EVENT - THE BLACK CITY

[faileas]

Event Log: August, The Black City

A STARLESS SKY You feel like you're floating. Around you, colors and sounds and smells swirl as if trapped in a whirlpool, vibrancy and hue ever shifting. The more you watch them, the less solid they are; they only become clear out of the corner of your eye. The area around you begins to feel more solid as well, until your feet are on the ground, the taste of smog and fog heavy in your lungs - and you know one thing, and one thing alone: this is a dream, and an incredibly realistic one at that. Unlike the last time this shared dream happened, only familiar faces of your fellow mirrorbound appear around you; and unlike the last time that flavor of dream happened, those native to the city of Aefenglom are nowhere to be found. Instead, an impossibly tall wall raises in front of you; along it run small windows with people peering from the edges, arrows shimmering with the tell-tale glitter of magic peeking from the darkness, with more figures standing guard or patrolling the top of it. The wall itself is made of a dark, onyx-like stone - it's reflective in the smoothness of its bricks, painting all who look into it in clear darkness, and the effect is similarly found in the wide moat that surrounds the city, the faint sound of a river feeding into it the only thing to hear in the tense silence. Only one massive door stands as the entrance to the city, chains hanging across it with the protective runes of a barrier some of you might be familiar with by now. With a groan the chains begin to pull away, the door lowering across the moat as a bridge, and a party of Witches - for they must be Witches, the pins on their cloaks the same as those found in the Coven in Aefenglom - urges the group inside. Monsters find it easier to obey the orders - compelled to, even - but perhaps that's the safety of the city calling out to you, and nothing more.

I. THE CITY ITSELF While Aefenglom is known for its dusk-hued skies, made of lustrous pinks and purples and blues, this city is dreary to the core. The streets are covered in a perpetual fog, not unlike the city you hail from, but thicker, denser, tinged with the flavor of industrial smog from the factories whose spires you can see in the distance. Magitech lights - lanterns above doors, street posts, flickering in the windows you pass - illuminate everything throughout the entire day, as if the sunshine can't reach through the foreboding fog nor the onyx walls. Even the windows are barred, offering a paranoid protection against the outside world. Doors seem hardier, and each building is reinforced and protected in a way that may feel familiar to those that have encountered the protective magic wards. They're heavier, leaving an almost ominous presence that causes unease to hang just as heavy in the air as the smog. The people of this city are just as dreary as the streets, though they do mill about with the same frequency as any city. Unlike the citizens of the dead Aefenglom that were encountered just the month before, however, these are real, living people. They can be spoken to. They can be touched. They interact with wariness and caution towards the strangers that have been heralded into their walled in world, especially those that show what they presume to be monstrous traits. Because it becomes quickly obvious that the majority of the citizens that answer a call, a question, a touch to gain their attention... They're human. a. OBEY AND SUBMIT Monsters that can be seen on the streets aren't few and far between, however. Their presence is subtle, in the fog and amidst the passing crowds of passing faces, but they're there. On a surface level, most of them seem to be fairly at ease. Passive and unfazed by anyone that tries to interact with them, as if they're disinterested by their mere presence in a way that isn't reflected by their human counterparts. A closer look shows a strained pinch to their faces, a tenseness to their bodies, a glazed look just at the surface of their eyes. Too many attempts to interact with them will cause some humans to emerge from shops, or ask that you leave their business; these are the ones that are... employed, most often seen in the shopping and industrial districts. But their movements are almost robotic in repetition, and they never speak to anyone even when addressed - even when a keen eye might take note of the sturdy leather collars around their necks, reinforced by metal and with visible places to attach a leash. Some in the industrial district can be seen with these leashes, powerful chains to keep them attached to carts, to keep them from swimming down the river, from flying away and out of the black walls of the city. All Monsters present in the city are clothed, though it's the ones on the clearly decorative leashes with the more delicate collars that are the best dressed. They accompany humans throughout the city, the same placid blankness present much like their busier counterparts. These are the aristocrats and their so-called "Bonded," though implying the same tone one would take in Aefenglom here will net a deep set of disgust. Attempting to rouse these Monsters does very little, and may even result in them jerking away and cowering behind their human company. b. GOING ONCE, GOING TWICE At one end of the city is a massive pavilion, one made of the same stone as the wall, giving off the same oppressive foreboding. Humans come and go from this peculiar town square with a casual air, an intent the same as a stroll through the stalls on the market street. Because that's, essentially, what they're doing. Monsters young and old put on display to show their abilities and strengths, tasks that range from the physically demanding to performances of artistic abilities. Some seem to be just at the surface of awareness, their glazed expressions refocusing at times with a sort of strained fear that's visible even at a glance. Many don't even react outside of doing the tasks they're ordered to do, going through the motions as a barker speaks at length about them, their abilities, how much their labor goes for and what they cost. These Monsters are purchased by the humans of the city at each display, many of them never wearing more than their basic clothes and the customary collar, a chain to keep them tied to their station with a generous enough reach. Most come and go with very little struggle, but some... it becomes obvious that they've broken through the surface and are coming up for air for the first time in a long time. Wooden posts where the chains are connected can be heard splintering with the force of their struggle, metal bending under pressure, the anxious energy of something about to happen. But the fights never last long, as attendants wearing Coven pins on their cloaks swoop in to attend to the situation - and many dreamers might notice a familiar Witch filtering in and out of the events, speaking to the auctioneers before departing for another selling. It's difficult to recall their face later, no matter how clearly one saw it before, but one thing is certain: while not necessarily prim and proper, this person is someone with a steel spine and a sharp eye. And they saw you, just the same as you saw them. c. AT BECK AND CALL With enough observation, or perhaps even experience, it becomes apparently how this is happening: any command or order issued to a Monster is taken to the most literal, and Monsters have no choice but to obey. Many Monsters employed as workers are so deep in the compulsion that they won't obey any additional commands, unless it comes from the person they have this most warped "Bond" with. Others will accept commands from anyone, even the mirrorbound Witches that have come into their city. Even the most asinine command is one that they'd obey, and one that maybe even you'll obey, too. Having a friend playfully tell them to shut up? They're forced into silence until told that they can speak again. Told to jump off a bridge? Best make sure you specify that you don't want them to jump off of a very high one, if you really want them gone that badly. Handstands, cartwheels, jumping jacks - but also, hurting someone, hurting themselves... one has to hope the Monster in question has a strong willpower, or it's a command that goes against one that's already been issued to them. But something of note is that mirrorbound Monsters of Aefenglom will find that they're also effected by this, though they're better able to fight the compulsion. Those with weaker constitutions may need help snapping out of the command, especially as a powerful command will be painful to fight against, and Witches will have to watch their words. Take care that your friends, your peers, the strangers you've arrived with, don't find themselves attending the auction block - it's a very real possibility in this place, with an unknown Monster unattended and uncollared. It should all be harmless, though. After all, this is only a dream... isn't it? No NPCs are available for this log - unlike with the midsummer dream, they're nowhere to be seen. No Nessie, no Mhairi, no one. Which means that there's no one to counsel them as they find themselves exploring the setting, and discovering that they're just as susceptible as the people in the dream...

II. THE COVEN Unlike with Aefenglom, there isn't a proper Parliament. A little investigation will lead to the discovery that the Coven of this city is the main governing body, which may explain a great deal about why there's such a massive presence of magic here. Located at the center of town - all roads lead to the Coven, a massive stone building with sharp looking spires - the grounds are notable in that there's nothing even remotely similar to the Looking-Glass House that everyone has come to know, despite its secrets. Should one gain entry to the main building of the Coven itself, they'll find that all the mirrors are within. Their main focuses of magic, rather than the more broad spectrum/free-to-study policy that Miss Nessie encourages, are enchantment and abjuration - for control, primarily. They're also heavy studiers of runes, visible across the city and with an even heavier influence in the wards of the Coven itself. They are, regardless, fairly welcoming to eager young minds wanting to learn. So long as the Monsters are left behind. But who's to say that you can't disguise a Monster? a. STUDY TIME Those curious about the Coven's library are welcome to investigate it for themselves, the Witches all smiling faces as they usher their visitors in. But they'll soon find that they aren't really left to their own devices; a member of this Coven branch is practically around every corner, and while they try to be subtle about their observation it becomes quickly obvious that they're not there for their own studies. They're stationed around the library to ensure that their guests don't make off with any of their resources, or try to get into any forbidden sections of the expansive library. Where the Coven library of Aefenglom - as well as the Undermael College's library - plays devil's advocate, with accounts and studies conducted from both sides of the anti-Monster sentiment and attempt to expand upon outdated knowledge... these ones have a decidedly anti-Monster lean in every regard. Any attempts to find otherwise will be met with bemused amusement by the Coven members, and a note that they don't carry such things here. After all, they're certainly not Aefenglom. They would never carry anything that could put their citizens at risk in such a way. Nevermind those horrid Bonds that Bell goes on and on about - it's no wonder that they're always at odds with their government. If only they'd wisen up, hm? Perhaps these new arrivals would like to transfer to their branch, instead, to better guarantee their growth. b. THROUGH THESE HALLS If one manages to slip away from the library without having somebody tailing them, they'll soon discover that the chilled atmosphere doesn't simply linger in the city itself. The halls are cold, the runes unwelcoming unlike the homey feel that Nerissa Bell's charms offer. Certainly home isn't perfect - and there's no denying that the sentiment is shared by many - but the smiling faces of the Black City's branch are at odds with the feel of their magic, the caged in weight pressing down on everything, including your shoulders. The halls are dimly lit by flickering lights, enchanted lanterns with a constantly burning yellow-white fire. Plenty of nooks and dark corners afford even large Monsters the ability to sneak through the halls, should they be snuck in for better investigation with their peers. Take care, however; there are Witches coming and going constantly. An empty room might lead to a study, a classroom, a bedroom. Locked doors don't yield easily, even in a dream, and may need to be abandoned. But a terrible, foreboding feeling emanates from large double doors that are rigidly locked. Hushed voices speak from the other side, and it's almost like the cold feeling that spreads throughout the Coven itself finds its source behind those doors. Periodically, sounds of pain escape from within - but they die out to whimpers, then silence, before they can ever get too loud. A crisp voice speaks only one word, clear even through the wood and the magic: "Again."

III. THE DARK UNDERBELLY There's always more to a city than the streets that you can see at the surface level. If you're looking, it's not hard to spot the signs. There are runes that mark walls and cobblestone streets like graffiti, and a studied eye might realize that they're not the same sort that have subjugated the more monstrously inclined of the Black City. These are intended to dispel magic, and the moment that a member of the Coven notices it - it's swept up as soon as possible, scrubbed clean or scorched off with magic. People take to the streets in small groups, standing their ground and raising their voices above the muffled din of a foggy city. They carry chains and collars that have been broken, but many of them are undeniably human as they confront something that has so obviously become the norm. Break the chains! they demand. Break the spell! Monsters go missing from the auctions with a well-placed distraction - perhaps you're one of the individuals being freed from the pavilion, or someone that's realized that there are people coming and going through the crowds, wearing the same cloaks as the Coven but without their iconic pins, dressed as aristocracy, from all walks of life... smuggling the Monsters away at the first chance. a. PARTY TO PROTEST Not every uprising can be swept under the rug at first sign, however. Witches take to the streets, looking surprised to see the mirrorbound arrivals from Aefenglom - and it's not the same wariness that most would give them. This is the calculating eye of someone assessing whether the person they've met will help or hinder, and some of them decided that you're to be help. Enchanted slips of paper are pushed into hands, runes are taught as quickly as possible in a hushed whisper and explanation, locations given out to Witch and Monster alike with a word of caution. Use the paper on a surface, any surface, and you'll see. Use the runes to break the compulsion - you might have to do it twice, thrice, however many times it takes to dispel the magic. Don't be caught. Using the enchantment as instructed - pressing the paper against a wall, the ground, a post, anything - will result in glowing runes overtaking the surface. It's the same as the runes that are taught to Witches, used to ward against the magic in place just as much as it is to create a statement of protest. If one goes to a location that is whispered to them, they'll find that they've joined an organized protest. It's small in size, a mixture of Witches and unleashed Monsters. Due to the size and frequency it's easy enough to find them, but the guards are very quick in putting them down or hiding any traces of them from the public eye, despite the protesters' best attempts. There's nothing amiss in the city, and nothing for citizens to worry about. b. REST AND REGROUP But they can't find every source of the resistance. It isn't hard for dreamgoers to find themselves swept up by these protesters. Any help is welcome, and those that show an inclination towards helping the Monsters of the city - or their Monsters that they know, regardless people that shouldn't suffer this way - will be taken into the fold. Entrances to their secret routes can be found in places that are hidden in plain sight. A storefront tended to by a Monster with eyes in sharp clarity when they look up from their robotic work welcomes a group of people in and behind the counter, to where a hatch door is hidden in the floor. A manhole cover is pried up, where people are smuggled down below. A portal is prepared, a different and darker destination on the other side. They all lead to the same location. The sewers are vast beneath this city. Much like the labyrinth that many faced in the Midsummer nightmare, it almost seems winding, endless, and the water is cold when it's crossed. But even with the stank of the runoff, the musty and moldy air, there's never the sense of dread, of death. Instead, there are signs of when you're going the right way - runes that shimmer only when looking at them out of the corner of your eye, or when you know what to look for. Three stars together - sometimes overlapping, sometimes circling each other, but always three, and always five points. While they appreciate the help, the mirrorbound aren't invited in by the revolutionaries to the main hideout. But it becomes obvious by charm bracelets, necklaces, piercings, tattoos, embroidery and stitching on shirts; this symbol, and its presence, is integral to their world beneath the city. But many are welcome to mingle throughout their circle. In the sewers, the shops, the small park where a rune gives secret announcements to those who know where to look for it on the third bench, even the homes of people that certainly don't look like revolutionaries, let alone anyone that would be a protector.

Welcome to the Black City! As a reminder, this takes place on August 18th - or rather, 3AM on the August 19th, much like the midsummer nightmare. If you have any questions or need any clarifications, you can ask them here! And as always, while we do encourage you to use this log, you can feel free to thread things out on your own log or elsewhere. Characters are allowed to try and start fights in the city, create prompts based on the information given instead of using the ones given exactly, and poke their noses where they don't belong - we encourage it, actually. But regardless of what you choose, we hope you have a good time!

And as a final parting note: If a character dies in the dream, they'll simply reappear at the beginning rather than waking up like normal.

Comments

daenerys targaryen | monster – dragon

[freeing]

◘ 1. monsters for sale ( witches / monsters )

[ It's a dream – she keeps having to tell herself that. Among the magic, illusions, and wonder of Aefenglom's world – this isn't real. Daenerys had watched as collared monsters were herded around – some with only a few patches of discolored skin or oddly shaped pupils or horns sprouted from their heads. They were like her and the collars on their neck was a reminder of a symbol she so desperately wanted to ensure was gone in her home world.

She watches as the marketplace begins to fill up, her heart beating so hard she can feel it in her ears. Daenerys tugs her jacket a bit tighter over her chest, trying to hide the shimmering silver scales that had begun to sprout on the sides of her neck and her collarbone. She was one of them – would she be in chains soon too?

Her eyes can't pull away – over and over, many monsters bought as if they were livestock. The following will happen the longer she is there:

A. – Daenerys simply remains quiet, the color washed from her face and a seething glare beginning to grow. If you are already close CR with her she will begin to indulge her disgust. Pleading asking if they are sure this is just a dream.

B. – Or, if Daenerys does not feel an answer suitable, she will act. Around the 5th or 6th monster sold, it brings enough disgust in her stomach to begin storming up towards the auctioneer platform, as if she could truly do anything to stop them. Feel free to restrain her, tug her back, or if you're a Witch command her to stay. ]

◘ 2. not all it seems ( witches )

[ Whether Daenerys finds someone she's interacted with or not – she sets out in search of any witch she can find. There seems to be a reliance on the Coven here, its halls heavily divided for their kind only. Daenerys feels angered that the answers she seeks – on how to wake up, hell maybe even return home – could be waiting for them there. Binding her in proverbial chains were almost as bad as literal ones, it seems.

The woman is blunt with her requests – whether or not her assumption is true. ]

I need your help. [ A plead, firm but still sympathetic. ] Can you please – tell me more about the magic you possess? Tell me what you are able to do. I may have a plan to help some of those unable to move freely through the city.

◘ 3. free your mind ( monsters / witches )

It is going get them killed. If one can even die here...

[ Bitterly, Daenerys is not subtle in her disapproval for the small pockets of protests. As much as she can appreciate the spunk and honor they have in standing up for themselves, Daenerys is a bit entitled in her view. She was the breaker of chains, her will extending out to those unable to fight for themselves. Even seeing the former slaves of the Free Cities taking it back once she had left and the masters usurping rule – she has been advised that this is not like their world.

Things were not as simple or idealistic.

Daenerys keeps her head low, eyes focused on the sight in front of her. ]

This is showing their hand too soon when there is nothing to be won. Chanting will not entice change.

◘ 4. wildcard ( monsters / witches )

[ Got another idea? Throw them in a PM to me! I do not mind having Daenerys being commanded or being harmed! She's starting to show dragon traits – particularly anger which makes her act vengefully or without regret and dragonscales donning the side of her neck down to her collarbone. ]

1.

[rollfordiplomacy]

[Everett had gathered all he needed to understand, from the auction block. A cruel and controlling culture they have dreamt up, pure and simple as that. His curiosity shifts in closer, to those in the crowd. Who are the onlookers?

His gaze ends on pale hair and a regal posture. Yet, something is off that he can spot from behind her. Everett moves in to stand just over one of her shoulders. He clears his throat, announcing himself subtly to her, not wishing to make her jolt. His voice is quiet and calm, just for the two of them]

Do hold still, good miss. [it's a command, but she's not compelled to follow it, which very much gives him away. Human in appearance, but a monster, his trait have yet to manifest.]

If you don't mind, I shall adjust your collar. You're showing a bit of shimmer. [if she did it herself, it might look suspicious, draw attention to her discomfort. If he does so, he'll merely appear a caring companion, arrived to fuss about her.]

[freeing]

[ It was all an unfortunate truth she must face in this dream world. Omens given to her — it was hardly the first time she felt her mind betray her in such a way. She remembers the throneroom in King's Landing filled with snow, the face of her stillborn child and dead husband. This dream world? She survived worse, but Gods if it did not rattle her to her very core to see chains and collars so proudly latched to people's body.

She's ready to step forward by the time a voice implores her to hold still — not command. Her form flinches and eyes casting behind her unsure and defensive. He's lucky he followed up with his words or she may have defended herself from someone getting far too closer than she'd like — there's a nervous gaze around and she looks forward once more. ]

...Do so then. [ Cold, firm. ] Do not allow your hands to linger.

[rollfordiplomacy]

[Quietly, he responds with a simple "Understood." before he more loudly says,]

My lady, you'll catch a chill. Allow me.

[that's his cover for reaching and adjusting the collar, nobody around them paying more than a passing glance. The assumption is an easy one to make, that they're familiar with one another, though it is far from the truth. It should not be odd beyond that, if he is seen whispering to her.

His hands do not linger, only his proximity. His quiet tone returns]

I'm not keen to be next up there. Nor am I keen to stand idle. I suspect the same of you. [His implication should be clear; want to do something about this? What's the game plan?]

3.

[starseedling]

What else can they do?

[Steven is watching too, with an illusion projected to show him as he had been before the changes - a human child. He's been glamoured for his entire stay in this city, slipping in and out of various places in the form of a child, or sometimes as grown man. Sometimes, he just makes himself disappear completely.

Right now, though, his watching both Daenerys and the protest with uncertainty.]

If they don't show everyone they can stand up to this, a lot of people won't realize they have a choice.

[freeing]

I wish I had an answer.

[ One that was better than this. Her words were low, eyes downcast as if she was trying not to stare too much to the sight in front of her. It would be obvious where her loyalties lied — how firm she would speak out against the injustice displayed, even lodged in a dream world like this

She tugs her collar tightly closed, knuckles turning white. ]

The world is not kind to those trying to break the wheel — whether it be from the inside or outside. This type of magic —

[ It frightens her. God, it does. Magic had taken things from her and she is naturally wary of witches... even good-natured ones. ]

I do not know if a few sympathetic witches can shield those monsters standing up from punishment.

[ It takes everything in her power to keep herself from acting — she had agreed with Ser Jorah that they must be smart about their actions. ]

[starseedling]

[He can definitely relate to that. Even if it was never something like this, a lot of gems were shattered trying to liberate Earth and to find their own way. It was always just social conditioning though, nothing like... this.

Except maybe with pearls. That comparison makes his stomach knot.]

Maybe... Maybe it doesn't matter. [He can see some of the stress in her body language - the whitening of knuckles and carefully chosen actions. He wants to try to alleviate it.] Did anyone tell you about the dreams we had before? This feels a lot like that...

[He swallows his doubt and tries to sound confident, for her benefit.]

Maybe this is just a dream and maybe we can't change everything before we wake up, but... we can still learn everything we can! If this is a real place, and these people are still suffering... we know there are parts of the city that are fighting back!

Maybe the rest of Aefenglom will help us, and they wouldn't have to fight alone anymore! And if we figure things out while we're here now, we'll know everything we need to act when we come here for real!

wildcaaaaard

[heartsbane]

[ one would think that you'd grow used to surprising locale changes, but you really don't. just as the city of Aefenglom began to grow more familiar to his cautious eyes, he wakes up to a perpetual fog that surely confirms the dreams that Daenerys had previously advised him of. it is difficult to separate reality with what is in front of him considering how everything still feels very much alive, but he has given up on trying to make heads or tails of something. his goal was to find Daenerys as soon as possible, especially considering what he has seen happened to the apparent monsters of this city.

they have reunited once more and Jorah has quickly escorted them somewhere more private for them to rest and plan ahead. to say he had acted with a sense of urgency is an understatement. considering he was sporting a thick beard of brown and speckled grey in the matter of one to two days and nails that grew unnaturally sharp points, he unfortunately knows the risk of what will happen if he is identified. there hasn't been enough time for Daenerys or Jorah to stand still and inspect each other on much, so he's oblivious to any changes on her. for now.

they make a stable their temporary haven for the time being, with Jorah ensuring that he checks their surroundings carefully prior to entering and closing any kind of door that will offer them privacy. ]

Things are moving quickly, khaleesi. Far too quickly. [ and he means in just about every way possible, mind you. ] You are unharmed, I hope? Time is... hazy here. I have no idea if you have been here longer than I.

[freeing]

[ This place was not as "welcoming" as Aefenglom, no. It was as she had feared when she first arriving in that damn house full of mirrors — the world would treat her as a prisoner. Shackle her, collar her. She keeps shielded as much as possible to hide the growing change to her body, to move away from the herded monsters.

Her nerves were shot, blood boiling in anger and she would silently swear to bring those who would twist her mind to this dark place to justice. To regret forcing Daenerys Stormborn to see such sights.

Jorah and her find one another quickly. They would do best to find shelter — a safehaven, but fail. Being told to get off of an occupied porch, being told to stop lingering — both feel compelled to follow.

They had followed where many monsters go, to small stables outside of inn-like areas for Witches and their bonded. Daenerys feels no pride as Jorah brings her here, guides her to the only safe spot they can find. Among the soft hay beds and small gates that allow such a small secluded space for them, Dany rests with her back pressed to the wall... Her voice keeps quiet, eyes looking up to her trusted. ]

No. They did not touch me. [ She says confidently, her jacket tugged tighter to her body — she didn't feel cold, but she felt frustrated she could not simply utter one word and burn this city to the ground. It's a dream, it's a dream... ] Only a short while has passed, I think, until our paths crossed. You — look rough, Ser Jorah. Tired.

[ Was it tired? Or was it ill-kept? Daenerys hears the commands outside of the stables — other monsters taking rest in neighboring stalls, she lowers her voice further. ]

Is there a way to leave this place? I do not like it. I do not wish to dream of this.

[heartsbane]

[ the two of them have come to learn quite a bit since their reunion, and most of it hasn't boded well in terms of what awaits. Jorah would like to think that it helped him prepare for the possibility of something like this happening again, but it clearly did not. he doesn't know where to take the two of them for safety. doesn't know to wake either of them up. dream or no, if witches try to pursue Daenerys, he can't be sure he can protect her on his lonesome. the last thing he wants is for him to fail her, let alone so early on in their re-established relationship. ]

I am... [ a sigh of relief escapes him before he continues. ] ... very happy to hear that. I would not know what I would do if I learned a hand was placed on you.

[ he is only one man, and he has certainly learned that these witches have more powers than any Red Priest or Priestess combined. Jorah doesn't want to think of his inability to actually protect his queen. then again, a single glance down to the claws that are seemingly forming gives him an idea that he has yet to find out what is waiting for him in the ominous future. ]

Hah. I am fine, Daenerys. Cautious and tired, yes, but there is no point in sleeping within a dream.

[ surely she wants to comment on seeing him with a thick beard as opposed to the normal grainy texture that covers his jaw. she doesn't, which only leads him to believe that she has concerns about what it may mean. Jorah simply runs his fingers through the hair that has grown with more volume than that of what is on his head. ironic, isn't it? ]

I wish it were so simple. Perhaps jumping off of a tall building may do it, but I fear I do not want either of us risking such a foolish idea.

1.2

[hippocarnival]

[The whole sight of it makes Yuya feel sick. He pushes through the crowd with a barely mumbled, resentful excuse me until he spots Daenerys moving forward, just ahead.

He picks up the pace, trying to catch up to her.] Hey-- [He doesn't shout, so it's hard to be certain if she heard him.]

[freeing]

[ Daenerys is ready to cause a scene – impulsively following her heart and guilt with no regards to what is real or dream. It feels real and it haunts her all the same. Why not try to awaken from it or stop whatever display continues?

At first, it does not register someone called out to her. She pushes through the disheveled and looming Monsters, looking back as if trying to see if there were guards – and that is when she spots him. Her eyes plead for him to leave, only a few feet separate them. ]

[hippocarnival]

[Yuya stops when she turns to him, his gaze shifting sideways to the monsters--then back to her, questioning. She's going after them, isn't he?

If he tells her not to, it'll just bring attention that she was thinking about it. So instead he ducks his head, trying to sneak up beside her.]

Do you--[He pauses, considering, keeping his voice low.] Recognize someone?

2

[loadme]

I've been studying a lot of Divination and Illusion type magic.

[For someone like Monika, a lot of what she's seen just doesn't really sit right with her. She would very much like for this to end.

Now, please.]

I was thinking of helping, too, but I'll gladly listen to your ideas!

[freeing]

[ Hey, girl, hey! A familiar face is appreciative and even with the urgency she may have in her voice, Daenerys leans back a bit onto her boots to steady herself or best she'd clutch onto the girl in a swoop. ]

That's wonderful! [ She seems genuinely happy – ecstatic, but she keeps her reservations dulled down. Her face sobers – from a girl back to a mature Queenly woman. ] Please, do tell me what you had planned first. We can not spread our ambitions thin if we hope to accomplish something.

[loadme]

I've been practicing my Illusion magic a lot, and it's gotten even better after I finally Bonded with someone. I was thinking of disguising some of the monsters or maybe turning them invisible so that I could help them escape.

[Fooling the senses had a great many applications.]

There's just so many of them...

2

[atouts]

[ Childermass has taken to sitting outside the Coven, well across the street, and puffing away on his pipe while watching the doors. He could simply go in, of course, being a witch, but he's even less pleased to be in there with the dream's witches than he is out here in this awful city. He has his own thoughts and ideas on what to do, but alone—

That Daenerys arrives to say that exact thing — that she may have an idea — gets his attention. Though he looks up and raises an eyebrow at her, questioning, then pulls the pipe away to hold off to one side, smoke drifting away from their faces. ]

If magic works again as it did in the last dream I was trapped in, I daresay I might be able to figure out just about any spell. [ He doesn't sound boastful while saying it, just matter-of-fact. Magic in this world doesn't match up with the magic in his own but some experience has been helpful. ] I have been trying my hand at Abjuration and Transmutation, though. Diviniation and Illusions, also, but I already had a knack for those back in England.

[freeing]

Can you? [ A familiar face with a fresh set of skills? It would be a blessing. He can see the hopeful glint in her eyes, see how her anger subsides enough to still come forth and try to solve the problems that ail her. ] If you are able to grasp the different schools of magic I've come to understand in this realm... perhaps we really can make a difference –

[ This is personal to her. This may be a dream, but dreams haunt her. It shows her things she does not want to see, things that seer into her memory – she does not want to add this to the list. ]

I have no doubt the Coven of this city is far more advanced than any Mirrorbound witches – but have we seen any type of figure they follow? Any one we could... perhaps find a likeness to with the right magic...?

[atouts]

That very much depends on what you're planning, miss.

[ He can't recall them ever exchanging names, so 'miss' will have to do. Considering trying something might lead to being arrested, it's probably for the best, too... ]

So far I've seen no sign of parliament, nor any monarchy. [ He nods towards the looming Coven buildings in the distance. ] The Coven itself appears to be leading the city. I've run into no specific leader, either, but I'd say their own police force might fit the role for lack of anyone better.

2

[chosenside]

[Theseus turns his head back when he hears a somewhat familiar voice call out to him-- and he's honestly quite surprised to see Daenerys again, even though he's been meaning to get in contact with her ever since they parted ways. He hopes that she's been doing well, but such a hope is quite pointless in this place, isn't it? Judging by her question, he can only assume that magic is something still unavailable to her, which places her in particularly nasty situation here.

He turns around to face Daenerys fully, wanting to answer her directly.]

...Would you suddenly believe me if I told you that I possess most of the magic described in the Coven? [As terrible as this place has been, it's also the first time Theseus has felt like his normal self since leaving his world. Working with his brother for a good few hours in this city has helped as well.]

Perhaps I can provide a better answer if you told me about your plan.

[freeing]

[ That kind of answer was one she could hope for. He can see the uncertainty in her eyes, see how she tenses up and tilts her head as if asking truly? If such a thing was possible – perhaps it could be enough... ]

It is not much of a plan, I'm afraid. The customs and possibilities of this city – hell, even Aefenglom – are lost upon me. I have not seen the root of this injustice, merely what presents itself.

[ She remembers the pecking order of the Dothraki – how they followed strength.

She wonders if magic is the strength to follow? ]

I believe we must find the select few leading the Coven. I have not been able to go close enough in my ... current state... [ Anxiously, she pulls back her collar enough to show the patches of silver scales beginning to grow upon her neckline. ] They can either help lead a change in thinking – a rebellion against shackles or they can burn.

[ Yes, it's a dream – but... it feels so very real. On her face, it is clear this feels very personal. ]

2

[mislike]

[Sansa has not yet met Daenerys back home. As far as she can tell, she is the only one from Westeros, and it has been this way for months. She has had to forge allies here, to work herself into a position in Parliament. She needs to get back to the North.

This is not the first time she has been alone, but it has caused her to be wary. She doesn't have Winterfell, her brother, her armies, the loyalty of the North, but she has her wits, her courage, and her strength of character here. There are two sides waging here--

On one hand she must protect herself, but seeing that witches hold an elevation above monsters here, she may be able to use that to her advantage. She knows that slavery is wrong. Her own father sentenced Jorah Mormont for it. And in the end the kindness that is in her heart and the duty that Ned Stark instilled into her wins out.

So when the silver haired girl approaches her, Sansa draws the hood of the cloak she had been wearing away.]

I have learned protection runes, and I know some spells, a blast of light that can both protect and burn.

[freeing]

[ Perhaps in this world, things would go far more better. Daenerys had ensured she was careful for who she sought help for. It was a chance – one she did not know would work out. The girl in front of her had seemed more keen to shy away from the ongoing displays of Monsters being tugged around like beasts. It takes only a few moments of observation from the crowd for Dany to take a chance, to reach out and assume something as bold – that she was one of them. The mirrorbound, not a fellow Monster.

She keeps her jacket buttoned tight, insecurely checking her collar every so often to ensure it still covered her neckline which now began to grow a few patches of silver scales. She is successful, for now. ]

I see. [ It was not exactly what she had in mind – she hoped illusions and farces more beneficial, but the protection runes were certainly interesting. ] Forgive me for imposing, but the runes – could you tell me about them?

1b

[gunsmithed]

[ The entire thing is grotesque, but if there's any chance of figuring out what is going on in this terrible place, it's to be found by watching and waiting. Percy's found himself standing silently amongst the crowd gathered at the auction, watching with an unreadable expression. Whatever he might want to do at the moment, he knows full well what happens if one man tries to cause a fuss. And it's not as if he has access to the sort of money that would take care of things in a quieter way anymore.

But it seems some others either haven't learned that particular lesson, or else don't care. He catches sight of movement in time to see a light-haired woman storming towards the auction block, and Percy has enough familiarity with bold stupidity to be able to read her movements. He reaches out as she passes, catching her elbow to try to keep her from getting father. ]

Don't.

[ It's low and clipped, trying not to be heard above the roar of the crowd. ]

You won't help them like that.

[freeing]

[ Daenerys has seen displays like this before. As a conqueror and khaleesi with three dragons, she was able to do something about it. As a young woman, afflicted with a curse that begins to change her body? There is not much she can do. It was an act of her heart, of impulse that pushes her through the crowd. Fueled on anger and the need to do something, it was not until Percy catches her elbow that she spins to face him – defensive and caught off guard with a rush of red to her features. Embarrassment or anger? Hard to tell. ]

Take your hand off of me or you will lose it. [ An empty threat. Ser Jorah was not here for his sword and her hands were as brittle as paper, she thinks. Her glowering expression was unbecoming of a beautiful woman like her, yet for a dragon? Maybe. ] No one else will do anything – they are being sold like animals.