#rivervale_lodge

"Vali, I don't claim to have the entire story, but I know enough to know this locket’s caused nothing but trouble in the past. It’s dangerous, broken, and not something anyone should take lightly. And trust me, I wouldn’t be asking for it if I didn’t think there was a real need." She pauses to take a breath.

"I need to fix it, not for the reason it was made, but to turn its magic toward something... redemptive. That sea monster, a widow - it's grieving and dangerous. Siv’s already faced it, and let’s just say, we’re lucky to still have the Narwhal - I don't want to see what happens next time - I don't want there to BE a next time."

"BUT - " Now getting to where she was going. "I think the locket could help lure the sea monster away, and change it's focus from vengeance back to something more acceptable. Maybe it can help it find peace or... a different love, even. And if not, well, it could be strong enough to at least distract it or pull it into the deep Dreaming, where it can’t hurt anyone anymore."

Vali ponders this, then answers somberly and candidly, "I don't like that locket. I know arts can be used for good or ill. That most magics are only as evil as their user makes them. But that thing has been used for greed and fear in turn. It might end up tempting or twisting anyone if they aren't very careful, and maybe even if they are. Though, perhaps I'm being too unfair on that part." A breath "Then there's the fact even if you got it right, even if you set it up with the magic to lure just that she sea monster to the deep deep dreaming... you would in danger from said monster until the casting. I know we trolls can be patronizing to other kith about that. We trolls forget that there are Eshu heroes, satyr wizards, and others of great power and might in the Dreaming who... frankly, ain't us. So I'm not saying 'oh no it's TOO dangerous for a musician gal with hooves', but.. I will say it IS Dangerous period. Do you think YOU are up to it? "

"Heck no!" Piper exclaims.

"But, my loves ARE. And they can keep me safe." A bright grin.

At that, his sober face softens a bit , "You told your loves about your plan?"

"Not yet, no... I didn't want to get them all excited.." or worried... she doesn't say, "Before I knew if it was possible."

"It's possible" He concedes, "And...it's not even a terrible plan, just a risky one. When do you need the amulet?"

"Before Siv gets an Eshu-sized itch and runs off to explore. Even the Narwhal isn't perfect - though don't let SIV hear me say that... and Wayfare can go awry. What if she is trying to take the bubs to visit Grandma and Grandpa and ends up in a cross between South Pacific and Godzilla?"

"I See your point, Fiona get weird sometime. Okay. .. you don't ask for much, and you've helped us when we ask. I'm not blind to that" he rises and moves to the desk, reaching under, he pulls out a lock box. He touches it, and mutters something... a password?

It opens up, and he pulls out the locket, "Here. I suggest you don't let Dagmar or Symon see it. They have ever reason to resent it"

"Ye gods. I don't know which of them I'd want after me worse. They're BOTH formidable." She shakes her head in firm negation before accepting the locket in a handkerchief. "Okay if I consult my cuz about it?"

"Please do, I'm not so proud as to shy from admitting your cousin has become a bit OP pretty fast in the magic department. I only know five people who have progressed faster." He admits

"Oh? Anyone else I know?"

He ponders "Gerd has always had a gift for Wayfare, past lfe helped, but hasn't stopped there and is becoming quite the witch. I suspect she's got some tutors on the side I don't know about. Other than that, I won't say, out of respect for their secrets. Many who gain in the arts try to stay under the radar, particularly if they are commoner kith. Sidhe like having a monopoly, as a rule"

And the rumors of She with Many Names continues to alarm and intrigue, but for all I know that one is a myth so he doesn't mention her

"Hmmph." Piper says, but with a bit of a smile. "I'll give Zane your regards." A wave, and she's off to text.

HEY, HOW'S MY 3RD OR 4TH MOST FAVORITE COUSIN DOING?

TXT: Better be at least THIRD darn it!

TXT: Currently pouring over some hoary tome. You?

(Pause)

BETTER A HOARY TOME THAN SOMETHING HAIRY ALONE

Yes, apparently she is an all caps texter

TXT: So LOUD 😉

TXT: So what's up?

GOT A SPARKLY THINGO I NEED U TO FIX. U COME HERE OR I COME 2U?

TXT: I do like sparklies. Wait, Fix, is it metal?

TXT: Reason I ask. If it is, maybe bring it to DG, they have tools

UR A TOOL ;) OK OMW