Lamb

After nearly two days of the Guild’s nonstop promenade. Their destination was within view: embedded in the island’s enormous, likely another extinct volcano, resting a magnificent stone temple with intricate wooden engravings. Functionally hidden by the high altitude fog, creating an ominous sight, as a permeating deep dark green tropical forest engulfed the temple. Resembling an malformed eye, as the forest is the iris and the temple is the pupil. Seemingly observing the ghastly land, gladly avoiding the unimaginable monsters that dwell within this paradoxically calm planet.

As the Guild drag their noticeably wearied legs, on the verge of collapse. The only time they had the opportunity to rest was when they encountered more of the Old World Monster Kitsune. A surprising number of them populated this area; aside from the Party’s species’, this is the first time there has been multiple of the same specimen in a given area.

Another populated element of Nordskaget are these shrine-like structures. Varying in size, from a few meters to dominating heights that rise beyond the trees, a square shaped archway either scattered in several spots or forming a pathway, one after the other, leading to the temple. Striking Vermilions and Rich Oranges, some have markings or symbols, along with what appears to be lanterns of some kind.

Sasaki began to grow with some concern, as his face narrowed with every step closer to the temple. Understandably, as this supposed Rebellion doesn’t show any signs of a rebellious struggle. Quite the opposite in fact, as a few people have been kneeling on the ground and facing a stone statue designed similar to the Kitsune, looking as if they are praying to the statue. However, Sasaki was visibly drained to even consider these questions. Perhaps this is simply the assembly for the rebellion and its members, in order to retain secrecy.

Approaching the large double doors into the temple, two robed individuals sat on each side of the doors, gatekeepers of sorts. Sharing a similar color scheme as the square shrines with their faces covered by a uniquely crafted mask with a singular symbol in the center. One of the gatekeepers walked up the Guild. Selene and the gatekeeper exchanged some inaudible phrases, likely a code for safety, they must have been correct because the gatekeepers slowly opened the double doors.

Once they entered, they were promptly greeted by another masked individual, except only their mouth was covered. Somewhat towering over the Guild in height, donning a similar robe with their legs exposed revealing tight leather-like pants, and heeled shoes. Clasping their hands together with devious delight at the sight at the Guild.

“Welcome, Yên Xuân, Arinya, Solveig.” The greeter smiled with their somewhat unnerving eyes. “Where is the dignified Astrid?” They then asked with a monotone eagerness.

“She’s been injured and is resting on our Beast.” Selene explained, as she got the Beast to kneel.

“That is quite unfortunate…” The greeter mentioned showing mild sympathy. “I see you have brought one, possibly two supporters.” The greeter curiously looked around the Party for these supposed supporters.

“We’ve brought two, this one is somehow part of a Sect.” Selene mentioned, as she pulled up the sleeve of the boy to reveal the glowing tattoo.

“Perfect, excellent work.” The greeter announced with great delight, looking over the boy. As Sasaki continued to show his confusion with the unraveling situation.

“You may now depart, then once your report is finished, deliver it to the Principals.” The greeter mentioned carrying the boy away as he panicked, then guided Sasaki in the same direction.

“Hey, wait? What’s going on?” Sasaki announced, looking at the Party for answers. They completely ignored his worried questions as they got their belongings off of the disintegrating Beast.

“You needn’t worry child, you are a chosen one. You will be Venerated here.” The greeter boasted with a delighted tone, gently placing their hand on the back of Sasaki. Too tired to resist, Sasaki accepted the strange situation.

“May You Prosper With O-Inari-sama.” The greeter then turned to the Party, bowing to them with respect, as the Party reflected this gesture.

⯂

The revelation has undeniable lucidity: the Party is part of a Sect with this temple as the headquarters. Just as is the boy. The Party’s only mission was to deliver Beyonders to the Sect to be a venerated pawn for whatever goal they have. Similar to Morakot’s deplorable Sect, with an important difference. The Party’s Sect, seems to be more structured. Competent, even.

As shown by Sasaki’s initiation. Soon guided by the greeter to a room that is near the opposing face of the mountain volcano. He is brought to an area giving the impression of being some form of Ritualistic operation. While the boy was carted in a separate direction; likely with the possibility of interrogation.

Sasaki doesn’t seem to be too bothered by this betrayal, or any aspect of the situation. He looks to be more disappointed that the Party were cleverly deceptive, instead of the fact that they have involvement with an organization that they somewhat criticized.

Sasaki is promptly welcomed by other monks or priests in an incredibly steam-filled area. Then told to strip nude, slowly complying with a grin of slight disbelief, he’s then brought to the source of the steam. At this area of the mountain, are several geothermal springs. Which is somewhat unnerving to say the least: meaning, that this volcano may not actually be extinct.

Calmly greeted by the lifeful greenery growing happily in the bright water room as a leisurely stream of water trickles into the large pool at the center. The only one in this particular spring, as this specific spring is likely meant exclusively for Beyonders. As it is the one with the lowest altitude compared to the others, occupied by other members separated by status or gender.

A member placed some new clothes by the entrance for Sasaki, still maintaining his grin, he slowly fell into the steamy waters. Appearing as if he is now comfortable with the situation.

“Well, nightmares aren’t always meant to be frightening… I suppose.”

Sasaki announced to himself. Wholeheartedly accepting the truly unimaginable situation.

Questioning Sasaki’s nonchalant behavior with the situation: soon made sense. As he simply became aware of the best means for survival: the assimilation to any form of institution. This is why the mendacious Party has been able to survive such a long time. This is likely the only way to survive in this world. Be part of something, anything. A small Guild, Village, Sect, or otherwise. Tribalism at its finest.

There is, however, the perspective that each of these Sects have a belief that is very distinct only to their Sect; as the Sect they chose to be part of is the superior organization, even the correct way of belief. Sects of this world are functionally a religious faith, with a fine number of differences. Ultimately, they serve the same necessity for Rife Organisms and their early civilizations.

An unfortunate reality of many for these variations of Civilizations. This world. Has a very agreeable justification for such and so plentiful organizations to exist.

⯂

The Party then went to a surprisingly comfortable room with two bunk beds, a fireplace also designed for cooking, and washroom. Displaying small totems and statues much like the Kitsune statue that are outside, even more colorful decorations with highly detailed paintings, covering the room’s walls. With it all encased by well formed bright wooden flooring and sidings. As if the Sect wants its members to believe that being at this place is a privilege, or even a gift.

Unfazed by the alluring room, the Party understands that these walls are no more than a place of restful reward and promised safety. Yên Xuân, Arinya, Solveig with Astrid in her arms, slowly situated themselves in their space of relief. This is the closest they have to a home.

Their voyage has finally reached a dull conclusion. No more monsters, no false gods in sight, no imaginary Warlocks or devils. In spite of their earned relief, their voyage may only be partially achieved. As dense expressions of melancholy are shown on each of the Party.

They show a lingering knowledge that they’ll have to continue another excursion in due time. More missions with needless tribulations, more deceitful histories, more pain. These once vivacious vixens have been transmuted into a perishable description of when they were first observed on that odd beach.

Heart broken by the mental anguish. Assaulted by the inconsiderate Horrors of this heartless reality. Extensively disfigured skin that will become irremovable reminders. Beginnings of decolorizing hair from the ceaseless fear at every turn. Rigid joints, terrorizing their hands and legs to crack in aches with the slightest of motions; even Luna’s and Selene’s once cutely fashioned nails are reduced to depressing nubs. Shared Traumas that the four will only understand. And so much forceful blood loss.

Purnama, with great care, laid down Bulan on one of the beds. Selene sat on the other bed, hunched over with her slightly trembling hands that covered her face. Luna exhales her remaining anxiety as she locks the door, creating a small smile. Looking as if she wanted to cry, but couldn’t because she used up all the tears that she had, and will need to recover. Luna soon sat next to Selene, reaching her arm over her for comfort.

“We did it, Yên Xuân.” Luna smiled. “We’re that much closer.” She mentioned as Selene slowly looked at Luna, to then hug each other.

“Yeah… Yeah.” Selene slowly agreed, embracing Luna’s hug. “I’m going to talk to the Principals, and will finally be able to breathe… For a short while at least.” Selene mentioned with a great sigh of relief.

“I’ll go with you.” Purnama spoke up.

“Okay…” Quietly, Selene nodded in agreement, as the two slowly left their room.