Thea and Astris travel deep underground on their way to The Ribbon. They fine the next elemental node they must liberate.
[Int: Underground tunnels. Thea, Astis, Kinkfloof, DM, Mica]
[SFX - chime, footsteps, slight reverb?]
DM:
Welcome back listeners! After parting ways with the guide appointed by Commander Khor three days earlier; Astris and Thea arrive at a three-way intersection in the depths of the underground tunnel network. The dark grey tunnels slope downward, barely wide enough for two people to walk next to each other. Thea's attendants are spread out around them to offer the only source of light in the otherwise pitch dark corridors.
Kinkfloof:
(sarcastic)
Oh good. A fork in the road.
Thea:
Fuuuuuuuuck! I feel like I'm marching myself straight to my own crypt. I hate it down here, I miss the skyyyyyy!
Astris:
(investigates)
Hmmm… I wish the guide was still here. From here all three passages look the same. Makes me miss the slime tunnels… At least they weren't covered in cobwebs! I keep catching strands with my face…
Thea:
(shudder)
Gross. Thanks for walking first Astris.
Kinkfloof:
(annoyed)
You walked into the first one and screeched so loud I couldn't hear right for half a day.
Thea:
And I apologized as soon as you could hear again, Kinkfloof. It's not my fault! It startled me… Spiders freak me out… something about the spindly legs…
Astris:
As much as we may not like it, if it's getting this creepy, we're probably on the right path.
Thea:
Yaaaaay…
[SFX - quake rumble]
DM:
Before Thea can even finish her sass the tunnel around them rumbles and shakes. Dust and small bits of rock rain from the ceiling. Thea's attendants flit back into the bag on her waist, leaving them in darkness. Astris has her shield out and covers Thea in an instant.
Astris:
(coughing) Thea! Are you okay?
Thea:
(coughing) I'm fine, not even dusty thanks to you. But we clearly can't wait much longer. My ladies, your light again if you would! Astris, draw the circle around us, I'll start reaching out to the leylines again.
[SFX - drag through dirt]
DM:
Thea's attendants flit back out of her bag, bringing light back to their small section of tunnel. They playfully and mockingly pantomime Thea and Astris as they prepare their small ritual. Astris quickly drags her mace through the dust on the dirt stone floor in a circle around her and Thea.
Thea:
I think I feel one, hold my hands Astris!
[SFX - magic thrum]
DM:
As Thea and Astris clasp hands they feel a tugging sensation. Like a line directly from their navel to the source. They feel another distant rumble, as if confirming their search.
Astris and Thea:
(unison)
The middle one.
Kinkfloof:
(anxious)
I don't remember it shaking quite so much down here. That was the third disruption today.
[SFX - footsteps]
DM:
Hours pass as they continue down the increasingly meandering path. The sides of the walls have become less stone and more web, almost like the tunnel has padded walls. Thea's arms and tail are pulled in close to avoid touching it.
Thea:
If I have to spend another day in this tunnel, I'm going to lose my mind.
[SFX - thunderous rumble]
Thea:
That wasn't me.
Astris:
That one felt like it was in front of us, and closer.
Kinkfloof:
Are you both sure you picked the right way?
Thea:
Ya know of all of us, you're the only one who's been to the Ribbon. You should be helping us!
Kinkfloof:
(tail swish in annoyance)
Well, it's not like I came this way. And a lot has happened in the over a decade since I was last down here.
Thea:
Don't you swish your tail at me little guy…
Astris:
Hey guys? Quiet please. I think I hear something.
DM:
Thea and Kinkfloof stop talking immediately and listen closely along with Astris. In the distance in front of them they can hear panicked cries and the clatter of armored feet.
Thea:
Covenant?
Astris:
I don't know… But they don't sound happy… Maybe we should go back to the fork…
Thea:
But the magic said this way…
DM:
The smallest pinprick of light ahead of them, followed by the growing sound of frantic shouts and boots on stone. Astris and Thea take off running back down the tunnel to the fork.
Kinkfloof:
I'm sure we don't want to meet what's chasing them.
Thea:
(panting) I fucking hate running!
Astris:
(panting) I know Thea, but we can catch our breath once we're in a different tunnel!
[Thea Astris SFX - Panting]
[SFX - shouting, armor]
DM:
The frantic shouting and clanging of armor drives them on even as their lungs start to burn. Astris suddenly stops short, causing Thea to run into her.
[SFX - Thea, Astris - oof]
[SFX - bodies hitting wall]
Astris:
(panting) There's a wall here now. This wasn't here before…
[SFX - slaps wall]
Thea:
(panting) What?! Is it possible we went the wrong way?
Astris:
I don't see how! We followed the only path there was, I know it!
Kinkfloof:
Not to panic anybody, but the frantic mob is getting closer…
[SFX - shaking, rumbling]
DM:
The tunnel around them shakes violently, as more dust and debris fill the air, making it harder to breathe. Thea's attendants are startled back into the bag on her waist, leaving them in the dark again. But there is a soft blue glow coming from the webbing on the wall next to them. They watch as the webbing parts and a silvery stone face with bright green glittering eyes pokes out.
[Enter Mica]
Mica:
Oh shit, you two aren't supposed to be down here. Quickly, this way now!
DM:
Thea and Astris don't have time to argue. They dive through the webbing and into the secret side passage.
[Int: drider tunnel. Thea, Astris, DM, Kinkfloof, Vivienne, Mica]
[SFX - chime]
Thea:
Ouch my ass! Astris, your mace is stabbing me in the butt cheek!
Astris:
Ah! Sorry Thea! Let me help you up!
Kinkfloof:
I'm fine, thanks for asking.
Vivienne:
Mica, secure the wall!
Mica:
Right! On it Viv!
[SFX - stone slide]
DM:
The figure named Mica shoves a small boulder into place, closing them off from the chaos in the tunnel. As Astris pulls Thea on to her feet, their eyes adjust to the dim blue glow. The side passage is much larger than the tunnel they were just in.
Thea:
Your timing is impeccable! A few more moments and that mob would have been– OOH MY FUCK!
DM:
Astris pats Thea's shoulder and stands in front of the terrified tiefling. Their eyes have fully adjusted and they can see fully the massive figure in front of them. Towering over them at 12 feet tall is one of the spider folk. Her pale features starkly contrast the sleek black of her arachnid body. Her white hair is artfully tied back to allow her many silver eyes to take in the ambient light of the mushrooms, as well as a soft blue glow emanating from her staff.
Vivienne:
Ah, my apologies, Mistress Cacophony and her Pale Knight. We had a group from Sedimenterra ready to greet you first in the hopes they would lessen the shock. But regardless, welcome to the Silk Ring. I am Vivienne, twelfth daughter of the house Araneae.
Thea:
(clears throat)
A pleasure, Vivienne. Please, call me Thea.
Mica:
And I'm Mica! The Mycelia whispered that you would both arrive! Ah! I can't believe I get to meet both of you! (pause) But we should save introductions until we're away from here. It's about to get very loud on the other side of this wall.
[SFX - shuffling, screams, clatter]
DM:
They all hear the muffled sounds of armor against stone as the panicked mob finds the end of the tunnel. The shouts grow louder as the hysteria rises. Mica waves Thea and Astris on, away from the carnage taking place on the other side of the wall.
DM:
Mica looks as if they were cut from solid stone. Along the crest of their head is a tangle of green fungus held back out of their face with a silken cord. The gentle blue light reflects against the silvery sheen of their skin, as they walk alongside Astris.
Mica:
(excitable)
So… Sir Astris, are you really one of Lilith's chosen? What's it like? Is she as beautiful and terrifying as the stories say?
Astris:
Hmm? Oh! Yes, I guess I am. What's it like… mmmm so far I would say moist. And I haven't really met her in person yet, but she's intimidating enough in dreams.
Vivienne:
Now, now, Mica, don't badger our guests. My apologies, they are very excited to meet the two of you. Especially a paladin of Lilith.
Astris:
Oh, no it's alright! So many people wanna kill us, it's nice when someone doesn't!
Thea:
That's so sad, but so true… (sigh) If we are allies against the Covenant, then we are friends. (pause) I'd like to apologize for my outburst before. I have a slight fear of spiders, and it's causing me to make an ass out of myself.
Vivienne:
Most surfacers are startled by our appearance, no offense was given. But your apology is appreciated nonetheless, Thea of the shifting skies.
Thea:
Oooo, shifting skies! I like that! I'm gonna have to remember to use that!
[SFX - echo] (message)
Astris, it's taking every ounce of control I have not to freak out right now. I feel awful and rude about it. Fuck I'm so embarrassed!!
[SFX - echo] (message)
Astris:
I didn't know you were so skittish around spiders Thea. It's kinda cute.
[SFX - echo] (message)
Thea:
(gasp) How very dare you Astris! Mocking me in my moment of need! This could cause an international incident if I'm not careful!
[SFX - echo] (message)
Astris:
(chuckles) I think you're okay, Thea.
[SFX - echo] (message)
Thea:
I know… but it's wildly embarrassing! The spiders on the surface don't get hurt feelings when I yelp at the sight of them. Wait… or do they?? Shit…
[SFX - echo] (message)
Astris:
Don't beat yourself up Thea. You'll get used to it. You're just jumpy cause it's new and you hate being underground. I'm sure before long you won't even notice.
[SFX Thea - grumbles]
DM:
Our group is in a new set of tunnels, wide enough and tall enough for Vivienne to easily pass. The walls are dotted with mushrooms that give off a faint blue glow, just bright enough for them to see.
Astris:
So we're looking for someone, Carmilla. Another servant of Lilith, she only has one leg, have you seen her?
Vivienne:
Ah, the one of which you speak is known to us. We received reports, not even a week ago, of a woman appearing from nowhere in the middle of one of the Covenant blasting zones. We lost track of her once they took her.
Thea:
Took her? Shit. (pause) I'm sorry blasting zones? What's the Covenant doing down here?
Mica:
It was awful Mistress Thea! Several years ago the black slime mold came and corrupted my people's connection to the Mycelia. It turned them into zombie labor for the Covenant, some chose to become Still rather than be used. They've been digging and mining the remnants of my home. Blasting deep into the stone, searching for their prize. The Deep Heart.
Astris:
That's horrible! I'm sorry Mica, I'm not exactly sure what all of that means, but it sounds bad.
[SFX - echo] (message)
The Deep Heart, Thea, that sounds like the node.
[SFX - echo] (message)
Thea:
I think you're right Astris. I'm willing to bet anything they shoved Carmilla into the Deep Heart just like they did with Rhox.
(aloud)
Hmmm we've seen the way the Smiler works, black slime is very on brand. And where there's Covenant, his stink isn't far behind.
Vivienne:
The infection spread fast. In a matter of weeks. Many had already succumbed to the mold before we could even offer aid.
Thea:
Have the spider folk always been allies with Sedimenterra? Or only since the Covenant arrived?
Vivienne:
Our peoples have a long and storied history. The Silk Ring is named so because it surrounds Sedimenterra. We've long kept our friends of stone safe from outside forces.
Mica:
(cheeky)
Yeah, but mostly because they can't eat us. No blood.
Vivienne:
(throat clear)
Yes, well that may be true, but it has been an advantageous relationship for both our peoples. The Covenant has killed many of my people in their bid for control of the Deep Heart. We cannot let that stand.
[SFX - rumble, horn]
Vivienne:
That was Ryloth's horn. The fight must not be going well…
Astris:
Take us there! Let us fight!
Thea:
Astris is right. We're much tougher than we look. Well, Astris is tougher than she looks, I'm exactly as tough as I look.
Vivienne:
Our orders are to take you directly to the Hollow… But…
Mica:
Come on Viv! We're the only people close enough to answer in time!
Vivienne:
I… (sigh) alright. Let us go. Ryloth's squadron isn't far.
DM:
With Vivienne's approval the group of them take off running to keep up with Vivienne's long stride. Kinkfloof bounces unceremoniously on Thea's shoulder, as she jogs to keep up.
[Underground cavern. Astris, Thea, DM, Kinkfloof, Vivienne, Mica, Ryloth, Covenant Soldier 1 and 2]
[SFX - chime, battle sounds, horn]
DM:
After several different winding tunnels our heroes find themselves spit into a vast cavern lit by a combination of blue and yellow glowing mushrooms on its high grey walls. Veins of ore glitter against the walls as they catch the light of Covenant torches. In the center of the cavern the clash between the Covenant and the people of the underground rages.
DM:
Ryloth, who is large even among the spider folk, raises his great sword and leads his forces against the Covenant onslaught. His body is covered in black armor that matches his thorax, and his dark hair has come loose from its bindings while slashing through the human invaders. Thea gives a small yelp at the sight of so many spider folk.
Thea:
(yelp) Sorry…
Vivienne:
There were not supposed to be this many… Our reports said–
Mica:
(cutting her off)
It doesn't matter now! Quick, let's go!
Thea:
Hold on, watch me scare the shit out of them first.
DM:
With a wry smirk Thea takes out her Harp Lute, flips a few switches and before anyone knows what's going on Thea's sing-song voice booms through the cavern.
Thea:
Covenaaaaaant! Come out and playyyy!
Astris:
Charge!!
DM:
The cavern stills for just a moment as hundreds of faces turn to look at Thea as she taunts their foes. Astris and Thea take this cue to transform into their battle regalia. A number of Covenant soldiers flee with cries of fear.
Covenant Soldier 1:
It's Mistress Cacophony and the Pale Knight! They found us! Run!
Covenant Soldier 2:
I heard what they did in Utopia! Retreat!
Ryloth:
This is our moment! Push these Covenant bastards back!!
Astris:
Thea with me! We'll flank them from the side!
Thea:
I'm right behind you Astris!
DM:
Ryloth's forces of both spider and stone-folk slash through the front lines; the people of stone acting almost as shields for their chitinous comrades. All while Astris leads her smaller team from the side, shielding her allies and going to town with her morningstar.
DM:
Thea is decked out in Oberon's magical armor of green Malachite, as she slings green blasts of fey magic picking off Covenant soldiers one by one. She can feel Oberon's warm approval squeezing her bosom through her armor. Vivienne conjures deadly ice magics to freeze enemies as Mica fights side by side with Astris; together they shatter their enemies into human shards.
Ryloth:
We've almost got them! Drive them out!
Astris:
Thea, duck!
Thea:
Ahhh! Shit!
[SFX - cheers]
DM:
Astris deflects a crossbow bolt that's heading straight for Thea, the bolt still manages to chip her horn but she's otherwise unhurt. A score of spider folk with longbows take aim and completely decimate the dwindling ranged Covenant soldiers. More and more begin to turn and flee as the tide of battle changes. Cheers ring out as the last of the Covenant forces flee or fall. The spider folk wrap up and take some of the injured Covenant soldiers away, as Ryloth makes his way to Vivienne and her cohorts.
Astris:
Thea, are you okay?!
Thea:
(panting lightly) I'm fine, it's just a scratch. You deflected it before I even knew it was coming, Astris.
Ryloth:
(panting lightly) You arrived just in time, we're grateful for your aid.
Vivienne:
Ryloth! You're wounded! Don't move, I have some bandages.
Mica:
What happened out here? This wasn't the plan!
Ryloth:
(sigh)
The reports of a small Covenant scouting party were correct. We successfully funneled them into one of the trick tunnels, our stone companions gave chase and dispatched them.
Thea:
Ohhhh so that's what that was! Scared the shit out of us too bud, but clearly something went wrong.
Ryloth:
Ah, I see you found the Mistress and the Pale Knight, Lady Vivienne; the Queen will be pleased. But you are correct Mistress, something did go wrong. The Covenant outflanked us - blasting through the cavern wall. It was a trap, a failed trap, and their commander, Eckhart, is growing more bold.
DM:
As Ryloth explains how the fight turned against them, Vivienne fusses over him, applying silk bandages to wounds on his upper humanoid arms, as well as one of his arachnid legs. Thea glances between the two spider folk, and suppresses a knowing smirk; her interest in romantic drama momentarily overpowering her fear. Thea also notices how many eyes are on them as they're being filled in. She feels self-conscious about so many people seeing her with an unsightly chip in her horn, she quickly fusses with her hair to hide the chip.
Mica:
This is the farthest the Covenant has pushed yet. They're getting more and more brazen, I don't like this one bit.
Ryloth:
And the Covenant certainly won't get less brazen now that they know of our esteemed guests.
Astris:
Yeah we seem to have that effect on them…
Thea:
With any luck, we'll be the ones on the attack next.
Ryloth:
That much will be up to our Queen. Lady Vivienne, the way is clear for you to continue escorting our guests to the Hollow. I must remain here and see to my warriors and post lookouts.
Vivienne:
Of course, thank you General Ryloth. We will look forward to your safe return to the Hollow. Lady Thea, Sir Astris, this way please; it's not too much further.
[SFX - purring]
Kinkfloof:
Will there be food at this Hollow?
Thea:
Oh there you are little buddy. I was wondering where you got off too. Always disappearing before a battle and reappearing right as it ends.
Kinkfloof:
I was keeping an eye on you two, as always. It didn't seem like you needed my help.
Astris:
It's more important to us that you stay safe, Kinkfloof. We'll make sure you have a full belly tonight.
Mica:
I'll scout ahead to make sure it's clear!
DM:
Vivienne nods her head as Mica sprints off ahead. Thea and Astris follow Vivienne as she shepherds them to the Hollow.
[Int: The Hollow. Underground. Thea, Astris, DM, Vivienne, Mica, Messenger]
[SFX - chime]
DM:
The entrance to the Hollow is blocked by two massive, stories-high obsidian doors. The surface shines in the glow of the mushrooms. Thea's mouth hangs open a little, in awe of the sheer scale.
Thea:
Fuck me… That door is huge…
Vivienne:
(soft chuckle) The Obsidian Gate has stood as sentry to the Hollow for generations. One of the first gifts from our friends of stone long ago.
Mica:
(proud)
Sedimenterra is home to the best stone, metal and glass smiths in all of Lilith's domain! Some of our ancient artisans helped build her keep in the Ribbon. Or… at least we were the best. The Covenant has destroyed so much…
Astris:
We won't let them keep destroying your home Mica. Thea and I will run the Covenant of Purity out of here. We just drove them from their own capital city.
Thea:
Yeah, don't worry! We'll fuck em up!
Mica:
Their own capital?! Haha! The bastards down here won't know what hit them!
[SFX - thread strum, door grinding]
DM:
Vivienne smiles appreciatively as she stands to the side of the gate. Set into the wall before her is a set of four tightly strung silk threads. She plucks several silk strands in a specific order. The sound catches Thea's ear and she has to fight the urge to pluck out the tune on her Harp Lute. The soft, pleasant thrum of the door strings is cut off by the grinding of glass on stone as the Obsidian Gate begins to open.
DM:
Behind is a grand cavern of dark polished stone. Beautifully intricate lace web tapestries decorate the many walls and doorways. Various tunnels shoot off from the main cavern. Vivienne leads them into one of the leftmost tunnels which leads them past the half-shuttered Spinning District.
Thea:
Vivienne, why are all these shops closed?
Vivienne:
Ah, this is the Spinning District, or at least what's left of it. Before the Covenant all but destroyed our trade routes, we were the main supplier of silk to the Ribbon and beyond. You've probably even seen our work topside.
Thea:
(stopping to examine the silk)
I've had the luxury of wearing silks topside, nothing I've ever seen or worn has had this thread count or quality. I was out in the sticks you see. This silk feels exquisite; if stopping the Covenant is what gets fabric like this topside again, that alone is enough of a reason to fuck their shit.
Vivienne:
(amused chuckle) I'm sure our Queen would gift you as much silk as you can carry once the Covenant is dealt with.
DM:
Thea's eyes sparkle as her mind begins designing new performance outfits. Astris leads Thea by the arm as Vivienne leads them deeper into the Hollow. They are stopped by the sudden appearance of a smaller spider folk in their path, holding a wax sealed note. Vivienne takes the note and reads the contents.
[SFX - Thea spider yelp]
[Enter Messenger]
Messenger:
Lady Vivienne, the Queen's council requires your immediate presence.
[SFX - paper]
Vivienne:
(reading)
Hmm, I see. Yes, I'll be there right away. Mica, will you finish showing our guests around? I was going to take them to the Smithing Quarter before showing them their rooms.
Mica:
Sure thing Viv! Everything okay?
Vivienne:
(tired)
Is it ever? Lady Thea, Sir Astris, I apologize that I must leave you now. The council will be eager to meet and plan with you once I tell them of your arrival.
Thea and Astris:
Bye Lady Vivienne!
DM:
With that Vivienne bows her head and departs. And in the blink of an eye the messenger scout is gone too – leaving Mica, Thea, Astris and Kinkfloof alone in the hall.
[Exit Vivienne, Messanger]
Mica:
I'm excited to show you the Smithing Quarter. It's a small fraction of home. Those of us that didn't contract the black slime mold and were able to escape Sedimenterra settled here. I'd love for you to meet our head Smith, Feldspar. Come on, this way!
[Smithing Quarter. Thea, Astris, DM, Kinkfloof, Mica, Feldspar, Messenger.]
[SFX - chime]
[SFX - hammer, forge, furnace]
DM:
Mica leads Astris, Thea, and Kinkfloof to the noisier Smithing Quarter. The structures built by the stone people look unique juxtaposed against that of their spider allies. Where the spider folk seem to prefer austere elegance, clean lines and a limited color palette; the buildings made by the stone people are more playful, colorful and made up of impressive lines and curves. All around them the buildings and forges are alight with warm orange flame. The clanging of metal and the hissing of bellows can be heard throughout the cavern. Kinkfloof buries his face in Thea's hair to try to muffle the sound.
Kinkfloof:
(muffled)
Thea, it's too loud in here…
Thea:
Ah, come here little buddy. Let's see what we can do for those sensitive ears.
[SFX - Thea humming, cat purr]
DM:
Thea cradles Kinkfloof to her chest, his head above her heart. She closes her hand over his open ear, petting him soothingly. She hums softly to give him something else to focus on. She feels his fluffy little body relax against hers, as he starts to purr very quietly.
Mica:
As you can see, Sedimenterra's remaining Smiths are helping repair and outfit our forces. This area was initially thrown together quickly to house refugees. But we've been fighting the Covenant for years, and it slowly became our home away from home.
Astris:
If this is even a fraction of what your people can do, I can't wait to see the new Sedimenterra once you rebuild it.
Mica:
(smiles)
Our Smiths are already drawing up plans for the rebuilding of Sedimenterra; though this is the first time in a while we've had this much hope.
DM:
As they make their way to the back of the Smithing Quarter, Astris and Thea notice the curious way some of the stone folk wear their mushrooms.
Thea:
(excited)
Mica, forgive my crassness, but were they just wearing a pair of mushrooms like breasts?
Feldspar:
(playful)
There's nothing crass about it, my lady. We encourage curiosity.
DM:
The head Smith, Feldspar, steps out from their forge - hammer in hand. They stand a head taller than Thea, their mycelium is rust-orange, almost like coral sprouting like a strip down their head. The stone of their body is a pale orange with beautiful deep red striations running through them. Their amber eyes twinkle with an air of mischief.
Thea:
(brat)
Oh, well, if it's encouraged, I have a few more questions.
Mica:
(chuckles)
Feldspar! I was wondering where you got off to! And it's okay Thea, I forget that's weird to topsiders.
Thea:
(aside)
Honestly not as weird as you might think…
Feldspar:
We choose how and where we adorn ourselves with our particular Mycelium. Not unlike how you choose clothes or how to style your hair.
Thea:
Okay so this has come up a few times… What exactly is Mycelium? Is it just for show or can you feel sensation with it? Mica, you mentioned it was connected somehow?
Mica:
It's hard to explain exactly, it can be rather… intimate. But remember how I told you my people came to harbor a symbiotic relationship with the Mycelia?
Astris:
Yes, you said a black slime mold corrupted your people's connection to it.
Mica:
Exactly. We don't remember a time where we existed without our connection to the Mycelia, we've always lived and thrived together. We wear portions of the Mycelia on our bodies constantly. Our own Mycelium.
DM:
Mica gestures to the mass of Mycelium they wear as hair. Feldspar offers their hand to Thea, she takes it curiously, a small glint in her eye. She's soothed by the warmth of their hand. To avoid being dropped, Kinkfloof unceremoniously jumps to the pack on Astris’ back and crawls inside to try to nap.
Mica:
It lets us feel each other, not mindread or anything, but it's our emotional connection to ourselves and each other.
Feldspar:
Lady Thea, you may touch my Mycelium if it pleases you.
Thea:
It pleases me, High-Smith Feldspar. Trust me.
DM:
Feldspar cups her hand to their cheek as Thea's fingers gingerly move upward to caress the base of the Mycelium. It's warmer than she expected, the slender rust orange stalks smooth and soft.
Thea:
(soft gasp)
I feel something! It's deep and layered, I can't feel all of it. It's like rapids on a river. You can see the water's surface, hear it running - but its depths are a mystery. It feels strong under there, like it could sweep you away.
Feldspar:
You felt the caress of the Mycelia, Lady Thea. Through your touch I could feel impressions of you as well; I could feel your song. It's beautiful.
DM:
Feldspar kisses the top of Thea's hand respectfully, amber eyes shining down on her with open affection. Thea is nothing but coy smiles and meaningful glances as she and Feldspar flirt. Finally someone is giving her the attention she deserves.
The building sexual tension goes ignored by Astris and Mica as they continue the discussion.
Astris:
And the black slime is interfering with that connection. The feeling Thea described sounded beautiful, I'm so sorry the Covenant is using it against your people.
Mica:
Not only that, it's messing with their emotions. Making them think they want to serve the Covenant. It makes them destroy and strip mine their own homes…
Astris:
And the Covenant barely has to lift a finger. Typical.
Feldspar:
Some of our people chose to be Stilled before they lost themselves to the Covenant. They chose to burn away their Mycelium, and become inert.
Thea:
That's awful, I'm so sorry… (quietly) Can't say I don't understand though. I've seen the Covenant's plans for me, makes me wonder if I'd rather do the same before they get me...
Astris:
Thea don't say that, I won't let them get you. They shouldn't have even been able to chip your horn like that… I'm sorry. Does it hurt?
Thea:
Astris, that bolt would have hit me square in the eye if you hadn't knocked it with your shield. You, as always, saved my life. Don't worry, it doesn't hurt…it's just unsightly. Which is almost worse.
Feldspar:
If I may, Mistress Thea - I see you already have gold inlaid on your horns. It's very beautiful, and it would be my honor to mend your horn and add but a little to the beauty before me.
Thea:
In my short time here, I've heard great tales of your peoples' stone, glass and metalsmithing techniques. I'd love a first hand demonstration, Master Smith.
Feldspar:
After you've spoken with the council, come back to my forge and I'll have you whole and glittering again.
DM:
Feldspar runs their thumb over the chip in her horn. The vibration of their touch sends shivers through her body. Thea looks up at them with a playful smirk. Mica looks to Astris to see if this is normal.
Mica:
(aside to Astris)
Should we, um leave them?
Astris:
Hmm? Oh no this is normal for Thea. It's been days since she last had someone fawn over her, her mood will be much improved after this.
DM:
Before a confused Mica has time to respond, a messenger from the spider folk arrives and bows to everyone.
[SFX - Thea yelp]
Messenger:
The Queen and her Council request the presence of The Mistress Cacophony and the Pale Knight. If you will follow me please.
DM:
Astris and Mica give a nod and follow while Thea has to pull herself away from Feldspar. She runs her fingers along their Mycelium, letting them feel just a taste of her eagerness. She gives them a wink before turning and following after Astris.
Thea:
Later~
[Int: Council chamber. Thea, Astris, DM, Vivienne, Ryloth, Mica, Queen Ostrava, Azurite, Kinkfloof.]
[SFX - murmured chatter]
DM:
The Queen's council chamber is as large and impressive as the rest of the Hollow. The walls are high and made of the same chiseled obsidian. Massive web-lace tapestries hang from the walls depicting various rulers and important historical moments.
DM:
Queen Ostrava stands at the head of the table, inconveniently high for anyone who isn't twelve feet tall. The Queen is draped in a beautiful combination of intricately woven silks and leather. Her long silver hair is done up and out of her face, showing her many eyes. She is the picture of a wartime queen.
Thea and Astris enter the chamber and climb up their respective step ladders so they are at the table's height.
[SFX - echo] (message)
Thea:
This step stool makes me feel like a child…
[SFX - echo] (message)
Astris:
See? Here I was wishing I always had one of these things! I could reach so much stuff!
Queen Ostrava:
Esteemed council members, please welcome our honored guests - the chosen of the gods: Lady Thea, the Mistress Cacophony and Sir Astris, The Pale Knight. Long may the Green God and the Lady of Blood reign.
Thea:
My Queen, we thank you for welcoming us into your home. It has been an honor to learn more about both the spider and stone folk today. We have been filled in on the difficulties with the Covenant and the black slime mold.
Astris:
We came looking for a friend of ours, a concubine of Lilith, Carmilla. And after learning about what the Covenant’s doing down here… it seems our missions are the same. So like I told Mica earlier, we’re gonna kick their asses.
[SFX - applause]
Vivienne:
My apologies for having to leave you so abruptly earlier. One of our scouts returned with unprecedented and dire news. The slime mold is adapting or has been purposely adapted to infect us. General Ryloth, if you would.
[SFX - scroll unroll]
DM:
The General bows his head respectfully and rolls out a large scroll sheet. Rushed charcoal lines depict a truly gruesome scene. One of the spider folk dead - but with tall sprouting black growths protruding from their eyes and mouth. Their body is husk-like and withered as they stand vigil even in death.
Ryloth:
Thank you, Lady Vivienne. Our scouts came across this in one of the caverns closer to Sedimenterra. That is the body of Corporal Kalmarus, he's been missing in action for weeks. We now have clear evidence that the Covenant means to enslave our minds as well. We need to strike now and we need to strike hard. We have the Gods’ favored with us, it is a sign!
Thea:
The General is right. Astris and I are the sign that the time is now. For this to work Astris and I must get to the Deep Heart and cleanse it. We believe that, like the node we cleansed in Utopia, the Deep Heart is one of the elemental ley lines. We also believe that, like the previous node, the Deep Heart contains a living sacrifice to their God. We think it's our friend Carmilla who's been sacrificed. Her pain is being used to strengthen the Covenant's hold on the magics here.
Astris:
The Covenant's God, The Smiler, wants to control the magical ley lines that run through our world. If he is successful, he will control when it rains, when the ground shakes, and he will crush us.
Lilith gave me magic blood in a dream one time that can undo the Smiling Man's corruption. This black slime mold sounds like his doing. He really enjoys spewing black ooze everywhere.
[SFX - murmuring]
DM:
The Council turns and looks at each other, their faces equal parts hopeful and more concerned than before. The Queen's brow is furrowed as she takes in this new information.
Queen Ostrava:
Blood magic is not unknown to us. It is considered a taboo practice, but times are clearly more dire than we imagined. Fetch our maps of Sedimenterra.
DM:
As one of the spider attendants scurries off to retrieve the maps, one of the stone folk focuses on Astris. They are a rich deep blue, smooth and polished to a shine, making the cuts and chips from previous battles stand out all the more. Their Mycelium is flat and leafy, growing off of their head almost like mint scales. They wear a sword at their side.
Azurite:
Sir Astris, I am Captain Azurite. I lead the forces of Sedimenterra. Do you really believe your blood can free my people? That it can undo the mind control without Stilling them?
Astris:
This power helped us cleanse the wind node of corruption. I don't think she would have sent me here unless this gift would help you all as well. I have faith it will cleanse the black slime mold and free the node crystal from corruption.
Thea:
The real question is how do we do this and not utterly incapacitate Astris? How is she supposed to smear hundreds of people with her blood, not pass out and have enough juice to cleanse the node? The node must take top priority, it is the root of all of this.
[SFX - paper sounds]
DM:
The Queen's attendant returns with a case of scrolls and begins rolling them out on the table. Spanning the table are maps of caverns and tunnels leading up to and surrounding Sedimenterra, including a map of the layout of the chamber housing the Deep Heart. The map details the points of egress and rough measurements for the size of the sinkhole that spans most of the floor.
Thea:
(sigh) Why am I willing to bet that sketch of the super disgusting room with all the dripping black veins is where we have to go?
Ryloth:
That is the chamber of the Deep Heart, Lady Thea. It is not easily gotten to, especially with the corrupted stone workers present. The Covenant uses them as a shield to keep us from invading.
Azurite:
General Ryloth is correct. They know we won't attack our own people… Not while we still might save them.
Mica:
Um, Captain Azurite, I think I have an idea in regards to Sir Astris’ blood. Is there a way we could infuse the water supply with some of her blood? The Mycelia use the aquifers deep below as their water source, maybe being drenched in the purifying blood will purge the ambient slime mold?
Astris:
I mean, I don't see why that wouldn't work. I've done stranger things with my blood.
Ryloth:
It could theoretically work, my Queen. We could possibly create water weapons to incapacitate or cleanse the Sedimenterrans barring us from the chamber. This is the breakthrough we've been waiting for! We can finally crush Eckhart!
Queen Ostrava:
I trust in the will of the gods, Lady Lilith has never abandoned us. General, send the scouts to assess and choose routes. Have your troops start preparing for our final push and summon the mystics to create as much of this blood water as you deem necessary.
Queen Ostrava:
Vivienne, see to it that our guests are well fed and rested this evening. Tell the cooks to prepare iron-rich foods for our Paladin. Mica, since it was your idea to use the aquifers I will leave it to you and Sir Astris to make that work. Vivienne and one of the Mystics will accompany you. Captain Azurite, gather your people and make ready to take back your city. We march on the Covenant tomorrow.
[SFX - shuffling, footsteps, chatter]
DM:
With her declaration the Queen stands, followed by the rest of the councilors. Everyone has their orders and wastes no time in actuating them. The room is a flurry of movement and voices.
Vivienne:
Sir Astris, Lady Thea if you would follow me, I'll show you to your sleeping quarters and have meals brought to you.
Kinkfloof:
Did somebody say food?
Thea:
No she said meals, but I suppose that's close enough. I was wondering where you got off too, little guy.
Kinkfloof:
I was in the backpack after you almost dropped me canoodling with the stone Smith.
Thea:
Please, that was nothing. I plan on doing much more than that later.
Kinkfloof:
Thanks for the warning, I'll be sure to shadow Astris tonight.
[SFX - Thea laughing]
DM:
Thea laughs as she and Kinkfloof tease each other. Vivienne leads them out of the council chamber and down more obsidian hallways. Mica jogs up to Astris so they can walk alongside her.
Mica:
When you're done eating Astris, we can go to the aquifers with a mystics and see about purifying the water supply.
Astris:
Sure thing Mica! I'm just glad you thought of a way to use it on such a large scale. I know this will work, I feel strangely sure.
Mica:
There hasn't been a paladin of Lilith in hundreds of years, Astris. I truly believe you can do anything.
Astris:
I… oh… Thank you Mica...
[Int. Feldspar's forge. Thea, Feldspar, DM.]
[SFX - chime]
DM:
After an iron-rich dinner provided by the royal cooks, Thea leaves Astris and Mica to go see Feldspar. The Smithing Quarter is quiet, now that it's evening deep below the surface.
Outside the Master Smith's forge, Thea knocks on the stone doorway.
Feldspar:
Mistress Thea, I've just finished gathering the gold for your horn. Please come inside.
Thea:
Thank you for offering to - how did you put it? - make me whole and glittering again?
Feldspar:
I fully intend to. Please head to the back and get comfortable, I'll be there shortly.
DM:
Thea grins and heads to the back room. Pulling back the silk curtain that acts as a door between this room and the greater forge Thea sees the space Feldspar prepared for her. The room is lit entirely by candles, a waist high stone table against the back wall is laid out with soft bedding and pillows, and a silken forest green robe lays folded on the bed.
DM:
Thea's mouth falls open slightly, utterly wooed by the sweetness in Feldspar's efforts. She approaches the table and picks up the silk robe, letting the exquisite fabric run through her fingers. She undresses and slips the robe on with a sigh as the smooth fabric caresses her skin.
[SFX - Thea sigh]
Feldspar:
May I enter, Mistress Thea?
Thea:
Please.
[SFX - curtain moving]
Feldspar:
That color is beautiful on you, like a rare gem. Is the space comfortable for you?
Thea:
It's perfect, Feldspar.
Feldspar:
I'm glad. The gold is heating, may I examine your horn? I will need to prep the surface before pouring the gold.
Thea:
Please, you're the professional.
DM:
With Thea's permission, Feldspar touches her horn. Their fingers trace the notch as their amber eyes keenly assess damage. Thea watches them from the side of her eye; both curious and self conscious at having someone so close to an imperfection.
Feldspar:
I need to clear it out, tell me if there's any discomfort.
DM:
Thea smiles and nods her approval. Feldspar returns her smile and reaches into their toolbelt for a rasp to quickly even out the horn surface. Thea’s eyes go wide at the sight of the rasp and her body tenses. It only lasts for a moment before she pushes the feeling down. Feldspar freezes.
Feldspar:
Thea, are you alright?
Thea:
Hmmm? Yeah, it's nothing.
Feldspar:
The look in your eyes wasn't nothing.
Thea:
I um don't like rasps. They were used on me when I was a kid.
[SFX - metal set down]
Feldspar:
Thea… I'm sorry.
Thea:
It's okay, it's a weird thing and you couldn't have known. It's actually why I have the gold in my horns to begin with.
Feldspar:
Where did you grow up, that such things are done to children? Sit up on the table for me, facing the wall. I can still mend your horn without the rasp. Don't worry.
DM:
Thea smiles up at Feldspar appreciatively and stands on tiptoe to kiss their cheek. Feldspar helps Thea up onto the table, squeezing her shoulders affectionately once she's in position.
Thea:
I grew up in a place called Dawnslight, way up north. Didn't know my parents, I was raised in a Covenant-run orphanage. So was Astris.
Feldspar:
The Covenant doesn't look kindly on non-humans. I can't imagine it was an easy upbringing.
Thea:
Fuck, you can say that again. The Revered Mother hated me. At some point my horns were deemed ‘unsafe’ so they took a saw to the tips of my horns. Left them ragged and uneven… They made my horns ugly.
DM:
Feldspar runs their fingers through Thea's hair, sectioning it for braiding. Their dexterous fingers quickly weave a simple braid, securing it with a bit of silk cord. They run their hands along her neck and shoulders in a soothing motion.
[SFX - keys jingle, rasp muffled memory]
Thea:
The Revered Mother started carrying a rasp around on her ring of keys. It didn't technically hurt physically, but it left deep marks. So it became common practice for me and the few other tiefs. She would drag that rasp across my horns when I was being out of line. And I was a very obstinate child.
Feldspar:
To feel adult hatred levied on you as a child… I can't imagine. Though, I'm glad you stayed obstinate. (pause) Now, Mistress Thea, I'm going to clean out this chip very carefully and without the tool used to shame you. If you say stop I'll stop.
Thea:
You have been very gentle with me Feldspar, I trust you.
[SFX - cutting/shaving horn]
DM:
Feldspar begins carefully cutting away the loose horn with a small flexible knife. They take away thin layers, making sure to disturb as little of the horn as possible.
Feldspar:
The horn surface is ready for the gold to be poured. To your left is a small wooden box, if it pleases you, it would be my honor to set what's inside in your horn.
[SFX - box open]
Thea:
(gasp)
Oh my gods Feldspar… is that a diamond?!
Feldspar:
A chromatic diamond. They are said to be a reflection of the colors in the shifting skies of the north made physical. It seems only fitting for a bride of the Green God.
Thea:
It's beautiful, Feldspar, I'm truly honored and I will wear it proudly. It really does remind me of the northern sky…
Feldspar:
It is the closest I've come to seeing the sky, but I am glad to know the legend holds true. Please lay on your side, and get comfortable. You'll have to be very still for a time.
[SFX - footsteps, shifting]
DM:
Feldspar fetches the now-liquid gold, as Thea makes herself comfortable, her tail hangs off the side of the table, absently swaying to some silent beat.
Feldspar:
Mistress Thea, I am going to pour the gold now. It is imperative that you don't move.
[SFX - pour sounds?]
Excellent, hold just like that for me. Perfect, the gold and diamond are in place. Now it must set and cool, continue to stay still.
[SFX Thea - humming]
DM:
Thea is not good at sitting still, so she hums a song for them as they wait. As the newly poured gold sets and cools Feldspar stays by Thea's side; stroking her arm as she hums.
Thea:
Is it cooled yet? I've hummed like five songs already.
[SFX - tap tap]
Feldspar:
(Amused)
It has acceptably cooled, it's safe for you to move again.
[SFX - shifting]
Thea:
Oh thank fuck! My hip was starting to fall asleep. I must say, you make a much better view than the wall, Feldspar. Come here…
(giggle)
May I touch your Mycelium? I want to try to show you the sky…
Feldspar:
Please, to see the sky would be a wondrous thing Mistress Thea.
[Thea SFX - gasp]
DM:
Thea snakes her fingers through the stalks of Mycelium as she presses her forehead to Feldspar’s. She feels the strong current of the Mycelia lapping at the edges of her mind; she holds the image of the northern sky in her mind, and lets the current flow through her. She visualizes how the colors travel the sky in gentle undulations of blues, greens and purples. The way it looks at dawn, day and dusk. When the current is so strong she's afraid of getting sucked under she breaks the bond and pulls away.
[SFX Thea - panting]
Thea:
Did it work? Could you see it?
Feldspar:
(awestruck)
Mistress Thea… I cannot express the gift you have given me and the Mycelia. The sky you come from is beyond anything I've ever seen. I will cherish the memories you have shown me.
Thea:
I'm glad, I wasn't sure I could get it to come across - I had to focus really hard not to get swept away in the current. Maybe when Astris and I have driven the Covenant from our world, I can come back for you and we can go see the sky in person.
Feldspar:
That is a future we can both look forward to. But for now, the present is very distracting, and very soft.
Thea:
No more talking then…
[SFX Thea - kissing, sighs]
[SFX Feldspar - kissing]
DM:
Thea kisses Feldspar as they wrap their arms around her, pulling her against them. Their smooth stone hands run over her soft curves.
Feldspar:
Mistress Thea… I have something I'd like to show you.
[SFX: drawer pull]
DM:
Feldspar pulls open a drawer in the cabinet next to the table. Revealing a collection of variously shaped mushrooms. Some in the shape of breasts, and vulvas, some more akin to rather plump bottoms. And a whole row of a more phallic nature.
Feldspar:
Do you have a preference?
Thea:
(excited)
I mean, let's try all of them!
[Aquifer. Astris, Mica, DM, Kinkfloof, Lilith, Vivienne, Mystic.]
[SFX - chime]
DM:
While Thea is off experiencing the depths of the Mycelia, Astris, Mica, and Kinkfloof are led by Vivienne and one of the mystics to the sacred aquifer.
The aquifer cavern has lower ceilings than anywhere else Astris has seen in the Hollow; the mystics must duck to proceed. It's dim; the only light source the intermittent soft glow of the mushrooms. The cavern is filled with large pools of water, reaching as far back into the darkness as anyone can see.
Vivienne:
This is the aquifer that has sustained our peoples for longer than current memory. It is a sacred place.
Astris:
Oh don't worry! I won't break it!
Mica:
Thank you for leading us here, that we might try to free my people. We appreciate your time.
Kinkfloof:
(Disappointed)
There's probably no fish in those pools…
Mystic:
(polite but firm)
Your pet is not to touch the pools, Sir Astris.
Kinkfloof:
I'm sorry, pet?!
Astris:
Don't worry, he won't disturb the pools, but he's not my pet. He's my friend.
Mystic:
Of course, Sir Astris. Our apologies.
Kinkfloof:
I… Thank you Astris.
Mica:
Do you need our help with any part of the ritual?
Astris:
Oh, um no, I mostly just bleed on stuff and concentrate really hard. I'll get started.
DM:
The Mystics stand on either side of a kneeling Astris, preparing to add their magic to hers. Astris breathes deep to ground herself before she cuts her hand and squeezes her blood into the pool.
Mica:
Let me know if you start to feel dizzy, Astris.
DM:
Mica puts their hand on Astris’ shoulder, she continues to squeeze the blood from her hand. Astris has her eyes shut as she concentrates, silently murmuring to herself. As the drops of her blood ripple through the water, soft whispers echo from the far darkness.
[SFX - echo/reverb]
Lilith:
(like the one ring)
You are close, my daughter…
Vivienne:
(awestruck)
Lady Lilith…
Mystic:
(reverent)
We serve the Lady of Chains.
Mica:
(emotional, happy)
That was really the voice of the Lady…
DM:
Astris is deep in concentration, her mouth still silently muttering. The mystic weaves complicated hand gestures as she conducts the blood through the water. The cavern goes completely dark like a shockwave before the light returns to its normal faint mushroom glow. Astris groans and lists to her side before Mica catches her.
Mica:
Astris, are you okay?
Astris:
(groggy)
Did it work?
Mica:
We heard the voice of Lilith, Astris… It was incredible. I've never felt so close to her.
Astris:
Oh, well that's good, she's usually pretty quiet, so if she spoke that's probably a good thing. I kinda blacked out there for a minute, so I missed it.
Vivienne:
(affectionate, motherly)
Sir Astris, daughter chosen of Lilith, please let me tend to your wound.
Astris:
Aw, thanks for that Vivienne, I'm just glad it seems to have worked.
DM:
Vivienne heals Astris’ bleeding hand and wraps it in a silk bandage. Mica helps Astris to her feet, slinging her arm over their shoulders.
Mica:
Let's get you back to your room. I'll have some snacks brought up to you. You'll probably need it after this.
Kinkfloof:
Now that is a sound idea. You can't sleep on an empty stomach Astris.
Astris:
Yeah that's a good idea. Tomorrow is going to be a very long day.