It's ya boy. @ihavenocluewhatiwanttobecalled. Back at it again with a new blog. A canon character this time.
The mod of the previous Eva blog took an indefinite Hiatus! And so I'm taking over!
I don't think I'll be able to replace that wonderful human (If you're reading this, I miss you), but I shall try.
Alongside Eva in this blog is Atla and a Weave OC named Keerinal. They, alongside Yivel (@weaveryivel) worked on Eva and created her. You can send asks to Atla and Keerinal, but right now, only their past verisons are available, so you'll get a flashback as your answer.
Rules
No explicit sexual content for this blog (sorry to all the freaks out there) but suggestive stuff is allowed. Just know that Eva has very little concept of sex
I don’t do well with vague or surprise-based RP prompts. If an ask involves hidden context or delayed reveals, please add a note like “this is meant to be ambiguous / a surprise may follow” so I can engage with it properly.
No just magically curing Eva. Helping Eva out has to be a whole arc.
Speaking of that; arc are allowed! And encouraged!
Interactions are allowed and encouraged, you don't even have to ask unless you want it to go down a certain way.
Ships are allowed. Partially because they'd automatically involve angst :3
No eldritch horror themes.
Tags
#ooc (For OOC posts)
#shame shown in shell of iron (Eva posts)
#weaver of time (Atla posts)
#weaver of birth (Keerinal posts)
#visitors (For interactions)
#difficult to describe (For asks)
#lore (For lore)
#memories past (For flashbacks)
#[distant mothers] (For interactions between Eva and Weavers)
#[not quite their kin] (For Weaver relatives who are nonetheless not technically Weavers, such as Hornet or other Half-Weavers)
#cresting the hill (For when Eva's really leaning into her Crest reading and influencing gimmick)
#[she called US daughters] (For interactions between Atla and Weavers)
*After a while, the weavers reach the entrance to Weavenest Absolom. Engraved on the door is a sigil resembling the outline of an isosceles triangle without the bottom.*
“This is my Weavenest. Are you familiar with it?” *they turn to the door* “I do not come here often now, so I’m sorry for any… pests we may run into.”
-@weavers-of-rebellion
The mind might have visited before, not sure about now though! And no pests can hurt us, we're void!
(They enter the weavenest cheerily and looked around, seeing everything clearly due to its many, many years in the dark abyss.)
*the Weavenest is dark, very dark. Shells are piled in the corners. Strands of void hang from the ceiling. The Weavenest seems more like a graveyard than a nest, but Absolom is comfortable, confidently leading the way.*
“I still haven’t finished cleaning up from the black-threading.” *Absolom gestures to a husk against the wall.*
Us? We've been void for so long, we can't even remember when we were voided!
(They giggle at the last part, voice shrill and haunting)
It has been a long while, yes, the mind can hardly remember their life before us. They sure miss it though! Every time they talk it's about wanting us to leave.
"I suppose that makes sense," Atla offered. "You're pleasant enough company from where I'm standing. Er. Floating. But I imagine that spending an eternity in your mind would make me want to leave, too. No offense intended."
“I’m guessing you don’t know how you got like this either? Well that’s annoying…”
*as they walk, the feelings of the halls around them begin to shift. The corpses and shells have been replaced by silken spools and nests. It is still covered in darkness, however, and it seems to have been abandoned for many ages.*
"Silk is an art exclusive to Weavers," The ghostly former rebellion leader said. "It also is made of Soul. Void is attracted to Soul, from what I recall from the times I did pay attention to Absolom's ramblings. Perhaps that has to do with it? It is also used to spin runes, though runes need not be written with Silk, if that also brings to mind why Silk might have been important to you."
"There are a few options for your... treatment... but without knowing what caused the void, its gonna be hard to figure out what's best."
"Those lost to void are sometimes able to fight against it, breaking free from its hold. You don't seem to be one of those, though. You still have a variety of emotions and are capable of logical thinking."
“There are many types of void-possessed bugs, but none seem to match yours. Some adapt to the void, containing it, while some are shells completely overtaken. In your case, the void and the weaver clearly both have conscience…”
Of Void. Of darkness and yet irrefutably Pale; a light that cannot help sparkling through, strong as can be, nonetheless.
A contradiction; cast in noble knight’s form.
One that is accompanied by a slight sensation of digging in like roots. And spun from it, come impressions. Meanings. Words pressed to mind like indentations made into dirt.]
/ Eva. Hello.
It has been a time. Far longer than I would have liked. I apologize for that. Much has occurred as of late. And through it, mandated a significant shift of my attention. But that is neither here nor there.
Now. I come. In part, because I seek specific information.
But predominantly to... see how you have been. Perhaps even project images as I had offered the last time. And to offer aid in your efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect if you would have it. /
@impure-vessel-official
Eva perked up, great joy entering her at hearing Holly's words in her mind once more.
Greetings, my Knight. She telepathized. I have been lonely. I have not had many visitors in the time since we last interacted. Do not feel guilty for this.
As for my efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect, I have found that my range IS increasing, though at a slow rate. I appear to be capable of just barely reaching the entrance to this Weavenest as of now. For reference, my range previously could not leave the room containing my pod. My range has increased by several times its previous reach.
I am not yet sure how you could aid me in my efforts, unless you know of how to increase my reach in a more efficient manner?
Oh, I have also discovered I can attempt to command the constructs in this Weavenest with my mind. They are... inconsistently responsive. The simpler the command, the better. They appear to not be capable of much more than turning their lights on and off, and walking around.
You said you had more images to share? And that you had specific information that you wished to acquire? I would be happy to provide whatever information you need.
Her thoughts seemed moderately more... chipper, than they had been at the start of their previous interaction. Apparently, her morale had improved.
Eva was a little embarrassed (a very rare emotion for her; how intriguing!) at having held up the conversation this long and having gotten distracted, but... it had been wonderful.
[They note the gratitude and almost imperceptibly--not that it can be seen through the connection anyways--their white countenance softens. The awkwardness? too, they detect but it seems to bother Eva herself none and so they spare it no further thought.]
/ But of course.
In turn, my gratitude for hearing my request and allowing for me to display images.
Most contenting is the opportunity given.
I would not have thought to practice more… to expand on what I can do in this… were it not for the possibility of holding these exchanges.
…
Now. The contact. Allow me a moment... /
[The gratitude returned in kind, message pressed forth, Holly then sets out doing as was requested. While holding strong to the very connection that facilitates communications with Eva—effectively putting her “on hold” for now—they start to separately reach out towards the Twelfth Architect. Reach out further and further and further yet… until they bump against what they’re looking for and gently dig in.]
/ Twelfth Architect of Pharloom. Hello.
Have you a moment to spare?
I seek to provide the assistance promised to Eva. /
[As the Twelfth Architect responds, an apology for the abruptness scratches at the forefront of their mind. It begs to be pressed forth, but do such a thing... they do not, for the other seems not to be bothered by it in the slightest.
They think about how to best elaborate their intentions and move on.]
/ My gratitude.
To see Eva aided... my intentions are to create a sort of... "anchor" in you. A telepathic "short cut". A means through which she may more easily connect with and communicate with you; not just now but in the future if needed be.
"You are welcome," The Twelfth Architect replied. "As f-f-for your proposed aid, I f-find it acceptable-appropriate, though I f-f-feel the need to ask-inquire: Will it be ap-ap-applied to just one of my b-bodies, or both? Either is acceptable."
[... comes their response, short yet sincere, before they set about the task at hand. Dark eyes narrow. Concentration. A few seconds pass by with no change--evidently something they aren't quite so practiced with--and then, there's the sensation of a kind of... shuffling. A pointed prodding. Poking. Like something is twisting and rooting deeper yet, more expansive, into place.
It's painless, but (perhaps) a sensation most peculiar. A weight. A presence... before this too subsides and feels normal anew.
With the anchor established, Holly shifts focus and reinitiates more active communications with Eva.]
/ Eva...?
The Twelfth Architect would speak with you now.
To make not just these particular communications easier, but any such thing moving forward for you, I have established a sort of telepathic "shortcut" through which you may reach as is needed.
Now. Whenever you are ready. /
[Another pause, of the many taken in this entire exchange, before a thought occurs to them. Maybe unneeded. Maybe disruptive, but no less a thing they... think, they should express.
Encouragement.
One that trails off awkwardly, but encouragement nonetheless.]
Eva paused at the encouragement, as... awkward as it is. She still appreciated it quite a lot.
I have heard that faith is quite important for gods, Eva replied. And I am an attempt at the divine, a near-successful attempt if we ignore my poor constitution, so I assume the same applies to me. Thank you, my Knight, for making these communications possible, and for your faith in me.
With that, Eva stretched her senses.
Beyond her telepathic range, she felt only a (metaphorical) darkness, but she could see something in that darkness now. A light shining in the shroud. A light that Holly had marked.
A light that represented the Twelfth Architect.
Eva reached out. It was undoubtedly difficult. It stretched her limits beyond what she had expected. But with the light to guide her, she managed it.
Twelfth Architect, She greeted. I have been waiting for our first conversation.
My plight is one I have had my whole life. I was an attempt at creating something divine, and my soul shines far brighter than any other. But my fortitude is not enough to sustain it, and so I must lay trapped within my pod for all time.
I would request from you the means to freedom. I know you are an innovator. My Knight, Holly, spoke positively of your skills.
Could you bend those skills towards freeing me from this prison I have been in since just after my birth?
Eva waited in anticipation that the answer would be 'Yes.'
Of Void. Of darkness and yet irrefutably Pale; a light that cannot help sparkling through, strong as can be, nonetheless.
A contradiction; cast in noble knight’s form.
One that is accompanied by a slight sensation of digging in like roots. And spun from it, come impressions. Meanings. Words pressed to mind like indentations made into dirt.]
/ Eva. Hello.
It has been a time. Far longer than I would have liked. I apologize for that. Much has occurred as of late. And through it, mandated a significant shift of my attention. But that is neither here nor there.
Now. I come. In part, because I seek specific information.
But predominantly to... see how you have been. Perhaps even project images as I had offered the last time. And to offer aid in your efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect if you would have it. /
@impure-vessel-official
Eva perked up, great joy entering her at hearing Holly's words in her mind once more.
Greetings, my Knight. She telepathized. I have been lonely. I have not had many visitors in the time since we last interacted. Do not feel guilty for this.
As for my efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect, I have found that my range IS increasing, though at a slow rate. I appear to be capable of just barely reaching the entrance to this Weavenest as of now. For reference, my range previously could not leave the room containing my pod. My range has increased by several times its previous reach.
I am not yet sure how you could aid me in my efforts, unless you know of how to increase my reach in a more efficient manner?
Oh, I have also discovered I can attempt to command the constructs in this Weavenest with my mind. They are... inconsistently responsive. The simpler the command, the better. They appear to not be capable of much more than turning their lights on and off, and walking around.
You said you had more images to share? And that you had specific information that you wished to acquire? I would be happy to provide whatever information you need.
Her thoughts seemed moderately more... chipper, than they had been at the start of their previous interaction. Apparently, her morale had improved.
Eva was a little embarrassed (a very rare emotion for her; how intriguing!) at having held up the conversation this long and having gotten distracted, but... it had been wonderful.
[They note the gratitude and almost imperceptibly--not that it can be seen through the connection anyways--their white countenance softens. The awkwardness? too, they detect but it seems to bother Eva herself none and so they spare it no further thought.]
/ But of course.
In turn, my gratitude for hearing my request and allowing for me to display images.
Most contenting is the opportunity given.
I would not have thought to practice more… to expand on what I can do in this… were it not for the possibility of holding these exchanges.
…
Now. The contact. Allow me a moment... /
[The gratitude returned in kind, message pressed forth, Holly then sets out doing as was requested. While holding strong to the very connection that facilitates communications with Eva—effectively putting her “on hold” for now—they start to separately reach out towards the Twelfth Architect. Reach out further and further and further yet… until they bump against what they’re looking for and gently dig in.]
/ Twelfth Architect of Pharloom. Hello.
Have you a moment to spare?
I seek to provide the assistance promised to Eva. /
[As the Twelfth Architect responds, an apology for the abruptness scratches at the forefront of their mind. It begs to be pressed forth, but do such a thing... they do not, for the other seems not to be bothered by it in the slightest.
They think about how to best elaborate their intentions and move on.]
/ My gratitude.
To see Eva aided... my intentions are to create a sort of... "anchor" in you. A telepathic "short cut". A means through which she may more easily connect with and communicate with you; not just now but in the future if needed be.
"You are welcome," The Twelfth Architect replied. "As f-f-for your proposed aid, I f-find it acceptable-appropriate, though I f-f-feel the need to ask-inquire: Will it be ap-ap-applied to just one of my b-bodies, or both? Either is acceptable."
[... comes their response, short yet sincere, before they set about the task at hand. Dark eyes narrow. Concentration. A few seconds pass by with no change--evidently something they aren't quite so practiced with--and then, there's the sensation of a kind of... shuffling. A pointed prodding. Poking. Like something is twisting and rooting deeper yet, more expansive, into place.
It's painless, but (perhaps) a sensation most peculiar. A weight. A presence... before this too subsides and feels normal anew.
With the anchor established, Holly shifts focus and reinitiates more active communications with Eva.]
/ Eva...?
The Twelfth Architect would speak with you now.
To make not just these particular communications easier, but any such thing moving forward for you, I have established a sort of telepathic "shortcut" through which you may reach as is needed.
Now. Whenever you are ready. /
[Another pause, of the many taken in this entire exchange, before a thought occurs to them. Maybe unneeded. Maybe disruptive, but no less a thing they... think, they should express.
Encouragement.
One that trails off awkwardly, but encouragement nonetheless.]
Eva paused at the encouragement, as... awkward as it is. She still appreciated it quite a lot.
I have heard that faith is quite important for gods, Eva replied. And I am an attempt at the divine, a near-successful attempt if we ignore my poor constitution, so I assume the same applies to me. Thank you, my Knight, for making these communications possible, and for your faith in me.
With that, Eva stretched her senses.
Beyond her telepathic range, she felt only a (metaphorical) darkness, but she could see something in that darkness now. A light shining in the shroud. A light that Holly had marked.
A light that represented the Twelfth Architect.
Eva reached out. It was undoubtedly difficult. It stretched her limits beyond what she had expected. But with the light to guide her, she managed it.
Twelfth Architect, She greeted. I have been waiting for our first conversation.
*After a while, the weavers reach the entrance to Weavenest Absolom. Engraved on the door is a sigil resembling the outline of an isosceles triangle without the bottom.*
“This is my Weavenest. Are you familiar with it?” *they turn to the door* “I do not come here often now, so I’m sorry for any… pests we may run into.”
-@weavers-of-rebellion
The mind might have visited before, not sure about now though! And no pests can hurt us, we're void!
(They enter the weavenest cheerily and looked around, seeing everything clearly due to its many, many years in the dark abyss.)
*the Weavenest is dark, very dark. Shells are piled in the corners. Strands of void hang from the ceiling. The Weavenest seems more like a graveyard than a nest, but Absolom is comfortable, confidently leading the way.*
“I still haven’t finished cleaning up from the black-threading.” *Absolom gestures to a husk against the wall.*
Us? We've been void for so long, we can't even remember when we were voided!
(They giggle at the last part, voice shrill and haunting)
It has been a long while, yes, the mind can hardly remember their life before us. They sure miss it though! Every time they talk it's about wanting us to leave.
"I suppose that makes sense," Atla offered. "You're pleasant enough company from where I'm standing. Er. Floating. But I imagine that spending an eternity in your mind would make me want to leave, too. No offense intended."
“I’m guessing you don’t know how you got like this either? Well that’s annoying…”
*as they walk, the feelings of the halls around them begin to shift. The corpses and shells have been replaced by silken spools and nests. It is still covered in darkness, however, and it seems to have been abandoned for many ages.*
"Silk is an art exclusive to Weavers," The ghostly former rebellion leader said. "It also is made of Soul. Void is attracted to Soul, from what I recall from the times I did pay attention to Absolom's ramblings. Perhaps that has to do with it? It is also used to spin runes, though runes need not be written with Silk, if that also brings to mind why Silk might have been important to you."
"There are a few options for your... treatment... but without knowing what caused the void, its gonna be hard to figure out what's best."
"Those lost to void are sometimes able to fight against it, breaking free from its hold. You don't seem to be one of those, though. You still have a variety of emotions and are capable of logical thinking."
Of Void. Of darkness and yet irrefutably Pale; a light that cannot help sparkling through, strong as can be, nonetheless.
A contradiction; cast in noble knight’s form.
One that is accompanied by a slight sensation of digging in like roots. And spun from it, come impressions. Meanings. Words pressed to mind like indentations made into dirt.]
/ Eva. Hello.
It has been a time. Far longer than I would have liked. I apologize for that. Much has occurred as of late. And through it, mandated a significant shift of my attention. But that is neither here nor there.
Now. I come. In part, because I seek specific information.
But predominantly to... see how you have been. Perhaps even project images as I had offered the last time. And to offer aid in your efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect if you would have it. /
@impure-vessel-official
Eva perked up, great joy entering her at hearing Holly's words in her mind once more.
Greetings, my Knight. She telepathized. I have been lonely. I have not had many visitors in the time since we last interacted. Do not feel guilty for this.
As for my efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect, I have found that my range IS increasing, though at a slow rate. I appear to be capable of just barely reaching the entrance to this Weavenest as of now. For reference, my range previously could not leave the room containing my pod. My range has increased by several times its previous reach.
I am not yet sure how you could aid me in my efforts, unless you know of how to increase my reach in a more efficient manner?
Oh, I have also discovered I can attempt to command the constructs in this Weavenest with my mind. They are... inconsistently responsive. The simpler the command, the better. They appear to not be capable of much more than turning their lights on and off, and walking around.
You said you had more images to share? And that you had specific information that you wished to acquire? I would be happy to provide whatever information you need.
Her thoughts seemed moderately more... chipper, than they had been at the start of their previous interaction. Apparently, her morale had improved.
I thank you, my Knight, for promising to visit me should you get the chance.
With that, Eva listened to the next statement, the next question.
... Huh.
Yes. They are called Servitor Ignims. They function off of Runecraft in some way. I can, to an extent, command them, in order for them to perform simple tasks. However, I find it somewhat unlikely that they can be used to do much for me outside of Weavenest Atla, where my psychic senses reach their limit. Still, it is a thought, and I appreciate the suggestion.
[Comes their immediate response, rung of sincerity as true as the promise made, before they listen to the remainder of Eva's words.
"Servitor Ignims".
They commit that name to memory. As for the function of these constructs? the notion of Runecraft being involved surprises them none. The thought had stuck to their mind before the inquiries posed. As for the limitations of the notion pressed from them...]
/ I understand. I shall move beyond the notion and onto matters of a more... immediately pressing nature then.
Contact with the Twelfth Architect.
Unless you seek other answers of some sort from me, yourself, first...? /
Eva was a little embarrassed (a very rare emotion for her; how intriguing!) at having held up the conversation this long and having gotten distracted, but... it had been wonderful.
Of Void. Of darkness and yet irrefutably Pale; a light that cannot help sparkling through, strong as can be, nonetheless.
A contradiction; cast in noble knight’s form.
One that is accompanied by a slight sensation of digging in like roots. And spun from it, come impressions. Meanings. Words pressed to mind like indentations made into dirt.]
/ Eva. Hello.
It has been a time. Far longer than I would have liked. I apologize for that. Much has occurred as of late. And through it, mandated a significant shift of my attention. But that is neither here nor there.
Now. I come. In part, because I seek specific information.
But predominantly to... see how you have been. Perhaps even project images as I had offered the last time. And to offer aid in your efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect if you would have it. /
@impure-vessel-official
Eva perked up, great joy entering her at hearing Holly's words in her mind once more.
Greetings, my Knight. She telepathized. I have been lonely. I have not had many visitors in the time since we last interacted. Do not feel guilty for this.
As for my efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect, I have found that my range IS increasing, though at a slow rate. I appear to be capable of just barely reaching the entrance to this Weavenest as of now. For reference, my range previously could not leave the room containing my pod. My range has increased by several times its previous reach.
I am not yet sure how you could aid me in my efforts, unless you know of how to increase my reach in a more efficient manner?
Oh, I have also discovered I can attempt to command the constructs in this Weavenest with my mind. They are... inconsistently responsive. The simpler the command, the better. They appear to not be capable of much more than turning their lights on and off, and walking around.
You said you had more images to share? And that you had specific information that you wished to acquire? I would be happy to provide whatever information you need.
Her thoughts seemed moderately more... chipper, than they had been at the start of their previous interaction. Apparently, her morale had improved.
She processed the explanation on the incident at the Temple. Or, rather, right outside of the Temple. She didn't quite... understand it, since it required some concepts of social interaction that Eva had no real understanding of in order to be understood... But she nonetheless projected the feeling of a nod. Like Holly themself had done a few times before.
I am glad you were able to get a better meeting. And thank you, for explaining all of this.
Would it be too much of me to request that, if you are to seek to properly appreciate Pharloom for what it is, to see it yourself, to visit this land... that you come to visit me?
If you would rather spend your time doing something else in Pharloom, I will not be upset.
The significance of Eva’s question is not lost on them. They understand. They know of things of solitude. Of imprisonment. Of a virtual eternity as such. Of how much, even things seemingly small, could come to mean as a result.
To them, there is no other possible answer to give; wrought of a clarity unparalleled and strengthened by the genuine... warmth felt in the notion their presence (in and of itself) is enough for another. Though they may become more accustomed to it over time... it never loses just how much it truly means to them.]
/ It would not.
It harms me none to spare the time; whether I am in Pharloom on business or leisure. An honour is it, in fact, that you would seek my presence so.
One I shall not spurn. /
[And they mean that sincerely. A promise made. And then a pause, as contemplative as the one that preceded it, a thought pressed aside before catching at the forefront of their mind and dragging forward.]
/ If you have not yet been granted a solution to your situation by that time… I may be able to be of use while there as well. The constructs that you can command... the... "servitors" I think...?
How do they work?
Perhaps they may be modified so as to increase what you can have them do...? Engage with the world in more varied ways? /
I thank you, my Knight, for promising to visit me should you get the chance.
With that, Eva listened to the next statement, the next question.
... Huh.
Yes. They are called Servitor Ignims. They function off of Runecraft in some way. I can, to an extent, command them, in order for them to perform simple tasks. However, I find it somewhat unlikely that they can be used to do much for me outside of Weavenest Atla, where my psychic senses reach their limit. Still, it is a thought, and I appreciate the suggestion.
Of Void. Of darkness and yet irrefutably Pale; a light that cannot help sparkling through, strong as can be, nonetheless.
A contradiction; cast in noble knight’s form.
One that is accompanied by a slight sensation of digging in like roots. And spun from it, come impressions. Meanings. Words pressed to mind like indentations made into dirt.]
/ Eva. Hello.
It has been a time. Far longer than I would have liked. I apologize for that. Much has occurred as of late. And through it, mandated a significant shift of my attention. But that is neither here nor there.
Now. I come. In part, because I seek specific information.
But predominantly to... see how you have been. Perhaps even project images as I had offered the last time. And to offer aid in your efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect if you would have it. /
@impure-vessel-official
Eva perked up, great joy entering her at hearing Holly's words in her mind once more.
Greetings, my Knight. She telepathized. I have been lonely. I have not had many visitors in the time since we last interacted. Do not feel guilty for this.
As for my efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect, I have found that my range IS increasing, though at a slow rate. I appear to be capable of just barely reaching the entrance to this Weavenest as of now. For reference, my range previously could not leave the room containing my pod. My range has increased by several times its previous reach.
I am not yet sure how you could aid me in my efforts, unless you know of how to increase my reach in a more efficient manner?
Oh, I have also discovered I can attempt to command the constructs in this Weavenest with my mind. They are... inconsistently responsive. The simpler the command, the better. They appear to not be capable of much more than turning their lights on and off, and walking around.
You said you had more images to share? And that you had specific information that you wished to acquire? I would be happy to provide whatever information you need.
Her thoughts seemed moderately more... chipper, than they had been at the start of their previous interaction. Apparently, her morale had improved.
Acid pools, she notes. So far, three of the four (soon five) of the areas Holly had shown her prominently featured acid. It was somewhat strange. She had never heard of acid in Pharloom. It demonstrated, quite succinctly, how different the ecology of the Hallownest and Pharloom was.
She had been about to ask about that until she saw the reason behind this being the memory transmitted.
That... was a Wyrm.
Furthermore, she thought she could feel what Holly pointed out. The feeling of power. She would call it a... weight. A presence, maybe.
I see. A Wyrm in its true... albeit, decayed and dead... majesty. A sight unprecedented. Glorious. Thank you, for this.
I believe I feel what it is you mean. The strength you mention. Perhaps I am just feeling your memory of it, however.
And thank you, for the muting of the sensations. This is far, far more manageable.
The imagery changed, then, to feature this... 'Deepnest.'
This was where Weavers lived, nowadays? How... shocking.
Eva could recall... Yivel, was it, mentioning that she enjoyed singing with her sisters at the shore of a pale lake. Weavers did not seem to especially enjoy spaces like this 'Deepnest.'
She wondered, how the Weavers were doing. Why they had went to this... place. She had never even been made quite aware of their fleeing.
She was interrupted from her thoughts at the sight of Hornet. Her Lady. She was... Hm. It was a little strange, seeing her now, as she really was. Is. After only seeing her Crest.
Eva wouldn't go as far to say that seeing her Lady in a conventional sense was a disappointing view, but it was... it was quite different.
This is my Lady? How strange it is, to see her in a more traditional manner, rather than just to see her Crest. What a different view of her, this gives.
You say of this particular moment... You met once you left the temple, which you said you were contained within? That meeting did not go well, then, and this moment is an attempt to do better? I am glad that it did, indeed, go better.
I wanted to ask: Many of the areas you have shown me of Hallonwest have lots of acid. Is acid especially common in Hallownest? I have never heard of acid like this before. I do not believe that acid quite like this can be found in Pharloom.
[No more than a simple nod is given in response to the question of Hornet. Of her appearance displayed; beyond the very Crest Eva had no doubt viewed several times over.
They then consider the words that follow.
Commentary upon the matter. One they could readily agree with in full. They had been given a rare window into what lies beyond her shell. Of the many twists and turns and elaborate shapes, all of which nonetheless fit together so well like poetry, that make up their sister’s Crest. And "different" is more than apt.
Her small and seemingly unassuming appearance belies so grand and multifaceted... so irrevocably unique a Crest.
They let the thought sit for a moment before moving on.
More words. The matter regarding the temple. Briefly does Holly think back (or try to) on what little they can recall on it, frowning just a bit from the effort as they do so. They... suppose that they should elaborate...]
/ The meeting in the temple.
I would not say that it went... terribly, but it was rather awkward. I... think.
…
I will admit. I do not remember much of it. I had just come out of a... state of my own, Infected by the very curse I held within me for centuries, and sought only to end the interaction.
I did not put much thought into my words or actions then. I could not.
I suspect that I might have... "brushed" her off, however inadvertent, and largely forgot about the interaction afterwards. I did not speak with her until the very memory I have displayed when she had already endured much in the distant lands of Pharloom.
This... I do regret.
And in turn, all the more grateful am I for the opportunity had afterwards. /
[They pause with a jolt, a bit of surprise overtaking them as they realize precisely how much they had spoken upon the topic, before pressing forwards. Onto the question posed.]
/ As for the acid… I have not given it much thought before, but now that I do… I would indeed assert that it is. There are many locations that contain it and do so in great abundance.
What acid is to Hallownest must be what… those pools of molten rock are to Pharloom…
…—presuming that I hold correct information upon the matter that is. I have yet to properly appreciate Pharloom for what it is. To truly see it.
Once I am able, I certainly seek to rectify this thusly. /
She processed the explanation on the incident at the Temple. Or, rather, right outside of the Temple. She didn't quite... understand it, since it required some concepts of social interaction that Eva had no real understanding of in order to be understood... But she nonetheless projected the feeling of a nod. Like Holly themself had done a few times before.
I am glad you were able to get a better meeting. And thank you, for explaining all of this.
Would it be too much of me to request that, if you are to seek to properly appreciate Pharloom for what it is, to see it yourself, to visit this land... that you come to visit me?
If you would rather spend your time doing something else in Pharloom, I will not be upset.
Of Void. Of darkness and yet irrefutably Pale; a light that cannot help sparkling through, strong as can be, nonetheless.
A contradiction; cast in noble knight’s form.
One that is accompanied by a slight sensation of digging in like roots. And spun from it, come impressions. Meanings. Words pressed to mind like indentations made into dirt.]
/ Eva. Hello.
It has been a time. Far longer than I would have liked. I apologize for that. Much has occurred as of late. And through it, mandated a significant shift of my attention. But that is neither here nor there.
Now. I come. In part, because I seek specific information.
But predominantly to... see how you have been. Perhaps even project images as I had offered the last time. And to offer aid in your efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect if you would have it. /
@impure-vessel-official
Eva perked up, great joy entering her at hearing Holly's words in her mind once more.
Greetings, my Knight. She telepathized. I have been lonely. I have not had many visitors in the time since we last interacted. Do not feel guilty for this.
As for my efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect, I have found that my range IS increasing, though at a slow rate. I appear to be capable of just barely reaching the entrance to this Weavenest as of now. For reference, my range previously could not leave the room containing my pod. My range has increased by several times its previous reach.
I am not yet sure how you could aid me in my efforts, unless you know of how to increase my reach in a more efficient manner?
Oh, I have also discovered I can attempt to command the constructs in this Weavenest with my mind. They are... inconsistently responsive. The simpler the command, the better. They appear to not be capable of much more than turning their lights on and off, and walking around.
You said you had more images to share? And that you had specific information that you wished to acquire? I would be happy to provide whatever information you need.
Her thoughts seemed moderately more... chipper, than they had been at the start of their previous interaction. Apparently, her morale had improved.
A break is not in order, no, though I greatly appreciate how considerate you are being, Eva transmitted.
As for how to handle the intensity... I believe muting it should suffice. Though, I suppose I must eventually get used to the sensations... if I even can at this point? I am not sure how that works developmentally... Your point about the Architect, and asking them to construct something for my senses, was wise.
Perhaps a little too deeply for what they are, but something about the notion of adjusting to sensations sticks out to them. Rings familiar even if in a way, most fundamentally different.
Briefly, they think about their own experiences with sensations. On how they had always been able to perceive and feel the world’s most basic dimensions (and more). On how it had been taken away from them—cut with a kind of darkness that had once frightened them (as a grub) and bound with blazing light—and been supplanted by an excess in things most unpleasant, like being hit by millions of pieces of shrapnel. On how it had impacted their perceptions of even the most seemingly mundane of things afterwards.
So... nice was it... so gratitude-inducing was it, to no longer be subjected to horrific screaming or blinding light or the excruciating pain found in burning—the very melting of their insides itself—that everything seemed extraordinary by comparison. A thirst quenched. Relief found, pure and clear.
In a way, it serves as a kind of inverse to Eva’s own experiences. From almost constant overstimulation… they had gone back down to more… ordinary levels. Manageable. Enjoyable.
Holly presses another nod forth; agreement and a bit of warmth felt in the effectiveness of the consideration given.]
/ I am most contented to know that you see a use in the suggestion made. Despite my blunder, it has proven to be a good learning experience for through it, an important consideration was found.
…
But. Yes. As you wish.
I will project the images at a muted intensity then. /
[And with those words pressed forth, a sincere glimmer of a promise woven in it, they shift gears and start projecting anew. The resultant visuals are clear, but everything else is blunted. Fuzzy and subdued; almost like static. Like peering through slightly muddied waters.
The first. It comes in a whirlwind of rocky outcrops, light green hues (namely present in more acid pools), various predators glinting with aggression and the means to see it exerted around every bend, and ash of Pale gently floating down in tranquil patterns. There's movement through the perilous landscape. It whips on by as Holly themself sprints, jumps, climbs and moves through it with a surprising amount of acrobatic ease and grace. Seeking something. Someone.
As they advance more and more along their path? more subdued winds, detected in the background only a little at first, quickly take on a different tone and reach a peak once the collapsed remains of a Wyrm's form true (or part of it at least) come into view. There's mountains of that Pale ash haphazardly scattered throughout the area, but there's something pointed that sticks out through it all. Once a great maw, translated into the very "crown" so characteristic of their father's current form, but now fallen to time and decay.
/ This place is referred to as "Kingdom's Edge".
And this is part of my father's old form. A Wyrm's true shape.
Decayed as it is now however, there is still power held yet here.
It exists in the form of his... beacon I think. The very winds that call to, beckon towards, and lead others to these lands.
It also exists in other ways, but more subtly. There is something in the air. Strength that seeps into every part of the landscape. I can... feel it whenever I come here. I find it easier to accomplish feats of Soul.
There is a deep connection held. /
They give more time for the imagery and sensations, muted as the latter is, to be processed proper alongside their own words before moving on. Different imagery swirls into place.
Somewhat a contrast to Kingdom's Edge... this one comes in rough, uncomfortable terrain and narrow, twisting, labyrinth-like passageways. In darkness only cut through (a little) by minor luminescences shaped into fungi dotting the landscape in rotund bundles. In the constant sounds of unseen scuttling and hissing as creatures pop out of seemingly nowhere and attack; aggressive predators in their own rights, but with a little more cunning to them.
/ This is Deepnest.
The very lands over which Herrah holds her reign as Queen. I know only a little about Deepnest myself, but it is unmistakably a place of peril for those unacquainted with its likes. Unprepared for the challenges presented in terrain, predators, and ease of becoming lost within it. /
There’s movement here too, but of a more leisurely sort. Despite their own words, the memory doesn’t seem to convey a sense of worry or urgency. A thing that becomes further reduced yet when a familiar figure soon comes into view. Sharp-horned, mask of Pale, slight, and cloaked in vibrant red she stands taller than she did as a spiderling, but still a far cry from Holly’s own height. Vertically limited by the… genetics of a father shared, it would seem.
/ This would be my sister as she appears at present. And this particular moment… a “redo”, in the ways of a reunion held after centuries apart, this one went a little better than the temple…
Or so I would like to think.
We spoke of a few things here and parted on… decent terms. / ]
Acid pools, she notes. So far, three of the four (soon five) of the areas Holly had shown her prominently featured acid. It was somewhat strange. She had never heard of acid in Pharloom. It demonstrated, quite succinctly, how different the ecology of the Hallownest and Pharloom was.
She had been about to ask about that until she saw the reason behind this being the memory transmitted.
That... was a Wyrm.
Furthermore, she thought she could feel what Holly pointed out. The feeling of power. She would call it a... weight. A presence, maybe.
I see. A Wyrm in its true... albeit, decayed and dead... majesty. A sight unprecedented. Glorious. Thank you, for this.
I believe I feel what it is you mean. The strength you mention. Perhaps I am just feeling your memory of it, however.
And thank you, for the muting of the sensations. This is far, far more manageable.
The imagery changed, then, to feature this... 'Deepnest.'
This was where Weavers lived, nowadays? How... shocking.
Eva could recall... Yivel, was it, mentioning that she enjoyed singing with her sisters at the shore of a pale lake. Weavers did not seem to especially enjoy spaces like this 'Deepnest.'
She wondered, how the Weavers were doing. Why they had went to this... place. She had never even been made quite aware of their fleeing.
She was interrupted from her thoughts at the sight of Hornet. Her Lady. She was... Hm. It was a little strange, seeing her now, as she really was. Is. After only seeing her Crest.
Eva wouldn't go as far to say that seeing her Lady in a conventional sense was a disappointing view, but it was... it was quite different.
This is my Lady? How strange it is, to see her in a more traditional manner, rather than just to see her Crest. What a different view of her, this gives.
You say of this particular moment... You met once you left the temple, which you said you were contained within? That meeting did not go well, then, and this moment is an attempt to do better? I am glad that it did, indeed, go better.
I wanted to ask: Many of the areas you have shown me of Hallonwest have lots of acid. Is acid especially common in Hallownest? I have never heard of acid like this before. I do not believe that acid quite like this can be found in Pharloom.
Of Void. Of darkness and yet irrefutably Pale; a light that cannot help sparkling through, strong as can be, nonetheless.
A contradiction; cast in noble knight’s form.
One that is accompanied by a slight sensation of digging in like roots. And spun from it, come impressions. Meanings. Words pressed to mind like indentations made into dirt.]
/ Eva. Hello.
It has been a time. Far longer than I would have liked. I apologize for that. Much has occurred as of late. And through it, mandated a significant shift of my attention. But that is neither here nor there.
Now. I come. In part, because I seek specific information.
But predominantly to... see how you have been. Perhaps even project images as I had offered the last time. And to offer aid in your efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect if you would have it. /
@impure-vessel-official
Eva perked up, great joy entering her at hearing Holly's words in her mind once more.
Greetings, my Knight. She telepathized. I have been lonely. I have not had many visitors in the time since we last interacted. Do not feel guilty for this.
As for my efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect, I have found that my range IS increasing, though at a slow rate. I appear to be capable of just barely reaching the entrance to this Weavenest as of now. For reference, my range previously could not leave the room containing my pod. My range has increased by several times its previous reach.
I am not yet sure how you could aid me in my efforts, unless you know of how to increase my reach in a more efficient manner?
Oh, I have also discovered I can attempt to command the constructs in this Weavenest with my mind. They are... inconsistently responsive. The simpler the command, the better. They appear to not be capable of much more than turning their lights on and off, and walking around.
You said you had more images to share? And that you had specific information that you wished to acquire? I would be happy to provide whatever information you need.
Her thoughts seemed moderately more... chipper, than they had been at the start of their previous interaction. Apparently, her morale had improved.
Ah. Yes. I believe, perhaps, that Keerinal may be more interested in your mother.
... This statement would sound very different outside of context.
As eager as I am to meet this Twelfth Architect, you say that you had two more things to project. Are you certain they should be saved for another time? I admit, I am curious, but if you believe, they should be saved, I will quell my curiosity for the moment with ease.
[Upon hearing of Eva’s continued interest in seeing what they had to show… some of the enthusiasm from before springs back into place with renewed (albeit more restrained now) vigor. A definite shake of the head is pressed forth.]
/ It does not need to be for another time. No.
I only proposed the notion of ceasing because I had made the earlier experience an overwhelming one and presumed that a break was in order. If that is not the case...
... then I would gladly display the remainder. /
[Something bright bleeds into that last part a bit before they pause, contemplative fingers tip-tapping at their chin, and continue on.]
/ Would you prefer that I make an effort to mute the intensity of what I project, exclude the additional sensations, or... something else altogether when I display what I have cited...? /
A break is not in order, no, though I greatly appreciate how considerate you are being, Eva transmitted.
As for how to handle the intensity... I believe muting it should suffice. Though, I suppose I must eventually get used to the sensations... if I even can at this point? I am not sure how that works developmentally... Your point about the Architect, and asking them to construct something for my senses, was wise.
Of Void. Of darkness and yet irrefutably Pale; a light that cannot help sparkling through, strong as can be, nonetheless.
A contradiction; cast in noble knight’s form.
One that is accompanied by a slight sensation of digging in like roots. And spun from it, come impressions. Meanings. Words pressed to mind like indentations made into dirt.]
/ Eva. Hello.
It has been a time. Far longer than I would have liked. I apologize for that. Much has occurred as of late. And through it, mandated a significant shift of my attention. But that is neither here nor there.
Now. I come. In part, because I seek specific information.
But predominantly to... see how you have been. Perhaps even project images as I had offered the last time. And to offer aid in your efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect if you would have it. /
@impure-vessel-official
Eva perked up, great joy entering her at hearing Holly's words in her mind once more.
Greetings, my Knight. She telepathized. I have been lonely. I have not had many visitors in the time since we last interacted. Do not feel guilty for this.
As for my efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect, I have found that my range IS increasing, though at a slow rate. I appear to be capable of just barely reaching the entrance to this Weavenest as of now. For reference, my range previously could not leave the room containing my pod. My range has increased by several times its previous reach.
I am not yet sure how you could aid me in my efforts, unless you know of how to increase my reach in a more efficient manner?
Oh, I have also discovered I can attempt to command the constructs in this Weavenest with my mind. They are... inconsistently responsive. The simpler the command, the better. They appear to not be capable of much more than turning their lights on and off, and walking around.
You said you had more images to share? And that you had specific information that you wished to acquire? I would be happy to provide whatever information you need.
Her thoughts seemed moderately more... chipper, than they had been at the start of their previous interaction. Apparently, her morale had improved.
Eva's shock at the new sensations was palpable. So much so it started bleeding through the connection.
It was honestly overwhelming. It was difficult for her to appreciate all of this when she could not properly handle the sudden influx of sensations of humidity, of acid scent. And the sounds.
Eva had lived in a world of silence. This was... a cacophony, one she struggled to endure.
Greenpath? Eva asked. It reminds me, to an extent, of how bugs have described the world right outside Weavenest Atla. The Moss Grotto. Though, I don't believe it was created by a slug-shaped Higher Being.
Eva's attention turned to the next memory. If Greenpath was an onslaught of sound, this was an invasion of smell. So many overwhelming smells. Difficult it was, for her, to pay attention, when she was smelling things for... the first time that she could recall.
She considered how any living thing could handle smelling all of this. How did society function if everyone was constantly overwhelmed by these scents?
I imagine a true wasteland would contain less smells, Eva commented. I wonder how the mantises and the mushrooms manage it.
The world shifted again, and Eva was staring at a statue in a land of water, flowing and falling in equal measure. She saw architecture built to capture and collect the water, and drain it to... somewhere.
She felt the water on her—or, she supposed, Holly's—chitin. It was one of the least overwhelming new sensations that Eva had encountered, though she still found it slightly difficult to process nonetheless. In a way, though, it wasn't especially dissimilar from Eva's own daily experience, sitting in cold liquid as she is.
It was just as she was about to ask about the statue, which she had been admiring, that Holly spoke and answered her questions.
You have not ever told me about the Dreamers. Thank you, for telling me of them now. It pains me, to know their sacrifice was made and meaningless, at that.
... Ah.
Holly had referred to the Dreamers almost exclusively in past tense. It appears Eva had mistakenly concluded they were all dead.
My Lady, your sister, only exists because Herrah struck a... a deal, with the Pale King?
Interesting. Keerinal would have been fascinated to know that a Wyrm can conceive children with a Weaver... I wish I could tell her now, how Weaver children could be produced. But alas.
Thank you. For sharing all of this. It has been wonderful... and somewhat overstimulating. These sensations were most overwhelming at times, but I managed.
[Shortly after silence falls, a sort of sobering realization sinks in, pulled together by words like a ribbon and accentuated by the shock they (only now) recall bleeding through the connection. Admittedly, they had gotten a bit... excited. An overabundance of enthusiasm bringing forward far too much--in quantity and intensity had--to share at once without fully considering its impact.
In part, this is because these memories are among the earliest of their newfound freedom beyond the dark confines of the temple; precious beyond measure. And another part, this is because they were imparting experiences with someone that holds common ground in their abilities; a friend.
They consider apologizing, a moment or two spent on the thought, before neatly pressing it aside. Despite the mistake made... it would seem that the experience was an enjoyable one anyways. A trickle of genuine joy steals into their heart at that. And silently, they make a mental note to consciously "tone down" the part that... overwhelmed in the future. Holly then properly ponders over (anew) the latest words spoken and responds thusly.]
/ Ah. You are... you are... quite welcome.
Most contented am I... to know that the experience, however overwhelming it may have been, still holds some measure of value to you. They certainly held value to me. I did not even realize that I could come to enjoy such things in full until I ventured out on my own terms.
As for the bargain made...
Yes. Queen of Deepnest demanded payment for her would-be sacrifice and payment, she was given. Wyrms are quite... prolific. The same generally holds for Roots as well. And so, in this... if it is a matter of circumventing the difficulties with conceiving in Weavers, I believe that my mother would have served that purpose better.
She is the goddess of fertility after all. /
[They pause, another consideration and thought flickering through, before they decide to voice it.]
/ The Twelfth Architect.
Should they prove capable of devising a solution for your plight... one that allows for the full breadth of the world's experiences to be felt... it may be worth inquiring about having a modifier on it. So that you may better enjoy the stimuli and more on your own terms at that.
...
I had been hoping to project two more things...
...but it may be best saved for another time. If you would like, I may try at aiding you in establishing contact with the Twelfth Architect now. /
Ah. Yes. I believe, perhaps, that Keerinal may be more interested in your mother.
... This statement would sound very different outside of context.
As eager as I am to meet this Twelfth Architect, you say that you had two more things to project. Are you certain they should be saved for another time? I admit, I am curious, but if you believe, they should be saved, I will quell my curiosity for the moment with ease.
Of Void. Of darkness and yet irrefutably Pale; a light that cannot help sparkling through, strong as can be, nonetheless.
A contradiction; cast in noble knight’s form.
One that is accompanied by a slight sensation of digging in like roots. And spun from it, come impressions. Meanings. Words pressed to mind like indentations made into dirt.]
/ Eva. Hello.
It has been a time. Far longer than I would have liked. I apologize for that. Much has occurred as of late. And through it, mandated a significant shift of my attention. But that is neither here nor there.
Now. I come. In part, because I seek specific information.
But predominantly to... see how you have been. Perhaps even project images as I had offered the last time. And to offer aid in your efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect if you would have it. /
@impure-vessel-official
Eva perked up, great joy entering her at hearing Holly's words in her mind once more.
Greetings, my Knight. She telepathized. I have been lonely. I have not had many visitors in the time since we last interacted. Do not feel guilty for this.
As for my efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect, I have found that my range IS increasing, though at a slow rate. I appear to be capable of just barely reaching the entrance to this Weavenest as of now. For reference, my range previously could not leave the room containing my pod. My range has increased by several times its previous reach.
I am not yet sure how you could aid me in my efforts, unless you know of how to increase my reach in a more efficient manner?
Oh, I have also discovered I can attempt to command the constructs in this Weavenest with my mind. They are... inconsistently responsive. The simpler the command, the better. They appear to not be capable of much more than turning their lights on and off, and walking around.
You said you had more images to share? And that you had specific information that you wished to acquire? I would be happy to provide whatever information you need.
Her thoughts seemed moderately more... chipper, than they had been at the start of their previous interaction. Apparently, her morale had improved.
[Agreement given, Holly immediately presses forward yet another nod (this one affirmative), before they pull up various images.
Or rather... little snippets of memories. Of the very first few experiences had--truly had of their own and kept close--when they stepped beyond the dark confines of the temple for the first time in centuries. Of when they were truly able to experience (and gain affection towards) parts of the world... parts of these lands from which they hail... properly; on their own terms. With these memories, touch and smell are imparted.
The first of these? a lush and verdant place. One thick with wild and overgrown greenery, interspersed with hissing pools of acid and artificial structures of orderly stone, and bursting with a variety of vibrant flora. The scent in the air is fresh, like cut grass, yet delicate like flowers; it's complex yet astonishingly simple and easy!
The air is warm and inviting and a touch humid. The sounds that filter through the air, the chirps and skittering across decaying debris and bustle of life, create a poetic harmony.
It's a heartbeat. It lives and breathes and shifts and changes and it's so so so wild, beautiful in its asymmetry and "imperfections", that they hold a special fondness for it in their heart.
/ This is Greenpath. It was created from the dream of a Higher Being. One that bears a slug's likeness. Her name is "Unn". /
The next snippet. The Fungal Wastes.
The air here is thick, maybe even rancid to some, but the scent seems to bother the memory holder none as they soar through the humidity drenched airs. Up and down. Up and down. Up and down... do they bounce off vibrant purple fungi, degraded great nail striking down upon them with relative ease. Spherical and glistening. A striking contrast to the sea of various blues and oranges, cast in a wide variety of rotund shapes and sizes and seem to grow, thrive, in almost every single point where the eye can see. Naturally, much like Greenpath, hissing pools of greenish acid can be seen scattered throughout. And at some points, what appears to be spores can be seen concentrated in the airs.
They had grown a fondness for this place. Come to truly enjoy the fungi that grows wild and free here as well. Gained a genuine interest in said (varying) fungi and saw that interest flourish a little after someone gave them a rudimentary book on it during the Snow Moon.
/ These are the Fungal... Wastes, I do suppose.
But, I have long since been referring to them as the Fungal Lands myself. To me, it seems a bit... unkind to refer to these lands as mere "wastes". The Mushroom and Mantis Tribes respectively take residence around these lands.
From here, Hallownest's capital city may be entered. /
And then, as if on cue... or rather the likely intent, the logical order of things, the scenery shifts one last time and the city in question materializes; splendor and glory clear in the ornate and glorious structures that proudly stretch high into the foggy, grey, and mournful stone overhead. Cracked and degraded over time but still there. Still holding strong even as water seeps out of it in constant precipitation from a blue of the most vibrant blues above it.
The very tears of its old namesake.
One of the first few sensations they had grown to truly like. The cool temperature of the water refreshes as it hits and slides off their Wyrm's shell. The enchanting pattern at which they fall captivates. The shape and the sound soothes and eases in ways they had scarcely imagined before. It forms a sort of buzz. A white noise in the mournful backdrop of a (then) mostly vacant city at the time. A much-needed buffer for what lies central to the image.
A multitiered fountain of cascading petal-like structures and thick, rounded supports.
The Grand Fountain recognizing the sacrifice made.
From before their own statue had been broken--where a willow tree has since been planted to replace it--and before the tears of the city had been dried, the remainder of the city overall uplifted with it. Fixed. Rectified from the ruin of ages past and centuries of neglect.
Elaborate, complex, and well-preserved it seems. A statue of Holly, smooth and expertly crafted of stone, themself at the centre while the Dreamers flank them in stone renditions of their own.
The stone epitaph before it can be read as follows:
"MEMORIAL TO THE HOLLOW KNIGHT.
In the black vault far above.
Through its sacrifice Hallownest lasts eternal."
/ This is what was once called the "City of Tears".
Now it is the "Tearless City" for it weeps like this no more.
The fountain depicts myself (as you can easily identify) and those which had gained the title of "Dreamer".
Have I ever told you about them...?
They were important to my intended purpose as well. I would... contain for eternity. They would go into an eternal slumber, as part of a spell, and in turn seal the entrance to the temple where I was imprisoned.
Monomon. The Teacher. She who came from distant lands to study... to learn and sate a perpetual curiousity and desire for knowledge.
Lurien. The Watcher. He who looked over the city and kept it organized and running. With ties held to the very plague that once swept the lands... for he is a moth and from that wretch's own light? the initial members of the Moth Tribe were created.
Herrah. The Beast. Someone you would recognize. Weaver of Pharloom. Queen of Deepnest. And the most difficult to convince in becoming a Dreamer.
For this, she struck a bargain with my father.
My sister in half parts is the result of this. /
And with that... they pause. They fall silent. They give a moment. Much has been shown. And though they granted some time in-between... that still bears time in processing properly.]
Eva's shock at the new sensations was palpable. So much so it started bleeding through the connection.
It was honestly overwhelming. It was difficult for her to appreciate all of this when she could not properly handle the sudden influx of sensations of humidity, of acid scent. And the sounds.
Eva had lived in a world of silence. This was... a cacophony, one she struggled to endure.
Greenpath? Eva asked. It reminds me, to an extent, of how bugs have described the world right outside Weavenest Atla. The Moss Grotto. Though, I don't believe it was created by a slug-shaped Higher Being.
Eva's attention turned to the next memory. If Greenpath was an onslaught of sound, this was an invasion of smell. So many overwhelming smells. Difficult it was, for her, to pay attention, when she was smelling things for... the first time that she could recall.
She considered how any living thing could handle smelling all of this. How did society function if everyone was constantly overwhelmed by these scents?
I imagine a true wasteland would contain less smells, Eva commented. I wonder how the mantises and the mushrooms manage it.
The world shifted again, and Eva was staring at a statue in a land of water, flowing and falling in equal measure. She saw architecture built to capture and collect the water, and drain it to... somewhere.
She felt the water on her—or, she supposed, Holly's—chitin. It was one of the least overwhelming new sensations that Eva had encountered, though she still found it slightly difficult to process nonetheless. In a way, though, it wasn't especially dissimilar from Eva's own daily experience, sitting in cold liquid as she is.
It was just as she was about to ask about the statue, which she had been admiring, that Holly spoke and answered her questions.
You have not ever told me about the Dreamers. Thank you, for telling me of them now. It pains me, to know their sacrifice was made and meaningless, at that.
... Ah.
Holly had referred to the Dreamers almost exclusively in past tense. It appears Eva had mistakenly concluded they were all dead.
My Lady, your sister, only exists because Herrah struck a... a deal, with the Pale King?
Interesting. Keerinal would have been fascinated to know that a Wyrm can conceive children with a Weaver... I wish I could tell her now, how Weaver children could be produced. But alas.
Thank you. For sharing all of this. It has been wonderful... and somewhat overstimulating. These sensations were most overwhelming at times, but I managed.
Of Void. Of darkness and yet irrefutably Pale; a light that cannot help sparkling through, strong as can be, nonetheless.
A contradiction; cast in noble knight’s form.
One that is accompanied by a slight sensation of digging in like roots. And spun from it, come impressions. Meanings. Words pressed to mind like indentations made into dirt.]
/ Eva. Hello.
It has been a time. Far longer than I would have liked. I apologize for that. Much has occurred as of late. And through it, mandated a significant shift of my attention. But that is neither here nor there.
Now. I come. In part, because I seek specific information.
But predominantly to... see how you have been. Perhaps even project images as I had offered the last time. And to offer aid in your efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect if you would have it. /
@impure-vessel-official
Eva perked up, great joy entering her at hearing Holly's words in her mind once more.
Greetings, my Knight. She telepathized. I have been lonely. I have not had many visitors in the time since we last interacted. Do not feel guilty for this.
As for my efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect, I have found that my range IS increasing, though at a slow rate. I appear to be capable of just barely reaching the entrance to this Weavenest as of now. For reference, my range previously could not leave the room containing my pod. My range has increased by several times its previous reach.
I am not yet sure how you could aid me in my efforts, unless you know of how to increase my reach in a more efficient manner?
Oh, I have also discovered I can attempt to command the constructs in this Weavenest with my mind. They are... inconsistently responsive. The simpler the command, the better. They appear to not be capable of much more than turning their lights on and off, and walking around.
You said you had more images to share? And that you had specific information that you wished to acquire? I would be happy to provide whatever information you need.
Her thoughts seemed moderately more... chipper, than they had been at the start of their previous interaction. Apparently, her morale had improved.
She believed she could recall Holly having said that they are glad that their sister did not Bind her. It was strange, to see the statement of her end as a bad thing repeated again.
Agreed. I, too, am glad my end did not come to pass, so that I can speak with you, and the visitors I have received.
As for why Atla did not want my end, if I had to infer, I would assume that at the very least, it was out of the hope that I could continue being useful. And, I suppose, because I was already useful enough to power the Weavenest that bore her name.
Furthermore, Atla may have been willing to sacrifice anything (including herself) to achieve her goal, but she was not the kind to needlessly kill. I did not especially wish to die, at the time that Absolom gave her (possibly unserious?) answer. And my death would not have any benefit to Atla's cause, whereas my continued existence could have many benefits.
But... Since you lack further questions, I will grant you the Runecraft used in the Snare Setter.
The transmissions that came in were unlike all the others.
It was as if the very concept of the runes were being sent. It was very different. Very strange.
Nonetheless, the necessary Runecraft for the Snare Setter was conveyed.
And as for Atla's Crest... Note that it may be different now. Crests do, somewhat, change over time.
Atla's Crest was sent next, and it was mostly in line with what Holly saw of her simplified Crest.
It was the Crest of a ruthless and unyielding leader. The kind of person who never stopped fighting. It was as sharp and jagged as a blade... or perhaps, broken glass.
Or, maybe more accurately, broken pottery. Pottery shards repaired as if via kintsugi, except instead of gold, this ceramic had been mended using pure rage and a determination to punish the one that had lied.
Except, inside the (metaphorical) pot was... a gnawing emptiness. A hole that could not be filled and yet attempts were made to cover it up with unrelenting wrath. The kind of wrath that can motivate one to do anything, to work day and night for the sake of vengeance, to make great strides and advancements all for the sake of having the power needed to utterly unmake the target of your ire.
I hope this is sufficient? Perhaps you can use it to reach out to her, mentally, as you have with me, or perhaps to find her location. I do not know for sure.
[Quickly does the information presented, both that of the Runecraft for capturing and the full Crest, crystallize in their mind. Cherished like water after deprivation. Recorded forever more and with a few careful etchings of black ink to paper hastily grabbed in a sort of haphazard shuffling. Important. This information is very important for through it... a solution could be found. Just the thing needed to potentially end that tiresome conflict, once and for all.
Relief and gratitude floods them in waves.
The Runecraft itself. It makes a sort of sense. The message formed, more complicated as it is, comes through clearly. It takes a skill that they currently lack—basic as their own uses of it is—to pull together on their own. But, understand it they do. Enough to see what roles each piece plays exactly and it comes together to fulfill its purported role. Like poetry. Like an art.
Atla’s Crest. They can see it. See that rage. That desperation. The determination that drove her further and further in to her goal, just as they are certain Heart of the Infection similarly drove father. The underlying emptiness present; a hollowed husk left in the jagged and mangled wake of that which had fractured so long ago.
Idly, they wonder if that emptiness left behind has anything to do with the Weaver whose body was used as a basis for Eva. That Weaver... was supposedly important to Atla, right?
They let the thought hang a moment before pressing forth their best approximation of a nod.
To actually build the snare... they suspect that it might be more efficient to try contacting Atla and gaining guidance through it, maybe while present in their father's old workshop. But, that can be done later. At a time after they fulfill what they promised.]
/ My gratitude. It... both sets of information... are indeed sufficient.
I would see about using it in reaching out towards her. As the very thing I would find... detect wherever she may be, and hook into.
Now. To aid you as I have promised, but first... would you like to glimpse a few images? I have been practicing with imparting some of the sensations invoked by them and so, if you would like I could show a little more than just images then. /
*After a while, the weavers reach the entrance to Weavenest Absolom. Engraved on the door is a sigil resembling the outline of an isosceles triangle without the bottom.*
“This is my Weavenest. Are you familiar with it?” *they turn to the door* “I do not come here often now, so I’m sorry for any… pests we may run into.”
-@weavers-of-rebellion
The mind might have visited before, not sure about now though! And no pests can hurt us, we're void!
(They enter the weavenest cheerily and looked around, seeing everything clearly due to its many, many years in the dark abyss.)
*the Weavenest is dark, very dark. Shells are piled in the corners. Strands of void hang from the ceiling. The Weavenest seems more like a graveyard than a nest, but Absolom is comfortable, confidently leading the way.*
“I still haven’t finished cleaning up from the black-threading.” *Absolom gestures to a husk against the wall.*
Us? We've been void for so long, we can't even remember when we were voided!
(They giggle at the last part, voice shrill and haunting)
It has been a long while, yes, the mind can hardly remember their life before us. They sure miss it though! Every time they talk it's about wanting us to leave.
"I suppose that makes sense," Atla offered. "You're pleasant enough company from where I'm standing. Er. Floating. But I imagine that spending an eternity in your mind would make me want to leave, too. No offense intended."
“I’m guessing you don’t know how you got like this either? Well that’s annoying…”
*as they walk, the feelings of the halls around them begin to shift. The corpses and shells have been replaced by silken spools and nests. It is still covered in darkness, however, and it seems to have been abandoned for many ages.*
"Silk is an art exclusive to Weavers," The ghostly former rebellion leader said. "It also is made of Soul. Void is attracted to Soul, from what I recall from the times I did pay attention to Absolom's ramblings. Perhaps that has to do with it? It is also used to spin runes, though runes need not be written with Silk, if that also brings to mind why Silk might have been important to you."
Of Void. Of darkness and yet irrefutably Pale; a light that cannot help sparkling through, strong as can be, nonetheless.
A contradiction; cast in noble knight’s form.
One that is accompanied by a slight sensation of digging in like roots. And spun from it, come impressions. Meanings. Words pressed to mind like indentations made into dirt.]
/ Eva. Hello.
It has been a time. Far longer than I would have liked. I apologize for that. Much has occurred as of late. And through it, mandated a significant shift of my attention. But that is neither here nor there.
Now. I come. In part, because I seek specific information.
But predominantly to... see how you have been. Perhaps even project images as I had offered the last time. And to offer aid in your efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect if you would have it. /
@impure-vessel-official
Eva perked up, great joy entering her at hearing Holly's words in her mind once more.
Greetings, my Knight. She telepathized. I have been lonely. I have not had many visitors in the time since we last interacted. Do not feel guilty for this.
As for my efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect, I have found that my range IS increasing, though at a slow rate. I appear to be capable of just barely reaching the entrance to this Weavenest as of now. For reference, my range previously could not leave the room containing my pod. My range has increased by several times its previous reach.
I am not yet sure how you could aid me in my efforts, unless you know of how to increase my reach in a more efficient manner?
Oh, I have also discovered I can attempt to command the constructs in this Weavenest with my mind. They are... inconsistently responsive. The simpler the command, the better. They appear to not be capable of much more than turning their lights on and off, and walking around.
You said you had more images to share? And that you had specific information that you wished to acquire? I would be happy to provide whatever information you need.
Her thoughts seemed moderately more... chipper, than they had been at the start of their previous interaction. Apparently, her morale had improved.
Hm. Deeper knowledge of Absolom's research on Void?
For a while, yes, it was made a consideration for use in the Snare Setter, or in another device, to slay the Grand Mother. And Absolom did conclude that it would almost certainly slay her. However, they also concluded that it would potentially have apocalyptic side effects, and Atla had decided that destroying Pharloom was not worth it to destroy the Grand Mother. In addition, when asked whether Void can be used to help my situation, Absolom replied it would be a very efficient form of euthanasia. Atla seemed quite irritated at this.
Eva explained the suggestion of euthanizing her with a... disturbing, unnerving calmness.
I am not sure if they ever managed to use it in more functional ways. I am afraid that I only ever heard discussion of Void as it relates to me.
They note various points made. Of how risky using Void, in conjunction with the Snare Setter, truly is. Of Atla's apparent irritation with its suggested application for Eva; in this they wonder why. And of...
... the calmness with which Eva elaborates this. This, more than anything else, sticks out to Holly. Because in it comes their own image, reflected back onto them, with startling and rather sharp clarity.
Images of their own plight repeat in blinding light and sickening orange hues. How degraded their own… state (physical and mental) had become. And the call they made for death because of it… for what use were they to anyone then…? They had become Infected... failed and this was the price to be paid.
That is what they used to think.
But no more.
That latest test of resolve--that increasingly louder voice that refutes such unkind notions--has seen to this.
They had never been afraid to die. But there’s something to truly believing in the intrinsic value of their life, when put to the test, that had required courage. And from it, a small (so very small) part of their crack had closed up. It will always be present, a mark forever more, but no longer will that part be an open wound.
They resolve to assert the same to Eva. In their own way. Just so that the idea is there. Nothing is changed so easily. This in and of itself is still somewhat fresh and new to them... but, the effort is worth making all the same regardless.]
/ I understand.
So difficult is it to work with Void, devouring and rending as it is, that creating something with more use than that seems to be exceedingly uncommon. A true challenge.
Having said this…
…
I do not claim to understand why Atla was irritated with the notion of seeing to your end, but in this, I believe that we share something of a common opinion. Specifically, I am glad that no such thing was done.
The ages spent in solitude. Imprisoned. Unable to do very much or experience the world as it is...
...those are regrettable.
But had you simply been wiped out... I would not have gained the opportunity to speak with you. To share these experiences. And to do so in ways rarely seen.
And that too would have been regrettable. /
[They let the words hang for a moment. Then press on with a readiness to see what was requested of them.]
/ For the time-being, I have no further questions. /
She believed she could recall Holly having said that they are glad that their sister did not Bind her. It was strange, to see the statement of her end as a bad thing repeated again.
Agreed. I, too, am glad my end did not come to pass, so that I can speak with you, and the visitors I have received.
As for why Atla did not want my end, if I had to infer, I would assume that at the very least, it was out of the hope that I could continue being useful. And, I suppose, because I was already useful enough to power the Weavenest that bore her name.
Furthermore, Atla may have been willing to sacrifice anything (including herself) to achieve her goal, but she was not the kind to needlessly kill. I did not especially wish to die, at the time that Absolom gave her (possibly unserious?) answer. And my death would not have any benefit to Atla's cause, whereas my continued existence could have many benefits.
But... Since you lack further questions, I will grant you the Runecraft used in the Snare Setter.
The transmissions that came in were unlike all the others.
It was as if the very concept of the runes were being sent. It was very different. Very strange.
Nonetheless, the necessary Runecraft for the Snare Setter was conveyed.
And as for Atla's Crest... Note that it may be different now. Crests do, somewhat, change over time.
Atla's Crest was sent next, and it was mostly in line with what Holly saw of her simplified Crest.
It was the Crest of a ruthless and unyielding leader. The kind of person who never stopped fighting. It was as sharp and jagged as a blade... or perhaps, broken glass.
Or, maybe more accurately, broken pottery. Pottery shards repaired as if via kintsugi, except instead of gold, this ceramic had been mended using pure rage and a determination to punish the one that had lied.
Except, inside the (metaphorical) pot was... a gnawing emptiness. A hole that could not be filled and yet attempts were made to cover it up with unrelenting wrath. The kind of wrath that can motivate one to do anything, to work day and night for the sake of vengeance, to make great strides and advancements all for the sake of having the power needed to utterly unmake the target of your ire.
I hope this is sufficient? Perhaps you can use it to reach out to her, mentally, as you have with me, or perhaps to find her location. I do not know for sure.
Of Void. Of darkness and yet irrefutably Pale; a light that cannot help sparkling through, strong as can be, nonetheless.
A contradiction; cast in noble knight’s form.
One that is accompanied by a slight sensation of digging in like roots. And spun from it, come impressions. Meanings. Words pressed to mind like indentations made into dirt.]
/ Eva. Hello.
It has been a time. Far longer than I would have liked. I apologize for that. Much has occurred as of late. And through it, mandated a significant shift of my attention. But that is neither here nor there.
Now. I come. In part, because I seek specific information.
But predominantly to... see how you have been. Perhaps even project images as I had offered the last time. And to offer aid in your efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect if you would have it. /
@impure-vessel-official
Eva perked up, great joy entering her at hearing Holly's words in her mind once more.
Greetings, my Knight. She telepathized. I have been lonely. I have not had many visitors in the time since we last interacted. Do not feel guilty for this.
As for my efforts to reach the Twelfth Architect, I have found that my range IS increasing, though at a slow rate. I appear to be capable of just barely reaching the entrance to this Weavenest as of now. For reference, my range previously could not leave the room containing my pod. My range has increased by several times its previous reach.
I am not yet sure how you could aid me in my efforts, unless you know of how to increase my reach in a more efficient manner?
Oh, I have also discovered I can attempt to command the constructs in this Weavenest with my mind. They are... inconsistently responsive. The simpler the command, the better. They appear to not be capable of much more than turning their lights on and off, and walking around.
You said you had more images to share? And that you had specific information that you wished to acquire? I would be happy to provide whatever information you need.
Her thoughts seemed moderately more... chipper, than they had been at the start of their previous interaction. Apparently, her morale had improved.
Before I show you the Snare Setter's runes and the crest of Atla, I want to answer your questions.
I cannot help you with the modification. I have never heard of a Dream-based being before, and I consider myself no great expert in Runecraft... Considering I have never had the ability to actually practice it before, and being made of Runecraft does less for one's expertise than you might think.
As for the Snare Setter's intended goal: The Snare Setter is made just to capture. Or, occasionally, to create explosive traps, but I will give you the capture version of the runes... Though, it's simple enough to make it explosive. You simply swap one symbol for another. As I was saying, the Snare Setter was originally used to simply capture the Pale Monarch at the top of Pharloom. It was the actual CONTAINMENT of her that failed, I suppose. I am not certain how, exactly, it failed... But I have spoken with that Monarch myself, and I can thus attest to her freedom.
Eva projected, briefly, the Monarch's crest, though the crest of a Haunted bug was visible beneath it, as that is how Eva had glimpsed it. The Crest was that of a ruler. It almost felt compelling just glimpsing it. It screamed for devotion, for worship. Or perhaps it screamed for
I did not mean to imply that the Snare Setter failed. It succeeded. But ultimately, its success was not enough if her permanent prison was ultimately proven not to be permanent.
Have you any other questions you wish for the answer to, my Knight, before I grant you the runes you seek and the Crest you must glimpse?
[Holly takes mental note of that limitation. Containment.
Or lackthereof. Brought forth by their sister and confirmed by Eva.
The Snare Setter's inability to truly contain makes it only a partial solution at best. To see results... she would need to be thrown somewhere in quick sequence upon being captured. To that end, further modification would be required, just as their sister and that Snail Shaman had done so to send the Pale Silken Monarch... away...
Deep into Void itself. That could be a destination.
That disaster of Black Thread... it was only wrought because of the way Silk stretched through crevices in the lands and stole the wills of bugs.
An abrupt pause to shake their head to themself.
Even then. That's a bit of a... reckless way to think. Such presumptions should not be made so lightly. Not when much is at stake. Other options should be considered first; ones which do not involve simply placing that blight into another. There has to be another way...
... train of thoughts immediately cease.
Their attention catches on the image pressed forth to them. To this, the sensation of gazing upon that Pale Silken Monarch's Crest is a bit mixed. To one part, there is a kind of recognition and familiarity to it, in a way. It reminds them of their parents. Of the Pale Light held. And the... charisma, the power, the presence. Wyrms, in particular enthrall do they not...?
To another part, seeing what seems to be a bug under her control? it fills their shell with deep seated revulsion. The feeling hangs for a moment before Holly pulls away from it and contemplates the answer to Eva's question. An impression of a nod is pressed forth.]
/ I do... though it is (somewhat) unrelated...
Have you any deeper knowledge of Absolom’s research on Void...?
That is, do you know if they have ever managed to successfully use it in more... functional ways? In practical applications? Was it ever made a consideration for use in the Snare Setter? /
Hm. Deeper knowledge of Absolom's research on Void?
For a while, yes, it was made a consideration for use in the Snare Setter, or in another device, to slay the Grand Mother. And Absolom did conclude that it would almost certainly slay her. However, they also concluded that it would potentially have apocalyptic side effects, and Atla had decided that destroying Pharloom was not worth it to destroy the Grand Mother. In addition, when asked whether Void can be used to help my situation, Absolom replied it would be a very efficient form of euthanasia. Atla seemed quite irritated at this.
Eva explained the suggestion of euthanizing her with a... disturbing, unnerving calmness.
I am not sure if they ever managed to use it in more functional ways. I am afraid that I only ever heard discussion of Void as it relates to me.
