with two people, rather than doing all of it alone. He had a lyre with him, this Marakinth character, which seemed to be quite important to him. I didn't pry, of course. How hypocritical would that be? It was pleasant to have some music while cooking over the fire, on the days we managed to take a rabbit or some other small game. He's a better hunter than I am, and it was certainly nice to rely less on dried rations. Within a few days, we had tacitly worked out a routine for setting up and breaking down camp, and fell into a comforting daily rhythm.<br />
<br />
As we sat one night, with the fire burning down and the darkness deepening, I had taken out my woodcarving tools and gone to work on a small chunk of the spare firewood. Marakinth was tuning his lyre, in the otherwise quiet night, when there was an unexpected THUNK, and an off-pitch tone followed by an odd moment of silence. He mumbled something I didn't quite catch, but when I glanced up, it was clear something had gone wrong with one of the strings on his lyre. His jaw was clenched, and his eyes narrow, as the normal outdoor sounds reclaimed the silence.<br />
<br />
"Do you have a spare?"<br />
<br />
"No," he growled. I raised my eyebrows, and he sighed. "Not this gauge. It's broken too many times."<br />
<br />
"May I?" I must've looked appropriately thoughtful, or respectful, or something like that, when I held out my hand. Somewhat to my surprise, he actually handed me his prized possession. I looked it over. The highest string was stretched -- unusable, but not entirely broken. I unwound it carefully from the tuning peg, removed the peg, and looked it over. Not only was this peg thicker than the others, it had a rough spot where the string wrapped.<br />
<br />
As I chose a tool from my kit, and started to shape the peg, where the string would wrap, I could've sworn I could feel Marakinth holding his breath. I thinned the peg, smoothed it carefully, and began re-wrapping the string. Before pulling it taut, I paused to cast Mending, to repair the damaged section, then slowly brought the string up to tension. It held, and the adjustment was smoother and finer. Marakinth was looking at me strangely when I held the instrument out to him.<br />
<br />
"A...friend of mine played lute." I'm pretty sure I looked away, as he took the lyre back from me. "The construction is surprisingly similar. I'm no skilled artisan, to be sure, but a small adjustment can go a long way. You should find it easier to tune that string from now on."<br />
<br />
He adjusted it carefully, and plucked a few chords. The string sounded like new.<br />
<br />
He was still playing when I went to sleep that night.<br />
<br />
====Bandits====<br />
<br />
Marakinth heard them first, and raised the alarm. Well, really it was more of a mix between an indignant bellow and a sharp battle cry, but it served its purpose. It brought me flying up out of my bedroll in an already wide-awake state, in time to see at least a half-dozen bandits swarming into our clearing. They approached almost in formation, like some kind of combat unit who had trained together, not just your average highway thugs. I assessed the situation quickly, thanking my lucky stars I was not facing this onslaught alone.<br />
<br />
As I was gathering my wits to act, and forming a plan, I heard Marakinth growl under his breath about the fire dying down, and saw him stumble in the dark. Right, Dragonkin need light. I can do that. I reached out and put a yellow, sunlight-tinted glow on my tent. It was enough to light the clearing at least. I could see his eyes lock on target, taking in the scene the same way I had, calculating a plan.<br />
<br />
I can only assume they couldn't see Marakinth clearly in his bedroll, and just saw a camp of two with minimal weapons and simple gear. They probably thought it would be easy money to swipe some stuff and ride on.<br />
<br />
They were mistaken.<br />
<br />
Seeing the group coming at him in formation, the Dragonkin took up his spear, but didn't ready it immediately. First, he took a deep breath and unleashed his fire on the front of the group. With the whole attacking force suddenly looking a lot crispier than they had a moment ago, and the front line swiftly approaching that spear, I threw an Acid Splash at the back of the line.<br />
<br />
Marakinth brought his spear up to meet the front line's charge, and I started targeting the rest of the back line with rays of frost, focusing on any who tried to run away. A few solid hits from my companion, and one lucky Chaos Bolt from me, and the attacking force was reduced to a pile of corpses.<br />
<br />
We stood a moment, catching our breath, looking at the fallen attackers.<br />
<br />
"Well. Now what?" I asked. Marakinth shrugged. "Now we dig a big hole, I guess," I muttered. Not how I wanted to spend my night, but even though we spoke precious few words before daybreak, I think both of us were keenly aware of how that fight would've gone without the other there to fight alongside.<br />
<br />
====Kai Shan====<br />
<br />
(arriving at town, deciding to stick together longer)<br />
<br />
===Into the Jungle===<br />
<br />
(heading into the Hai Jungle)</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Children_of_Vecna&diff=16719
Children of Vecna
2021-02-22T01:32:34Z
<p>Ratri: /* Home No Longer */</p>
<hr />
<div>A D&D 5e run brought to you by my fabulous former coworkers.<br />
<br />
D&D Beyond character link: https://www.dndbeyond.com/profile/LadyRatri/characters/44705859<br />
<br />
=Irrin Soshenkra Vasri=<br />
<br />
Fallen Aasimar Sorcerer with a black dragon bloodline, wandering the countryside of [https://forgottenrealms.fandom.com/wiki/Shou_Lung Shou Lung]. He wanders almost like someone in search of something...<br />
<br />
==Backstory==<br />
<br />
===Home===<br />
<br />
Hsiang lies on the northern edge of the Wak'an peninsula, between the Yellow Sea and the Celestial Sea. I practically grew up on the beach. It was just me and my mom really, but we were very close to my aunt Reyla and my cousin Faeona. Faeona's dad and mine had left on day on a great adventure, and never returned. We had a lot to talk about, Faeona and I, even as children. I guess our moms did too.<br />
<br />
The earliest memories I have were lying in the sand on the beach, staring at the brightness of the sky through closed eyelids, listening. My mother would play lute, and Faeona would sing, and the ocean would sing with her, and the whole world would dance around us. I could feel it spinning and tilting and whirling, night into day, stars swirling around us like a whirlpool. My mother said I had an "overactive imagination" when she talked to the other parents in the village.<br />
<br />
I loved my cousin's voice.<br />
<br />
====Thallaza====<br />
<br />
I was ten years old the first time I heard a second voice join the song. Soft and ethereal, it was unlike any other singing I had heard -- even Fae's voice couldn't sing like that.<br />
<br />
At the end of the song, my mother put her hand on my shoulder. When I looked, she was smiling.<br />
<br />
"It's your turn, love." She tilted her head down the shoreline, to where a tall woman with rich blond hair stood, staring intently at me with brilliant blue eyes. She gestured for me to come walk with her. I looked to my mother, confused, but she just smiled and squeezed my shoulder "It's ok, Irrin. She's the kindest soul I know."<br />
<br />
I went.<br />
<br />
"My name is Thallaza," she said. Her voice was somehow still musical, even when she spoke plainly.<br />
<br />
"Uhm." I sounded ridiculous. Why couldn't I make reasonable words? "Nice to meet you...uh, ma'am. I'm Irrin." I felt my face flush as soon as I said it.<br />
<br />
"Yes, love. I'm aware." I could hear the smile in her soft voice. I looked up sharply, and just for a moment, like an overlay on top of the real world, her skin shone silver, her hair glowed bright gold, and her eyes lit up like sapphires in the sun. The immaterial glow of wings, more a suggestion than a reality, unfurled from her back, huge and bright and feathered. "I'm your guardian angel." She paused. "And your great-grandmother. Well, more generations removed than that, but it pains me to keep count these days."<br />
<br />
"My..." I blinked stupidly.<br />
<br />
"Ages ago, I had a child with a man from Hsiang. She chose to make her home here, and her family has stayed ever since. I watch over them. I spoke to your mother, when she turned ten, and told her the same story. As she said, today, it is your turn to hear a little bit about your past." Somehow, we had come to the very point of the peninsula, despite it being easily several days' journey away. She gestured to a wide, flat rock near a long, flat tidepool. "Sit with me? There are some stories I love to tell..."<br />
<br />
I still loved my cousin's voice more.<br />
<br />
<br />
====The First Lapse====<br />
<br />
I resented my mother for leaving me alone. Mom needed materials for her woodwork shop, and she had to journey to Lo Shan to get them. Of course she did. If she didn't stock the shop, we didn't eat. That didn't matter. I still resented it.<br />
<br />
I resented Aunt Reyla for falling sick the day my mom left. Fae needed to take care of her mom. I would've done the same, if it were my mom who was sick and Aunt Reyla who was away. That didn't matter. I still resented it.<br />
<br />
I resented the ocean for singing all the louder, without my mother and Fae to accompany it. Of course it continue to beat the shore, to advance and swirl and recede. What choice did it have? That didn't matter. I still resented it.<br />
<br />
I resented her lute for sitting, silent, in her room. I seethed. I boiled. I didn't understand what rage was. I didn't understand who I was anymore. The world swirled and spun and spiraled around again. Someone had pulled the plug, and everything was running together down the drain. What are those crashing noises? Why are there splinters in my hands? Why is Fae looking at me with such grown-up worry in her eyes?<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
Slowly, I realized the room around me was in complete disarray. I was still holding the neck of the lute in my hands -- cracked and splintered, the body smashed, the strings connecting some of the fragments together.<br />
<br />
"What..." Fae whispered. "Irrin. What did you do?"<br />
<br />
I looked up at her, confused, overwhelmed, and words would not come. Tears came more easily. She walked across the room in three strides, and just silently hugged me, until I could speak again.<br />
<br />
"What do I do Fae? I don't know what happened. I just...want to fix it."<br />
<br />
Fae looked at me, and smiled. "So fix it, then." She looked me straight in the eyes. "You have at least two more days before your mom gets back. Do whatever you can to make this right again. You have a guardian angel -- speak to her, and maybe she can give you guidance. Just don't expect her to do the work for you." She kissed my forehead. "I believe in you, Rin."<br />
<br />
"Thank you," I whispered. She had said that before, and it had always felt right. Today, for the first time, I didn't feel like I deserved it.<br />
<br />
She stood, and turned to leave. "I just came to get some supplies for my mom. She's getting better." Fae paused, just outside the door in the hallway, and looked back. "I'll come check on you? Tonight maybe?"<br />
<br />
"Thank you." I had a tingling little feeling I'd be saying that to Fae a lot.<br />
<br />
"Chin up, Rin." she said, and disappeared back down the stairs.<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki> <br />
<br />
Hours later, the room was straightened and cleaned. Every item was put away, neater than it had been before. The bed was made, the desk was cleared. There was nothing else left to do, except...every shard, every splinter, every shred that was once her beautiful lute was laid out on her desk. Broken and useless.<br />
<br />
I stared at it. I swore at it. I wracked my brains for anything I could do. I had tried to glue the neck once, but that only made it worse, and there was no way it would ever work on the shattered body of the instrument. I sat in the opposite corner of the room, staring at the desk, moonlight streaming in through the window as though to highlight the horrible thing I had done. I closed my eyes, and thought to myself -- Thallaza, please give me hope. I don't know what to do. I don't know what I am. I need help. Please, help me. I thought it over and over.<br />
<br />
And then she was sitting next to me, glowing dimly silver, just like the moon.<br />
<br />
"I'm so sorry, Irrin. Truly, I am. What you are facing today is not easy." She took my hand in hers. "Your blood is at war with itself. I should have seen it sooner, but...my line has always chosen travelers, and I have never known their histories." She shook her head.<br />
<br />
"But...can you help me?" I asked her.<br />
<br />
Her face took on a deep sadness. "I can be here with you, Irrin. I will always be here with you. Please, never forget that. No matter what happens, no matter what you do, I will always be with you. But, I cannot solve this for you. What I can say is this: your problem and its solution are inseparable. You have the power to make amends. You will always have the power to make amends, if you choose to. So, if that is what you truly wish, you must keep trying."<br />
<br />
She sat with me, in silence, holding my hand until I woke up, somehow knowing what I needed to do.<br />
<br />
I sat at the desk, and lined up all the shards like the pieces of a puzzle. Slowly, painstakingly, I found where each piece needed to go, what it connected to. I started at the bottom, holding the two smallest pieces together. I closed my eyes, and focused my mind, and a tiny burst of magic flowed through my fingers. The two smallest pieces joined, like new. I took a deep breath, and picked up the next piece. And the next. And the next.<br />
<br />
The sun was sinking, and I was covered in sweat, re-aligning and attaching the neck of the lute, when I heard a gasp at door. It was Fae, checking on me again.<br />
<br />
"Rin...how?" she asked.<br />
<br />
"Just like you said." My voice sounded strained. I realized I must look an absolute mess. "I asked my guardian angel." She watched as I mended the neck, then repaired each string in turn, then slumped unwilling right out of the chair and onto the floor. I'm lucky the room is small -- with a few swift steps, she caught me before my head hit the floor.<br />
<br />
====The Second Lapse====<br />
<br />
I disliked Dei the first time I met him. Fae thought he was pretty, and I had to agree with that, but I still didn't like him. She thought I owed him a chance. Right up until she didn't anymore.<br />
<br />
She was in tears when she told me about it. I couldn't even process all the words, like some strange haze had descended. There was a film over the world, separating me from everything else. He had cajoled, he had plied her with drink, he had carefully gotten her alone. He had pushed her, pulled her, left marks on her wrists. I wasn't sure if she said he had actually kissed her, or just that he tried. He didn't care how many times she said no. He had slapped her across the face. She leaned on my shoulder and sobbed.<br />
<br />
No one makes my Fae cry like that. The anger was strange, cold, unfamiliar.<br />
<br />
By coincidence, it was the next day, late in the evening, that I chanced upon him up a side street. No one else was there. The sky was dark, the moon was new, and my anger was terrifying in its speed. Magic surged, and acid covered him, before I even registered the thought. He gasped, and another bubble of acid flew from my hand to splash him. He never even saw me -- he just fainted, his skin burning and clothes dissolving in spots, as the second bubble burst over him.<br />
<br />
I stood, stock still, not even breathing. For an instant, I didn't even regret it. That instant scared me the most. Then, Thallaza's voice came back to me, in my mind.<br />
<br />
"You will always have the power to make amends, if you choose to."<br />
<br />
I crept up to him. He was still alive. All I could do was tear a strip from my cloak and bind his wounds. He seemed stable. He was breathing when I left.<br />
<br />
I'm not proud of the way I fled. In the years since, I've come to realize I was running away from myself, more than anything else. I was lucky -- he lived, though he wasn't pretty anymore. No one ever learned who was behind the attack.<br />
<br />
<br />
====The Final Straw====<br />
<br />
"Rin, you know I get to pick who I care about, regardless of your approval."<br />
<br />
"I know Fae, I just don't want you getting hurt."<br />
<br />
"I can take care of myself you know." Her face flushed, and her eyes sparkled brightly. She stabbed at the sand with a stick, digging aimlessly.<br />
<br />
"Whatever, you don't even want my opinion, I get it."<br />
<br />
"That's not what I said, and you know it."<br />
<br />
"It might as well be. You talk to me less and less. You listen to me less and less. Every day, Fae. Don't try to tell me otherwise."<br />
<br />
"I'm allowed to spend time with other people, Rin." Her voice was growing quiet and dangerous.<br />
<br />
"Yeah." I couldn't keep the disgust out of my voice. I couldn't look at her either. I was so busy trying to push that feeling back down, I didn't feel the rage coming. She saw it first.<br />
<br />
"...Rin?" The sharp, steely tone was gone, replaced with fear. I didn't answer.<br />
<br />
"Rin, it's...it's going to be ok." Her soothing voice was too little, too late, and I was too late to stop the cold anger rising again in the pit of my stomach. I turned my eyes on her, in all my fury, fingers already tingling.<br />
<br />
I remember a clear vision of the terror on her face, looking in my eyes, the ocean outlined behind her, meeting the sky in the distance, completely out of place against the fluffy white clouds. In that moment of terror, she turned and fled, and I stopped her.<br />
<br />
"DON'T YOU DARE RUN FROM ME."<br />
<br />
The words felt strange, but the meaning was clear. A ray frost sprang from my hand, and she slowed. Another, and another, and she fell. I stood, rooted to the spot. By the time I unfroze, I swear the sun had moved in the sky. She was still lying there, frost in her hair, face down in the sand. She couldn't breathe like that. Why wasn't she breathing? Why wasn't she moving? Why couldn't I wake up from this nightmare?<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
I brought her to the only temple in town. I had wiped the frost out of her hair, off her shirt. I had brushed the sand from her face. Her eyes were already closed, her beautiful eyes, or I may not have been able to look at her at all. Tears streamed openly down my face. I carried her in as gently as I could, trying to convince myself she was sleeping.<br />
<br />
The priest in attendance took one look at me, at her, and silently went to fetch the high priest. He too seemed to assess and judge in a single glance, and bade me bring her back to an empty room with a bed and some medical supplies. I laid her gently on the bed, arranging her gently into a comfortable sleeping position, without even thinking about it.<br />
<br />
"What happened, son?" He was a gentle old man, with wrinkles and gray hair and wise eyes. My mouth must have been working like a fish, but no words came out. "Take your time," he said. He looked her over, then turned back to me, clearly waiting for an answer.<br />
<br />
"I...She...She's dead," I whispered.<br />
<br />
"Yes," he replied.<br />
<br />
"I can't fix it," I whispered.<br />
<br />
"No," he replied.<br />
<br />
"Can you help her?" I asked, my voice hollow and unfamiliar.<br />
<br />
"Perhaps." His eyes seemed to stare straight through me, for a moment, and then focus again on my face. "I have the skill, but there is a cost that must be paid. We are a small temple, and unfortunately do not have the means to perform such advance magic as the raising of the dead without funds."<br />
<br />
Fresh tears slid down my face. "How...how much...does it cost?"<br />
<br />
He raise his eyebrows. "Five hundred gold pieces."<br />
<br />
I think I fainted for a moment. I'm pretty sure I somehow slumped to the floor. I definitely buried my face in my hands and sobbed. He waited patiently, as if it weren't a done deal that he should just kick me out now.<br />
<br />
"Well?" he said. "What will you do?"<br />
<br />
I was quiet for a long time. He waited.<br />
<br />
"Someone older and wiser than I once told me, 'You will always have the power to make amends, if you choose to.'" I looked at him, and he looked at me, and I could tell he knew exactly what had happened on that beach. He knew who I was. He knew what was buried inside me.<br />
<br />
"And is that what you are choosing to do, by coming to me for assistance?"<br />
<br />
"Yes. Please. I'll do whatever I can. I'll give you whatever I have. But please -- she can't wait for me to find that much money, I can't..." my voice broke.<br />
<br />
"Of course." He spoke softly, with an intense look. "I can Raise her today, but you may not like the terms of the agreement I would require."<br />
<br />
"Anything." My voice was finally strong and fierce, with the knowledge that there was something I could do.<br />
<br />
"Even a Geas?" he asked quietly.<br />
<br />
My heart skipped a beat. With the barest hesitation, I nodded.<br />
<br />
"Very well. You will work off your debt for a year and a day. You will be required to tithe something each day. You may work here for credits, or bring money, as you choose. You may not journey more than a day's walk from Hsiang without my permission. When your debt is paid, I will release you from the Geas."<br />
<br />
I nodded again.<br />
<br />
"I must have your word that you understand and agree."<br />
<br />
"Yes. I understand, and I accept your terms." It felt like I had just sold my soul, despite it being damaged goods.<br />
<br />
"Very well." He murmured a soft prayer, gestured to me, and re-stated his directive to pay the debt. Then he turned to a locked cabinet in the corner, and retrieved a flawless diamond. It fractured the sunlight, scattering it around the room in fleeting rainbows, like nothing I had ever seen. Fae would have loved seeing the light dance. He prayed again, and it dissolved into dust, and Fae's eyes opened.<br />
<br />
"Welcome back, my child," the high priest said, taking her hand reassuringly.<br />
<br />
I buried my face in my hands again. I didn't even deserve to look at her. I couldn't even choke out an apology. What was there to say? She already knew everything. No words could change what I had done.<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
I ripped apart my room, finding every random coin I'd ever lost in my pillows, everything I could possibly sell for a penny. I put a page on the odd-jobs board in town -- farm work, furniture repair, fixing any odds and ends. I cashed in all my memories at the pawn shop for two shiny gold pieces, and brought them with my loose change back to the temple that night.<br />
<br />
There was a different attendant out front. I asked if I could speak with the high priest. At first he refused, but when I said, "Please Father, I owe him a debt," he grew quiet. He went into the back, then returned and allowed me to enter.<br />
<br />
I went to the same room. The high priest was here, but Fae was gone.<br />
<br />
"She was feeling stronger with a bit of rest, and has gone home to her mother," he said, when my eyes involuntarily lit on the empty bed. "She's a feisty one, isn't she? I see a bright future for her." His eyes twinkled.<br />
<br />
"I've brought my first payment," I said meekly. I handed him my coins.<br />
<br />
"Well, that's promising." He took a scroll from the desk. "What is your name, son?"<br />
<br />
"Irrin." He wrote it, and paused. He looked at me, expectantly.<br />
<br />
"Oh," I said. "Uhm. Irrin Shoshenkra Vasri."<br />
<br />
"Well, Mr. Vasri, I will ensure all of our attendant priests know your name, and to note down your daily tithe. That way, you will not have to explain yourself nor wait for me each time."<br />
<br />
"Yes, sir, Father, sorry to have bothered you again."<br />
<br />
"It's no bother, son. You will request me again when you bring your last payment, and otherwise are not required to do so." I could feel the tingle as his voice changed to issue a command.<br />
<br />
"Yes Father."<br />
<br />
<br />
===Home No Longer===<br />
<br />
My mother didn't understand how I worked so hard and never had any money, but I was an adult now, and I wasn't about to tell her the whole story. She knew I was hiding something -- but whatever she thought it was couldn't be as bad as the truth.<br />
<br />
Aunt Reyla too could tell something was up between us. Fae had just told her mom "someone" had attacked her on the beach, and then she woke up again at the temple, with the high priest holding her hand. She said it was too confusing, all a blur beforehand, but I could see in her eyes that she remembered just fine. My mom and Aunt Reyla would exchange glances every time Fae and I spoke to each other, the emptiness in our voices ringing loud and clear.<br />
<br />
And then there was Thallaza.<br />
<br />
She was the only one I never felt judging me. It's hard to describe what it is to have a literal angel in your life. It became clearer and clearer to me through the year that compassion and hope were the true colors of her aspect. On the toughest days, she would come back to my dreams, just to sit by me, to hold my hand or let me lean on her shoulder. And the next morning, invariably, I would awake more rested, calm, and ready to begin again.<br />
<br />
====All Debts Means All Debts====<br />
<br />
I counted the days left, and the debt left. I worked days, I worked nights, I skipped meals. I had a deadline to meet, and failure was not an option. I had no plan for the rest of my life, just one clear vision of myself leaving Hsiang of my own free will and not looking back. When the last month arrived, I put a calendar up on my wall, and crossed off each day.<br />
<br />
It was four days before the deadline when I arrived at the temple and asked the attendant if I could speak with the high priest. He smile, squeezed my shoulder almost fondly, and went to find him. A moment later, I was whisked back to his office once more.<br />
<br />
"You've grown, young Mr. Vasri." <br />
<br />
Perhaps I had. He looked the same. I bowed my head.<br />
<br />
"Am I to understand you are ready to settle the last of your debt?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, Father."<br />
<br />
He withdrew his scroll from the desk. "I believe eight gold pieces remain -- a not insubstantial sum. I was worried you may not make it." He peered at me intently, uncomfortably.<br />
<br />
"As I'm sure you know, much of my work has been in repairs. Due to the unfortunate storm damage to some of the homes up Farmview last weekend, my work was in high demand."<br />
<br />
"And so, of course, you were able to raise your prices?"<br />
<br />
I raised my eyes. "I let my customers set my wage, Father, when their need is no fault of their own." He had never commanded that I earn the money fairly, but I knew I would be judged if I did not.<br />
<br />
"It takes a strong soul to make amends, without turning around and doing injury, however mild, to another." He smiled. "Place the final sum on my desk," he commanded. Almost without thinking, I did as he required. He glanced at them, quickly confirming the count, and marked down the amount in his scroll. He read through it once more, I suppose to check the figures and be sure everything was added correctly. He drew two lines at the bottom, and signed on one of them.<br />
<br />
"Please review and confirm you agree your debt to the temple has been fairly paid in full. If you are satisfied, you may sign your name."<br />
<br />
I had been over the numbers in my own head so many times, all I needed to see was that he had a zero at the bottom of the page. I signed.<br />
<br />
"Irrin Shoshenkra Vasri, I release you from your Geas. You have kept your promise and paid your debt. Any who ask here shall be told that your word sound." I could feel the change, a subtle shift in the world around me, like the difference between looking at the sky through a glass windowpane or the open air. One weight had been lifted from my shoulders, only to be replaced by another.<br />
<br />
My debt was paid, but I had not finished making amends.<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
It was the same spot on the beach. I had considered whether she would come at all, whether she would be more likely to if I chose a different place, but ultimately, I needed to close this in the same place I had opened it. My debt was paid, my bags were packed, my room was cleaned, and the note to my mother was already sitting in the middle of my desk. The only thing left was the hardest part of all.<br />
<br />
"Rin?" It was softer than I'd heard her voice in a year.<br />
<br />
"Fae." I turned to face her.<br />
<br />
"Rin, if this is -- "<br />
<br />
"Please, Fae." She fell silent. "Fae, I..." You'd think I would have rehearsed this, planned where to start, played it over and over in my head. But no, here I was, with no words.<br />
<br />
"Rin, you don't have to."<br />
<br />
"Yes, I do. I'm sorry, Fae. I never apologized to you. There are no words that could ever be enough, and so I didn't try, and I should have. I should have tried every day. Every single day, I should have found you to say I'm sorry."<br />
<br />
We were both quiet for a moment. Rae had such a strange look on her face, like she couldn't figure out what I was thinking.<br />
<br />
"I miss you, Rin," she finally said. "I just want my cousin back."<br />
<br />
I shook my head. "I don't think I am who you think I am anymore, Fae." She shook her head, and took a breath to speak, but I plowed on before she had the chance. "If I find your Rin out there, Fae, I'll bring him back for you. In the meantime...well, congratulations on your engagement. I see how you love him. And he takes care of you. You'll be safe together. Without me."<br />
<br />
I watched her eyes slowly fill with tears, when she realized I was leaving. Just like her dad. Just like my dad.<br />
<br />
"Rin -- ""<br />
<br />
"Please," I said again.<br />
<br />
She huffed in irritation. "They never came home. Please. Please be careful out there."<br />
<br />
I smiled, but it was a pale, empty smile. "I have a guardian angel, Fae. I'll be fine."<br />
<br />
"Yeah, but she clearly doesn't keep you out of trouble."<br />
<br />
"No, she doesn't," I said, turning around to leave. "But she's always, always there to help me pick up the pieces and put them back together."<br />
<br />
===Marakinth===<br />
<br />
Yentai had yet another of the usual dim, crowded taverns you find in every town. I suppose it's the only type of establishment my budget allows. Though, there is occasionally something comforting about being surrounded by so many people without having to actually talk to any of them.<br />
<br />
He spotted me first. Brass Dragonkin. I didn't ask, but I'm sure it was the eyes. It's always the eyes. He had a lot of questions, about some monastery up in the mountains that I'd never heard of, and some great evil who attacked it. I did honestly wish I could help -- he flared with such intensity when he asked about the massacre. And yet, he didn't seem disappointed when I had no helpful information.<br />
<br />
"Anything you want me to say to it, if I ever meet this evil of yours? I'm pretty accomplished at swearing in Draconic, if that's your style," I said.<br />
<br />
"Just let me know. I will find a way to destroy it if I ever find out who was behind the attack." Ok, so, not much for a snide joke I guess. I can live with that. At least he has a goal.<br />
<br />
Once he figured out I had absolutely no useful information for him, I assumed he'd disappear back into the crowd, on to the next target for interrogation, but no. He seemed resigned, like this same conversation had played out in every dim, crowded tavern in every town. He was content to drink and talk. It was good to spend a little time with someone who knows the world isn't all sunshine and roses and glory.<br />
<br />
Turns out, he was heading north also. I'm not sure either of us necessarily asked the other to travel together so much as we both arrived at the idea around the same time, and started talking as though it was agreed. Certainly, it would be nice not to travel alone for a while. At least as far as Kai Shan.<br />
<br />
====On the road====<br />
<br />
After so long traveling alone, it does take a while to get used to another person being there all the time. The random noises, the annoying habits, the snoring at night...although, for some reason, with Marakinth, there wasn't as much pressure to keep up the mask I wear in public. I think that's why the arrangement worked at all. It was a relief to travel with someone who didn't need to fill the air with words all the time. Knowing what he'd seen, from the things he asked about his monastery...well, it did explain a lot about why he found me in that crowd.<br />
<br />
I'd forgotten how much easier it is to set up and break down camp with two people, rather than doing all of it alone. He had a lyre with him, this Marakinth character, which seemed to be quite important to him. I didn't pry, of course. How hypocritical would that be? It was pleasant to have some music while cooking over the fire, on the days we managed to take a rabbit or some other small game. He's a better hunter than I am, and it was certainly nice to rely less on dried rations. Within a few days, we had tacitly worked out a routine for setting up and breaking down camp, and fell into a comforting daily rhythm.<br />
<br />
As we sat one night, with the fire burning down and the darkness deepening, I had taken out my woodcarving tools and gone to work on a small chunk of the spare firewood. Marakinth was tuning his lyre, in the otherwise quiet night, when there was an unexpected THUNK, and an off-pitch tone followed by an odd moment of silence. He mumbled something I didn't quite catch, but when I glanced up, it was clear something had gone wrong with one of the strings on his lyre. His jaw was clenched, and his eyes narrow, as the normal outdoor sounds reclaimed the silence.<br />
<br />
"Do you have a spare?"<br />
<br />
"No," he growled. I raised my eyebrows, and he sighed. "Not this gauge. It's broken too many times."<br />
<br />
"May I?" I must've looked appropriately thoughtful, or respectful, or something like that, when I held out my hand. Somewhat to my surprise, he actually handed me his prized possession. I looked it over. The highest string was stretched -- unusable, but not entirely broken. I unwound it carefully from the tuning peg, removed the peg, and looked it over. Not only was this peg thicker than the others, it had a rough spot where the string wrapped.<br />
<br />
As I chose a tool from my kit, and started to shape the peg, where the string would wrap, I could've sworn I could feel Marakinth holding his breath. I thinned the peg, smoothed it carefully, and began re-wrapping the string. Before pulling it taut, I paused to cast Mending, to repair the damaged section, then slowly brought the string up to tension. It held, and the adjustment was smoother and finer. Marakinth was looking at me strangely when I held the instrument out to him.<br />
<br />
"A...friend of mine played lute." I'm pretty sure I looked away, as he took the lyre back from me. "The construction is surprisingly similar. I'm no skilled artisan, to be sure, but a small adjustment can go a long way. You should find it easier to tune that string from now on."<br />
<br />
He adjusted it carefully, and plucked a few chords. The string sounded like new.<br />
<br />
He was still playing when I went to sleep that night.<br />
<br />
====Bandits====<br />
<br />
Marakinth heard them first, and raised the alarm. Well, really it was more of a mix between an indignant bellow and a sharp battle cry, but it served its purpose. It brought me flying up out of my bedroll in an already wide-awake state, in time to see at least a half-dozen bandits swarming into our clearing. They approached almost in formation, like some kind of combat unit who had trained together, not just your average highway thugs. I assessed the situation quickly, thanking my lucky stars I was not facing this onslaught alone.<br />
<br />
As I was gathering my wits to act, and forming a plan, I heard Marakinth growl under his breath about the fire dying down, and saw him stumble in the dark. Right, Dragonkin need light. I can do that. I reached out and put a yellow, sunlight-tinted glow on my tent. It was enough to light the clearing at least. I could see his eyes lock on target, taking in the scene the same way I had, calculating a plan.<br />
<br />
I can only assume they couldn't see Marakinth clearly in his bedroll, and just saw a camp of two with minimal weapons and simple gear. They probably thought it would be easy money to swipe some stuff and ride on.<br />
<br />
They were mistaken.<br />
<br />
Seeing the group coming at him in formation, the Dragonkin took up his spear, but didn't ready it immediately. First, he took a deep breath and unleashed his fire on the front of the group. With the whole attacking force suddenly looking a lot crispier than they had a moment ago, and the front line swiftly approaching that spear, I threw an Acid Splash at the back of the line.<br />
<br />
Marakinth brought his spear up to meet the front line's charge, and I started targeting the rest of the back line with rays of frost, focusing on any who tried to run away. A few solid hits from my companion, and one lucky Chaos Bolt from me, and the attacking force was reduced to a pile of corpses.<br />
<br />
We stood a moment, catching our breath, looking at the fallen attackers.<br />
<br />
"Well. Now what?" I asked. Marakinth shrugged. "Now we dig a big hole, I guess," I muttered. Not how I wanted to spend my night, but even though we spoke precious few words before daybreak, I think both of us were keenly aware of how that fight would've gone without the other there to fight alongside.<br />
<br />
====Kai Shan====<br />
<br />
(arriving at town, deciding to stick together longer)<br />
<br />
===Into the Jungle===<br />
<br />
(heading into the Hai Jungle)</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Children_of_Vecna&diff=16718
Children of Vecna
2021-02-21T23:29:58Z
<p>Ratri: /* Backstory */</p>
<hr />
<div>A D&D 5e run brought to you by my fabulous former coworkers.<br />
<br />
D&D Beyond character link: https://www.dndbeyond.com/profile/LadyRatri/characters/44705859<br />
<br />
=Irrin Soshenkra Vasri=<br />
<br />
Fallen Aasimar Sorcerer with a black dragon bloodline, wandering the countryside of [https://forgottenrealms.fandom.com/wiki/Shou_Lung Shou Lung]. He wanders almost like someone in search of something...<br />
<br />
==Backstory==<br />
<br />
===Home===<br />
<br />
Hsiang lies on the northern edge of the Wak'an peninsula, between the Yellow Sea and the Celestial Sea. I practically grew up on the beach. It was just me and my mom really, but we were very close to my aunt Reyla and my cousin Faeona. Faeona's dad and mine had left on day on a great adventure, and never returned. We had a lot to talk about, Faeona and I, even as children. I guess our moms did too.<br />
<br />
The earliest memories I have were lying in the sand on the beach, staring at the brightness of the sky through closed eyelids, listening. My mother would play lute, and Faeona would sing, and the ocean would sing with her, and the whole world would dance around us. I could feel it spinning and tilting and whirling, night into day, stars swirling around us like a whirlpool. My mother said I had an "overactive imagination" when she talked to the other parents in the village.<br />
<br />
I loved my cousin's voice.<br />
<br />
====Thallaza====<br />
<br />
I was ten years old the first time I heard a second voice join the song. Soft and ethereal, it was unlike any other singing I had heard -- even Fae's voice couldn't sing like that.<br />
<br />
At the end of the song, my mother put her hand on my shoulder. When I looked, she was smiling.<br />
<br />
"It's your turn, love." She tilted her head down the shoreline, to where a tall woman with rich blond hair stood, staring intently at me with brilliant blue eyes. She gestured for me to come walk with her. I looked to my mother, confused, but she just smiled and squeezed my shoulder "It's ok, Irrin. She's the kindest soul I know."<br />
<br />
I went.<br />
<br />
"My name is Thallaza," she said. Her voice was somehow still musical, even when she spoke plainly.<br />
<br />
"Uhm." I sounded ridiculous. Why couldn't I make reasonable words? "Nice to meet you...uh, ma'am. I'm Irrin." I felt my face flush as soon as I said it.<br />
<br />
"Yes, love. I'm aware." I could hear the smile in her soft voice. I looked up sharply, and just for a moment, like an overlay on top of the real world, her skin shone silver, her hair glowed bright gold, and her eyes lit up like sapphires in the sun. The immaterial glow of wings, more a suggestion than a reality, unfurled from her back, huge and bright and feathered. "I'm your guardian angel." She paused. "And your great-grandmother. Well, more generations removed than that, but it pains me to keep count these days."<br />
<br />
"My..." I blinked stupidly.<br />
<br />
"Ages ago, I had a child with a man from Hsiang. She chose to make her home here, and her family has stayed ever since. I watch over them. I spoke to your mother, when she turned ten, and told her the same story. As she said, today, it is your turn to hear a little bit about your past." Somehow, we had come to the very point of the peninsula, despite it being easily several days' journey away. She gestured to a wide, flat rock near a long, flat tidepool. "Sit with me? There are some stories I love to tell..."<br />
<br />
I still loved my cousin's voice more.<br />
<br />
<br />
====The First Lapse====<br />
<br />
I resented my mother for leaving me alone. Mom needed materials for her woodwork shop, and she had to journey to Lo Shan to get them. Of course she did. If she didn't stock the shop, we didn't eat. That didn't matter. I still resented it.<br />
<br />
I resented Aunt Reyla for falling sick the day my mom left. Fae needed to take care of her mom. I would've done the same, if it were my mom who was sick and Aunt Reyla who was away. That didn't matter. I still resented it.<br />
<br />
I resented the ocean for singing all the louder, without my mother and Fae to accompany it. Of course it continue to beat the shore, to advance and swirl and recede. What choice did it have? That didn't matter. I still resented it.<br />
<br />
I resented her lute for sitting, silent, in her room. I seethed. I boiled. I didn't understand what rage was. I didn't understand who I was anymore. The world swirled and spun and spiraled around again. Someone had pulled the plug, and everything was running together down the drain. What are those crashing noises? Why are there splinters in my hands? Why is Fae looking at me with such grown-up worry in her eyes?<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
Slowly, I realized the room around me was in complete disarray. I was still holding the neck of the lute in my hands -- cracked and splintered, the body smashed, the strings connecting some of the fragments together.<br />
<br />
"What..." Fae whispered. "Irrin. What did you do?"<br />
<br />
I looked up at her, confused, overwhelmed, and words would not come. Tears came more easily. She walked across the room in three strides, and just silently hugged me, until I could speak again.<br />
<br />
"What do I do Fae? I don't know what happened. I just...want to fix it."<br />
<br />
Fae looked at me, and smiled. "So fix it, then." She looked me straight in the eyes. "You have at least two more days before your mom gets back. Do whatever you can to make this right again. You have a guardian angel -- speak to her, and maybe she can give you guidance. Just don't expect her to do the work for you." She kissed my forehead. "I believe in you, Rin."<br />
<br />
"Thank you," I whispered. She had said that before, and it had always felt right. Today, for the first time, I didn't feel like I deserved it.<br />
<br />
She stood, and turned to leave. "I just came to get some supplies for my mom. She's getting better." Fae paused, just outside the door in the hallway, and looked back. "I'll come check on you? Tonight maybe?"<br />
<br />
"Thank you." I had a tingling little feeling I'd be saying that to Fae a lot.<br />
<br />
"Chin up, Rin." she said, and disappeared back down the stairs.<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki> <br />
<br />
Hours later, the room was straightened and cleaned. Every item was put away, neater than it had been before. The bed was made, the desk was cleared. There was nothing else left to do, except...every shard, every splinter, every shred that was once her beautiful lute was laid out on her desk. Broken and useless.<br />
<br />
I stared at it. I swore at it. I wracked my brains for anything I could do. I had tried to glue the neck once, but that only made it worse, and there was no way it would ever work on the shattered body of the instrument. I sat in the opposite corner of the room, staring at the desk, moonlight streaming in through the window as though to highlight the horrible thing I had done. I closed my eyes, and thought to myself -- Thallaza, please give me hope. I don't know what to do. I don't know what I am. I need help. Please, help me. I thought it over and over.<br />
<br />
And then she was sitting next to me, glowing dimly silver, just like the moon.<br />
<br />
"I'm so sorry, Irrin. Truly, I am. What you are facing today is not easy." She took my hand in hers. "Your blood is at war with itself. I should have seen it sooner, but...my line has always chosen travelers, and I have never known their histories." She shook her head.<br />
<br />
"But...can you help me?" I asked her.<br />
<br />
Her face took on a deep sadness. "I can be here with you, Irrin. I will always be here with you. Please, never forget that. No matter what happens, no matter what you do, I will always be with you. But, I cannot solve this for you. What I can say is this: your problem and its solution are inseparable. You have the power to make amends. You will always have the power to make amends, if you choose to. So, if that is what you truly wish, you must keep trying."<br />
<br />
She sat with me, in silence, holding my hand until I woke up, somehow knowing what I needed to do.<br />
<br />
I sat at the desk, and lined up all the shards like the pieces of a puzzle. Slowly, painstakingly, I found where each piece needed to go, what it connected to. I started at the bottom, holding the two smallest pieces together. I closed my eyes, and focused my mind, and a tiny burst of magic flowed through my fingers. The two smallest pieces joined, like new. I took a deep breath, and picked up the next piece. And the next. And the next.<br />
<br />
The sun was sinking, and I was covered in sweat, re-aligning and attaching the neck of the lute, when I heard a gasp at door. It was Fae, checking on me again.<br />
<br />
"Rin...how?" she asked.<br />
<br />
"Just like you said." My voice sounded strained. I realized I must look an absolute mess. "I asked my guardian angel." She watched as I mended the neck, then repaired each string in turn, then slumped unwilling right out of the chair and onto the floor. I'm lucky the room is small -- with a few swift steps, she caught me before my head hit the floor.<br />
<br />
====The Second Lapse====<br />
<br />
I disliked Dei the first time I met him. Fae thought he was pretty, and I had to agree with that, but I still didn't like him. She thought I owed him a chance. Right up until she didn't anymore.<br />
<br />
She was in tears when she told me about it. I couldn't even process all the words, like some strange haze had descended. There was a film over the world, separating me from everything else. He had cajoled, he had plied her with drink, he had carefully gotten her alone. He had pushed her, pulled her, left marks on her wrists. I wasn't sure if she said he had actually kissed her, or just that he tried. He didn't care how many times she said no. He had slapped her across the face. She leaned on my shoulder and sobbed.<br />
<br />
No one makes my Fae cry like that. The anger was strange, cold, unfamiliar.<br />
<br />
By coincidence, it was the next day, late in the evening, that I chanced upon him up a side street. No one else was there. The sky was dark, the moon was new, and my anger was terrifying in its speed. Magic surged, and acid covered him, before I even registered the thought. He gasped, and another bubble of acid flew from my hand to splash him. He never even saw me -- he just fainted, his skin burning and clothes dissolving in spots, as the second bubble burst over him.<br />
<br />
I stood, stock still, not even breathing. For an instant, I didn't even regret it. That instant scared me the most. Then, Thallaza's voice came back to me, in my mind.<br />
<br />
"You will always have the power to make amends, if you choose to."<br />
<br />
I crept up to him. He was still alive. All I could do was tear a strip from my cloak and bind his wounds. He seemed stable. He was breathing when I left.<br />
<br />
I'm not proud of the way I fled. In the years since, I've come to realize I was running away from myself, more than anything else. I was lucky -- he lived, though he wasn't pretty anymore. No one ever learned who was behind the attack.<br />
<br />
<br />
====The Final Straw====<br />
<br />
"Rin, you know I get to pick who I care about, regardless of your approval."<br />
<br />
"I know Fae, I just don't want you getting hurt."<br />
<br />
"I can take care of myself you know." Her face flushed, and her eyes sparkled brightly. She stabbed at the sand with a stick, digging aimlessly.<br />
<br />
"Whatever, you don't even want my opinion, I get it."<br />
<br />
"That's not what I said, and you know it."<br />
<br />
"It might as well be. You talk to me less and less. You listen to me less and less. Every day, Fae. Don't try to tell me otherwise."<br />
<br />
"I'm allowed to spend time with other people, Rin." Her voice was growing quiet and dangerous.<br />
<br />
"Yeah." I couldn't keep the disgust out of my voice. I couldn't look at her either. I was so busy trying to push that feeling back down, I didn't feel the rage coming. She saw it first.<br />
<br />
"...Rin?" The sharp, steely tone was gone, replaced with fear. I didn't answer.<br />
<br />
"Rin, it's...it's going to be ok." Her soothing voice was too little, too late, and I was too late to stop the cold anger rising again in the pit of my stomach. I turned my eyes on her, in all my fury, fingers already tingling.<br />
<br />
I remember a clear vision of the terror on her face, looking in my eyes, the ocean outlined behind her, meeting the sky in the distance, completely out of place against the fluffy white clouds. In that moment of terror, she turned and fled, and I stopped her.<br />
<br />
"DON'T YOU DARE RUN FROM ME."<br />
<br />
The words felt strange, but the meaning was clear. A ray frost sprang from my hand, and she slowed. Another, and another, and she fell. I stood, rooted to the spot. By the time I unfroze, I swear the sun had moved in the sky. She was still lying there, frost in her hair, face down in the sand. She couldn't breathe like that. Why wasn't she breathing? Why wasn't she moving? Why couldn't I wake up from this nightmare?<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
I brought her to the only temple in town. I had wiped the frost out of her hair, off her shirt. I had brushed the sand from her face. Her eyes were already closed, her beautiful eyes, or I may not have been able to look at her at all. Tears streamed openly down my face. I carried her in as gently as I could, trying to convince myself she was sleeping.<br />
<br />
The priest in attendance took one look at me, at her, and silently went to fetch the high priest. He too seemed to assess and judge in a single glance, and bade me bring her back to an empty room with a bed and some medical supplies. I laid her gently on the bed, arranging her gently into a comfortable sleeping position, without even thinking about it.<br />
<br />
"What happened, son?" He was a gentle old man, with wrinkles and gray hair and wise eyes. My mouth must have been working like a fish, but no words came out. "Take your time," he said. He looked her over, then turned back to me, clearly waiting for an answer.<br />
<br />
"I...She...She's dead," I whispered.<br />
<br />
"Yes," he replied.<br />
<br />
"I can't fix it," I whispered.<br />
<br />
"No," he replied.<br />
<br />
"Can you help her?" I asked, my voice hollow and unfamiliar.<br />
<br />
"Perhaps." His eyes seemed to stare straight through me, for a moment, and then focus again on my face. "I have the skill, but there is a cost that must be paid. We are a small temple, and unfortunately do not have the means to perform such advance magic as the raising of the dead without funds."<br />
<br />
Fresh tears slid down my face. "How...how much...does it cost?"<br />
<br />
He raise his eyebrows. "Five hundred gold pieces."<br />
<br />
I think I fainted for a moment. I'm pretty sure I somehow slumped to the floor. I definitely buried my face in my hands and sobbed. He waited patiently, as if it weren't a done deal that he should just kick me out now.<br />
<br />
"Well?" he said. "What will you do?"<br />
<br />
I was quiet for a long time. He waited.<br />
<br />
"Someone older and wiser than I once told me, 'You will always have the power to make amends, if you choose to.'" I looked at him, and he looked at me, and I could tell he knew exactly what had happened on that beach. He knew who I was. He knew what was buried inside me.<br />
<br />
"And is that what you are choosing to do, by coming to me for assistance?"<br />
<br />
"Yes. Please. I'll do whatever I can. I'll give you whatever I have. But please -- she can't wait for me to find that much money, I can't..." my voice broke.<br />
<br />
"Of course." He spoke softly, with an intense look. "I can Raise her today, but you may not like the terms of the agreement I would require."<br />
<br />
"Anything." My voice was finally strong and fierce, with the knowledge that there was something I could do.<br />
<br />
"Even a Geas?" he asked quietly.<br />
<br />
My heart skipped a beat. With the barest hesitation, I nodded.<br />
<br />
"Very well. You will work off your debt for a year and a day. You will be required to tithe something each day. You may work here for credits, or bring money, as you choose. You may not journey more than a day's walk from Hsiang without my permission. When your debt is paid, I will release you from the Geas."<br />
<br />
I nodded again.<br />
<br />
"I must have your word that you understand and agree."<br />
<br />
"Yes. I understand, and I accept your terms." It felt like I had just sold my soul, despite it being damaged goods.<br />
<br />
"Very well." He murmured a soft prayer, gestured to me, and re-stated his directive to pay the debt. Then he turned to a locked cabinet in the corner, and retrieved a flawless diamond. It fractured the sunlight, scattering it around the room in fleeting rainbows, like nothing I had ever seen. Fae would have loved seeing the light dance. He prayed again, and it dissolved into dust, and Fae's eyes opened.<br />
<br />
"Welcome back, my child," the high priest said, taking her hand reassuringly.<br />
<br />
I buried my face in my hands again. I didn't even deserve to look at her. I couldn't even choke out an apology. What was there to say? She already knew everything. No words could change what I had done.<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
I ripped apart my room, finding every random coin I'd ever lost in my pillows, everything I could possibly sell for a penny. I put a page on the odd-jobs board in town -- farm work, furniture repair, fixing any odds and ends. I cashed in all my memories at the pawn shop for two shiny gold pieces, and brought them with my loose change back to the temple that night.<br />
<br />
There was a different attendant out front. I asked if I could speak with the high priest. At first he refused, but when I said, "Please Father, I owe him a debt," he grew quiet. He went into the back, then returned and allowed me to enter.<br />
<br />
I went to the same room. The high priest was here, but Fae was gone.<br />
<br />
"She was feeling stronger with a bit of rest, and has gone home to her mother," he said, when my eyes involuntarily lit on the empty bed. "She's a feisty one, isn't she? I see a bright future for her." His eyes twinkled.<br />
<br />
"I've brought my first payment," I said meekly. I handed him my coins.<br />
<br />
"Well, that's promising." He took a scroll from the desk. "What is your name, son?"<br />
<br />
"Irrin." He wrote it, and paused. He looked at me, expectantly.<br />
<br />
"Oh," I said. "Uhm. Irrin Shoshenkra Vasri."<br />
<br />
"Well, Mr. Vasri, I will ensure all of our attendant priests know your name, and to note down your daily tithe. That way, you will not have to explain yourself nor wait for me each time."<br />
<br />
"Yes, sir, Father, sorry to have bothered you again."<br />
<br />
"It's no bother, son. You will request me again when you bring your last payment, and otherwise are not required to do so." I could feel the tingle as his voice changed to issue a command.<br />
<br />
"Yes Father."<br />
<br />
<br />
===Home No Longer===<br />
<br />
(wrapping up debt, seeing Fae one last time, leaving town)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
===Marakinth===<br />
<br />
Yentai had yet another of the usual dim, crowded taverns you find in every town. I suppose it's the only type of establishment my budget allows. Though, there is occasionally something comforting about being surrounded by so many people without having to actually talk to any of them.<br />
<br />
He spotted me first. Brass Dragonkin. I didn't ask, but I'm sure it was the eyes. It's always the eyes. He had a lot of questions, about some monastery up in the mountains that I'd never heard of, and some great evil who attacked it. I did honestly wish I could help -- he flared with such intensity when he asked about the massacre. And yet, he didn't seem disappointed when I had no helpful information.<br />
<br />
"Anything you want me to say to it, if I ever meet this evil of yours? I'm pretty accomplished at swearing in Draconic, if that's your style," I said.<br />
<br />
"Just let me know. I will find a way to destroy it if I ever find out who was behind the attack." Ok, so, not much for a snide joke I guess. I can live with that. At least he has a goal.<br />
<br />
Once he figured out I had absolutely no useful information for him, I assumed he'd disappear back into the crowd, on to the next target for interrogation, but no. He seemed resigned, like this same conversation had played out in every dim, crowded tavern in every town. He was content to drink and talk. It was good to spend a little time with someone who knows the world isn't all sunshine and roses and glory.<br />
<br />
Turns out, he was heading north also. I'm not sure either of us necessarily asked the other to travel together so much as we both arrived at the idea around the same time, and started talking as though it was agreed. Certainly, it would be nice not to travel alone for a while. At least as far as Kai Shan.<br />
<br />
====On the road====<br />
<br />
After so long traveling alone, it does take a while to get used to another person being there all the time. The random noises, the annoying habits, the snoring at night...although, for some reason, with Marakinth, there wasn't as much pressure to keep up the mask I wear in public. I think that's why the arrangement worked at all. It was a relief to travel with someone who didn't need to fill the air with words all the time. Knowing what he'd seen, from the things he asked about his monastery...well, it did explain a lot about why he found me in that crowd.<br />
<br />
I'd forgotten how much easier it is to set up and break down camp with two people, rather than doing all of it alone. He had a lyre with him, this Marakinth character, which seemed to be quite important to him. I didn't pry, of course. How hypocritical would that be? It was pleasant to have some music while cooking over the fire, on the days we managed to take a rabbit or some other small game. He's a better hunter than I am, and it was certainly nice to rely less on dried rations. Within a few days, we had tacitly worked out a routine for setting up and breaking down camp, and fell into a comforting daily rhythm.<br />
<br />
As we sat one night, with the fire burning down and the darkness deepening, I had taken out my woodcarving tools and gone to work on a small chunk of the spare firewood. Marakinth was tuning his lyre, in the otherwise quiet night, when there was an unexpected THUNK, and an off-pitch tone followed by an odd moment of silence. He mumbled something I didn't quite catch, but when I glanced up, it was clear something had gone wrong with one of the strings on his lyre. His jaw was clenched, and his eyes narrow, as the normal outdoor sounds reclaimed the silence.<br />
<br />
"Do you have a spare?"<br />
<br />
"No," he growled. I raised my eyebrows, and he sighed. "Not this gauge. It's broken too many times."<br />
<br />
"May I?" I must've looked appropriately thoughtful, or respectful, or something like that, when I held out my hand. Somewhat to my surprise, he actually handed me his prized possession. I looked it over. The highest string was stretched -- unusable, but not entirely broken. I unwound it carefully from the tuning peg, removed the peg, and looked it over. Not only was this peg thicker than the others, it had a rough spot where the string wrapped.<br />
<br />
As I chose a tool from my kit, and started to shape the peg, where the string would wrap, I could've sworn I could feel Marakinth holding his breath. I thinned the peg, smoothed it carefully, and began re-wrapping the string. Before pulling it taut, I paused to cast Mending, to repair the damaged section, then slowly brought the string up to tension. It held, and the adjustment was smoother and finer. Marakinth was looking at me strangely when I held the instrument out to him.<br />
<br />
"A...friend of mine played lute." I'm pretty sure I looked away, as he took the lyre back from me. "The construction is surprisingly similar. I'm no skilled artisan, to be sure, but a small adjustment can go a long way. You should find it easier to tune that string from now on."<br />
<br />
He adjusted it carefully, and plucked a few chords. The string sounded like new.<br />
<br />
He was still playing when I went to sleep that night.<br />
<br />
====Bandits====<br />
<br />
Marakinth heard them first, and raised the alarm. Well, really it was more of a mix between an indignant bellow and a sharp battle cry, but it served its purpose. It brought me flying up out of my bedroll in an already wide-awake state, in time to see at least a half-dozen bandits swarming into our clearing. They approached almost in formation, like some kind of combat unit who had trained together, not just your average highway thugs. I assessed the situation quickly, thanking my lucky stars I was not facing this onslaught alone.<br />
<br />
As I was gathering my wits to act, and forming a plan, I heard Marakinth growl under his breath about the fire dying down, and saw him stumble in the dark. Right, Dragonkin need light. I can do that. I reached out and put a yellow, sunlight-tinted glow on my tent. It was enough to light the clearing at least. I could see his eyes lock on target, taking in the scene the same way I had, calculating a plan.<br />
<br />
I can only assume they couldn't see Marakinth clearly in his bedroll, and just saw a camp of two with minimal weapons and simple gear. They probably thought it would be easy money to swipe some stuff and ride on.<br />
<br />
They were mistaken.<br />
<br />
Seeing the group coming at him in formation, the Dragonkin took up his spear, but didn't ready it immediately. First, he took a deep breath and unleashed his fire on the front of the group. With the whole attacking force suddenly looking a lot crispier than they had a moment ago, and the front line swiftly approaching that spear, I threw an Acid Splash at the back of the line.<br />
<br />
Marakinth brought his spear up to meet the front line's charge, and I started targeting the rest of the back line with rays of frost, focusing on any who tried to run away. A few solid hits from my companion, and one lucky Chaos Bolt from me, and the attacking force was reduced to a pile of corpses.<br />
<br />
We stood a moment, catching our breath, looking at the fallen attackers.<br />
<br />
"Well. Now what?" I asked. Marakinth shrugged. "Now we dig a big hole, I guess," I muttered. Not how I wanted to spend my night, but even though we spoke precious few words before daybreak, I think both of us were keenly aware of how that fight would've gone without the other there to fight alongside.<br />
<br />
====Kai Shan====<br />
<br />
(arriving at town, deciding to stick together longer)<br />
<br />
===Into the Jungle===<br />
<br />
(heading into the Hai Jungle)</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Children_of_Vecna&diff=16717
Children of Vecna
2021-02-21T23:27:17Z
<p>Ratri: </p>
<hr />
<div>A D&D 5e run brought to you by my fabulous former coworkers.<br />
<br />
D&D Beyond character link: https://www.dndbeyond.com/profile/LadyRatri/characters/44705859<br />
<br />
=Irrin Soshenkra Vasri=<br />
<br />
Fallen Aasimar Sorcerer with a black dragon bloodline, wandering the countryside of [https://forgottenrealms.fandom.com/wiki/Shou_Lung Shou Lung]. He wanders almost like someone in search of something...<br />
<br />
==Backstory==<br />
<br />
===Home===<br />
<br />
Hsiang lies on the northern edge of the Wak'an peninsula, between the Yellow Sea and the Celestial Sea. I practically grew up on the beach. It was just me and my mom really, but we were very close to my aunt Reyla and my cousin Faeona. Faeona's dad and mine had left on day on a great adventure, and never returned. We had a lot to talk about, Faeona and I, even as children. I guess our moms did too.<br />
<br />
The earliest memories I have were lying in the sand on the beach, staring at the brightness of the sky through closed eyelids, listening. My mother would play lute, and Faeona would sing, and the ocean would sing with her, and the whole world would dance around us. I could feel it spinning and tilting and whirling, night into day, stars swirling around us like a whirlpool. My mother said I had an "overactive imagination" when she talked to the other parents in the village.<br />
<br />
I loved my cousin's voice.<br />
<br />
====Thallaza====<br />
<br />
I was ten years old the first time I heard a second voice join the song. Soft and ethereal, it was unlike any other singing I had heard -- even Fae's voice couldn't sing like that.<br />
<br />
At the end of the song, my mother put her hand on my shoulder. When I looked, she was smiling.<br />
<br />
"It's your turn, love." She tilted her head down the shoreline, to where a tall woman with rich blond hair stood, staring intently at me with brilliant blue eyes. She gestured for me to come walk with her. I looked to my mother, confused, but she just smiled and squeezed my shoulder "It's ok, Irrin. She's the kindest soul I know."<br />
<br />
I went.<br />
<br />
"My name is Thallaza," she said. Her voice was somehow still musical, even when she spoke plainly.<br />
<br />
"Uhm." I sounded ridiculous. Why couldn't I make reasonable words? "Nice to meet you...uh, ma'am. I'm Irrin." I felt my face flush as soon as I said it.<br />
<br />
"Yes, love. I'm aware." I could hear the smile in her soft voice. I looked up sharply, and just for a moment, like an overlay on top of the real world, her skin shone silver, her hair glowed bright gold, and her eyes lit up like sapphires in the sun. The immaterial glow of wings, more a suggestion than a reality, unfurled from her back, huge and bright and feathered. "I'm your guardian angel." She paused. "And your great-grandmother. Well, more generations removed than that, but it pains me to keep count these days."<br />
<br />
"My..." I blinked stupidly.<br />
<br />
"Ages ago, I had a child with a man from Hsiang. She chose to make her home here, and her family has stayed ever since. I watch over them. I spoke to your mother, when she turned ten, and told her the same story. As she said, today, it is your turn to hear a little bit about your past." Somehow, we had come to the very point of the peninsula, despite it being easily several days' journey away. She gestured to a wide, flat rock near a long, flat tidepool. "Sit with me? There are some stories I love to tell..."<br />
<br />
I still loved my cousin's voice more.<br />
<br />
<br />
====The First Lapse====<br />
<br />
I resented my mother for leaving me alone. Mom needed materials for her woodwork shop, and she had to journey to Lo Shan to get them. Of course she did. If she didn't stock the shop, we didn't eat. That didn't matter. I still resented it.<br />
<br />
I resented Aunt Reyla for falling sick the day my mom left. Fae needed to take care of her mom. I would've done the same, if it were my mom who was sick and Aunt Reyla who was away. That didn't matter. I still resented it.<br />
<br />
I resented the ocean for singing all the louder, without my mother and Fae to accompany it. Of course it continue to beat the shore, to advance and swirl and recede. What choice did it have? That didn't matter. I still resented it.<br />
<br />
I resented her lute for sitting, silent, in her room. I seethed. I boiled. I didn't understand what rage was. I didn't understand who I was anymore. The world swirled and spun and spiraled around again. Someone had pulled the plug, and everything was running together down the drain. What are those crashing noises? Why are there splinters in my hands? Why is Fae looking at me with such grown-up worry in her eyes?<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
Slowly, I realized the room around me was in complete disarray. I was still holding the neck of the lute in my hands -- cracked and splintered, the body smashed, the strings connecting some of the fragments together.<br />
<br />
"What..." Fae whispered. "Irrin. What did you do?"<br />
<br />
I looked up at her, confused, overwhelmed, and words would not come. Tears came more easily. She walked across the room in three strides, and just silently hugged me, until I could speak again.<br />
<br />
"What do I do Fae? I don't know what happened. I just...want to fix it."<br />
<br />
Fae looked at me, and smiled. "So fix it, then." She looked me straight in the eyes. "You have at least two more days before your mom gets back. Do whatever you can to make this right again. You have a guardian angel -- speak to her, and maybe she can give you guidance. Just don't expect her to do the work for you." She kissed my forehead. "I believe in you, Rin."<br />
<br />
"Thank you," I whispered. She had said that before, and it had always felt right. Today, for the first time, I didn't feel like I deserved it.<br />
<br />
She stood, and turned to leave. "I just came to get some supplies for my mom. She's getting better." Fae paused, just outside the door in the hallway, and looked back. "I'll come check on you? Tonight maybe?"<br />
<br />
"Thank you." I had a tingling little feeling I'd be saying that to Fae a lot.<br />
<br />
"Chin up, Rin." she said, and disappeared back down the stairs.<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki> <br />
<br />
Hours later, the room was straightened and cleaned. Every item was put away, neater than it had been before. The bed was made, the desk was cleared. There was nothing else left to do, except...every shard, every splinter, every shred that was once her beautiful lute was laid out on her desk. Broken and useless.<br />
<br />
I stared at it. I swore at it. I wracked my brains for anything I could do. I had tried to glue the neck once, but that only made it worse, and there was no way it would ever work on the shattered body of the instrument. I sat in the opposite corner of the room, staring at the desk, moonlight streaming in through the window as though to highlight the horrible thing I had done. I closed my eyes, and thought to myself -- Thallaza, please give me hope. I don't know what to do. I don't know what I am. I need help. Please, help me. I thought it over and over.<br />
<br />
And then she was sitting next to me, glowing dimly silver, just like the moon.<br />
<br />
"I'm so sorry, Irrin. Truly, I am. What you are facing today is not easy." She took my hand in hers. "Your blood is at war with itself. I should have seen it sooner, but...my line has always chosen travelers, and I have never known their histories." She shook her head.<br />
<br />
"But...can you help me?" I asked her.<br />
<br />
Her face took on a deep sadness. "I can be here with you, Irrin. I will always be here with you. Please, never forget that. No matter what happens, no matter what you do, I will always be with you. But, I cannot solve this for you. What I can say is this: your problem and its solution are inseparable. You have the power to make amends. You will always have the power to make amends, if you choose to. So, if that is what you truly wish, you must keep trying."<br />
<br />
She sat with me, in silence, holding my hand until I woke up, somehow knowing what I needed to do.<br />
<br />
I sat at the desk, and lined up all the shards like the pieces of a puzzle. Slowly, painstakingly, I found where each piece needed to go, what it connected to. I started at the bottom, holding the two smallest pieces together. I closed my eyes, and focused my mind, and a tiny burst of magic flowed through my fingers. The two smallest pieces joined, like new. I took a deep breath, and picked up the next piece. And the next. And the next.<br />
<br />
The sun was sinking, and I was covered in sweat, re-aligning and attaching the neck of the lute, when I heard a gasp at door. It was Fae, checking on me again.<br />
<br />
"Rin...how?" she asked.<br />
<br />
"Just like you said." My voice sounded strained. I realized I must look an absolute mess. "I asked my guardian angel." She watched as I mended the neck, then repaired each string in turn, then slumped unwilling right out of the chair and onto the floor. I'm lucky the room is small -- with a few swift steps, she caught me before my head hit the floor.<br />
<br />
====The Second Lapse====<br />
<br />
I disliked Dei the first time I met him. Fae thought he was pretty, and I had to agree with that, but I still didn't like him. She thought I owed him a chance. Right up until she didn't anymore.<br />
<br />
She was in tears when she told me about it. I couldn't even process all the words, like some strange haze had descended. There was a film over the world, separating me from everything else. He had cajoled, he had plied her with drink, he had carefully gotten her alone. He had pushed her, pulled her, left marks on her wrists. I wasn't sure if she said he had actually kissed her, or just that he tried. He didn't care how many times she said no. He had slapped her across the face. She leaned on my shoulder and sobbed.<br />
<br />
No one makes my Fae cry like that. The anger was strange, cold, unfamiliar.<br />
<br />
By coincidence, it was the next day, late in the evening, that I chanced upon him up a side street. No one else was there. The sky was dark, the moon was new, and my anger was terrifying in its speed. Magic surged, and acid covered him, before I even registered the thought. He gasped, and another bubble of acid flew from my hand to splash him. He never even saw me -- he just fainted, his skin burning and clothes dissolving in spots, as the second bubble burst over him.<br />
<br />
I stood, stock still, not even breathing. For an instant, I didn't even regret it. That instant scared me the most. Then, Thallaza's voice came back to me, in my mind.<br />
<br />
"You will always have the power to make amends, if you choose to."<br />
<br />
I crept up to him. He was still alive. All I could do was tear a strip from my cloak and bind his wounds. He seemed stable. He was breathing when I left.<br />
<br />
I'm not proud of the way I fled. In the years since, I've come to realize I was running away from myself, more than anything else. I was lucky -- he lived, though he wasn't pretty anymore. No one ever learned who was behind the attack.<br />
<br />
<br />
====The Final Straw====<br />
<br />
"Rin, you know I get to pick who I care about, regardless of your approval."<br />
<br />
"I know Fae, I just don't want you getting hurt."<br />
<br />
"I can take care of myself you know." Her face flushed, and her eyes sparkled brightly. She stabbed at the sand with a stick, digging aimlessly.<br />
<br />
"Whatever, you don't even want my opinion, I get it."<br />
<br />
"That's not what I said, and you know it."<br />
<br />
"It might as well be. You talk to me less and less. You listen to me less and less. Every day, Fae. Don't try to tell me otherwise."<br />
<br />
"I'm allowed to spend time with other people, Rin." Her voice was growing quiet and dangerous.<br />
<br />
"Yeah." I couldn't keep the disgust out of my voice. I couldn't look at her either. I was so busy trying to push that feeling back down, I didn't feel the rage coming. She saw it first.<br />
<br />
"...Rin?" The sharp, steely tone was gone, replaced with fear. I didn't answer.<br />
<br />
"Rin, it's...it's going to be ok." Her soothing voice was too little, too late, and I was too late to stop the cold anger rising again in the pit of my stomach. I turned my eyes on her, in all my fury, fingers already tingling.<br />
<br />
I remember a clear vision of the terror on her face, looking in my eyes, the ocean outlined behind her, meeting the sky in the distance, completely out of place against the fluffy white clouds. In that moment of terror, she turned and fled, and I stopped her.<br />
<br />
"DON'T YOU DARE RUN FROM ME."<br />
<br />
The words felt strange, but the meaning was clear. A ray frost sprang from my hand, and she slowed. Another, and another, and she fell. I stood, rooted to the spot. By the time I unfroze, I swear the sun had moved in the sky. She was still lying there, frost in her hair, face down in the sand. She couldn't breathe like that. Why wasn't she breathing? Why wasn't she moving? Why couldn't I wake up from this nightmare?<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
I brought her to the only temple in town. I had wiped the frost out of her hair, off her shirt. I had brushed the sand from her face. Her eyes were already closed, her beautiful eyes, or I may not have been able to look at her at all. Tears streamed openly down my face. I carried her in as gently as I could, trying to convince myself she was sleeping.<br />
<br />
The priest in attendance took one look at me, at her, and silently went to fetch the high priest. He too seemed to assess and judge in a single glance, and bade me bring her back to an empty room with a bed and some medical supplies. I laid her gently on the bed, arranging her gently into a comfortable sleeping position, without even thinking about it.<br />
<br />
"What happened, son?" He was a gentle old man, with wrinkles and gray hair and wise eyes. My mouth must have been working like a fish, but no words came out. "Take your time," he said. He looked her over, then turned back to me, clearly waiting for an answer.<br />
<br />
"I...She...She's dead," I whispered.<br />
<br />
"Yes," he replied.<br />
<br />
"I can't fix it," I whispered.<br />
<br />
"No," he replied.<br />
<br />
"Can you help her?" I asked, my voice hollow and unfamiliar.<br />
<br />
"Perhaps." His eyes seemed to stare straight through me, for a moment, and then focus again on my face. "I have the skill, but there is a cost that must be paid. We are a small temple, and unfortunately do not have the means to perform such advance magic as the raising of the dead without funds."<br />
<br />
Fresh tears slid down my face. "How...how much...does it cost?"<br />
<br />
He raise his eyebrows. "Five hundred gold pieces."<br />
<br />
I think I fainted for a moment. I'm pretty sure I somehow slumped to the floor. I definitely buried my face in my hands and sobbed. He waited patiently, as if it weren't a done deal that he should just kick me out now.<br />
<br />
"Well?" he said. "What will you do?"<br />
<br />
I was quiet for a long time. He waited.<br />
<br />
"Someone older and wiser than I once told me, 'You will always have the power to make amends, if you choose to.'" I looked at him, and he looked at me, and I could tell he knew exactly what had happened on that beach. He knew who I was. He knew what was buried inside me.<br />
<br />
"And is that what you are choosing to do, by coming to me for assistance?"<br />
<br />
"Yes. Please. I'll do whatever I can. I'll give you whatever I have. But please -- she can't wait for me to find that much money, I can't..." my voice broke.<br />
<br />
"Of course." He spoke softly, with an intense look. "I can Raise her today, but you may not like the terms of the agreement I would require."<br />
<br />
"Anything." My voice was finally strong and fierce, with the knowledge that there was something I could do.<br />
<br />
"Even a Geas?" he asked quietly.<br />
<br />
My heart skipped a beat. With the barest hesitation, I nodded.<br />
<br />
"Very well. You will work off your debt for a year and a day. You will be required to tithe something each day. You may work here for credits, or bring money, as you choose. You may not journey more than a day's walk from Hsiang without my permission. When your debt is paid, I will release you from the Geas."<br />
<br />
I nodded again.<br />
<br />
"I must have your word that you understand and agree."<br />
<br />
"Yes. I understand, and I accept your terms." It felt like I had just sold my soul, despite it being damaged goods.<br />
<br />
"Very well." He murmured a soft prayer, gestured to me, and re-stated his directive to pay the debt. Then he turned to a locked cabinet in the corner, and retrieved a flawless diamond. It fractured the sunlight, scattering it around the room in fleeting rainbows, like nothing I had ever seen. Fae would have loved seeing the light dance. He prayed again, and it dissolved into dust, and Fae's eyes opened.<br />
<br />
"Welcome back, my child," the high priest said, taking her hand reassuringly.<br />
<br />
I buried my face in my hands again. I didn't even deserve to look at her. I couldn't even choke out an apology. What was there to say? She already knew everything. No words could change what I had done.<br />
<br />
<nowiki>* * *</nowiki><br />
<br />
I ripped apart my room, finding every random coin I'd ever lost in my pillows, everything I could possibly sell for a penny. I put a page on the odd-jobs board in town -- farm work, furniture repair, fixing any odds and ends. I cashed in all my memories at the pawn shop for two shiny gold pieces, and brought them with my loose change back to the temple that night.<br />
<br />
There was a different attendant out front. I asked if I could speak with the high priest. At first he refused, but when I said, "Please Father, I owe him a debt," he grew quiet. He went into the back, then returned and allowed me to enter.<br />
<br />
I went to the same room. The high priest was here, but Fae was gone.<br />
<br />
"She was feeling stronger with a bit of rest, and has gone home to her mother," he said, when my eyes involuntarily lit on the empty bed. "She's a feisty one, isn't she? I see a bright future for her." His eyes twinkled.<br />
<br />
"I've brought my first payment," I said meekly. I handed him my coins.<br />
<br />
"Well, that's promising." He took a scroll from the desk. "What is your name, son?"<br />
<br />
"Irrin." He wrote it, and paused. He looked at me, expectantly.<br />
<br />
"Oh," I said. "Uhm. Irrin Shoshenkra Vasri."<br />
<br />
"Well, Mr. Vasri, I will ensure all of our attendant priests know your name, and to note down your daily tithe. That way, you will not have to explain yourself nor wait for me each time."<br />
<br />
"Yes, sir, Father, sorry to have bothered you again."<br />
<br />
"It's no bother, son. You will request me again when you bring your last payment, and otherwise are not required to do so." I could feel the tingle as his voice changed to issue a command.<br />
<br />
"Yes Father."<br />
<br />
<br />
===Marakinth===<br />
<br />
Yentai had yet another of the usual dim, crowded taverns you find in every town. I suppose it's the only type of establishment my budget allows. Though, there is occasionally something comforting about being surrounded by so many people without having to actually talk to any of them.<br />
<br />
He spotted me first. Brass Dragonkin. I didn't ask, but I'm sure it was the eyes. It's always the eyes. He had a lot of questions, about some monastery up in the mountains that I'd never heard of, and some great evil who attacked it. I did honestly wish I could help -- he flared with such intensity when he asked about the massacre. And yet, he didn't seem disappointed when I had no helpful information.<br />
<br />
"Anything you want me to say to it, if I ever meet this evil of yours? I'm pretty accomplished at swearing in Draconic, if that's your style," I said.<br />
<br />
"Just let me know. I will find a way to destroy it if I ever find out who was behind the attack." Ok, so, not much for a snide joke I guess. I can live with that. At least he has a goal.<br />
<br />
Once he figured out I had absolutely no useful information for him, I assumed he'd disappear back into the crowd, on to the next target for interrogation, but no. He seemed resigned, like this same conversation had played out in every dim, crowded tavern in every town. He was content to drink and talk. It was good to spend a little time with someone who knows the world isn't all sunshine and roses and glory.<br />
<br />
Turns out, he was heading north also. I'm not sure either of us necessarily asked the other to travel together so much as we both arrived at the idea around the same time, and started talking as though it was agreed. Certainly, it would be nice not to travel alone for a while. At least as far as Kai Shan.<br />
<br />
====On the road====<br />
<br />
After so long traveling alone, it does take a while to get used to another person being there all the time. The random noises, the annoying habits, the snoring at night...although, for some reason, with Marakinth, there wasn't as much pressure to keep up the mask I wear in public. I think that's why the arrangement worked at all. It was a relief to travel with someone who didn't need to fill the air with words all the time. Knowing what he'd seen, from the things he asked about his monastery...well, it did explain a lot about why he found me in that crowd.<br />
<br />
I'd forgotten how much easier it is to set up and break down camp with two people, rather than doing all of it alone. He had a lyre with him, this Marakinth character, which seemed to be quite important to him. I didn't pry, of course. How hypocritical would that be? It was pleasant to have some music while cooking over the fire, on the days we managed to take a rabbit or some other small game. He's a better hunter than I am, and it was certainly nice to rely less on dried rations. Within a few days, we had tacitly worked out a routine for setting up and breaking down camp, and fell into a comforting daily rhythm.<br />
<br />
As we sat one night, with the fire burning down and the darkness deepening, I had taken out my woodcarving tools and gone to work on a small chunk of the spare firewood. Marakinth was tuning his lyre, in the otherwise quiet night, when there was an unexpected THUNK, and an off-pitch tone followed by an odd moment of silence. He mumbled something I didn't quite catch, but when I glanced up, it was clear something had gone wrong with one of the strings on his lyre. His jaw was clenched, and his eyes narrow, as the normal outdoor sounds reclaimed the silence.<br />
<br />
"Do you have a spare?"<br />
<br />
"No," he growled. I raised my eyebrows, and he sighed. "Not this gauge. It's broken too many times."<br />
<br />
"May I?" I must've looked appropriately thoughtful, or respectful, or something like that, when I held out my hand. Somewhat to my surprise, he actually handed me his prized possession. I looked it over. The highest string was stretched -- unusable, but not entirely broken. I unwound it carefully from the tuning peg, removed the peg, and looked it over. Not only was this peg thicker than the others, it had a rough spot where the string wrapped.<br />
<br />
As I chose a tool from my kit, and started to shape the peg, where the string would wrap, I could've sworn I could feel Marakinth holding his breath. I thinned the peg, smoothed it carefully, and began re-wrapping the string. Before pulling it taut, I paused to cast Mending, to repair the damaged section, then slowly brought the string up to tension. It held, and the adjustment was smoother and finer. Marakinth was looking at me strangely when I held the instrument out to him.<br />
<br />
"A...friend of mine played lute." I'm pretty sure I looked away, as he took the lyre back from me. "The construction is surprisingly similar. I'm no skilled artisan, to be sure, but a small adjustment can go a long way. You should find it easier to tune that string from now on."<br />
<br />
He adjusted it carefully, and plucked a few chords. The string sounded like new.<br />
<br />
He was still playing when I went to sleep that night.<br />
<br />
====Bandits====<br />
<br />
Marakinth heard them first, and raised the alarm. Well, really it was more of a mix between an indignant bellow and a sharp battle cry, but it served its purpose. It brought me flying up out of my bedroll in an already wide-awake state, in time to see at least a half-dozen bandits swarming into our clearing. They approached almost in formation, like some kind of combat unit who had trained together, not just your average highway thugs. I assessed the situation quickly, thanking my lucky stars I was not facing this onslaught alone.<br />
<br />
As I was gathering my wits to act, and forming a plan, I heard Marakinth growl under his breath about the fire dying down, and saw him stumble in the dark. Right, Dragonkin need light. I can do that. I reached out and put a yellow, sunlight-tinted glow on my tent. It was enough to light the clearing at least. I could see his eyes lock on target, taking in the scene the same way I had, calculating a plan.<br />
<br />
I can only assume they couldn't see Marakinth clearly in his bedroll, and just saw a camp of two with minimal weapons and simple gear. They probably thought it would be easy money to swipe some stuff and ride on.<br />
<br />
They were mistaken.<br />
<br />
Seeing the group coming at him in formation, the Dragonkin took up his spear, but didn't ready it immediately. First, he took a deep breath and unleashed his fire on the front of the group. With the whole attacking force suddenly looking a lot crispier than they had a moment ago, and the front line swiftly approaching that spear, I threw an Acid Splash at the back of the line.<br />
<br />
Marakinth brought his spear up to meet the front line's charge, and I started targeting the rest of the back line with rays of frost, focusing on any who tried to run away. A few solid hits from my companion, and one lucky Chaos Bolt from me, and the attacking force was reduced to a pile of corpses.<br />
<br />
We stood a moment, catching our breath, looking at the fallen attackers.<br />
<br />
"Well. Now what?" I asked. Marakinth shrugged. "Now we dig a big hole, I guess," I muttered. Not how I wanted to spend my night, but even though we spoke precious few words before daybreak, I think both of us were keenly aware of how that fight would've gone without the other there to fight alongside.<br />
<br />
====Kai Shan====<br />
<br />
(arriving at town, deciding to stick together longer)<br />
<br />
===Into the Jungle===<br />
<br />
(heading into the Hai Jungle)</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Children_of_Vecna&diff=16716
Children of Vecna
2021-02-21T23:26:01Z
<p>Ratri: /* Backstory */</p>
<hr />
<div>A D&D 5e run brought to you by my fabulous former coworkers.<br />
<br />
D&D Beyond character link: https://www.dndbeyond.com/profile/LadyRatri/characters/44705859<br />
<br />
=Irrin Soshenkra Vasri=<br />
<br />
Fallen Aasimar Sorcerer with a black dragon bloodline, wandering the countryside of [https://forgottenrealms.fandom.com/wiki/Shou_Lung Shou Lung]. He wanders almost like someone in search of something...<br />
<br />
==Backstory==<br />
<br />
===Home===<br />
<br />
Hsiang lies on the northern edge of the Wak'an peninsula, between the Yellow Sea and the Celestial Sea. I practically grew up on the beach. It was just me and my mom really, but we were very close to my aunt Reyla and my cousin Faeona. Faeona's dad and mine had left on day on a great adventure, and never returned. We had a lot to talk about, Faeona and I, even as children. I guess our moms did too.<br />
<br />
The earliest memories I have were lying in the sand on the beach, staring at the brightness of the sky through closed eyelids, listening. My mother would play lute, and Faeona would sing, and the ocean would sing with her, and the whole world would dance around us. I could feel it spinning and tilting and whirling, night into day, stars swirling around us like a whirlpool. My mother said I had an "overactive imagination" when she talked to the other parents in the village.<br />
<br />
I loved my cousin's voice.<br />
<br />
====Thallaza====<br />
<br />
I was ten years old the first time I heard a second voice join the song. Soft and ethereal, it was unlike any other singing I had heard -- even Fae's voice couldn't sing like that.<br />
<br />
At the end of the song, my mother put her hand on my shoulder. When I looked, she was smiling.<br />
<br />
"It's your turn, love." She tilted her head down the shoreline, to where a tall woman with rich blond hair stood, staring intently at me with brilliant blue eyes. She gestured for me to come walk with her. I looked to my mother, confused, but she just smiled and squeezed my shoulder "It's ok, Irrin. She's the kindest soul I know."<br />
<br />
I went.<br />
<br />
"My name is Thallaza," she said. Her voice was somehow still musical, even when she spoke plainly.<br />
<br />
"Uhm." I sounded ridiculous. Why couldn't I make reasonable words? "Nice to meet you...uh, ma'am. I'm Irrin." I felt my face flush as soon as I said it.<br />
<br />
"Yes, love. I'm aware." I could hear the smile in her soft voice. I looked up sharply, and just for a moment, like an overlay on top of the real world, her skin shone silver, her hair glowed bright gold, and her eyes lit up like sapphires in the sun. The immaterial glow of wings, more a suggestion than a reality, unfurled from her back, huge and bright and feathered. "I'm your guardian angel." She paused. "And your great-grandmother. Well, more generations removed than that, but it pains me to keep count these days."<br />
<br />
"My..." I blinked stupidly.<br />
<br />
"Ages ago, I had a child with a man from Hsiang. She chose to make her home here, and her family has stayed ever since. I watch over them. I spoke to your mother, when she turned ten, and told her the same story. As she said, today, it is your turn to hear a little bit about your past." Somehow, we had come to the very point of the peninsula, despite it being easily several days' journey away. She gestured to a wide, flat rock near a long, flat tidepool. "Sit with me? There are some stories I love to tell..."<br />
<br />
I still loved my cousin's voice more.<br />
<br />
<br />
====The First Lapse====<br />
<br />
I resented my mother for leaving me alone. Mom needed materials for her woodwork shop, and she had to journey to Lo Shan to get them. Of course she did. If she didn't stock the shop, we didn't eat. That didn't matter. I still resented it.<br />
<br />
I resented Aunt Reyla for falling sick the day my mom left. Fae needed to take care of her mom. I would've done the same, if it were my mom who was sick and Aunt Reyla who was away. That didn't matter. I still resented it.<br />
<br />
I resented the ocean for singing all the louder, without my mother and Fae to accompany it. Of course it continue to beat the shore, to advance and swirl and recede. What choice did it have? That didn't matter. I still resented it.<br />
<br />
I resented her lute for sitting, silent, in her room. I seethed. I boiled. I didn't understand what rage was. I didn't understand who I was anymore. The world swirled and spun and spiraled around again. Someone had pulled the plug, and everything was running together down the drain. What are those crashing noises? Why are there splinters in my hands? Why is Fae looking at me with such grown-up worry in her eyes?<br />
<br />
* * *<br />
<br />
Slowly, I realized the room around me was in complete disarray. I was still holding the neck of the lute in my hands -- cracked and splintered, the body smashed, the strings connecting some of the fragments together.<br />
<br />
"What..." Fae whispered. "Irrin. What did you do?"<br />
<br />
I looked up at her, confused, overwhelmed, and words would not come. Tears came more easily. She walked across the room in three strides, and just silently hugged me, until I could speak again.<br />
<br />
"What do I do Fae? I don't know what happened. I just...want to fix it."<br />
<br />
Fae looked at me, and smiled. "So fix it, then." She looked me straight in the eyes. "You have at least two more days before your mom gets back. Do whatever you can to make this right again. You have a guardian angel -- speak to her, and maybe she can give you guidance. Just don't expect her to do the work for you." She kissed my forehead. "I believe in you, Rin."<br />
<br />
"Thank you," I whispered. She had said that before, and it had always felt right. Today, for the first time, I didn't feel like I deserved it.<br />
<br />
She stood, and turned to leave. "I just came to get some supplies for my mom. She's getting better." Fae paused, just outside the door in the hallway, and looked back. "I'll come check on you? Tonight maybe?"<br />
<br />
"Thank you." I had a tingling little feeling I'd be saying that to Fae a lot.<br />
<br />
"Chin up, Rin." she said, and disappeared back down the stairs.<br />
<br />
* * * <br />
<br />
Hours later, the room was straightened and cleaned. Every item was put away, neater than it had been before. The bed was made, the desk was cleared. There was nothing else left to do, except...every shard, every splinter, every shred that was once her beautiful lute was laid out on her desk. Broken and useless.<br />
<br />
I stared at it. I swore at it. I wracked my brains for anything I could do. I had tried to glue the neck once, but that only made it worse, and there was no way it would ever work on the shattered body of the instrument. I sat in the opposite corner of the room, staring at the desk, moonlight streaming in through the window as though to highlight the horrible thing I had done. I closed my eyes, and thought to myself -- Thallaza, please give me hope. I don't know what to do. I don't know what I am. I need help. Please, help me. I thought it over and over.<br />
<br />
And then she was sitting next to me, glowing dimly silver, just like the moon.<br />
<br />
"I'm so sorry, Irrin. Truly, I am. What you are facing today is not easy." She took my hand in hers. "Your blood is at war with itself. I should have seen it sooner, but...my line has always chosen travelers, and I have never known their histories." She shook her head.<br />
<br />
"But...can you help me?" I asked her.<br />
<br />
Her face took on a deep sadness. "I can be here with you, Irrin. I will always be here with you. Please, never forget that. No matter what happens, no matter what you do, I will always be with you. But, I cannot solve this for you. What I can say is this: your problem and its solution are inseparable. You have the power to make amends. You will always have the power to make amends, if you choose to. So, if that is what you truly wish, you must keep trying."<br />
<br />
She sat with me, in silence, holding my hand until I woke up, somehow knowing what I needed to do.<br />
<br />
I sat at the desk, and lined up all the shards like the pieces of a puzzle. Slowly, painstakingly, I found where each piece needed to go, what it connected to. I started at the bottom, holding the two smallest pieces together. I closed my eyes, and focused my mind, and a tiny burst of magic flowed through my fingers. The two smallest pieces joined, like new. I took a deep breath, and picked up the next piece. And the next. And the next.<br />
<br />
The sun was sinking, and I was covered in sweat, re-aligning and attaching the neck of the lute, when I heard a gasp at door. It was Fae, checking on me again.<br />
<br />
"Rin...how?" she asked.<br />
<br />
"Just like you said." My voice sounded strained. I realized I must look an absolute mess. "I asked my guardian angel." She watched as I mended the neck, then repaired each string in turn, then slumped unwilling right out of the chair and onto the floor. I'm lucky the room is small -- with a few swift steps, she caught me before my head hit the floor.<br />
<br />
====The Second Lapse====<br />
<br />
I disliked Dei the first time I met him. Fae thought he was pretty, and I had to agree with that, but I still didn't like him. She thought I owed him a chance. Right up until she didn't anymore.<br />
<br />
She was in tears when she told me about it. I couldn't even process all the words, like some strange haze had descended. There was a film over the world, separating me from everything else. He had cajoled, he had plied her with drink, he had carefully gotten her alone. He had pushed her, pulled her, left marks on her wrists. I wasn't sure if she said he had actually kissed her, or just that he tried. He didn't care how many times she said no. He had slapped her across the face. She leaned on my shoulder and sobbed.<br />
<br />
No one makes my Fae cry like that. The anger was strange, cold, unfamiliar.<br />
<br />
By coincidence, it was the next day, late in the evening, that I chanced upon him up a side street. No one else was there. The sky was dark, the moon was new, and my anger was terrifying in its speed. Magic surged, and acid covered him, before I even registered the thought. He gasped, and another bubble of acid flew from my hand to splash him. He never even saw me -- he just fainted, his skin burning and clothes dissolving in spots, as the second bubble burst over him.<br />
<br />
I stood, stock still, not even breathing. For an instant, I didn't even regret it. That instant scared me the most. Then, Thallaza's voice came back to me, in my mind.<br />
<br />
"You will always have the power to make amends, if you choose to."<br />
<br />
I crept up to him. He was still alive. All I could do was tear a strip from my cloak and bind his wounds. He seemed stable. He was breathing when I left.<br />
<br />
I'm not proud of the way I fled. In the years since, I've come to realize I was running away from myself, more than anything else. I was lucky -- he lived, though he wasn't pretty anymore. No one ever learned who was behind the attack.<br />
<br />
<br />
====The Final Straw====<br />
<br />
"Rin, you know I get to pick who I care about, regardless of your approval."<br />
<br />
"I know Fae, I just don't want you getting hurt."<br />
<br />
"I can take care of myself you know." Her face flushed, and her eyes sparkled brightly. She stabbed at the sand with a stick, digging aimlessly.<br />
<br />
"Whatever, you don't even want my opinion, I get it."<br />
<br />
"That's not what I said, and you know it."<br />
<br />
"It might as well be. You talk to me less and less. You listen to me less and less. Every day, Fae. Don't try to tell me otherwise."<br />
<br />
"I'm allowed to spend time with other people, Rin." Her voice was growing quiet and dangerous.<br />
<br />
"Yeah." I couldn't keep the disgust out of my voice. I couldn't look at her either. I was so busy trying to push that feeling back down, I didn't feel the rage coming. She saw it first.<br />
<br />
"...Rin?" The sharp, steely tone was gone, replaced with fear. I didn't answer.<br />
<br />
"Rin, it's...it's going to be ok." Her soothing voice was too little, too late, and I was too late to stop the cold anger rising again in the pit of my stomach. I turned my eyes on her, in all my fury, fingers already tingling.<br />
<br />
I remember a clear vision of the terror on her face, looking in my eyes, the ocean outlined behind her, meeting the sky in the distance, completely out of place against the fluffy white clouds. In that moment of terror, she turned and fled, and I stopped her.<br />
<br />
"DON'T YOU DARE RUN FROM ME."<br />
<br />
The words felt strange, but the meaning was clear. A ray frost sprang from my hand, and she slowed. Another, and another, and she fell. I stood, rooted to the spot. By the time I unfroze, I swear the sun had moved in the sky. She was still lying there, frost in her hair, face down in the sand. She couldn't breathe like that. Why wasn't she breathing? Why wasn't she moving? Why was I watching this happen?<br />
<br />
* * *<br />
<br />
I brought her to the only temple in town. I had wiped the frost out of her hair, off her shirt. I had brushed the sand from her face. Her eyes were already closed, her beautiful eyes, or I may not have been able to look at her at all. Tears streamed openly down my face. I carried her in as gently as I could, trying to convince myself she was sleeping.<br />
<br />
The priest in attendance took one look at me, at her, and silently went to fetch the high priest. He too seemed to assess and judge in a single glance, and bade me bring her back to an empty room with a bed and some medical supplies. I laid her gently on the bed, arranging her gently into a comfortable sleeping position, without even thinking about it.<br />
<br />
"What happened, son?" He was a gentle old man, with wrinkles and gray hair and wise eyes. My mouth must have been working like a fish, but no words came out. "Take your time," he said. He looked her over, then turned back to me, clearly waiting for an answer.<br />
<br />
"I...She...She's dead," I whispered.<br />
<br />
"Yes," he replied.<br />
<br />
"I can't fix it," I whispered.<br />
<br />
"No," he replied.<br />
<br />
"Can you help her?" I asked, my voice hollow and unfamiliar.<br />
<br />
"Perhaps." His eyes seemed to stare straight through me, for a moment, and then focus again on my face. "I have the skill, but there is a cost that must be paid. We are a small temple, and unfortunately do not have the means to perform such advance magic as the raising of the dead without funds."<br />
<br />
Fresh tears slid down my face. "How...how much...does it cost?"<br />
<br />
He raise his eyebrows. "Five hundred gold pieces."<br />
<br />
I think I fainted for a moment. I'm pretty sure I somehow slumped to the floor. I definitely buried my face in my hands and sobbed. He waited patiently, as if it weren't a done deal that he should just kick me out now.<br />
<br />
"Well?" he said. "What will you do?"<br />
<br />
I was quiet for a long time. He waited.<br />
<br />
"Someone older and wiser than I once told me, 'You will always have the power to make amends, if you choose to.'" I looked at him, and he looked at me, and I could tell he knew exactly what had happened on that beach. He knew who I was. He knew what was buried inside me.<br />
<br />
"And is that what you are choosing to do, by coming to me for assistance?"<br />
<br />
"Yes. Please. I'll do whatever I can. I'll give you whatever I have. But please -- she can't wait for me to find that much money, I can't..." my voice broke.<br />
<br />
"Of course." He spoke softly, with an intense look. "I can Raise her today, but you may not like the terms of the agreement I would require."<br />
<br />
"Anything." My voice was finally strong and fierce, with the knowledge that there was something I could do.<br />
<br />
"Even a Geas?" he asked quietly.<br />
<br />
My heart skipped a beat. With the barest hesitation, I nodded.<br />
<br />
"Very well. You will work off your debt for a year and a day. You will be required to tithe something each day. You may work here for credits, or bring money, as you choose. You may not journey more than a day's walk from Hsiang without my permission. When your debt is paid, I will release you from the Geas."<br />
<br />
I nodded again.<br />
<br />
"I must have your word that you understand and agree."<br />
<br />
"Yes. I understand, and I accept your terms." It felt like I had just sold my soul, despite it being damaged goods.<br />
<br />
"Very well." He murmured a soft prayer, gestured to me, and re-stated his directive to pay the debt. Then he turned to a locked cabinet in the corner, and retrieved a flawless diamond. It fractured the sunlight, scattering it around the room in fleeting rainbows, like nothing I had ever seen. Fae would have loved seeing the light dance. He prayed again, and it dissolved into dust, and Fae's eyes opened.<br />
<br />
"Welcome back, my child," the high priest said, taking her hand reassuringly.<br />
<br />
I buried my face in my hands again. I didn't even deserve to look at her. I couldn't even choke out an apology. What was there to say? She already knew everything. No words could change what I had done.<br />
<br />
* * *<br />
<br />
I ripped apart my room, finding every random coin I'd ever lost in my pillows, everything I could possibly sell for a penny. I put a page on the odd-jobs board in town -- farm work, furniture repair, fixing any odds and ends. I cashed in all my memories at the pawn shop for two shiny gold pieces, and brought them with my loose change back to the temple that night.<br />
<br />
There was a different attendant out front. I asked if I could speak with the high priest. At first he refused, but when I said, "Please Father, I owe him a debt," he grew quiet. He went into the back, then returned and allowed me to enter.<br />
<br />
I went to the same room. The high priest was here, but Fae was gone.<br />
<br />
"She was feeling stronger with a bit of rest, and has gone home to her mother," he said, when my eyes involuntarily lit on the empty bed. "She's a feisty one, isn't she? I see a bright future for her." His eyes twinkled.<br />
<br />
"I've brought my first payment," I said meekly. I handed him my coins.<br />
<br />
"Well, that's promising." He took a scroll from the desk. "What is your name, son?"<br />
<br />
"Irrin." He wrote it, and paused. He looked at me, expectantly.<br />
<br />
"Oh," I said. "Uhm. Irrin Shoshenkra Vasri."<br />
<br />
"Well, Mr. Vasri, I will ensure all of our attendant priests know your name, and to note down your daily tithe. That way, you will not have to explain yourself nor wait for me each time."<br />
<br />
"Yes, sir, Father, sorry to have bothered you again."<br />
<br />
"It's no bother, son. You will request me again when you bring your last payment, and otherwise are not required to do so." I could feel the tingle as his voice changed to issue a command.<br />
<br />
"Yes Father."<br />
<br />
<br />
===Marakinth===<br />
<br />
Yentai had yet another of the usual dim, crowded taverns you find in every town. I suppose it's the only type of establishment my budget allows. Though, there is occasionally something comforting about being surrounded by so many people without having to actually talk to any of them.<br />
<br />
He spotted me first. Brass Dragonkin. I didn't ask, but I'm sure it was the eyes. It's always the eyes. He had a lot of questions, about some monastery up in the mountains that I'd never heard of, and some great evil who attacked it. I did honestly wish I could help -- he flared with such intensity when he asked about the massacre. And yet, he didn't seem disappointed when I had no helpful information.<br />
<br />
"Anything you want me to say to it, if I ever meet this evil of yours? I'm pretty accomplished at swearing in Draconic, if that's your style," I said.<br />
<br />
"Just let me know. I will find a way to destroy it if I ever find out who was behind the attack." Ok, so, not much for a snide joke I guess. I can live with that. At least he has a goal.<br />
<br />
Once he figured out I had absolutely no useful information for him, I assumed he'd disappear back into the crowd, on to the next target for interrogation, but no. He seemed resigned, like this same conversation had played out in every dim, crowded tavern in every town. He was content to drink and talk. It was good to spend a little time with someone who knows the world isn't all sunshine and roses and glory.<br />
<br />
Turns out, he was heading north also. I'm not sure either of us necessarily asked the other to travel together so much as we both arrived at the idea around the same time, and started talking as though it was agreed. Certainly, it would be nice not to travel alone for a while. At least as far as Kai Shan.<br />
<br />
====On the road====<br />
<br />
After so long traveling alone, it does take a while to get used to another person being there all the time. The random noises, the annoying habits, the snoring at night...although, for some reason, with Marakinth, there wasn't as much pressure to keep up the mask I wear in public. I think that's why the arrangement worked at all. It was a relief to travel with someone who didn't need to fill the air with words all the time. Knowing what he'd seen, from the things he asked about his monastery...well, it did explain a lot about why he found me in that crowd.<br />
<br />
I'd forgotten how much easier it is to set up and break down camp with two people, rather than doing all of it alone. He had a lyre with him, this Marakinth character, which seemed to be quite important to him. I didn't pry, of course. How hypocritical would that be? It was pleasant to have some music while cooking over the fire, on the days we managed to take a rabbit or some other small game. He's a better hunter than I am, and it was certainly nice to rely less on dried rations. Within a few days, we had tacitly worked out a routine for setting up and breaking down camp, and fell into a comforting daily rhythm.<br />
<br />
As we sat one night, with the fire burning down and the darkness deepening, I had taken out my woodcarving tools and gone to work on a small chunk of the spare firewood. Marakinth was tuning his lyre, in the otherwise quiet night, when there was an unexpected THUNK, and an off-pitch tone followed by an odd moment of silence. He mumbled something I didn't quite catch, but when I glanced up, it was clear something had gone wrong with one of the strings on his lyre. His jaw was clenched, and his eyes narrow, as the normal outdoor sounds reclaimed the silence.<br />
<br />
"Do you have a spare?"<br />
<br />
"No," he growled. I raised my eyebrows, and he sighed. "Not this gauge. It's broken too many times."<br />
<br />
"May I?" I must've looked appropriately thoughtful, or respectful, or something like that, when I held out my hand. Somewhat to my surprise, he actually handed me his prized possession. I looked it over. The highest string was stretched -- unusable, but not entirely broken. I unwound it carefully from the tuning peg, removed the peg, and looked it over. Not only was this peg thicker than the others, it had a rough spot where the string wrapped.<br />
<br />
As I chose a tool from my kit, and started to shape the peg, where the string would wrap, I could've sworn I could feel Marakinth holding his breath. I thinned the peg, smoothed it carefully, and began re-wrapping the string. Before pulling it taut, I paused to cast Mending, to repair the damaged section, then slowly brought the string up to tension. It held, and the adjustment was smoother and finer. Marakinth was looking at me strangely when I held the instrument out to him.<br />
<br />
"A...friend of mine played lute." I'm pretty sure I looked away, as he took the lyre back from me. "The construction is surprisingly similar. I'm no skilled artisan, to be sure, but a small adjustment can go a long way. You should find it easier to tune that string from now on."<br />
<br />
He adjusted it carefully, and plucked a few chords. The string sounded like new.<br />
<br />
He was still playing when I went to sleep that night.<br />
<br />
====Bandits====<br />
<br />
Marakinth heard them first, and raised the alarm. Well, really it was more of a mix between an indignant bellow and a sharp battle cry, but it served its purpose. It brought me flying up out of my bedroll in an already wide-awake state, in time to see at least a half-dozen bandits swarming into our clearing. They approached almost in formation, like some kind of combat unit who had trained together, not just your average highway thugs. I assessed the situation quickly, thanking my lucky stars I was not facing this onslaught alone.<br />
<br />
As I was gathering my wits to act, and forming a plan, I heard Marakinth growl under his breath about the fire dying down, and saw him stumble in the dark. Right, Dragonkin need light. I can do that. I reached out and put a yellow, sunlight-tinted glow on my tent. It was enough to light the clearing at least. I could see his eyes lock on target, taking in the scene the same way I had, calculating a plan.<br />
<br />
I can only assume they couldn't see Marakinth clearly in his bedroll, and just saw a camp of two with minimal weapons and simple gear. They probably thought it would be easy money to swipe some stuff and ride on.<br />
<br />
They were mistaken.<br />
<br />
Seeing the group coming at him in formation, the Dragonkin took up his spear, but didn't ready it immediately. First, he took a deep breath and unleashed his fire on the front of the group. With the whole attacking force suddenly looking a lot crispier than they had a moment ago, and the front line swiftly approaching that spear, I threw an Acid Splash at the back of the line.<br />
<br />
Marakinth brought his spear up to meet the front line's charge, and I started targeting the rest of the back line with rays of frost, focusing on any who tried to run away. A few solid hits from my companion, and one lucky Chaos Bolt from me, and the attacking force was reduced to a pile of corpses.<br />
<br />
We stood a moment, catching our breath, looking at the fallen attackers.<br />
<br />
"Well. Now what?" I asked. Marakinth shrugged. "Now we dig a big hole, I guess," I muttered. Not how I wanted to spend my night, but even though we spoke precious few words before daybreak, I think both of us were keenly aware of how that fight would've gone without the other there to fight alongside.<br />
<br />
====Kai Shan====<br />
<br />
(arriving at town, deciding to stick together longer)<br />
<br />
===Into the Jungle===<br />
<br />
(heading into the Hai Jungle)</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Children_of_Vecna&diff=16715
Children of Vecna
2021-02-21T20:22:37Z
<p>Ratri: /* Bandits */</p>
<hr />
<div>A D&D 5e run brought to you by my fabulous former coworkers.<br />
<br />
D&D Beyond character link: https://www.dndbeyond.com/profile/LadyRatri/characters/44705859<br />
<br />
=Irrin Soshenkra Vasri=<br />
<br />
Fallen Aasimar Sorcerer with a black dragon bloodline, wandering the countryside of [https://forgottenrealms.fandom.com/wiki/Shou_Lung Shou Lung]. He wanders almost like someone in search of something...<br />
<br />
==Backstory==<br />
<br />
<br />
===Marakinth===<br />
<br />
Yentai had yet another of the usual dim, crowded taverns you find in every town. I suppose it's the only type of establishment my budget allows. Though, there is occasionally something comforting about being surrounded by so many people without having to actually talk to any of them.<br />
<br />
He spotted me first. Brass Dragonkin. I didn't ask, but I'm sure it was the eyes. It's always the eyes. He had a lot of questions, about some monastery up in the mountains that I'd never heard of, and some great evil who attacked it. I did honestly wish I could help -- he flared with such intensity when he asked about the massacre. And yet, he didn't seem disappointed when I had no helpful information.<br />
<br />
"Anything you want me to say to it, if I ever meet this evil of yours? I'm pretty accomplished at swearing in Draconic, if that's your style," I said.<br />
<br />
"Just let me know. I will find a way to destroy it if I ever find out who was behind the attack." Ok, so, not much for a snide joke I guess. I can live with that. At least he has a goal.<br />
<br />
Once he figured out I had absolutely no useful information for him, I assumed he'd disappear back into the crowd, on to the next target for interrogation, but no. He seemed resigned, like this same conversation had played out in every dim, crowded tavern in every town. He was content to drink and talk. It was good to spend a little time with someone who knows the world isn't all sunshine and roses and glory.<br />
<br />
Turns out, he was heading north also. I'm not sure either of us necessarily asked the other to travel together so much as we both arrived at the idea around the same time, and started talking as though it was agreed. Certainly, it would be nice not to travel alone for a while. At least as far as Kai Shan.<br />
<br />
====On the road====<br />
<br />
After so long traveling alone, it does take a while to get used to another person being there all the time. The random noises, the annoying habits, the snoring at night...although, for some reason, with Marakinth, there wasn't as much pressure to keep up the mask I wear in public. I think that's why the arrangement worked at all. It was a relief to travel with someone who didn't need to fill the air with words all the time. Knowing what he'd seen, from the things he asked about his monastery...well, it did explain a lot about why he found me in that crowd.<br />
<br />
I'd forgotten how much easier it is to set up and break down camp with two people, rather than doing all of it alone. He had a lyre with him, this Marakinth character, which seemed to be quite important to him. I didn't pry, of course. How hypocritical would that be? It was pleasant to have some music while cooking over the fire, on the days we managed to take a rabbit or some other small game. He's a better hunter than I am, and it was certainly nice to rely less on dried rations. Within a few days, we had tacitly worked out a routine for setting up and breaking down camp, and fell into a comforting daily rhythm.<br />
<br />
As we sat one night, with the fire burning down and the darkness deepening, I had taken out my woodcarving tools and gone to work on a small chunk of the spare firewood. Marakinth was tuning his lyre, in the otherwise quiet night, when there was an unexpected THUNK, and an off-pitch tone followed by an odd moment of silence. He mumbled something I didn't quite catch, but when I glanced up, it was clear something had gone wrong with one of the strings on his lyre. His jaw was clenched, and his eyes narrow, as the normal outdoor sounds reclaimed the silence.<br />
<br />
"Do you have a spare?"<br />
<br />
"No," he growled. I raised my eyebrows, and he sighed. "Not this gauge. It's broken too many times."<br />
<br />
"May I?" I must've looked appropriately thoughtful, or respectful, or something like that, when I held out my hand. Somewhat to my surprise, he actually handed me his prized possession. I looked it over. The highest string was stretched -- unusable, but not entirely broken. I unwound it carefully from the tuning peg, removed the peg, and looked it over. Not only was this peg thicker than the others, it had a rough spot where the string wrapped.<br />
<br />
As I chose a tool from my kit, and started to shape the peg, where the string would wrap, I could've sworn I could feel Marakinth holding his breath. I thinned the peg, smoothed it carefully, and began re-wrapping the string. Before pulling it taut, I paused to cast Mending, to repair the damaged section, then slowly brought the string up to tension. It held, and the adjustment was smoother and finer. Marakinth was looking at me strangely when I held the instrument out to him.<br />
<br />
"A...friend of mine played lute." I'm pretty sure I looked away, as he took the lyre back from me. "The construction is surprisingly similar. I'm no skilled artisan, to be sure, but a small adjustment can go a long way. You should find it easier to tune that string from now on."<br />
<br />
He adjusted it carefully, and plucked a few chords. The string sounded like new.<br />
<br />
He was still playing when I went to sleep that night.<br />
<br />
====Bandits====<br />
<br />
Marakinth heard them first, and raised the alarm. Well, really it was more of a mix between an indignant bellow and a sharp battle cry, but it served its purpose. It brought me flying up out of my bedroll in an already wide-awake state, in time to see at least a half-dozen bandits swarming into our clearing. They approached almost in formation, like some kind of combat unit who had trained together, not just your average highway thugs. I assessed the situation quickly, thanking my lucky stars I was not facing this onslaught alone.<br />
<br />
As I was gathering my wits to act, and forming a plan, I heard Marakinth growl under his breath about the fire dying down, and saw him stumble in the dark. Right, Dragonkin need light. I can do that. I reached out and put a yellow, sunlight-tinted glow on my tent. It was enough to light the clearing at least. I could see his eyes lock on target, taking in the scene the same way I had, calculating a plan.<br />
<br />
I can only assume they couldn't see Marakinth clearly in his bedroll, and just saw a camp of two with minimal weapons and simple gear. They probably thought it would be easy money to swipe some stuff and ride on.<br />
<br />
They were mistaken.<br />
<br />
Seeing the group coming at him in formation, the Dragonkin took up his spear, but didn't ready it immediately. First, he took a deep breath and unleashed his fire on the front of the group. With the whole attacking force suddenly looking a lot crispier than they had a moment ago, and the front line swiftly approaching that spear, I threw an Acid Splash at the back of the line.<br />
<br />
Marakinth brought his spear up to meet the front line's charge, and I started targeting the rest of the back line with rays of frost, focusing on any who tried to run away. A few solid hits from my companion, and one lucky Chaos Bolt from me, and the attacking force was reduced to a pile of corpses.<br />
<br />
We stood a moment, catching our breath, looking at the fallen attackers.<br />
<br />
"Well. Now what?" I asked. Marakinth shrugged. "Now we dig a big hole, I guess," I muttered. Not how I wanted to spend my night, but even though we spoke precious few words before daybreak, I think both of us were keenly aware of how that fight would've gone without the other there to fight alongside.<br />
<br />
====Kai Shan====<br />
<br />
(arriving at town, deciding to stick together longer)<br />
<br />
===Into the Jungle===<br />
<br />
(heading into the Hai Jungle)</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Children_of_Vecna&diff=16714
Children of Vecna
2021-02-21T20:22:25Z
<p>Ratri: /* Bandits */</p>
<hr />
<div>A D&D 5e run brought to you by my fabulous former coworkers.<br />
<br />
D&D Beyond character link: https://www.dndbeyond.com/profile/LadyRatri/characters/44705859<br />
<br />
=Irrin Soshenkra Vasri=<br />
<br />
Fallen Aasimar Sorcerer with a black dragon bloodline, wandering the countryside of [https://forgottenrealms.fandom.com/wiki/Shou_Lung Shou Lung]. He wanders almost like someone in search of something...<br />
<br />
==Backstory==<br />
<br />
<br />
===Marakinth===<br />
<br />
Yentai had yet another of the usual dim, crowded taverns you find in every town. I suppose it's the only type of establishment my budget allows. Though, there is occasionally something comforting about being surrounded by so many people without having to actually talk to any of them.<br />
<br />
He spotted me first. Brass Dragonkin. I didn't ask, but I'm sure it was the eyes. It's always the eyes. He had a lot of questions, about some monastery up in the mountains that I'd never heard of, and some great evil who attacked it. I did honestly wish I could help -- he flared with such intensity when he asked about the massacre. And yet, he didn't seem disappointed when I had no helpful information.<br />
<br />
"Anything you want me to say to it, if I ever meet this evil of yours? I'm pretty accomplished at swearing in Draconic, if that's your style," I said.<br />
<br />
"Just let me know. I will find a way to destroy it if I ever find out who was behind the attack." Ok, so, not much for a snide joke I guess. I can live with that. At least he has a goal.<br />
<br />
Once he figured out I had absolutely no useful information for him, I assumed he'd disappear back into the crowd, on to the next target for interrogation, but no. He seemed resigned, like this same conversation had played out in every dim, crowded tavern in every town. He was content to drink and talk. It was good to spend a little time with someone who knows the world isn't all sunshine and roses and glory.<br />
<br />
Turns out, he was heading north also. I'm not sure either of us necessarily asked the other to travel together so much as we both arrived at the idea around the same time, and started talking as though it was agreed. Certainly, it would be nice not to travel alone for a while. At least as far as Kai Shan.<br />
<br />
====On the road====<br />
<br />
After so long traveling alone, it does take a while to get used to another person being there all the time. The random noises, the annoying habits, the snoring at night...although, for some reason, with Marakinth, there wasn't as much pressure to keep up the mask I wear in public. I think that's why the arrangement worked at all. It was a relief to travel with someone who didn't need to fill the air with words all the time. Knowing what he'd seen, from the things he asked about his monastery...well, it did explain a lot about why he found me in that crowd.<br />
<br />
I'd forgotten how much easier it is to set up and break down camp with two people, rather than doing all of it alone. He had a lyre with him, this Marakinth character, which seemed to be quite important to him. I didn't pry, of course. How hypocritical would that be? It was pleasant to have some music while cooking over the fire, on the days we managed to take a rabbit or some other small game. He's a better hunter than I am, and it was certainly nice to rely less on dried rations. Within a few days, we had tacitly worked out a routine for setting up and breaking down camp, and fell into a comforting daily rhythm.<br />
<br />
As we sat one night, with the fire burning down and the darkness deepening, I had taken out my woodcarving tools and gone to work on a small chunk of the spare firewood. Marakinth was tuning his lyre, in the otherwise quiet night, when there was an unexpected THUNK, and an off-pitch tone followed by an odd moment of silence. He mumbled something I didn't quite catch, but when I glanced up, it was clear something had gone wrong with one of the strings on his lyre. His jaw was clenched, and his eyes narrow, as the normal outdoor sounds reclaimed the silence.<br />
<br />
"Do you have a spare?"<br />
<br />
"No," he growled. I raised my eyebrows, and he sighed. "Not this gauge. It's broken too many times."<br />
<br />
"May I?" I must've looked appropriately thoughtful, or respectful, or something like that, when I held out my hand. Somewhat to my surprise, he actually handed me his prized possession. I looked it over. The highest string was stretched -- unusable, but not entirely broken. I unwound it carefully from the tuning peg, removed the peg, and looked it over. Not only was this peg thicker than the others, it had a rough spot where the string wrapped.<br />
<br />
As I chose a tool from my kit, and started to shape the peg, where the string would wrap, I could've sworn I could feel Marakinth holding his breath. I thinned the peg, smoothed it carefully, and began re-wrapping the string. Before pulling it taut, I paused to cast Mending, to repair the damaged section, then slowly brought the string up to tension. It held, and the adjustment was smoother and finer. Marakinth was looking at me strangely when I held the instrument out to him.<br />
<br />
"A...friend of mine played lute." I'm pretty sure I looked away, as he took the lyre back from me. "The construction is surprisingly similar. I'm no skilled artisan, to be sure, but a small adjustment can go a long way. You should find it easier to tune that string from now on."<br />
<br />
He adjusted it carefully, and plucked a few chords. The string sounded like new.<br />
<br />
He was still playing when I went to sleep that night.<br />
<br />
====Bandits====<br />
<br />
Marakinth heard them first, and raised the alarm. Well, really it was more of a mix between an indignant bellow and a sharp battle cry, but it served its purpose. It brought me flying up out of my bedroll in an already wide-awake state, in time to see at least a half-dozen bandits swarming into our clearing. They approached almost in formation, like some kind of combat unit who had trained together, not just your average highway thugs. I assessed the situation quickly, thanking my lucky stars I was not facing this onslaught alone.<br />
<br />
As I was gathering my wits to act, and forming a plan, I heard Marakinth growl under his breath about the fire dying down, and saw him stumble in the dark. Right, Dragonkin need light. I can do that. I reached out and put a yellow, sunlight-tinted glow on my tent. It was enough to light the clearing at least. I could see his eyes lock on target, taking in the scene the same way I had, calculating a plan.<br />
<br />
I can only assume they couldn't see Marakinth clearly in his bedroll, and just saw a camp of two with minimal weapons and simple gear. They probably thought it would be easy money to swipe some stuff and ride on.<br />
<br />
They were wrong.<br />
<br />
Seeing the group coming at him in formation, the Dragonkin took up his spear, but didn't ready it immediately. First, he took a deep breath and unleashed his fire on the front of the group. With the whole attacking force suddenly looking a lot crispier than they had a moment ago, and the front line swiftly approaching that spear, I threw an Acid Splash at the back of the line.<br />
<br />
Marakinth brought his spear up to meet the front line's charge, and I started targeting the rest of the back line with rays of frost, focusing on any who tried to run away. A few solid hits from my companion, and one lucky Chaos Bolt from me, and the attacking force was reduced to a pile of corpses.<br />
<br />
We stood a moment, catching our breath, looking at the fallen attackers.<br />
<br />
"Well. Now what?" I asked. Marakinth shrugged. "Now we dig a big hole, I guess," I muttered. Not how I wanted to spend my night, but even though we spoke precious few words before daybreak, I think both of us were keenly aware of how that fight would've gone without the other there to fight alongside.<br />
<br />
====Kai Shan====<br />
<br />
(arriving at town, deciding to stick together longer)<br />
<br />
===Into the Jungle===<br />
<br />
(heading into the Hai Jungle)</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Children_of_Vecna&diff=16713
Children of Vecna
2021-02-21T20:04:02Z
<p>Ratri: /* On the road */</p>
<hr />
<div>A D&D 5e run brought to you by my fabulous former coworkers.<br />
<br />
D&D Beyond character link: https://www.dndbeyond.com/profile/LadyRatri/characters/44705859<br />
<br />
=Irrin Soshenkra Vasri=<br />
<br />
Fallen Aasimar Sorcerer with a black dragon bloodline, wandering the countryside of [https://forgottenrealms.fandom.com/wiki/Shou_Lung Shou Lung]. He wanders almost like someone in search of something...<br />
<br />
==Backstory==<br />
<br />
<br />
===Marakinth===<br />
<br />
Yentai had yet another of the usual dim, crowded taverns you find in every town. I suppose it's the only type of establishment my budget allows. Though, there is occasionally something comforting about being surrounded by so many people without having to actually talk to any of them.<br />
<br />
He spotted me first. Brass Dragonkin. I didn't ask, but I'm sure it was the eyes. It's always the eyes. He had a lot of questions, about some monastery up in the mountains that I'd never heard of, and some great evil who attacked it. I did honestly wish I could help -- he flared with such intensity when he asked about the massacre. And yet, he didn't seem disappointed when I had no helpful information.<br />
<br />
"Anything you want me to say to it, if I ever meet this evil of yours? I'm pretty accomplished at swearing in Draconic, if that's your style," I said.<br />
<br />
"Just let me know. I will find a way to destroy it if I ever find out who was behind the attack." Ok, so, not much for a snide joke I guess. I can live with that. At least he has a goal.<br />
<br />
Once he figured out I had absolutely no useful information for him, I assumed he'd disappear back into the crowd, on to the next target for interrogation, but no. He seemed resigned, like this same conversation had played out in every dim, crowded tavern in every town. He was content to drink and talk. It was good to spend a little time with someone who knows the world isn't all sunshine and roses and glory.<br />
<br />
Turns out, he was heading north also. I'm not sure either of us necessarily asked the other to travel together so much as we both arrived at the idea around the same time, and started talking as though it was agreed. Certainly, it would be nice not to travel alone for a while. At least as far as Kai Shan.<br />
<br />
====On the road====<br />
<br />
After so long traveling alone, it does take a while to get used to another person being there all the time. The random noises, the annoying habits, the snoring at night...although, for some reason, with Marakinth, there wasn't as much pressure to keep up the mask I wear in public. I think that's why the arrangement worked at all. It was a relief to travel with someone who didn't need to fill the air with words all the time. Knowing what he'd seen, from the things he asked about his monastery...well, it did explain a lot about why he found me in that crowd.<br />
<br />
I'd forgotten how much easier it is to set up and break down camp with two people, rather than doing all of it alone. He had a lyre with him, this Marakinth character, which seemed to be quite important to him. I didn't pry, of course. How hypocritical would that be? It was pleasant to have some music while cooking over the fire, on the days we managed to take a rabbit or some other small game. He's a better hunter than I am, and it was certainly nice to rely less on dried rations. Within a few days, we had tacitly worked out a routine for setting up and breaking down camp, and fell into a comforting daily rhythm.<br />
<br />
As we sat one night, with the fire burning down and the darkness deepening, I had taken out my woodcarving tools and gone to work on a small chunk of the spare firewood. Marakinth was tuning his lyre, in the otherwise quiet night, when there was an unexpected THUNK, and an off-pitch tone followed by an odd moment of silence. He mumbled something I didn't quite catch, but when I glanced up, it was clear something had gone wrong with one of the strings on his lyre. His jaw was clenched, and his eyes narrow, as the normal outdoor sounds reclaimed the silence.<br />
<br />
"Do you have a spare?"<br />
<br />
"No," he growled. I raised my eyebrows, and he sighed. "Not this gauge. It's broken too many times."<br />
<br />
"May I?" I must've looked appropriately thoughtful, or respectful, or something like that, when I held out my hand. Somewhat to my surprise, he actually handed me his prized possession. I looked it over. The highest string was stretched -- unusable, but not entirely broken. I unwound it carefully from the tuning peg, removed the peg, and looked it over. Not only was this peg thicker than the others, it had a rough spot where the string wrapped.<br />
<br />
As I chose a tool from my kit, and started to shape the peg, where the string would wrap, I could've sworn I could feel Marakinth holding his breath. I thinned the peg, smoothed it carefully, and began re-wrapping the string. Before pulling it taut, I paused to cast Mending, to repair the damaged section, then slowly brought the string up to tension. It held, and the adjustment was smoother and finer. Marakinth was looking at me strangely when I held the instrument out to him.<br />
<br />
"A...friend of mine played lute." I'm pretty sure I looked away, as he took the lyre back from me. "The construction is surprisingly similar. I'm no skilled artisan, to be sure, but a small adjustment can go a long way. You should find it easier to tune that string from now on."<br />
<br />
He adjusted it carefully, and plucked a few chords. The string sounded like new.<br />
<br />
He was still playing when I went to sleep that night.<br />
<br />
====Bandits====<br />
<br />
Marakinth heard them first, and raise the alarm. Well, really it was more of a mix between an indignant bellow and a sharp battle cry, but it served its purpose of bringing me flying up out of my bedroll in an already wide-awake state, in time to see at least a half-dozen bandits swarming into our clearing. They approached almost in formation, like some kind of combat unit who had trained together, not just your average highway thugs. I assessed the situation quickly, thanking my lucky stars I was not facing this onslaught alone.<br />
<br />
As I was gathering my wits to act, and forming a plan, I heard Marakinth growl under his breath about the fire dying down, and saw him stumble in the dark. Right, Dragonkin need light. I can do that. I reached out and put a yellow, sunlight-tinted glow on my tent. It was enough to light the clearing at least. I could see his eyes lock on target, taking in the scene the same way I had, calculating a plan.<br />
<br />
I can only assume they couldn't see Marakinth clearly in his bedroll, and just saw a camp of two with minimal weapons and simple gear. They probably thought it would be easy money to swipe some stuff and ride on.<br />
<br />
They were wrong.<br />
<br />
Seeing the group coming at him in formation, the Dragonkin took up his spear, but didn't ready it immediately. First, he took a deep breath and unleashed his fire on the front of the group. With the whole attacking force suddenly looking a lot crispier than they had a moment ago, and the front line swiftly approaching that spear, I threw an Acid Splash at the back of the line.<br />
<br />
Marakinth brought his spear up to meet the front line's charge, and I started targeting the rest of the back line with rays of frost, focusing on any who tried to run away. A few solid hits from my companion, and one lucky Chaos Bolt from me, and the attacking force was reduced to a pile of corpses.<br />
<br />
We stood a moment, catching our breath, looking at the fallen attackers.<br />
<br />
"Well. Now what?" I asked. Marakinth shrugged. "Now we dig a big hole, I guess," I muttered. Not how I wanted to spend my night, but even though we spoke precious few words before daybreak, I think both of us were keenly aware of how that fight would've gone without the other there to fight alongside.<br />
<br />
====Kai Shan====<br />
<br />
(arriving at town, deciding to stick together longer)<br />
<br />
===Into the Jungle===<br />
<br />
(heading into the Hai Jungle)</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Children_of_Vecna&diff=16712
Children of Vecna
2021-02-21T19:33:55Z
<p>Ratri: /* On the road */</p>
<hr />
<div>A D&D 5e run brought to you by my fabulous former coworkers.<br />
<br />
D&D Beyond character link: https://www.dndbeyond.com/profile/LadyRatri/characters/44705859<br />
<br />
=Irrin Soshenkra Vasri=<br />
<br />
Fallen Aasimar Sorcerer with a black dragon bloodline, wandering the countryside of [https://forgottenrealms.fandom.com/wiki/Shou_Lung Shou Lung]. He wanders almost like someone in search of something...<br />
<br />
==Backstory==<br />
<br />
<br />
===Marakinth===<br />
<br />
Yentai had yet another of the usual dim, crowded taverns you find in every town. I suppose it's the only type of establishment my budget allows. Though, there is occasionally something comforting about being surrounded by so many people without having to actually talk to any of them.<br />
<br />
He spotted me first. Brass Dragonkin. I didn't ask, but I'm sure it was the eyes. It's always the eyes. He had a lot of questions, about some monastery up in the mountains that I'd never heard of, and some great evil who attacked it. I did honestly wish I could help -- he flared with such intensity when he asked about the massacre. And yet, he didn't seem disappointed when I had no helpful information.<br />
<br />
"Anything you want me to say to it, if I ever meet this evil of yours? I'm pretty accomplished at swearing in Draconic, if that's your style," I said.<br />
<br />
"Just let me know. I will find a way to destroy it if I ever find out who was behind the attack." Ok, so, not much for a snide joke I guess. I can live with that. At least he has a goal.<br />
<br />
Once he figured out I had absolutely no useful information for him, I assumed he'd disappear back into the crowd, on to the next target for interrogation, but no. He seemed resigned, like this same conversation had played out in every dim, crowded tavern in every town. He was content to drink and talk. It was good to spend a little time with someone who knows the world isn't all sunshine and roses and glory.<br />
<br />
Turns out, he was heading north also. I'm not sure either of us necessarily asked the other to travel together so much as we both arrived at the idea around the same time, and started talking as though it was agreed. Certainly, it would be nice not to travel alone for a while. At least as far as Kai Shan.<br />
<br />
====On the road====<br />
<br />
After so long traveling alone, it does take a while to get used to another person being there all the time. The random noises, the annoying habits, the snoring at night...although, for some reason, with Marakinth, there wasn't as much pressure to keep up the mask I wear in public. I think that's why the arrangement worked at all. It was a relief to travel with someone who didn't need to fill the air with words all the time. Knowing what he'd seen, from the things he asked about his monastery...well, it did explain a lot about why he found me in that crowd.<br />
<br />
I'd forgotten how much easier it is to set up and break down camp with two people, rather than doing all of it alone. He had a lyre with him, this Marakinth character, which seemed to be quite important to him. I didn't pry, of course. How hypocritical would that be? It was pleasant to have some music while cooking over the fire, on the days we managed to take a rabbit or some other small game. He's a better hunter than I am, and it was certainly nice to rely less on dried rations. Within a few days, we had tacitly worked out a routine for setting up and breaking down camp, and fell into a comforting daily rhythm.<br />
<br />
As we sat one night, with the fire burning down and the darkness deepening, I had taken out my woodcarving tools and gone to work on a small chunk of the spare firewood. Marakinth was tuning his lyre, in the otherwise quiet night, when there was an unexpected THUNK, and an off-pitch tone followed by an odd moment of silence. He mumbled something I didn't quite catch, but when I glanced up, it was clear something had gone wrong with one of the strings on his lyre. His jaw was clenched, and his eyes narrow, as the normal outdoor sounds reclaimed the silence.<br />
<br />
"Do you have a spare?"<br />
<br />
"No," he growled. I raised my eyebrows, and he sighed. "Not this gauge. It's broken too many times."<br />
<br />
"May I?" I must've looked appropriately thoughtful, or respectful, or something like that, when I held out my hand. Somewhat to my surprise, he actually handed me his prized possession. I looked it over. The highest string was stretched -- unusable, but not entirely broken. I unwound it carefully from the tuning peg, removed the peg, and looked it over. Not only was this peg thicker than the others, it had a rough spot where the string wrapped.<br />
<br />
As I chose a tool from my kit, and started to shape the peg, where the string would wrap, I could've sworn I could feel Marakinth holding his breath. I thinned the peg, smoothed it carefully, and began re-wrapping the string. Before pulling it taut, I paused to cast Mending, to repair the damaged section, then slowly brought the string up to tension. It held, and the adjustment was smoother and finer. Marakinth was looking at me strangely when I held the instrument out to him.<br />
<br />
"My...mother played lute." I'm pretty sure I looked away, as he took the lyre back from me. "The construction is surprisingly similar. I'm no skilled artisan, to be sure, but a small adjustment can go a long way. You should find it easier to tune that string from now on."<br />
<br />
He adjusted it carefully, and plucked a few chords. The string sounded like new.<br />
<br />
He was still playing when I went to sleep that night.<br />
<br />
====Bandits====<br />
<br />
Marakinth heard them first, and raise the alarm. Well, really it was more of a mix between an indignant bellow and a sharp battle cry, but it served its purpose of bringing me flying up out of my bedroll in an already wide-awake state, in time to see at least a half-dozen bandits swarming into our clearing. They approached almost in formation, like some kind of combat unit who had trained together, not just your average highway thugs. I assessed the situation quickly, thanking my lucky stars I was not facing this onslaught alone.<br />
<br />
As I was gathering my wits to act, and forming a plan, I heard Marakinth growl under his breath about the fire dying down, and saw him stumble in the dark. Right, Dragonkin need light. I can do that. I reached out and put a yellow, sunlight-tinted glow on my tent. It was enough to light the clearing at least. I could see his eyes lock on target, taking in the scene the same way I had, calculating a plan.<br />
<br />
I can only assume they couldn't see Marakinth clearly in his bedroll, and just saw a camp of two with minimal weapons and simple gear. They probably thought it would be easy money to swipe some stuff and ride on.<br />
<br />
They were wrong.<br />
<br />
Seeing the group coming at him in formation, the Dragonkin took up his spear, but didn't ready it immediately. First, he took a deep breath and unleashed his fire on the front of the group. With the whole attacking force suddenly looking a lot crispier than they had a moment ago, and the front line swiftly approaching that spear, I threw an Acid Splash at the back of the line.<br />
<br />
Marakinth brought his spear up to meet the front line's charge, and I started targeting the rest of the back line with rays of frost, focusing on any who tried to run away. A few solid hits from my companion, and one lucky Chaos Bolt from me, and the attacking force was reduced to a pile of corpses.<br />
<br />
We stood a moment, catching our breath, looking at the fallen attackers.<br />
<br />
"Well. Now what?" I asked. Marakinth shrugged. "Now we dig a big hole, I guess," I muttered. Not how I wanted to spend my night, but even though we spoke precious few words before daybreak, I think both of us were keenly aware of how that fight would've gone without the other there to fight alongside.<br />
<br />
====Kai Shan====<br />
<br />
(arriving at town, deciding to stick together longer)<br />
<br />
===Into the Jungle===<br />
<br />
(heading into the Hai Jungle)</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Children_of_Vecna&diff=16711
Children of Vecna
2021-02-21T19:32:55Z
<p>Ratri: </p>
<hr />
<div>A D&D 5e run brought to you by my fabulous former coworkers.<br />
<br />
D&D Beyond character link: https://www.dndbeyond.com/profile/LadyRatri/characters/44705859<br />
<br />
=Irrin Soshenkra Vasri=<br />
<br />
Fallen Aasimar Sorcerer with a black dragon bloodline, wandering the countryside of [https://forgottenrealms.fandom.com/wiki/Shou_Lung Shou Lung]. He wanders almost like someone in search of something...<br />
<br />
==Backstory==<br />
<br />
<br />
===Marakinth===<br />
<br />
Yentai had yet another of the usual dim, crowded taverns you find in every town. I suppose it's the only type of establishment my budget allows. Though, there is occasionally something comforting about being surrounded by so many people without having to actually talk to any of them.<br />
<br />
He spotted me first. Brass Dragonkin. I didn't ask, but I'm sure it was the eyes. It's always the eyes. He had a lot of questions, about some monastery up in the mountains that I'd never heard of, and some great evil who attacked it. I did honestly wish I could help -- he flared with such intensity when he asked about the massacre. And yet, he didn't seem disappointed when I had no helpful information.<br />
<br />
"Anything you want me to say to it, if I ever meet this evil of yours? I'm pretty accomplished at swearing in Draconic, if that's your style," I said.<br />
<br />
"Just let me know. I will find a way to destroy it if I ever find out who was behind the attack." Ok, so, not much for a snide joke I guess. I can live with that. At least he has a goal.<br />
<br />
Once he figured out I had absolutely no useful information for him, I assumed he'd disappear back into the crowd, on to the next target for interrogation, but no. He seemed resigned, like this same conversation had played out in every dim, crowded tavern in every town. He was content to drink and talk. It was good to spend a little time with someone who knows the world isn't all sunshine and roses and glory.<br />
<br />
Turns out, he was heading north also. I'm not sure either of us necessarily asked the other to travel together so much as we both arrived at the idea around the same time, and started talking as though it was agreed. Certainly, it would be nice not to travel alone for a while. At least as far as Kai Shan.<br />
<br />
====On the road====<br />
<br />
After so long traveling alone, it does take a while to get used to another person being there all the time. The random noises, the annoying habits, the snoring at night...although, for some reason, with Marakinth, there wasn't as much pressure to keep up the mask I wear in public. I think that's why the arrangement worked at all. It was a relief to travel with someone who didn't need to fill the air with words all the time. Knowing what he'd seen, from the things he asked about his monastery...well, it did explain a lot about why he found me in that crowd.<br />
<br />
I'd forgotten how much easier it is to set up and break down camp with two people, rather than doing all of it alone. He had a lyre with him, this Marakinth character, which seemed to be quite important to him. I didn't pry, of course. How hypocritical would that be? It was pleasant to have some music while cooking over the fire, on the days we managed to take a rabbit or some other small game. He's a better hunter than I am, and it was certainly nice to rely less on dried rations. Within a few days, we had tacitly worked out a routine for setting up and breaking down camp, and fell into a comforting daily rhythm.<br />
<br />
As we sat one night, with the fire burning down and the darkness deepening, I had taken out my woodcarving tools and gone to work on a small chunk of the spare firewood. Marakinth was tuning his lyre, in the otherwise quiet night, when there was an unexpected THUNK, and an off-pitch tone followed by an odd moment of silence. He mumbled something I didn't quite catch, but when I glanced up, it was clear something had gone wrong with one of the strings on his lyre. His jaw was clenched, and his eyes narrow, as the normal outdoor sounds reclaimed the silence.<br />
<br />
"Do you have a spare?"<br />
<br />
"No," he growled. I raised my eyebrows, and he sighed. "Not this gauge. It's broken too many times."<br />
<br />
"May I?" I must've looked appropriately thoughtful, or respectful, or something like that, when I held out my hand. Somewhat to my surprise, he actually handed me his prized possession. I looked it over. The highest string was stretched -- unusable, but not entirely broken. I unwound it carefully from the tuning peg, removed the peg, and looked it over. Not only was this peg thicker than the others, it had a rough spot where the string wrapped.<br />
<br />
As I chose a tool from my kit, and started to shape the peg, where the string would wrap, I could've sworn I could feel Marakinth holding his breath. I thinned the peg, smoothed it carefully, and began re-wrapping the string. Before pulling it taut, I paused to cast Mending, to repair the damaged section, then slowly brought the string up to tension. It held, and the adjustment was smoother and finer. Marakinth was looking at me strangely when I held the instrument out to him.<br />
<br />
"My...mother played lute." I'm pretty sure I looked away, as he took the lyre back from me. "The construction is surprisingly similar. I'm no skilled artisan, to be sure, but a small adjustment can go a long way. You should find it easier to tune that string from now on."<br />
<br />
He adjusted it carefully, and plucked a few chords. The string sounded the same as before.<br />
<br />
He was still playing when I went to sleep that night.<br />
<br />
<br />
====Bandits====<br />
<br />
Marakinth heard them first, and raise the alarm. Well, really it was more of a mix between an indignant bellow and a sharp battle cry, but it served its purpose of bringing me flying up out of my bedroll in an already wide-awake state, in time to see at least a half-dozen bandits swarming into our clearing. They approached almost in formation, like some kind of combat unit who had trained together, not just your average highway thugs. I assessed the situation quickly, thanking my lucky stars I was not facing this onslaught alone.<br />
<br />
As I was gathering my wits to act, and forming a plan, I heard Marakinth growl under his breath about the fire dying down, and saw him stumble in the dark. Right, Dragonkin need light. I can do that. I reached out and put a yellow, sunlight-tinted glow on my tent. It was enough to light the clearing at least. I could see his eyes lock on target, taking in the scene the same way I had, calculating a plan.<br />
<br />
I can only assume they couldn't see Marakinth clearly in his bedroll, and just saw a camp of two with minimal weapons and simple gear. They probably thought it would be easy money to swipe some stuff and ride on.<br />
<br />
They were wrong.<br />
<br />
Seeing the group coming at him in formation, the Dragonkin took up his spear, but didn't ready it immediately. First, he took a deep breath and unleashed his fire on the front of the group. With the whole attacking force suddenly looking a lot crispier than they had a moment ago, and the front line swiftly approaching that spear, I threw an Acid Splash at the back of the line.<br />
<br />
Marakinth brought his spear up to meet the front line's charge, and I started targeting the rest of the back line with rays of frost, focusing on any who tried to run away. A few solid hits from my companion, and one lucky Chaos Bolt from me, and the attacking force was reduced to a pile of corpses.<br />
<br />
We stood a moment, catching our breath, looking at the fallen attackers.<br />
<br />
"Well. Now what?" I asked. Marakinth shrugged. "Now we dig a big hole, I guess," I muttered. Not how I wanted to spend my night, but even though we spoke precious few words before daybreak, I think both of us were keenly aware of how that fight would've gone without the other there to fight alongside.<br />
<br />
====Kai Shan====<br />
<br />
(arriving at town, deciding to stick together longer)<br />
<br />
===Into the Jungle===<br />
<br />
(heading into the Hai Jungle)</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Children_of_Vecna&diff=16710
Children of Vecna
2021-02-21T08:16:13Z
<p>Ratri: Created page with "A D&D 5e run brought to you by my fabulous former coworkers. D&D Beyond character link: https://www.dndbeyond.com/profile/LadyRatri/characters/44705859 =Irrin Soshenkra Vasr..."</p>
<hr />
<div>A D&D 5e run brought to you by my fabulous former coworkers.<br />
<br />
D&D Beyond character link: https://www.dndbeyond.com/profile/LadyRatri/characters/44705859<br />
<br />
=Irrin Soshenkra Vasri=<br />
<br />
Fallen Aasimar Sorcerer with a black dragon bloodline, wandering the countryside of [https://forgottenrealms.fandom.com/wiki/Shou_Lung Shou Lung]. He wanders almost like someone in search of something...<br />
<br />
==Backstory==<br />
<br />
<br />
===Marakinth===<br />
<br />
Yentai had yet another of the usual dim, crowded taverns you find in every town. I suppose it's the only type of establishment my budget allows. Though, there is occasionally something comforting about being surrounded by so many people without having to actually talk to any of them.<br />
<br />
He spotted me first. Brass Dragonkin. I didn't ask, but I'm sure it was the eyes. It's always the eyes. He had a lot of questions, about some monastery up in the mountains that I'd never heard of, and some great evil who attacked it. I did honestly wish I could help -- he flared with such intensity when he asked about the massacre. And yet, he didn't seem disappointed when I had no helpful information.<br />
<br />
"Anything you want me to say to it, if I ever meet this evil of yours? I'm pretty accomplished at swearing in Draconic, if that's your style," I said.<br />
<br />
"Just let me know. I will find a way to destroy it if I ever find out who was behind the attack." Ok, so, not much for a snide joke I guess. I can live with that. At least he has a goal.<br />
<br />
Once he figured out I had absolutely no useful information for him, I assumed he'd disappear back into the crowd, on to the next target for interrogation, but no. He seemed resigned, like this same conversation had played out in every dim, crowded tavern in every town. He was content to drink and talk. It was good to spend a little time with someone who knows the world isn't all sunshine and roses and glory.<br />
<br />
Turns out, he was heading north also. I'm not sure either of us necessarily asked the other to travel together so much as we both arrived at the idea around the same time, and started talking as though it was agreed. Certainly, it would be nice not to travel alone for a while. At least as far as Kai Shan.<br />
<br />
====On the road====<br />
<br />
I'd forgotten how much easier it is to set up and break down camp with two people, rather than doing all of it alone. He had a lyre with him, this Marakinth character, which seemed to be quite important to him. I didn't pry, of course. How hypocritical would that be? It was pleasant to have some music while cooking over the fire, on the days we managed to take a rabbit or some other small game. It was a relief to travel with someone who didn't need to fill the air with words all the time. Knowing what he'd seen, from the things he asked about his monastery...well, it did explain a lot about why he found me in that crowd.<br />
<br />
(a little day-to-day travel color, fixing any of his broken/worn out crap, getting help starting the fire one night when it'd been raining and most of the available firewood was soaked.)<br />
<br />
====Bandits====<br />
<br />
Marakinth heard them first, and raise the alarm. Well, really it was more of a mix between an indignant bellow and a sharp battle cry, but it served its purpose of bringing me flying up out of my bedroll in an already wide-awake state, in time to see at least a half-dozen bandits swarming into our clearing. They approached almost in formation, like some kind of combat unit who had trained together, not just your average highway thugs. I assessed the situation quickly, thanking my lucky stars I was not facing this onslaught alone.<br />
<br />
As I was gathering my wits to act, and forming a plan, I heard Marakinth growl under his breath about the fire dying down, and saw him stumble in the dark. Right, Dragonkin need light. I can do that. I reached out and put a yellow, sunlight-tinted glow on my tent. It was enough to light the clearing at least. I could see his eyes lock on target, taking in the scene the same way I had, calculating a plan.<br />
<br />
I can only assume they couldn't see Marakinth clearly in his bedroll, and just saw a camp of two with minimal weapons and simple gear. They probably thought it would be easy money to swipe some stuff and ride on.<br />
<br />
They were wrong.<br />
<br />
Seeing the group coming at him in formation, the Dragonkin took up his spear, but didn't ready it immediately. First, he took a deep breath and unleashed his fire on the front of the group. With the whole attacking force suddenly looking a lot crispier than they had a moment ago, and the front line swiftly approaching that spear, I threw an Acid Splash at the back of the line.<br />
<br />
Marakinth brought his spear up to meet the front line's charge, and I started targeting the rest of the back line with rays of frost, focusing on any who tried to run away. A few solid hits from him, and one lucky Chaos Bolt from me, and the attacking force was reduced to a pile of corpses.<br />
<br />
We stood a moment, catching our breath, looking at the fallen attackers.<br />
<br />
"Well. Now what?" I asked. Marakinth shrugged. "Now we dig a big hole, I guess," I muttered. Not how I wanted to spend my night, but even though we spoke precious few words before daybreak, I think both of us were keenly aware of how that fight would've gone without the other there to fight alongside.<br />
<br />
====Kai Shan====<br />
<br />
(arriving at town, deciding to stick together longer)<br />
<br />
===Into the Jungle===<br />
<br />
(heading into the Hai Jungle)</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=User:Ratri&diff=16709
User:Ratri
2021-02-21T07:09:26Z
<p>Ratri: </p>
<hr />
<div>Happy fun links to wiki stuff:<br />
<br />
* [[Ratri's Wish List]]<br />
* [[Ratri's Recipe List]]<br />
* [[Ratri's Music List]]<br />
* [[Ratri and Gu's House Stuff List]]<br />
* Cat's magical lyrics to [[The Grass is Greener on the Other Side of the Guitar Solo]]<br />
* [[Children of Vecna]] character, notes, and other random info I decide needs an editable home<br />
<br />
--------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
Ratri enjoys deep sea fishing and long walks on the beach. Her favorite type of pie is human baby, and she enjoys listening to the screams of the damned. She has a soft spot for marmosets and lemurs, especially ones riding turtles. The best way to get on her good side is to offer her a box of Legos.<br />
<br />
Turnons: Blue marlins, wooden dowels, fur coats, and hurlbats.<br />
<br />
Turnoffs: Citrus, anal probes, kids wailing really hard on guitars, and pirates. Except Johnny Depp.<br />
<br />
Ratri's favorite game is the original NES "Righteous Chaps". "Ninjas have kidnapped the Prime Minister. Are you a righteous enough chap to rescue the Prime Minister?"<br />
<br />
Ratri pwns h4rdk0r.<br />
--------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<nowiki>*Ahem*</nowiki><br />
<br />
Well, after that lovely summary of my entire being, I'd like to say that was totally unrelated. :)<br />
<br />
And since I am currently super-bored at work and they blocked oMUD from connecting, I figured maybe I should put something else up here. But I couldn't really allow myself to disturb this lovely preamble, so there it is.<br />
<br />
I, the aforementioned Ratri, have never been deep-sea fishing, but do have a soft spot for fish. They're so cute! Especially the cool deep-sea ones. Long walks on the beach are kinda long, but short walks on the beach are nice. :)<br />
<br />
On the human baby pie count...I have to say I still have a bit of a thing against babies, pie or not. I am still waiting until that either wears off, or science finds me a way to have kittens. No hairball comments, please.<br />
<br />
Turtles are cute. Couldn't tell you about marmosets or lemurs, though the Yaks' pet marmoset is pretty silly, and obnoxious, all at the same time. Especially when it tries to mate with the weapons rack. Haha. She said "rack."<br />
<br />
Turnons: smart people, pretty people, creative people, niffty people, and magnesium metallic 2005 honda civic hybrids named Kurama. And hurlbats.<br />
<br />
Turnoffs: dumb people, annoying people, stupid people, asshats, coffee, citrus and uh, did I mention idiots yet? Morons? Right.<br />
<br />
My favorite game doesn't mean much 'cause it changes every week, but this week it's popcap's Heavy Weapon. There's nothing quite as funny as blowing shit up.<br />
<br />
Let's see. Not that anyone reads this far when it's stupid drivel. Just finished reading ''I Robot''. The autobiography at the end was the funniest friggin thing ever. I'm sure I'll be too lame to update this so I bet that'll be there forever. If you really want to see some of my stuff, I have a [http://nth.mit.edu/ratri/index.html real web page] too so go look at that. ;)<br />
<br />
I should go put up some stupid stuff for all my RP characters for the runs people have in here.<br />
<br />
OH and btw check out my [http://www.nationstates.net/cgi-bin/index.cgi/target=display_nation/nation=nihn Nation-State]! 'cause you probably didn't bother looking at the real web page and it's buried in the silliness somehwere.<br />
<br />
<center><nowiki>* * * * * * *</nowiki></center><br />
<br />
So, I'm bored again. Sort of like [[User:Rykilde|Rykilde]] except because I don't want to do my work, not because I don't have any. I am supposed to be getting ahead so I can train my clone next week. Haha.<br />
<br />
Then I thought of something I wanted to put in here, but now I forgot what it was after I wrote that lovely intro. Isn't this just grand? It was funny, too, and I was going to ask everyone &mdash;<br />
<br />
OH YEAH!!<br />
<br />
So we have this silly "Roving Reporter" thing at work, where someone gets pegged as the reporter, and they have to come up with a question. They ask three people the question, and then the question and all three answers are posted, with photos of the people, on the intranet for the company to read at their leisure. I have now been questioned twice. The first one was "What are your means to the end? What is your end?"<br />
<br />
To which I wrote the following:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>Well, I thought long and hard about what you meant by "end" when asking this question. It could mean a great past accomplishment; some tragedy that had befallen me, my friends, or my family; a lofty goal I have sacrificed much to fulfill, or perhaps have yet to achieve; or maybe even more. Maybe this "end" is meant in some relation to society as a whole.</blockquote><br />
<br />
<blockquote>Ultimately, though, I believe my end is a deep desire...</blockquote><br />
<br />
<blockquote>Cheese.</blockquote><br />
<br />
<blockquote>Cheese is beauty. From our childhood grilled cheese sandwiches, to the mac&cheese of our college days, and onwards to the Parmesan, Brie, Stilton, Camembert, and other cheeses of Monty Python fame, the fermented curd is a favored food of many. As for my means to this end, they are at the same time both many, and one. From the homey simplicity of a slice &mdash; or two! &mdash; of bread, to the smooth comfort of mashed potatoes, the satisfying crunch of a salty tortilla chip, the jarring mélange of a BBQ chicken sandwich, or even the symphonic complexities of home-made lasagna, the only means that could possibly deliver cheese in its full glory are starches. No cheese can be entirely itself without a little bread to help it home.</blockquote><br />
<br />
...which was too long, so we had to cut the first paragraph. But it's still uhm...yeah. Discuss.<br />
<br />
So now I got a second question, from one of the Win2000 editors. "If you could be a character out of a novel, who would you be?"<br />
<br />
I thought about the Prophecy, from the Belgariad. But it's difficult to write a short, accessible description that would make sense to people who haven't read the books. [[User:Aurora|Aurora]] made an excellent suggestion of Gerald Tarrant, from the Coldfire trilogy. However, I don't think I want to reveal my evil aspirations to the rest of the company.<br />
<br />
So I fell back on good old Sam:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>I'd have to say I would want to be Mahasamatman (yes, they call him Sam for short) from Lord of Light by Roger Zelazny. There are a lot of attractive characters in Zelazny's books, but Sam's constant spunk and wit, his incredible ability to stare down Death himself, his cunning plans to take down a fleet of would-be gods via both smarts and power, and his uncanny way of always coming back when someone tries to kill (or otherwise dispose of) him are just plain brilliant. How could I pass up the chance to have 13 different names, the perfect aplomb, a stunning sense of humor, and a brief sentence of Nirvana? Alas, the closest I could come was to name my computers after him.</blockquote><br />
<br />
Hey, at least I can keep myself amused?<br />
<br />
<center><nowiki>* * * * * * *</nowiki></center><br />
<br />
So, [[User:Aurora|Aurora]] did something silly, and got me to try playing the N64 Dr. Mario puzzle thingy game, in a big (handicapped) 4-player mishmash. It was pretty funny. You see, she sort of beats all our asses in at that game. In reponse, [[User:Nybble|Nybble]] did something awful and got us to try Super Smash Bros. Melee. So now I've been playing that, and it is very, very silly. I'm actually better at that than the Dr. Mario one--it looks just similar enough at a glance that when I get in trouble I start kinda playing tetris instead, and that really doesn't work very well.<br />
<br />
You may have noticed by this interlude that I still have some down moments in my new job at work. I guess until I'm really up to speed, and need less help and fewer questions answered to get things through the system, I'll be a little spotty on assignments. So all my crap is on hold right now and I have nothing to do except answer the questions from the people doing my old job. Until either the coders code stuff, or the idiots who asked for it sign off that they told us the right thing in the first place. Funny, how there are now 2 people doing that job.<br />
<br />
I'm also bored because my physical therapist killed my back on friday so I sort of am reduced to sitting and/or lying around for a few days. I don't really like "forced relaxation"...it's a little like mandatory fun. Just not the same. I couldn't even really work on my computer, so I didn't get to fix some of the things I'd like to do on my web page--like making a real archive page for my "Real Food" section, or adding a little more content to the Hub summaries. Makes me sad. Oh well. Since I only have one job now, I guess I will have time to do this stuff another day. :)</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Talk:Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=16109
Talk:Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2016-09-15T02:00:04Z
<p>Ratri: </p>
<hr />
<div>Thursday, May 30, 48670 +50 xp<br />
<br />
Sunday, June 3, 48670 +25 xp<br />
<br />
Thursday, June 7, 48670 +25 xp<br />
<br />
Friday June 8, 48670 +25 xp <br />
<br />
Tuesday June 19, 48670 +25 xp<br />
<br />
150 xps for first 5 entries noted. --[[User:Ratri|Ratri]] 08:26, 13 May 2012 (EST)<br />
<br />
June 26 - 25<br />
July 16 - 50<br />
August 14 - 50<br />
August 20 - 25<br />
September 1 - 25<br />
October 3 - 50<br />
october 6 - 25<br />
oct 7 - 25<br />
oct 10 - 25<br />
oct 16 - 25<br />
oct 18 - 25<br />
oct 26 - 25<br />
nov 4 - 25<br />
nov 9 - 25<br />
nov 12 - 25<br />
nov 20 - 50<br />
nov 26 - 25<br />
nov 27 - 25<br />
dec 4 - 25<br />
dec 7 - 25<br />
dec 8 - 25<br />
dec 9 - 25<br />
dec 12 - 25<br />
dec 20 - 50<br />
dec 21 - 25<br />
dec 22 - 100<br />
dec 23 - 50<br />
dec 24 - 25<br />
dec 25 - 25<br />
dec 22 - 25<br />
dec 24 - 25<br />
<br />
Summarized xp for the entries from June 26 - dec 24 (Again) +1000xp<br />
<br />
1k xps through dec 24 (again) noted --[[User:Ratri|Ratri]] ([[User talk:Ratri|talk]]) 22:00, 14 September 2016 (EDT)</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=16071
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2016-09-04T17:40:20Z
<p>Ratri: /* Friday December 23, 48670 */</p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 19, 48670===<br />
Another dream. Bright light through crystal shards, a faerie-sized home, the warm feeling of seeing a friend. I am glad she has those feelings, but it's always so hard to wake up. It has been a while since I saw her face. That always hits me harder. I know Mara means well when she asks me about stuff, but talking about it never makes it easier. At least I have a friend now too.<br />
<br />
And then we arrived in the town of farmers. I'm so afraid to let anyone see me. At least when Mara told Nib not to be afraid, he listened to her. He seems to be okay with me. It sounds like I'll mostly be snooping outside of town anyway. Maybe I won't even have to see a farmer. The most wonderful thing about my dreams is having a break from that fear. I know your life is not easy, Oak, but I am eternally grateful this is one pain you do not have to suffer.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 26, 48670===<br />
One hundred and one years. They look like a handful of glitter dancing on the wind...whirling by in a blur, with bright spots and dark spots and not much in between. Being out away from the people and away from the town is nice though. I found an adorable boa to snuggle and picked fresh fruit. I smelled the air and the earth and slept under the open sky. Tents are useful when we travel, but every now and then, I need this freedom. And I can see why people out here might tend to worship darkness and night. But tonight, the stars are beautiful and I do not have to convince anyone else of who I am or who I wish to be. Happy birthday, Oak.<br />
<br />
===Monday July 16, 48670===<br />
Vitra and I had an interesting meeting today. We thought we were going to see some middling priest of Ramver about some research, but instead we found the top 5 members of The Council. They talked to Vitra for a little while and gave her a bit list of things to look for. I'm sure at least some of them could see me sitting there, but no one tried to talk to me. I didn't really know what to do. There were a lot of unspoken things in that room, tensions and questions that cannot be answered. What would you think if you saw that? Do you even see me, when I'm hiding from everyone else? Somehow, I imagine we would always be able to see each other.<br />
<br />
===Monday August 14, 48670===<br />
Another day, another dream -- but this one was different. When I dream, I see what Oak sees. This time, she was talking to me. More than ever, I feel like if I told someone, they'd say it was "just a dream" or wishful thinking. But I don't believe that. It's her. It's really her. Why would she be looking for me? Why would she even want to meet me? I suppose I always assumed that if she knew about me, if she had the same dreams, she saw the bad things I do. She saw me spend so many years truly hurting people, saw how everyone who can see me reacts. I assumed she saw what I see in the mirror. "We'll find each other in the middle somewhere." My sister is so smart. More than ever, I need to find her. First, I need to learn how she spoke to me, and how to help her do that. How to be strong enough that I can talk to her as well.<br />
<br />
I need help. But now that I am caught up in something so big, with gods and artifacts and traveling the world...who can I trust? I'm not sure I can trust anyone. I may need to do this on my own. No -- with my sister. With just the help of my sister. I have waited a long time to write those words.<br />
<br />
===Sunday August 20, 48670===<br />
Poor Mara. She had to witness, too late to help, seeing someone she's obviously close to sacrifice himself to take the life of her high priestess. He used some special dagger that he asked Astera to bring back to the temple of Ramver in Skryfe. What a burden to bear. I've carried difficult things in my heart before, but this is so much bigger than any of us. I hope Mara is OK. I hope Astera is OK. I hope the Hub is OK.<br />
<br />
===Thursday September 1, 48670===<br />
I met a god today. The temple was glowing, and when we walked inside, there was Ramver, standing at his own altar. It was both overwhelming and not, at the same time. I should be totally cowed by a power like that...I don't understand. But he spoke to Astera, including giving her a message from Pussich himself that she was doing a good job. Her family must be so proud. All that family -- so many brothers and sisters. Parents. I can't even imagine.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 3, 48670===<br />
I'm at a loss for words. I can't even process what I saw yet. But I watched the whole thing, because I needed to know someone was there to witness it. Something went wrong, during the ritual. Swirling portals to the abyss and the celestial plane. A giant balrog. And astral diva. I actually touched her -- the diva. With my touch of destiny, on the way by. I can only hope she prevails. I tried to tell the guard. I tried to tell the mage guild. It didn't matter. Nothing mattered. They practically leveled the city. I'm not sure why I thought it was so important to watch the whole thing, but that experience is now a part of who I am, and who I will be some day.<br />
<br />
===Thursday October 6, 48670===<br />
Rebuilding is hard, especially when the world is going just a little bit haywire. I tried to help, I found some blankets and food at least. Then it stormed a bit, and then it started raining tiny giraffes. I caught one, as he fell. We ate lettuce together and played hide and seek, except we somehow always knew where the other one was. We got lost anyway and then I picked him up and flew home. He liked to lean his head down on my shoulder when I carried him. All the other tiny giraffes disappeared, but somehow, Figgy was still there.<br />
<br />
===Friday October 7, 48670===<br />
Well, it's official. I went to the mage guild to update my registration. His full name is listed as Finnegan. He's one of a kind. Just like me.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 10, 48670===<br />
Mara got her mantis back today, with the recording of the ritual. From what we could see, a solar angel and a huge balor came through. That explains the extent of the destruction. Watching it brought back the whole scene. I think I'll be seeing that for a while. Oh no. Oak, I really hope you didn't have to watch any of that with me.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 16, 48670===<br />
Met another new person today. Her name is Rena. She got teleported into the same warehouse we did. I guess it was a good thing, because the chaos monsters had almost killed Astera a few times. I just wanted to go pick some apples. Instead, chaos beasts and dealing with a new person giving me the same old look. Oak, I'm tired.<br />
<br />
At least I still got my apples later.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday October 18, 48670===<br />
A giant book of demons. Weird null magic from the void. A bone devil forging us a letter with a bone quill. Regular conversations with the High Priest of Ramver. A giant FLOATING STOMACH with nasty sharp teeth. A void bomb.<br />
<br />
We were heading outside, but Maggie was still in there when it...happened. I don't even know who to thank anymore, but Manny was able to heal her in time. I've never had friends like this. It was scary to come that close to losing someone.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 23, 48670===<br />
Mara is dead. Astera's little brother is dead. Manny just dropped dead in the middle of a sentence. He got better a half hour later. Some people are dead for a few minutes. Some people have been dead all day. I know these weird things have been happening, and I know most of them wear off the next day. But it's hard to see so many lifeless people around just waiting. I think the Hub must be hurting. Something is broken. Are we making it better? Or are we making it worse?<br />
<br />
===Wednesday October 26, 48670===<br />
I met an archmage today. I never thought I would meet an archmage. I wish you could've been here, Oak. She even set a place at the table for me. She knows so much about so many things. How did I get from sleeping, hungry, in a tree to a four-course dessert with an archmage? Things move so fast sometimes, but I still feel like I'll never find you.<br />
<br />
===Friday November 4, 48670===<br />
We fought a bunch of void undead and found a box that unfolds into a boat that sails through the sky. I really can't believe I wrote that sentence. I think that's all for today.<br />
<br />
===Wednesday November 9, 48670===<br />
I've never flown so fast before. Unfortunately, it meant we missed our stop at the north tower, and kind of went all the way to the land of the Frost Elves in one day. It's even colder than I could possibly have imagined -- but we're here. We're actually here.<br />
<br />
Oak, I was afraid to say it, but we're going to try to come to Faerie too. If we made it here...there's a chance we really can make it there. I don't know if it's going to be home for me. I'm scared it will be. I'm scared it won't be. I just don't know.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 12, 48670===<br />
Today we met the Snow Queen. I can't even imagine how old she is. How does she even process so much time? Is what's going on with the gods and the Void and all these things so incredibly world-altering, it disturbs even her?<br />
<br />
===Friday November 18, 48670===<br />
I'm trying, Oak, but I slip more often than not. My first instinct was to assume it was a trap. The hunting party seemed nice, the mastodons were easy enough to handle. But no one warned us there was a chance of Remorhaz ambushing us after. It ate Manny. It killed my friend. Of course I thought it was a trap. I tried to think what you would do. So I looked. I just looked. Just in case. And there they were, two other teams of frost elves with similar ambushes.<br />
<br />
I was angry. I saw frost worms. I set them on fire. I'm trying, Oak, but sometimes I slip. Sometimes I do things for the wrong reason, even if they turn out right.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 19, 48670===<br />
I don't know what the Snow Queen did or why, but Manny is alive again. He has crazy frost elf eyes, but he's alive again. I don't understand how I feel. Is he still the same person? He seems to be. I'm so relieved, but I'm still scared. I miss you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday November 20, 48670===<br />
We spoke with the Snow Queen a second time. She gave us the item we needed, she told us what she could about the Void. She confirmed that we are going to be much more involved with the Song and the Silence than I ever wanted to be. It's all so big, Oak. I have to talk to three more of these ancient beings? I have to hunt down beings of such power they could squish me with their thumb? What could we possibly do to help the Song of Creation?<br />
<br />
Something terrible is happening to the frost elves. I think maybe it has been for a long time, but something we did, or said, or something about us being here, has sped it up. She was crying, Oak. The tears of an entire race of people across hundreds or thousands of millennia. No one should have to carry so much.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 26, 48670===<br />
Well, against the advice of the Dwarven senate, we met the Heart of Stone. It actually spoke to us, and answered our questions, more or less. Its voice almost killed us. Almost. Good thing I brought protection.<br />
<br />
I'm worried about Mara. These headaches she gets -- I don't think they're normal. I think something's wrong. She gets them when she thinks to hard or talks about things she shouldn't know. I'm afraid if I ask her about them, it will hurt her even more. She has taken such good care of me. I should figure out how to help her.<br />
<br />
===Sunday November 27, 48670===<br />
I found somewhere to set up and throw runes today. I get so wrapped up in all these crazy things we are doing, I forget how much I need those small, familiar things. Do you have something like that, Oak? It's almost like being able to go to a safe place and wrap yourself up in a blanket that smells like home, even when you're half a world away. Or at least, what I imagine home would smell like, I guess.<br />
<br />
===Sunday December 4, 48670===<br />
We got to the elflands today. I met a nice person. Her name is Rin. She reminded me of all the things I actually miss about living in the woods -- my woods, that I know like the back of my hand. I miss the wind in the leaves. I miss feeling the suns come up every morning and set every night. I miss watching the moons when I wake up in the wee hours of morning. I miss the snakes and the beetles and the lizards I used to greet every day. I guess I can see why they don't want to hurt anything here. I just really hope I don't meet any elven bunnies.<br />
<br />
===Wednesday December 7, 48670===<br />
I'm...worried about Maggie. She's having nightmares. We tried to talk about what being "void-touched" means, but there's just only so much we know. We're already finding the oldest beings in the realm and asking them crazy questions. With so many big things going on, are we going to be able to help Maggie too?<br />
<br />
Also, I saw the Summer Lady. I guess the group talked to her, and she said something terrible about Mara. Rin was so upset about it. And Mara said some strange things, and got another headache, and I'm worried about Mara. All I do is worry, Oak. Is that really what it's like to have friends?<br />
<br />
===Thursday December 8, 48670===<br />
Lir found something out about those titles Ghada gave us. Apparently, they appear in some kind of prophecy, which says we will cause a terrible cataclysmic event. Then again, prophecies usually say what the reader wants them to. Though it's already pretty clear we're playing some part in a major event. Oak, please help me make the right choices. I'm still learning. I don't know how to do this yet. I really don't want to get this wrong.<br />
<br />
===Friday December 9, 48670===<br />
In the middle of the night, Oak called me. I don't know how, and she said it was giving her a headache, but somehow, she actually called me. She seems to know about the same prophecy, and she's in the faerie lands, and a lot of people don't want us to go there, but some do. She wants to see me, she wants to meet me, but...she said anyone from the army or the government won't want us there and will make us leave. It sounded even worse than here. We already can't talk to the Summer Lady. I really wanted to see the Ent King. I really wanted to see home. I really wanted to see my sister.<br />
<br />
===Monday December 12, 48670===<br />
I'm on my way, Oak. I promise, I'll find you.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday December 20, 48670===<br />
There it is. The Faerielands. The beach is a rainbow and the sky is glowing. The colors are all turned up and the light is beautiful and the jungle is amazing and I feel grayer than I've ever felt before in my whole life. You're so beautiful, Oak. I can't imagine you thinking that about me. Somehow I also can't imagine you not. I'm almost there, Oak.<br />
<br />
====Midnight====<br />
Oh, Maggie. It's worse than a bit of elemental void, it's some kind of intelligent parasite. What did we let happen to you. And Manny flew into a rage like I've never seen, continuing to fight against us even after all the monsters were gone.<br />
<br />
===Wednesday December 21, 48670===<br />
I met the summer fae army today. I think I made them angry. The Mudflower lady leading them was mean and spiteful and doesn't listen. But I'm not backing down. I'm doing whatever it takes to find you, Oak. The Gods protect me, lest I die trying.<br />
<br />
I also met someone nice. Shade Carrot Breath, former Royal Archivist. He...said he met you. I mean he said a lot of things and they're all very important and all I can think right now is, he met you. And you're a bit...pixie. Sis, what are you trying to do?<br />
<br />
===Thursday December 22, 48670===<br />
This might take a few pages.<br />
<br />
The closer I got to your room, the more I just wanted this all to be over. I tried so hard, I wasn't sneaky enough. They saw me, Oak, and they moved, and they blocked the door, but I could hear your voice. I could hear you. So close. I knew I could fly past him. All I could think was that I was ready to die trying. I didn't actually feel the blade bite into me until I was already past him and holding you, Oak. And by then, it almost didn't matter how fast I was dying. I'm still glad Maggie saved me.<br />
<br />
====Midday====<br />
I don't think I've let you go since I found you. The guard who struck me feels so terrible. But he didn't know. How could he? His mind was poisoned, shaded by magic, something. It's not his fault. But it's nice that he wants to protect me now. No one has ever done that before. And this land...I always wanted a home, but I never dreamed a place could be part of me like this. Part of us. I couldn't have this without you, Oak.<br />
<br />
====Afternoon====<br />
There it is. A white stone palace, set into a mountainside. The marble palace. My half of home. Did you know Queens were supposed to make speeches? I think I forgot about that. I'm so used to being scared now, it's normal. No, it's not normal. It's just constant. But with you here, Oak, in this place...I think I can do anything. Even make a commanding address to a courtyard filled with winter fae. Never in my wildest dreams.<br />
<br />
====Evening====<br />
I need to see this place with my own eyes. It's one thing to be able to...feel it. But I want to see it and live it and hear it and smell it and really know what it is. I need to sit on a street corner and see what life here is like. Talking to important people in the palace is all well and good. But I need to know MY people. And I am not palace people. I am not court people. I am street people.<br />
<br />
===Friday December 23, 48670===<br />
Oak, you are amazing. You've been hidden away for so long, in a tiny space. I don't know how you managed. And here you are, brilliant and regal and holding me together. They would not look up to me like that, these summer fae. I don't know what crazy entity decided we could do this, but whatever it is, it was right about one thing -- we need each other. Deeply and absolutely. I love you, sis. You are amazing.<br />
<br />
====Afternoon====<br />
I just realized I got up and gave speeches to all of faerie while still covered in my own dried blood. I guess it does present a certain image. I was not looking forward to bath time. I was sure a sword like that would leave a mark. Between the unnatural sharpness and the burn of cold iron, how could it not? But this time, it's the price I paid to hug my sister for the first time in my life. And it was worth it. And every time I see that mark, it will remind me that I am half the Queen of Faerie, and I have the greatest other half in all of creation. That's a mark I am proud to wear.<br />
<br />
===Saturday December 24===<br />
The Entking is speaking. For the first time in millennia. I guess 2000 years is not that long to an Ent. Especially not to the Entking. And Maggie's void-touch isn't just a bit of void, it's a parasite. But it's not a parasite, it's a portal. And she can hear people on the other side, talking about the oncoming storm. And we can't get it out. And the Silence is looking for the portal, and the Song is looking for the Silence. And we didn't want to be there when they meet. I'm still scared, Oak. We have to save Maggie.<br />
<br />
===Sunday December 25===<br />
I don't want to go. I don't want to lose you, Oak. I panic a little every time I let go of your hand. I don't want to be far away from you, and I don't want to be far away from Faerie. I could feel it, the exact moment we left. There's a line at the edge of Faerie, and crossing it hurt. I left part of me there, waiting. Take care of it.<br />
<br />
It's hard to find a spot to be alone on a crazy wooden ship flying through the sky.<br />
<br />
===Thursday December 22 (again)===<br />
Watching the ocean go by. Checking the sky, checking the stars. Something happened when we left Faerie -- we always knew time flowed strangely there, and we were all worried about taking too long. But instead, we seem to have come back at the same moment we left. I don't know what that means, Oak, but I'd like to think that part of me I left behind is still with you, whenever and wherever you are. I just need time to process. I guess now I feel like I have some.<br />
<br />
===Saturday December 24 (again)===<br />
Mara had a dream she thinks was a message from Nox. She told Rena about the things we're doing, and Rena said to get in touch after. But then, after Rena left -- Mara said Rena sent her a message. Telepathically. She used a different name, Maraniel, and saying it out loud gave Mara another headache. Mara says Rena is the Song. I'm not so sure anymore that Mara is Mara. But she has taken such good care of me for so long. Whoever she is, she has shown me I can trust her.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=16051
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2016-08-28T14:52:27Z
<p>Ratri: /* Thursday December 22, 48670 */</p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 19, 48670===<br />
Another dream. Bright light through crystal shards, a faerie-sized home, the warm feeling of seeing a friend. I am glad she has those feelings, but it's always so hard to wake up. It has been a while since I saw her face. That always hits me harder. I know Mara means well when she asks me about stuff, but talking about it never makes it easier. At least I have a friend now too.<br />
<br />
And then we arrived in the town of farmers. I'm so afraid to let anyone see me. At least when Mara told Nib not to be afraid, he listened to her. He seems to be okay with me. It sounds like I'll mostly be snooping outside of town anyway. Maybe I won't even have to see a farmer. The most wonderful thing about my dreams is having a break from that fear. I know your life is not easy, Oak, but I am eternally grateful this is one pain you do not have to suffer.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 26, 48670===<br />
One hundred and one years. They look like a handful of glitter dancing on the wind...whirling by in a blur, with bright spots and dark spots and not much in between. Being out away from the people and away from the town is nice though. I found an adorable boa to snuggle and picked fresh fruit. I smelled the air and the earth and slept under the open sky. Tents are useful when we travel, but every now and then, I need this freedom. And I can see why people out here might tend to worship darkness and night. But tonight, the stars are beautiful and I do not have to convince anyone else of who I am or who I wish to be. Happy birthday, Oak.<br />
<br />
===Monday July 16, 48670===<br />
Vitra and I had an interesting meeting today. We thought we were going to see some middling priest of Ramver about some research, but instead we found the top 5 members of The Council. They talked to Vitra for a little while and gave her a bit list of things to look for. I'm sure at least some of them could see me sitting there, but no one tried to talk to me. I didn't really know what to do. There were a lot of unspoken things in that room, tensions and questions that cannot be answered. What would you think if you saw that? Do you even see me, when I'm hiding from everyone else? Somehow, I imagine we would always be able to see each other.<br />
<br />
===Monday August 14, 48670===<br />
Another day, another dream -- but this one was different. When I dream, I see what Oak sees. This time, she was talking to me. More than ever, I feel like if I told someone, they'd say it was "just a dream" or wishful thinking. But I don't believe that. It's her. It's really her. Why would she be looking for me? Why would she even want to meet me? I suppose I always assumed that if she knew about me, if she had the same dreams, she saw the bad things I do. She saw me spend so many years truly hurting people, saw how everyone who can see me reacts. I assumed she saw what I see in the mirror. "We'll find each other in the middle somewhere." My sister is so smart. More than ever, I need to find her. First, I need to learn how she spoke to me, and how to help her do that. How to be strong enough that I can talk to her as well.<br />
<br />
I need help. But now that I am caught up in something so big, with gods and artifacts and traveling the world...who can I trust? I'm not sure I can trust anyone. I may need to do this on my own. No -- with my sister. With just the help of my sister. I have waited a long time to write those words.<br />
<br />
===Sunday August 20, 48670===<br />
Poor Mara. She had to witness, too late to help, seeing someone she's obviously close to sacrifice himself to take the life of her high priestess. He used some special dagger that he asked Astera to bring back to the temple of Ramver in Skryfe. What a burden to bear. I've carried difficult things in my heart before, but this is so much bigger than any of us. I hope Mara is OK. I hope Astera is OK. I hope the Hub is OK.<br />
<br />
===Thursday September 1, 48670===<br />
I met a god today. The temple was glowing, and when we walked inside, there was Ramver, standing at his own altar. It was both overwhelming and not, at the same time. I should be totally cowed by a power like that...I don't understand. But he spoke to Astera, including giving her a message from Pussich himself that she was doing a good job. Her family must be so proud. All that family -- so many brothers and sisters. Parents. I can't even imagine.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 3, 48670===<br />
I'm at a loss for words. I can't even process what I saw yet. But I watched the whole thing, because I needed to know someone was there to witness it. Something went wrong, during the ritual. Swirling portals to the abyss and the celestial plane. A giant balrog. And astral diva. I actually touched her -- the diva. With my touch of destiny, on the way by. I can only hope she prevails. I tried to tell the guard. I tried to tell the mage guild. It didn't matter. Nothing mattered. They practically leveled the city. I'm not sure why I thought it was so important to watch the whole thing, but that experience is now a part of who I am, and who I will be some day.<br />
<br />
===Thursday October 6, 48670===<br />
Rebuilding is hard, especially when the world is going just a little bit haywire. I tried to help, I found some blankets and food at least. Then it stormed a bit, and then it started raining tiny giraffes. I caught one, as he fell. We ate lettuce together and played hide and seek, except we somehow always knew where the other one was. We got lost anyway and then I picked him up and flew home. He liked to lean his head down on my shoulder when I carried him. All the other tiny giraffes disappeared, but somehow, Figgy was still there.<br />
<br />
===Friday October 7, 48670===<br />
Well, it's official. I went to the mage guild to update my registration. His full name is listed as Finnegan. He's one of a kind. Just like me.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 10, 48670===<br />
Mara got her mantis back today, with the recording of the ritual. From what we could see, a solar angel and a huge balor came through. That explains the extent of the destruction. Watching it brought back the whole scene. I think I'll be seeing that for a while. Oh no. Oak, I really hope you didn't have to watch any of that with me.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 16, 48670===<br />
Met another new person today. Her name is Rena. She got teleported into the same warehouse we did. I guess it was a good thing, because the chaos monsters had almost killed Astera a few times. I just wanted to go pick some apples. Instead, chaos beasts and dealing with a new person giving me the same old look. Oak, I'm tired.<br />
<br />
At least I still got my apples later.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday October 18, 48670===<br />
A giant book of demons. Weird null magic from the void. A bone devil forging us a letter with a bone quill. Regular conversations with the High Priest of Ramver. A giant FLOATING STOMACH with nasty sharp teeth. A void bomb.<br />
<br />
We were heading outside, but Maggie was still in there when it...happened. I don't even know who to thank anymore, but Manny was able to heal her in time. I've never had friends like this. It was scary to come that close to losing someone.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 23, 48670===<br />
Mara is dead. Astera's little brother is dead. Manny just dropped dead in the middle of a sentence. He got better a half hour later. Some people are dead for a few minutes. Some people have been dead all day. I know these weird things have been happening, and I know most of them wear off the next day. But it's hard to see so many lifeless people around just waiting. I think the Hub must be hurting. Something is broken. Are we making it better? Or are we making it worse?<br />
<br />
===Wednesday October 26, 48670===<br />
I met an archmage today. I never thought I would meet an archmage. I wish you could've been here, Oak. She even set a place at the table for me. She knows so much about so many things. How did I get from sleeping, hungry, in a tree to a four-course dessert with an archmage? Things move so fast sometimes, but I still feel like I'll never find you.<br />
<br />
===Friday November 4, 48670===<br />
We fought a bunch of void undead and found a box that unfolds into a boat that sails through the sky. I really can't believe I wrote that sentence. I think that's all for today.<br />
<br />
===Wednesday November 9, 48670===<br />
I've never flown so fast before. Unfortunately, it meant we missed our stop at the north tower, and kind of went all the way to the land of the Frost Elves in one day. It's even colder than I could possibly have imagined -- but we're here. We're actually here.<br />
<br />
Oak, I was afraid to say it, but we're going to try to come to Faerie too. If we made it here...there's a chance we really can make it there. I don't know if it's going to be home for me. I'm scared it will be. I'm scared it won't be. I just don't know.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 12, 48670===<br />
Today we met the Snow Queen. I can't even imagine how old she is. How does she even process so much time? Is what's going on with the gods and the Void and all these things so incredibly world-altering, it disturbs even her?<br />
<br />
===Friday November 18, 48670===<br />
I'm trying, Oak, but I slip more often than not. My first instinct was to assume it was a trap. The hunting party seemed nice, the mastodons were easy enough to handle. But no one warned us there was a chance of Remorhaz ambushing us after. It ate Manny. It killed my friend. Of course I thought it was a trap. I tried to think what you would do. So I looked. I just looked. Just in case. And there they were, two other teams of frost elves with similar ambushes.<br />
<br />
I was angry. I saw frost worms. I set them on fire. I'm trying, Oak, but sometimes I slip. Sometimes I do things for the wrong reason, even if they turn out right.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 19, 48670===<br />
I don't know what the Snow Queen did or why, but Manny is alive again. He has crazy frost elf eyes, but he's alive again. I don't understand how I feel. Is he still the same person? He seems to be. I'm so relieved, but I'm still scared. I miss you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday November 20, 48670===<br />
We spoke with the Snow Queen a second time. She gave us the item we needed, she told us what she could about the Void. She confirmed that we are going to be much more involved with the Song and the Silence than I ever wanted to be. It's all so big, Oak. I have to talk to three more of these ancient beings? I have to hunt down beings of such power they could squish me with their thumb? What could we possibly do to help the Song of Creation?<br />
<br />
Something terrible is happening to the frost elves. I think maybe it has been for a long time, but something we did, or said, or something about us being here, has sped it up. She was crying, Oak. The tears of an entire race of people across hundreds or thousands of millennia. No one should have to carry so much.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 26, 48670===<br />
Well, against the advice of the Dwarven senate, we met the Heart of Stone. It actually spoke to us, and answered our questions, more or less. Its voice almost killed us. Almost. Good thing I brought protection.<br />
<br />
I'm worried about Mara. These headaches she gets -- I don't think they're normal. I think something's wrong. She gets them when she thinks to hard or talks about things she shouldn't know. I'm afraid if I ask her about them, it will hurt her even more. She has taken such good care of me. I should figure out how to help her.<br />
<br />
===Sunday November 27, 48670===<br />
I found somewhere to set up and throw runes today. I get so wrapped up in all these crazy things we are doing, I forget how much I need those small, familiar things. Do you have something like that, Oak? It's almost like being able to go to a safe place and wrap yourself up in a blanket that smells like home, even when you're half a world away. Or at least, what I imagine home would smell like, I guess.<br />
<br />
===Sunday December 4, 48670===<br />
We got to the elflands today. I met a nice person. Her name is Rin. She reminded me of all the things I actually miss about living in the woods -- my woods, that I know like the back of my hand. I miss the wind in the leaves. I miss feeling the suns come up every morning and set every night. I miss watching the moons when I wake up in the wee hours of morning. I miss the snakes and the beetles and the lizards I used to greet every day. I guess I can see why they don't want to hurt anything here. I just really hope I don't meet any elven bunnies.<br />
<br />
===Wednesday December 7, 48670===<br />
I'm...worried about Maggie. She's having nightmares. We tried to talk about what being "void-touched" means, but there's just only so much we know. We're already finding the oldest beings in the realm and asking them crazy questions. With so many big things going on, are we going to be able to help Maggie too?<br />
<br />
Also, I saw the Summer Lady. I guess the group talked to her, and she said something terrible about Mara. Rin was so upset about it. And Mara said some strange things, and got another headache, and I'm worried about Mara. All I do is worry, Oak. Is that really what it's like to have friends?<br />
<br />
===Thursday December 8, 48670===<br />
Lir found something out about those titles Ghada gave us. Apparently, they appear in some kind of prophecy, which says we will cause a terrible cataclysmic event. Then again, prophecies usually say what the reader wants them to. Though it's already pretty clear we're playing some part in a major event. Oak, please help me make the right choices. I'm still learning. I don't know how to do this yet. I really don't want to get this wrong.<br />
<br />
===Friday December 9, 48670===<br />
In the middle of the night, Oak called me. I don't know how, and she said it was giving her a headache, but somehow, she actually called me. She seems to know about the same prophecy, and she's in the faerie lands, and a lot of people don't want us to go there, but some do. She wants to see me, she wants to meet me, but...she said anyone from the army or the government won't want us there and will make us leave. It sounded even worse than here. We already can't talk to the Summer Lady. I really wanted to see the Ent King. I really wanted to see home. I really wanted to see my sister.<br />
<br />
===Monday December 12, 48670===<br />
I'm on my way, Oak. I promise, I'll find you.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday December 20, 48670===<br />
There it is. The Faerielands. The beach is a rainbow and the sky is glowing. The colors are all turned up and the light is beautiful and the jungle is amazing and I feel grayer than I've ever felt before in my whole life. You're so beautiful, Oak. I can't imagine you thinking that about me. Somehow I also can't imagine you not. I'm almost there, Oak.<br />
<br />
====Midnight====<br />
Oh, Maggie. It's worse than a bit of elemental void, it's some kind of intelligent parasite. What did we let happen to you. And Manny flew into a rage like I've never seen, continuing to fight against us even after all the monsters were gone.<br />
<br />
===Wednesday December 21, 48670===<br />
I met the summer fae army today. I think I made them angry. The Mudflower lady leading them was mean and spiteful and doesn't listen. But I'm not backing down. I'm doing whatever it takes to find you, Oak. The Gods protect me, lest I die trying.<br />
<br />
I also met someone nice. Shade Carrot Breath, former Royal Archivist. He...said he met you. I mean he said a lot of things and they're all very important and all I can think right now is, he met you. And you're a bit...pixie. Sis, what are you trying to do?<br />
<br />
===Thursday December 22, 48670===<br />
This might take a few pages.<br />
<br />
The closer I got to your room, the more I just wanted this all to be over. I tried so hard, I wasn't sneaky enough. They saw me, Oak, and they moved, and they blocked the door, but I could hear your voice. I could hear you. So close. I knew I could fly past him. All I could think was that I was ready to die trying. I didn't actually feel the blade bite into me until I was already past him and holding you, Oak. And by then, it almost didn't matter how fast I was dying. I'm still glad Maggie saved me.<br />
<br />
====Midday====<br />
I don't think I've let you go since I found you. The guard who struck me feels so terrible. But he didn't know. How could he? His mind was poisoned, shaded by magic, something. It's not his fault. But it's nice that he wants to protect me now. No one has ever done that before. And this land...I always wanted a home, but I never dreamed a place could be part of me like this. Part of us. I couldn't have this without you, Oak.<br />
<br />
====Afternoon====<br />
There it is. A white stone palace, set into a mountainside. The marble palace. My half of home. Did you know Queens were supposed to make speeches? I think I forgot about that. I'm so used to being scared now, it's normal. No, it's not normal. It's just constant. But with you here, Oak, in this place...I think I can do anything. Even make a commanding address to a courtyard filled with winter fae. Never in my wildest dreams.<br />
<br />
====Evening====<br />
I need to see this place with my own eyes. It's one thing to be able to...feel it. But I want to see it and live it and hear it and smell it and really know what it is. I need to sit on a street corner and see what life here is like. Talking to important people in the palace is all well and good. But I need to know MY people. And I am not palace people. I am not court people. I am street people.<br />
<br />
===Friday December 23, 48670===<br />
Oak, you are amazing. You've been hidden away for so long, in a tiny space. I don't know how you managed. And here you are, brilliant and regal and holding me together. They would not look up to me like that, these summer fae. I don't know what crazy entity decided we could do this, but whatever it is, it was right about one thing -- we need each other. Deeply and absolutely. I love you, sis. You are amazing.<br />
<br />
====Afternoon====<br />
I just realized I got up and gave speeches to all of faerie while still covered in my own dried blood. I guess it does present a certain image. I was not looking forward to bath time. I was sure a sword like that would leave a mark. Between the unnatural sharpness and the burn of cold iron, how could it not? But this time, it's the price I paid to hug my sister for the first time in my life. And it was worth it. And every time I see that mark, it will remind me that I am half the Queen of Faerie, and I have the greatest other half in all of creation. That's a mark I am proud to wear.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=16050
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2016-08-28T14:38:23Z
<p>Ratri: /* Tuesday December 20, 48670 */</p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 19, 48670===<br />
Another dream. Bright light through crystal shards, a faerie-sized home, the warm feeling of seeing a friend. I am glad she has those feelings, but it's always so hard to wake up. It has been a while since I saw her face. That always hits me harder. I know Mara means well when she asks me about stuff, but talking about it never makes it easier. At least I have a friend now too.<br />
<br />
And then we arrived in the town of farmers. I'm so afraid to let anyone see me. At least when Mara told Nib not to be afraid, he listened to her. He seems to be okay with me. It sounds like I'll mostly be snooping outside of town anyway. Maybe I won't even have to see a farmer. The most wonderful thing about my dreams is having a break from that fear. I know your life is not easy, Oak, but I am eternally grateful this is one pain you do not have to suffer.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 26, 48670===<br />
One hundred and one years. They look like a handful of glitter dancing on the wind...whirling by in a blur, with bright spots and dark spots and not much in between. Being out away from the people and away from the town is nice though. I found an adorable boa to snuggle and picked fresh fruit. I smelled the air and the earth and slept under the open sky. Tents are useful when we travel, but every now and then, I need this freedom. And I can see why people out here might tend to worship darkness and night. But tonight, the stars are beautiful and I do not have to convince anyone else of who I am or who I wish to be. Happy birthday, Oak.<br />
<br />
===Monday July 16, 48670===<br />
Vitra and I had an interesting meeting today. We thought we were going to see some middling priest of Ramver about some research, but instead we found the top 5 members of The Council. They talked to Vitra for a little while and gave her a bit list of things to look for. I'm sure at least some of them could see me sitting there, but no one tried to talk to me. I didn't really know what to do. There were a lot of unspoken things in that room, tensions and questions that cannot be answered. What would you think if you saw that? Do you even see me, when I'm hiding from everyone else? Somehow, I imagine we would always be able to see each other.<br />
<br />
===Monday August 14, 48670===<br />
Another day, another dream -- but this one was different. When I dream, I see what Oak sees. This time, she was talking to me. More than ever, I feel like if I told someone, they'd say it was "just a dream" or wishful thinking. But I don't believe that. It's her. It's really her. Why would she be looking for me? Why would she even want to meet me? I suppose I always assumed that if she knew about me, if she had the same dreams, she saw the bad things I do. She saw me spend so many years truly hurting people, saw how everyone who can see me reacts. I assumed she saw what I see in the mirror. "We'll find each other in the middle somewhere." My sister is so smart. More than ever, I need to find her. First, I need to learn how she spoke to me, and how to help her do that. How to be strong enough that I can talk to her as well.<br />
<br />
I need help. But now that I am caught up in something so big, with gods and artifacts and traveling the world...who can I trust? I'm not sure I can trust anyone. I may need to do this on my own. No -- with my sister. With just the help of my sister. I have waited a long time to write those words.<br />
<br />
===Sunday August 20, 48670===<br />
Poor Mara. She had to witness, too late to help, seeing someone she's obviously close to sacrifice himself to take the life of her high priestess. He used some special dagger that he asked Astera to bring back to the temple of Ramver in Skryfe. What a burden to bear. I've carried difficult things in my heart before, but this is so much bigger than any of us. I hope Mara is OK. I hope Astera is OK. I hope the Hub is OK.<br />
<br />
===Thursday September 1, 48670===<br />
I met a god today. The temple was glowing, and when we walked inside, there was Ramver, standing at his own altar. It was both overwhelming and not, at the same time. I should be totally cowed by a power like that...I don't understand. But he spoke to Astera, including giving her a message from Pussich himself that she was doing a good job. Her family must be so proud. All that family -- so many brothers and sisters. Parents. I can't even imagine.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 3, 48670===<br />
I'm at a loss for words. I can't even process what I saw yet. But I watched the whole thing, because I needed to know someone was there to witness it. Something went wrong, during the ritual. Swirling portals to the abyss and the celestial plane. A giant balrog. And astral diva. I actually touched her -- the diva. With my touch of destiny, on the way by. I can only hope she prevails. I tried to tell the guard. I tried to tell the mage guild. It didn't matter. Nothing mattered. They practically leveled the city. I'm not sure why I thought it was so important to watch the whole thing, but that experience is now a part of who I am, and who I will be some day.<br />
<br />
===Thursday October 6, 48670===<br />
Rebuilding is hard, especially when the world is going just a little bit haywire. I tried to help, I found some blankets and food at least. Then it stormed a bit, and then it started raining tiny giraffes. I caught one, as he fell. We ate lettuce together and played hide and seek, except we somehow always knew where the other one was. We got lost anyway and then I picked him up and flew home. He liked to lean his head down on my shoulder when I carried him. All the other tiny giraffes disappeared, but somehow, Figgy was still there.<br />
<br />
===Friday October 7, 48670===<br />
Well, it's official. I went to the mage guild to update my registration. His full name is listed as Finnegan. He's one of a kind. Just like me.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 10, 48670===<br />
Mara got her mantis back today, with the recording of the ritual. From what we could see, a solar angel and a huge balor came through. That explains the extent of the destruction. Watching it brought back the whole scene. I think I'll be seeing that for a while. Oh no. Oak, I really hope you didn't have to watch any of that with me.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 16, 48670===<br />
Met another new person today. Her name is Rena. She got teleported into the same warehouse we did. I guess it was a good thing, because the chaos monsters had almost killed Astera a few times. I just wanted to go pick some apples. Instead, chaos beasts and dealing with a new person giving me the same old look. Oak, I'm tired.<br />
<br />
At least I still got my apples later.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday October 18, 48670===<br />
A giant book of demons. Weird null magic from the void. A bone devil forging us a letter with a bone quill. Regular conversations with the High Priest of Ramver. A giant FLOATING STOMACH with nasty sharp teeth. A void bomb.<br />
<br />
We were heading outside, but Maggie was still in there when it...happened. I don't even know who to thank anymore, but Manny was able to heal her in time. I've never had friends like this. It was scary to come that close to losing someone.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 23, 48670===<br />
Mara is dead. Astera's little brother is dead. Manny just dropped dead in the middle of a sentence. He got better a half hour later. Some people are dead for a few minutes. Some people have been dead all day. I know these weird things have been happening, and I know most of them wear off the next day. But it's hard to see so many lifeless people around just waiting. I think the Hub must be hurting. Something is broken. Are we making it better? Or are we making it worse?<br />
<br />
===Wednesday October 26, 48670===<br />
I met an archmage today. I never thought I would meet an archmage. I wish you could've been here, Oak. She even set a place at the table for me. She knows so much about so many things. How did I get from sleeping, hungry, in a tree to a four-course dessert with an archmage? Things move so fast sometimes, but I still feel like I'll never find you.<br />
<br />
===Friday November 4, 48670===<br />
We fought a bunch of void undead and found a box that unfolds into a boat that sails through the sky. I really can't believe I wrote that sentence. I think that's all for today.<br />
<br />
===Wednesday November 9, 48670===<br />
I've never flown so fast before. Unfortunately, it meant we missed our stop at the north tower, and kind of went all the way to the land of the Frost Elves in one day. It's even colder than I could possibly have imagined -- but we're here. We're actually here.<br />
<br />
Oak, I was afraid to say it, but we're going to try to come to Faerie too. If we made it here...there's a chance we really can make it there. I don't know if it's going to be home for me. I'm scared it will be. I'm scared it won't be. I just don't know.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 12, 48670===<br />
Today we met the Snow Queen. I can't even imagine how old she is. How does she even process so much time? Is what's going on with the gods and the Void and all these things so incredibly world-altering, it disturbs even her?<br />
<br />
===Friday November 18, 48670===<br />
I'm trying, Oak, but I slip more often than not. My first instinct was to assume it was a trap. The hunting party seemed nice, the mastodons were easy enough to handle. But no one warned us there was a chance of Remorhaz ambushing us after. It ate Manny. It killed my friend. Of course I thought it was a trap. I tried to think what you would do. So I looked. I just looked. Just in case. And there they were, two other teams of frost elves with similar ambushes.<br />
<br />
I was angry. I saw frost worms. I set them on fire. I'm trying, Oak, but sometimes I slip. Sometimes I do things for the wrong reason, even if they turn out right.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 19, 48670===<br />
I don't know what the Snow Queen did or why, but Manny is alive again. He has crazy frost elf eyes, but he's alive again. I don't understand how I feel. Is he still the same person? He seems to be. I'm so relieved, but I'm still scared. I miss you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday November 20, 48670===<br />
We spoke with the Snow Queen a second time. She gave us the item we needed, she told us what she could about the Void. She confirmed that we are going to be much more involved with the Song and the Silence than I ever wanted to be. It's all so big, Oak. I have to talk to three more of these ancient beings? I have to hunt down beings of such power they could squish me with their thumb? What could we possibly do to help the Song of Creation?<br />
<br />
Something terrible is happening to the frost elves. I think maybe it has been for a long time, but something we did, or said, or something about us being here, has sped it up. She was crying, Oak. The tears of an entire race of people across hundreds or thousands of millennia. No one should have to carry so much.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 26, 48670===<br />
Well, against the advice of the Dwarven senate, we met the Heart of Stone. It actually spoke to us, and answered our questions, more or less. Its voice almost killed us. Almost. Good thing I brought protection.<br />
<br />
I'm worried about Mara. These headaches she gets -- I don't think they're normal. I think something's wrong. She gets them when she thinks to hard or talks about things she shouldn't know. I'm afraid if I ask her about them, it will hurt her even more. She has taken such good care of me. I should figure out how to help her.<br />
<br />
===Sunday November 27, 48670===<br />
I found somewhere to set up and throw runes today. I get so wrapped up in all these crazy things we are doing, I forget how much I need those small, familiar things. Do you have something like that, Oak? It's almost like being able to go to a safe place and wrap yourself up in a blanket that smells like home, even when you're half a world away. Or at least, what I imagine home would smell like, I guess.<br />
<br />
===Sunday December 4, 48670===<br />
We got to the elflands today. I met a nice person. Her name is Rin. She reminded me of all the things I actually miss about living in the woods -- my woods, that I know like the back of my hand. I miss the wind in the leaves. I miss feeling the suns come up every morning and set every night. I miss watching the moons when I wake up in the wee hours of morning. I miss the snakes and the beetles and the lizards I used to greet every day. I guess I can see why they don't want to hurt anything here. I just really hope I don't meet any elven bunnies.<br />
<br />
===Wednesday December 7, 48670===<br />
I'm...worried about Maggie. She's having nightmares. We tried to talk about what being "void-touched" means, but there's just only so much we know. We're already finding the oldest beings in the realm and asking them crazy questions. With so many big things going on, are we going to be able to help Maggie too?<br />
<br />
Also, I saw the Summer Lady. I guess the group talked to her, and she said something terrible about Mara. Rin was so upset about it. And Mara said some strange things, and got another headache, and I'm worried about Mara. All I do is worry, Oak. Is that really what it's like to have friends?<br />
<br />
===Thursday December 8, 48670===<br />
Lir found something out about those titles Ghada gave us. Apparently, they appear in some kind of prophecy, which says we will cause a terrible cataclysmic event. Then again, prophecies usually say what the reader wants them to. Though it's already pretty clear we're playing some part in a major event. Oak, please help me make the right choices. I'm still learning. I don't know how to do this yet. I really don't want to get this wrong.<br />
<br />
===Friday December 9, 48670===<br />
In the middle of the night, Oak called me. I don't know how, and she said it was giving her a headache, but somehow, she actually called me. She seems to know about the same prophecy, and she's in the faerie lands, and a lot of people don't want us to go there, but some do. She wants to see me, she wants to meet me, but...she said anyone from the army or the government won't want us there and will make us leave. It sounded even worse than here. We already can't talk to the Summer Lady. I really wanted to see the Ent King. I really wanted to see home. I really wanted to see my sister.<br />
<br />
===Monday December 12, 48670===<br />
I'm on my way, Oak. I promise, I'll find you.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday December 20, 48670===<br />
There it is. The Faerielands. The beach is a rainbow and the sky is glowing. The colors are all turned up and the light is beautiful and the jungle is amazing and I feel grayer than I've ever felt before in my whole life. You're so beautiful, Oak. I can't imagine you thinking that about me. Somehow I also can't imagine you not. I'm almost there, Oak.<br />
<br />
====Midnight====<br />
Oh, Maggie. It's worse than a bit of elemental void, it's some kind of intelligent parasite. What did we let happen to you. And Manny flew into a rage like I've never seen, continuing to fight against us even after all the monsters were gone.<br />
<br />
===Wednesday December 21, 48670===<br />
I met the summer fae army today. I think I made them angry. The Mudflower lady leading them was mean and spiteful and doesn't listen. But I'm not backing down. I'm doing whatever it takes to find you, Oak. The Gods protect me, lest I die trying.<br />
<br />
I also met someone nice. Shade Carrot Breath, former Royal Archivist. He...said he met you. I mean he said a lot of things and they're all very important and all I can think right now is, he met you. And you're a bit...pixie. Sis, what are you trying to do?<br />
<br />
===Thursday December 22, 48670===<br />
This might take a few pages.<br />
<br />
The closer I got to your room, the more I just wanted this all to be over. I tried so hard, I wasn't sneaky enough. They saw me, Oak, and they moved, and they blocked the door, but I could hear your voice. I could hear you. So close. I knew I could fly past him. All I could think was that I was ready to die trying. I didn't actually feel the blade bite into me until I was already past him and holding you, Oak. And by then, it almost didn't matter how fast I was dying. I'm still glad Maggie saved me.<br />
<br />
====Afternoon====<br />
I don't think I've let you go since I found you. The guard who struck me feels so terrible. But he didn't know. How could he? His mind was poisoned, shaded by magic, something. It's not his fault. But it's nice that he wants to protect me now. No one has ever done that before. And this land...I always wanted a home, but I never dreamed a place could be part of me like this. Part of us. I couldn't have this without you, Oak.<br />
<br />
====Evening====<br />
There it is. A white stone palace, set into a mountainside. The marble palace. My half of home. Did you know Queens were supposed to make speeches? I think I forgot about that. I'm so used to being scared now, it's normal. No, it's not normal. It's just constant. But with you here, Oak, in this place...I think I can do anything. Even make a commanding address to a courtyard filled with winter fae. Never in my wildest dreams.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=16049
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2016-08-28T14:14:30Z
<p>Ratri: /* Wednesday December 7, 48670 */</p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 19, 48670===<br />
Another dream. Bright light through crystal shards, a faerie-sized home, the warm feeling of seeing a friend. I am glad she has those feelings, but it's always so hard to wake up. It has been a while since I saw her face. That always hits me harder. I know Mara means well when she asks me about stuff, but talking about it never makes it easier. At least I have a friend now too.<br />
<br />
And then we arrived in the town of farmers. I'm so afraid to let anyone see me. At least when Mara told Nib not to be afraid, he listened to her. He seems to be okay with me. It sounds like I'll mostly be snooping outside of town anyway. Maybe I won't even have to see a farmer. The most wonderful thing about my dreams is having a break from that fear. I know your life is not easy, Oak, but I am eternally grateful this is one pain you do not have to suffer.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 26, 48670===<br />
One hundred and one years. They look like a handful of glitter dancing on the wind...whirling by in a blur, with bright spots and dark spots and not much in between. Being out away from the people and away from the town is nice though. I found an adorable boa to snuggle and picked fresh fruit. I smelled the air and the earth and slept under the open sky. Tents are useful when we travel, but every now and then, I need this freedom. And I can see why people out here might tend to worship darkness and night. But tonight, the stars are beautiful and I do not have to convince anyone else of who I am or who I wish to be. Happy birthday, Oak.<br />
<br />
===Monday July 16, 48670===<br />
Vitra and I had an interesting meeting today. We thought we were going to see some middling priest of Ramver about some research, but instead we found the top 5 members of The Council. They talked to Vitra for a little while and gave her a bit list of things to look for. I'm sure at least some of them could see me sitting there, but no one tried to talk to me. I didn't really know what to do. There were a lot of unspoken things in that room, tensions and questions that cannot be answered. What would you think if you saw that? Do you even see me, when I'm hiding from everyone else? Somehow, I imagine we would always be able to see each other.<br />
<br />
===Monday August 14, 48670===<br />
Another day, another dream -- but this one was different. When I dream, I see what Oak sees. This time, she was talking to me. More than ever, I feel like if I told someone, they'd say it was "just a dream" or wishful thinking. But I don't believe that. It's her. It's really her. Why would she be looking for me? Why would she even want to meet me? I suppose I always assumed that if she knew about me, if she had the same dreams, she saw the bad things I do. She saw me spend so many years truly hurting people, saw how everyone who can see me reacts. I assumed she saw what I see in the mirror. "We'll find each other in the middle somewhere." My sister is so smart. More than ever, I need to find her. First, I need to learn how she spoke to me, and how to help her do that. How to be strong enough that I can talk to her as well.<br />
<br />
I need help. But now that I am caught up in something so big, with gods and artifacts and traveling the world...who can I trust? I'm not sure I can trust anyone. I may need to do this on my own. No -- with my sister. With just the help of my sister. I have waited a long time to write those words.<br />
<br />
===Sunday August 20, 48670===<br />
Poor Mara. She had to witness, too late to help, seeing someone she's obviously close to sacrifice himself to take the life of her high priestess. He used some special dagger that he asked Astera to bring back to the temple of Ramver in Skryfe. What a burden to bear. I've carried difficult things in my heart before, but this is so much bigger than any of us. I hope Mara is OK. I hope Astera is OK. I hope the Hub is OK.<br />
<br />
===Thursday September 1, 48670===<br />
I met a god today. The temple was glowing, and when we walked inside, there was Ramver, standing at his own altar. It was both overwhelming and not, at the same time. I should be totally cowed by a power like that...I don't understand. But he spoke to Astera, including giving her a message from Pussich himself that she was doing a good job. Her family must be so proud. All that family -- so many brothers and sisters. Parents. I can't even imagine.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 3, 48670===<br />
I'm at a loss for words. I can't even process what I saw yet. But I watched the whole thing, because I needed to know someone was there to witness it. Something went wrong, during the ritual. Swirling portals to the abyss and the celestial plane. A giant balrog. And astral diva. I actually touched her -- the diva. With my touch of destiny, on the way by. I can only hope she prevails. I tried to tell the guard. I tried to tell the mage guild. It didn't matter. Nothing mattered. They practically leveled the city. I'm not sure why I thought it was so important to watch the whole thing, but that experience is now a part of who I am, and who I will be some day.<br />
<br />
===Thursday October 6, 48670===<br />
Rebuilding is hard, especially when the world is going just a little bit haywire. I tried to help, I found some blankets and food at least. Then it stormed a bit, and then it started raining tiny giraffes. I caught one, as he fell. We ate lettuce together and played hide and seek, except we somehow always knew where the other one was. We got lost anyway and then I picked him up and flew home. He liked to lean his head down on my shoulder when I carried him. All the other tiny giraffes disappeared, but somehow, Figgy was still there.<br />
<br />
===Friday October 7, 48670===<br />
Well, it's official. I went to the mage guild to update my registration. His full name is listed as Finnegan. He's one of a kind. Just like me.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 10, 48670===<br />
Mara got her mantis back today, with the recording of the ritual. From what we could see, a solar angel and a huge balor came through. That explains the extent of the destruction. Watching it brought back the whole scene. I think I'll be seeing that for a while. Oh no. Oak, I really hope you didn't have to watch any of that with me.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 16, 48670===<br />
Met another new person today. Her name is Rena. She got teleported into the same warehouse we did. I guess it was a good thing, because the chaos monsters had almost killed Astera a few times. I just wanted to go pick some apples. Instead, chaos beasts and dealing with a new person giving me the same old look. Oak, I'm tired.<br />
<br />
At least I still got my apples later.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday October 18, 48670===<br />
A giant book of demons. Weird null magic from the void. A bone devil forging us a letter with a bone quill. Regular conversations with the High Priest of Ramver. A giant FLOATING STOMACH with nasty sharp teeth. A void bomb.<br />
<br />
We were heading outside, but Maggie was still in there when it...happened. I don't even know who to thank anymore, but Manny was able to heal her in time. I've never had friends like this. It was scary to come that close to losing someone.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 23, 48670===<br />
Mara is dead. Astera's little brother is dead. Manny just dropped dead in the middle of a sentence. He got better a half hour later. Some people are dead for a few minutes. Some people have been dead all day. I know these weird things have been happening, and I know most of them wear off the next day. But it's hard to see so many lifeless people around just waiting. I think the Hub must be hurting. Something is broken. Are we making it better? Or are we making it worse?<br />
<br />
===Wednesday October 26, 48670===<br />
I met an archmage today. I never thought I would meet an archmage. I wish you could've been here, Oak. She even set a place at the table for me. She knows so much about so many things. How did I get from sleeping, hungry, in a tree to a four-course dessert with an archmage? Things move so fast sometimes, but I still feel like I'll never find you.<br />
<br />
===Friday November 4, 48670===<br />
We fought a bunch of void undead and found a box that unfolds into a boat that sails through the sky. I really can't believe I wrote that sentence. I think that's all for today.<br />
<br />
===Wednesday November 9, 48670===<br />
I've never flown so fast before. Unfortunately, it meant we missed our stop at the north tower, and kind of went all the way to the land of the Frost Elves in one day. It's even colder than I could possibly have imagined -- but we're here. We're actually here.<br />
<br />
Oak, I was afraid to say it, but we're going to try to come to Faerie too. If we made it here...there's a chance we really can make it there. I don't know if it's going to be home for me. I'm scared it will be. I'm scared it won't be. I just don't know.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 12, 48670===<br />
Today we met the Snow Queen. I can't even imagine how old she is. How does she even process so much time? Is what's going on with the gods and the Void and all these things so incredibly world-altering, it disturbs even her?<br />
<br />
===Friday November 18, 48670===<br />
I'm trying, Oak, but I slip more often than not. My first instinct was to assume it was a trap. The hunting party seemed nice, the mastodons were easy enough to handle. But no one warned us there was a chance of Remorhaz ambushing us after. It ate Manny. It killed my friend. Of course I thought it was a trap. I tried to think what you would do. So I looked. I just looked. Just in case. And there they were, two other teams of frost elves with similar ambushes.<br />
<br />
I was angry. I saw frost worms. I set them on fire. I'm trying, Oak, but sometimes I slip. Sometimes I do things for the wrong reason, even if they turn out right.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 19, 48670===<br />
I don't know what the Snow Queen did or why, but Manny is alive again. He has crazy frost elf eyes, but he's alive again. I don't understand how I feel. Is he still the same person? He seems to be. I'm so relieved, but I'm still scared. I miss you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday November 20, 48670===<br />
We spoke with the Snow Queen a second time. She gave us the item we needed, she told us what she could about the Void. She confirmed that we are going to be much more involved with the Song and the Silence than I ever wanted to be. It's all so big, Oak. I have to talk to three more of these ancient beings? I have to hunt down beings of such power they could squish me with their thumb? What could we possibly do to help the Song of Creation?<br />
<br />
Something terrible is happening to the frost elves. I think maybe it has been for a long time, but something we did, or said, or something about us being here, has sped it up. She was crying, Oak. The tears of an entire race of people across hundreds or thousands of millennia. No one should have to carry so much.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 26, 48670===<br />
Well, against the advice of the Dwarven senate, we met the Heart of Stone. It actually spoke to us, and answered our questions, more or less. Its voice almost killed us. Almost. Good thing I brought protection.<br />
<br />
I'm worried about Mara. These headaches she gets -- I don't think they're normal. I think something's wrong. She gets them when she thinks to hard or talks about things she shouldn't know. I'm afraid if I ask her about them, it will hurt her even more. She has taken such good care of me. I should figure out how to help her.<br />
<br />
===Sunday November 27, 48670===<br />
I found somewhere to set up and throw runes today. I get so wrapped up in all these crazy things we are doing, I forget how much I need those small, familiar things. Do you have something like that, Oak? It's almost like being able to go to a safe place and wrap yourself up in a blanket that smells like home, even when you're half a world away. Or at least, what I imagine home would smell like, I guess.<br />
<br />
===Sunday December 4, 48670===<br />
We got to the elflands today. I met a nice person. Her name is Rin. She reminded me of all the things I actually miss about living in the woods -- my woods, that I know like the back of my hand. I miss the wind in the leaves. I miss feeling the suns come up every morning and set every night. I miss watching the moons when I wake up in the wee hours of morning. I miss the snakes and the beetles and the lizards I used to greet every day. I guess I can see why they don't want to hurt anything here. I just really hope I don't meet any elven bunnies.<br />
<br />
===Wednesday December 7, 48670===<br />
I'm...worried about Maggie. She's having nightmares. We tried to talk about what being "void-touched" means, but there's just only so much we know. We're already finding the oldest beings in the realm and asking them crazy questions. With so many big things going on, are we going to be able to help Maggie too?<br />
<br />
Also, I saw the Summer Lady. I guess the group talked to her, and she said something terrible about Mara. Rin was so upset about it. And Mara said some strange things, and got another headache, and I'm worried about Mara. All I do is worry, Oak. Is that really what it's like to have friends?<br />
<br />
===Thursday December 8, 48670===<br />
Lir found something out about those titles Ghada gave us. Apparently, they appear in some kind of prophecy, which says we will cause a terrible cataclysmic event. Then again, prophecies usually say what the reader wants them to. Though it's already pretty clear we're playing some part in a major event. Oak, please help me make the right choices. I'm still learning. I don't know how to do this yet. I really don't want to get this wrong.<br />
<br />
===Friday December 9, 48670===<br />
In the middle of the night, Oak called me. I don't know how, and she said it was giving her a headache, but somehow, she actually called me. She seems to know about the same prophecy, and she's in the faerie lands, and a lot of people don't want us to go there, but some do. She wants to see me, she wants to meet me, but...she said anyone from the army or the government won't want us there and will make us leave. It sounded even worse than here. We already can't talk to the Summer Lady. I really wanted to see the Ent King. I really wanted to see home. I really wanted to see my sister.<br />
<br />
===Monday December 12, 48670===<br />
I'm on my way, Oak. I promise, I'll find you.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday December 20, 48670===<br />
There it is. The Faerielands. The beach is a rainbow and the sky is glowing. The colors are all turned up and the light is beautiful and the jungle is amazing and I feel grayer than I've ever felt before in my whole life. You're so beautiful, Oak. I can't imagine you thinking that about me. Somehow I also can't imagine you not. I'm almost there, Oak.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=16048
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2016-08-28T13:58:05Z
<p>Ratri: /* Saturday November 26, 48670 */</p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 19, 48670===<br />
Another dream. Bright light through crystal shards, a faerie-sized home, the warm feeling of seeing a friend. I am glad she has those feelings, but it's always so hard to wake up. It has been a while since I saw her face. That always hits me harder. I know Mara means well when she asks me about stuff, but talking about it never makes it easier. At least I have a friend now too.<br />
<br />
And then we arrived in the town of farmers. I'm so afraid to let anyone see me. At least when Mara told Nib not to be afraid, he listened to her. He seems to be okay with me. It sounds like I'll mostly be snooping outside of town anyway. Maybe I won't even have to see a farmer. The most wonderful thing about my dreams is having a break from that fear. I know your life is not easy, Oak, but I am eternally grateful this is one pain you do not have to suffer.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 26, 48670===<br />
One hundred and one years. They look like a handful of glitter dancing on the wind...whirling by in a blur, with bright spots and dark spots and not much in between. Being out away from the people and away from the town is nice though. I found an adorable boa to snuggle and picked fresh fruit. I smelled the air and the earth and slept under the open sky. Tents are useful when we travel, but every now and then, I need this freedom. And I can see why people out here might tend to worship darkness and night. But tonight, the stars are beautiful and I do not have to convince anyone else of who I am or who I wish to be. Happy birthday, Oak.<br />
<br />
===Monday July 16, 48670===<br />
Vitra and I had an interesting meeting today. We thought we were going to see some middling priest of Ramver about some research, but instead we found the top 5 members of The Council. They talked to Vitra for a little while and gave her a bit list of things to look for. I'm sure at least some of them could see me sitting there, but no one tried to talk to me. I didn't really know what to do. There were a lot of unspoken things in that room, tensions and questions that cannot be answered. What would you think if you saw that? Do you even see me, when I'm hiding from everyone else? Somehow, I imagine we would always be able to see each other.<br />
<br />
===Monday August 14, 48670===<br />
Another day, another dream -- but this one was different. When I dream, I see what Oak sees. This time, she was talking to me. More than ever, I feel like if I told someone, they'd say it was "just a dream" or wishful thinking. But I don't believe that. It's her. It's really her. Why would she be looking for me? Why would she even want to meet me? I suppose I always assumed that if she knew about me, if she had the same dreams, she saw the bad things I do. She saw me spend so many years truly hurting people, saw how everyone who can see me reacts. I assumed she saw what I see in the mirror. "We'll find each other in the middle somewhere." My sister is so smart. More than ever, I need to find her. First, I need to learn how she spoke to me, and how to help her do that. How to be strong enough that I can talk to her as well.<br />
<br />
I need help. But now that I am caught up in something so big, with gods and artifacts and traveling the world...who can I trust? I'm not sure I can trust anyone. I may need to do this on my own. No -- with my sister. With just the help of my sister. I have waited a long time to write those words.<br />
<br />
===Sunday August 20, 48670===<br />
Poor Mara. She had to witness, too late to help, seeing someone she's obviously close to sacrifice himself to take the life of her high priestess. He used some special dagger that he asked Astera to bring back to the temple of Ramver in Skryfe. What a burden to bear. I've carried difficult things in my heart before, but this is so much bigger than any of us. I hope Mara is OK. I hope Astera is OK. I hope the Hub is OK.<br />
<br />
===Thursday September 1, 48670===<br />
I met a god today. The temple was glowing, and when we walked inside, there was Ramver, standing at his own altar. It was both overwhelming and not, at the same time. I should be totally cowed by a power like that...I don't understand. But he spoke to Astera, including giving her a message from Pussich himself that she was doing a good job. Her family must be so proud. All that family -- so many brothers and sisters. Parents. I can't even imagine.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 3, 48670===<br />
I'm at a loss for words. I can't even process what I saw yet. But I watched the whole thing, because I needed to know someone was there to witness it. Something went wrong, during the ritual. Swirling portals to the abyss and the celestial plane. A giant balrog. And astral diva. I actually touched her -- the diva. With my touch of destiny, on the way by. I can only hope she prevails. I tried to tell the guard. I tried to tell the mage guild. It didn't matter. Nothing mattered. They practically leveled the city. I'm not sure why I thought it was so important to watch the whole thing, but that experience is now a part of who I am, and who I will be some day.<br />
<br />
===Thursday October 6, 48670===<br />
Rebuilding is hard, especially when the world is going just a little bit haywire. I tried to help, I found some blankets and food at least. Then it stormed a bit, and then it started raining tiny giraffes. I caught one, as he fell. We ate lettuce together and played hide and seek, except we somehow always knew where the other one was. We got lost anyway and then I picked him up and flew home. He liked to lean his head down on my shoulder when I carried him. All the other tiny giraffes disappeared, but somehow, Figgy was still there.<br />
<br />
===Friday October 7, 48670===<br />
Well, it's official. I went to the mage guild to update my registration. His full name is listed as Finnegan. He's one of a kind. Just like me.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 10, 48670===<br />
Mara got her mantis back today, with the recording of the ritual. From what we could see, a solar angel and a huge balor came through. That explains the extent of the destruction. Watching it brought back the whole scene. I think I'll be seeing that for a while. Oh no. Oak, I really hope you didn't have to watch any of that with me.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 16, 48670===<br />
Met another new person today. Her name is Rena. She got teleported into the same warehouse we did. I guess it was a good thing, because the chaos monsters had almost killed Astera a few times. I just wanted to go pick some apples. Instead, chaos beasts and dealing with a new person giving me the same old look. Oak, I'm tired.<br />
<br />
At least I still got my apples later.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday October 18, 48670===<br />
A giant book of demons. Weird null magic from the void. A bone devil forging us a letter with a bone quill. Regular conversations with the High Priest of Ramver. A giant FLOATING STOMACH with nasty sharp teeth. A void bomb.<br />
<br />
We were heading outside, but Maggie was still in there when it...happened. I don't even know who to thank anymore, but Manny was able to heal her in time. I've never had friends like this. It was scary to come that close to losing someone.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 23, 48670===<br />
Mara is dead. Astera's little brother is dead. Manny just dropped dead in the middle of a sentence. He got better a half hour later. Some people are dead for a few minutes. Some people have been dead all day. I know these weird things have been happening, and I know most of them wear off the next day. But it's hard to see so many lifeless people around just waiting. I think the Hub must be hurting. Something is broken. Are we making it better? Or are we making it worse?<br />
<br />
===Wednesday October 26, 48670===<br />
I met an archmage today. I never thought I would meet an archmage. I wish you could've been here, Oak. She even set a place at the table for me. She knows so much about so many things. How did I get from sleeping, hungry, in a tree to a four-course dessert with an archmage? Things move so fast sometimes, but I still feel like I'll never find you.<br />
<br />
===Friday November 4, 48670===<br />
We fought a bunch of void undead and found a box that unfolds into a boat that sails through the sky. I really can't believe I wrote that sentence. I think that's all for today.<br />
<br />
===Wednesday November 9, 48670===<br />
I've never flown so fast before. Unfortunately, it meant we missed our stop at the north tower, and kind of went all the way to the land of the Frost Elves in one day. It's even colder than I could possibly have imagined -- but we're here. We're actually here.<br />
<br />
Oak, I was afraid to say it, but we're going to try to come to Faerie too. If we made it here...there's a chance we really can make it there. I don't know if it's going to be home for me. I'm scared it will be. I'm scared it won't be. I just don't know.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 12, 48670===<br />
Today we met the Snow Queen. I can't even imagine how old she is. How does she even process so much time? Is what's going on with the gods and the Void and all these things so incredibly world-altering, it disturbs even her?<br />
<br />
===Friday November 18, 48670===<br />
I'm trying, Oak, but I slip more often than not. My first instinct was to assume it was a trap. The hunting party seemed nice, the mastodons were easy enough to handle. But no one warned us there was a chance of Remorhaz ambushing us after. It ate Manny. It killed my friend. Of course I thought it was a trap. I tried to think what you would do. So I looked. I just looked. Just in case. And there they were, two other teams of frost elves with similar ambushes.<br />
<br />
I was angry. I saw frost worms. I set them on fire. I'm trying, Oak, but sometimes I slip. Sometimes I do things for the wrong reason, even if they turn out right.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 19, 48670===<br />
I don't know what the Snow Queen did or why, but Manny is alive again. He has crazy frost elf eyes, but he's alive again. I don't understand how I feel. Is he still the same person? He seems to be. I'm so relieved, but I'm still scared. I miss you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday November 20, 48670===<br />
We spoke with the Snow Queen a second time. She gave us the item we needed, she told us what she could about the Void. She confirmed that we are going to be much more involved with the Song and the Silence than I ever wanted to be. It's all so big, Oak. I have to talk to three more of these ancient beings? I have to hunt down beings of such power they could squish me with their thumb? What could we possibly do to help the Song of Creation?<br />
<br />
Something terrible is happening to the frost elves. I think maybe it has been for a long time, but something we did, or said, or something about us being here, has sped it up. She was crying, Oak. The tears of an entire race of people across hundreds or thousands of millennia. No one should have to carry so much.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 26, 48670===<br />
Well, against the advice of the Dwarven senate, we met the Heart of Stone. It actually spoke to us, and answered our questions, more or less. Its voice almost killed us. Almost. Good thing I brought protection.<br />
<br />
I'm worried about Mara. These headaches she gets -- I don't think they're normal. I think something's wrong. She gets them when she thinks to hard or talks about things she shouldn't know. I'm afraid if I ask her about them, it will hurt her even more. She has taken such good care of me. I should figure out how to help her.<br />
<br />
===Sunday November 27, 48670===<br />
I found somewhere to set up and throw runes today. I get so wrapped up in all these crazy things we are doing, I forget how much I need those small, familiar things. Do you have something like that, Oak? It's almost like being able to go to a safe place and wrap yourself up in a blanket that smells like home, even when you're half a world away. Or at least, what I imagine home would smell like, I guess.<br />
<br />
===Sunday December 4, 48670===<br />
We got to the elflands today. I met a nice person. Her name is Rin. She reminded me of all the things I actually miss about living in the woods -- my woods, that I know like the back of my hand. I miss the wind in the leaves. I miss feeling the suns come up every morning and set every night. I miss watching the moons when I wake up in the wee hours of morning. I miss the snakes and the beetles and the lizards I used to greet every day. I guess I can see why they don't want to hurt anything here. I just really hope I don't meet any elven bunnies.<br />
<br />
===Wednesday December 7, 48670===<br />
I'm...worried about Maggie. She's having nightmares. We tried to talk about what being "void-touched" means, but there's just only so much we know. We're already finding the oldest beings in the realm and asking them crazy questions. With so many big things going on, are we going to be able to help Maggie too?<br />
<br />
Also, I saw the Summer Lady. I guess the group talked to her, and she said something terrible about Mara. Rin was so upset about it. And Mara said some strange things, and got another headache, and I'm worried about Mara. All I do is worry, Oak. Is that really what it's like to have friends?</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=16047
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2016-08-28T13:53:38Z
<p>Ratri: /* Saturday November 26, 48670 */</p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 19, 48670===<br />
Another dream. Bright light through crystal shards, a faerie-sized home, the warm feeling of seeing a friend. I am glad she has those feelings, but it's always so hard to wake up. It has been a while since I saw her face. That always hits me harder. I know Mara means well when she asks me about stuff, but talking about it never makes it easier. At least I have a friend now too.<br />
<br />
And then we arrived in the town of farmers. I'm so afraid to let anyone see me. At least when Mara told Nib not to be afraid, he listened to her. He seems to be okay with me. It sounds like I'll mostly be snooping outside of town anyway. Maybe I won't even have to see a farmer. The most wonderful thing about my dreams is having a break from that fear. I know your life is not easy, Oak, but I am eternally grateful this is one pain you do not have to suffer.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 26, 48670===<br />
One hundred and one years. They look like a handful of glitter dancing on the wind...whirling by in a blur, with bright spots and dark spots and not much in between. Being out away from the people and away from the town is nice though. I found an adorable boa to snuggle and picked fresh fruit. I smelled the air and the earth and slept under the open sky. Tents are useful when we travel, but every now and then, I need this freedom. And I can see why people out here might tend to worship darkness and night. But tonight, the stars are beautiful and I do not have to convince anyone else of who I am or who I wish to be. Happy birthday, Oak.<br />
<br />
===Monday July 16, 48670===<br />
Vitra and I had an interesting meeting today. We thought we were going to see some middling priest of Ramver about some research, but instead we found the top 5 members of The Council. They talked to Vitra for a little while and gave her a bit list of things to look for. I'm sure at least some of them could see me sitting there, but no one tried to talk to me. I didn't really know what to do. There were a lot of unspoken things in that room, tensions and questions that cannot be answered. What would you think if you saw that? Do you even see me, when I'm hiding from everyone else? Somehow, I imagine we would always be able to see each other.<br />
<br />
===Monday August 14, 48670===<br />
Another day, another dream -- but this one was different. When I dream, I see what Oak sees. This time, she was talking to me. More than ever, I feel like if I told someone, they'd say it was "just a dream" or wishful thinking. But I don't believe that. It's her. It's really her. Why would she be looking for me? Why would she even want to meet me? I suppose I always assumed that if she knew about me, if she had the same dreams, she saw the bad things I do. She saw me spend so many years truly hurting people, saw how everyone who can see me reacts. I assumed she saw what I see in the mirror. "We'll find each other in the middle somewhere." My sister is so smart. More than ever, I need to find her. First, I need to learn how she spoke to me, and how to help her do that. How to be strong enough that I can talk to her as well.<br />
<br />
I need help. But now that I am caught up in something so big, with gods and artifacts and traveling the world...who can I trust? I'm not sure I can trust anyone. I may need to do this on my own. No -- with my sister. With just the help of my sister. I have waited a long time to write those words.<br />
<br />
===Sunday August 20, 48670===<br />
Poor Mara. She had to witness, too late to help, seeing someone she's obviously close to sacrifice himself to take the life of her high priestess. He used some special dagger that he asked Astera to bring back to the temple of Ramver in Skryfe. What a burden to bear. I've carried difficult things in my heart before, but this is so much bigger than any of us. I hope Mara is OK. I hope Astera is OK. I hope the Hub is OK.<br />
<br />
===Thursday September 1, 48670===<br />
I met a god today. The temple was glowing, and when we walked inside, there was Ramver, standing at his own altar. It was both overwhelming and not, at the same time. I should be totally cowed by a power like that...I don't understand. But he spoke to Astera, including giving her a message from Pussich himself that she was doing a good job. Her family must be so proud. All that family -- so many brothers and sisters. Parents. I can't even imagine.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 3, 48670===<br />
I'm at a loss for words. I can't even process what I saw yet. But I watched the whole thing, because I needed to know someone was there to witness it. Something went wrong, during the ritual. Swirling portals to the abyss and the celestial plane. A giant balrog. And astral diva. I actually touched her -- the diva. With my touch of destiny, on the way by. I can only hope she prevails. I tried to tell the guard. I tried to tell the mage guild. It didn't matter. Nothing mattered. They practically leveled the city. I'm not sure why I thought it was so important to watch the whole thing, but that experience is now a part of who I am, and who I will be some day.<br />
<br />
===Thursday October 6, 48670===<br />
Rebuilding is hard, especially when the world is going just a little bit haywire. I tried to help, I found some blankets and food at least. Then it stormed a bit, and then it started raining tiny giraffes. I caught one, as he fell. We ate lettuce together and played hide and seek, except we somehow always knew where the other one was. We got lost anyway and then I picked him up and flew home. He liked to lean his head down on my shoulder when I carried him. All the other tiny giraffes disappeared, but somehow, Figgy was still there.<br />
<br />
===Friday October 7, 48670===<br />
Well, it's official. I went to the mage guild to update my registration. His full name is listed as Finnegan. He's one of a kind. Just like me.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 10, 48670===<br />
Mara got her mantis back today, with the recording of the ritual. From what we could see, a solar angel and a huge balor came through. That explains the extent of the destruction. Watching it brought back the whole scene. I think I'll be seeing that for a while. Oh no. Oak, I really hope you didn't have to watch any of that with me.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 16, 48670===<br />
Met another new person today. Her name is Rena. She got teleported into the same warehouse we did. I guess it was a good thing, because the chaos monsters had almost killed Astera a few times. I just wanted to go pick some apples. Instead, chaos beasts and dealing with a new person giving me the same old look. Oak, I'm tired.<br />
<br />
At least I still got my apples later.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday October 18, 48670===<br />
A giant book of demons. Weird null magic from the void. A bone devil forging us a letter with a bone quill. Regular conversations with the High Priest of Ramver. A giant FLOATING STOMACH with nasty sharp teeth. A void bomb.<br />
<br />
We were heading outside, but Maggie was still in there when it...happened. I don't even know who to thank anymore, but Manny was able to heal her in time. I've never had friends like this. It was scary to come that close to losing someone.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 23, 48670===<br />
Mara is dead. Astera's little brother is dead. Manny just dropped dead in the middle of a sentence. He got better a half hour later. Some people are dead for a few minutes. Some people have been dead all day. I know these weird things have been happening, and I know most of them wear off the next day. But it's hard to see so many lifeless people around just waiting. I think the Hub must be hurting. Something is broken. Are we making it better? Or are we making it worse?<br />
<br />
===Wednesday October 26, 48670===<br />
I met an archmage today. I never thought I would meet an archmage. I wish you could've been here, Oak. She even set a place at the table for me. She knows so much about so many things. How did I get from sleeping, hungry, in a tree to a four-course dessert with an archmage? Things move so fast sometimes, but I still feel like I'll never find you.<br />
<br />
===Friday November 4, 48670===<br />
We fought a bunch of void undead and found a box that unfolds into a boat that sails through the sky. I really can't believe I wrote that sentence. I think that's all for today.<br />
<br />
===Wednesday November 9, 48670===<br />
I've never flown so fast before. Unfortunately, it meant we missed our stop at the north tower, and kind of went all the way to the land of the Frost Elves in one day. It's even colder than I could possibly have imagined -- but we're here. We're actually here.<br />
<br />
Oak, I was afraid to say it, but we're going to try to come to Faerie too. If we made it here...there's a chance we really can make it there. I don't know if it's going to be home for me. I'm scared it will be. I'm scared it won't be. I just don't know.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 12, 48670===<br />
Today we met the Snow Queen. I can't even imagine how old she is. How does she even process so much time? Is what's going on with the gods and the Void and all these things so incredibly world-altering, it disturbs even her?<br />
<br />
===Friday November 18, 48670===<br />
I'm trying, Oak, but I slip more often than not. My first instinct was to assume it was a trap. The hunting party seemed nice, the mastodons were easy enough to handle. But no one warned us there was a chance of Remorhaz ambushing us after. It ate Manny. It killed my friend. Of course I thought it was a trap. I tried to think what you would do. So I looked. I just looked. Just in case. And there they were, two other teams of frost elves with similar ambushes.<br />
<br />
I was angry. I saw frost worms. I set them on fire. I'm trying, Oak, but sometimes I slip. Sometimes I do things for the wrong reason, even if they turn out right.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 19, 48670===<br />
I don't know what the Snow Queen did or why, but Manny is alive again. He has crazy frost elf eyes, but he's alive again. I don't understand how I feel. Is he still the same person? He seems to be. I'm so relieved, but I'm still scared. I miss you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday November 20, 48670===<br />
We spoke with the Snow Queen a second time. She gave us the item we needed, she told us what she could about the Void. She confirmed that we are going to be much more involved with the Song and the Silence than I ever wanted to be. It's all so big, Oak. I have to talk to three more of these ancient beings? I have to hunt down beings of such power they could squish me with their thumb? What could we possibly do to help the Song of Creation?<br />
<br />
Something terrible is happening to the frost elves. I think maybe it has been for a long time, but something we did, or said, or something about us being here, has sped it up. She was crying, Oak. The tears of an entire race of people across hundreds or thousands of millennia. No one should have to carry so much.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 26, 48670===<br />
Well, against the advice of the Dwarven senate, we met the Heart of Stone. It actually spoke to us, and answered our questions, more or less. Its voice almost killed us. Almost. Good thing I brought protection.<br />
<br />
I'm worried about Mara. These headaches she gets -- I don't think they're normal. I think something's wrong. She gets them when she thinks to hard or talks about things she shouldn't know. I'm afraid if I ask her about them, it will hurt her even more. She has taken such good care of me. I should figure out how to help her.<br />
<br />
===Sunday December 4, 48670===<br />
We got to the elflands today. I met a nice person. Her name is Rin. She reminded me of all the things I actually miss about living in the woods -- my woods, that I know like the back of my hand. I miss the wind in the leaves. I miss feeling the suns come up every morning and set every night. I miss watching the moons when I wake up in the wee hours of morning. I miss the snakes and the beetles and the lizards I used to greet every day. I guess I can see why they don't want to hurt anything here. I just really hope I don't meet any elven bunnies.<br />
<br />
===Wednesday December 7, 48670===<br />
I'm...worried about Maggie. She's having nightmares. We tried to talk about what being "void-touched" means, but there's just only so much we know. We're already finding the oldest beings in the realm and asking them crazy questions. With so many big things going on, are we going to be able to help Maggie too?<br />
<br />
Also, I saw the Summer Lady. I guess the group talked to her, and she said something terrible about Mara. Rin was so upset about it. And Mara said some strange things, and got another headache, and I'm worried about Mara. All I do is worry, Oak. Is that really what it's like to have friends?</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=16046
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2016-08-27T23:49:14Z
<p>Ratri: /* Saturday November 26, 48670 */</p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 19, 48670===<br />
Another dream. Bright light through crystal shards, a faerie-sized home, the warm feeling of seeing a friend. I am glad she has those feelings, but it's always so hard to wake up. It has been a while since I saw her face. That always hits me harder. I know Mara means well when she asks me about stuff, but talking about it never makes it easier. At least I have a friend now too.<br />
<br />
And then we arrived in the town of farmers. I'm so afraid to let anyone see me. At least when Mara told Nib not to be afraid, he listened to her. He seems to be okay with me. It sounds like I'll mostly be snooping outside of town anyway. Maybe I won't even have to see a farmer. The most wonderful thing about my dreams is having a break from that fear. I know your life is not easy, Oak, but I am eternally grateful this is one pain you do not have to suffer.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 26, 48670===<br />
One hundred and one years. They look like a handful of glitter dancing on the wind...whirling by in a blur, with bright spots and dark spots and not much in between. Being out away from the people and away from the town is nice though. I found an adorable boa to snuggle and picked fresh fruit. I smelled the air and the earth and slept under the open sky. Tents are useful when we travel, but every now and then, I need this freedom. And I can see why people out here might tend to worship darkness and night. But tonight, the stars are beautiful and I do not have to convince anyone else of who I am or who I wish to be. Happy birthday, Oak.<br />
<br />
===Monday July 16, 48670===<br />
Vitra and I had an interesting meeting today. We thought we were going to see some middling priest of Ramver about some research, but instead we found the top 5 members of The Council. They talked to Vitra for a little while and gave her a bit list of things to look for. I'm sure at least some of them could see me sitting there, but no one tried to talk to me. I didn't really know what to do. There were a lot of unspoken things in that room, tensions and questions that cannot be answered. What would you think if you saw that? Do you even see me, when I'm hiding from everyone else? Somehow, I imagine we would always be able to see each other.<br />
<br />
===Monday August 14, 48670===<br />
Another day, another dream -- but this one was different. When I dream, I see what Oak sees. This time, she was talking to me. More than ever, I feel like if I told someone, they'd say it was "just a dream" or wishful thinking. But I don't believe that. It's her. It's really her. Why would she be looking for me? Why would she even want to meet me? I suppose I always assumed that if she knew about me, if she had the same dreams, she saw the bad things I do. She saw me spend so many years truly hurting people, saw how everyone who can see me reacts. I assumed she saw what I see in the mirror. "We'll find each other in the middle somewhere." My sister is so smart. More than ever, I need to find her. First, I need to learn how she spoke to me, and how to help her do that. How to be strong enough that I can talk to her as well.<br />
<br />
I need help. But now that I am caught up in something so big, with gods and artifacts and traveling the world...who can I trust? I'm not sure I can trust anyone. I may need to do this on my own. No -- with my sister. With just the help of my sister. I have waited a long time to write those words.<br />
<br />
===Sunday August 20, 48670===<br />
Poor Mara. She had to witness, too late to help, seeing someone she's obviously close to sacrifice himself to take the life of her high priestess. He used some special dagger that he asked Astera to bring back to the temple of Ramver in Skryfe. What a burden to bear. I've carried difficult things in my heart before, but this is so much bigger than any of us. I hope Mara is OK. I hope Astera is OK. I hope the Hub is OK.<br />
<br />
===Thursday September 1, 48670===<br />
I met a god today. The temple was glowing, and when we walked inside, there was Ramver, standing at his own altar. It was both overwhelming and not, at the same time. I should be totally cowed by a power like that...I don't understand. But he spoke to Astera, including giving her a message from Pussich himself that she was doing a good job. Her family must be so proud. All that family -- so many brothers and sisters. Parents. I can't even imagine.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 3, 48670===<br />
I'm at a loss for words. I can't even process what I saw yet. But I watched the whole thing, because I needed to know someone was there to witness it. Something went wrong, during the ritual. Swirling portals to the abyss and the celestial plane. A giant balrog. And astral diva. I actually touched her -- the diva. With my touch of destiny, on the way by. I can only hope she prevails. I tried to tell the guard. I tried to tell the mage guild. It didn't matter. Nothing mattered. They practically leveled the city. I'm not sure why I thought it was so important to watch the whole thing, but that experience is now a part of who I am, and who I will be some day.<br />
<br />
===Thursday October 6, 48670===<br />
Rebuilding is hard, especially when the world is going just a little bit haywire. I tried to help, I found some blankets and food at least. Then it stormed a bit, and then it started raining tiny giraffes. I caught one, as he fell. We ate lettuce together and played hide and seek, except we somehow always knew where the other one was. We got lost anyway and then I picked him up and flew home. He liked to lean his head down on my shoulder when I carried him. All the other tiny giraffes disappeared, but somehow, Figgy was still there.<br />
<br />
===Friday October 7, 48670===<br />
Well, it's official. I went to the mage guild to update my registration. His full name is listed as Finnegan. He's one of a kind. Just like me.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 10, 48670===<br />
Mara got her mantis back today, with the recording of the ritual. From what we could see, a solar angel and a huge balor came through. That explains the extent of the destruction. Watching it brought back the whole scene. I think I'll be seeing that for a while. Oh no. Oak, I really hope you didn't have to watch any of that with me.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 16, 48670===<br />
Met another new person today. Her name is Rena. She got teleported into the same warehouse we did. I guess it was a good thing, because the chaos monsters had almost killed Astera a few times. I just wanted to go pick some apples. Instead, chaos beasts and dealing with a new person giving me the same old look. Oak, I'm tired.<br />
<br />
At least I still got my apples later.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday October 18, 48670===<br />
A giant book of demons. Weird null magic from the void. A bone devil forging us a letter with a bone quill. Regular conversations with the High Priest of Ramver. A giant FLOATING STOMACH with nasty sharp teeth. A void bomb.<br />
<br />
We were heading outside, but Maggie was still in there when it...happened. I don't even know who to thank anymore, but Manny was able to heal her in time. I've never had friends like this. It was scary to come that close to losing someone.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 23, 48670===<br />
Mara is dead. Astera's little brother is dead. Manny just dropped dead in the middle of a sentence. He got better a half hour later. Some people are dead for a few minutes. Some people have been dead all day. I know these weird things have been happening, and I know most of them wear off the next day. But it's hard to see so many lifeless people around just waiting. I think the Hub must be hurting. Something is broken. Are we making it better? Or are we making it worse?<br />
<br />
===Wednesday October 26, 48670===<br />
I met an archmage today. I never thought I would meet an archmage. I wish you could've been here, Oak. She even set a place at the table for me. She knows so much about so many things. How did I get from sleeping, hungry, in a tree to a four-course dessert with an archmage? Things move so fast sometimes, but I still feel like I'll never find you.<br />
<br />
===Friday November 4, 48670===<br />
We fought a bunch of void undead and found a box that unfolds into a boat that sails through the sky. I really can't believe I wrote that sentence. I think that's all for today.<br />
<br />
===Wednesday November 9, 48670===<br />
I've never flown so fast before. Unfortunately, it meant we missed our stop at the north tower, and kind of went all the way to the land of the Frost Elves in one day. It's even colder than I could possibly have imagined -- but we're here. We're actually here.<br />
<br />
Oak, I was afraid to say it, but we're going to try to come to Faerie too. If we made it here...there's a chance we really can make it there. I don't know if it's going to be home for me. I'm scared it will be. I'm scared it won't be. I just don't know.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 12, 48670===<br />
Today we met the Snow Queen. I can't even imagine how old she is. How does she even process so much time? Is what's going on with the gods and the Void and all these things so incredibly world-altering, it disturbs even her?<br />
<br />
===Friday November 18, 48670===<br />
I'm trying, Oak, but I slip more often than not. My first instinct was to assume it was a trap. The hunting party seemed nice, the mastodons were easy enough to handle. But no one warned us there was a chance of Remorhaz ambushing us after. It ate Manny. It killed my friend. Of course I thought it was a trap. I tried to think what you would do. So I looked. I just looked. Just in case. And there they were, two other teams of frost elves with similar ambushes.<br />
<br />
I was angry. I saw frost worms. I set them on fire. I'm trying, Oak, but sometimes I slip. Sometimes I do things for the wrong reason, even if they turn out right.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 19, 48670===<br />
I don't know what the Snow Queen did or why, but Manny is alive again. He has crazy frost elf eyes, but he's alive again. I don't understand how I feel. Is he still the same person? He seems to be. I'm so relieved, but I'm still scared. I miss you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday November 20, 48670===<br />
We spoke with the Snow Queen a second time. She gave us the item we needed, she told us what she could about the Void. She confirmed that we are going to be much more involved with the Song and the Silence than I ever wanted to be. It's all so big, Oak. I have to talk to three more of these ancient beings? I have to hunt down beings of such power they could squish me with their thumb? What could we possibly do to help the Song of Creation?<br />
<br />
Something terrible is happening to the frost elves. I think maybe it has been for a long time, but something we did, or said, or something about us being here, has sped it up. She was crying, Oak. The tears of an entire race of people across hundreds or thousands of millennia. No one should have to carry so much.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 26, 48670===<br />
Well, against the advice of the Dwarven senate, we met the Heart of Stone. It actually spoke to us, and answered our questions, more or less. Its voice almost killed us. Almost.<br />
<br />
I'm worried about Mara. These headaches she gets -- I don't think they're normal. I think something's wrong. She gets them when she thinks to hard or talks about things she shouldn't know. I'm afraid if I ask her about them, it will hurt her even more. She has taken such good care of me. I should figure out how to help her.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=16045
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2016-08-27T23:40:04Z
<p>Ratri: /* Sunday November 20, 48670 */</p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 19, 48670===<br />
Another dream. Bright light through crystal shards, a faerie-sized home, the warm feeling of seeing a friend. I am glad she has those feelings, but it's always so hard to wake up. It has been a while since I saw her face. That always hits me harder. I know Mara means well when she asks me about stuff, but talking about it never makes it easier. At least I have a friend now too.<br />
<br />
And then we arrived in the town of farmers. I'm so afraid to let anyone see me. At least when Mara told Nib not to be afraid, he listened to her. He seems to be okay with me. It sounds like I'll mostly be snooping outside of town anyway. Maybe I won't even have to see a farmer. The most wonderful thing about my dreams is having a break from that fear. I know your life is not easy, Oak, but I am eternally grateful this is one pain you do not have to suffer.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 26, 48670===<br />
One hundred and one years. They look like a handful of glitter dancing on the wind...whirling by in a blur, with bright spots and dark spots and not much in between. Being out away from the people and away from the town is nice though. I found an adorable boa to snuggle and picked fresh fruit. I smelled the air and the earth and slept under the open sky. Tents are useful when we travel, but every now and then, I need this freedom. And I can see why people out here might tend to worship darkness and night. But tonight, the stars are beautiful and I do not have to convince anyone else of who I am or who I wish to be. Happy birthday, Oak.<br />
<br />
===Monday July 16, 48670===<br />
Vitra and I had an interesting meeting today. We thought we were going to see some middling priest of Ramver about some research, but instead we found the top 5 members of The Council. They talked to Vitra for a little while and gave her a bit list of things to look for. I'm sure at least some of them could see me sitting there, but no one tried to talk to me. I didn't really know what to do. There were a lot of unspoken things in that room, tensions and questions that cannot be answered. What would you think if you saw that? Do you even see me, when I'm hiding from everyone else? Somehow, I imagine we would always be able to see each other.<br />
<br />
===Monday August 14, 48670===<br />
Another day, another dream -- but this one was different. When I dream, I see what Oak sees. This time, she was talking to me. More than ever, I feel like if I told someone, they'd say it was "just a dream" or wishful thinking. But I don't believe that. It's her. It's really her. Why would she be looking for me? Why would she even want to meet me? I suppose I always assumed that if she knew about me, if she had the same dreams, she saw the bad things I do. She saw me spend so many years truly hurting people, saw how everyone who can see me reacts. I assumed she saw what I see in the mirror. "We'll find each other in the middle somewhere." My sister is so smart. More than ever, I need to find her. First, I need to learn how she spoke to me, and how to help her do that. How to be strong enough that I can talk to her as well.<br />
<br />
I need help. But now that I am caught up in something so big, with gods and artifacts and traveling the world...who can I trust? I'm not sure I can trust anyone. I may need to do this on my own. No -- with my sister. With just the help of my sister. I have waited a long time to write those words.<br />
<br />
===Sunday August 20, 48670===<br />
Poor Mara. She had to witness, too late to help, seeing someone she's obviously close to sacrifice himself to take the life of her high priestess. He used some special dagger that he asked Astera to bring back to the temple of Ramver in Skryfe. What a burden to bear. I've carried difficult things in my heart before, but this is so much bigger than any of us. I hope Mara is OK. I hope Astera is OK. I hope the Hub is OK.<br />
<br />
===Thursday September 1, 48670===<br />
I met a god today. The temple was glowing, and when we walked inside, there was Ramver, standing at his own altar. It was both overwhelming and not, at the same time. I should be totally cowed by a power like that...I don't understand. But he spoke to Astera, including giving her a message from Pussich himself that she was doing a good job. Her family must be so proud. All that family -- so many brothers and sisters. Parents. I can't even imagine.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 3, 48670===<br />
I'm at a loss for words. I can't even process what I saw yet. But I watched the whole thing, because I needed to know someone was there to witness it. Something went wrong, during the ritual. Swirling portals to the abyss and the celestial plane. A giant balrog. And astral diva. I actually touched her -- the diva. With my touch of destiny, on the way by. I can only hope she prevails. I tried to tell the guard. I tried to tell the mage guild. It didn't matter. Nothing mattered. They practically leveled the city. I'm not sure why I thought it was so important to watch the whole thing, but that experience is now a part of who I am, and who I will be some day.<br />
<br />
===Thursday October 6, 48670===<br />
Rebuilding is hard, especially when the world is going just a little bit haywire. I tried to help, I found some blankets and food at least. Then it stormed a bit, and then it started raining tiny giraffes. I caught one, as he fell. We ate lettuce together and played hide and seek, except we somehow always knew where the other one was. We got lost anyway and then I picked him up and flew home. He liked to lean his head down on my shoulder when I carried him. All the other tiny giraffes disappeared, but somehow, Figgy was still there.<br />
<br />
===Friday October 7, 48670===<br />
Well, it's official. I went to the mage guild to update my registration. His full name is listed as Finnegan. He's one of a kind. Just like me.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 10, 48670===<br />
Mara got her mantis back today, with the recording of the ritual. From what we could see, a solar angel and a huge balor came through. That explains the extent of the destruction. Watching it brought back the whole scene. I think I'll be seeing that for a while. Oh no. Oak, I really hope you didn't have to watch any of that with me.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 16, 48670===<br />
Met another new person today. Her name is Rena. She got teleported into the same warehouse we did. I guess it was a good thing, because the chaos monsters had almost killed Astera a few times. I just wanted to go pick some apples. Instead, chaos beasts and dealing with a new person giving me the same old look. Oak, I'm tired.<br />
<br />
At least I still got my apples later.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday October 18, 48670===<br />
A giant book of demons. Weird null magic from the void. A bone devil forging us a letter with a bone quill. Regular conversations with the High Priest of Ramver. A giant FLOATING STOMACH with nasty sharp teeth. A void bomb.<br />
<br />
We were heading outside, but Maggie was still in there when it...happened. I don't even know who to thank anymore, but Manny was able to heal her in time. I've never had friends like this. It was scary to come that close to losing someone.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 23, 48670===<br />
Mara is dead. Astera's little brother is dead. Manny just dropped dead in the middle of a sentence. He got better a half hour later. Some people are dead for a few minutes. Some people have been dead all day. I know these weird things have been happening, and I know most of them wear off the next day. But it's hard to see so many lifeless people around just waiting. I think the Hub must be hurting. Something is broken. Are we making it better? Or are we making it worse?<br />
<br />
===Wednesday October 26, 48670===<br />
I met an archmage today. I never thought I would meet an archmage. I wish you could've been here, Oak. She even set a place at the table for me. She knows so much about so many things. How did I get from sleeping, hungry, in a tree to a four-course dessert with an archmage? Things move so fast sometimes, but I still feel like I'll never find you.<br />
<br />
===Friday November 4, 48670===<br />
We fought a bunch of void undead and found a box that unfolds into a boat that sails through the sky. I really can't believe I wrote that sentence. I think that's all for today.<br />
<br />
===Wednesday November 9, 48670===<br />
I've never flown so fast before. Unfortunately, it meant we missed our stop at the north tower, and kind of went all the way to the land of the Frost Elves in one day. It's even colder than I could possibly have imagined -- but we're here. We're actually here.<br />
<br />
Oak, I was afraid to say it, but we're going to try to come to Faerie too. If we made it here...there's a chance we really can make it there. I don't know if it's going to be home for me. I'm scared it will be. I'm scared it won't be. I just don't know.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 12, 48670===<br />
Today we met the Snow Queen. I can't even imagine how old she is. How does she even process so much time? Is what's going on with the gods and the Void and all these things so incredibly world-altering, it disturbs even her?<br />
<br />
===Friday November 18, 48670===<br />
I'm trying, Oak, but I slip more often than not. My first instinct was to assume it was a trap. The hunting party seemed nice, the mastodons were easy enough to handle. But no one warned us there was a chance of Remorhaz ambushing us after. It ate Manny. It killed my friend. Of course I thought it was a trap. I tried to think what you would do. So I looked. I just looked. Just in case. And there they were, two other teams of frost elves with similar ambushes.<br />
<br />
I was angry. I saw frost worms. I set them on fire. I'm trying, Oak, but sometimes I slip. Sometimes I do things for the wrong reason, even if they turn out right.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 19, 48670===<br />
I don't know what the Snow Queen did or why, but Manny is alive again. He has crazy frost elf eyes, but he's alive again. I don't understand how I feel. Is he still the same person? He seems to be. I'm so relieved, but I'm still scared. I miss you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday November 20, 48670===<br />
We spoke with the Snow Queen a second time. She gave us the item we needed, she told us what she could about the Void. She confirmed that we are going to be much more involved with the Song and the Silence than I ever wanted to be. It's all so big, Oak. I have to talk to three more of these ancient beings? I have to hunt down beings of such power they could squish me with their thumb? What could we possibly do to help the Song of Creation?<br />
<br />
Something terrible is happening to the frost elves. I think maybe it has been for a long time, but something we did, or said, or something about us being here, has sped it up. She was crying, Oak. The tears of an entire race of people across hundreds or thousands of millennia. No one should have to carry so much.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 26, 48670===<br />
Well, against the advice of the Dwarven senate, we met the Heart of Stone.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=16044
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2016-08-27T23:33:48Z
<p>Ratri: /* Saturday November 12, 48670 */</p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 19, 48670===<br />
Another dream. Bright light through crystal shards, a faerie-sized home, the warm feeling of seeing a friend. I am glad she has those feelings, but it's always so hard to wake up. It has been a while since I saw her face. That always hits me harder. I know Mara means well when she asks me about stuff, but talking about it never makes it easier. At least I have a friend now too.<br />
<br />
And then we arrived in the town of farmers. I'm so afraid to let anyone see me. At least when Mara told Nib not to be afraid, he listened to her. He seems to be okay with me. It sounds like I'll mostly be snooping outside of town anyway. Maybe I won't even have to see a farmer. The most wonderful thing about my dreams is having a break from that fear. I know your life is not easy, Oak, but I am eternally grateful this is one pain you do not have to suffer.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 26, 48670===<br />
One hundred and one years. They look like a handful of glitter dancing on the wind...whirling by in a blur, with bright spots and dark spots and not much in between. Being out away from the people and away from the town is nice though. I found an adorable boa to snuggle and picked fresh fruit. I smelled the air and the earth and slept under the open sky. Tents are useful when we travel, but every now and then, I need this freedom. And I can see why people out here might tend to worship darkness and night. But tonight, the stars are beautiful and I do not have to convince anyone else of who I am or who I wish to be. Happy birthday, Oak.<br />
<br />
===Monday July 16, 48670===<br />
Vitra and I had an interesting meeting today. We thought we were going to see some middling priest of Ramver about some research, but instead we found the top 5 members of The Council. They talked to Vitra for a little while and gave her a bit list of things to look for. I'm sure at least some of them could see me sitting there, but no one tried to talk to me. I didn't really know what to do. There were a lot of unspoken things in that room, tensions and questions that cannot be answered. What would you think if you saw that? Do you even see me, when I'm hiding from everyone else? Somehow, I imagine we would always be able to see each other.<br />
<br />
===Monday August 14, 48670===<br />
Another day, another dream -- but this one was different. When I dream, I see what Oak sees. This time, she was talking to me. More than ever, I feel like if I told someone, they'd say it was "just a dream" or wishful thinking. But I don't believe that. It's her. It's really her. Why would she be looking for me? Why would she even want to meet me? I suppose I always assumed that if she knew about me, if she had the same dreams, she saw the bad things I do. She saw me spend so many years truly hurting people, saw how everyone who can see me reacts. I assumed she saw what I see in the mirror. "We'll find each other in the middle somewhere." My sister is so smart. More than ever, I need to find her. First, I need to learn how she spoke to me, and how to help her do that. How to be strong enough that I can talk to her as well.<br />
<br />
I need help. But now that I am caught up in something so big, with gods and artifacts and traveling the world...who can I trust? I'm not sure I can trust anyone. I may need to do this on my own. No -- with my sister. With just the help of my sister. I have waited a long time to write those words.<br />
<br />
===Sunday August 20, 48670===<br />
Poor Mara. She had to witness, too late to help, seeing someone she's obviously close to sacrifice himself to take the life of her high priestess. He used some special dagger that he asked Astera to bring back to the temple of Ramver in Skryfe. What a burden to bear. I've carried difficult things in my heart before, but this is so much bigger than any of us. I hope Mara is OK. I hope Astera is OK. I hope the Hub is OK.<br />
<br />
===Thursday September 1, 48670===<br />
I met a god today. The temple was glowing, and when we walked inside, there was Ramver, standing at his own altar. It was both overwhelming and not, at the same time. I should be totally cowed by a power like that...I don't understand. But he spoke to Astera, including giving her a message from Pussich himself that she was doing a good job. Her family must be so proud. All that family -- so many brothers and sisters. Parents. I can't even imagine.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 3, 48670===<br />
I'm at a loss for words. I can't even process what I saw yet. But I watched the whole thing, because I needed to know someone was there to witness it. Something went wrong, during the ritual. Swirling portals to the abyss and the celestial plane. A giant balrog. And astral diva. I actually touched her -- the diva. With my touch of destiny, on the way by. I can only hope she prevails. I tried to tell the guard. I tried to tell the mage guild. It didn't matter. Nothing mattered. They practically leveled the city. I'm not sure why I thought it was so important to watch the whole thing, but that experience is now a part of who I am, and who I will be some day.<br />
<br />
===Thursday October 6, 48670===<br />
Rebuilding is hard, especially when the world is going just a little bit haywire. I tried to help, I found some blankets and food at least. Then it stormed a bit, and then it started raining tiny giraffes. I caught one, as he fell. We ate lettuce together and played hide and seek, except we somehow always knew where the other one was. We got lost anyway and then I picked him up and flew home. He liked to lean his head down on my shoulder when I carried him. All the other tiny giraffes disappeared, but somehow, Figgy was still there.<br />
<br />
===Friday October 7, 48670===<br />
Well, it's official. I went to the mage guild to update my registration. His full name is listed as Finnegan. He's one of a kind. Just like me.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 10, 48670===<br />
Mara got her mantis back today, with the recording of the ritual. From what we could see, a solar angel and a huge balor came through. That explains the extent of the destruction. Watching it brought back the whole scene. I think I'll be seeing that for a while. Oh no. Oak, I really hope you didn't have to watch any of that with me.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 16, 48670===<br />
Met another new person today. Her name is Rena. She got teleported into the same warehouse we did. I guess it was a good thing, because the chaos monsters had almost killed Astera a few times. I just wanted to go pick some apples. Instead, chaos beasts and dealing with a new person giving me the same old look. Oak, I'm tired.<br />
<br />
At least I still got my apples later.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday October 18, 48670===<br />
A giant book of demons. Weird null magic from the void. A bone devil forging us a letter with a bone quill. Regular conversations with the High Priest of Ramver. A giant FLOATING STOMACH with nasty sharp teeth. A void bomb.<br />
<br />
We were heading outside, but Maggie was still in there when it...happened. I don't even know who to thank anymore, but Manny was able to heal her in time. I've never had friends like this. It was scary to come that close to losing someone.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 23, 48670===<br />
Mara is dead. Astera's little brother is dead. Manny just dropped dead in the middle of a sentence. He got better a half hour later. Some people are dead for a few minutes. Some people have been dead all day. I know these weird things have been happening, and I know most of them wear off the next day. But it's hard to see so many lifeless people around just waiting. I think the Hub must be hurting. Something is broken. Are we making it better? Or are we making it worse?<br />
<br />
===Wednesday October 26, 48670===<br />
I met an archmage today. I never thought I would meet an archmage. I wish you could've been here, Oak. She even set a place at the table for me. She knows so much about so many things. How did I get from sleeping, hungry, in a tree to a four-course dessert with an archmage? Things move so fast sometimes, but I still feel like I'll never find you.<br />
<br />
===Friday November 4, 48670===<br />
We fought a bunch of void undead and found a box that unfolds into a boat that sails through the sky. I really can't believe I wrote that sentence. I think that's all for today.<br />
<br />
===Wednesday November 9, 48670===<br />
I've never flown so fast before. Unfortunately, it meant we missed our stop at the north tower, and kind of went all the way to the land of the Frost Elves in one day. It's even colder than I could possibly have imagined -- but we're here. We're actually here.<br />
<br />
Oak, I was afraid to say it, but we're going to try to come to Faerie too. If we made it here...there's a chance we really can make it there. I don't know if it's going to be home for me. I'm scared it will be. I'm scared it won't be. I just don't know.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 12, 48670===<br />
Today we met the Snow Queen. I can't even imagine how old she is. How does she even process so much time? Is what's going on with the gods and the Void and all these things so incredibly world-altering, it disturbs even her?<br />
<br />
===Friday November 18, 48670===<br />
I'm trying, Oak, but I slip more often than not. My first instinct was to assume it was a trap. The hunting party seemed nice, the mastodons were easy enough to handle. But no one warned us there was a chance of Remorhaz ambushing us after. It ate Manny. It killed my friend. Of course I thought it was a trap. I tried to think what you would do. So I looked. I just looked. Just in case. And there they were, two other teams of frost elves with similar ambushes.<br />
<br />
I was angry. I saw frost worms. I set them on fire. I'm trying, Oak, but sometimes I slip. Sometimes I do things for the wrong reason, even if they turn out right.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 19, 48670===<br />
I don't know what the Snow Queen did or why, but Manny is alive again. He has crazy frost elf eyes, but he's alive again. I don't understand how I feel. Is he still the same person? He seems to be. I'm so relieved, but I'm still scared. I miss you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday November 20, 48670===<br />
We spoke with the Snow Queen a second time. She gave us the item we needed, she told us what she could about the Void. She confirmed that we are going to be much more involved with the Song and the Silence than I ever wanted to be. It's all so big, Oak. I have to talk to three more of these ancient beings? I have to hunt down beings of such power they could squish me with their thumb? What could we possibly do to help the Song of Creation?<br />
<br />
Something terrible is happening to the frost elves. I think maybe it has been for a long time, but something we did, or said, or something about us being here, has sped it up. She was crying, Oak. The tears of an entire race of people across hundreds or thousands of millennia. No one should have to carry so much.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=16043
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2016-08-27T21:34:10Z
<p>Ratri: /* Wednesday November 9, 48670 */</p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 19, 48670===<br />
Another dream. Bright light through crystal shards, a faerie-sized home, the warm feeling of seeing a friend. I am glad she has those feelings, but it's always so hard to wake up. It has been a while since I saw her face. That always hits me harder. I know Mara means well when she asks me about stuff, but talking about it never makes it easier. At least I have a friend now too.<br />
<br />
And then we arrived in the town of farmers. I'm so afraid to let anyone see me. At least when Mara told Nib not to be afraid, he listened to her. He seems to be okay with me. It sounds like I'll mostly be snooping outside of town anyway. Maybe I won't even have to see a farmer. The most wonderful thing about my dreams is having a break from that fear. I know your life is not easy, Oak, but I am eternally grateful this is one pain you do not have to suffer.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 26, 48670===<br />
One hundred and one years. They look like a handful of glitter dancing on the wind...whirling by in a blur, with bright spots and dark spots and not much in between. Being out away from the people and away from the town is nice though. I found an adorable boa to snuggle and picked fresh fruit. I smelled the air and the earth and slept under the open sky. Tents are useful when we travel, but every now and then, I need this freedom. And I can see why people out here might tend to worship darkness and night. But tonight, the stars are beautiful and I do not have to convince anyone else of who I am or who I wish to be. Happy birthday, Oak.<br />
<br />
===Monday July 16, 48670===<br />
Vitra and I had an interesting meeting today. We thought we were going to see some middling priest of Ramver about some research, but instead we found the top 5 members of The Council. They talked to Vitra for a little while and gave her a bit list of things to look for. I'm sure at least some of them could see me sitting there, but no one tried to talk to me. I didn't really know what to do. There were a lot of unspoken things in that room, tensions and questions that cannot be answered. What would you think if you saw that? Do you even see me, when I'm hiding from everyone else? Somehow, I imagine we would always be able to see each other.<br />
<br />
===Monday August 14, 48670===<br />
Another day, another dream -- but this one was different. When I dream, I see what Oak sees. This time, she was talking to me. More than ever, I feel like if I told someone, they'd say it was "just a dream" or wishful thinking. But I don't believe that. It's her. It's really her. Why would she be looking for me? Why would she even want to meet me? I suppose I always assumed that if she knew about me, if she had the same dreams, she saw the bad things I do. She saw me spend so many years truly hurting people, saw how everyone who can see me reacts. I assumed she saw what I see in the mirror. "We'll find each other in the middle somewhere." My sister is so smart. More than ever, I need to find her. First, I need to learn how she spoke to me, and how to help her do that. How to be strong enough that I can talk to her as well.<br />
<br />
I need help. But now that I am caught up in something so big, with gods and artifacts and traveling the world...who can I trust? I'm not sure I can trust anyone. I may need to do this on my own. No -- with my sister. With just the help of my sister. I have waited a long time to write those words.<br />
<br />
===Sunday August 20, 48670===<br />
Poor Mara. She had to witness, too late to help, seeing someone she's obviously close to sacrifice himself to take the life of her high priestess. He used some special dagger that he asked Astera to bring back to the temple of Ramver in Skryfe. What a burden to bear. I've carried difficult things in my heart before, but this is so much bigger than any of us. I hope Mara is OK. I hope Astera is OK. I hope the Hub is OK.<br />
<br />
===Thursday September 1, 48670===<br />
I met a god today. The temple was glowing, and when we walked inside, there was Ramver, standing at his own altar. It was both overwhelming and not, at the same time. I should be totally cowed by a power like that...I don't understand. But he spoke to Astera, including giving her a message from Pussich himself that she was doing a good job. Her family must be so proud. All that family -- so many brothers and sisters. Parents. I can't even imagine.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 3, 48670===<br />
I'm at a loss for words. I can't even process what I saw yet. But I watched the whole thing, because I needed to know someone was there to witness it. Something went wrong, during the ritual. Swirling portals to the abyss and the celestial plane. A giant balrog. And astral diva. I actually touched her -- the diva. With my touch of destiny, on the way by. I can only hope she prevails. I tried to tell the guard. I tried to tell the mage guild. It didn't matter. Nothing mattered. They practically leveled the city. I'm not sure why I thought it was so important to watch the whole thing, but that experience is now a part of who I am, and who I will be some day.<br />
<br />
===Thursday October 6, 48670===<br />
Rebuilding is hard, especially when the world is going just a little bit haywire. I tried to help, I found some blankets and food at least. Then it stormed a bit, and then it started raining tiny giraffes. I caught one, as he fell. We ate lettuce together and played hide and seek, except we somehow always knew where the other one was. We got lost anyway and then I picked him up and flew home. He liked to lean his head down on my shoulder when I carried him. All the other tiny giraffes disappeared, but somehow, Figgy was still there.<br />
<br />
===Friday October 7, 48670===<br />
Well, it's official. I went to the mage guild to update my registration. His full name is listed as Finnegan. He's one of a kind. Just like me.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 10, 48670===<br />
Mara got her mantis back today, with the recording of the ritual. From what we could see, a solar angel and a huge balor came through. That explains the extent of the destruction. Watching it brought back the whole scene. I think I'll be seeing that for a while. Oh no. Oak, I really hope you didn't have to watch any of that with me.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 16, 48670===<br />
Met another new person today. Her name is Rena. She got teleported into the same warehouse we did. I guess it was a good thing, because the chaos monsters had almost killed Astera a few times. I just wanted to go pick some apples. Instead, chaos beasts and dealing with a new person giving me the same old look. Oak, I'm tired.<br />
<br />
At least I still got my apples later.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday October 18, 48670===<br />
A giant book of demons. Weird null magic from the void. A bone devil forging us a letter with a bone quill. Regular conversations with the High Priest of Ramver. A giant FLOATING STOMACH with nasty sharp teeth. A void bomb.<br />
<br />
We were heading outside, but Maggie was still in there when it...happened. I don't even know who to thank anymore, but Manny was able to heal her in time. I've never had friends like this. It was scary to come that close to losing someone.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 23, 48670===<br />
Mara is dead. Astera's little brother is dead. Manny just dropped dead in the middle of a sentence. He got better a half hour later. Some people are dead for a few minutes. Some people have been dead all day. I know these weird things have been happening, and I know most of them wear off the next day. But it's hard to see so many lifeless people around just waiting. I think the Hub must be hurting. Something is broken. Are we making it better? Or are we making it worse?<br />
<br />
===Wednesday October 26, 48670===<br />
I met an archmage today. I never thought I would meet an archmage. I wish you could've been here, Oak. She even set a place at the table for me. She knows so much about so many things. How did I get from sleeping, hungry, in a tree to a four-course dessert with an archmage? Things move so fast sometimes, but I still feel like I'll never find you.<br />
<br />
===Friday November 4, 48670===<br />
We fought a bunch of void undead and found a box that unfolds into a boat that sails through the sky. I really can't believe I wrote that sentence. I think that's all for today.<br />
<br />
===Wednesday November 9, 48670===<br />
I've never flown so fast before. Unfortunately, it meant we missed our stop at the north tower, and kind of went all the way to the land of the Frost Elves in one day. It's even colder than I could possibly have imagined -- but we're here. We're actually here.<br />
<br />
Oak, I was afraid to say it, but we're going to try to come to Faerie too. If we made it here...there's a chance we really can make it there. I don't know if it's going to be home for me. I'm scared it will be. I'm scared it won't be. I just don't know.<br />
<br />
===Saturday November 12, 48670===<br />
Today we met the Snow Queen. I can't even imagine how old she is. How does she even process so much time? Is what's going on with the gods and the Void and all these things so incredibly world-altering, it disturbs even her?</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=16042
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2016-08-27T21:27:36Z
<p>Ratri: /* Friday November 4, 48670 */</p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 19, 48670===<br />
Another dream. Bright light through crystal shards, a faerie-sized home, the warm feeling of seeing a friend. I am glad she has those feelings, but it's always so hard to wake up. It has been a while since I saw her face. That always hits me harder. I know Mara means well when she asks me about stuff, but talking about it never makes it easier. At least I have a friend now too.<br />
<br />
And then we arrived in the town of farmers. I'm so afraid to let anyone see me. At least when Mara told Nib not to be afraid, he listened to her. He seems to be okay with me. It sounds like I'll mostly be snooping outside of town anyway. Maybe I won't even have to see a farmer. The most wonderful thing about my dreams is having a break from that fear. I know your life is not easy, Oak, but I am eternally grateful this is one pain you do not have to suffer.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 26, 48670===<br />
One hundred and one years. They look like a handful of glitter dancing on the wind...whirling by in a blur, with bright spots and dark spots and not much in between. Being out away from the people and away from the town is nice though. I found an adorable boa to snuggle and picked fresh fruit. I smelled the air and the earth and slept under the open sky. Tents are useful when we travel, but every now and then, I need this freedom. And I can see why people out here might tend to worship darkness and night. But tonight, the stars are beautiful and I do not have to convince anyone else of who I am or who I wish to be. Happy birthday, Oak.<br />
<br />
===Monday July 16, 48670===<br />
Vitra and I had an interesting meeting today. We thought we were going to see some middling priest of Ramver about some research, but instead we found the top 5 members of The Council. They talked to Vitra for a little while and gave her a bit list of things to look for. I'm sure at least some of them could see me sitting there, but no one tried to talk to me. I didn't really know what to do. There were a lot of unspoken things in that room, tensions and questions that cannot be answered. What would you think if you saw that? Do you even see me, when I'm hiding from everyone else? Somehow, I imagine we would always be able to see each other.<br />
<br />
===Monday August 14, 48670===<br />
Another day, another dream -- but this one was different. When I dream, I see what Oak sees. This time, she was talking to me. More than ever, I feel like if I told someone, they'd say it was "just a dream" or wishful thinking. But I don't believe that. It's her. It's really her. Why would she be looking for me? Why would she even want to meet me? I suppose I always assumed that if she knew about me, if she had the same dreams, she saw the bad things I do. She saw me spend so many years truly hurting people, saw how everyone who can see me reacts. I assumed she saw what I see in the mirror. "We'll find each other in the middle somewhere." My sister is so smart. More than ever, I need to find her. First, I need to learn how she spoke to me, and how to help her do that. How to be strong enough that I can talk to her as well.<br />
<br />
I need help. But now that I am caught up in something so big, with gods and artifacts and traveling the world...who can I trust? I'm not sure I can trust anyone. I may need to do this on my own. No -- with my sister. With just the help of my sister. I have waited a long time to write those words.<br />
<br />
===Sunday August 20, 48670===<br />
Poor Mara. She had to witness, too late to help, seeing someone she's obviously close to sacrifice himself to take the life of her high priestess. He used some special dagger that he asked Astera to bring back to the temple of Ramver in Skryfe. What a burden to bear. I've carried difficult things in my heart before, but this is so much bigger than any of us. I hope Mara is OK. I hope Astera is OK. I hope the Hub is OK.<br />
<br />
===Thursday September 1, 48670===<br />
I met a god today. The temple was glowing, and when we walked inside, there was Ramver, standing at his own altar. It was both overwhelming and not, at the same time. I should be totally cowed by a power like that...I don't understand. But he spoke to Astera, including giving her a message from Pussich himself that she was doing a good job. Her family must be so proud. All that family -- so many brothers and sisters. Parents. I can't even imagine.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 3, 48670===<br />
I'm at a loss for words. I can't even process what I saw yet. But I watched the whole thing, because I needed to know someone was there to witness it. Something went wrong, during the ritual. Swirling portals to the abyss and the celestial plane. A giant balrog. And astral diva. I actually touched her -- the diva. With my touch of destiny, on the way by. I can only hope she prevails. I tried to tell the guard. I tried to tell the mage guild. It didn't matter. Nothing mattered. They practically leveled the city. I'm not sure why I thought it was so important to watch the whole thing, but that experience is now a part of who I am, and who I will be some day.<br />
<br />
===Thursday October 6, 48670===<br />
Rebuilding is hard, especially when the world is going just a little bit haywire. I tried to help, I found some blankets and food at least. Then it stormed a bit, and then it started raining tiny giraffes. I caught one, as he fell. We ate lettuce together and played hide and seek, except we somehow always knew where the other one was. We got lost anyway and then I picked him up and flew home. He liked to lean his head down on my shoulder when I carried him. All the other tiny giraffes disappeared, but somehow, Figgy was still there.<br />
<br />
===Friday October 7, 48670===<br />
Well, it's official. I went to the mage guild to update my registration. His full name is listed as Finnegan. He's one of a kind. Just like me.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 10, 48670===<br />
Mara got her mantis back today, with the recording of the ritual. From what we could see, a solar angel and a huge balor came through. That explains the extent of the destruction. Watching it brought back the whole scene. I think I'll be seeing that for a while. Oh no. Oak, I really hope you didn't have to watch any of that with me.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 16, 48670===<br />
Met another new person today. Her name is Rena. She got teleported into the same warehouse we did. I guess it was a good thing, because the chaos monsters had almost killed Astera a few times. I just wanted to go pick some apples. Instead, chaos beasts and dealing with a new person giving me the same old look. Oak, I'm tired.<br />
<br />
At least I still got my apples later.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday October 18, 48670===<br />
A giant book of demons. Weird null magic from the void. A bone devil forging us a letter with a bone quill. Regular conversations with the High Priest of Ramver. A giant FLOATING STOMACH with nasty sharp teeth. A void bomb.<br />
<br />
We were heading outside, but Maggie was still in there when it...happened. I don't even know who to thank anymore, but Manny was able to heal her in time. I've never had friends like this. It was scary to come that close to losing someone.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 23, 48670===<br />
Mara is dead. Astera's little brother is dead. Manny just dropped dead in the middle of a sentence. He got better a half hour later. Some people are dead for a few minutes. Some people have been dead all day. I know these weird things have been happening, and I know most of them wear off the next day. But it's hard to see so many lifeless people around just waiting. I think the Hub must be hurting. Something is broken. Are we making it better? Or are we making it worse?<br />
<br />
===Wednesday October 26, 48670===<br />
I met an archmage today. I never thought I would meet an archmage. I wish you could've been here, Oak. She even set a place at the table for me. She knows so much about so many things. How did I get from sleeping, hungry, in a tree to a four-course dessert with an archmage? Things move so fast sometimes, but I still feel like I'll never find you.<br />
<br />
===Friday November 4, 48670===<br />
We fought a bunch of void undead and found a box that unfolds into a boat that sails through the sky. I really can't believe I wrote that sentence. I think that's all for today.<br />
<br />
===Wednesday November 9, 48670===<br />
I've never flown so fast before. Unfortunately, it meant we missed our stop at the north tower, and kind of went all the way to the land of the Frost Elves in one day. It's even colder than I could possibly have imagined -- but we're here. We're actually here.<br />
<br />
Oak, I was afraid to say it, but we're going to try to come to Faerie too. If we made it here...there's a chance we really can make it there. I don't know if it's going to be home for me. I'm scared it will be. I'm scared it won't be. I just don't know.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=16041
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2016-08-27T21:10:28Z
<p>Ratri: /* Sunday October 23, 48760 */</p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 19, 48670===<br />
Another dream. Bright light through crystal shards, a faerie-sized home, the warm feeling of seeing a friend. I am glad she has those feelings, but it's always so hard to wake up. It has been a while since I saw her face. That always hits me harder. I know Mara means well when she asks me about stuff, but talking about it never makes it easier. At least I have a friend now too.<br />
<br />
And then we arrived in the town of farmers. I'm so afraid to let anyone see me. At least when Mara told Nib not to be afraid, he listened to her. He seems to be okay with me. It sounds like I'll mostly be snooping outside of town anyway. Maybe I won't even have to see a farmer. The most wonderful thing about my dreams is having a break from that fear. I know your life is not easy, Oak, but I am eternally grateful this is one pain you do not have to suffer.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 26, 48670===<br />
One hundred and one years. They look like a handful of glitter dancing on the wind...whirling by in a blur, with bright spots and dark spots and not much in between. Being out away from the people and away from the town is nice though. I found an adorable boa to snuggle and picked fresh fruit. I smelled the air and the earth and slept under the open sky. Tents are useful when we travel, but every now and then, I need this freedom. And I can see why people out here might tend to worship darkness and night. But tonight, the stars are beautiful and I do not have to convince anyone else of who I am or who I wish to be. Happy birthday, Oak.<br />
<br />
===Monday July 16, 48670===<br />
Vitra and I had an interesting meeting today. We thought we were going to see some middling priest of Ramver about some research, but instead we found the top 5 members of The Council. They talked to Vitra for a little while and gave her a bit list of things to look for. I'm sure at least some of them could see me sitting there, but no one tried to talk to me. I didn't really know what to do. There were a lot of unspoken things in that room, tensions and questions that cannot be answered. What would you think if you saw that? Do you even see me, when I'm hiding from everyone else? Somehow, I imagine we would always be able to see each other.<br />
<br />
===Monday August 14, 48670===<br />
Another day, another dream -- but this one was different. When I dream, I see what Oak sees. This time, she was talking to me. More than ever, I feel like if I told someone, they'd say it was "just a dream" or wishful thinking. But I don't believe that. It's her. It's really her. Why would she be looking for me? Why would she even want to meet me? I suppose I always assumed that if she knew about me, if she had the same dreams, she saw the bad things I do. She saw me spend so many years truly hurting people, saw how everyone who can see me reacts. I assumed she saw what I see in the mirror. "We'll find each other in the middle somewhere." My sister is so smart. More than ever, I need to find her. First, I need to learn how she spoke to me, and how to help her do that. How to be strong enough that I can talk to her as well.<br />
<br />
I need help. But now that I am caught up in something so big, with gods and artifacts and traveling the world...who can I trust? I'm not sure I can trust anyone. I may need to do this on my own. No -- with my sister. With just the help of my sister. I have waited a long time to write those words.<br />
<br />
===Sunday August 20, 48670===<br />
Poor Mara. She had to witness, too late to help, seeing someone she's obviously close to sacrifice himself to take the life of her high priestess. He used some special dagger that he asked Astera to bring back to the temple of Ramver in Skryfe. What a burden to bear. I've carried difficult things in my heart before, but this is so much bigger than any of us. I hope Mara is OK. I hope Astera is OK. I hope the Hub is OK.<br />
<br />
===Thursday September 1, 48670===<br />
I met a god today. The temple was glowing, and when we walked inside, there was Ramver, standing at his own altar. It was both overwhelming and not, at the same time. I should be totally cowed by a power like that...I don't understand. But he spoke to Astera, including giving her a message from Pussich himself that she was doing a good job. Her family must be so proud. All that family -- so many brothers and sisters. Parents. I can't even imagine.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 3, 48670===<br />
I'm at a loss for words. I can't even process what I saw yet. But I watched the whole thing, because I needed to know someone was there to witness it. Something went wrong, during the ritual. Swirling portals to the abyss and the celestial plane. A giant balrog. And astral diva. I actually touched her -- the diva. With my touch of destiny, on the way by. I can only hope she prevails. I tried to tell the guard. I tried to tell the mage guild. It didn't matter. Nothing mattered. They practically leveled the city. I'm not sure why I thought it was so important to watch the whole thing, but that experience is now a part of who I am, and who I will be some day.<br />
<br />
===Thursday October 6, 48670===<br />
Rebuilding is hard, especially when the world is going just a little bit haywire. I tried to help, I found some blankets and food at least. Then it stormed a bit, and then it started raining tiny giraffes. I caught one, as he fell. We ate lettuce together and played hide and seek, except we somehow always knew where the other one was. We got lost anyway and then I picked him up and flew home. He liked to lean his head down on my shoulder when I carried him. All the other tiny giraffes disappeared, but somehow, Figgy was still there.<br />
<br />
===Friday October 7, 48670===<br />
Well, it's official. I went to the mage guild to update my registration. His full name is listed as Finnegan. He's one of a kind. Just like me.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 10, 48670===<br />
Mara got her mantis back today, with the recording of the ritual. From what we could see, a solar angel and a huge balor came through. That explains the extent of the destruction. Watching it brought back the whole scene. I think I'll be seeing that for a while. Oh no. Oak, I really hope you didn't have to watch any of that with me.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 16, 48670===<br />
Met another new person today. Her name is Rena. She got teleported into the same warehouse we did. I guess it was a good thing, because the chaos monsters had almost killed Astera a few times. I just wanted to go pick some apples. Instead, chaos beasts and dealing with a new person giving me the same old look. Oak, I'm tired.<br />
<br />
At least I still got my apples later.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday October 18, 48670===<br />
A giant book of demons. Weird null magic from the void. A bone devil forging us a letter with a bone quill. Regular conversations with the High Priest of Ramver. A giant FLOATING STOMACH with nasty sharp teeth. A void bomb.<br />
<br />
We were heading outside, but Maggie was still in there when it...happened. I don't even know who to thank anymore, but Manny was able to heal her in time. I've never had friends like this. It was scary to come that close to losing someone.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 23, 48670===<br />
Mara is dead. Astera's little brother is dead. Manny just dropped dead in the middle of a sentence. He got better a half hour later. Some people are dead for a few minutes. Some people have been dead all day. I know these weird things have been happening, and I know most of them wear off the next day. But it's hard to see so many lifeless people around just waiting. I think the Hub must be hurting. Something is broken. Are we making it better? Or are we making it worse?<br />
<br />
===Wednesday October 26, 48670===<br />
I met an archmage today. I never thought I would meet an archmage. I wish you could've been here, Oak. She even set a place at the table for me. She knows so much about so many things. How did I get from sleeping, hungry, in a tree to a four-course dessert with an archmage? Things move so fast sometimes, but I still feel like I'll never find you.<br />
<br />
===Friday November 4, 48670===<br />
We fought a bunch of void undead and found a box that unfolds into a boat that sails through the sky. I really can't believe I wrote that sentence. I think that's all for today.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=16040
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2016-08-27T20:53:52Z
<p>Ratri: /* Sunday October 16, 48670 */</p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 19, 48670===<br />
Another dream. Bright light through crystal shards, a faerie-sized home, the warm feeling of seeing a friend. I am glad she has those feelings, but it's always so hard to wake up. It has been a while since I saw her face. That always hits me harder. I know Mara means well when she asks me about stuff, but talking about it never makes it easier. At least I have a friend now too.<br />
<br />
And then we arrived in the town of farmers. I'm so afraid to let anyone see me. At least when Mara told Nib not to be afraid, he listened to her. He seems to be okay with me. It sounds like I'll mostly be snooping outside of town anyway. Maybe I won't even have to see a farmer. The most wonderful thing about my dreams is having a break from that fear. I know your life is not easy, Oak, but I am eternally grateful this is one pain you do not have to suffer.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 26, 48670===<br />
One hundred and one years. They look like a handful of glitter dancing on the wind...whirling by in a blur, with bright spots and dark spots and not much in between. Being out away from the people and away from the town is nice though. I found an adorable boa to snuggle and picked fresh fruit. I smelled the air and the earth and slept under the open sky. Tents are useful when we travel, but every now and then, I need this freedom. And I can see why people out here might tend to worship darkness and night. But tonight, the stars are beautiful and I do not have to convince anyone else of who I am or who I wish to be. Happy birthday, Oak.<br />
<br />
===Monday July 16, 48670===<br />
Vitra and I had an interesting meeting today. We thought we were going to see some middling priest of Ramver about some research, but instead we found the top 5 members of The Council. They talked to Vitra for a little while and gave her a bit list of things to look for. I'm sure at least some of them could see me sitting there, but no one tried to talk to me. I didn't really know what to do. There were a lot of unspoken things in that room, tensions and questions that cannot be answered. What would you think if you saw that? Do you even see me, when I'm hiding from everyone else? Somehow, I imagine we would always be able to see each other.<br />
<br />
===Monday August 14, 48670===<br />
Another day, another dream -- but this one was different. When I dream, I see what Oak sees. This time, she was talking to me. More than ever, I feel like if I told someone, they'd say it was "just a dream" or wishful thinking. But I don't believe that. It's her. It's really her. Why would she be looking for me? Why would she even want to meet me? I suppose I always assumed that if she knew about me, if she had the same dreams, she saw the bad things I do. She saw me spend so many years truly hurting people, saw how everyone who can see me reacts. I assumed she saw what I see in the mirror. "We'll find each other in the middle somewhere." My sister is so smart. More than ever, I need to find her. First, I need to learn how she spoke to me, and how to help her do that. How to be strong enough that I can talk to her as well.<br />
<br />
I need help. But now that I am caught up in something so big, with gods and artifacts and traveling the world...who can I trust? I'm not sure I can trust anyone. I may need to do this on my own. No -- with my sister. With just the help of my sister. I have waited a long time to write those words.<br />
<br />
===Sunday August 20, 48670===<br />
Poor Mara. She had to witness, too late to help, seeing someone she's obviously close to sacrifice himself to take the life of her high priestess. He used some special dagger that he asked Astera to bring back to the temple of Ramver in Skryfe. What a burden to bear. I've carried difficult things in my heart before, but this is so much bigger than any of us. I hope Mara is OK. I hope Astera is OK. I hope the Hub is OK.<br />
<br />
===Thursday September 1, 48670===<br />
I met a god today. The temple was glowing, and when we walked inside, there was Ramver, standing at his own altar. It was both overwhelming and not, at the same time. I should be totally cowed by a power like that...I don't understand. But he spoke to Astera, including giving her a message from Pussich himself that she was doing a good job. Her family must be so proud. All that family -- so many brothers and sisters. Parents. I can't even imagine.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 3, 48670===<br />
I'm at a loss for words. I can't even process what I saw yet. But I watched the whole thing, because I needed to know someone was there to witness it. Something went wrong, during the ritual. Swirling portals to the abyss and the celestial plane. A giant balrog. And astral diva. I actually touched her -- the diva. With my touch of destiny, on the way by. I can only hope she prevails. I tried to tell the guard. I tried to tell the mage guild. It didn't matter. Nothing mattered. They practically leveled the city. I'm not sure why I thought it was so important to watch the whole thing, but that experience is now a part of who I am, and who I will be some day.<br />
<br />
===Thursday October 6, 48670===<br />
Rebuilding is hard, especially when the world is going just a little bit haywire. I tried to help, I found some blankets and food at least. Then it stormed a bit, and then it started raining tiny giraffes. I caught one, as he fell. We ate lettuce together and played hide and seek, except we somehow always knew where the other one was. We got lost anyway and then I picked him up and flew home. He liked to lean his head down on my shoulder when I carried him. All the other tiny giraffes disappeared, but somehow, Figgy was still there.<br />
<br />
===Friday October 7, 48670===<br />
Well, it's official. I went to the mage guild to update my registration. His full name is listed as Finnegan. He's one of a kind. Just like me.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 10, 48670===<br />
Mara got her mantis back today, with the recording of the ritual. From what we could see, a solar angel and a huge balor came through. That explains the extent of the destruction. Watching it brought back the whole scene. I think I'll be seeing that for a while. Oh no. Oak, I really hope you didn't have to watch any of that with me.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 16, 48670===<br />
Met another new person today. Her name is Rena. She got teleported into the same warehouse we did. I guess it was a good thing, because the chaos monsters had almost killed Astera a few times. I just wanted to go pick some apples. Instead, chaos beasts and dealing with a new person giving me the same old look. Oak, I'm tired.<br />
<br />
At least I still got my apples later.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday October 18, 48670===<br />
A giant book of demons. Weird null magic from the void. A bone devil forging us a letter with a bone quill. Regular conversations with the High Priest of Ramver. A giant FLOATING STOMACH with nasty sharp teeth. A void bomb.<br />
<br />
We were heading outside, but Maggie was still in there when it...happened. I don't even know who to thank anymore, but Manny was able to heal her in time. I've never had friends like this. It was scary to come that close to losing someone.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 23, 48760===<br />
Mara is dead. Astera's little brother is dead. Manny just dropped dead in the middle of a sentence. He got better a half hour later. Some people are dead for a few minutes. Some people have been dead all day. I know these weird things have been happening, and I know most of them wear off the next day. But it's hard to see so many lifeless people around just waiting. I think the Hub must be hurting. Something is broken. Are we making it better? Or are we making it worse?</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=16039
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2016-08-27T20:41:54Z
<p>Ratri: /* Monday October 10, 48670 */</p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 19, 48670===<br />
Another dream. Bright light through crystal shards, a faerie-sized home, the warm feeling of seeing a friend. I am glad she has those feelings, but it's always so hard to wake up. It has been a while since I saw her face. That always hits me harder. I know Mara means well when she asks me about stuff, but talking about it never makes it easier. At least I have a friend now too.<br />
<br />
And then we arrived in the town of farmers. I'm so afraid to let anyone see me. At least when Mara told Nib not to be afraid, he listened to her. He seems to be okay with me. It sounds like I'll mostly be snooping outside of town anyway. Maybe I won't even have to see a farmer. The most wonderful thing about my dreams is having a break from that fear. I know your life is not easy, Oak, but I am eternally grateful this is one pain you do not have to suffer.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 26, 48670===<br />
One hundred and one years. They look like a handful of glitter dancing on the wind...whirling by in a blur, with bright spots and dark spots and not much in between. Being out away from the people and away from the town is nice though. I found an adorable boa to snuggle and picked fresh fruit. I smelled the air and the earth and slept under the open sky. Tents are useful when we travel, but every now and then, I need this freedom. And I can see why people out here might tend to worship darkness and night. But tonight, the stars are beautiful and I do not have to convince anyone else of who I am or who I wish to be. Happy birthday, Oak.<br />
<br />
===Monday July 16, 48670===<br />
Vitra and I had an interesting meeting today. We thought we were going to see some middling priest of Ramver about some research, but instead we found the top 5 members of The Council. They talked to Vitra for a little while and gave her a bit list of things to look for. I'm sure at least some of them could see me sitting there, but no one tried to talk to me. I didn't really know what to do. There were a lot of unspoken things in that room, tensions and questions that cannot be answered. What would you think if you saw that? Do you even see me, when I'm hiding from everyone else? Somehow, I imagine we would always be able to see each other.<br />
<br />
===Monday August 14, 48670===<br />
Another day, another dream -- but this one was different. When I dream, I see what Oak sees. This time, she was talking to me. More than ever, I feel like if I told someone, they'd say it was "just a dream" or wishful thinking. But I don't believe that. It's her. It's really her. Why would she be looking for me? Why would she even want to meet me? I suppose I always assumed that if she knew about me, if she had the same dreams, she saw the bad things I do. She saw me spend so many years truly hurting people, saw how everyone who can see me reacts. I assumed she saw what I see in the mirror. "We'll find each other in the middle somewhere." My sister is so smart. More than ever, I need to find her. First, I need to learn how she spoke to me, and how to help her do that. How to be strong enough that I can talk to her as well.<br />
<br />
I need help. But now that I am caught up in something so big, with gods and artifacts and traveling the world...who can I trust? I'm not sure I can trust anyone. I may need to do this on my own. No -- with my sister. With just the help of my sister. I have waited a long time to write those words.<br />
<br />
===Sunday August 20, 48670===<br />
Poor Mara. She had to witness, too late to help, seeing someone she's obviously close to sacrifice himself to take the life of her high priestess. He used some special dagger that he asked Astera to bring back to the temple of Ramver in Skryfe. What a burden to bear. I've carried difficult things in my heart before, but this is so much bigger than any of us. I hope Mara is OK. I hope Astera is OK. I hope the Hub is OK.<br />
<br />
===Thursday September 1, 48670===<br />
I met a god today. The temple was glowing, and when we walked inside, there was Ramver, standing at his own altar. It was both overwhelming and not, at the same time. I should be totally cowed by a power like that...I don't understand. But he spoke to Astera, including giving her a message from Pussich himself that she was doing a good job. Her family must be so proud. All that family -- so many brothers and sisters. Parents. I can't even imagine.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 3, 48670===<br />
I'm at a loss for words. I can't even process what I saw yet. But I watched the whole thing, because I needed to know someone was there to witness it. Something went wrong, during the ritual. Swirling portals to the abyss and the celestial plane. A giant balrog. And astral diva. I actually touched her -- the diva. With my touch of destiny, on the way by. I can only hope she prevails. I tried to tell the guard. I tried to tell the mage guild. It didn't matter. Nothing mattered. They practically leveled the city. I'm not sure why I thought it was so important to watch the whole thing, but that experience is now a part of who I am, and who I will be some day.<br />
<br />
===Thursday October 6, 48670===<br />
Rebuilding is hard, especially when the world is going just a little bit haywire. I tried to help, I found some blankets and food at least. Then it stormed a bit, and then it started raining tiny giraffes. I caught one, as he fell. We ate lettuce together and played hide and seek, except we somehow always knew where the other one was. We got lost anyway and then I picked him up and flew home. He liked to lean his head down on my shoulder when I carried him. All the other tiny giraffes disappeared, but somehow, Figgy was still there.<br />
<br />
===Friday October 7, 48670===<br />
Well, it's official. I went to the mage guild to update my registration. His full name is listed as Finnegan. He's one of a kind. Just like me.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 10, 48670===<br />
Mara got her mantis back today, with the recording of the ritual. From what we could see, a solar angel and a huge balor came through. That explains the extent of the destruction. Watching it brought back the whole scene. I think I'll be seeing that for a while. Oh no. Oak, I really hope you didn't have to watch any of that with me.<br />
<br />
===Sunday October 16, 48670===<br />
Met another new person today. Her name is Rena. She got teleported into the same warehouse we did. I guess it was a good thing, because the chaos monsters had almost killed Astera a few times. I just wanted to go pick some apples. Instead, chaos beasts and dealing with a new person giving me the same old look. Oak, I'm tired.<br />
<br />
At least I still got my apples later.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=16038
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2016-08-27T20:27:59Z
<p>Ratri: </p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 19, 48670===<br />
Another dream. Bright light through crystal shards, a faerie-sized home, the warm feeling of seeing a friend. I am glad she has those feelings, but it's always so hard to wake up. It has been a while since I saw her face. That always hits me harder. I know Mara means well when she asks me about stuff, but talking about it never makes it easier. At least I have a friend now too.<br />
<br />
And then we arrived in the town of farmers. I'm so afraid to let anyone see me. At least when Mara told Nib not to be afraid, he listened to her. He seems to be okay with me. It sounds like I'll mostly be snooping outside of town anyway. Maybe I won't even have to see a farmer. The most wonderful thing about my dreams is having a break from that fear. I know your life is not easy, Oak, but I am eternally grateful this is one pain you do not have to suffer.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 26, 48670===<br />
One hundred and one years. They look like a handful of glitter dancing on the wind...whirling by in a blur, with bright spots and dark spots and not much in between. Being out away from the people and away from the town is nice though. I found an adorable boa to snuggle and picked fresh fruit. I smelled the air and the earth and slept under the open sky. Tents are useful when we travel, but every now and then, I need this freedom. And I can see why people out here might tend to worship darkness and night. But tonight, the stars are beautiful and I do not have to convince anyone else of who I am or who I wish to be. Happy birthday, Oak.<br />
<br />
===Monday July 16, 48670===<br />
Vitra and I had an interesting meeting today. We thought we were going to see some middling priest of Ramver about some research, but instead we found the top 5 members of The Council. They talked to Vitra for a little while and gave her a bit list of things to look for. I'm sure at least some of them could see me sitting there, but no one tried to talk to me. I didn't really know what to do. There were a lot of unspoken things in that room, tensions and questions that cannot be answered. What would you think if you saw that? Do you even see me, when I'm hiding from everyone else? Somehow, I imagine we would always be able to see each other.<br />
<br />
===Monday August 14, 48670===<br />
Another day, another dream -- but this one was different. When I dream, I see what Oak sees. This time, she was talking to me. More than ever, I feel like if I told someone, they'd say it was "just a dream" or wishful thinking. But I don't believe that. It's her. It's really her. Why would she be looking for me? Why would she even want to meet me? I suppose I always assumed that if she knew about me, if she had the same dreams, she saw the bad things I do. She saw me spend so many years truly hurting people, saw how everyone who can see me reacts. I assumed she saw what I see in the mirror. "We'll find each other in the middle somewhere." My sister is so smart. More than ever, I need to find her. First, I need to learn how she spoke to me, and how to help her do that. How to be strong enough that I can talk to her as well.<br />
<br />
I need help. But now that I am caught up in something so big, with gods and artifacts and traveling the world...who can I trust? I'm not sure I can trust anyone. I may need to do this on my own. No -- with my sister. With just the help of my sister. I have waited a long time to write those words.<br />
<br />
===Sunday August 20, 48670===<br />
Poor Mara. She had to witness, too late to help, seeing someone she's obviously close to sacrifice himself to take the life of her high priestess. He used some special dagger that he asked Astera to bring back to the temple of Ramver in Skryfe. What a burden to bear. I've carried difficult things in my heart before, but this is so much bigger than any of us. I hope Mara is OK. I hope Astera is OK. I hope the Hub is OK.<br />
<br />
===Thursday September 1, 48670===<br />
I met a god today. The temple was glowing, and when we walked inside, there was Ramver, standing at his own altar. It was both overwhelming and not, at the same time. I should be totally cowed by a power like that...I don't understand. But he spoke to Astera, including giving her a message from Pussich himself that she was doing a good job. Her family must be so proud. All that family -- so many brothers and sisters. Parents. I can't even imagine.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 3, 48670===<br />
I'm at a loss for words. I can't even process what I saw yet. But I watched the whole thing, because I needed to know someone was there to witness it. Something went wrong, during the ritual. Swirling portals to the abyss and the celestial plane. A giant balrog. And astral diva. I actually touched her -- the diva. With my touch of destiny, on the way by. I can only hope she prevails. I tried to tell the guard. I tried to tell the mage guild. It didn't matter. Nothing mattered. They practically leveled the city. I'm not sure why I thought it was so important to watch the whole thing, but that experience is now a part of who I am, and who I will be some day.<br />
<br />
===Thursday October 6, 48670===<br />
Rebuilding is hard, especially when the world is going just a little bit haywire. I tried to help, I found some blankets and food at least. Then it stormed a bit, and then it started raining tiny giraffes. I caught one, as he fell. We ate lettuce together and played hide and seek, except we somehow always knew where the other one was. We got lost anyway and then I picked him up and flew home. He liked to lean his head down on my shoulder when I carried him. All the other tiny giraffes disappeared, but somehow, Figgy was still there.<br />
<br />
===Friday October 7, 48670===<br />
Well, it's official. I went to the mage guild to update my registration. His full name is listed as Finnegan. He's one of a kind. Just like me.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 10, 48670===<br />
Mara got her mantis back today, with the recording of the ritual. From what we could see, a solar angel and a huge balor came through. That explains the extent of the destruction. Watching it brought back the whole scene. I think I'll be seeing that for a while. Oh no. Oak, I really hope you didn't have to watch any of that with me.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=16027
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2016-08-14T02:00:18Z
<p>Ratri: </p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 19, 48670===<br />
Another dream. Bright light through crystal shards, a faerie-sized home, the warm feeling of seeing a friend. I am glad she has those feelings, but it's always so hard to wake up. It has been a while since I saw her face. That always hits me harder. I know Mara means well when she asks me about stuff, but talking about it never makes it easier. At least I have a friend now too.<br />
<br />
And then we arrived in the town of farmers. I'm so afraid to let anyone see me. At least when Mara told Nib not to be afraid, he listened to her. He seems to be okay with me. It sounds like I'll mostly be snooping outside of town anyway. Maybe I won't even have to see a farmer. The most wonderful thing about my dreams is having a break from that fear. I know your life is not easy, Oak, but I am eternally grateful this is one pain you do not have to suffer.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 26, 48670===<br />
One hundred and one years. They look like a handful of glitter dancing on the wind...whirling by in a blur, with bright spots and dark spots and not much in between. Being out away from the people and away from the town is nice though. I found an adorable boa to snuggle and picked fresh fruit. I smelled the air and the earth and slept under the open sky. Tents are useful when we travel, but every now and then, I need this freedom. And I can see why people out here might tend to worship darkness and night. But tonight, the stars are beautiful and I do not have to convince anyone else of who I am or who I wish to be. Happy birthday, Oak.<br />
<br />
===Monday July 16, 48670===<br />
Vitra and I had an interesting meeting today. We thought we were going to see some middling priest of Ramver about some research, but instead we found the top 5 members of The Council. They talked to Vitra for a little while and gave her a bit list of things to look for. I'm sure at least some of them could see me sitting there, but no one tried to talk to me. I didn't really know what to do. There were a lot of unspoken things in that room, tensions and questions that cannot be answered. What would you think if you saw that? Do you even see me, when I'm hiding from everyone else? Somehow, I imagine we would always be able to see each other.<br />
<br />
===Monday August 14, 48670===<br />
Another day, another dream -- but this one was different. When I dream, I see what Oak sees. This time, she was talking to me. More than ever, I feel like if I told someone, they'd say it was "just a dream" or wishful thinking. But I don't believe that. It's her. It's really her. Why would she be looking for me? Why would she even want to meet me? I suppose I always assumed that if she knew about me, if she had the same dreams, she saw the bad things I do. She saw me spend so many years truly hurting people, saw how everyone who can see me reacts. I assumed she saw what I see in the mirror. "We'll find each other in the middle somewhere." My sister is so smart. More than ever, I need to find her. First, I need to learn how she spoke to me, and how to help her do that. How to be strong enough that I can talk to her as well.<br />
<br />
I need help. But now that I am caught up in something so big, with gods and artifacts and traveling the world...who can I trust? I'm not sure I can trust anyone. I may need to do this on my own. No -- with my sister. With just the help of my sister. I have waited a long time to write those words.<br />
<br />
===Sunday August 20, 48670===<br />
Poor Mara. She had to witness, too late to help, seeing someone she's obviously close to sacrifice himself to take the life of her high priestess. He used some special dagger that he asked Astera to bring back to the temple of Ramver in Skryfe. What a burden to bear. I've carried difficult things in my heart before, but this is so much bigger than any of us. I hope Mara is OK. I hope Astera is OK. I hope the Hub is OK.<br />
<br />
===Thursday September 1, 48670===<br />
I met a god today. The temple was glowing, and when we walked inside, there was Ramver, standing at his own altar. It was both overwhelming and not, at the same time. I should be totally cowed by a power like that...I don't understand. But he spoke to Astera, including giving her a message from Pussich himself that she was doing a good job. Her family must be so proud. All that family -- so many brothers and sisters. Parents. I can't even imagine.<br />
<br />
===Monday October 3, 48670===<br />
I'm at a loss for words. I can't even process what I saw yet. But I watched the whole thing, because I needed to know someone was there to witness it. Something went wrong, during the ritual. Swirling portals to the abyss and the celestial plane. A giant balrog. And astral diva. I actually touched her -- the diva. With my touch of destiny, on the way by. I can only hope she prevails. I tried to tell the guard. I tried to tell the mage guild. It didn't matter. Nothing mattered. They practically leveled the city. I'm not sure why I thought it was so important to watch the whole thing, but that experience is now a part of who I am, and who I will be some day.<br />
<br />
===Thursday October 6, 48670===<br />
Rebuilding is hard, especially when the world is going just a little bit haywire. I tried to help, I found some blankets and food at least. Then it stormed a bit, and then it started raining tiny giraffes. I caught one, as he fell. We ate lettuce together and played hide and seek, except we somehow always knew where the other one was. We got lost anyway and then I picked him up and flew home. He liked to lean his head down on my shoulder when I carried him. All the other tiny giraffes disappeared, but somehow, Figgy was still there.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=16026
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2016-08-14T00:44:24Z
<p>Ratri: </p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 19, 48670===<br />
Another dream. Bright light through crystal shards, a faerie-sized home, the warm feeling of seeing a friend. I am glad she has those feelings, but it's always so hard to wake up. It has been a while since I saw her face. That always hits me harder. I know Mara means well when she asks me about stuff, but talking about it never makes it easier. At least I have a friend now too.<br />
<br />
And then we arrived in the town of farmers. I'm so afraid to let anyone see me. At least when Mara told Nib not to be afraid, he listened to her. He seems to be okay with me. It sounds like I'll mostly be snooping outside of town anyway. Maybe I won't even have to see a farmer. The most wonderful thing about my dreams is having a break from that fear. I know your life is not easy, Oak, but I am eternally grateful this is one pain you do not have to suffer.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 26, 48670===<br />
One hundred and one years. They look like a handful of glitter dancing on the wind...whirling by in a blur, with bright spots and dark spots and not much in between. Being out away from the people and away from the town is nice though. I found an adorable boa to snuggle and picked fresh fruit. I smelled the air and the earth and slept under the open sky. Tents are useful when we travel, but every now and then, I need this freedom. And I can see why people out here might tend to worship darkness and night. But tonight, the stars are beautiful and I do not have to convince anyone else of who I am or who I wish to be. Happy birthday, Oak.<br />
<br />
===Monday July 16, 48670===<br />
Vitra and I had an interesting meeting today. We thought we were going to see some middling priest of Ramver about some research, but instead we found the top 5 members of The Council. They talked to Vitra for a little while and gave her a bit list of things to look for. I'm sure at least some of them could see me sitting there, but no one tried to talk to me. I didn't really know what to do. There were a lot of unspoken things in that room, tensions and questions that cannot be answered. What would you think if you saw that? Do you even see me, when I'm hiding from everyone else? Somehow, I imagine we would always be able to see each other.<br />
<br />
===Monday August 14, 48670===<br />
Another day, another dream -- but this one was different. When I dream, I see what Oak sees. This time, she was talking to me. More than ever, I feel like if I told someone, they'd say it was "just a dream" or wishful thinking. But I don't believe that. It's her. It's really her. Why would she be looking for me? Why would she even want to meet me? I suppose I always assumed that if she knew about me, if she had the same dreams, she saw the bad things I do. She saw me spend so many years truly hurting people, saw how everyone who can see me reacts. I assumed she saw what I see in the mirror. "We'll find each other in the middle somewhere." My sister is so smart. More than ever, I need to find her. First, I need to learn how she spoke to me, and how to help her do that. How to be strong enough that I can talk to her as well.<br />
<br />
I need help. But now that I am caught up in something so big, with gods and artifacts and traveling the world...who can I trust? I'm not sure I can trust anyone. I may need to do this on my own. No -- with my sister. With just the help of my sister. I have waited a long time to write those words.<br />
<br />
===Sunday August 20, 48670===<br />
Poor Mara. She had to witness, too late to help, seeing someone she's obviously close to sacrifice himself to take the life of her high priestess. He used some special dagger that he asked Astera to bring back to the temple of Ramver in Skryfe. What a burden to bear. I've carried difficult things in my heart before, but this is so much bigger than any of us. I hope Mara is OK. I hope Astera is OK. I hope the Hub is OK.<br />
<br />
===Thursday September 1, 48670===<br />
I met a god today. The temple was glowing, and when we walked inside, there was Ramver, standing at his own altar. It was both overwhelming and not, at the same time. I should be totally cowed by a power like that...I don't understand. But he spoke to Astera, including giving her a message from Pussich himself that she was doing a good job. Her family must be so proud. All that family -- so many brothers and sisters. Parents. I can't even imagine.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=15254
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2013-07-20T13:51:16Z
<p>Ratri: </p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 19, 48670===<br />
Another dream. Bright light through crystal shards, a faerie-sized home, the warm feeling of seeing a friend. I am glad she has those feelings, but it's always so hard to wake up. It has been a while since I saw her face. That always hits me harder. I know Mara means well when she asks me about stuff, but talking about it never makes it easier. At least I have a friend now too.<br />
<br />
And then we arrived in the town of farmers. I'm so afraid to let anyone see me. At least when Mara told Nib not to be afraid, he listened to her. He seems to be okay with me. It sounds like I'll mostly be snooping outside of town anyway. Maybe I won't even have to see a farmer. The most wonderful thing about my dreams is having a break from that fear. I know your life is not easy, Oak, but I am eternally grateful this is one pain you do not have to suffer.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 26, 48670===<br />
One hundred and one years. They look like a handful of glitter dancing on the wind...whirling by in a blur, with bright spots and dark spots and not much in between. Being out away from the people and away from the town is nice though. I found an adorable boa to snuggle and picked fresh fruit. I smelled the air and the earth and slept under the open sky. Tents are useful when we travel, but every now and then, I need this freedom. And I can see why people out here might tend to worship darkness and night. But tonight, the stars are beautiful and I do not have to convince anyone else of who I am or who I wish to be. Happy birthday, Oak.<br />
<br />
===Monday July 16, 48670===<br />
Vitra and I had an interesting meeting today. We thought we were going to see some middling priest of Ramver about some research, but instead we found the top 5 members of The Council. They talked to Vitra for a little while and gave her a bit list of things to look for. I'm sure at least some of them could see me sitting there, but no one tried to talk to me. I didn't really know what to do. There were a lot of unspoken things in that room, tensions and questions that cannot be answered. What would you think if you saw that? Do you even see me, when I'm hiding from everyone else? Somehow, I imagine we would always be able to see each other.<br />
<br />
===Monday August 14, 48670===<br />
Another day, another dream -- but this one was different. When I dream, I see what Oak sees. This time, she was talking to me. More than ever, I feel like if I told someone, they'd say it was "just a dream" or wishful thinking. But I don't believe that. It's her. It's really her. Why would she be looking for me? Why would she even want to meet me? I suppose I always assumed that if she knew about me, if she had the same dreams, she saw the bad things I do. She saw me spend so many years truly hurting people, saw how everyone who can see me reacts. I assumed she saw what I see in the mirror. "We'll find each other in the middle somewhere." My sister is so smart. More than ever, I need to find her. First, I need to learn how she spoke to me, and how to help her do that. How to be strong enough that I can talk to her as well.<br />
<br />
I need help. But now that I am caught up in something so big, with gods and artifacts and traveling the world...who can I trust? I'm not sure I can trust anyone. I may need to do this on my own. No -- with my sister. With just the help of my sister. I have waited a long time to write those words.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=15130
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2012-09-08T23:42:16Z
<p>Ratri: </p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 19, 48670===<br />
Another dream. Bright light through crystal shards, a faerie-sized home, the warm feeling of seeing a friend. I am glad she has those feelings, but it's always so hard to wake up. It has been a while since I saw her face. That always hits me harder. I know Mara means well when she asks me about stuff, but talking about it never makes it easier. At least I have a friend now too.<br />
<br />
And then we arrived in the town of farmers. I'm so afraid to let anyone see me. At least when Mara told Nib not to be afraid, he listened to her. He seems to be okay with me. It sounds like I'll mostly be snooping outside of town anyway. Maybe I won't even have to see a farmer. The most wonderful thing about my dreams is having a break from that fear. I know your life is not easy, Oak, but I am eternally grateful this is one pain you do not have to suffer.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 26, 48670===<br />
One hundred and one years. They look like a handful of glitter dancing on the wind...whirling by in a blur, with bright spots and dark spots and not much in between. Being out away from the people and away from the town is nice though. I found an adorable boa to snuggle and picked fresh fruit. I smelled the air and the earth and slept under the open sky. Tents are useful when we travel, but every now and then, I need this freedom. And I can see why people out here might tend to worship darkness and night. But tonight, the stars are beautiful and I do not have to convince anyone else of who I am or who I wish to be.<br />
<br />
===Monday July 16, 48670===<br />
Vitra and I had an interesting meeting today. We thought we were going to see some middling priest of Ramver about some research, but instead we found the top 5 members of The Council. They talked to Vitra for a little while and gave her a bit list of things to look for. I'm sure at least some of them could see me sitting there, but no one tried to talk to me. I didn't really know what to do. There were a lot of unspoken things in that room, tensions and questions that cannot be answered. What would you think if you saw that? Do you even see me, when I'm hiding from everyone else? Somehow, I imagine we would always be able to see each other.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Notes&diff=15129
Hub2 Ember: Notes
2012-09-08T23:26:48Z
<p>Ratri: Created page with "Various notes from various runs. ===9/8/12=== Temple-snooping notes: * You hear that while prayers are being answered, Scarlotta seems to be different somehow. It's a little..."</p>
<hr />
<div>Various notes from various runs.<br />
<br />
===9/8/12===<br />
Temple-snooping notes:<br />
<br />
* You hear that while prayers are being answered, Scarlotta seems to be different somehow. It's a little vague, like the priests and priestesses can't exactly describe it.<br />
* In the temple of Nadrauch, you find that pretty much everyone is doing research of one sort or another, though there's one heated conversation about how to "fix the rift". It has something to do with a rift in the celestial realm, but it's a little vague beyond that.<br />
* The temple of tiffany is full of airheads. They seem to be acting like there's something a little uncomfortable going on. They're a little nervous, especially about what the folks in the temple of Sel are doing, though it's nothing specific. "They're up to something" kind of talk.<br />
* the temple of Ramver was aware of most of the research that the party brought to them, but that they're also nervous that the return to the times of the Primals is more imminent than anyone will actually talk about. They have a plan to stop the change, but aren't sure if it'll work.<br />
* Tellua (death) i didn't go in, and couldn't hear much from the outside.<br />
* the temple of Nox is getting more powerful, or at least her followers seem to be. It's not a big change, but there are rumors flying about it.<br />
* The followers of Sel seem very excited. Sel is gaining power quickly. There's a lot of talk about exactly what's causing his rise, possibly that the undead are simply gaining power, but you overhear some of the higher priests talking about how they may not be needed when he reascends.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember&diff=15128
Hub2 Ember
2012-09-08T23:25:01Z
<p>Ratri: </p>
<hr />
<div>These are a few stories from Ember's past.<br />
<br />
* [[Hub2 Ember: Twice Born]]<br />
* [[Hub2 Ember: The Fortune-Teller]]<br />
* [[Hub2: How Ember and Mara Met]]<br />
<br />
As the adventures unfold, Ember may have a few notes to jot in her diary. It's a pretty small diary, so expect them to be pretty small notes.<br />
<br />
* [[Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal]]<br />
* [[Hub2 Ember: Notes]]</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=15103
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2012-07-14T23:26:58Z
<p>Ratri: </p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 19, 48670===<br />
Another dream. Bright light through crystal shards, a faerie-sized home, the warm feeling of seeing a friend. I am glad she has those feelings, but it's always so hard to wake up. It has been a while since I saw her face. That always hits me harder. I know Mara means well when she asks me about stuff, but talking about it never makes it easier. At least I have a friend now too.<br />
<br />
And then we arrived in the town of farmers. I'm so afraid to let anyone see me. At least when Mara told Nib not to be afraid, he listened to her. He seems to be okay with me. It sounds like I'll mostly be snooping outside of town anyway. Maybe I won't even have to see a farmer. The most wonderful thing about my dreams is having a break from that fear. I know your life is not easy, Oak, but I am eternally grateful this is one pain you do not have to suffer.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 26, 48670===<br />
One hundred and one years. They look like a handful of glitter dancing on the wind...whirling by in a blur, with bright spots and dark spots and not much in between. Being out away from the people and away from the town is nice though. I found an adorable boa to snuggle and picked fresh fruit. I smelled the air and the earth and slept under the open sky. Tents are useful when we travel, but every now and then, I need this freedom. And I can see why people out here might tend to worship darkness and night. But tonight, the stars are beautiful and I do not have to convince anyone else of who I am or who I wish to be.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Talk:Hub2:_How_Ember_and_Mara_Met&diff=15101
Talk:Hub2: How Ember and Mara Met
2012-07-14T22:37:06Z
<p>Ratri: </p>
<hr />
<div>I like it. Great work expanding on the original idea. +100xp each.<br />
<br />
Noted for Ember. --[[User:Ratri|Ratri]] 08:29, 13 May 2012 (EST)<br />
<br />
Noted for Mara also. --[[User:Ratri|Ratri]] 17:37, 14 July 2012 (EST)</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Ratri%27s_Wish_List&diff=15081
Ratri's Wish List
2012-05-23T00:46:51Z
<p>Ratri: </p>
<hr />
<div>== Stuff I'd Like ==<br />
<br />
In the interest of being able to look up what sort of stuff I like, here's a list. Updated sporadically.<br />
<br />
For the extensive joy of [[User:Caryatid|Caryatid]], I herein provide my birthday: April 23. If you forget, go ask [[User:Chadius|Chadius]]. Or my father-in-law.<br />
<br />
===These items are more or less in order by preference:===<br />
<br />
* A gift card to anywhere you can find that sells bras (or swimsuits) in 28E-FF. No, really. Try Europe. In fact, [http://www.bravissimo.com/products/giftvouchers.aspx Bravissimo] now has them.<br />
* A pair of lightish weight flannel pajama pants (dark colors/plaid/etc), size about a ladies medium<br />
** Something like [http://www.amazon.com/Violet-flannel-lounging-sports-relaxed/dp/B002LGPSFS/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&s=apparel&qlEnable=1&qid=1282526637&sr=1-7 this] (okay, it might not be dark, but it's PURPLE.)<br />
* The new [http://www.capsteps.com/albums/ Capitol Steps album]<br />
* under armour coldgear compression tights, M, black. (There might be two different types like 'frosty' and 'outdoor' or something. As long as it says "coldgear" it's good.)<br />
* under armour coldgear mock neck shirt, S. Neutral color (black preferably, or grey). Something like [http://www.underarmour.com/shop/us/en/sports/snow-sports/womens/apparel/baselayer/pid1001512-Women-s-ColdGear-SubZero-Mock/1001512-478 this]. (Note, I am specifically looking for the compression fit and warmth.)<br />
* An outdoor watering can. I think I'll want at least a gallon of capacity. And the kind that "sprinkles" instead of "pours".<br />
* A set of free weights <br />
** 1lb increments up to 5lbs<br />
** 2.5lb increments from 5 up to about 30<br />
* Stands to hold the weighs and exercise balls<br />
* A Marathon gift card for personal training.<br />
* A gift card for an hour massage at [http://www.marathonphysicaltherapy.com/massage-therapy.htm Marathon] (Yes, this is now a regular fixture.) You might have to call, but there's a phone number on their [http://www.marathonphysicaltherapy.com/contact.htm Contact Us] page.<br />
* iTunes gift card<br />
* CD's to add to my [[Ratri's Music List|music collection]] (see link for specifics.)<br />
* Gift cards: Home Depot, Sears, Bed Bath & Beyond<br />
* Gift cards: Kohls, Macy's, Victoria's Secret, R.E.I. (Which one of these is not like the others?)<br />
* The [http://www.errorwear.com/shirt-bsod95girly.php Errorwear BSOD girly shirt] in a medium (or, for bonus points, see if you can actually get in touch with them and find out whether they ever intend to get small. I sure can't.)<br />
* high-quality milk chocolate, plain or with hazelnut<br />
* [http://www.pmc.org/egifts/giftinfo.asp?EgiftID=CB0167 PMC donations] -- eGift ID CB0167. This is great for my birthday, less so around Christmas time (due to the mid-October deadline). Sadly, I will probably not participate in 2010 either due to the recent house purchase.<br />
<br />
===Crimes already perpetrated:===<br />
<br />
* An awesome ninja mask like Nybble's. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Nybs!</font><br />
* A big doggy bed monogrammed "CAT". <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dad&Nancy!</font><br />
* A ps2 memory card I can write my own name on so I know where the heck my saves are. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Aurora!</font><br />
* NSFW babydoll from thinkgeek <font color="red">DONE - Thanks me!</font><br />
* L.L.Bean Down Booties (dark red, gray...my feet are roughly a ladies 6-1/2) <font color="red">DONE - Hubby loves me! *snuggle*</font><br />
* Noir OST2 soundtrack <font color="red">DONE - Morrigu still loves me!</font><br />
* Geek Guitar: [http://www.thinkgeek.com/computing/avcards/8c43/ iAxe]. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks, Utter Chaos!</font><br />
* New headphones that will fit my teensy child-sized skull, and not make my glasses pinch my ears (preferably with with 1/4" stereo audio adapter -- see above link.) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks dear!</font><br />
* Professional massage <font color="red">DONE - thanks Morrigu!</font> However, if I decide I like it, this may become a regular fixture on my wishlist. ;)<br />
* A small yoga matt to do stretches, sit-ups and stuff at home <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Caryatid!</font><br />
* The [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts/ladies/8aa2/ ThinkGeek "Meh" babydoll] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* A basic set of high-quality bonsai tools (I have one set of clippers, and don't know what gauge wire I need.) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dad&Nancy. Thanks!</font><br />
* A new laptop to replace my ailing pre-'01 post-Arepalyptic craptop. (Yes, this one is a joke. Mostly.) <font color="red">Hey look, I found a MacBook. Crazy.</font><br />
* An EZPass for Kurama. (Fast Lane marginally acceptable.) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* Cotton undies (at least 94% cotton) with low rise and no elastic around the legs, size SM, in any color that doesn't have too much pink/yellow/orange on it <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* One of those protective little sleeves for my macbook so I can put it in a backpack or carry it around. (Preferably in black.) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dad!</font><br />
* In-ear headphones that will work better for my tiny ears than earbuds do. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dad!</font><br />
* The [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts/ladies/374a/ ThinkGeek "Got Root?" hooded girly T] (small) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks UC, for snagging this before they ran out!</font><br />
* The [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts/ladies/a1d9/?cpg=ab ThinkGeek 304 tank top] (also small) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks UC!</font><br />
* Think Geek's [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts/ladies/a09b/ 'warranty' undies], probably in a size 1. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks UC!</font><br />
* A hands-free type thing for my cell phone. No clue what kind I'd want (or even what's out there) so pretty much -- don't spring for anything fancy! But, then I could talk to mom and my sis while I make dinner without causing any major disasters. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks dear!</font><br />
* A shiny new [[Requirements for our home|house]]. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks mom, 'gu, me, Redfin, Dardeno law offices, and BofA!</font><br />
* Wii Fit Plus (or whatever the shiny new version is called) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Kate & Ryan!</font><br />
* small watering can for indoor little herb pots <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* a sauce-sized (~6 qt) pot <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* Also, a bunch of good, strong fridge magnets <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* trowel <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom! And thanks, Z and Pink!</font><br />
* garden fork <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom! And thanks, Z and Pink!</font><br />
* A french rolling pin. I have no idea if there are fancy versions of these, but I'm looking for the plainest of the plain. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Z and Pink!</font> (Whoops. Missed moving that one after Christmas...)<br />
* A magnetic white board, something like [http://www.amazon.com/Board-Dudes-Magnetic-Inches-79194VAT-12/dp/B0015RAVIS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=office-products&qid=1269046579&sr=8-2 this]. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Gu!</font><br />
* 8" and 10" skillets, like [http://www.amazon.com/KitchenAid-Gourmet-Essentials-Anodized-10-Inch/dp/B0009U5MZY/ref=pd_sim_k_3 these] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Chris & Meghan & Meghan's Mom!</font><br />
* under armour heatgear compression shorts, as close to knee length as possible (probably 7" length, maybe 9" if they have them) in size S. Black is good. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks for the Amazon card Ben&Pixie!</font><br />
* A dustbuster/dirt-devil type little vacuuming thing. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks, Arlington email list! (and Gail, in particular.)</font><br />
* An [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/womens/d3eb/ interesting babydoll] size S. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Morrigu!</font><br />
* A real, sturdy, full-sized food processor. (I have a small one but it leaves huge chunks it can't shred due to weird design and it really doesn't fit much.) <font color="red">DONE - thank you dear!</font><br />
* One of those Bose (or other good sound-quality brand) music players you can dock an iPod in <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom&Dad!</font><br />
* ThinkGeek's [http://www.thinkgeek.com/homeoffice/kitchen/d7c8/?cpg=136T&link mini cupcake maker] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* The [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/womens/c9ba/ enough social interaction] babydoll, size S <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* Exercise balls (55cm and 65cm...should be the two smaller of the normal three sizes.) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Chris & Meghan!</font><br />
* a [http://www.cafepress.com/expressivemind.404804088 WYSIWYG babydoll] in size S. (green or black is fine) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Anne!</font><br />
* ThinkGeek's awesome [http://www.thinkgeek.com/homeoffice/kitchen/d1a7/?cpg=135T&link pepper grinder] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom</font><br />
* ThinkGeek's awesome [http://www.thinkgeek.com/books/nonfiction/e7b6/ nerdy cookbook] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dan!</font><br />
* A snide [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/womens/ea7d/?srp=2 shirt] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* Indian cookbook(s). In particular, [http://www.amazon.com/Madhur-Jaffreys-Quick-Indian-Cooking/dp/0811859010/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1319409509&sr=8-2 this one] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dad!</font><br />
* Indian cookbook(s). Anything by Julie Sahni. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* One of those inch thick foldable gym mats <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* new [http://www.thinkgeek.com/computing/bags/ea30/ laptop sleeve] with fancy shoulder strap. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Meghan&Chris</font><br />
* an [http://www.thinkgeek.com/geektoys/science/eafc/?cpg=172NRP&image= Original Gyroscope] <font color="red">DONE - Thank you my dear!</font><br />
* A [http://www.thinkgeek.com/computing/bags/aaa5/?cpg=HOL11D&head bag of holding]. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Big Sis!</font><br />
* A computer headset -- the kind you'd use for skype calls. Should be compatible with my Mac. <font color="red">DONE - Thank you my dear!</font><br />
* A [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/womens/dae5/ Science shirt] <font color="red">DONE</font></div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Ratri%27s_Wish_List&diff=15070
Ratri's Wish List
2012-05-13T16:13:37Z
<p>Ratri: </p>
<hr />
<div>== Stuff I'd Like ==<br />
<br />
In the interest of being able to look up what sort of stuff I like, here's a list. Updated sporadically.<br />
<br />
For the extensive joy of [[User:Caryatid|Caryatid]], I herein provide my birthday: April 23. If you forget, go ask [[User:Chadius|Chadius]]. Or my father-in-law.<br />
<br />
===These items are more or less in order by preference:===<br />
<br />
* A gift card to anywhere you can find that sells bras (or swimsuits) in 28E-FF. No, really. Try Europe. In fact, [http://www.bravissimo.com/products/giftvouchers.aspx Bravissimo] now has them.<br />
* A pair of lightish weight flannel pajama pants (dark colors/plaid/etc), size about a ladies medium<br />
** Something like [http://www.amazon.com/Violet-flannel-lounging-sports-relaxed/dp/B002LGPSFS/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&s=apparel&qlEnable=1&qid=1282526637&sr=1-7 this] (okay, it might not be dark, but it's PURPLE.)<br />
* Also, a [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/womens/dae5/ Science shirt]<br />
* The new [http://www.capsteps.com/albums/ Capitol Steps album]<br />
* under armour coldgear compression tights, M, black. (There might be two different types like 'frosty' and 'outdoor' or something. As long as it says "coldgear" it's good.)<br />
* under armour coldgear mock neck shirt, S. Neutral color (black preferably, or grey). Something like [http://www.underarmour.com/shop/us/en/sports/snow-sports/womens/apparel/baselayer/pid1001512-Women-s-ColdGear-SubZero-Mock/1001512-478 this]. (Note, I am specifically looking for the compression fit and warmth.)<br />
* An outdoor watering can. I think I'll want at least a gallon of capacity. And the kind that "sprinkles" instead of "pours".<br />
* A set of free weights <br />
** 1lb increments up to 5lbs<br />
** 2.5lb increments from 5 up to about 30<br />
* Stands to hold the weighs and exercise balls<br />
* A Marathon gift card for personal training.<br />
* A gift card for an hour massage at [http://www.marathonphysicaltherapy.com/massage-therapy.htm Marathon] (Yes, this is now a regular fixture.) You might have to call, but there's a phone number on their [http://www.marathonphysicaltherapy.com/contact.htm Contact Us] page.<br />
* iTunes gift card<br />
* CD's to add to my [[Ratri's Music List|music collection]] (see link for specifics.)<br />
* Gift cards: Home Depot, Sears, Bed Bath & Beyond<br />
* Gift cards: Kohls, Macy's, Victoria's Secret, R.E.I. (Which one of these is not like the others?)<br />
* The [http://www.errorwear.com/shirt-bsod95girly.php Errorwear BSOD girly shirt] in a medium (or, for bonus points, see if you can actually get in touch with them and find out whether they ever intend to get small. I sure can't.)<br />
* high-quality milk chocolate, plain or with hazelnut<br />
* [http://www.pmc.org/egifts/giftinfo.asp?EgiftID=CB0167 PMC donations] -- eGift ID CB0167. This is great for my birthday, less so around Christmas time (due to the mid-October deadline). Sadly, I will probably not participate in 2010 either due to the recent house purchase.<br />
<br />
===Crimes already perpetrated:===<br />
<br />
* An awesome ninja mask like Nybble's. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Nybs!</font><br />
* A big doggy bed monogrammed "CAT". <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dad&Nancy!</font><br />
* A ps2 memory card I can write my own name on so I know where the heck my saves are. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Aurora!</font><br />
* NSFW babydoll from thinkgeek <font color="red">DONE - Thanks me!</font><br />
* L.L.Bean Down Booties (dark red, gray...my feet are roughly a ladies 6-1/2) <font color="red">DONE - Hubby loves me! *snuggle*</font><br />
* Noir OST2 soundtrack <font color="red">DONE - Morrigu still loves me!</font><br />
* Geek Guitar: [http://www.thinkgeek.com/computing/avcards/8c43/ iAxe]. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks, Utter Chaos!</font><br />
* New headphones that will fit my teensy child-sized skull, and not make my glasses pinch my ears (preferably with with 1/4" stereo audio adapter -- see above link.) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks dear!</font><br />
* Professional massage <font color="red">DONE - thanks Morrigu!</font> However, if I decide I like it, this may become a regular fixture on my wishlist. ;)<br />
* A small yoga matt to do stretches, sit-ups and stuff at home <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Caryatid!</font><br />
* The [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts/ladies/8aa2/ ThinkGeek "Meh" babydoll] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* A basic set of high-quality bonsai tools (I have one set of clippers, and don't know what gauge wire I need.) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dad&Nancy. Thanks!</font><br />
* A new laptop to replace my ailing pre-'01 post-Arepalyptic craptop. (Yes, this one is a joke. Mostly.) <font color="red">Hey look, I found a MacBook. Crazy.</font><br />
* An EZPass for Kurama. (Fast Lane marginally acceptable.) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* Cotton undies (at least 94% cotton) with low rise and no elastic around the legs, size SM, in any color that doesn't have too much pink/yellow/orange on it <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* One of those protective little sleeves for my macbook so I can put it in a backpack or carry it around. (Preferably in black.) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dad!</font><br />
* In-ear headphones that will work better for my tiny ears than earbuds do. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dad!</font><br />
* The [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts/ladies/374a/ ThinkGeek "Got Root?" hooded girly T] (small) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks UC, for snagging this before they ran out!</font><br />
* The [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts/ladies/a1d9/?cpg=ab ThinkGeek 304 tank top] (also small) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks UC!</font><br />
* Think Geek's [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts/ladies/a09b/ 'warranty' undies], probably in a size 1. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks UC!</font><br />
* A hands-free type thing for my cell phone. No clue what kind I'd want (or even what's out there) so pretty much -- don't spring for anything fancy! But, then I could talk to mom and my sis while I make dinner without causing any major disasters. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks dear!</font><br />
* A shiny new [[Requirements for our home|house]]. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks mom, 'gu, me, Redfin, Dardeno law offices, and BofA!</font><br />
* Wii Fit Plus (or whatever the shiny new version is called) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Kate & Ryan!</font><br />
* small watering can for indoor little herb pots <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* a sauce-sized (~6 qt) pot <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* Also, a bunch of good, strong fridge magnets <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* trowel <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom! And thanks, Z and Pink!</font><br />
* garden fork <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom! And thanks, Z and Pink!</font><br />
* A french rolling pin. I have no idea if there are fancy versions of these, but I'm looking for the plainest of the plain. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Z and Pink!</font> (Whoops. Missed moving that one after Christmas...)<br />
* A magnetic white board, something like [http://www.amazon.com/Board-Dudes-Magnetic-Inches-79194VAT-12/dp/B0015RAVIS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=office-products&qid=1269046579&sr=8-2 this]. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Gu!</font><br />
* 8" and 10" skillets, like [http://www.amazon.com/KitchenAid-Gourmet-Essentials-Anodized-10-Inch/dp/B0009U5MZY/ref=pd_sim_k_3 these] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Chris & Meghan & Meghan's Mom!</font><br />
* under armour heatgear compression shorts, as close to knee length as possible (probably 7" length, maybe 9" if they have them) in size S. Black is good. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks for the Amazon card Ben&Pixie!</font><br />
* A dustbuster/dirt-devil type little vacuuming thing. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks, Arlington email list! (and Gail, in particular.)</font><br />
* An [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/womens/d3eb/ interesting babydoll] size S. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Morrigu!</font><br />
* A real, sturdy, full-sized food processor. (I have a small one but it leaves huge chunks it can't shred due to weird design and it really doesn't fit much.) <font color="red">DONE - thank you dear!</font><br />
* One of those Bose (or other good sound-quality brand) music players you can dock an iPod in <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom&Dad!</font><br />
* ThinkGeek's [http://www.thinkgeek.com/homeoffice/kitchen/d7c8/?cpg=136T&link mini cupcake maker] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* The [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/womens/c9ba/ enough social interaction] babydoll, size S <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* Exercise balls (55cm and 65cm...should be the two smaller of the normal three sizes.) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Chris & Meghan!</font><br />
* a [http://www.cafepress.com/expressivemind.404804088 WYSIWYG babydoll] in size S. (green or black is fine) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Anne!</font><br />
* ThinkGeek's awesome [http://www.thinkgeek.com/homeoffice/kitchen/d1a7/?cpg=135T&link pepper grinder] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom</font><br />
* ThinkGeek's awesome [http://www.thinkgeek.com/books/nonfiction/e7b6/ nerdy cookbook] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dan!</font><br />
* A snide [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/womens/ea7d/?srp=2 shirt] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* Indian cookbook(s). In particular, [http://www.amazon.com/Madhur-Jaffreys-Quick-Indian-Cooking/dp/0811859010/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1319409509&sr=8-2 this one] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dad!</font><br />
* Indian cookbook(s). Anything by Julie Sahni. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* One of those inch thick foldable gym mats <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* new [http://www.thinkgeek.com/computing/bags/ea30/ laptop sleeve] with fancy shoulder strap. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Meghan&Chris</font><br />
* an [http://www.thinkgeek.com/geektoys/science/eafc/?cpg=172NRP&image= Original Gyroscope] <font color="red">DONE - Thank you my dear!</font><br />
* A [http://www.thinkgeek.com/computing/bags/aaa5/?cpg=HOL11D&head bag of holding]. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Big Sis!</font><br />
* A computer headset -- the kind you'd use for skype calls. Should be compatible with my Mac. <font color="red">DONE - Thank you my dear!</font></div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Talk:Hub2:_How_Ember_and_Mara_Met&diff=15069
Talk:Hub2: How Ember and Mara Met
2012-05-13T13:29:39Z
<p>Ratri: </p>
<hr />
<div>I like it. Great work expanding on the original idea. +100xp each.<br />
<br />
Noted for Ember. --[[User:Ratri|Ratri]] 08:29, 13 May 2012 (EST)</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Talk:Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=15068
Talk:Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2012-05-13T13:26:20Z
<p>Ratri: </p>
<hr />
<div>Thursday, May 30, 48670 +50 xp<br />
<br />
Sunday, June 3, 48670 +25 xp<br />
<br />
Thursday, June 7, 48670 +25 xp<br />
<br />
Friday June 8, 48670 +25 xp <br />
<br />
Tuesday June 19, 48670 +25 xp<br />
<br />
150 xps for first 5 entries noted. --[[User:Ratri|Ratri]] 08:26, 13 May 2012 (EST)</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2:_How_Ember_and_Mara_Met&diff=15063
Hub2: How Ember and Mara Met
2012-05-13T02:38:40Z
<p>Ratri: </p>
<hr />
<div>Ember perches invisibly on the dusty wooden chandelier, high above the crowd, safely out of harm's way.<br />
<br />
Mara slouches into the Rusted Marlinspike, her enveloping black robe dripping misery and rainwater as she makes her way to an empty chair at a small table by the wall. She coerces a waitress into bringing her a tankard of industrial-strength something and buries her face in her hands.<br />
<br />
Ember flicks an olive. The olive flies straight into a man's eye, causing him to lose his balance and and tip his chair over backwards, dousing the patron next to him with the full contents of his mug. The chair pulls the rope tied to the barrel. The barrel, when it falls, knocks into the billiards table, ruining someone's shot. The ball comes flying off the table and right into the most desired (endowed) bar wench's cleavage. The wench, busy trying to fish the ball out of her bodice, trips over the man soaked in ale as he leaps sputtering and angry out of his seat. The wench's entire tray goes flying, coating that half of the floor in a lake of foam and shattered mugs. The billiards player steps back, placing his foot square in the puddle of foam. He slips, throws out his arms to try to catch himself, hits the chandelier with his cue and flings the resident criminal mastermind into a tankard on a passing tray. The unknowingly burdened waitress scuttles through the throng to deliver Mara's fey contaminated spirits. The man whose turn it is in the Multi-Darts-of-Death tournament slips on the puddle of beer, flinging his darts wide. One goes through the chandelier extinguishing a candle, one lodges in the left butt cheek of the man soaked in beer, and the third bounces off a shield, pings a glass mug, and ricochets off the flying billiards ball before striking true on the exact bulls-eye of the target. <br />
<br />
There is a brief moment of stunned silence.<br />
<br />
Within that moment the aggrieved eyes of the billiard-busted wench meet the enraged glance of the sodden dart-riddled sot. They fall immediately and deeply in love. And begin to immediately and deeply express this to each other.<br />
<br />
An outcry cascades through the bar, as all of the patrons she has previously spurned erupt into an unthinking envious rage and attack all in sight with jealous fervor.<br />
<br />
Mara, grieving and completely oblivious, picks up her tankard to drink.<br />
<br />
"Please don't drink me!" <br />
<br />
A pair of brawlers crash through the next table.<br />
<br />
A pause. The elf sighs. "And now I'm hearing voices." she mumbles. Her look becomes yet more despairing as she resumes mobility of tankard to lips.<br />
<br />
"I'm not just a voice. I'm not just a voice!" the beverage screams. There's a brief pause. "Crap. I'm just a voice aren't I." Suddenly, the dark faerie poofs into view stuck in the tankard. "See, now I'm not just a voice!"<br />
<br />
There is a sickening crunch as someone is violently introduced to the polished mahogany bar.<br />
<br />
Mara had heard about instances of despair driving people to insanity and hallucination. She had hoped never to sink so low in the prime material. Yet here was evidence to the contrary. She closes her eyes and resumes attempting to drink from her protesting tankard. Ember tries but she can't get out of the mug fast enough, "EEEEEE I promise I don't taste good!" Ember flutters and struggles, wildly striving to get out of the tankard. As a tiny foot smacks into her nose, Mara finally realizes something weird is actually going on. She pauses. "You're real. A fairy in my drink. I'm not insane yet."<br />
<br />
Unable to contain their fervor, the amourous couple takes shelter beneath Mara's table to quench their lust.<br />
<br />
"I don't care whether you're sane or not, just don't drink me!"<br />
<br />
A bar stool crashes to pieces on the wall above their heads.<br />
<br />
"I really, really think we should leave now!" Mara considers the faerie in her drink and suddenly becomes aware of the violence taking place around them and the heaving beneath the table. She pulls the creature out of her tankard. Finally liberated from the offending spirits, Ember shakes out her wings.<br />
<br />
Gripping Ember, Mara dodges through the brawl and out into the balmy night. <br />
<br />
"Um, excuse me can we get this...Stuff.... off of me?"<br />
<br />
Mara, at something of a loss, glances from the faerie to the rain barrel by the door. <br />
<br />
Glass shatters at her feet as a man is thrown through the front window.<br />
<br />
"NOT IN TH--"<br />
<br />
Mara swiftly dunks Ember into the rain barrel, swishes her around and shakes her off.<br />
<br />
The drunk stumbles to his feet and charges back into the bar.<br />
<br />
Mara pulls up several folds of robe to dry her faerie off. Ember spreads her wings to dry. Suddenly, Mara notices the intricate patterns on Ember's wings. A spark of recognition lights up her eyes. <br />
<br />
"So, where are we going now?"<br />
<br />
"Um, The Snail's Shell?"<br />
<br />
Tucking the disheveled Ember into her hood, Mara strides forth with a new sense of purpose.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2:_How_Ember_and_Mara_Met&diff=15062
Hub2: How Ember and Mara Met
2012-05-13T02:37:56Z
<p>Ratri: Created page with "Ember perches invisibly on the dusty wooden chandelier, high above the crowd, safely out of harm's way. Mara slouches into the Rusted Marlinspike, her enveloping black robe drip…"</p>
<hr />
<div>Ember perches invisibly on the dusty wooden chandelier, high above the crowd, safely out of harm's way.<br />
<br />
Mara slouches into the Rusted Marlinspike, her enveloping black robe dripping misery and rainwater as she makes her way to an empty chair at a small table by the wall. She coerces a waitress into bringing her a tankard of industrial-strength something and buries her face in her hands.<br />
<br />
Ember flicks an olive. The olive flies straight into a man's eye, causing him to lose his balance and and tip his chair over backwards, dousing the patron next to him with the full contents of his mug. The chair pulls the rope tied to the barrel. The barrel, when it falls, knocks into the billiards table, ruining someone's shot. The ball comes flying off the table and right into the most desired (endowed) bar wench's cleavage. The wench, busy trying to fish the ball out of her bodice, trips over the man soaked in ale as he leaps sputtering and angry out of his seat. The wench's entire tray goes flying, coating that half of the floor in a lake of foam and shattered mugs. The billiards player steps back, placing his foot square in the puddle of foam. He slips, throws out his arms to try to catch himself, hits the chandelier with his cue and flings the resident criminal mastermind into a tankard on a passing tray. The unknowingly burdened waitress scuttles through the throng to deliver Mara's fey contaminated spirits. The man whose turn it is in the Multi-Darts-of-Death tournament slips on the puddle of beer, flinging his darts wide. One goes through the chandelier extinguishing a candle, one lodges in the left butt cheek of the man soaked in beer, and the third bounces off a shield, pings a glass mug, and ricochets off the flying billiards ball before striking true on the exact bulls-eye of the target. <br />
<br />
There is a brief moment of stunned silence.<br />
<br />
Within that moment the aggrieved eyes of the billiard-busted wench meet the enraged glance of the sodden dart-riddled sot. They fall immediately and deeply in love. And begin to immediately and deeply express this to each other.<br />
<br />
An outcry cascades through the bar, as all of the patrons she has previously spurned erupt into an unthinking envious rage and attack all in sight with jealous fervor.<br />
<br />
Mara, grieving and completely oblivious, picks up her tankard to drink.<br />
<br />
"Please don't drink me!" <br />
<br />
A pair of brawlers crash through the next table.<br />
<br />
A pause. The elf sighs. "And now I'm hearing voices." she mumbles. Her look becomes yet more despairing as she resumes mobility of tankard to lips.<br />
<br />
"I'm not just a voice. I'm not just a voice!" the beverage screams. There's a brief pause. "Crap. I'm just a voice aren't I." Suddenly, the dark faerie poofs into view stuck in the tankard. "See, now I'm not just a voice!"<br />
<br />
There is a sickening crunch as someone is violently introduced to the polished mahogany bar.<br />
<br />
Mara had heard about instances of despair driving people to insanity and hallucination. She had hoped never to sink so low in the prime material. Yet here was evidence to the contrary. She closes her eyes and resumes attempting to drink from her protesting tankard. Ember tries but she can't get out of the mug fast enough, "EEEEEE I promise I don't taste good!" Ember flutters and struggles, wildly striving to get out of the tankard. As a tiny foot smacks into her nose, Mara finally realizes something weird is actually going on. She pauses. "You're real. A fairy in my drink. I'm not insane yet."<br />
<br />
Unable to contain their fervor, the amourous couple takes shelter beneath Mara's table to quench their lust.<br />
<br />
"I don't care whether you're sane or not, just don't drink me!"<br />
<br />
A bar stool crashes to pieces on the wall above their heads.<br />
<br />
"I really, really think we should leave now!" Mara considers the faerie in her drink and suddenly becomes aware of the violence taking place around them and the heaving beneath the table. She pulls the creature out of her tankard. Finally liberated from the offending spirits, Ember shakes out her wings.<br />
<br />
Gripping Ember, Mara dodges through the brawl and out into the balmy night. <br />
<br />
"Um, excuse me can we get this...Stuff.... off of me?"<br />
<br />
Mara, at something of a loss, glances from the faerie to the rain barrel by the door. <br />
<br />
Glass shatters at her feet as a man is thrown through the front window.<br />
<br />
"NOT IN TH-"<br />
<br />
Mara swiftly dunks Ember into the rain barrel, swishes her around and shakes her off.<br />
<br />
The drunk stumbles to his feet and charges back into the bar.<br />
<br />
Mara pulls up several folds of robe to dry her faerie off. Ember spreads her wings to dry. Suddenly, Mara notices the intricate patterns on Ember's wings. A spark of recognition lights up her eyes. <br />
<br />
"So, where are we going now?"<br />
<br />
"Um, The Snail's Shell?"<br />
<br />
Tucking the disheveled Ember into her hood, Mara strides forth with a new sense of purpose.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember&diff=15061
Hub2 Ember
2012-05-13T02:37:46Z
<p>Ratri: </p>
<hr />
<div>These are a few stories from Ember's past.<br />
<br />
* [[Hub2 Ember: Twice Born]]<br />
* [[Hub2 Ember: The Fortune-Teller]]<br />
* [[Hub2: How Ember and Mara Met]]<br />
<br />
As the adventures unfold, Ember may have a few notes to jot in her diary. It's a pretty small diary, so expect them to be pretty small notes.<br />
<br />
* [[Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal]]</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=15060
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2012-05-13T02:24:49Z
<p>Ratri: </p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.<br />
<br />
===Tuesday June 19, 48670===<br />
Another dream. Bright light through crystal shards, a faerie-sized home, the warm feeling of seeing a friend. I am glad she has those feelings, but it's always so hard to wake up. It has been a while since I saw her face. That always hits me harder. I know Mara means well when she asks me about stuff, but talking about it never makes it easier. At least I have a friend now too.<br />
<br />
And then we arrived in the town of farmers. I'm so afraid to let anyone see me. At least when Mara told Nib not to be afraid, he listened to her. He seems to be okay with me. It sounds like I'll mostly be snooping outside of town anyway. Maybe I won't even have to see a farmer. The most wonderful thing about my dreams is having a break from that fear. I know your life is not easy, Oak, but I am eternally grateful this is one pain you do not have to suffer.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=15053
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2012-04-22T22:43:56Z
<p>Ratri: /* Friday June 8, 48670 */</p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment. Rather, every reminder brings back each of those moments since -- like the priestess, most recently. This place can cleanse my body, but there are parts of my soul it will not wash clean.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Hub2_Ember:_Adventure_Journal&diff=15052
Hub2 Ember: Adventure Journal
2012-04-22T22:38:24Z
<p>Ratri: </p>
<hr />
<div>===Thursday, May 30, 48670===<br />
<br />
I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that the spell is, technically, called "Hold Person" -- thus implying that despite someone's judgement that it should be used on me, they're still admitting, deep down, that I'm a person. Who am I kidding? That's not much comfort. Maybe I should have a bumper sticker made for Mara's hood. "FAERIE ON BOARD" might work. Or..."BEWARE OF WATCH-FAERIE"? That might send the wrong impression. "THIS ISN'T THE FAERIE YOU'RE LOOKING FOR"? "FAERIES ARE PEOPLE TOO!" Except, we already established that technically, they know that. Maybe Mara can think of something better. Perhaps "DETECT BEFORE YOU LEAP" would be more instructive.<br />
<br />
I know I should be thankful she didn't choose a spell that was more...offensive. And that it didn't work. But I'm just not good enough to be like that yet. Every day I see that scar on my arm, my leg, they sting all over again. But now I can't just be angry. Now I feel bad -- like it's my fault, like I shouldn't make people so angry, like I'm the one who did something wrong. Like I'm the one who should be better. Having a conscience is hard work. I thought it might be hardest at the bottom, but it just gets harder as I climb. It will be worth it some day, Oak. Love you.<br />
<br />
===Sunday, June 3, 48670===<br />
Told a fortune today. The guy in the corner of The Dead Duck. I don't know why I offered. I haven't done a free one for a long time. Something about him felt like a little tug of kinship of some kind. So I asked, and he agreed. He threw a lot of dark runes, dark for people and shiny for coin. Money is so new to me, it's still striking to find anyone with that much gold and riches. But there is always a price, right? He's the kind who would not talk about such things, but...Isa, Berkano, so many darkened runes tell that he has, perhaps, paid the price in his relationships with others. He's a dark creature, whatever kind of man he is. My kind of dark. Why did I go? It was all I could think of. We have to find out who is after us. Please don't see me there, Oak. It's not my fault. Which moments of my life do you live? I imagine I must only see the best of you. All the gods in this life cannot help me if you only see the worst of me.<br />
<br />
===Thursday, June 7, 48670===<br />
I think I just met someone famous. Apparently, these woods we travelled through to get to the Temple of Eternal Night is rumored to be the home of the original Bronze dragon. So I'm flying above and scouting and suddenly half the party bolts...and then this guy I can't see says "Oops, sorry." It was totally dragonfear. I mean, he didn't identify himself, but you have to wonder. I apologized, just in case. It's good to be nice to powerful people.<br />
<br />
===Friday June 8, 48670===<br />
It has been a long time since I bathed in the presence of others, let alone under the watchful eye of a temple and deity. I think everyone else was either distracted by the temple or too embarrassed to look anyway. I'm not sure whether my uncomfortableness stems just from showing more of myself when I'd prefer to show less, or if it's still that nagging reminder every time someone new sees my oldest scars. Time has not dulled that moment.</div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Ratri%27s_Wish_List&diff=15046
Ratri's Wish List
2012-04-18T18:13:27Z
<p>Ratri: no more "code monkey" babydoll. TG hates me.</p>
<hr />
<div>== Stuff I'd Like ==<br />
<br />
In the interest of being able to look up what sort of stuff I like, here's a list. Updated sporadically.<br />
<br />
For the extensive joy of [[User:Caryatid|Caryatid]], I herein provide my birthday: April 23. If you forget, go ask [[User:Chadius|Chadius]]. Or my father-in-law.<br />
<br />
===These items are more or less in order by preference:===<br />
<br />
* A computer headset -- the kind you'd use for skype calls. Should be compatible with my Mac.<br />
* A gift card to anywhere you can find that sells bras (or swimsuits) in 28E-FF. No, really. Try Europe. In fact, [http://www.bravissimo.com/products/giftvouchers.aspx Bravissimo] now has them.<br />
* Under Armour heatgear compression shirt, gray or black, with short sleeves. V-neck preferable. Size S or XS.<br />
* Under Armour heatgear full-length tights, compression, size M black.<br />
* A pair of lightish weight flannel pajama pants (dark colors/plaid/etc), size about a ladies medium<br />
** Something like [http://www.amazon.com/Violet-flannel-lounging-sports-relaxed/dp/B002LGPSFS/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&s=apparel&qlEnable=1&qid=1282526637&sr=1-7 this] (okay, it might not be dark, but it's PURPLE.)<br />
* Also, a [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/womens/dae5/ Science shirt]<br />
* The new [http://www.capsteps.com/albums/ Capitol Steps album]<br />
* under armour coldgear compression tights, M, black. (There might be two different types like 'frosty' and 'outdoor' or something. As long as it says "coldgear" it's good.)<br />
* under armour coldgear mock neck shirt, S. Neutral color (black preferably, or grey). Something like [http://www.underarmour.com/shop/us/en/sports/snow-sports/womens/apparel/baselayer/pid1001512-Women-s-ColdGear-SubZero-Mock/1001512-478 this]. (Note, I am specifically looking for the compression fit and warmth.)<br />
* An outdoor watering can. I think I'll want at least a gallon of capacity. And the kind that "sprinkles" instead of "pours".<br />
* A set of free weights <br />
** 1lb increments up to 5lbs<br />
** 2.5lb increments from 5 up to about 30<br />
* Stands to hold the weighs and exercise balls<br />
* A Marathon gift card for personal training.<br />
* A gift card for an hour massage at [http://www.marathonphysicaltherapy.com/massage-therapy.htm Marathon] (Yes, this is now a regular fixture.) You might have to call, but there's a phone number on their [http://www.marathonphysicaltherapy.com/contact.htm Contact Us] page.<br />
* iTunes gift card<br />
* CD's to add to my [[Ratri's Music List|music collection]] (see link for specifics.)<br />
* Gift cards: Home Depot, Sears, Bed Bath & Beyond<br />
* Gift cards: Kohls, Macy's, Victoria's Secret, R.E.I. (Which one of these is not like the others?)<br />
* The [http://www.errorwear.com/shirt-bsod95girly.php Errorwear BSOD girly shirt] in a medium (or, for bonus points, see if you can actually get in touch with them and find out whether they ever intend to get small. I sure can't.)<br />
* high-quality milk chocolate, plain or with hazelnut<br />
* [http://www.pmc.org/egifts/giftinfo.asp?EgiftID=CB0167 PMC donations] -- eGift ID CB0167. This is great for my birthday, less so around Christmas time (due to the mid-October deadline). Sadly, I will probably not participate in 2010 either due to the recent house purchase.<br />
<br />
===Crimes already perpetrated:===<br />
<br />
* An awesome ninja mask like Nybble's. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Nybs!</font><br />
* A big doggy bed monogrammed "CAT". <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dad&Nancy!</font><br />
* A ps2 memory card I can write my own name on so I know where the heck my saves are. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Aurora!</font><br />
* NSFW babydoll from thinkgeek <font color="red">DONE - Thanks me!</font><br />
* L.L.Bean Down Booties (dark red, gray...my feet are roughly a ladies 6-1/2) <font color="red">DONE - Hubby loves me! *snuggle*</font><br />
* Noir OST2 soundtrack <font color="red">DONE - Morrigu still loves me!</font><br />
* Geek Guitar: [http://www.thinkgeek.com/computing/avcards/8c43/ iAxe]. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks, Utter Chaos!</font><br />
* New headphones that will fit my teensy child-sized skull, and not make my glasses pinch my ears (preferably with with 1/4" stereo audio adapter -- see above link.) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks dear!</font><br />
* Professional massage <font color="red">DONE - thanks Morrigu!</font> However, if I decide I like it, this may become a regular fixture on my wishlist. ;)<br />
* A small yoga matt to do stretches, sit-ups and stuff at home <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Caryatid!</font><br />
* The [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts/ladies/8aa2/ ThinkGeek "Meh" babydoll] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* A basic set of high-quality bonsai tools (I have one set of clippers, and don't know what gauge wire I need.) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dad&Nancy. Thanks!</font><br />
* A new laptop to replace my ailing pre-'01 post-Arepalyptic craptop. (Yes, this one is a joke. Mostly.) <font color="red">Hey look, I found a MacBook. Crazy.</font><br />
* An EZPass for Kurama. (Fast Lane marginally acceptable.) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* Cotton undies (at least 94% cotton) with low rise and no elastic around the legs, size SM, in any color that doesn't have too much pink/yellow/orange on it <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* One of those protective little sleeves for my macbook so I can put it in a backpack or carry it around. (Preferably in black.) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dad!</font><br />
* In-ear headphones that will work better for my tiny ears than earbuds do. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dad!</font><br />
* The [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts/ladies/374a/ ThinkGeek "Got Root?" hooded girly T] (small) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks UC, for snagging this before they ran out!</font><br />
* The [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts/ladies/a1d9/?cpg=ab ThinkGeek 304 tank top] (also small) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks UC!</font><br />
* Think Geek's [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts/ladies/a09b/ 'warranty' undies], probably in a size 1. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks UC!</font><br />
* A hands-free type thing for my cell phone. No clue what kind I'd want (or even what's out there) so pretty much -- don't spring for anything fancy! But, then I could talk to mom and my sis while I make dinner without causing any major disasters. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks dear!</font><br />
* A shiny new [[Requirements for our home|house]]. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks mom, 'gu, me, Redfin, Dardeno law offices, and BofA!</font><br />
* Wii Fit Plus (or whatever the shiny new version is called) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Kate & Ryan!</font><br />
* small watering can for indoor little herb pots <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* a sauce-sized (~6 qt) pot <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* Also, a bunch of good, strong fridge magnets <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* trowel <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom! And thanks, Z and Pink!</font><br />
* garden fork <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom! And thanks, Z and Pink!</font><br />
* A french rolling pin. I have no idea if there are fancy versions of these, but I'm looking for the plainest of the plain. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Z and Pink!</font> (Whoops. Missed moving that one after Christmas...)<br />
* A magnetic white board, something like [http://www.amazon.com/Board-Dudes-Magnetic-Inches-79194VAT-12/dp/B0015RAVIS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=office-products&qid=1269046579&sr=8-2 this]. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Gu!</font><br />
* 8" and 10" skillets, like [http://www.amazon.com/KitchenAid-Gourmet-Essentials-Anodized-10-Inch/dp/B0009U5MZY/ref=pd_sim_k_3 these] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Chris & Meghan & Meghan's Mom!</font><br />
* under armour heatgear compression shorts, as close to knee length as possible (probably 7" length, maybe 9" if they have them) in size S. Black is good. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks for the Amazon card Ben&Pixie!</font><br />
* A dustbuster/dirt-devil type little vacuuming thing. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks, Arlington email list! (and Gail, in particular.)</font><br />
* An [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/womens/d3eb/ interesting babydoll] size S. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Morrigu!</font><br />
* A real, sturdy, full-sized food processor. (I have a small one but it leaves huge chunks it can't shred due to weird design and it really doesn't fit much.) <font color="red">DONE - thank you dear!</font><br />
* One of those Bose (or other good sound-quality brand) music players you can dock an iPod in <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom&Dad!</font><br />
* ThinkGeek's [http://www.thinkgeek.com/homeoffice/kitchen/d7c8/?cpg=136T&link mini cupcake maker] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* The [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/womens/c9ba/ enough social interaction] babydoll, size S <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* Exercise balls (55cm and 65cm...should be the two smaller of the normal three sizes.) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Chris & Meghan!</font><br />
* a [http://www.cafepress.com/expressivemind.404804088 WYSIWYG babydoll] in size S. (green or black is fine) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Anne!</font><br />
* ThinkGeek's awesome [http://www.thinkgeek.com/homeoffice/kitchen/d1a7/?cpg=135T&link pepper grinder] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom</font><br />
* ThinkGeek's awesome [http://www.thinkgeek.com/books/nonfiction/e7b6/ nerdy cookbook] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dan!</font><br />
* A snide [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/womens/ea7d/?srp=2 shirt] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* Indian cookbook(s). In particular, [http://www.amazon.com/Madhur-Jaffreys-Quick-Indian-Cooking/dp/0811859010/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1319409509&sr=8-2 this one] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dad!</font><br />
* Indian cookbook(s). Anything by Julie Sahni. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* One of those inch thick foldable gym mats <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* new [http://www.thinkgeek.com/computing/bags/ea30/ laptop sleeve] with fancy shoulder strap. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Meghan&Chris</font><br />
* an [http://www.thinkgeek.com/geektoys/science/eafc/?cpg=172NRP&image= Original Gyroscope] <font color="red">DONE - Thank you my dear!</font><br />
* A [http://www.thinkgeek.com/computing/bags/aaa5/?cpg=HOL11D&head bag of holding]. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Big Sis!</font></div>
Ratri
https://wiki.utter-chaos.net/ucwiki/index.php?title=Ratri%27s_Wish_List&diff=15045
Ratri's Wish List
2012-04-18T18:07:51Z
<p>Ratri: </p>
<hr />
<div>== Stuff I'd Like ==<br />
<br />
In the interest of being able to look up what sort of stuff I like, here's a list. Updated sporadically.<br />
<br />
For the extensive joy of [[User:Caryatid|Caryatid]], I herein provide my birthday: April 23. If you forget, go ask [[User:Chadius|Chadius]]. Or my father-in-law.<br />
<br />
===These items are more or less in order by preference:===<br />
<br />
* A computer headset -- the kind you'd use for skype calls. Should be compatible with my Mac.<br />
* A gift card to anywhere you can find that sells bras (or swimsuits) in 28E-FF. No, really. Try Europe. In fact, [http://www.bravissimo.com/products/giftvouchers.aspx Bravissimo] now has them.<br />
* Under Armour heatgear compression shirt, gray or black, with short sleeves. V-neck preferable. Size S or XS.<br />
* Under Armour heatgear full-length tights, compression, size M black.<br />
* A pair of lightish weight flannel pajama pants (dark colors/plaid/etc), size about a ladies medium<br />
** Something like [http://www.amazon.com/Violet-flannel-lounging-sports-relaxed/dp/B002LGPSFS/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&s=apparel&qlEnable=1&qid=1282526637&sr=1-7 this] (okay, it might not be dark, but it's PURPLE.)<br />
* Yet another [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/womens/eb1f/?srp=3 geeky coder shirt]<br />
* Also, a [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/womens/dae5/ Science shirt]<br />
* The new [http://www.capsteps.com/albums/ Capitol Steps album]<br />
* under armour coldgear compression tights, M, black. (There might be two different types like 'frosty' and 'outdoor' or something. As long as it says "coldgear" it's good.)<br />
* under armour coldgear mock neck shirt, S. Neutral color (black preferably, or grey). Something like [http://www.underarmour.com/shop/us/en/sports/snow-sports/womens/apparel/baselayer/pid1001512-Women-s-ColdGear-SubZero-Mock/1001512-478 this]. (Note, I am specifically looking for the compression fit and warmth.)<br />
* An outdoor watering can. I think I'll want at least a gallon of capacity. And the kind that "sprinkles" instead of "pours".<br />
* A set of free weights <br />
** 1lb increments up to 5lbs<br />
** 2.5lb increments from 5 up to about 30<br />
* Stands to hold the weighs and exercise balls<br />
* A Marathon gift card for personal training.<br />
* A gift card for an hour massage at [http://www.marathonphysicaltherapy.com/massage-therapy.htm Marathon] (Yes, this is now a regular fixture.) You might have to call, but there's a phone number on their [http://www.marathonphysicaltherapy.com/contact.htm Contact Us] page.<br />
* iTunes gift card<br />
* CD's to add to my [[Ratri's Music List|music collection]] (see link for specifics.)<br />
* Gift cards: Home Depot, Sears, Bed Bath & Beyond<br />
* Gift cards: Kohls, Macy's, Victoria's Secret, R.E.I. (Which one of these is not like the others?)<br />
* The [http://www.errorwear.com/shirt-bsod95girly.php Errorwear BSOD girly shirt] in a medium (or, for bonus points, see if you can actually get in touch with them and find out whether they ever intend to get small. I sure can't.)<br />
* high-quality milk chocolate, plain or with hazelnut<br />
* [http://www.pmc.org/egifts/giftinfo.asp?EgiftID=CB0167 PMC donations] -- eGift ID CB0167. This is great for my birthday, less so around Christmas time (due to the mid-October deadline). Sadly, I will probably not participate in 2010 either due to the recent house purchase.<br />
<br />
===Crimes already perpetrated:===<br />
<br />
* An awesome ninja mask like Nybble's. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Nybs!</font><br />
* A big doggy bed monogrammed "CAT". <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dad&Nancy!</font><br />
* A ps2 memory card I can write my own name on so I know where the heck my saves are. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Aurora!</font><br />
* NSFW babydoll from thinkgeek <font color="red">DONE - Thanks me!</font><br />
* L.L.Bean Down Booties (dark red, gray...my feet are roughly a ladies 6-1/2) <font color="red">DONE - Hubby loves me! *snuggle*</font><br />
* Noir OST2 soundtrack <font color="red">DONE - Morrigu still loves me!</font><br />
* Geek Guitar: [http://www.thinkgeek.com/computing/avcards/8c43/ iAxe]. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks, Utter Chaos!</font><br />
* New headphones that will fit my teensy child-sized skull, and not make my glasses pinch my ears (preferably with with 1/4" stereo audio adapter -- see above link.) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks dear!</font><br />
* Professional massage <font color="red">DONE - thanks Morrigu!</font> However, if I decide I like it, this may become a regular fixture on my wishlist. ;)<br />
* A small yoga matt to do stretches, sit-ups and stuff at home <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Caryatid!</font><br />
* The [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts/ladies/8aa2/ ThinkGeek "Meh" babydoll] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* A basic set of high-quality bonsai tools (I have one set of clippers, and don't know what gauge wire I need.) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dad&Nancy. Thanks!</font><br />
* A new laptop to replace my ailing pre-'01 post-Arepalyptic craptop. (Yes, this one is a joke. Mostly.) <font color="red">Hey look, I found a MacBook. Crazy.</font><br />
* An EZPass for Kurama. (Fast Lane marginally acceptable.) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* Cotton undies (at least 94% cotton) with low rise and no elastic around the legs, size SM, in any color that doesn't have too much pink/yellow/orange on it <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* One of those protective little sleeves for my macbook so I can put it in a backpack or carry it around. (Preferably in black.) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dad!</font><br />
* In-ear headphones that will work better for my tiny ears than earbuds do. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dad!</font><br />
* The [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts/ladies/374a/ ThinkGeek "Got Root?" hooded girly T] (small) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks UC, for snagging this before they ran out!</font><br />
* The [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts/ladies/a1d9/?cpg=ab ThinkGeek 304 tank top] (also small) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks UC!</font><br />
* Think Geek's [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts/ladies/a09b/ 'warranty' undies], probably in a size 1. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks UC!</font><br />
* A hands-free type thing for my cell phone. No clue what kind I'd want (or even what's out there) so pretty much -- don't spring for anything fancy! But, then I could talk to mom and my sis while I make dinner without causing any major disasters. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks dear!</font><br />
* A shiny new [[Requirements for our home|house]]. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks mom, 'gu, me, Redfin, Dardeno law offices, and BofA!</font><br />
* Wii Fit Plus (or whatever the shiny new version is called) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Kate & Ryan!</font><br />
* small watering can for indoor little herb pots <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* a sauce-sized (~6 qt) pot <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* Also, a bunch of good, strong fridge magnets <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* trowel <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom! And thanks, Z and Pink!</font><br />
* garden fork <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom! And thanks, Z and Pink!</font><br />
* A french rolling pin. I have no idea if there are fancy versions of these, but I'm looking for the plainest of the plain. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Z and Pink!</font> (Whoops. Missed moving that one after Christmas...)<br />
* A magnetic white board, something like [http://www.amazon.com/Board-Dudes-Magnetic-Inches-79194VAT-12/dp/B0015RAVIS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=office-products&qid=1269046579&sr=8-2 this]. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Gu!</font><br />
* 8" and 10" skillets, like [http://www.amazon.com/KitchenAid-Gourmet-Essentials-Anodized-10-Inch/dp/B0009U5MZY/ref=pd_sim_k_3 these] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Chris & Meghan & Meghan's Mom!</font><br />
* under armour heatgear compression shorts, as close to knee length as possible (probably 7" length, maybe 9" if they have them) in size S. Black is good. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks for the Amazon card Ben&Pixie!</font><br />
* A dustbuster/dirt-devil type little vacuuming thing. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks, Arlington email list! (and Gail, in particular.)</font><br />
* An [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/womens/d3eb/ interesting babydoll] size S. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Morrigu!</font><br />
* A real, sturdy, full-sized food processor. (I have a small one but it leaves huge chunks it can't shred due to weird design and it really doesn't fit much.) <font color="red">DONE - thank you dear!</font><br />
* One of those Bose (or other good sound-quality brand) music players you can dock an iPod in <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom&Dad!</font><br />
* ThinkGeek's [http://www.thinkgeek.com/homeoffice/kitchen/d7c8/?cpg=136T&link mini cupcake maker] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* The [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/womens/c9ba/ enough social interaction] babydoll, size S <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* Exercise balls (55cm and 65cm...should be the two smaller of the normal three sizes.) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Chris & Meghan!</font><br />
* a [http://www.cafepress.com/expressivemind.404804088 WYSIWYG babydoll] in size S. (green or black is fine) <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Anne!</font><br />
* ThinkGeek's awesome [http://www.thinkgeek.com/homeoffice/kitchen/d1a7/?cpg=135T&link pepper grinder] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom</font><br />
* ThinkGeek's awesome [http://www.thinkgeek.com/books/nonfiction/e7b6/ nerdy cookbook] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dan!</font><br />
* A snide [http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/womens/ea7d/?srp=2 shirt] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* Indian cookbook(s). In particular, [http://www.amazon.com/Madhur-Jaffreys-Quick-Indian-Cooking/dp/0811859010/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1319409509&sr=8-2 this one] <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Dad!</font><br />
* Indian cookbook(s). Anything by Julie Sahni. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* One of those inch thick foldable gym mats <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Mom!</font><br />
* new [http://www.thinkgeek.com/computing/bags/ea30/ laptop sleeve] with fancy shoulder strap. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Meghan&Chris</font><br />
* an [http://www.thinkgeek.com/geektoys/science/eafc/?cpg=172NRP&image= Original Gyroscope] <font color="red">DONE - Thank you my dear!</font><br />
* A [http://www.thinkgeek.com/computing/bags/aaa5/?cpg=HOL11D&head bag of holding]. <font color="red">DONE - Thanks Big Sis!</font></div>
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