Chapter 340: Safety is Gone
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Chapter 340: Safety is Gone
Tala sat in comfort as the unit glided through the air in what was nearly the twentieth iteration of their combined construction.
She was still seated on flat stone, but there was no need to keep as still as possible, and that made a surprising difference.
Terry, as had become his habit, was proudly perched atop his perch at the pinnacle of the sleek glass shell, which redirected wind away from the passengers.
Mistress Cerna had perfected the scripts she used to propel the craft, making for a smoother, more controlled, more stable flight.
Master Girt had increased the compression in the stone platform below them, changing the shape to more suit their needs and adding to the inertial stability. Though, something was off with the man.
I should check on him at some point
Master Limmestare had refined the contours of the glass, to aid in movement and flight, rather than detracting. Though, he still left Terry exposed to the airstream, as the terror bird preferred.
Tala had narrowed in the the right amount of gravity to leave affecting the construction, to allow for easy maneuverability without undue burden to keep the whole thing aloft.
The Paragon who was with them on this outing had been suitably impressed by the combination of effects and talents, inquiring at length as to each part of the construction as they headed to the south, toward the plains near the edge of the forest where this next cell awaited.
The Paragon was older looking than Mistress Kep had been, but he appeared in no way feeble.
He had a studious air to him, added to by his insightful and thorough questions. Each one conveyed his interest and attentiveness in a way that prompted those of whom he was inquiring to speak at length in response.
Honestly, he reminded Tala of Master Nadro in that way.
He had introduced himself as Abali, and Master Abali had proven himself to be quite a pleasant companion.
Truthfully, each of the Paragons who had come with them to the various cells had been enjoyable to interact with, each in their own way.
This was only their second new cell, but they had gone to three other known cells for the standard maintenance for this cycle. Apparently, the added turmoil of this waning made it so that more cells needed maintenance than usual.
Finally, Tala decided that she couldnt ignore her unit-mate further and took a chance to move over and sit next to Master Girt. Master Girt?
Hmm? He grunted, looking up to meet her gaze.
Is everything alright?
He shrugged and sighed. Im just having some trouble with those who Im living with.
Oh? Tala frowned. She thought she remembered that Master Girt rented out rooms in the home he had in Alefast. Whats the issue, if you dont mind my asking?
Well, my new housemates think my house is haunted.
Talas eyebrows rose in surprise. What?
Yeah! I mean, I dont know what theyre on about. Ive lived there for nearly three hundred years, and Ive never seen anything worthy of concern.
There was silence then, and Tala noticed that everyone was looking in her direction.
Her expression fell into a neutral mask. Thats meant to be a joke, right?
The man huffed and shook his head. See? I told you she wouldnt think it was funny.Ñøv€l-B1n was the first platform to present this chapter.
Master Clevnis grinned. I thought it was hilarious.
Master Abali breathed a soft laugh. It would work better if the person you tell it to doesnt know you're Refined.
Master Girt grunted. Yeah, I suppose I can see that.
Tala sighed. So, youve been acting grumpy all morning, just to set up a joke?
Hmmm? Im not grumpy. He frowned.
Why do you think I came over here?
His frown deepened. Im not grumpy.
Mistress Cerna didnt look away from their flight path as she spoke up. Yes, you are. Youve been sulking. Its why we thought you attempting some humor would be good for you.
Wait. You told me to try to make her laugh, for me?
That caused the unit leader to look back at him. Of course. We know you wont tell us whats wrong, but we thought it might help you. She doesnt need cheering up. Mistress Talas been nothing but happy since she took the day off to be with her friend.
Mistress Vanga took that opportunity to sit down beside Tala. Speaking of which, you never did tell us how it all went. I mean, I had to heal him a few times, but thats hardly a good way to get a picture of the tenor of a day.
Master Limmestare looked up from his book. Are you two courting? If not, Im going to read while you tell everyone else the details.
Tala flushed. No! Were not courting. Why would you even ask that?
He gave her a flat look. I just told you why. If you are courting, its important enough for me to give my full attention. I take great pains to pay attention to my unit-mates and the weighty things in their lives that they feel worthy of sharing. However, if this is just our fellows forcing you to expound on a standard day with a friend, I prefer my book to such things.
Oh. Tala blinked a few times. I suppose you did imply that Well, were not.
Alright then, thank you. He turned back to his book.
And from there, Mistress Vanga re-took over the reins of the conversation, and Tala did her embarrassed best to convey how the day with Rane had gone.
Over all, they passed the trip with their regular comradery, Master Abali interjecting only occasionally as was appropriate.
They touched down lightly outside the forest, and blessedly, they wouldnt need to enter it.
Tala had made her team aware of her storied history with the Leshkin, and Master Grediv already knew. Together, that ensured that they wouldnt be picked for any in the southern forest cell work.
Their construct was complex enough that Master Clevnis stored it once theyd all disembarked and after Mistress Cerna had removed her spell-forms from the bottom, which took very little time.
They were on the rolling plains, atop one of the higher hills, the forest some quarter of a mile distant.
Tala immediately scanned their surroundings for the fold in reality that would indicate the hidden entrance into the cell, but didnt find one. When she reported this, Master Abali nodded, considering.
It is likely one of the many cells that are underground. It can be tricky to find the exact location of those, if you dont come prepared. He pulled a handful of white powder out of thin airseemingly from his spatial storageand threw it up. Thankfully, I am prepared.
Power sparked between the particles, seemingly drawn from the air itself, before the growing cloud began moving against the wind.
But was she sure?
She whipped around again, managing to contain her reaction enough to not draw Flow this time.
There was nothing, as shed known there would be.
But what if? She groaned. Please tell me this doesnt have to do with the prisoner.
Master Abali visibly tremored, before he shook his head. No such luck, Im afraid. There are all sorts of conceptual twistings layered over this tunnel andI suspectthe entryway to the prison. Likely things the prisoner was doing in an attempt to lash out at his captors, or keep the prison from sealing as it closed.
Tala shuddered. He didnt want his captors to ever feel safe? How can such a working even How is it still in effect?
It was wrought on this space, and this space has gone undisturbed since. The magics likely originally extended above as well, but they would have dispersed with time. Down here, though? Its concentrated, and the conceptually-altered matter is still here, waiting. The change should fade while were here, and the effects should be all but utterly gone by the time the cell is maintained again.
Tala grimaced, glancing over her shoulder reflexively. I rather hate this
Mistress Vanga lifted up her shield with a little shrug. Im feeling alright thanks to this. Thank you all, again, for letting me claim it.
Tala did her best to not begrudge the woman. This conceptual nonsense wont extend into our dimensional storages, will it?
She had the horrible thought of the Zuccats feeling unexplainable, undirected danger within Kit.
Or Terry Yeah, that wouldnt be good for anyone.
Master Abali hesitated. Not unless they are opened. As to what will happen then? Im not sure, but lets get a look inside the atrium for this cell, and Ill know better.
Great going deeper in.
It was obviously a bad idea to do anything with this cell, even checking on its integrity was foolish. She
-Tala.- Alats tone carried a note of warning within Talas mind.
Tala jerked her head, shaking it. Oh, thats awful. Not only is the feeling of safety gone, but so is faith that what were doing is the right course.
ThatMaster Abali said with a shake of his headshould pass incredibly quickly. What I would watch out for more closely is if you all start to feel less confident in each other, or anything like that.
She felt her eye twitch. Thats possible?
I wouldnt think so, not with the level of magic that Im feeling, but people have had odder specialties. Be careful.
Tala sighed. Ill pay special attention to our reality-thread connections
Thank you, Mistress. Watch for suppression as well as severing, if you will. The Paragon smiled at her kindly.
She grimaced and nodded. Should I enfold myself in my existence filter?
Master Abali paused for a moment. You could try it, but I dont believe it would help. You still react to external stimulation, so you arent truly cut off from reality, at least not in the way the prep-documents outlined the ability. This effect is equivalent of looking at a kitten and thinking its cute. Now, once we know more about the prisoner I very well may recommend its use. After a moment's consideration, he shrugged. That said, you are welcome to experiment. You have good enough control that you shouldnt cause yourself or anyone else harm. Again, though, thats just from my understanding.
She nodded, accepting his words for the recommendation that they were.
After a long consideration, and several involuntary looks over her own shoulder, she grit her teeth and sealed her mouth, forcing the manifestation of the void into her bound iron and defensive magics.
Because she was looking for it, and because she already felt unsafe, she immediately felt like everyone had abandoned her, and she would never find her way back to the surface.
She tried to start hyperventilating, but she couldnt breathe.
She couldnt breathe!
Claws grew out from her fingers, and she scrabbled at her face, trying to get free of the cloying inability to take in air.
Her perspective seemed to fade as her mind spiraled into panic.
There was another voice that seemed that it was trying to get her attention, but that didnt matter, not now.
Cant breathe.
Cant see.
Cant breathe.
Cant see.
She couldnt bring her focus to bear sufficiently to mirror Flows cutting onto her claws to get them to work.
Something hit the side of her head, and she felt like she rang like a bell, even though she knew that wasnt true.
That outside stimulus was something to grab onto.
She wanted the outside.
Something was keeping her separate from it.
Get away!
Her iron exploded away from her into the dimensions of magic, destroying the synergy that created her existence filter, and the rest of the world came crashing back into focus.
Master Clevnis was standing over her.
Im on the ground?
Mistress Tala? Are you alright?
Tala groaned. Yeah that was an awful idea.
He helped her to her feet, and she found herself clinging to him for a long moment.
He didnt pull back, instead rubbing her upper back comfortingly. Youre alright, Mistress Tala. Were here.
Mistress Cerna came up beside them, resting a hand on Talas shoulder. Lets verify the safety of the entrance, then get up to the surface for some perspective, shall we?
Tala nodded mutely, working her lips to bring moisture back to them. Finally, she managed, Yeah. I think that would be good.
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Chapter 340: Safety is Gone
Tala sat in comfort as the unit glided through the air in what was nearly the twentieth iteration of their combined construction.
She was still seated on flat stone, but there was no need to keep as still as possible, and that made a surprising difference.
Terry, as had become his habit, was proudly perched atop his perch at the pinnacle of the sleek glass shell, which redirected wind away from the passengers.
Mistress Cerna had perfected the scripts she used to propel the craft, making for a smoother, more controlled, more stable flight.
Master Girt had increased the compression in the stone platform below them, changing the shape to more suit their needs and adding to the inertial stability. Though, something was off with the man.
I should check on him at some point
Master Limmestare had refined the contours of the glass, to aid in movement and flight, rather than detracting. Though, he still left Terry exposed to the airstream, as the terror bird preferred.
Tala had narrowed in the the right amount of gravity to leave affecting the construction, to allow for easy maneuverability without undue burden to keep the whole thing aloft.
The Paragon who was with them on this outing had been suitably impressed by the combination of effects and talents, inquiring at length as to each part of the construction as they headed to the south, toward the plains near the edge of the forest where this next cell awaited.
The Paragon was older looking than Mistress Kep had been, but he appeared in no way feeble.
He had a studious air to him, added to by his insightful and thorough questions. Each one conveyed his interest and attentiveness in a way that prompted those of whom he was inquiring to speak at length in response.
Honestly, he reminded Tala of Master Nadro in that way.
He had introduced himself as Abali, and Master Abali had proven himself to be quite a pleasant companion.
Truthfully, each of the Paragons who had come with them to the various cells had been enjoyable to interact with, each in their own way.
This was only their second new cell, but they had gone to three other known cells for the standard maintenance for this cycle. Apparently, the added turmoil of this waning made it so that more cells needed maintenance than usual.
Finally, Tala decided that she couldnt ignore her unit-mate further and took a chance to move over and sit next to Master Girt. Master Girt?
Hmm? He grunted, looking up to meet her gaze.
Is everything alright?
He shrugged and sighed. Im just having some trouble with those who Im living with.
Oh? Tala frowned. She thought she remembered that Master Girt rented out rooms in the home he had in Alefast. Whats the issue, if you dont mind my asking?
Well, my new housemates think my house is haunted.
Talas eyebrows rose in surprise. What?
Yeah! I mean, I dont know what theyre on about. Ive lived there for nearly three hundred years, and Ive never seen anything worthy of concern.
There was silence then, and Tala noticed that everyone was looking in her direction.
Her expression fell into a neutral mask. Thats meant to be a joke, right?
The man huffed and shook his head. See? I told you she wouldnt think it was funny.Ñøv€l-B1n was the first platform to present this chapter.
Master Clevnis grinned. I thought it was hilarious.
Master Abali breathed a soft laugh. It would work better if the person you tell it to doesnt know you're Refined.
Master Girt grunted. Yeah, I suppose I can see that.
Tala sighed. So, youve been acting grumpy all morning, just to set up a joke?
Hmmm? Im not grumpy. He frowned.
Why do you think I came over here?
His frown deepened. Im not grumpy.
Mistress Cerna didnt look away from their flight path as she spoke up. Yes, you are. Youve been sulking. Its why we thought you attempting some humor would be good for you.
Wait. You told me to try to make her laugh, for me?
That caused the unit leader to look back at him. Of course. We know you wont tell us whats wrong, but we thought it might help you. She doesnt need cheering up. Mistress Talas been nothing but happy since she took the day off to be with her friend.
Mistress Vanga took that opportunity to sit down beside Tala. Speaking of which, you never did tell us how it all went. I mean, I had to heal him a few times, but thats hardly a good way to get a picture of the tenor of a day.
Master Limmestare looked up from his book. Are you two courting? If not, Im going to read while you tell everyone else the details.
Tala flushed. No! Were not courting. Why would you even ask that?
He gave her a flat look. I just told you why. If you are courting, its important enough for me to give my full attention. I take great pains to pay attention to my unit-mates and the weighty things in their lives that they feel worthy of sharing. However, if this is just our fellows forcing you to expound on a standard day with a friend, I prefer my book to such things.
Oh. Tala blinked a few times. I suppose you did imply that Well, were not.
Alright then, thank you. He turned back to his book.
And from there, Mistress Vanga re-took over the reins of the conversation, and Tala did her embarrassed best to convey how the day with Rane had gone.
Over all, they passed the trip with their regular comradery, Master Abali interjecting only occasionally as was appropriate.
They touched down lightly outside the forest, and blessedly, they wouldnt need to enter it.
Tala had made her team aware of her storied history with the Leshkin, and Master Grediv already knew. Together, that ensured that they wouldnt be picked for any in the southern forest cell work.
Their construct was complex enough that Master Clevnis stored it once theyd all disembarked and after Mistress Cerna had removed her spell-forms from the bottom, which took very little time.
They were on the rolling plains, atop one of the higher hills, the forest some quarter of a mile distant.
Tala immediately scanned their surroundings for the fold in reality that would indicate the hidden entrance into the cell, but didnt find one. When she reported this, Master Abali nodded, considering.
It is likely one of the many cells that are underground. It can be tricky to find the exact location of those, if you dont come prepared. He pulled a handful of white powder out of thin airseemingly from his spatial storageand threw it up. Thankfully, I am prepared.
Power sparked between the particles, seemingly drawn from the air itself, before the growing cloud began moving against the wind.
But was she sure?
She whipped around again, managing to contain her reaction enough to not draw Flow this time.
There was nothing, as shed known there would be.
But what if? She groaned. Please tell me this doesnt have to do with the prisoner.
Master Abali visibly tremored, before he shook his head. No such luck, Im afraid. There are all sorts of conceptual twistings layered over this tunnel andI suspectthe entryway to the prison. Likely things the prisoner was doing in an attempt to lash out at his captors, or keep the prison from sealing as it closed.
Tala shuddered. He didnt want his captors to ever feel safe? How can such a working even How is it still in effect?
It was wrought on this space, and this space has gone undisturbed since. The magics likely originally extended above as well, but they would have dispersed with time. Down here, though? Its concentrated, and the conceptually-altered matter is still here, waiting. The change should fade while were here, and the effects should be all but utterly gone by the time the cell is maintained again.
Tala grimaced, glancing over her shoulder reflexively. I rather hate this
Mistress Vanga lifted up her shield with a little shrug. Im feeling alright thanks to this. Thank you all, again, for letting me claim it.
Tala did her best to not begrudge the woman. This conceptual nonsense wont extend into our dimensional storages, will it?
She had the horrible thought of the Zuccats feeling unexplainable, undirected danger within Kit.
Or Terry Yeah, that wouldnt be good for anyone.
Master Abali hesitated. Not unless they are opened. As to what will happen then? Im not sure, but lets get a look inside the atrium for this cell, and Ill know better.
Great going deeper in.
It was obviously a bad idea to do anything with this cell, even checking on its integrity was foolish. She
-Tala.- Alats tone carried a note of warning within Talas mind.
Tala jerked her head, shaking it. Oh, thats awful. Not only is the feeling of safety gone, but so is faith that what were doing is the right course.
ThatMaster Abali said with a shake of his headshould pass incredibly quickly. What I would watch out for more closely is if you all start to feel less confident in each other, or anything like that.
She felt her eye twitch. Thats possible?
I wouldnt think so, not with the level of magic that Im feeling, but people have had odder specialties. Be careful.
Tala sighed. Ill pay special attention to our reality-thread connections
Thank you, Mistress. Watch for suppression as well as severing, if you will. The Paragon smiled at her kindly.
She grimaced and nodded. Should I enfold myself in my existence filter?
Master Abali paused for a moment. You could try it, but I dont believe it would help. You still react to external stimulation, so you arent truly cut off from reality, at least not in the way the prep-documents outlined the ability. This effect is equivalent of looking at a kitten and thinking its cute. Now, once we know more about the prisoner I very well may recommend its use. After a moment's consideration, he shrugged. That said, you are welcome to experiment. You have good enough control that you shouldnt cause yourself or anyone else harm. Again, though, thats just from my understanding.
She nodded, accepting his words for the recommendation that they were.
After a long consideration, and several involuntary looks over her own shoulder, she grit her teeth and sealed her mouth, forcing the manifestation of the void into her bound iron and defensive magics.
Because she was looking for it, and because she already felt unsafe, she immediately felt like everyone had abandoned her, and she would never find her way back to the surface.
She tried to start hyperventilating, but she couldnt breathe.
She couldnt breathe!
Claws grew out from her fingers, and she scrabbled at her face, trying to get free of the cloying inability to take in air.
Her perspective seemed to fade as her mind spiraled into panic.
There was another voice that seemed that it was trying to get her attention, but that didnt matter, not now.
Cant breathe.
Cant see.
Cant breathe.
Cant see.
She couldnt bring her focus to bear sufficiently to mirror Flows cutting onto her claws to get them to work.
Something hit the side of her head, and she felt like she rang like a bell, even though she knew that wasnt true.
That outside stimulus was something to grab onto.
She wanted the outside.
Something was keeping her separate from it.
Get away!
Her iron exploded away from her into the dimensions of magic, destroying the synergy that created her existence filter, and the rest of the world came crashing back into focus.
Master Clevnis was standing over her.
Im on the ground?
Mistress Tala? Are you alright?
Tala groaned. Yeah that was an awful idea.
He helped her to her feet, and she found herself clinging to him for a long moment.
He didnt pull back, instead rubbing her upper back comfortingly. Youre alright, Mistress Tala. Were here.
Mistress Cerna came up beside them, resting a hand on Talas shoulder. Lets verify the safety of the entrance, then get up to the surface for some perspective, shall we?
Tala nodded mutely, working her lips to bring moisture back to them. Finally, she managed, Yeah. I think that would be good.
Chapter 340: Safety is GoneTala sat in comfort as the unit glided through the air in what was nearly the twentieth iteration of their combined construction.She was still seated on flat stone, but there was no need to keep as still as possible, and that made a surprising difference.Terry, as had become his habit, was proudly perched atop his perch at the pinnacle of the sleek glass shell, which redirected wind away from the passengers.Mistress Cerna had perfected the scripts she used to propel the craft, making for a smoother, more controlled, more stable flight.Master Girt had increased the compression in the stone platform below them, changing the shape to more suit their needs and adding to the inertial stability. Though, something was off with the man.I should check on him at some pointMaster Limmestare had refined the contours of the glass, to aid in movement and flight, rather than detracting. Though, he still left Terry exposed to the airstream, as the terror bird preferred.Tala had narrowed in the the right amount of gravity to leave affecting the construction, to allow for easy maneuverability without undue burden to keep the whole thing aloft.The Paragon who was with them on this outing had been suitably impressed by the combination of effects and talents, inquiring at length as to each part of the construction as they headed to the south, toward the plains near the edge of the forest where this next cell awaited.The Paragon was older looking than Mistress Kep had been, but he appeared in no way feeble.He had a studious air to him, added to by his insightful and thorough questions. Each one conveyed his interest and attentiveness in a way that prompted those of whom he was inquiring to speak at length in response.Honestly, he reminded Tala of Master Nadro in that way.He had introduced himself as Abali, and Master Abali had proven himself to be quite a pleasant companion.Truthfully, each of the Paragons who had come with them to the various cells had been enjoyable to interact with, each in their own way.This was only their second new cell, but they had gone to three other known cells for the standard maintenance for this cycle. Apparently, the added turmoil of this waning made it so that more cells needed maintenance than usual.Finally, Tala decided that she couldnt ignore her unit-mate further and took a chance to move over and sit next to Master Girt. Master Girt?Hmm? He grunted, looking up to meet her gaze.Is everything alright?He shrugged and sighed. Im just having some trouble with those who Im living with.Oh? Tala frowned. She thought she remembered that Master Girt rented out rooms in the home he had in Alefast. Whats the issue, if you dont mind my asking?Well, my new housemates think my house is haunted.Talas eyebrows rose in surprise. What?Yeah! I mean, I dont know what theyre on about. Ive lived there for nearly three hundred years, and Ive never seen anything worthy of concern.There was silence then, and Tala noticed that everyone was looking in her direction.Her expression fell into a neutral mask. Thats meant to be a joke, right?The man huffed and shook his head. See? I told you she wouldnt think it was funny.Nvl-B1n was the first platform to present this chapter.Master Clevnis grinned. I thought it was hilarious.Master Abali breathed a soft laugh. It would work better if the person you tell it to doesnt know you're Refined.Master Girt grunted. Yeah, I suppose I can see that.Tala sighed. So, youve been acting grumpy all morning, just to set up a joke?Hmmm? Im not grumpy. He frowned.Why do you think I came over here?His frown deepened. Im not grumpy.Mistress Cerna didnt look away from their flight path as she spoke up. Yes, you are. Youve been sulking. Its why we thought you attempting some humor would be good for you.Wait. You told me to try to make her laugh, for me?That caused the unit leader to look back at him. Of course. We know you wont tell us whats wrong, but we thought it might help you. She doesnt need cheering up. Mistress Talas been nothing but happy since she took the day off to be with her friend.Mistress Vanga took that opportunity to sit down beside Tala. Speaking of which, you never did tell us how it all went. I mean, I had to heal him a few times, but thats hardly a good way to get a picture of the tenor of a day.Master Limmestare looked up from his book. Are you two courting? If not, Im going to read while you tell everyone else the details.Tala flushed. No! Were not courting. Why would you even ask that?He gave her a flat look. I just told you why. If you are courting, its important enough for me to give my full attention. I take great pains to pay attention to my unit-mates and the weighty things in their lives that they feel worthy of sharing. However, if this is just our fellows forcing you to expound on a standard day with a friend, I prefer my book to such things.Oh. Tala blinked a few times. I suppose you did imply that Well, were not.Alright then, thank you. He turned back to his book.And from there, Mistress Vanga re-took over the reins of the conversation, and Tala did her embarrassed best to convey how the day with Rane had gone.Over all, they passed the trip with their regular comradery, Master Abali interjecting only occasionally as was appropriate.They touched down lightly outside the forest, and blessedly, they wouldnt need to enter it.Tala had made her team aware of her storied history with the Leshkin, and Master Grediv already knew. Together, that ensured that they wouldnt be picked for any in the southern forest cell work.Their construct was complex enough that Master Clevnis stored it once theyd all disembarked and after Mistress Cerna had removed her spell-forms from the bottom, which took very little time.They were on the rolling plains, atop one of the higher hills, the forest some quarter of a mile distant.Tala immediately scanned their surroundings for the fold in reality that would indicate the hidden entrance into the cell, but didnt find one. When she reported this, Master Abali nodded, considering.It is likely one of the many cells that are underground. It can be tricky to find the exact location of those, if you dont come prepared. He pulled a handful of white powder out of thin airseemingly from his spatial storageand threw it up. Thankfully, I am prepared.Power sparked between the particles, seemingly drawn from the air itself, before the growing cloud began moving against the wind.But was she sure?She whipped around again, managing to contain her reaction enough to not draw Flow this time.There was nothing, as shed known there would be.But what if? She groaned. Please tell me this doesnt have to do with the prisoner.Master Abali visibly tremored, before he shook his head. No such luck, Im afraid. There are all sorts of conceptual twistings layered over this tunnel andI suspectthe entryway to the prison. Likely things the prisoner was doing in an attempt to lash out at his captors, or keep the prison from sealing as it closed.Tala shuddered. He didnt want his captors to ever feel safe? How can such a working even How is it still in effect?It was wrought on this space, and this space has gone undisturbed since. The magics likely originally extended above as well, but they would have dispersed with time. Down here, though? Its concentrated, and the conceptually-altered matter is still here, waiting. The change should fade while were here, and the effects should be all but utterly gone by the time the cell is maintained again.Tala grimaced, glancing over her shoulder reflexively. I rather hate thisMistress Vanga lifted up her shield with a little shrug. Im feeling alright thanks to this. Thank you all, again, for letting me claim it.Tala did her best to not begrudge the woman. This conceptual nonsense wont extend into our dimensional storages, will it?She had the horrible thought of the Zuccats feeling unexplainable, undirected danger within Kit.Or Terry Yeah, that wouldnt be good for anyone.Master Abali hesitated. Not unless they are opened. As to what will happen then? Im not sure, but lets get a look inside the atrium for this cell, and Ill know better.Great going deeper in.It was obviously a bad idea to do anything with this cell, even checking on its integrity was foolish. She-Tala.- Alats tone carried a note of warning within Talas mind.Tala jerked her head, shaking it. Oh, thats awful. Not only is the feeling of safety gone, but so is faith that what were doing is the right course.ThatMaster Abali said with a shake of his headshould pass incredibly quickly. What I would watch out for more closely is if you all start to feel less confident in each other, or anything like that.She felt her eye twitch. Thats possible?I wouldnt think so, not with the level of magic that Im feeling, but people have had odder specialties. Be careful.Tala sighed. Ill pay special attention to our reality-thread connectionsThank you, Mistress. Watch for suppression as well as severing, if you will. The Paragon smiled at her kindly.She grimaced and nodded. Should I enfold myself in my existence filter?Master Abali paused for a moment. You could try it, but I dont believe it would help. You still react to external stimulation, so you arent truly cut off from reality, at least not in the way the prep-documents outlined the ability. This effect is equivalent of looking at a kitten and thinking its cute. Now, once we know more about the prisoner I very well may recommend its use. After a moment's consideration, he shrugged. That said, you are welcome to experiment. You have good enough control that you shouldnt cause yourself or anyone else harm. Again, though, thats just from my understanding.She nodded, accepting his words for the recommendation that they were.After a long consideration, and several involuntary looks over her own shoulder, she grit her teeth and sealed her mouth, forcing the manifestation of the void into her bound iron and defensive magics.Because she was looking for it, and because she already felt unsafe, she immediately felt like everyone had abandoned her, and she would never find her way back to the surface.She tried to start hyperventilating, but she couldnt breathe.She couldnt breathe!Claws grew out from her fingers, and she scrabbled at her face, trying to get free of the cloying inability to take in air.Her perspective seemed to fade as her mind spiraled into panic.There was another voice that seemed that it was trying to get her attention, but that didnt matter, not now.Cant breathe.Cant see.Cant breathe.Cant see.She couldnt bring her focus to bear sufficiently to mirror Flows cutting onto her claws to get them to work.Something hit the side of her head, and she felt like she rang like a bell, even though she knew that wasnt true.That outside stimulus was something to grab onto.She wanted the outside.Something was keeping her separate from it.Get away!Her iron exploded away from her into the dimensions of magic, destroying the synergy that created her existence filter, and the rest of the world came crashing back into focus.Master Clevnis was standing over her.Im on the ground?Mistress Tala? Are you alright?Tala groaned. Yeah that was an awful idea.He helped her to her feet, and she found herself clinging to him for a long moment.He didnt pull back, instead rubbing her upper back comfortingly. Youre alright, Mistress Tala. Were here.Mistress Cerna came up beside them, resting a hand on Talas shoulder. Lets verify the safety of the entrance, then get up to the surface for some perspective, shall we?Tala nodded mutely, working her lips to bring moisture back to them. Finally, she managed, Yeah. I think that would be good.
