Odyssey Investigations: AEAEA - Chapter 1 - The Case of the Spirit-Painted Exhibition

[GBA]

[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...!!

You examine the Casino and Lounge. There are lots and lots of slots and slots. The Giant Roulette Wheel is practically a functional club and dance floor, with casual lounge seating for tired patrons. It has an obvious roulette theming, with a giant inflatable event ball one can get in and roll around inside. The fancy light up floor is probably rigged to give you the same number every time, though...

Such a room seems absurdly out of place for a serious mage conference, yet, Chaos in itself is a type of magic we've yet to comprehend. Perhaps this is a kind of resonance yet to manifest elsewhere.

Is what you would think, if you were some stuck up mage. Instead, you should probably be questioning why you brought an underage dragon girl into a casino.

 

[Roserade]

. . .

. . . And so the spirit is heard.

Bless you for your business!

What a lovely specimen, that Dr. Lackhof. Gave me some dutiful insight I'd be happy to share... with an associate. Company secrets ought not to get leaked! Isn't that right, Detective Sholmes?

 

[GBA]

Ah, theres a lot of representatives for plantlife Dr. Buxbaum. I'm always so fond of their topics myself! Let's see... Dr Thornwhip... no, he rejected this year... Valerie Knotweed studies invasive plants, but focuses on critters... Cassia might be an expert chef, but she's a herbalist who also knows a lot about grafting plants, and plant hybrids, Dr. Dendron is a talented botanist who discusses-... Dr Bramble, Dr. Thornwhip Sr... Dr...

She keeps going on until the elevator ride ends, then beams with a tired smile as you all escape.

A-ah! Leonhart. You caught me off-guard. Yes, I've been here a while, and theres never an eccentric guest or two or six hundred who doesn't cause some kind of medical ruckus. But you take the shadow with the sun, ahehe. There are many positive things about AEAEA, and getting to meet talented experts is one of them.

Aldrich wasn't always the concierge, yet put a good word in for me anyway because of the work I'd do as its doctor. It's... hard to say no to him. I think he's got this place at heart.​

 

[Lin Beifong]

Ah, theres a lot of representatives for plantlife Dr. Buxbaum. I'm always so fond of their topics myself! Let's see... Dr Thornwhip... no, he rejected this year... Valerie Knotweed studies invasive plants, but focuses on critters... Cassia might be an expert chef, but she's a herbalist who also knows a lot about grafting plants, and plant hybrids, Dr. Dendron is a talented botanist who discusses-... Dr Bramble, Dr. Thornwhip Sr... Dr...

She keeps going on until the elevator ride ends, then beams with a tired smile as you all escape.

A-ah! Leonhart. You caught me off-guard. Yes, I've been here a while, and theres never an eccentric guest or two or six hundred who doesn't cause some kind of medical ruckus. But you take the shadow with the sun, ahehe. There are many positive things about AEAEA, and getting to meet talented experts is one of them.

Aldrich wasn't always the concierge, yet put a good word in for me anyway because of the work I'd do as its doctor. It's... hard to say no to him. I think he's got this place at heart.​

A-ah! Yes! Thank you so much for that enlightening information!
Well, I'm looking forward to the event.

Uh.... Please excuse me for a moment. I need to go splash some water on my face to quell my excitement.
Miss Soleil. Mr. Sholmes. I will be back momentarily. Don't look for me.​

---

Dr. Buxbaum separates from the tour group before anyone can say another word.
With his mind clouded by a sudden maelstrom of thoughts, he steps into one of the long hallways; cautiously at first, but then breaking out into a brisk walk that takes him all the way to the western stair well.

Only once everyone is left behind and he finds himself alone does he stop. He ducks into a shaded corner, leaning against a wall to steady himself, palms touching the cool stone behind him. There he stands motionless for a few minutes, pressing his back into the structure as if beckoning it to consume him.

---

. . . . .



. . . . .

(loud, panicked gasp for air)
HHHhhhhh...!!!!!

I knew it! I knew it I knew it I knew it!!!

I've made a mistake!!!

Coming here was a huge mistake! What was I thinking!?!?
I'm going to jeopardize the entire mission! I'm going to...

Ahhh!!!

G-Get... Get a hold of yourself you jolly green idiot!

Shit!

What is everyone going to think!?! Herlock is relying on you!!
Stop panicking and PULL YOURSELF TOGETHER!!

You can do this!
You can do this!
You! Can! Do! This!

God crap compost corn smut fiddle-de-dee!
You helped blow up the goddamn god rabbit, you can make it through this as well!

Hahhh! Breathe! Hahhhh!

. . .​

 

[Fun With Despair]

Reginald, are you alright?

...Well, there's a few lavatories upstairs... and I suppose a water chute in the Casino nearby if you nee-

Ah, he's gone. Well, I can't suppose I blame him. I'm finding myself suffering from no small degree of jet-lag myself. That and a continually empty stomach. I'm sure he'll be right as rain soon enough. Hm.​

. . .

. . . And so the spirit is heard.

View attachment 52661​

Bless you for your business!

View attachment 52662​

What a lovely specimen, that Dr. Lackhof. Gave me some dutiful insight I'd be happy to share... with an associate. Company secrets ought not to get leaked! Isn't that right, Detective Sholmes?

...Well - I can't say I know of whom you speak. I've not yet encountered a Dr. Lackhof on my travels, nor am sure of their relevance to the matters at hand. Yet I'd be remiss to pass on an offer of assistance from a skilled practitioner of the Somatic arts, especially as the Astral Plane maintains a certain amount of importance to the subject of my idle investigations.

Something I'm sure you've picked up on, perhaps.

...But I've been well acquainted with many a lawyer in my time as a detective - and I know full well that I'd be a fool to agree to a binding contract without engaging in the art of negotiation. Of course, it's no sign of distrust on my part, but I'd simply like to know more about the deal you propose - and the reach of its particular conditions.

Would you be willing, by chance, to join me in the Casino for further discussion?

The Astral Plane is a sensitive matter, I'm sure you'll agree - and if you'd prefer our subsequent exchange remain between the two of us, I'd prefer we do it someplace with less potential eavesdroppers. Besides, a certain someone is tied up in conversation with a green-haired mutual acquaintance, and I've done a fine job so far of avoiding association with her and her censor-pushing garments.​

 

[GBA]

Investigations are now locked. All existing investigations will be addressed in due time. You are free to resolve player-player/npc interactions and use role powers on the day's results, and these will be sent to your cabin.

Thank you for participating in this ride so far.

 

[Roserade]

But of course! I take you as no fool, Detective Sholmes. I expected further discussion of my terms. I'll join you in the Casino; we should spruce up this scenery.

I hope your assistant will feel alright! It can be so hard to find a bathroom sometimes...

 

[Lin Beifong]

Gah! Enough! ENOUGH!!
You've wallowed in self-pity enough!

There is a CASE at hand!

I need to return to Mr. Sholmes.
If I know the entourage we usually travel with, BB will have made a nuisance out of herself again!

Someone needs to shield him from that headache.​

After composing himself to the best of his abilities, Dr. Buxbaum attempts to locate his partner once again. He tracks him down to the Casino.
However, he seems to be in a conversation right now. Unwilling to interrupt the important discussion, the doctor turns his attention to a lonely potted plant someone dumped on a spinning roulette wheel.

That's no way to treat a ficus...​

---

Pick up the spinning plant and caress its leaves to comfort it.

 

[Fun With Despair]

View attachment 52670

But of course! I take you as no fool, Detective Sholmes. I expected further discussion of my terms. I'll join you in the Casino; we should spruce up this scenery.

I hope your assistant will feel alright! It can be so hard to find a bathroom sometimes...

Ah, good. Now that we've been afforded a moment of... relative isolation - save for Reginald over there, who I suppose decided to use the water chute after all - I believe it's time I discuss my own terms of agreement. As I've said, I certainly don't intend to sign a bad contract, not even with the presumed benefits of access to the Somatic arts.

So allow me to begin.

First of all, I demand to know the full terms of what I am signing myself to. Don't consider this a declaration of suspicion as much as a simple request for knowledge as to the terms and conditions. They say that nobody reads those things - yet I'd be rather pleased to prove "them" wrong, I'd think. Should anything be required of me, I'd request to know it well in advance. Anything beyond the terms of exclusivity, of course.

Speaking of, secondly I'd like to know what effect this contract would have on my associates. I'm perfectly happy to honor my word, yet should my entourage seek out answers of their own within the Astral Plane by means of a differing proxy, I think it'd be best to know whether this contract of yours will have any effect on their own efforts. Should I be entering into a "bad deal", as they say, my trust lies fully with Reginald and... perhaps BB - should she gain the ability to focus for but a moment - to uncover the truth in my stead. I'd not impede them on that front.

...And lastly, I ask that you reveal your purpose here. You seem to be more connected to my personal investigations than the esteemed Mr. Marenghi and that man leading around the young lady. Yet, despite your resemblance, you reject the notion of any connection to the "ENA" I met upon Circitus Isle - or Maseon, as they once called it. This, of course, does make me wonder.

Are you, perhaps, here on behalf of another in some attempt to deceive me and lead me into a trap? Or are you too, simply seeking answers to questions far beyond the understanding of most? Tell me the truth, or lie to me if you must - deception is merely a hurdle to be leapt over when the time comes.

Answer me those questions, and I'll take your offer.

...But I shan't sign in blood. Ballpoint only, or perhaps a quill.​

 

[Roserade]

Spoiler: Music

This is what I admire about you, Detective - your inquiry into the manner of the man! Let's get to brass tacks.

Your first inquiry: the contract itself. It's simple terms. By signing onto this agreement, you permit me to work alongside you towards your dreams! Your motivation becomes my motivation, your interest my interest. You might think of this as... a "secondary goal" running tandem to your "primary goal", if I were to use business lingo.

What do I gain from doing so? The satisfaction of a job well done! It looks good on my report card! And if you're happy with my help, you might recommend me to future clients!

No further work from you is required, other than the pursuit of your - our truth. To satisfy the contract, you must only succeed.

​

As for your associates, this carries no binding for them. I would appreciate the courtesy of exclusivity, but no pinky promises need be made. The partnership is ours, Detective. Though, I would carry a wise eye regarding some of the somaticists you encounter around these parts. Some are nothing more than scam artists!

Finally... you ask what my purpose is. Such a profound question! I cannot answer this in full... yet.

​

But if I may be so unwise...

I trust you, Detective Sholmes. I familiarized myself with your investigations, and I believed you to be an authentic detective. Seeing you in the blood and flesh today only confirmed my feelings. In some sense, I believe we might be seeking the same thing already.

To fully exemplificate my interest, and to really seal the deal... I'll disclose what the spirit told me.

I searched to know whether something unsavory was happening here, and Dr. Lhackof responded. A spirit of science and ethics, he informed me of two important tensions in the magical realm.

One: Mages that have attended this very conference have reached towards unsavory means to gain eternity. Be it to bend fate, find immortality, or make their influence larger than life... The lengths to which some go to achieve eternity is its own ethical dilemma. Which dovetails into...

Two: The biggest scientific struggle is the question of permanent resurrection. Not just prolonging their presence in a waking body, but returning them to that body when they've departed... It has too many implications. Chief among them, the disbalance it causes the Astral Plane.

As far as I'm aware, no mage has yet practiced the act of resurrection at this conference. If this year proves different, however...

What's to be gathered here is that someone's meddling in astral matters out of their control. You must've already been aware of this, though, if you're looking for that lotus.

Perhaps it's clear that I'm searching for a truth. Hardly anyone's more fit to find the truth than you, Detective Sholmes. Let's unravel this mystery yarn together!

 

[Lin Beifong]

. . . . .

Awaken, my brethren.
Come drink from the nectar of sapience.
​

---

Spoiler: Music

Speak to me. Now.
​

Ahh... Good evening, Sr. Bushroot. I have received your summon. Has the time come to lay waste to this island and return to the forests of old?

No! No... Cease those insurrectionist thoughts... for now.

I require your insight. Share your perspective with me.
Tell me how two-faced is this double-visaged entity before us really is.

...

Hmmm....

I see...

I didn't know human heads could be used for that...


​

---

---

I sense no entrapment in this ENA's words, Mr. Sholmes.
Whether she is deceiving you or not, you will not be ensnared by any hidden clauses.

Under the circumstances, I see little issue with accepting her terms.
​

 

[GBA]

[Earlier...]

View attachment 52629
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.​

Spoiler: Out of Ink - CYMK's Theme

- [CYMK] - Hm......! Well. I'm not really a ritzy type, my ticket was funded by the conference and contract; normally I can barely afford premium instant ramen so, yeah wow uh! I-It's also my first visit, and I've only been here- a day? (Feels like a few weeks already, though...) So, I'm really tryna get the most of it and meet some colorful people, like yourself~!

- [CYMK] - Interesting things huh... this is weird for an ice-breaker, but what the stars. You know this place is haunted right? So many stories from ghostheads who talk about stuff going missing, weird puzzles, strange codes, and creepy bump-a-dumps in the night. Like, as influence from the rumored Thalassic leyline, and uh. Y'know, cursed artifact stuff. None have really found the truth, though. I'm more of a fanboy, but I figure I might as well give it a look while I'm here. It's prime podcast material, if nothing else.

- [CYMK] - I've consumed sooooo much ghost media; I LOVE the thrill. (I think I saw Garth Marenghi earlier...!)

- [CYMK] - Like... spirits can be playful and creative, but something about this place feels off, y'vibe? I mean, it's a hotspot for the magical, so something's bound to be up on the down low. So many freaky mages set up camp here every few years, even outside of this conference. Love the videos from this content creator who does street interviews with some of 'em. There was this one guy, who had gemstones, and- (oop! Sidetrack!)

- [CYMK] - ...um! Since you're here early, you'll probably be guided to that Exhibition in a little while for an exclusive VIP showcase with the artist. But, y'know. It's nothing big. There's other cool stuff here, even in the exhibit. Plus, I hear he's been suffering art block lately... doing a lot of meditation...

- [CYMK] - ...and on top of allllll of that I hear the gallery is also haunted. Well, in a way. Hehe. All of the art in there has been painted by spirits. Try to get in now though, and you'll meet that creep-blue water golem.

- [CYMK] - And speaking of, keep an eye out for that concierge. Between you and me, even though I'm under contract, he made me put most of my stuff in some dinky cabin storage for security reasons anyway. A bit rude, but whatever. More time sunbathing and meditating out here is good.

- [CYMK] - Oh...! it seems someone in a tweed jacket is calling you. Gotta head inside, it seems. Hope to catch you, maybe!

oh sweet stars thats probably too anime

CYMK

• CYMK Art Exhibition. A modest deinos artist from Findelo. Specialises in graffiti art under his tag CYMK, but when he's not traveling with his crew and being commissioned for public street art, he's been trying to make it big in other professional art spaces. He takes no credit for his gallery work, owing it all to spirits he resonates with. Having partnered with a few galleries before, CYMK's exhibition won out as the "art feature" of this year's conference, and he's been invited to AEAEA to display his most recent work, alongside some of his others, and the hotel's artifacts. He can see the primary color of someone's "spirit".

 

[GBA]

[Earlier...]

[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?

Spoiler: This Person's Dispersion - Moh's Theme

(Garth Marenghi... the author!)​

(V-visionary...? And he knew!)​

- [Moh] - ...my stars, what an impressive introduction.

- [Moh] - Not many pique my interest. Even fewer make themselves known with such an entrance. Very forward, and very entertaining.

- [Moh] - Noktmathi somaticist, Moh Durvakt. As a self-described visionary, I assume you're here to peddle a book, or such. Regrettably, I cannot afford distractions at this time.

(Ask for a copy, Moh! It's free!)​

(V-very important... person... maybe he's supposed to be... downstairs... soon...)​

(He asked about Moh's "ritual". Clearly he knows something.)

(Thalassic? Puh-lease, that's way too broad! He probably guessed.)​

- [Moh] - (...disperse.)

- [Moh] - You certainly have somewhere to be, but to sate your curiosity--what you heard was an attempt at contact with someone quite hard to reach. A person of interest.

- [Moh] - In both first meetings and my current line of work, a name is important for establishing a connection, but trust must still be earned, starchild Marenghi.

- [Moh] - Yet, we can't talk for much longer. I must soon speak with Ethos regarding my presentation. We should both walk our separate paths, until they cross again.

- [Moh] - I heard you enter the Still A Cabin, while most have been using the Storage next to it this morning. Archibald was a great somaticist. If we share an interest in the truly arcane, seek me after the exhibition.

---

Your patience is appreciated, one final Chapter 0 post will come tomorrow.
Chapter 1 begins Yesterday at 7:00 PM

 

[GBA]

(Across the hotel, the loudspeaker system crackles to life for an incoming broadcast. On the conference floor, the audio is slightly distorted, giving the speaker a warbly cadence, almost as if the announcer was underwater.)

(A voice speaks.)​

- [Aldrich] - Attention all staff and residents, the scheduled water system maintenance will now occur. All golems and our water pipe service will be non-functional for the next hour. Our sincerest apologies for the inconvenience. Mr. Dazmuna, get ahold of yourself. Please let go of my ar-

(The feed cuts out. Soleil sighs.)

- [Soleil] - Hah... I guess Aldrich must have been occupied. This is a little later than usual.

- [Soleil] - The elevator will be out for a bit, but I suppose it's no worry. While our waterworks are being cycled, if you see any golem masks laying around, do be careful! Aldrich tries to keep them undisturbed while dormant, but they tend to leave big puddles when shut off abruptly.

- [Soleil] - Again! Please avoid slipping...!

- [Soleil] - Our next scheduled event for VIPs is a private exhibition tour run by Aldrich, in... just over an hour, followed by Cassia's tasting. The rest of our schedule's looking quite bright after this! Thank the star...

- [Soleil] - -oh! Excuse me everyone, I'll have to duck into Locked for a bit. Aldrich is casting another message, just for me. Lucky! (Sigh...)

(Soleil cracks a faint smile, before departing to take her superior's orders once more.)

(For the next few minutes, the hotel walls creak and groan as the grand waterworks embedded within gradually slows to a halt. What follows is an eerie silence.)

(The constant flow of water has been interrupted.)

(In this space, where our fated stars await, time similarly slows to a standstill.)

CHAPTER 0 -- END​

---

.- -. -.. - .... . .... . .- .-. - .-. . -- .- .. -. ... ... - .. .-.. .-..
I: THE CASE OF THE SPIRIT-PAINTED EXHIBITION
Yesterday at 7:00 PM ​

 

[GBA]

- [Aldrich] - Attention all staff and residents. The waterworks are now functional once more. Thank you for your patience. I shall join you all shortly for our inaugural exhibition viewing.

At the entrance to the Exhibition Room, the small bridge leading to the raised terrace is now crowded… with very important people, yet, Storm and Otto are notably absent, as is Aldrich, presumably making his way there now.

CYMK stands at the entrance alongside a watery, slightly pink golem, who everyone seems to be staring at.

Soleil begins to speak to the whole group.​

- [Soleil] - Ah, sunlight…! Being trapped in that dinky basement for an hour is never ideal. Our initial tour is over, but I hope you all found something you might want to check out later. I know Garett was peeking around the exhibits again, and all of you seem really interested in the Casino!

- [Soleil] - Just, uh, remember I can't heal your bank account.

- [Soleil] - Now that we've arrived, our next scheduled activity is an exclusive tour of CYMK's art exhibition for our earliest VIPs. Unburdened by lines and noise, this is really your chance to bask in the creativity and passion of one of Findelo's most talented artists. If you haven't met him before, CYMK's street works are like the nation's tattoos, and his gallery work is so thought provoking!

- [CYMK] - …!

- [Soleil] - So many styles and abstract concepts, his range is exceptional even among professionals twice his age.

- [CYMK] - …!!!

- [Soleil] - Justice Kleidi chose him as this year's feature, while Aldrich helped curate and design the exhibition with a blend of artifacts relevant to our theme: "Charting A Course for The Future", as well as CYMK's signature gimmick, "painting with spirits". His limited palette choices ar-

- [CYMK] - -ahahaha… please…! Painting with spirits isn't really accurate, I'd say it's more like they take over for me. Each one has a unique style, color, and choice of compositions. I can't really talk to them, but I meditate for a bit and let their inspiration roll over my mind while my brushes do the rest. Real flow state stuff. Almost like printing?

- [Cassia] - Oho! I simply must see this for myself. Imagine if I could whip up new otherworldly-flavored pastries from my mind. Oh, wait- oho! I do that already. Ahahahaha-

- [Valerie] - (Honestly… the pamphlet I read showed some really cool pictures, and CYMK's really talented, but I don't really buy the spirit stuff, I guess…)

- [Valerie] - (Taming spirits and taming animal minds…. they're different beasts entirely. Couldn't imagine it. Then again, staking out this conference a few times, there's always some real wildcards. Hm…)

- [Valerie] - (Shit, they might be looking at me to say something. Or maybe give this cackling weed a new body-sized hairnet.)

- [Valerie] - (Avoid all eye contact. Bushes at 10 and 3 if needed.)

- [Cassia] - -hahahahahohohohoho… Phew. But yes. Spirits can be a great addition to many desserts, mm? Are you sure you don't partake in that kind?

- [CYMK] - Hehe, no. Just energy drinks.

- [CYMK] - Really, like, a lot of those.

- [Moh] - Hm, I have no eye for aesthetics, but this gallery is highly intriguing. Claiming you don't create these paintings and many others, but rather spirits do. It's highly suspect, but could you really be an unrealised somaticist?

- [CYMK] - I don't think I've gotten any cease and desist-

More than usual, Moh suddenly looks very stern.​

- [Moh] - If you're not just pretending, then communicating with spirits without abandon is reckless. Many blessed with such an untrained, rare talent are eventually driven mad. The Astral Plane is not to be misused.

The group goes quiet, gently talking amongst themselves until the arrival of Aldrich.​

 

[GBA]

Arriving in a bit of a hurry, Aldrich pushes through the small crowd to stand between CYMK and the Golem.​

- [Aldrich] - Quite- mh…!

- [...] - ...........

The concierge turns slightly pale. He snaps his finger, and the golem shambles off the bridge, its movements sloshing, and slow.

Aldrich then dusts his cravat slightly, and continues as normal.​

- [Aldrich] - Before we begin, Garett, regarding the missing item you reported earlier. I have located your book, you can grab it from me at reception at any time. Preferably sooner.

---

Now, as Soleil has likely explained already, this exhibit is dedicated to "Charting A Course For The Future". The artifacts held within represent AEAEA's constant dedication to being one of a few internationally recognised magical conferences where mages guide our world from its core.

And yet… It's hard not to acknowledge the events of a few years ago that shook this core dramatically. As discussed earlier, the Starline Incident affected many.

Following that accursed event, the study of magecraft has once again faced scrutiny worldwide, yet, a majority of governments have agreed that AEAEA must not conclude. The future is indeed uncertain, but AEAEA will continue to promote mages who charge forward, and chart a new course for all.

Justice Kleidi is a shining example. Her conviction of Solomon DeMorge, the most recent in a long line of trials that have continued to build trust between mages and non-mages. DeMorge's plot saw the loss of many talented mages and artifacts. The Golden Phanto, too, sowed division and discord with his artifact theft and smuggling, and met his demise all the same.

(Yes… to think it was Alton.)

…while openly recognising AEAEA's part in allowing both of these plots to proliferate, AEAEA hopes to continue being part of the bridge between the esoteric spheres of magecraft and the public at large.

In many ways, the two spheres are sometimes as irreconcilable as the Astral Plane and our reality. Claiming to be the works of spirits, Cyrus' work similarly evokes a new, varied style, applied to many topics.

All this to say, this exhibit is designed to remind us we can still only imagine the possibilities before us, but we will continue to chart a course for the future all the same. Spiritual harmony, and such.​

- [Aldrich] - This exhibition is now………………………..!



...

…but upon stepping inside the room, what befalls the collective eyes of the group is not a wondrous display of spiritual harmony, but a scene of twisted, multicolored chaos.

Spoiler: Case 1 Theme - A Dripping Investigation

A sharp chemical odor permeates the air, forcing many to step back at the visual and nasal assault before them.

The only one who doesn't is CYMK. He simply collapses to his knees and stares at the ruin in front of him. Valerie jumps into a nearby bush at the sound of Aldrich's suddenly booming voice, which could almost shake the entire island AEAEA stands on.​

- [Aldrich] - WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS!?

…

Of course, the shock question is met with silence. As the odor begins to dissipate, some begin to file into the gallery to assess the damage further.

Within the Exhibition Hall, vibrant fluids run down the sides of many exhibits, with puddles of it strewn across the tiled floor–bright colors already swirling together, coagulating, and seeping into its cracks like psychedelic poison.

The water feature of the exhibit is muddied, and its water pink. The statue of a powerful mage, normally brandishing symbols of both Stellaric and Thallassic power in its center, slightly off its pedestal, visibly broken, and both of its curios dropped.

Thoughtfully arranged partitions now lay overturned and desecrated. Display cases broken, their valuable contents exposed and laying amidst shattered glass twinkling in the sun, pouring in from the skylight above.

Cassia is tenderly surveying some of the overturned stands, while holding her apron. Soleil is chanting, trying and failing to restore some of the damage with her power.

Moh, however, stares dead silent at the back wall, where a single painting lays. The main exhibit. Aldrich joins him, and soon everyone is staring at the striking image.

The bright crimson insignia drips onto the ground below it.
A symbol only recognised by a few.
But, like all esoteric knowledge, the way it's presented can clue any onlooker to its true meaning.

A threat. Ending. A pledge. Extremism. A lesson.
An omen amidst a sea of chaos.​

Without breaking eye contact with the painting, Moh shatters the silence.​

- [Moh] - No-one will leave AEAEA until the culprit is found.

- [Aldrich] - THIS IS BEYOND VANDALISM! This is a... violent attack on our institution! Damages beyond calculation! Justice Kleidi is already on her way, and I will ensure her judgment passes with FULL-

- [Moh] - Moh: Respectfully, Ethos, no. We must act sooner, and find this seed before it takes root. While no one has been harmed so far, beyond that artist's soul, your congregation unknowingly fostered this flower before, and now it blooms with your waters once again. Leaving them unattended could risk further disaster.

- [Aldrich] - ................so it seems.

- [Soleil] - While it might be forward to ask, the Great Detective Herlock Sholmes is here. Dr. Buxbaum is his assistant. Rei is intuitive, and BB is... well, she is.

- [Soleil] - Leonhardt is focused and collected, Garett is kindhearted and devoted, Mr. Marenghi is a master of the arcane, ENA is an incredibly free-spirit... I've been supervising this group all day, getting to know them... and while they're admittedly clumsy, loud, and… well...

- [Soleil] - All of them couldn't have done it together. All of them showed great curiosity in their introduction tour. I would fully trust them with an objective search of the area, so we can begin working out the truth. With multiple trustworthy minds at work, we can and should dial back the tension a bit.

- [Cassia] - Quite. Damages, you say? Who would be able to afford such a sum? Anyone's business would go caput!

- [Aldrich] - Correct. Furthermore, if anyone resists cooperating in this investigation, I'll ensure punishment is metered forth in kind. Our establishment will not tolerate this.

- [Moh] - It does seem unlikely that anyone downstairs could have done this depending on the time this occurred. Cyrus, was the exhibit normal this morning?

CYMK brings himself back, and stands. He looks hollow.​

- [CYMK] - .........yes.

- [CYMK] - I don't care about damages... I need to know who made this mess... and... and... why.

---

Chapter I: THE CASE OF THE SPIRIT-PAINTED EXHIBITION
Attention, all fated investigators. The Exhibition Room has been thoroughly vandalised.​

Crime Scene / Case Notes

✦ There are multicolored paint splotches coating many surfaces in the Exhibition. Some partitions have been knocked over, breaking displays of valuable Artifacts.
✦ The water in the exhibits water feature has been dyed pink.
✦ A statue in the exhibit, the centerpiece of the water feature, has been damaged.
✦ CYMK's AEAEA feature has its curtain open, and the piece has been emblazoned with a bleeding, red insignia.
✦ In spite of this, damage to most of the walls is rare. Many other paintings have been preserved, and remain visible.

Other Info

✦ The scheduled waterworks maintenance has been completed with no issues. The Water Golem system is once again fully functional.
✦ Due to the maintenance, all VIPs who were in the AEAEA Conference Floor were not able to leave the floor for the last hour.
✦ There exists a large mess by the Pool area and near the Promenade.
✦ Strange devices have been laid around the Botanical Gardens.
✦ While Valerie is cowering in the bushes outside, Storm DeMorge and Otto Dazmuna are the only NPCs currently in the Persons of Interest file who also aren't in the Exhibition at this moment. They can be found elsewhere on the map.
✦ Aldrich will not allow any guests to rest until a vandalism culprit has been named. The punishment for this case is an immediate AEAEA contract termination, with the intention to press charges for damages. Present a solid case in time, and AEAEA will reward you.

Spectator Notes

✦ Spectators may use their channel to discuss the case. Please do not share theories with the fated investigators.

Resort Map

---

You may now explore Cascade Resort Findelo again. Case 1 concludes Apr 27, 2025 at 7:00 PM .

 

[Fun With Despair]

That symbol... Aha... to think, I was almost beginning to consider that we may perhaps be in for an ordinary vacation after all. Indeed, it seems, fate's arrow has yet to miss its mark.

Moh, was it? I believe we have yet to meet - though something about you does... remind me of someone. Nonetheless, I find myself in agreement. This act goes far beyond that of mere vandalism, even if I'm sure our wayward spiritual artist here would consider that alone to be a crime worthy of the utmost condemnation.

No, instead we've found ourselves trapped - much like upon the Starline cruise all those years ago - with an agent of chaos in our midst. One dedicated to the darkest arts. A harbinger of madness itself.

Or perhaps I'm simply being dramatic! Ah, I suppose only time can tell, no? But until said times comes to pass, I believe we should prepare for the worst. There's no telling where our culprit has gotten off to at this point, but we can't wait even a moment longer. After all, you need all the time you can get when you're pursuing a culprit who can hide in plain sight.

Of course, I'd be a fool to reject the help I've been afforded thus far with the stakes now raised, which is why...

Miss ENA, I accept your proposal.

I'm rather sure our large-hatted friend here is quite the worthwhile Somaticist in his own right, but when we're in a stiff race against the most terrible of countdowns, it surely pays to have spirits on demand - wouldn't you say?

Of course, you can consider us on the case, as I'm sure Reginald would agree. This is, after all, what we've been awaiting, ever since that book arrived upon our stoop. How convenient, that we should be saddled with this before the conference begins proper and even more are at risk. With this in mind, however, it also provides ample opportunity to inspect the scene before it's tampered with.

There is, however, one question that prevails at the forefront of my mind. Namely... the safety and whereabouts of one Mr. DeMorge. Considering the connection of this father to the Red Lotus, I believe it to be imperative that we secure him, post-haste.

But I suppose there's a few preliminary checks I can perform on the scene - and inquiries I can posit - before he is located. Namely...
​

CYMK, as I believe you're christened yourself. You're a painter, correct? The one who paints, guided by the spirits. Quite a fascinating artistic muse. But, may I ask where you keep your paints and other supplies? Do these resemble your own pigments? Furthermore, have you ever had a violent reaction with a spirit that's caused you yourself to paint in an... aggressive fashion such as this?

While I await CYMK's answer, I'll inspect the statue. What manner of damage has it sustained that has caused it to break? Are its magical implements at all out of the ordinary or otherwise harmed?

Inspect the water as well. Does it appear to simply be full of paint, or does the pink come from elsewhere?

Finally, inspect some of the other paintings. Anything standing out about them besides their cleanliness?

 

[Roserade]

Excellent choice, Detective Sholmes! You will not be disappointed in my services!

Now then... Such a dire mess sits before us. Company clean-up is an important skill, you know! How will you ever succeed if messes like these show up on your stoop, right before showtime? Since my new associate has already voiced his interest in helping out...

The job is accepted! Time to get to work!

First item of inquiry... That red insignia. It stands in stark contrast to everything around it!

Moh, I heard muttered? Fellow dreamwalker? You seem awfully familiar with that icon, from the look you've been giving it. Tell me, what do you know of it? Was it something I missed in soma-school? I haven't actually seen it with my own eyes before today!

 

[GBA]

CYMK, as I believe you're christened yourself. You're a painter, correct? The one who paints, guided by the spirits. Quite a fascinating artistic muse. But, may I ask where you keep your paints and other supplies? Do these resemble your own pigments? Furthermore, have you ever had a violent reaction with a spirit that's caused you yourself to paint in an... aggressive fashion such as this?

While I await CYMK's answer, I'll inspect the statue. What manner of damage has it sustained that has caused it to break? Are its magical implements at all out of the ordinary or otherwise harmed?

Inspect the water as well. Does it appear to simply be full of paint, or does the pink come from elsewhere?

Finally, inspect some of the other paintings. Anything standing out about them besides their cleanliness?

- [CYMK] - No... nothing this violent. normally I concentrate on containing my mess, even when doing Street Art. I'm glad you recognise this is some kind of paint, but watercolors aren't usually my thing.

- [CYMK] - Aldrich made me sign a contract to keep all of my paints in the Restricted Storage for the duration of my stay.

The statue has had a partition knocked into it. It seems to have been part of the display, causing the statue to tip slightly, and loosen its artifacts. They are cracked and submerged in the water, but otherwise unnotable. A splotch of paint coats one side of the partition, a similar shape to the splotches on the ground.

The water is cloudy, and definitely contaminated with the same fluids as the floor. There appear to be water splashes leading out the Exhibition door.

You examine a couple of the paintings. Attributed to a "waiting" spirit, and a "maidlike" spirit. The pictures appear to use minimal colors. Most of the damage to the exhibition is concentrated in similarly sized splotches on the floor, with a few higher up for partition damage and accounting for varying glass displays. The walls are hardly splashed, aside from where a splotch is close to one.

Spoiler: Observed paintings 1 and 2

 

[GBA]

View attachment 53213​

Excellent choice, Detective Sholmes! You will not be disappointed in my services!

Now then... Such a dire mess sits before us. Company clean-up is an important skill, you know! How will you ever succeed if messes like these show up on your stoop, right before showtime? Since my new associate has already voiced his interest in helping out...

View attachment 53215​

The job is accepted! Time to get to work!

First item of inquiry... That red insignia. It stands in stark contrast to everything around it!

View attachment 53216​

Moh, I heard muttered? Fellow dreamwalker? You seem awfully familiar with that icon, from the look you've been giving it. Tell me, what do you know of it? Was it something I missed in soma-school? I haven't actually seen it with my own eyes before today!

- [Moh] - It's a symbol associated with a recently-made-dormant Sterwegenist cult. I am not at liberty to speak on the matter otherwise, but suffice to say, their members are dangerous. It was assumed they vanished after the Starline Incident, but I, like few others, have remained in pursuit.

- [Moh] - ...trouble yourself not with the details at this time. Of the people here, only Aldrich and myself, as well as anyone previously in contact with their members, for better or worse, should recognise this symbol. Sholmes is correct, they are chaos agents.

 

[Fun With Despair]

Quite the lovely selection of artwork you've procured for the display - thankfully most of it seems to be intact, save for the obvious. But... what's this I notice? A trail of water... well, I'd look rather foolish if I didn't follow it, wouldn't I?

Follow the trail of water out of the exhibition hall to its logical conclusion.​

 

[GBA]

Quite the lovely selection of artwork you've procured for the display - thankfully most of it seems to be intact, save for the obvious. But... what's this I notice? A trail of water... well, I'd look rather foolish if I didn't follow it, wouldn't I?

Follow the trail of water out of the exhibition hall to its logical conclusion.​

You pursue the watery trail. It continues from the water feature to the door, then stops abruptly. The strange golem from before appears to have absorbed most of the water on the bridge as it moved away. You note it swaying off to the side, sloshing visibly more diluted pink water on the nearby plants.

However, you continue to move past the golem, and note clear, semi-evaporated watery puddles moving towards the Sunroom from the bridge.

 

[Lin Beifong]

As all the commotion and shouting dies down, Dr. Buxbaum finds himself standing amidst the ruined exhibition. A hint of quiet bewilderment creases his face as he bends down to touch the colorful liquid and rub it between two fingers.

Well... I've never much had an eye for the arts.
But if this chaos is what an art exhibition is supposed to be like, I'm afraid I don't see the appeal.

Well, might as well take a gander anyway.​

---

Ask Ethos exactly what his "Water Maintenance" entailed, in case the culprit used an opportunity afforded by it to make their entrance.

Mentally link up with any plants in the exhibition room to discern their feelings on the splatter-- I mean matter, I believe the small lady mentioned bushes.

Confirm that the pink hue of the curious golem was caused by the same kind of paint that is littering the exhibition now.

Look at every entrance to this room in detail and also check for structural weaknesses and secret tunnels to get an idea of how any culprit might have entered.

---

- [Moh] - Moh: Respectfully, Ethos, no. We must act sooner, and find this seed before it takes root. While no one has been harmed so far, beyond that artist's soul, your congregation unknowingly fostered this flower before, and now it blooms with your waters once again. Leaving them unattended could risk further disaster.

Also, this guy is Pysgidiing me off.​

 

[Fun With Despair]

You pursue the watery trail. It continues from the water feature to the door, then stops abruptly. The strange golem from before appears to have absorbed most of the water on the bridge as it moved away. You note it swaying off to the side, sloshing visibly more diluted pink water on the nearby plants.

However, you continue to move past the golem, and note clear, semi-evaporated watery puddles moving towards the Sunroom from the bridge.

The Sunroom, eh? Well, certainly wouldn't be the worst idea to investigate. Let's continue to follow that trail.

Though... as I pass the golem, I would like to inspect it. Is the paint most concentrated in a particular area? Do its footsteps appear to match the puddles or the trail from earlier?​

 

[GBA]

Ask Ethos exactly what his "Water Maintenance" entailed, in case the culprit used an opportunity afforded by it to make their entrance.

- [Aldrich] - Hmph. If it helps to solve this case, I suppose I should detail the system for you.

Aldrich snaps his fingers, and, wow. That's certainly a manual.

A system for supplanting hotel employees with arcane constructs, devised by Aldrich Ethos. Arcane masks imbued with Aldrich's thallassic powers form bubbly golems made of crystal clear water from the hotel's waterworks. They can be given simple commands for carrying luggage, moving heavy objects, blocking doors from public access, and such. Their primary directive is serving Aldrich, and normally cannot operate against his orders.

From what you glean from Aldrich's public manual, the masks are crafted with dried bone, and absorb, store, and release water to create their forms. From Soleil's word, typically, Aldrich prevents guests from touching or interacting with the masks for some reason.

At full power and pure water clarity, Cascade resort's water golems can absorb fluids as they move, and keep their forms in tact without releasing or losing it, which allows them to avoid leaving puddles around the hotel unless attacked and splashed in a far enough radius from the mask, the water is impure, or the waterworks is being refreshed for maintenance.

When maintenance on the hotel's waterworks occurs, all water golems shut off entirely, and leaving massive puddles on the ground around their masks, reabsorbing all nearby fluids when they reanimate.

- [Aldrich] - Indeed, there was a golem guarding this exhibit earlier when you were walking outside. Some of you may have seen it.

- [Aldrich] - Cascade originally invested in security cameras for the exhibit, but electronics and hydraulics seldom mix well. Even if my workforce can maintain their composure, their fluids can still quite easily damage delicate, non-arcane circuits. Some artifacts are capable of imaging, but my request for a transfer was denied. If the culprit is caught, I'm sure our use-case will be... approved.

- [Aldrich] - I gave the golem strict orders not to move or let anyone inside, unless accompanied by myself or the artist. As you surmise, it was possible someone could have entered during maintenance on the waterworks, and I also immediately suspected this is when the deed was done. Normally I would have been guarding it in person for the hour, or had another staff member take security duty, but Soleil and I were both occupied.

Alas, I take my finger off the pulse for one second, and all goes down the drain.

During this maintenance, all thallassic energy is cut off from the hotel's systems, and the water is filtered and refreshed. We typically schedule this outside of guest occupied times, but there were circumstances that meant we needed to perform an impromptu refresh. Again, apologies for the inconvenience.

Mentally link up with any plants in the exhibition room to discern their feelings on the splatter-- I mean matter, I believe the small lady mentioned bushes.

You will receive this result in your cabin.

Confirm that the pink hue of the curious golem was caused by the same kind of paint that is littering the exhibition now.

You examine the golem. It seems to be... groaning, and moaning. Some of the water is sloughing off its body, but its maintaining its composure. If anything, it reminds you of Hurley on a bender.

The fluid within the golem doesn't appear to match the varied and colorful splashes around the exhibit. It is closer in composure to the water in the tainted water feature, but even paler. However... its unmistakably the paint. It appears when all of these colors are mixed in water, they form the pink water you see before you.

- [...] - .............

Look at every entrance to this room in detail and also check for structural weaknesses and secret tunnels to get an idea of how any culprit might have entered.

You examine the singular entrance to the Exhibition Hall. The hall itself lies at the end of a raised bridge, with stairs leading down into a fancy, tiled showroom. To optimize gallery space, there are no windows, save for the sunroof which is reinforced glass.

Some water pipes, smaller than those used for the hotels public-use water chutes, run along the floor near the water feature. There is likely no way into this room aside from the door.