S. P. E. C. T. R. E. and S. H. A. D. O. W. Conference (storyline)/2024-10-05 - Lecture 5 - Communing with the Spirits (log)

Summary

Lecture #5 of 6 from the S. P. E. C. T. R. E. and S. H. A. D. O. W. Conference. Speaker Zethes Wraith presented about Communing with the Spirits, where she also unknowingly gave several demonstrations for the audience. Clarence was present as a special guest, though no one else saw him. Log is taken from Phanna's point of view and has been edited to focus on the lecture itself.

Log

Zethes suddenly pops up and exclaims, "Oh!  It's me, this is my lecture!"

You see Mistress Zethes Wraith the Witch.
She appears to be a Half-Elf from Evashir.
She is average height and has a delicately boned, waifish body.  She appears to be an adult.  She has kohl-lined auroral green eyes and ashen skin.  She has waist-length, rich auburn hair shrouded in a gauzy veil pinned by an amethyst-spiked crystalline haircomb, the silken strands and ethereal fabric flowing down her back.  She has a soft-featured face, a short, upturned nose and upswept, pointed ears pierced by a series of blackened rings.
She is in good shape.
She is wearing a cropped aubergine silk shrug with sheer bell sleeves, a charm-strung fall of filamentous necklaces over a sleeveless byssus blouse gradated from ivory to plum, numerous delicate chains cascading crystal-beaded strands over the hips, a dark wyrsilk handkerchief skirt grazing the floor in diaphanous layers, and a pair of night-dark sandals banded in scrunched chiffon.

Giedrius looks thoughtfully at Liras.

Thalita smirks.

Rovvigen turns to Zethes and cheers!

Saleigh grins at Zethes.

Raelee turns to face Zethes.

You gaze with interest at Zethes.

Missoni gazes in amusement at Zethes.

Speaking to Zethes, Giedrius whispers aloud, "Mask on or off?"

Saleigh asks, "And what are you lecturing on, today, Zethes?"

Lissaya tilts her head slightly, turning her attention to Zethes.  She regards Zethes in a measured fashion, collecting her thoughts.

Opalina gazes in awe at Zethes.

Speaking amusedly to Saleigh, Giedrius asks, "You trust she remembers?"

Zethes says, "Darling, always on in Naidem."

Ermias jabs a finger at his ghezyte-inlaid mask, before shuddering in obvious pain.

Speaking to Zethes, Giedrius says, "As you say."

Zethes stands before those gathered, appearing slightly disoriented and brushing imaginary dust off her sleeves.  As if noticing for the first time that she s surrounded by actual people, she blinks with a round, wide-eyed expression that resembles an owl in moonlight.

Faiyth grins at Zethes.

Speaking to Ermias, Meliyara asks, "Are you alright?"

Alicea applauds Zethes.

Ermias softly says, "Yes sorry.  My mask itches."

Meliyara nods sympathetically at Ermias.

Zethes excitedly says, "Ah, yes, yes!  Welcome!  It s such a delight to be here -- really, I can feel the energy in the room.  So... lively."

Liras turns to face Zethes.

Rovvigen smiles at Zethes.

Zethes gives a small, bemused pause, as if she's forgotten what 'lively' means in this context.

Zethes amusedly says, "But of course, some of you might be less lively than others..."."

Liras exclaims, "I'm alive!"

Giedrius glances at Liras.

Lych chuckles to herself.

Meliyara gazes in amusement at Zethes.

Speaking to Liras, Giedrius whispers aloud, "Perhaps do not announce that."

Blinking owlishly, she flashes a quick, awkward smile.

Faelynth asks, "I think I'm alive?"

Speaking squeakily to Liras, Philomina whispers aloud, "We don't tell them that!"

Liras says, "...metaphorically."

You suggest, "Unlively?"

Zethes abruptly says, "Anyway!  I'm here to speak before you about communing with the spirits."

Rovvigen softly says, "Yass this will be fun."

Opalina turns an inquisitive ear toward Zethes.

Meliyara gazes with interest at Zethes.

Liras smiles and chuckles awkwardly.

Rovvigen turns an inquisitive ear toward Zethes.

Silverthorne says, "I'm in a state of unlving."

Zethes clears her throat dramatically, scanning the room as if expecting applause.  But instead of applause, there's a sudden flicker in the candlelight.  Her attention is immediately drawn to something on her left.

Missoni glances to her left.

Giedrius glances to his right.

Lissaya glances to her right.

Liras glances to her right.

You gaze with interest at Zethes.

Maylan glances to her left.

Alek glances to his left and right, letting his double-irised green eyes shift back and forth beneath a proactive third lid.

Callayne glances to her right.

Zethes surprisedly says, "Oh! Oh, well now, I didn't expect you this soon."

Caedenmon glances to his right.

Zethes tilts her head, squinting into the empty space beside her, as if she sees someone standing there.

Deep in thought, Caedenmon laces his fingers before him.

Zethes casually says, "Yes, yes, I am about to start.  No, no -- I'm sure they'll be very interested in what you have to say, but if you don't mind, I have to introduce myself first."

Giedrius lifts both of his eyebrows in a dubious fashion, but settles back against the couch without comment.

Giedrius folds his arms over his chest.

Zethes waves a hand dismissively, as though trying to shoo away an invisible pest.

Zethes exasperatedly says, "Honestly, spirits these days.  No patience!  The afterlife must be terribly boring."

Callayne nods once.

As if suddenly realizing what she's said, Zethes glances at some of the Unliving in the room and blushes before turning back to the audience with a bit of a sheepish grin.

Zethes apologetically mumbles, "Sorry about that, darlings.  They can be a bit... clingy.  Anyway! I m here to speak before you about communing with the spirits --"

Ermias turns an inquisitive ear toward Zethes.

Zethes freezes mid-sentence, her eyes going wide.  A look of irritation flashes across her face.

Giedrius murmurs, "You said that."

Zethes exasperatedly says, "What?  Oh, I can t possibly talk about that now!"."

Zethes glances to her left.

Lissaya glances to her right.

Callayne raises an eyebrow in Zethes's direction.

Faelynth acts puzzled.

Pauses, her head tilted to the side as if she is listening intently to something, and then sighs in frustration.

Zethes contritely says, "Fine."

Faiyth says, "One persistant spook."

Zethes addresses the audience with a theatrical sigh, clearly annoyed.

Zethes agrees with Faiyth.

Giedrius glances between Liras and Callayne.

Zethes pedantically says, "It appears we've already got one here who simply can t wait.  His name is Clarence -- he insists I tell you that."

Zethes rolls her eyes as if Clarence is being very dramatic.

Missoni carefully says, "Hello, Clarence."

Meliyara hesitantly ventures, "She'ri, Clarence?"

Zethes dramatically says, "He's very upset because, well... it seems someone moved his favorite chair."

Maylan blurts, "Hi fella!"

Faiyth looks at Zethes with concern.

Zethes pauses, then winces.

Giedrius quietly agrees, "The afterlife must be terribly boring, indeed."

Zethes quietly exclaims, "Oh dear. No, no, he s very cross about it, actually.  Mmm... says it s been in the same spot for... oh my, 132 years?  Well, no wonder he s cranky!"

Lych nods towards the space near Zethes in greeting.

Missoni nods slightly at Giedrius.

Faiyth says, "After that short of time you'd expect things to be where you left them."

Nisugi asks, "Did he stub is toe or something?"

Zethes shrugs apologetically toward the audience.

Zethes sadly says, "Poor Clarence, he s just been stuck in this horrid afterlife, watching people move his furniture around.  Can you imagine?  How terribly upsetting for him.  And -- oh, now he s going on about the wallpaper."

Fleurs says, "That sounds very tedious."

Zethes says, "You should ask Blodeuyn about that."

Missoni offers, "Perhaps we might remedy the situation with the chair."

Speaking to Fleurs, Meliyara asks, "What does he have, but time?"

Speaking to Zethes, Faiyth says, "Not if you don't want yelled at."

Callayne asks, "Can't Clarence.. show himself?"

Callayne glances to her right.

Faelynth says, "The spirits are restless this time of year."

Zethes leans in, whispering as if sharing a secret and casting furtive glances over her shoulder.  Honestly, I think he s a little too .attached  to beige.

Thalita says, "He should get his revenge by moving their furniture.  That is how poltergeists entertain themselves."

Liras exclaims, "I've moved a chair or two in my time!"

Speaking to Meliyara, Fleurs says, "I mean being helpless to change the situation himself."

Meliyara grins wryly at Zethes.

Liras says, "Happy to help."

You gaze in amusement at Thalita.

Speaking to himself, Giedrius murmurs, "I am loath to think that this would truly be the concerns of the departed, were I one of them."

Zethes says, "I think they behave differently here."

Zethes frowns.

Zethes looks lost in thought.

Zethes asks, "Something about if no one remembers them and they don't remember their form they are just... you know... here but unseen until someone like me can.. see?"

Speaking to Zethes, Faiyth says, "At least he's not having his soul used as fuel for some golem."

You admit, "The idea of spirits of this manner in Naidem, similar to how they exist in the material plane, is not quite what I expected, to be honest."

Zethes nods faintly.

Giedrius furrows his brow.

You ponder the meaning of Zethes's existence.

Faiyth says, "Chairs are small issues... good issues."

Suddenly, Zethes snaps her fingers, brightening as though struck by a thought.

Missoni says, "Does no one remember him? That is rather tragic."

Giedrius pours himself an octagon-cut glass of smoky scotch.

Giedrius takes a drink from his smoky scotch.

Faiyth says, "Very sad indeed."

Zethes asks, "Oh, Clarence, darling, you should let go of the chair.  Surely there are other chairs in the afterlife, right?"

Zethes pauses, clearly listening.

Lissaya gazes in amusement at Zethes.

Zethes says, "What's that?  Oh... oh, no?  No other chairs?  Oh.  No other chairs you can use.  Well, that's just dreadful."

Giedrius murmurs, "Bit dramatic, isn't he?"

Speaking to Missoni, you murmur, "I've heard that some pursue immortality by achieving great deeds - that they might never be forgotten."
Missoni furrows her brow.

Liras says, "I gotta see this chair..."

Zethes puts on a serious face, looking at the audience with wide eyes.

Faelynth says, "I think a seance is needed."

Zethes nods at Giedrius.

Faiyth appears to be trying hard not to grin.

Zethes says, "Slowly Spirits, my friends -- they hold onto the strangest things.  So!  First lesson: when communing with the spirits, do be prepared for their... complaints.  Especially about decor."

Speaking to you, Missoni whispers aloud, "If it is a way to avoid this banal sort of afterlife, I must make an effort."

You add, "And change?"

Erienne laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.

Fleurs says, "They appear to be very particular."

Opalina takes a moment to observe Zethes.

Giedrius nods in agreement at Missoni.

Ermias nods.

Rovvigen softly says, "The attachment to things of their time is great."

Giedrius quietly says, "Muse @giedrius Perhaps there is less of a malleabililty and thus a resistance to change in such a state."

Zethes says, "Before we get into the art of communing with spirits, there's one very important thing you must do first -- set the mood.  You see, spirits are rather... picky about ambiance.  Oh yes, they won't just come if the room feels all wrong.  Imagine trying to call upon the great beyond while sitting under an umbrella in balmy Mist Harbor!  Dreadful.  No, no, no.  Spirits like... atmosphere."

(Opalina takes notes.)

Alek raspily asks, "Was Clarence an interior decorator in life?"

Zethes shrugs at Alek.

Maylan reaches inside one of the stretched rolton wool socks hanging from her leather bandolier and grabs an iron-caged jadewood torch.

Maylan lights her jadewood torch, causing the end to burst into a shower of flame.

Maylan says, "Mood lighting."

Faiyth says, "And chairs... I guess."

Zethes says, "First things first -- candles!  You simply must have candles.  Dim lighting is key!  The shadows... well, they make the spirits feel at home, I suppose.  Now, I prefer beeswax candles.  They're less likely to offend the spirits of animals or... plants, I think.  Oh, and never use a cheap quality one -- they won't take you seriously."

Speaking concernedly to Maylan, Giedrius whispers aloud, "Mind the books."

Faiyth thoughtfully says, "Must be a lot of sitting involved in the afterlife."

Liras says, "We can't go to the beach when we're dead?! What is the point..."

Maylan shrugs at Giedrius.

Speaking to Zethes, Fleurs asks, "Are spiritual candles recommended?"

Speaking to Fleurs, Zethes says, "You know, I'd not considered that, but I can't imagine anything that traps a spirit is a good way to go."

Zethes ponders.

Faiyth says, "Spirits seem kinda uppity."

Speaking softly to Zethes, Rovvigen says, "The inner eye candles are amazing for this."

Zethes continues, "Then we need a cloth -- something mysterious, maybe a deep purple or black velvet.   None of that gingham nonsense!  You're communing with the dead, not setting up for a picnic.  And crystals!  Oh, spirits love crystals.  It doesn't really matter which kind -- amethyst, quartz, something shiny.  They won't know the difference, and neither will you, probably."

Giedrius takes a drink from his smoky scotch.

Meliyara agrees, "Shiny rocks are shiny rocks."

Giedrius squints at Zethes.

Irval says, "Like fish..."

Zethes says, "And don t forget incense!  A good, fragrant smoke does wonders.  Nothing too sweet -- no one wants a spirit with a sugar high.  Something like sage or sandalwood.  Although --"

Zethes pauses with a distant look, as if recalling a past incident.

Speaking to himself, Giedrius murmurs, "Picky about chairs but not crystals. Noted."

Zethes distractedly says, "-- I once used too much sandalwood and ended up with a very chatty spirit who wouldn't stop talking about her rose garden for hours.  So... moderation, yes."

Liras says, "I happen to take mineral discernment very seriously, but alright."

Erienne begins chortling at Giedrius.

Speaking disbelievingly to Zethes, Faiyth asks, "Sure that was sandalwood?"

Speaking to Liras, Meliyara asks, "But how do you feel about the placement of seating?"

Zethes absentmindedly wafts her hand through the air as if fanning invisible incense smoke, before suddenly blinking as if just remembering she has an audience.

Giedrius takes a drink from his smoky scotch.

You gaze in amusement at Zethes.

Speaking to Meliyara, Liras exclaims, "Also important!"

Speaking hesitantly to Faiyth, Zethes asks, "Yes?"

Giedrius gazes at Zethes.

Faiyth nods firmly.

Giedrius gazes at his surroundings.

Zethes says, "They frequently also enjoy artifacts as well, anything that once belonged to them in life or something that belonged to your own ancestry."

Speaking to Meliyara, Liras says, "Must be chosen to maximize drama."

Zethes's features suddenly darken, her brow furrowing as she places both hands upon the bar and leans heavily against it.

Zethes mournfully says, "Like my great grandmother's mirror, that beautiful piece.  Frail but surrounded in filigree, the glass was positively ancient."

Missoni looks at Zethes with concern.

Faiyth frowns at Zethes.

Zethes lifts her head, a dark expression settles upon her feature, like a storm suddenly appearing on the horizon.

Maylan snuffs the jadewood torch, causing the flame to go out.

Maylan tosses an iron-caged jadewood torch into one of the stretched rolton wool socks hanging from her leather bandolier.

Speaking to Zethes, Liras asks, "Are you well??"

Zethes angrily says, "And that horrible servant girl broke it.  Smashed it to pieces and then trundled off to whisper her deeds to any that would listen."

Opalina examines Zethes closely, sizing her up and taking note of all the details.

Giedrius squints at Zethes.

Meliyara looks thoughtfully at Zethes.

Zethes slams her fist upon the bar.

Fleurs says, "Oh dear."

(Saleigh startles.)

Faiyth squints at Zethes.

Liras says, "Speaking of drama..."

Lissaya glances at Zethes.

Missoni nervously offers, "It may be able to be repaired."

Zethes ominously says, "She ll regret her misdeeds."  She practically bites each word at the end, her teeth clacking together hard on the consonants.  "No more flagrant disregard for other's possessions for her."

Raelee narrows her eyes slightly, studying Zethes with a cool, analytical gaze.

Riend flinches.

Speaking to Zethes, Giedrius murmurs, "Mind the booze."

Thalita raises an eyebrow.

Zethes picks a glass up from the bar and holds it to the light.

Callayne blinks at Zethes.

Erienne mutters something about possession.

Speaking to Zethes, Maylan says, "That's right, giver her whatfer."

Erienne looks thoughtfully at Zethes.

Giedrius adjusts one of the bottles on the bar that had skipped dangerously close to the edge.

Faiyth glances at Zethes and rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Zethes sneers, "I'll just break whatever she holds dear, hmm?"

Liras smiles a pained smile and darts her eyes back and forth.

Liras mutters yikes.

Lowering her head and her hand, Zethes places the glass back on the bar and gives herself a little shake.  When she lifts her head, the dark mood appears to have passed.

Rovvigen softly says, "Yea I wouldnt do that."

Rovvigen shudders.

Azaton asks, "Just how ancient was that mirror?"

Lissaya murmurs, "Well, now we know what happened to poor Elaarah."

You give Zethes a strong, encouraging smile.

Raelee nods faintly at Lissaya.

Fleurs looks at Lissaya with concern.

Meliyara looks thoughtfully at Zethes.

Missoni frets.

Zethes casually says, "Now, once you've set the mood just right -- candles flickering, smoke curling, crystals sparkling you must be patient.  Spirits, you see, have their own sense of timing.  You can"t rush them.  It"s a bit like hosting a dinner party.  You"ve set the table, but you can t force your guests to arrive early, can you?"  She raises a hand, fluttering it through the air in a dismissive fashion before saying, "Oh no, no, no."

Maylan blinks at Zethes.

Zethes traces a finger across the wall of her cheek, a contemplative expression furrowing her brow.

Speaking quietly to Lissaya, Raelee remarks, "... she was surrounded by the broken shards of... something.  It could have been a mirror."

Opalina mutters patience.

Zethes paces back and forth, muttering something about left.

Meliyara looks thoughtfully at Raelee.

Speaking to herself, Zethes says, "You must let them come to you. And they will. Eventually. But never chase after them! No, no, no -- that leads to... well, mishaps."

Meliyara gazes at Zethes with an inscrutable expression, save for a solitary arched eyebrow.

Zethes leans in conspiratorially, lowering her voice, "Let me tell you -- there was once a fellow who tried to chase after a banshee.  Thought he could outrun it!  Foolish.  Very foolish."

Zethes sighs and.

Ermias begins to clap, but in a slow, confused way, looking around for confirmation if he's supposed to be clapping.

Alicea winces.

Zethes shudders.

Speaking doubtfully to Raelee, Giedrius whispers aloud, "Perhaps, but..."

Rovvigen snickers at Ermias.

Opalina's face turns slightly pale.

Speaking softly to Ermias, Rovvigen says, "Not yet."

Fleurs giggles at Ermias.

Zethes excitedly says, "Spirits don't like to be chased.  They like to be invited.  And if you're polite, they'll stay for tea -- or perhaps a seance."

Giedrius shakes his head.

Ermias nods.

Speaking quietly to Giedrius, Raelee asks, "... but?"

Irval says, "Or forever, as the case with Clarence."

Zethes nods in a "that s that" fashion.

Zethes nods at Irval.

Lissaya gazes with interest at Zethes.

Speaking to Raelee, Giedrius says, "It doesn't seem logical."

Opalina applauds wildly!

Liras draws her hands together in a slow, deliberate clap.

Alek applauds politely.

Callayne gazes blankly at Zethes.

Opalina gazes in wonder at her surroundings.

Giedrius applauds Zethes.

Faelynth applauds.

Zethes says, "Once the spirit has arrived, it's important to offer them a little something to make them feel welcome.  Now, spirits are a bit... old-fashioned.  They appreciate the simple things -- a flower, a small token, maybe a stale biscuit or two.  They can't really eat it, of course."

Speaking to Raelee, you murmur, "The vial was the most curious part of it all."

Speaking to Giedrius, Raelee says, "Evidence is beginning to fall into place.  Body alive but unresponsive, a detached spirit..."

Speaking to you, Raelee says, "Yes.  I have no answer to that."

Zethes blinks at Giedrius.

Missoni nods slowly at Raelee.

Zethes tilts her head back.

Rovvigen peers quizzically at Zethes.

You gaze with interest at Zethes.

Speaking to Raelee, Missoni murmurs, "A motive."

Zethes ponders.

Zethes distractedly says, "No digestive systems.  Very inconvenient, I imagine.  But they do appreciate the gesture.  And remember, no red!  Red can make them... twitchy."

Speaking to Zethes, Giedrius whispers aloud, "You said "that's that."."

Zethes says, "I nodded."

Speaking to Raelee, Giedrius says, "There is a gap in the logic."

Zethes asks, "What are you all talking about?"

Rovvigen softly says, "Spirit lingered."

Zethes asks, "Is my lecture that boring?"

Zethes folds her arms over her chest.

Lissaya raises an eyebrow in Giedrius's direction.

Erienne looks over at Zethes and shakes her head.

Speaking helpfully to Zethes, Alek says, "I'm enthralled."

Giedrius looks over at Zethes and shakes his head.

Faiyth grins at Zethes.

Ermias softly says, "No no, please, proceed."

Erienne glances between Raelee and Giedrius.

You nod in agreement at Ermias.

Erienne touches one finger to her lips.

Speaking to Zethes, Giedrius says, "I believe your lecture has, instead, struck truly with people."

Missoni adopts an agreeable expression.

Ermias nods at Giedrius.

Zethes says, "Oh, well, good."

Erienne looks thoughtfully at Zethes.

Zethes grins at Giedrius.

Alicea nods enthusiastically!

Faelynth nods in agreement.

Callayne says, "I am uncomfortably listening."

Missoni says, "Quite the contrary. It has been fascinating."

You say, "It's a very timely lecture."

Speaking to Giedrius, Fleurs says, "It is certainly bringing a lot of loose ends together."

You give Zethes a strong, encouraging smile.

Alicea turns an inquisitive ear toward Zethes.

Zethes glances over her shoulder.

Speaking to Zethes, Raelee says, "... it has been curiously illuminating thus far."

Faiyth says, "They seemed very interest in the chair ghosts. But then you talked about hurt servant girls and everyones mind spun."

Giedrius shakes his head.

Giedrius says, "The logic does not hold."

Zethes says, "Clarence is..."

Zethes pauses.

Speaking to himself, Giedrius murmurs, "Not unless there is a second body."

Zethes says, "Sorry, it was Eveshilir... he's a bit wane here."

Fenthywick just lunged in.

Zethes flashes a knowing smile at an empty corner of the room.

Liras glances at Fenthywick.

Zethes patiently says, "Oh yes, my dear, I know you prefer green.   Lowering her chin, she continues speaking,  Honestly, some of them have opinions about the strangest things."

Fenthywick smiles at Liras.

Fenthywick takes a tiny sip of his caramel tea, warming his lips and making sure it's cool enough to drink.

Zethes turns to the audience again, blinking as if she's surprised to see them there.

You allow, "Green is a good color."

Zethes confusedly says, "Where was I?  Oh!  Gifts.  Yes, if you offend a spirit, just apologize quickly.  A little humility goes a long way with the dearly departed.  They're sensitive, you know.  Very delicate."

Alek raspily warns, "It's not easy being green."

Zethes nods once.

Liras says, "Green is my favorite as well."

Liras smiles pleasantly.

Opalina concernedly says, "Gifts are rather difficult to know what is right."

Zethes says, "Now, once the spirit's comfortable, you can ask them questions -- but be careful.  You wouldn't want to ask a spirit how they died if you're not prepared for the full story.  Trust me, they'll give you details -- agonizing, endless details.  I made that mistake once.  Three hours!  Three hours of listening to one spirit describe their... shall we say... unfortunate demise."

You glance over at Zethes and wince.

Zethes's face scrunches with distaste.

Meliyara grins wryly at Zethes.

Zethes dramatically says, "Absolutely exhausting."

Ermias turns an inquisitive ear toward Zethes.

Speaking to Zethes, Liras says, "Do the spirits care for uh, spirited libations? Booze, I mean."

Zethes says, "They can't really consume them."

Liras nods.

Zethes suddenly turns to the empty space next to her, eyes narrowing.

Zethes exasperatedly exclaims, "Yes, yes, I know it was tragic, darling, but there s no need to go into it again now.  Really!"

Liras says, "But if you give a ghost a biscuit..."

Speaking to Liras, you murmur, "That skeleton in Fate's Holding always seems to have an eye for wine."

Zethes nods to no one in particular, then faces the audience with a slightly exasperated sigh.

Speaking curiously to Zethes, Faiyth asks, "Are you ever able to commune with those close to you or just strangers?"

Ermias softly says, "Good question."

Zethes says, "Some of them just love to talk.  But I digress."

Speaking to you, Liras says, "Ah yes! Had a conversation with him just last night."

Speaking to Faiyth, Zethes says, "Well, funny you ask that... My relatives don't seem to want to speak to me."

Faiyth raises an eyebrow.

Zethes dismissively says, "Something about dark moods and dramatics."

Zethes shrugs.

You ponder the meaning of Zethes's existence.

Speaking to Zethes, Fleurs asks, "Did they offend you?"

Alek offers a dismissive wave, the webbing between his fingers seeming almost translucent in the ambient light.

Speaking raspily to Zethes, Alek says, "That's their loss."

Zethes says, "Apparently, I offended them."

Zethes shrugs.

Fleurs frowns.

Liras says, "Well that's no way for family to be."

Liras frowns.

Ermias nods sympathetically at Zethes.

Zethes seriously says, "Now, on to the... delicate matter of possessions.  Every now and then, a spirit might get the idea that it would be easier to just... use you as a mouthpiece.  It's terribly awkward, really.  You'll be standing there, and the next moment -- poof!  You're them."

Zethes gestures vaguely to her own body.

Rovvigen softly says, "Mouthpiece."

Rovvigen softly says, "Sorry."

Faiyth says, "Sounds like all kinds of shenanigans bout to go down."

Lissaya gives a sidelong glance at Zethes.

Speaking slowly to Rovvigen, Zethes says, "It's happened to me a few times, and believe me, you never quite get used to it.  But don't worry!  The spirits are usually quite polite about it.  Unless..."

Thalita says, "I would have never guessed."

Faiyth raises an eyebrow in Zethes's direction.

Speaking delicately to Zethes, Meliyara asks, "Is it possible for them to possess one without one knowing they have done so?"

Lissaya quietly mouths, "Unless?"

Zethes ominously says, "Unless, of course, they have unfinished business."

Speaking softly to Zethes, Rovvigen says, "I can only imagine. Must be a high strung environment for sure."

Speaking to Zethes, Fleurs says, "I believe I will attempt to avoid this experience."

Speaking to Meliyara, Zethes says, "Oh, most times you taste alum at the end."

You curiously ask, "Alum?"

Zethes says, "I think I mentioned this last night."

Meliyara nods slowly at Zethes.

Zethes glances between Raelee and Missoni.

Riend nods in agreement.

Raelee nods at Zethes.

Opalina thoughtfully says, "Or get a jolt of lighting."

Raelee says, "You did."

Speaking carefully to Zethes, Meliyara asks, "You do not happen to taste any alum at the moment, do you?"

Missoni agrees with Zethes.

Zethes lightly continues, "Which is why I strive to handle all things in life so I'm not obsessed about things when I move on."

Raelee says, "... with salt on the soles as a preventative."

Fleurs gazes in amusement at Zethes.

Alek raspily says, "I don't know what alum tastes like, but I'll try anything at least once."

Missoni says, "Alum and--yes salt."

Speaking to Zethes, Faiyth says, "Like chairs."

Zethes hesitantly says, "Yes, now that you mention it.. I do, but that's so strange because I haven't been possessed recently."

Riend mentions, "Possessions can also last for extended periods of time where the spirit lies relatively dormant."

Caedenmon leans on his staff.

Liras says, "Um.."

Speaking to Alek, Faiyth says, "You must always try things at least twice."

Deep in thought, Caedenmon laces his fingers before him.

Opalina peers quizzically at Riend.

You ask, "Are you able to remember your possessions?"

Zethes asks, "Usually?"

Missoni surreptitiously glances at you.

You carefully ask, "But not always?"

Speaking to Zethes, Meliyara whispers aloud, "But it seems that you were, during this very telling."

Zethes frowns.

Faelynth asks, "If one wants to be possessed how does one go about  that?"

Zethes pauses, a dark cloud settling upon her features.

Ermias softly asks, "Wants... t o be?"

Speaking sheepishly to Opalina, Riend adds, "In my personal experience, that is."

Speaking softly to Faelynth, Rovvigen says, "If youre not experienced that could end badly."

Lissaya shifts her eyes to Zethes.

You glance appraisingly at Zethes.

Zethes caustically says, "She did it -- that girl.  She broke it.  Shattered my grandmother's mirror.  Precious.  So precious.  She was warned -- warned not to touch it, and now look!  Broken... ruined!  No remorse, no apology!  Where is she?  WHERE?  I ll make her pay.  I ll MAKE HER--"

Speaking to Rovvigen, Faelynth exclaims, "I see!"

Meliyara frowns.

Ermias coughs.

Zethes clears her throat. The dark expression that came over her flitting away.

Missoni frowns.

Maylan says, "Tsk tsk tsk."

Zethes mutters under her breath.

Riend frowns at Zethes.

Zethes turns around.

Maylan shakes her head.

Zethes glances sharply at the still vacant corner, a glower on her face.

Alek raspily quips, "There's one reason I often avoid mirrors."

Speaking curiously to Rovvigen, Fleurs says, "But how would one gain experience... never mind."

Zethes waspishly exclaims, "So, there you have it!"

Zethes slowly empties her lungs.

Speaking quietly to Riend, Opalina says, "I can relate."

You ponder the meaning of Zethes's existence.

Meliyara glances warily at Zethes.

Faiyth nods at Zethes.

Zethes smoothly continues, "To sum up: set the mood -- candles, incense, crystals -- just enough to make the spirits feel at home.  Be respectful, offer them a little something nice, and be mindful of what you ask as you may get it in spades!"

Zethes gives the audience a whimsical, lopsided grin before gathering her things, then pauses to glance over her shoulder one last time, eyes narrowed playfully.

Speaking to Meliyara, you whisper aloud, "Perhaps an exorcism is warranted."

Alek nods in agreement at Zethes.

Meliyara nods slowly to you.

Zethes amusedly says, "Oh, and remember -- don t wear red! You wouldn't want to upset the afterlife.  It can get so messy."."

Ermias squints at Caedenmon.

Speaking softly to Caedenmon, Ermias asks, "This isn't your doing, is it?"

Speaking raspily to Zethes, Alek says, "Thank you, I learned a lot."

Speaking to Zethes, Faiyth says, "Well that was quite a lecture."

Speaking to Giedrius, Zethes says, "You may clap now, darling."

Faiyth applauds Zethes.

Speaking softly to Zethes, Rovvigen says, "Very informative and chaotic lecture. I now understand why you are the way you are. Truly enjoyed it."

Azaton applauds.

You applaud politely.

Saleigh applauds Zethes.

Meliyara applauds Zethes politely.

Missoni applauds Zethes warmly.

Liras applauds Zethes.

Alicea applauds Zethes.

Alek applauds Zethes.

Zethes's cheeks take on a slightly flushed tone.

Fleurs applauds Zethes.

Ermias smiles at Zethes.

Ermias applauds.

Zethes says, "Oh, you are so kind."

Faelynth applauds Zethes.

Missoni remarks, "Fascinating."

Zethes repeatedly curtsies.

Speaking quietly to Opalina, Riend ponders, "It is rather strange though, I was always aware of my possessed state yet she does not seem to be."

(Raelee gives Zethes a long, scrutinizing look.)

Maylan lets out a cheer!

Riend applauds.

(Opalina looks over her notes and circles "red" several tiems and then cross it out.)

Callayne glances around briefly before applauding.

You ponder the meaning of Riend's existence.

Zethes just went over and threw herself down on the couch.

Speaking darkly to Ermias, Caedenmon says, "I have no interest in causing chaos."

Erienne applauds Zethes.

Speaking quietly to Riend, Opalina says, "It's not always noticeable."

Speaking to Zethes, Faelynth exclaims, "Very much enjoyed your presentation!"

Riend looks thoughtfully at Opalina.

Ermias squints at Caedenmon.

Faiyth stares at Caedenmon.

Speaking softly to Opalina, Rovvigen says, "I think you circled red enough."

Erienne glances between Ermias and Caedenmon.

Giedrius applauds Zethes.

Speaking to Raelee, you murmur, "Perhaps I should change before this evening."

Speaking softly to Caedenmon, Ermias says, "I... actually believe you.  You typically work with mindless automatons, not real people."
Murmuring into the air, Philomina prepares a spell, causing tiny pinpoints of silver-hazed light to dance along her form.  As she gestures, the starbursts link together, forming ethereal constellations that fade into the air...

Zethes says, "It was exhausting."

Speaking quietly to Rovvigen, Opalina says, "Just want to make sure I don't upset .. more.."

Speaking to Zethes, Giedrius says, "In my defense, you said "that's that." which sounded awfully like you were completing your lecture."

Caedenmon nods slowly at Ermias.

Speaking to Giedrius, Faiyth says, "There were many starts and stops... like life."

Speaking to Giedrius, Liras says, "I thought the same."

Faiyth says, "And death clearly as well.."

Maylan says, "So spirits don't like unresolved issues. I, for one, am glad I have never caused any such unresolved issues round this realm."

Maylan glances at Opalina.

Liras says, "But then I don't often make it out to lectures like this."

Speaking to Opalina, Maylan says, "Unlike some others here."

Speaking to Liras, Giedrius says, "From a first glance at you, I would not think these topics were up your alley, as they say."

Ermias stands up.

Ermias stretches.

Thalita says, "So many errant voices in this realm.  One might hear anything."

Faiyth asks, "The hotel walls are very ominious aren't they?"

You muse, "I wonder what the best way to resolve issues would be in such circumstances?"

Ermias softly asks, "One more speaker, and then lunch?"