EVENT #14: ANOMALIES - WRAP-UP

[abraxasmods]

Event #14 - Anomalies (Wrap-Up)

OOC event plotting | IC event log

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As the beasts fall one by one, the rifts begin to shrink. Eventually, they close. Any remaining beasts are dispatched or relocated.

The immediate threat may have ended, but there's still lots of work in the aftermath. Buildings must be repaired, the wounded require treatment, and the streets must be cleaned. Many of these tasks will be a part of September's Quests.

The Wrap-Up for this event consists of three aspects:

◎ A revealing vision about the rifts
◎ The reactions of locals and faction leaders to the event
◎ Consequences and impact, such as any persisting beasts or severe damage to notable areas

Vision

You don't need to be told that the rifts are closing. You see it in a vision on the morning of SEPTEMBER 2, each shrinking, vanishing. You might be awake or asleep, but no matter where you are, the vision overtakes you. In fact, it overtakes every Summoned, all at once.

In the vision, a crackling sound echoes, like heavy boots or hooves treading across shattered glass. You feel the presence approaching, though nothing's around it. The persistent noise grows louder by the second.

Then the image blurs, shifting to a claustrophobic grove. The shadows seem darker than usual as a human figure moves with stuttered steps, each movement accompanied by that same crackle. The flashes are punctuated with anger, or maybe distress, but these emotions don't emanate from you. And it doesn't come from the sacrifice. Instead, it seems to come from the center of the earth itself.

You! You!

A disfigured beast crawls out of the shadows to swallow a bleating goat. The sign of The Hierophant glows on the beast as it fuses with the human-shaped figure into one. The face, twisted upside down, contorts into the visage of a Summoned you may recognize.

You! You!

A howling wind splinters the air, deafening all other sounds. The face of the Summoned stretches into a distorted, frozen smile - though it is impossible to tell if it belongs to them or the beast.

Then the vision shatters. The image ends abruptly, thrusting you back to reality and leaving you winded.

Reactions

From the beginning of the crisis, the nations have taken steps to ensure that the citizens know the Summoned are here to help. Their aims were to prevent panic and tamp down on any unseemly rumors - some of which put the blame on the Summoned, the summoning rituals, and Fey curses.

This doesn't mean everyone's happy. Some fringe groups are still spreading rumors and conspiracy theories. However, many of the natives seem grateful. The majority of blame and anger has been redirected to opposing factions rather than turned inward.

Unique details for each faction are outlined below. This includes any reactions or small gifts natives might have for characters involved in the event.

Thorne

King Brydan Galdwin III assures Thorne's subjects that they're safe and that the rifts have all been closed. Experienced mages have determined that no traces are left in the kingdom. He adds that Thorne believes the Singularity's waning power is responsible for the incident. Any interference preventing them from understanding the Singularity could be catastrophic, a fact that the Free Cities fails to grasp. It's of utmost importance that they continue to study the ancient relic with the aid of the Summoned.

In the coming days, characters will notice the following:

◎ Citizens of BORREL and CASTLE THORNE will recognize the faces of any Summoned who were on the front lines, though they may not know names. As strong supporters of the monarchy, natives in both cities are eager to hear epic stories of how the beasts were defeated. Naval sailors might exchange stories of their own.

◎ Citizens of NOTT are once again unhappy with the monarchy. Many grumble that mages in Castle Thorne continue to prove incapable of preventing problems before they happen. However, they acknowledge the Summoned helped contain the threat. Characters may sometimes receive a free drink or meal - though anyone known for having Castle Thorne's favor will be given the cold shoulder as usual.

◎ Residents of WHITEHILL VILLAGE are relieved their precious Snow Petal flowers are safe. Once the flowers bloom, any Summoned who helped the village will receive a Snow Petal flower pressed into a bookmark as a gift.

◎ Workers at DUKEWOOD LUMBER MILL are grateful the mill was saved. Though some structures must be restored, the forest is at least preserved. Any Summoned who helped the mill will receive an invitation to drink and dine at the workers' favorite tavern in Old Nott.

Free Cities

Prime Minister Marlo Reiner assures citizens of the Free Cities that they're safe and that the rifts have all been closed. Experienced scientists have determined that no traces are left in the territory. She adds that they believe Thorne's meddling with the Singularity, particularly during the Dimming in previous years, is responsible for the incident. Emphasizing that they must be prepared in case Thorne or anyone else weaponizes the Singularity's ability to bring forth deadly beasts, Marlo states that the Free Cities is determined to take strides to protect itself with the aid of the Summoned.

In the coming days, characters will notice the following:

◎ Citizens of LIBERTAS are most supportive of the Summoned, with whom they've developed a close relationship since the attacks last summer, but CADENS and AQUILA are also grateful. Writers and reporters will seek out stories describing big battles while scientists are requesting information about the rifts, the beasts, or the other benign anomalies.

◎ Fringe pockets in CADENS have grown suspicious or even paranoid: pamphlets protesting the arrival of the Summoned can be found in scattered locations. Nonetheless, most locals don't support these extremist views, and city guards frequently put a stop to any unrest.

◎ Residents of the FARHILL MINING town are relieved that the mines were not permanently damaged. The miners will invite any Summoned who assisted to a modest dinner. Though the offerings are simple, a lot of heart has gone into preparations. The children have made small gifts that include scrap cloth party hats and drawings of characters fighting various beasts. Attendees are encouraged to wear a hat, or the children may be saddened.

◎ Soldiers stationed at the BARRACKS or FOMAHAULT are eager to exchange stories with the Summoned. Characters who fought alongside the soldiers will be warmly received. They'll buy the Summoned free drinks if they see them around the city and may offer some friendly gossip about the military - such as the sergeant who got himself eaten that no one liked, anyhow.

Solvunn

Council Head Winifred Bordeaux assures commune residents of Solvunn that they're safe and that the rifts have all been closed. Elders and trusted diviners have determined that no traces are left in the settlements. She adds that the incident was clearly the Gods sending them a sign - perhaps as a final punishment to them all for Josselyn Creed's transgressions. The Council is grateful that although the Gods made their displeasure known, they spared most lives and important locations like schools, libraries, and farmlands. Regardless, Solvunn must ensure Thorne and the Free Cities don't disturb the natural order - including the Singularity - more than they already have.

In the coming days, characters will notice the following:

◎ Citizens of PRIMARY SETTLEMENT and SECONDARY SETTLEMENT are comforted by the Council's assurances. There are whispers that the Summoned may have "the ear of the Gods," invoking their wrath upon the settlements for not better protecting members of their commune. These sentiments are kept quiet, manifesting largely in a greater sense of awe towards the Summoned. Meanwhile, children can be seen playfully recreating battles with the beasts using sticks and handmade puppets. Some have even dressed up as the Summoned for these reenactments, wearing handcrafted masks and outfits.

◎ Residents of the TERTIARY SETTLEMENT are grateful that their homes and livelihoods have survived. Outcasts among the commune, some see the Summoned as showing them great kindness. Any Summoned who assisted is invited to partake in a giant seafood stew - a great big pot in the middle of the settlement where fish, shrimp, and vegetables are tossed in from attendees. Characters can bring ingredients of their own or merely feast! Afterwards, they'll be gifted pickled fish and dried squid to enjoy.

◎ From out of the ABANDONED SETTLEMENT, the friendly guardians will go to the edges of the settlements. To any Summoned who helped save their home, they will indicate with exuberance for characters to follow and bring them back to the swamp. There, they'll perform a little dance and offer small flowers as a sign of trust and goodwill. The abandoned settlement itself remains eerie despite the warm welcome. Scattered throughout are sculptures made of driftwood - adults and children, dogs, and a single horse. Possessions are littered inside the homes, suggesting former residents merely put down what they were doing and left in a hurry.

◎ Any Summoned who protected sacred FOREST SHRINES will be invited to a ritual in the woods. Characters are encouraged to partake in a mild psychedelic tea, but a regular tea is available, too. Whether invited characters choose to attend or not, they'll later find a mysterious charm in their pocket or in their bag. Engraved with the runes of Vimorskas, the charm exudes warmth. Shopkeepers and tavern owners will provide discounts upon seeing this charm, as Vimorskas's favor is a blessing for anyone to have.

Consequences

Persisting Beasts

◎ Free Cities

The MORBOL was successfully subdued. In the interests of science, biologists have tagged and released the morbol in a damp cave in the Badlands in a safe location. Of course, curious individuals have already begun planning dangerous expeditions to visit it despite warnings to the contrary. For now, the morbol is under protection from Portam Hall's Wildlife & Research Department. No poaching!

◎ Solvunn

The POOKAS are now a permanent part of Solvunn's forests. Their pink eyes will light up the darkness if one strays too far into the woods. They're not especially dangerous if left alone.

Impact on Locations & Sites

Considering the scale of the invasion, destruction to a few areas in the factions is inevitable. As the rifts did not appear in the main cities, the majority of populated towns and settlements are thankfully unharmed. However, the rift areas have taken the most hits with overturned wagons, fallen trees, broken roads, and splintered shops and sheds.

In particular, some areas where final battles took place left behind more significant damage.

Impacted areas are described below. We've based this on locations players selected to have their winning fights take place. This does not mean your character is responsible for the damage, though they certainly can be! It only means the damage took place at some point while the beast was in the area.

Thorne

◎ Southern Mountains

A major rockslide has blocked off the trading route below the mountains, which officials are attempting to clear before the weather takes a turn for the worse. Additionally, due to the treacherous area and the size of the Shuma-Gorath and the Myriapod, the Southern Mountains are now home to their corpses - the latter of which is missing a head.

◎ Fishing Docks (Nott)

Several wrecked fishing boats are now in the lakes of Nott. Desperate to retrieve the bodies of their loved ones, many are venturing into the waters to search while others are salvaging the wood to rebuild their own damaged boats and homes. The main pier has been smashed and is currently out of commission. Beneath the lake lies the sunken corpse of the Watcher in the Water.

◎ Southern Farmlands

Due to the Metal King Slime's destructive flames and inflated bulk, important crops are lost on Borrel's fertile farms. Although the damage is not as dire as the attacks on Nott's farms last year, Castle Thorne is still concerned about the oncoming winter and is issuing orders to once again ration supplies.

◎ Dukewood Lumber Mills

With several injured workers, the mill is operating at half-capacity. The mill laborers who are recovering struggle to put food on the table, while the ones who can work must make up long hours for the lack of hands. Many have grown discontent with the mill's landowner, a nobleman named Augustus Earl, who refuses to compensate for the workers' losses and any grieving families. There are rumors some of the mill's workers are responsible for paying the bandits who robbed Augustus while he was traveling to Nott...but no one at the mill will talk.

Free Cities

◎ The Red Path

Once a popular hiking area with breathtaking views, the Red Path is now scorched and barren. Considered a keystone destination in the Free Cities, many mourn its tattered state and hope it can be restored one day. Damage to the land has affected the wildlife, causing sandcats to encroach on more populated towns near Libertas in search of food. Reports of attacks on humans and domestic animals grow more frequent as summer turns to autumn.

◎ Andromeda Bay

The beaches are covered in slime, rendering them unusable. Fortunately, the ocean water is back to normal, although damage to marine life means the price of fish has doubled. Portam Hall is prioritizing cleanup efforts and has sent workers and scientists out to help coordinate efforts. Volunteers are welcome! With tourism effectively shut down, several enterprising shopkeepers have moved to Cadens to sell their wares. They may be seen in the city in the coming weeks.

◎ Fomalhaut

Fortunately, the quarantine shields have held, though the damage has been greater than anything the city's seen in the past. With attention drawn to Fomalhaut, many citizens are concerned about the strength of the barrier that keeps the disease from spreading - insisting that Portam Hall must do more in case a larger threat comes. Libertas is especially vocal. Reports of a massive iron weapon have also caught the interest of locals and researchers. The military has, of course, whisked the Thunderjaw's "body" away.

◎ Cadens Barracks

About half of the Cadens Barracks have been destroyed. Soldiers are forced to share the remaining quarters while the army rebuilds. Any Summoned living in the barracks will be equally placed in cramped quarters with the other soldiers and each other. Meanwhile, the infirmary is overflowing with the wounded. Equipment and supplies are all limited for the next few weeks until Portam Hall can bring additional resources. Reva Hym, a young but stern woman, will be an active presence in the barracks. She will oversee the rebuilding project.

Solvunn

◎ Forest Shrines

Though a few shrines take damage, one in particular is destroyed entirely - that which belongs to The Cloistyyrd, Patron of Self-Doubt. Described as an omen meant to humble you and signal a coming fall, the area around the shrine shimmers with a singular eye that watches all who come and go. Anyone who stays under its gaze for too long will feel their confidence faltering. Grooms may leave their brides as they get cold feet, while hunters become injured when they doubt their instincts. The eye will disappear when the shrine is restored.

◎ Feintak Ritual Site

Statues at the Feintak Ritual Site are shattered and stained in blood. Some appear to have been bitten, as though the beasts mistook them for prey. Until the statues are cleaned and repaired, the site will have a dark aura hanging over it. The darkness shows signs of spreading, though as the site is restored, it'll cease to grow and begin to recede. Still, locals nearby are nervous.

◎ Abandoned Settlement

The berry bushes and tree nuts that keep the spriggans fed have been torn up, preventing them from gathering and storing food for the coming winter. Locals are delivering seeds and fruit to aid them while the foliage recovers. The already broken homes in the area have fallen into further ruin...though this, at least, doesn't seem to bother the spriggans.

◎ Offering Grove

A portion of the offering bowl has melted due to the corrosiveness of the Darkhounds' blood and saliva. The grass and foliage around the area have suffered a similar fate. Until the bowl can be restored, no rituals can take place there. Elders work around the clock to repair the bowl. Farmers are anxious to perform the required offerings for their autumn harvest.

Questions and Answers

If after reading these you're still unsure about anything, or your question wasn't covered, please feel free to hit up our Questions thread below!

Wait...does this mean Henry Creel did this?!

Sort of! One of the Summoned was certainly responsible for provoking a shrine that led to the first Anomalous Beast. However, it's uncertain whether this act stirred the Singularity, the Gods, or another unknown power.

So characters will be able to see who might've been responsible?

Yes! The vision and incident were discussed with the player in question before it was implemented. Characters can react how they wish to this revelation, though be sure to communicate with each other!

Can I report this to the Solvunn Council or other officials?

This depends on Henry Creel's player. Please discuss with the player before outing him to major NPCs in any faction. The NPCs and natives will not know unless the Summoned spread the word.

Did all of the Summoned receive this vision at the same time?

Yes, all Summoned will be struck with the vision at the same time across Abraxas, no matter what they're doing. You can play with this if you want the disruption to be inconvenient!

My character was invited to one of the celebrations. Can they bring a friend or two?

Of course! Overall, the locals are appreciative and will be glad to provide for any character regardless of whether they were technically involved in a fight at that location.

Can my character help with the restoration and cleanup?

Certainly. We recommend waiting until Quests are released on September 5, as we may have additional details for you to use.

Are other areas damaged in addition to the descriptions above?

Yes, you can make up moderate damage to other areas such as broken sheds, a few casualties, or dead livestock. For anything major, please ask us below! We understand fight threads are ongoing, so additional questions regarding damage may arise even past the Wrap-Up.