[If you are interested in joining a setting like this, check out: roleplayerguild.com/topics/196759-ise…]

The air within the Ethereal Luminary's designated contractor briefing room is sterile and still, a stark contrast to the vibrant magical energy that hums through the rest of the academy. The walls are polished white marble, etched with faint, silver runes that dampen sound and prevent magical eavesdropping. A single, large obsidian table dominates the center of the room, its surface reflecting the cool, enchanted light from the ceiling like a dark, placid lake.

You arrived a few minutes ago, taking a seat at the imposing table. You are not alone. Several other individuals, presumably the other specialists hired for this contract, are seated around the table with you. They are a varied group, each carrying themselves with an air of quiet competence, but their specific appearances and skills remain a mystery for now. A palpable silence hangs in the room, the kind that exists between professionals sizing each other up before a difficult job.

The heavy door to the room slides open with a near-silent hiss, and a stern-faced woman in the deep blue robes of a Luminary Archmagus strides in. Her name is Proctor Valeriana. She doesn't waste time on pleasantries.

"You are the specialists we have selected," she announces, her voice crisp and authoritative as she places a lacquered wooden box on the table. "The task is simple in description, yet perilous in execution. We require you to investigate a phenomenon in the eastern rainforests known as the 'Verdant Heart.' You will enter it, proceed to its epicenter, analyze the source of the disturbance, and retrieve whatever data and material samples you can."

She pauses, a faint, dismissive smile touching her lips. "The Church believes a 'wounded entity' is at its core, a conclusion based on faith and divination. We require a more... empirical conclusion."

She gestures broadly to the assembled group at the table. "Your team has been chosen for your unique and varied skills. We expect you to succeed where others would fail. Your payment will be rendered upon the successful delivery of your findings."

Her gaze sweeps across each of you, sharp and analytical. The room is silent, waiting. This is the moment to speak, to ask questions, to introduce yourself to your new "colleagues," or to simply remain silent and observe.

What do you do?

​

Titles
[Monster], [Undead], [Monster - Mundane], [Monster - Evolved], [Necromancer] - [#2d7d38]
Noteworthy Perks: [Evolved] - gain the title evolved. Something about your physiology or aura identifies to others you are of a higher species than your peers. Gain a +1 to social exchanges with others of your racial tree.
[Menace] - An aura of fear emanates from the creature at all times that makes lower grade creatures take a -1 effectiveness on attacks against monster or monster allies.
Noteworthy Perks: Resilient C (28) [Aging/Fatigue and Exhaustion/Suffocation/Surprised]

Asset Goal: Duchy Nobility F

It had been a long slumber, too many aeons to count on. Yet, even the deepest of sleeps eventually need to come to an end. Plucked from his millennia rest, ⚐︎⬧︎⬧︎♋︎■︎♏︎⧫︎♒︎ had awakened. And, as soon as he opened his eyes, the whispers of the dead came singing into his ear, an always useful melody. “Ah, the transient beings have found something of interest, have they? Very well, I shall pay them a visit and see if whatever they have found is worth my time.”

Even within the nation of mages, creating a false identity had been rather of a child’s play to a creature such as him (Alternate Identity D + Disguise D) and, for the moment, he hid his actual name to take on the mask of Severin Vaust. And so he walked, unafraid and unbothered amidst the capital of the Grand Duchy, Aslan, cane clicking against the intricate sidewalk that, every so often, glimmered with mana from the magic circuits that permeated the city.

“How curious what they have created thus far.” He murmured to something, with the condescension of an adult measuring a toddler's toy, as he saw the magical creations that existed in Aslan for the very first time.

Soon enough, he would find himself within the briefing room, sitting comfortable in one of the chairs at the table. With his slender legs crossing in a figure four, one of the necromancer’s hand caressed his mustache, while the other held the cane-like catalyst. Every so often, the reliquary orb at the crown of his cane would pulse in a low, dark green. Whoever stood at least 10ft from him would find a certain discomfort: drops of temperature, needles pricking at the back of the neck and general weariness (Menace affects all characters bellow Character Grade B).

Before his eyes could wander towards his would-be companions, they locked onto Proctor Valeriana as soon as she walked into the chamber. He quite didn’t like her lack of etiquette for introductions, but said nothing, the only cue of it being one of the corners of his mouth scrunching slightly. ‘So many years, and they haven’t learned the bare minimum of basics. No wonder kin hunts and kill them.’ He thought to himself.

“Seems like the usual data retrieval from some arcane phenomenon still not quite identified.” He concluded from what the woman had just said, fingers slipping from his mustache to his chin, while his expression turned pensive. “What would this ‘wounded entity’ be according to The Church? Some sort of lesser divinity? A demon? A wayward spirit?” He asked, without a single flinch of his face (leveraging Religion C).

“Oh, but where are my manners?” A wide smile opened on his lips, uncrossing his legs and standing up from the chair he sat on. A thump echoed throughout the chamber as his cane hit against the polished marble floor. “I’m Doctor Severin Vaust, a scholar of both the arcane and religion. It is a pleasure to make everyone’s acquaintance.” He lied, it wasn’t a pleasure. Not yet, at least.

Careful attention was the silent respect Liu paid to Dr. Vaust. An eyeless stare probed for the reason that this gentleman, placid and pallid, could emanate such an unsettling feeling. Robust though Liu is, and mercifully unaffected by the aura of menace, in this place without obvious danger it was distracting. Liu was ignorant and nubile despite his energy. It took him months to find a permanent place, being what he is, he had no way to employ his skills independently. There was no opportunity for him to experience this unsettling aura before, and Iberis, his master, had not told him about such an effect -- to his recollection. Eerie feelings had to wait, however, since he had no intention to waste time in introductions by wallowing in cluelessness.

Standing with an unmistakable military air, his entire form was revealed. Astonishingly tall at over 6 and a half feet, he wore a simple garb and a small bag. It was a simple black gauze garment with long sleeves which clung to his torso with buttons and fell to his ankles without them, open in the front to reveal trousers of the same material. Without ostentation and without any interesting ornaments. His shining skull (those in the 'business' of having undead might notice that it is indeed polished and thinly waxes) was audaciously uncovered. He introduced himself with a gentle and precise tone of refinement, "with humility, Fei Liu, familiar of necromancer Iberis Odhir. I am merely a material instrument and a wall, and would be honored, of course, to stand between you and danger, doctor Vaust" and sat back down. From the moment Vaust entered the room, Liu's skull faced the wall between him and the delightfully severe Valeriana to keep them both 'in view.' He was only half lying. Despite his -- to be honest, annoyance -- at the doctor's irritating aura, he knew his job, and he know where he stood when compared to those present.

The skeleton sat back down, relinquishing the spotlight at last.

Titles: [Unbroken] [Magic-touched] [Familiar of Iberis Odhir] [Undead]
Goal: Information related to the art of necromancy or magic in general to return to his master.

“Sounds simple enough”

The gruff voice of the Draconian echoed within the silent room, he sat with a dull expression. A calloused fist propped Vetreus’s head up as he leaned back in his chair. His legs had been folded neatly underneath himself , he displayed a level of aloofness that might have been palpable to some.

Though what lied wrapped neatly around the man’s torso would pool some interest from the other participants. Shimmering white scales were tied neatly around his next, twice over leading to a head that laid peacefully in the man’s lap. In between stints of silence, quiet snoozing sounds could be heard coming from underneath the table. There you would find the hatching, Griselda, taking a nap with no concern for the matters at hand.

Hearing mention of faith and divination was tales of good omen for the draconian. He had accepted this job not for the reward the protectorate promised but for the lost knowledge he might find within the labyrinth. The risk of danger comes with the reward of vast riches and baubles alike, making it a popular attraction for adventurers. Many go in, but few come out.

The man known as Doctor Severin Vaust picked the question out from Vetreius’s mind. The origin of said religious entity was important and would determine what they might come into contact with while down there. A demonic entity would prove an easier time for the draconian but little to no chance of having what he desires, while on the other hand. A church based entity will be a bit more difficult but higher chance of finding what he desires.

Doctor Severin also held a peculiar air about himself, despite not being affected by [Menace] due to his standing. Upon meeting with the man, Griselda's danger sense had gone off. Showing that this man was one to keep an eye on.

Fei Lui’s appearance would give Vetreus a brief chuckle upon seeing their appearance. He wondered when did Aslan start allowing dog chew toys into meeting proceedings but alas, he chose to keep these thoughts to himself. Well until the skeleton spoke up and introduced itself, it wasn't even an entity on its own but its existence was brought upon by the magic of another.

“Is this, Iberis here at the moment? I hope you understand that sending a pawn in place of their absence is a poor representation of your master.” Vetreus craned his head towards Fei Lui with a concerning level of apathy before straightening out his body.

“I am Vetreus Draedora, 2nd son of the Draedora Nobility within the Ororoot Empire.” Explaining his noble status always grinding his gears a bit and it was easy to tell as he spat the second half out in annoyance.

“It is a pleasure to meet you all.”

Fake it ‘till you make it.

Those words had been repeated to and passed on by Esther throughout her old life. While that life had ended, she found the advice was just as useful then as it was now. Life really was a confidence game and you got what you wanted by believing in yourself. Good things don’t come to people who underestimate themselves and evaluate themselves on their present limits.

Esther could use herself as an example. On the outside she looked like a fae. Her large insect wings and pointed ears hinted at such. Who knew how many centuries of knowledge was packed between her ears? Her harp was not merely a magical catalyst, but a tool for spellcasting that she had made herself. While hardly revolutionary, it did demonstrate her understanding of runes and how they operated on a fundamental level. She could also play her instrument rather well, which might have been enough to charm someone who was looking for Esther’s particular set of skills. Why wouldn’t you hire a woodland artificer to investigate a mystical anomaly in a rainforest?

But Esther wasn’t a fae. Certainly not one that had lived centuries. Everything she knew about runes or otherwise she had been told by a fae artificer. The harp had even been built in the artificer’s workshop with his supervision. Her harp playing could impress individuals or small gatherings, but captivating large audiences was not a skill she presently held. But here she was, faking it, with presumably more talented individuals than she. Perhaps they were faking it too.

Though some of them looked a little too intimidating to be faking it. She could swear Severin Vaust’s very presence was putting her on edge. He clearly wasn’t normal, something that even a novice like Esther could pick up. Yet the skeleton didn’t seem as intimidating as the doctor did. But maybe that was because Fei Liu reminded her of a character on the Nintendo that the kids were talking about.

She attempted to calm her nerves by playing on her harp. It was something to focus her fingers on anyway. Since she was in the presence of a few Nintendo characters (That guy with the horns almost looked like Zelda) maybe she’d play a song from that game where he defended the weak with his word. That always made the kids happy.

Unfortunately, it didn’t seem like much of anyone was too happy. Though the Zelda look-alike seemed especially dower. He wasted no time tearing down the "pawn" that was going to be working with them. This would not do.

"Oh, I don’t think it represents Iberis poorly at all. They’re clearly a busy sort, and managing their manpower as best they can. Besides, Fei Liu sounds like he’s here purely for our benefit." She looked directly at Vetreus. "...And has better manners than some of the other people at this table." She didn’t miss a single pluck of her harp while she spoke. Her lips and hands moved independently of one another.

"They call me Esther. No titles, but you can add one if you feel like it." She still wasn’t sure if her old name was a great elf name, but it wasn’t like she could start calling herself Zelda. "I hope you’ll stand between the rest of us and danger too, young man." She told the skeleton, unsure how old he was, but feeling it was younger than what she was supposed to be. "I’ll be sure to do my part and keep you safe as well."

That seemed to do for introductions. Now to address the task at hand. Esther looked at the fancy box the woman set down on the table. "Now dear, I don’t think you mentioned what was in that box. I have a feeling it’s some sort of apparatus to collect data, but I’d like to confirm. Speaking of collecting, what’s with the walls?" She looked to the walls, or more specifically, the runes on them. "That seems like some strong warding to discuss a simple data retrieval job."

It might not have been apparent to the others, but as an artificer, she could tell exactly what the runes were supposed to do. Her harp had several runes etched into it to enhance the sound, and spotting ones that were designed to deaden it were easy to spot. That, and she had accidentally carved the wrong rune on her prototype harp prior and it couldn't play music.

[If you are interested in joining a setting like this, check out: roleplayerguild.com/topics/196759-ise…]

The room, already cool, seems to drop another few degrees as Severin Vaust speaks. The subtle, unnerving pressure of his [Menace] is a physical thing, a psychic weight that presses on the very air. Proctor Valeriana, however, remains impassive, her expression unchanged, as if she were evaluating a mildly interesting but ultimately harmless weather phenomenon. She is, after all, an Archmagus of the Luminary, and dealing with powerful, strange entities is part of her purview.

When Fei Liu, the polished skeleton, introduces himself, Valeriana gives a single, sharp nod. The concept of a powerful necromancer sending a familiar in their stead is not unusual for the Luminary; it is a practical, if somewhat detached, application of magical resources.

Vetreus’s gruff interjection and casual disdain for Fei Liu earn a fractional narrowing of the Proctor’s eyes. Nobility from the West Empire is always a complicated factor, and his abrasive nature is duly noted.

Then comes Esther’s soft harp music, a gentle counter-melody to the tension in the room. Her pointed defense of Fei Liu and her sharp, insightful questions cut through the posturing. Valeriana’s gaze shifts to Esther, a flicker of genuine interest in her eyes. This one is observant.

Proctor Valeriana allows the introductions to conclude, letting the silence settle for a moment after Esther’s final words. She addresses each point with cold, efficient precision.

First, she looks directly at Severin. "To answer your question, Doctor Vaust," she says, her tone clinical, "the Church's assessment is, as expected, rooted in folklore. They speak of a 'primordial guardian,' a powerful Fae spirit from an age before the Ascendant Mage. They believe it is in pain. We, however, operate on evidence, not belief. Your job is to find out what it truly is."

Her gaze then sweeps from Vetreus to Fei Liu. "Your personal histories and allegiances are your own concern," she states flatly, a clear dismissal of the brewing conflict. "The Luminary has contracted each of you for your specific, documented skills. We expect you to function as a cohesive unit. Failure to do so will result in the termination of the contract and, consequently, your payment."

Finally, she turns her full attention to Esther, a hint of a smirk on her lips. "An astute observation, Esther. You are correct on both counts."

With a precise gesture, she taps the lacquered box. "This contains four synchronized Scrying Orbs. They will record everything you see and hear, as well as basic atmospheric and magical energy readings. This data will be transmitted back to us in real-time. It is your primary method of 'data retrieval.'"

She then gestures to the silver-etched walls. "And yes, the warding is substantial. The nature of the Verdant Heart is a highly sensitive matter. The West Empire has shown interest in the region, and the Church would prefer we did not meddle. This conversation, and the data you retrieve, is for the Luminary's archives only. Discretion is paramount."

She clasps her hands behind her back, her posture radiating finality. "Your transport to the edge of the rainforest is arranged. You will depart within the hour. Are there any final, pertinent questions regarding the mission parameters?"

​

Titles
[Monster], [Undead], [Monster - Mundane], [Monster - Evolved], [Necromancer] - [#2d7d38]
Noteworthy Perks: [Evolved] - gain the title evolved. Something about your physiology or aura identifies to others you are of a higher species than your peers. Gain a +1 to social exchanges with others of your racial tree.
[Menace] - An aura of fear emanates from the creature at all times that makes lower grade creatures take a -1 effectiveness on attacks against monster or monster allies.
Noteworthy Perks: Resilient C (28) [Aging/Fatigue and Exhaustion/Suffocation/Surprised]

Asset Goal: Duchy Nobility F

Upon the mention of 'Iberis Odhir', and further on her being labelled a necromancer by the skeleton, Vaust slowly turned his head towards Fei Liu, peering into the empty sockets of his skull. There was a gleam of something behind the Doctor's hazel eyes. And, moving one of his hands close to his ear, glove index touching his tragus, he was silent for a beat. "Ah yes, Iberis Odhir. Quite curious how she decided to deal with the Cultists of Lord Hasufer. I'm sure you will be quite the asset during this delicate matter, considering your master. I will be counting on your protection."

His black orbs drifted from the skeletal figure to the draconian, sensing both the human and draconic esse in him from a simple glance, without the need of any whispers. His eyes slide, downward, catching the sight of the nubile creature with shimmering scales on top of his lap. ‘A draconian with a dragon as a pet… or perhaps a slave?’ He wondered, leaving that particular question unasked. “How do you find the Duchy in comparison to the western lands, Heir of the Draedora? Some of your own gods merge and combine with the one’s from this nation. Perhaps the mixture of both will hold the ultimate clue of what we search for… unless it is pure Fae.”

At the end of his sentence, his attention next focused on the Fae among them, wielding a harp, fingers plucking on its string. His lips widened infinitesimally. “Observant. We will likely need sharp eyes in this place we will delve into. And, of course, protection is never enough even more if…”

His attention went back to the Proctor Valeriana. “... if we are dealing with primeval force. Creature who can draw the prana from sources no modern mage can begin to imagine are quite… difficult to deal with.” Despite the gravity of his words, Severin looked unbothered. With one hand sliding into the side-pocket of his over coat, he produced a handkerchief. Soon enough, the piece of cloth found itself on top of the reliquary orb, being used to polish it.

“But that is just a speculation. The religious often tends to be a tad superstitious, as I’ve come to know.” With a single movement, the handkerchief was back into his pocket and the same hand reached over the table, grabbing the lacquered box and bringing it closer to himself. Without ceremony, he unlocked the box, seeing the shiny, black orbs within it. And, upon touching one of them, it gravitated towards him, floating right at his side.

Excellent. I have no further questions.” He said, content that he wouldn’t need to hold the Scrying Orb. Stepping behind the chair he had been assigned to, he waited for the others.

Liu held silent for this instance. The talking would come later. He had no hope of detecting anyone's assumptions about his origins, had no interest in defending Iberis, and had no trouble suppressing his desire to make fun of Hasufer (since he met the evil lord in a state of destitution and ignominy). Introductions were done and the lovely proctor was angling toward the end of the meeting, an end to which he and her were aligned. Truthfully, he hated this duchy. The sliding doors, the levitating things, the weird lights, the upsettingly intricate public 'conveniences.' He was made to be a rube, a perfectly polite rube at least, and that irked him more than any dismissal. What is wrong with opening the door with ones own hand?

His silent agreement to having no further questions was him rising from his seat again. This scenario was one of the few he was familiar with. Encountering enormous primordial beings and negotiating the oddities of the See numbered among the frightfully few things he involved himself with in this world and these bare, preliminary details hinted toward that domain, not that he felt reassured.

Liu leaned forward and scooped an orb carefully with both hands. The life of a noble, he felt, is not so easy. A peasant may be plagued by disease and starvation in bad times, but in peaceful times the connection to the land and the work with their hands sustains them and exceeds their rest; the land may love them gently in their toil when they dress its loam yearly for victory over dearth, and the seasons drag them by the arms and dance them until panting and glowing all their years. A noble is plagued whereas, by competition and plots, their grand halls a boulder to roll uphill, their severe ancestors glower at them from shrewdly rendered paintings that line their halls, always bigger, and better, or else. Accompanied by the friends of their parents, or possible suitors, or competitors to dominate before their time, or employees. The second son has it worst, he pitied silently. The 'plan B,' on edge always. Required to be excellent but only tossed the leftovers, only expected to rise up without shame if the dear eldest dies. Or, if the mother is a jealous one, executed upon the primogenitus' glorious rise, and relegated to the footnotes after all that work. Liu was too busy feeling sad to be offended.

Silently and promptly, he turned leaned forward and presented the orb to Vetreus, his face and shoulders bowed a little, his height stubbornly salient.

Esther’s plucking of the harp would garner a new guest, one that had been sleeping not long ago but was lulled awake by the gentle notes. The slumbering dragon would crane its head above the table, but only enough for the top of their head to look on towards the fae with extreme curiosity. Each strum of the instrument would cause the living noodle known as Griselda to sway side to side.

The fae would interject her own thoughts, clashing with Vetreus’s opinion of Fei Liu. “Ah yes, I would expect the aspiring musician whom subjected us to the unsolicited strumming of their harp to co-sign the poor behavior of their master. Perhaps you are their second familiar?” He jabbed back, when she introduced herself and gave them the freedom to give her a title. A smirk would appear on his face, “a title you say? Yes, I’ll bestow one upon you. Hmmm let me think of something fitting.” He placed a hand to his chin as he thought for a breath before settling on a name.

“I, Vetreus Draedora, Son of the Ororoot Empire’s illustrious Tellos Draedora, grant you, Ester, the title of jester.” As he spoke, Vetreus raised his white wyrm blade and acted as though he was knighting the woman from afar. “Friends and familiar, please refer to Esther as Esther the Jester from here on out.” A satisfied grin danced on his lips.

Only now he had just noticed the little one in his lap who had awakened. “So nice of you to join us.” Sarcasm dripped from his voice, the hatchling would in kind respond with an audible yawn, before smacking her lips with a satisfied Chomp, chomp as her mouth closed.

“That was goooooooood.” The dragon would climb around Vetreus’s shoulder with a grin, using his broad shoulders to stretch out its long body. “Are you giving people a hard time already, I can’t take a nap without you being a grouchapuss.” The dragon jabbed, receiving a low growl from Vetreus.

Vaust would change the subject, asking Vetreus how he enjoyed the Duchy. When Vaust referred to Vetreus as the hail of Draedora, a hollow laugh would erupt from the Draconian's chest. He was genuinely humored by the man’s humility.

“hahahahahaha, heir of Draedora. If only you knew.” Vetreus would brush past Vausts words, answering his other questions. “The Duchy is always a spectacle to visit. Where hale from, sand and shine rule supreme. The duchy is the pinnacle of magic and as an artisan myself, I find it fascinating. Perhaps in another life, I’d have studied abroad here. You are correct in your assumptions, I pray that the god we come across is one of good intentions.”

The protectorate would interject, reassuming control over the meeting as she answered both Vastus and Esther’s questions. As the woman spoke though, Griselda’s eyes remained glued to Esther’s harp. They had only emerged from their egg not too long ago and possessed the unbridled curiosity of an infant. Music was a mortal creation that captivated the dragon with ease. She swayed with every strum more, it was as though Esther was charming her like a snake charmer. However, Griselda never strode too far from Vetreus.

“What’s that V?” She murmured to Vetreus, “hmm? You mean the Jester?” He replied without missing a beat.

“No not her, the thing she is pulling.”

“It’s a musical instrument known as a harp. Do you like it?” Vetreus answered her question with curiosity.

“Harp….harp…harp..” Griselda murmured, committing the instrument to memory.

Vetreus would turn to see Fei Lui approach, though its face lacked any expression. Their body language seemed rather sullen and they didn’t respond to his earlier comments. Vetreus would thank the skeleton for the orb.

“It seems like Fei Liu is missing a back bone.” He joked with a pleased grin, he didn’t care if the others liked the joke or not. The draconian was enjoying himself. This would only receive and sassy eye-roll from Griselda.

Naturally, the second son of a noble family wasn’t going to take a slight like that sitting down. He was almost compelled to speak up. If it was anything like in her world, the first born was likely entitled to many things because he had a head start. Esther found this to be the case in normal families too, and second born often felt like they had something to prove. But wit was a battlefield where Esther was in her element.

Esther allowed his first quip about being a necromancer’s familiar pass by. A much better opportunity to counter attack would reveal itself in time. And the time came when Vetreus saw fit to bestow her a title. "Jester? Of your brother’s court? I suppose I can be his consoler if you need a break."

She was half serious too. A court jester might have been the lowest rank in the royal court, but they were still part of the court. There were numerous jesters from her world that became powerful and influential figures. That, and they were often immune to punishment for mocking nobility. Some even did become trusted consolers of nobles and even kings. If Vetreus had meant to humiliate Esther, it had backfired spectacularly. Regardless of intentions, she was having a lot of fun. Even if the creepy aura had her feeling a little nervous.

But there would be more time for them to mess with each other later. The Proctor answered her questions and even seemed a little impressed. Esther had assumed she would try to be secretive about why the runes were there, as needing to be discreet with their mission seemed like an important detail to mention. But she was just thankful to be of any assistance at all. After all, she was sharing a table with someone who had a PHD in magic, the construct of a powerful necromancer, and a noble. What even was Esther doing at this table? Faking it ‘till she made it, she reminded herself. There were a lot of powerful connections to be made here, and any one of them could help forward her learning. The old smith was wise to recommend she come to the Duchy.

Oh, and there was a cute little dragon that liked her music. She decided to refrain from speaking to her(?) at this moment. Too many other things going on.

She returned Severin’s polite comment with a polite nod, but couldn’t help but feel he was being insincere. His remarks to both of the other individuals at the table seemed to make them uneasy, and then there was his oppressive aura. Part of her wanted to ask if he could turn it off, but she refrained from doing so. Sometimes, faking it meant enduring uncomfortable challenges.

But Vetreus was an artisan? Interesting.

It was a shame Liu had decided to remain so quiet. She had hoped he would have at least given her a nod or some form of affirmation. But it was almost like he hadn’t even heard her. Oh well. She’d have plenty of chances to get his attention later.

With all the scrying orbs distributed but her own, she stood up and stopped her playing. Esther wasn’t short, but she did have to reach pretty far to poke the black orb. Severin had (rather rudely) pulled the box closer to himself without bothering to put it back in the middle of the table where everyone could get to it. It seemed like everything that man did was a subtle power play. She tapped the black orb with her finger and it sprung to life.

"Oh!"

Esther stood up, and the orb hovered in place. She was ready to go.

"Pertinent questions…" Esther thought. "If the West Empire has shown interest in the region, then is there a chance we may encounter them or a direct member of the church?"

She had decided not to honor Vetreus's joke about Liu with a response, even if it was a good pun.

Penny had a habit of being late, but this time she had really messed up as the meeting was surely well underway. Sprinting full speed as fast as her legs would take her she tried to make up time. She had made the mistake of stopping for some subsistence after seeing some baked goods that had caught her eye. What she hadn’t been counting on was the long line that took much longer to process through then she had anticipated.

She had selected the finest bagel she could find from the plethora of baked goodies. Which now hung from her mouth as she was finally approaching the final stretch as she made her way through the academy. Finally able to see the heavy door of the meeting room she was supposed to already be seated in.

Instead of slowing as she approached she picked up speed, the door getting closer and closer. It was only when she was inches from it that she realized it was not opening as she smashed face first into it with a loud and prominent thud. fFattening her precise bagel which now fell to the floor from her mouth.

Even after the impact she remained standing, her face marked red from the blow. She was slightly dazed but otherwise physically fine. The real tragedy was what happened to her bagel she had waited so long to get. Its flattened remains at her feet as she bent down to pick it up. The moment she did so the door slid open as she stood there flat bagel in hand.

After an awkward pause of a few seconds Penny entered the room without a word with a stern expression on her red marked face. Taking a seat at the table she took a slow look around the room to take in all of the current occupants. She had hoped to have tried to sneak into the room as unnoticed as possible so no one would know how late she was. But it was clear that plan went out the window the moment she misjudged the door.

It was only when she laid eyes on Fei Liu did they linger longer than the rest. A skeleton was a weird choice of room decoration but she wasn’t one to judge someone for their interior decoration choices. In the middle of her inner thoughts she had forgotten to introduce herself or utter a single word since she had arrived.

A bony hand slipped back and scooped one for himself and the melancholy faded. Standing straight with his missing backbone, he made for the door. It seemed to him that cooler weather made cooler heads. Something about heat sends the living wild. Somehow this dragon kid's personality made a great deal more sense to Liu, indulging a moment in fallacy. All this talk about courts and jesters threatened to make him laugh. Rather than activate any functionality on the orb, he would make a move to stow it in his small bag for safekeeping. They likely had no use for observing the trip out of town.

"A jester? He does you credit. The jester tells the regent when they are wrong. Between his opalescent minder and you, he shall have no excuse for rashness," Liu noted to Esther with a quiet, resonant tone.

It was no wonder this newcomer mistook him for a decoration. With his back to the rest of them, he froze on the spot at the sight of this interloper (having assumed their party was complete before). He could presume no mischief; who could carry out ill intent while holding a bagel? He remained still for just long enough to affirm the misidentification before slowly turning toward the rest of the group to gauge their reactions, before turning back to ask, "ah... are you lost?"

[If you are interested in joining a setting like this, check out: roleplayerguild.com/topics/196759-ise…]

@DoubleChecker - Asset Goal: Grand Duchy Nobility F
@Book - Asset Goal: ?
@pkken - Asset Goal: Harvester Asset Mine F
@Red Hood - Asset Goal: ?
@Nakushita - Asset Goal: ?

The simmering tension in the room is a complex symphony of clashing personalities. Severin’s polite, yet deeply unsettling, inquiries weave a thread of dark amusement. Vetreus’s aristocratic jabs and Esther’s witty retorts create a sharp, staccato rhythm. Fei Liu’s quiet observations and movements add a layer of stoic grace, while Griselda’s sudden awakening brings a touch of draconic innocence to the proceedings.

Proctor Valeriana watches the exchanges with the detached patience of a researcher observing volatile chemicals reacting in a beaker. She notes Vetreus’s goading, Esther’s sharp-witted deflection, and Severin’s unnerving familiarity with the necromancer Iberis Odhir. All of it is data.

She is about to answer Esther’s final, pertinent question when a loud, distinct THUD echoes from the other side of the heavy door, followed by a moment of silence.

The door hisses open.

A young woman stands there, a flattened, tragic-looking bagel clutched in her hand and a prominent red mark blooming on her face. She enters with a determined, if slightly dazed, expression, taking a seat without a word and beginning her silent assessment of the room.
The Archmagus raises a single, unimpressed eyebrow. The carefully controlled atmosphere of the briefing has been irrevocably punctured.
Fei Liu, poised by the door, breaks the awkward silence, his resonant voice turning to the newcomer with a question.

Before Penny can answer, Proctor Valeriana seizes control of the room once more. Her voice cuts through the air, sharp and final.
"No, she is not lost," Valeriana states, her gaze fixed on Penny. "This is your final team member. Late, but present. I trust you can handle your own introductions from here."

She then turns her attention back to Esther, addressing her question with brisk efficiency. "To answer your query, Esther: yes. The possibility of encountering agents from the West Empire or zealous members of the Church is non-zero. You are to avoid engagement unless absolutely necessary. Your mission is retrieval and analysis, not international diplomacy or theological debate. Any deviation from this directive will be on your own heads."

Valeriana gives a curt nod, her business clearly concluded. "I have provided you with the necessary tools and parameters. The rest is up to your collective expertise."

She strides towards the door, pausing as she passes Fei Liu. "The transport is a standard enchanted carriage, waiting at the Luminary's West Gate. Do not keep it waiting."

With that, the Proctor exits, the heavy door sliding shut behind her with a definitive hiss, leaving the five of you alone in the sound-proofed room. The air is thick with the lingering scent of ozone, tension, and the faint, sad smell of crushed bagel. The four active Scrying Orbs hum quietly, floating patiently beside their chosen contractors, their silent, black surfaces recording everything.

The floor is yours.

​

Titles
[Monster], [Undead], [Monster - Mundane], [Monster - Evolved], [Necromancer] - [#2d7d38]
Noteworthy Perks: [Evolved] - gain the title evolved. Something about your physiology or aura identifies to others you are of a higher species than your peers. Gain a +1 to social exchanges with others of your racial tree.
[Menace] - An aura of fear emanates from the creature at all times that makes lower grade creatures take a -1 effectiveness on attacks against monster or monster allies.
Noteworthy Perks: Resilient C (28) [Aging/Fatigue and Exhaustion/Suffocation/Surprised]

Asset Goal: Duchy Nobility F

“Is that so?” Vaust murmured, more to himself than anyone else, as the noble from the West Empire fell upon wishful thinking. ⚐︎⬧︎⬧︎♋︎■︎♏︎⧫︎♒︎ didn’t quite care if whatever ‘creature’ was supposed to be right in the eye of the storm was benevolent or malevolent, that was immaterial. What he cared was how strong it was.

However, his ideas were cut short was Vetreus and Esther entered a type of despite, prickling each other back and forth with words. ‘The transient beings and their petty squabbles. So useless, so foolish… so entertaining.’ He watched both of them hurtling names and offending ideas to one another, cane firmly set against the ground and both gloved hands atop its orb. His expression was placid: unchanging and neutral, yet the whole thing amused him to no end.

“And another one join us.” He turned to the newcomer, the one who had just lost their bagel in some sad, tragic accident. Walking towards Penny, his shoes clicked silently against the marble floor, stopping right at the side of Fei Liu. “Doctor Severin Vaust, expert in the arcane and religions, a pleasure.” And, as he spoke, the same aura of dread exhuded from him: drops of temperature, needles pricking at the back of the neck and general weariness. All coming from someone who looked, at first glance, like another one of the academy’s staff.

Glancing sideways at the towering skeleton man, then at both Esther and Vetreus over his shoulder, he said. “Everyone with their Scrying Orbs? Good, let’s move to the gate.” Saying so, he took the vanguard, walking in front of the group, cane hitting the ground every few steps. He walked with the gait of someone used to leading, despite the entirely academic background he had presented inside that briefing room.

“Is anyone’s first time delving into possibly dangerous territory?” He asked, not even turned back. His oppressive [Menace] aura ended up making a few of the students walking across the campus to fully stop and take a few steps back. A stray cat that attempted to cross the group’s path hissed and bolted, hiding under a nearby bench. “This ‘wounded entity’ right at the heart of the ‘Verdant’s Heart’ could very well be something brought about by a cult.”

Suddenly stopping, he turned towards the group. “While that is still a baseless conjuncture of the Church, a few cults actually manage to bring about quasi-deities through rituals and sacrifices. So, not all of them are robe-wearing-buffons with secret handshakes.” His index finger began tapping against the reliquary orb at the crown of the cane, the dark, greenish pulse intensifying.

“And what I mean by that is… stay sharp.” Turning around, the corner of his lips turned upwards infinitesimally, and he resumed his walk until they reached the carriage. ‘Regardless of what is found… how fun this might be.’

Liu’s comment about jesters had caught Esther off guard. It was interesting to know that jesters tended to play the same role in this world as her old one, and that Liu wasn’t afraid to comment when he desired. Truthfully though, she felt like she could hold her own against Vetreus, and didn’t know if he’d get defensive if everyone ganged up on him. Not that anyone wouldn’t be justified. If you wanted to dish it out, you needed to be able to take it.

While the banter may have continued for longer, the air in the room changed with a late arrival. Valeriana interjected before the newly arrived could say anything. The Proctor reminded Esther of a German woman: Focused and direct, without an ounce of room for smalltalk.

So interference from the West Empire and the Church was a possibility, and one they would try to avoid. She certainly didn’t have faith in her ability to debate her way out of a fight with anyone, or even be diplomatic when she barely understood the land’s politics.

And it seemed “within the hour” had suddenly become “ASAP.” Not that Esther minded. The anticipation was making her nervous, or maybe it was that aura.

“Of course, thank you.” She bid Valeriana just as she left.

As to be expected, Severin took the lead and expected everyone else to follow him. There was no reason not to, but Esther couldn’t help but feel like the man acted a bit like a politician. She only spent a moment looking back at the other before walking after Severin. Esther considered walking directly beside him, but made sure to stay a few steps back so that her wings didn’t collide with him. They hadn’t been out of the room for more than a few seconds before he asked a question. Esther felt nervous about answering it, but there was no reason to lie here.

“I wouldn’t say I’ve ever been in dangerous territory.” She answered truthfully. At least, truthfully for this world. “Though some would say the forests in the See can be dangerous.”

The fact that some of the students and even animals were afraid of the man didn’t surprise her. In fact, Esther felt good that she was able to hold up as well as she was.

“Cults, hmmm.” Maybe it was the optimistic part of Esther thinking, but part of her wanted to think that there really was a wounded entity, and all it needed was to be healed somehow. It was unfortunate that she didn’t know any healing magic, or much of anything. She had been in this world for a month tops and everything she learned was from a retired dwarf artificer. And frankly, she was quite glad she found him. But it still wasn’t clear why he suggested she come here.

It wasn’t until she got to the carriage that she sighed. She was going to have to sit near the doctor and his menacing presence, wasn’t she? At least he seemed to be polite thus far, and the others seemed like good people, even if Vetreus seemed a bit combative. She hadn’t decided if he was genuinely mean spirited or just liked to joke around. You couldn’t be all bad if you were carrying around a pet that cute though. It was a pet right? He had scales, so it could have been his baby. But why take a baby on a dangerous mission with you.

Given her wingspan, it would probably be best to find a place to sit down before everyone piled in. So when Severin stopped outside the carriage Esther stepped inside. “Thank you.” she bid the doctor before disappearing inside.

Vetreus’s gaze narrowed as the woman flipped his insult, he’d straighten his body as he observed her body language. It wasn’t a bat retort, timed well, and had a nice bite to it. Nor did she waver in her confidence. It was a strike below the belt, he had to admit. But, he was impressed by her ballsyness to say that to a noble.

The draconian's gaze softened as his eyebrows lifted into surprise, his lips curved into a humored grin. “You’re a bold Jester. Not afraid to gamble your life and your family's freedom? I’m impressed.” Unlike the skeleton, the fae indeed had a backbone, he enjoyed the fact that she didn’t stay silent just because the Draconian was of a higher social status. On top of that, possessing some wit.

The skeleton's demeanor seemed to change as it stood straight up? Perhaps he took the bone pun too seriously? Or he found the humor in it and it cheered him up? It was hard to read the familiar's face when it lacked facial muscles.

A large thud would hit the giant doors that separated the room from the outside. Slowly, the gateway opened. Revealing the late arrival, her face, red as a tomato as she walked into the room. “Nice of you to join us.” His expression was apathetic, as though an insect had flown into the room. For a first impression, this woman was off to a terrible spot. Ranking below Fei Leu in the pecking order at the moment. Griselda would twist her body with a curious tilt to her eyes, finding the flattened bagel on the ground. Her eyes would narrow as the gears began to shift.

Was everyone here truly carefully selected? He pondered on the thought for a breath before Valeriana spoke in favor of the bagel girl. She was pretty good at reading the room he had to admit.

The mention of Western Empire interference being a possibility made Vetreus smile. “I wouldn’t be surprised if they were affiliated with either of my brothers. Wouldn’t be a bad play, dispose of me outside of Western territory while acquiring valuable information.”He held a hand to his chin while he nodded his hand, as though he was tipping his hat off to the thought of his brothers if they were to attempt to assassinate him.

Vetreus would pocket the orb before excusing himself from the table, rising to his full stature. Griselda would readjust around his collar, wrapping herself around Vetreus’s body once more. “Are you going to introduce yourself? You pleaded with me to let you handle the introductions since I didn’t show proper respect to your lineage.”His voice lacked patience. The dragon would playfully float into the man’s view with a grin.

“Patience, I knew we were waiting for one more. Dragons do not repeat themselves.”She pointed her snout toward the ceiling pridefully.

“Now that everyone is here, My name is Griselda. Daughter of Vel’Deth and Graeinarch. The blood of the skyboding néamh line runs through me.” The hatchling would release herself from the man’s collar, standing on the meeting halls floors at a strong height of 3ft. Not lacking an ounce of confidence nor pride. She began to make her way over to the late comer, snout held high.

“Human! You seem to understand the true power I wield which is why you’re unable to speak! FEAR NOT, for I am merciful! Though it is not Sheep! I understand that you come from a poor family and this is all you can afford. I shall accept your beige circle disc this one time!”Though the noodle talked a big game, its voice was rather squeaky and high pitched. Not the least bit intimidating.

Vetreus simply folded his arms, non plus with the situation but he wasn’t going to interfere. Penny was harmless, so there was nothing to be worried about.

Vaust would move past the spectacle taking the lead of the situation, which Vetreus would simply walk close behind. As he moved towards the door, Griselda would take a step to the side. Her confidence wavered but she did her best to stand tall amidst danger.

“Talking so big but you haven't done anything yet. You’re a child.”He walked past the hatchling. “Come on.”He beckoned to them as he walked beside Vaust. However the dragon stood firm in front of Penny as she awaited the delicious treat.

“This isn’t my first time. Plenty of people want me dead, relatives included. So if we run into Western Empire, feel free to waste them if they cause trouble. I won’t stop you.” He turned to hear Esther’s answer to the question. His eyes narrowed a bit sharp. “With a smart mouth like that, I’m surprised you haven’t found yourself in hotter water.”

Vetreus would move aside with Vaust, allowing Esther and Penny to make themselves comfortable within the carriage first. The more the doctor spoke, the more questionable he sounded. How he took to the front, and asked questions regarding combat. It was as though he’s seen and lived through countless battles and outcomes. It wasn’t pre-cognition, there was a strong confidence that was built over time. The kind you build only after performing time and time again.

“How about you Vaust? Have you seen a lot of combat in your lifetime?” Vetreus questioned the man with folded arms.

@DoubleChecker@Book @Red Hood @pkken

When the Skeleton moved then spoke, it sent a shock through Penny's entire system as it was the last thing she had been expecting as it nearly sent her reeling back into her seat. Leaving her stunned and flabbergasted long enough that she wasn’t able to answer his question or even get a chance to introduce herself properly before Valeriana took control of the flow of the conversation. Once the Proctor had exited, Penny had started to hold up a finger so she could start her introduction now that there was an opening, but she was interrupted by Vaust’s approach and introduction as her finger and hand slowly sank down while he spoke, an uneasy feeling forming in the pit of her stomach. She wasn’t sure what was more dread inducing, Vaust or the living Skeleton. She started to work up to introducing herself in response to Vaust only to now be interrupted by Vetreus. A disappointed frown spread across her face while she listened to what Vetreus had to say as it sounded like a slight chastising.

Before she could counter back the dragon now introduced herself as Penny watched its slow approach all while it eyed up her precious flattened bagel. Meeting its look with a slight bit of suspicion of her own. A small frown formed on her face as she glanced down at the bagel before lifting her eyes to meet Griselda. Reluctantly and sheepishly handing over the flattened bagel to the tiny tyrant with a small sigh as it wasn’t as appetizing after what had happened. Not to mention after such a grandiose introduction and request she found it hard to resist and deny Griselda. With that over she prepared to speak once more, lifting her head up to address the others at long last.

Only to realize the others were already up and heading towards the carriage as she still hadn’t even gotten a chance to introduce herself let alone speak. Letting out a disgruntled sigh, she quickly followed after the group as she trailed behind until they reached their transportation. Not finding an opening to say anything between Vaust's menacing presence and the others chatter. Observing the reaction of those around them as they journeyed towards their destination.The uneasy feeling she had remained regarding Vaust and his intimidating aura. Penny did appreciate the two men stepping aside to allow Esther and her to enter and get situated first however so that was a point in both of their columns finally. Though she found that slightly more difficult than she had anticipated with Esther being quite tall for a Fae and with rather substantial wings which Penny had to watch out for while fitting herself in beside her. Trying her best to avoid taking a wing to the head or trapping one of Esther's wings behind her if she sat in the wrong spot. Finding a spot she felt would work she had wedged herself as tightly as she could into a corner trying to leave as much room as possible.

Now with some time to think, she realized because of how late she had been, not only had she not yet introduced herself or gotten to speak a single word. But she also didn’t even fully know what was going on or where they were supposed to be going or what they were supposed to do. But she thought it wise that she didn’t voice or admit this fact and instead go along with it and pretend like she knew. It was already bad enough she had embarrassed herself upon arrival, so it wasn’t a good idea to pile upon that poor initial meeting and sour the others impression of her any more then it had been.

Liu was struck by how rapidly Penny became overwhelmed. He's seen it before, usually in recruits before their training, although by the time he set foot in real training there was already so much bitterness that the look was a rarity. He noted that, he noted the dragon, and he noted Esther's adnission that she had never been in combat before. Liu was mostly defensive, although a hardness of body allowed him to act aggressively; losing any of these three on his watch would be a problem, and a personal one, at that. He dare not let himself think about who to prioritize. Not yet anyway. Rather than allow his mind to wander, the voids of his eyes locked onto the automatic carriage.

Strategically, he should be sitting by a door -- is the assessment he made. On account of this he began ensuring this operational requirement by reaching the carriage first. To the outside perspective, his gait had every appearance of walking. It wasn't any faster or more frantic. However, he was covering an astonishing and of course inhuman amount of ground. Each time he switched leading foot in his 'walk' his body seemed to sail over the ground and cover a few meters at once. One might assume he was hovering if unable to see his feet touching the ground. It was this way that he demonstrated at the very least that he is [Fast], at least [Fast C], if not [Fast B], and precise enough to flow through any foot traffic effortlessly with an ingrained sense of [Precision] and [Spatial Awareness]. He intended to be the first one at the door and open it for everyone else once they neared the device.

[If you are interested in joining a setting like this, check out: roleplayerguild.com/topics/196759-ise…]

@DoubleChecker - Asset Goal: Grand Duchy Nobility F
@Book - Asset Goal: ?
@pkken - Asset Goal: Harvester Asset Mine F
@Red Hood - Asset Goal: ?
@Nakushita - Asset Goal: ?

The carriage waits, humming with a low magical thrum. The West Gate of the Luminary stands open before it, offering a view of the bustling city of Aslan beyond. Your journey to the edge of the Verdant Heart is about to begin.

The group settles into the enchanted carriage. The door clicks shut, and with a lurch that is more felt than heard, the carriage begins to move. There is no sound of wheels or hooves, only the faint hum of magic. It glides through the West Gate and into the bustling streets of Aslan.

The journey is a showcase of the Grand Duchy's marvels. The carriage rises smoothly, joining streams of magical vehicles and individual fliers navigating the vertical city. Below, citizens walk on magically illuminated pathways, constructs perform civic duties with tireless efficiency, and the great port teems with ships both mundane and magical. The carriage moves with impossible speed, the cityscape blurring past the windows before giving way to the manicured greenbelts that surround the capital.

Soon, the meticulously planned landscape transitions into the wilder temperate forests and plains of the Duchy's outer territories. The journey takes several hours, passing in relative silence as the carriage speeds eastward. The sun begins its descent, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple.

Just as dusk begins to settle in earnest, the carriage slows. The smooth, magical hum falters, replaced by a subtle, disquieting vibration that seems to thrum up from the very ground. The air outside the windows grows thick and heavy, and the familiar sounds of the forest—the chirping of insects, the call of birds—are conspicuously absent. There is only a deep, resonant silence.

The carriage comes to a complete stop. The door clicks open, revealing the destination.

You stand at the edge of a nightmare jungle. This is not the temperate rainforest you were expecting; this is the Verdant Heart.

The trees here are monstrously overgrown, their trunks thick as towers and warped into grotesque shapes. They form a canopy so dense that it chokes the last vestiges of twilight, plunging the forest floor into an unnatural gloom. The undergrowth is a tangled, thorny mass of vines and pulsing, bioluminescent fungi that cast a sickly green and violet light on everything. The air is cloyingly sweet with the smell of rampant decay and alien blossoms.

But the most unsettling feature is the sound. It is not a true sound, but a low, pervasive thrumming that you feel in your bones—the same vibration you felt as the carriage approached. It is the rhythm of a slow, powerful heartbeat, seeming to emanate from the entire forest at once. With every "beat," the glowing fungi flare brighter and the thorny vines seem to twitch and writhe in the gloom.

This is not a natural place. It is a living, breathing labyrinth, and its heart is beating somewhere in the oppressive darkness ahead. A narrow, winding path, more like a tunnel carved through the thorns and roots, is the only visible point of entry.

The enchanted carriage behind you hums once, a clear signal that it will wait here, but will go no further. Your mission begins now.

​

Titles
[Monster], [Undead], [Monster - Mundane], [Monster - Evolved], [Necromancer] - [#2d7d38]
Noteworthy Perks: [Evolved] - gain the title evolved. Something about your physiology or aura identifies to others you are of a higher species than your peers. Gain a +1 to social exchanges with others of your racial tree.
[Menace] - An aura of fear emanates from the creature at all times that makes lower grade creatures take a -1 effectiveness on attacks against monster or monster allies.
Noteworthy Perks: Resilient C (28) [Aging/Fatigue and Exhaustion/Suffocation/Surprised]

Asset Goal: Duchy Nobility F

With the blur, or more correctly Fei Liu, having passed through the group and towards the carriage, a gust of wind that ended up billowing Severin’s cape was all that was the only sign of the skeleton until the group reached the carriage. While the Necromancer said nothing about it, he did let a tentative hum escape his lips. ‘Well, now I know who can deliver messages between the group if it ever becomes split.’ What a nice asset indeed.

Getting into the carriage before the last one of them, Fei Liu, Severin took a seat right in the middle of the spacious vehicle, crossing one leg over the other. He had decided to hold the answer to Vetreus’ question until the carriage began moving. Only then his lips parted. “More than you can imagine.” His first answer was direct, right on point, and he allowed it to simmer for a few moments before continuing.

“My research into the arcane and the divine lead me into countless requests with all sorts of adventurers, soldiers of fortunes, both the visionary and ambitious, and everything between.” Resting one hand on top of his knee, while the other held his cane, he turned his face slightly to face the draconian. “Either be bandits that are extorting the roads, monsters that are kidnapping villagers or some suspicious ruin that was unearthed, my search for knowledge does tend to put me into the quite unsanitary situations. But I was always very fortunate to be paired with very capable folk.”

From Vetreus, his attention drifted towards the newcomer: Penny. As hilarious as it would be to have her possibly die even without knowing where they were going, the [Undead] found it a bit crass to leave her in ignorance. He wasn’t much of a fan with how certain ‘creators’ operated.

“To catch you up to speed with where we are going and what we will do.” The hand that was on his knee lifted, touching the shiny Scrying Orb that still floated at his side. “We were employed to collect some data in a rainforest called ‘Verdant Heart’. And these orbs will do just that.” From the orb, his hand joined its twin at the top reliquary orb at the crown of his cane. “Some phenomena is happening within its epicenter, and some members of the Church say that there is some ‘wounded entity’ right in the middle of it.”

Tap-tap-tap, his gloved index tapped against the glass. “Only superstition, according to the Proctor. We shall know more when we get to it.” With that, he simply stopped, like a seasoned professor reaching the end of his lecture. “Now, then, do you have a name that you can be called by? If not, I’m certain Vetreus can come up with something.” Giving the West Empire noble one last glance, his eyes darted towards the window instead.

The scenery had already changed drastically: from the ‘magical marvels’ of the capital of Aslan, to the wilderness outside its protective barrier, and finally to their destination. The silence was deafening, abhorrent, unnatural… peaceful. It reminded Severin of his rest.

He waited for Liu Fei to exit the carriage first, after all, the skeleton was at the door. His shoes make contact with the ground with a solid thud. His gaze washes over the unnatural surroundings, their deformed and bizarre nature, not bothering him in the slightest. “Now, to wonder if this place was already like this, or if it is the effect of the disturbance taking place.” Severin said out loud, wondering, as he approached one of the one particular tree with a bizarre, devilishly shape.

“Mmmm… no glyph here.” He said with fabricated disappointment, looking at the narrow, winding path ahead. “Seems that is the only path in.”