Evelyn Nightshade’s Private Journal

[Davetopia]

Chapter Four: Gaining Confidence.

Journal Entry 23: Revelry Beneath the Blood Moon

The Blood Moon Ball was a night of intrigue and enchantment that I won't soon forget. As the moon cast its crimson glow over the island, the grandeur of the castle was illuminated, a sight to behold. I arrived with a sense of anticipation, eager to immerse myself in the festivities and explore the hidden stories that danced beneath the surface.

My purpose was clear – to represent Princess Hemwick and ensure her presence was known, a responsibility I took to heart. From the moment I stepped into the ballroom, I embraced the persona of a confident and inquisitive magi. I introduced myself to those present, a mix of familiar faces and newcomers, with a mixture of genuine warmth and playful curiosity.

Manipulating conversations and weaving my way through groups, I embraced the art of playing The Game. I seized opportunities to overhear whispered secrets and learn about the intricacies of those in attendance. Nera and Alucard became my unwitting partners in this dance, as I teased and tested, all while maintaining a veneer of lightheartedness.

Nera's reactions were especially delightful to provoke, her impassioned discussions on her Artificial Star, their project to create an Artificial Realm, along with her own interesting form of magic not unlike Riftmancy. All of which was a source of endless entertainment. Alucard's earnest flirtations brought both amusement and occasional laughter, but I never allowed the interactions to take a serious turn. Amidst the laughter and shared stories, I gleaned snippets of information that I wouldn't have otherwise discovered.

For a time, it felt like myself and Alicard were stealing all of the fun from the ball. Being the first ones on the dance floor, and putting the others to shame with our the smoothness in our steps. While the others mostly mingled around the tables, we put on a spectacle for all to bear witness. First dance, yet it felt so much more natural than anticipated.

One enlightening conversation with Nera unveiled the mystery of crafting an Artificial Star, a concept that had always intrigued me. She shared her knowledge with fervour, mixed with her dim wittedness, made for an easy target of manipulation. She explained the delicate balance of magic and materials required to forge such a wondrous creation. It left me in awe of her expertise and sparked a desire to delve deeper into the arcane arts.

The evening was not just about manipulation and eavesdropping, however. I lost myself in the dance, twirling and gliding across the floor with partners old and new. As the music played and the moon's glow intensified, I felt a sense of exhilaration that I hadn't experienced in some time. The weight of my responsibilities momentarily lifted, replaced by the joy of being present in the moment.

As the Blood Moon Ball drew to a close, I found myself reflecting on the many conversations, interactions, and insights gained. While I played my part in weaving the threads of intrigue, I also recognized the value of forging connections and embracing the stories of those around me. It was a night of revelry, laughter, and discovery, one that I'll treasure as I continue to navigate the intricate tapestry of Skarnfell.

Myself, Nera, Alucard and Greg all left the Ball together, getting warped into some form of Wayfinding from Blood Moon Island to the Final Frontier - it’s something to look into now. For this form of travel could genuinely make life much easier.. We spoke, discussing life and its value. We all had different opinions. But that’s life!

Overall, it was a blast to let myself go free like this.. I feel like I’m really starting to become who I need to be.

Evelyn Nightshade

Journal Entry 24: A Twisted Connection
Today has been a whirlwind of unexpected encounters, each one weaving a tapestry of curiosity and intrigue. The most astonishing of these encounters was with Sco'Ria, a Demon Drake that exudes both elegance and malevolence. I find myself drawn to its presence, fascinated by the layers of power and darkness it carries. Our minds connected in a way I never thought possible, and we exchanged words with a level of sincerity that transcended our differences. The notion of hunting alongside such a formidable being is thrilling, and a sense of camaraderie has formed between us.

It's strange, but I can't help feeling a peculiar mix of emotions toward the demons I've encountered lately. A twang of motherly affection and fascination weaves through my thoughts as I observe them, eager to witness their growth and evolution. Perhaps it's the culmination of my growing abilities in the Occult and my newfound role as a witch that allows me to perceive them in a different light. Or perhaps it's a reflection of the ever-changing nature of the worlds around us.

In another twist of fate, news reached me that Nia'Ria, the Demon King, wishes to have an audience with me. The idea of meeting a Demon King is both exhilarating and daunting. It's no secret that my capabilities in alchemical ingenuity have grown considerably, and the recent offer to gift power to Sco'Ria only solidified my role in the occult world. This audience, I can only surmise, is likely related to Mei'Ria's request for me to create a Large Golem for them. A task that holds both tremendous significance and responsibility.

My heart races with excitement at the prospect of conversing with a Demon King, of being a part of something bigger than myself. Yet, I also feel the weight of the situation, the gravity of their power and the potential implications of our interactions. I will tread carefully, for I sense that this audience carries the potential to shape the path of my occult journey.

Through the twists and turns of these interactions, I find myself increasingly drawn into a world that I once viewed only from the outside. I am becoming an active participant in the stories of demons, witches, and otherworldly beings. And as these stories intertwine with my own, I can't help but embrace the uncertainty and adventure that lie ahead.

Evelyn Nightshade

Journal Entry 25 - The Enigmatic Sabbath in Sheol

Today was a day of unexpected revelations and mesmerizing experiences. Lady Ustrea, my guide and conduit to the world of the arcane, invited me to a gathering of witches and warlocks in a realm known as Sheol. Eager to delve deeper into the mysteries of magic and learn from fellow practitioners, I eagerly agreed to join this special Sabbath.

The evening began in Skarnfel, where Lady Ustrea approached me with an invitation. She extended the opportunity to experience the power of a Sabbath, a gathering of magical beings to perform rituals and share knowledge. With her adept mastery of Riftmancy, she opened a rift portal that rippled through the fabric of reality, exposing the pulsating heart of the Lifestream.

Riftmancy, a form of magic that intertwines the physical and ethereal dimensions, was the key to our rapid travel between realms. By tapping into the Lifestream, a hidden current that flows beneath the surface of existence, Lady Ustrea harnessed its power to propel us across space and time. The sensation of riding the Lifestream was both exhilarating and disorienting, as we traversed realms in the blink of an eye.

Upon arriving in Sheol, I found myself amidst a gathering of over a dozen witches and warlocks, each exuding a unique aura of arcane energy. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, and I could sense the underlying purpose of this congregation was something significant.

As the ritual began, the skies above us swiftly darkened, and a wave of emotional resonance swept over the assembled participants. It was as if the air itself carried the weight of a haunting tale, and I found myself entranced by the unfolding narrative. The story of Russell, a painter ensnared by his own creations, echoed through the collective consciousness. His pursuit of power and fulfillment led him down a path of tragedy and loss, a cautionary tale that resonated deeply with the witches and warlocks present.

Among the unfamiliar faces, I encountered many new individuals who shared their experiences and insights with me. Conversations flowed, weaving threads of magic, history, and personal growth. Amidst the discussions, I had the privilege of engaging in a brief exchange with the Supreme Witch of Sheol, a figure of immense knowledge and power.

This gathering served as a reminder of the boundless diversity of magic and the interconnectedness of all practitioners. The veil between realms may be thin, but the threads of understanding and community weave intricate patterns that transcend mere dimensions. As I reflect on this unique experience, I am grateful for the opportunity to have witnessed the Sabbath in Sheol and to have connected with so many inspiring individuals. The world of magic continues to unveil its secrets, and I am eager to explore further along this enchanting journey.

Still me.

Journal Entry 26 - The Healing Touch of Mortality

Today was unlike any other. Amidst the solemn echoes of the Crimson Keep's dungeons, I found myself faced with a unique opportunity to test and further hone my medical skills. A human cadaver lay before me, bearing wounds that told a story of its past, and I took it upon myself to offer a glimpse of healing even in the realm of death.

As I examined the cadaver's injuries—a deep gash across the chest and shrapnel wounds in the leg—I felt a mixture of reverence and determination. It was a somber reminder of the fragility of life, and yet, the essence of my craft lies in mending, restoring, and preserving. The challenge of working on a human body, even lifeless, held a weight that I couldn't ignore.

Steadying my hands, I began the process of cleaning, stitching, and dressing the wounds. Each movement was guided by my understanding of anatomy, my accumulated knowledge of medical techniques, and the countless hours I've devoted to practicing on various subjects, living or deceased. The chest wound required careful suturing, my fingers moving with a sense of purpose and care. The shrapnel wounds, though less severe, demanded equal attention as I delicately extracted the fragments, mindful of the delicate tissues beneath.

As I worked, I found myself immersed in the task. Time seemed to stand still, and the torchlight casting its eerie glow only accentuated the gravity of the moment. The cadaver became a canvas upon which I painted the art of healing, a silent testament to my dedication to my craft and my belief that life, even in its absence, deserves respect.

Upon completing the process, I stepped back to survey my work. The wounds that once marred the cadaver's form were now stitched and dressed, a mark of my effort to restore what had been broken. It wasn't about bringing life back to the body, but rather about honoring the individual who had once inhabited it. The cadaver remained lifeless, but I felt a sense of accomplishment in the small act of healing I had provided.

Leaving the dungeons, I couldn't help but reflect on the significance of what I had just done. In the heart of darkness, I had shone a light—a reminder that even amidst the inevitability of mortality, the healing touch of a skilled hand could make a difference. It deepened my understanding of the interconnectedness of life and death, and how my role as a healer extended beyond the boundaries of the living.

As I return to the surface, I carry with me a renewed sense of purpose. Each moment spent perfecting my craft is a tribute to the potential for healing, even in the face of life's impermanence. And while my journey is far from over, this experience has etched a new layer of understanding into my path—a path guided by the healing touch that transcends the boundaries between life and death.

Journal Entry 27- Unveiling the Secrets of the Hel Tree

Today marked a pivotal moment in my journey as a witch and practitioner of the arcane. I had the privilege of orchestrating and leading a ritual at the base of the Hel Tree's Sapling, a place of immense power and significance. The participants were none other than Scytha Hemwick and Sco'Ria, a Greater Demon of formidable presence. The convergence of their energies and my guidance created an experience that was both profound and transformative.

The intricacies of the ritual were rooted in a delicate balance between Occult Magic and the raw energies emanating from the Hel Tree. As the conduit between these forces, my role was to channel and harmonize their essences, guiding them towards a shared purpose. The ritual required a synchronization of intentions, an intertwining of energies that demanded focus and resonance.

We gathered at the base of the Hel Tree's Sapling, its small form belied the immense power it held within. The air crackled with anticipation, and I could sense the eager energies of both Scytha and Sco'Ria as they prepared for the ritual. The Hel Tree, a potent symbol of life and death, stood as a silent witness to our endeavors.

The first step was to establish a connection with the Hel Tree's essence, a task that required a delicate touch and unwavering intent. As I invoked the words of power, the atmosphere shifted, and a palpable presence enveloped us. The energies responded, vibrating in resonance with the intent of our ritual.

Drawing blood, we offered a symbolic sacrifice, mingling our life essences with the Hel Tree's aura. The Hel Sigils that formed on our skin signified a pact forged in the depths of magic itself, a testament to our commitment to the path we were embarking upon.

With shared words and intent, I guided the participants through a ritual dance, a weaving of energies that manifested as blackened bubbles. These bubbles encapsulated the essence of the Hel Tree's power, each one containing a fraction of its ancient wisdom. The skies above us darkened, a manifestation of the merging energies.

As the ritual reached its culmination, I witnessed a subtle growth in the Hel Tree's Sapling, a response to the energies we had channeled into it. The outcome was modest, yet significant, a testament to the potential that lay dormant within this sapling.

Looking towards the future, I am filled with a sense of purpose and hope. This ritual was but a glimpse of the power and knowledge that the Hel Tree can bestow. With each subsequent ritual and interaction, I believe that the Hel Tree's influence will grow, infusing me and those around me with its ancient wisdom and strength.

The path ahead is one of discovery and growth, a journey guided by the energies of the Hel Tree and my unwavering dedication to mastering the arts of magic. The connections forged today, with Scytha Hemwick and Sco'Ria, serve as a foundation upon which we shall build greater understanding and harness the true potential of the Hel Tree.

As I reflect upon this momentous occasion, I am grateful for the opportunities that lie ahead and the mysteries that await my exploration. The Hel Tree's whispers beckon me towards a destiny intertwined with magic, and I am eager to answer its call.

Once again. Me.

Evelyn.

Journal Entry 28: Unveiling the Connection

Today, a momentous occasion transpired within the realm of the Coven of Denath, and my heart remains abuzz with a unique blend of excitement, wonder, and reverence. Our gathering was marked by an aura of anticipation, the air humming with the energy of our shared purpose. It was a Sabbath unlike any other, a convergence of power and determination that resonated deep within my very core.

As the candles flickered and the incense spiraled into the air, a sense of unity settled over us. The coven members, each steeped in their own disciplines and practices, were united by a common objective: to forge a direct line of communication to our revered Marquise, Denath. The very notion of such a connection seemed fantastical, almost too grand to be true, yet our coven's collective magic held the promise of making it a reality.

Melione, with her commanding presence, stood before the assembly. In her hands was a mirror, one that shimmered with a celestial brilliance. But this was no ordinary mirror; it was a conduit to the realm of Denath, a bridge between our world and the Dealmaker's dominion. The very concept of this mirror sent ripples of awe through my being, and my heart swelled with gratitude for the dedication and sacrifice that brought us to this point.

The moment of revelation arrived, and as Melione channeled her magic into the mirror, a luminescent aura enveloped the reflective surface. My breath caught as the mirror seemed to come alive, swirling with otherworldly energies. It was as if a portal to Denath's realm had opened before us, a testament to the potent magic we wielded collectively.

When the mirror stabilized, Denath's Castle atop of a colossal Crab appeared within it. This presence transcended the limitations of space and time, my gaze pierced through the veil that separated our realms. The thrill of being on the cusp of witnessing his form manifest before us, was a sensation beyond words. I felt a deep connection, a bond that stretched across dimensions, and I marveled at the realization that our efforts had borne fruit.

The Sabbath concluded with a profound sense of accomplishment, and as the coven members dispersed, I lingered before the mirror, lost in thought. This connection to Denath's realm was a testament to the boundless potential of our coven and the extent of our magical prowess. I considered the sacrifices made, the challenges overcome, and the unity that had brought us to this point.

As I leave this entry, I find my heart filled with purpose and hope. The mirror stands as a beacon of our shared devotion and the enduring legacy we are crafting. With each step, we inch closer to completing Dealmaker's Morass, and I am grateful to be a part of this journey, giving my essence willingly to see our dreams realized.

Evelyn

Journal Entry 29: A Demon's Lesson - Motherly Outlook

Today brought an unexpected encounter that served as both a challenge and an opportunity for growth. As I went about my business in Skarnfel, a Lesser Demon suddenly attacked, its malevolent intent palpable in the air. The encounter was a stark reminder of the dangers that lurk within the realm, and my initial instinct was to defend myself.

The battle that unfolded showcased the demon's capabilities. It moved with an eerie swiftness and wielded its otherworldly powers with a chaotic energy. Despite its ferocity, I managed to gain the upper hand relatively easily, a testament to my training and the skills I have acquired. The demon's form wavered as it struggled against my Occultic assaults, and I couldn't help but marvel at the innate power that emanated from it.

However, as the battle drew to a close, I found myself facing a decision. Instead of banishing the demon or destroying it, I chose a different path. Drawing inspiration from the lessons I've learned from Eranath, I decided to attempt a form of forced growth. Forcing myself atop the subdued demon, I used my connection to the Hel Sigil to channel Occultic Helheim Mana into its being.

The sensation was overwhelming as the dark energy flowed from my very essence into the demon's form. Its form convulsed as if resisting the infusion, its essence struggling to comprehend the foreign power that surged within it. I could feel the clash of energies, a chaotic dance between my Occultic influence and the demon's innate nature.

Finally, as the mana dissipated, the demon appeared to regain some semblance of composure. It stared at me with eyes that held a mixture of confusion and uncertainty, unable to fully grasp what I had done for it. As if sensing its opportunity, the demon chose to flee the area, its belly undoubtedly full of the Occultic energy it had ingested.

This encounter left me with a sense of introspection. The realm I navigate is one of multifaceted complexities, where even the darkest beings can possess an intrinsic spark of potential. The line between ally and adversary is often blurred, and the choices we make can shape the world around us. As I reflect on this day's events, I am reminded that my journey is not only one of acquiring knowledge and power, but also of understanding and empathy.

Eve.