Mama nods. Thanks, but at my age you don't have time for lingering decisions. I've made up my mind. Here I'll stay, at least for a while.
Anne's tail swishes, pleased. She scratches another set of invisible notes on the placard.
:: We are happy to have you both. We appear to be in the midst of a 'Golarion cycle' - so we expect our next several transits will be to various spots on this world. That may not hold true, but that is our expectation. Selected citizens will likely contact you over the next couple of days to answer questions, assess your needs, and offer advice to make your transition to living here a bit easier. ::
Yash's eyes dropped down to the floor as his mind seemed to go elsewhere. He nodded as he spoke. "Yash know."
Senna glances at the half-orc, guessing at the reason for his shift in mood. Having a reputation, earned or not, is rarely easy.
She slides next to the towering Soul Keeper and bumps her shoulder hard against his bicep, saying quietly. "Nawet wyrzutki mogą znaleźć plemię"
Sabelina had scraped past several rabbit holes she might have gone down during the discussion by just surrendering to fact she's just not smart enough to digest so much weird information and wrangle it into anything that looked like sense. Maybe later.
Instead she sticks to a couple of points relevant specifically to her situation.
"Is the existence of Threshold a secret that must be kept? Is there a way to remain in communication with people in a fixed location who are important to us as we travel?"
I must think about my publisher. I need to find a publisher...
:: Threshold isn't a secret. You may speak of it, if you wish. That said, you'll find that most people will question your sanity if you talk about it... A city of over six thousand people that roams the planes and has a mix of races both benign and monstrous living in relative harmony? Preposterous. People see what they choose to see. It will be easier for most to believe you are insane rather than correct. ::
"Is there a way to remain in communication with people in a fixed location who are important to us as we travel?"
Anne scratches her chin with her hind-leg, thinking.
:: This is not my area of expertise. I'm certain you can remain in touch with a specific person while we are on Golarion. It may be possible to maintain a link between planes. I doubt such contact could be maintained when we venture into alternate universes or times. If you like, I can have one of our mages meet with you to discuss the matter... ::
Sabelina straightens fully and smiles roguishly.
"Fear passes. Uncertainty passes. So does life if you don't make the most of it."
"I will be staying."
She then adds with a broader grin, "I'm shockingly persuasive."
"Duchy są teraz moim plemieniem. Myślę, że po to dziadek mnie tu przyprowadził. Może zmęczył się mną."
"Yash stay."
"I will be staying." She then adds with a broader grin, "I'm shockingly persuasive."
The cat nods. :: I hope you are. I sometimes wonder - were our story known and believed - if it might inspire some peoples to be a little less fell-handed with their neighbors. ::
"Yash stay."
Anne nods and jots a couple more notes. :: Good to have you, as well. ::
"Niewiele wiem o rodzinach... ale mam nadzieję, że nie zmęczą się sobą tak łatwo."
Senna leans against a wall and idly runs a hand along it. "Question, Anne... why us? Why are we receiving this offer and not any of the dozens of merchants, or sailors, or any of the other people I've seen who look just as wide-eyed as I'm sure I do. You said you meet with 'select' newcomers. What makes us 'select'? Why us?"
:: This is not one of our usual transit points, it’s a ‘one-off’. As I think I mentioned, we have noted that we more often meet new ‘facets’ in one-off locations. We strongly suspect this is part of the design of whomever is moving Threshold – to put Threshold ‘in the path’ of individuals that are essential to future tasks. :: Anne’s tail flicks, possibly in agitation.
:: Coupled with our observations of other new ‘facets’ met in similar circumstances and the Astromancer’s prognostication skills, we built our ‘best guess’ profile and estimate of the number of individuals we were placed here to meet. It is an irksome and speculative process, but you do match the criteria. Now, if the pattern holds and you are the people we were sent for, then we can expect the Astromancer will see signs in the next few days that transit is imminent. And, if not, we will wait and watch for other individuals that also match the criteria while conducting business as usual. ::
Xing shakes her head. "I have to admit I'm not sure what to think of the fact that I may have been chosen by ... someone? something? ... to be here at this time." She pauses, considering everything she's heard.
"Though I will say I am pleased to hear your claim that most of these planned stops of yours seem to correlate with doing something good in the world." Her tone is jaded ... resigned. "Gods know there's a LOT of wrong happening. Some balance in the universe would be nice."
She shrugs, "I'm not one to make long-term plans. They tend to get destroyed by the actions of others. But the road has always been my companion, and I'm intrigued that Threshold seems to enjoy a similar existence. At least for now, we seem to share a path."
She glances over at Senna and Sabelina, then Mama and Yash, "And I'm certainly pleased to learn more about my fellow newcomers."
Xing shakes her head. "I have to admit I'm not sure what to think of the fact that I may have been chosen by ... someone? something? ... to be here at this time."
:: I am no happier saying it, than you are hearing it. 'Expected' guests or stowaways, we are all in the same boat. Among residents and citizens, you will find speculation as to who may be and who can't be pulling the strings is a frequent source of debate. ::
She jots another note on the placard, taking Xing's statement as a willingness to stay until their paths diverge.
She turns her gaze on Senna. :: Take the time you need to decide. ::
To everyone she says, :: If you have no further questions for me now, you may wish to visit the Astromancer or do whatever else interests you. I have an 'open door' policy, so do visit if you have other questions or concerns. ::
"I've got just a few personal questions..." She stares intensely at the cat, firing off a rapid series of thoughts.
Anne responds as rapidly as the questions come at her, probably not thinking to restrict her answers to Senna's mind alone.
:: We assumed... Not at all. We value all skills... Yes... Not as such, no, but... Yes... Yes... Both, actually. They are exceptional... It is... No, it was added later... Yes... Correct. ::
The cat seems utterly non-plussed by the barrage of questions.
In contrast, the archer looks alternately hopeful, floored, and giddy. "In!"
Anne makes a few final scratches on the placard, then licks her paw.
:: I am delighted you've all decided to stay with us on at least a temporary basis. On behalf of the Council, I thank you for joining our community and we look forward to getting to know each of you better, as you will get to know us. :: She clearly includes Lady and Sausage in her welcome.
Yash need money.
Xing gives another modest bow to the cat. "Until next we talk."
Then she goes and leans against the wall near the door, happy to wait for the meeting to finish.
Yash need money.
For general consideration, Anne offers, :: As you've likely noticed, Threshold has a steep economic model. To smooth your transition as new arrivals, we will be providing you with housing for a month. We hope this gives you time to familiarize yourselves with the city, decide where you'd prefer to live, secure housing, and find jobs that suit you. If you have no objections, we'll very likely house you all in adjoining units. This way you can explore the city with your fellow new arrivals. ::
:: In terms of employment, we have all sorts of jobs available. You can jump into a profession you already practice or apprentice in something new. If you'd rather not work full time, there are 'odd jobs' available which you can supplement with more typical 'adventuring' activities in any place we land. For odd jobs, I'd suggest you speak with Uller Nine-Toes in Low Gate. He's something of a walking job board. For established residents and citizens, there are also 'public service' jobs both inside and outside of the city. Despite the innocuous title, public service jobs outside the city can be hazardous and may require skills directly related to the plane we are on. ::
She adds, as an afterthought, :: Oh, and for buying common goods your coins will go much further in Dockside and Low Gate. If you are looking for more exotic or magical gear, those can be found in Market Square as a general rule. There are some exceptions. Certain dealers prefer to live in different areas of the city. If you are looking for something specific, ask a local or two for opinions. ::
Mama thinks for a moment. Ok then. Can cooking be an odd job? That and caring for tykes on a measly budget are my two obvious places to start.
:: There could be odd jobs related to cooking or child care. You'd need to speak with Uller about that. Alternatively, you could join or run a food stall or cart, which would allow you to have a more flexible schedule. For child care, Uller may have job leads, but you might also speak with Gammy. She heads a number of charities and child care is in her province. ::
She interjects another thought. :: Where is my head at today? Two other things of note: First, I need to know your birthdays. Just think them at me, no need to say them aloud... :: Anne listens then nods, :: Thank you. ::
:: Second, you may have noticed that some residents are slow to answer questions about how long they've been in Threshold. Moving as we do, time becomes something of a variable. Most residents find it easier to track their time based on the number of transits they've made. We are currently in - and you joined us at - transit 466. ::
Her province? How do you mean?
:: I mean it is her area of expertise. She coordinates charities and - where there is overlap - related social services... refugees, asylum seekers, public schooling, and aspects of feeding and medical support for those in need. ::
"I'd be happy to meet this Astromancer, or go see more of town ... including this Uller Nine-Toes."
Since it seems their time with The Architect has drawn to an end, Sabelina bows to her once more.
"Thank you for sharing so much with us, and your generosity in spending so much time doing it. This has been most enlightening."
Looking to the others she suggests [b]"Now on to the Astromancer? Since we're already in the neighborhood?"[b]
The cat inclines her head at Sabelina's comment.
:: It has been a pleasure. ::
You head up the circular staircase through 10’ feet of solid stone to arrive in a soaring room. The black stone is unbroken by tapestries or rugs. Looking up your view stretches all the way to the top of the tower. Slanting rays of sunlight shine through the columns. And the semi-domed roof of fish tiles stands directly above you, seemingly unsupported by any wooden structure. You feel as if are standing at the very bottom of a 70’ high, blackened, and square well. Along one wall a set of thin stone steps carved from the wall lead up to a small semi-circular platform that stretches out from one wall and barely reaches halfway across the room. The next thing you notice is the absolute absence of a bell.
An odd clicking noise distracts your attention from the view. You turn to face a creature that could have been born on Golarion but wasn't. Initially, the figure is reminiscent of a gnoll – animal head, furred body, clawed hands, reverse-jointed legs, and disturbingly dog-like rear paws with enlarged dew-claws that tap and rasp against the stone floor. Then you notice the differences. The fur is finer and grey, and where a gnoll is brutish and big, this creature is built more like a greyhound and stands roughly 6’ in height. Its head is that of a jackal with large, almost delicate ears showing pink interiors. The creature’s eyes are cloudy white. Given the way the creature’s head turns, not focusing on any of you, it is quite blind. Its clothing could be Osirion in origin, a mixture of loose heat-diffusing fabrics and heavily ornamented metals.
It stops moving, its dew-claws punctuating the choice with a final set of clicks. The creature’s voice is masculine but not particularly deep. The creature holds out a clawed hand in greeting. ”I am Hemakhek the Blind, Astromancer of Threshold. You now stand in the Observatory, often called the ‘Well of Midnight’. How may I serve?”
Xingxun pads into the strange room, her golden eyes roaming yet another new sight .. giving off the air of an animal sniffing a new cave.
She gives the same waist-bow she gave the Architect, then offers her own hand for a shake. "I am called Xingxun Zhe, a newcomer ... though I'm to understand you can see that about me already. Thank you for meeting with us. Can you tell us more of your role here in Threshold? And this..." she gestures vaguely to the strange room rising above them, "Well of Midnight. What does it do?"
Hemakhek smiles while not quite looking in your direction. ”Actually, I’m one of the few who can’t see an aura… around anyone. It’s kind of in my name.” He chuckles with an odd clacking of his jaws.
”To answer your first question, Xingxun Zhe, I try to predict when Threshold will move and - depending on the plane - where and when we have arrived. To answer the second question, the Well of Midnight, this Observatory, is both a tool and where I do my work. It is also the epicenter of our travels, though that involves the Campanile… this entire structure, not just my piece of it. Wondrous organomystic engineering.”
Xing gives a small smile, "Given the strange nature of this place, I can imagine a version of that 'sight' that doesn't require eyes." She shrugs, "But that is neither here nor there, as they say. I hope I didn't offend."
She gives the place another look, "I would ask the 'how' of this place, but I'm sure the answer would quickly be out of my depth." She pauses, considering, "But I do wonder, how far in advance do you know before this whole place ... travels?"
Once again, she looks at the strange creature, "And I am curious. Do you determine the travels in an academic fashion? Or is it more ..." she makes a vague gesture in the air, "... spiritual in nature?"
Hemakhek cocks his head, as a dog might, at a curious sound. "I'm not offended at all. You have seen many strange things in your days here. Thinking there is some 'mystic' aspect to our way of seeing outsiders makes sense. Sadly, it is not mystic. I also can't read any of the placards. In some ways, it's a blessing as all this communication can be distracting."
The astromancer shifts subjects, addressing Xing's other questions. "I am an astronomer, astrologer, and oracle... so my methods are mundane, mathematical, and mystical. That's a lot of 'Ms'." He chuckles, amused with himself. "In broad terms, the Observatory acts like a spyglass or a resonator for some of my abilities."
"Predicting a transit is more a mystical 'art' than a science. It varies from location to location and plane to plane. In general, if we are at a location we've visited often, I can usually give a week or two notice - more than enough time to get our teams back to Threshold. For one-offs, there is always far less warning and the signs are subtler. After we arrive somewhere, determining the where and when are mostly science... with a splash of mysticism."
He belatedly adds, "And I'm not sure I could answer the 'how' of any of this."
Yash thought long and hard about what he could remember about his birth, but very little came to mind.
No moon. Grandfather spirit may know more.
Following the others up the circular stair case somewhat unnerved the half-orc. He was unaccustomed to being inside such structures, and the blind Astromancer did not help to put Yash at ease. In fact, the more the Astromancer spoke, the more it made Yash's head hurt, so he quietly slid to the back of the pack and let the others do the talking.
Upon arrival Sabelina offers her hand for shaking after Xing. She gives her name to the Astromancer and adds "we were referred to you by the Architect."
She listens to the exchange between the Astromancer and Xing, but her brain is starting to hurt a little from all the answers she doesn't understand.
There are only a couple of meat-and-potatoes she hazards to ask.
"What is the shortest time between one transit and the next you have ever seen?"
"Has a transit ever come so suddenly that people outside were accidentally left behind?"
"What is the shortest time between one transit and the next you have ever seen?"
Suddenly grim, Hemakhek replies, "We spent four minutes at the heart of the Plane of Shadow, where it brushes up against the Negative Energy Plane. They were the longest minutes of my life."
"Has a transit ever come so suddenly that people outside were accidentally left behind?"
"Yes, twice. Luckily - or purposefully - they were transits on soft worlds and we arrived at a different location in the same world, so we could easily retrieve our people."
One more things comes to mind for Sabelina.
"Who or what do you think stole the crystal and decides on the locations for transits? What do you think is their purpose in doing all this?"
"It may be semantics but I would say Threshold was fulfilling its purpose, not stolen. It simply wasn't the purpose Anne - or anyone else - expected. As for the who, I believe it is the work of a God or pantheon above the pantheons we know exist."
"I have no idea what their purpose might be. So far, their actions seem largely benign... but given the scale of their reach, and the eternity in which they must work, anything is possible. At best, we are seeing a small piece of their plan within a moment of time. They could be working towards a goal a thousand years from now."
Mama Cookie stands near the back next to yash and takes it all in. Honestly, she was getting a bit overwhelmed and questions were strangely absent at the moment.
Xing listens along, and another question pops to mind. "So if the Architect is the creator of this thing. When did you join her and step into your role? Have you pretty much always been here? Or did you arrive at some point ... much like we did?" She pauses, then tosses in another question, "And do you yet know when the next travel will happen?"
"It was transit 35. At the time, we thought it was a happy accident. Knowing what we know now... we believe Threshold was sent to collect me. Like yours, my location was a 'one-off'."
"I haven't seen signs of transit yet. But, assuming you have all decided to stay, and assuming Anne is correct that you are the target of this transit... I should be hearing from the stars soon. If you were thinking about wandering to another city for a quick visit, I'd cancel that plan if I were you."
The journey back to Dockside is a blur of images and impressions:
While bidding goodbye to Hemakhek, the astromancer suggests you spend some time observing the night sky as you might find it illuminating…
While some of our heroes are already feeling their pennies pinched, stopping briefly at Crossroads to say goodbye to Kat provides everyone with more impetus to earn. They enter the tavern to witness the tail end of an argument as the slender bartender points out that a group of customers owes the tavern 50 gold (10 gp per drink per hobgoblin), not 10 gold for the entire round of drinks. They quibble with her until she explains they can pay in coin, or services (the bar could use a good mopping), or their blood and services. Something in her tone and carriage indicates the third option would be a mistake. Those that can, pay in coin. A couple others start cleaning around the bar…
Traveling through Market Square, our heroes receive several nods, a number of smiles, and even a few ‘welcomes’. It seems clear that the Threshold placard communication system is efficient…
As our heroes enter Low Gate, you recall that the man to see for odd jobs and gainful employment is Uller Nine-Toes. Asking around, you find Uller’s ‘office’ at the end of a cramped alley, behind a door that scrapes against the jamb as it opens, closes, or just stands still. His office appears to be a retrofitted broom closet, stuffed with all manner of junk surrounding a beat-up desk with only three legs. Fortunately, the missing leg is counterbalanced by Uller’s ass taking up space on the opposite corner. For all the exotic and interesting races you’ve met to date, Uller is disconcertingly ordinary – a wiry but paunchy middle-aged human with a shifty disposition and a love/hate relationship with soap and water.
He recounts what you’ve told him so far, pointing with the stub of a pencil when he isn’t scribbling notes. He looks to Cookie first, ”You want to cook but not regular hours. Same idea for taking care of rugrats. I don’t have anything like that now, but I’ll ask around. Gimme a few days.”
Uller glances at Xing, ”You wanna bartend and you’re gonna talk to Salli about that. If that don’t work, try the Caterwaul. I think one of their guys got stabbed and they could use some new blood.” He guffaws at his own joke.
He takes in the rest of the crew, ”And the rest of you are just interested in getting coin, izzat right?” He rubs his chin in thought, the question being largely rhetorical.
”We’ve been in this dump near a month, so the pickings are pretty slim right now…” A calculating look crosses his face. ”I’ve got a job but I’m not sure you’re the right crew for it. It could require a little bit of force and a willingness to negotiate with unsavory types. You squeamish about any of that?”
On the walk back from their visits with the Architect and Astromancer Sabelina feels a little dazed, overwhelmed by so much new and very weird information.
Upon entering the bar, she does perk up a bit and asks for a swallow of something cheap to settle her brain. Sabelina also takes the opportunity to run upstairs and inform Violetta and Donel that she is indeed staying. Her eyes are wide with wonder, or maybe excitement, as she explains they met both the Architect and the Astromancer and now know everything.
"Well, everything that is knowable at least..."
Sabelina jumps in quickly to let Uller know she's looking for work that involves writing or drawing. But:
"While I wait for something of that sort, I'm not opposed to applying a little force, or negotiating with unsavory types. Those types were some of my good friends back in Oppara, until they weren't anymore."