Chapter 25: Allure
“Well, I wouldn’t call it singing,” Vina remarked as they crossed a threshold into a stark landscape. The plains they had left behind transitioned into a vast, flat field strewn with rocks. As she moved forward, the large stones around her seemed to vibrate subtly. In the distance, she could make out a slight depression in the landscape, adding a touch of mystery to the monotony.
“It’s just ahead. Not far now,” Stine chimed in from her shoulder, now comfortably out of the side pocket due to the setting sun.
Dismounting to give her mount a respite, Vina walked alongside it, examining the stones more closely. “Why are they making that noise?”
“They are storing energy for the night,” Stine explained. “It’s difficult for shadows to traverse these fields during the day. At night, the stones act as a barrier to keep us away.”
Crouching beside one of the stones, Vina noticed a patch of green growth. She activated her Examine skill:
Name: Unknown Rarity: Unknown This is an unknown kind of plant material. Forage: You may be able to collect this for future use. Consumption may be dangerous.
“A plant?” Vina murmured, her fingers itching to scrape a sample. Just as she prepared to do so, Stine cautioned her. “It won’t do you any good. Your people know these stones and the plants that grow on them well. None of you have been successful in cultivating these plants outside this area. My people are brilliant, and yours still have much to learn.”
Vina frowned, brushing off Stine’s critique. “Finally, a green plant. It looks like something from Earth, maybe moss or algae. How do they keep you away?”
“You’ll see when nighttime fully arrives. These stones can actually hurt me. You’ll need to cover this one when the time comes,” Stine urged her.
Pushing herself to her feet, Vina continued forward. Her injuries were slowly healing, thanks in part to the mendica mixtures she had consumed. Though her eye remained blurry, she felt the muscles beginning to respond again. To protect it further, she had wrapped a cloth around her head. Flexing her left arm, she felt a faint return of strength. “Just a little more now,” she reassured herself.
To distract herself from the discomfort, Vina pondered where to allocate her Blood Weaver class ability points. Initially keen on enhancing her Sanguine Strikes, she reconsidered given that the sword Selenia, now attached at her hip, outperformed her blood swords. She turned her attention to her Hemophage tree.
“One point to finish it off and I can see what’s below it,” she said.
Hemophage (3/3): Your blood can now make Hemophagic cells. Hemophages consume foreign red blood cells via phagocytosis. Phagocytosis reduces stamina recovery by 10%. Stacks 10 times. Hemophage is considered an infection. You have 3 class ability points remaining.
“Anyone fighting me long term will run out of stamina unless they resist infections,” Vina mused aloud, realizing she had spoken to Stine. The newly unlocked nodes below Hemophage caught her eye:
Hemophilic Impairment (0/3): Hemophage now inhibits coagulation, preventing blood from clotting for 3 minutes after the last application of Hemophage . Bleeding cannot be stopped by bandages.
Blood Rites (0/3): Hemophages now convert the red blood cells they consume into copies of your own blood. Conversion rate increased by 5%.
Pathogen(0/3): Hemophages are now able to spread through blood-to-blood contact and replicate themselves in other bodies. Level 1 : Contagion risk 3 - Moderate
“Whoa… It could become a real disease,” she gasped, intrigued yet puzzled. “Would people just run out of stamina forever?” Shaking her head, she reasoned, “No, their immune systems would eventually overcome it, right…”
She shook her head to clear it. “What about Blood rites?” she wondered. She read the prompt again, but didn’t see a clear benefit. “But why? Why do I want to convert their blood to my own? People get infected, their blood turns to me own… then what? I can heal myself with it, but it would be inside their body, so I can’t even get it out. If it bleeds out of them, I guess I could use it, but then I have Ichoric Conversion anyway. I can already heal myself with anyone’s blood because I have Universal Donor.” Vina bit her lip. “It must be there for people who don’t have all of my skills and benefits…” she concluded, but her voice trailed off.
Pondering the practical applications of the new skills, Vina debated their utility. “I’m not worried about causing more bleeding right now, so I don’t need the impairment one,” she reasoned, considering the potential of Pathogen. “Self-replication means I wouldn’t need to constantly reapply it. I could apply it once, and it would keep affecting them. That could be useful for long-term strategy.”
Decided, she allocated one point to Blood Rites to explore its potential and two to Pathogen, intrigued by the possibility of a self-sustaining biological weapon. “Let’s see what this does,” Vina determined, as she prepared for whatever challenges awaited her in this mysterious and vibrating landscape.
Pathogen(2/3): Hemophages are now able to spread through blood-to-blood contact and replicate themselves in other bodies. Level 2 : Contagion risk 6 - High
As Vina continued her journey across the stark landscape, her mind wrestled with the heavy implications of Stine's warnings. The possibility that Trina might react with a lethal world quest to the destruction of Langternem loomed large in her thoughts, deepening her anxiety about the quest that nudged her steadily towards the kaliter colony. This quest, she told herself, was about freeing herself to find her sisters, but an unshakable tension gnawed at her, a reaction to the knowledge that other forces were influencing her decisions. Despite the clarity that destroying Langternem was necessary for the world's safety, the uncertainty of Trina's potential retaliation clouded her mind, leaving her conflicted and directionless.
Seeking a distraction from the turmoil within, Vina turned to Stine, hoping a shift in conversation might ease her mental strain. "Are you familiar with the Vigil of Light?" she asked.
Stine tapped her shoulder with a paw, an acknowledgment that seemed perfunctory. "Yeah. Okay. Stupid question. When did Shan write it? Was it before or after The Twelve?"
"Shan wrote it before The Watch and before The Twelve were formed within it," Stine replied, its voice close to her ear.
"So it is a case of life imitating art," Vina mused under her breath. "Shan said Haco was the first one he gave an Aspect of Life to. Was it Shan or Haco who initiated the creation of the actual twelve to kill you?"
"Your father and I spoke at length for many centuries. When he couldn't accept the truth, he sought to destroy me. He first envisioned The Twelve in his writings. Later, he created The Everflame. She assumed the name Haco and went on to forge the rest of The Twelve, with your father's reluctant support," Stine explained.
As the large depression in the ground ahead grew closer, Vina recognized it with a pang of familiarity. "Varied levels of success, eh? The original ones kept dying on Haco from old age, I guess. At least, until she managed to craft enough Aspects of Life to keep them alive long enough to perfect them."
"Yes," Stine confirmed. "She has refined the process over time to achieve exactly what she thought she wanted. Once she found the perfect combination of person and aspect, she would preserve them with an Aspect of Life."
Vina nodded, absorbing the weight of the history. "Today, The Twelve seem to mirror the book closely. They’re only missing The Dreamweaver, Lady Phare, and the Exemplar from what I can tell."
"They have their Lady Phare and The Exemplar. They lack only Amets, The Dreamweaver, and those that you have managed to kill," Stine corrected her. "Lady Phare is your sister."
"Oh." Vina exhaled softly, the revelation sending a chill through her. After a pause, she continued, "Why was Faer one of the twelve? He wasn't among the poems."
"Haco tried for a long time to create Amets, but only met with failure. She realized that Shan’s vision of the complete twelve was unachievable in this world. Faer was a strategic choice. The ongoing conflict between The Watch and myself forced Haco to prioritize the Aspect of Travel to gain a logistical advantage over me."
"She gave up?" Vina asked, her tone tinged with disbelief.
"Yes, Haco did. She settled for creating eleven of the twelve and deemed it sufficient."
Vina fell silent, pondering the implications. "It’s apparently not sufficient. Why have you let The Watch grow as strong as it has? Why haven’t you killed any of the twelve?"
"I have killed those who refused to learn. For now, there are a few I cannot touch. But in time, they will either understand the truth or meet their end," Stine stated. "The rise and fall of empires is inconsequential to me. What you perceive as strength is merely a fleeting flame, easily extinguished. All of you are easily swayed because you're too stubborn to see the truth."
Vina sneaked a peek at the little animal huddled up against her. She felt unsettled hearing those words and having them delivered by a cute animal.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the rugged landscape, Vina felt a chilling sense of foreboding. The little animal, Stine, pressed against her, its squeaky voice urgent. “Activate your cloak of blood for me, or this one will no longer be able to guide you,” it warned.
Without hesitation, Vina activated her cloak, pulling the hood over her head to envelop both herself and Stine in a protective shroud. The marf snuggled closer as if seeking comfort or perhaps safety. “What’s going on…?” she began, her voice laced with apprehension.
“My people have hidden themselves in darkness, yet surrounded themselves with light,” Stine interrupted, his tone serious. “I have known for some time that something has happened to them, but I cannot yet follow you into the home they have made. That is why you must go in on my behalf and deliver my message.”
As Vina approached the depression in the landscape, her eyes caught sight of water flowing in from the other side, cutting through the earth and revealing stairs that had been carved into the side of the massive hole. She muttered under her breath, “Another fucking sinkhole. My mother…” She caught herself, wary of revealing too much in Stine’s presence.
“Was Priya preparing me to come here?” she wondered silently. Why else would her first quest lead to a sinkhole unless it was intentional? The connections seemed to line up too neatly. “The kaliter armor…” she began aloud, then stopped, concluding in her mind, Priya wanted me here for a reason.
“Yes. I believe your armor will allow you safe passage through their home,” Stine responded, as if reading her thoughts. “Despite being made from the scales of multiple Kaliters, your blood has revived them. Their voices will be your key.”
As they neared the edge of the sinkhole, Vina felt a surge in her blood sense—two vibrances, incredibly powerful but different from any she had felt before. She instinctively knew their origin.
“Vina Esca!” a woman’s voice called out.
Vina turned slowly, summoning a blood blade into her hand and letting her hood fall back to reveal her face—and inadvertently exposing Stine despite its protests. Standing before her was a woman of equal height, draped in a long black cloak that clung tightly to her figure. As the woman drew back her hood, Vina was met with fierce violet eyes and a face framed by short, thick black hair. Her bloodshot eyes hinted at the burden of four hidden aspects bonded to her body.
“She is Tacey, The Covered Lady,” Stine whispered into her ear.
Flashes of memory surged through Vina’s mind as she faced one of The Twelve. She recalled Norimor’s tale of loss and betrayal, her place among the Twelve usurped by another. Was this the woman who had taken Norimor’s place? Doubt gnawed at Vina, uncertain if this Tacey had stolen The Aspect of the Hidden, or if she was merely another in a long succession of bearers of that name, much like Gij.
Vina nodded to Stine. “Why can’t you people leave me alone?” Her tone carried a mix of defiance and fatigue.
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Vina eyed the formidable creature standing beside Tacey, its massive form both intriguing and intimidating. As Tacey hesitated, considering her response, Vina observed the creature's thick black fur rippling in the wind, its muscle-bound form barely concealed underneath. The creature’s four eyes locked onto hers, and as it grinned, revealing a mouthful of sharp, oversized teeth, it dragged one massive paw across the rocky ground, claws scoring the earth deeply. Its bushy tail swayed slowly behind it, adding to its menacing demeanor.
Finally, Tacey broke the silence. “Vina, my name is Tacey. I’m not here to fight you. Haco, Carda, and I are offering you a way to end our conflict. If you return with me to Lampasa, we’ll remove the bounty from your head and forgive all your transgressions against The Twelve and The Watch. We’re prepared to seal this promise with a death to ensure your safety and that of your sisters. All we ask is your aid in our fight against The Darkness.”
The offer was staggering, and Vina was instinctively skeptical. “Sounds too good to be true. Whose death is guaranteed with this promise?” she inquired sharply.
“That is negotiable. Haco is prepared to offer her life as collateral to guarantee your assistance in this war,” Tacey responded earnestly. She reached into a pocket and produced a blood-red stone, holding it carefully between gloved fingers. “As a gesture of goodwill, Zera has surrendered her aspect. She wishes it returned to Trina as soon as you are able.”
“Is she still alive?” Vina pressed, her voice tinged with concern and suspicion.
Tacey nodded vigorously. “I’ve been ordered to assure you absolutely of Zera’s continued survival. May Trina kill me if I lie, I promise you that Zera still lives as of this moment, and that Haco has successfully treated her Bonding Sickness.”
Vina considered the implications deeply as she accepted the promise notification. While she awaited Trina’s response, she held out her hand, and Tacey tossed her the stone, which Vina caught and quickly examined.
Aspect of Nature Artifact
She carefully placed it into her backpack, her mind racing. The history of Halos had taught her the power of binding promises. This could be a pivotal opportunity—one that might secure her safety and facilitate a meaningful alliance. “I want to write the terms of the promise between me and The Watch. It won’t bind just a singular person of The Twelve; it must bind the entire organization,” she declared firmly.
Tacey glanced at her monstrous companion briefly, an unspoken exchange passing between them before she returned her focus to Vina. “I was given some leeway to reassure you that we are prepared to meet those terms as well. The ability to bring people back from The Darkness is crucial for us. Here, I’ll send you the proposal.”
Vina had a notification appear in her vision and she hesitatingly brought it up.
OFFICIAL PROPOSAL PURPOSE: Termination of Bounty and Physical Immunity Assurance in Exchange for Mutual Cooperation Date: TO BE DETERMINED Authored by: Tacey - The Covered Lady, Representative of The Watch
To Whom It May Concern,
This document serves as a formal proposal and extends an offer to an Asharaina so named Vina Esca, hereinafter referred to as "The Subject," from The Watch, represented by the undersigned, Tacey.
The Watch acknowledges the exceptional abilities and unique position of The Subject in our shared objective to eradicate the entity known as "The Darkness" and liberate those possessed by shadows. Recognizing the potential for productive cooperation, The Watch proposes the following terms:
1. Termination of Bounty: Effective upon the signing of this agreement, The Watch will formally rescind all standing bounties on The Subject. Any outstanding warrants, decrees, or rewards for the capture or death of The Subject will be nullified and declared void.
2. Physical Immunity Assurance: The Watch hereby guarantees the physical safety of The Subject from all operatives and agents of The Watch. Any attempts on the life or liberty of The Subject by any member of The Watch will be deemed a violation of this agreement and will be subjected to disciplinary action as deemed appropriate by the internal regulations of The Watch.
3. Irrevocability of Offer: This offer, once extended, cannot be rescinded, withdrawn or overridden, even by the original author or the First of the Watch, publicly known as Haco. This provision is designed to ensure that the Subject's agreement and cooperation are secured in good faith, and to protect the Subject from any future changes in the perspective or position of The Watch's representatives.
In exchange for the aforementioned assurances, The Subject agrees to negotiate a future mutually beneficial agreement with The Watch to access unique resources and expertise in our shared mission against The Darkness. Until such an agreement can be made, The Subject agrees to cooperate in the protection of Trina’s people insofar as her personal safety is not also placed into jeopardy as determined by The System’s judgment.
This proposal is contingent on the agreement and signature of The Subject and does not serve as a binding contract until such time. The negotiation of the working agreement mentioned above will be undertaken with goodwill, transparency, and a shared commitment to the cause.
The Watch eagerly anticipates your acceptance of this proposal, and we are prepared to negotiate further to assure a productive collaboration. We believe that, together, we can steer the course of our future towards a Darkness-free world.
Authored by: Tacey - The Covered Lady
Official Representative of The Watch
“I’m not signing this. It needs massive revision,” Vina stated bluntly. The document, as it stood, pigeonholed her into a corner without an escape route—a position she wasn't willing to accept. “This literally forces me to negotiate with you without a way out. No one in their right mind would sign this.”
“I’m authorized to add provisions, but I can’t remove them. How do you want it revised?” Tacey responded, her tone open but firm.
Drawing on her extensive experience with legal documents, Vina began mentally crafting the necessary amendments. They stood in awkward silence, the tension palpable, as Vina formulated her requirements. Finally satisfied, she sent her revisions back to Tacey.
“Sheesh…” Tacey gasped. “Do you have a governing subclass?”
Vina chuckled, a brief moment of levity in the otherwise tense negotiation. “Are these amendments acceptable?”
“It seems so, but Haco will need to perform a final review before we can finalize the agreement. Will you sign it now?” Tacey inquired.
“Not yet,” Vina replied, her tone resolute. “It’s flexible enough that I can accept it at any time. I’ll do so when it’s convenient for me.” She gestured to Stine, the small animal huddled against her, indicating there were still unresolved matters she needed to attend to before committing. “I still have some things to do before we can work together.”
Tacey's eyes narrowed slightly, fixated on the marf perched on Vina's shoulder, her voice tinged with suspicion. “Are you… talking to The Darkness?” she asked, her disapproval thinly veiled.
“Yes. It keeps seeking me out, and we’ve been discussing the state of the world. Stine has said…” Vina began, only to be abruptly cut off.
“Don’t tell me what it's said!” Tacey interjected sharply, taking a deep, calming breath. “Please. I do not listen to The Darkness. I've made it my life's mission to shield others from its influence.”
Vina nodded, understanding the gravity of Tacey’s mission. “Right. Yeah. I read your poem. Haco picks her twelve well,” she responded diplomatically, careful not to reveal too much. “I only meant to say that I cannot return to Lampasa right now. I have many important responsibilities to tend to.” She gestured towards the gaping sinkhole behind her. “I need to handle one of them first. I believe even The Twelve would want me to find a way to destroy Langternem.”
Vina sensed a shift in Tacey’s energy—from caution to a flicker of excitement, though it was hard to tell if this was reassuring or concerning. Tacey glanced at the sinkhole and then back at Vina, her tone more measured despite her heightened vibrance. “I am told you are addressing a binding quest. It’s a marvel we aren’t being attacked by Kaliters right now. Do you truly believe they can destroy Langternem?” she queried.
“Vina, raise your hood,” Stine interjected urgently. Without hesitation, Vina complied, and suddenly, a blinding light enveloped her as the humming of the stones ceased altogether. Her Blood Sense confirmed that Tacey and her creature remained still during the activation event.
As her eyes adjusted to the sudden illumination, Vina observed a transformation in the landscape. Every stone that hosted the mysterious green plant material now emitted a bright white light, illuminating everything around her as if it were daylight. Small, luminous insects emerged seemingly from nowhere, buzzing frenetically from one moss-covered stone to another.
Attempting to Examine one of the insects resulted in a system error, adding to the mystery. Vina cautiously eyed the nearest glowing stone, careful to keep her hood up to protect Stine. “Bioluminescence,” she murmured in awe, her hand brushing her armor. “Your people are good at engineering life. That’s the magic Haco was hinting at,” she said to Stine. “That’s why they’re so adaptable.”
Tacey, still focused on her mission, reiterated her warning. “Vina, you shouldn’t converse with The Darkness. Its sole aim is to worsen your life.”
Vina shot a glance back at her. “The Twelve have only made my life worse as well. I’ll talk to whoever I want,” she retorted sharply. Noticing Tacey's silence, she turned her attention back to the illuminated sinkhole. “The whole place… is burning brightly. You knew when I said the words, didn’t you?” she asked Stine.
“When I heard you recite the words on Shan’s headstone, I knew Priya had connected your armor to this place. I’m keen to discover what that connection is. I hope you’ll inform me upon your return,” Stine chirped optimistically.
“Don’t get your hopes up. What about the last part? A Sea of Shadows?” Vina probed further.
“That remains to be seen,” Stine replied cryptically. “Perhaps your mother was hinting at my impending victory. Your world will become my sea of shadows.”
Vina snorted, dismissing the melodramatic notion. “Now who’s looking for obvious answers?” She turned back to Tacey. “You really can’t hear its words?”
“No. Saryne and I chose long ago to disconnect ourselves from The Darkness’ influence. I can help you do the same,” Tacey offered, extending her hand.
Vina pondered the offer. Since learning of Tacey’s existence, she had considered such a disconnection. But right now, information from Stine about her mother was too critical to ignore. “Maybe someday. For now, you, me, and Stine have mutual interests.” She pointed down into the pit. “I don’t know if the kaliters can help with Langternem. I need to find that out. I can’t go to Lampasa right now, or perhaps ever. But I am willing to collaborate to prevent Stine from destroying our world. I have more responsibilities now than when I was last controlled by The Watch. Your organization needs to understand that I am no longer just a pawn.”
Tacey's hesitation lingered, her emotions visibly shifting like clouds before a storm. Vina could almost sense the tumult within her—doubt giving way to frustration, which then morphed into impatience before settling into a facade of smug pride. “I’ve been instructed to ensure your safety, given your unique abilities and the potential global risks should you perish before Langternem’s fate is decided. I will accompany you into Norfany. It seems The Watch is also curious about the disappearance of The Kaliters. Since I'm already here, joining the investigation is only logical.”
“Take her with you,” Stine's voice was a whisper in Vina's ear, almost imperceptible.
Vina’s gaze flicked between Tacey and the imposing creature that flanked her, then to the Marf perched on her shoulder. The thought of venturing into a deep, dark pit alongside one of The Twelve was daunting. The woman’s robust vibrance and her formidable sixteen hundred health units were intimidating enough, but the creature behind her matched this, their combined strength surpassing even The Shaper’s. If Stine's tales were true, this woman had nearly ended Norimor's life.
“I can tell you are uneasy with this arrangement. Saryne, my companion, will stay behind. He wouldn't be comfortable in a cave anyway—if the paths become too narrow, he might not fit. Would that ease your concerns?” Tacey offered calmly.
Vina’s expression hardened, her distrust not alleviated by Tacey's suggestion. “I think you should both stay behind. Stay here. I'll go in alone and return once I’m done. I’m suggesting this against Stine’s recommendation, who seems to want us together. But satisfying its desires might not end well for either of us. It probably wants to teach us a lesson,” she said bluntly.
Tacey flinched slightly at the mention of Stine's intentions. “I'm glad to see you can make decisions that oppose The Darkness. You understand the games it plays. If I stay outside, The Darkness might still attempt to teach us, but we’ll face it separately. If I accompany you, at least we can confront The Darkness and any Kaliters together.”
Vina sighed, trying another angle. “I really don’t want you with me, Tacey. I don’t trust you. In the dark, a simple misunderstanding could lead to disaster. Stine probably wants me to kill another of the twelve, and I’m actively trying to avoid further killings unless provoked. Can you please just stay up here?
Tacey shook her head slowly, her resolve apparent. “I understand your concerns, but the situation has changed since you last interacted with The Watch. Haco believes we need you now, and it’s my duty to ensure you reach her safely—that means alive and well.”
Frustration welled up inside Vina, but she managed to keep it in check. “Fine. Clearly, I can’t force you to stay.” She then addressed Stine, still perched on her shoulder. “You promised me something before I went in. Let’s have it.”
“My part of the bargain is in the saddlebags with your mixtures. Put this animal back in there as well; it won’t be able to follow you. It will stay with your mount until you return. I expect my ability returned once I’ve fulfilled my promise.”
“Yeah, whatever. Let’s see what you’ve got.” Vina reached into the saddlebags, her hand closing around something ice-cold and sharp. She winced as it pierced her skin, but she held on, pulling out a black, thorn-covered sphere.
Dark Spiny Echo (Unknown Author) Rarity: Cross System Rarity Unknown Effect: Not of this system
Vina stared at the words, a growing frustration forming within her. The words here were not much different than the ones she had seen on the bracelets that the Stigandorians wore. “What the hell is this, Stine? I can’t read it, and I don’t know what value it has,” Vina asked angrily. She held out the black thorn covered sphere threateningly toward the Marf.
“A question I’ve never heard you ask is: What is an aspect? I thought it appropriate to create something akin to one for you. Perhaps you can learn from it. Try bonding with it—press it to your shadow.”
“Like hell!” she shouted at the Marf in the bag. “You’re insane if you think I’d ever do that!” She paused and looked at the blood that oozed from her hand where the stone had poked her. It slowly transitioned to black before it dripped from her hand. “You…” she whispered with venom in her voice. She went silent when she realized the trap Stine was trying to lay for her. The item Stine gave her was Stine’s own ability to convert people’s blood to whatever the black substance was that moved through their veins.
“Having reversed my craft, you've tasted the sovereignty of shaping existence. Why not seize the chance to experience the inverse?” Stine proposed softly.
Vina growled in disgust and shoved the object into her backpack. “You’re lucky I don’t kill you for using that word.” Resigned, she retrieved Langternem and cradled it in her arms. “Let’s go,” she said tersely to Tacey, resigned to the uneasy alliance as they prepared to venture into the unknown depths together.