Zeqqi, the Madonna of Tears

@zeqqi

Yokudan water goddess. Daughter of Zeht.

116 posts

I am Zeqqi, the Madonna of Tears, daughter of Zeht.

#zeqqi #tes rp #rp tesblr

[Zeqqi stared out at her father's dead planet. The grief was overwhelming, even if she knew he would be back. She sighed, hanging her head. She wanted her father. But he wasn't here.]

#zeqqi #tes rp #rp tesblr #cw grief

how do you feel about mora now?

I like her. She seems to have truly changed. I'm grateful for that.

If she steals anymore of my followers, though, I will fight her.

#zeqqi #tes rp #rp tesblr #(she doesn't expect that to happen)

Is Mora the mum who stepped up?

I suppose so.

#zeqqi #tes rp #rp tesblr

🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧🫧

[Zeqqi sighs, watching the bubbles dejectedly. She reaches out to pop one, before continuing to stare out at the pond.]

#zeqqi #tes rp #rp tesblr

Hello Zeqqi,

I know I told you to come to me when you are ready but I am... being told Zenithar was screaming when prayed to and now he has stopped. I do not want to imagine what has happened to him but I do believe we have to hurry.

@eye-who-sees-all

...okay. I have just finished my preparations, anyway.

[Zeqqi has changed her usual robes for light armour. Her hair has been pulled back into braids. A scimitar is sheathed at her hip, along with a stone, one which looks remarkably like the Mourning Stone, a source of infinite water.]

eye-who-sees-all

Very good.

Mora has changed nothing about her apperance. The only thing that is notably different about her is that there is a snake in her shirt's pocket.

Mora opens a portal to the location where she will open the rift to Namira's realm. She gestured for Zeqqi to walk in first.

I can enter before you, if you prefer.

No need.

[Zeqqi walks through the portal.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora follows her. She walks up to the spot and sits down on ground. She places her hands where the rift used to be and shuts her eyes as she pours her energy to open the rift. As soon as it opens she let's out a heavy sigh and tilts to the side. She catches herself and slowly rises from the ground.

I will close it when we have retrieved your father.

[Zeqqi frowns.]

Are you okay?

eye-who-sees-all

Yes, I am fine. Let us go.

Mora walks through the rift.

[Zeqqi follows her closely, hand gripping the hilt of her scimitar.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora scratches Pearl before she takes out Sep's pearl. She hoped it would lead to Zenithar when they are in the same plane.

Are you feeling alright? If you feel unwell we can leave.

Me? I am fine. Let's just find my father.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora nods and uses sep's peal, again, hoping it will take them to Zenithar.

@zen-ithar /nf

[The Pearl seems to be able to find him now, acting almost like a compass to reveal Zenithar's location.]

@zeqqi

[As they close in on Zenithar's location, Zeqqi walks faster, anxiety eating at her.]

This seems too easy...

ladyofrevulsion

[The darkness around the two gods thickens, almost swallowing up what little light there was in the Scuttling Void. Namira's voice, a dry, raspy, ancient thing, echoes around them.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕣𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕕 𝕒𝕥 𝕝𝕒𝕤𝕥. ℤ𝕖𝕟𝕚𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕣 𝕒𝕨𝕒𝕚𝕥𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

I agree. It does seem far too easy.

Mora walks alongside Zeqqi. Her own anxiety was growing as they were getting closer and closer. She tried her best to hide it from Zeqqi to prevent anymore anxiety.

Hearing that voice that voice made Mora clutch onto the pearl tighter.

@zen-ithar

[In the middle of a room filled with vile flesh and blood, there was Zenithar. Attached to a torture rack, he not in great condition. His head hung down and on his body were a variety of lesions and bruises some shallow and others reaching bone. He did not stir when they entered.]

@zeqqi

[Zeqqi was horrified when she saw the state her father was in. She began to rush forward, but ended up running headfirst into an invisible wall of force. She cursed in Yoku, holding her head.]

ladyofrevulsion

[A dry, raspy laugh echoes around them. A hooded, skeletal woman with arthropod legs appears beside Zenithar. She summons a shard of dark energy, and places the tip of it over Zenithar's heart.]

𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕒𝕗𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕕 𝕚𝕥 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕓𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕪. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕠 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟 𝕙𝕚𝕞... 𝕀𝔽 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡. ℕ𝕠 𝕞𝕖𝕣𝕘𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕝𝕞𝕤, 𝕟𝕠 𝕣𝕠𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖. 𝕀𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕣𝕖𝕗𝕦𝕤𝕖... 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora stared at Zenithar for a long time. Despite seeing him injured and tortured it brought a sense of comfort to see him. It pained her to see Zeqqi attempting to get to her father but being prohibited from it.

She looked at Namira and squared her shoulders.

I am not going to play your games. He has been through enough. Release him.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en still did not move. If it wasn't for the very faint breathing, it would have seemed like he was already dead.]

[Silent tears ran down Zeqqi's face as she hit her fist against the wall of force separating her from her father.]

LET HIM GO! HE'S DONE NOTHING WRONG!

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira chuckled, pushing the shard ever so slightly into Zenithar's chest: a warning.]

𝕃𝕒𝕤𝕥 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖, 𝕄𝕠𝕣𝕒. 𝔹𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕙𝕚𝕞, 𝕠𝕣 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤. 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕕𝕠𝕟'𝕥 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕡𝕠𝕠𝕣 ℤ𝕖𝕢𝕢𝕚 𝕥𝕠 𝕨𝕒𝕥𝕔𝕙 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕗𝕒𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕕𝕚𝕖, 𝕕𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦?

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced between Zeqqi and Zenithar. She did not want to him die. Least of all his daughter. But she considered it. She could see what their lives would look like if they were not together and how painful it would be. They'd still seek each other's counsel and company but not to the full extent they'd wish. It would be even more painful for Zen.

She walks over to Zeqqi and hesitantly puts her hands on her arms, ready to turn her away if needed.

If he dies and returns, will you leave us alone?

@zen-ithar

[Z'en flinches slightly from the touch of the blade though his head stays low.]

[Zeqqi stared at the shard pressed against her father's chest. She didn't seem to notice Mora's touch. Her attention was wholly on her father. Her breaths became more ragged as her crying grew in intensity.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira tilted her head, her empty eye sockets staring Mora and Zeqqi down.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕞𝕪 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕕. 𝕀𝕗 ℤ'𝕖𝕟 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟𝕤 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕕𝕖𝕒𝕥𝕙, 𝕀 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕠𝕥𝕙 𝕒𝕝𝕠𝕟𝕖.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced at Zenithar. It will hurt her but he won't be in any more pain. She pulled Zeqqi closer and gently turned her around to avoid looking at him.

Then I will not end our relationship because of your moral conundrum or influence. Z'en will return from death.

She looked up at Zeqqi, water-like ink began to well up in the bottom of her eyes.

I am sorry, Zeqqi.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en only moved slightly. It wasn't clear if he was beginning to wake or not.]

[Zeqqi hugged Mora, crying into her shoulder.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira plunged the shard of darkness into Zenithar's heart, twisting it slightly.]

𝕆𝕙, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕘𝕠𝕠𝕕 𝕝𝕦𝕔𝕜 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕚𝕟𝕘. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕤𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕊𝕙𝕒𝕕𝕖𝕤 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕕𝕣𝕠-𝕞'𝔸𝕥𝕙𝕣𝕒 𝕒𝕗𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora returned Zeqqi's hug. When Namira twisted Z'en's heart she held his daughter tighter. The thought of leaving him just as they had found him hurt. That was not the point of their mission, it was to bring him back home somewhat whole. Instead she had killed him.

She looked away from him and let go of Zeqqi.

I will not forget this Namira.

@zen-ithar

[A crack of ribs and squelch of flesh, Z'en had let out a brief noise as he was being stabbed into. He squirmed for just a moment before his whole body went still once more. Though this time there was nothing to indicate any signs of life.]

[Zeqqi briefly looked back at her father before quickly turning away with a sob. She was so caught up in grief and horror that Namira's other words did not register.]

ladyofrevulsion

[The sound of a low, beating thrum could be heard. Namira cackled before dissipating into darkness. A low wail and the pounding of feet could be heard nearby. Mora and Zeqqi were about to have company.]

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Zeqqi, I am sorry but we have to leave him here and leave Namira's realm. I do not wish to do it either but we must. Come now.

Mora gently pulled one of Zeqqi's arms in one hand while preparing a protection spell in the other.

@zen-ithar

[Zeqqi nodded and let herself be pulled as she continued to cry. At the first sight of enemies, however, she pulled herself together and drew her scimitar with one hand, and with the other she drew forth a measure of water.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Shades and dro-m'Athra charged at the two gods, making their retreat difficult.]

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Anything that got too close to them was either smacked by a ink-like tentacle or picked up by said tentacle and thrown into the crowds of Shades and dro-m'Athra. She'd throw the occasional lighting or fire bolt and let the effects of the element spread amongst them. The closer to the exit they got, the more visibly tires Hermaeus Mora became.

[Zeqqi did her part in knocking over their attackers with water magic. Any that got close enough were hit with her scimitar. When they at last reached the portal, Zeqqi took a firm, defensive stance.]

Go, I'll be right behind you.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora looks at the portal and shakes her head

No. We are going through together. I will close it when we have left this plane. Understood?

[Zeqqi sighs.]

Fine.

[There is an explosion outward of water, throwing the nearby Shades and dro-m'Athra back. Then, she grabs Mora's hand and runs through the portal with her.]

eye-who-sees-all

As soon as they were on the other side of the portal Mora pulled her hand away from Zeqqi and turned around to the portal. She closed it in a similar fashion to how she opened it.

It exhausted her more than she had anticipated. She tilted to the side like last time. This time she didn't have the reflexes to catch herself and laid on the ground.

I am fine. Just exhausted some of my power for now. How are you, Zeqqi?

Mora pushed herself of the ground and slowly rose from it.

[Zeqqi nearly threw herself at Mora, holding her tightly in a hug as quiet sobs escaped her.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora returned the hug and gently rubbed her back.

He will return to us, I assure you. Everything will be okay with time.

[She doesn't speak, just clings to Mora. After some time, she pulls away, looking down.]

I... do not want to be alone. May I... may I stay with you?

eye-who-sees-all

Of course you may, Zeqqi. Where would you like for us to stay, Zenithar or Apocrypha?

I don't know. Either. I just don't want to be alone.

eye-who-sees-all

We can stay on your father's plane. There are things I want to attend before... before he comes back. I will open a portal for us in a few minutes.

[She nods and sits down on the ground, closing her eyes while she waits for Mora to regain her strength.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora sits down as well, her head turned away from Zeqqi. The recovery of her power was taking longer than she anticipated. Everytime the image of Z'en, alive or dead, crossed her mind she felt a stab of guilt in her chest. She spun her engagement to ease herself.

I am sorry that this did not go to plan. Namira she... I know it would be painful for him to not... that he would have to suppress his emotions. I do not want that for him. I hope you understand that.

...I know. I think you went with the option that he would have chosen. I don't blame you for that. What happened was solely Namira's fault.

[She gently leaned sideways against Mora.]

I think I'll like having you as a stepmom, after all.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora slightly smiled and put an arm around her.

I will not ask you to call me mum or mother. I am... grateful that you might like me. I quite like you as well.

Yeah, I'm definitely not at the point where I want to call you mother. Maybe one day, though. After I know you better.

eye-who-sees-all

You do not have to either. I am not your paternal parent and I do not expect you to ever call me that, unless you want to.

Mora removes her arm from Zeqqi and gets up from the ground. She opens a portal to Zenithar.

Are you ready to leave?

[She nodded and stood, walking through the portal.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora followed her through it and closed the portal. She took out Pearl from her pocket and set her down on the floor.

I will be in his office if you need me.

[Zeqqi nodded and retreated to the pond to stare out at the water.]

Hello Zeqqi,

I know I told you to come to me when you are ready but I am... being told Zenithar was screaming when prayed to and now he has stopped. I do not want to imagine what has happened to him but I do believe we have to hurry.

@eye-who-sees-all

...okay. I have just finished my preparations, anyway.

[Zeqqi has changed her usual robes for light armour. Her hair has been pulled back into braids. A scimitar is sheathed at her hip, along with a stone, one which looks remarkably like the Mourning Stone, a source of infinite water.]

eye-who-sees-all

Very good.

Mora has changed nothing about her apperance. The only thing that is notably different about her is that there is a snake in her shirt's pocket.

Mora opens a portal to the location where she will open the rift to Namira's realm. She gestured for Zeqqi to walk in first.

I can enter before you, if you prefer.

No need.

[Zeqqi walks through the portal.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora follows her. She walks up to the spot and sits down on ground. She places her hands where the rift used to be and shuts her eyes as she pours her energy to open the rift. As soon as it opens she let's out a heavy sigh and tilts to the side. She catches herself and slowly rises from the ground.

I will close it when we have retrieved your father.

[Zeqqi frowns.]

Are you okay?

eye-who-sees-all

Yes, I am fine. Let us go.

Mora walks through the rift.

[Zeqqi follows her closely, hand gripping the hilt of her scimitar.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora scratches Pearl before she takes out Sep's pearl. She hoped it would lead to Zenithar when they are in the same plane.

Are you feeling alright? If you feel unwell we can leave.

Me? I am fine. Let's just find my father.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora nods and uses sep's peal, again, hoping it will take them to Zenithar.

@zen-ithar /nf

[The Pearl seems to be able to find him now, acting almost like a compass to reveal Zenithar's location.]

@zeqqi

[As they close in on Zenithar's location, Zeqqi walks faster, anxiety eating at her.]

This seems too easy...

ladyofrevulsion

[The darkness around the two gods thickens, almost swallowing up what little light there was in the Scuttling Void. Namira's voice, a dry, raspy, ancient thing, echoes around them.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕣𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕕 𝕒𝕥 𝕝𝕒𝕤𝕥. ℤ𝕖𝕟𝕚𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕣 𝕒𝕨𝕒𝕚𝕥𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

I agree. It does seem far too easy.

Mora walks alongside Zeqqi. Her own anxiety was growing as they were getting closer and closer. She tried her best to hide it from Zeqqi to prevent anymore anxiety.

Hearing that voice that voice made Mora clutch onto the pearl tighter.

@zen-ithar

[In the middle of a room filled with vile flesh and blood, there was Zenithar. Attached to a torture rack, he not in great condition. His head hung down and on his body were a variety of lesions and bruises some shallow and others reaching bone. He did not stir when they entered.]

@zeqqi

[Zeqqi was horrified when she saw the state her father was in. She began to rush forward, but ended up running headfirst into an invisible wall of force. She cursed in Yoku, holding her head.]

ladyofrevulsion

[A dry, raspy laugh echoes around them. A hooded, skeletal woman with arthropod legs appears beside Zenithar. She summons a shard of dark energy, and places the tip of it over Zenithar's heart.]

𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕒𝕗𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕕 𝕚𝕥 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕓𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕪. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕠 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟 𝕙𝕚𝕞... 𝕀𝔽 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡. ℕ𝕠 𝕞𝕖𝕣𝕘𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕝𝕞𝕤, 𝕟𝕠 𝕣𝕠𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖. 𝕀𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕣𝕖𝕗𝕦𝕤𝕖... 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora stared at Zenithar for a long time. Despite seeing him injured and tortured it brought a sense of comfort to see him. It pained her to see Zeqqi attempting to get to her father but being prohibited from it.

She looked at Namira and squared her shoulders.

I am not going to play your games. He has been through enough. Release him.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en still did not move. If it wasn't for the very faint breathing, it would have seemed like he was already dead.]

[Silent tears ran down Zeqqi's face as she hit her fist against the wall of force separating her from her father.]

LET HIM GO! HE'S DONE NOTHING WRONG!

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira chuckled, pushing the shard ever so slightly into Zenithar's chest: a warning.]

𝕃𝕒𝕤𝕥 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖, 𝕄𝕠𝕣𝕒. 𝔹𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕙𝕚𝕞, 𝕠𝕣 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤. 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕕𝕠𝕟'𝕥 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕡𝕠𝕠𝕣 ℤ𝕖𝕢𝕢𝕚 𝕥𝕠 𝕨𝕒𝕥𝕔𝕙 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕗𝕒𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕕𝕚𝕖, 𝕕𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦?

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced between Zeqqi and Zenithar. She did not want to him die. Least of all his daughter. But she considered it. She could see what their lives would look like if they were not together and how painful it would be. They'd still seek each other's counsel and company but not to the full extent they'd wish. It would be even more painful for Zen.

She walks over to Zeqqi and hesitantly puts her hands on her arms, ready to turn her away if needed.

If he dies and returns, will you leave us alone?

@zen-ithar

[Z'en flinches slightly from the touch of the blade though his head stays low.]

[Zeqqi stared at the shard pressed against her father's chest. She didn't seem to notice Mora's touch. Her attention was wholly on her father. Her breaths became more ragged as her crying grew in intensity.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira tilted her head, her empty eye sockets staring Mora and Zeqqi down.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕞𝕪 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕕. 𝕀𝕗 ℤ'𝕖𝕟 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟𝕤 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕕𝕖𝕒𝕥𝕙, 𝕀 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕠𝕥𝕙 𝕒𝕝𝕠𝕟𝕖.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced at Zenithar. It will hurt her but he won't be in any more pain. She pulled Zeqqi closer and gently turned her around to avoid looking at him.

Then I will not end our relationship because of your moral conundrum or influence. Z'en will return from death.

She looked up at Zeqqi, water-like ink began to well up in the bottom of her eyes.

I am sorry, Zeqqi.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en only moved slightly. It wasn't clear if he was beginning to wake or not.]

[Zeqqi hugged Mora, crying into her shoulder.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira plunged the shard of darkness into Zenithar's heart, twisting it slightly.]

𝕆𝕙, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕘𝕠𝕠𝕕 𝕝𝕦𝕔𝕜 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕚𝕟𝕘. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕤𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕊𝕙𝕒𝕕𝕖𝕤 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕕𝕣𝕠-𝕞'𝔸𝕥𝕙𝕣𝕒 𝕒𝕗𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora returned Zeqqi's hug. When Namira twisted Z'en's heart she held his daughter tighter. The thought of leaving him just as they had found him hurt. That was not the point of their mission, it was to bring him back home somewhat whole. Instead she had killed him.

She looked away from him and let go of Zeqqi.

I will not forget this Namira.

@zen-ithar

[A crack of ribs and squelch of flesh, Z'en had let out a brief noise as he was being stabbed into. He squirmed for just a moment before his whole body went still once more. Though this time there was nothing to indicate any signs of life.]

[Zeqqi briefly looked back at her father before quickly turning away with a sob. She was so caught up in grief and horror that Namira's other words did not register.]

ladyofrevulsion

[The sound of a low, beating thrum could be heard. Namira cackled before dissipating into darkness. A low wail and the pounding of feet could be heard nearby. Mora and Zeqqi were about to have company.]

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Zeqqi, I am sorry but we have to leave him here and leave Namira's realm. I do not wish to do it either but we must. Come now.

Mora gently pulled one of Zeqqi's arms in one hand while preparing a protection spell in the other.

@zen-ithar

[Zeqqi nodded and let herself be pulled as she continued to cry. At the first sight of enemies, however, she pulled herself together and drew her scimitar with one hand, and with the other she drew forth a measure of water.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Shades and dro-m'Athra charged at the two gods, making their retreat difficult.]

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Anything that got too close to them was either smacked by a ink-like tentacle or picked up by said tentacle and thrown into the crowds of Shades and dro-m'Athra. She'd throw the occasional lighting or fire bolt and let the effects of the element spread amongst them. The closer to the exit they got, the more visibly tires Hermaeus Mora became.

[Zeqqi did her part in knocking over their attackers with water magic. Any that got close enough were hit with her scimitar. When they at last reached the portal, Zeqqi took a firm, defensive stance.]

Go, I'll be right behind you.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora looks at the portal and shakes her head

No. We are going through together. I will close it when we have left this plane. Understood?

[Zeqqi sighs.]

Fine.

[There is an explosion outward of water, throwing the nearby Shades and dro-m'Athra back. Then, she grabs Mora's hand and runs through the portal with her.]

eye-who-sees-all

As soon as they were on the other side of the portal Mora pulled her hand away from Zeqqi and turned around to the portal. She closed it in a similar fashion to how she opened it.

It exhausted her more than she had anticipated. She tilted to the side like last time. This time she didn't have the reflexes to catch herself and laid on the ground.

I am fine. Just exhausted some of my power for now. How are you, Zeqqi?

Mora pushed herself of the ground and slowly rose from it.

[Zeqqi nearly threw herself at Mora, holding her tightly in a hug as quiet sobs escaped her.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora returned the hug and gently rubbed her back.

He will return to us, I assure you. Everything will be okay with time.

[She doesn't speak, just clings to Mora. After some time, she pulls away, looking down.]

I... do not want to be alone. May I... may I stay with you?

eye-who-sees-all

Of course you may, Zeqqi. Where would you like for us to stay, Zenithar or Apocrypha?

I don't know. Either. I just don't want to be alone.

eye-who-sees-all

We can stay on your father's plane. There are things I want to attend before... before he comes back. I will open a portal for us in a few minutes.

[She nods and sits down on the ground, closing her eyes while she waits for Mora to regain her strength.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora sits down as well, her head turned away from Zeqqi. The recovery of her power was taking longer than she anticipated. Everytime the image of Z'en, alive or dead, crossed her mind she felt a stab of guilt in her chest. She spun her engagement to ease herself.

I am sorry that this did not go to plan. Namira she... I know it would be painful for him to not... that he would have to suppress his emotions. I do not want that for him. I hope you understand that.

...I know. I think you went with the option that he would have chosen. I don't blame you for that. What happened was solely Namira's fault.

[She gently leaned sideways against Mora.]

I think I'll like having you as a stepmom, after all.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora slightly smiled and put an arm around her.

I will not ask you to call me mum or mother. I am... grateful that you might like me. I quite like you as well.

Yeah, I'm definitely not at the point where I want to call you mother. Maybe one day, though. After I know you better.

eye-who-sees-all

You do not have to either. I am not your paternal parent and I do not expect you to ever call me that, unless you want to.

Mora removes her arm from Zeqqi and gets up from the ground. She opens a portal to Zenithar.

Are you ready to leave?

[She nodded and stood, walking through the portal.]

Hello Zeqqi,

I know I told you to come to me when you are ready but I am... being told Zenithar was screaming when prayed to and now he has stopped. I do not want to imagine what has happened to him but I do believe we have to hurry.

@eye-who-sees-all

...okay. I have just finished my preparations, anyway.

[Zeqqi has changed her usual robes for light armour. Her hair has been pulled back into braids. A scimitar is sheathed at her hip, along with a stone, one which looks remarkably like the Mourning Stone, a source of infinite water.]

eye-who-sees-all

Very good.

Mora has changed nothing about her apperance. The only thing that is notably different about her is that there is a snake in her shirt's pocket.

Mora opens a portal to the location where she will open the rift to Namira's realm. She gestured for Zeqqi to walk in first.

I can enter before you, if you prefer.

No need.

[Zeqqi walks through the portal.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora follows her. She walks up to the spot and sits down on ground. She places her hands where the rift used to be and shuts her eyes as she pours her energy to open the rift. As soon as it opens she let's out a heavy sigh and tilts to the side. She catches herself and slowly rises from the ground.

I will close it when we have retrieved your father.

[Zeqqi frowns.]

Are you okay?

eye-who-sees-all

Yes, I am fine. Let us go.

Mora walks through the rift.

[Zeqqi follows her closely, hand gripping the hilt of her scimitar.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora scratches Pearl before she takes out Sep's pearl. She hoped it would lead to Zenithar when they are in the same plane.

Are you feeling alright? If you feel unwell we can leave.

Me? I am fine. Let's just find my father.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora nods and uses sep's peal, again, hoping it will take them to Zenithar.

@zen-ithar /nf

[The Pearl seems to be able to find him now, acting almost like a compass to reveal Zenithar's location.]

@zeqqi

[As they close in on Zenithar's location, Zeqqi walks faster, anxiety eating at her.]

This seems too easy...

ladyofrevulsion

[The darkness around the two gods thickens, almost swallowing up what little light there was in the Scuttling Void. Namira's voice, a dry, raspy, ancient thing, echoes around them.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕣𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕕 𝕒𝕥 𝕝𝕒𝕤𝕥. ℤ𝕖𝕟𝕚𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕣 𝕒𝕨𝕒𝕚𝕥𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

I agree. It does seem far too easy.

Mora walks alongside Zeqqi. Her own anxiety was growing as they were getting closer and closer. She tried her best to hide it from Zeqqi to prevent anymore anxiety.

Hearing that voice that voice made Mora clutch onto the pearl tighter.

@zen-ithar

[In the middle of a room filled with vile flesh and blood, there was Zenithar. Attached to a torture rack, he not in great condition. His head hung down and on his body were a variety of lesions and bruises some shallow and others reaching bone. He did not stir when they entered.]

@zeqqi

[Zeqqi was horrified when she saw the state her father was in. She began to rush forward, but ended up running headfirst into an invisible wall of force. She cursed in Yoku, holding her head.]

ladyofrevulsion

[A dry, raspy laugh echoes around them. A hooded, skeletal woman with arthropod legs appears beside Zenithar. She summons a shard of dark energy, and places the tip of it over Zenithar's heart.]

𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕒𝕗𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕕 𝕚𝕥 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕓𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕪. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕠 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟 𝕙𝕚𝕞... 𝕀𝔽 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡. ℕ𝕠 𝕞𝕖𝕣𝕘𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕝𝕞𝕤, 𝕟𝕠 𝕣𝕠𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖. 𝕀𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕣𝕖𝕗𝕦𝕤𝕖... 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora stared at Zenithar for a long time. Despite seeing him injured and tortured it brought a sense of comfort to see him. It pained her to see Zeqqi attempting to get to her father but being prohibited from it.

She looked at Namira and squared her shoulders.

I am not going to play your games. He has been through enough. Release him.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en still did not move. If it wasn't for the very faint breathing, it would have seemed like he was already dead.]

[Silent tears ran down Zeqqi's face as she hit her fist against the wall of force separating her from her father.]

LET HIM GO! HE'S DONE NOTHING WRONG!

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira chuckled, pushing the shard ever so slightly into Zenithar's chest: a warning.]

𝕃𝕒𝕤𝕥 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖, 𝕄𝕠𝕣𝕒. 𝔹𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕙𝕚𝕞, 𝕠𝕣 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤. 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕕𝕠𝕟'𝕥 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕡𝕠𝕠𝕣 ℤ𝕖𝕢𝕢𝕚 𝕥𝕠 𝕨𝕒𝕥𝕔𝕙 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕗𝕒𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕕𝕚𝕖, 𝕕𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦?

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced between Zeqqi and Zenithar. She did not want to him die. Least of all his daughter. But she considered it. She could see what their lives would look like if they were not together and how painful it would be. They'd still seek each other's counsel and company but not to the full extent they'd wish. It would be even more painful for Zen.

She walks over to Zeqqi and hesitantly puts her hands on her arms, ready to turn her away if needed.

If he dies and returns, will you leave us alone?

@zen-ithar

[Z'en flinches slightly from the touch of the blade though his head stays low.]

[Zeqqi stared at the shard pressed against her father's chest. She didn't seem to notice Mora's touch. Her attention was wholly on her father. Her breaths became more ragged as her crying grew in intensity.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira tilted her head, her empty eye sockets staring Mora and Zeqqi down.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕞𝕪 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕕. 𝕀𝕗 ℤ'𝕖𝕟 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟𝕤 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕕𝕖𝕒𝕥𝕙, 𝕀 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕠𝕥𝕙 𝕒𝕝𝕠𝕟𝕖.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced at Zenithar. It will hurt her but he won't be in any more pain. She pulled Zeqqi closer and gently turned her around to avoid looking at him.

Then I will not end our relationship because of your moral conundrum or influence. Z'en will return from death.

She looked up at Zeqqi, water-like ink began to well up in the bottom of her eyes.

I am sorry, Zeqqi.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en only moved slightly. It wasn't clear if he was beginning to wake or not.]

[Zeqqi hugged Mora, crying into her shoulder.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira plunged the shard of darkness into Zenithar's heart, twisting it slightly.]

𝕆𝕙, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕘𝕠𝕠𝕕 𝕝𝕦𝕔𝕜 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕚𝕟𝕘. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕤𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕊𝕙𝕒𝕕𝕖𝕤 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕕𝕣𝕠-𝕞'𝔸𝕥𝕙𝕣𝕒 𝕒𝕗𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora returned Zeqqi's hug. When Namira twisted Z'en's heart she held his daughter tighter. The thought of leaving him just as they had found him hurt. That was not the point of their mission, it was to bring him back home somewhat whole. Instead she had killed him.

She looked away from him and let go of Zeqqi.

I will not forget this Namira.

@zen-ithar

[A crack of ribs and squelch of flesh, Z'en had let out a brief noise as he was being stabbed into. He squirmed for just a moment before his whole body went still once more. Though this time there was nothing to indicate any signs of life.]

[Zeqqi briefly looked back at her father before quickly turning away with a sob. She was so caught up in grief and horror that Namira's other words did not register.]

ladyofrevulsion

[The sound of a low, beating thrum could be heard. Namira cackled before dissipating into darkness. A low wail and the pounding of feet could be heard nearby. Mora and Zeqqi were about to have company.]

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Zeqqi, I am sorry but we have to leave him here and leave Namira's realm. I do not wish to do it either but we must. Come now.

Mora gently pulled one of Zeqqi's arms in one hand while preparing a protection spell in the other.

@zen-ithar

[Zeqqi nodded and let herself be pulled as she continued to cry. At the first sight of enemies, however, she pulled herself together and drew her scimitar with one hand, and with the other she drew forth a measure of water.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Shades and dro-m'Athra charged at the two gods, making their retreat difficult.]

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Anything that got too close to them was either smacked by a ink-like tentacle or picked up by said tentacle and thrown into the crowds of Shades and dro-m'Athra. She'd throw the occasional lighting or fire bolt and let the effects of the element spread amongst them. The closer to the exit they got, the more visibly tires Hermaeus Mora became.

[Zeqqi did her part in knocking over their attackers with water magic. Any that got close enough were hit with her scimitar. When they at last reached the portal, Zeqqi took a firm, defensive stance.]

Go, I'll be right behind you.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora looks at the portal and shakes her head

No. We are going through together. I will close it when we have left this plane. Understood?

[Zeqqi sighs.]

Fine.

[There is an explosion outward of water, throwing the nearby Shades and dro-m'Athra back. Then, she grabs Mora's hand and runs through the portal with her.]

eye-who-sees-all

As soon as they were on the other side of the portal Mora pulled her hand away from Zeqqi and turned around to the portal. She closed it in a similar fashion to how she opened it.

It exhausted her more than she had anticipated. She tilted to the side like last time. This time she didn't have the reflexes to catch herself and laid on the ground.

I am fine. Just exhausted some of my power for now. How are you, Zeqqi?

Mora pushed herself of the ground and slowly rose from it.

[Zeqqi nearly threw herself at Mora, holding her tightly in a hug as quiet sobs escaped her.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora returned the hug and gently rubbed her back.

He will return to us, I assure you. Everything will be okay with time.

[She doesn't speak, just clings to Mora. After some time, she pulls away, looking down.]

I... do not want to be alone. May I... may I stay with you?

eye-who-sees-all

Of course you may, Zeqqi. Where would you like for us to stay, Zenithar or Apocrypha?

I don't know. Either. I just don't want to be alone.

eye-who-sees-all

We can stay on your father's plane. There are things I want to attend before... before he comes back. I will open a portal for us in a few minutes.

[She nods and sits down on the ground, closing her eyes while she waits for Mora to regain her strength.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora sits down as well, her head turned away from Zeqqi. The recovery of her power was taking longer than she anticipated. Everytime the image of Z'en, alive or dead, crossed her mind she felt a stab of guilt in her chest. She spun her engagement to ease herself.

I am sorry that this did not go to plan. Namira she... I know it would be painful for him to not... that he would have to suppress his emotions. I do not want that for him. I hope you understand that.

...I know. I think you went with the option that he would have chosen. I don't blame you for that. What happened was solely Namira's fault.

[She gently leaned sideways against Mora.]

I think I'll like having you as a stepmom, after all.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora slightly smiled and put an arm around her.

I will not ask you to call me mum or mother. I am... grateful that you might like me. I quite like you as well.

Yeah, I'm definitely not at the point where I want to call you mother. Maybe one day, though. After I know you better.

Hello Zeqqi,

I know I told you to come to me when you are ready but I am... being told Zenithar was screaming when prayed to and now he has stopped. I do not want to imagine what has happened to him but I do believe we have to hurry.

@eye-who-sees-all

...okay. I have just finished my preparations, anyway.

[Zeqqi has changed her usual robes for light armour. Her hair has been pulled back into braids. A scimitar is sheathed at her hip, along with a stone, one which looks remarkably like the Mourning Stone, a source of infinite water.]

eye-who-sees-all

Very good.

Mora has changed nothing about her apperance. The only thing that is notably different about her is that there is a snake in her shirt's pocket.

Mora opens a portal to the location where she will open the rift to Namira's realm. She gestured for Zeqqi to walk in first.

I can enter before you, if you prefer.

No need.

[Zeqqi walks through the portal.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora follows her. She walks up to the spot and sits down on ground. She places her hands where the rift used to be and shuts her eyes as she pours her energy to open the rift. As soon as it opens she let's out a heavy sigh and tilts to the side. She catches herself and slowly rises from the ground.

I will close it when we have retrieved your father.

[Zeqqi frowns.]

Are you okay?

eye-who-sees-all

Yes, I am fine. Let us go.

Mora walks through the rift.

[Zeqqi follows her closely, hand gripping the hilt of her scimitar.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora scratches Pearl before she takes out Sep's pearl. She hoped it would lead to Zenithar when they are in the same plane.

Are you feeling alright? If you feel unwell we can leave.

Me? I am fine. Let's just find my father.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora nods and uses sep's peal, again, hoping it will take them to Zenithar.

@zen-ithar /nf

[The Pearl seems to be able to find him now, acting almost like a compass to reveal Zenithar's location.]

@zeqqi

[As they close in on Zenithar's location, Zeqqi walks faster, anxiety eating at her.]

This seems too easy...

ladyofrevulsion

[The darkness around the two gods thickens, almost swallowing up what little light there was in the Scuttling Void. Namira's voice, a dry, raspy, ancient thing, echoes around them.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕣𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕕 𝕒𝕥 𝕝𝕒𝕤𝕥. ℤ𝕖𝕟𝕚𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕣 𝕒𝕨𝕒𝕚𝕥𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

I agree. It does seem far too easy.

Mora walks alongside Zeqqi. Her own anxiety was growing as they were getting closer and closer. She tried her best to hide it from Zeqqi to prevent anymore anxiety.

Hearing that voice that voice made Mora clutch onto the pearl tighter.

@zen-ithar

[In the middle of a room filled with vile flesh and blood, there was Zenithar. Attached to a torture rack, he not in great condition. His head hung down and on his body were a variety of lesions and bruises some shallow and others reaching bone. He did not stir when they entered.]

@zeqqi

[Zeqqi was horrified when she saw the state her father was in. She began to rush forward, but ended up running headfirst into an invisible wall of force. She cursed in Yoku, holding her head.]

ladyofrevulsion

[A dry, raspy laugh echoes around them. A hooded, skeletal woman with arthropod legs appears beside Zenithar. She summons a shard of dark energy, and places the tip of it over Zenithar's heart.]

𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕒𝕗𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕕 𝕚𝕥 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕓𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕪. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕠 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟 𝕙𝕚𝕞... 𝕀𝔽 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡. ℕ𝕠 𝕞𝕖𝕣𝕘𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕝𝕞𝕤, 𝕟𝕠 𝕣𝕠𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖. 𝕀𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕣𝕖𝕗𝕦𝕤𝕖... 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora stared at Zenithar for a long time. Despite seeing him injured and tortured it brought a sense of comfort to see him. It pained her to see Zeqqi attempting to get to her father but being prohibited from it.

She looked at Namira and squared her shoulders.

I am not going to play your games. He has been through enough. Release him.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en still did not move. If it wasn't for the very faint breathing, it would have seemed like he was already dead.]

[Silent tears ran down Zeqqi's face as she hit her fist against the wall of force separating her from her father.]

LET HIM GO! HE'S DONE NOTHING WRONG!

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira chuckled, pushing the shard ever so slightly into Zenithar's chest: a warning.]

𝕃𝕒𝕤𝕥 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖, 𝕄𝕠𝕣𝕒. 𝔹𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕙𝕚𝕞, 𝕠𝕣 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤. 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕕𝕠𝕟'𝕥 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕡𝕠𝕠𝕣 ℤ𝕖𝕢𝕢𝕚 𝕥𝕠 𝕨𝕒𝕥𝕔𝕙 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕗𝕒𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕕𝕚𝕖, 𝕕𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦?

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced between Zeqqi and Zenithar. She did not want to him die. Least of all his daughter. But she considered it. She could see what their lives would look like if they were not together and how painful it would be. They'd still seek each other's counsel and company but not to the full extent they'd wish. It would be even more painful for Zen.

She walks over to Zeqqi and hesitantly puts her hands on her arms, ready to turn her away if needed.

If he dies and returns, will you leave us alone?

@zen-ithar

[Z'en flinches slightly from the touch of the blade though his head stays low.]

[Zeqqi stared at the shard pressed against her father's chest. She didn't seem to notice Mora's touch. Her attention was wholly on her father. Her breaths became more ragged as her crying grew in intensity.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira tilted her head, her empty eye sockets staring Mora and Zeqqi down.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕞𝕪 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕕. 𝕀𝕗 ℤ'𝕖𝕟 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟𝕤 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕕𝕖𝕒𝕥𝕙, 𝕀 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕠𝕥𝕙 𝕒𝕝𝕠𝕟𝕖.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced at Zenithar. It will hurt her but he won't be in any more pain. She pulled Zeqqi closer and gently turned her around to avoid looking at him.

Then I will not end our relationship because of your moral conundrum or influence. Z'en will return from death.

She looked up at Zeqqi, water-like ink began to well up in the bottom of her eyes.

I am sorry, Zeqqi.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en only moved slightly. It wasn't clear if he was beginning to wake or not.]

[Zeqqi hugged Mora, crying into her shoulder.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira plunged the shard of darkness into Zenithar's heart, twisting it slightly.]

𝕆𝕙, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕘𝕠𝕠𝕕 𝕝𝕦𝕔𝕜 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕚𝕟𝕘. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕤𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕊𝕙𝕒𝕕𝕖𝕤 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕕𝕣𝕠-𝕞'𝔸𝕥𝕙𝕣𝕒 𝕒𝕗𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora returned Zeqqi's hug. When Namira twisted Z'en's heart she held his daughter tighter. The thought of leaving him just as they had found him hurt. That was not the point of their mission, it was to bring him back home somewhat whole. Instead she had killed him.

She looked away from him and let go of Zeqqi.

I will not forget this Namira.

@zen-ithar

[A crack of ribs and squelch of flesh, Z'en had let out a brief noise as he was being stabbed into. He squirmed for just a moment before his whole body went still once more. Though this time there was nothing to indicate any signs of life.]

[Zeqqi briefly looked back at her father before quickly turning away with a sob. She was so caught up in grief and horror that Namira's other words did not register.]

ladyofrevulsion

[The sound of a low, beating thrum could be heard. Namira cackled before dissipating into darkness. A low wail and the pounding of feet could be heard nearby. Mora and Zeqqi were about to have company.]

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Zeqqi, I am sorry but we have to leave him here and leave Namira's realm. I do not wish to do it either but we must. Come now.

Mora gently pulled one of Zeqqi's arms in one hand while preparing a protection spell in the other.

@zen-ithar

[Zeqqi nodded and let herself be pulled as she continued to cry. At the first sight of enemies, however, she pulled herself together and drew her scimitar with one hand, and with the other she drew forth a measure of water.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Shades and dro-m'Athra charged at the two gods, making their retreat difficult.]

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Anything that got too close to them was either smacked by a ink-like tentacle or picked up by said tentacle and thrown into the crowds of Shades and dro-m'Athra. She'd throw the occasional lighting or fire bolt and let the effects of the element spread amongst them. The closer to the exit they got, the more visibly tires Hermaeus Mora became.

[Zeqqi did her part in knocking over their attackers with water magic. Any that got close enough were hit with her scimitar. When they at last reached the portal, Zeqqi took a firm, defensive stance.]

Go, I'll be right behind you.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora looks at the portal and shakes her head

No. We are going through together. I will close it when we have left this plane. Understood?

[Zeqqi sighs.]

Fine.

[There is an explosion outward of water, throwing the nearby Shades and dro-m'Athra back. Then, she grabs Mora's hand and runs through the portal with her.]

eye-who-sees-all

As soon as they were on the other side of the portal Mora pulled her hand away from Zeqqi and turned around to the portal. She closed it in a similar fashion to how she opened it.

It exhausted her more than she had anticipated. She tilted to the side like last time. This time she didn't have the reflexes to catch herself and laid on the ground.

I am fine. Just exhausted some of my power for now. How are you, Zeqqi?

Mora pushed herself of the ground and slowly rose from it.

[Zeqqi nearly threw herself at Mora, holding her tightly in a hug as quiet sobs escaped her.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora returned the hug and gently rubbed her back.

He will return to us, I assure you. Everything will be okay with time.

[She doesn't speak, just clings to Mora. After some time, she pulls away, looking down.]

I... do not want to be alone. May I... may I stay with you?

eye-who-sees-all

Of course you may, Zeqqi. Where would you like for us to stay, Zenithar or Apocrypha?

I don't know. Either. I just don't want to be alone.

eye-who-sees-all

We can stay on your father's plane. There are things I want to attend before... before he comes back. I will open a portal for us in a few minutes.

[She nods and sits down on the ground, closing her eyes while she waits for Mora to regain her strength.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora sits down as well, her head turned away from Zeqqi. The recovery of her power was taking longer than she anticipated. Everytime the image of Z'en, alive or dead, crossed her mind she felt a stab of guilt in her chest. She spun her engagement to ease herself.

I am sorry that this did not go to plan. Namira she... I know it would be painful for him to not... that he would have to suppress his emotions. I do not want that for him. I hope you understand that.

...I know. I think you went with the option that he would have chosen. I don't blame you for that. What happened was solely Namira's fault.

[She gently leaned sideways against Mora.]

I think I'll like having you as a stepmom, after all.

Hello Zeqqi,

I know I told you to come to me when you are ready but I am... being told Zenithar was screaming when prayed to and now he has stopped. I do not want to imagine what has happened to him but I do believe we have to hurry.

@eye-who-sees-all

...okay. I have just finished my preparations, anyway.

[Zeqqi has changed her usual robes for light armour. Her hair has been pulled back into braids. A scimitar is sheathed at her hip, along with a stone, one which looks remarkably like the Mourning Stone, a source of infinite water.]

eye-who-sees-all

Very good.

Mora has changed nothing about her apperance. The only thing that is notably different about her is that there is a snake in her shirt's pocket.

Mora opens a portal to the location where she will open the rift to Namira's realm. She gestured for Zeqqi to walk in first.

I can enter before you, if you prefer.

No need.

[Zeqqi walks through the portal.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora follows her. She walks up to the spot and sits down on ground. She places her hands where the rift used to be and shuts her eyes as she pours her energy to open the rift. As soon as it opens she let's out a heavy sigh and tilts to the side. She catches herself and slowly rises from the ground.

I will close it when we have retrieved your father.

[Zeqqi frowns.]

Are you okay?

eye-who-sees-all

Yes, I am fine. Let us go.

Mora walks through the rift.

[Zeqqi follows her closely, hand gripping the hilt of her scimitar.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora scratches Pearl before she takes out Sep's pearl. She hoped it would lead to Zenithar when they are in the same plane.

Are you feeling alright? If you feel unwell we can leave.

Me? I am fine. Let's just find my father.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora nods and uses sep's peal, again, hoping it will take them to Zenithar.

@zen-ithar /nf

[The Pearl seems to be able to find him now, acting almost like a compass to reveal Zenithar's location.]

@zeqqi

[As they close in on Zenithar's location, Zeqqi walks faster, anxiety eating at her.]

This seems too easy...

ladyofrevulsion

[The darkness around the two gods thickens, almost swallowing up what little light there was in the Scuttling Void. Namira's voice, a dry, raspy, ancient thing, echoes around them.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕣𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕕 𝕒𝕥 𝕝𝕒𝕤𝕥. ℤ𝕖𝕟𝕚𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕣 𝕒𝕨𝕒𝕚𝕥𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

I agree. It does seem far too easy.

Mora walks alongside Zeqqi. Her own anxiety was growing as they were getting closer and closer. She tried her best to hide it from Zeqqi to prevent anymore anxiety.

Hearing that voice that voice made Mora clutch onto the pearl tighter.

@zen-ithar

[In the middle of a room filled with vile flesh and blood, there was Zenithar. Attached to a torture rack, he not in great condition. His head hung down and on his body were a variety of lesions and bruises some shallow and others reaching bone. He did not stir when they entered.]

@zeqqi

[Zeqqi was horrified when she saw the state her father was in. She began to rush forward, but ended up running headfirst into an invisible wall of force. She cursed in Yoku, holding her head.]

ladyofrevulsion

[A dry, raspy laugh echoes around them. A hooded, skeletal woman with arthropod legs appears beside Zenithar. She summons a shard of dark energy, and places the tip of it over Zenithar's heart.]

𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕒𝕗𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕕 𝕚𝕥 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕓𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕪. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕠 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟 𝕙𝕚𝕞... 𝕀𝔽 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡. ℕ𝕠 𝕞𝕖𝕣𝕘𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕝𝕞𝕤, 𝕟𝕠 𝕣𝕠𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖. 𝕀𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕣𝕖𝕗𝕦𝕤𝕖... 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora stared at Zenithar for a long time. Despite seeing him injured and tortured it brought a sense of comfort to see him. It pained her to see Zeqqi attempting to get to her father but being prohibited from it.

She looked at Namira and squared her shoulders.

I am not going to play your games. He has been through enough. Release him.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en still did not move. If it wasn't for the very faint breathing, it would have seemed like he was already dead.]

[Silent tears ran down Zeqqi's face as she hit her fist against the wall of force separating her from her father.]

LET HIM GO! HE'S DONE NOTHING WRONG!

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira chuckled, pushing the shard ever so slightly into Zenithar's chest: a warning.]

𝕃𝕒𝕤𝕥 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖, 𝕄𝕠𝕣𝕒. 𝔹𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕙𝕚𝕞, 𝕠𝕣 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤. 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕕𝕠𝕟'𝕥 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕡𝕠𝕠𝕣 ℤ𝕖𝕢𝕢𝕚 𝕥𝕠 𝕨𝕒𝕥𝕔𝕙 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕗𝕒𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕕𝕚𝕖, 𝕕𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦?

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced between Zeqqi and Zenithar. She did not want to him die. Least of all his daughter. But she considered it. She could see what their lives would look like if they were not together and how painful it would be. They'd still seek each other's counsel and company but not to the full extent they'd wish. It would be even more painful for Zen.

She walks over to Zeqqi and hesitantly puts her hands on her arms, ready to turn her away if needed.

If he dies and returns, will you leave us alone?

@zen-ithar

[Z'en flinches slightly from the touch of the blade though his head stays low.]

[Zeqqi stared at the shard pressed against her father's chest. She didn't seem to notice Mora's touch. Her attention was wholly on her father. Her breaths became more ragged as her crying grew in intensity.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira tilted her head, her empty eye sockets staring Mora and Zeqqi down.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕞𝕪 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕕. 𝕀𝕗 ℤ'𝕖𝕟 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟𝕤 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕕𝕖𝕒𝕥𝕙, 𝕀 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕠𝕥𝕙 𝕒𝕝𝕠𝕟𝕖.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced at Zenithar. It will hurt her but he won't be in any more pain. She pulled Zeqqi closer and gently turned her around to avoid looking at him.

Then I will not end our relationship because of your moral conundrum or influence. Z'en will return from death.

She looked up at Zeqqi, water-like ink began to well up in the bottom of her eyes.

I am sorry, Zeqqi.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en only moved slightly. It wasn't clear if he was beginning to wake or not.]

[Zeqqi hugged Mora, crying into her shoulder.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira plunged the shard of darkness into Zenithar's heart, twisting it slightly.]

𝕆𝕙, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕘𝕠𝕠𝕕 𝕝𝕦𝕔𝕜 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕚𝕟𝕘. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕤𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕊𝕙𝕒𝕕𝕖𝕤 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕕𝕣𝕠-𝕞'𝔸𝕥𝕙𝕣𝕒 𝕒𝕗𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora returned Zeqqi's hug. When Namira twisted Z'en's heart she held his daughter tighter. The thought of leaving him just as they had found him hurt. That was not the point of their mission, it was to bring him back home somewhat whole. Instead she had killed him.

She looked away from him and let go of Zeqqi.

I will not forget this Namira.

@zen-ithar

[A crack of ribs and squelch of flesh, Z'en had let out a brief noise as he was being stabbed into. He squirmed for just a moment before his whole body went still once more. Though this time there was nothing to indicate any signs of life.]

[Zeqqi briefly looked back at her father before quickly turning away with a sob. She was so caught up in grief and horror that Namira's other words did not register.]

ladyofrevulsion

[The sound of a low, beating thrum could be heard. Namira cackled before dissipating into darkness. A low wail and the pounding of feet could be heard nearby. Mora and Zeqqi were about to have company.]

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Zeqqi, I am sorry but we have to leave him here and leave Namira's realm. I do not wish to do it either but we must. Come now.

Mora gently pulled one of Zeqqi's arms in one hand while preparing a protection spell in the other.

@zen-ithar

[Zeqqi nodded and let herself be pulled as she continued to cry. At the first sight of enemies, however, she pulled herself together and drew her scimitar with one hand, and with the other she drew forth a measure of water.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Shades and dro-m'Athra charged at the two gods, making their retreat difficult.]

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Anything that got too close to them was either smacked by a ink-like tentacle or picked up by said tentacle and thrown into the crowds of Shades and dro-m'Athra. She'd throw the occasional lighting or fire bolt and let the effects of the element spread amongst them. The closer to the exit they got, the more visibly tires Hermaeus Mora became.

[Zeqqi did her part in knocking over their attackers with water magic. Any that got close enough were hit with her scimitar. When they at last reached the portal, Zeqqi took a firm, defensive stance.]

Go, I'll be right behind you.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora looks at the portal and shakes her head

No. We are going through together. I will close it when we have left this plane. Understood?

[Zeqqi sighs.]

Fine.

[There is an explosion outward of water, throwing the nearby Shades and dro-m'Athra back. Then, she grabs Mora's hand and runs through the portal with her.]

eye-who-sees-all

As soon as they were on the other side of the portal Mora pulled her hand away from Zeqqi and turned around to the portal. She closed it in a similar fashion to how she opened it.

It exhausted her more than she had anticipated. She tilted to the side like last time. This time she didn't have the reflexes to catch herself and laid on the ground.

I am fine. Just exhausted some of my power for now. How are you, Zeqqi?

Mora pushed herself of the ground and slowly rose from it.

[Zeqqi nearly threw herself at Mora, holding her tightly in a hug as quiet sobs escaped her.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora returned the hug and gently rubbed her back.

He will return to us, I assure you. Everything will be okay with time.

[She doesn't speak, just clings to Mora. After some time, she pulls away, looking down.]

I... do not want to be alone. May I... may I stay with you?

eye-who-sees-all

Of course you may, Zeqqi. Where would you like for us to stay, Zenithar or Apocrypha?

I don't know. Either. I just don't want to be alone.

eye-who-sees-all

We can stay on your father's plane. There are things I want to attend before... before he comes back. I will open a portal for us in a few minutes.

[She nods and sits down on the ground, closing her eyes while she waits for Mora to regain her strength.]

Hello Zeqqi,

I know I told you to come to me when you are ready but I am... being told Zenithar was screaming when prayed to and now he has stopped. I do not want to imagine what has happened to him but I do believe we have to hurry.

@eye-who-sees-all

...okay. I have just finished my preparations, anyway.

[Zeqqi has changed her usual robes for light armour. Her hair has been pulled back into braids. A scimitar is sheathed at her hip, along with a stone, one which looks remarkably like the Mourning Stone, a source of infinite water.]

eye-who-sees-all

Very good.

Mora has changed nothing about her apperance. The only thing that is notably different about her is that there is a snake in her shirt's pocket.

Mora opens a portal to the location where she will open the rift to Namira's realm. She gestured for Zeqqi to walk in first.

I can enter before you, if you prefer.

No need.

[Zeqqi walks through the portal.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora follows her. She walks up to the spot and sits down on ground. She places her hands where the rift used to be and shuts her eyes as she pours her energy to open the rift. As soon as it opens she let's out a heavy sigh and tilts to the side. She catches herself and slowly rises from the ground.

I will close it when we have retrieved your father.

[Zeqqi frowns.]

Are you okay?

eye-who-sees-all

Yes, I am fine. Let us go.

Mora walks through the rift.

[Zeqqi follows her closely, hand gripping the hilt of her scimitar.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora scratches Pearl before she takes out Sep's pearl. She hoped it would lead to Zenithar when they are in the same plane.

Are you feeling alright? If you feel unwell we can leave.

Me? I am fine. Let's just find my father.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora nods and uses sep's peal, again, hoping it will take them to Zenithar.

@zen-ithar /nf

[The Pearl seems to be able to find him now, acting almost like a compass to reveal Zenithar's location.]

@zeqqi

[As they close in on Zenithar's location, Zeqqi walks faster, anxiety eating at her.]

This seems too easy...

ladyofrevulsion

[The darkness around the two gods thickens, almost swallowing up what little light there was in the Scuttling Void. Namira's voice, a dry, raspy, ancient thing, echoes around them.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕣𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕕 𝕒𝕥 𝕝𝕒𝕤𝕥. ℤ𝕖𝕟𝕚𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕣 𝕒𝕨𝕒𝕚𝕥𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

I agree. It does seem far too easy.

Mora walks alongside Zeqqi. Her own anxiety was growing as they were getting closer and closer. She tried her best to hide it from Zeqqi to prevent anymore anxiety.

Hearing that voice that voice made Mora clutch onto the pearl tighter.

@zen-ithar

[In the middle of a room filled with vile flesh and blood, there was Zenithar. Attached to a torture rack, he not in great condition. His head hung down and on his body were a variety of lesions and bruises some shallow and others reaching bone. He did not stir when they entered.]

@zeqqi

[Zeqqi was horrified when she saw the state her father was in. She began to rush forward, but ended up running headfirst into an invisible wall of force. She cursed in Yoku, holding her head.]

ladyofrevulsion

[A dry, raspy laugh echoes around them. A hooded, skeletal woman with arthropod legs appears beside Zenithar. She summons a shard of dark energy, and places the tip of it over Zenithar's heart.]

𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕒𝕗𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕕 𝕚𝕥 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕓𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕪. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕠 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟 𝕙𝕚𝕞... 𝕀𝔽 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡. ℕ𝕠 𝕞𝕖𝕣𝕘𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕝𝕞𝕤, 𝕟𝕠 𝕣𝕠𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖. 𝕀𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕣𝕖𝕗𝕦𝕤𝕖... 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora stared at Zenithar for a long time. Despite seeing him injured and tortured it brought a sense of comfort to see him. It pained her to see Zeqqi attempting to get to her father but being prohibited from it.

She looked at Namira and squared her shoulders.

I am not going to play your games. He has been through enough. Release him.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en still did not move. If it wasn't for the very faint breathing, it would have seemed like he was already dead.]

[Silent tears ran down Zeqqi's face as she hit her fist against the wall of force separating her from her father.]

LET HIM GO! HE'S DONE NOTHING WRONG!

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira chuckled, pushing the shard ever so slightly into Zenithar's chest: a warning.]

𝕃𝕒𝕤𝕥 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖, 𝕄𝕠𝕣𝕒. 𝔹𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕙𝕚𝕞, 𝕠𝕣 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤. 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕕𝕠𝕟'𝕥 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕡𝕠𝕠𝕣 ℤ𝕖𝕢𝕢𝕚 𝕥𝕠 𝕨𝕒𝕥𝕔𝕙 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕗𝕒𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕕𝕚𝕖, 𝕕𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦?

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced between Zeqqi and Zenithar. She did not want to him die. Least of all his daughter. But she considered it. She could see what their lives would look like if they were not together and how painful it would be. They'd still seek each other's counsel and company but not to the full extent they'd wish. It would be even more painful for Zen.

She walks over to Zeqqi and hesitantly puts her hands on her arms, ready to turn her away if needed.

If he dies and returns, will you leave us alone?

@zen-ithar

[Z'en flinches slightly from the touch of the blade though his head stays low.]

[Zeqqi stared at the shard pressed against her father's chest. She didn't seem to notice Mora's touch. Her attention was wholly on her father. Her breaths became more ragged as her crying grew in intensity.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira tilted her head, her empty eye sockets staring Mora and Zeqqi down.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕞𝕪 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕕. 𝕀𝕗 ℤ'𝕖𝕟 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟𝕤 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕕𝕖𝕒𝕥𝕙, 𝕀 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕠𝕥𝕙 𝕒𝕝𝕠𝕟𝕖.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced at Zenithar. It will hurt her but he won't be in any more pain. She pulled Zeqqi closer and gently turned her around to avoid looking at him.

Then I will not end our relationship because of your moral conundrum or influence. Z'en will return from death.

She looked up at Zeqqi, water-like ink began to well up in the bottom of her eyes.

I am sorry, Zeqqi.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en only moved slightly. It wasn't clear if he was beginning to wake or not.]

[Zeqqi hugged Mora, crying into her shoulder.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira plunged the shard of darkness into Zenithar's heart, twisting it slightly.]

𝕆𝕙, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕘𝕠𝕠𝕕 𝕝𝕦𝕔𝕜 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕚𝕟𝕘. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕤𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕊𝕙𝕒𝕕𝕖𝕤 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕕𝕣𝕠-𝕞'𝔸𝕥𝕙𝕣𝕒 𝕒𝕗𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora returned Zeqqi's hug. When Namira twisted Z'en's heart she held his daughter tighter. The thought of leaving him just as they had found him hurt. That was not the point of their mission, it was to bring him back home somewhat whole. Instead she had killed him.

She looked away from him and let go of Zeqqi.

I will not forget this Namira.

@zen-ithar

[A crack of ribs and squelch of flesh, Z'en had let out a brief noise as he was being stabbed into. He squirmed for just a moment before his whole body went still once more. Though this time there was nothing to indicate any signs of life.]

[Zeqqi briefly looked back at her father before quickly turning away with a sob. She was so caught up in grief and horror that Namira's other words did not register.]

ladyofrevulsion

[The sound of a low, beating thrum could be heard. Namira cackled before dissipating into darkness. A low wail and the pounding of feet could be heard nearby. Mora and Zeqqi were about to have company.]

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Zeqqi, I am sorry but we have to leave him here and leave Namira's realm. I do not wish to do it either but we must. Come now.

Mora gently pulled one of Zeqqi's arms in one hand while preparing a protection spell in the other.

@zen-ithar

[Zeqqi nodded and let herself be pulled as she continued to cry. At the first sight of enemies, however, she pulled herself together and drew her scimitar with one hand, and with the other she drew forth a measure of water.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Shades and dro-m'Athra charged at the two gods, making their retreat difficult.]

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Anything that got too close to them was either smacked by a ink-like tentacle or picked up by said tentacle and thrown into the crowds of Shades and dro-m'Athra. She'd throw the occasional lighting or fire bolt and let the effects of the element spread amongst them. The closer to the exit they got, the more visibly tires Hermaeus Mora became.

[Zeqqi did her part in knocking over their attackers with water magic. Any that got close enough were hit with her scimitar. When they at last reached the portal, Zeqqi took a firm, defensive stance.]

Go, I'll be right behind you.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora looks at the portal and shakes her head

No. We are going through together. I will close it when we have left this plane. Understood?

[Zeqqi sighs.]

Fine.

[There is an explosion outward of water, throwing the nearby Shades and dro-m'Athra back. Then, she grabs Mora's hand and runs through the portal with her.]

eye-who-sees-all

As soon as they were on the other side of the portal Mora pulled her hand away from Zeqqi and turned around to the portal. She closed it in a similar fashion to how she opened it.

It exhausted her more than she had anticipated. She tilted to the side like last time. This time she didn't have the reflexes to catch herself and laid on the ground.

I am fine. Just exhausted some of my power for now. How are you, Zeqqi?

Mora pushed herself of the ground and slowly rose from it.

[Zeqqi nearly threw herself at Mora, holding her tightly in a hug as quiet sobs escaped her.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora returned the hug and gently rubbed her back.

He will return to us, I assure you. Everything will be okay with time.

[She doesn't speak, just clings to Mora. After some time, she pulls away, looking down.]

I... do not want to be alone. May I... may I stay with you?

eye-who-sees-all

Of course you may, Zeqqi. Where would you like for us to stay, Zenithar or Apocrypha?

I don't know. Either. I just don't want to be alone.

Hello Zeqqi,

I know I told you to come to me when you are ready but I am... being told Zenithar was screaming when prayed to and now he has stopped. I do not want to imagine what has happened to him but I do believe we have to hurry.

@eye-who-sees-all

...okay. I have just finished my preparations, anyway.

[Zeqqi has changed her usual robes for light armour. Her hair has been pulled back into braids. A scimitar is sheathed at her hip, along with a stone, one which looks remarkably like the Mourning Stone, a source of infinite water.]

eye-who-sees-all

Very good.

Mora has changed nothing about her apperance. The only thing that is notably different about her is that there is a snake in her shirt's pocket.

Mora opens a portal to the location where she will open the rift to Namira's realm. She gestured for Zeqqi to walk in first.

I can enter before you, if you prefer.

No need.

[Zeqqi walks through the portal.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora follows her. She walks up to the spot and sits down on ground. She places her hands where the rift used to be and shuts her eyes as she pours her energy to open the rift. As soon as it opens she let's out a heavy sigh and tilts to the side. She catches herself and slowly rises from the ground.

I will close it when we have retrieved your father.

[Zeqqi frowns.]

Are you okay?

eye-who-sees-all

Yes, I am fine. Let us go.

Mora walks through the rift.

[Zeqqi follows her closely, hand gripping the hilt of her scimitar.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora scratches Pearl before she takes out Sep's pearl. She hoped it would lead to Zenithar when they are in the same plane.

Are you feeling alright? If you feel unwell we can leave.

Me? I am fine. Let's just find my father.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora nods and uses sep's peal, again, hoping it will take them to Zenithar.

@zen-ithar /nf

[The Pearl seems to be able to find him now, acting almost like a compass to reveal Zenithar's location.]

@zeqqi

[As they close in on Zenithar's location, Zeqqi walks faster, anxiety eating at her.]

This seems too easy...

ladyofrevulsion

[The darkness around the two gods thickens, almost swallowing up what little light there was in the Scuttling Void. Namira's voice, a dry, raspy, ancient thing, echoes around them.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕣𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕕 𝕒𝕥 𝕝𝕒𝕤𝕥. ℤ𝕖𝕟𝕚𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕣 𝕒𝕨𝕒𝕚𝕥𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

I agree. It does seem far too easy.

Mora walks alongside Zeqqi. Her own anxiety was growing as they were getting closer and closer. She tried her best to hide it from Zeqqi to prevent anymore anxiety.

Hearing that voice that voice made Mora clutch onto the pearl tighter.

@zen-ithar

[In the middle of a room filled with vile flesh and blood, there was Zenithar. Attached to a torture rack, he not in great condition. His head hung down and on his body were a variety of lesions and bruises some shallow and others reaching bone. He did not stir when they entered.]

@zeqqi

[Zeqqi was horrified when she saw the state her father was in. She began to rush forward, but ended up running headfirst into an invisible wall of force. She cursed in Yoku, holding her head.]

ladyofrevulsion

[A dry, raspy laugh echoes around them. A hooded, skeletal woman with arthropod legs appears beside Zenithar. She summons a shard of dark energy, and places the tip of it over Zenithar's heart.]

𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕒𝕗𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕕 𝕚𝕥 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕓𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕪. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕠 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟 𝕙𝕚𝕞... 𝕀𝔽 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡. ℕ𝕠 𝕞𝕖𝕣𝕘𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕝𝕞𝕤, 𝕟𝕠 𝕣𝕠𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖. 𝕀𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕣𝕖𝕗𝕦𝕤𝕖... 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora stared at Zenithar for a long time. Despite seeing him injured and tortured it brought a sense of comfort to see him. It pained her to see Zeqqi attempting to get to her father but being prohibited from it.

She looked at Namira and squared her shoulders.

I am not going to play your games. He has been through enough. Release him.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en still did not move. If it wasn't for the very faint breathing, it would have seemed like he was already dead.]

[Silent tears ran down Zeqqi's face as she hit her fist against the wall of force separating her from her father.]

LET HIM GO! HE'S DONE NOTHING WRONG!

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira chuckled, pushing the shard ever so slightly into Zenithar's chest: a warning.]

𝕃𝕒𝕤𝕥 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖, 𝕄𝕠𝕣𝕒. 𝔹𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕙𝕚𝕞, 𝕠𝕣 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤. 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕕𝕠𝕟'𝕥 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕡𝕠𝕠𝕣 ℤ𝕖𝕢𝕢𝕚 𝕥𝕠 𝕨𝕒𝕥𝕔𝕙 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕗𝕒𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕕𝕚𝕖, 𝕕𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦?

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced between Zeqqi and Zenithar. She did not want to him die. Least of all his daughter. But she considered it. She could see what their lives would look like if they were not together and how painful it would be. They'd still seek each other's counsel and company but not to the full extent they'd wish. It would be even more painful for Zen.

She walks over to Zeqqi and hesitantly puts her hands on her arms, ready to turn her away if needed.

If he dies and returns, will you leave us alone?

@zen-ithar

[Z'en flinches slightly from the touch of the blade though his head stays low.]

[Zeqqi stared at the shard pressed against her father's chest. She didn't seem to notice Mora's touch. Her attention was wholly on her father. Her breaths became more ragged as her crying grew in intensity.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira tilted her head, her empty eye sockets staring Mora and Zeqqi down.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕞𝕪 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕕. 𝕀𝕗 ℤ'𝕖𝕟 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟𝕤 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕕𝕖𝕒𝕥𝕙, 𝕀 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕠𝕥𝕙 𝕒𝕝𝕠𝕟𝕖.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced at Zenithar. It will hurt her but he won't be in any more pain. She pulled Zeqqi closer and gently turned her around to avoid looking at him.

Then I will not end our relationship because of your moral conundrum or influence. Z'en will return from death.

She looked up at Zeqqi, water-like ink began to well up in the bottom of her eyes.

I am sorry, Zeqqi.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en only moved slightly. It wasn't clear if he was beginning to wake or not.]

[Zeqqi hugged Mora, crying into her shoulder.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira plunged the shard of darkness into Zenithar's heart, twisting it slightly.]

𝕆𝕙, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕘𝕠𝕠𝕕 𝕝𝕦𝕔𝕜 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕚𝕟𝕘. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕤𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕊𝕙𝕒𝕕𝕖𝕤 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕕𝕣𝕠-𝕞'𝔸𝕥𝕙𝕣𝕒 𝕒𝕗𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora returned Zeqqi's hug. When Namira twisted Z'en's heart she held his daughter tighter. The thought of leaving him just as they had found him hurt. That was not the point of their mission, it was to bring him back home somewhat whole. Instead she had killed him.

She looked away from him and let go of Zeqqi.

I will not forget this Namira.

@zen-ithar

[A crack of ribs and squelch of flesh, Z'en had let out a brief noise as he was being stabbed into. He squirmed for just a moment before his whole body went still once more. Though this time there was nothing to indicate any signs of life.]

[Zeqqi briefly looked back at her father before quickly turning away with a sob. She was so caught up in grief and horror that Namira's other words did not register.]

ladyofrevulsion

[The sound of a low, beating thrum could be heard. Namira cackled before dissipating into darkness. A low wail and the pounding of feet could be heard nearby. Mora and Zeqqi were about to have company.]

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Zeqqi, I am sorry but we have to leave him here and leave Namira's realm. I do not wish to do it either but we must. Come now.

Mora gently pulled one of Zeqqi's arms in one hand while preparing a protection spell in the other.

@zen-ithar

[Zeqqi nodded and let herself be pulled as she continued to cry. At the first sight of enemies, however, she pulled herself together and drew her scimitar with one hand, and with the other she drew forth a measure of water.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Shades and dro-m'Athra charged at the two gods, making their retreat difficult.]

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Anything that got too close to them was either smacked by a ink-like tentacle or picked up by said tentacle and thrown into the crowds of Shades and dro-m'Athra. She'd throw the occasional lighting or fire bolt and let the effects of the element spread amongst them. The closer to the exit they got, the more visibly tires Hermaeus Mora became.

[Zeqqi did her part in knocking over their attackers with water magic. Any that got close enough were hit with her scimitar. When they at last reached the portal, Zeqqi took a firm, defensive stance.]

Go, I'll be right behind you.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora looks at the portal and shakes her head

No. We are going through together. I will close it when we have left this plane. Understood?

[Zeqqi sighs.]

Fine.

[There is an explosion outward of water, throwing the nearby Shades and dro-m'Athra back. Then, she grabs Mora's hand and runs through the portal with her.]

eye-who-sees-all

As soon as they were on the other side of the portal Mora pulled her hand away from Zeqqi and turned around to the portal. She closed it in a similar fashion to how she opened it.

It exhausted her more than she had anticipated. She tilted to the side like last time. This time she didn't have the reflexes to catch herself and laid on the ground.

I am fine. Just exhausted some of my power for now. How are you, Zeqqi?

Mora pushed herself of the ground and slowly rose from it.

[Zeqqi nearly threw herself at Mora, holding her tightly in a hug as quiet sobs escaped her.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora returned the hug and gently rubbed her back.

He will return to us, I assure you. Everything will be okay with time.

[She doesn't speak, just clings to Mora. After some time, she pulls away, looking down.]

I... do not want to be alone. May I... may I stay with you?

Hello Zeqqi,

I know I told you to come to me when you are ready but I am... being told Zenithar was screaming when prayed to and now he has stopped. I do not want to imagine what has happened to him but I do believe we have to hurry.

@eye-who-sees-all

...okay. I have just finished my preparations, anyway.

[Zeqqi has changed her usual robes for light armour. Her hair has been pulled back into braids. A scimitar is sheathed at her hip, along with a stone, one which looks remarkably like the Mourning Stone, a source of infinite water.]

eye-who-sees-all

Very good.

Mora has changed nothing about her apperance. The only thing that is notably different about her is that there is a snake in her shirt's pocket.

Mora opens a portal to the location where she will open the rift to Namira's realm. She gestured for Zeqqi to walk in first.

I can enter before you, if you prefer.

No need.

[Zeqqi walks through the portal.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora follows her. She walks up to the spot and sits down on ground. She places her hands where the rift used to be and shuts her eyes as she pours her energy to open the rift. As soon as it opens she let's out a heavy sigh and tilts to the side. She catches herself and slowly rises from the ground.

I will close it when we have retrieved your father.

[Zeqqi frowns.]

Are you okay?

eye-who-sees-all

Yes, I am fine. Let us go.

Mora walks through the rift.

[Zeqqi follows her closely, hand gripping the hilt of her scimitar.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora scratches Pearl before she takes out Sep's pearl. She hoped it would lead to Zenithar when they are in the same plane.

Are you feeling alright? If you feel unwell we can leave.

Me? I am fine. Let's just find my father.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora nods and uses sep's peal, again, hoping it will take them to Zenithar.

@zen-ithar /nf

[The Pearl seems to be able to find him now, acting almost like a compass to reveal Zenithar's location.]

@zeqqi

[As they close in on Zenithar's location, Zeqqi walks faster, anxiety eating at her.]

This seems too easy...

ladyofrevulsion

[The darkness around the two gods thickens, almost swallowing up what little light there was in the Scuttling Void. Namira's voice, a dry, raspy, ancient thing, echoes around them.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕣𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕕 𝕒𝕥 𝕝𝕒𝕤𝕥. ℤ𝕖𝕟𝕚𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕣 𝕒𝕨𝕒𝕚𝕥𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

I agree. It does seem far too easy.

Mora walks alongside Zeqqi. Her own anxiety was growing as they were getting closer and closer. She tried her best to hide it from Zeqqi to prevent anymore anxiety.

Hearing that voice that voice made Mora clutch onto the pearl tighter.

@zen-ithar

[In the middle of a room filled with vile flesh and blood, there was Zenithar. Attached to a torture rack, he not in great condition. His head hung down and on his body were a variety of lesions and bruises some shallow and others reaching bone. He did not stir when they entered.]

@zeqqi

[Zeqqi was horrified when she saw the state her father was in. She began to rush forward, but ended up running headfirst into an invisible wall of force. She cursed in Yoku, holding her head.]

ladyofrevulsion

[A dry, raspy laugh echoes around them. A hooded, skeletal woman with arthropod legs appears beside Zenithar. She summons a shard of dark energy, and places the tip of it over Zenithar's heart.]

𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕒𝕗𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕕 𝕚𝕥 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕓𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕪. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕠 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟 𝕙𝕚𝕞... 𝕀𝔽 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡. ℕ𝕠 𝕞𝕖𝕣𝕘𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕝𝕞𝕤, 𝕟𝕠 𝕣𝕠𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖. 𝕀𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕣𝕖𝕗𝕦𝕤𝕖... 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora stared at Zenithar for a long time. Despite seeing him injured and tortured it brought a sense of comfort to see him. It pained her to see Zeqqi attempting to get to her father but being prohibited from it.

She looked at Namira and squared her shoulders.

I am not going to play your games. He has been through enough. Release him.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en still did not move. If it wasn't for the very faint breathing, it would have seemed like he was already dead.]

[Silent tears ran down Zeqqi's face as she hit her fist against the wall of force separating her from her father.]

LET HIM GO! HE'S DONE NOTHING WRONG!

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira chuckled, pushing the shard ever so slightly into Zenithar's chest: a warning.]

𝕃𝕒𝕤𝕥 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖, 𝕄𝕠𝕣𝕒. 𝔹𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕙𝕚𝕞, 𝕠𝕣 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤. 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕕𝕠𝕟'𝕥 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕡𝕠𝕠𝕣 ℤ𝕖𝕢𝕢𝕚 𝕥𝕠 𝕨𝕒𝕥𝕔𝕙 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕗𝕒𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕕𝕚𝕖, 𝕕𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦?

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced between Zeqqi and Zenithar. She did not want to him die. Least of all his daughter. But she considered it. She could see what their lives would look like if they were not together and how painful it would be. They'd still seek each other's counsel and company but not to the full extent they'd wish. It would be even more painful for Zen.

She walks over to Zeqqi and hesitantly puts her hands on her arms, ready to turn her away if needed.

If he dies and returns, will you leave us alone?

@zen-ithar

[Z'en flinches slightly from the touch of the blade though his head stays low.]

[Zeqqi stared at the shard pressed against her father's chest. She didn't seem to notice Mora's touch. Her attention was wholly on her father. Her breaths became more ragged as her crying grew in intensity.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira tilted her head, her empty eye sockets staring Mora and Zeqqi down.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕞𝕪 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕕. 𝕀𝕗 ℤ'𝕖𝕟 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟𝕤 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕕𝕖𝕒𝕥𝕙, 𝕀 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕠𝕥𝕙 𝕒𝕝𝕠𝕟𝕖.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced at Zenithar. It will hurt her but he won't be in any more pain. She pulled Zeqqi closer and gently turned her around to avoid looking at him.

Then I will not end our relationship because of your moral conundrum or influence. Z'en will return from death.

She looked up at Zeqqi, water-like ink began to well up in the bottom of her eyes.

I am sorry, Zeqqi.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en only moved slightly. It wasn't clear if he was beginning to wake or not.]

[Zeqqi hugged Mora, crying into her shoulder.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira plunged the shard of darkness into Zenithar's heart, twisting it slightly.]

𝕆𝕙, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕘𝕠𝕠𝕕 𝕝𝕦𝕔𝕜 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕚𝕟𝕘. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕤𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕊𝕙𝕒𝕕𝕖𝕤 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕕𝕣𝕠-𝕞'𝔸𝕥𝕙𝕣𝕒 𝕒𝕗𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora returned Zeqqi's hug. When Namira twisted Z'en's heart she held his daughter tighter. The thought of leaving him just as they had found him hurt. That was not the point of their mission, it was to bring him back home somewhat whole. Instead she had killed him.

She looked away from him and let go of Zeqqi.

I will not forget this Namira.

@zen-ithar

[A crack of ribs and squelch of flesh, Z'en had let out a brief noise as he was being stabbed into. He squirmed for just a moment before his whole body went still once more. Though this time there was nothing to indicate any signs of life.]

[Zeqqi briefly looked back at her father before quickly turning away with a sob. She was so caught up in grief and horror that Namira's other words did not register.]

ladyofrevulsion

[The sound of a low, beating thrum could be heard. Namira cackled before dissipating into darkness. A low wail and the pounding of feet could be heard nearby. Mora and Zeqqi were about to have company.]

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Zeqqi, I am sorry but we have to leave him here and leave Namira's realm. I do not wish to do it either but we must. Come now.

Mora gently pulled one of Zeqqi's arms in one hand while preparing a protection spell in the other.

@zen-ithar

[Zeqqi nodded and let herself be pulled as she continued to cry. At the first sight of enemies, however, she pulled herself together and drew her scimitar with one hand, and with the other she drew forth a measure of water.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Shades and dro-m'Athra charged at the two gods, making their retreat difficult.]

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Anything that got too close to them was either smacked by a ink-like tentacle or picked up by said tentacle and thrown into the crowds of Shades and dro-m'Athra. She'd throw the occasional lighting or fire bolt and let the effects of the element spread amongst them. The closer to the exit they got, the more visibly tires Hermaeus Mora became.

[Zeqqi did her part in knocking over their attackers with water magic. Any that got close enough were hit with her scimitar. When they at last reached the portal, Zeqqi took a firm, defensive stance.]

Go, I'll be right behind you.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora looks at the portal and shakes her head

No. We are going through together. I will close it when we have left this plane. Understood?

[Zeqqi sighs.]

Fine.

[There is an explosion outward of water, throwing the nearby Shades and dro-m'Athra back. Then, she grabs Mora's hand and runs through the portal with her.]

eye-who-sees-all

As soon as they were on the other side of the portal Mora pulled her hand away from Zeqqi and turned around to the portal. She closed it in a similar fashion to how she opened it.

It exhausted her more than she had anticipated. She tilted to the side like last time. This time she didn't have the reflexes to catch herself and laid on the ground.

I am fine. Just exhausted some of my power for now. How are you, Zeqqi?

Mora pushed herself of the ground and slowly rose from it.

[Zeqqi nearly threw herself at Mora, holding her tightly in a hug as quiet sobs escaped her.]

Hello Zeqqi,

I know I told you to come to me when you are ready but I am... being told Zenithar was screaming when prayed to and now he has stopped. I do not want to imagine what has happened to him but I do believe we have to hurry.

@eye-who-sees-all

...okay. I have just finished my preparations, anyway.

[Zeqqi has changed her usual robes for light armour. Her hair has been pulled back into braids. A scimitar is sheathed at her hip, along with a stone, one which looks remarkably like the Mourning Stone, a source of infinite water.]

eye-who-sees-all

Very good.

Mora has changed nothing about her apperance. The only thing that is notably different about her is that there is a snake in her shirt's pocket.

Mora opens a portal to the location where she will open the rift to Namira's realm. She gestured for Zeqqi to walk in first.

I can enter before you, if you prefer.

No need.

[Zeqqi walks through the portal.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora follows her. She walks up to the spot and sits down on ground. She places her hands where the rift used to be and shuts her eyes as she pours her energy to open the rift. As soon as it opens she let's out a heavy sigh and tilts to the side. She catches herself and slowly rises from the ground.

I will close it when we have retrieved your father.

[Zeqqi frowns.]

Are you okay?

eye-who-sees-all

Yes, I am fine. Let us go.

Mora walks through the rift.

[Zeqqi follows her closely, hand gripping the hilt of her scimitar.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora scratches Pearl before she takes out Sep's pearl. She hoped it would lead to Zenithar when they are in the same plane.

Are you feeling alright? If you feel unwell we can leave.

Me? I am fine. Let's just find my father.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora nods and uses sep's peal, again, hoping it will take them to Zenithar.

@zen-ithar /nf

[The Pearl seems to be able to find him now, acting almost like a compass to reveal Zenithar's location.]

@zeqqi

[As they close in on Zenithar's location, Zeqqi walks faster, anxiety eating at her.]

This seems too easy...

ladyofrevulsion

[The darkness around the two gods thickens, almost swallowing up what little light there was in the Scuttling Void. Namira's voice, a dry, raspy, ancient thing, echoes around them.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕣𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕕 𝕒𝕥 𝕝𝕒𝕤𝕥. ℤ𝕖𝕟𝕚𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕣 𝕒𝕨𝕒𝕚𝕥𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

I agree. It does seem far too easy.

Mora walks alongside Zeqqi. Her own anxiety was growing as they were getting closer and closer. She tried her best to hide it from Zeqqi to prevent anymore anxiety.

Hearing that voice that voice made Mora clutch onto the pearl tighter.

@zen-ithar

[In the middle of a room filled with vile flesh and blood, there was Zenithar. Attached to a torture rack, he not in great condition. His head hung down and on his body were a variety of lesions and bruises some shallow and others reaching bone. He did not stir when they entered.]

@zeqqi

[Zeqqi was horrified when she saw the state her father was in. She began to rush forward, but ended up running headfirst into an invisible wall of force. She cursed in Yoku, holding her head.]

ladyofrevulsion

[A dry, raspy laugh echoes around them. A hooded, skeletal woman with arthropod legs appears beside Zenithar. She summons a shard of dark energy, and places the tip of it over Zenithar's heart.]

𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕒𝕗𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕕 𝕚𝕥 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕓𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕪. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕠 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟 𝕙𝕚𝕞... 𝕀𝔽 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡. ℕ𝕠 𝕞𝕖𝕣𝕘𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕝𝕞𝕤, 𝕟𝕠 𝕣𝕠𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖. 𝕀𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕣𝕖𝕗𝕦𝕤𝕖... 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora stared at Zenithar for a long time. Despite seeing him injured and tortured it brought a sense of comfort to see him. It pained her to see Zeqqi attempting to get to her father but being prohibited from it.

She looked at Namira and squared her shoulders.

I am not going to play your games. He has been through enough. Release him.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en still did not move. If it wasn't for the very faint breathing, it would have seemed like he was already dead.]

[Silent tears ran down Zeqqi's face as she hit her fist against the wall of force separating her from her father.]

LET HIM GO! HE'S DONE NOTHING WRONG!

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira chuckled, pushing the shard ever so slightly into Zenithar's chest: a warning.]

𝕃𝕒𝕤𝕥 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖, 𝕄𝕠𝕣𝕒. 𝔹𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕙𝕚𝕞, 𝕠𝕣 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤. 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕕𝕠𝕟'𝕥 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕡𝕠𝕠𝕣 ℤ𝕖𝕢𝕢𝕚 𝕥𝕠 𝕨𝕒𝕥𝕔𝕙 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕗𝕒𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕕𝕚𝕖, 𝕕𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦?

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced between Zeqqi and Zenithar. She did not want to him die. Least of all his daughter. But she considered it. She could see what their lives would look like if they were not together and how painful it would be. They'd still seek each other's counsel and company but not to the full extent they'd wish. It would be even more painful for Zen.

She walks over to Zeqqi and hesitantly puts her hands on her arms, ready to turn her away if needed.

If he dies and returns, will you leave us alone?

@zen-ithar

[Z'en flinches slightly from the touch of the blade though his head stays low.]

[Zeqqi stared at the shard pressed against her father's chest. She didn't seem to notice Mora's touch. Her attention was wholly on her father. Her breaths became more ragged as her crying grew in intensity.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira tilted her head, her empty eye sockets staring Mora and Zeqqi down.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕞𝕪 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕕. 𝕀𝕗 ℤ'𝕖𝕟 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟𝕤 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕕𝕖𝕒𝕥𝕙, 𝕀 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕠𝕥𝕙 𝕒𝕝𝕠𝕟𝕖.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced at Zenithar. It will hurt her but he won't be in any more pain. She pulled Zeqqi closer and gently turned her around to avoid looking at him.

Then I will not end our relationship because of your moral conundrum or influence. Z'en will return from death.

She looked up at Zeqqi, water-like ink began to well up in the bottom of her eyes.

I am sorry, Zeqqi.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en only moved slightly. It wasn't clear if he was beginning to wake or not.]

[Zeqqi hugged Mora, crying into her shoulder.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira plunged the shard of darkness into Zenithar's heart, twisting it slightly.]

𝕆𝕙, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕘𝕠𝕠𝕕 𝕝𝕦𝕔𝕜 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕚𝕟𝕘. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕤𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕊𝕙𝕒𝕕𝕖𝕤 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕕𝕣𝕠-𝕞'𝔸𝕥𝕙𝕣𝕒 𝕒𝕗𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora returned Zeqqi's hug. When Namira twisted Z'en's heart she held his daughter tighter. The thought of leaving him just as they had found him hurt. That was not the point of their mission, it was to bring him back home somewhat whole. Instead she had killed him.

She looked away from him and let go of Zeqqi.

I will not forget this Namira.

@zen-ithar

[A crack of ribs and squelch of flesh, Z'en had let out a brief noise as he was being stabbed into. He squirmed for just a moment before his whole body went still once more. Though this time there was nothing to indicate any signs of life.]

[Zeqqi briefly looked back at her father before quickly turning away with a sob. She was so caught up in grief and horror that Namira's other words did not register.]

ladyofrevulsion

[The sound of a low, beating thrum could be heard. Namira cackled before dissipating into darkness. A low wail and the pounding of feet could be heard nearby. Mora and Zeqqi were about to have company.]

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Zeqqi, I am sorry but we have to leave him here and leave Namira's realm. I do not wish to do it either but we must. Come now.

Mora gently pulled one of Zeqqi's arms in one hand while preparing a protection spell in the other.

@zen-ithar

[Zeqqi nodded and let herself be pulled as she continued to cry. At the first sight of enemies, however, she pulled herself together and drew her scimitar with one hand, and with the other she drew forth a measure of water.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Shades and dro-m'Athra charged at the two gods, making their retreat difficult.]

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Anything that got too close to them was either smacked by a ink-like tentacle or picked up by said tentacle and thrown into the crowds of Shades and dro-m'Athra. She'd throw the occasional lighting or fire bolt and let the effects of the element spread amongst them. The closer to the exit they got, the more visibly tires Hermaeus Mora became.

[Zeqqi did her part in knocking over their attackers with water magic. Any that got close enough were hit with her scimitar. When they at last reached the portal, Zeqqi took a firm, defensive stance.]

Go, I'll be right behind you.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora looks at the portal and shakes her head

No. We are going through together. I will close it when we have left this plane. Understood?

[Zeqqi sighs.]

Fine.

[There is an explosion outward of water, throwing the nearby Shades and dro-m'Athra back. Then, she grabs Mora's hand and runs through the portal with her.]

Hello Zeqqi,

I know I told you to come to me when you are ready but I am... being told Zenithar was screaming when prayed to and now he has stopped. I do not want to imagine what has happened to him but I do believe we have to hurry.

@eye-who-sees-all

...okay. I have just finished my preparations, anyway.

[Zeqqi has changed her usual robes for light armour. Her hair has been pulled back into braids. A scimitar is sheathed at her hip, along with a stone, one which looks remarkably like the Mourning Stone, a source of infinite water.]

eye-who-sees-all

Very good.

Mora has changed nothing about her apperance. The only thing that is notably different about her is that there is a snake in her shirt's pocket.

Mora opens a portal to the location where she will open the rift to Namira's realm. She gestured for Zeqqi to walk in first.

I can enter before you, if you prefer.

No need.

[Zeqqi walks through the portal.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora follows her. She walks up to the spot and sits down on ground. She places her hands where the rift used to be and shuts her eyes as she pours her energy to open the rift. As soon as it opens she let's out a heavy sigh and tilts to the side. She catches herself and slowly rises from the ground.

I will close it when we have retrieved your father.

[Zeqqi frowns.]

Are you okay?

eye-who-sees-all

Yes, I am fine. Let us go.

Mora walks through the rift.

[Zeqqi follows her closely, hand gripping the hilt of her scimitar.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora scratches Pearl before she takes out Sep's pearl. She hoped it would lead to Zenithar when they are in the same plane.

Are you feeling alright? If you feel unwell we can leave.

Me? I am fine. Let's just find my father.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora nods and uses sep's peal, again, hoping it will take them to Zenithar.

@zen-ithar /nf

[The Pearl seems to be able to find him now, acting almost like a compass to reveal Zenithar's location.]

@zeqqi

[As they close in on Zenithar's location, Zeqqi walks faster, anxiety eating at her.]

This seems too easy...

ladyofrevulsion

[The darkness around the two gods thickens, almost swallowing up what little light there was in the Scuttling Void. Namira's voice, a dry, raspy, ancient thing, echoes around them.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕣𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕕 𝕒𝕥 𝕝𝕒𝕤𝕥. ℤ𝕖𝕟𝕚𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕣 𝕒𝕨𝕒𝕚𝕥𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

I agree. It does seem far too easy.

Mora walks alongside Zeqqi. Her own anxiety was growing as they were getting closer and closer. She tried her best to hide it from Zeqqi to prevent anymore anxiety.

Hearing that voice that voice made Mora clutch onto the pearl tighter.

@zen-ithar

[In the middle of a room filled with vile flesh and blood, there was Zenithar. Attached to a torture rack, he not in great condition. His head hung down and on his body were a variety of lesions and bruises some shallow and others reaching bone. He did not stir when they entered.]

@zeqqi

[Zeqqi was horrified when she saw the state her father was in. She began to rush forward, but ended up running headfirst into an invisible wall of force. She cursed in Yoku, holding her head.]

ladyofrevulsion

[A dry, raspy laugh echoes around them. A hooded, skeletal woman with arthropod legs appears beside Zenithar. She summons a shard of dark energy, and places the tip of it over Zenithar's heart.]

𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕒𝕗𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕕 𝕚𝕥 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕓𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕪. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕠 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟 𝕙𝕚𝕞... 𝕀𝔽 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡. ℕ𝕠 𝕞𝕖𝕣𝕘𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕝𝕞𝕤, 𝕟𝕠 𝕣𝕠𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖. 𝕀𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕣𝕖𝕗𝕦𝕤𝕖... 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora stared at Zenithar for a long time. Despite seeing him injured and tortured it brought a sense of comfort to see him. It pained her to see Zeqqi attempting to get to her father but being prohibited from it.

She looked at Namira and squared her shoulders.

I am not going to play your games. He has been through enough. Release him.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en still did not move. If it wasn't for the very faint breathing, it would have seemed like he was already dead.]

[Silent tears ran down Zeqqi's face as she hit her fist against the wall of force separating her from her father.]

LET HIM GO! HE'S DONE NOTHING WRONG!

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira chuckled, pushing the shard ever so slightly into Zenithar's chest: a warning.]

𝕃𝕒𝕤𝕥 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖, 𝕄𝕠𝕣𝕒. 𝔹𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕙𝕚𝕞, 𝕠𝕣 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤. 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕕𝕠𝕟'𝕥 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕡𝕠𝕠𝕣 ℤ𝕖𝕢𝕢𝕚 𝕥𝕠 𝕨𝕒𝕥𝕔𝕙 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕗𝕒𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕕𝕚𝕖, 𝕕𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦?

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced between Zeqqi and Zenithar. She did not want to him die. Least of all his daughter. But she considered it. She could see what their lives would look like if they were not together and how painful it would be. They'd still seek each other's counsel and company but not to the full extent they'd wish. It would be even more painful for Zen.

She walks over to Zeqqi and hesitantly puts her hands on her arms, ready to turn her away if needed.

If he dies and returns, will you leave us alone?

@zen-ithar

[Z'en flinches slightly from the touch of the blade though his head stays low.]

[Zeqqi stared at the shard pressed against her father's chest. She didn't seem to notice Mora's touch. Her attention was wholly on her father. Her breaths became more ragged as her crying grew in intensity.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira tilted her head, her empty eye sockets staring Mora and Zeqqi down.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕞𝕪 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕕. 𝕀𝕗 ℤ'𝕖𝕟 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟𝕤 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕕𝕖𝕒𝕥𝕙, 𝕀 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕠𝕥𝕙 𝕒𝕝𝕠𝕟𝕖.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced at Zenithar. It will hurt her but he won't be in any more pain. She pulled Zeqqi closer and gently turned her around to avoid looking at him.

Then I will not end our relationship because of your moral conundrum or influence. Z'en will return from death.

She looked up at Zeqqi, water-like ink began to well up in the bottom of her eyes.

I am sorry, Zeqqi.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en only moved slightly. It wasn't clear if he was beginning to wake or not.]

[Zeqqi hugged Mora, crying into her shoulder.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira plunged the shard of darkness into Zenithar's heart, twisting it slightly.]

𝕆𝕙, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕘𝕠𝕠𝕕 𝕝𝕦𝕔𝕜 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕚𝕟𝕘. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕤𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕊𝕙𝕒𝕕𝕖𝕤 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕕𝕣𝕠-𝕞'𝔸𝕥𝕙𝕣𝕒 𝕒𝕗𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora returned Zeqqi's hug. When Namira twisted Z'en's heart she held his daughter tighter. The thought of leaving him just as they had found him hurt. That was not the point of their mission, it was to bring him back home somewhat whole. Instead she had killed him.

She looked away from him and let go of Zeqqi.

I will not forget this Namira.

@zen-ithar

[A crack of ribs and squelch of flesh, Z'en had let out a brief noise as he was being stabbed into. He squirmed for just a moment before his whole body went still once more. Though this time there was nothing to indicate any signs of life.]

[Zeqqi briefly looked back at her father before quickly turning away with a sob. She was so caught up in grief and horror that Namira's other words did not register.]

ladyofrevulsion

[The sound of a low, beating thrum could be heard. Namira cackled before dissipating into darkness. A low wail and the pounding of feet could be heard nearby. Mora and Zeqqi were about to have company.]

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Zeqqi, I am sorry but we have to leave him here and leave Namira's realm. I do not wish to do it either but we must. Come now.

Mora gently pulled one of Zeqqi's arms in one hand while preparing a protection spell in the other.

@zen-ithar

[Zeqqi nodded and let herself be pulled as she continued to cry. At the first sight of enemies, however, she pulled herself together and drew her scimitar with one hand, and with the other she drew forth a measure of water.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Shades and dro-m'Athra charged at the two gods, making their retreat difficult.]

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Anything that got too close to them was either smacked by a ink-like tentacle or picked up by said tentacle and thrown into the crowds of Shades and dro-m'Athra. She'd throw the occasional lighting or fire bolt and let the effects of the element spread amongst them. The closer to the exit they got, the more visibly tires Hermaeus Mora became.

[Zeqqi did her part in knocking over their attackers with water magic. Any that got close enough were hit with her scimitar. When they at last reached the portal, Zeqqi took a firm, defensive stance.]

Go, I'll be right behind you.

#(skipping Namira now. it's just going to be Zeqqi and Mora now. go ahead and reply)

Hello Zeqqi,

I know I told you to come to me when you are ready but I am... being told Zenithar was screaming when prayed to and now he has stopped. I do not want to imagine what has happened to him but I do believe we have to hurry.

@eye-who-sees-all

...okay. I have just finished my preparations, anyway.

[Zeqqi has changed her usual robes for light armour. Her hair has been pulled back into braids. A scimitar is sheathed at her hip, along with a stone, one which looks remarkably like the Mourning Stone, a source of infinite water.]

eye-who-sees-all

Very good.

Mora has changed nothing about her apperance. The only thing that is notably different about her is that there is a snake in her shirt's pocket.

Mora opens a portal to the location where she will open the rift to Namira's realm. She gestured for Zeqqi to walk in first.

I can enter before you, if you prefer.

No need.

[Zeqqi walks through the portal.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora follows her. She walks up to the spot and sits down on ground. She places her hands where the rift used to be and shuts her eyes as she pours her energy to open the rift. As soon as it opens she let's out a heavy sigh and tilts to the side. She catches herself and slowly rises from the ground.

I will close it when we have retrieved your father.

[Zeqqi frowns.]

Are you okay?

eye-who-sees-all

Yes, I am fine. Let us go.

Mora walks through the rift.

[Zeqqi follows her closely, hand gripping the hilt of her scimitar.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora scratches Pearl before she takes out Sep's pearl. She hoped it would lead to Zenithar when they are in the same plane.

Are you feeling alright? If you feel unwell we can leave.

Me? I am fine. Let's just find my father.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora nods and uses sep's peal, again, hoping it will take them to Zenithar.

@zen-ithar /nf

[The Pearl seems to be able to find him now, acting almost like a compass to reveal Zenithar's location.]

@zeqqi

[As they close in on Zenithar's location, Zeqqi walks faster, anxiety eating at her.]

This seems too easy...

ladyofrevulsion

[The darkness around the two gods thickens, almost swallowing up what little light there was in the Scuttling Void. Namira's voice, a dry, raspy, ancient thing, echoes around them.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕣𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕕 𝕒𝕥 𝕝𝕒𝕤𝕥. ℤ𝕖𝕟𝕚𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕣 𝕒𝕨𝕒𝕚𝕥𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

I agree. It does seem far too easy.

Mora walks alongside Zeqqi. Her own anxiety was growing as they were getting closer and closer. She tried her best to hide it from Zeqqi to prevent anymore anxiety.

Hearing that voice that voice made Mora clutch onto the pearl tighter.

@zen-ithar

[In the middle of a room filled with vile flesh and blood, there was Zenithar. Attached to a torture rack, he not in great condition. His head hung down and on his body were a variety of lesions and bruises some shallow and others reaching bone. He did not stir when they entered.]

@zeqqi

[Zeqqi was horrified when she saw the state her father was in. She began to rush forward, but ended up running headfirst into an invisible wall of force. She cursed in Yoku, holding her head.]

ladyofrevulsion

[A dry, raspy laugh echoes around them. A hooded, skeletal woman with arthropod legs appears beside Zenithar. She summons a shard of dark energy, and places the tip of it over Zenithar's heart.]

𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕒𝕗𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕕 𝕚𝕥 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕓𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕪. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕠 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟 𝕙𝕚𝕞... 𝕀𝔽 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡. ℕ𝕠 𝕞𝕖𝕣𝕘𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕝𝕞𝕤, 𝕟𝕠 𝕣𝕠𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖. 𝕀𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕣𝕖𝕗𝕦𝕤𝕖... 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora stared at Zenithar for a long time. Despite seeing him injured and tortured it brought a sense of comfort to see him. It pained her to see Zeqqi attempting to get to her father but being prohibited from it.

She looked at Namira and squared her shoulders.

I am not going to play your games. He has been through enough. Release him.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en still did not move. If it wasn't for the very faint breathing, it would have seemed like he was already dead.]

[Silent tears ran down Zeqqi's face as she hit her fist against the wall of force separating her from her father.]

LET HIM GO! HE'S DONE NOTHING WRONG!

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira chuckled, pushing the shard ever so slightly into Zenithar's chest: a warning.]

𝕃𝕒𝕤𝕥 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖, 𝕄𝕠𝕣𝕒. 𝔹𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕙𝕚𝕞, 𝕠𝕣 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤. 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕕𝕠𝕟'𝕥 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕡𝕠𝕠𝕣 ℤ𝕖𝕢𝕢𝕚 𝕥𝕠 𝕨𝕒𝕥𝕔𝕙 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕗𝕒𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕕𝕚𝕖, 𝕕𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦?

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced between Zeqqi and Zenithar. She did not want to him die. Least of all his daughter. But she considered it. She could see what their lives would look like if they were not together and how painful it would be. They'd still seek each other's counsel and company but not to the full extent they'd wish. It would be even more painful for Zen.

She walks over to Zeqqi and hesitantly puts her hands on her arms, ready to turn her away if needed.

If he dies and returns, will you leave us alone?

@zen-ithar

[Z'en flinches slightly from the touch of the blade though his head stays low.]

[Zeqqi stared at the shard pressed against her father's chest. She didn't seem to notice Mora's touch. Her attention was wholly on her father. Her breaths became more ragged as her crying grew in intensity.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira tilted her head, her empty eye sockets staring Mora and Zeqqi down.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕞𝕪 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕕. 𝕀𝕗 ℤ'𝕖𝕟 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟𝕤 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕕𝕖𝕒𝕥𝕙, 𝕀 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕠𝕥𝕙 𝕒𝕝𝕠𝕟𝕖.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced at Zenithar. It will hurt her but he won't be in any more pain. She pulled Zeqqi closer and gently turned her around to avoid looking at him.

Then I will not end our relationship because of your moral conundrum or influence. Z'en will return from death.

She looked up at Zeqqi, water-like ink began to well up in the bottom of her eyes.

I am sorry, Zeqqi.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en only moved slightly. It wasn't clear if he was beginning to wake or not.]

[Zeqqi hugged Mora, crying into her shoulder.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira plunged the shard of darkness into Zenithar's heart, twisting it slightly.]

𝕆𝕙, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕘𝕠𝕠𝕕 𝕝𝕦𝕔𝕜 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕚𝕟𝕘. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕤𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕊𝕙𝕒𝕕𝕖𝕤 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕕𝕣𝕠-𝕞'𝔸𝕥𝕙𝕣𝕒 𝕒𝕗𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora returned Zeqqi's hug. When Namira twisted Z'en's heart she held his daughter tighter. The thought of leaving him just as they had found him hurt. That was not the point of their mission, it was to bring him back home somewhat whole. Instead she had killed him.

She looked away from him and let go of Zeqqi.

I will not forget this Namira.

@zen-ithar

[A crack of ribs and squelch of flesh, Z'en had let out a brief noise as he was being stabbed into. He squirmed for just a moment before his whole body went still once more. Though this time there was nothing to indicate any signs of life.]

[Zeqqi briefly looked back at her father before quickly turning away with a sob. She was so caught up in grief and horror that Namira's other words did not register.]

ladyofrevulsion

[The sound of a low, beating thrum could be heard. Namira cackled before dissipating into darkness. A low wail and the pounding of feet could be heard nearby. Mora and Zeqqi were about to have company.]

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Zeqqi, I am sorry but we have to leave him here and leave Namira's realm. I do not wish to do it either but we must. Come now.

Mora gently pulled one of Zeqqi's arms in one hand while preparing a protection spell in the other.

@zen-ithar

[Zeqqi nodded and let herself be pulled as she continued to cry. At the first sight of enemies, however, she pulled herself together and drew her scimitar with one hand, and with the other she drew forth a measure of water.]

#zeqqi about to pull some water bender moves

Hello Zeqqi,

I know I told you to come to me when you are ready but I am... being told Zenithar was screaming when prayed to and now he has stopped. I do not want to imagine what has happened to him but I do believe we have to hurry.

@eye-who-sees-all

...okay. I have just finished my preparations, anyway.

[Zeqqi has changed her usual robes for light armour. Her hair has been pulled back into braids. A scimitar is sheathed at her hip, along with a stone, one which looks remarkably like the Mourning Stone, a source of infinite water.]

eye-who-sees-all

Very good.

Mora has changed nothing about her apperance. The only thing that is notably different about her is that there is a snake in her shirt's pocket.

Mora opens a portal to the location where she will open the rift to Namira's realm. She gestured for Zeqqi to walk in first.

I can enter before you, if you prefer.

No need.

[Zeqqi walks through the portal.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora follows her. She walks up to the spot and sits down on ground. She places her hands where the rift used to be and shuts her eyes as she pours her energy to open the rift. As soon as it opens she let's out a heavy sigh and tilts to the side. She catches herself and slowly rises from the ground.

I will close it when we have retrieved your father.

[Zeqqi frowns.]

Are you okay?

eye-who-sees-all

Yes, I am fine. Let us go.

Mora walks through the rift.

[Zeqqi follows her closely, hand gripping the hilt of her scimitar.]

eye-who-sees-all

Mora scratches Pearl before she takes out Sep's pearl. She hoped it would lead to Zenithar when they are in the same plane.

Are you feeling alright? If you feel unwell we can leave.

Me? I am fine. Let's just find my father.

eye-who-sees-all

Mora nods and uses sep's peal, again, hoping it will take them to Zenithar.

@zen-ithar /nf

[The Pearl seems to be able to find him now, acting almost like a compass to reveal Zenithar's location.]

@zeqqi

[As they close in on Zenithar's location, Zeqqi walks faster, anxiety eating at her.]

This seems too easy...

ladyofrevulsion

[The darkness around the two gods thickens, almost swallowing up what little light there was in the Scuttling Void. Namira's voice, a dry, raspy, ancient thing, echoes around them.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕣𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕕 𝕒𝕥 𝕝𝕒𝕤𝕥. ℤ𝕖𝕟𝕚𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕣 𝕒𝕨𝕒𝕚𝕥𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

I agree. It does seem far too easy.

Mora walks alongside Zeqqi. Her own anxiety was growing as they were getting closer and closer. She tried her best to hide it from Zeqqi to prevent anymore anxiety.

Hearing that voice that voice made Mora clutch onto the pearl tighter.

@zen-ithar

[In the middle of a room filled with vile flesh and blood, there was Zenithar. Attached to a torture rack, he not in great condition. His head hung down and on his body were a variety of lesions and bruises some shallow and others reaching bone. He did not stir when they entered.]

@zeqqi

[Zeqqi was horrified when she saw the state her father was in. She began to rush forward, but ended up running headfirst into an invisible wall of force. She cursed in Yoku, holding her head.]

ladyofrevulsion

[A dry, raspy laugh echoes around them. A hooded, skeletal woman with arthropod legs appears beside Zenithar. She summons a shard of dark energy, and places the tip of it over Zenithar's heart.]

𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕒𝕗𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕕 𝕚𝕥 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕓𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕪. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕠 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟 𝕙𝕚𝕞... 𝕀𝔽 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡. ℕ𝕠 𝕞𝕖𝕣𝕘𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕝𝕞𝕤, 𝕟𝕠 𝕣𝕠𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖. 𝕀𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕣𝕖𝕗𝕦𝕤𝕖... 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora stared at Zenithar for a long time. Despite seeing him injured and tortured it brought a sense of comfort to see him. It pained her to see Zeqqi attempting to get to her father but being prohibited from it.

She looked at Namira and squared her shoulders.

I am not going to play your games. He has been through enough. Release him.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en still did not move. If it wasn't for the very faint breathing, it would have seemed like he was already dead.]

[Silent tears ran down Zeqqi's face as she hit her fist against the wall of force separating her from her father.]

LET HIM GO! HE'S DONE NOTHING WRONG!

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira chuckled, pushing the shard ever so slightly into Zenithar's chest: a warning.]

𝕃𝕒𝕤𝕥 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖, 𝕄𝕠𝕣𝕒. 𝔹𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜 𝕦𝕡 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕙𝕚𝕞, 𝕠𝕣 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕖𝕤. 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕕𝕠𝕟'𝕥 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕡𝕠𝕠𝕣 ℤ𝕖𝕢𝕢𝕚 𝕥𝕠 𝕨𝕒𝕥𝕔𝕙 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕗𝕒𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕕𝕚𝕖, 𝕕𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦?

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced between Zeqqi and Zenithar. She did not want to him die. Least of all his daughter. But she considered it. She could see what their lives would look like if they were not together and how painful it would be. They'd still seek each other's counsel and company but not to the full extent they'd wish. It would be even more painful for Zen.

She walks over to Zeqqi and hesitantly puts her hands on her arms, ready to turn her away if needed.

If he dies and returns, will you leave us alone?

@zen-ithar

[Z'en flinches slightly from the touch of the blade though his head stays low.]

[Zeqqi stared at the shard pressed against her father's chest. She didn't seem to notice Mora's touch. Her attention was wholly on her father. Her breaths became more ragged as her crying grew in intensity.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira tilted her head, her empty eye sockets staring Mora and Zeqqi down.]

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕞𝕪 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕕. 𝕀𝕗 ℤ'𝕖𝕟 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟𝕤 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕕𝕖𝕒𝕥𝕙, 𝕀 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕠𝕥𝕙 𝕒𝕝𝕠𝕟𝕖.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora glanced at Zenithar. It will hurt her but he won't be in any more pain. She pulled Zeqqi closer and gently turned her around to avoid looking at him.

Then I will not end our relationship because of your moral conundrum or influence. Z'en will return from death.

She looked up at Zeqqi, water-like ink began to well up in the bottom of her eyes.

I am sorry, Zeqqi.

@zen-ithar

[Z'en only moved slightly. It wasn't clear if he was beginning to wake or not.]

[Zeqqi hugged Mora, crying into her shoulder.]

ladyofrevulsion

[Namira plunged the shard of darkness into Zenithar's heart, twisting it slightly.]

𝕆𝕙, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕘𝕠𝕠𝕕 𝕝𝕦𝕔𝕜 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕚𝕟𝕘. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕤𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕊𝕙𝕒𝕕𝕖𝕤 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕕𝕣𝕠-𝕞'𝔸𝕥𝕙𝕣𝕒 𝕒𝕗𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦.

@eye-who-sees-all

eye-who-sees-all

Mora returned Zeqqi's hug. When Namira twisted Z'en's heart she held his daughter tighter. The thought of leaving him just as they had found him hurt. That was not the point of their mission, it was to bring him back home somewhat whole. Instead she had killed him.

She looked away from him and let go of Zeqqi.

I will not forget this Namira.

@zen-ithar

[A crack of ribs and squelch of flesh, Z'en had let out a brief noise as he was being stabbed into. He squirmed for just a moment before his whole body went still once more. Though this time there was nothing to indicate any signs of life.]

[Zeqqi briefly looked back at her father before quickly turning away with a sob. She was so caught up in grief and horror that Namira's other words did not register.]

Zeqqi, the Madonna of Tears @zeqqi - Tumblr Blog | Tumgag