The Water-bearer

[Solarstream]

Character Sheet​

Zarya: That's you. A (former) debt-peon now once possessed by a demon an alien.
-"Demon": Formless and shapeless... a glowing unknown mass of bubbles. (An alien in truth!) (Freed!)
-Spiritual Aptitude: Zarya gains access to the following spells after praying to the Water-bearer statue in Antioch, which is permanently infused with a Spiritual Aptitude of 60.
--Spell: Momentum (enhanced movement speed)
--Spell: Dissolution (split apart into a mass of bubbles)
--Spell: Amorphization (transition of body shape between human and alien)
--Spell: Hydration (manipulation of already existing water)
--Spell: Kryation (manipulation of already existing ice)
-Characteristics
--Cautious I: requires 75+% voter approval to interact with any HM or MP without a (+) mark
--Cautious II: requires 75+% voter approval to reveal demon-possessed status on purpose
--Disciplined I: gain (+) with any HM or MP after following a direct order from her
--Disciplined II: gain (-) with any HM or MP after disobeying a direct order from her
--Water I: the more water you are near, the easier it is to use your magic
--Water II: must be near a body of water (or another source) to use your magic
--Water-bearer: Zarya has constructed a statue in Antioch and poured all of the spiritual essence she's acquired over the past few months into it. She must pray to this statue to use spells as of The Moon.
-Additional notes: One of your black eyes has turned blue, as have the tips of your black hair. Currently resolved to control her Demon. Has made progress in suppressing it. Has not yet attempted to manifest it. Currently traveling with Linza, Philippos, Libra Venus, Theodora, and Capricorn Saturn, with the aim of helping Theodora take revenge against the cultists who sacrificed her, and their allies inside the military and the church. Now able to manifest her "Demon" for a up to ten minutes at a time after meditating on JOY or BEAUTY while being around WATER for a few minutes. If in the ocean, the manifestation is immediate and can be held indefinitely. Has agreed to join the church, though it may be was temporary. Currently residing in Antioch. Has learned that her "Demon" is actually an alien being from another world, and is aiming for an amicable separation. Can sculpt ice with her powers, and will learn to work with other materials. Has traveled to Sardis on behalf of the Antiochian Church... and with her mission done, it's time to go! She's returned to Antioch with a warning... a rogue Angel is on the attack! While in Antioch, waiting for the attack, she constructed the WATER-BEARER statue and transferred her spiritual power to it. Not long afterwards, she was separated from The Being, and the two defeated the Angel by working together. Later, she would be instrumental in defeating the Demon known as BELIAL.

Martin Aurelius of Sardis (-): Your former master, who resides in Sardis. He is a wealthy businessman and landowner. He owns several workshops that provide various goods, such as agricultural equipment, weapons, industrial and mining tools, and so on. He's dead, murdered by cultists and sacrificed to a Demon.
-Cornelia Prima (+): His wife, and your former mistress. Despite Martin owning your debt, Cornelia had roped you into her service and not his. She treated you well enough and kept you close. Now the captive of Dione. Was traveling with your group, and left in Ephesus.
-Lucian Aurelius: Their young son. Travelling with his mother.
-Aurelia Prima: Their young daughter. Travelling with her mother.
-Julian Aurelius: Martin's brother, and an artisan. Status unknown.
-Aurelia Prima: Martin's sister, seeking marriage and now possessed by the same Demon that once possessed Theodora. Looks like she wants to escape, so maybe there's an opportunity to work together. Was traveling with your group, having been denied an opportunity to sacrifice avenge herself, and left in Ephesus.
-Mettia Prima: Martin's elderly mother, a widow. Status unknow.
-Fellow former slaves: Linza (+) (she); Eusebius (+; in Ephesus) (he); Philippos (+) (he); Anacletus (he); Hypatos (he); Lucretia (she; in Sardis); Theokleia (she; in Sardis); and many others...
-- Linza and Philippos are currently accompanying Zarya travelling with Capricorn Saturn.

The Holy Maidens: Seven powerful and virtuous women based on in specific major cities.
-Humility (+): Resides in Sardis. Can detect lies, among other abilities. Was in Antioch / Ephesus, aiming to crush cultists. Now resides in Ephesus, having gained firm control over the city and its politics. Has retaken her hometown.
--Spiritual Aptitude: 84
-Kindness (+): Resides in Pergamum. Can heal any injury, among other abilities. Was sent to Sardis on Humility's order. Fled to Ephesus after Dione tried to capture her. Joined up with you temporarily to fight the rogue Angel, and now heading out to Pergamum once more. Has now taken charge of her home.
--Spiritual Aptitude: 57
---Spell: Healing I → Healing II → Healing III (cures wounds)
---Spell: Understanding I → Understanding II → Understanding III (connect minds)
---Spell: Reciprocating I → Reciprocating II → Reciprocating III (shares feelings)
-Charity: Resides in Thyatira. Can grant powers to the Mystic Priestesses. Traitor. Defeated and sent to Antioch, where she lives outside the city in a villa.
-Diligence: Formerly resided in Ephesus. Status unknown. Dead.
-Patience: Resides in Philadelphia.
-Chastity: Resides in Smyrna. Can block magic (?). Murdered by invaders from Antioch.
-Temperance: Resides in Laodicea. Status unknown, probably either heading to Sardis or already there. Found in Sardis, and rescued! Now marching towards Sardis and Laodicea, having just retaken the former.
--Spiritual Aptitude: 51
---Spell: Balanced Mind: Emotion (reduces emotional fluctuations)
---Spell: Balanced Body: Attack (strengthens body when attacking)
---Spell: Balanced Body: Defense (strengthens body when defending)
---Spell: Balanced Soul: Flow (occasionally slips around enemy attacks)

The Mystic Priestesses: Twelve powerful and virtuous women who wander the land.
-Libra Venus / Melina (+): First encountered outside Philadelphia. Skilled with the cithara. Very friendly. Now travelling with Zarya. Now travelling to Laodicea with Scorpio Mars, having met up in Antioch. Will be captured in Sardis unless you step in! Has rejoined your group and evaded capture! Lived with you in Antioch until her encounter with the rogue Angel, at which point she abandoned her old identity and renamed herself Melina. She's also put down her blessed cithara and now lives in a small commune.
--Spiritual Aptitude: 75
---Spell: Song of Roaring Flames (encourages and emboldens)
---Spell: Song of Calm Waters (relaxes and subdues)
---Spell: Song of Magnetism (attracts to a specific target)
---Spell: Song of the Sunshine (inspires warmth and joy)
---Spell: Song of Growth (draws out hidden powers)
---Spell: Song of Affection (draws out tender memories)
-Leo Sun: Deceased. (see also Theodora) Restored!
-Spiritual Aptitude: 85
--Spell: Block! (grow furred armor)
--Spell: Slash! (grow fire claws)
--Spell: Move! (gain super-speed)
--Spell: Strike! (gain super-strength)
--Spell: Roar! (intimidate)
--Spell: Burn! (gain fire breath)
--Spell: Transform! (lion aura coat)
-Sagittarius Jupiter: Resides in Sardis. Can command lightning. Now located in Ephesus and without her powers, aiding Humility. Has her powers once more.
-Taurus Venus: First encountered outside Philadelphia. Resides there.
-??? Pisces Jupiter: Resides in Sardis. Can command emotions. (see Dione)
-Virgo Mercury I / Virginia (-): First encountered in Ephesus. Can command demons and influence people. Searched for the Holy Maiden of Diligence on the orders of the Sovereign Priest of Antioch. Encountered again outside Antioch, and formed a temporary alliance. But the alliance is now broken, and it seems like she can only see Zarya as an enemy over circumstances that were not Zarya's fault. After having betrayed the Church and sided with the cultists in Ephesus, she was captured, brought back to Antioch, and stripped of her position. Is now called Virginia. Possessed by BELIAL (formerly).
--Spiritual Aptitude: 50 0 !?!?!? 0
-Gemini Mercury: Resided in Thyatira. Has some sort of magical hearing ability. Now in custody in Antioch.
-Capricorn Saturn (+): First encountered in Smyrna. Can predict events. Now travelling with Zarya. Heading back to Smyrna. Aiding the attack on Thyatira. Currently helping to restore Church control in Thyatira. Status unknown. Recovered from the rogue Angel's grasp and heading back to Smyrna, but not before warning you of a future disaster! Now on the way to Thyatira to restore that city, having restored Smyrna to a functional state.
--Spiritual Aptitude: 50
---Spell: Forewarn (predicts one upcoming disaster per day)
----Capricorn Saturn does not learn more spells. Instead, the quality of her warnings is improved.
-Aries Mars (+): Resides in Laodicea. Former friend of Theodora. Was in Antioch, now marching towards Sardis and Laodicea. Helped to retake Sardis.
--Spiritual Aptitude: 75
---Aries Mars does not gain her own spells. Instead, her ability to draw out the full might of the Sword of Savage Strength increases.
-Scorpio Mars (+): Resides in Laodicea. Now travelling to Laodicea with Libra Venus, having met up in Antioch. Will be captured in Sardis unless you step in! Has joined your group and evaded capture! Now marching towards Sardis and Laodicea. Helped to retake Sardis.
--Spiritual Aptitude: 51
---Scorpio Mars does not gain her own spells. Instead, her ability to draw out the full might of the Shield of Sturdy Strength increases.
-Cancer Moon (+): Resides in Antioch. Status is unknown. Searching for her. Found her and joined forces to take down the Advocates. Convinced Zarya to join the Church and exorcised the Demon from Theodora. Planning to exorcise the Demon from Zarya as well. Having been made aware that The Being was an alien and not a Demon, she would successfully exorcise it from Zarya. Has been kidnapped by BELIAL, and is now free and restored.
-Aquarius Saturn (+): Was found in a dungeon in Thyatira after having been presumed dead. Was helping to restore Church control in Thyatira, now in Antioch. Can witness the past. Gave you a kind warning.
-Virgo Mercury II: Virginia's replacement. Seems to be loyal to the church. Resides in Antioch and helps the Sovereign Priest of Antioch.

Gaius Helvius of Philadelphia: The son and heir of a wealthy farmer of the same name from the Philadelphia area.
-Ennia Segunda: His wife.

Theodora (+): The former Mystic Priestess Leo Sun. Was used as a human sacrifice to summon a Demon that now possesses her. NO LONGER IN CONTROL. Back in control, and no longer possessed... though her eyes have been permanently changed. Has a small grudge towards Zarya, but is mostly over it. Restored as the Mystic Priestess Leo Sun. Crusher of a Demon of Darkness (with help from her friend and ally Zarya).
-Demon: What must assuredly be some sort of water-dwelling dragon.
-Spiritual Aptitude: 85 0 (see Leo Sun)
--Spell: Block! (grow scale armor)
--Spell: Crunch! (grow fangs)
--Spell: Slash! (grow claws)
--Spell: Swipe! (grow a tail)
--Spell: Seek! (improve eyesight; gain night vision)
--Spell: Move! (gain super-speed)
--Spell: Rampage! (gain strength; lose control)
-Allies: Eugenios, Thais, Daniel (three heretics that Theodora met in a small town near the desert)

The Sovereign Priest of Antioch: A virtuous (?) man in charge of the Church of the Followers of the Way. Currently residing in Smyrna after being chased out of Antioch by an Advocate-led rebellion. Was critically injured and recovered in Smyrna before returning to Antioch. His return has been controversial amongst the people of the city.

!?!?!? Kavouras / Celso Longinus (-): A man formerly possessed by a Crab-shaped Demon. Fought Theodora outside Smyrna and was defeated. However, his soldiers managed to recover his body. Is likely licking his wounds and heading to Antioch. His abilities include growing shell armor, turning his arms into pincers, and transforming into a big crab. He was chased out of Antioch and is likely recovering in fled to Ephesus. Goal: defeat him for good! He was burned alive by Humility in Ephesus and is either dead or close to it. Regardless, he is no longer possessed by the Demon Crab!
-Demon: An otherwise ordinary looking crab, if quite larger than a man.
-Spiritual Aptitude: 85
--Spell: Protect. (grow shell armor)
--Spell: Pincer. (grow pincers)
--Spell: Molt. (shed shell armor healing)
--Spell: Carcinize. (full body transformation)
--Spell: Tidal. (control water)
--Spell: Swell. (increase size)
--Spell: Shrink. (reduce size)

???: A man possessed by a demonic serpent, who is likely near Sardis... if he's still alive. (He's not.)

Silvina (+) and Silas (+): Two house slaves, currently under the command of the Livius estate in Ephesus. They're brother and sister. Currently Were last seen working with spies loyal to the Antiochian church to break cultist control over the city and end slavery there. They have succeeded.

Dione (-): The former Mystic Priestess Pisces Jupiter. A holy woman who is also a snake, as she's the possessor of a Demon Serpent. However, she seems to be the one in control of the snake... and also in control of Sardis, having wrested spiritual control away from the Followers of the Way. Wants you to be her ally... is not doing a good job of it. Alerted you to a vision of death and despair... could it be true? (You made it false!) Has lost Sardis and fled from this world... to another place, not death.

Apollonia (+): A cultist woman who is knowledgeable about spirits and curious about the Being. Once the Being is free from you, she wants to study it for herself. Hopes that you'll come back to Sardis soon. Instead came down to Antioch to visit you. Now travelling the land with The Being for company.
-"Demon": ZIZ, King of the Birds
-Spiritual Aptitude: 55
--Spell: RAVEN (send messages of bad fortune)
--Spell: CHICKEN (send messages of good fortune)
--Spell: GOOSE (defend self from wickedness)
--Spell: CALADRIUS (treat sickness and wounds)

BELIAL (-): A demon of living darkness and the shadow of the angels. Uses cultists like puppets, and now possessing Virginia. Looking to possess the Trinity. Has kidnapped Cancer Moon. Has been defeated!

There are other characters, of course, but they'll be added over time.


​

Other Notes:
(+) = favored towards you
(-) = biased against you

 

[Zaealix]

[X][Feast] "A feast? Oh my... thank you for the warm hospitality. I'd be quite grateful for it... but don't think it means I've forgotten who you are." (Gain (+) with Dione; easier to get information from her)
What I'm thinking is if we outwardly agree we're less likely to get hammered by that mind-whammy as hard, and we saw what happened with Mars.

[Water] You listened to the soil, sensing that even here there is water cracking the earth.

Wind kinda didn't appeal to me, Ocean needs to mu CNN of a vote (and is likely risky to boot.) But Earth? As a path hopefully to ice and to self-reinforcement, Earth seems good.

 

[Solarstream]

Adhoc vote count started by Solarstream on Apr 22, 2023 at 4:20 PM, finished with 10 posts and 6 votes.

• ---

  4 people have voted

  [X][Feast] "...well, I suppose its better than fighting you. Sure, I'll join you tonight." (neutral choice)

  • Parzival95
  • Simon. Andersen
  • Eternal_0bserver
  • Nevill

  2 people have voted

  [X][Water] You decided to wait until you enter Sardis, and then open your soul to the ocean. (requires 75+% approval to pass)

  • Parzival95
  • Simon. Andersen

  2 people have voted

  [X][Water] You listened to the wind, bathing in the breeze as it carries water through the air.

  • Blacksheep
  • Eternal_0bserver

  2 people have voted

  [X][Feast] "A feast? Oh my... thank you for the warm hospitality. I'd be quite grateful for it... but don't think it means I've forgotten who you are." (Gain (+) with Dione; easier to get information from her)

  • Blacksheep
  • Zaealix

  1 people have voted

  [x][Water] You listened to the soil, sensing that even here there is water cracking the earth.

  • Nevill

including @Zaealix 's vote means we have a tie for [][Water... i would like it if someone could cast a tie-breaker vote, thanks.

 

[King50000]

[X][Water] You listened to the wind, bathing in the breeze as it carries water through the air.

 

[Solarstream]

and that'll do it~!

 

[Solarstream]

Spoiler: Winning vote

Winning vote:
[X][Water] You listened to the wind, bathing in the breeze as it carries water through the air.
[X][Feast] "...well, I suppose its better than fighting you. Sure, I'll join you tonight." (neutral choice)

Judgement (II)​

You keep your tone even as you respond to the request of Pisces Jupiter... no, of, Dione, a (formerly?) Holy woman enmeshed with a serpentine Demon. "... well, I suppose it's better than fighting you. Sure, I'll join you tonight." You then turn to Linza and Philippos and ask for their company, which they willingly give. You do not turn to Aries Mars, as you have no desire to see the look on her face. Besides, Theodora can intervene and explain to her companion how people like you do things.

She knows just how this seemingly innocent agreement can go, after all.

Dione, for her part, doesn't act like she suspects you of anything. If anything, she seems a bit... disappointed? "Hmmmm... but you would have no reason to fight me... unless you're saying you do?" But rather than turn aggressive, she remains calm and curious, looking you and your friends over.

Her eyes then widen. A thought must have drifted into her mind. "Ah! I understand!"

You tilt your head, confused. "You understand...?"

She shakes her head, and then stares right at your eyepatch. "It's a private matter. For after the feast. We'll both want to be relaxed for that~. Of course, if you're ready, then I wouldn't mind discussing that matter now."

Then she wants to talk about you and your supposed Demon, in truth a being from another world. ...that truth is not necessarily something you want her to know...

Philippos must have sensed your hesitation, as he steps forward. Linza does much the same. "Pardon me, but I think Zarya would prefer company for any 'private' meetings," the man says.

Dione frowns, but when you nod in agreement, she backs down. "Hmph~! I will have to do my best to convince you that I mean well~! Now then, let us be off to Sardis."

The sun is high in the sky as you all depart from what is now the former estate of the Aurelius family. You're concerned over what might have happened to Cornelia and the kids, as you saw no sign of them. You're also utterly confused as to how Aurelia Prima ended up in the position she did, but as she rides away with Dione, you don't have the chance to ask her anything. Questions like that will have to wait until later.

Linza takes over driving the (clearly spooked) horses towards the city, following behind Dione and Aurelia Prima. The two women are also in a horse-drawn wagon, and curiously Dione is driving her wagon herself. But you don't pay much mind to that, instead focusing on a major problem – the fact that Aries Mars is still under the snake Demon's compulsion. She's completely unable to draw her weapon, not even able to reach for it. The rest of you can pull it out and try and hand it to her, but she's unable to take it in hand herself.

"I don't understand!" shouts the frustrated Mystic Priestess. "How can she still have a hold on me!? I'm a pious woman, a Mystic Priestess! I should be able to break free!"

"If you could handle your weapon, you probably could break free. That must be why she won't let you use it," suggests Philippos.

"That and not wanting you to kill her where she stands," adds Theodora.

Of course, none of that makes Aries Mars feel better, and she yells loudly, frightening the horses and getting a demand from Linza to quiet down.

"Hmm... She has her own piety, doesn't she? It takes a lot of devotion to fuse yourself with a Demon on purpose," you comment. "Perhaps you should counter hers with yours."

Aries Mars gives you a curious look. She closes her eyes, breathes deeply, and tries to reach for her weapon again.

She fails, again.

But not for lack of trying. Her shaking hand was able to make a small motion towards it. If she keeps trying...!

She opens her eyes, still upset, and then gives you an appreciative glance. "Thank you, Zarya. You have a good point. My sincere belief will see me through these tribulations."

"You wouldn't be in these tribulations if you hadn't tried to recklessly attack that snake-woman..." notes Linza drily, and Aries Mars shows great restraint in not starting an argument.

You have to admit that your friend has a point, but you decide not to say so right now. Instead, you start speculating on how exactly that demon that once possessed Theodora is now possessing Aurelia Prima. Theodora is convinced that a large number of human sacrifices must have been done based on what happened to her, and Aries Mars and yourself agree with her. Furthermore, she declares that the same thing must have happened with the snake itself, as it was once burned away from this world by the Holy Maiden of Humility.

"These Demons are resilient," you note. "Is there anyway to get rid of them for good?"

Aries Mars growls. "Kill them or exorcise them from their host, and then hunt down and eradicate their summoners. If no one knows how to draw them out of the darkness, then only the most powerful among them can spawn on their own. And monsters like that can still be crushed by our holy might!"

A question then bursts forth from your mind at once, one that you stop before it reaches your mouth. You dare not ask it, despite its simplicity. Why does their God not seal away or destroy the Demons for good? You have no idea how these two would react, and you're not sure you want to know the answer.

As such, you just agree with Aries Mars. Not that you necessarily desire to kill Dione, but if that's the only way to recover Temperance, Libra Venus, and Scorpio Mars, then you'll do what you can against her.

You all decide not to plot Dione's demise while she's nearby, instead falling into alternating casual chatter and silence. Eventually you all come to the city wall, and stoic guards let you all in, some of which have been fused with demon dogs. Despite the takeover, the city seems almost normal.

Almost.

The other big change (besides the greater number of demon-possessed people) is that the shades are back. A faint black mist lightly floats in the air, carrying inside it humanoid shapes. But the mist this time doesn't radiate evil hostility – it contains an odd and complex mix of emotions. Yes, hatred is there once more, but also love, and grief, and happiness, and so on and so on... you're not sure what to make of it. Linza and Philippos remain apprehensive, Theodora is disturbed, and Aries Mars is burning with anger.

Of course, she still cannot draw her weapon.

Dione abandons her wagon near the city gate, leaving the horses and carriage behind. However, she can't convince Linza to do the same, and so she and Aurelia Prima join the rest of you in your wagon.

"This city is safe," Dione declares as she takes her seat. "We don't need to keep a private wagon."

"If it's safe, then there should be no problem with us keeping this wagon," counters Linza. "Besides, it's not ours."

"I assure you, that Church of Antioch won't miss a single wagon."

"Dione, it's not really a problem to let them keep it..." notes Aurelia Prima.

Dione frowns, but rather than argue with Aurelia Prima, she sighs and concedes the point. She then gives directions to where the feast will be held... which you, Linza, and Philippos immediately recognize as the directions to the domus of Martin Aurelius. Aurelia Prima grimaces, but makes no comment.

For a moment, no one speaks, and the city ambiance filters in. People are quite curious about the wagon, but no one comes by to ask about it.

You have an opportunity to speak, if you'd like to take it.

[] (write-in)
[] Cede the moment to your companions.
[] Time-skip to the feast.


Spiritual Aptitude: 40
QM Note: You will develop the spiritual path you have chosen later. For now, have this.

 

[Blacksheep]

[x]Ask about the changes to the city

Should seem neutral and provide more information about what's up

 

[Nevill]

Of course, none of the that makes Aries Mars feel better, and she yells loudly, frightening the horses and getting a demand from Linza to quiet down.

Click to shrink...

[x] Time-skip to the feast.

 

[Eternal_0bserver]

[X]Ask about the changes to the city

 

[Solarstream]

vote will close at this time: Apr 30, 2023 at 5:00 PM

 

[Zaealix]

[X]Ask about the changes to the city

 

[Solarstream]

Spoiler: Winning vote

Winning vote:
[X]Ask about the changes to the city

Judgement (III)​

There is something that you'd like to say.

...that's understating things. There are a lot of things you'd like to say. However, you're still trying to come off as neutral. What you want here is information...

...well, there's one obvious place you can start, but how to ask it...?

"...Zarya, is something the matter? There's suddenly a frown on your face," comments Dione.

Aries Mars, Theodora, and Linza all look like they want to chime in, but you raise a hand first. All of them notice your quick movement and hold off, letting you speak. "I was simply thinking. I have something I would like to ask you, actually. Sardis seems a bit different..."

"'A bit?' I would hope that I had more of an impact than that!" complains Dione, though you can tell that her heart's not in it. She still has a smile on her face, after all.

You wave her off and continue. "...and I was interested in what has changed since I left... that would have been not long before Christmas."

"Yes, you've been gone for three months," notes Aurelia Prima. "Although this woman didn't strike until a few weeks ago."

Dione frowns. "Aurelia, there's no need to describe it like that just because you were on the losing side. After all, I've spared you and given you a power you wouldn't have had before..."

She looks like she wants to go on, but Aurelia glares at her, flaring up her Demon's aura, and so the former Mystic Priestess falls silent after Linza tells them both to stop scaring the horses.

That Demon... its presence is rancid and vile, just like you remember. Why in her God's name Dione wanted to bring that creature back to this world is beyond you. Although, given how she's acting, you're pretty sure that if you, Aries Mars, and Theodora can get Aurelia alone, she'll probably agree to be exorcised, leaving you one less threat to deal with. But it's best not to worry about that unless you actually get an opportunity to do it.

Dione lets out a fake cough. "As my companion has said, I've only been in command of Sardis for a few weeks. If you want to know what's changed – and also what hasn't changed – then the best way to show you. Once we get to the domus, I'll give you all a tour of the city."

You glance to your companions and no one immediately objects, so you agree to it. "There's one change that we don't need to a tour to see though."

"...oh, you mean our new guests, the shades. I got the idea from the last time they were released."

"Wait, so that wasn't you back then?" asked Aries Mars.

"...No? Did you think it was?"

"Well, since you're one of those Demon-worshippers..."

Dione narrows her eyes. "I'm no such thing."

Aries Mars just looks confused... and you don't blame her. You don't know what she means by that either. Her actions show that she's clearly rejected the Way that she once followed, even if her attire suggests otherwise. Well, you'll be able to get a better idea of what she means at dinner. For now, you ask her to explain how and why the shades returned.

Dione smirks. "Well, I'm afraid I can't give you all of my secrets, Zarya. Not unless you plan on joining our side. I can tell you that we did this for a reason. You remember the last time the shades were called forth from the crypts, right? How the air was filled with an evil aura, and how they attacked people?"

You nod. "I even remember that you were there, giving aid to people."

Her eyes widen. "That was you!?"

"...you noticed me?"

"Well, not you, your Demon. But I just thought you were another shade... ah, I wish I'd noticed you!"

You, however, are glad she didn't. You're certain that you would have just ended up pressed into her service, like how Aurelia Prima is now. As you don't want to imagine what that would have been like, you keep talking. "In any case, the shades are different now. Rather than being pure evil, I can feel a more complex mixture of emotions. I assume this is your doing?"

"It is indeed. Our aim is to restore these restless spirits. And that's not the only big change..."

Linza then speaks up, stopping the wagon. "Hey, we're here. Do whatever it is you need to do, snake-woman."

You're not sure if she's being diplomatic or just doesn't care, but Dione doesn't comment on Linza's refusal to use her name. Instead, she hops out of the wagon and heads into the domus. The domus itself has had its stone walls painted over. Two scenes are depicted – one of a dragon eating a man while other people flee; the other of an unarmed and unarmored maiden walking towards said dragon.

It doesn't take you long to figure out what they mean.

"Your brother's dead then?" you ask.

Aurelia gives you a look, and has never looked more like him. "You could at least pretend to be upset."

"I'd rather not."

"Same here!" chimes in Linza with cheer, and Aurelia just grumbles to herself about ungrateful servants. But of course you're 'ungrateful' – there's nothing for you to be grateful for! You have half a mind to start arguing with her about it, before you remember that you wanted to have her exorcised. "Never mind that. Aurelia, I'd like to-"

She cuts you off, livid, aura flaring up again despite Linza's complaints. "Excuse you!? Never mind that!? Listen here, you, my brother was-!"

Dione then chimes in, her voice wafting in like perfume from Smyrna as she re-enters the wagon. "Aurelia, do please calm down~."

To your surprise, she does so at once, even without Dione's gaze upon her. The snake's power must be quite strong... you'll have to make sure you're never hit by it.

"Linza, you're familiar with the city, right?"

"Familiar enough if you give me directions, snake-woman," says your friend.

Dione chuckles. "Well said. Then let's go for a ride while the feast is being prepared, shall we~?"

And with that Linza has the now calmed horses lead your wagon around the city. Of course, damage was done during her takeover, and there are still buildings that haven't been fixed up. But, overall... the city itself is fine. People are still going out and about as usual, and Dione brags about how she has abolished slavery in the city and aims to do the same everywhere else. You do see far more people wearing felt caps than you'd otherwise expect. You can give her credit for this, you suppose.

After all, this snake is a holy woman

While going around town, Aries Mars and Theodora pick out a specific special someone from the crowd almost immediately – none other than the Mystic Priestess Sagittarius Jupiter, now in a plain brown tunic instead of her expected holy robes. Dione refers to her as Zosime, though the Mystic Priestess doesn't like it. Dione claims that Sagittarius surrendered voluntarily and now resides at a monastery for Followers of the Way inside the city. While this isn't refuted, you don't quite believe her words.

After all, this holy woman is a snake.

(Once you're all done with the tour, it's back to the villa and time to eat! Dione has things she'd like to discuss with you... but do you have anything you'd like to discuss with her? This is a suggestion vote, so feel free to just throw out ideas.)
[] (write-in – examples: where is Cornelia Prima, have you encountered any other holy women, what do you want with me, what are your goals, why have you changed your name, etc.)


Spiritual Aptitude: 40
QM Note: Suggestions don't have to be phrased as questions, btw.

 

[Blacksheep]

I don't have anything to add at the time, sadly. I'm not great at the social intrigue stuff

 

[Zaealix]

Hrrrm…
[X] "Call me curious but…You claim I have a demon, but not that you have one, right? What makes you so sure that what has been bonded to me is not the same as yours?"

I smell a certain similarity…

 

[Zaealix]

Okay so.
We have a villian who wants to use his villainess to monologue and preach his greatness. We have, what I think is a Holy Woman who basically got mind-control-ish powers, presumably from the Villian.
The question to ask, I think, among other things is what information do we need to help our cause, beyond 'Holy crap Humility get here NOW!!!'
They're doing something with shades of people for…Reasons. They also seem to have ended slavery, which, well.
That's an angle buuut if we hammer it we'll just get Geas'd into compliance.

I'm thinking the name of the game is just to unsettle…Actually. I wonder if the name of the game is to not be upset, while upsetting the snake woman…But that assumes her power works on that kind of rule. And I'm not sure it does-most powers in-setting May need a bit of wind-up if ours is any indication but they don't tend to have much restriction within their domains?

 

[Solarstream]

[X] "Call me curious but…You claim I have a demon, but not that you have one, right? What makes you so sure that what has been bonded to me is not the same as yours?"

Click to shrink...

this is an interesting question, and I'll note that it's likely to lead to revealing the alien nature of the Being inside Zarya to Dione.

 

[Zaealix]

this is an interesting question, and I'll note that it's likely to lead to revealing the alien nature of the Being inside Zarya to Dione.

Click to shrink...

That's…Hrrm.
So now the question is.
Do we want to throw her for a loop? Ooor do we want her to carry on her script?
I perfer knocking her perspective off-base as much as possible for as long as possible- keep her guessing so she's unsure until reinforcements arrive…

 

[Solarstream]

Okay so.
We have a villian who wants to use his villainess to monologue and preach his greatness. We have, what I think is a Holy Woman who basically got mind-control-ish powers, presumably from the Villian.
The question to ask, I think, among other things is what information do we need to help our cause, beyond 'Holy crap Humility get here NOW!!!'
They're doing something with shades of people for…Reasons. They also seem to have ended slavery, which, well.
That's an angle buuut if we hammer it we'll just get Geas'd into compliance.

I'm thinking the name of the game is just to unsettle…Actually. I wonder if the name of the game is to not be upset, while upsetting the snake woman…But that assumes her power works on that kind of rule. And I'm not sure it does-most powers in-setting May need a bit of wind-up if ours is any indication but they don't tend to have much restriction within their domains?

Click to shrink...

oh, and two comments on this, which will hopefully help

1. Dione's goal is to convince Zarya to join her side without using the Serpent's hypnotic powers. You can assume she will act along these lines, and you will be able to tell if the Serpent speaks or takes over.
2. The Serpent has not acted on its own and its presence is quite weak. Zarya is currently operating from the assumption that Dione is in full control of her body and soul, though she doesn't know how.

 

[Zaealix]

Oh.
Oooooh….
Snakey's drained himself?
Hrrm.
But she likely CAN still use his power if she must.
So we need to waffle and play the waiting game…AH!
[X] "Given that you were a holy woman, and not a part of the group who summoned these beings into this world, how did you end up with one?"

This might be a question to follow up the first one with, since we'll have tipped her off, this might make it look like we're curious and possibly totes on board without actually agreeing, at least for the moment…

 

[Solarstream]

also a nice question~!

if there's any others, try to get them in by this time: May 7, 2023 at 5:30 PM

 

[Nevill]

[x] Maybe you could tell me what your Demon wants... and why you are going along wth it.
[x] This whole song and dance with summoning and banishing demons is old. Why do you expect it to go differently this time?
[x] What have you heard about me, and why do you need me given what you heard?

 

[Solarstream]

vote is closed~!

 

[Solarstream]

Spoiler: Winning vote

Winning vote:
[X] "Call me curious but…You claim I have a demon, but not that you have one, right? What makes you so sure that what has been bonded to me is not the same as yours?"
[X] "Given that you were a holy woman, and not a part of the group who summoned these beings into this world, how did you end up with one?"
[X] Maybe you could tell me what your Demon wants... and why you are going along with it.
[X] This whole song and dance with summoning and banishing demons is old. Why do you expect it to go differently this time?
[X] What have you heard about me, and why do you need me given what you heard?

Judgement (IV)​

Regardless of whether Dione is a holy woman or a snake, you have to share a feast with her. After leaving the Mystic Priestess Sagittarius Jupiter (or to Dione, a woman named Zosime) behind, Dione continues to shepherd you all around town until the sun starts to set. Much like Theodora and Aries Mars, she is partaking in fasting and abstinence, and so the feast had to wait until the sun had set. As you all make your way back to the former domus of the now deceased Martin Aurelius, you hear sounds and see sights of revelry elsewhere. You might think that as a holy woman and as the leader of these people, she might be displeased, but instead doesn't seem to mind all that much.

Aries Mars minds for her. "Aren't you supposed to be leading them in an abstinent fast?" she asks.

Dione smiles. "I lead those who wish to be led. You will notice them amongst the people."

You saw them quite easily as you chose to look for them – those eating only bread and consuming only water, praying in small spots of solitude and silence, hidden from the crowd. Only your word convinced Aries Mars of the truth – after all, why would she trust this woman?

"I will be eating as a holy woman as well, though the rest of you will receive as grand a feast as we could muster on such short notice. I hope you will all understand."

"Of course, we do. The chefs must have been hard at work. We'll have to thank them," says Philippos, getting broad agreement from the rest of your group.

Not long later, Linza announces your arrival and you all hop out of the wagon. No one comes out of the domus to receive you all until Dione makes an announcement of her own. Then, at once, two men emerge from the building and offer to take the wagon and horses away. Linza at once argues against it, but is unable to sway Dione. That said, Dione is unable to convince her to leave the horses alone with the two men, and so she and Philippos go with them, promising to return shortly. The rest of you enter the domus.

This is the first time you've ever entered this place from the front door.

The moment you step inside, you notice that all of Martin's statues and busts of his family are gone. However, the inner garden, the inner pool, and the wall art of flourishing plants are all intact. If anything, the plants in the garden look healthier than they did before. You remember that Hypatos was fond of them, and wonder briefly if he's responsible for this and where he is now.

Thoughts of him remain brief as the overwhelming aroma of tonight's meal is overwhelming you instead. Your hunger only intensifies once you can see the food on display.

Dione gives you all a warm smile as she lies in one of the reclining chairs and takes in hand a loaf of bread. "I hope you all enjoy it~!"

You certainly hope you do as well.

The food is arranged in a series of spirals around a central table, while the rest of you are meant to recline and relax in a series of seats. On the outside of the table lay the appetizers – fresh bread with salt and herbs, boiled and salted eggs, fresh figs, all manner of cheeses, and shelled things from the sea... you think they're called oysters? Or maybe they're mussels? Some of them are darker and some are lighter... Closer to the center of the table there is, of course, puls and various soups, all thick with vegetables, spices, and an unfamiliar sort of meat, as well as jellyfish and sea urchin salads. However, there are more spectacular options, which are large fishes and odd creatures with ten tentacles, each bursting to the brim with meat and greens. Of course, there must also be dessert (which today seems to be pears and apples) and freely flowing wine.

You barely manage to stop yourself from immediately grabbing all the food you can and stuffing yourself, instead taking moderate portions like the similarly-impressed Theodora. Aries Mars, stomach grumbling and face red with rage, takes a loaf of bread and sits by Dione, with Aurelia Prima sitting on her other side. You are sitting by...

[][Seat] ...Aurelia Prima...
[][Seat] ...Aries Mars...

...and Theodora takes the other seat next to you, so Linza and Philippos will have to sit on the other side of the room. Aries Mars angrily starts biting into her bread, but can't keep it up that mood after some time. It's simply too tasty.

"This is what you can do with just short notice?" asks Theodora.

"Naturally~! Had we known you were coming, we would have prepared far more food, and even some entertainment... although, I believe you'd rather get to business?" asks Dione of you, and you nod between bites.

"I know you wanted to discuss something with me... I also have something to discuss with you. Several somethings actually."

...that said, you doubt that bringing up Temperance, Libra Venus, or Scorpio Mars would be a good idea. So, you'll start with something else... well, you'd like to, but Linza and Philippos haven't returned yet.

"That said..."

"...you're going to wait for your friends to come back, right?" finishes Dione for you, and you nod as you continue to eat. "Very well then. How about I tell you a short story while we wait?"

[][Story] "Perhaps you'd like to know how I met the Serpent?"
[][Story] "Or maybe why Aurelia Prima is now someone like us?"
[][Story] "Or do you have something in mind...?" (write-in)


Spiritual Aptitude: 40
QM Note: Sorry to do this, but I'll be pushing having Dione answer your questions to the next update.

 

[Zaealix]

[X][Story] "Or maybe why Aurelia Prima is now someone like us?"
-[X] "She certainly didn't seem happy about her brother's death."

Needle and niggle, but never outright defy. Lighter chains…

 

[Blacksheep]

[x][Seat] ...Aries Mars...
Aurelia already is at risk, no need to draw attention down on her

[x][Story] "Perhaps you'd like to know how I met the Serpent?"

More about the Serpent is good. Perhaps a clue on how to defeat the Serpent will be slipped in

 

[Simon. Andersen]

[X][Story] "Or maybe why Aurelia Prima is now someone like us?"
-[X] "She certainly didn't seem happy about her brother's death."