Odyssey Investigations: AEAEA - Chapter 2, Part 1 - Still Ocean Waters

[GBA]

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About this game:
Odyssey Investigations: Aeaea follows the success of Rose's Investigations format in a slightly more serious tone, and is set in the world of Awards Killing Game: Odyssey.

The Investigations format involves a group of people shitposting roughly in tandem to try and solve a loosely-improvised murder mystery with NPCs, and a map. It functions similar to a KG Day phase, particularly the Day 0 structure. Players investigate rooms on the map in the thread, and talk with NPCs in-character to solve the mystery afoot, all the while sometimes causing untold destruction, and waiting for the host to get his words in order. Hopefully there will be less of that!

About This Game:

• Investigations is a collaborative game that allows a closed group of players to solve mysteries together through in-character investigations of a scenario.
• If you aren't a chosen player, you can still participate in other ways, but please refrain from posting in this thread Please see the Spectators section for more info.
• This game will have two game chapters, of length similar to a KG day phase. Chapter 1 concluded roughly a year and a half ago, and it can be read here. Chapter 2 will take place over two weekends, with the first weekend (Part 1) for scenario familiarization and action submission, and the second weekend (Part 2) for player results and the actual Investigation phase.
• The game's discord server provides players with a channel for live group discussion, and individual channels for private thoughts. Spectators will be allowed to view and discuss the game in their own channel, similar to KG's ghost chats. Please ask a host for server access if you'd like to spectate.
• The overall goal of this game is to solve every mystery you encounter, and above all, have fun with it. There are some side goals detailed in the next session that may compel you to do your best or go out of your way to explore certain things.

New Mechanics:

• Each player will have a simple role, reflecting their RP's abilities, which can be used to assist with the mystery. Roles may be used once per session and action submission.
• Each player will also have one Primary Objective and a few Secondary Objectivesthat gel with their chosen character.
  • All players must complete their role's Primary Objective to achieve the best "ending". These objectives do not conflict with each other. Revealing them is up to each player.
  • These objectives will not benefarious or murderous, but that doesn't mean each player's goals will be entirely aligned, outside of mystery solving. Similar to a KG role, the point of these objectives is to provide slightly more direction for each character in the story.
  • Completing Secondary Objectives is optional, but doing so may enhance your character's experience or motivations, and they might grant you bonus hints, special NPC interactions, or other lore.
• While Rose's original Investigations run had submissions, they were mostly to deal with a finale-type ending. After Chapter 2 Part 1 there will be a submission period. You will be able to submit to attend timelined events, with the ability to perform minor actions to accomplish your objectives and influence what you see in testimony for the second mystery.
• At the end of the Chapter 2 Part 2, there will be a Final Accusation phase, where no new investigations can be made, but players can conclude who they think the culprit is, and "vote", before the result is revealed.

Players/Spectators:

• If you are not @Dr. Lyra Orpheus, @Lin Beifong, @Lash, @Lakituthequick, @MCD, @Roserade, @Turboo, or myself, please do not post here until the game concludes. You can react to threadposts, however! Please use the discord server for discussion.
• Spectators may use the spectator channel in that server to discuss the game. Please avoid sharing theories with the players participating. This may result in a kick or ban.
• Similar to the KG "Wraith" feature, there will be an opportunity for a spectator to join the game in Chapter 2 Part 2.
• For fun, Spectators will be able to vote on who they believe is behind each case. This will not have any tangible effect on the game, but you can brag about it afterward.

Chapter 2, Part 1 will begin Saturday at 11:00 PM .

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Persons of Interest/Case Files

PLAYERS

#	Player	Presenting as	Constellation
I	@Dr Lyra Orpheus	Herlock Sholmes	NOMIKOS DELTA
II	@Lin Beifong	Dr. Benjamin Buxbaum	SATIVUMA
III	@Lash	Theobold Leonhardt	ALETHIA
IV	@MCD	Garth Marenghi	TENEBRAE DOMINI
V	@Lakituthequick	Garett Tarlow	TARLOCHUS DELTA
VI	@Roserade	ENA	NOCTURNA BARBAKOA
VII	@Turboo	BB + Rei	MISANPHIM ALPHA

Dr. Soleil Baskerforge Aldrich Ethos Cassia Lonicera Valerie Knotweed CYMK Moh Dhurvakt Otto Dazmuna Storm DeMorge Kane von Lichtenfels Prosecutor Circe Eunomia Kleidi ???

• Dr. Soleil Baskerforge. Astronomy. The doctor of the island, a Stellaric/Telluric physician who believes time can heal most wounds, so she simply borrows a bit more to speed things up. Her bright and sunny attitude can cheer up anyone, but her tired smile lacks a little warmth of its own.

• Aldrich Ethos Engineering/Archaeology. The concierge of Cascade Resort who controls a small cohort of Aquatic Golems that are animated with arcane masks. He thinks everyone else he's ever hired is incompetent, and has all but supplanted the hotel staff with his team of golems. He's been around a while. As a magical engineer, he is highly adept at artifact (and sticker) analysis, and regularly deals with curators in the field.

• Cassia Lonicera Agriculture. A renowned herbalist chef with a noble background who runs her own business: Cassia's Stellar Cakes. She accompanies her signature herbal tea blends with complimentary magical cakes and breads. She has Telluric propogation powers and can swiftly extend vines of various herbs from her arms. Much unlike her tea, she can be quick to boil.

• Valerie Knotweed Engineering. Valerie has scuttled to the top of the world's most renowned ecologists, focusing her studies and wildlife excursions on invasive species, such as the Findelo-native "Fuzzy" (terrichinoderm), a parasite that feeds off a person's energy. While shy and socially inept with people, she excels in animal communication and her own magical trap engineering, and can ensnare any creature, big or small. Has lost one of her recent catches.

• CYMK Art Exhibition. A modest deinos artist from Findelo. Specialises in graffiti art under his tag CYMK, but when he's not traveling with his crew and being commissioned for public street art, he's been trying to make it big in other professional art spaces. He takes no credit for his gallery work, owing it all to spirits he resonates with. Having partnered with a few galleries before, CYMK's exhibition won out as the "art feature" of this year's conference, and he's been invited to AEAEA to display his most recent work, alongside some of his others, and the hotel's artifacts. He can see the primary color of someone's "spirit".

• Moh Dhurvakt Astronomy/Energy. A silent mountain who hails from the land of Noktmathi, the nation above the clouds. Was once the chief astronomist researching Sargasso Vermelha, prior to its disappearance. His stoic attitude is lost when he talks passionately about the stars and the Astral Plane. Like many in Noktmathi, chooses to identify with Somatic, rather than Stellaric or Thallassic resonance powers.

• Otto Dazmuna Energy. A reclusive energy tycoon raised who can never chill out. Storm refers to him as his "Uncle", after a fateful encounter a few years ago warmed his cold heart, and now he has a substantial stake in Storm's business. Rumors of him being an underworld "fixer" have never quite been resolved. Having revolutionized long-term arcana storage, he's grown increasingly paranoid. He spends most of his time ordering services to his room, currently in the Ramura Wing Penthouse. His "staff" is a revolver that fires bullets of ice.

• Storm DeMorge Agriculture. Returning from AKGO with a new outlook on life and a company of his own, called Storm's Brewing. After his father's estate was dispersed, he ended up a lot less well off than expected, and changed his name formally, no longer anyone's Jr. After a few years of running a bar in Pysgydia, continuing to build up his own tastes and establish connections, he was eventually able to partner with international distilleries, allowing him to carefully craft his own range of non-magical beers, ciders, and mixers. He's hired Garett as his personal assistant, their shared fates as failed KG hosts tying them together once more.

• Kane von Lichtenfels Engineering/Archaeology. Retired and with way too much time on his hands, Kane has jumped around a few odd jobs, having previously worked with Aldrich and Alton Acraman as an artifact analysis team, then on contracted re-engineering of the hotel itself, before strutting the world on a global vacation, eventually settling his career on being Kleidi's advisor and private investigator. A Telluric fire mage, he loves AEAEA for the opportunities it gives him to demonstrate his passion for cosplay and costume design. Fiery and untamable, he seemingly enjoys giving Soleil heat.

• Circe Chrysothemis AEAEA. Known as the "Thorn of Sarase" in legal circles, Circe Chrysothemis presides over grand trials in Fabafa and the International Mage Court. Not only a skilled swordswoman, she pierces through her foes' defense in the courtroom. Tea, cakes, and chess are her delights. Kleidi recruited her as an aide in her personal "Triad of Justice" while vacationing in Sarase a few years ago, alongside Kane.

• Chief Justice Eunomia Kleidi AEAEA. Highly revered in both magical and legal circles, Eunomia Kleidi personally advocates for fairness and... justice, gleefully wielding her Keyseru to unlock the truth of all things. She also has a passion for unlocking secrets and mysteries. Serves as the Chief Justice of the Fabafan legal system, and presides over most International Mage Court trials, including the one which disavowed Solomon DeMorge. Despite her bubbly and eccentric personality, she puts on a stoic and impartial persona when presiding over trials. Wants to see Storm thrive after all he's been through, and knows the famous retired singer Miss Vicia.

• This person has yet to be encountered.

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Cascade Main Building​

Cascade Resort is a luxury resort hotel boasting a waterfall theme, built on an offshoot island of its own. Signature to the resort, clear pipes filled with flowing water dance and mingle as they criss-cross every which way, sparkling in the sunlight. An engineering marvel allegedly built on a Thallassic leyline.

Entertainment features include a spa/sauna and pool, a botanic garden, two restaurants, a large ballroom/showroom where AEAEA Conference booths are set up, a lounge bar and casino, as well as a Findelan artifact gallery with specimens on loan from the Archipelago Findelo Treasury.

Tall pillars connect floor to ceiling, but the building itself isn't as tall as the two lodges you can see towering on either side. It seems then, this building was constructed before the others. This building is slightly more classical, owing to its age, but maintains a modern feel.

• Main Foyer - A grand entrance to a grand resort, the overhead glass ceiling proudly displays the Cascade Resort insignia. At the entrance, a small landing flanked either end by large waterfalls pouring from the ceiling fills into a central pond, where guests are greeted in aquatic luxury. Chaise lounges line the walls for guests to wait, or just enjoy the atmosphere of the foyer.
  • A billboard set up for "AEAEA: Charting a Course for the Future" showcases some of the expected highlights of this year's event. Pendants depicting AEAEA iconography are displayed.
  • Befitting the nautical theme of the event, some strings of flags appear to be hanging from the ceiling along with the pendants. They resemble maritime communication flags.
  • A large guest book sits on a table reserved for guests to fill out paperwork, along with a pen.
• Reception - Studiously maintained, this is the reception for Cascade Resort. Many water pipes for delivery coalesce here, and following their path up the wall, there must be unimaginably precise waterworks embedded within the building to ensure they all work.
  • There are small amounts of luggage present, presumably waiting to be taken to their rooms by water golems.
  • The desk features brochures and advertisements of local Findelan tourist attractions, and arcane sights and sounds that simply "must" be experienced. Perhaps magic tourism is a bigger industry than anticipated.
  • The guest book has had its names redacted in several places, but many of their comments remain. Some of the comments are less than pleasant, mentioning items going missing in both wings, confusing rearrangements of their items, or otherwise. You recall rumors of the establishment being haunted. There are fancy names aplenty, but mages be like that. Solomon DeMorge was here at one point.
• Conference Rooms - For its frequent hosting of business retreats, Cascade features state-of-the-art facilities for conferences, with projector screens and charging docks, as well as professional decorations for the curious. Each room is loosely themed after an arcana.
  • Atlas Conference Room - The Atlas room features a collection of fossil displays and other rocks and living plants, making it Telluric. Some stalls have been set up for Findelan gemstone vendors.
  • Boreas Conference Room - The ceiling lights of the Boreas room can be dimmed and feature a stylistic night sky, making it Stellaric. Some stalls have been set up for vendors that need indoor spaces.
  • Charon Conference Room - The Charon conference room has a view of the waterfall outside, a fountain inside, and blackout curtains, making it Thallassic. Metal placards have been set up for a meeting occurring during the conference.
• Madame Medama's (Fashion Boutique) - A luxury clothing boutique chain, it serves a rich clientele. The actual "Madame Medama" is not on this island, having contracted this branch to advertise to both Cascade and AEAEA's higher end guests.
  • Among the various clothing piled neatly around the room and on racks, there are four mannequins, each with a singular eye on their face. Each is posed in a unique way.
• Holderplace Boutique (Gift Shop) - A resort gift shop, it holds many things that could hold places, with souvenirs, toys, and other small trinkets and Findelan touristy garbage for the public at large.
  • Behind a large glass display is a very expensively marked crystal resembling a five-pointed star. It's a replica of the Fortuna Shard, which went missing during the events of Odyssey.
• Cepheus (Chain Teppanyaki Buffet) - The renowned teppanyaki chain is quite popular in this part of the world, a restaurant fit to cater the resort's high-end patrons, and for a hotel adaptation, features a small buffet laden with all-you-can-eat trays of heated food.
  • The trays have recently been set out for the afternoon's lunch, though given the small number of people at the resort, there are only small amounts.
  • Signature to its licensing, there is a central flat grill designed for entertaining on request. It bears a unique insignia.
  • The lid on one of the trays will not budge.
• Industrial Kitchen - Like many other things at AEAEA, this kitchen is state-of-the-art, built for handling two joint staffs for each of the restaurants adjacent, while the bar's tapas are stored in the Industrial Fridge. The Freezer is behind another door in the fridge.
  • At present, it's a complete mess. There are pots, pans, flour, sugar, and all manner of mess coating every surface imaginable. The smell is indescribably delicious, however. There are cloches adorning one of the benches of the same dish, slightly adjusted each time.
  • Cassia tends to be here. Her catering equipment is dignified and organised, amidst the chaotic mess surrounding it. Her chafing dishes and a fabric rollout of ornately decorated cooking tools are here, as well as a shiny, rollable steel case amidst the other items.
• Sapphire Waterside (High-End Restaurant) - Allows Cascade guests the luxury of enjoying oceanside seafood dining, but also serves as an event space. More catering trays line one of the walls, but they have no food in them. It appears someone has set up a magnificent display of delicate pastries for an exclusive VIP tasting event, the sign advertising Cassia's Stellar Cakes. One table of cakes has been thoroughly smushed.
• Aquamarine (Fusion Bar) - A bar, ingeniously fused with another bar. One bar has a sleek modern feel, with neon lighting. The range of alcohol is impressive, bottled almost like fancy potions. The other bar is more of a classic Pysgydian pub, with a long line of bar taps, and cozier booths. A selection of craft beers adorns the counter.
  • Storm's has yet to be added to the line-up formally, but you note a keg of his sits next to the bench.
• Bar Storage - A pantry that holds longlife ingredients and bar snacks aplenty. Some of Storm's sample casks are here for the event.
• Garbage Disposal Chute - While the hotel utilises water pipes for most forms of intrahotel item transport, to prevent the highest possibility of contamination, garbage and food scraps are disposed of from a metallic shutter with entrances in the hallway and bar, while recycled materials and cardboard use the standard water chute.
• Public Restrooms - Standard bathrooms for guest convenience.

AEAEA Plaza​

As the central area between Cascade's main buildings, AEAEA takes place in view of the shimmering ocean, pool, and lush botanic gardens. The AEAEA plaza has space set out for booths, particularly those that function better in a natural environment. A small stage has been erected in the center for small announcements or demonstrations. There are decorations and event banners aplenty. The stillness of an unoccupied event plaza where hundreds will soon gather is calming in its own unique way.

Overhead, a vast dome, shimmering with triangular panels and constructed with dizzying warding spells, filters intense weather and protects the hotel and its gardens from particularly rainy days.

• Botanic Gardens - The Botanic Gardens, both east and west, feature a rich stroll through diverse and sometimes imported flora and fauna, natural to the various tropical islands of Findelo. Plants are highly capable of storing magical energy, and AEAEA and Cascade cultivate these plants for thematic and environmental reasons, using its waterworks to maintain vibrant greenery for the resort. On a small, artificial island, a naturally diverse ecosystem is practically non-existent, so it serves as a museum all on its own.
  • West Botanical Garden - [describe the west statue] The West Garden features more culinary plants
  • East Botanical Garden - [describe the east statue] , while the east is more natural and foresty. A typical Findelan firefruit tree, bearing fruit which gives the juices served on the mainland their signature kick. You spot a dujopsis tholobrata. you keep your eyes peeled for any kind of lotus. Indeed, at some points of the river there are Saraphaea lotuses, the national flower of Sarase.
• Ocean Overlook - An outdoor dining space for guests, where your eyes gaze upon the vast, blue Nospsific Ocean in front of you. There's a pair of binoculars for gazing at the ocean, and for seeing boats arrive and leave.
• Lagoon Pool / Spa - A freeform swimming pool designed to mimic a natural tropical pond for resort guests, with an attached bubbling spa. There's sunbathing chairs and a changeroom for guest use with multiple quick access change rooms behind curtains, and a private shower.
• Promenade - This boardwalk connects the five resort cabins and the restricted storage. A violently multicolored mess is splattered all over the stained deck wood.
• Cabins - Raised on stilts above the turquoise ocean by the edge of the island, a selection of small exclusive cabins for high-profile guests or those who want a quieter resort experience sits along the promenade. Each one has a balcony which looks out over the ocean. Moh is staying in one of these cabins.
• Still A Cabin - It's exactly the same as each of the other cabins on the Promenade, but there's a golden plaque on the door which reads: "IN MEMORY OF SIR STILL ARCHIBALD, WHO LOVED THIS CABIN VERY DEARLY"
• Restricted Storage - Contains various toxic substances organised roughly by type. Pesticides, poisons and other acids that could affect water quality are on one shelf. Both soluble and non-soluble paint, and heavier paint stored for renovating potential damage to the hotel walls are on another. Also present are spraycans of the "Juicy" brand, vibrantly juxtaposed against the rest. A few paint-splattered suitcases, inflatable pool toys and such lay near the entrance. Seems to be a repurposed cabin.
• Exhibition Room - A showroom for artifacts and AEAEA's "main exhibition". CYMK's art display is here, with several square paintings coated in splattered paint. Some of the partitions have been knocked over, and artifacts from the Findelan mainland lay in display cases, one of which has shattered. The hall itself lies at the end of a raised bridge, with stairs leading down into a fancy, tiled showroom. There's a water feature with a statue matching the ones in the gardens. To optimize gallery space, there are no windows, save for the sunroof which is reinforced glass.
  • Some water pipes, smaller than those used for the hotel's public-use water chutes, run along the floor near the water feature. There is likely no way into this room aside from the door.

Ramura Lodge​

Ramura, from an ancient word for "Sun".

• Ramuma Main Lobby
• Sunroom - In the Sun Room, an ornate display casts a shadow onto the ground, where guests can relax. More plants are here. There are amenities for meditating and sunbathing, such as mirrors, towels and mats. Similar to the gallery next to it, sunlight pours into this room from the skylight above, as it extends out from the "main" building. It has plants, a wide open space for relaxing, towels for drying off, and meditating mats. The floor is emblazoned with a sun-like pattern.
• Infinity Pool - Another resort pool, this one gives the illusion of being connected to the ocean, and the space in front of it, the Pool Access, has foldout chairs and change rooms. Storm has tried to wash off his paint mess here, slicked oil paint and towels are strewn across one of the pool chairs.
• Sauna - Hot rocks sit in their caged confinement, central to the wooden panelled furnace. Overhead, a small clamp can be adjusted with dials on the walls, opening and shutting a clamp that pours water over the rocks without having to move from one's seat. It's not smoke, it's steam. Steam from the refreshing steamed clamp you're having.
• Ramura Lift Lobby
• Penthouse - Otto is staying here, and doesn't like guests.
• Room A - ???
• Room B - ???
• Room C - ???
• A Dark Place - ???

Medama Lodge​

Medama is the Findelian word for "eye".

• Medama Main Lobby
• Vending - Vending Machines with all kinds of amenities are here. There are a few brands of drinks in the machine, with a new drink called RATZ, but there's other more recognisable brands, from Z-Power+ to Pomstar, where the latter's Paradise Punch flavor has been cleaned out.
• AEAEA Library - Darkwood shelves line the floor to ceiling, and it seems everything one might wish to idly read while at a resort is here, except an Atlas, because who needs one of those when you're at a resort. You don't need to go anywhere else in the world, or study its geography.
  • The library contains a wide array of relevant books themed around the magical branches hosted at the conference, and some of its previous themes. Most of the books start with A or E.
  • For this year's theme, there are nautical coding books displayed, which discuss semaphore, morse code, and international maritime signal flags.
• Fitness Center - An exercise studio for guest use. Contains plenty of weights and large mirror takes up an entire wall, making the whole room look larger than it is.
• Med Ical Bay - Soleil usually resides here. There are plenty of spare bandages and other things mostly designed to cater to slips and falls, which must be common. The office chair is reclined, in a way that would be optimal for relaxing.
• Med Itation - A meditating room for guest use.
• Penthouse - Otto is staying here, and doesn't like guests.
• Room A - ???
• Room B - ???
• Room C - ???

AEAEA Conference Floor​

• Aqua Landing - The entrance from the glass water elevator, it's suitably moody and the lighting gives the illusion of being underwater.
• AEAEA Showroom -
  • Storm's Brewing Booth - Funded by his contract with Dazmuna, he's been given ample supplies and props to ensure his first venture is a success. Storm has poured his heart into making it resemble a bar, with a tap hooked up for free samples, kegs at the ready with various flavors (his signature "Brennan" brew reflecting his island bond. His "Dumb Golden Phanto", also popular).
  • Arcane Solutions Ltd Booth - Mr Dazmuna's sprawling business has a time-worn booth that stands in neglect, with a few refreshed pamphlets laid out again as a formality. It seems the contractors behind the arrangement of the booth are given basic instructions from each attendee prior to their arrival, with the rest handled by the host themselves. The pamphlet discusses their stable growth and other business nonsense that only investors dare worry about, but promising "new discoveries" imminently. A small selection of Storms Brewing pamphlets is present. Uncle Oddy must have thought of that.
  • Knots and Snares - Valerie Knotweed's stand is here, with her privately funded Knots and Snares business showcasing a selection of spring activated, magically compressed traps that can be planted. More traditional looking cage traps are here. Some filled with shiny objects. Her adjacent posterboard discusses ecological threats, how invasive species can propagate through selective distribution and really wreak havoc on unique island life. Even pollen can cross barriers thought to be unbroachable, like the large distance between separate spheres of island ecosystems. There are tons of pictures of her favorite land urchins, and the poster also advertises her talk: titled with a big TBD.
  • Cascade Resort - Standard Cascade Resort stand sometimes manned by Soleil. Carries details on its hydraulic engineering.
• Lecture Hall - A theatre with a stage and plenty of seats, designed to provide thrilling presentations on magic and other things.
• Casino - There are lots and lots of slots and slots. It's a pretty standard casino, otherwise.
• Giant Roulette Wheel - The Giant Roulette Wheel is practically a functional club and dance floor, with casual lounge seating for tired patrons. It has an obvious roulette theming, with a giant inflatable event ball one can get in and roll around inside. The fancy light up floor is probably rigged to give you the same number every time, though...
• Locked - The Casino bar, where your sorrows are locked away in bottles.

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Cascade Depths​

This area has yet to be fully explored!

• Garbage Chute Access - Where most disposed rubbish ends up from the Garbage Chute. Ventilation ensures the room doesn't smell too bad, but it's sorta unavoidable with garbage. All waste is either recycled to the mainland, or incinerated. The non-magical chute from the floor above feeds into this place through a normal duct, and is reserved for kitchen waste, while the water chute appears to have been modified to use a tipping mechanism to launch things into the garbage depending on what setting the staff member who uses it programs it to do.
• Incinerator - Designed for incinerating waste and other garbage. The exhaust pipe travels out to the side of the island.
• Industrial Laundry - The laundry chutes operate on a similar principle to the garbage room, but there is no manual duct for laundry, perhaps due to the lack of guests when maintenance occurs. Either way, a vital room for the cosplay portion of AEAEA.
• Laundry Access - A landing for accessing the laundry room.
• AEAEA Conference Room - The room is the definition of "mages taking themselves too seriously", featuring dark-oaken furniture and candle-lit aesthetics.
  • From planning documents (and weird parchments) scattered around the table, this year's theme underwent quite a few changes, prior to settling on the semi-nautical "course-charting". The most recent theme change was about a week ago. There are other bids for themes and exhibitions that have been discarded.
  • A registrar of AEAEA conference mages and contracted staff, noting their potential threats to the hotel's system based on powers they've disclosed. It might be useful if you need to look up a person's powers.
• Thalassic Conduit
• ???
• ???
• Underworld
• Medama Basement Hall
• Medama Staff Room
• Ramura Basement Hall
• Ramura Staff Room
• Artificer's Chamber
• ???
• Golem Stations
• Access Point

Lodging​

Aggregate maps of each lodge, showing a similar floor layout for all of 1F to 10F. Both penthouses are currently restricted. A Dark Place is currently exclusive to 7F.

 

[GBA]

Narrative Overview (some words)

This story takes place three years after the conclusion of Awards Killing Game: Odyssey.



Following the disappearance of the otherworldly comet Sargasso Vermelha and subsequent international investigation into Solomon DeMorge and the Fallen Lotus' dealings, the sphere of magecraft continues to quietly decline in the world of Naos.

Once Solomon's demise became public knowledge, Starline Cruises went into administration, sending all of its former workers into different directions. Some of DeMorge's loyalists remain in hiding, or have vanished mysteriously, while others have publicly denounced him in a bid for power or influence. Aside from disappearances of key suspects known only to intelligence agencies, no incidents directly linked to the Fallen Lotus have reported occurring in the time since, and investigations into their dealings have ceased as their influence has ever-shrunken...



...save for a few dedicated individuals. A fateful encounter in a gallery ruined by dripping paint turned into a search for the missing Lorenzo Moretti, former aide to Solomon, who proclaimed himself the leader of the New Fallen Lotus in a distant dream. His motives remain unclear, but the decision to reveal himself sends ripples through the shimmering waters of Cascade Resort Findelo.

Rumors of ghosts haunting the famed resort ring true, for the specter of the Lotus still plagues these halls, and it threatens the cancellation of the Astronomy, Energy, Agriculture, Engineering and Archeaology conference, or AEAEA, the magical trade exhibition our stars have gathered to experience.



While the public is not yet allowed to ferry excitedly to and from Cascade Resort to partake of its many stalls, for the first few days of AEAEA, a selection of VIPs are allowed to enjoy an exclusive luxury resort experience catered to by a world renowned chef and top of the line hotel management.

Alas, if only this was Resorting Game.

- ✦ ✦ ✦ -



Our tale resumes in the heat of accusation, as AEAEA's planned art exhibition was found vandalised with multicoloured goop, and the hallowed insignia of the Fallen Lotus branding the walls amidst the chaos.

Determined to help, an unlikely band of investigators sought out the vandal, tracking the source of the multicolored paint, uncovering additional stolen items, splattered cakes, the existence of a loose wild animal, and ultimately learning... many at the resort already have something to hide.

Except Garth Marenghi, whose novel Slicer IV: The Blade is Back, Stump, CRAB!! is excitingly being promoted in this very opening. Grab your copy today!

Weaving all of these threads together, the investigators arrived at a unified conclusion. Dr. Buxbaum, understudy of the great Herlock Sholmes, accused Lorenzo Moretti of briefly exploiting Somatic powers of the exhibition's owner to make him self-vandalise the exhibit with the Fallen Lotus insignia, and theorised the remainder of the mess was caused by one jealous pastry chef, Cassia Lonicera, releasing the missing wild animal in the exhibit as payback for being snubbed for the exhibition hall herself. Theobold Leonhart, auditor of falsehoods, theorized that the patissiere couldn't have forseen that much damage occurring, but nonetheless, ensnaring the creature would be a simple task for her vine-based powers, and her motive is clear.

Now, all that was left was to bring the truth of this unfortunate mess to light...

- ✦ ✦ ✦ -

Our tale will resume shortly.​

 

[GBA]

- [Cassia] - RRRRFGGHHHH......................................................................................................blasted..........................................................................................................................lies.......................................Aldrich.....................................................................................................................................................................cake...............................................................................my...........................exhibition....................................

Spoiler: A Confectioner's Confession

[Sigh.]​

- [Cassia] - Phew. Almost curdled there.

- [Cassia] - Well done, Dr. Buxbaum, Theo, and everyone else. I'd say I've held the truth for... quite a while, hm?

- ✦ ✦ ✦ -

Of course, you were mostly correct. When I was adjusting the dishes for Mr. Dazmuna, that wretched creature came bursting through the glass pipe delivery system. It was holding a shiny sticker, and immediately began to cause chaos untold, ruining one of my cake tables Aldrich helped himself to earlier. It bounced towards my catering tools, and my steel case, but not before the damage was done.

Luckily, at that point I was able to ensnare the beast with my herbalist whips, and contain it within a shiny metal cloche. Alas, my magnifique cake display for this afternoon's tasting had already been ruined. I believe that was the final straw.

I'd had enough. Being forced to cook bulk catering quality food for the event, being snubbed by the AEAEA shareholders after previously being awarded the contract for the exhibition hall, and for such a late, last minute change. Those idiots don't know the definition of timeliness or courtesy.

I whipped up a recipe for quick-and-easy revenge then and there. Best served... cold.

With my catch in tow, the maintenance for Cascade's water systems was underway, so I snuck out under the guise of gathering herbs for this... truly exemplary dish. With no water golem guarding the Exhibition Hall, merely reduced to a puddle, I saw my chance to unleash this beast into the hall, to maybe knock over a few partitions and generally cause a mess...

...but, my ingredients for revenge were more rotten than I expected, and I immediately regretted opening that cloche.

Agitated, the fuzzy bounced all over the walls, spewing paint everywhere by biting Garett's sticker. I turned and quickly left, hoping no one had seen me, and headed to the Sunroom to wipe myself clean of the water I'd stepped in. I might have kicked a golem's mask into the bushes, at some point, for letting my anger get the best of me.

Hurriedly, I cleaned the dishes and disposed of the smushed cakes, including the paint-soaked cloche I had, making it look like I'd caused an even bigger mess myself. I thought I'd blame Valerie for letting such a creature escape.

As for where it went afterward, I have no idea... but given the splashes of paint and the sloshing pink golem, I assume it washed itself off and fled to who-knows-where. Probably off to cause more chaos.

- [Cassia] - Cyrus, I'm truly sorry. Your artwork is otherworldly and delightful, and deserved this exhibition slot as much as I. The extent of the damage I caused was far greater than I wanted.

- [Cassia] - ....ohohohohohoho! Aldrich, however, I gladly accept my punishment for causing AEAEA trouble, you cake-nibbler.

- [Aldrich] - ...Miss Cassia, Dr. Buxbaum has already pointed out my unintentional complicity in this tragedy, and we'll work out a more minor punishment for the damages. Cyrus, we'll schedule a gallery cleaning session posthaste. The rest of you...

- [Aldrich] - ...accept my apologies to Storm, and give me a brief moment to process some compensation for your efforts.

[Unable to look Cassia in the eyes, CYMK turns to Moh, Dr. Buxbaum, and Herlock Sholmes]

- [CYMK] - ...... So... this Moretti guy... he was the one who possessed me?

- [Moh] - ...It seems so, but to send us a message, or cause disturbance, I have not a clue. We must remain vigilant in the coming days, should he choose to strike again.

- [Aldrich] - ...a brief word, Moh. It seems Kleidi has arrived at the docks.

---

Chapter I: THE CASE OF THE SPIRIT-PAINTED EXHIBITION

Spoiler

Case closed! Lorenzo and Cassia vandalised the exhibit, and your deductions were correct!

 

[GBA]

[Standing in the AEAEA Plaza, the two statues flanking either end of the Botanical Gardens cast a low shadow, as the afternoon light hits the protective dome over the resort. While Aldrich and Moh head off to the Lobby, Cassia takes another deep sigh, and begins quietly talking with CYMK, who looks a bit nervous and sad, but quickly bubbles back to life. Storm is tapping his foot impatiently, while Valerie keeps eyeing the main building... but Soleil claps her hands as the de facto person in charge of this band of VIPs.]

Spoiler: Praise The Sundial - Soleil's Theme

- [Soleil] - Well, at least the afternoon sun is pleasant. My star, what an unintentionally eventful morning. Cy, we'll have the exhibit fixed up right away, with my rewinding powers and a bit of elbow grease. Any volunteers would be appreciated, but...! We'll make some schedule adjustments first.

- [Soleil] - My apologies for putting you all forward as investigators, when truly you wish to relax and enjoy the resort. Luckily, Aldrich told me that your request to see more of AEAEA's mechanical wonders will be approved posthaste, but while he's processing that, I'm to accompany you for a bit of a tour into our inner workings.

- [Valerie] - .............................................Soleil. My wild fuzzy is still out there. You've seen what it can do, so we need to put up more traps and find it immediatel-

- [Soleil] - Oh, right... well, there's another mystery to solve. I guess we could form a search party as we go along? There's no way for it to escape, thankfully. The docks will be closing shortly. Perhaps Miss Kleidi would like to join? She's quite the sunburst of energ-

[A man who most certainly looks like a mage at any glance approaches from the open-air lobby with a slight hobble. His staff is ignited with a striking blue flame, and he's carrying a scheduling tome of his own.]

- [???] - Gehehehehe.....! if it isn't Sol... yes, Miss Kleidi would be delighted to join a hunting expedition, and I can add it to her schedule myself with a quick inscription... there!

- [Soleil] - Kane!

- [Kane] - Quite! The look Aldrich gave me when he saw my outfit, my cosplay for this year's mage cosplay event... hah! Priceless. That old fool hasn't changed a bit, and neither have you, my dear.

- [Kane] - On the topic of timing, however, Miss Kleidi might be a bit late, gehehe.... as her and Circe were caught up handling a poor soul by the docks. Some kind of botanist, she looked quite ill. I assume Kleidi might be trying to swing a last-minute boat to the mainland for her.

- [Kane] - Why, Sol, aren't you a doctor? How could you let that woman sniffle all over the place...

- [Soleil] - Ah... well. She may have just missed me while we were handling this mess, ahehe... I'll call Kleidi as soon as I can.

- [Storm] - Who's this walking driftwood supposed to be, huh?

- [Kane] - Ah, Master Storm! Yes... yes... Kleidi has told me much about you, and how your business is booming. We're delighted to have you at AEAEA. I knew your father... well, before all of that went down. Now, I serve Kleidi as her assistant, and sometimes I do a bit of sleuthing work myself as her private investigator. Gaheheh[COUGH]

- [Storm] - (Hmph... Another crickety sorcerer Dad never let me meet. A pint a dozen.)

- [Storm] - Well man, are you joining us on this... tour? I've got a bit of an interest in hydraulics, since wiring up all of those kegs to my bar was tedious. Uncle Oddy's probably in his room again, so I'm game until my presentation rehearsal tonight. Samples ready. Just have to change my clothes now, I guess.

- [Kane] - Delighted to. The inner workings of Cascade are always a joy to witness.

- [Soleil] - [Sigh]. Alright, everyone, feel free to explore as you please, we'll have a schedule for this afternoon and evening shortly, but keep in my sight if you're heading to the depths.

AND DON'T RUN NEAR THE POOLS. AGAIN!

You've met Kane von Lichtenfels. The Persons of Interest file will be updated shortly.

---

Chapter 2, Part 1 has commenced! This is a free investigation phase which will let you refamiliarise yourself with the map and scenario, and explore the area you can now access, and perhaps even tick off a few of your goals. A few small mysteries are afoot, but nothing too criminal... for now.

Map descriptions for previously investigated rooms will be provided shortly.

​

Penthouse access is currently restricted for both lodges.

Currently accessible NPC locations:
- Moh and Aldrich: Cascade Main Foyer
- CYMK: Exhibition Hall
- Cassia: Botanical Gardens
- Valerie: Open Air Lounge
- Soleil: Entrance to the Depths (near the Industrial Laundry)
- Kane: with Soleil
- Storm: with Soleil

 

[Glea]

...ENA!
ENA!
What are you doing?! You've been daydreaming for a year!
Open your eyes already!​

...I beg your pardon? It's only been a minute.

A minute is a year when you've got work to do!
I'm still not seeing that dead meat at your feet!
It left its mark right there in the hall! It scurries around as we speak, and you've done nothing yet!
When will you get in gear and act like the somaticist I contracted?!​

Goodness me, if only the Noktmathi Diplomacy could hear the way you're speaking to me.

Don't get cute with me, ENA! We made a deal!​

Yes, and often, a deal requires patience. In time, our contract will be completed.
After all, I have a Great Detective on our side, and I suspect our targets are one and the same.
Now, will you cool your tone?
If not, you could always try to find another projector...

...
...Bah! Very well! But I still mean it - no horsing around! No more delays!
We're going to catch that crooked star! The meat won't know what hit it!
Now wake up! Up and alert!​

I need another minute to clear my head.

I'm holding you to it! Sixty seconds, and not a second more!​

 

[Dr. Lyra Orpheus]

Well, I suppose we've resolved the matter of the wayward vandal - I imagine that many would proclaim that it's all settled, that it's time we got this show on the proverbial road. Welcome the guests, roll out the red carpet. Onwards, with the great conference of the arcane! Who knows what manner of shocking innovations in the fields of magic and science are yet to be unveiled before our very eyes!

Hahaha... Were it that it was so simple...

A word of caution, if I may. There is very little that has been settled, and this was no act of vandalism. Well, besides the matter of the rampaging puffball, at least. No, what we have before us is something darker. Not graffiti, but a calling card. The Order of the Fallen Lotus is planning something, a scheme cooked up by Moretti and his lingering followers - though the purpose and intent I can't speak to. reliance on remote possession and control by means of the Somatic to me implies that Moretti lacks a physical presence among our current group, and though that may well be a case of misdirection in and of itself, I'd find it valuable to keep an eye on any new arrivals that attempt to integrate themselves into the conference.

Of course, we shouldn't discredit the notion that an agent of the order walks among our number now either...

And that brings me to the here-and-now. My apologies, Mr. von Lichtenfels - but that does include you. Just to sate my personal curiosity, what manner of magic do you practice - and what are you planning on exhibiting at the conference? I mean no offense, obviously - you seem like a lovely chap, truly, and many here seem to be familiar with you. A good sign. Regardless, a number of us are here to ensure the safe procession of the event, and the active threat of terroristic activity has rendered this sort of thing considerably more difficult. This manner of questioning is simply according to standard preventative procedure.

If you'd like, we could discuss this over a meal at the Cepheus over there. I certainly wouldn't say no to a spot of lunch after the time we've spent running about attempting to catch our mysterious "vandal" in the act. Your treat, obviously - you're the one attempting to sway my opinion here, I'd recommend you put your back into it!

(Oh, and Reginald... a word.)

(This "tour" of the lower floors... I suggest we "divide and conquer", so to speak. I'm not harboring any particular suspicions towards our would-be guide, but if there's something useful to be found, well, the staff of this place would be rather foolish to not leave it behind closed doors. Knowing old Aldrich, I suppose I wouldn't put foolishness out of the realm of possibility, but... I have a feeling that getting into the employee and guest records would be of significant use when it comes to narrowing down which of our incoming mages is an impostor.)​

 

[GBA]

And that brings me to the here-and-now. My apologies, Mr. von Lichtenfels - but that does include you. Just to sate my personal curiosity, what manner of magic do you practice - and what are you planning on exhibiting at the conference? I mean no offense, obviously - you seem like a lovely chap, truly, and many here seem to be familiar with you. A good sign. Regardless, a number of us are here to ensure the safe procession of the event, and the active threat of terroristic activity has rendered this sort of thing considerably more difficult. This manner of questioning is simply according to standard preventative procedure.

[Pausing before following Soleil, Kane clicks his staff upon hearing Sholmes' warning, and its flame goes out. He turns to the gentleman.]

- [Kane] - Hm.... gehe... geheheheahhh... Sol, you would do better to think like this man here. Keeping me abreast of the true situation lets me keep Kleidi well advised, so she can-[....COUGH....] be as impartial in her limited time as ever. Deary me...

- [Soleil] - ...sigh.

- [Kane] - The Fallen Lotus you say? Here, at AEAEA? Hm... gehehe... you are right to be suspicious, good detective. The situation is more dire than previously thought, no thanks to one little doctor advisor's negligence. Come, Mr. Sholmes, these old pipes can wait. Cepheus is a true feast for the body, while I'll give you a feast for the mind by telling you about my current passion...

[Without any sign that Kane turned his staff back on, it erupts into flames.]

- [Kane] - SPECIAL EFFECTS AND COSTUME DESIGN!

Over a quick power lunch, thanks to Cassia resigning herself to her grilled-beef filled fate, you get a proper introduction to Kane. The persons of interest file has been updated. You'll receive additional information in your Cabin.

Kane von Lichtenfels Engineering/Archaeology. Retired and with way too much time on his hands, Kane has jumped around a few odd jobs, having previously worked with Aldrich and Alton Acraman as an artifact analysis team, then on contracted re-engineering of the hotel itself, before strutting the world on a global vacation, eventually settling his career on being Kleidi's advisor and private investigator. A Telluric fire mage, he loves AEAEA for the opportunities it gives him to demonstrate his passion for cosplay and costume design. Fiery and untamable, he seemingly enjoys giving Soleil heat.

 

[Lin Beifong]

(Oh, and Reginald... a word.)

(This "tour" of the lower floors... I suggest we "divide and conquer", so to speak. I'm not harboring any particular suspicions towards our would-be guide, but if there's something useful to be found, well, the staff of this place would be rather foolish to not leave it behind closed doors. Knowing old Aldrich, I suppose I wouldn't put foolishness out of the realm of possibility, but... I have a feeling that getting into the employee and guest records would be of significant use when it comes to narrowing down which of our incoming mages is an impostor.)​

(Excellent idea, Mr. Sholmes. I'm not so sure the staff will look too kindly on a pair of outsider investigators leafing through their records... But they don't exactly have to know, do they?

I will have some scheme ready by the time the tour starts proper.)

Moreover, I would like to check our accommodations for now, See if our luggage has arrived, and in which way our sticky-fingered concierge has tampered with it. This tropical climate is a bit intense for me, so the half-shade of the Medama lodge will suit me just fine. I'd ultimately like to inspect both my and Mr. Sholmes' rooms though.

CYMK, why don't you accompany me on my little walk? You're still looking pale. I'd like to check if you're feeling all right, and whether the spirit has exited you properly. Spiritual possession is a rough deal, as I can attest to myself. You can tell me if anything is troubling you still also.

Come, we'll have some tea on the way. Maybe wash some of that caffeinated swill out of your system too.

---

In order:

• Talk to CYMK about the spirit that was possessing him and whether he can tell me anything specific about it. Have tea to relax him.
• Inspect Mr. Sholmes' room and luggage for tampering.
• Inspect my own room and luggage for tampering. Procure a spare suit.
• Let me know if there are any exotic or fascinating light fixtures on the way.

 

[GBA]

• Talk to CYMK about the spirit that was possessing him and whether he can tell me anything specific about it. Have tea to relax him.
• Inspect Mr. Sholmes' room and luggage for tampering.
• Inspect my own room and luggage for tampering. Procure a spare suit.
• Let me know if there are any exotic or fascinating light fixtures on the way.

[Standing in the Exhibition Hall, admiring the damage in his own way, CYMK notices you enter.]

- [CYMK] - Ah, Buxy!! Thank you. Thankyouthankyouthankyou. Who knew I'd make friends with such an intelligent person here... something about your creative aura really spoke to me, and I'm glad you had my back. There's nothing I'd love more than to pay you back for... like, everything. Theo, and the others too.

[He turns his eyes back to the mess.]

- [CYMK] - Cassia... well...

- [CYMK] - She seemed sincere in her apology, and Soleil, her, and a few others are chipping in to help restore the gallery later, so bygones be... gone. I suppose.

- [CYMK] - As for what that spirit made me print... the piece is ruined, T B H. There's nothing I can do about it, which is fine. Sometimes, it's probably better to give up on pieces you can't finish, and as for that crappy "tag" it made me paint...

- [CYMK] - Totally sucks. First rule of graffiti is to tag your own space, not cover someone else's. Lame.

- [CYMK] - So! I'm thinking of making a new feature piece. I don't know where it'll come from, but-swill? Okay yeah those drinks suck, haha. You wanna know more about the spirit, well like, ghost stories are pretty thrilling, and I guess I really experienced one first hand huh? His head was burning... hey, you think there's more ghosts here?? Have you investigated a ghost with Mr. Sholmes?? I-

[Sensing his excitement, you channel that energy into walking with him towards your room in the Medama lodge.]

Upon arrival, you make use of the provided kitchenette to boil a pot of water, while he kicks his legs out on the couch. He thinks your room is much nicer than his. You head to your luggage to both peruse your selection of Pysgydian teas, and examine it for further tampering... and your suspicions are correct.

A few of your seedling containers have been purloined. You recall earlier that plant matter contamination is one of Aldrich's fears, alongside paint. Now that he's seemingly in your debt, you might be able to confront the cake-snatcher later. It seems Sholmes' luggage has been rummaged through, but you don't notice anything out of place.

You don a new suit, then the pot finishes boiling. You and your guest CYMK enjoy a relaxing tea break before he agrees to accompany you to the Depths.
You'll receive a private result in your cabin.

You note that all of the halls here are adorned with artificed crystalline lights. It seems to be a common fixture of the hotel. Some of them are kind of... unusually shaped. The Exhibition Hall lights have interesting shapes that blend with the negative space, or something like that, but a lot have been smashed. You note an Artifact that glows green in one of the exhibits, resembling a button.

 

[GBA]

Spoiler: Theme of the Cascading Depths

[Led by a cheery Soleil, all interested parties arrive at the entrance to Cascade's Depths, by Aldrich's permission. With a smile, she activates the door, and ushers Storm, Kane, CYMK, and everyone else inside.

Moh and Aldrich himself have seemingly taken care of their business, and Valerie continues to search for her missing Fuzzy.]

The connecting doors to other circular halls evoke the concept of bubbles trapped within resin, as each room is made of spheres embedded deep within the ground beneath the resort, all lit by glowing crystals, an artifice staple.

The main hallway opens into a bright, globe-shaped arena. Yet, instead of a stage, an enormous circular pool adorns the center of the room, glowing a soft cerulean. The most striking visual is that of thousands of glass tubes of different thicknesses, intersecting many times, pumping water in every direction, but all coalescing at the large pool. Like hallowed witnesses to this spectacle, chained lanterns hang from the ceiling. Rusted sheets of metal and veins of softly-glowing crystals line the outer walls of the room, with imposing metallic doors leading to other chambers, some of which glow a faint purple.

The pool is surrounded by a warding dome similar to the one that covers the island, but staring into the dome, and the pool beneath it, one can see the round chamber is...
... full of water, and seemingly endless.
A true abyss.

The air is filled with a light hum, which is occasionally broken by a low, rhythmic beating noise, as the grand machine pumps, filters, and replenishes the water flowing through all of Cascade.​

---

- [Soleil] - It's not every day we allow even VIPs to witness this, so forgive me if my explanation is a little... lacking. But, here it is! The Thalassic Conduit, and what I like to call the heart of Cascade Resort.

- [Kane] - Gehehe[HORF]... very clever. You think all of the pipes leading to a central pump remind you of a heart... yes. Yes, quite groundbreaking, child.

- [Soleil] - SOME-OF-YOU may know this from looking around earlier, or being know-it-alls in one case, [COUGH] but this whole island is artificial, and was built here over fifty years ago after the Findelo parliament voted to try and harness power from a recently uncovered Thalassic leyline, deep beneath the very surface, which you now stand on, and see before you. Moh or even Otto know a lot about leylines and sources of arcane energy, so they're the ones to talk to if you're interested. Not me, who serviced the drain once or twice, eh?

- [Soleil] - However! The engineers behind this feat didn't really envision the pipes being used nowadays for transporting minor hotel luxuries like room service. They may have had grander plans in mind, but... well, Aldrich was one of the designers of this facility, and he seems fine with it now. Especially since he became this place's head honcho! He converted a whole series of rooms to service golem production, as well as a fresh and directly filtered pipeline, to keep the hotel running nearly autonomously.

- [Storm] - (Hmph. Suck it, Solomon. If you were here, it doesn't matter. Now that I am too. I bet you never cared about any of this.)

- [Soleil] - Harvesting the energy of the leyline beneath it, this whole conduit pumps and... writhes, coursing water through the glass tubes. The purity of the water within this system is crucial to its operation, so you'll have to excuse the maintenance earlier, as well as Aldrich's "protective measures", ahe...

- [Soleil] - Of course, Thalassic energy gets a bit of a bad rep, being a more direct opposite to Stellaric power, usually uncontrollable and associated with the occult. The mind is primal, and chaotic, and so too is the interpretation of what we find... lurking in the abyss...

But! Since working here post-grad, I've learned that a bit of shadow in the light helps with a lot of curative spells, as you saw with my sundial earlier. Such power got me a doctorate, y'know. Um... that's all I can think of to say here. Between all of us, I'm sure Aldrich might not actually let you run around here completely free, so take your chance now to ask any questions you might have.

[Kane's hand rockets up]

- [Soleil] - Not you. Gehehehehe... why not...

- [CYMK] - Occult... so like, ghosts?

- [Soleil] - Aldrich would deny it, but yes. Ghosts. When you combine Telluric arcana with Thalassic arcana... well, the mind does wander. Rooting spirits to masks is how his golems work, hm?

A-a-actually, don't wander too far, there are some high profile rooms about. I'm sure the Artificer's Chamber would be fun! Let's- oh everyone left.

---

Time has elapsed. Cascade Depths is now open for supervised exploration. You can attempt to be crafty and examine things without Soleil's knowledge.

Currently accessible NPCs:
- Aldrich: Cascade Main Foyer
- Moh: Open Air Lounge
- CYMK: Underworld
- Cassia: Industrial Kitchen
- Valerie: Open Air Lounge
- Soleil: Entrance to the Depths (near the Industrial Laundry)
- Kane: Thalassic Conduit
- Storm: Underworld

 

[Glea]

It appears as though there's been a settlement on our original mystery... But truth be told, I feel like we've stepped into a place most mysterious. What an overwhelming network of pipes... Channeling magic this low below the surface is a tough business venture - at this scale, no less. What if you peeve off any sea witches in the process?

Mr. Kane. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance! My name is ENA, but you seem the more important man. Your reputation precedes you. Is it true that you directed your first magic-motion picture at just twenty years old?

...And regarding this deep, deep pool we now stand before. The construction was contracted fifty years ago, I believe was said? As a knowledgeable man, would you be able to disclose more about who was involved in approving the work, and what its main purpose was? I'm an aspiring business mogul, and I'd appreciate your precious insights!

(...An entire artificial island? What could the purpose be of building a faux location so large?)

 

[GBA]

Mr. Kane. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance! My name is ENA, but you seem the more important man. Your reputation precedes you. Is it true that you directed your first magic-motion picture at just twenty years old?

...And regarding this deep, deep pool we now stand before. The construction was contracted fifty years ago, I believe was said? Would you be able to disclose more about who was involved in approving the work, and what its main purpose was? As an inspiring business mogul, I'd appreciate your precious insights!

- [Kane] - Ohe. Yes. Wait, did you say potion-tincture? Well nonetheless, that was so long ago I dare think I'm quite different now. Directing potion-tinctures or motion pictures is all the same really. It's all about the special effects, casting the right parts, and a bit of stunt doubling. Oh, and editing. Gaheheh...

- [Kane] - I worked with Aldrich for a time on this drainpipe. He was the lead engineer, while I came and went for a few stints. Can't tame these burning bones, m'yes, [HORF]. After a while, we met Alton, who you know as the Golden Phanto, and did wondrous little mini experiments with artifacts aplenty. Until, I got bored again!

- [Kane] - As for the why... well, the Findelan government at the time thought it "wonderful" and "prosperous" to have such a rich magical energy source in their waters, so they sought to create with it, even if it was Thalassic. Of course, jammed up with years of legislation, they couldn't figure out what to do with the starforsaken drain, so the project stalled a few times. Thalassic energy is untamable, and wild, as our brightest light said earlier. Aldrich was the engineering lead at the time, and there was an accident of some kind, too, but I remember nary a thing more, as my memory burns quick nowadays! HAH-GHGHH.

- [Kane] - Oh, and so do my hankerchiefs. Hope I didn't catch that botanist's cold. I'd be shutting down faster than the pipes here if so.

- [Kane] - Nonetheless, a haunted hotel has plenty of appeal, as demonstrated by the excitable young artist and sneering DeMorge joining us. That geezer at the front desk doesn't do much to quell the ghost rumors, eh? You could still get him to tell you more... but I'd say by hosting AEAEA rather consistently now, he's satisfied the original development brief of making use of that leyline for Findelo's interests. In a way.

- [Kane] - Now, as for you, your eyes glitter with stars, and yet... I sense a deep... disagreement occuring within you, and yet still, a sense of obligation. You're much like Sol, yes. You won't catch my heat though! I heard briefly about your investigative prowess. My, we should exchange tips over lunch on one of these upcoming event days. Shall I book for Cepheus? The place does a mean teriyaki!

 

[Glea]

A kind gesture! Do mark us down for a future day, Mr. Kane. We may mull over our techniques with a side of bok choy. Please pardon me while I attend to other business, though.

There's something that's caught my eye from earlier in the day. Those masks that the golems answer to... We never received a clear answer regarding the letters inscribed into their backs. How fretful! Without Aldrich around, however...

Poke around in the Golem Stations, and see what I discover. If any masks are present, what does a careful eye illuminate for us?

Surely he wouldn't mind a little look-see. What he doesn't know won't hurt him! It's clearly the stuffy rat's personal philosophy, anyway!

 

[GBA]

Poke around in the Golem Stations, and see what I discover. If any masks are present, what does a careful eye illuminate for us?

Soleil accompanies you as you examine the Golem Stations. You find a ceiling-high crystalline pipe connects several residential employee rooms that look old, and out of use. Instead of beds, small wells of water built from stone occupy the rooms. Water drips from the pipes on the ceiling, forming small elemental balls that plunge into the wells and swirl around. Some paintings of... hotel workers (perhaps?) are on the walls.

You could say this is still a "resting" area for the hotel's staffing majority.

It seems one of the pools is slightly pink, but turning clearer by the second as it rests. The masks lay face down in the water, so you can check the initials of some of them closer while Soleil starts blabbing.

3: K.L.
4: Y.S.
5: R.F.
6: L.V.L.
7: T.D.

- [Soleil] - Yes, well...! Literally: well!! That sloshy pink guy from earlier is recuperating here in the "golem spas", as I like to call them. These areas are isolated from the main conduit and restore the masks to full autonomous working capacity.

 

[Theobald "Leo" Leonhart]

So the cake lady really was the culprit...she's not gonna go to jail, is she? I...I haven't gotten to try all of her tasty treats yet...

Your priorities are appalling, but no; it seems like a more lenient punishment has been agreed upon. Even our artist friend appears to be in...better spirits now, if you'll pardon my choice of words. In the end, this was no nefarious plot, just a case of a lost temper and some questionable treatment of wildlife.

(And yet something insidious still lurks in the shadows. Not that it has anything to do with me or this job, but I'd better keep my wits about me.)

- [Kane] - SPECIAL EFFECTS AND COSTUME DESIGN!

Oh? That's a new voice I hear. Excuse me sir, but did you say...costume design? I happen to be a bit of a cosplayer myself.

(Papa, I don't think disguises count as-)

(Pretending to be someone you're not, and dressing the part?)

We simply must find some time to chat about it. To think there's a mage cosplay event here...had I seen that on the brochure, I might've chosen a different costume for the occasion! Though, before that, I must admit I'm curious. Cosplay's quite a departure from your previous pursuits, isn't it? What inspired that?

 

[Glea]

Might as well keep close company! We're right next door, so shall we also examine the Access Point?

Dr. Baskingford, you are still welcome to join me! In fact, you ought to tell me more about your previous contract work with the island! I'm something of an independent contractor myself! Give me the too long, did read! I simply must hear about how AEAEA first discovered a Telluric talent like yourself...

[ENA gives a knowing glance to the rest of the group as she leads Soleil inside, subtly gesturing her arm outwards towards the rest of the floor. It seems that this is her attempt at giving Soleil a distraction.]

 

[MCD]

Spoiler

My name is Garth Marenghi: author, visionary, dreamweaver, professional amateur documentarian, V.I.P. (Very Intelligent Person). When I arrived at the AEAEA Conference a short or long while ago, I sensed a strange feeling in the air. Thankfully, my worst fears were avoided; I'd brought more than enough copies of my old books to put around the place, and the book signing for my newest tale of the macabre - Garth Marenghi's Thalassophobia - already looked to be a popular addition to the schedule. But then, that other thing happened. A fellow artiste, brutally vandalising his own work, through way of demonic possession. And then the chef went nuts. Sure, it's easy to write off as magical hijinks - but I couldn't get it out of my head. What if I was next? What if I, mid-signing, was possessed by a ghost and started ripping apart my own books and drawing insignias on the wrong pages? A cowarded may have cancelled their signing right there and then. But I have trained my mind and unlocked my connection to the Thalassic. I have immersed myself in all corners of the dark and the occult. And I used to a ghost, so I know their tricks. The very future of the AEAEA Conference could depend on me right now, so I've got to get to the bottom of this ghost business, once and for all. ...If I have time. I'm a busy man, so I might not.

---

Greetings, friends. Apologies for the late arrival, I've just been... deep in thought.

Mr. von Lichtenfels? I'm Garth Marenghi; author, dreamweaver, visionary, actor, director, V.I.P. I'm sure you've heard of my upcoming signing. I hear you dabble in special effects - I'm filming a documentary here and I'd love to see some more if there's anything you can share. I can show you the equipment I've brought with me, it's all in my room. Perhaps Theodore might also be interested.

Also, I've been thinking about the classic "locked-room mystery". Just imagine, a room with a lock, but no key... how do you get in? Well, if you come across a room like that, let me know. I might just have a solution.

As always, I'm intrigued by the Underworld. What's going on in there?

 

[Lin Beifong]

Hah... huff... I seem to have made it back in time.

My worry was well-founded after all. It seems like Aldrich has gotten his fingers into my supply of water cress. I'm beginning to think the man's gourd is well beyond the point of ripe. If a few weeds and seedlings are really such a concern to his security system that he needs to turn to petty theft, maybe it's high time they flushed him and replaced him with a wire link fence.

As for your luggage, Mr. Sholmes, it seems to have remained relatively undisturbed. Someone has chewed on all of your pencils, but I'm not sure if that, too, was Aldrich, or whether BB finally managed to undo the combination lock.

As for our little espionage scheme, worry not, I come prepared. I have taken the liberty of borrowing a ficus from the gardens on the way and gifted it with temporary sentience. It will stay and take my place in the tour group, so nobody notices my absence.

GET BENT GET BENT GET BENT GET

Yes, seamless.

---

Let me dust off those six points in stealth from AKGO, split off from the tour group, and check the records in the conference room away from prying eyes.

 

[Dr. Lyra Orpheus]

As for your luggage, Mr. Sholmes, it seems to have remained relatively undisturbed. Someone has chewed on all of your pencils, but I'm not sure if that, too, was Aldrich, or whether BB finally managed to undo the combination lock.

My- what? Damn it all, Reginald, do you have any idea how much time I've put into securing the contents of my bag from that woman? I've even upgraded to a five digit passcode, and you're telling me that isn't enough?

Or perhaps you're right - she's rubbing off on our good "friend" Mr. Ethos. I always took him for an impressionable man. Unfortunate, isn't it - how a man can be so easily turned to utter derangement upon mere exposure. And here I'd thought his maddening obsession with hoarding paint was the worst it got. We'll have to keep a careful eye on him.

(...Particularly if his security measures are all that's keeping this place held together. Dare I say, that Thalassic Conduit is a significant point of vulnerability...)

And just where did you get those awful sunglasses? Don't tell me the gift shop here is even worse than that of the Circinus. In any case, come along "Reginald" - I've got an inquiry for Dr. Baskingford - for whenever ENA is done with her own discourse. Namely, on the subject of those golems, much like the other inquiries hurled her way thus far.

You see, Dr. Baskingford, I believed the golems to be mere constructs, animated entirely through the creator's will and significant Thalassic energy - but you're saying this is not the case. The "souls" of the golems are themselves spirits, tied via Occultic means to the masks that adorn their faces. This is logical, but I feel the need to ask if the identities of these spirits are known, and what about them makes them liable to be trusted with the safety and security of this event.

I've both read and experienced a thing or two in relation to spirits and the occult, and they're not to be trifled with on such a level. Not everything that inhabits the Astral Plane and whatever lies beyond is friendly or benign. I'd hope that great care was taken in the matter to ensure these beings are who - or what - they say they are.​

 

[GBA]

Might as well keep close company! We're right next door, so shall we also examine the Access Point?

You examine the Access Point. The dedicated golem pipe ends here, with a drain that leads back to the main distribution system. All water golems can forward themselves through the pipes once purified again, allowing them to serve guests swiftly.

Aside from that, there's lots of points to be made here about access. You guide Soleil through a mindful tour of points and accessing them and she laughs about how shes been here since graduating, accessing medical records and pointing her staff at things that need fixing. You'll receive further elaboration in your cabin.

It seems Soleil is now occupied.

As always, I'm intrigued by the Underworld. What's going on in there?

You forge bravely ahead towards the Underworld for your katabasis, and... the afterlife is much duller than expected. It seems this might be Aldrich's quarters. As expected of such a persnickety concierge, he keeps his room rather modest, with little effects of his own to rummage through.

Storm and CYMK are here chatting away, and you note the room is lit only by candlelight, while the ceiling overhead swirls with disjointed, purple wisps that glow faintly. One corner of the room has placards dedicated to workers who constructed the facility, and listing some of their names. There's a series of mirrors on the wall near a wardrobe, and more masks hang from the walls. Unopened correspondence sits on his desk.

A parchment map of the facility here is embedded in the wall. Some of the rooms are glowing. You note they correspond to the purple doors you encountered in the Thalassic Conduit.

In terms of filming location potential, you could probably get about five minutes of asking your viewers questions like "have you ever ridden a bike through a hurricane" in, before Aldrich chases you out.

Let me dust off those six points in stealth from AKGO, split off from the tour group, and check the records in the conference room away from prying eyes.

You examine the AEAEA Conference Room, and pay close attention to the records scattered on the desk, ignoring the stuffy mage decor.

Different to before, the agenda for a meeting occurring tonight for certain stakeholders has been drawn up on a board:

- Housekeeping (5 mins)
- Noktmathian Dues (Moh - 10 Minutes)
- Key Findelan Stakeholder Inquiries (Kleidi and Kane - 10 minutes)
- Brrlais' Exhibition bid - Mnemonic Power (Otto - 5 minutes)
- Expected Tourism Walkthrough Projections (Aldrich - 30 minutes)
- Weather, General Threat Handling and Defensive Measures (Aldrich - 10 minutes)
- The Lotus (Aldrich, 10 minutes)
- Wrap Up and Summary (Kleidi, 5-10 minutes)

You rifle through a handful of records related to staff and presenters of the facility. Someone has relocated the records relating to the power register elsewhere, with a note that "Otto requested these".

You dig nonetheless. Cassia's exhibition bid is here, stamped with [APPROVED] and then [DELAYED] together. CYMK's bid appears to have originally been rejected in the first round of talks, but rather unusually, replaced Cassia at the last minute, dated just a few days prior to the event going public. A lot of other exhibitions have been rejected, yet some list the reason as being "Moh" with no other elaboration. Even the nautical theme was originally meant to be a much more evocative "Dream of A Brighter Future".

No wonder Cassia had a motive. Despite looking outwardly organised, the committee has had a haphazard approach to this year's event. A last minute invoice for nautical decor is made out to Kane.

 

[Lakituthequick]

I-I'm sorry one of my stickers ended up being such a messmaker in all this. If it's any consolation, the sticker that caused this only had a limited number of paint splotches in it, so it can't cause any more of a mess while the critter is still at large.

 

[Turboo]

[Earlier, near a pile of aluminum foil balls in the Botanical Garden...]

---

"Buxbaum-san insisted Senpai was collecting these, but...
I deffo would've thought they'd be flashier...
Not to judge, but these aren't even worth trying to crack his suitcase so I can throw them in~
3-2-5-0-2, no dice ♡ So maybe the answer's the day we first met, or -"

"Oh, you're still wandering around over here.
Not to act as your chaperone, but I wanted to pass a message on.
I'm pretty sure I overheard you saying the 'insect with the water golems' was the culprit, buuut, that's not the case at all.
Your 'Senpai' caught the chef red-handed, and 'Stormy' should be heading downstairs right about now.
And you're..."

[Rei picks up a foil ball and tosses it into the nearby trash can unceremoniously.]

"...sheesh, even I'm not sure.
Ahaha, seriously, you didn't hit your head fighting with the airport security, did you?"

"Seriously, did I have to make it more obvious that I didn't really think it was him...?
It's a joke, Matcha~ A joke ☆ Which you don't seem to know the definition of ♡

(Though I still wish it was that shitty old man... maybe they'll get him on something else later...
That's how this sort of thing should go, right? Everyone's super, absolutely, totally complicit in some grand conspiracy,
even if they aren't trying to be? I'll have to use my reading-comprehension-max later this evening,
and check out the history of this place... maybe if I'm lucky, I'll score a room right next to Senpai's...)"

"You should at least make yourself useful, Matcha.
If I stay here any longer, I'll turn into sludge~ so let's run downstairs and catch up!
We'll give Stormy his present while we're there!"

 

[GBA]

We simply must find some time to chat about it. To think there's a mage cosplay event here...had I seen that on the brochure, I might've chosen a different costume for the occasion! Though, before that, I must admit I'm curious. Cosplay's quite a departure from your previous pursuits, isn't it? What inspired that?

Mr. von Lichtenfels? I'm Garth Marenghi; author, dreamweaver, visionary, actor, director, V.I.P. I'm sure you've heard of my upcoming signing. I hear you dabble in special effects - I'm filming a documentary here and I'd love to see some more if there's anything you can share. I can show you the equipment I've brought with me, it's all in my room. Perhaps Theodore might also be interested.

- [Kane] - Geheheh! More patrons of the arts! Yes... yes... the famous Garth Marenghi, so renowned in the dreamsphere for his "Dark Place" and the artifact that conjures it... why, you should follow my NoteBloxd. I have recently indulged in watching the Fright Night saga once more, my review was rather extensive. AEAEA's got plenty of exploitable set design. Your signing is my top priority for this evening's events, and I've roped Kleidi into it herself. She's a big fan.

- [Kane] - The cosplay event at AEAEA has always been rather dull, so I brought a renewed fire to it a few years ago, which led to my interest in special effects as a whole. Engineering has quite a bit of overlap with "practical" magic, wouldn't you say? I heard Alton put a lot of the same principles to use when he was the Golden Phanto, despite having no magical prowess of his own... m'yes...

- [Kane] - And as for the why, I never let my passions be dictated by rationale. A thought flickers through my head, and I light it up for energy just as quick. With the time and money I have to burn, who wouldn't put their talents to use? In fact, this private-investigator-slash-chief-justice-scheduling-engineer stint may only keep me interested for another few months, gahehe...

- [Kane] - ...but not until I find what Kleidi's after. I do hope she's finished with handling Sol's medical negligence.

- [Kane] - Leo, was it? Come, we shall leave this tour and honor Marenghi's request. The key to a good opening shot, and in fact many potions, is of course the rule of "thirds", where you take one third of your ingredients and snort-

Garth, Leo, and Kane depart for a Dark Place. You'll receive a joint cabin with additional intel from Kane.

 

[GBA]

We'll give Stormy his present while we're there!"

You head to Storm in the Underworld. Which sounds like a cool album.

- [CYMK] - -dunno dude, I think it's got something to do with like... paint elements. ABC is a pretty common brand of paint. Why don't we ask Buxy?

- [Storm] - I've dealt with weird island ghost puzzle shit in a... pretty shitty vacation, man. Those are arcana symbols, plain and-

- [Storm] - -Oh, it's you. You're the green-haired something that tags along with Buxbaum and Sholmes at the bar sometimes. What- what is it?! Stop playing with your "senpai" and- oh. It's for me?

You present your earlier phonecall recording, interrupting Storm's discussion with CYMK about the weird purple doors this place has, to show him an important message you transcribed from across the pale.

---

BB Channel~! Coming to you LIVE from AEAEA! I've got a special guest phoning in for one exclusive Storm DeMorge tonight, our former captain, Nathan Fielder! Senpai start the translator. SENPAI NOW

"Hey everyone. It's me, your captain, Captain Nathan Fielder.

"Oh, Storm, it's just you. That's cool too."

• "Whats your best business advice"
This is kind of a vague question. So, you're trying to run a bar, right? You might remember that on the S.S. Circinus, I helped our good friend Mr. Thanos beat the snot out of some pesky alcohol thieves by moving his bar to the most protected room on the whole ship. It seems like you're fighting for space with another vendor, so why not take a similar approach and move to where the action is, like the main lecture hall or showrooms? Also, this whole thing is about magic, so why discredit yourself by telling people straight away that your drinks are non-magic? Also don't forget "Dumb Cepheus" is there for the taking.

• "Whats something in particular you'd like to tell Stormy"
Sorry about killing your dad, I guess. He didn't really come across as a nice guy, though, so I hope that softens the blow.

• "telling him he made it but with a question at the end" question mark
What? Made it where, to the Conference? That's great. I know you made it off the island because I killed your father, Solomon DeMorge. I presume you just took his ship and left after that, right? That's what I would have done.

SENPAI CUT THE FEED

---

[Glaring at BB, his face is inscrutable.]

- [Storm] - ...th-thanks..... Fielder's got some, great advice, actually. H-He really did a lot for me by killing my dad.

...Can you get lost, now, please?

 

[GBA]

And just where did you get those awful sunglasses? Don't tell me the gift shop here is even worse than that of the Circinus. In any case, come along "Reginald" - I've got an inquiry for Dr. Baskingford - for whenever ENA is done with her own discourse. Namely, on the subject of those golems, much like the other inquiries hurled her way thus far.

You see, Dr. Baskingford, I believed the golems to be mere constructs, animated entirely through the creator's will and significant Thalassic energy - but you're saying this is not the case. The "souls" of the golems are themselves spirits, tied via Occultic means to the masks that adorn their faces. This is logical, but I feel the need to ask if the identities of these spirits are known, and what about them makes them liable to be trusted with the safety and security of this event.

[Concluding her pointed accessibility discussions with ENA, Soleil turns to find you and "Reginald" standing with her to continue the line of inquiry. She seems interested in your experience with occultism.]

- [Soleil] - Oh, dear. Is... Dr. Buxbaum alright? His complexion is a little off, and... -BENT GET BENT GET BENT GET B- ... he seems a little bent out of shape.

He's f-fine? Well...if you insist. We can afford a bit of time for esoteric wisdom sharing.

- [Soleil] - Mr Sholmes, I see you ascribe to the more scientific interpretation of some of our magical wavelengths, hm? The work of the Blumenthals and others on the comet's Metamorphic energy opened up our eyes to the wonders of resonance.

As Moh has made clear, lots of cultures take different views of magical resonance to the reinforced "arcane trio" handed down by the Seven in broad religious terms. They even give their own names to such bands. When I studied rituals for my masters, I heard Liturgic, Occultic, and even Ritualistic to denote the two as "both sides of the same coin". All of which have some meaning towards "that which binds faith".

- [Soleil] -
The masks are Telluric, earthen artifacts imbued with Thalassic energy from the leyline. The earth tethers the mind's eye, or in less fancy wording: Occultic power. Mostly as you surmised...

- [Soleil] - ...though I can't confirm whether or not actual spirits are involved, or if they're constructs Aldrich has conjured. I doubt he'd tell you upfront.

Between you and me, the technique is based on notes the Golden Phanto left Aldrich regarding Maseonic resurrection rituals, which is generally considered a "taboo" by world standards. Something to do with... plants? Plants do carry a lot of water and magical energy, so golems being big sacks of water makes some amount of sense, if the technique is derived.