The Longest Thread (Misadventures)

[KaladinsSenseOfHumourSpren He/Him]

37 minutes ago, ChipsAHoid said:

…I missed this

Renn stared. Why did a god of this power want him? Even his own people didn’t. Perhaps it was best not to dwell on the past. He had no idea what this being was, but whatever it was, it should be seeking those above him. 

“How would a being of your power require help?” Renn asked incredulously.

Sandy and 18142 are both away right now. Well, I can bring 18142 back now, I guess he isn't needed in BftS at the moment.

18142 re-appears in his spacetime curvature stellar-class starship.

He emerges and turns to Renn. "Well, first of all, what can you do?"

[Kansas Stormcursed he/him]

@Dragonheir if Asharak wants to gie someone (Renn) limited teleportation powers, could he do that himself—like use a small amount of the nanites you gave him—or does he need to request Rebus's aid?

[ChipsAHoid He/Him]

9 hours ago, KaladinsSenseOfHumorSpren said:

Sandy and 18142 are both away right now. Well, I can bring 18142 back now, I guess he isn't needed in BftS at the moment.

18142 re-appears in his spacetime curvature stellar-class starship.

He emerges and turns to Renn. "Well, first of all, what can you do?"

Renn thinks for a moment

”with Dakko’s power, my fighting skills have been enhanced substantially. I could likely wield any weapon with some skill, but I mostly use the dagger. These new gods will give me teleportation. However, I am still not very powerful, and very kill-able.”

Renn wondered what more this god could do, but it seemed impolite to ask. Beyond that, why were there two  gods allied together in such a way. Normally, even allied gods left their allies to their own deals, and made others themselves. Very rarely did any two work together in such a way, excluding combat. But then again, all he knew of gods came from his own gods, so perhaps there were other types of alliances elsewhere.

[TwinStorm He/Him]

21 hours ago, Dragonheir said:

Alright, thanks. 
Rebus smiled, his viciously pointed crown glowing with darkness. “Exactly what it sounds like, more or less. It is a Plotblade - a symbol of my status of archvillain of the Thread.” 
In another time, supposedly, Rebus watched Sandy believe he was leaving. This was false, though Rebus did admire the use of fairly legitimate physics. Unfortunately for Sandy, much less legitimate physics reigned here - metaphysical and metafictional concepts held immense sway. 

Rebus nodded, searching for the specified man. He already had light sources, medical nanomachines, and weaponry precise enough it would serve as insecticide. As for Rebus’s resolve and wits, those were always his primary assets. Thank you for your assistance. 

“I possess them already - I will need to find a different Plotblade to alloy in.” Rebus looked off into the distance. “This can be your test - there are a number of Plotblades that could suffice.”  

She nodded. "Give me time. I'll need to think about this."

[Keke They/he]

krys fell through the portal he had found in the iris base. the hell? he thought looking around. He started walking through the plains to find people. 

[Through The Living Ash he/him]

On 7/10/2025 at 9:00 PM, Ashkaloda said:

"Hmm. It doesn't usually - but I guess if I changed the wording slightly, it could work." 

A voice chuckles from behind Renn. 

"Well, this is amusing." 

A figure steps forward, seeming to fuzz around the edges slightly. Not looking directly at Renn, they speak. 

"I would like to make a counteroffer." 

@Dragonheir, did you see this? 

On 7/11/2025 at 10:12 PM, Dragonheir said:

“I was a poor Avatar at the time - once I started to develop characterization, I realized I would cease to exist if that continued to be my personality and role. I changed myself, becoming closer to what I am today.” 
“I have two people already who could be thought of as Dragons. You could become my third, but I would like proof you are trustworthy.” 

“I disagree. This fight is predetermined - you should know that.” 
That was odd - Rebus was manipulating it manually, with nanomachines. Trying another tactic, he latched on to the fireball, stopping it in place and feeding it more power, filling the air with smoke. Rebus would not suffocate - Aeon might. 

The darkness was warm, for some reason - almost like a heat lamp. The shadow it cast was warm too, though that was still illuminated by other light. 

Rebus appeared, wearing his armor and crown. “I am not offended by truth, even if it is a criticism of my morality. I gave up the opportunity for a flawless public image when I claimed Antagonist.” 

He then turned to Axzi, the man some saw as a god. Rebus knew that experience, though at this point those who called him one were almost right. Rebus had a friendly smile, in contrast to the wickedly pointed and darkly glowing crown he worn. “As others have told you, I am not necessarily a good soul. That does not mean I will bring destruction, however; I consider myself intelligent, and bringing the downfall of one’s own domain is an action that does not befit that description. What I offer is power in exchange for swearing allegiance to me, and yet more resources should one wish to truly manage a section of my empire. Should a place I claim be unique and useful, I leave it as it is, while places that would be improved I have been transforming into nanomachines.” 

Cursed Treasure is a little broken at the moment - it basically needs to latch on to someone’s soul after what Rebus did. 

As Rebus appeared, the man turned to him, then froze, shock replacing his previously impassive expression. He cursed, taking a step back, and his figure fuzzed. In the moments before the man disappeared, Axzi felt a final communication. 

Do not allow yourself to be used by them. 

@ChipsAHoid

On 7/11/2025 at 5:54 PM, Kansas Stormcursed said:

@Ashkaloda Is Taeidin considering aligning with Rebus or against him? Cep will follow along with whatever he does.

Right now, Taeidin has agreed to help Rebus look for the Lost Pages, but I'm still kinda thinking on what to do with that. 

[ChipsAHoid He/Him]

6 minutes ago, Ashkaloda said:

Do not allow yourself to be used by them. 

I do not mean to be used, merely to help one another. 

[Through the Living Heir he/him]

On 7/19/2025 at 3:30 PM, ChipsAHoid said:

Seeing your arrival, a man in black armor approaches you, smiling kindly.

“What is your business here, traveler? These lands are currently unsafe. Perhaps you should move on…”

This is the man. Let him guide you, but stay alert. He will help, but only out of fear for his life.

Rebus grinned at the new information. “Ordinary I would like you. I still might hire you.” Utility fog began to pry to armor off of the man, seeping between the gaps then yanking with strength to buckle any ordinary metal. “But for the time being, I wish to speak to the Lord of Darkness. I know you are the only way to get there, but I can also gouge out your brain and make it take me there without the rest of you following. I would advise compliance.” By this point, Rebus had much the same kind smile on his face as the other man had started this. He was perfectly calm and cheerful, like this was a common, polite interaction. 

On 7/19/2025 at 11:08 PM, KaladinsSenseOfHumorSpren said:

...

But real physics should still work unless whatever the new stuff is directly overriding what Sandy is doing...

So what is this new stuff?

Sandy can’t leave the Thread while remaining in this thread - the Thread expends to contain anything within the thread. 

Rereading, if Trisolaris is in BftS, it does work. I think moving between metafictional dimensions might take a few more degrees of freedom than string theory, but that’s all. 

On 7/20/2025 at 12:15 AM, Kansas Stormcursed said:

@Dragonheir if Asharak wants to gie someone (Renn) limited teleportation powers, could he do that himself—like use a small amount of the nanites you gave him—or does he need to request Rebus's aid?

He could do this on his own - the nanites can build teleporters and self-replicate (Rebus would still notice and could block it unless Asharak somehow hacked the nanites, but Asharak can do it). 

On 7/20/2025 at 11:04 AM, TwinStorm said:

She nodded. "Give me time. I'll need to think about this."

Rebus nodded. “That you shall have - several days of it till I next exist.” 

On 7/20/2025 at 12:33 PM, Hawks said:

krys fell through the portal he had found in the iris base. the hell? he thought looking around. He started walking through the plains to find people. 

Rebus, since he had been going around conquering planets, decided to propose this one being in his possession. He knew the relevant Author could already read the thought, and could answer some questions about the implications if that was needed. 

On 7/20/2025 at 3:12 PM, Ashkaloda said:

As Rebus appeared, the man turned to him, then froze, shock replacing his previously impassive expression. He cursed, taking a step back, and his figure fuzzed. In the moments before the man disappeared, Axzi felt a final communication. 

Do not allow yourself to be used by them. 

@ChipsAHoid

I saw it, but I may not have responded. “As long as you honor the spirit of the agreement, that is a deal.” 
Rebus did not think it would be necessary to pursue this person - he would need someone to fight, after all. 

[Kansas Stormcursed he/him]

Asharak reappears near Renn. "Are you still willing to take my offer?"

@ChipsAHoid

[ChipsAHoid He/Him]

37 minutes ago, Dragonheir said:

Rebus grinned at the new information. “Ordinary I would like you. I still might hire you.” Utility fog began to pry to armor off of the man, seeping between the gaps then yanking with strength to buckle any ordinary metal. “But for the time being, I wish to speak to the Lord of Darkness. I know you are the only way to get there, but I can also gouge out your brain and make it take me there without the rest of you following. I would advise compliance.” By this point, Rebus had much the same kind smile on his face as the other man had started this. He was perfectly calm and cheerful, like this was a common, polite interaction. 

Storms, that’s scary

All kindness or humor had left the man’s face, replaced by fear. He reluctantly spoke.

“Very well. I will lead you to him. But even I cannot enter unless in the presence of one who has proved himself worthy by completing the trials. Once completed, the gates to his room unlock. There are 8 Challenges”

Perhaps this won’t be much of a challenge. He’ll lead you to several things that must be defeated in particular ways. They are called Horrors, and they correspond to each of the domains of the enemies.

The man in front of you is the Horror of Betrayal. I doubt his betrayal will do any harm. After he leads you to all the Horrors, you’ll have to fight him.

As the man led them through the darkness, the stone beneath Rebus feet rose slightly, in an attempt to trip him. A faint giggle can be heard.

10 minutes ago, Kansas Stormcursed said:

Asharak reappears near Renn. "Are you still willing to take my offer?"

@ChipsAHoid

Renn thinks for a moment, and then nods.

“Yes”

Edited July 22, 2025 by ChipsAHoid

[Kansas Stormcursed he/him]

2 minutes ago, ChipsAHoid said:

Storms, that’s scary

All kindness or humor had left the man’s face, replaced by fear. He reluctantly spoke.

“Very well. I will lead you to him. But even I cannot enter unless in the presence of one who has proved himself worthy by completing the trials. Once completed, the gates to his room unlock. There are 8 Challenges”

Perhaps this won’t be much of a challenge. He’ll lead you to several things that must be defeated in particular ways. They are called Horrors, and they correspond to each of the domains of the enemies.

The man in front of you is the Horror of Betrayal. I doubt his betrayal will do any harm. After he leads you to all the Horrors, you’ll have to fight him.

As the man led them through the darkness, the stone beneath Rebus feet rose slightly, in an attempt to trip him. A faint giggle can be heard.

Renn thinks for a moment, and then nods.

“Yes”

"Excellent." Asharak touches two fingers to Renn's forehead. He feels a sharp sting, then a warm hum spreads through his body before settling.

"There. That will grant you limited teleportation—only within the Thread, and only affecting yourself and any nonmagical items you carry. Now, if you are done here—not sure if you're still talking with all the others—perhaps we could move somewhere else, that I might explain some of my plans without unwelcome prying ears listening?"

[ChipsAHoid He/Him]

6 minutes ago, Kansas Stormcursed said:

"Excellent." Asharak touches two fingers to Renn's forehead. He feels a sharp sting, then a warm hum spreads through his body before settling.

"There. That will grant you limited teleportation—only within the Thread, and only affecting yourself and any nonmagical items you carry. Now, if you are done here—not sure if you're still talking with all the others—perhaps we could move somewhere else, that I might explain some of my plans without unwelcome prying ears listening?"

Renn winces slightly at the pain. 

“that is fine by me.”

[Kansas Stormcursed he/him]

Just now, ChipsAHoid said:

Renn winces slightly at the pain. 

“that is fine by me.”

There's a sense of air warping, and then they are standing in front of a small hut in the middle of the woods. "Welcome to my home base. Please, come inside." He opens the door to reveal several chairs, a plate of cookies, and not much else.

[ChipsAHoid He/Him]

Just now, Kansas Stormcursed said:

There's a sense of air warping, and then they are standing in front of a small hut in the middle of the woods. "Welcome to my home base. Please, come inside." He opens the door to reveal several chairs, a plate of cookies, and not much else.

Renn inspects the cookies, scanning for poisons such as Mayonnaise Oreos out of habit, then pauses and looks at Asharak apologetically. In a show of faith, he tries one of the cookies.

[Kansas Stormcursed he/him]

Just now, ChipsAHoid said:

Renn inspects the cookies, scanning for poisons such as Mayonnaise Oreos out of habit, then pauses and looks at Asharak apologetically. In a show of faith, he tries one of the cookies.

The cookie is enchanted to become whatever kind of cookie is his favorite.

"Now," Asharak says as he grabs a cookie (double chocolate) and srttles into a chair. "I assume you noticed that I specified that your teleportation is limited to within the Thread, as mine is. There are a few who can leave the Thread and travel to other Realms; I wish to join their numbers, and I request your aid in finding such a method. In return, I will aid you in whatever quest you seek."

[ChipsAHoid He/Him]

12 minutes ago, Kansas Stormcursed said:

The cookie is enchanted to become whatever kind of cookie is his favorite.

"Now," Asharak says as he grabs a cookie (double chocolate) and srttles into a chair. "I assume you noticed that I specified that your teleportation is limited to within the Thread, as mine is. There are a few who can leave the Thread and travel to other Realms; I wish to join their numbers, and I request your aid in finding such a method. In return, I will aid you in whatever quest you seek."

Renn is shocked at finding a stoat cookie. It’s been so long since he’s had one. 

“how would a person so unimportant as myself be able to help with such a large task?”

[Kansas Stormcursed he/him]

2 minutes ago, ChipsAHoid said:

Renn is shocked at finding a stoat cookie. It’s been so long since he’s had one. 

“how would a person so unimportant as myself be able to help with such a large task?”

"Well, this is twofold. Firstly, I cannot do everything on my own—that is a lot for one being to do. Second, I have a tendency to stick out like a sore thumb in places where you might better blend in."

[KaladinsSenseOfHumourSpren He/Him]

1 hour ago, Dragonheir said:

Sandy can’t leave the Thread while remaining in this thread - the Thread expends to contain anything within the thread. 

Rereading, if Trisolaris is in BftS, it does work. I think moving between metafictional dimensions might take a few more degrees of freedom than string theory, but that’s all. 

Oh no Trisolaris is just a name given to Alpha Centauri, a real star system 4.2 lightyears from Earth.

[ChipsAHoid He/Him]

8 minutes ago, Kansas Stormcursed said:

"Well, this is twofold. Firstly, I cannot do everything on my own—that is a lot for one being to do. Second, I have a tendency to stick out like a sore thumb in places where you might better blend in."

Renn considers.

”That is a valid point. What would assignments look like?”

[Kansas Stormcursed he/him]

Just now, ChipsAHoid said:

Renn considers.

”That is a valid point. What would assignments look like?”

"For the most part, I would likely send you to gather either information or collect items as needed; I would of course do the same."

[ChipsAHoid He/Him]

6 minutes ago, Kansas Stormcursed said:

"For the most part, I would likely send you to gather either information or collect items as needed; I would of course do the same."

That seemed reasonable to Renn. 

“very well. I am… unskilled at speaking to people, so gathering information other than by listening in may not be my strong suit.”

[Kansas Stormcursed he/him]

8 hours ago, ChipsAHoid said:

That seemed reasonable to Renn. 

“very well. I am… unskilled at speaking to people, so gathering information other than by listening in may not be my strong suit.”

"That is plenty. Many underestimate the power of listening ears. Now, tell me, how may I aid you in return?"

[Keke They/he]

12 hours ago, Dragonheir said:

Rebus, since he had been going around conquering planets, decided to propose this one being in his possession. He knew the relevant Author could already read the thought, and could answer some questions about the implications if that was needed. 

the relevant author says absolutely not buddy. He has a plot line i need to play out. Go the freak away. he wont be owned. Like even if i said yes. Krys might actually just fight you. And kill you. 

krys wanders to a little tavern and enters it and sits down looking for people to talk to still

[ChipsAHoid He/Him]

3 hours ago, Kansas Stormcursed said:

"That is plenty. Many underestimate the power of listening ears. Now, tell me, how may I aid you in return?"

Renn was hesitant. He spoke carefully

”I have always wished to ranch a wondrous being known as the stoat.”

Renn is so… how do I put this… unique?

[Through The Living Ash he/him]

16 hours ago, Dragonheir said:

Rebus grinned at the new information. “Ordinary I would like you. I still might hire you.” Utility fog began to pry to armor off of the man, seeping between the gaps then yanking with strength to buckle any ordinary metal. “But for the time being, I wish to speak to the Lord of Darkness. I know you are the only way to get there, but I can also gouge out your brain and make it take me there without the rest of you following. I would advise compliance.” By this point, Rebus had much the same kind smile on his face as the other man had started this. He was perfectly calm and cheerful, like this was a common, polite interaction. 

Sandy can’t leave the Thread while remaining in this thread - the Thread expends to contain anything within the thread. 

Rereading, if Trisolaris is in BftS, it does work. I think moving between metafictional dimensions might take a few more degrees of freedom than string theory, but that’s all. 

He could do this on his own - the nanites can build teleporters and self-replicate (Rebus would still notice and could block it unless Asharak somehow hacked the nanites, but Asharak can do it). 

Rebus nodded. “That you shall have - several days of it till I next exist.” 

Rebus, since he had been going around conquering planets, decided to propose this one being in his possession. He knew the relevant Author could already read the thought, and could answer some questions about the implications if that was needed. 

I saw it, but I may not have responded. “As long as you honor the spirit of the agreement, that is a deal.” 
Rebus did not think it would be necessary to pursue this person - he would need someone to fight, after all. 

"Agreed." 

@Kansas Stormcursed