Era 9 Episode 2

[Koloss17 She/They]

13 minutes ago, Hoid Slayer said:

Ebonaryle, Mistwarrens, Herborium

Lux remained silent the entire time, and Ebon was happy with that silence. Stepping back out into the alley, back into the sounds of the city, he hesitated.

He needed to get to the New Hallandren garrison as soon as possible. Yet it was across the city… normally, he would simply Jump there, but with Lux… he looked at the small radiant. He couldn’t leave him. As he watched the boy talk to seemingly nothing, a plan began to form in his head… as he realized a dreadful certainty.

Perses wouldn’t like it. No, he wouldn’t like it at all. But it was the only other way to get across the city quickly. So Ebon sighed, made sure one last time Lux was behind him, stabbed his daggers into his sides, and expended his third Jump of the string… setting course for Wickwillow Manor.

Quote

You want me to control Belias and how he interacts with the manor? When we get there, of course.

 

[CoderDrag0n8 He/Him]

38 minutes ago, Hoid Slayer said:

Ebonaryle, Mistwarrens, Herborium

Lux remained silent the entire time, and Ebon was happy with that silence. Stepping back out into the alley, back into the sounds of the city, he hesitated.

He needed to get to the New Hallandren garrison as soon as possible. Yet it was across the city… normally, he would simply Jump there, but with Lux… he looked at the small radiant. He couldn’t leave him. As he watched the boy talk to seemingly nothing, a plan began to form in his head… as he realized a dreadful certainty.

Perses wouldn’t like it. No, he wouldn’t like it at all. But it was the only other way to get across the city quickly. So Ebon sighed, made sure one last time Lux was behind him, stabbed his daggers into his sides, and expended his third Jump of the string… setting course for Wickwillow Manor.

Lux, Mistwarrens, Herborium

Lux jumped at the take-off and quickly ran after him.

Where is he going? Lux thought to himself, keeping Fractal hidden in the folds of his Mistcloak.

[Hoid Slayer He/Him]

10 hours ago, CoderDrag0n8 said:

Lux, Mistwarrens, Herborium

Lux jumped at the take-off and quickly ran after him.

Where is he going? Lux thought to himself, keeping Fractal hidden in the folds of his Mistcloak.

Ebonaryle, Mistwarrens, Random Street

Ebon raced through the streets faster this time, restraining himself as much as possible but eager to not waste a second. Eventually, the crowded slums of the Mistwarrens - Perses’ domain - gave way to the packed, higher end streets of the rare abandoned corner of Mistkeep, and the large ornate doors of Wickwillow Manor - Perses’ palace. A crow squawked as Ebon reformed, Lux behind him. There was no one visible in the area but them.

Ebon mustered himself, prepared to face a frustrated Perses. He had to remind himself often that despite his power, the Scadrian was still young - and had gone through as much psychological trauma as many Fused in his short years. In a way, Ebon would almost feel bad for the boy, if not for his utter ruthlessness and his power over Ebon’s life.

But still, right now, Ebon had no choice. He took a step towards the decorated doors, knocked in the special pattern that indicated it was him, and pushed them open.

11 hours ago, Koloss17 said:

 

Quote

Yes please

 

[CoderDrag0n8 He/Him]

10 hours ago, Hoid Slayer said:

Ebonaryle, Mistwarrens, Random Street

Ebon raced through the streets faster this time, restraining himself as much as possible but eager to not waste a second. Eventually, the crowded slums of the Mistwarrens - Perses’ domain - gave way to the packed, higher end streets of the rare abandoned corner of Mistkeep, and the large ornate doors of Wickwillow Manor - Perses’ palace. A crow squawked as Ebon reformed, Lux behind him. There was no one visible in the area but them.

Ebon mustered himself, prepared to face a frustrated Perses. He had to remind himself often that despite his power, the Scadrian was still young - and had gone through as much psychological trauma as many Fused in his short years. In a way, Ebon would almost feel bad for the boy, if not for his utter ruthlessness and his power over Ebon’s life.

But still, right now, Ebon had no choice. He took a step towards the decorated doors, knocked in the special pattern that indicated it was him, and pushed them open.

Lux, Mistwarrens, Random Street

Lux followed him as swiftly as he could, making sure not to bump into too many people.

Lux was concerned at what Ebon was doing, but followed anyway, making sure to keep Fractal as concealed as possible, even using some rudimentary lightweaving to cover his entire body, trying to make Fractal's presence as un-noticable as possible.

[Steel Speedster ♂]

On 2/17/2026 at 10:23 AM, Qianweilian said:

Aradan Liese, Underground, Unknown

Blinking for a second, Aradan took a second to process. “I was…I saw him getting ready to infiltrate the meeting. I was…lonely and wanted to come along to wherever he was going. When the fight broke out, I was unsure what to do, except fight.” Aghh. His head throbbed. He continued, “My name is Aradan Liese. I…only recently arrived in Alleycity. Please return my goldminds or treat my wounds, I’m afraid I’m gravely injured."

Fenna, Underground, Saferoom

One of the guards handed Mask a bag containing the prisoner's supplies. Mask withdrew a gold ring, briefly contemplating it before tossing it to Aradan.

"New here," Mask repeated. "Interesting. In that case, perhaps we can come to an arrangement. You are Twinborn? That is well for you. Otherwise, we might find a less pleasant use for your abilities. But power is precious, and it would be a shame to waste yours.

"First, tell me everything you know about Thavel Talin. If your information is good, we can discuss future possibilities."

@Qianweilian @Mistfallen Soldier

[Koloss17 She/They]

On 2/19/2026 at 8:44 AM, Hoid Slayer said:

Ebonaryle, Mistwarrens, Random Street

Ebon raced through the streets faster this time, restraining himself as much as possible but eager to not waste a second. Eventually, the crowded slums of the Mistwarrens - Perses’ domain - gave way to the packed, higher end streets of the rare abandoned corner of Mistkeep, and the large ornate doors of Wickwillow Manor - Perses’ palace. A crow squawked as Ebon reformed, Lux behind him. There was no one visible in the area but them.

Ebon mustered himself, prepared to face a frustrated Perses. He had to remind himself often that despite his power, the Scadrian was still young - and had gone through as much psychological trauma as many Fused in his short years. In a way, Ebon would almost feel bad for the boy, if not for his utter ruthlessness and his power over Ebon’s life.

But still, right now, Ebon had no choice. He took a step towards the decorated doors, knocked in the special pattern that indicated it was him, and pushed them open.

 

Belias, Mistkeep, Wickwillow Manor.

The fused knocked on his doors. What did the weak one want this time? He opened his doors to the parlor, making sure to keep the room appearing relatively normal.

@CoderDrag0n8

Quote

If you were to peek into the cognitive realm, you would realize that you had entered the Alleys. In truth, you had been in the Alleys before you even set foot in the mansion. However, something would be deeply wrong, as the Alleys would actually end at a certain point, with a harsh transition to the regular cognitive realm of the Alleyverse, as if the Alleys were seeping into the physical realm. 
 

From the perspective of the Physical realm, the transition is seamless.

 

[Ink and Embers Any pronouns]

On 2/16/2026 at 3:18 AM, Koloss17 said:

Midas, New Hallandren, Garrison

Again, no sign of them lying. “Well, unless Limel still needs things from you, you’re free to go. We have your details and testimony logged, and your compliance will be noted.”

@Hoid Slayer @KnightSkye Reforged @KaladinsSenseOfHumourSpren @Ink and Embers

Cayansa, New Hallendren, New Hallandren Garrison 

Cayansa half-stood, half-tumbled out of their seat, relieved to be free from the bland room with its mind-breaking colours. They turned to Midas and gave an awkward bow of respect. "Uh- thank you! Very much! I hope you manage to catch the culprit soon! Please say if there's anything we can do to help!"

To help? Reyx asked, sounding like broken thunder in a bottle - normally a sign they were horrified - as they flitted towards the exit. You mean we're coming back here again?

I mean... maybe. Cayansa shrugged. If we find Naher in this district, this would be a good place to report him. And if not...

No, that's a terrible idea, Reyx butted in. There was a pause in which they glittered hesitantly, then added, You're going to do it, aren't you?

Life before Death. Can you really rest peacefully knowing there's a group wreaking havoc with antilight in populated areas? We can at least try to stop this repeating, Reyx. Cayansa clenched and unclenched their fists repeatedly, waiting for the others to leave the room. I want to help.

@KaladinsSenseOfHumourSpren @KnightSkye Reforged @Koloss17 @Hoid Slayer

[KaladinsSenseOfHumourSpren He/Him]

1 hour ago, Ink and Embers said:

Cayansa, New Hallendren, New Hallandren Garrison 

Cayansa half-stood, half-tumbled out of their seat, relieved to be free from the bland room with its mind-breaking colours. They turned to Midas and gave an awkward bow of respect. "Uh- thank you! Very much! I hope you manage to catch the culprit soon! Please say if there's anything we can do to help!"

To help? Reyx asked, sounding like broken thunder in a bottle - normally a sign they were horrified - as they flitted towards the exit. You mean we're coming back here again?

I mean... maybe. Cayansa shrugged. If we find Naher in this district, this would be a good place to report him. And if not...

No, that's a terrible idea, Reyx butted in. There was a pause in which they glittered hesitantly, then added, You're going to do it, aren't you?

Life before Death. Can you really rest peacefully knowing there's a group wreaking havoc with antilight in populated areas? We can at least try to stop this repeating, Reyx. Cayansa clenched and unclenched their fists repeatedly, waiting for the others to leave the room. I want to help.

@KaladinsSenseOfHumourSpren @KnightSkye Reforged @Koloss17 @Hoid Slayer

Starseeker, New Hallandren, New Hallandren Garrison

Starseeker followed Cayansa cautiously.

"I don't like Midas," Crimson said, now only visible to him again. "Too much like a Skybreaker."

"Agreed," Starseeker whispered.

@Ink and Embers @KnightSkye Reforged @Koloss17 @Hoid Slayer

[CoderDrag0n8 He/Him]

8 hours ago, Koloss17 said:

Belias, Mistkeep, Wickwillow Manor.

The fused knocked on his doors. What did the weak one want this time? He opened his doors to the parlor, making sure to keep the room appearing relatively normal.

@CoderDrag0n8

 

Lux jolts a little bit, when looking at his surroundings.

Quote

I have fractal with me

does that matter? I can RP him escaping, would know how to do it convincingly.

 

[Koloss17 She/They]

1 hour ago, CoderDrag0n8 said:

Lux jolts a little bit, when looking at his surroundings.

 

Quote

No, Belias isn’t fully manifested in the physical/alleys hybrid realm, he just has control over it. Like tendrils of influence. He would be tempted, but he likely won’t strike.

 

[CoderDrag0n8 He/Him]

3 hours ago, Koloss17 said:

 

Quote

Alrighty

 

[Qianweilian He/him]

On 2/20/2026 at 11:12 AM, Steel Speedster said:

Fenna, Underground, Saferoom

One of the guards handed Mask a bag containing the prisoner's supplies. Mask withdrew a gold ring, briefly contemplating it before tossing it to Aradan.

"New here," Mask repeated. "Interesting. In that case, perhaps we can come to an arrangement. You are Twinborn? That is well for you. Otherwise, we might find a less pleasant use for your abilities. But power is precious, and it would be a shame to waste yours.

"First, tell me everything you know about Thavel Talin. If your information is good, we can discuss future possibilities."

@Qianweilian @Mistfallen Soldier

Aradan, Underground, Unknown

“Ahh,” Aradan shivered as he tapped the metalmind, health flowing through him. Coughing, he replied, “I…know very little. I found him mugging a man, and I attempted to find out why. He told me he was going to a meeting and invited me to come along. We went to the meeting, no first, we went to a hideout of his. I…the path is hazy, I can’t really remember.” We’ll see about this masked woman. It’s possible Thav is malicious, in which case I will tell her where the hideout is, but not yet. “He gave me some spare metals, and then we came to the meeting,” Aradan continued in a strong, deep voice, “I was planning to merely watch, but things…got out of hand.” 

Bruises mending, Aradan breathed a sigh of relief as the last increment of healing in this ring—which was mostly expended at the beginning anyways—aided him. “Who are you, and where is this place? That man…at the meeting, what was he talking about? Are you part of the same organization?"

@Steel Speedster@Mistfallen Soldier

Quote

Sorry for the late response, had a busy week.

[Steel Speedster ♂]

20 minutes ago, Qianweilian said:

Aradan, Underground, Unknown

“Ahh,” Aradan shivered as he tapped the metalmind, health flowing through him. Coughing, he replied, “I…know very little. I found him mugging a man, and I attempted to find out why. He told me he was going to a meeting and invited me to come along. We went to the meeting, no first, we went to a hideout of his. I…the path is hazy, I can’t really remember.” We’ll see about this masked woman. It’s possible Thav is malicious, in which case I will tell her where the hideout is, but not yet. “He gave me some spare metals, and then we came to the meeting,” Aradan continued in a strong, deep voice, “I was planning to merely watch, but things…got out of hand.” 

Bruises mending, Aradan breathed a sigh of relief as the last increment of healing in this ring—which was mostly expended at the beginning anyways—aided him. “Who are you, and where is this place? That man…at the meeting, what was he talking about? Are you part of the same organization?"

@Steel Speedster@Mistfallen Soldier

Fenna, Underground, Saferoom

Fenna watched as Mask's eyes narrowed and a subtle smile appeared on his face. "You may call me 'Mask'," he told Aradan. "As you can see, poor Cuvel is unconscious. Your handiwork, I believe." He jerked his head in the direction of the speaker's limp form.

"If what you say is true," Mask continued. "Then you acted out of ignorance, not malice. That can be forgiven. In exchange, I only require one thing. Where is this hideout you speak of?"

Quote

@Qianweilian No problem!

Btw, as a quick clarification, Mask and Fenna are different people. I might have made it more confusing than necessary due to the POV I'm using. I'm writing from Fenna's POV because I prefer to avoid using an NPC's POV when possible, but Mask is the one talking right now. His sheet is on the NPC page if you need it.

No big deal. Just seemed like you were getting a little mixed up and I wanted to clear things up to prevent things getting more confusing.

 

[Myst He/Him]

6 hours ago, Qianweilian said:

Aradan, Underground, Unknown

“Ahh,” Aradan shivered as he tapped the metalmind, health flowing through him. Coughing, he replied, “I…know very little. I found him mugging a man, and I attempted to find out why. He told me he was going to a meeting and invited me to come along. We went to the meeting, no first, we went to a hideout of his. I…the path is hazy, I can’t really remember.” We’ll see about this masked woman. It’s possible Thav is malicious, in which case I will tell her where the hideout is, but not yet. “He gave me some spare metals, and then we came to the meeting,” Aradan continued in a strong, deep voice, “I was planning to merely watch, but things…got out of hand.” 

Bruises mending, Aradan breathed a sigh of relief as the last increment of healing in this ring—which was mostly expended at the beginning anyways—aided him. “Who are you, and where is this place? That man…at the meeting, what was he talking about? Are you part of the same organization?"

@Steel Speedster@Mistfallen Soldier

Quote

My weeks been busy too, lol, I got midterms a SE game going on right now. 

5 hours ago, Steel Speedster said:

Fenna, Underground, Saferoom

Fenna watched as Mask's eyes narrowed and a subtle smile appeared on his face. "You may call me 'Mask'," he told Aradan. "As you can see, poor Cuvel is unconscious. Your handiwork, I believe." He jerked his head in the direction of the speaker's limp form.

"If what you say is true," Mask continued. "Then you acted out of ignorance, not malice. That can be forgiven. In exchange, I only require one thing. Where is this hideout you speak of?"

 

Saitaku, Underground, Meeting Place

Saitaku looked at the other man who he’d been tied to. Twinborn… he’d been wanting some allomantic powers. But he didn’t have a spike on him right now. Besides, he’d have to know which ones. Plus antagonizing the guy who had so many invested people probably wasn’t a good idea.

maybe I’ll just listen for now and they’ll forget I’m here. Maybe they’ll drop some information I can use

Saitaku stepped away from the tied up Scadrian, keeping to the edge of the room.

[Qianweilian He/him]

On 2/27/2026 at 4:03 PM, Mistfallen Soldier said:

Saitaku, Underground, Meeting Place

Saitaku looked at the other man who he’d been tied to. Twinborn… he’d been wanting some allomantic powers. But he didn’t have a spike on him right now. Besides, he’d have to know which ones. Plus antagonizing the guy who had so many invested people probably wasn’t a good idea.

maybe I’ll just listen for now and they’ll forget I’m here. Maybe they’ll drop some information I can use

Saitaku stepped away from the tied up Scadrian, keeping to the edge of the room.

On 2/27/2026 at 10:19 AM, Steel Speedster said:

Fenna, Underground, Saferoom

Fenna watched as Mask's eyes narrowed and a subtle smile appeared on his face. "You may call me 'Mask'," he told Aradan. "As you can see, poor Cuvel is unconscious. Your handiwork, I believe." He jerked his head in the direction of the speaker's limp form.

"If what you say is true," Mask continued. "Then you acted out of ignorance, not malice. That can be forgiven. In exchange, I only require one thing. Where is this hideout you speak of?"

Aradan Liese, Underground, Unknown

This man clearly doesn’t believe my story, that I “forgot.” Then again, I don’t know another way out of this. “Too be fair about—what was it? Cuvel? The guards attacked me first anyways.” Aradan attempted to stretch as far as he could tied up, for he didn’t have enough healing to remove the soreness in his muscles.

“Why would you want to know where Thavel’s hideout is so much? I’ve already told you I cannot remember where it was. I’m concusse—“ Aradan looked down at the metalmind in his hands. So much for that excuse. I can’t believe I was so shortsighted! 

“Everything I have seen—well, not everything—suggests that Thav is genuinely trying to help people, and you aren’t. Tell me why I should believe you. Why should I sell out someone who trusted and aided me to someone who smacked me upside the head and has me tied up who knows where!” The outburst echoed around the room. Aradan grew quiet and his blood went cold under Mask’s gaze.    

“Tell me why,” Aradan said as he stumbled backwards. Glancing over, he saw a heavily scarred man standing behind him. He seems to be another prisoner. Maybe we can get acquainted later.

On 2/27/2026 at 10:19 AM, Steel Speedster said:

Fenna watched as Mask's eyes narrowed and a subtle smile appeared on his face.

Quote

Is Mask…not wearing a mask? I kinda imagined that...

On 2/27/2026 at 10:19 AM, Steel Speedster said:

Btw, as a quick clarification, Mask and Fenna are different people. I might have made it more confusing than necessary due to the POV I'm using. I'm writing from Fenna's POV because I prefer to avoid using an NPC's POV when possible, but Mask is the one talking right now. His sheet is on the NPC page if you need it.

Quote

Got it. That was, indeed, confusing me. Thanks for the heads up.

[Steel Speedster ♂]

4 hours ago, Qianweilian said:

Aradan Liese, Underground, Unknown

This man clearly doesn’t believe my story, that I “forgot.” Then again, I don’t know another way out of this. “Too be fair about—what was it? Cuvel? The guards attacked me first anyways.” Aradan attempted to stretch as far as he could tied up, for he didn’t have enough healing to remove the soreness in his muscles.

“Why would you want to know where Thavel’s hideout is so much? I’ve already told you I cannot remember where it was. I’m concusse—“ Aradan looked down at the metalmind in his hands. So much for that excuse. I can’t believe I was so shortsighted! 

“Everything I have seen—well, not everything—suggests that Thav is genuinely trying to help people, and you aren’t. Tell me why I should believe you. Why should I sell out someone who trusted and aided me to someone who smacked me upside the head and has me tied up who knows where!” The outburst echoed around the room. Aradan grew quiet and his blood went cold under Mask’s gaze.    

“Tell me why,” Aradan said as he stumbled backwards. Glancing over, he saw a heavily scarred man standing behind him. He seems to be another prisoner. Maybe we can get acquainted later.

Fenna, Underground, Saferoom

"Because" Mask responded. "Why would you risk yourself for someone you don't know? You don't matter to him. He left you behind. You owe him nothing."

Mask turned and began pacing up and down the room. "Even if you refuse me, it doesn't matter. We will find Talin eventually. But you have much to gain by aiding us. And much to lose by refusing."

@Qianweilian @Mistfallen Soldier

Quote

Mask is not wearing a mask. His face is "mask-like" in appearance in that it looks relatively generic, which is the main reason for the alias. It's supposed to be a bit weird, but I apologize for the multiple confusions. I'll try to mention those details in my paragraphs more often instead of just assuming that everyone remembers every detail from every post I make lol.

 

[Qianweilian He/him]

33 minutes ago, Steel Speedster said:

Fenna, Underground, Saferoom

"Because" Mask responded. "Why would you risk yourself for someone you don't know? You don't matter to him. He left you behind. You owe him nothing."

Mask turned and began pacing up and down the room. "Even if you refuse me, it doesn't matter. We will find Talin eventually. But you have much to gain by aiding us. And much to lose by refusing."

@Qianweilian @Mistfallen Soldier

Aradan Liese, Underground, Unknown

He’s right. I really, have a lot to lose here. My life, let alone ever burning Iron again. I don’t know Thav, and he did leave me there. But, Mask doesn’t seem trustworthy at all. I originally thought there was the possibility he was legitimately a good person, and I still don’t really know Thav’s intentions. I can’t just stay silent though, I either aid them or don’t. Aradan took a deep breath and stared at the stone wall in front of him. It was made of bricks, probably granite. Is that a tiny stone face in the wall? They were smushed together with mortar and water dripped from the ceiling. What do I...

“No.” It came out as a whisper. Shocked, Aradan blinked his eyes. He had no idea what he had been going to say. But…the stranger, the man who helped me, did he know me? Did me knowing the people I thought I was protecting on Scadrial ever change anything? 

Standing up, with difficulty due to the restraints placed upon him, he repeated it again, strong and clear, “No. I am not the kind of person who sells out someone who helped me, housed me, even if only for a few hours. You have made no progress in convincing me you are any sort of hero, or indeed anything but a petty criminal. I may be out of health in this metalmind, and lack pewter flowing through my veins, but I will stand for justice.”

“I don’t care what you do to me. As long as I believe it is the right thing to do, I will do it. And right now, I sincerely doubt you will ever convince me to break a promise made to someone who helped me out of, what I believe to be, the goodness of their heart.”

@Steel Speedster@Mistfallen Soldier

Quote

By WoB, I could potentially heal loss of powers due to Hemalurgy if I have a lot of healing power. And if my f-gold was stolen, I would still be able to access previously created metalminds.

I’m also kind of curious what Mask is planning to do to Aradan.

Good night.

[Koloss17 She/They]

Quote

I love how we're learning why adding extra details to your posts is cool and good without me needing to poke and prod folks for it :3

 

[Qianweilian He/him]

49 minutes ago, Koloss17 said:

 

Quote

What, you're telling me collaborative free form roleplaying works better if we collaborate? How ridiculous.

 

[Hoid Slayer He/Him]

On 2/24/2026 at 11:00 AM, Koloss17 said:

Belias, Mistkeep, Wickwillow Manor.

The fused knocked on his doors. What did the weak one want this time? He opened his doors to the parlor, making sure to keep the room appearing relatively normal.

@CoderDrag0n8

 

Ebonaryle, Mistkeep, Wickwillow Manor

“Belias!” Ebon announced. He took care not to attune any rhythms - he didn’t want the being to believe he was intending to manipulate, or even worse, mock him - and put on his most confident gait as he stepped into the manor and heard the doors shut behind him. They clanged, and Ebon felt an eerie silence fall over the place. He knew Belias was there, listening, but he couldn’t help but feel like he was screaming into the nothing. Of course, he had lots of experience with that. Keeping an eye on Lux, he continued.

”Could you find me a pathway near the New Hallandren Garrison? I have reason to believe they’re holding an operative of the Crimson Dawn. An opportunity like this is extremely rare.” He hesitated, then bowed his head, hoping he was measuring the situation well. “Please.”

@Koloss17@Through The Living Coder

Quote

Apologies for the delay, folks, this post took me way less time than I thought it would

 

[Steel Speedster ♂]

On 3/2/2026 at 6:54 PM, Qianweilian said:

Aradan Liese, Underground, Unknown

He’s right. I really, have a lot to lose here. My life, let alone ever burning Iron again. I don’t know Thav, and he did leave me there. But, Mask doesn’t seem trustworthy at all. I originally thought there was the possibility he was legitimately a good person, and I still don’t really know Thav’s intentions. I can’t just stay silent though, I either aid them or don’t. Aradan took a deep breath and stared at the stone wall in front of him. It was made of bricks, probably granite. Is that a tiny stone face in the wall? They were smushed together with mortar and water dripped from the ceiling. What do I...

“No.” It came out as a whisper. Shocked, Aradan blinked his eyes. He had no idea what he had been going to say. But…the stranger, the man who helped me, did he know me? Did me knowing the people I thought I was protecting on Scadrial ever change anything? 

Standing up, with difficulty due to the restraints placed upon him, he repeated it again, strong and clear, “No. I am not the kind of person who sells out someone who helped me, housed me, even if only for a few hours. You have made no progress in convincing me you are any sort of hero, or indeed anything but a petty criminal. I may be out of health in this metalmind, and lack pewter flowing through my veins, but I will stand for justice.”

“I don’t care what you do to me. As long as I believe it is the right thing to do, I will do it. And right now, I sincerely doubt you will ever convince me to break a promise made to someone who helped me out of, what I believe to be, the goodness of their heart.”

@Steel Speedster@Mistfallen Soldier

Fenna, Underground, Saferoom

Fenna looked back and forth apprehensively between Mask and Aradan. The former looked the prisoner up and down in silence.

"So, be it," Mask finally said. "Take him to the laboratory."

A pair of guards put rough hands on Aradan's shoulders and began steering him towards a door at the back of the room. Fenna stayed put, unsure whether she was allowed to follow.

@Qianweilian @Mistfallen Soldier

Quote

So, obviously, Aradan is a bit in a sticky situation, and we might want to plan ahead a bit.

@Qianweilian I believe I know the WoB you're referring to, and (if I remember correctly) I believe it referred to gold compounders. I don't think a regular gold ferring can access their goldminds if their f-gold is spiked out of them. (Compounders can still burn their goldminds Allomantically and get the power that way.) However, that shouldn't be an issue, because Mask won't want to spike out the f-gold. Theoretically, the best (albeit dark) use for Aradan would be to spike him for a-pewter and allow him to heal it back repeatedly, essentially turning him into an a-pewter spike factory.

Anyway, I assume you'll want him to get out of here. (Although if he remains captured they won't kill him. But I imagine that would be boring for you to have your character stuck for an extended period.) The main two ways I see that happening are if someone intervenes or with a stroke of luck. Fenna definitely won't intervene. @Mistfallen Soldier, I don't know if there's any reason Saitaku would do anything (not necessarily to help, but something that would cause a disturbance) but that could be a possibility. Otherwise, Aradan's iron medallion could come into play. As far as we've RPd, I don't think Mask knows about it, so if Aradan gets his hands on it, that could let him escape (although I guess he would need metal too.)

Anyway, those are just my thoughts. Let me know what you two think.

Edited March 6 by Steel Speedster

[CoderDrag0n8 He/Him]

1 hour ago, Slay the Living Hoid said:

Ebonaryle, Mistkeep, Wickwillow Manor

“Belias!” Ebon announced. He took care not to attune any rhythms - he didn’t want the being to believe he was intending to manipulate, or even worse, mock him - and put on his most confident gait as he stepped into the manor and heard the doors shut behind him. They clanged, and Ebon felt an eerie silence fall over the place. He knew Belias was there, listening, but he couldn’t help but feel like he was screaming into the nothing. Of course, he had lots of experience with that. Keeping an eye on Lux, he continued.

”Could you find me a pathway near the New Hallandren Garrison? I have reason to believe they’re holding an operative of the Crimson Dawn. An opportunity like this is extremely rare.” He hesitated, then bowed his head, hoping he was measuring the situation well. “Please.”

@Koloss17@Through The Living Coder

 

Lux, Mistkeep, Wickwillow Manor

Lux was slightly confused.

He had seen the place fluctuate in the Cognitive realm, and Lux sense something strange was going on in this manor. He... felt... the same being in the last warped alleyway.

It was like... A presence. Like... a giant Eye watching everything.

Lux took stock of the situation.

They were in this huge manor, and his protector was talking to a giant floating eye that resides over all.

His protector, Ebon, seemingly wanted to get somewhere, and fast. To track down a criminal group, or something.

No matter what, Lux made sure to stay silent. No matter how belevolent Ebon seemed, Lux did not want to get on his bad side.

[Qianweilian He/him]

15 hours ago, Steel Speedster said:

Fenna, Underground, Saferoom

Fenna looked back and forth apprehensively between Mask and Aradan. The former looked the prisoner up and down in silence.

"So, be it," Mask finally said. "Take him to the laboratory."

A pair of guards put rough hands on Aradan's shoulders and began steering him towards a door at the back of the room. Fenna stayed put, unsure whether she was allowed to follow.

@Qianweilian @Mistfallen Soldier

Aradan Liese, Underground, Unknown

The thugs grabbed Aradan’s shoulders and began pushing him towards a steel door. The laboratory? That doesn’t sound good. Aradan glanced at the scarred man against the wall. Stopping for a second, he questioned, “Who are you? Are you going to just let them lock us away?” He was about to say more, but one of the guards kicked him in the shins, forcing him forwards.

@Steel Speedster@Mistfallen Soldier

Quote

The healing from hemalurgy question is likely irrelevant as it would require copious amounts of f-gold, but I’m not sure you’re correct. In BoM, they discuss how an aluminum ferring (identity) could tap other people’s metalminds by blanking their identity. I don’t think this would have been mentioned if they could only tap aluminumminds, so I suspect the matching identity would allow tapping if the Feruchemical ability was stolen. Honestly, that might be a Brandon-worthy question.

You’re right in assuming that I’d want and escape to happen, but I’m not sure how. I think the iron medallion is a good idea, and any metal vials I’m assuming should be in the bag with Aradan’s stuff. Perhaps Saitaku or something else could cause a distraction and let Aradan run for his stuff.

I don’t know if Mask even knows that Aradan can burn pewter, unless there was a Seeker during the fight. Foolish Aradan straight up said he “lacks pewter.” Nvm that then.

I don’t really have a lot to do, so if you or Mist wanted to create an opening, that would work. 

[Koloss17 She/They]

On 3/5/2026 at 6:33 PM, Slay the Living Hoid said:

Ebonaryle, Mistkeep, Wickwillow Manor

“Belias!” Ebon announced. He took care not to attune any rhythms - he didn’t want the being to believe he was intending to manipulate, or even worse, mock him - and put on his most confident gait as he stepped into the manor and heard the doors shut behind him. They clanged, and Ebon felt an eerie silence fall over the place. He knew Belias was there, listening, but he couldn’t help but feel like he was screaming into the nothing. Of course, he had lots of experience with that. Keeping an eye on Lux, he continued.

”Could you find me a pathway near the New Hallandren Garrison? I have reason to believe they’re holding an operative of the Crimson Dawn. An opportunity like this is extremely rare.” He hesitated, then bowed his head, hoping he was measuring the situation well. “Please.”

@Koloss17@Through The Living Coder

 

Belias, Miskeep, Wickwillow Manor

Belias was growing tired of this weakling’s presence. But until his plan was complete, killing this weakling would sow distrust in Perses. He sent one of his failed vessels to speak for him.

————————————

the room had an eerie silence to it, as the floorboards didn’t make the creaking noises that an old house like this would make. Instead, the floor made a dull crunching noise, like the floorboards could crumble at any moment. From one of the many doorways into the rest of the mansion, shrouded in darkness, a figure emerged.

A long, spindly creature stood before the two figures, a blank slab of skin wearing deteriorating clothes. As they stood  in the presence of the two, a face grew from the blank head, skin tightening into scales as eyes seeped out from its skull, a hole below it becoming its mouth.
 

Slowly, agonizingly, over the course of a minute, the creature became an amalgamation of the two visitors. Hardened carapace-like skin, with a pair human eyes and a nose. Once it had a stable form, it spoke, its voice triplicating: one being the voice of Ebon, a second being the voice of Lux, and the third being the voice of Belias.

“This Way,” said the voices, tgeir speech overlapping. The creature beckoned, its uncanny arm extending, waving towards the door they emerged from.

@Through The Living Coder

[Myst He/Him]

15 hours ago, Qianweilian said:

Aradan Liese, Underground, Unknown

The thugs grabbed Aradan’s shoulders and began pushing him towards a steel door. The laboratory? That doesn’t sound good. Aradan glanced at the scarred man against the wall. Stopping for a second, he questioned, “Who are you? Are you going to just let them lock us away?” He was about to say more, but one of the guards kicked him in the shins, forcing him forwards.

@Steel Speedster@Mistfallen Soldier

Quote

I got you, at least, I can give Aradan time to do something. Though, full disclosure, right now Saitaku does not care about you and he’s only doing this so he can get a spike from you instead of them. He’s also interested in what their doing to see if he can steal something 

Saitaku, Underground, Unknown

Saitaku watched the people drag the scadrian. Aradan? Something like that. He’d admitted to having at least pewter and Gold, both very valuable spikes. He spoke up to the man seemingly in charge.

”Hey.. Mask, is it? Are you sure he’s only got pewter and gold?” He took out a knife, “besides, spiking doesn’t work if the subject is tapping gold the whole time”

He wandered towards the laboratory, fingering the blade, “I’m sure you would’ve found someone from the Set with expertise by now” 

He raised an eyebrow, “Do you even have any spikes?”

@Steel Speedster @Qianweilian

Quote

I‘m not sure what the plan is from here, but if Saitaku can steal some spikes he will. Speaking of which, at some point I’m going to have to worry about Harmony being able to take over. I’ve already got a plan for becoming/or not becoming a Koloss.