Odyssey Investigations: AEAEA - Chapter 0

[GBA]

(Hm, quite the crackshot, this one. Well, I'll consider myself lucky not to count myself among her targets for now - though I expect that may change in the near future, at least once I get around to freeing my companion from her bindings.)

Now then, I'm afraid there's no need for such things. I believe she was simply confused by your inquiry and scrambled to provide an... admittedly odd response. I'm afraid we don't know of which "concierge" you speak. Mr. Tarlow, perhaps? Or do you mean Mr. Aldrich or Dr. Baskerforge? We've only just arrived, you see - neither of us have exchanged much in the way of words with anyone besides yourself, I'm afraid.

Or perhaps you can consider that a boon? Whatever you share, you can be assured that we'll keep it within the closest confidence. Rest assured, I'm not about to go flapping my lips to a bunch of people I've scarcely met. Detective's honor.

...I am however, obligated to let her out before her screaming attracts undue attention. With your dedication to secrecy, I'm sure you can agree on those terms, yes?
​

[With a click, you hear a latch release, followed by black balls of fuzz jumping out of the bush Valerie was in, tackling her to the ground. She gets up again.]

.....Say hi. It's okay. I'm fond of a particular invasive species. You know, terrichinoderms. They're a parasitic land urchin that feed off of other creature's magical energy. In many shapes and sizes.

Not many people have encountered them, but they're pretty much everywhere on the uninhabited jungle islands of Findelo. It takes me a while to train these lil guys and bond with them.

But, one of my latest catches got out. I'm laying traps to lure it back in. They like shiny things, and Aldrich is the guy I'm trying to avoid finding out about it. Not only am I booby trapping his hotel, well.

I'm giving a............ talk about these.... fuzzy guys....... later in the conference. If you're more curious about their traits, ask me later.

As for the flower. It's not that remarkable. Sarase lotuses are on their insignia and flag, but there are variants around the world. There's separate strains for their hallucinogenic and numbing/calming properties. Yknow. Uh. (Small talk again).

Do you like flowers? Your friend is just lucky I didn't electrify the net......

I'll slice it with my knife shortly.​

​

 

[GBA]

Okay, I would like to stay on floor 7 a bit and look around for one of those maintenance carts with the cleaning supplies and bleach on it. I wheel that to the conspicuous door and knock.

View attachment 52613
(In falsetto voice)
Room cleaning~ Open uuup~~~

​

After knocking and knocking, it appears there's no response. You try gazing through the eye hole, but it's a very dark place. A duteous maid, you look down and notice the custom DO NOT DISTURB THE AUTHOR'S GENIUS sign hanging from the doorknob.

...perhaps its time to head back downstairs.

 

[Lin Beifong]

After knocking and knocking, it appears there's no response. You try gazing through the eye hole, but it's a very dark place. A duteous maid, you look down and notice the custom DO NOT DISTURB THE AUTHOR'S GENIUS sign hanging from the doorknob.

...perhaps its time to head back downstairs.

Hmm... This might come in handy later.
​

---

I pick up the custom sign with the intention to give it to Garth Marenghi once I see him again.

 

[Fun With Despair]

Ah, I've heard of such phenomena before - entities that feed upon magical energies in one manner or another, but I never expected I'd see one in person. Nor did I expect them to appear so pleasant. Well, rest assured - Mr. Aldrich is soundly occupied dealing with an... acquaintance of mine. I doubt he'll darken your doorstep before you've recaptured your little escapee.

Well, I appreciate the candid discussion - and indeed, to an extent I would say I'm an enjoyer of the botanical. But I get the sense you aren't one for small talk, and I certainly don't mean to intrude on your search-and-rescue mission. I'll leave you to set ENA here loose for now, and I'll be sure to keep an eye out for your quarry while I tour the rest of this fine facility.

Well, I suppose I should regroup with Reginald and others now. Dividing and conquering has proven to be a worthwhile investigative measure, I'd say - but there's no use unless we compile our collective findings. Perhaps he's headed off to the Medama Lodge to pick out a room by now.

I may as well make my way over there regardless. Should he be absent, well I suppose we'll meet back in the Lobby instead when the time comes to make our way down to the exhibition halls. For the time being, I'll spend a moment in the Library - and perhaps the Fitness Center as well.

Worst comes to worst, I'll have ample time to practice my Bartitsu... and maybe find some manner of cutting-edge scientific tome to bring back for Iris to pore over at the dinner table - instead of my copy of Slicer III.​

 

[Lin Beifong]

(Stepping out of the Ramura Building)
Well, that was a bit of a wash. I should probably reconvene with Mr. Sholmes so we can discuss our next course of action.

...

He didn't mention where we should meet. Hm...

Perhaps he would forgive me if I used this opportunity to soak up some of these tropical rays.
Only for a few minutes. I don't really want to draw too much attention to myself.

---

Dr. Buxbaum heads to the outdoor pool area and lies down on one of the sun chairs near the purple-scaled person. There he lies, sunbathing, still wearing his suit and hat.

 

[GBA]

View attachment 52616
(Stepping out of the Ramura Building)
Well, that was a bit of a wash. I should probably reconvene with Mr. Sholmes so we can discuss our next course of action.

...

He didn't mention where we should meet. Hm...

View attachment 52617
Perhaps he would forgive me if I used this opportunity to soak up some of these tropical rays.
Only for a few minutes. I don't really want to draw too much attention to myself.

---

Dr. Buxbaum heads to the outdoor pool area and lies down on one of the sun chairs near the purple-scaled person. There he lies, sunbathing, still wearing his suit and hat.

Having their sun temporarily blocked by your shadow, they snap out of their meditation, and look right at you.

Spoiler: Out of Ink - CYMK's Theme

Um.....! Hi.​

 

[Lin Beifong]

Um.....! Hi.​

Hello there, fellow sun seeker.

What a fine day to drink from the sky's ambrosia while attracting
no undue attention from ill-mannered onlookers, yes?

With uh...whom do I have the honor? Are you a VIP?
​

 

[Theobald Leonhart]

("Red-emo-kun"...is that the vibe this guise gives off? Maybe I could go for a drink after all...)

Papa? Earth to papa? I think the old guy finished our pass thingies.

Huh? Oh, right. S'pose we should go fetch 'em, much as I'd rather avoid that concierge for now. Think you could do that for me? Given how he treated you earlier, he might let his guard down if it's just you. I'll be at the Ocean Overlook - sober, I promise.

Hm...okay! But you owe me more snacks!

Tch. Ask your potato lady.

[Efina returns to Reception to retrieve their passes. As she does so, she takes a peek at the Guestbook to determine if any disgruntled guests noted which floor or room they stayed in.]

Mister, your hotel is so pretty and fancy. It's not actually...h-haunted, right? I don't want any spooky ghosties in my room...

 

[Roserade]

Freed at last! What a remarkable trap that netting was! This bug catcher was not as buggy as she appeared!

Before we move onwards and upwards, Detective Sholmes... a word.

I sense that you are... searching for something. Between the examination of Ms. Sun's staff, an interest in a specific lotus, and your other recent endeavors I've heard whisperings of... Your sights are set on some unnamed target, aren't they? An individual of interest to you?

If my intuition is correct... perhaps our goals are not so misaligned.

Therefore, I approach you with an offer.

I am interested in entering a contract with you. You see, my worker's expertise as a somaticist might be useful in your search. Accessing a realm beyond waking is quite a skill, you should know! What spirits speculate far beyond our vision!

I can't guess what in particular you seek, but under agreement, I would seek out this truth alongside you. I would do all in my power to present you with important information; our partnership would be present until your goals are met. In return, my clause is simple: you will not seek out the assistance of any other somaticist, as long as our contract is standing. What would it mean for my business if you associated with any daydreamer?!

What do you say? Consider my proposal, sir. Together, we could ensure a bright future for your clinic!

Whenever you're ready, we may shake on it and exchange our genius germs!

 

[GBA]

"Hmm, we should head toward the Aeaea Library after we get our passes, don't you think...?
Right? BB?"[/FONT]

You enter the AEAEA Library. Darkwood shelves line the floor to ceiling, and it seems everything one might wish to idly read while at a resort is here, except an Atlas, because who needs one of those when you're at a resort. You don't need to go anywhere else in the world, or study its geography.

It contains a wide array of relevant books themed around the magical branches hosted at the conference, and some of its previous themes. Most of the books start with A or E. The books AEAEA: Appendix, Appendixes and You, Appendices for Archaeologists, Help! My Appendix is Studying The Arcane! jump out at you....well, you only briefly checked the A section.

You note that, for this year's theme, there are nautical coding books sitting on a nearby sitting table.

Mr. Sholmes walks in briefly, and sees much of the same. Then swiftly departs for his next destination.

View attachment 52618
Hello there, fellow sun seeker.

What a fine day to drink from the sky's ambrosia while attracting
no undue attention from ill-mannered onlookers, yes?

With uh...whom do I have the honor? Are you a VIP?
​

You could say that. Otherwise, I'm just some guy. You enjoying the sun too? This place is paradise.​

---

You have encountered CYMK. The Persons of Interest tab will be updated shortly.

 

[GBA]

("Red-emo-kun"...is that the vibe this guise gives off? Maybe I could go for a drink after all...)

Papa? Earth to papa? I think the old guy finished our pass thingies.

Huh? Oh, right. S'pose we should go fetch 'em, much as I'd rather avoid that concierge for now. Think you could do that for me? Given how he treated you earlier, he might let his guard down if it's just you. I'll be at the Ocean Overlook - sober, I promise.

Hm...okay! But you owe me more snacks!

Tch. Ask your potato lady.

[Efina returns to Reception to retrieve their passes. As she does so, she takes a peek at the Guestbook to determine if any disgruntled guests noted which floor or room they stayed in.]

Mister, your hotel is so pretty and fancy. It's not actually...h-haunted, right? I don't want any spooky ghosties in my room...

Efina checks the guestbook over again, while Aldrich appears to be checking the time. The scheduled waterwork maintenance must be soon.

████████████ - 702 - Awful. My oil paints were missing when I returned to my room.
Solomon DeMorge - Medama Penthouse - Great fun. good - S
███████ Lorato - 403 - Frankly overrated. I spilled pizza sauce on the floor and one of the golems went after me. then I came back and some of my [it cuts off here, for some reason]
Solomon DeMorge - Medama Penthouse - Missed my kid's 3rd Birthday to be here. Worth it - S
Solomon DeMorge - Medama Penthouse - awesome again. hot - S
████████████ - 703 - Worst sleep I've had. Constant thumping from somewhere. Are the walls that thin? Cepheus was understaffed, and the food quality was terrible. What the f██████ and the embarrassment of t█████ pickled radish████████ and I may never eat seafood again.
████████████ - 201 - Honestly fine.
████████████ - 704 - Shoutout to the asshole who painted my door with weird, ████████ dots ████████. When I got to my room, I got chased by a golem. My stuff had been gone through, too.
Solomon DeMorge - Medama Penthouse - Attended with some staff. Missed my kid's 4th birthday to be here. Worth it - S

Oh, did your caretaker leave you here? Haunted... well.

To deny the rumors would be... hm. Of course not, little one. Those are all just stories told by guests to excuse poor behaviour by some of our previous employees.

Hmph. Too wordy...

Some... bad men, were taking things, and blaming it on ghosts. Under my supervis- powers, none of your items will go missing. Unless you intend to cause a mess, so do behave! Now, run along...​

I may as well make my way over there regardless. Should he be absent, well I suppose we'll meet back in the Lobby instead when the time comes to make our way down to the exhibition halls. For the time being, I'll spend a moment in the Library - and perhaps the Fitness Center as well.

Well, I appreciate the candid discussion - and indeed, to an extent I would say I'm an enjoyer of the botanical. But I get the sense you aren't one for small talk, and I certainly don't mean to intrude on your search-and-rescue mission. I'll leave you to set ENA here loose for now, and I'll be sure to keep an eye out for your quarry while I tour the rest of this fine facility.

Thanks.... you're right. Have fun. Rhoda might like you.​

You examine the Fitness Center. You intuit quite correctly that the afternoon's events are about to begin. A large mirror takes up an entire wall, making the whole room look larger than it is. On your examination of the facility's boxing speedbag setup with a quick round of Baritsu punches, you overhear Soleil taking a small breather in the Med
ical bay.

.......[sigh]. (Aldritch will kill me when he finds out...)

It seems she's taking a moment to relax, having dealt with the green-haired.... situation in the Lobby along with Rei earlier, having let you all roam free for a brief moment of respite. She sees you heading in to the fitness center, then quickly jumps up.

M-Mr. Sholmes! If you and the others are here, then I assume you've all enjoyed your extra time? Please um, don't tell Aldrich I let you wander off. I trust you all didn't make a mess. Rei promised to keep BB in line, so I...

Well, I'm not sure why I'm explaining myself to you, actually. Guilty conscious. Ahehe.​

 

[GBA]

Huh? Oh, right. S'pose we should go fetch 'em, much as I'd rather avoid that concierge for now. Think you could do that for me? Given how he treated you earlier, he might let his guard down if it's just you. I'll be at the Ocean Overlook - sober, I promise.

You examine the Ocean Outlook. An outdoor dining space for guests, your eyes gaze upon the vast, blue Nospsific Ocean in front of you. A pair of anchored binoculars is here, and you gaze through them. Two large boats can be seen traveling to another island. You can't tell if anyone else is arriving soon, as you need more height to look out over the horizon. The kitchen commotion has settled, it's quiet, out of the way and undisturbed. The reception is good too, so it seems this would be a good place to make a phone call, if one needed to.

 

[Garth Marenghi]

I pick up the custom sign with the intention to give it to Garth Marenghi once I see him again.

Erm, thanks? I've actually already got one that looks just like... oh. I'll take this back upstairs and put it back where it came from.

After that, I think I'll take a relaxing walk down the Promenade. Who are those cabins for, and what's up with that 'Still A Cabin'?

 

[Lakituthequick]

Oh s-sorry, y-yes, I can relate to picky customers. I've seen several in my career. If there's anything I do to help here, let me know.

Yeah, you could say I'm looking for something. I seem to have misplaced my scheduling book, and at this rate I'm looking in some unexpected places such as uh, kitchens.

Maybe you've seen something of the like? If not, can you let me know if for some reason something passes your peripheral? Thank you!
​

After receiving an answer, I will continue on towards Storm.

 

[Theobald Leonhart]

[At the Ocean Overlook]

...also, the food at the Se-...Seffyus? is really icky! We should eat someplace else. And I think...someone who stayed here a lot has been a very bad papa...

Read all that on your own, huh? Not bad. That concierge...He readily admits the place's high turnover rate, and even blames guests' lost luggage on former staff. That's not a good look for a luxury resort no matter how you spin it - but if those are lies, then just how bad is the truth? Might be worth checking if the other guests here have noticed anything out of the ordinary.

Ooh, there was another piece of paper there too. Something about a...Garf Meringue's...Th-...Thalamus...?

Forget about that. We should take a look at the building we'll be staying at before night falls; I've got a couple things I wanna check out.

[Passing through the Ramura Wing Main Lobby, the pair makes their way to the 7th floor. From there, "Leo" checks the door of room 704 for any out-of-place markings - and the other doors, for good measure.]

Look, papa - isn't that door over there weird? I don't know why, it just...is!

Hm? That room looks a bit bigger than the others. It's probably reserved for some pompous mage who thinks too highly of himself...Let's leave it alone for now.

[Returning downstairs, the pair also inspects the sauna.]

 

[Lin Beifong]

You could say that. Otherwise, I'm just some guy. You enjoying the sun too? This place is paradise.​

Paradise, hm? That is reassuring to hear.
After the things I've been reading in the guest book I was beginning to worry this place was a sham.

As someone who's been here before me, what can you tell me about this resort?
Has anything interesting happened recently?
Any persons of interest or events that might be worth seeing?
Any... accidents or rude staff or guests?

I'm trying to get a feel for this location.​

 

[GBA]

There's too many NPCs in this post, so please enjoy some groovy transition music instead.

Spoiler: Theme of Overlapping Time - The Shattered Corpse of Delaymos Is Dispersed

...uh oh.

---

Erm, thanks? I've actually already got one that looks just like... oh. I'll take this back upstairs and put it back where it came from.

After that, I think I'll take a relaxing walk down the Promenade. Who are those cabins for, and what's up with that 'Still A Cabin'?

You examine the Still A Cabin. It's exactly the same as each of the other cabins you walked by on the Promenade, but, there's a golden plaque on the door. It reads:

IN MEMORY OF SIR STILL ARCHIBALD, WHO LOVED THIS CABIN VERY DEARLY

As you walk by... one of the Cabins appears to be emanating a faint flash of light every few seconds, before darkening again. Someone within is performing a ritual.

Disperse.​

Disperse.​

Disperse.​

...

Disperse.​

...


...

[The man removes his blindfold.]

...........................[Another failed connection. Time after time.]

(Someone is there.)​

...enter, if you wish.

Moh Dhurvakt

• Moh Dhurvakt Astronomy/Energy. A silent mountain who hails from the land of Noktmathi, the nation above the clouds. Was once the chief astronomist researching Sargasso Vermelha, prior to its disappearance. His stoic attitude is lost when he talks passionately about the stars and the Astral Plane. Like many in Noktmathi, chooses to identify with Somatic, rather than Stellaric or Thallassic resonance powers.

---

After receiving an answer, I will continue on towards Storm.

Not to worry, Tarlow. I'll keep my vines to the ground. Ah, figuratively speaking~

But yes. Do excuse me, I have to prepare my last dish. If this... Dazmuna... doesn't dance with the very first mouthful, I'll do my first home delivery. A face-first culinary experience. Ohohohoho!




......................

......................

......................

[In the penthouse of the Ramura building, an unusually paranoid energy mogul paces back and forth.]

(It was another slightly off potato wedge... slightly off cut. A tinge of green, and it coulda been lights out. This broad is actually trying to kill me. That's it. That's it! I've had enough.)

[Otto Dazmuna, long-time patron of the Cascade hotel, picks up the phone, and calls the front desk on speed dial]

Aldrich, youze gotta come meet me at the door. I'm coming downstairs. Giving this broad a piece of my mind. You as my witness.

Mr Dazmuna, I will inform you, I cannot send a golem at this time, we have our scheduled water maintenance pl

Not the blasted water bucket! You, sir! As my bodyguard. Even better, now you don't got an excuse!

......right away sir.

....(Stormy better be doin' his best, I swear. Kid survives just one of these conferences, and he's in for life.)​

Otto Dazmuna

• Otto Dazmuna Energy. A reclusive energy tycoon raised who can never chill out. Storm refers to him as his "Uncle", after a fateful encounter a few years ago warmed his cold heart, and now he has a substantial stake in Storm's business. Rumors of him being an underworld "fixer" have never quite been resolved. Having revolutionized long-term arcana storage, he grows increasingly paranoid. He spends most of his time ordering services to his room and in the Ramura Wing Penthouse. His "staff" is a revolver that fires bullets of ice.

---

After much sightseeing, interacting, waiting, and waiting, everyone eventually converges in the Cascade main hallway. There is an impressive grand staircase leading to an alcove, where a hydro-powered glass elevator sits. In terms of wheelchair accessibility, its a logistical nightmare involving ducking around to one of the lodge elevators, but this display sure looks impressive.

I think... this might be everyone who arrived from the party earlier. No time like the present, hm? Some of you are here to promote your own exhibits, some of you are here to construct them. Aldrich trusted me to keep an eye on you and ensure you don't mess anything up, but this is an induction of sorts into AEAEA's atmosphere, so please, don't mess anything up. Please.

.....we call it a basement or conference floor, but it's actually three floors down, more of an underground, loadbearing facility for this entire artificial island, being the first thing built to allow for- oh! The elevator is here

As the elevator disperses its watery facade, the glass doors open, and a familiar face steps off of it.

The man of the fabled hour. Storm DeMorge.

Garett!

Mr. Sholmes and Bushroot! The green-haired people who follow them around...

...o-others! Who I also definitely recognize.

I order each of you to shake my hand. Not for long.

Garett, if you didn't find that deathmatch thing, I'm ordering myself to go and find that painter guy. Fielder would be proud, but the stand's not finished yet. Can you head downstairs and guard it or something? I should be back soon.

Cheers, man.​

---

Storm DeMorge

• Storm DeMorge Agriculture. Returning from AKGO with a new outlook on life and a company of his own, called Storm's Brewing. After his father's estate was dispersed, he ended up a lot less well off than expected, and changed his name formally, no longer anyone's Jr. After a few years of running a bar in Pysgydia, continuing to build up his own tastes and establish connections, he was eventually able to partner with international distilleries, allowing him to carefully craft his own range of non-magical beers, ciders, and mixers. He's hired Garett as his personal assistant, their shared fates as failed KG hosts tying them together once more.

[Soleil gives Storm a warm smile, wishes him well, then guides you into the elevator, and you descend.]

---

You are now exploring the Conference Floor. This is the final relevant area for Case 1.

 

[Lin Beifong]

So, Miss Soleil. I'm excited to see this conference that has been talked up so much.
I cannot wait hearing about all the fascinating new discoveries in the *cough* field of botany especially...

...........

What ensemble of esteemed guest speakers may I look forward to on this occasion?
I hope there will be a dissemination on the intricate world of cacti.
​

---

As we step out of the elevator, I hand Sholmes his papers that I picked up from the reception.

Mr. Sholmes, I have done a cursory inspection of the western perimeter of this resort.
I can't say I found anything particularly suspicious, apart from a pompous locked door on the 7th floor of the Ramura Lodge.
I don't think it is relevant to our case though.

I've also questioned one of the other VIPs and what he said to me... well... I'll need some time to take it all in to be honest. It was so profoundly revelatory that the mere memory escapes me at the moment.

Oh. There is also a sauna in the building.
We could go there later if we find the time.

What about you? Have you found anything suspicious?

The rim of your sleeve is stained with exotic pollen. I assume that means you've been to the gardens.
Has anything... noteworthy... happened there?​

 

[Garth Marenghi]

...enter, if you wish.

[Enter, as I wish.]

Hello, my good man. I'm Garth Marenghi, Archduke o' Darkdom, self-realised Thalassic visionary. Mind if I pop my head in? What's this "ritual" I'm hearing about?

 

[Fun With Despair]

As we step out of the elevator, I hand Sholmes his papers that I picked up from the reception.

View attachment 52631
Mr. Sholmes, I have done a cursory inspection of the western perimeter of this resort.
I can't say I found anything particularly suspicious, apart from a pompous locked door on the 7th floor of the Ramura Lodge.
I don't think it is relevant to our case though.

I've also questioned one of the other VIPs and what he said to me... well... I'll need some time to take it all in to be honest. It was so profoundly revelatory that the mere memory escapes me at the moment.

View attachment 52634
Oh. There is also a sauna in the building.
We could go there later if we find the time.

View attachment 52631
What about you? Have you found anything suspicious?

The rim of your sleeve is stained with exotic pollen. I assume that means you've been to the gardens.
Has anything... noteworthy... happened there?​

Ah, there you are, Reginald. I've been looking for you - only narrowly avoiding an encounter with BB in the process. No... direct offense meant to the young lady of course, but we could certainly do without the distraction during our preliminary inspection.

I must thank you for procuring these documents for me - though I hadn't run into much trouble without them. I'm rather glad we're here after all, it seems as though despite the insistence of Mr. Aldrich, the security in this place is sorely lacking at the best of times. If I've been allowed to run about unchecked, who knows what could be lurking upon these grounds?

Excellent then, between the two of us I believe we've covered the majority of the resort. You're correct in assuming I took a look at the gardens, though I gave the restaurants and the Medama Lodge a quick once-over as well for the sake of posterity. I was accompanied, of course, by the rather familiar girl also referring to herself by the name of "ENA".

I can't say I'm particularly sure what to make of her at the moment, but she seems earnestly engaged in similar... subjects to our own investigation - so I've decided to keep a close eye on her, if nothing else.

As for the gardens, while I still think you'd benefit from a look yourself, I can't say I noticed anything that stood out as particularly suspect among the foliage - save for a rather curious metallic flower I'd never seen elsewhere before today, even within those old textbooks of yours. Ah, and of course we had a chance to speak with a certain Ecologist as well, though I did promise to remain tight-lipped about the whole thing at least in... present company.

Regardless, the subject of her current research may be of interest with regards to our current case - so do remind me to share when we're somewhere with less in the way of prying, thalassic-aspected ears.

In fact, the Sauna may be an excellent place to discuss our findings later while we take a moment to relax before we retire for the evening. While I may have embraced the freedom to wander after being trapped for hours in that flying tin-can, I must admit I've grown rather tired. I should've brought another outfit, really - this one is hardly suited for the tropical heat.

(...And of course, there's another matter I would like to discuss. I caught Ms. Baskerforge in the middle of... something in the Medical Bay. I couldn't discern what, but she seemed rather desperate to keep it hidden. I would very much like to get to the bottom of that particular mystery before it becomes buried among others.)​

Garett!

Mr. Sholmes and Bushroot! The green-haired people who follow them around...

...o-others! Who I also definitely recognize.

I order each of you to shake my hand. Not for long.

Garett, if you didn't find that deathmatch thing, I'm ordering myself to go and find that painter guy. Fielder would be proud, but the stand's not finished yet. Can you head downstairs and guard it or something? I should be back soon.

Cheers, man.​

---

Storm! It seems as though you've settled in rather well. Apologies for the late arrive, a certain member of our entourage decided engage in... activities that got us held up at the airport for longer than I would've liked. Regardless, we've had ample time to explore the grounds and meet with a few of the other attendants

I assume this stand of yours is to be set up in the Exhibition Hall? I'd very much like to have a look at it before the crowds funnel in - but not before it's ready, of course. Whatever it is that you've cooked up alongside Mr. Tarlow is sure to be positively smashing - especially with the endorsement of someone as important as this "Justice Kleidi".

...I'd rather like to meet her myself, actually.

Ah, but I digress. Have you booked yourself a room yet? I'm rather undecided on the subject myself. There's certainly merits to both wings of this resort, though if you'd prefer us to remain closeby in case of emergency, I'd happily take a room within the same complex.​

 

[Lakituthequick]

Not to worry, Tarlow. I'll keep my vines to the ground. Ah, figuratively speaking~

But yes. Do excuse me, I have to prepare my last dish. If this... Dazmuna... doesn't dance with the very first mouthful, I'll do my first home delivery. A face-first culinary experience. Ohohohoho!​

That's amazing, thank you. Good luck with your endeavours.

(So Dazmuna is the picky eater... I hope for everyone's sake that either this next dish is perfect or Cassia can keep her temper...)​

Garett, if you didn't find that deathmatch thing, I'm ordering myself to go and find that painter guy. Fielder would be proud, but the stand's not finished yet. Can you head downstairs and guard it or something? I should be back soon.

Cheers, man.​

I've indeed not found my book yet. I've tossed a few nets out, but I'll keep looking nonetheless.

In the meantime I can certainly keep an eye out on your stand. I don't expect there's much going to happen to it, but if it calms your mind...

"C-cheers!"
​

I will do just that, have a look on Storm's booth, then saunter the showroom looking for the book and have a glance at some of the stands, focussing on energy and engineering.

 

[Theobald Leonhart]

[As the elevator descends]

(Guess I should at least feign interest in this glorified magic show. If we're lucky, maybe we'll find something that catches Efi's eye. Most of the magic mumbo jumbo would probably go over her head, but they've got magic cakes n' shit here, right? She can understand dessert, at least. I just hope any samples are free...)

Oh, Miss...Soleil, right? I introduced myself in the lobby, but we didn't get a chance to speak earlier; I didn't wanna interrupt while you spoke with the others. I came here for the conference, but this resort is quite the spectacle itself, eh? From what the concierge told us, it sounds like you've been helping out around the island for a while now, even before being promoted to full-time. Suppose you must like it here, then? Enough to stick around, at least. Your job must be hard with the place so...chronically understaffed, but I'm sure you get to experience some real unforgettable things here.

[As the elevator reaches its destination and the conversation concludes, Leo and Efi step out onto the landing of the conference floor]

Uwahhh...There's so much STUFF down here! Do ya think there's anything tasty at those stands?

I think I heard something about a brewery?

That doesn't count! Dummy!

[Leo ignores her, his eyes drifting toward the Casino]

P-Papa? What about the stands? I think this place is...too classy for those bunny girls you like...Papa!!

[Her plea falls on deaf ears, as Leo saunters over to the Casino and the adjacent lounge. She hurriedly trots after him.]

AT LEAST DON'T GET CAUGHT CHEATING...!!

 

[Roserade]

As any authentic entrepreneur knows, business waits for no man! Do pardon me, Detective Sholmes, while I momentarily retract my hand. Perhaps a demonstration of my capabilities could sweeten the deal?

Spoiler: Music

There is undoubtedly something strange afoot in this place. I can sense it stirring, somewhere between the whispers and water golems. What else would bring a Great Detective to a gaudy resort like this? Not leisure, at least! And all of the secrets these strange hosts are hiding... My my, what a mystery!

The solution to which? We can only dream of.

Oh starward spirits! Council beyond my consciousness! I move towards a waking dream, and beckon you now from the Astral Plane! Help me to know the truth! I call upon any who might know: There is something unsavory happening in the Cascade Resort! What might that unsavory happening be?

. . .

Yes, I hear your distant voices. . .

 

[GBA]

Ah, there you are, Reginald. I've been looking for you - only narrowly avoiding an encounter with BB in the process. No... direct offense meant to the young lady of course, but we could certainly do without the distraction during our preliminary inspection.

I must thank you for procuring these documents for me - though I hadn't run into much trouble without them. I'm rather glad we're here after all, it seems as though despite the insistence of Mr. Aldrich, the security in this place is sorely lacking at the best of times. If I've been allowed to run about unchecked, who knows what could be lurking upon these grounds?

Excellent then, between the two of us I believe we've covered the majority of the resort. You're correct in assuming I took a look at the gardens, though I gave the restaurants and the Medama Lodge a quick once-over as well for the sake of posterity. I was accompanied, of course, by the rather familiar girl also referring to herself by the name of "ENA".

I can't say I'm particularly sure what to make of her at the moment, but she seems earnestly engaged in similar... subjects to our own investigation - so I've decided to keep a close eye on her, if nothing else.

As for the gardens, while I still think you'd benefit from a look yourself, I can't say I noticed anything that stood out as particularly suspect among the foliage - save for a rather curious metallic flower I'd never seen elsewhere before today, even within those old textbooks of yours. Ah, and of course we had a chance to speak with a certain Ecologist as well, though I did promise to remain tight-lipped about the whole thing at least in... present company.

Regardless, the subject of her current research may be of interest with regards to our current case - so do remind me to share when we're somewhere with less in the way of prying, thalassic-aspected ears.

In fact, the Sauna may be an excellent place to discuss our findings later while we take a moment to relax before we retire for the evening. While I may have embraced the freedom to wander after being trapped for hours in that flying tin-can, I must admit I've grown rather tired. I should've brought another outfit, really - this one is hardly suited for the tropical heat.

(...And of course, there's another matter I would like to discuss. I caught Ms. Baskerforge in the middle of... something in the Medical Bay. I couldn't discern what, but she seemed rather desperate to keep it hidden. I would very much like to get to the bottom of that particular mystery before it becomes buried among others.)

Storm! It seems as though you've settled in rather well. Apologies for the late arrive, a certain member of our entourage decided engage in... activities that got us held up at the airport for longer than I would've liked. Regardless, we've had ample time to explore the grounds and meet with a few of the other attendants

I assume this stand of yours is to be set up in the Exhibition Hall? I'd very much like to have a look at it before the crowds funnel in - but not before it's ready, of course. Whatever it is that you've cooked up alongside Mr. Tarlow is sure to be positively smashing - especially with the endorsement of someone as important as this "Justice Kleidi".

...I'd rather like to meet her myself, actually.

Ah, but I digress. Have you booked yourself a room yet? I'm rather undecided on the subject myself. There's certainly merits to both wings of this resort, though if you'd prefer us to remain closeby in case of emergency, I'd happily take a room within the same complex.​

You examine the Sauna. Hot rocks sit in their caged confinement, central to the wooden panneled furnace. Overhead, a small clamp can be adjusted with dials on the walls, opening and shutting a clamp that pours water over the rocks without having to move from one's seat. It's not smoke, it's steam. Steam from the refreshing steamed clamp you're having.

That's amazing, thank you. Good luck with your endeavours.

(So Dazmuna is the picky eater... I hope for everyone's sake that either this next dish is perfect or Cassia can keep her temper...)

I've indeed not found my book yet. I've tossed a few nets out, but I'll keep looking nonetheless.

In the meantime I can certainly keep an eye out on your stand. I don't expect there's much going to happen to it, but if it calms your mind...

"C-cheers!"
​

I will do just that, have a look on Storm's booth, then saunter the showroom looking for the book and have a glance at some of the stands, focussing on energy and engineering.

Starting with your charge's booth, you examine its setup. Funded by his contract with Dazmuna, he's been given ample supplies and props to ensure his first venture is a success. Storm has poured his heart into making it resemble a bar, with a tap hooked up for free samples, kegs at the ready with various flavors (his signature "Brennan" brew reflecting his island bond. His "Dumb Golden Phanto", also popular). The only thing missing is the sign, which he's carefully knifed out a stencil for, possibly intending to paint it when he can.

Throughout the week, the printed schedule shows there is a drinks gathering for VIPs in a few hours, and many more planned through the week. You may want to find your book soon.

You examine the following booths, noting some names from bigwig energy producers as standard. Arcane Solutions Ltd., Mr Dazmuna's sprawling business, has a time-worn booth that stands in neglect, with a few refreshed pamphlets laid out again as a formality. It seems the contracters behind the arrangement of the booth are given basic instructions from each attendee prior to their arrival, with the rest behind handled by the host themselves. The pamphlet discusses their stable growth and other business nonsense that only investors dare worry about, but promising "new discoveries" imminently.

A small selection of Storms Brewing pamphlets is present. Uncle Oddy must have thought of that.

Some other odd booths showcase intricate staves, block-like technological storage (that reminds you how much you hate magical cubes, despite their storage convenience), long term magic storage, the usual. You take note of a display for capturing memories... its a photo booth. There's a display for a start-up called KamTech.

Next, you move to the Engineering section. Valerie Knotweed's stand is here, with her privately funded Knots and Snares business showcasing a selection of spring activated, magically compressed traps that can be planted. More traditional looking cage traps are here. Some filled with shiny objects. Her adjacent posterboard discusses ecological threats, how invasive species can propogate through selective distribution and really wreak havoc on unique island life. Even pollen can cross barriers thought to be unbroachable, like the large distance between separate spheres of island ecosystems. There are tons of pictures of her favorite land urchins, and the poster also advertises her talk: titled with a big TBD

As usual, Cascade advertises the hotel under Engineering. The stand is stand-ard.

Lastly, while Moh Durvakt does not have a display set out, his name is advertised on a board at the Energy section of the conference along with some other stakeholders. His topic is "Conserving the Astral Plane - The unpredictable threat of Metamorphic influence."

 

[Turboo]

[Earlier, in the Aeaea Library...]

---

"...is this trash really all that's on the shelves?
Shouldn't there be something more useful? More completely, utterly suspicious, so obvious that it can't be ignored unless you want a joke bad ending?
There's all these ab-so-lu-te-ly devilish rumors going around! A haunted hotel, ghosties and spirits and Astral Plane researchers everywhere...
Even if there's theme naming going on with these, shouldn't there at least be 'A-List-Of-Murder-Victims' or 'E-Death Note' to blindly latch onto?
Ghh, as soon as I see that shitty old man with the golem again..."

Mr. Sholmes walks in briefly, and sees much of the same.

[BB drops what she's looking through with a start as she notices him out of the corner of her eye, turning on her heels.
...If there was a different expression on her face just before that, it certainly isn't apparent now.]

"W-welcome, Senpai, to BB-chan's Bookworm Bastille ~ The Last Hope and the Spud's Dying Gasp!
(Limited-time event, receive a free sweet potato upon completing the story)
Now. Close your eyes, okay? I've locked all the exits and sealed any gaps. This is a notice to that pitiful senpai of mine having wandered in so carelessly -"

Then swiftly departs for his next destination.

[Rei approaches BB from the other side of the room with a stack of books.
From the spines... 'Eminent Names in Findelan History,' 'Garth Marenghi's Afterbirth,' 'Ehhh?! I Can't Believe This Book Starts With An Exclamation Just To Explicitly Alphabetize It In A Certain Section! (or, EICBTBSWAEJTEAIIACS: How I Learned to Love The Tropics and Their Natural Wonders')...]

"Say, BB. I figured you were here for Mr. Sholmes, but Mr. Tarlow's here, too. And Miss ENA, or at least, her sister...?
I spoke with her a bit, but all she said was she's a sightseer. No relation to the other one... hard to get a read on her.
(I'll leave out the part where she was chasing around Mr. Sholmes...)

Oh, right! Someone mentioned... hmmm. Is Mr. DeMorge appropriate? He's attending, too, so that makes another familiar face.
Rather, that name's what I'd call him on a professional level, but the connotation...
...well, you're the one who actually lives near his bar. I'll defer to you, as odd as that is to say."

"Stormy's here? Well, BB-chan's got too pure of an image to drink, if you're implying I have the deets.
I mean, look at me -"

[...she stops herself after a moment upon realizing what she just said.]

"Ehh... I-I mean, it should be okay to call him that? Senpai's usually the one catching up with him.
But when in doubt, you can steal my style and use pet names, Matcha! Stormy's to-tal-ly fine too ♡"

"Ahaha, man. Stormy. Sure.
Aaaanyways. To tell you the complete truth, down to the very bottom of my soul...
...frankly, it's not like there's truly a 'sin' to atone for considering the situation back then, but -
Whenever he comes up, I do feel a bit guilty still for how that ended. Don't you? Not to... hammer it in, aha.
Ahh... to think it's been years, and I'm still weepy... how sad..."

"Matcha, you're dancing around the topic like a complete weirdo ☆
You can just ask to put Fielder-san on the line! Stormy'll probably want to update him.
He's doing super-duper well, at least from what Senpai's said!
Or maybe he'd want to call Thanos-san... as heart-pounding as it would be to try for a full redemption arc and fight against the odds to find a way to revive one of them...
...just doing something nice out of the kindness of both of our hearts would be a nice surprise.
Let's go-go-go and give him a special B-B-do-ri proposition whenever he arrives~"

"...I'd expected you to gag after saying that.

(I agree with her completely, though...
Hmmm. Aside from how pissed off she's been, she's been looking like she wants to tell me something since I went out and grabbed her.
She's awful at hiding it...
...but at the same time, she's also perceptive about things I'd rather she not be.
What a pain. She's the same as usual.
I'll have to ask her later... there's too many coincidences adding up altogether here. At that point, it's 'fate,' right...?)"