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

 

[Nevill]

[x] You need to save Libra Venus. It's what she would do for you. Then retreat.

 

[Zaealix]

[x] You need to save Libra Venus. It's what she would do for you. Then retreat.

 

[Eternal_0bserver]

[X] Find the Angel? Maybe if you can defeat its true form, everyone will be saved.

 

[Solarstream]

vote will close around this time: Oct 4, 2023 at 6:15 PM

 

[Solarstream]

Spoiler: Winning vote

Winning vote:
[X] You need to save Libra Venus. It's what she would do for you. Then retreat.

The Moon (V)​

Your intuition is telling you... that you must not be afraid. Not here, not now, not of this scenario.

Your intuition is telling you... that you should leave here with a certain someone by your side.

Your intuition is telling you... that the Mystic Priestess Libra Venus would save you if you were her.

Your intuition has led you this far, and so you'll keep listening to it until the end!

"We need to go back for her," you declare to your companion, the Being from Another World. "Then we need to figure a way out of here... hmmm, if these are clouds, then are we up in the sky above the others? If so, we could drop down and return to them."

[PERHAPS. THAT'S QUITE THE RISK.]

"It's that or stay here forever, trapped in the angel's domain. I doubt it'll let us out voluntarily."

You then glance around. It's been a while since either one of those snakes or Libra Venus has come by to accost you. Have they van-?

Almost as soon as you think it, another serpent emerges from the clouds, fangs bared!

"ZARYA~!! WHERE ARE YOU!?"

As the Being grabs it and tosses it aside, you hear Libra Venus scream in the distance, calling for you. It's a call you'll be answering soon. At the speed of thought, the Being recalibrates itself and launches in the direction of Libra Venus's voice. More snakes emerge from the clouds around, but the Being has no issue casting them down.

...which makes you briefly wonder why the angel continues like this. Surely it must understand that these small fry are no match for either the Being or yourself..

The thought comes to you just as the Being voices it. [PERHAPS IT'S STALLING FOR TIME.]

Of course! It's all alone with the others and can attack them at will. You have to hurry!

"Ah, there you-."

The two of you find Libra Venus without issue in this nearly featureless plain, and the Being easily snatches her up in its tendrils.

"-areee!? Hey, let me go!"

You look at her and her eyes are still glowing. That's no good! Ripping out another chunk of the clouds below you, you reshape them into icy goggles and shove them onto her face just before she can touch yours.

"G-gah!? Th-these are cold!"

You ignore her, silently apologizing to the real Libra Venus deep insider her, hoping that she's still in there. Instead, you start scouting for gaps between the clouds that you all could use as an escape route.

And as you're doing that...

"There's no escape from here, Zarya... you can't run from Judgement!"
​

...a new snake emerges, this one about the size of the Serpent Demon from Sardis, glowing brightly even through your iced-over eyes. You could only take a brief glimpse of it before you had to turn your eyes away. Ah! If only there was more water here!

Actually, speaking of... what was with that fixed water from before?

You focus, doing your best to tune out a Libra Venus that's complaining about the cold glasses and demanding you open your eyes. You breathe deeply, intently, and send your attention down... and down...

...and down...

...and... down... beneath it?

...and further down, into the sky...!

You open your eyes. That's not real water! It's an illusion!

"Being! We have to make our own opening! You ready!?"

The Being doesn't need to answer. You can feel it in your spiritual connection. At once, both of you rip apart the clouds and dive down into a blue abyss!

"AAAAAAAAA-!?"

Only Libra Venus screams in fear, clenching you tightly. But her fear isn't yours.

You all come down upon what seems to be an ocean...

"-!?"

...and pass through it without issue, re-emerging into a blue and clear sky.

Well, almost without issue. The instant you dragged Libra Venus out of there, she passed out and would have fallen to her death if it wasn't for the Being's strong grasp. Furthermore, you're now free-falling out from the floating angel, enveloped by its heat! It's so hot...

...so, let's get some water to cool things down!

All the water you and the Being amassed before being called away into an angelic embrace had crashed into the ground, collected into large pools and craters. You both re-assert your will on a large part of it, and send it crashing into the flying angel!

As it thrashes about in pain and you call on more water to slow your descent, you can hear a commotion coming from the ground. Looking over, you see that something certainly has happened since you were away. The three members of the Trinity, as well as Capricorn Saturn, all look like they've been knocked out. Temperance, Kindness, and the Mars duo were all hiding behind cover, only coming out once they see water flying around freely.

No, not freely. Under your command!

With the Trinity disabled, the only threat left is the angel, so you'll have to dissipate it somehow. Not having any other ideas, you decide to go for a repeat of what you did back in Sardis. One massive wall of water, crashing down on it! You wish Libra Venus was awake to sing to you, but with The Being by your side, you should be able to handle things. The Being, sensing your intent, starts willing water to coalesce, and you join it in its efforts.

By the time you land on the damp ground, gently laying Libra Venus down, you have it ready to go...

...and the angel has also recovered, its eyes glowing red. If it could show emotions, you'd expect fury.

Instead, it simply starts blasting away at your water ball, trying to dissipate it. But you're able to keep it intact despite everything... though this is wearing at you... you'll have to end it with one strike!

You pay no mind to the others as they retreat, remaining focused and making the attack bigger and bigger... when it's so big that you can barely keep it together, only then do you launch it at the Angel, screaming in furious determination as you do so!

The Angel tries again to blast it away, but... it's no use!

A massive ball of water crashes into the angel, and explodes into vapor!

As you hit the ground, exhausted, you find that it's vanished from sight.

The serpent angel is gone.

QM Note: No vote today. See you in a few days!

 

[Solarstream]

The Moon (VI)​

"Ughh..."

"Oh, Zarya's waking up! Hey, Zarya!"
​

​

"Don't yell in her ear like that!"
​

​

"Ah! Sorry... wait, you shouldn't yell either!"
​

It's noisy... and you feel being you're being jostled around... almost like you're in a wagon...

A wagon...?

Oh, right!

You open your eyes and look around.

Despite the fact that you all drove to battle in a fairly large wagon, able to carry seven people and The Being without issue, the holy women decided to split up after the fact. Makes sense with their new captives in tow. You are in a smaller wagon, accompanied of course by The Being and an unconscious Libra Venus. By your side is Aries Mars, and driving the wagon is Scorpio Mars.

"Zarya, that was incredible!" exclaims Aries Mars, who has already forgotten that she wasn't supposed to yell in the wagon. "I didn't realize you could do something like that! It reminded me of Humility's giant fireball from back in Ephesus!"

"I didn't realize I could do it either until I did it. Or rather, we did it. I had help from my alien companion," you note, sitting up properly in your seat. You then look over at Libra Venus, lying down across from you. "Is she...?"

"Alive? Yes," chimes in Scorpio Mars from the front, "but she's unresponsive. Even my companion's usual boisterousness does nothing."

"Hmph! Well, sorry for being amazed! I wonder if we could do something like that..."

"Why would you even want to? The two of them completely tore up that area. It'll be completely unsuitable for farming this year, and maybe for years to come."

"But a power like that, one that can take down a Seraph, don't you think it'll take down any Demon without issue? Especially when we consider that serpent back in Sardis."

"It's total overkill...!"

"It's what we need...!"

You get the feeling that the two of them are going to go on like this for a while, so you ignore them and turn to Libra Venus. Sure enough, despite the argument, she's unresponsive. You put a hand in front of her face, holding it still for a moment. A gentle pressure pushes back against you in a steady rhythm. She's breathing still. Her cithara is on her seat next to her... and it still has its spiritual presence. Maybe playing it will do something...?

Before you can get the chance to reach for it, the wagon stops amidst the sound of cheers.

"Ugh, we'll talk about this later," declares an annoyed Scorpio Mars to her companion. "Anyway, we're back at Antioch. Let's get our story straight. The people in the church know the truth of who and what came to attack us, but the ordinary townspeople were told something quite different – that the Trinity and Capricorn Saturn were possessed against their will and being used by a spiritual beast."

"You didn't mention that said beast was an Angel?"

"No, and we need you to keep quiet about that too," she replies. "Besides, most of these people wouldn't know an Angel from a Demon anyway."

Aries Mars looks about as annoyed by keeping this a secret as you do, but she agrees that they need to be discreet. In the end, you can't do much except agree to stick to the official story. It helps that for Capricorn Saturn at least, it's an accurate take... at least, you hope so.

You all then continue into Antioch, surrounded by a grateful citizenry.

.

.

.

It took several days for Capricorn Saturn to arise from her slumber.

You spent that time amongst the people, doing small jobs and sculpting work, needing a distraction. They noticed a few changes in you. You walked amongst the people with more confidence, no longer feeling the need to be reclusive in your workshop. This was despite the fact that your left eye was now permanently blue, a sign of residual blessing. You must have over-exerted yourself against the Angel, you suppose. In response, you were almost always surrounded by people when you were on the streets, people curious about you, people who you were curious about. It's not like you got to simply be in public before all of this.

In the meantime, the Trinity, Capricorn Saturn, and Libra Venus had been under constant medical supervision from Kindness, Cancer Moon, and Theodora. You, trusting in them to heal their companions, kept away, allowing the Mars duo to keep you informed on any changes in their condition.

There was no news until the girl herself turned up with Aquarius Saturn, Linza, and Philippos in tow one cloudy day as you were walking down the city streets, heading to your workshop.

"There she is! Zarya!"

You recognized her voice at once, and turned around just in time for her to tackle you, turning it into a hug as you crashed into the paved streets.

"Oof!? Capricorn Saturn, it's good to see you too!"

"Zarya oh I'm so happy to see you I was so scared I thought I'd never be freed never escape from that thing thank you thank you thank you..." She goes on like this for a while, openly crying. You can't say anything to that, so all you do is hold her tight. As you do so, the crowd around you thins, leaving only her Saturn counterpart and your friends behind. Linza and Philippos help you both get up, while Aquarius Saturn hangs back.

"Zarya... you don't know how much this means to us, to the Sovereign Priest. Do you truly not want anything in return?" she asks.

You shake your head. "I don't really want anything from him. I just want to be able to live my life here in peace. That's all I need. ...speaking of, are you going to be staying here, Capricorn Saturn?"

The girl shakes her head. "Not forever. I'll be going back to Smyrna eventually with some of the other survivors," she declares while still holding on to you. "I still can't believe that everyone else is gone..."

You frown. You thought that beating the Angel would fix that, but it looks like it took all those souls with it to... well, wherever it came from, whether that be Heaven or somewhere else. Perhaps that's where the Trinity's souls are, as they're been completely unresponsive to treatment...

Oh, right. There's someone else who was being treated.

"Say, did Libra Venus wake up yet?"

Capricorn Saturn sniffs. "Yes, but... she ran off for some reason. Theodora went to go check up on her."

"You said that she became possessed as well, right?" asks Aquarius Saturn.

"Yes. That thing got to her before I could. Maybe I should go talk to her..."

"Hmm... that would be quite helpful, yes. We'll let you know when we find her. I ought to go search for her too... oh, but before I leave... Zarya? Thanks again. I owe you and your friends a great debt, one that I can never repay. It's because of that... that I feel like I should warn you."

You blink, confused. "Warn me? About what?"

Linza narrows her eyes and steps closer to you. "Is the Church going to turn against us after all?"

"No!" exclaims Capricorn Saturn. "I won't let that happen!"

"And I won't either... but know that you have enemies inside it, people who don't like your popularity amongst the people," adds Aquarius Saturn.

Philippos nods. "Thank you. We'll keep an eye out. They may end up striking on their own if the rest of the Church refuses to take their side."

Capricorn Saturn whimpers, and so you rest a hand on her head, trying to reassure her.

It won't come to that.

At least... you hope so.

(The next few days do indeed pass in peace. What does Zarya do during that time besides her odd jobs? Choose three.)
[] Be out amongst the people.
[] Craft a new major sculpture.
-[] (of what?)
[] Go help look for Libra Venus.
[] Spend time with...
-[] Capricorn Saturn, Linza, and Philippos.
-[] The Mars duo and Temperance.
-[] Kindness, Cancer Moon, and Theodora.
-[] The Being.
-[] (write-in)
[] (write-in)


QM Note: Nearing the end now... I wouldn't be surprised if this quest ended around Christmas time.

 

[Zaealix]

Hrrrm…
So here's my thoughts:
No to hanging around the people even more, given the popularity problems…
Probably no to making a statue, although making a statue of the Serpent Angel fighting Dione's Serpent is tempting as a take that! At Dione…But…
Libra we should look after I think, but beyond that I'm less certain…

 

[Nevill]

[x] Go help look for Libra Venus.
[x] Spend time with...
-[x] The Being.

These two, I am certain about. It's time to say our farewells to our companion.
Not sure about what else we'd want.

Lacking anything pressing, I'll probably choose people closest to us to wrap things up. Capricorn Saturn's visions of the possible futures wouldn't be unwelcome, either.

 

[Solarstream]

Capricorn Saturn's visions of the possible futures wouldn't be unwelcome, either.

Click to shrink...

She is able to relay a vision or two if that's what you're interested in!

 

[Zaealix]

[x] Go help look for Libra Venus.
[x] Spend time with...
-[x] The Being.
-[X] Capricorn Saturn, Linza, and Philippos.

 

[Wardragon]

[x] Go help look for Libra Venus.
[x] Spend time with...
-[x] The Being.

 

[Solarstream]

News and Rumors in Antioch beneath The Moon​

The Mysterious Spirit Beast is defeated by Zarya, Hero of Antioch!
Over the past two weeks, the people of Antioch were warned by the Antiochian Church of the Followers of the Way of a future attack by a rogue spiritual beast. The other day, said beast finally saw fit to show itself, causing a minor panic on the city outskirts and outlying villages, especially due to the flight of refugees towards Antioch. When asked, survivors reported bearing witness to a massive flying snake that could burn people so thoroughly that they did not leave behind ashes. Strangely, the beast was also accompanied by holy chants and the singing of Iudicii Signum. Many claim that it was a Demon making a pretense of holiness, which is why several Holy Maidens, Mystic Priestesses, and the Hero of Antioch were dispatched to destroy it. While Zarya and the holy women are scarce with the details, soldiers on the scene report that the flying monster was obliterated by a massive explosion of water. This could only have been the work of Zarya, the Hero of Antioch, the Water-bearer!

At Last, the Rebellion of the Advocates has ended in Total Defeat!
In other positive news, the last of the Advocates was spotted being dragged into Antioch, escorted by a small company of soldiers. Having learned well from the previous strikes on Ephesus – a city once controlled by wicked men now recovering under the holy guidance of the Holy Maiden of Humility – a strike force was sent out, escorted by skilled scouts, to locate and capture the man. The last Advocate was known to have been barricaded himself in Pergamum, the last refuge of his kind. What happened to the other two Advocates is currently unknown, but both are presumed dead. It is also not clear who will replace them as part of the heads of government, and there are even some who advocate for the total removal of their position in the face of the crisis they inflicted on multiple cities in a bid for more power. As for this man, his fate is certain – execution.

Sorrow and Misfortune of the Fair Cities of Sardis and Laodicea!
However, in other cities, the crisis continues to go on seemingly without end. This is the case for the two normally prosperous cities of Sardis and Laodicea, though each one suffers from a different calamity. According to those who managed to escape Sardis and its surrounding villages, that area is now firmly in control of the Demons' Friends. To make matters worse, the ultimate ruler of that region is none other than a fallen Mystic Priestess, the former Pisces Jupiter. There are rumors that she was able to hold her companion, the Mystic Priestess Sagittarius Jupiter hostage, but given that said holy women is currently active in Ephesus, she must have escaped somehow. As for Laodicea, almost nothing is known about it other than the fact that the Holy Maiden of Temperance was pushed out by a military coup and that she is eager to march on the city and reconquer it in the name of God, already gathering troops for an attack.

The Silence of the Trinity and the Triumph of the Sovereign Priest!
Rule over this realm is traditionally split in three, mirroring the threefold split of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. These three parts – the Advocates, the Trinity, and the Sovereign Priest of Antioch – unite into one greater whole. However, these parts have recently come into disarray! All in Antioch are aware of the SPA's flight to Smyrna and subsequent return, as well as the Advocates' capture of the city followed by their flight to Ephesus and then to Pergamum upon two successive defeats. However, the fate of the Trinity has been a total unknown until recently, due to their full-time residence on the holy island of Patmos. Now, the Trinity are rumored to be in recovery inside the Great Church of Antioch, having been used and abused by the flying fire serpent. Their status is uncertain, leading some to believe that they have in truth died, and thus begin to speculate as to who their replacements might be. With their absence, the Sovereign Priest of Antioch is now the sole authority not only of Antioch, but also of the land as a whole. While some are eager to see things stay this way, most desire a return to normalcy and pray for either the speedy recovery of the Trinity or the swift appointment of their replacements.

If you see a Mysterious Sphere of Bubbles, do not be alarmed!
While the Antiochian Church of the Followers of the Way issued a warning regarding the appearance of one surprise guest, they did no such thing for the second one. Not long after the flying serpent was defeated, an odd creature that seemed to be made of living bubbles suddenly appeared in Antioch, wandering among the city streets. When asked for an explanation, the Mystic Priestess Cancer Moon confirmed that this odd creature was none other than the being once forcefully fused with the Hero of Antioch by a group of wicked cultists. When asked why a Demon was being allowed to roam the streets like any citizen, she declared that the creature was no Demon, but instead an alien being from another world! In gratitude for its faithful service, it was being allowed to remain while a means to send it home was being developed. So, if you run into this creature, do not run from it in fear! That creature is your friend! He fought for your freedom!

Free Land available in Smyrna and Thyatira for those who will work it!
The total devastation of Smyrna and Thyatira by the flying serpent has left only a fraction of the original inhabitants of both cities alive. As such, to help repopulate those areas, land is being parceled out to any Antiochian man who will be willing to work it and ensure a bountiful harvest. Priority is being given to married men, especially ones with children. For more information, please go to your local Church of the Followers of the Way. The first group will be leaving in short order, due to the pressing needs to both resettle and re-establish dominance over that area, particularly before forces from Laodicea can invade.

Remain Vigilant and Keep an Eye Out for the Demons' Friends!
Alert! Alert! There have been rumors of cultist sightings within Antioch! While these human-shaped fiends have been dealt a series of critical blows, they have not been truly defeated! Be on the lookout for small groups of people in odd dress, looking as if they have ill intent. Join your local Night Watch and help defend Antioch from the demonic threat!


QM Note: Here's something extra.

 

[Solarstream]

Adhoc vote count started by Solarstream on Oct 14, 2023 at 5:38 PM, finished with 6 posts and 3 votes.

• ---

  3 people have voted

  [x] Go help look for Libra Venus.

  • Nevill
  • Wardragon
  • Zaealix

  2 people have voted

  [x] Spend time with...
  -[x] The Being.

  • Nevill
  • Wardragon

  1 people have voted

  [x] Spend time with...
  -[x] The Being.
  -[X] Capricorn Saturn, Linza, and Philippos.

  • Zaealix

vote closed~!

 

[Solarstream]

Spoiler: Winning vote

Winning vote:
[X] Go help look for Libra Venus.
[X] Spend time with...
-[X] The Being.
-[X] Capricorn Saturn, Linza, and Philippos.

The Lovers (I)​

With the serpent Angel defeated, the Trinity subdued, the last Advocate captive, and the cultists seemingly in hiding, Antioch is peaceful once more. In between and after your odd jobs – things you do mostly to keep yourself busy – you spare time on these days to be with the Being, showing it around the city, and with the trio of Capricorn Saturn, Linza, and Philippos before they depart for Smyrna once more with a mass of settlers. These days of peace are always appreciated when they come around, because they seem to go away just as easily... although, maybe this time, the peace will be permanent. As far as you can tell, every threat is distant.

Your hopes were dashed against the rocks by none other than the Mystic Priestess Capricorn Saturn, the girl who can see the future.

One morning when you were heading outside the city, following up a lead on where Libra Venus might be, she dashed up to you in the streets, accompanied by Linza and Philippos. The two of them had been making a point to spend time with the little girl, almost treating her like their own daughter. She was also eager to spend time with you, even if it meant shirking her holy duties to do so. The Sovereign Priest of Antioch must have a real soft spot for her if he's letting this happen regularly.

"Zarya! Zarya! I got to tell you something!" the girl shouted with her horn in tow. Ah, some vision? This must be important if she ran all the way to see you. But what could it be? Another Demon attack? Or perhaps it's a human threat this time.

When she caught up to you, you let her cling to you and catch her breath, turning your attention instead to Linza and Philippos. "You're all leaving for Smyrna tomorrow morning, right? We should have a feast tonight with everyone before you go."

Linza chuckled. "What, in your apartment? I can only imagine what your neighbors would think, seeing a bunch of holy women crammed inside it."

Philippos, however, considered it further. "However, there's certainly enough room in her workshop for a feast. Though I didn't take you for a much of a chef. You always did your best to avoid cooking duty back in Sardis."

Linza laughed while you grumbled under your breath. "Hey, I've been learning how to cook! Sometimes it's even good!" you complained.

"I'm not sure why you bother, to be honest. Consider what you've done for this city, you'll probably never have to pay for a meal again!" commented Linza.

"I also don't have to pay for groceries," you noted. "And it's not so bad if I treat it like I'm just doing some sculpting. But that's neither here nor there, as we should do this in the Great Church instead and..."

"W-wait!"

And at that, you stopped and turned your attention to Capricorn Saturn, who had finally recovered.

You blink, confused. "Should we not do that? Is that the warning you came to deliver?"

"Ah, no, no... it's... well... it's both good and bad. See, it's about Theodora. She becomes Leo Sun once more, and-"

Philippos cut her off. "But how? Is her holy relic not lost? We didn't find it with any of the cultists over in Thyatira."

Capricorn Saturn shook her head. "It's not lost. The cultists who stole it have been on the run, and finally made their way here. But, since we're on the lookout for cultists, we catch them and return the Golden Claws to her."

"...this all sounds good though? What's the catch?" asked Linza.

"I don't know what happens exactly, but something goes wrong and she ends up fighting you, Zarya!"

...you're still confused. "Me? But I thought she was over her grudge. Hmm, maybe someone ends up controlling her?" you suggested. "That's about the only way I could see her fighting me now."

Capricorn Saturn's eyes went wide. "That has to be it! Zarya, please keep an eye on her!"

That would be hard since you're not a member of the Antiochian Church, but you promised to do what you can. Capricorn Saturn thanked you with a smile, and then allowed herself to be escorted back to the Great Church by Linza and Philippos. Though, not before you all agreed to have a feast there tonight. With Kindness leaving for Pergamum and the trio of Temperence, Aries Mars, and Scorpio Mars leaving for Sardis soon, this will be the last time you'd be able to get together for a good long while.

With any luck you'd be able to bring Libra Venus there as well. You'd heard rumors that she was taking up residence in some of the small communes outside the city proper, and had been on the way to figure out the truth when Capricorn Saturn had interrupted you. You're not sure why Libra Venus would do this. No one else had been able to talk to her, either. Did the Angel... do something to her?

You shuddered at the thought, and then made your way out of the city.

...but not before first figuring out if you wanted to spread the news about Capricorn Saturn's vision.

(Choose one.)
[][Vision?] Best to keep this one to yourself.
[][Vision?] Best to tell Theodora about it.
[][Vision?] Best to tell Cancer Moon about it.
[][Vision?] Best to tell Aquarius Saturn about it.
[][Vision?] Best to tell all three of them about it.

You'll handle that when you get back in town. Right now, Libra Venus needs your full attention.

QM Note: Talking to Libra Venus will be next update!

 

[Nevill]

Of all the people I'd probably only tell this to Libra Venus, but she is not on the list, and we don't know what's up with her yet.

[x][Vision?] Best to tell Theodora about it.

 

[Zaealix]

[X][Vision?] Best to tell Theodora about it.
-[X]When the time came before, I was a coward, leaving you for the cultists. Should we fight, it'll only be righteous payback.

 

[Eternal_0bserver]

[X][Vision?] Best to tell all three of them about it.

 

[Solarstream]

Of all the people I'd probably only tell this to Libra Venus, but she is not on the list, and we don't know what's up with her yet.

Click to shrink...

You'll have the option to tell her about that once you get to talk to her.

 

[Solarstream]

vote will close around this time: Oct 21, 2023 at 5:30 PM

 

[Solarstream]

Spoiler: Winning vote

Winning vote:
[X][Vision?] Best to tell Theodora about it.

The Lovers (II)​

The communes are composed of people who still hold fast to the faith of the Followers of the Way, but reject the structures associated with it. Rather, they meet in small groups inside homes within the city and villas outside of it. They may have no leader or they may have their own leader, whether self-selected or elected. Some are loosely or strongly associated with each other into a sort of movement, while others are entirely independent. However, all of them have rejected the authority of the Sovereign Priest of Antioch, whether in part or in full.

It's that last fact that makes you wonder why Libra Venus would go to them. She's never had a bad word to say about him or about her Church before. Not until that rogue angel arrived.

Hmmm... maybe that has something to do with it. But you won't get an answer until you talk to her.

The guards let you through the gate without any further questioning once you tell them you're in a hurry and you're doing some personal business. Once of them even helpfully points you in the direction Libra Venus went. Sure enough, she's taking residence in a villa-turned-monastery, abandoned by its former owner and tended to by a small group of Followers. Wildflowers are in bloom all around you as you make your way to the right place, occasionally stopping for directions at some of the other villas – some also monasteries, some still secular and now managed by the free. You get to what you think is the right place and notice a few Followers outside working the fields, as well as a choir's singing coming from inside the villa.

You can pick out one of the voices immediately – Libra Venus is here!

She must have also noticed your presence, as the singing stops as you get closer. The workers in the field stop, confused, which allows one of them to finally notice you.

He then bids you to stop. "Good day to you, fellow citizen. Have you some business here?"

"Indeed, I do, fellow citizen. I have become aware that the Mystic Priestess Libra Venus has taken shelter amongst your group. I wish to check up on her and talk to her."

He and his companions of several men and women stop to talk amongst themselves for a moment before he turns back to you and answers. "Regretfully, Libra Venus is not here..."

You interject. "I could recognize her voice anywhere! She is indeed here!"

He flinches. "Ah, if I may finish speaking..."

He seems sincerely apologetic, so you relax and ask him to continue.

"...thank you. As I was saying, Libra Venus is indeed not here. There is no woman by that name here. However, there is a woman here that knows what happened to her. If she is willing to receive visitors, then we will permit you to speak to her. Please wait out here for her to approach you."

You're not sure what he's getting it, but it's not like you're in a rush. As far as you're aware, the only issues of concern in Antioch are minor cultist sightings and the disappearance of Virgina. And for both of those, Cancer Moon would come to you if she learned anything important. She hasn't yet, so...

"Certainly."

The man – introducing himself as Lars – departs into the villa while the other Followers get back to work. None of them seem inclined to talk to you, so you let them be and take a seat beneath the shade of a tree below the late morning sun. It's getting warm again, and you can appreciate it without that burning angel around.

After a few minutes, you're joined by someone familiar yet different.

"Good morning, Zarya..."

It's Libra Venus alright. You'd recognize her voice and distinctive differently-colored eyes anywhere. She's cut her hair short, just like Linza did. She's also wearing the same plain tunic as the Followers here.

"Good morning... ah, how should I refer to you?"

She smiles at you, warming you up, and then takes a seat next to you. "Please call me Melina."

Melina. What a sweet name.

"Okay, Melina. Do you happen to know where Libra Venus went? Her companions are looking for her."

She flinches away from you. "I... I don't think she's coming back."

You frown. "Did the angel take her away?"

"..."

She doesn't respond at first. She looks up at the sky. You look up too. Small clouds are drifting in the breeze. They're full of water and real. You can appreciate them now in a way you never could have before. In your consideration, you almost miss Melina speaking up again.

"The angel... no, I had a thought that maybe I couldn't be Libra Venus, shouldn't be a holy woman. I tried so hard to help you, but all I did was get in the way and almost... I... ...Maybe my parents were right all along...."

You chime at once. "No."

She turns to you. "Zarya?"

You remain firm. "No. I don't believe that at all. You've been nothing but helpful! And not just to me, but to Theodora and the others as well."

She frowns, folding into herself. "Have I? Despite my new song, I wasn't able to help you defeat the Angel. You and the Being did that together. And Theodora... I tried to save her from her inner Demon, but I was useless when it mattered the most. I was too late to do anything for Diligence and Temperance too, though at least Temperance didn't die because of it..."

She shakes her head. "No, Libra Venus is no good. But maybe Melina can be if she starts over with a new song."

You're not sure what you should say to that. "Melina..."

She looks over to you again. "Zarya, I said that I would help take care of you, and I have been, but... I just feel like I haven't been able to live up to my role as Libra Venus. And if I can't do that, then it's better to give it up and let the Church choose a new candidate. ...ah, but you're probably wondering why I didn't leave anything behind regarding a new candidate, right?"

You nod. She was picked by her predecessor, so it makes sense that she'd pick her replacement.

She looks away for a brief moment before continuing. "Well, there's only one person I could possibly choose, but she wouldn't want the position."

She of course means you, and you nod in agreement again. You've made your decision regarding the Antiochian Church – you'll remain outside it, though nominally an ally. But your allies seem to taking issue with it...

[][Church] Maybe you should do some investigating on your own...
[][Church] You'll continue to let them come to you with their problems.
[][Church] You can trust the Church! No way, not after all of this.

...and as for Melina herself... well, you're still not sure what you should do.

But you have to do something, right?

[][Melina] ...maybe you don't. Melina can be Melina, and that's okay.
[][Melina] Try to convince Melina to be Libra Venus again: (write-in)

In any case, you need to tell her about tonight's feast. And maybe other things?

(Submit other things you'd like to discuss with Libra Venus here. Optional vote, select as many as you'd like.)
[][Discussion] Capricorn Saturn's recent vision
[][Discussion] Why she abandoned Antioch for a commune
[][Discussion] Does she still sing
[][Discussion] (write-in)

QM Note: Character Sheet will be updated later.

 

[Zaealix]

[X][Church] Maybe you should do some investigating on your own...
At least two factions that are now foes to watch out for seem to have started within the Church, ignoring the whole mess with the Angel.
I dunno about you guys but I'd like to know what's up with all that.

 

[Nevill]

[x][Church] Maybe you should do some investigating on your own...
[x][Melina] ...maybe you don't. Melina can be Melina, and that's okay.

[x][Discussion] Capricorn Saturn's recent vision
[x][Discussion] What she wants to do from now on

 

[Solarstream]

no update tomorrow; see you next week!

 

[Solarstream]

vote will close in a few hours~!

 

[Solarstream]

vote closed and character sheet updated!