198 avsnitt • Längd: 85 min • Månadsvis
RUIN’S GATE— In a frontier boomtown on the planet of Antarres, the posse known as Hell’s Fortune makes a living stealing hellstone for anyone willing to pay.
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There had always been those who naively believed that hellstone could, in some way, in some novel form, actually be tamed—could be brought under control, made safer or more convenient, be “domesticated,” as the case may be. And there have always been opponents to that idea. When Eleanor Greer invented the process that would later go on to be cemented as the standard process for refining hellstone for safe use and safe shipment, the President of the Mining Guild at the time, a man by the name of Arn Goldman, would, allegedly, tell anyone who would listen for more than a minute or two, that Greer was a fool for trying: “it’s no coincidence,” he is recorded as having said, “that hellstone’s the very same color as blood. Anyone who doesn’t take that as a sign is stupid enough to deserve what’s coming to ‘em.”
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: Nowhere to go but down.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: body horror (eyes) [00:05:09, 00:26:00], references to cannibalism [1:54:50]
Now, what’s deceptive about a sleepy little town — which, though I’ve argued before that Ruin’s Gate was far from, but for the sake of poetry, let’s say the sentiment stands — is that, sleepy as they might seem, that doesn’t mean there isn’t always something going on under the surface. Trouble brewing out of sight. Pieces moving on chess boards in back rooms. Plans hatching, plots thickening, deals being made in the dark. And in Ruin’s Gate, in those days, there was plenty of dark to go around.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: Reunions and reconsiderations.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: body horror (eyes) [2:01:00]
Meanwhile, in the writings of Confessor Leviticus to her final congregants, this pilgrimage is characterized somewhat differently. She speaks of the pilgrimage not as a promise, or even as a journey, but as a kind of fortification, a taking up of arms. This should hardly be surprising: the visions granted to Leviticus by God were filled with this kind of martial imagery, and she seems to have seen herself as a kind of warrior or soldier, rather than a shepherd or a leader. But the idea stands, nevertheless. The pilgrimage isn’t so much about making oneself closer to god, but instead about enacting a service for the people of Antarras, undertaking a transformative journey wherein those strong enough to make the journey are also deemed strong enough to protect those who cannot protect themselves.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: The soul of Antarras.
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In The Early Saints of Antarras, Apostle Celéne Osgood—who would go on to later undertake her own pilgrimage and become Confessor Psalms, the noted Evangelist—writes of the sermon given by Confessor Joshua upon returning from their pilgrimage. The pathway, Confessor Joshua is said to have declaimed, is not holy because it is the precise pathway Confessor Genesis once took, but because of the footsteps of those who followed him. The act of commitment undertaken when an Apostle sets out on that path is simultaneously an act of contrition, of devotion, and of service—to the town or community one comes from, as well as the one they will go on to serve in God’s name. It is that act that makes the pathway holy, and the meaning it has accrued as others have taken it, as feet have bled and skin has burned and prayers have alighted on the wind. To walk the path, Osgood writes, is to make a promise—a promise that is not upheld until the Confessor who returns from the journey devotes themself to the service of those not strong enough to walk the path themselves.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: The pilgrim’s path.
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The origin of what have come to be known as hellbeasts—distinct from the native animals found on the planet—has also been debated by historians of Antarras. Where the line between animal and hellbeast falls is not arbitrary, but neither is it universally agreed upon. Are the hellbeasts endemic to the planet, or are they, like us, invasive, coming to Antarras from somewhere else, like that unknown place the church calls the Burning Beyond? Do they evolve, the way fauna does, or change at all according to their environment? And, if so, what were they before they became the monsters that haunt our very nightmares?
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: A colossal emergence.
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The first hellstone mutations that appeared, in the earliest groups of settlers, were in fact less likely to appear on the miners and more likely to appear on those who handled the pure, unrefined hellstone after its removal from the mines—couriers, bankers, or those scientists who first worked to develop the refining process that would come to be standard. The image of the mutated specter, a potent and lingering phantasm of anxiety in the mind of the Antarran settler, didn’t become the norm until much later, when external pressures to meet new quotas forced the miners to stay underground for longer and longer shifts.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: Something moving in the Ruin.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: drug use (0:09:30)
One can’t help but wonder, thinking back on the early days of Antarras, just how and why the staple institutions ended up with the influence they did. Could it have turned out another way? Could, for instance, a different church have found purchase in the hearts and minds of the early settlers? Could a different corporation from Earth have gotten here first, before Creon Construction, Communications, and Co.? How different would life on Antarras have looked, if just one decision had been made differently, just one change in the way things were when it all started? Realistically, there ain’t much use wondering that kind of thing: the world we’ve got’s the one we’re stuck living on today. But one can’t help but wonder…
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: Promises you’d best intend to keep.
Anamnesis by Samantha Leigh: https://blinkingbirchgames.itch.io/anamnesis
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Funerary traditions on Antarras vary by town. The early settlers brought with them a range of belief systems, cultural traditions, and dispositions towards death, so in the earliest days, there were as many cremations as there were burials, and almost as many mourning practices as there were settlements cropping up on the planet’s surface. Eventually, most of the planet settled into the same—or at least similar—general traditions, though there were some smaller settlements that held out against the planet-wide preference for cremation and kept well-tended cemeteries of their own dead nearby to town. But for most, superstition won out against any Earth-based cultural beliefs, and the dead were usually burned for fear that what was buried might not always stay that way.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: An act of remembrance.
Anamnesis by Samantha Leigh: https://blinkingbirchgames.itch.io/anamnesis
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You’d be hard-pressed to find anyone who was alive that doesn’t remember the day the sun didn’t rise. You’d be even harder pressed to find anyone who could agree on what to call it. The eclipse, the great cloud, the long, dark night. No one wanted to talk about it, when it happened, so no easy name ever came into common parlance. Everyone had their own way of thinking about the darkness outside, and locked alone and scared in their homes, they took to thinking of it however they might.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: The search begins.
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What to do, with the truth? It’s a question as complicated on Antarras as it was through the history of human civilization on Earth. What to do with the truth when it’s more dangerous than a lie? When it presents a risk you might not be willing to take? Do we have a moral obligation to share the truth at all costs? To spare the feelings of those who might be hurt by it? To inform those who might not have otherwise known? Personally, I have always believed the latter: the truth at all costs. On a planet so hostile, when all we have is each other, it seemed necessary in a way that life was allowed to be more nuanced on Earth.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: A much-needed catch up.
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Forgive an old reporter just a moment for a brief aside—a diversion from the story, sure, I’ll grant you that, but one that I think it very much needs. Because the thing the stories like this about Antarras miss, sometimes, is that there weren’t good guys and bad guys, not really. Heroes and villains are things of fairytales, of bedtime stories, and when stories about Antarras get told, they’re all too often the fanciful sort. The kind made to convey a particular message. No one's immune to this, and I'm not saying I'm any better. But the thing that gets forgotten, in the midst of all of that, is the part where, as much as we argued, as much as we fought, we were all just people, anyway. And people get hurt. People get mad. People don’t always act their best. But when you tell a story where you stop treating some of them like people, you miss the heart of what it was really all about.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: Is this really where you meant to be?
I Have the High Ground by Jess Levine: https://jumpgategames.itch.io/ihthg
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CONTENT WARNINGS: violence, discussions of death
Though the original settlers did, for a time, use their own ships to ferry the hellstone they first found back to Earth, the Company’s intercession soon shut down any private or personal spacecraft in the airspace over Antarras—at first through violence, and then, as their first major demand in the Ostenberg Agreement, as a matter of policy. When you really look at the maps, at the paperwork, the Company doesn’t have jurisdiction over all that much land on the planet; what it has is the sky. Because when the people buying hellstone are a month by ship away, owning the sky is all you really need to do.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: Debts paid.
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In his 1962 book Profiles of the Future: An Inquiry into the Limits of the Possible, science fiction author Arthur C. Clarke famously wrote that “any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.”
He was almost right.
Unfortunately for Mr. Clarke, he had it backwards. What he should have written was that any sufficiently sophisticated magic is indistinguishable from technology. In fact, few are aware of just how many of the technological developments seen in the second half of the 20th century were the result of magical interference, and that’s at least in part because there are organizations in place to ensure that they don’t.
Organizations like the Forensic Department of Paranormal and Demonic Activity — a top secret private organization dedicated to studying, containing, and preserving the secrecy of rogue magical effects on the world. Utilizing a well-studied paranatural ability known as "Redaction" to maintain their confidence from the rest of the world, the Department has kept the existence of magic a secret since its founding.
But with the advances of magic-inflected technology now growing at an astronomical rate along with the approach of the turn of the 21st century, will it be enough to keep the truth from getting out?
The Forensic Department of Paranormal and Demonic Activity begins this June for all Patrons at the $1/month tier and above. Back us on Patreon now: https://www.patreon.com/unexploredcast
CONTENT WARNINGS: desecration of corpses, body horror
It isn’t as if we ever properly understood death to begin with. Humanity’s spent exactly as many years telling stories about what death means and what comes after as it has dying. Wars have been fought and kingdom’s toppled over differences of opinion on the matter, and the mysteries that lie beyond that unknowable act are one of the first and most powerful of human fears. Some say the only thing about it we know for certain is that everything dies, but here on Antarras, even that seems like it may be less empirical than it seemed on Earth.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: To dust you shall return.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: body horror (1:34:35-1:35:00)
Of course, back on Earth they told stories about dreams—prophetic ones, ones with deep significance and all kinds of meanings, dreams that revealed the deepest anxieties and worries that might plague the inner recesses of somebody’s mind. On Antarras, though, there wasn’t the luxury for that kind of thing. Dreams, on Antarras, some would say, were more vivid than those on Earth: darker, stranger, and yet all the more real. When they had meaning, which they almost always did, that meaning didn’t come in metaphor. No teeth falling out, no moving as if through water. Instead, that meaning was all too real, and all too obvious. Less a symbol and more a warning.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: A nightmare made real.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: gore and descriptions of severe violence (0:35:37, 0:39:50)
The paradox of hellstone has always been this: it’s plentiful on Antarras but too valuable to keep; it’s rare on Earth, where they have the resources to experiment. It’s so useful as a power source that it gets used up faster than the time it would take to truly understand it. And so that little red miracle that saved the people who first fled to Antarras has remained far more of a mystery than the businessmen, the scientists, and the miners might like. Just what might hellstone be able to do, if we put it to the test? What other miracles, what other wonders or horrors could be at humanity’s fingertips, if we managed to use hellstone just right?
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: A disturbing truth.
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Justice isn’t a word that has much meaning on Antarras. At least, not in the long term. While each town might have been built up with its own best intentions, in the end practicality wins out over idealism every time. Any Company Marshal or local Sheriff makes the decision they think is best, and more often than not, what’s best is resolving an issue expediently so that everyone can move on and get back to the harder work of living in a place like this: surviving.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: A murder in the city.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: body horror (0:27:00-0:30:00, 1:34:00), drug use (0:40:00-0:42:00)
Scarcity has always been the name of the game on Antarras—our time on this planet has practically been defined by it. As much as the prospect of a new home among the stars seemed to offer the promise of opportunities beyond those limited few left on Earth to the early settlers, the surplus of opportunity on Antarras was always matched by a scarcity of other things: food, safety, answers. With each one, the people of Antarras made do; new ways to grow food, new ways to protect themselves. Humanity learned resilience on Earth, the saying goes, but it perfected it on Antarras. But the most dangerous scarcity of all, the one most necessary to stave off against the encroaching darkness, was hope. Despair, on Antarras, after all, is not only a mortal sin, but a death sentence.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: Building hope.
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Aside from the paths scouted between Antarras’ sparse collection of towns, and the maps kept by the Miner’s Guild, all too much of the planet remains unexplored. This reason is no small part of why the Buzzards do such good business: wander off just a hair in the wrong direction, and you might find yourself in unexpectedly dangerous terrain—and not just because of the landscape.
In fact, early settlers passed down the firm belief that the planet was impossible to explore in full. Not because of its size—as the planet is, in reality, no larger than Earth’s own moon—but because time and space, they alleged, didn’t always seem to work the way you wanted ‘em to.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: Parting ways.
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To attempt a taxonomy of the creatures the locals call hellbeasts would be a futile task: the monsters that made their way out of the Ruin had no rhyme nor reason, no morphological consistency nor internal sense. They had the form, from the start, of something out of nightmares, and warped from there, in all manner of ways. Any attempt at cataloging them, or classifying them, would end up in a far muddier understanding of the practical information at hand than just listening to the names people took to calling them and going from there. Not to mention, anyone who got close enough to try was more like than not to wind up dead.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: A town in need of saving.
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Fear wasn’t always the common denominator among the population of the newly-founded towns of Antarras. Maybe it was always something of a factor; maybe it could never have been totally absent from consideration. But when people talk about the early settlers these days, they focus too much on fear. The story is that they were scared, desperate people willing to try their hand at anything to escape the lives they were fleeing back on Earth. But those of us descended from them, or raised by them, or in community with those of them that still remain, know that fear was never the thing that drove them—it couldn’t have been. It never would have driven them so far.
That fear is the legacy of the planet, that desperation is the afterlife of that initial wave of settlement, is a story it benefits some people to tell. The Company, the Buzzards, the Church, or anyone who makes it their business to protect the frightened and guide the desperate. What that story downplays, though, is the determination, and just how much those settlers could get done when they set their mind to it, when they came together to make something better for themselves.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: A meeting and a standoff.
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The Company installed its de facto leaders shortly after the Agreement was signed. Company Marshals took up residence in each town, according to one of the many clauses that were debated at the time of the signing, and while their job was, technically, to represent the Company’s interest in matters of disagreement, they fell easily into the more familiar position of a kind of unelected sheriff, promising to keep the townspeople safe and to keep wrongdoers in line. They made this transition with little to no comment from the emergent, makeshift forms of local government that had been in place before the war, with little to no notice from townspeople who were just glad to have some form of authority in place to protect them. So it was only a matter of time before people started to question just how easily the Company had used what little leverage the Agreement gave them to take hold of a little more power than, by all rights, they’d been intended to have.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: Plans hatch and coalitions form.
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After the Ostenberg Agreement created a tenuous but stable peace between the Company and the original settlers, Antarras became a place that was surprisingly free from major conflict. Bandits and outlaws caused trouble occasionally, to be sure, and there’s no denying the danger of living in such close proximity to a dangerous, alien wasteland. But when it came to larger scales, concord was the name of the game. Maybe it was how no one wanted to damage the fragile peace after so much conflict in those early years; maybe everyone knew that our real enemies were the monsters and demons we did our best to keep at bay. Maybe everything we had to do to survive took away the will that might have otherwise been spent on war. But either way, upheaval was not something the people of Antarras had to grow accustomed to.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: A rider brings death to the Gate.
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The truth is, most of us don’t want to know anything more about hellstone than what we already do—that it’s dangerous, and that it’s valuable. Whether or not you believe that ignorance is bliss, you can’t rightly deny that there’s something unfathomable happening with the stuff, be it at the atomic level or the ontological. There’s a reason the first settlers, the first specters, dug it up out of the earth and called it “hellstone.” Whatever they saw, whatever they found, whatever it did to them in those early days before we learned how to refine it, how to handle it, how to protect ourselves from it, it was closer to “hell” than what they’d fled on earth, close enough to warrant the name.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: Man made horrors beyond your comprehension.
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Strange stories, sometimes, circulate in quiet whispers about the work that goes on deep beneath the ground under the Manufactory. Necessary research, no doubt—after all, if it hadn’t been for scientists like Greer experimenting with hellstone, this planet would be more of a graveyard than it already is. But “necessary” doesn’t always mean something bears thinking about, and imaginations tend to run wild when given free rein to speculate about what happens where you aren’t meant to see.
Dark and dangerous experiments, some say. Twisted trials on grotesque specimen. I’d reckon, if pressed, that it’s a whole lot more mundane than all that, the boring kind of science that makes real progress, not much of anything to the untrained eye. But so long as something is secret, the stories will spread, no matter how banal the truth may rightly be.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: How do you feel about borrowing?
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CONTENT WARNINGS: animal death, detailed description of injury to animals
Did our presence here transform the natural landscape of Antarras? Did our footsteps change the ground we walked on, which had never before seen human feet? It would be naive to pretend it didn’t, that’s for certain. But it would be just as naive to imagine that we could ascertain the exact extent to which we altered that environment, just as it altered us in turn. There’s no telling if the rivers would have started to run red in their own course, no knowing if the storms would have come on without us there to witness their thunderheads. It’s impossible to say with any semblance of certainty that Antarras became what it did because we interfered—just as it’s impossible to say that it didn’t.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: Not a noble deed, but a necessary one.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: animal death, detailed description of injury to animals
Wildlife on Antarras was puzzling to the first settlers, who had never known any animals besides those few they’d encountered on Earth, the rare ones left in the wake of a mass extinction on the planet they were running from. Aside from horses, which the settlers had brought with them, they found themselves face to face with creatures the likes of which they’d never seen, and not knowing precisely what else to call them, they gave them borrowed names. An animal what flew became a bird, or a raven, or a vulture. One that slithered close to the ground they called a snake. A dog-sized four legged scavenger was a coyote, or a jackal. And a huge predator with massive teeth and terrible claws became a bear—less a species distinction, and more a warning, like language had a memory that would teach anyone who heard it to keep their distance lest they find themselves prey.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: A stranger comes looking for aid.
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People always supposed it might be possible, that somebody lived out in the Ruin. In fact, I reckon most people assumed it had to be true. As dangerous and downright undesirable as it seemed, we’d made a home of Antarras out of a desire to find freedom and a chance at a better life, so why not the Ruin too? But the question was never taken all that seriously. Surely, anybody who chose to live out there would be a loner, a strange or lost soul, who probably wouldn’t last long enough to make any trouble for anybody decent. The hellstone’d mutate them til they turned into just another monster, or the monsters would kill them before it got the chance. There were too many problems sitting right at our doorsteps to consider what might be lurking far enough away we’d never have to face it ourselves.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: Foreshadows of things to come.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: description of body horror (1:10:34-1:13:25)
The Confessors, of course, were more than just priests. Having received the word of God directly from the source on their pilgrimages, it wasn’t uncommon to hear the faithful say that the Confessors held onto some small fraction of His omniscient revelation. If you were lucky enough to have a Confessor located in your home parish, you wouldn’t only go to them for the sacrament, or for confession: you’d probably also go to them for advice. Their instinct guided directly by His hand, it was rare for a Confessor to steer their congregant wrong. Not just priests but intercessors, guides. In the early days of Antarras, the Confessors were as critical as the Guild or the Manufactory in determining the order of things, how best to safely build a community that stood a chance at survival.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: Several surprising revelations.
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It would hardly be an exaggeration to say that there is no limit to what the Company would do to keep its grip on Antarras tight, but that doesn’t mean the average person really understands the depths of the Company’s machinations. What’s worse, where it used to be the case that one could tell a Company member a mile away, from their dress, their deportment, or their demeanor, the decision makers higher up quickly learned that most Antarrans were conditioned to keep mum around anyone with a whiff of the Company about them, and made a move to arrange for operants under cover. No matter how strong a town’s collective spirit, there would always be one sucker hungry enough or tired enough or cowardly enough to accept an offer to pass along seemingly innocent information in exchange for a few coin, and when that didn’t work, well, the Company started hiring people who could act.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: X marks the spot.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: discussion of auditory hallucinations
I heard a story, once, from one of the original settlers, out in Swallow’s Pass, about the first time she saw a ghost in the Ruin. The ghost of her father, dressed in his work clothes, standing in the distance, in the fog, and calling her name. She said it felt as real as anything she’d ever seen, chilled her to the bone, and while she’d never believed in ghosts before, she knew this had to be one. But, she said, the strangest part was, her father had died on Earth, when she was seventeen. Two decades before any human ever set foot on Antarras, two decades before the first ships left Earth in search of this new home. “Is this hell?” she asked herself. “Have we fled a dying Earth only to find ourselves where the dead were already destined to go?”
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: A return to Jericho yields surprising results.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: discussion of auditory hallucinations
What is a ghost, anyway? It’s a question the people of Antarras have had to ask more than once. Leaving aside the obvious, here, there’s more to consider than one might think there’d be. Is a ghost a demon? A spirit? Is it something else? Problem is, on a planet that plays tricks on the mind, it isn’t just a question of “how real are the ghosts?” It can also be a question more along the lines of, what do we mean when we say “real?” If something has enough of an impact, can you say it’s real even if it’s only in your head? If something can really hurt you, does that make it real?
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: Four puzzle pieces.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: drug use [1:01:42-1:03:22], brief depictions of body horror [1:28:18-1:34-13]
People found all sorts of ways to cope with the uncertainty that came coupled with living somewhere as dangerous as the frontier. Some turned to drink, to gambling, to all the vices known to mankind, as could be expected. Some to violence, to stupor, to fantasy. Some, of course, turned to God and all his attendant mercies, to praying their rosaries and church on Sundays. And others still turned towards each other, to the workaday pleasures of tipping your hat as you pass someone on the street, lending a hand when it’s needed. It’s those last ones who run the risk of being forgotten, in these kinds of histories, these tales of how the world we know came to be how it is. But it’s those same people who built the floors we tread, who kept the walls standing upright. And when things on Antarras began to go badly, they were the ones left picking up the pieces.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: A storm hits the Gate.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: missing child, discussion of parental death and grief, blinding [48:30]
If you take the word of the people who’ve made their names in Ruin’s Gate—and usually, dear reader, I am just wise enough to remember to do that—then the thing you most need to survive out here isn’t luck, or money, or knowing the right people. It’s something else altogether. Take, for instance, a game of Covenant. Odds are, you’re as likely to draw a hand of snakes as you are to end up with a pile of stones, but if you stop playing the game when you’ve only just drawn your hand, you’re missing the entire point. It isn’t just that any hand can win if you know how to play your cards: it’s that the whole point of playing is to leverage those cards to your own benefit. Every card, no matter how low, is an opportunity, and the people who thrive out here are the ones who’ve learned to see the right round to play it in.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: A desperate race from danger.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: missing child, discussion of parental death and grief
If nothing else, there’s something to be said for the collective spirit of the frontier. On Earth, as those who come to Antarras tell it, it’s every man for themself—and maybe that’s part of the problem. But there’s no surviving a place like the Ruin on your own, and we’ve got the graves of those who’ve tried to prove it. Instead, this town and the others like it were built through steadfastness and cooperation, and they prosper through the preservation of the very same. Say what you will about your neighbor, but they will always be your neighbor, and you’ll have their back when the time comes, and you can rest easy at night bolstered by the knowledge that they’ll have yours.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: A missing child and a mysterious rider.
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Surprisingly little is known about the specific effects of unrefined hellstone, all things considered. It is, after all, the key to life on Antarras, the little red miracle that put our humble planet on the map. But no miracle is complete without its side effects, and though the miners swiftly got to work developing their specter suits to keep them safe from the obvious visible mutations prolonged contact caused, once that was dealt with, people sort of stopped asking questions. Whatever hellstone might be doing, to those who came into contact with it, was it worth removing the engine that made the planet run to stop and think about its invisible consequences?
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: A machine with a mind of its own.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: brief description of body horror [24:59-25:06, 55:03-55:09]
“History” and “legend” are words that don’t have a lot of meaning in a place like Antarras. The places where their definitions are distinct have a nasty tendency to blur. When history’s as short as a generation or two, and fact is often stranger than fiction, it can be hard to tell the difference between the stories that get passed around and the ones that really happened. The thing that feels like hard-won truth is as likely to be made up as any old tall tale, and if you hear something that seems unbelievable, you’d be better off betting on its veracity.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: A rash of unexplained disappearances plague Swallow’s Pass.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: brief description of body horror [12:27-12:39]
Small towns on Antarres have a tendency to stay small—at least, until they don’t. The second a small town starts to grow, the process takes on a character I’d be tempted to call exponential: the moment people start to sense opportunity somewhere new, they have a tendency to go. So towns get bigger, better, and the more they do, the more people come.
It’s not always a bad thing. Big towns have their own charm, their own benefits. It’s a matter of whether or not the small town that started such a process is actually capable of handling the new influx of attention. And whether or not the people who started off there decide it’s in their best interest to stick around.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: New faces and unpleasant surprises.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: body horror (31:21-31:55, 45:34-46:06, 56:55-56:57, 1:01:37-1:02:06, 1:03:46-1:04:17), graphic violence (50:39-51:08, 1:03:46-1:04:17), discussion of mercy killing (55:25-56:57)
(13)And lo! the Angel said unto him, you Shall be henceforth known as Genesis, and you Shall be My Prophet, and I Shall show you a Great and Beautiful Promise. (14)And the Stone before his eyes did part and reveal unto him that Great and Beautiful Promise, that Genesis would deliver His message unto all he met, that beneath the Stone did lie a land of plenty. (15)And, leaving the mines, Genesis made his way to the nearest town and on that ground did build a Church, the First Church of the Order of the Righteous Apostles, where he spread the word of his Revelation and where he took the name Confessor, after the Angel’s commands.
(1)And the Angel did teach him how to withstand the forces of the Burning Beyond, and how to turn back its Demons, with prayer, and with song, and with the power of the Stone, and thus was the first Confessor Genesis transformed.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: Blessed are the merciful, for they shall be shown mercy.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: detailed description of body horror [1:01:08-1:01:52, 1:18:34-1:21:13, 1:26:34-1:26:50]
Faith has been important to the people of Antarres since they first set foot on the rocky red earth of their new home. Faith of all kinds—first, the abstract kind of faith, faith that they had what it took to survive the harsh environment of this new planet, that they would find something here to make it worth the trip. And then faith of a more concrete sort, as a humble preacher from one of the first ships followed a voice out into the Ruin and came back with a message from God.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: Cutting off danger at the pass.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: description of body horror [29:30-29:55]
Now the problem the specters faced, now that they’d found a use for the strange red stones they’d dug up out the earth on Antarres, was figuring out how to transport it. Raw hellstone, turns out, wasn’t just injurious to man, but mighty unreliable when it came to traveling far distances. It had a tendency, to put it mildly, of taking off the fingers of anyone who happened to be carrying it. And putting it on a ship back to Earth, where even the slightest disturbance to the careful alchemy that made spaceflight possible meant certain death for everyone aboard, and a loss of a whole lot of profit where that came from, meant that even trying it was out of the question.
That’s when Eleanor Greer stumbled upon a solution: enough high heat and pressure, applied in just the right way, turned the stuff from a bomb ready to blow into a pane of stained glass without a chance of doing anything more dangerous than shattering mid-flight. Greer kept the secrets of the process close to her chest, except from those she sold it to for a mighty high price, high enough that she left Antarres for good and bought a ticket straight back home.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: The lonesome route home.
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After the Ostenberg Agreement was signed, there was still the unsettled question of under whose purview the refining and transport of hellstone would fall. The Miner’s Guild thought it ought to be their job, given that they were the ones responsible for handling the raw material; the Company thought that, seeing as how no hellstone was getting off the planet without their help, it should fall to them instead. So the Manufactory, originally a loose collective of refinery owners more interested in taking advantage of the problem than in any kind of personal loyalty, stepped in to fill the gap. With no affiliation to either the Miner’s Guild or the Company, they came to be seen as a sort of peaceful go-between—and insurance that both sides of the equation would be getting a fair price, or maybe just the same raw deal.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: The skills, experience and temperament to rob a train.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: discussion of drugs (opiates, inhaled) [0:09:30-00:10:40]
In the years that would follow First Landing, when wave after wave of settlers made their way to Antarras at the new-found promise of work and wealth that came with the first few hellstone shipments, some of the details were lost. Before the Company, no one cared all that much about keeping records, and no one looked all that hard beyond the narrow purview of their own self-interest.
But in those early days, something special happened: as the first impermanent attempts at infrastructure were laid, as ground was broken on the idea of a new home away from everything on Earth people were running from, the first settlers had a kind of hope you’d almost be tempted to call magical. People came together, so the story goes, in the face of all odds, to make something worth building on, the foundation of what would become the planet they’d fight tooth and nail for, and the community that came with it.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: Less than optimal attempts to blow off some steam.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: description of body horror [throughout], detailed description of body horror [0:09:55-0:10:15, 0:56:25-0:58:05, 1:02:55-1:04:23], discussion of debilitating injury, discussion and depiction of drug use (inhaled, opiate) [1:17:20-1:19:00]
It may seem surprising, how commonplace the demons of Antarras became, to the people who decided to make it their home. Incomprehensible beings made up of nothing but pure terror itself, aberrations to the degree that so much as catching a glimpse of one in the distance was enough to make you question everything you’d ever been taught about the existence of anything even resembling a God.
But maybe this is how the people back on Earth felt, in the face of their own horrors, their own disasters. You can only be scared for so long, after all, before reality takes over. Folks need to eat, after all. To eat, and work, and rest, and love, and everything in between, and fear can only take you so far. The demons were there, sure, but to most they were less material than they ought to have been. That was, at least, until you came face to face with one, and suddenly couldn’t keep pretending that they were just scary stories told to keep everyone else in line.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: A showdown and a daring escape.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: earthquakes, discussion of reactions to natural disaster [0:50:42-0:52:46], detailed description of body horror [1:29:12-end]
More than anything, what the Gate had going for it by the end was just that: the gate, a constructed visualization of what was, ultimately, a rather ephemeral boundary between “safety” and “danger,” the kind of danger the people who built that gate knew of all too well after watching their unfortunate neighbors in Jericho succumb to the horrors of the Ruin. It was the gate that kept people feeling secure enough not to turn tail and run straight back to the Earth that had forsaken them, the gate that allowed them some reasonable pretext to imagine that the same wouldn’t become of them. A useful fiction necessary for the matter of living life so close to certain death.
But even still, the falling of Jericho shook the people of Ruin’s Gate. So much that it wasn’t until decades later that people began to forget just how dangerous this whole business really was. For a long, long time, the name Jericho sat on every parents’ tongue, a warning not to venture too far, a boogeyman to keep kids from wandering past the gate. But for every person who uttered the name like a prayer against danger, there were just as many who took Jericho for what it was—a promise that no town on Antarras could ever be built to last, not really.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: A long-forgotten ghost town, far out into the Ruin.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: brief discussion of drugs (opiates, inhaled) [0:55:02-0:55:58], brief description of body horror [1:10:09-1:10:22]
Civilization has a habit of springing up in the unlikeliest of places, and Ruin’s Gate is no exception to that. Like flowers growing up through cracks in the concrete back on Earth, as the poets say, life sure does find a way. Against the harshest of wastelands, people made some place worth living. Not without its faults, its fights, its frictions, but nowhere really is, in the end.
Like any frontier town, it has its banal charms, its creature comforts, its quotidian necessaries. But what it had more than any of that was something brewing beneath the surface—always something, someone scheming or schmoozing or making plans. Deals struck in hushed conversations when no one else seemed to be listening. Promises extracted like the very hellstone coming up out of the mines, with the same blunt-force charm and grace to boot. And secrets, flowing free as the watered-down booze at the Felix Tavern Saloon.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: Plans are made and friendships are forged.
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Now, there are all sorts of reasons people took to calling it the Ruin. Folk etymologies vary from “ruined land” to “land that will ruin you” to everything in between. An open wound cut across the surface of Antarras, and hellstone pouring out of it like blood. The frontier, the uncivilized space between towns, is dangerous on Antarras, teeming with beasts and outlaws and all manner of troubles. But the Ruin is, far as anyone can tell, where the demons come from: the hellhounds, the monsters, the shadows of something stranger on the horizon.
Even the specters were reluctant when it first became apparent that hellstone deposits outside the Ruin were negligible compared to the wealth of what they'd find inside the Ruin. Records show a half dozen squads quit rather than sentence themselves to what they thought was certain death, digging stones out of the blood-red clay. They weren’t wrong: the track record hadn’t been good, up til that point. But, in a long string of debates, the need for hellstone won out, and the Guild set up new mines, overflowing with hellstone the second they broke ground.
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: The gang attempts a stealth mission.
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Once upon a time I might have poetically chosen to call Ruin’s Gate a “sleepy little town.” Hardly a town at all, in fact: a pilgrimage site and a few places for the specters to eat and drink and stay on their way to and from the hellstone mines. Not the sort of place you’d want to raise a family, and not the sort of place you’d be eager to write home about if you were struck with the misfortune of visiting.
But power is as power does, and thanks to the machinations of a small handful of unrelated people, each with their own reasons for desiring a little more influence in this here world, that sleepy little town began to grow. And towns that grow, well, they have a nasty tendency to attract the wrong sort…
This week, on Ruin’s Gate: A hold up causes chaos at the Felix Tavern Saloon.
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Join us this week for character and posse creation for Ruin’s Gate, in A Fistful of Darkness by Stefan Struck, a hack of Blades in the Dark by John Harper.
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Ruin's Gate begins January 24, 2023...
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THE ——SHIRE DAILY CHRONICLEMONDAY, MARCH 12, 1816
THEATRICAL MARVEL TURNS CATASTROPHE AT THE DAELYNGRIDGE ESTATE
Just this past Saturday, at Lord Daelyngridge’s annual spring fête, amidst a performance of the glorious opera Cat Fishes: or, the Trial of the King from London’s own Fish & Quips Players, a sudden death interrupted the final scenes of the play, disrupting the performance and sowing chaos and confusion amidst Lord Daelyngridge’s esteemed guests.
What led to the tragic death at the Daelyngridge Estate this weekend last? None witness to the event can truly say, nor corroborate any individual story, and in the absence of authentic information we have been assailed by a storm of rumors which has prevented our distinguishing error from truth. Now, however, that the storm is past and, like the calm waters of the ocean on the clearest of days, we are once again able to see the horizon beyond, we have been granted the clarity and serenity to contemplate the situation at hand, and fish truth from the waves of deceit. The truth, it seems, maybe stranger still than the stories told to make sense of it…
Scene Thieves by Tyler Crumrine: https://possible-worlds-games.itch.io/scene-thieves Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/unexploredcast Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/unexploredcast Follow us on Tumblr: https://unexploredcast.tumblr.com/ Music by Andrew: https://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Mᴀᴄᴄᴀʙᴇᴇ Pᴀᴜʟᴇʏ, a printerKᴇɴɴᴇᴛʜ Pᴀᴜʟᴇʏ, his son
Gᴏʀᴅɪᴀɴ Nᴀᴜɢʜᴛ, an Ancient Mariner
Lᴏʀᴅ SᴇᴀʙʀɪɢʜᴛLᴀᴅʏ Sᴇᴀʙʀɪɢʜᴛ, his wifeLᴜᴄʏ Sᴇᴀʙʀɪɢʜᴛ, their daughter
Hᴀʀᴄᴏᴜʀᴛ Hᴀʀᴄᴏᴜʀᴛ, a gentlemanCʜᴀʀʟᴇs Bɪᴄᴋᴇɴs, his man
Nᴇᴘᴛᴜɴᴇ, God of the Sea
Tʜᴇ Fɪsʜ, an honorable Enemy
Other various fishermen, seamen, &c.
Scene Thieves by Tyler Crumrine: https://possible-worlds-games.itch.io/scene-thieves Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/unexploredcast Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/unexploredcast Follow us on Tumblr: https://unexploredcast.tumblr.com/ Music by Andrew: https://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
The rehearsal of this play was honoured with the presence of the Lord Daelyngridge, of the Daelyngridge Estate in ——shire, a man of distinguished understanding and fine taste. That elegant and industrious person will, I hope, pardon my brief explication of the exigence of tonight’s performance, a tragicomedy of the deepest and most urgent significance to us, its players.
The subject of the play ‘tis hoped will be acceptable to all lovers of mankind, as it takes up the question of the ambition of man against his better nature, and indeed, too, against nature; as you shall see, ‘tis not only with himself and his social station with which the central character must do battle, but against nature itself, as made manifest on the stage. For want of a fish, he must surmount those barriers placed before him and, through clever ingenuity, cooperation with his fellow man, and those tools which he has to hand.
It is with these great and terrible forces that Kenneth Pauley must contend, at the heart of the play, even more than those other great forces which trouble him, those forces which plague us all and guide the very paths of our lives: family, obligation, wealth, love. With an aim in sight that seems to be just out of grasp, he must make the choice to pursue his goal to the bitter end, irregardless of what obstacles stand before him. It is Kenneth’s heroic and arduous attempt to triumph over that which stands in his way that occupies our minds. This play takes up the question that so many great works of drama, comedic and tragic alike, have taken up before it, to various effect: what is mankind’s place in the world, and is he subject to fate, or may he, if he be so bold, reach out and seize his own path?
Scene Thieves by Tyler Crumrine: https://possible-worlds-games.itch.io/scene-thieves Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/unexploredcast Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/unexploredcast Follow us on Tumblr: https://unexploredcast.tumblr.com/ Music by Andrew: https://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Thank you to everyone who sent in questions for this wrap up of East Haven Heights.
The Unexplored Places will return in 2023...
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FINAL ISSUE! With evidence of Mayor Parks’ involvement finally in hand, our heroes are left with just one final step: stopping his master plan before anyone else gets hurt. In ISSUE #12: HEAD OF THE SERPENT, SILVER SPIRIT makes a forceful argument, RUSALKA loses something important, and THE MUTANT takes flight.
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After splitting up to cover more ground in their search for evidence about the mayor, our heroes team up on an unexpected rescue mission against a foe far out of their league. In ISSUE #11: BURDEN OF PROOF, THE MUTANT spots trouble, RUSALKA makes a quick decision, and SILVER SPIRIT stands strong.
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Rounded up by Gold Rush and her temporary team after the chaos at the charity gala, our heroes are finally presented with some explanations of what’s going on behind the scenes. But will they decide to cooperate with the most beloved hero of East Haven, or will they strike out on their own again? In ISSUE #10: QUESTIONS FIRST, RUSALKA makes a reluctant deal, SILVER SPIRIT makes a reasonable argument, and THE MUTANT makes a tentative plan.
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Three weeks after the events in Fearmonger’s funhouse, our heroes reunite at long last—though perhaps not all on the same side of the conflict. In ISSUE #09: CAUSE A SCENE, THE MUTANT takes action after weeks of investigation, RUSALKA flexes her skills in a new role, and SILVER SPIRIT comes to the rescue.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: drowning (0:31:18 to 0:34:42), emotional manipulation (0:56:07 to 1:08:44), body dysmorphia (0:54:16 to 0:54:45, 1:22:31 to 1:29:29), emotional abuse (1:13:42 to 1:20:59)
In pursuit of answers, our heroes enter an abandoned funhouse… and find themselves in Fearmonger’s grasp, and their own worst nightmares! In ISSUE #08: HALL OF MIRRORS, RUSALKA receives a tempting offer, THE MUTANT faces the worst version of himself, and SILVER SPIRIT is haunted by a ghost from his past.
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With Transistor defeated and City Hall safe, our heroes are left wondering what just happened, and how everything is all connected. In ISSUE #07: A BLAST FROM THE PAST, RUSALKA receives a dangerous warning from an old mentor, SILVER SPIRIT is asked a favor from a former friend, and THE MUTANT finally meets Foxfire to try to uncover a little more about what exactly is going on.
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Prior plans are swiftly derailed when our heroes discover a dangerous attack on City Hall. Up against a villain for the first time without a leader, can the team pull themselves together for long enough to get the job done, or will they end up hurting each other in the process? In ISSUE #06: ROOFTOP RUMBLE, RUSALKA tries to prove herself, THE MUTANT unleashes his inner monster, and SILVER SPIRIT loses control.
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Things get scientific as our heroes attempt to uncover the purpose of the device they stole from Fearmonger, and find themselves sneaking into a Whitford University science lab. In ISSUE #05: CAMPUS TOUR, THE MUTANT leaves a hopeful note, RUSALKA adopts a nom de plume, and SILVER SPIRIT absconds with the evidence.
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Having followed the leads they picked up in the museum, our heroes find themselves face to face with none other than the notorious villain Fearmonger! But how is he connected to a mysterious figure from Aggie’s past? And what’s a team to do when their leader stops believing in them? In ISSUE #04: HIDE OUT, team tensions finally come to a head as THE MUTANT makes a costly error, SILVER SPIRIT runs away from his problems, and RUSALKA begins to formulate a new plan for everyone.
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Hearing news of a break-in and theft at the Museum of the Modern Superhero, our heroes are joined by a brand new teammate to do a little breaking of their own as they try to figure out what was taken and why. In ISSUE #03: BREAK IN, RUSALKA makes a splashing entrance, SILVER SPIRIT finds the missing piece, and THE MUTANT takes a wild swing.
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The fires continue to rage as our team of heroes finds themself plummeting towards certain defeat. Just who is the mysterious fox-masked girl in the warehouse? And why is she burning the place to the ground? In ISSUE #02: TRUST FALL, SILVER SPIRIT rushes headfirst into danger, and THE MUTANT tries to get to the bottom of things.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: discussions of body horror
After their newsworthy attempt to stop The Vampyre from wreaking havoc on East Haven, our new team of heroes tests out the waters of East Haven heroics with a little firefighting in the docks. In ISSUE #01: FIRE DRILL, THE MUTANT follows a suspicious figure, and SILVER SPIRIT discovers just how fireproof he is—or isn’t!
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Stories have to start somewhere, and in the case of the legendary story of East Haven, that somewhere is East Haven Heights, where one hero finds himself facing off against a villain who wants to dance while the city burns. The East Haven Origins Compendium, now available in stores, brings together for the first time the complete collected stories of how East Haven's first hero rose to fame into an exclusive hardcover printing, for just $29.99!
Anyone Can Wear the Mask by Jeff Stormer: https://jeffstormer.itch.io/mask
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East Haven Heights begins May 17, 2022.
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Thank you so much to everyone who send in questions for this week's Season 2 wrap up episode!
We'll be taking a short break between seasons, so keep an eye on the feed for updates as to when you can expect to hear from us next.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: violence; violence against animals; snakes; gore; discussion of injuries; hallucinations; claustrophobia; death
1880. On top of a mountain at the center of a small island in the Cyclades lies a temple, untouched by time. Inside it, an ancient force hell bent on destruction. Three treasure hunters enter, tempted by the promise of riches and knowledge and power. But how many will leave?Trophy Dark: https://trophyrpg.com/ art by Chaz: @cicadahymns music by Andrew: https://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Submit your questions about Season 2 for the Q&A episode to [email protected] by February 22nd!
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This week, on Tango Sector: It’s now or never.
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[ LOOSE FLYER FOUND IN AN ALLEYWAY BETWEEN STALLS ON THE OUTSKIRTS OF NADIR, VERITY ]
[ image description: a large, bold, black letter “U” with a circle around it and a slash through the circle, intersecting the “U.” Above the image, bold, red, typed font reads “JUSTICE FOR HOMILY!” and, below it, the same font reads “DEATH TO UNION SCUM!” ]
This week, on Tango Sector: In the wake of the attack on Homily, the need to find a way to destroy the Leviathan has become even more pressing. Face to face with firsthand evidence of the kind of devastation it can cause, the fellowship begins to work towards a plan—or rather, a number of plans, a wide array of options for how to deal with the problem at hand. When it comes down to it, can they come together and agree on an approach, or will their disparate preparations splinter them?
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[ POSTER, HALF RIPPED, ATTACHED TO AN ALLEY WALL IN LOWER CITY, LISIANTHUS, THISTLE ]
[ image description: a drawing of the Leviathan in black, gray, and blue marker. The image is not very detailed, a series of overlapping gray rectangles that make up the shape of a snake, with its mouth open and a blue beam of light coming out of it. Below the image, typed font in the style of a wanted poster reads “WANTED: DEAD OR ALIVE” and then, smaller “FOR THE CRIME OF 6700 DEATHS ON SNOWMELT” ]
This week, on Tango Sector: Eight months since the crew of Pelagian went missing, Tango Sector is a changed place. The Union’s control is firm, criminals and dissenters have been driven underground, and the war machine Leviathan reigns above it all. Behind the scenes, alliances form, research is underway, and plans are made, but when an unexpected attack hits the unsuspecting civilian population of Homily, can a group of plotting revolutionaries cohere into a force with a fighting chance?
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[ PERSONAL CORRESPONDENCE // FROM: OMEGA BLUE, BLACKFORD & DESAI ECOLOGY // TO: CONSUL SENECA WARD, THE ELECTORATE INC. ]
Consul Ward,
On behalf of Blackford & Desai, and more specifically Project Leviathan, I would like to thank you and the Electorate for your continued support in our endeavours. The funding and resources offered to our project by the Electorate have been invaluable in the research and development process, and we expect that you will be satisfied with the results. To that end, I am writing to invite you to visit our station at Lovelock in two weeks time for the unveiling and first demonstration of the completed prototype of the project.
Let us know if you plan to attend and, if so, how many will be in your party and the registration information for the ship in which you will be arriving. Coordinates and further information will be sent upon your RSVP.
Best,Omega BlueProject Director, Project LeviathanBlackford & Desai Ecology
This week, on Tango Sector: With their theft finally discovered and the stakes getting rapidly higher, the crew of Pelagian makes one last attempt to get the rest of the Remnant cores off of the station. Melas makes a mad dash. Liam makes a decision. Claus makes an apology. Cash tries out some new powers. Flux tries out some new gear.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: injections, head trauma
[ LEVIATHAN STATION INTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS - PRIVATE DIRECT MESSAGE LOG ]
Axelle: oh fuck today was NOT the day to try to get away with being out of uniform
Orlov: ???
L. Axelle: you haven’t seen them yet?
L. Axelle: lol good luck, she’s gonna tear you a new one
This week, on Tango Sector: With some of the Remnant cores in hand, the crew of Pelagian presses on in their attempts to rescue the rest from Blackford & Desai despite the increasing risk. Flux alerts the crew of danger. Liam opts for fists when words don’t work. Cash takes a peek at what lies ahead. Melas raises an alarm. Claus takes a wrong turn.
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[ A SELECTION FROM THEORETICAL NOTES ON PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: A SURVEY OF REMNANT TECHNOLOGY BY DR. A. VINCENT SARAMANDO ]
If the theory of field suspension holds across more than just this limited range of contact—an experiment unfortunately far beyond the capabilities of any lab currently extant on any planet, moon, or station in the Sector—the potential applications for this kind of technology are remarkable, potentially life changing, allowing for a kind of motion-in-concert, a coordination of so many vastly separate moving pieces that one might make a mechanical army of millions and synchronize their movements to the motions of a single soldier. It is beyond the scope of imagining, what this kind of technology might afford us, and beyond the scope of moral philosophy to grapple with the ethical implications of the very idea. Imagine, if you will, the cheap elimination of the need for human or other sentient labor in dangerous circumstances such as those that led to the deaths of hundreds of gas miners in the explosion of Rho only two decades ago. Imagine, if you will, the eased extraction of ore on Snowmelt. Imagine, if you will… the collapse of the civilizations that have spread in the wake of this kind of necessary labor, the abandonment of Penrose, the collapse of Torus Station. For every advance, a loss felt in equal measure; for every loss, a yearning towards some new technology to fill the gaps that caused its deeply-felt absence.
This week, on Tango Sector: Aboard their captured ship, the crew of Pelagian sneaks into the Project Leviathan lab in pursuit of the stolen Remnant cores. Claus takes a call. Flux averts disaster. Cash gives orders. Liam dons a disguise. Melas offers some alternatives.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: vomit
[ EXCERPTED FROM A BLACKFORD & DESAI STANDARD EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION FOR POSITION ON A SILVER-TIER CLASSIFIED PROJECT ]
I, the undersigned, [print name], do hereby consent to Blackford & Desai’s terms of non-disclosure and project classification. I acknowledge that failure to abide by these terms will result not only in the termination of my employment and the forfeiture of all pay, benefits, and other perks of my employment under Blackford & Desai, but also in a sentence of no less than ten years in a Sector penitentiary. I also consent, in the case of a leak of classified information from or related to this project, [project name], to the expectation that I will cooperate with any and all investigations into the source of a leak. I acknowledge that, by signing this application, all work I partake in, whether related to the project or independently pursued, is the legal intellectual property of Blackford & Desai and may be utilized and/or monetized as project leaders see fit.
This week, on Tango Sector: With the information they’ve gathered so far about the mysterious Project Leviathan, the crew of Pelagian sits down to make a plan to get to Lovelock undetected. Cash gets a look at what they’re in for. Claus and Flux study up. Melas talks his way into somewhere he shouldn’t be. Liam does what he does best.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: forced interrogation
[ POSTED ANONYMOUSLY TO THE PUBLIC DIGITAL NOTICES BOARD, CENTRAL CONCOURSE GAMMA, THE CHORDS, HOMILY ]
DISCREET, EXPERIENCED TREASURE HUNTERS WANTED FOR EXPEDITION TO CHANDRA. INTERESTED PARTIES CONTACT AT 458-38773 X. 12.
This week, on Tango Sector: As they come back together on Homily, the crew of Pelagian has a much needed catch-up—and puts a few pieces together to form one large, apocalyptic puzzle. Cash does some interrogating. Melas publishes some news. Claus delves back into some old research. Liam tries out his new abilities. Flux uses her sharp eyes to notice details others might have overlooked.
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[ SHIPPING MANIFEST, BLACKFORD & DESAI BRAMBLE CLASS SCIENCE VESSEL BRYONY, EN ROUTE FROM THISTLE TO LOVELOCK ]
One small box, containing ███ ███████ ████, ℅ Project █████████.
This week, on Tango Sector: A meditation on potential futures.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: depictions of extreme violence and severe injury, temporary blindness
[ ARCHIVED DOCUMENT FROM THE EXCAVATION OF EARLY REMNANT FINDINGS ON CHANDRA ]
. . . The technology seen here is markedly different from that which we have grown used to in our own society—different mechanical parts, different points of connection. The internal logic of the mechanical structure is akin to reading another language in the same script: familiar letters, unfamiliar words, foreign grammar. Some of the pieces are obvious, but the shape of the thing is impossible to conceive of fully.
When we first awoke the remnant, which seemed to be dormant while still having some power either stored or generated from somewhere within its chassis, it was not the remnant that began to move but several nearby pieces of scrap metal from the wreckage. There appeared to be some sort of interference from the technology, some kind of resonant hum creating a field of activity in the area. However, once we cleared away the interference, the chassis came to life, silently observing the group of us through almost-familiar eyes . . .
This week, on Tango Sector: Finally face to face with the beacon—and not the only ones there to make a grab for it—the crew of Pelagian puzzles out a way forward without all the information they need. Melas thinks on his feet. Kala’ax rushes into the fray. Flux reaches out for help.
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[ EXCERPTED FROM A DIGITAL COMMUNICATION FROM PROFESSOR ADLER KASSNER OF THE TERMINUS SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES, TO A COLLEAGUE ]
While in my initial examinations of the beacon itself I have not been able to determine a function for the structure, it is clear there is some connection between this one and those that have sprung up elsewhere on Chandra: minute variations in the light output over time seem to be responding to similar fluctuations at other beacons, leading me to believe that it’s likely they are somehow COMMUNICATING with one another. If that’s the case, I’ll be making significant revisions to my prior work on the possibilities of Remnant collectivity, which is bound to make waves in the field. As for the rest: honestly, I could do without the armed escort!! But of course, the opportunity to be one of the only researchers in the Sector to get a firsthand look and what is likely to be the most remarkable scientific event of the—decade? century? certainly one of the two—I think I can set my discomfort with firearms aside temporarily. This is the LAST thing I expected to encounter when I decided to take my leave this semester for fieldwork….
This week, on Tango Sector: Working once again with the Chosen of the Sacral Hollow, the crew of Pelagian must make their way past a Martinet patrol to investigate the source of one of the many mysterious Remnant beacons cropping up across the Sector. Melas catches up with some old buddies. Kala’ax provides backup. Flux takes a shot.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: eye horror
[ GRAFFITI FOUND IN A TRAIN TUNNEL ON HOMILY ]
[ID: image shows a graffitied wall in a poorly lit tunnel. the graffiti consists of a simply line drawing of two eyes in black and silver spray paint; one of the eyes has a silver iris and no pupil and the other is entirely black. over the eyes are the words “SHE IS THE ALL-SEEING” in messy capital letters. underneath the eyes are the words “BLINK AND YOU’LL MISS IT” in different handwriting.]
This week, on Tango Sector: As the Synchronicity ambush arrives over the Partition, the crew of Pelagian pulls out all the stops to keep them from reaching the animum. Serant makes a truly desperate maneuver. Cash accepts a bargain from an unexpected source.
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[ MESSAGE FOUND ON PERSONAL TERMINAL OF ABSOLUTE ELYX, DATED SHORTLY AFTER THE DEPARTURE OF CASH BLACK FROM THE ELECTORATE, INC. ]
I’d keep my head down if I were you, in all honesty. You’re going to end up taking the fall one way or another—the lower you get before it happens, the less the impact will hurt.
Climb your way back up when the heat is off. For now: just survive the blast.
- AV
This week, on Tango Sector: Following a tip from Absolute Elyx, part of the crew of Pelagian heads for the Partition to stop an anticipated ambush of unknown scale. Cash gathers forces. Serant plans a dramatic entrance.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: discussion of unethical human experimentation, syringes, mentions of kidnapping & hostages
[ DESCRIPTION PRINTED ON A SHEET OF LABELS, SIZED FOR STANDARD VIALS, FOUND ON THE DESK OF DR. SEMAFOR BROWN, CIRCADIA COMPLEX LAB #302-s ]
CAUTION: DO NOT INJECT OR OTHERWISE CONSUME WITHOUT DIRECT SUPERVISION OF A SPECIALIST. SIDE EFFECTS MAY INCLUDE: SHORTNESS OF BREATH, DIZZINESS, TEMPORARY OR PERMANENT PARTIAL PARALYSIS, FEELINGS OF DEJA VU, DROWSINESS, INSOMNIA, ARRHYTHMIA, AND LOW-GRADE FEVER. EFFECTS MAY TAKE UP TO ONE WEEK TO BECOME OBSERVABLE, AND MAY TAKE ANY OF A VARIETY OF FORMS.
This week, on Tango Sector: Having successfully reunited with Claus, the crew discovers that there’s one last thing they need to do before they can finally escape—and only one person standing in their way. Claus leads the way. Baz makes a call. Liam makes a choice.
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[ EXCERPTED FROM A STANDARD TERMINUS SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES ADMISSIONS BROCHURE ]
Our campus is a peaceful and productive oasis of academic inquiry located in the heart of bustling Terminus City, surrounded by art, culture, and excitement on all sides. Within the campus’ state of the art facilities, Terminus School of Arts and Sciences offers an array of academic opportunities for enterprising young minds and inquiring young spirits alike. One hardly needs leave the quiet of the University’s twelve libraries, brand new lecture halls and study spaces, and affiliated research institutes, but just beyond the school’s walls lie access to everything one could need to supplement their academic life, from museums to open-air parks to the best internship opportunities in business, research, and government available in the Sector. Terminus School of Arts and Sciences strives to provide a holistic and enriching environment in which young scholars can exercise their minds, expand their limits, and enjoy all there is to see and do in Tango Sector’s remarkable capitol city.
This week, on Tango Sector: Deep beneath Terminus City, Claus has sent a message asking for someone to come rescue him, and with the help of the Unity Anti-Union Unincorporation, the crew just might be able to do so. Liam avoids facing some additional danger. Baz uses their technical skills to help out. Claus finds himself in a surprising situation.
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QUERY: [[ THE ROYAL SEAT OF ILIA // ILIA // SIERRA SYSTEM ]]
… RETURNING QUERY RESULTS FROM ""TL-TRU HOSPITALITY DATABASE"" …
… QUERY PENDING …
… CLASSIFIED QUERY. QUERY FLAGGED. SYSTEM SHUTTING DOWN …
This week, on Tango Sector: After reconnecting with the Gravesent on Ilia to stay off the Martinet’s radar, the crew of Pelagian prepares to split up to tackle the many problems they’re facing. Flux impresses the crowd with a dessert to die for. Liam sifts through some files. Kala’ax gets a text message. Cash gets some covert information. Melas takes a trip back home.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: panic attack, hostage situation, police violence, severe injury and medical procedures
[ JOURNAL OF UNIDENTIFIED PRIVATE CITIZEN, SEKHAR CITY, CHANDRA, RECORDED AND STORED IN PUBLIC ACCESS CLOUD ]
You wouldn’t have believed it, if you’d been there: the way the sky lit up, electric blue, the way the whole horizon at sunset jumped from oranges and pinks to the coldest, brightest blue. I thought I was imagining it, for a second, thought something was wrong with these ocular implants, they’re starting to get pretty old and I haven’t been able to afford an upgrade in a few years.
But everyone else in the bar seemed to see it, too. The bartender rushed over and pushed the metal shades up higher to give us a better view of the sky. And pretty soon we could see that it wasn’t the whole sky, just a little sliver of it, like someone had cut through the atmosphere with a vibroblade and left behind a scar of blue light. Rising up out of the jungle, or reaching down towards it, it’s impossible to say.
Behind me, at one of the tables, people started taking bets. Some B&D experiment gone nuclear out in the deepest part of the jungle. An alien weapon, a Martinet attack on some secret hideout, a freak accident. Not me, though. If I was a betting man, maybe I would have tossed a few cred in, and I would have won big, because the second I saw it, I knew. That was Remnant blue.
This week, on Tango Sector: Aboard Torus Station, the crew finds themself in a sticky situation; about Pelagian, they find themselves in over their head. Cash twists the fabric of reality. Melas ends up in a bad position. Kala’ax thinks on his feet. Flux stays out of sight. Liam uses the lessons Claus taught him.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: asphyxiation and discussions of space-related oxygen deprivation
[ AUDIO FEED CAPTURED FROM SECURITY RECORDINGS, TORUS STATION, PRIMARY DOCKING BAY ]
DOCKING BAY SUPERVISOR STAYNES: Hey! You can’t be here, that’s off limits—
( MUFFLED SOUNDS OF GUNFIRE. A SCREAM )
UNIDENTIFIED VOICE: Bag him and move out. Elevator’s that way. Eris, check the next room. You see someone, shoot ‘em on sight.
UNIDENTIFIED VOICE 2: Shit, boss, this one’s getting away—
( FOOTSTEPS. ANOTHER GUNSHOT, THE SOUND OF A GENERATOR POWERING DOWN )
This week, on Tango Sector: With a plan in hand to get past the Martinet, the crew of Pelagian heads for Torus Station, only to find an unexpected complication waiting when they arrive. Flux does some stealthy flying. Melas causes some convenient confusion. Liam takes a look around. Kala’ax makes a timely save. Cash heads for the top floor.
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[ MARTINET LOCAL BROADCAST, ALL FREQUENCIES ]
THIS AREA IS OFF LIMITS BY ORDER OF THE TANGO SECTOR LABOR AND TRANSIT REPRESENTATIVE UNION AND THE MARTINET. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CROSS INTO THIS AREA. NO SHIPS OF ANY CLASS WILL BE PERMITTED BEYOND THIS LINE. NO GOODS OF ANY KIND WILL BE PERMITTED BEYOND THIS LINE. NO INDIVIDUAL TRAVELERS WILL BE PERMITTED BEYOND THIS LINE. ANY ATTEMPT TO ENTER OR EXIT THIS AREA WILL RESULT IN A TERMINATION OF SHIP LICENSE AND IMMEDIATE APPREHENSION BY MARTINET PERSONAL. YOU MAY BE FIRED UPON. MESSAGE REPEATS.
THIS AREA IS OFF LIMITS BY ORDER OF THE TANGO SECTOR LABOR AND TRANSIT REPRESENTATIVE UNION AND THE MARTINET. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CROSS INTO THIS AREA. NO SHIPS OF ANY CLASS WILL BE PERMITTED BEYOND THIS LINE. NO GOODS OF ANY KIND WILL BE PERMITTED BEYOND THIS LINE. NO INDIVIDUAL TRAVELERS WILL BE PERMITTED BEYOND THIS LINE. ANY ATTEMPT TO ENTER OR EXIT THIS AREA WILL RESULT IN A TERMINATION OF SHIP LICENSE AND IMMEDIATE APPREHENSION BY MARTINET PERSONAL. YOU MAY BE FIRED UPON. MESSAGE REPEATS.
THIS AREA IS OFF LIMITS BY ORDER OF THE TANGO SECTOR LABOR AND TRANSIT REPRESENTATIVE UNION AND THE MARTINET. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CROSS INTO THIS AREA. NO SHIPS OF ANY CLASS WILL BE PERMITTED BEYOND THIS LINE. NO GOODS OF ANY KIND WILL BE PERMITTED BEYOND THIS LINE. NO INDIVIDUAL TRAVELERS WILL BE PERMITTED BEYOND THIS LINE. ANY ATTEMPT TO ENTER OR EXIT THIS AREA WILL RESULT IN A TERMINATION OF SHIP LICENSE AND IMMEDIATE APPREHENSION BY MARTINET PERSONAL. YOU MAY BE FIRED UPON. MESSAGE REPEATS.
This week, on Tango Sector: At the request of their friend Diego Ng, the crew of Pelagian signs on to help the Haulers deliver supplies to Torus Station past a Martinet blockade. Cash makes a quick stop. Flux asks Diego about their mysterious artifact. Liam uses a tried and true tactic. Melas goes on a shopping trip.
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QUERY: [[ ZENITH // VERITY // IWASAKI SYSTEM ]]
… RETURNING QUERY RESULTS FROM ""TL-TRU HOSPITALITY DATABASE"" …
HOME, MOST NOTABLY, TO THE IMPRESSIVE DOMES OF THE TWILIT CATHEDRAL AND THOSE MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH OF THE DUSK WHO MAKE THEIR WAY TO THE PLANET ANNUALLY TO BASK IN THE REFLECTED LIGHT OF THE HOLY PLANET OF OMIA, ZENITH IS ONE OF THE SITS MOST WORTH SEEING ON YOUR VISIT TO TANGO SECTOR. NOT ONLY WILL YOU FIND THE REMARKABLE ARCHITECTURE OF THE CHURCH, BUT ALSO A WIDE RANGE OF MERCHANTS FROM ACROSS THE SECTOR WHO SELL THEIR WARES IN THE TOWN’S WINDING BAZAAR.
TAKE NOTE, WHEN YOU VISIT ZENITH, OF THE WAY THE WATER IN THE CITY’S CANALS ILLUMINATES THE WHITE STONE OF THE BUILDINGS WITH THE PURPLE GLOW OF THE MOON: EACH FACTOR OF THE CITY IS BUILT SPECIFICALLY IN HONOR OF THE STRANGE GAS GIANT, WHOSE SWIRLING BLEND OF COLORS INSPIRES THE CENTRAL TENETS OF THE CHURCH OF THE DUSK’S FAITH. TAKE A MOMENT TO LET THE PLAY OF COLORS ACROSS THE SURFACE OF THE WATER CALM YOUR MIND AND SOOTHE YOUR SOUL, AS YOU MEDITATE ON THE EVEN BALANCE THAT FINDS A WAY EVEN IN THE CHAOTIC SPIN OF THE RANDOM UNIVERSE.
This week, on Tango Sector: In the city of Zenith, the sky illuminated by a strange new beacon of blue light, the crew of Pelagian takes some time to work on their ongoing projects, and attempts to blow off some steam. Flux pulls together a lavish meal. Liam heads back to the academy and runs into an unwelcome surprise. Melas and Kala’ax have an unfortunate run-in. Cash finds themself in over their head.
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[ EXCERPTED FROM PRIVATE MESSAGE, LOCALLY ENCRYPTED, ADDRESSED TO MINISTER HARDLY HOPING OF THE CHOSEN OF THE SACRAL HOLLOW ]
Given the data we’ve got? I think it’s an impractical strategy. I think we’re better off hitting them before they move pieces than returning what they’ve already taken. Which, yeah, I know we leave a lot behind that way, but given the current resources our teams have got, it feels like bandaging the arm while the guts bleed out—
That’s how that works, right? The… the guts bleed more than the arm does. Or, it’s more dangerous when the guts bleed than when the arm does. I… look, you know my comprehension of human anatomy is flawed at best. I think the metaphor still makes sense. If it doesn’t, uh, just pretend I used one that does make sense. It’s like fixing the paint job while the engine leaks oil. Either way, we’re hemorrhaging.
This week, on Tango Sector: Having made their way into the classified Blackford & Desai research facility thanks to a convenient distraction, the crew of Pelagian runs into an old friend and finds themselves not entirely at cross purposes. Flux does some quick thinking and faster talking. Melas speeds things along. Liam indulges his paranoid instincts. Cash receives a strange message. Kala’ax makes a friend.
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[ excerpted from “On Basque’s Theory of Remnant Architectonics, Twelve Years Later: A Reflection on the Unified Design of Starlight,” by Ghislaine Menaleia, published in Grounded Imaginings 142, no. 3, 87-106 ]
… because, in truth, it was not the rootedness of the artifacts which appealed to Basque’s theory, but the upwards momentum, the reaching gesture of the Remnant he found, the gesture towards the horizon—and, thus, towards the horizon of possibility. It was not the Remnant, nor its specific placement in the ground, its precise location in the sand, nor the reflective surface of the water nearby, that allowed the echo of starlight that defined Basque’s rigorous mathematical formula predicting the way the light would shine from its surface, it was the surface itself, that peculiar Remnant allow, designed for that exact reaction, that perfect dance of starlight across its surface. A Theory of Remnant Architectonics, then, is not a theory of patterns, or of pattern-making, but, at its heart, a perfect combination of materialism (the exact metallurgic components that make up the Remnant’s skin) and the shape of starlight itself (what, Miyaki has put forth in her argument, we might call a unified design of starlight, which she convincingly asserts is the reason for the density of Remnant artifacts under some conditions but not others). If we, for the sake of argument, take Miyaki’s hypothesis to be factually correct, then one could map and, potentially, accurately predict, the placement of Remnant artifacts using a star chart and noting the places where starlight converges. If this is the case, we too could do the opposite—to date the placement of these artifacts based on their gestures and their reactions in starlight by mapping the points at which starlight would have converged to cause a reaction similar—or identical—to that which Basque’s narrator observes …
This week, on Tango Sector: Despite some unexpected interference, the crew of Pelagian continues their plan to break into the classified Blackford & Desai facility, and find themselves in a precarious position. Cash plays along. Flux cuts in. Melas makes a sweet move. Liam has a disarming effect on the opposition. Kala’ax comes face to face with an equal.
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[ FUNDING EXTENSION REPORT SUBMITTED TO BLACKFORD & DESAI ECOLOGY // LOC: BLACKFORD & DESAI PRIMARY LINKED SERVER // CLASSIFICATION LEVEL: 3B ]
PROJECT NAME: Vel
PROJECT LEADER: Faraday
REPORT IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 620-87 #0024
Initial findings based on a GPR scan indicated a depth of roughly 1.8 kilometers below the site’s surface level, from which project funding and timeline estimates were calculated. However, GPR did not take into consideration the unusual spread of material density around the core—a factor which has significantly altered our estimates for the means needed to reach it. Outlined below are two partnered proposals: one for a potential timeline extension, including necessary funding to continue excavation measures over a longer period of times; and one for a potential materials upgrade, based on research out of Blackford & Desai Project P278-33, incomplete experimental mining test, which pioneered the use of stasis-field controlled small-scale detonations for the fast and safe removal of rare metals on Novitze. The second proposal would require all leftover equipment from P278-33 be appropriated for use on Vel, to allow the project to accelerate excavation and meet our initial estimates for both project timeline and funding requirements.
This week, on Tango Sector: At the behest of the Wrecking Crew, the crew of Pelagian heads to the planet Verity to locate and infiltrate a top-secret Blackford & Desai lab hidden somewhere amidst the dark, icy landscape. Kala’ax and Melas make suggestions. Liam and Flux go to the bar. Cash assumes a new identity.
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[ NOTE WRITTEN ON A FOLDED NAPKIN, FOUND IN A MINER’S BAR IN SNOWMELT, WRAPPED AROUND A STICK CONTAINING 5 CRED ]
Code’s attached. Signal when the hand-off has been made.
This week, on Tango Sector: Heading back to Snowmelt to touch base with Emeritus Na once more, the crew of Pelagian takes some much-needed time to cool off and lay low. Melas does some fundraising. Kala’ax gets in touch with his training. Flux follows up on some suspicions. Liam gets over some biases. Cash begins an investigation.
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[ DELETED MESSAGE EXCHANGE, PARTIALLY RECOVERED FROM DELETED FILE STORAGE ON WRECKING CREW INTERNAL SERVERS ]
FROM: UNKNOWN SENDER
R, please don’t do something you might regret
[ read ✓ ]
This week, on Tango Sector: Struggling to keep their cool and stop the Wrecking Crew from getting captured, the crew of Pelagian gets increasingly desperate in their attempts to get rid of the Aegis ships that have them surrounded. Melas tries to mitigate the damage. Kala’ax reaches out for an unfamiliar energy. Cash tries to run interference. Flux nearly avoids disaster. Liam takes a nap.
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EXCERPTED FROM THE MEETING MINUTES OF THE INDEPENDENT SNOWMELT PROTECTORATE ORGANIZATIONAL AND PLANNING COMMITTEE, [DATE REDACTED]
MEETING CONVENED BY: KAYLA ANDERSMINUTES RECORDED BY: TY FINN
Point of Order #4 - Will the Protectorate ally itself with the Unity Anti-Union Unincorporation in pursuit of executing organized civil unrest on Snowmelt in the coming months?
— Without external support of some kind the Protectorate is unlikely to secure the resources necessary for effective action (see point of order #2, p. 3, bullet point 6)
— Unity is able to provide amplified non-TNN coverage of any protest, strikes, or other organized civil unrest outside of Novitze, bypassing the damaged communications satellite and TNN blockades with assistance from another of their allies (unidentified). In exchange for the Protectorate’s agreement to form a coalition with the Unity Anti-Union Unincorporation, Na will outsource the safe delivery of a data drive including key information from the Protectorate to a source that will be able to garner public support for both the Protectorate’s aims and its actions
— Data drive would include highly secured basic information (statement of purpose, membership archives, etc.) as well as a detailed report of planned action (see point of order #2, p. 3, bullet points 6-8) and requests for aid
— In exchange for delivery of the data drive, the Protectorate will join the coalition currently being built by Emeritus Na and offer free and fair exchange of aid and resources between the groups, as well as regular communication, henceforth
— Vote held: 12 aye to 3 nay
This week, on Tango Sector: Reunited and heading out on what seems like a simple delivery job, the crew of Pelagian suddenly realizes they’re in much hotter water than they’d hoped. Flux rigs up the scanners. Kala’ax lends a hand. Liam employs his favorite ruse. Cash promises a favor. Melas makes a discovery.
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[ ENCRYPTED SHORT-RANGE TRANSMISSION. POINT OF ORIGIN: HAVEN, VY’ERR. STANDARD SYNCHRONICITY ENCRYPTION, EMBEDDED ENCRYPTION CODE PHRASE: SYCORAX ]
update on the homily camera shows increased activity over the past three cycles, particularly during times when the chamber is otherwise empty. from the position of the camera, it is difficult to make out precise shapes, but frequent occurrences include: a large conical spike; several floating orbs; a humanoid silhouette approximately 5 ft 7 in. subject has shown little to no em interference with the camera or its sensors, nor any unusual radiation, even during times of increased activity. attendant either has not noticed increased activity, or has been unaffected or unsurprised. [ v. v. is it cyclical?? a regular occurrence?? should we be expecting this to keep happening, or should we be worried?? ]
at the current moment i am unable to advise any further actions with respect to the subject.
— v. k.
This week, on Tango Sector: As the crew of Pelagian reunites on Ilia, they finally take the time to have a much needed conversation or two—and a much needed confrontation or two, as well. Flux makes a connection. Melas opts out. Liam learns some history. Kala’ax sees something strange. Cash receives instructions.
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QUERY: [[ THE NESTED ARK // ILIA // SIERRA SYSTEM ]]
… RETURNING QUERY RESULTS FROM ""TL-TRU HOSPITALITY DATABASE"" …
… QUERY PENDING …
… QUERY RETURNED 0 RESULTS …
This week, on Tango Sector: Resting safely at the Dauphin’s unused family estate on Ilia, the crew takes some hard-earned time off, and makes a surprising new acquaintance. Serant visits home. Cash takes a hike. A new face appears, with a message for Liam.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: scenes of interrogation, discussions of police violence, medical procedures and severe injury
QUERY: [[ SNOWMELT // NOVITZE // DARK STAR SYSTEM ]]
… RETURNING QUERY RESULTS FROM ""TL-TRU HOSPITALITY DATABASE"" …
SNOWMELT IS AN INDUSTRIAL SETTLEMENT IN THE NORTH-EASTERN HEMISPHERE OF THE HABITABLE BELT-OBJECT NOVITZE. THE ONLY MAJOR SETTLEMENT ON NOVITZE, SNOWMELT LIES IN THE VALLEY BETWEEN TWO LARGE MOUNTAIN RANGES THAT SPAN THE LENGTH OF NOVITZE’S SINGLE ICY CONTINENT: THE WARREN RANGE AND THE STELLEN RANGE.
THESE TWO MOUNTAIN RANGES ARE SIGNIFICANT FOR THEIR UNUSUALLY HIGH CONCENTRATION OF THE NATURALLY OCCURRING ALLOY COLLOQUIALLY REFERRED TO AS ‘SNOWMELTIUM’; THUS, THE PRIMARY INDUSTRY ON NOVITZE LIES WITHIN THIS VALLEY, WHERE THE RARE METAL IS BOTH MINED AND REFINED BEFORE BEING SHIPPED OFF-WORLD FOR USE IN SHIP ENGINES AND DELUCCA DRIVES.
This week, on Tango Sector: With the ship damaged and more than a few injuries, the crew of Pelagian docks in the remote city of Snowmelt to lick their wounds and take care of a few lingering problems. Flux makes some upgrades. Liam struggles through the pain. Baz lends a helping hand. Melas plays good cop.
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CONTENT WARNINGS: police violence, discussion of space-related oxygen deprivation, severe injury, discussions of interrogation methods and drugging
[ EXCERPTED FROM MARTINET PROTOCOL MANUAL XVI, SECTION 12.B: PERSONAL EFFECTS AND CONTRABAND, SUBSECTION J - REGULATIONS AND RAMIFICATIONS ]
. . . ANY OFFICER OF ANY RANK FOUND IN POSSESSION OF ANY CONTRABAND TECHNOLOGY INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO: ANY TECHNOLOGY MANUFACTURED OUT OF SECTOR; ANY TECHNOLOGY CONTAINING MATERIALS PROCURED OUT OF SECTOR WITHOUT PROPER AUTHORIZATIONS UNDER TRADE REGULATION 7689.K2-9; ANY TECHNOLOGY CONTAINING MORE THAN 0.07% REMNANT MATERIAL; ANY NON-MARTINET COMMUNICATION DEVICES, INCLUDING PERSONAL COMMUNICATORS; ANY TECHNOLOGY DESIGNED OR MANUFACTURED BY KNOWN ADVERSARIES OF THE MARTINET, KNOWN CRIMINAL ORGANIZATIONS, OR WANTED PERSONS OF RANK 6D OR HIGHER; OR UNAPPROVED PERSONAL TECHNOLOGY SUSPECTED OF HIGH RISK SUSCEPTIBILITY TO EXTERNAL HACKING.
RAMIFICATIONS FOR POSSESSION OF CONTRABAND TECHNOLOGY INCLUDE HEARING IN FRONT OF MARTINET GRAND JUDICIARY COUNCIL AND MAY INCLUDE DISCIPLINARY ACTION INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO: TEMPORARY ADMINISTRATIVE LEAVE, DISHONORABLE DISCHARGE, IMPRISONMENT OF UP TO TWELVE YEARS PER CONTRABAND ITEM FOUND. AS WITH OTHER CONTRABAND-RELATED DISCIPLINARY ACTION, WITH REASONABLE DOUBT OR IN TIMES OF WAR, MARTINET OFFICERS WITH A RANKING OF LIEUTENANT OR ABOVE ARE AUTHORIZED TO TAKE EMERGENCY ACTION IF SABOTAGE OR TREASON IS SUSPECTED. SEE: “WAR-TIME EMERGENCY ACTION REGULATIONS, SECTION 46.A, SUBSECTION M . . .
This week, on Tango Sector: Aboard the Eclipse, the crew of Pelagian finds themselves a little out of their depth, caught up in a conspiracy that’s bigger than anything they expected. Melas tells an audacious lie. Flux makes some daring maneuvers. Liam takes a leap of faith.
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'Twas the night before Christmas and at the North Pole each elf and each reindeer was playing their role in the last preparations before the big flight of the sleigh and the presents and Santa tonight...
In this year's Unexplored Places Christmas Spectacular, we bring you a daring adventure to save Christmas in HOLLYTECH & JOLLYMANCY, a preview to our new bimonthly Patreon series of wild and wonderful one-shots, PLACES & PATRONS.
support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/unexploredcast
editing and music by Andrew: https://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/ Hollytech & Jollymancy by Alice Lily Kyra: https://magical-girl-kyra.itch.io/hollytech-jollymancy
[ ENCRYPTED COMMUNICATION, RECOVERED FROM SCRUBBED AND DELETED DATA FROM THE PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS LOG OF MARTINET COMMANDER FLETCHER SONG, RECEIVED COMMUNICATIONS, COMMUNICATION ORIGIN CORRUPTED, SEND DATA CORRUPTED, METADATA UNRECOVERABLE ]
Well? Is that a “yes?” You gotta give me something to work with here, man. -W
This week, on Tango Sector: In search of evidence to clear the Gravesent’s name, half the crew boards the Martinet dreadnought Eclipse to find out who is really behind the murder of four high-ranking Martinet officials. Liam dons his favorite disguise. Melas does some quick video analysis. Flux notices something suspicious outside.
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[ excerpted from the private correspondences of Dr. Olivia Key ]
The problem is that without a catalyst, there’s nothing more we can do from here. There’s no next step. And we’ve run low on potential catalysts. Everything else we have tried has done something, but none of it has had the intended effect. If we’re to find an alteration that will truly make immortality possible, well… yes, I realize it’s quite a lot of trouble, but having someone who actually appears to be, for all intents and purposes, immortal certainly feels like an obvious fucking solution. It’s just my rotten damn luck that a whole crew of pirates somehow gained immortality and yet only one of them has standard human DNA.
Just… just keep them on the run long enough that they tire out and we’ll be able to apprehend them again. Kill the others for all I care. And that other crew, the one that keeps showing up to help them… well, I’ll figure something else out to get them out of the way.
This week, on Tango Sector: Aboard the Court in Apogee, the crew is finally ready to make their attempt to get an audience with the Queen when an unexpected setback throws things into chaos. Cash orders a drink. Claus gets caught up. Serant steps in.
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[ FROM THE ARCHIVES OF “HERALD,” INTERNAL PRIVATE MESSAGING SYSTEM OF THE COURT IN APOGEE ]
TO:THE MARQUIS OF SWORDSFROM: VISCOUNTESS SPLENDID FAIRYWREN
alert alert he’s back and he’s worse than ever
TO: VISCOUNTESS SPLENDID FAIRYWRENFROM: THE MARQUIS OF SWORDS
nooooo I thought he wasn’t going to be back for another month ⚔️️
TO: VISCOUNTESS SPLENDID FAIRYWRENFROM: THE MARQUIS OF SWORDS
so much for court being bearable again can you take me with you when you leave this time just so I don’t have to see his smug face while I walk down the hallway ⚔️️
TO:THE MARQUIS OF SWORDSFROM: VISCOUNTESS SPLENDID FAIRYWREN
do you think he’s going to try to come to your party again this time or has he gotten the message
TO: VISCOUNTESS SPLENDID FAIRYWRENFROM: THE MARQUIS OF SWORDS
wow I’m cancelling immediately, rip ⚔️️
This week, on Tango Sector: Aboard the Ilian Court in Apogee, the crew is introduced to a target they’ll need to convince to get them an audience with the High Queen, and invited to a party where they’ll be able to do just that. Cash dishes out some much-needed fashion advice. Claus gathers information from a strange new friend. Serant meets up with someone from home.
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[ ILIAN ROYAL ARCHIVES : A ROYAL PROCLAMATION GIVEN IN THE YEAR 14 OF THE REIGN OF HER VERY MAJESTY THE HIGH QUEEN MYRIAD HELOISE ]
Yes, Ilia, our people have long since taken to the stars; yes, we have seen the universe far and wide beyond the Great Curtain of our Luminous Skies. Yes, we have found friendships and allegiances and loves outside our Great and Sheltered Homeland. But it is our not the happenstance of our geography that makes us Ilians. No, no birthright or proximity will buy our loyalty, no proclamation of false unity will seal our allegiance against our better interest. It is not our place on this planet or in the light of our Unseen Star that ties us together. It is the love of our home that makes us Ilians. It is our connections with those people around us, those who have given us our names and our titles, those we have chosen to live out our life with. And whosoever would be an Ilian, will be an Ilian. Whosoever would seek friendship here, or family here, or love here, whosoever would seek refuge here, Ilia’s Glorious Curtained Sky will grant it. For this is what it means to be Ilian; this is what it has always meant, since the first Kings and Queens made this strange and beautiful place their home. And this is what it shall mean, for as long as this very world keeps spinning in its Perfect Orbit, and the Court in Apogee
This week, on Tango Sector: On their way to the Court in Apogee to seek an audience with High Queen Myriad Heloise of the Royal Family of Ilia, the crew runs into some unexpected interference. Claus dodges another bullet. Serant turns up the heat. Cash makes a call to a friend.
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INTERNAL MEMO #96735TERMINUS NEWS NETWORK OFFICEMEMO: Permission & Restrictions for External Guests
Dear all,
It has recently come to my attention that, on more than one occasion in the past several weeks, a staff member has invited a guest into the Culture & Arts Council building while bypassing security checks at the front desk, allowing at least one guest without clearance into the building for some period of time. Because of this, we must kindly request all of you to take several minutes today to review section 16-B-ii of the employee handbook, regarding Permission and Restrictions for External Guests, and ensure that you are following the guidelines laid out therein.
Culture & Arts Council guidelines and restrictions for guests are designed as they are for a reason: Terminus News Network often deals with highly classified information, and leaks of any of this information are a detriment not only to Culture & Arts Council personally, but to the Sector as a whole. Much is happening throughout the Sector on any given day, and we here at Terminus News Network are the vanguard working to introduce news to the Sector at large in the best possible way. I would hate to know that anyone here had any hand, intentionally or unintentionally, in undermining that mission.
Please remember that we are a team, and when one team member takes an unnecessary risk, it harms everyone on the team. Not only that, it stands to harm everyone in the Sector.
This week, on Tango Sector: Following up on a call for help from the Gravesent, the crew of Pelagian finds themselves in a strange new location, and struggles to put together a plan. Melas gets a running start. Claus and Flux follow behind. Liam calls up a contact for help. Cash has their cake and eats it too.
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QUERY: [[ VISTA CITY // CHANDRA // ADEYEMI SYSTEM ]]
… RETURNING QUERY RESULTS FROM ""TL-TRU HOSPITALITY DATABASE"" …
IN THE TEMPERATE NORTHERN HEMISPHERE OF CHANDRA, VISTA CITY IS A SEASIDE TOURIST DESTINATION, WITH BEAUTIFUL BEACHES KEPT CLEAN BY A FLEET OF THE HIGHEST TECH CLEANING BOTS, SPRAWLING HOTEL COMPLEXES TO MAKE YOU FEEL AT HOME IN THIS SEASIDE PARADISE, AND A BUSTLING BOARDWALK FULL OF FUN ACTIVITIES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY.
A MORE AFFORDABLE ALTERNATIVE TO THE LUXURIOUS PRIVATE BEACHES OF THEMIS, VISTA CITY DRAWS VISITORS FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE, AND OFFERS A VARIETY OF OPTIONS FOR VACATIONERS OF ALL SORTS. WHETHER IT’S SUNBATHING UNDER THE CLOUDLESS SKY, GOING FOR A SWIM IN THE WARM OCEAN WATERS, OR VISITING ONE OF THE MANY FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES ON AND AROUND THE BOARDWALK, THOSE WHO VISIT VISTA CITY WILL ONLY EVER FIND THEMSELVES BORED IF BOREDOM IS WHAT THEY CRAVE.
This week, on Tango Sector: After narrowly escaping with the Remnant artifact they were sent to retrieve, the crew of Pelagian deals with the fallout in seaside Vista City. Claus makes an outing. Serant makes inquiries into some new gear. Cash makes some phone calls. Flux considers some ramifications. Liam is faced with some unpleasant reminders. An unexpected familiar face makes an appearance after a long absence.
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[ BLACKFORD & DESAI BRAMBLE-CLASS RESEARCH VESSEL LORELAI // REMOTE ACCESS LABORATORY ARCHIVES // DECK 1, LAB 7 // PROJECT CODE P9821, CODENAME ASCALON ]
SUBJECT HAS RESPONDED NEGATIVELY TO [ ARCHIVAL DATA CORRUPTED ] [ ARCHIVAL DATA CORRUPTED ] [ ARCHIVAL DATA CORRUPTED ] ON INITIAL TESTS, BUT ELECTROMAGNETIC READINGS INDICATE THE POSSIBILITY OF INITIATING A POSITIVE RESPONSE IN THE CASE OF [ ARCHIVAL DATA CORRUPTED ].
[ ARCHIVAL DATA CORRUPTED ] [ ARCHIVAL DATA CORRUPTED ] [ ARCHIVAL DATA CORRUPTED ] HYPOTHESIS ALLOWS FOR [ ARCHIVAL DATA CORRUPTED ] [ ARCHIVAL DATA CORRUPTED ]. THE COMBINATION OF [ ARCHIVAL DATA CORRUPTED ] FOR THE POSSIBILITY OF ACHIEVING POSITIVE RESPONSE IN A WIDER VARIETY OF CONDITIONS. REGULAR MONITORING INITIATED WHILE WE BEGIN TO UNDERTAKE [ ARCHIVAL DATA CORRUPTED ].
[ ARCHIVAL DATA CORRUPTED ] [ ARCHIVAL DATA CORRUPTED ] [ ARCHIVAL DATA CORRUPTED ] [ ARCHIVAL DATA CORRUPTED ] [ ARCHIVAL DATA CORRUPTED ] [ ARCHIVAL DATA CORRUPTED ] [ ARCHIVAL DATA CORRUPTED ] [ ARCHIVAL DATA CORRUPTED ] [ ARCHIVAL DATA CORRUPTED ] CERTAIN LEVEL OF UNPREDICTABILITY IS UNAVOIDABLE, BUT THE MARGIN OF ERROR IS SMALL ENOUGH THAT THIS IS NO CAUSE FOR CONCERN.
This week, on Tango Sector: Having located the Remnant artifact on the Lorelai, the crew of Pelagian makes a desperate move to escape the Martinet—and another mysterious threat lurking in the void. Claus makes a quick fix. Serant and Cash make some quick maneuvers. Flux tries out something new. Liam gets a call.
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ENCRYPTED COMMUNICATIONS — BLACKFORD & DESAI HIGH-CLEARANCE SERVER
FROM: [email protected]: [email protected]
z—
glad to hear the test was a success. about time somebody got something useful out of one of these. if you can get here by the end of the week i think we can sync up and see if there’s a plausible reaction here. from what yelena’s told me of ascalon it sounds like you’re well ahead of any of the rest of us so i’m looking forward to getting a look at it, hearing how you solved the interference problem.
let me know when you expect to get in. i’ll roll out the red carpet for you.
omega blue
This week, on Tango Sector: Aboard the wreck of the Blackford & Desai research vessel the Lorelai, the crew of Pelagian rushes to find the Remnant artifact they’ve been sent to collect before reinforcements arrive. Serant finds a path forward. Liam clears the way. Cash and Claus try to calm some nerves. Flux has an unexpected encounter.
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[ EXCERPTED FROM THE FIELD NOTES OF ADLER KASSNER, REMNANT SPECIALIST AND PROFESSOR OF HISTORY AT THE TERMINUS SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES, ON SABBATICAL TO CHANDRA ]
What’s most interesting about the Remnants on Chandra is, in fact, the pattern of them. Their distribution. Chandra is popularly known as having one of the highest concentration of Remnant artifacts in the Sector, and certainly is the source of the bulk of currently sentient (ie., awakened) Remnants we see in our day to day lives. However, large swathes of Chandra’s surface are, in essence, Remnant-less.
According to some of the locals, there’s some… we’ll call them a religious organization, here on Chandra, who believe that there is a reason for that. A pattern, to the distribution, with some sort of greater meaning behind it, something… suspiciously mystical, one might guess. How they claim to have this information, I can’t yet say, but I find myself skeptical at best about the idea. I’ve scoured the maps, myself, every logged Remnant artifact found on Chanda, the areas of high density vs. low density, even the organization of individual Remnants within those areas of high density, and there is no discernible pattern, at least that I can see. Not to mention how little research has been done, due to all the restrictions in place, on whether or not there are Remnant artifacts beneath Chandra’s oceans which, if there are any there, and there is a pattern, would potentially throw off the pattern these people seem to believe exists entirely.
Or… complete it?
Surely not. Surely there’s some logical fallacy to the belief that any pattern that might exist with the Remnants that have been found would not exist for perfectly explainable reasons. A higher density of Remnant artifacts in what once might have been a city, for example, and a relative dearth on land that might have been primarily unoccupied, or otherwise rendered inhospitable. I would argue that if there is a pattern, it says more about the society of the beings who happened to have made them then it does about some “grand design…”
This week, on Tango Sector: Following a distress beacon from a member of the Chosen of the Sacral Hollow in pursuit of a stolen Remnant artifact, the crew of Pelagian takes on a mysterious mission that may be more dangerous than it seems. Flux scans the area. Claus searches for answers. Cash runs into some unpleasant feedback. Serant gets distracted. Liam has some suit trouble.
CONTENT WARNING: vocal and audio distortion
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QUERY: [[ H-C-E-4 DOCKING STATION AND SPACE ELEVATOR // HOMILY // ADEYEMI SYSTEM ]]
… RETURNING QUERY RESULTS FROM ""TL-TRU HOSPITALITY DATABASE"" …
WHILE THE H-C-E-4 DOCKING STATION AND SPACE ELEVATOR SERVES PRIMARILY AS A TRANSIT SPACE BETWEEN THE UNDERGROUND TUNNELS OF HOMILY AND THE REMAINDER OF ADEYEMI SYSTEM, AS SHIPS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO LAND ON THE HARSH AND UNWELCOMING SURFACE OF HOMILY ITSELF, THAT IS NOT TO SAY THAT THE DOCKING STATION HAS NO CULTURE OF ITS OWN. AMIDST REPAIR SHOPS AND REFUELING STATIONS, H-C-E-4 IS ALSO HOME TO SOME OF THE BEST VIEWS OF THE STARRY SKY FROM ADEYEMI SPACE.
AS THE FIRST STOP FOR ANY SHIP COMING INTO HOMILY, H-C-E-4 SEES MYRIAD EXOTIC IMPORTS FROM ELSEWHERE IN THE SYSTEM, AND DINING OPTIONS ABOARD THE STATION ARE NOT LIMITED TO SPACE RATIONS, BUT INCLUDE SOME OF THE FINEST RESTAURANTS IN THE SYSTEM CATERED TOWARDS THOSE LOOKING FOR RESPITE FROM THE CLAUSTROPHOBIC TUNNELS OF HOMILY’S SURFACE.
This week, on Tango Sector: With two ships to fix and a lot to catch up on, the crew of Pelagian reunites on Homily for a chance to recover and call in some favors. Claus looks into an old lead. Cash changes into something new. Liam hunts down some lab space. Flux hunts down a new engine. Serant goes out for a night on the town.
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ENCRYPTED COMMUNICATIONS — BLACKFORD & DESAI HIGH-CLEARANCE SERVER
FROM: [email protected]: [email protected]
y—
found something i think you might want to see. it has to do with damocles. if you’re feeling up for the trip, get to lovelock when you can.
i really think you’re gonna want to see this one, babe.
omega blue
This week, on Tango Sector: Separated by their plan and suddenly in a worse position than they’d hoped, Cash and Serant make a desperate attempt to finish their job and make it out alive. Cash has a harrowing vision. Serant pulls some terrifying stunts.
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[ INSCRIPTION FOUND ON A PLAQUE ON THE WALLS OF THE TEMPLE OF THE HEREAFTER, ON THE SURFACE OF HOMILY ]
THIS TEMPLE IS CONSECRATED BY THE FALL OF THE CATACLYSM AND THE BLESSED RETURN OF THE FIRST EXPLORER. IN THE BURNING SCARS OF HER RETURN, IN THE WOUND FROM WHICH SHE WAS MIRACULOUSLY REBORN, WE DEDICATE THIS PLACE TO HER WORK.
SHE IS THE UNDYING, WHOSE RETURN FROM THE UNREACHABLE PLANES OF DEATH HAS GRANTED US, IN TURN, A PATH TOWARDS TRUE LIFE.
SHE IS THE ALL-SEEING, WHOSE EYELESS SIGHT WILL GUIDE US WILLINGLY AWAY FROM THIS WORLD AND INTO THE NEXT.
SHE IS THE HEREAFTER, IN WHOM WE WILL FIND OUR SECOND BIRTHS, OUR SECOND LIVES, AND OUR SECOND HOPES BEYOND THE UNGIVING EARTH AND THE UNYIELDING COLD, ON WHOSE FOUNDATION WE SHALL BUILD ATOP THE RUINS OF AN UNFORGIVING WORLD.
This week, on Tango Sector: Using the intel they’ve gathered about Ayat Ayer, Cash and Serant form a plan to infiltrate the cult’s headquarters… and find it more dangerous than they anticipated. Cash adopts a new persona. Serant provides back-up from the sky.
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[ INTERNAL VOICE LOG : ANGEL-CLASS SHIP A456-J7N “CATACLYSM” :: CAPTAIN’S LOG : CAPTAIN AYAT AYER :: TIMESTAMP : 68 YEARS AGO ]
System check.
…
All system’s nominal.
This is Captain Ayat Ayer of the A456 Cataclysm. Beginning asynchronous gate-independent transit from Homily to unidentified exoplanet Zeta orbiting star 948-Endymion. Distance 4.98 light years. Bearing 283.6, all systems nominal. Clearances: 89427, 673-gold, Y-351.
Transit is estimated at 46 hours from Homily to Zeta. Distortion estimated at 0.004%. Asynchronous gate drive running at 99.887% power, 27% capacity. Margin of error, 0.17%.
Initiating asynchronous gate drive in 5… 4… 3… 2…
Wish me luck.
This week, on Tango Sector: After their falling out with the crew of Pelagian, Cash Black sets out on their own path to set things right, and picks up a well-paying job for Synchronicity with a new acquaintance along the way.
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[ an excerpt from a public access pamphlet entitled UNINCORPORATION TODAY: A MANIFESTO FOR MOVEMENT, pseudonymously attributed to Professor Emeritus ]
“Union” used to be a word that meant something: solidarity, collectivity, cooperation, unity. It used to be a word which stood for something, against the hegemonic control of capitalist interest and the fungibility of worker. It may seem like ancient history now, but at one point a “union” meant a collective of workers. Our Union is a lie, a corruption of the very idea of what a union should be. Our Union calls itself a union while mechanics and engineers on Torus Station die of dehydration because the rich on Themis withhold their water. Our Union calls itself a union while factory workers on Thistle develop lung infections from the pollution levels because the rich on Themis refuse to share their air filters and purifiers. Our Union calls itself a union while miners on Snowmelt freeze to death trying to meet their quotas because Blackford & Desai needs to mass-produce engines for luxury ships that sit in dock to let the rich flaunt their wealth.
What we need is not a Union: what we need is a unity. What we need is to spread the word, far and wide, that the Union does not have our best interests at heart, and that when we stand together we are more numerous, more powerful, more valuable than the Union is. What we need is to spread the word that they know we are more numerous, more powerful, more valuable than the Union is. What we need is movement: together, as one, against those who would see us starve to put food on their table, to see us suffocate so that their air is clean. What we need is to move beyond the reaches of the Sector as the Union has defined them and understand that there are better, more possible ways of living beyond their narrow constraints, and all we need to find those is each other.
This week, on Tango Sector: After a smooth entrance breaking into the Martinet prison on Rho, the crew of Pelagian comes across an unexpected complication in their attempt to break out Emeritus Na. Claus plants a disruptor. Liam does what he does best. Flux gets showy. Baz gets explosive.
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[[ COMMUNICATIONS ARCHIVE OF SLEEPER-CLASS SHIP S-7680 “THE ARENDT” // LAST RECEIVED TRANSMISSION // COMMUNICATION SIGNATURE: EMERITUS NA ]]
Monument—
I think we’re really getting close, finally, to putting this plan into action. Keep on track and let Baz know I’ll be needing a favor from them in a few days. Might want to get your bags packed and have Glitch keep his ear to the ground, so to speak, for anything coming out of the Court.
More coming tomorrow.
—Na
This week, on Tango Sector: Working alongside the Unity Anti-Union Unincorporation, the crew of Pelagian scopes out a hidden black site prison on the surface of the abandoned planet Rho in order to break out Unity’s incarcerated leader. Claus does some tinkering. Liam gathers some invaluable intel. Flux looks for options. Baz takes control.
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QUERY: [[ LISIANTHUS // THISTLE // ADEYEMI SYSTEM ]]
… RETURNING QUERY RESULTS FROM ""TL-TRU HOSPITALITY DATABASE"" …
ONCE THE CAPITAL CITY OF TANGO SECTOR, LISIANTHUS HOLDS MUCH OF THE MAJESTY OF THE ORIGINAL HUMAN PRESENCE IN THE SECTOR IN ITS ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT. ITS UPPER DISTRICT, ON THE EAST SIDE OF THE SUIKAZURA RIVER, IS HOME TO BURGEONING TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION, AND THE FACTORIES OF ITS LOWER DISTRICT, ON THE WEST SIDE, HOUSE THE BOLD, INDUSTRIAL SPIRIT OF THE PEOPLE OF THISTLE.
THOSE VISITING LISIANTHUS FROM OUT OF SECTOR SHOULD DO THEIR BEST TO FIND LODGING IN THE UPPER DISTRICT, WHERE THE KINDS OF AMENITIES ONE WOULD EXPECT ARE MORE READILY AVAILABLE, AND ALL OF THE KINDS OF ACTIVITIES ONE WOULD HOPE TO ENJOY ON A VACATION ARE WITHIN CONVENIENT WALKING DISTANCE OR ARE ONLY A BRIEF MAGLEV TRAIN RIDE AWAY FROM THE HOSPITALITY DISTRICT. THOUGH THE CITY HAS RECENTLY BEEN OUTFITTED WITH ANTI-POLLUTION FILTERS, VISITORS WILL FIND THE SKYLINE IN THE UPPER DISTRICT CLEARER, THE AIR FRESHER, AND THE SCENERY WELL WORTH WRITING HOME ABOUT.
This week, on Tango Sector: After a contentious decision at the end of their last job, the crew of Pelagian has a rough conversation. Flux makes an ultimatum. Claus writes a letter. Cash follows their conscience. Melas follows a pretty face. Liam follows up on a promising lead.
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[[ DIGITAL ARCHIVED RECORD OF PRIVATE MESSAGE // SENDER: PRAETOR ZEAL, LOCAL ADMINISTRATIVE PRAETOR, THE ELECTORATE INC., ORITH CITY // RECIPIENT: AEDILE PRIME SAINT, PUBLIC-FACING AEDILE, THE ELECTORATE INC., ORITH CITY // CARBON COPY: ABSOLUTE ELYX, CONSULTANT, THE ELECTORATE INC., ORITH CITY // SUBJECT LINE: AUCTION ]]
The level of incompetence with which this situation has been handled is frankly unacceptable. Honestly, I expected better of you. This is the sort of inconvenience with which I should not need personally interfere myself—I have more important business to attend to, after all.
I won’t deign to ask how this was allowed to come to happen. It would waste both my time and yours to search out an explanation for this amateurish behavior. All I will ask is that you save me the trouble of holding your hand and guiding you to where the cleaning supplies are kept before you mop up the mess you’ve shit onto my floor. If you cannot take care of it yourself, do me a favor and ask someone whose responsibilities actually include solving your problems and who hasn’t already had three migraines from the sound of your voice alone.
Presumably you’re competent enough to figure out who that might be on your own, but in case you aren’t, I’ve copied Absolute on this message.
Don’t let me hear from you again until you’ve fixed the problem.
—Z
This week, on Tango Sector: The crew of Pelagian has tracked down their thief, and now they just have to find a way to steal the animum back themselves… and then decide what they’re going to do with it. Claus dons a disguise. Liam does the heavy lifting. Flux hangs back. Cash makes a tough call. Melas has some regrets.
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[[ INTERVIEW TRANSCRIPT : THE ELECTORATE INC MEETING ROOM, SEVENTH FLOOR ]]
AE: What time did you notice that the item was missing from the vault?
JN: When Praetor Zeal used her pass to open the vault.
AE: And what time was that?
JN: She called you right after, I mean, [garbled]
AE: It’s for the record, Naismith. I need you to say it, for the record.
JN: It was around four.
AE: And prior to Zeal entering the vault and seeing that it was missing, when did you last see the item?
JN: When did I last see it? I don’t think I ever saw it. I wasn’t on shift when you guys put it in the vault, I don’t have access to the vault—
AE: [overlapping] There’s no need to raise your voice, Naismith. It’s just a formality.
JN: I just stand where you people tell me to stand and make sure no one tries to go in who isn’t supposed to go in! And no one did, while I was on shift! The Praetor was the only person I saw, the entire time I was guarding the vault, and I told you that already so I don’t understand why you had to bring me into an interrogation room—
AE: This isn’t an interrogation.
JN: Well it feels like one! I got the nervous sweats over here, and I didn’t even do anything wrong. Are you always this scary?
AE: Did anyone else attempt to enter into or come out of the vault during your shift, prior to Praetor Zeal’s arrival?
JN: Of course not, I would have said something if—
AE: For the record.
[a pause]
JN: No. No one attempted to enter or exit the vault during my shift.
AE: And did you hear anything, from inside the vault?
JN: Inside the vault? What the fuck, is that thing alive?
This week, on Tango Sector: In the center of Orith City, an auction is about to be held, whether or not the crew of Pelagian can manage to recover the deposit of animum being auctioned before it begins. Claus goes to the library. Melas solves a problem he created. Cash dons the guise of an old friend. Flux spies on a nearby ship. Liam does a bit of kidnapping.
CONTENT WARNING: loud static and noise
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QUERY: [[ NADIR // VERITY // IWASAKI SYSTEM ]]
… RETURNING QUERY RESULTS FROM ""TL-TRU HOSPITALITY DATABASE"" …
BECAUSE OF NADIR’S POORER VIEW OF THE PLANET OMIA, THE SOUTHERN CITY HAS NEITHER THE ATTRACTIONS NOR THE POPULACE OF ITS SISTER CITY ZENITH. FOUNDED ON THE SHORES OF A WIDE FROZEN LAKE ON THE EDGE OF THE NIGHT SIDE OF THE MOON, NADIR DRAWS FEW TOURISTS AND CAN BE DANGEROUS FOR UNSUSPECTING PILGRIMS WHO FIND THEIR WAY TOO FAR SOUTH. THOSE LOOKING FOR A WELCOMING PLACE TO STAY ON THE SANDY, TIDALLY-LOCKED MOON WOULD DO BETTER TO HEAD FOR ZENITH, WHERE CIVILIZATION FLOURISHES UNDER THE WATCHFUL AND BENEFICENT EYE OF THE CHURCH OF THE DUSK.
NADIR IS LOCATED NEARBY TO THE TENEBRAE ACADEMY, HOME TO THE TRAINING GROUNDS OF THE CHURCH OF THE DUSK’S PEACEKEEPING SECT, CANTOS. THE EXACT LOCATION OF THE TENEBRAE ACADEMY IS KEPT SECRET BY THE SECT FOR THE PROTECTION OF ITS STUDENTS, BUT IT ISN’T UNCOMMON TO SEE TRAINEES OF THE SECT FREQUENTING NADIR’S NIGHTLIFE TO BLOW OFF STEAM.
This week, on Tango Sector: Reunited after their separate jobs, the crew of Pelagian heads to the twilit underbelly of the moon Verity to lay low in the city Nadir. Flux notices something strange in the ship. Claus tries his best to take it easy. Melas does a little studying to impress his new friends. Liam goes to an old mentor for advice. Cash gets an offer they can’t refuse.
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Welcome to Apogee!
Perched atop a snowy, picturesque mountain top just several hours north of Terminus City Central, Apogee is the ultimate retreat for recovering guests under the careful eye of the Circadia Complex’s top medical and recovery professionals.
Not only will you receive access to around the clock care to ensure your recovery process goes as smoothly as possible, but you will also have access to Apogee’s many amenities, including its mountaintop crystal spa, several hot spring ponds filled with salts and essential oils conducive to the recovery process, on-call masseurs and other spa treatments, and a below ground pool and sensory deprivation meditation chamber.
For those looking to maintain privacy and anonymity during their stay, Apogee provides inroom healing treatments and all other amenities can be accessed on a private scheduled basis in order to best maintain the level of discretion that suits each and every guest. Our in house chefs and dieticians create bespoke daily menus for each and every guest’s own needs, and private nurses can be accommodated with advance notice.
Wrap up on your own personal balcony and enjoy the refreshing alpine air, under the best post-op care that money can buy.
We hope you enjoy your stay.
This week, on Tango Sector: In the basement of the Apogee recovery facility, the crew tracks down the location of Captain Rhea Espinosa and attempts to make a quick and dramatic exit. Cash negotiates some unexpected help. Liam shows off some impressive prowess.
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[ excerpt from A Brief History of Piracy in Tango Sector by Eulalia Ward ; access to the following file is granted by the Terminus Public Academic Archive, as overseen by the Records and Writings Division of the Tango Sector Labor and Transit Representative Union Technology and Public Access Information Division ]
… Of the five star systems currently member to Tango Sector, Adeyemi system saw perhaps the vast majority of pirate activity during what some scholars now refer to as the Platinum Age of Piracy.⁶⁷ Because of Thistle and Chandra’s easy access to natural resources and necessities for deep space travel (oxygen, water, fuel, etc.) and Homily’s access to the rare and valuable metals that fetched the relative best price by weight on those Iwasaki markets which Adeyemi pirates frequented, Adeyemi ships found themselves at constant threat of boarding by small, well-armed pirate crews from adequately (if hastily) cloaked ships. (For more on Platinum-age cloaking technology, see chapter 17, Common Corsair Strategies). When Torus Station was first built, it boasted not only state of the art surface-mounted artillery for monitoring pirate activity in the area, but also the offices of several of the first major insurance firms offering a cargo plan specifically for victims of piracy. …
… Piracy, however, dropped off significantly after the creation of the Martinet, whose original primary function was as a piracy deterrent force, though as the threat of piracy has decreased over the Sector’s long life their focus has adapted to enforcing other important regulations, such as smuggling laws and inter- and intra-sector traffic. While the cultural legacy created by the so-called Platinum Age’s vast network of pirate crews lives on in Tango Sectors smugglers, black market traders, and other criminal networks, in recent years, few if any instances of piracy have been reported within the Sector. …
⁶⁷While Hajj and Andrianakis, et al. make a persuasive case for referring to this period of time as an “age,” due to the drop in pirate activity after the dissolution of the Iwasaki-Adeyemi treaty several years prior to the institution of the Tango Sector Labor and Transit Representative Union and its accompanying governing bodies and regulatory police force, their naming of the Platinum Age is flawed at best: while they cite the ancient Golden Age of Piracy as inspiration for the name, the choice of “Platinum” implies a gradience between gold and platinum in accordance with their respective ancient values. However, this illustrates a severe lack in understanding of the ancient scholarship on nautical piracy: the Golden Age was named not for its value but for the prevalence of gold as the most common or sought after “booty” during this period of piracy (see Vester’s recent article on etymology and the similarly ancient “Celluloid Age” of digital piracy for more detailed explication), and thus Hajj and Andrianakis would be more accurate in naming their alleged age the “Scandium Age of Piracy,” or, perhaps even less romantically, the “Oxygen Age of Piracy.”
This week, on Tango Sector: While their compatriots are busy infiltrating a gala in Terminus, the rest of the crew assists the mysterious pirate crew known as the Gravesent in tracking down their kidnapped captain. Cash calls on a helpful connection. Liam encounters an unpleasant reminder of his past.
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INTERNAL MEMO #87714TERMINUS NEWS NETWORK OFFICEMEMO: ACCOUNT SECURITY AND DIGITAL PRIVACY
Dear all,
It has come to our attention that a number of our employees have been leaving sensitive information carelessly exposed, whether by neglecting to keep their account information updated in accordance with Network’s guidelines on digital privacy management re: passkey updates, or by neglecting to close out of private or classified personal files on shared work terminals.
This kind of behavior, whether neglectful or deliberate, is absolutely unacceptable of journalists, presenters, and technicians working within the Culture & Arts Council.
As Tango Sector’s source of reliable information and breaking news, Terminus News Network prides itself on the exclusivity and authentication of all information that passes across our screens. Data leaks or gaps in security protocol risk compromising the Network as a whole. This behavior will not be tolerated, and beginning today failure to properly account for your personal account security and follow the Council’s guidelines on digital privacy management will result in the immediate termination of your Network employment contract.
This week, on Tango Sector: Split up and each taking care of separate steps in their plan to upload the Unknown State’s information to the Terminus News Network servers, the crew suddenly encounters a crucial lack of communication skills. Claus makes a judgment call. Melas improvises. Flux deals with the evidence.
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[ image description: a thick piece of embossed cardstock in a rose pink color with ivory cursive font, ripped across the bottom as if torn in half
the front of the image reads “YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO THE ANNUAL CULTURE & ARTS COUNCIL CHARITY GALA, TO BE HELD IN THE COUNCIL BUILDING ATRIUM, TERMINUS CITY CENTRAL. CREATIVE WHITE TIE DRESS REQUIRED. INVITATIONS MUST BE PRESENTED AT THE DOOR. PROCEEDS FROM THE GALA WILL BE DONATED TO THIS YEAR’S CHOSEN CAUSE, THE— with the tear in the paper obscuring the rest of the message
the back of the image has heavy handwritten black marker over the printed font which reads “HEY BOSS, THINK YOU CAN PULL SOME STRINGS AND GET US INTO THIS ONE?” -GJ ]
This week, on Tango Sector: Surrounded by the extravagant luxury and persistent security of the annual Culture & Arts Council charity gala, the crew makes a new friend to help them find their way into the sub-basement and complete their mission. Flux stages a dramatic distraction. Melas makes a memorable entrance. Claus lets his paranoia take the reins.
CONTENT WARNING: vomit
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// ENCRYPTED TRANSMISSION INTERCEPTED BY TERMINUS CITY CENTRAL MARTINET PATROL : POINT OF ORIGIN — UNKNOWN : RESTRICTED LOW-BAND FREQUENCY //
202-22-12 11-100-202-200-1-10-202-100-120-112 212-120-200-102-12-11 1-112-11 120-210-200 100-112-201-100-11-12 1-21-12-112-202 200-12-10-120-211-200-12-11 202-22-12 112-12-10-12-201-201-1-200-221 11-1-202-1 201-202-120-121
121-110-1-112 1 100-201 1 21-120 201-202-120-121
21-12-202 202-22-12 11-1-202-1 202-120 202-22-12 202-112-112 201-12-200-211-12-200-210 20-120-200 121-210-2-110-100-10 11-100-201-202-200-100-2-210-202-100-120-112 2-221 1-112-221 111-12-1-112-201 112-12-10-12-201-201-1-200-221 201-202-120-121
This week, on Tango Sector: Following mysterious instructions from the Unknown State, half of the crew finds their way to the capital city of Terminus to suss out a way to infiltrate the annual Culture & Arts Council charity gala. Flux makes some false promises. Claus makes some bad calls.
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QUERY: [[ THE CHORDS // HOMILY // ADEYEMI SYSTEM ]]
… RETURNING QUERY RESULTS FROM ""TL-TRU HOSPITALITY DATABASE"" …
THE MOST POPULOUS AREA OF HOMILY, “THE CHORDS” IS THE COLLOQUIAL NAME FOR POPULATION TUNNELS F1 THROUGH J7, WHICH ARE BUILT OUT RADIALLY FROM THE BASE OF THE SANS SE LE CLARE MEMORIAL SPACE ELEVATOR, THE CONNECTION POINT BETWEEN HOMILY PROPER AND H-C-E-4 STATION.
THE CLOSE AND CLAUSTROPHOBIC QUARTERS OF THE CHORDS’ UNDERGROUND TUNNELS ARE MEDIATED BY MIRACULOUS TECHNOLOGY, INCLUDING DIURNAL LIGHTING ACCOMMODATIONS AND “WINDOWS” THAT ARE FULLY CUSTOMIZABLE TO SHOW ANY IN A RANGE OF “OUTDOOR” SCENERIES. EVEN IN THE CHORDS’ HIGH-EFFICIENCY CONDENSED CAPSULE QUARTERS, YOU CAN HARDLY TELL THAT YOU’RE FAR BENEATH THE PLANET’S SURFACE.
This week, on Tango Sector: The crew takes some time to themselves on Homily, and come across a few job opportunities along the way. Flux is off to the races. Cash makes a couple of calls. Claus nurses his wounds. Liam studies up.
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[ document redacted for potentially sensitive information in accordance with subtitle 7B.c of the Tango Sector Transit and Labor Representative Union Technology Intersector Trade Pact’s Wealth of Information Act ]
BLACKFORD & DESAI ECOLOGY FORMAL PROJECT PROPOSAL, FORM P876APROJECT LEADER: YELENA SMALLPROJECT TITLE: DAMOCLES PROJECT LOCATION: CHANDRAPROJECT TIMELINE: COMPLETION EXPECTED WITHIN ██ YEARS
PROJECT SUMMARY: THIS PROJECT WILL EXTRACT REMNANT TECH FROM THE ██████████ SITE ON CHANDRA, LOCATED AT ███, ████ IN ORDER TO ██████████████████ ██████████ ██████ AND TO ████████ ██████████ THE CREATION OF ██████████ ████████████, AS WELL AS ██████ ████████████ TECHNOLOGIES, FOR PURPOSE OF SALE TO ████ ████████████ ██████████.
PLEASE ATTACH PROJECT OUTLINE, AND PROVIDE PERSONAL BLACKFORD & DESAI VERIFICATION CODE BEFORE SUBMITTING THIS PROJECT FOR APPROVAL.
BY PROVIDING YOUR VERIFICATION CODE BELOW, YOU ACKNOWLEDGE AND ACCEPT THE TERMS OF THE BLACKFORD & DESAI PROJECT GUIDELINES OUTLINED IN DOCUMENTS P876J-L AND AFFIRM THAT FORMS P876B-I WILL BE SUBMITTED ACCORDING TO THE ATTACHED TIMELINE. BY ASSUMING LEADERSHIP OF THE NEW PROJECT, YOU CONFIRM OVERSIGHT DUTIES TO THOSE EMPLOYED BY BLACKFORD & DESAI AS A PART OF YOUR PROJECT; YOU CONFIRM THAT FUNDING WILL BE DISTRIBUTED BASED ON THE EVALUATION OF YOUR PROPOSAL AND WILL BE RE-EVALUATED NO MORE THAN THREE (3) TIMES PER SOLAR YEAR FOR THE DURATION OF YOUR PROJECT, BASED ON SATISFACTION OF YOUR STATED GOALS, ADHERENCE TO YOUR SUBMITTED TIMELINE, AND WEIGHTED FUNDING NEEDS OF OTHER EXISTING OR NEWLY PROPOSED PROJECTS. UPDATED TIMELINES MAY BE SUBMITTED NO MORE THAN ONE (1) TIME PER SOLAR YEAR FOR VOLUNTARY RE-EVALUATION IN THE CASE OF EXCEPTIONAL PROGRESS OR UNAVOIDABLE DELAYS; RE-EVALUATION WILL BE GRANTED AT THE DISCRETION OF THE LARS BLACKFORD GRANT COUNCIL, AND YOU WILL BE NOTIFIED IN NO MORE THAN FORTY-FIVE (45) DAYS OF THE SUBMISSION OF THE PROPER FUNDING RE-EVALUATION FORMS.
This week, on Tango Sector: Split up from one another inside the Blackford & Desai dome, the crew takes on the obstacles they’ve come up against with poise, quick thinking, and a flair for the dramatic… or something like that. Klaus finds himself outmaneuvered. Liam busts out a new toy. Cash thinks ahead. Flux makes an explosive entrance.
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EXCERPTED FROM AFFECTIVE TRANSCRIPT OF VO-FILE 14437111.982 [ LAB NOTES ] OWNER: DR. SIRIANO DESAI / MAJOR KINETICS / HOMILY
…. it isn’t like a huge deal or anything but is probably likely that our test pilots would prefer not to be vaporized the second the engine finishes doing it’s whole thing since, you know, the whole point of the engine is that you can use it multiple times because it doesn’t make for a very good getaway vehicle if the battery vaporizes your ship every time it trips the auto-shut off and stops power to the engine but anyway what I’m thinking is that if we can get a battery made from a material that doesn’t have an adverse reaction to the hyperbaric compression in the engine casing—hey SABLE, make a note of that for me, will you? just, ah, new material components for power supply, thanks, that’s fab ….
This week, on Tango Sector: Finally inside Blackford & Desai’s dome in the jungles of Chandra, the crew begins their plan to find a way out… but a few complications stand between them and their exit. Klaus sees a glimpse of something strange. Liam coaches the team along. Cash creates a distraction. Flux does some re-wiring.
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ENCRYPTED COMMUNICATIONS — BLACKFORD & DESAI HIGH-CLEARANCE COMMS SERVER
FROM: [email protected]
omega—
just heard back from Blackford w/ a go on the Cicerac—should be getting Union approval pushed through in the next 3-4 days & will begin construction around the site by end of week. still working out schematics but could you send me your notes on the projection tech your lab found? I’m thinking we might be able to adapt it to keep everything on Chandra under wraps until we get it extracted.
lmk and don’t freeze your ass off while I’m gone
y
This week, on Tango Sector: Hired for a new job by their friends at Major Kinetics, the crew heads to Chandra to meet up with some old friends and do a little investigating. Klaus cons an intern. Flux does a fly-by. Liam does some spy-work. Cash befriends the locals.
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QUERY: [[ TORUS STATION // ADEYEMI SYSTEM ]]
… RETURNING QUERY RESULTS FROM ""TL-TRU HOSPITALITY DATABASE"" …
TORUS STATION WAS CONSTRUCTED IN 2140NC, SHORTLY AFTER THE CLIMATE CRISIS ON THISTLE AND HUMANITY’S DECISION TO EXPAND INTO NEARBY STAR SYSTEMS. PRIOR TO THE INVENTION OF THE HYPERSPEED-CAPABLE DELUCCA ENGINE BY EARLY BLACKFORD & DESAI SCIENTISTS, TORUS WAS CONSIDERED A NECESSARY REST AND REFUELING STATION PRIOR TO LENGTHY INTER-SYSTEM TRAVEL.
MOST CONSIDER THE STATION TO HAVE OUTLIVED ITS PURPOSE, THOUGH CRIMINALS UTILIZE THE STATION TO LIE LOW AND SEEK OUT ILLEGAL GOODS AND FAVORS. RUN DOWN AND IN RELATIVE DISREPAIR COMPARED TO THE WELL-MAINTAINED UNION STATIONS IN THE SECTOR, TORUS IS A DANGEROUS DESTINATION AND NOT UNDER MARTINET SECURITY AND SURVEILLANCE JURISDICTION.
This week, on Tango Sector: After completing their job for the Dauntless, the crew takes some time off on Torus Station. Klaus undertakes a studious investigation. Liam picks a fight for information. Flux calls in a favor from a friend. Cash gets an unexpected visitor.
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// MARTINET BROADCAST : POINT OF ORIGIN — AXON STATION : ALL POINTS BULLETIN //
MARTINET PATROLS, PLEASE BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR A NURSE-CLASS FREIGHTER LEAVING AXON FOR VIA THE ADEYEMI GATE. REGISTRATION NUMBER UNKNOWN. PATROL STATIONS WITH EYES ON THE FREIGHTER REPORT THAT IT IS “AN OLD-LOOKING PIECE OF SHIT WITH THE NAME DAUNTLESS ON THE HULL.” INTENDED DESTINATION IS BELIEVED TO BE TORUS STATION. WE BELIEVE THE SHIP IS BEING ASSISTED BY NURSE-CLASS MEDICAL FREIGHTER “LANCE,” REGISTRATION NUMBER— WAIT, NO, I’M GETTING REPORTS THAT WE MAY HAVE BEEN GIVEN A FALSE REGISTRATION NUMBER FOR THE NURSE-CLASS MEDICAL FREIGHTER. AXON STATION PATROL SHIPS CURRENTLY IN PURSUIT...
This week, on Tango Sector: The timer ticks down on the Dauntless’s escape from Axon Station, and the likelihood of Pelagian and her crew getting out unscathed does, too. Cash fakes sick. Flux gets surrounded. Klaus talks a big game. Liam throws his back into it.
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Fresh Pressed, a podcast about new tunes & old grooves, premieres this Tuesday, November 5th. Join hosts Gabe and Andrew for a discussion of their favorites from the last seven days, as well as tracks they love that fit a weekly theme. Fresh Pressed releases every Tuesday morning and is available wherever you get your podcasts.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/freshpressedpod Spotify: spoti.fi/2PydGnbGoogle Play: bit.ly/2BXBpWcRSS: https://pinecast.com/feed/fresh-pressed
// AUTOMATED TRANSCRIPT : OVERHEARD CHATTER ON AXON STATION MARTINET SECURITY COMMS CHANNEL //
[ UNIDENTIFIED STATIC ] RIGHT, UH, WE’VE GOT AN UN— UNAUTHORIZED PERSON IN DOCKING BAY 6-E? SHIT, FUCK, WHAT’S THE… WE’VE GOT A CODE… [ A FORTY SECOND SILENCE, FILLED WITH THE SOUND OF PAGES FLIPPING ] L DASH SIX SEVEN POINT A THREE VIOLATION IN DOCKING BAY 6-E, THIS IS ENSIGN FITZWILLIAM GRAHAM REQUESTING BACK-UP IN DOCKING BAY 6— MOTHERFUCKER, THEY’RE GONE. FUCK, ALL THESE GODDAMN CODES… CAN SOMEONE COME BACK ME UP, UP HERE? THERE’S SOME FUCKIN’ ASSHOLE IN COWBOY BOOTS WHO JUST JUMPED THE GODDAMN TURNSTILE AND RAN OFF WITHOUT FILING THEIR CLEARANCE PAPERS…
This week, on Tango Sector: Hired by their Hauler friends to keep the Martinet occupied while they move a ship full of illegal goods, the crew finds themselves creating an elaborate distraction on Axon Station. Cash makes excuses. Liam blends in. Klaus takes charge. Flux causes a ruckus.
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This week, on Tango Sector: character & crew creation! Join Christine, Andrew, Roman, Morgan, Chris, and Dylan as they introduce their assorted crew of space criminals and misfit friends, try to figure out what a spaceship looks like, and fail at their attempts not to make every single joke a Star Wars reference.
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/unexploredcast Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/unexploredcast Art by Julianne Stone: https://twitter.com/Juli_Aria Music by Andrew: https://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
TANGO SECTOR begins, Tuesday October 8th...
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[ Excerpt taken from http://www.blog'soffice-likeboxoffice-reviewsbycardamomrigby-localcritic.net with permission of the author ]
Lights. Camera. Action!
I believe it was this critic’s favorite, other, critic, Anton Id, who said that “In many ways, the work of a critic is easy.” Indeed, a theatre critic’s work is easy when presented with a piece that is, at once, deeply daring, deeply discerning, and deeply debatable… “Spiderman: Turn Out the Dark” comes to mind, as does 2002’s “Dance of the Vampires” (featuring this critic’s favorite popular song, “Total Eclipse of the Heart”), and Frankie Muniz’s one-man take on “Shrek: The Musical.”
Catfishes: The Rock Opera is the next in this long, storied line of theatrical titans, playing now at Albacore Quay’s own Grand Gargoyle. Lloyd Webb-Andrews’ vision will stare deeply into your soul, begging the immortal question: “Why do I feel this way?” This critic says: this is good. This. Is art.
Keep your eyes and ears peeled for this critic’s favorites: “I am More than the Sum of my Scales”, an impassioned, 30-minute solo, “Are We Catfishes, or Catfish?”, a thoughtful meditation on grammar, and a delightful — and lengthy — water & crotales solo in the third act.
Thank you, as always, for reading Blog’s Office, authored by yours truly, Cardamom Rigby.
EDIT: “Catfishes: THE Rock Opera” has closed.
Let us rage, rage against the passing of the light.
This week on The Unexplored Places, the long-awaited finale of a group of obnoxious musical theatre adults playing a disastrous group of obnoxious musical theatre adults in this three-part Fiasco.
Fiasco is by Jason Morningstar. The playset Fiasco! A Rock Opera is by Zach W. Lorton. Episode art is taken from the cover of the playset.
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Catfishes!: The Rock Opera at the Gargoyle Theatre Promises to Delight, Disgust, and Despair
by Jorb Jarvis, Daily Albacore Quay Gazette
The Gargoyle Theatre, known primarily in Albacore Quay for its middle-of-the-road theatrical productions and its excellent Children's Theatre Tuesdays, is staging its riskiest venture yet: a world premiere rock opera penned by a local writer.
According to Lloyd Webb-Andrews, who wrote the shows ambitious book and score, Catfishes! is a pensive meditation on the natural lifecycle of the catfish, as well as a deep, exhaustive examination of the trouble of the human psyche in absentia of nature. The show's orchestra features local experimental percussionist St. John Holiday, known for his work with crotales in water, as well as insta-famous drummer The Sticc, and lighting design by long-time Gargoyle technician and first-time designer, Bishop St. John.
Still, I can't help but wonder if The Gargoyle would have been better served by selecting a less ambitious, or more relatable show for their first ever rock opera. Les Mis, for example, which is a reliable crowd-pleaser, would perhaps be easier for audiences to fully immerse themselves in, as the identifiable human characters might make it easier for audiences to relate to the story being told.
While judgement should likely be withheld until the show finally opens, one inside source who asked to remain anonymous let this reporter in on a secret: infighting between the orchestra and technical crew, as well as some financial issues, have led the show down a precarious path, with some involved doubting whether the show will even go up at all!
All in all, the show is slated to be the experience of a lifetime, whether for better or for worse. You heard it here, folks, from The Daily Albacore Quay Gazette: be sure to get a ticket so you don't miss your chance. It'll be a story worth telling either way.
Catfishes!: The Rock Opera opens for previews on September 17th, with opening night on the 24th. Tickets are now available from the box office, [email protected].
This month on The Unexplored Places, join a group of obnoxious musical theatre adults playing a disastrous group of obnoxious musical theatre adults in this three-part Fiasco.
Fiasco is by Jason Morningstar. The playset Fiasco! A Rock Opera is by Zach W. Lorton. Episode art is taken from the cover of the playset.
support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/unexploredcast twitter: @unexploredcast music by Andrew: https://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
AUDITION NOTICE
CATFISHES!: THE ROCK OPERA BY LLOYD WEBB-ANDREWS
Seeking actors, singers, and musicians for the world premiere of the new musical Catfishes!: The Rock Opera, to open at the Gargoyle Theatre on Main Street on September 17th. Written and composed by local auteur Lloyd Webb-Andrews, Catfishes! is a stunning meditation on the life of the catfish. To audition, please prepare a one minute dramatic monologue and 32 bars of a rock song of your choice.
For further information, contact the Gargoyle's casting department by emailing [email protected].
This month on The Unexplored Places, join a group of obnoxious musical theatre adults playing a disastrous group of obnoxious musical theatre adults in this three-part Fiasco.
Fiasco is by Jason Morningstar. The playset Fiasco! A Rock Opera is by Zach W. Lorton. Episode art is taken from the cover of the playset.
support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/unexploredcast twitter: @unexploredcast music by Andrew: https://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Join us as Bic Hacksman, Strawberry Jammer, and Arthur continue their daring chase across the American Northwest in pursuit of a stolen Jeep, a sick mixtape, a drone that dabs, and the sweet taste of revenge. What do the FBI agents want with Bigfoot? Will Arthur ever get back at Bigfoot, and what is that all about anyway? And why is Bigfoot going to a costume party?
Find out in this special two-part game of Oh, Dang! Bigfoot Stole My Car With My Friend's Birthday Present Inside, a hack of John Harper's Lasers & Feelings by Paul Matijevic.
support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/unexploredcast twitter: @unexploredcast music by Andrew: https://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Join us as Andrew takes a spin in the GM seat and leads Christine, Roman, and Chris on a daring chase across the American Northwest in pursuit of a stolen Jeep, a sick mixtape, a drone that dabs, and a whole lot of beef jerky. Will the crew make it to Sam's birthday party in time? Will they ever recover the Jam Jeep? And what, exactly, is Bigfoot doing heading towards Spokane, anyway?
Find out in this special two-part game of Oh, Dang! Bigfoot Stole My Car With My Friend's Birthday Present Inside, a hack of John Harper's Lasers & Feelings by Paul Matijevic.
support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/unexploredcast twitter: @unexploredcast music by Andrew: https://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Thank you so much to everyone who sent in questions for this week's Season 1 wrap up episode! Topics of conversation include: favorite NPCs, biggest surprises, what monsters we would like to kiss, and who would play each character in the TV adaptation.
Season 2 will begin in October, and biweekly bonus episodes will be posted through August and September.
support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/unexploredcast twitter: @unexploredcast art by Chaz: @cicadahymns music by Andrew: https://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
As a preview of our Patreon-exclusive campaign of Monster of the Week, here is episode 1 of Florence DeWitt's Paranormal Detective Agency!
Several uneventful months after their encounter with the Fata Morgana, our motley crew of heroes stumbles across something supernatural in the heart of London — something to do with a mysterious apparition that's not entirely as it seems. Edgar sees a ghost. Clarence and Cassandra take a trip to the library. Florence and Cora take a dip in the sewers.This arc is based on and contains spoilers for Deliverance, OH 33-39; however, those episodes can be listened to out of context of the rest of Deliverance, OH if you haven't listened to the full season.
support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/unexploredcast twitter: @unexploredcast art by Chaz: @cicadahymns music by Andrew: https://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Submit your questions about Season 1 for the Q&A episode to [email protected] by July 20th.
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/unexploredcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/unexploredcast Tumblr: https://unexploredcast.tumblr.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unexploredcast
With the moment of truth finally at hand, our heroes stand together to face down a series of impossible tasks. Chase makes an important deal. Rowan gets back something they'd lost. Byrdie faces down the truth. Lance takes a leap of faith.
CONTENT WARNINGS: car accident, character death
support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/unexploredcast twitter: @unexploredcast art by Chaz: @cicadahymns music by Andrew: https://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Deep in the woods, two dangerous halves of an unknowable force come together, and our heroes make a desperate bid to stop them from reuniting. Chase tracks down some help. Rowan tracks down a nemesis. Byrdie makes an important decision. Lance makes a difficult choice.
CONTENT WARNING: car accident
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Our heroes have finally reassembled—but at what cost? Will they be able to set aside their differences for long enough to share information, or will their infighting kill them before their enemies have the chance? Lance gets the hell out of dodge. Rowan handles the situation. Byrdie gets a phone call. Chase gets a nap.
CONTENT WARNING: supernatural mental manipulation
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
In a desperate bid to secure Faith's half of the Chrysalis, our heroes begin to take sides, and the lines of what they are and aren't willing to do begin to blur. Rowan sheds some light on the situation. Lance utilizes his lacrosse skills. Byrdie gets up close and personal. Chase takes one for the team.
CONTENT WARNING: supernatural mental manipulation
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
The hunt to reunite the Chrysalis presses on, with Rowan's search for their wings revealing a dangerous alliance playing out behind the scenes -- and an equally dangerous defection bringing new information to light. Rowan tracks down their nemesis. Lance rushes headfirst into things. Byrdie finds himself with an unexpected ally. Chase gives a new tactic a try.
CONTENT WARNINGS: implied character death, suicide
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
With the mystery of the Chrysalis unravelled at last, Lance sets out to finish the job Faith started while the Kindred attempts to right the wrongs made over Halloween. Chase takes an oath. Lance hides the truth. Byrdie follows orders. Rowan solicits help from a friend.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
The sun begins to rise and the end of the story draws near. An explanation is finally at hand, and a crisis lies just beyond the coming dawn. Clarence saves a life. Cassandra feels the pull. Edgar has a bad brush with magic. Faith makes a sacrifice he'll never forget.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
We're so excited to announce our brand new Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/unexploredcast
For just $1 a month, you get access to our new monthly bonus campaign, Florence DeWitt's Paranormal Detective Agency. Check out the page, pledge if you can, and share with all your friends!
Face to face with a mansion full of monsters, the clock begins to run out and the end of the world begins to draw near. Cora makes a dangerous acquaintance. Cassandra and Faith let the spirits guide them. Clarence sees something he'll never forget. Edgar gets help.
CONTENT WARNING: body horror mentions
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
As the newly-assembled group takes a moment to gather their wits, Cassandra looks for a path to take and Cora finds herself in deeper than she expected. Clarence expresses hesitation. Florence tries to keep things under wraps. Faith provides some comfort. Edgar visits an old friend.
CONTENT WARNING: body horror mentions
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Cornered in an alleyway and faced with a disturbing surprise, our heroes press on in an attempt to cope with what they've seen. Faith makes a sacrifice. Edgar loses a beloved friend. Florence makes a disturbing discovery. Clarence examines a body. Cora gets carried away.
CONTENT WARNINGS: body horror, child death
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
The unfolding mystery begins to pull our heroes together, and a vision of a burning city plagues them each in their own way. Florence asks for Edgar's help. Clarence accompanies Faith on a house call. Cassandra does a reading that takes them by surprise. Cora receives an offer she simply cannot refuse.
CONTENT WARNING: supernatural mental manipulation
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Old Man Jenkins relays the tale of the Chrysalis to Lance. Over a century ago, Fight-the-good-fight-of-faith Fayerweather hears an equally unsettling tale – one that echoes a strange nightmare he can't explain. Faith gives some guidance. Florence takes a case.
Content warnings: supernatural mental manipulation, memory loss.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
It is the morning after Halloween and all is not well in Deliverance. A contract has been broken, the leader of the Kindred is missing, and every answer comes with even more questions than before. With an increasing number of mysteries surrounding them, our heroes dig deep into the history of the Kindred of the Faith in hopes of finding some way out of the predicament they've created. Rowan recovers. Byrdie calls his dad. Chase faces down danger head-on. Lance uncovers a secret.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
A possessed frat boy, a tense stand-off, and a magnificent self-destruction join alongside childhood trauma and familial disagreement to create... a fairly typical Christmas in Deliverance. Will XMS make back the money they spent on Slavoj Žižek? Will Remedy finally get the respect she deserves from Ashleigh? Will Meredith ever sell a goddamn Christmas tree? And what does Canada have to do with it all?
NOTE: This episode takes place prior to DELIVERANCE, OH 01 and can be listened to out of sequence with the continuity of the season.
CONTENT WARNINGS: drug use, character death
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
It's Christmastime in Deliverance and despite the decorations, the gingerbread lattes, and the gently falling snow, all is not well in this sleepy Ohio town. The Kindred have detected a dangerous presence -- or, dangerous presents -- lurking somewhere inside of the Super Walmart, a presence somehow tied up in the feud between two warring Christmas tree lots. What festive ghost, ghoul, or demon awaits the Kindred, through those automatic doors, and what does Fairweather frat XMS have to do with it?
NOTE: This episode takes place prior to DELIVERANCE, OH 01 and can be listened to out of sequence with the continuity of the season.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
As our heroes return to the mortal realm, uncomfortable truths begin to come to light. Chase checks his messages. Byrdie makes a call. Rowan asks for help. Lance meets an old friend.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
On the other side of the portal, our heroes grapple with moral dilemmas beyond their understanding, and the time pressure begins to grow dire. Lance has a crisis. Byrdie tries to out-charm a charmer. Chase buys the group time. Rowan rushes to the rescue.
Content warnings: supernatural mental manipulation, discussion of uncertain consent.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Having come together and consulted, our heroes have no choice but to confront what lies through the portals. Chase gets choked up. Lance dives in headfirst. Byrdie rushes after. Rowan finds an unwelcome guest.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Three different discoveries bring our heroes closer to the truth of the disappearance of Mike Burden, and also to the peril that lies beyond. Rowan makes a friend. Lance gets a boost. Byrdie leads the way. Chase has a whale of a time.
Content warnings: heavy consumption of alcohol
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Searching for information about the last known whereabouts of Mike, our heroes partake in an ancient, sacred ritual: beer pong. Byrdie tries something risky. Chase gets a win. Rowan ignores the signs. Lance rushes off.
Content warnings: supernatural mental manipulation, heavy consumption of alcohol
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
With a new mission in hand, a favor for a friend, our heroes make their way into the scariest place on campus: a frat house. Byrdie asks around. Lance makes a new acquaintance. Rowan runs into some old trouble. Chase gets left behind.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
At long last, some of our heroes take on the demon Bathym, while others face demons of a more... personal kind. Lance does some searching. Chase rights some wrongs. Rowan experiences a new sensation. Byrdie meets his maker.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Our heroes reunite on their demon hunt, procuring a little help and meeting some unexpected surprises. Rowan rejoins the fray. Chase calls shotgun. Lance gets possessive. Byrdie gets possessed.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
While the others head off in pursuit of one demon, Rowan takes Van to work on tracking down another one, and professional duty gets personal. Van causes a distraction. Rowan reaches out. Zeke brings the snacks.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
After news of an unexplainable break in at the First Bank of Deliverance, our heroes set out to track down a loose demon before he can cause any more harm. Chase makes a confession. Lance creates a distraction. Byrdie plays it straight.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
With a little time to spare, our heroes take on some personal issues and prepare for what is to come. Chase takes an oath. Rowan tries out a different kind of stalking.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
With a little time to spare, our heroes take on some personal issues and prepare for what is to come. Lance takes a midnight drive. Byrdie goes on a road trip of self-discovery.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Thanks to Rowan's quick thinking, the rest of the team takes their opportunity to capture the Chronophage... and deal with the consequences. Rowan sends a message. Byrdie throws his back into it. Lance answers for a mistake. Chase makes one.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
As our heroes begin to set their time-sensitive plan into motion, a couple of unfortunate complications occur. Rowan gets a headache. Byrdie has a heart-to-heart. Chase enlists some help. Lance has a run in with the law.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
With time rapidly slipping between their fingers, our heroes rush to put together a plan before their progress is undone once more. Byrdie gets fed up. Rowan takes a shortcut. Chase interrupts something. Lance has a vision.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Caught in a loop, our heroes try to convince their allies, struggle to make progress, and come face to face with something horrifying. Byrdie breaks it all down. Rowan does some research. Chase has a tiny problem. Lance goes in the hole.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Something within the ritual has gone awry, and Lance and Byrdie find themselves at the start of the test once again -- or are our heroes still being tested? Chase gets confused. Rowan plays along. Lance makes a demand. Byrdie makes a discovery.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
The time has come for our heroes to be tested, and to undergo the initiation rituals of the Kindred of the Faith. Rowan takes credit. Chase prays for the best. Lance shows natural aptitude. Byrdie shows unnatural frustration.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
After a desperate escape, our heroes find that there's more to this mystery than just making it out alive. Byrdie gets stuck. Rowan slips up. Chase gets lit. Lance gets mad.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Separated from one another in the depths of the mysterious house, our heroes make a horrifying discovery. Rowan makes to escape. Chase ventures forward. Byrdie saves a life. Lance needs an adult.
twitter: @unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
As our heroes begin to get separated by their reckless plunge into the depths of the Old Endicott House, they begin to doubt their own eyes, and their own instincts. Lance runs off. Rowan catches up. Byrdie second guesses himself. Chase trusts his gut.
twitter: @UnexploredCast cover art by Chaz: @cicadahymns theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Rumors of a disturbance in an abandoned house draw our heroes back together and into the depths of a mystery they aren't fully prepared to handle. Chase makes some calls. Byrdie makes some mistakes. Lance cranks up the music. Rowan runs after them all.
twitter: http://twitter.com/unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: http://cheyennecardell.com/ theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
With time to breathe and time to think, our heroes adjust to the things they've learned and the the things they've done. Lance makes hot chocolate. Chase makes amends.
twitter: http://twitter.com/unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: http://cheyennecardell.com/ theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
With time to breathe and time to think, our heroes adjust to the things they've learned and the the things they've done. Rowan does some research. Byrdie has a tough conversation.
twitter: http://twitter.com/unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: http://cheyennecardell.com/ theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
As their mystery hurtles towards a close, our heroes learn a thing or two about making assumptions, and a thing or two about fighting monsters. Rowan holds down the fort. Byrdie makes a promise. Lance defends a friend. Chase fulfills a prophecy.
twitter: http://twitter.com/unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: http://cheyennecardell.com/ theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
At long last, our heroes bring the fight to the monster... just as the monster bring the fight straight to them. Lance rushes into danger. Rowan heals some wounds. Chase gets his hands dirty. Byrdie calls on an old friend.
twitter: http://twitter.com/unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: http://cheyennecardell.com/ theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Secrets are finally revealing themselves to our unwilling heroes, but at what cost? Some truths, after all, are harder to stomach than others. Byrdie has a revelation. Chase does some research. Lance faces his fears. Rowan makes demands.
twitter: http://twitter.com/unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: http://cheyennecardell.com/ theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
In the aftermath of their first monstrous run-in, our heroes scramble to recover and make sense of the situation, but there's no time for rest with a monster on the loose. Rowan meets the parents. Lance makes a reluctant agreement. Chase does some magic. Byrdie discovers himself.
twitter: http://twitter.com/unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: http://cheyennecardell.com/ theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Face to face and hand to hand with a monster and a mystery, our heroes struggle to keep the situation in check. Lance snoops around; Rowan kicks some ass; Chase grits his teeth; Byrdie holds his breath.
twitter: http://twitter.com/unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: http://cheyennecardell.com/ theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
As our heroes fumble for answers surrounding the death of Delaney Chapman, pieces beyond their control begin moving around them. Byrdie makes a discovery; Lance sheds some tears; Rowan shares their wisdom; Chase meets some unexpected trouble.
twitter: http://twitter.com/unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: http://cheyennecardell.com/ theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
No closer to discovering the mystery of Delaney Chapman's murder, our heroes tackle the problem from four different directions. Chase gets an assignment; Rowan discovers modern technology; Lance cuts class; Byrdie gets his conspiracy on.
twitter: http://twitter.com/unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: http://cheyennecardell.com/ theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
Luck is not on the side of our heroes as they investigate the crime scene where the body of Delaney Chapman was found. Lance makes a new friend; Byrdie talks his way out of trouble; Rowan lurks in the soybean field; Chase has a run-in with the law.
twitter: http://twitter.com/unexploredcast cover art by Chaz: http://cheyennecardell.com/ theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
This episode covers the introductory worldbuilding for our game of Monster of the Week as Andrew, Morgan, Roman, and Chaz create their characters, build relationships, and help Christine to populate the world of Deliverance, Ohio.
twitter: https://twitter.com/unexploredcast website: https://unexploredcast.tumblr.com/ cover art by Chaz: http://cheyennecardell.com/ theme music by Andrew: http://andrewperricone.bandcamp.com/
En liten tjänst av I'm With Friends. Finns även på engelska.