Re: Chapter 2, Phase 3 - Nkiru of the Sunset
"Thank you for joining us, Captain of the Hammerhead," replies the Elder to Treon. She rests her gaze upon Indrid, as well. "And you, Amiliki. For tonight we will eat together in peace."
"Cynis Megara is not one of ours, lady Hera," Risina continues on, when the Elder's words are interrupted by a racking cough. It appears speaking unaided is not always easy for the Matron. "She is a Terrestrial chosen. And her kin are kin of the Realm and their Empire. However, because Megara visited us last, we do feel an obligation to tell any rescue party where she has gone."
After drinking a long sip of tea the Elder touches Risina's arm, so that she may continue in her quiet, wispy voice. "The Black Rock Chasm has been known to my people for centuries. It was considered cursed since before the time of Elder Matron Shiv-hala, thirteen generations hence. The Umai know to avoid it by the color of the water in its vicinity; there it is stained black, as if by a squid's ink."
"When the Handmaiden was among us, She kept the Chasm dormant. But whatever magic She wove has weakened. Now ships that linger there are often lost. Others have returned emptied of cargo, and the crew speak of horrific sea monsters in their midst. Only two have returned with treasures, artifacts of deceptive beauty and untapped power that have been kept sealed since. It is such wonders that draw people to venture there, despite the dangers."
The Speaker takes over again, to allow her Elder to rest and continue to eat. "Megara is only one of the unlucky lost at the Chasm. But she went there willingly. The Chasm, you see, is completely underwater. Deep, so deep that no ordinary human can venture there unaided. She thought perhaps with her sorcery, her superior equipment, she would triumph in the den of the sea monsters. Ha! We've no reason to think she survived, but no proof she died, either. That is where you come in."
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:08, Sun 22 Feb 2009.