Mowglia
Member
Here is the first part of my investigation into what's been going on down there. It only deals with the (distant) past.
Anyway, this accounts for the past insofar as I can determine it. There will inevitably still be inconsistencies, so please point them out when you find any. Also please ignore references (unless you find them useful), they are merely there to enable me to keep track of documents, observations, etc.Initial Assumptions:
- That all documents are accurate and true.
- That recent parchments are contemporary, and that old parchments are also contemporary.
First we investigate the distant past...
A) Theory; Our ancestors mined into the Earth and discovered the Underworld. The Underworld is protected by a Guardian who sent forth Demons to drive our ancestors out. Our ancestors managed to seal the entrances to the Underworld and swore never to return.
Evidence; A book (The Guardian's Wrath). (Ref: L02/018/a).
Notes; The book states that Demons were sent forth to drive our ancestors out and hunt them down, rather than simply hunt them down and drive them out. The book also refers to entrances to the Underworld rather than a single entrance.
B) Theory; There was a cult dedicated to the worship of the Guardian. The Guardian is known as the Keeper of the Dead. The Guardian is responsible for the care of our dead, and possibly giving them life beyond this life. A prophecy exists, that in a time of dire need the Guardian will raise an army of the dead to defend us. The Guardian is our protector.
Evidence; A book (The Guardian Of The Underworld). (Ref: L02/018/b).
Note; Given the prophecy we can assume that the Guardian is not simply responsible for watching over our dead, but is in fact our protector.
C) Theory; The architects of Level 4 were members of this cult, known as the Conservers. A significant function of Level 4 was storage for vast numbers of documents. Either the Guardian, or his avatar, takes the form of a spider. The Demon on Level 4 was sent forth by the Guardian to protect the Underworld from intruders.
Evidence; A parchment (old) found east of Papin's rooms on Level 2 reads; "I have been informed that the conservers have spies amongst us. Despite our differences I cannot imagine that they're looking to harm us, or even impede our mission here. I cannot in truth see much reason to prevent them from knowing our progress, I am inclined to just let them get their information rather than waste resources and encourage doubt and suspicion amongst us." (Ref: L02/022).
Clearly the architects of Level 4 were competent builders and their beliefs and duties are reflected in the design of the area, which (as we know it) is in part a massive library. The primary symbology is that of a spider. Given we know the Conservers worshipped the Guardian, and their primary symbology is that of a spider, then we can assume that the Guardian is the spider.
Since the Demon was encountered on Level 4 and the Guardian is the only entity (we know of) with the power to send forth a Demon, and considering our location (probably deep underground) and history (#L02/018/a), then presumably this Demon is as described (in The Guardian's Wrath).
Notes; The Guardian's Wrath states the Guardian sent forth Demons, rather than a single Demon. The Demon found on Level 4 (aka Sir) could be one of the original Demons. Its behaviour (to attack on sight) appears to conform with its task as set by the Guardian.
D) Theory; The architects/occupants of Level 4 were from the same civilization as the architects/occupants of Levels 1 through 3. The occupants of Levels 1 through 3 communicated with the occupants of Level 4, although they had their "differences". Engineers from this civilization operated across all four levels, and their origin was Level 4. This civilization was our own ancestral civilization.
Evidence; Clearly the occupants of Level 4 were in contact with the occupants of Levels 1 through 3 (#L02/022) and spoke the same language (or could at least translate).
Two individuals operating on Level 1 (Darrin, possibly the commander, and Naiss, an engineer (#L01/016/b)) have names similar in style to an individual operating on Level 4 (Dassin, presumably the head librarian (#L04/038)).
The blue lights found across all four levels (whilst not identical) were almost certainly constructed using the same process, and probably by the same engineers (from Level 4), given the design of the lights on Levels 1 through 3 is reminiscent of styles and symbology originating on Level 4.
Given we can read and understand (most of) these documents then we can assume this civilization comprised our own ancestors.
Notes; If the "spies" from Level 4 could not blend in then they would presumably be of little use. The occupants of Levels 1 through 3 appear to have been primarily soldiers, and the occupants of Level 4 appear to have been primarily cultists/bureaucrats.
E) Theory; Engineers from Level 4 built the Portal. The Portal was the primary means of interaction between the occupants of Level 4 (Conservers) and the occupants of Levels 1 through 3 (the "Soldiers"). The Portal was used to move a significant quantity of material and supplies.
Evidence; Level 4 is covered in a strange regular symbology, part angular, part curved. The Portal itself is part angular, part curved. The similarity is overtly obvious, including (but not limited to) the symbology adorning walls, the design of the spider (especially the body), many designs on the Conserver Council's Table, chairs, torch-fittings, and gates. In numerous cases the design of the Portal is strikingly similar to the symbology found on Level 4.
Given the Portal exists and connects Level 4 to Level 3 then we can assume that this is how they travelled and communicated. The extensive storage facilities and huge volumes of supplies on both sides of the Portal imply that the Portal was also used to move a significant quantity of material.
Note; It is not clear in which direction the supplies and material were moved, or the purpose of doing this. Nevertheless, given the scale of the endeavour, we can speculate that the reason was either offensive, defensive, or construction (or any combination thereof).
F) Theory; Trouble was brewing on both sides of the Portal. The Soldiers (on Levels 1 through 3) were facing a threat from the outside. The Conservers were experiencing some form of internal dispute (Terschenn was doing something that not all Conservers agreed with). At some point violence occurred on Level 4 (#L04/034/a). The Demon somehow got into Level 4, which would account for the violence. It seems likely that the release of the Demon was linked to Terschenn's activity.
Evidence; A book found in the court room on Level 2 (east of the armoury) is a log filled with detailed reports of people violating certain rules. Most of these rules are obviously aimed at preventing the entry of intruders. They are strict and elaborate to the point of seeming a product of paranoia. (Ref: L02/017).
A parchment (old) found near the vault on Level 1 states "In response to our surprising failure we've installed Naiss's ingenious mechanism as a final precaution against intrusion." (Ref: L01/016/a).
The huge door in the south of Level 1, possibly the main entrance, has been barricaded. This implies the occupants expected to be attacked from outside. (Ref: L01/008).
There is a large map on Level 2 (northwest). Two positions on the map (in the north/south hills) describe "watchers" which implies some level of threat, and indicates the map is being used for (potential) military activity. (Ref: L02/019).
A parchment (new) inside a desk in Papin's rooms (on Level 2) states; "Clearly this was once a place of military activity, but who were they fighting? Were we once at war with these people? It would seem we won. How could such events be completely erased from our history?" (Ref: L02/020/b).
(#L02/022 - see above).
East of Papin's rooms on Level 4 are two (old) parchments:
"Venerable Aderon, I understand that you are conflicted, but I must ask that you keep the voicings of your misgivings to within the council. You cannot hope to stop this now, you will only cause disquiet and potentially worse. Please remember the responsibility that comes with your position. Terschenn." (Terschenn is presumably the head of the Conserver Council). (Ref: L04/035/a).
"Our glorious hero is little more than a killer. Now that his deadly work is done he cares nothing for the consequences. Murder our gods so that we may be free. And lost. I will not forget who saved us from oblivion. We have been warned, far worse is coming and our demise is now inevitable." (Presumably written by Aderon, a Conserver Council member). (Ref: L04/035/b).
A parchment (old) on Level 4 inside a cabinet in the southwestern end of the library; "Burn, burn it all! A lifetime watching over things that I must now consign to the fires. For what? The teachings of a monstrous traitor? The sorry truth is that no one is willing now to admit they were wrong, too much was invested, it couldn't be for nothing. And so we go forth and burn the path behind us, let blind hope be our guide." (Presumably written by Dassin, head librarian). (Ref: L04/039).
A parchment (old) found on a skeleton wandering Level 4 (west); "When I took this oath I told myself my life no longer mattered. Now that courage, that sense of purpose, is fading fast. I look to the others for strength, but I find the same doubt in their eyes. They mocked us and now I see the truth of it. This is senseless." (Presumably written before his body was resurrected by Papin). (Ref: L04/040).
Extract from a (new) parchment found in Papin's rooms on Level 4; "These dead guards, perhaps I could call them into action." (Ref: L04/034/a).
Notes; It does not appear that the external threat managed to breach Level 1, assuming the barricades (#L01/008) are old rather than recent. It is unclear whether the Conservers and Soldiers ever fought amongst themselves (given they seem to have been cooperating, despite their differences). On the War Map in Level 2 is marked a position referred to as "UnderEarth", which could well be our current location (at least before we used the Portal).
Summary:
- Our ancestors discovered the Underworld, a place hidden deep inside the Earth.
- A Guardian protects the Underworld.
- The Guardian sent forth Demons to drive our ancestors out.
- Our ancestors sealed the entrances to the Underworld and swore never to return.
- There was a cult dedicated to the worship of the Guardian.
- The Guardian is known as the Keeper of the Dead.
- The Guardian is responsible for the care of our dead, and giving them life beyond this life.
- A prophecy states that the Guardian will raise an army of the dead to defend us (i.e., the living) in a time of dire need.
- The Guardian is our protector.
- The architects of Level 4 were members of this cult, known as the Conservers.
- A significant function of Level 4 was storage for vast numbers of documents.
- Either the Guardian, or his avatar, takes the form of a spider.
- The Demon on Level 4 (aka Sir) was sent forth by the Guardian to protect the Underworld from intruders.
- The architects/occupants of Level 4 were from the same civilization as the architects/occupants of Levels 1 through 3.
- The occupants of Levels 1 through 3 communicated with the occupants of Level 4, although they had their differences.
- Engineers from this civilization operated across all four levels, and their origin was Level 4.
- The occupants of Levels 1 through 3 were primarily soldiers.
- The occupants of Level 4 were primarily cultists/bureaucrats (Conservers).
- This civilization was our own ancestral civilization.
- Conserver engineers built the Portal.
- The Portal was the primary means of interaction between the Conservers and the Soldiers.
- The Portal was used to move a significant quantity of material and supplies.
- Trouble was brewing on both sides of the Portal.
- The Soldiers were facing a threat from the outside.
- The Conservers were experiencing an internal dispute.
- At some point violence occurred on Level 4.
- The Demon somehow got into Level 4, which would account for the violence.
- Terschenn's activity explains the release of the Demon.
Conclusion:
It is probably best to leave things there for now. Of course we could speculate that survivors from Level 4 (and perhaps Level 3) escaped deeper into the Underworld, but this is probably premature given we haven't yet seen the whole of Level 4. We might also speculate that construction of the Portal did not itself constitute a breach into the Underworld (although it might have been part of such a plan), but pffft, who knows? We need more data. We could even speculate that the Conservers attempted to kill the Guardian itself (or its avatar), but let's not even go there...
When I've got time I'll probably deal with the present.
Here is the second part of my investigation into what's been going on down there. It deals with the recent past and the present.
Initial Assumptions:
Next we investigate the present...
G) Theory; Two thaumaturgists were living and working on Level 1 (Thaven and Papin). Thaven was the master and Papin the apprentice. Papin was upset with Thaven, having been driven from his former home by peasants due to Thaven's behaviour. Thaven had an agreement with Hamon to (discreetly) kidnap or otherwise lure people in from outside to serve as subjects for his research. Hamon was careless and sent too many people down. Fearing for their safety Thaven and Papin were forced deeper into UnderEarth. At some point Thaven and Papin became separated.
Evidence; A couple of (new) parchments found in what appears to be the commander's residence on Level 1 (northwest central):
"So far results are disappointing. I suppose I should have expected as much after the initial dramatic progress. I am seeing some improvement but I feel as though I need a change of direction to really go further. If only poor Papin was still with me, exchanging thoughts with him would benefit me greatly." (Ref: L01/014/f).
"I feel a growing resentment for Thaven. On the one hand I wish to please him, impress him, but such thoughts then lead me to anger. I once believed there was friendship between us, now I think perhaps it was based on naught but common interests. His disregard for all things other than his single minded purpose has hurt us, it has put us all in difficulty and danger. I was always feared, but I was also respected. To be driven from my own home by peasants!" (Ref: L01/014/b).
A (new) parchment found in Thaven's lair on Level 2 (northeast); "I've been avoiding relations with my subjects as it could become a serious impediment to my work. I did not imagine that I would miss human contact so much. Papin could have carried my legacy but I now treasure his friendship and company more than anything. Even so I deeply regret the loss of a lifetime of imparted knowledge and teachings. If I were to succeed poor Papin would never truly have reaped the benefits of his apprenticeship but he accepted this but he was always eager and gratef-
-s too late now, I must not dwell on it any longer." (Ref: L02/018/c).
A (new) parchment found on the floor of the largest room on Level 1 (northwest); "Hamon has obviously cast aside our agreement. He's sending far too many down here and I've lost all contact with him. What is he trying to do? One of these wretches confessed that he was told to seek treasure. Someone will notice all these missing people. And what if one finds me while I sleep? I no longer feel safe here, I have locked the doors but I should venture further and look for something more secure." (Ref: L01/015).
There are bones on Level 1 (west) near an array of cells, that do not appear to be human. The area appears to have been used to incarcerate prisoners. Given the equipment in the vicinity then presumably experiments were being conducted on the prisoners. There are also a couple of barred wagons that were presumably used to transport prisoners from outside. (Ref: L01/009).
A (new) parchment outside Papin's rooms on Level 2 (northwest); "That idiot and his thugs are still sending many down here. I must admit I am impressed by his methods, in some ways he is less a fool than he appears. I must take advantage of this and resume my research while I still can. I've yet to find a place where I w-". (Ref: L02/021).
A letter on the corpse of Mathis on Level 1 (north); "Dearest Mathis, Elara has disappeared. Many have gone missing of late but bandits in the area are not uncommon. Elara however does not travel, why would they have taken her? I dread to think what they might do to her. I thought of a ransom and so, I am ashamed to admit, I thought of you. But there have been no requests for ransom, just more and more missing. I assume news of these events has not reached Ardent, it has been long since we've seen a proctor. What am I to do dear cousin? Will you at least advise me? Tessa." (Ref: L01/004).
Notes; Mathis may have been killed while looking for Elara. The undead 'zombies' appear to be the remainder of the subjects. There is an unidentified male on Level 1 (west) near the locked door, presumably killed by an undead. There is another unidentified female behind the locked door. Since the key is present it is possible he locked her behind the door for her own safety, yet died before he could release her, whereupon she also died.
H) Theory; Thaven has an illness. Thaven has attempted to remove the mind/soul/brain from one of the subjects (or undead). Humans are powerful, immortal beings that have forgotten their true nature. Some ghosts have the power to shape things within our own realm.
Evidence; A (new) parchment found in a cubicle in the infirmary on Level 1 (southwest); "I think my illness has worsened since coming here, I often feel confused, as if battling conflicting thoughts. My temper keeps getting the better of me, an aggressive trait I never knew I possessed. Perhaps it is simply a response to all that has happened. Even so it scares me, I don't recognise myself. I must make a greater effort to retain my composure." (Ref: L01/010).
A (new) parchment found in Thaven's rooms on Level 2 (northeast); "I discovered a truly miraculous substance. It produces a faint light and a pungent odour, when I touched it a wound on my hand I acquired during my cuttings healed rapidly. It was astounding. I have experimented with it but so far it has proven ineffective against my illness. If only I could find more. It is well hidden, obviously it is something of great value. I thought perhaps the lamps contained this substance but I was unable to break one open, when I finally removed one from the wall it lost its light." (Ref: L02/018/d).
A (new) parchment found in a theatre in the infirmary on Level 1 (southwest); "They lose the will to live without their bodies. They seem completely bound to their mortal remains. Is it just because of their lesser minds? I have attempted to sustain one with nothing left but th... Gods below, what am I doing? It is horrifying. Sometimes it is as if I suddenly awake to realise that I am fuelled by rage, as if I hold these poor souls responsible for what has befallen me." (Ref: L01/012/b).
A book at the main desk in the infirmary on Level 1 (southwest) detailing a long list of people undergoing treatment from often grievous wounds. Many of the injuries appear to be bites and lacerations, presumably resulting from the attacks of some kind of animal. (Ref: L01/011).
A book (Desconstructing Humanity by Aldair Hanks) in a theatre in the infirmary on Level 1 (southwest). It is a medical book on human anatomy consisting of mostly diagrams and surgical terminology. There are many underlined passages and circled diagrams in the section that deals with the brain. (Ref: L01/012/a).
A book (The Forgotten Power) in Thaven's rooms on Level 1 (northwest central); According to this book humans are powerful, immortal beings that have forgotten their true nature. That by living your life by a certain moral code, perfoming certain rituals and eating a certain diet, you can achieve great power and ultimately unlock your dormant immortality. (Ref: L01/014/c).
A book (Forgotten by Aime Koren) in Thaven's rooms on Level 1 (northwest central); A scholarly book about memory and cognizance. What we forget and why we forget it, how we choose to make a history for ourselves regardless of the facts, how we are defined by the wholly unreliable and subjective thing we call memory. (Ref: L01/014/e).
A book in a room on Level 1 (southeast) near the mess halls; The book presents itself as nothing more than a collection of absurd theories on the existence of ghosts, however there are parts written in a different tone. "There is an innate power in the ghost realm, unlike the physical world it is not governed by the constraints of matter or the laws of physics. A ghost can conjure anything, any object or power they can simply call into being, much as we do when we dream. This however requires keen awareness of their condition, an understanding of their realm and their place within it. Most ghosts wander in a state of confusion, at the mercy of twisted thoughts and perceptions, but not all. There are those that have awakened, or perhaps never slept, never were in a dream like state. These wield great power, they can shape things not only in the ghost realm but within our own." (Ref: L01/006/a).
Notes; It is possible the injuries (bites and lacerations) were caused to the subjects by Thaven himself (during lapses of control), although if this is the case then why would he record the injuries? It is more likely these injuries were caused to soldiers in the past (see previous post regarding Theories of the Past) by a dangerous creature. If so, then are these (#L01/009) the remains of such creatures?
I) Theory; Papin had a change of heart regarding Thaven's activities. Thaven has a specific world-changing mission, presumably not merely to cure his illness. Thaven believes in an entity referred to as the Spellgiver (and may be searching for it). The halls of UnderEarth echo with the souls of the long dead. There is another presence in UnderEarth (possibly the Guardian or the Spellgiver).
Evidence; A (new) parchment on Level 2 (northwest) in Papin's rooms; "This place begins to intrigue me. Thaven understands more things than I imagined. What if he is right? It would change everything. How could we be so ignorant? If I had more time I believe I would undertake his mission. I wonder what changes he has brought about now with these discoveries. These are important times, I would live to see them." (Ref: L02/020/a).
A (new) parchment in a tavern on Level 2 (north); "I'm sitting in a tavern, something I have not done in a long time. Alas it is quite empty and all the drink has spoiled long ago. These people cannot have been so different from us. And yet some things are very strange. There are lamps and even fires that never burn out, but I do not understand the source of their power. These walls echo with the souls of the long dead but beneath that I sense something else, like a far reaching presence, it is faint but everywhere, and very strange. Could this be the mythical Guardian? Or even Thaven's Spellgiver?" (Ref: L02/023).
Notes; Thaven's primary mission might not be to cure his illness, but to find the Spellgiver (unless this amounts to the same thing). Papin is referring to ghosts rather than the undead zombies (see later).
J) Theory; Despite Thaven's already dubious practices, he is now a self-confessed murderer (and therefore a criminal). Thaven found a helmet that protects him from the influence of the presence (and other minds). Thaven believes the presence is malevolent, and causes unrest and aggressiveness in his subjects. One of Thaven's subjects found a remarkable weapon (possibly the Executioner's Sword) and escaped.
Evidence; A (new) parchment in Thaven's rooms on Level 3 (northeast); "A Proctor! Just as I feared, and yet I grew complacent. She was well prepared, obviously she had some idea of what to expect, it was only luck that she didn't kill me. I cannot stay here, I must hide and prepare defences. I don't know how I will be able to continue my work. The Proctor would have made an excellent subject, a shame I had to kill her so. I will leave her here to impede any who would pursue me." (Ref: L03/026/a).
There is a resurrected proctor wandering the corridors of Level 3 (east). She carries a seal that represents the law of Ardent. (Ref: L03/025).
A (new) parchment in Thaven's rooms on Level 3 (northeast); "I have found a helmet which blocks my power when I wear it. Perhaps more importantly it shielded me from the noise of other minds, that presence that has haunted me since I came here was gone. Shortly after donning it I fell asleep, I am certain it was not its power that did this but the calm that came over me, I had not slept so well in quite some time. I feel certain now that it is this presence that causes unrest and aggressiveness in my subjects, clearly it is malevolent." (Ref: L03/026/b).
A (new) parchment in Thaven's rooms on Level 3 (northeast); "One of my subjects found a most remarkable weapon and escaped, making quick work of anything in his path. I was surprised by his ability to guard his mind against me, I tracked his escape for some time but he then completely vanished from my senses. How did he do that? Who is he?" (Ref: L03/026/c).
Notes; Does the Executioner's Sword (also) possess the ability to block the noise from other minds? If Thaven was referring to the Executioner's Sword, what was it doing locked inside a room?
K) Theory; Thaven is vulnerable while wearing the helm (which he needs to protect him from the presence). Spirits (ghosts) wander the halls of Level 4. Papin was attacked by the Demon and resurrected the skeletons to distract it (to cover his escape). Papin's objective was to become immortal, a quest he has now abandoned. Thaven's objective is not to become immortal, rather something else. Papin is now attempting to contact Thaven to help and share knowledge.
Evidence; A (new) parchment near the Portal on Level 4 (north); "What terrible place is this? A thunderous voice shouts unintelligibly in my mind, as though trying to command me with wordless urgency. It's as though it wants to both urge me and soothe me, I am terrified that I may succumb to its will. This strange helm is my only respite, but it leaves me vulnerable. There is also a constant wailing of ancient restless spirits, has this presence been keeping them from finding peace?" (Ref: L04/031).
A (new) parchment on Level 4 in Papin's rooms; "I have never been so terrified. I was attacked by a huge dreadful creature. A demon perhaps? I tried to control it, but though its mind felt completely unguarded, it was oblivious to my intrusion. I was only able to confuse it briefly and get away, I am defenceless against this thing. I dare not venture out again. These dead guards, perhaps I could call them into action. I don't imagine they could do much against such a monster, but the distraction might cover my escape." (Ref: L04/034/a).
A (new) parchment on Level 4 in Papin's rooms; "I fear I don't have long left. I have abandoned my efforts to escape death. It was foolish, and yet I have accomplished so much. I must try to send word to Thaven, he will see the importance of my work, even though he is concerned with other matters. I believed Thaven's pursuits to be as hollow as my own, a stubborn refusal to accept bitter truths. After what I've seen here anything seems possible. I will spend the rest of my days discovering what I can, I can still be of help." (Ref: L04/034/b).
Notes; Papin presumably managed to escape the Demon, as did Thaven. Although there was a single undead zombie in Papin's rooms, it is likely to be an underling (or subject) rather than Papin himself. Levels 1 through 3 are presumably UnderEarth, whereas Level 4 is presumably the Underworld (given the presence is much stronger).
Summary:
Speculation:
The following has not been dealt with in the usual manner (as it is a little more complex). It concerns the final page of the original letter in our inventory; "... and assist him in whatever way you can. If all else fails then recover any information he has gathered and bring it to me. There is potential in you, succeed here and we will find a place for you." Badly scribbled across the back of the page are the following words; "There is another way out" (Ref: L01/001).
Regarding the letter itself, there are four possibilities:
1) The letter was addressed to ourself, and refers to Thaven or a third party.
2) The letter was addressed to Papin, and refers to Thaven.
3) The letter was addressed to a third party, and refers to ourself or Thaven (or another third party).
4) We fell down a hole in the ground and 'accidentally' ended up with a letter that has nothing whatever to do with us in our pocket.
Option 3 is highly unlikely. Since we might be female the letter cannot refer to ourself (i.e., this letter was not sent to a third party who has since reported back to us). Moreover, we see no evidence that a third party is still underground attempting to help either Thaven or another third party (although it is technically possible given the proctor appeared from nowhere having left no apparent trail), and this would present the problem of how we came by the letter in the first place (unless it was dropped by said third party). Nevertheless, there is a remote possibility that the letter was addressed to a third party, refers to Thaven (or another third party), and was dropped and acquired by ourself as said third party escaped UnderEarth (however unlikely).
Option 2 is more plausible yet also unlikely, that the letter was addressed to Papin and refers to Thaven. However, this would imply that Papin had been sent to assist Thaven, and if all else fails recover any information Thaven has gathered and bring it back to the third party that sent Papin. Except there are problems with this. Although Papin was assisting Thaven, and currently his intention is to continue to assist Thaven, there was a period when Papin resented Thaven and had clearly decided to pursue his own goals. So given the opportunity, and assuming Papin's objective was to collect information and report back, why did he not do this? And why does Papin never mention this task in any of his musings?
Another problem is that Papin has clearly been Thaven's apprentice for a long time. When they are separated Thaven states that "I deeply regret the loss of a lifetime of imparted knowledge and teachings" - they have been together for a lifetime. Are we seriously to believe the third party that sent Papin to assist Thaven is prepared to wait a lifetime for Papin to report back, not that Papin shows the slightest indication of actually bothering to report back?! Also Papin was forced to flee his home (outside) by irate peasants rather than simply volunteering for such a quest, which would presumably rule this option out completely.
Option 1 is more likely, that the letter was addressed to ourself and refers to either Thaven or a third party. If the letter refers to Thaven then we appear to have volunteered to enter UnderEarth and assist a murderer with his rather questionable research (although Thaven might not have been a criminal at the time the letter was written). Presumably our 'employer' is a thaumaturgic order who is willing to "find a place for us" in return for assisting Thaven or at least returning useful relevant information.
An alternative scenario is one in which we volunteered to enter UnderEarth to assist a third party, perhaps a proctor, presumably to assist him in preventing Thaven from completing his activities. In which case our 'employer' would effectively be the law, and we would be working for what? A place among proctors? Or simply a place to live at Ardent or similar? This sounds somewhat tenuous, although it is worth remembering what Thaven said regarding the subject that found the weapon; "One of my subjects found a most remarkable weapon and escaped, making quick work of anything in his path. I was surprised by his ability to guard his mind against me, I tracked his escape for some time but he then completely vanished from my senses. How did he do that? Who is he?"
An Executioner's Sword is a sword designed specifically for decapitation of condemned criminals, and also known as a Sword of Justice. Thaven is without doubt a criminal (at least as far as Ardent is concerned). Has this weapon been left for us by the third party we are supposed to be assisting? If so, then why would this third party not themselves attempt to either capture or execute Thaven? And how would they know we were coming? And if they did know we were coming, why would they not leave us a note?
Which leads us to Option 4, that we fell down a hole in the ground and ended up in UnderEarth with part of a letter that has nothing to do with us in our inventory, and are presumably now looking for an exit (while pursuing whatever course of action we see fit along the way). Which seems somewhat random, and still begs the questions; who was the letter addressed to? Who sent it? How and why did we acquire it? Why would we bother keeping a letter that was irrelevant to us?
Conclusion:
Just...wtf, basically. Having taken this as far as I can I am now left with more questions than answers.
If you twist my arm I would probably guess at some variant of option 1 being the truth. But you would have to twist it pretty hard.
- That all documents are accurate and true.
- That new parchments are all contemporary.
Next we investigate the present...
G) Theory; Two thaumaturgists were living and working on Level 1 (Thaven and Papin). Thaven was the master and Papin the apprentice. Papin was upset with Thaven, having been driven from his former home by peasants due to Thaven's behaviour. Thaven had an agreement with Hamon to (discreetly) kidnap or otherwise lure people in from outside to serve as subjects for his research. Hamon was careless and sent too many people down. Fearing for their safety Thaven and Papin were forced deeper into UnderEarth. At some point Thaven and Papin became separated.
Evidence; A couple of (new) parchments found in what appears to be the commander's residence on Level 1 (northwest central):
"So far results are disappointing. I suppose I should have expected as much after the initial dramatic progress. I am seeing some improvement but I feel as though I need a change of direction to really go further. If only poor Papin was still with me, exchanging thoughts with him would benefit me greatly." (Ref: L01/014/f).
"I feel a growing resentment for Thaven. On the one hand I wish to please him, impress him, but such thoughts then lead me to anger. I once believed there was friendship between us, now I think perhaps it was based on naught but common interests. His disregard for all things other than his single minded purpose has hurt us, it has put us all in difficulty and danger. I was always feared, but I was also respected. To be driven from my own home by peasants!" (Ref: L01/014/b).
A (new) parchment found in Thaven's lair on Level 2 (northeast); "I've been avoiding relations with my subjects as it could become a serious impediment to my work. I did not imagine that I would miss human contact so much. Papin could have carried my legacy but I now treasure his friendship and company more than anything. Even so I deeply regret the loss of a lifetime of imparted knowledge and teachings. If I were to succeed poor Papin would never truly have reaped the benefits of his apprenticeship but he accepted this but he was always eager and gratef-
-s too late now, I must not dwell on it any longer." (Ref: L02/018/c).
A (new) parchment found on the floor of the largest room on Level 1 (northwest); "Hamon has obviously cast aside our agreement. He's sending far too many down here and I've lost all contact with him. What is he trying to do? One of these wretches confessed that he was told to seek treasure. Someone will notice all these missing people. And what if one finds me while I sleep? I no longer feel safe here, I have locked the doors but I should venture further and look for something more secure." (Ref: L01/015).
There are bones on Level 1 (west) near an array of cells, that do not appear to be human. The area appears to have been used to incarcerate prisoners. Given the equipment in the vicinity then presumably experiments were being conducted on the prisoners. There are also a couple of barred wagons that were presumably used to transport prisoners from outside. (Ref: L01/009).
A (new) parchment outside Papin's rooms on Level 2 (northwest); "That idiot and his thugs are still sending many down here. I must admit I am impressed by his methods, in some ways he is less a fool than he appears. I must take advantage of this and resume my research while I still can. I've yet to find a place where I w-". (Ref: L02/021).
A letter on the corpse of Mathis on Level 1 (north); "Dearest Mathis, Elara has disappeared. Many have gone missing of late but bandits in the area are not uncommon. Elara however does not travel, why would they have taken her? I dread to think what they might do to her. I thought of a ransom and so, I am ashamed to admit, I thought of you. But there have been no requests for ransom, just more and more missing. I assume news of these events has not reached Ardent, it has been long since we've seen a proctor. What am I to do dear cousin? Will you at least advise me? Tessa." (Ref: L01/004).
Notes; Mathis may have been killed while looking for Elara. The undead 'zombies' appear to be the remainder of the subjects. There is an unidentified male on Level 1 (west) near the locked door, presumably killed by an undead. There is another unidentified female behind the locked door. Since the key is present it is possible he locked her behind the door for her own safety, yet died before he could release her, whereupon she also died.
H) Theory; Thaven has an illness. Thaven has attempted to remove the mind/soul/brain from one of the subjects (or undead). Humans are powerful, immortal beings that have forgotten their true nature. Some ghosts have the power to shape things within our own realm.
Evidence; A (new) parchment found in a cubicle in the infirmary on Level 1 (southwest); "I think my illness has worsened since coming here, I often feel confused, as if battling conflicting thoughts. My temper keeps getting the better of me, an aggressive trait I never knew I possessed. Perhaps it is simply a response to all that has happened. Even so it scares me, I don't recognise myself. I must make a greater effort to retain my composure." (Ref: L01/010).
A (new) parchment found in Thaven's rooms on Level 2 (northeast); "I discovered a truly miraculous substance. It produces a faint light and a pungent odour, when I touched it a wound on my hand I acquired during my cuttings healed rapidly. It was astounding. I have experimented with it but so far it has proven ineffective against my illness. If only I could find more. It is well hidden, obviously it is something of great value. I thought perhaps the lamps contained this substance but I was unable to break one open, when I finally removed one from the wall it lost its light." (Ref: L02/018/d).
A (new) parchment found in a theatre in the infirmary on Level 1 (southwest); "They lose the will to live without their bodies. They seem completely bound to their mortal remains. Is it just because of their lesser minds? I have attempted to sustain one with nothing left but th... Gods below, what am I doing? It is horrifying. Sometimes it is as if I suddenly awake to realise that I am fuelled by rage, as if I hold these poor souls responsible for what has befallen me." (Ref: L01/012/b).
A book at the main desk in the infirmary on Level 1 (southwest) detailing a long list of people undergoing treatment from often grievous wounds. Many of the injuries appear to be bites and lacerations, presumably resulting from the attacks of some kind of animal. (Ref: L01/011).
A book (Desconstructing Humanity by Aldair Hanks) in a theatre in the infirmary on Level 1 (southwest). It is a medical book on human anatomy consisting of mostly diagrams and surgical terminology. There are many underlined passages and circled diagrams in the section that deals with the brain. (Ref: L01/012/a).
A book (The Forgotten Power) in Thaven's rooms on Level 1 (northwest central); According to this book humans are powerful, immortal beings that have forgotten their true nature. That by living your life by a certain moral code, perfoming certain rituals and eating a certain diet, you can achieve great power and ultimately unlock your dormant immortality. (Ref: L01/014/c).
A book (Forgotten by Aime Koren) in Thaven's rooms on Level 1 (northwest central); A scholarly book about memory and cognizance. What we forget and why we forget it, how we choose to make a history for ourselves regardless of the facts, how we are defined by the wholly unreliable and subjective thing we call memory. (Ref: L01/014/e).
A book in a room on Level 1 (southeast) near the mess halls; The book presents itself as nothing more than a collection of absurd theories on the existence of ghosts, however there are parts written in a different tone. "There is an innate power in the ghost realm, unlike the physical world it is not governed by the constraints of matter or the laws of physics. A ghost can conjure anything, any object or power they can simply call into being, much as we do when we dream. This however requires keen awareness of their condition, an understanding of their realm and their place within it. Most ghosts wander in a state of confusion, at the mercy of twisted thoughts and perceptions, but not all. There are those that have awakened, or perhaps never slept, never were in a dream like state. These wield great power, they can shape things not only in the ghost realm but within our own." (Ref: L01/006/a).
Notes; It is possible the injuries (bites and lacerations) were caused to the subjects by Thaven himself (during lapses of control), although if this is the case then why would he record the injuries? It is more likely these injuries were caused to soldiers in the past (see previous post regarding Theories of the Past) by a dangerous creature. If so, then are these (#L01/009) the remains of such creatures?
I) Theory; Papin had a change of heart regarding Thaven's activities. Thaven has a specific world-changing mission, presumably not merely to cure his illness. Thaven believes in an entity referred to as the Spellgiver (and may be searching for it). The halls of UnderEarth echo with the souls of the long dead. There is another presence in UnderEarth (possibly the Guardian or the Spellgiver).
Evidence; A (new) parchment on Level 2 (northwest) in Papin's rooms; "This place begins to intrigue me. Thaven understands more things than I imagined. What if he is right? It would change everything. How could we be so ignorant? If I had more time I believe I would undertake his mission. I wonder what changes he has brought about now with these discoveries. These are important times, I would live to see them." (Ref: L02/020/a).
A (new) parchment in a tavern on Level 2 (north); "I'm sitting in a tavern, something I have not done in a long time. Alas it is quite empty and all the drink has spoiled long ago. These people cannot have been so different from us. And yet some things are very strange. There are lamps and even fires that never burn out, but I do not understand the source of their power. These walls echo with the souls of the long dead but beneath that I sense something else, like a far reaching presence, it is faint but everywhere, and very strange. Could this be the mythical Guardian? Or even Thaven's Spellgiver?" (Ref: L02/023).
Notes; Thaven's primary mission might not be to cure his illness, but to find the Spellgiver (unless this amounts to the same thing). Papin is referring to ghosts rather than the undead zombies (see later).
J) Theory; Despite Thaven's already dubious practices, he is now a self-confessed murderer (and therefore a criminal). Thaven found a helmet that protects him from the influence of the presence (and other minds). Thaven believes the presence is malevolent, and causes unrest and aggressiveness in his subjects. One of Thaven's subjects found a remarkable weapon (possibly the Executioner's Sword) and escaped.
Evidence; A (new) parchment in Thaven's rooms on Level 3 (northeast); "A Proctor! Just as I feared, and yet I grew complacent. She was well prepared, obviously she had some idea of what to expect, it was only luck that she didn't kill me. I cannot stay here, I must hide and prepare defences. I don't know how I will be able to continue my work. The Proctor would have made an excellent subject, a shame I had to kill her so. I will leave her here to impede any who would pursue me." (Ref: L03/026/a).
There is a resurrected proctor wandering the corridors of Level 3 (east). She carries a seal that represents the law of Ardent. (Ref: L03/025).
A (new) parchment in Thaven's rooms on Level 3 (northeast); "I have found a helmet which blocks my power when I wear it. Perhaps more importantly it shielded me from the noise of other minds, that presence that has haunted me since I came here was gone. Shortly after donning it I fell asleep, I am certain it was not its power that did this but the calm that came over me, I had not slept so well in quite some time. I feel certain now that it is this presence that causes unrest and aggressiveness in my subjects, clearly it is malevolent." (Ref: L03/026/b).
A (new) parchment in Thaven's rooms on Level 3 (northeast); "One of my subjects found a most remarkable weapon and escaped, making quick work of anything in his path. I was surprised by his ability to guard his mind against me, I tracked his escape for some time but he then completely vanished from my senses. How did he do that? Who is he?" (Ref: L03/026/c).
Notes; Does the Executioner's Sword (also) possess the ability to block the noise from other minds? If Thaven was referring to the Executioner's Sword, what was it doing locked inside a room?
K) Theory; Thaven is vulnerable while wearing the helm (which he needs to protect him from the presence). Spirits (ghosts) wander the halls of Level 4. Papin was attacked by the Demon and resurrected the skeletons to distract it (to cover his escape). Papin's objective was to become immortal, a quest he has now abandoned. Thaven's objective is not to become immortal, rather something else. Papin is now attempting to contact Thaven to help and share knowledge.
Evidence; A (new) parchment near the Portal on Level 4 (north); "What terrible place is this? A thunderous voice shouts unintelligibly in my mind, as though trying to command me with wordless urgency. It's as though it wants to both urge me and soothe me, I am terrified that I may succumb to its will. This strange helm is my only respite, but it leaves me vulnerable. There is also a constant wailing of ancient restless spirits, has this presence been keeping them from finding peace?" (Ref: L04/031).
A (new) parchment on Level 4 in Papin's rooms; "I have never been so terrified. I was attacked by a huge dreadful creature. A demon perhaps? I tried to control it, but though its mind felt completely unguarded, it was oblivious to my intrusion. I was only able to confuse it briefly and get away, I am defenceless against this thing. I dare not venture out again. These dead guards, perhaps I could call them into action. I don't imagine they could do much against such a monster, but the distraction might cover my escape." (Ref: L04/034/a).
A (new) parchment on Level 4 in Papin's rooms; "I fear I don't have long left. I have abandoned my efforts to escape death. It was foolish, and yet I have accomplished so much. I must try to send word to Thaven, he will see the importance of my work, even though he is concerned with other matters. I believed Thaven's pursuits to be as hollow as my own, a stubborn refusal to accept bitter truths. After what I've seen here anything seems possible. I will spend the rest of my days discovering what I can, I can still be of help." (Ref: L04/034/b).
Notes; Papin presumably managed to escape the Demon, as did Thaven. Although there was a single undead zombie in Papin's rooms, it is likely to be an underling (or subject) rather than Papin himself. Levels 1 through 3 are presumably UnderEarth, whereas Level 4 is presumably the Underworld (given the presence is much stronger).
Summary:
- Two thaumaturgists were living and working on Level 1 (Thaven and Papin).
- Thaven was the master and Papin the apprentice.
- Papin was upset with Thaven, having been driven from his former home by peasants due to Thaven's behaviour.
- Thaven had an agreement with Hamon to (discreetly) kidnap or lure people in from outside to serve as subjects for his research.
- Hamon was careless and sent too many people down.
- Fearing for their safety Thaven and Papin were forced deeper into UnderEarth.
- At some point Thaven and Papin became separated.
- Thaven has an illness.
- Thaven has attempted to remove the mind/soul/brain from one of the subjects (or undead).
- Humans are powerful, immortal beings that have forgotten their true nature.
- Some ghosts have the power to shape things within our own realm.
- Papin had a change of heart regarding Thaven's activities.
- Thaven has a specific world-changing mission, not merely to cure his illness.
- Thaven believes in an entity referred to as the Spellgiver (and may be searching for it).
- The halls of UnderEarth echo with the souls of the long dead.
- There is another presence in UnderEarth (possibly the Guardian or the Spellgiver).
- Thaven is a murderer.
- Thaven found a helmet that protects him from the influence of the presence (and other minds).
- Thaven believes the presence is malevolent, and causes unrest and aggressiveness in his subjects.
- One of Thaven's subjects found a remarkable weapon and escaped (possibly the Executioner's Sword).
- Thaven is vulnerable while wearing the helm (which he needs to protect him from the presence).
- Ancient spirits wander the halls of Level 4 (presumably the Underworld).
- Papin was attacked by the Demon and resurrected the skeletons to distract it (to cover his escape).
- Papin's objective was to become immortal, a quest he has now abandoned.
- Thaven's objective is not to become immortal, rather something else.
- Papin is now attempting to contact Thaven to help and share knowledge.
Speculation:
The following has not been dealt with in the usual manner (as it is a little more complex). It concerns the final page of the original letter in our inventory; "... and assist him in whatever way you can. If all else fails then recover any information he has gathered and bring it to me. There is potential in you, succeed here and we will find a place for you." Badly scribbled across the back of the page are the following words; "There is another way out" (Ref: L01/001).
Regarding the letter itself, there are four possibilities:
1) The letter was addressed to ourself, and refers to Thaven or a third party.
2) The letter was addressed to Papin, and refers to Thaven.
3) The letter was addressed to a third party, and refers to ourself or Thaven (or another third party).
4) We fell down a hole in the ground and 'accidentally' ended up with a letter that has nothing whatever to do with us in our pocket.
Option 3 is highly unlikely. Since we might be female the letter cannot refer to ourself (i.e., this letter was not sent to a third party who has since reported back to us). Moreover, we see no evidence that a third party is still underground attempting to help either Thaven or another third party (although it is technically possible given the proctor appeared from nowhere having left no apparent trail), and this would present the problem of how we came by the letter in the first place (unless it was dropped by said third party). Nevertheless, there is a remote possibility that the letter was addressed to a third party, refers to Thaven (or another third party), and was dropped and acquired by ourself as said third party escaped UnderEarth (however unlikely).
Option 2 is more plausible yet also unlikely, that the letter was addressed to Papin and refers to Thaven. However, this would imply that Papin had been sent to assist Thaven, and if all else fails recover any information Thaven has gathered and bring it back to the third party that sent Papin. Except there are problems with this. Although Papin was assisting Thaven, and currently his intention is to continue to assist Thaven, there was a period when Papin resented Thaven and had clearly decided to pursue his own goals. So given the opportunity, and assuming Papin's objective was to collect information and report back, why did he not do this? And why does Papin never mention this task in any of his musings?
Another problem is that Papin has clearly been Thaven's apprentice for a long time. When they are separated Thaven states that "I deeply regret the loss of a lifetime of imparted knowledge and teachings" - they have been together for a lifetime. Are we seriously to believe the third party that sent Papin to assist Thaven is prepared to wait a lifetime for Papin to report back, not that Papin shows the slightest indication of actually bothering to report back?! Also Papin was forced to flee his home (outside) by irate peasants rather than simply volunteering for such a quest, which would presumably rule this option out completely.
Option 1 is more likely, that the letter was addressed to ourself and refers to either Thaven or a third party. If the letter refers to Thaven then we appear to have volunteered to enter UnderEarth and assist a murderer with his rather questionable research (although Thaven might not have been a criminal at the time the letter was written). Presumably our 'employer' is a thaumaturgic order who is willing to "find a place for us" in return for assisting Thaven or at least returning useful relevant information.
An alternative scenario is one in which we volunteered to enter UnderEarth to assist a third party, perhaps a proctor, presumably to assist him in preventing Thaven from completing his activities. In which case our 'employer' would effectively be the law, and we would be working for what? A place among proctors? Or simply a place to live at Ardent or similar? This sounds somewhat tenuous, although it is worth remembering what Thaven said regarding the subject that found the weapon; "One of my subjects found a most remarkable weapon and escaped, making quick work of anything in his path. I was surprised by his ability to guard his mind against me, I tracked his escape for some time but he then completely vanished from my senses. How did he do that? Who is he?"
An Executioner's Sword is a sword designed specifically for decapitation of condemned criminals, and also known as a Sword of Justice. Thaven is without doubt a criminal (at least as far as Ardent is concerned). Has this weapon been left for us by the third party we are supposed to be assisting? If so, then why would this third party not themselves attempt to either capture or execute Thaven? And how would they know we were coming? And if they did know we were coming, why would they not leave us a note?
Which leads us to Option 4, that we fell down a hole in the ground and ended up in UnderEarth with part of a letter that has nothing to do with us in our inventory, and are presumably now looking for an exit (while pursuing whatever course of action we see fit along the way). Which seems somewhat random, and still begs the questions; who was the letter addressed to? Who sent it? How and why did we acquire it? Why would we bother keeping a letter that was irrelevant to us?
Conclusion:
Just...wtf, basically. Having taken this as far as I can I am now left with more questions than answers.
If you twist my arm I would probably guess at some variant of option 1 being the truth. But you would have to twist it pretty hard.
If you do read it then please bear in mind a lot of it is likely to be wrong, don't take any of it as gospel. Just consider it one possible interpretation of events.
Finally, I probably won't do this again. I'll be too busy either playing Arena or exploring more myself