Interlude VIII: The Chronepsis Zero

"Interlude VIII: The Chronepsis Zero" is episode 71 of SuperQuest Saga. The Nova Kings grant audience to the crew of *Victory's Ascent...*

## Synopsis

### Introduction

* Will Stark shall be your royal dungeon master for this evening.
* Josh Freeland is playing Sebastian Crenshaw, The Forsaken.
* Your Special Guest Jake is playing Persephone Goldpetal the firbolg druid.
* Brian is giving this last interlude some respect. He does spells and sneaky thievery shit.

### Recap

Last episode a lot of shit happened. The party had to escape the Library of Ancients because it was falling down; The Logician decided to explode it because he is a sore loser. They had to make their way across a broken glass bridge, through a fire trap going haywire, past a pillar blocking the door, climb a tower of falling books, teleport back out while rocks and water was falling, and run across the roof to the ship as a windmill fell on top of them. *Victory’s Ascent* took off and they witnessed the victory of Draconic Star Sovereignty forces as they left the planet. The group saw the flagship of D.S.S. forces, *The Chronepsis Zero*, but before they could jump away, two old friends, Lightsong and Brightwind, showed up with an invitation from the Nova Kings that the party could not refuse. Aboard *The Chronepsis Zero* the party was led to the three very sexy, very wet dragons, and were told to kneel before the kings.

### Kneel Before Our Sex Appeal

The three Nova Kings loom imperiously above the party. Brightwind speaks; “Your Majesties, if it pleases you I would introduce your guests.” The three kings speak telepathically in unison, a very unsettling experience for those on the receiving end; all three of their mental personas, their telepathic voices, are deep, gravelly, and inhuman to hear. “You may, youngling.”

Brightwind continues. “I present to you: The Lady Primina, Child of The Prime, Daughter of the Ancient Blood, and Breath of the Celestial Flame. Sir Sebastian Crenshaw, former Corporal of The Iron Legion, Last Son of Nishrek, The Man Alone, The Man who is a Nation. Lady Persephone Goldpetal, Druidess of the Galactic Order, Singer of the Lost Songs, and- I believe- Exarch of She Who is One with All. Professor Watt Wainwright, Valedictorian of The Atheneum, Doctor of Engineering and Robotics. And…” he looks at Echo. “I am afraid I am unfamiliar with our last guest. If you would be so good as to introduce yourself, good sir.”

“Hello. My name is Echo, and these are my wards.” Echo bows deeply. Before entering *The Chronepsis Zero*, he disguised his appearance to remove any sign that he is an elf. Lightsong and Brightwind stay silent about his disguise.

The Nova Kings speak telepathically, finishing each other’s sentences. “We bid you greetings as honored guests, though we wish it were under alternative circumstances; for though the Star Sovereignty has won a victory over Arvandor, it is neither a moment of victory nor celebration, but instead, one of vexation and vigilance.

As you may already know, the Emperor and his Justice Saints along with six entire elven fleets were absent from the battle today. One of our most trusted scouts arrived not twelve hours ago with the intel that these forces were spotted a mere 800 light-years to our flank. Our first belief was that a pincer attack had been executed without our detection; since that has not already occurred, this seems unlikely. Next, we feared an invasion of the draconic capital; but no word from any outpost or patrol has reported any suspicious activity anywhere in DSS territory.

What was reported by our original scout was that a dragonforged ship, not registered or recorded in our fleet, and made of a material not of our kind, had mysteriously rescued him from certain death at the hands of elven fighters. And that a ship of identical description tore across the field of battle straight for a secret facility on Arvandor.

We did not know for certain, but our intuition seems to be correct; you all have been at the center of multiple elven attacks, have been searched for at all costs by the Emperor, your origin shrouded in mystery and tales too tall to be believed. We, ourselves, have attempted to bring you in only for you to evade us time and time again. We’ve put together some of the pieces, but too much evades our understanding. So we will ask you plainly. Where is Emperor Solastaren and what is he planning?”

### Thank You for Coming to My TED Talk

Persephone steps forward. “Your Highnesses, myself and Sir Sebastian over there, and my other compatriots here - but we found them later. Myself and Sebastian are… we come from the past, about 100,000 years ago. We came here on a crashed illithid ship with a different crew member of ours under the request of our king at the time. And then we got just… blasted to the future where we found Prim. And we’ve done nothing but try to protect each other and protect her. And as far as where the Emperor is… we are on a mission from the Galactic Spirit to prevent the universe’s destruction. He seeks to unleash the Crawling Chaos and seeks to snuff out all the lights of the universe.”

Echo looks at Percy and nods. He takes the adaptor for the USB5 to plug into his bracer jack and boots up the star map to show the Nova Kings. “Proof of her word; this is where the elven empire’s king travels.”

Watt speaks up. “The Emperor is headed to the center of the galaxy, from our understanding, to open a gateway to a realm we have hitherto been unaware of that holds ancient powers of gods long dead. From what the team has discovered, he aims to claim this power and open up a seal that is keeping an outer entity out, and attempting to slay this entity. In doing so, he is not likely to succeed; and if he fails, this entity will swallow everything.”

The Nova Kings speak. “This seems madness. This proof of the Emperor’s location… I understand that this map you are holding before me shows a possible star route to the center, but how do we know this is where the elven Emperor is?” Persephone and Echo share the audio recordings from Dr. Zahn’s laboratory and all other data they have collected. Everyone sits and listens to this comprehensive presentation.

When the presentation concludes and Echo thanks them for coming to his TED Talk, Lightsong speaks. “The Emperor started a war over this. This… he’s risked everything, if not for this then for what? If what they say is true, we must pursue.”

The Nova Kings look towards Primina and say “If she is needed to open the gate, why has the Emperor gone without her then?” Everyone glances sideways at Sebastian.

Watt answers. “It’s possible he doesn’t need her anymore. I’ve been thinking about this for some time. Our Primina is essentially a genetic cheat code designed to open the gate to this lost city, albeit an incomplete one. Sebastian holds the Ninth bloodline that she lacks. Nine bloodlines, plus an inordinate amount of divine energy can theoretically trick this gate to open. Well, there are eight bloodlines still around in abundance today, and they don’t call him God Emperor because of his ego.” He sighs. “Sebastian. Would you like to tell Their Majesties how you lost your arm?”

Sebastian describes the battle they had escaping Outlaw’s Horizon, how his arm was chopped off by an elf. He displays his mechanical arm. “As a result of my injuries, I’m left with this robotic, cybernetic arm. We were never able to recover my severed arm, so it could very well be in the possession of the Elven Empire at this point.”

The Nova Kings ask “So, what are you saying?” Watt responds; “I’m saying that Solastaren has all the ingredients for his god key. They likely made Primina to do the job in case it failed and the backlash proved fatal; but the Emperor is both mad and desperate. He likely stopped searching for Prim and Sebastian some time ago. He’s going to open the gate himself.”

“He did hire some pretty wicked bounty hunters though, but we’ve just been kind of killing them.” Echo adds. “And also, the God Emperor is under the thrall of the Crawling Chaos, this other-worldy being, and possibly that is the source of his madness.” Persephone says. Echo pulls up the data he has on Carter Huttenburg and presents it to the group. “Perhaps we should talk about this a little bit. Unfortunately, this is the depth of my experience with this Carter Huttenburg.”

Primina speaks up. “He was originally our ally but he betrayed us. He seems to have been working with this unnamable one, or this Crawling Chaos since the very beginning. We’ve seen this Crawling Chaos and what it can do. It seems to have infected the entire illithid population; there’s essentially only five uninfected members left in the galaxy. If we don’t get to where we need to go, if we don’t claim the power before the Emperor does and renew the seal, this Crawling Chaos may take everything.”

Lightsong says, “Your Majesties, if I might speak my mind.” The Nova Kings command her to speak. “I believe their story, too much of it makes sense. The Emperor is gone and has left his people to die. The bizarre illithid reports, the covered up secret experiments. Sebastian has come from across time. The Galactic Spirit grants great favor to Persephone’s mission. Primina’s existence itself is a testimony to the truth of this tale. We cannot do nothing, we must meet this threat to our existence. If you would not command our fleet to follow the Emperor, then I ask at the very least your leave to let my brother and I follow these brave souls.”

Persephone tells Lightsong and Brightwind that there may not be a return journey. Enough lives have been sacrificed in this terrible war and she would hate for the Draconic Star Sovereignty to lose two bright minds such as theirs. Lightsong smiles and squeezes Percy’s arm. “That’s very sweet, Percy, and I take that to heart but we’re literally talking about all the lives in the galaxy on the line. I’d gladly sacrifice my life for that.”

The Three Nova Kings speak. “The words spoken here ring with conviction and truth. We must convene. You will have our decision on the morrow. Go now. See to our guests' needs. You will all stay here until our decision is reached.” All three turn away in a way that everyone understands they are dismissed.

Echo calls out to the Kings before they leave to tell them that many of the elves on Arvandor are not loyal to their king. He asks for mercy if civilians can be spared, they seek refuge. “Worry not, little one, we have no plans for military occupation of Arvandor. Our mission has, and continues to be, the assassination of the totalitarian government which threatens the peace of the entire galaxy.” Echo thanks them and leaves it at that.

Lightsong and Brightwind usher the party away. There are rooms on *The Chronepsis Zero* that the party can stay in, but they’re also free to explore the ship. They are not being watched or kept under guard and are free to return to *Victory’s Ascent* if they want.

### Maybe We Have the Orgy Now?

*The Chronepisis Zero* has a functioning city atop its column named Triumvirate. It’s small as far as modern cities go, but it has a full residential district and entertainment sector, bustling businesses, manufacturing factories, and more. The party is shown to their very nice suites and Lightsong tells them that she and her brother have urgent matters to attend to; they are leaving with the group one way or the other, no matter what the Nova Kings decide, and need to make preparations. Echo teaches them the secret handshake to verify their identities if needed. The stellar dragons think this is prudent; Lightsong nerds out with Echo about how they have seen something similar in other cultures that have complex greetings.

Sebastian asks Echo if he wants to find a good smoothie spot. In the entertainment district they find a smoothie shop called Totally Cool and everyone gets smoothies. Primina is quite excited to try a smoothie and orders the Protein Peanut Blast. Echo gets a phosphorescent purple smoothie with wheatgrass and a tentacle in it. Watt is grossed out and orders a strawberry smoothie. Sebastian gets the Cold Brew Peanut Butter thing. Persephone orders a Green Machine with lots of fruits and veggies with an energy booster. Echo recommends the acai bowls, and everyone has a very nice smoothie outing.

They all decide to sleep on *Victory’s Ascent* and Persephone offers to summon some therapy dogs to have a cuddle slumber party. Primina thanks her for the offer but decides she needs some time alone to think. The next day there is still no word from the Nova Kings.

### Just Like Charizard

Echo takes stock of the items he acquired in the Library. He found an odd tech item that he’s plugged into *The Starling* for analysis and is still waiting on results. He’s got 12,000 credits worth of books if he can find the right buyer so he takes a few hours to pawn them. As he returns to *Victory’s Ascent,* he observes a figure, a silver dragonborn in red armor accented with gold, who is admiring Victory’s Ascent quite studiously. Echo admires his armor.

“Hey. You like this ship?” Echo asks. The dragonborn greets him and says he is looking for the pilot. Echo confirms that he’s the pilot and the dragonborn enthusiastically introduces himself as Rex Vermilion, Commanding Officer of The Crimson Wings. He believes he owes Echo and the rest of the crew thanks for saving his life. Echo is stoked that Vermilion saw his dick twist maneuver and they both think it was super awesome.

“Where I’m from the pilot holds the most honor in an aeronautical rescue, so to you I say thank you. And if it isn’t too bold of me, could I buy you a drink?” Echo clarifies that the rest of the party deserves credit for the rescue as well, they work as a team. He thinks a drink sounds fun and asks Vermilion to lead the way.

Vermilion takes him to a local speakeasy called The Neon Grease, leading the way through a maze of neon trees to get to the secret entrance. Echo is able to follow along because he sees the Thieves Cant signs. Vermilion is pretty familiar with the staff there and tells them to put whatever Echo wants on his tab. Echo orders the Neon Grease; the staff break open an old tube from a neon sign and mix the contents with a few other things.

Echo converses with Vermilion over drinks and finds him both friendly and open. Vermilion shares his war stories, his military family, his heritage, and his home world, Neo-Arkhosia. He also asks Echo questions to get to know him, and doesn’t pry when Echo doesn’t feel like sharing; but Echo is open to sharing his war stories, piloting escapades, and how he’s been messing with the Elven Empire for a long time. It’s been a long time since Vermilion has been allowed to pilot a vessel like that, and over a decade since his last dogfight. He’s an officer now and has to conduct himself a certain way. Echo asks if it’s ok to use the nickname “Verm” and Vermilion heartily agrees.

Eventually, Vermilion grows more serious. “I’m not gonna ask you how you ended up with an unregistered dragonforged. It’s not my place to pry, and in fact it’s against my orders as your mission and activities have been dubbed as classified. But I owe you a life debt, so it is my place to enlighten you on the nature of such a ship. Dragonforged are alive. Now not in the way you or I are, I’m not talking about the ship’s operating system or computer. The spirit, or the anima, of the dragon have been infused into the core of that ship. It is aware of the crew and its spirit powers much of the operation.

You must respect your dragonforged ship. There will be times it will urge you to action or resist your command. I advise you heed its will, and if you go against it, give it the regard of offering your reason. Get to know it. Understand your dragonforged ship. It will do more for you than any other ship can. I’ve seen dragonforged perform feats of speed and strength that go beyond the ship’s specs. I’ve seen ships that should have ceased functioning due to overwhelming damage keep fighting for trusted commanders. I’ve even heard tales of ships fighting on even when their crew and pilot were already dead to avenge their fallen allies or accomplish the assigned mission. I don’t know if it’s true, but everyone’s heard the stories.

Make an effort to bond with her. Win her loyalty. From one pilot to another.”

“It’s just like Charizard.” Echo whispers. Verm is confused. Echo finishes his drink and gives Verm his word that he’ll be as respectful of a pilot as he is capable. Verm cheers to that and they continue drinking and have a great night.

### And I Know Its Form

Persephone meditates in her quarters with a bunch of animals that she has conjured up, mentally preparing herself for the upcoming fight. She takes some time to commune with the Galactic Spirit.

Percy projects herself to her spiritual sphere. Though there is too much tension and stress for her to be fully at peace, Persephone does find some inner peace in her silent meditation as the stars of the spirit realm dance upon the water of her sphere. Time passes while she meditates; it’s unclear whether it’s an hour or half a day, time is always strange in the spiritual realm. Eventually, two forms appear from a starlit mist.

One is a woman in a woven gown of leaves. Her skin the appearance of smooth wood, her hair the vines of a willow. Her lower body appears somewhat insectile but her upper body is that of a middle aged woman, a kindly smile playing upon her face. Yuma, the wilden. One of the first friends Persephone made in this new timeline; the one who connected her with nature and her Wild Shapes again. The other figure is a tall and sturdy male firbolg adorned in armor made of seamless smooth white wood with green living leaves on the joints, with a laurel crown resting upon his head. His face is stoic but his eyes are compassionate. Rohorn, Speaker to the Firbolgs of Arcadia. The first to reunite Percy with her new people. Counselor and guide who led Persephone to rediscover the Songs.

Yuma speaks. “Why, hello there dear.” Persephone enthusiastically runs to embrace her. Yuma asks if Persephone got taller, she looks taller. Rohorn nods to Persephone and says “I see you, Persephone Goldpetal.” Persephone greets him. “I see you as well, Speaker.” and gives him a big hug as well. Percy thinks it is so wonderful to see both of them; she was just meditating on her journey and knows she wouldn’t be where she is without the two of them. Yuma is happy to see her as well, and is glad of the opportunity to meet. “It seems that we’ve been called here.” Yuma looks to Rohorn who agrees. “Yes. I believe She has sent us to you. She has shown me that you are going into grave danger. We have all been called upon to lend Her our strength and communion of late.” Percy hasn’t been able to commune with the Galactic Spirit in some time since she’s been so busy. She confirms that the party is going on a very dangerous mission.

Yuma has seen the same visions as Rohorn. “I believe the Galactic Spirit recognizes our deeper connection with you. We’ve been called to assist you in a more direct way, I suspect.” Rohorn nods as if he’s coming to a realization. “Hmm, yes. Perhaps by teaching you our greatest magics.” Yuma nods, and the two of them look at each other for a moment.

Yuma begins to speak first. She takes a step back and to the side to give herself space. “Deep in the jungles of my home planet there is a legend: a mythical beast who stalks the night with gleaming eyes. It is said that the storm heeds this beast’s call. Its roar is thunder, where it steps lightning strikes, and where a tree is split and the bones are scattered, all know the Raiju has hunted and killed. Some say the raiju are few and scattered, living long and breeding rarely. Others say the raiju is but a singular being, called to life by the storm to cull overpopulation and bring balance to the wood. But most would tell you that the raiju is a myth: merely a story told to children in order to teach them to behave. But I have seen the raiju: its lustrous black mane, its graceful stride, and its gleaming eyes. I have met the storm, and I know its form.” And with that, Yuma Wild Shapes into a large black maned cat with blue fur the size of a giant lion. Its eyes glow red and yellow, electricity sparks from its feet and coat, and it lets out a mighty roar that ripples the water they stand upon.

Persephone stands there amazed by the beauty of this new kitty. “Oh my god. You’re so beautiful!”

Rohorn nods appreciatively at the form as well. “I am impressed, Yuma of the Storm Wood, but I will not be outdone. Far across the deserts of Arcadia there is a place where no things are said to live, The Dying Ground. Here, the sun sears anything it touches and the night freezes whatever remains. None go there save for fools and those looking to die, and few have ever returned from this place; but all who have speak of the mythical spirit who saved them. The Hinoe-uma: fast as the wind, majestic as the sky; fire rides on its back and where it steps, sand turns to glass. I was a fool in my youth, arrogant in my abilities as a druid and Singer. I set out to test myself against this Dying Ground. Within a day, the sun’s mirages and ever-blowing winds caused me to lose my way. Within three, I was withered and scorched. By nightfall, I was near death. In my delirium, I thought the sun was rising and that my death would come at this moment… but it was the hinoe-uma. And its fire was not deadly, but warm and soothing; it carried me across the waste in a blur, its hooves barely touching the dunes. It carried me to water. But before it parted, I saw the creature in its full majesty, and I know its form.” With that, Rohorn transforms into a horse of purest white, its mane, back tail and hooves wreathed in bright orange flame. He rears on his hind legs and lets out a whinny, melodious and pure.

Persephone says. “Also gorgeous!” She Wild Shapes into the raiju first; her albino coloring making her form white and blue with a bluish tint to the electricity. She tests out the form then changes into the hinoe-uma next; pearly white with blue flames instead of orange. Yuma and Rohorn remain in their forms as Percy switches between the two.

Before she can change back into her firbolg form, amongst the stars a sonorous cry, the cry of the Galactic Spirit, calls. All three of them look up. Instead of the Galactic Spirit, they see many of the spiritual spheres in the sky pulse luminously bright, dozens and dozens of them, hundreds, and together they shine as a constellation. A constellation in the shape of the Galactic Spirit herself. Each of these stars shines its light down on Percy until the constellation itself is reflected upon her. She is drawn out of the hinoe-uma form and into a new form. She transforms and her cosmic elemental form emerges, but different than it was. Still avian in the shape of the Galactic Spirit, it now appears to be made of space itself with the star constellation shining within it. Persephone has now been granted the ability to become an avatar of the Galactic Spirit.

### I Used to Say I Live My Life a Quarter Mile at a Time

Sebastian spends some time meditating in his room and researching some history on elven military tactics since that is likely who they are facing next. He takes a break to go to the entertainment district and do some shopping in preparation for the journey. He also wants to talk to Prim. He doesn’t want to intrude, so he waits for an opening where she looks like she has time for him; but he can’t seem to find her anywhere.

Sebastian asks Watt if he knows where Primina is. “I believe she said she was going to gaze at the upper gardens, last I talked to her. That was a few hours ago.” Sebastian makes his way up to the upper layer to see if she’s still there. He follows directions to a very  large botanical area with running water and fountains. The trees in this garden are rather unique, their leaves are brilliant hues of gold, orange, and red. Their trunks and branches are twisted and severe, yet still majestic. Upon closer inspection, the leaves are oddly asymmetrical; each a unique shape with curved, sharp lines and points. Reaching out and touching one causes unexpected pain since the leaves are actually sharp enough to cut. The garden is full of these 15-ft tall trees, their boughs are high enough that they clear his head. He can see a clearing in the distance and heads that way.

He emerges from the trees to find a grass covered hill, atop which is an enormous, ancient version of these same trees, 50-ft tall with dozens of thick boughs that each splay out into dozens more, all covered in gold and orange trees. Beside the tree, staring up at it, is the draconic form of Primina; blue scales, white feathered wings, a tail that ends in a bright blue flame, golden eyes, and two curved black horns. She hears Sebastian approach and turns to see him. Telepathically she speaks to him.

“Hello, Sebastian. I didn’t expect anyone to find me here. Has something happened?” Sebastian tells her he’s just going on a stroll, Watt said that she might be up here so he came to check on her. “What’d you think of that smoothie? Did you think it was better than ice cream?” Primina did enjoy the smoothie. Peanut butter is one of the best flavors she’s tasted since she has been out in the open world and not in prison. Sebastian thinks they need to tell Percy about this garden, she’ll love it. Primina meant to share, but she was finding some peace here and wasn’t ready to leave quite yet. Sebastian asks if she has a few moments, he has a few things he wanted to talk to her about. She says, “Absolutely. What’s going on?”

“Just hear me out. I just need to say a few things for you, and actually for me as well."

"As you know, we’re continuing on this crazy journey, none of us know what’s in store for us or what to expect. I just wanted to talk to you to make sure you know - I think you know- but I just wanted to make sure, I have to say it."

"But you’re not alone on this journey, all of us are here for you a thousand percent. Always by your side, and always here for you. You’re never alone, you always can count on us. As for me, I will do everything in my power to protect you. I know we are different, but I do feel like we have a special bond. There are so many ways I feel like we’re similar, I mean, shoot, both of us are the last of our kind. Both of us have had rough upbringings- I mean, I don’t even want to talk about my upbringing, you know… but I know we’ve been through a lot. And we both have that weird feeling knowing that we are a part of this strange cosmic event and could be a key to stopping it. I just had that special bond with you and want to have these conversations with you."

"You are my family. The entire crew is my family. To tell you the truth, I would not be alive or who I am without all of you, so I had to share this with you. You know, for the longest time I felt like I had to swear an oath to a greater power, a god, a precept, anything to have meaning, to have direction, and to have purpose in life. I mean, as a child I was raised to honor and act for my god, Sargonnas. That was my calling in life, what I was taught to do. Everything was second to that, including family, but it never felt right. It felt empty to me. Then I get blasted, you know, 100,000 years- whatever it is- into the future, lose my god, had no direction in this new world."

"I needed direction, I needed something or someone to guide me and give me purpose. That is when I found the teachings of Dominion and swore an oath to The Iron Legion. Thought it would give me a purpose and power that I needed to accomplish my goals. I’m not sure what my goals were, but I knew I had to gain some sort of power and had this direction."

"Well… then, you know, I made a few mistakes after that for sure. I swore to Ramazall that I’d be his soldier, ah, not my proudest moment for sure, but I did this out of a fear of not being strong enough to protect you and this family. After you were taken from us I felt like I had to do something to equal the power of those beings that took you, and I felt like that was my only way to do that. I acted selfishly thinking I could harness his powers to help all of us without having to pay such a huge price. Well, I mean, we both know how that ended.” He gestures to his face. “That wasn’t the brightest moment of my life.

"You know, and after that, I lost all my powers and the only thing I had left was really my own skills and strength. I felt worthless; I was so used to having those paladin powers, these things that go through my body for my oath to these gods, these precepts.” He sighs. “I did feel worthless. I just felt like I wasn’t who I was supposed to be, that I wouldn't be a help to anybody, I'd be a burden, at best, at this point. But then, with all of you, I realized in those dark times and moments of weakness we can discover some of our greatest strengths. All this time I had sworn oaths but I never truly 100% followed them. And I realized that the safety and wellbeing of you and my new family always took priority.” He takes a deep breath.

“I realize, with the help of all of you, I never needed the powers given to me through those oaths. I have my bond with you, this family, along with my own skills and courage, I realized this was all the strength I would need. You have given purpose and drive, Prim. You, Percy, Watt…” he takes a deep breath. “Victoria, and Echo have been my family and my home. We already lost Victoria and I’ll do anything in my power to make sure I don’t lose anybody else.” Sebastian walks up and hugs her large dragon leg. “I love you, Prim.” She hugs him back. “I love you as well, Sebastian.”

Sebastian steps back. “From this day forward, I swear to you and others to be your guardian and protector.” A breeze begins to pick up and the leaves of the trees begin to rustle and swirl around him.

“This is my Oath to myself and to you, my family.” He takes a knee and pulls out his sword, stabbing it into the ground with both hands on the hilt.

“I will see that no harm comes to you, this family, or to the people, places, and things that I value.” There should be no wind in this artificial construct but the leaves rustle even more as he speaks.

“My family and friends, those I have close bonds with, are what make me strong; I will not let my belief in them falter.” A glow starts to radiate around Sebastian and around Primina, rising off of them like a glowing mist.

“When there is doubt, I must be an anchor for the courage and will of those around me, including you and my family; I will not falter.”

A burst of energy sends the swirling leaves scattering and all is still. Beneath Sebastian’s feet is a glowing glyph that has been etched into the ground and looks like it has been covered in a coat of frost. Upon inspecting the glyph, Sebastian recognizes it seems to be some sort of sacred symbol of virtue and honor. Sebastian’s armor has been cast aside and transformed; he is no longer wearing the black futuristic armor he was wearing, this new armor looks very archaic in design and shines a brilliant silver with blue accents on the joints and chest piece. On the helm are two black horns that are very reminiscent of Primina’s. Sebastian feels the pulsing power of the new Oath he has taken; a warm radiant energy and a drive to protect.

Primina says, “I accept this Oath.”

### We Did It All Without a Persuasion Roll

Everyone is back aboard *Victory’s Ascent* and asleep. Somewhere in the early hours of the morning, they hear a chime on the ship signaling someone is requesting entry. Watt wakes up and sees that it’s Lightsong and Brightwind. “Their Majesties have decided, would you let us in?" Watt lets them in and Persephone and Sebastian wake up to see what’s going on; Echo and Primina stay asleep.

“Their Majesties have decided we are to follow. The fleet is set to launch in 24 hours. I figured you would want to know as quickly as possible so you could make the proper preparations.” Persephone thanks them for the news. Sebastian wakes up Echo who stumbles out of bed and casts Disguise Self to make it look like he is wearing pajamas and slippers with elf ears on them. Echo realizes they never exchanged contact info and gives Lightsong and Brightwind their numbers and lets them know they can call next time. Lightsong and Brightwind apologize for being rude but Echo thanks them for coming and explains he thought they should have exchanged numbers earlier.

Brightwind and Lightsong are almost done making their preparations and ask if the party needs anything. Sebastian checks with Watt to see if the ship is good on supplies; Watt confirms a refuel and resupply would be helpful. Echo goes to the fancy fridge and pinches the screen to send the grocery list over. After everyone gets their eight hours of rest, Primina shares something with the group. “You know what we haven’t done in a long time? Played some Mega Mash Companions. I was in the city and I saw a console, guys. I picked it up. You game?” And everyone is excited to play the new DLC.

Persephone finds some time where Primina is available to talk. “So I guess there’s no really easy way to say this, but there is a likelihood- I mean we don’t know what’s waiting for us at this city- but we do know that we’re gonna need the bloodlines to close or reseal this seal. There’s a high likelihood maybe, depending on how we do, that you might have to die for this… That you might have to sacrifice yourself.” Primina has considered this. Persephone asks if Primina would give permission to be Revived, in case it is needed and Percy has the ability, maybe as a different race so that she could live her own life after this. Primina takes Percy’s hand and tells her that she never knew that was an option. “If you’re asking me if I’m giving you permission to save my life, Persephone, then absolutely, you have it.” Percy just wanted to make sure that it was good with Prim since earlier there was a consent discussion. “If I can save you, I’m gonna try my hardest to save every single one of you.” Persephone states. Primina feels the same way and jokes, “Just don’t turn me into a goblin.”

Echo does a quick headcount to see who is willing to die for this mission; everyone raises their hands. He gives blanket permission to do what needs to be done to save his life if necessary. Persephone felt that Primina was at the highest risk of losing her life, and obviously if Prim does not die that’s a best case scenario. “But, as with all of our plans, it always turns into a shit show and a clusterfuck and we just end up killing everything. Hopefully whatever is lying at the center of the universe at the fucking seat of the gods won’t kill us all. But I think we’ll take 'em down with us if anything. Those fuckers aren’t getting what they want.” Persephone says, and Primina heartily agrees.

As the fleet is getting ready to launch, Watt calls Echo and lets him know there’s a package for him. Echo has been waiting for something but is surprised when the box is larger than what he ordered. It’s a metal container 5-ft tall, 3-ft wide and a foot thick with a dragon claw sigil on it, and three latches on the side. A letter is attached to the case addressed to Echo. Echo pulls out his sword to open the letter and reads it.

*Echo,*
*I’m to understand that Their Majesties have been convinced to join your mission, and our fleet is set to follow you into the deadliest region of the galaxy. I don’t know what your personal mission entails, but I’ll wager it’ll be more dangerous than what me and my squadron will be facing. Inside this case is my most valued possession. I give it to you freely; payment for my life-debt. I told you, I come from a long line of military officers. This armor once belonged to my great-grandfather who served in the elite squadron of the Silver-White Dragoons. It’s yours to use as you will… May it put you in my debt by saving you multiple times in the field of battle.*
*Lieutenant Rex Vermilion*

Echo lets Watt read the letter and Watt asks if Echo is going to open the case. Echo turns his sword hilt into a crowbar and tries to pry it open before realizing the case has latches. Inside the case is a silver and white draconic space flight armor complete with light propulsion wings. It isn’t necessarily Echo’s style, but he is very confident that he can integrate the dragon tech with his nanotech over the course of this journey.

### One Last Thing

*You awaken in a cavern of black stone. The air here is cold and thin; breathing is difficult. Last you remember, you were in your private quarters aboard an illithid cruiser, but now, you are standing in a foot deep black water, cold and clammy, encased in a tomb of stone that is not stone. You have been here before. You have been here many times, in fact. This is where you are taken for your “meetings” with The Man in Black. Your broken, fragmented memories of previous meetings send a shiver down your spine. The exquisite visceral agony, the systematic disassembly of your sanity only to have both your mind and body restored to endure it again, and again, and again.*

*Rippling water signals an approach. The skittering sound of multiple, inhuman limbs drawing nearer. Then, in a blink, he is standing before you. Obsidian and statuesque in robes of the void itself; Nyarlathotep, The Crawling Chaos.*

*“Carter, old friend.”*
*“Heh.”*
*“Pathetic failure”*
*“Aww.”*
*“How have you been?”*
*“Well, neck’s a little stiff. The rock bed could use a –”*
*"This will be our final meeting, I’m afraid. It seems that despite your failures, all has converged as designed.”*
*Well, uh, that’s a little unfair. I think you mean our failures.”*
*“Fear not, my poor, feckless friend. Azathoth’s hunger will soon be sated. All will be devoured to nothing, present company included.”*
*"Uh, excuse me?”*
*“But it is not yet the end for us. I have a task for you.”*
*“I’m listening.”*
*“One in which even your incompetence cannot facilitate failure.”*
*“Okay, rude.”*
*“For you will not be by yourself this time. In fact, it could be said that you will hardly be yourself this time at all. Tell me, Carter, do you remember what I said to you when we first met?*
*“Ha ha. Not in the slightest.”*

*Nyarlathotep begins to change. He grows taller and larger, his hands turn into black, muculent barbed tentacles. His face stretches, and his head forms into a writhing mass. His robes fall away revealing a twisted form held upright on two elephantine limbs.*

*“I told you that I would use your entrails to string an instrument upon which I would orchestrate such exquisite melodies. And I will. But first, I need you to open wide.”*
*“Okay, you mean like this? Aaahh ughlablagnerljhe-”*

## Characters

### The Party

* Sebastian Crenshaw: a half-orc paladin. New Oath, who dis?
* Persephone Goldpetal: an albino firbolg druid. New Wild Shapes, who dis?
* Codename: Echo: an elf wizard/rogue. New armor, who dis?

### NPCs

* The Nova Kings: King Kalagath, King Ebonskaith, and King Raudhrskal. Three massive gold dragons, the only known Nova Dragons.
* Brightwind: a stellar dragon. History nerd and good friend of the party. Lightwind's brother.
* Primina: a genetically engineered young woman. The MacGuffin. She's a powerful dragon now.
* Watt Wainwright: an elderly gnome. Loves a good dramatic explanation.
* Lightsong: a stellar dragon. History nerd and good friend of the party. Brightwind's sister.
* Lieutenant Rex Vermilion: a silver dragonborn. Commanding Officer of the Crimson Wings of the D.S.S. A pilot who misses his glory days.
* Yuma: a wilden who lives on Outlaw's Horizon. Shop owner and mentor number one to Persephone.
* Rohorn: a firbolg who lives on Arcadia. Speaker to the Council and mentor number two to Persephone.
* Nyarlathotep: The Man in Black. Emissary of the now named Azathoth. Major antagonist.
* Carter Huttenburg: A deathlock. Formerly of the adventuring party, now is a pawn for his patron.

## Trivia

### Out of Character

* Brian loves Watt, but both characters he has played on the show do not like him.
* Freeland really likes peanut butter.
* Echo sleeps in compression shorts.