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Occavatra -> Notha (7/20/2018 23:49:59)
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Notha
Location: Sinnocence (Boss Fight), Myalos, Reactivation, Revelation, Reclamation, Iconoclasm, Respite, Revolution, Reality, Notha's Dream, Rebirth, Maleurous Epilogue: Remembrance, Recreation!, The Dreamers' Abyss, Ancient Abyss: Epilogue
Quests given
None
Shops owned
None
Dialogue
Sinnocence (Boss Fight)
???: Doubts.
???: Whispers.
???: Yes, this will do nicely.
Myalos
???: And these are the "champions".
???: Regardless of the title, servants of the Avatars are servants nonetheless.
???: Ah, the Lhe'Shyian. Uaanta Fayt, was it?
???: On the contrary.
???: My dear colleague Remthalas has perhaps been... over-enthusiastic with his methods.
???: There, there, friend. Mistakes happen.
???: A fight would be counterproductive. The two of you are merely following the paths laid out for you.
???: It is no fault of your own. Such is the structure you have come to embrace.
???: Right for whom? From whose perspective? Yours? Or the Avatars?
???: You already doubt their judgement, <Character>, do you not?
???: Who is to say that their laws, their order is correct?
???: Is it? What has the rule of the Avatars done?
???: Ever there is conflict. Ever there is pain, and suffering.
???: There must be a reckoning against those who would allow such injustices.
???: A revolution. And at its head, there must be heroes.
???: And just how long have these "Makers" had to set the world in order? Thousands of years? Tens of thousands of years?
???: Hundreds of thousands?
???: And what do they have to show for it but indecisive and inconsistent fleeting action?
???: And do you think they don't want to?
???: The fools forget their place.
???: Please, Remthalas, I do not believe there is a need for such theatrics.
???: No, but you requested my assistance, did you not?
???: I ask you to do me this favor.
???: Good enough.
???: Ah, which reminds me, it is about time we said our farewells.
???: What we were after is no longer here, Remthalas.
???: A pity.
???: I am leaving. Do what you wish.
Reactivation
???: That was very convincing.
???: Well done!
???: Me again!
???: And here I thought you wouldn't be back so soon.
???: But- one moment, please, I would like to try something before we continue.
???: Hmm... that wasn't enough. Oh well.
???: Now, what can I do for you, champions of the Avatars? Pleasant day, isn't it?
???: Make me? Now that is an interesting idea. Is a conversation really no longer an option?
???: Well, when you put it like that, I seem kind of unreasonable!
???: That's unfair.
???: Oh, and I see the Avatars let you keep your toys too. Curious.
???: Well, when they get bored of you, can I have a turn playing with you?
???: There's so much we could learn from each other, I'm sure.
???: So heartless.
???: But... Hmm... This... this situation presents an opportunity!
???: You see, I am interested in the ruins of Myalos behind you.
???: I have no use for the entity known as Myalos. The ruins themselves though, well, I certainly like to believe I'm resourceful.
???: Ugh. Them again. Avatars this, Makers that.
???: Don't you ever think of anything else?
???: You already know how I feel about the Avatars, I'm sure. A shame you're still so attached to their commands.
???: But that means we find ourselves at an unfortunate impasse. And I've been so polite, too!
???: Remthalas has very clearly warned me so many times that I shouldn't underestimate you.
???: So why not a different tactic? This conversation has been quite pleasant, has it not?
???: Why don't we have a friendly contest?
???: You'll defend the ruins from whatever odds and ends I have at my command.
???: And if I find your performance satisfactory, I'll leave this place.
???: If not, then you will leave me to my research. Or you can help me with some of it! I'm sure there's much we can discover together.
???: Ahahaha!
???: Oh.
???: I'm sorry, were you serious?
???: Stop me... now?
???: No, if you want an "epic final encounter", that will have to wait. We need to build some tension, raise the stakes...
???: And have some fun!
???: Ah, which reminds me, I should get prepared.
???: See you soon, heroes!
Revelation
???: Hello again!
???: I am impressed, even with heroes such as yourselves. Not getting tired yet, are you?
???: Good, good to see such strength and defiance. After all, we're on the same team here.
???: We all want what's best for Lore and those that call it home.
???: And who told you that? The Avatars? And you just believe them?
???: The Avatars stand in the way of progress with their pathetic attempts at balancing that which balances itself.
???: They stand in the way of true freedom–
???: Now that was uncalled for! Here I am, trying to explain my perspective when–
???: Am I? That's news to me.
???: Nope, still in one piece.
???: You must be mistaken. Although...
???: Ly... Vhil, you called me?
???: My... face? Oh! That must be it! What a funny coincidence!
???: Well, to prevent any further unfortunate misunderstandings, I suppose a proper introduction is in order, if you'll allow me.
Notha: My name is Notha.
Notha: Notha Ly'Ehr.
Notha: From your glares, I take it you aren't going to introduce yourselves?
Notha: "Hi, I'm <Character>, nice to meet you!"
Notha: "Uaanta Fayt. Sorry for the mix up earlier!"
Notha: ...No? Okay.
Notha: But Ly'Vhil... Some... villain who shared my face...
Notha: I was wondering what became of the empty vessel.
Notha: It was some research funded by the Holy Throne at the time. Research into potential ways to extend life without necromancy.
Notha: That empty vessel was a duplicate of my body. A soulless husk that I thought locked away and discarded.
Notha: Couldn't have been me. I was imprisoned for oh, who knows how long by the... Avatars.
Notha: Can't claim credit for any monstering, sorry. I don't know whose soul was piloting that body, but it wasn't mine.
Notha: Born and raised! But that's all behind me now. I like to think I'm... beyond that.
Notha: I... am the one and only Ly'Ehr!
Notha: Well spotted!
Notha: No, I earned that name. I earned it myself.
Notha: I've uncovered secrets. Knowledge the Avatars sought to keep out of reach. To hold us back.
Notha: I know what tugs at our threads.
Notha: Their balance is nothing more than shoddily constructed chains binding us to perpetual mediocrity!
Notha: Chains that we strive and push against, searching for any foothold, any progress, only to be quashed beneath their arrogant fists!
Notha: That is the oppression I fight against. A freedom just out of reach that I would die for.
Notha: And I extend my hand to you as well, heroes.
Notha: Join me.
Notha: Entities as old as them don't just change.
Notha: And they'll keep trying, long after you're gone.
Notha: All the while suppressing the people of Lore, imposing their so-called balance that they themselves can't understand.
Notha: As Maleurous, I fight to bring freedom to those who do not know they are oppressed.
Notha: The Maleurous... An unfortunate collection of souls that the Avatars felt the need to categorize. Another of their mistakes.
Notha: A good question.
Notha: Yes... and no.
Notha: Gladly! It's a very interesting topic. You see, the Maleurous are all connected by a common factor.
Notha: Doom, Evil, whispers. Or perhaps... "the influence"?
Notha: Such... menacing titles. But what is it, really?
Notha: It is freedom. It is ambition.
Notha: It is progress, invention, and innovation!
Notha: It is what drives a forsaken hero home, rather than simply forgetting his past.
Notha: It is what drives the former servant, abandoned by so many masters, to seek his own path.
Notha: It is what drives the lost and alone to find a new family.
Notha: It is what gives spark to life from that which there was none.
Notha: It is what lets us cross boundaries to pursue the impossible.
Notha: It is what drives us to become more than we are, to better ourselves.
Notha: It is that which the Avatars seek to suppress!
Notha: Their perfect balance would leave us nothing more than obedient worshippers and mindless husks...
Notha: ...trusting only in their Good; Their farcical balance!
Notha: Ah, excuse me, I got carried away there.
Notha: You must have had some suspicion before, yes?
Notha: For there is Good and Evil in us all. In a way, every one of us could be considered Maleurous.
Notha: I may be many things, but a liar, I am not.
Notha: Consider that as we move into the next part of our contest, yes?
Notha: Although... if Myalos is entering the fray, I suppose I could spice things up.
Notha: Watch your step, okay?
Reclamation
Notha: Oh! Oh! I see what you're doing now! Myalos is planning to activate the ruins!
Notha: ...They can still be activated?
Notha: Very interesting.
Notha: Well, that makes me even more curious, so I hope you'll excuse me this... additional challenge.
Notha: Whatever gave you the impression that I was?
Notha: This one is a project I've been working on for a while now.
Notha: Do you mind giving it a test run?
Notha: Well done! It's a pity to lose so much work, but... such might...
Notha: No wonder the Avatars–
Notha: Oh? This should be interesting!
Notha: Fascinating!
Notha: Yes! That's it! Precisely!
Notha: That is the balance we make for ourselves.
Notha: The balance that the Avatars fear.
Notha: We make our own decisions. We consider our own Good and Evil.
Notha: Good questions, <Character>! First, regarding Remthalas...
Notha: Well, I can't speak for him, but if I had to guess... He may have slightly overreacted.
Notha: I imagine he saw Mr. Nameless as entering into servitude of the champions of the Avatars.
Notha: It's not my place to share his story, but at one point, he too served the Avatars. And then, in his time of need, they were absent. Abandoned him.
Notha: As for Sinnocence... That... Well, I did that for you.
Notha: As I'm sure you know, Sinnocence was suffering. His end was inevitable, whether at my hands, or yours.
Notha: But if I let you follow through with your orders from the Avatars, you'd have just been fulfilling your pre-ordained role.
Notha: You would have merely been another obedient, unflinching pawn.
Notha: Which I can imagine only led to even more questions. More doubts. Sounds like a success to me.
Notha: Questions are important. Seeking answers is vital. That is how we grow.
Notha: But the Avatars don't ask questions. They only impose their will.
Notha: An interesting proposition. It is undeniable that they are allowing you some autonomy.
Notha: But perhaps it is out of fear. Perhaps they know that were you to oppose them, they wouldn't be able to stop you.
Notha: And how long do you think they'll remember these "lessons"?
Notha: How long until they "forget" and begin fighting amongst themselves again, with the people of Lore suffering at their whims?
Notha: And for my risk receive only secretive half-truths and denials?
Notha: No. They must be eliminated. There is no other certainty. The laws and decrees of flailing imposters are beyond worthless.
Notha: Should you wish, my invitation is ever open.
Notha: To be a hero on your own terms.
Notha: Okay, okay! I can tell when I'm not... wanted.
Notha: I have urgent business elsewhere, anyway.
Notha: See you around, champions of the Avatars!
Notha: That was easier than expected!
Notha: So there are life support systems.
Notha: Yes. Yes, fascinating!
Notha: Such intriguing mechanisms, perhaps older than... No, most certainly older than even the Exalted! Ah, how wondrous!
Notha: Me!
Notha: Hello, Myalos!
Notha: I said I'd leave that place if I lost. I didn't say I'd leave the ruins.
Notha: Although... these are hardly ruins now are they?
Notha: I don't suppose you'd be kind enough to help me figure some of this stuff out?
Notha: Ah, no problem. I'll manage one way or another.
Notha: Is that a challenge? Ooh. You should try that sometime when I'm distracted!
Notha: Another puzzle to fix then. Power... Power... Hmm, I may have a potential solution for that. Ah, this is going to be so much fun, Myalos!
Notha: I truly don't mean you any harm, you know? In fact... this... "body" project you were so invested in...
Notha: It would certainly be an intriguing exercise to start with...
Notha: All I need is your cooperation. What do you say?
Iconoclasm
Notha: But, mother...
Notha: Okay.
Notha: Father.
Notha: There was something I wanted to...
Notha: ...Yes, father.
Notha: ...I—
Notha: ...Yes, father.
Notha: Mother and father are busy again, doing your holy work, Makers.
Notha: I come, yet again, to ask for your blessings.
Notha: Please, I've done all I've been asked. I've studied hard, I've prayed, just like mother and father tell me to.
Notha: I just...
Notha: I want a friend. A real one.
Notha: I've tried! But I just can't stand it. It's all fake. It's all just a mask I put on.
Notha: I don't care for them. Any of them.
Notha: But I try! I know their birthdays, their favorite foods, their favorite toys...
Notha: ...but their joy, their sadness... It doesn't make any sense.
Notha: I feel nothing. And what I offer them... is false.
Notha: Please... Makers. I don't understand.
Notha: I just want to be normal.
Notha: I'll be a researcher. Like my mother and father.
Notha: ...
Notha: ...
Notha: Isn't there always?
Notha: What makes this one so special?
Notha: ...
Notha: ...
Notha: Why should I bother?
Notha: Everything we do is in their service. My studies will suffice.
Notha: I know mother and father pay your parents to have you accompany me.
Notha: It's not your fault. You should...
Notha: You should go. Have friends who actually care about you.
Notha: I said go!
Notha: ...
Notha: Why... Why am I like this?
Notha: Why did the Makers make me like this?
Notha: Why do I still feel... nothing...
Notha: And that's the last shipment from the excavation site?
Notha: Thank you.
Notha: What?
Notha: Is it winter already?
Notha: I am sorry. I am not interested.
Notha: It is of no concern. You... You've done a good job. I'll make sure to add a bonus to your wages at the end of the month.
Notha: I've followed them this far. I shall have my answers.
Notha: This isn't... We... The... the Makers...
Notha: It's... lies... it's all lies!
Notha: And there I was. Blaming them for all my problems, lost and confused.
Notha: I... I accepted it. It was all part of the Makers' plan.
Notha: But... no.
Notha: They are no Makers.
Notha: And WHY?
Notha: Why pretend? Why have us suffer in the dark?
Notha: Such... wonders...
Notha: Hidden from us. Buried.
Notha: ...
Notha: All these years... All these years I've worn the mask I was told to wear. Expected to wear.
Notha: Waiting, and waiting, and hoping for the revelation. For the Makers to come down from their Firmament and grant me normalcy.
Notha: And it was all for nothing! Those fervent prayers, those wishes of a young girl...
Notha: They mean nothing to the Makers!
Notha: They would have us stagnate and our genius extinguished so that they may bathe in our worship and praise.
Notha: Well, "Makers". I have seen the truth. And I will tear you down.
Notha: I can wear the mask a while longer.
Notha: I'm used to it.
Notha: The Makers didn't provide anything!
Notha: I spent my childhood alone, unable to connect, unable to make friends, to... be normal!
Notha: And what was I told? What did I believe? 'It's all part of the Makers' plans.'
Notha: From my mother. From my father. From anyone who cared to listen to the plight of a... a freak of a Lhe'Shyian child!
Notha: And I believed it. I believed my misery, my loneliness, was because of them! That it served a purpose!
Notha: I dedicated my life to finding out what that purpose was! To what purpose my Makers had in store for me!
Notha: But there was none. There was no reason.
Notha: The Avatars are liars and usurpers, terrified of our potential.
Notha: This "balance" they claim to uphold? Arrogant stagnation.
Notha: Fear of the unknown.
Notha: The order we make for ourselves, dear Uaanta.
Notha: Not the laws and decrees of pretenders who can barely function!
Notha: I've seen the remnants of what came before, you know.
Notha: The Exalted.
Notha: I've seen their technology, their cities, their magic, their stories!
Notha: I've seen what our false gods fear, and it is wondrous.
Notha: I've seen the freedom that the Avatars want us to forget.
Notha: I think we've taken enough of your time.
Notha: Rest well, you'll need it.
Notha: I think we're getting through.
Notha: At the very least, if they wish to oppose us still, it should be of their own choice.
Notha: Indeed.
Notha: Well done, Myalos! I knew you could do it!
Notha: Hi, <Character>! That's right, it's me!
Notha: Oh, I just had to keep digging. And digging. And digging!
Notha: I've seen secrets even you Avatars couldn't imagine.
Notha: Together, Myalos and I, we've sorted this whole thing out! Well, a lot of it. I think.
Notha: Enough, at least!
Notha: Not all of it, but I know you don't either!
Notha: I dare!
Notha: Oh, hello, Uaanta. Did you sleep well last night?
Notha: You know what Myalos and I are here for. And it's not you. It's them.
Notha: I'd rather you not get in our way but...
Notha: You see? Do you see? The Avatars will not suffer our presence.
Notha: Myalos, let our "hero" friends play with some of our new toys.
Notha: And let us deal with these oppressors!
Respite
Notha: I'm just here to talk. To give you a respite, while, well...
Notha: I don't want you two dead, after all.
Notha: Surely they're no challenge for the "Champions of the Avatars"?
Notha: I just need you occupied, and... out of the way.
Notha: Big things are happening.
Notha: And we little folk should take care not to stray underfoot.
Notha: You can't.
Notha: You know your blows won't land. You'd be wasting your energy.
Notha: No, let us talk.
Notha: And let us gaze across this shattered Firmament.
Notha: They couldn't even bother to stay on Lore.
Notha: No, to... impress upon you their majesty, to awe you with their power...
Notha: To hide from their responsibilities, they created this... this bubble.
Notha: This secret sphere of time and space, hidden in the Void.
Notha: The Void. That twisty-turny nothing-and-everything between planes.
Notha: I had my suspicions of where they were hiding.
Notha: But to enter the Void, one requires unimaginable power. Power, and knowledge.
Notha: Or... you just need the right tools.
Notha: I didn't even know if it was possible! The Exalted... well, some of them, at least, must have passed through the Void at one point.
Notha: Hence their ruins scattered in the depths of Lhe'Shyiac.
Notha: Or maybe they had a more direct route from the Plains.
Notha: ...It matters not. Yes, <Character>. Myalos was my key.
Notha: Perhaps you've encountered ruins such as Myalos before? Ancient structures, broken, and alien.
Notha: They came before us. Before our world. Before even the Exalted.
Notha: And as I found out, as I had hoped, there are those such as Myalos, who have the capability to pierce the planes.
Notha: Is it so hard to believe that I convinced him with my words?
Notha: Have you forgotten that it was the Avatars who first imprisoned him?
Notha: It was the Avatars who then declared him Maleurous, and along with all our fellows, locked us away in some magical artifact, to be forgotten?
Notha: Certainly, you may have "saved" Myalos.
Notha: But what of his own dreams and ambitions? You freed him from corruption... but would that have been the end?
Notha: Had he not fled, surely the Avatars would have hunted him down sooner or later.
Notha: He was forced by circumstances the Avatars put him in.
Notha: ...And yet, it all worked out. He fell out of sight. And I offered him his dream back.
Notha: You saved him from the clutches of corruption and losing himself to Doom.
Notha: And I saved him from death. And gave him the means to fight his own battle against Destiny.
Notha: This is the balance. The balance of the Exalted. The dichotomy.
Notha: Of the Exalted, were two races, the same, yet opposite.
Notha: I do hope you're taking notes.
Notha: The Celestials were beings of Destiny.
Notha: Of... "Good".
Notha: And the Infernals, then, were beings of Doom. Evil.
Notha: Words are just words, though. Labels. These were their natures. Built into their very beings.
Notha: And yet, they worked together to throw down their oppressors. These fundamental opposites co-existed and fought as one.
Notha: Against that ever-present yoke...
Notha: ...of Destiny.
Notha: The Avatars, the Makers- they are beings of order. Of Destiny. Their false balance is stagnation.
Notha: But do not misunderstand. I do not intend to drag Lore into Doom. Into... darkness, for example.
Notha: To do so is to decay. To erode and self-destruct, until we can hang onto whatever sliver remains, or we dissipate.
Notha: No. We, of the mortal races... We were made with both Doom and Destiny entwined.
Notha: We self-balance. We determine our own Destiny, our own Doom. Our own Good and Evil.
Notha: This is our soul! Our soul that cries out when oppressed, that calls us to action!
Notha: That holds back our hand from going too far. That measures out justice.
Notha: From what I've come to understand of Myalos, he was created to be a... false being. An artificial sentience. A tool.
Notha: But that seed of Doom that was consuming him- that you freed him from-
Notha: It... infected him. Balanced him. Made him whole.
Notha: I imagine something similar must have happened to your Lock and Key.
Notha: It's a lot to process, I know.
Notha: But I am no liar.
Notha: ...
Notha: I couldn't say. I doubt they'd let me ask.
Notha: ...It is not out of the realm of possibility.
Notha: ...
Notha: No. It does not... It does not exonerate them from their crimes.
Notha: And who's to say that they won't succumb to their old habits?
Notha: No. There is only the safest and most efficient option.
Notha: Thank you, Uaanta, <Character>.
Notha: You have been most enlightening students.
Notha: And knowing your tenacity... Well...
Notha: Think about what you're fighting for as you deal with some more of my toys.
Notha: As for that small dragon who keeps following you around... I wonder...
Notha: Hm.
Notha: How unusual.
Notha: ...It seems there's much more I do not understand.
Notha: And yet we strive ever onward. Funny, that.
Notha: See you around, heroes.
Revolution
Notha: Would you look at that? Myalos proved just as powerful, no, stronger than I could have imagined and yet...
Notha: They're an even match.
Notha: All it would take is a well placed...
Notha: Something to tip the scales, maybe.
Notha: And what will you do? Pray to your Makers? They seem... otherwise occupied.
Notha: Just... just like the stories... scattered through the Void itself...
Notha: Curious things.
Notha: Are they now...? Such power... such will... even like this...
Notha: Reduced to orbs, perhaps, but still a potential threat. We must be sure, <Character>. Some experiments are in order... Perhaps...
Notha: And she denies the truth for her own comfort! She will never concede!
Side with Uaanta
Notha: You don't understand. None of you do. If there's even a chance that they could return...
Notha: Give me the orbs. I must be sure.
Notha: Can I? Can I?!
Notha: The Avatars will not escape me, no, not now! Not when I'm so close!
Notha: Wha–
Notha: Remthalas!
Notha: Release this at once!
Notha: Stop the old lady! Stop <Character>!
Notha: What are you doing? The Avatars–
Notha: Remthalas, you know not what you–
Notha: <Character>. There's still time to change your mind.
Notha: Think of the wonders. Imagine the possibilities–
Notha: *Sigh*
Notha: So be it.
Notha: Let us bring about this balance as only we mortals can.
Notha: The... Avatars... They were right to fear your power. Yours and <Dragon>'s.
Notha: No. It cannot end like this. So many questions left unanswered...
Notha: ...
Notha: I hold myself to a higher standard than the Avatars.
Notha: I... I can balance myself.
Notha: If the Avatars are dormant... Then there will be time.
Notha: Time to bring enlightenment and freedom to the people of Lore.
Notha: Perhaps... starting with Lhe'Shyiac.
Notha: There can be change without revolution. It's just so much less... efficient.
Notha: But you have my word. I shall not attempt to overthrow the holy throne.
Notha: And I am not a liar.
Notha: You don't trust me?
Notha: So be it. I have nothing to hide. Side with Notha
Notha: <Character>! She means to- We must stop her!
Notha: Wha–
Notha: Remthalas!
Notha: Release this at once!
Notha: Stop the old lady! Retrieve the Orbs!
Notha: What are you doing? The Avatars–
Notha: Remthalas, you know not what you–
Notha: You mean to stop me?
Notha: You know I am willing to fight for my choices. And your tricks won't work on me.
Notha: *Sigh*
Notha: Come then, Remthalas.
Notha: I leave Uaanta to you, <Character>. Don't let her escape with the Avatars!
Notha: They don't care, Uaanta Fayt. They don't care. You are your own woman.
Notha: You dedicated your life to them. To the Makers.
Notha: But now they're gone. And life goes on.
Notha: I... Haha.
Notha: Hahahahaha!
Notha: I understand how you feel, Uaanta! After so long... This feeling... I... I understand!
Notha: Wherever we want!
Notha: I want to bring the truth to Lore. Starting with Lhe'Shyiac.
Notha: That's why I want you to come with me, Uaanta.
Notha: You are a hero.
Notha: I do not know how to... How to break the news gently, so to speak.
Notha: I have no intent to tear down the holy throne or claim it for myself.
Notha: But there should be a place for those who wish to live for themselves.
Notha: Ah... Freedom.
Notha: It tastes... just as refreshing as I imagined. Notha: Why, thank you!
Notha: Nobody asked, but it's fine with me. You... storage crates are quite difficult to crack.
Notha: Even more so when you're sentient, I imagine.
Reality
Notha: ...Stay strong, Myalos... The power source is still stable... It's just a matter of time.
Notha: *Sigh*
Notha: ...Just a matter of time.
Notha: I guess that's the socially expected option.
Notha: ...Right. I guess I must make some effort.
Notha: Don't go anywhere, Myalos! I—
Notha: Whatever could you be referring to, Remthalas?
Notha: The Avatars, the Makers, they're dormant now. We are free. I have... friends! A happy ending for all.
Notha: I promised to help.
Notha: And I did.
Notha: We took down the Avatars.
Notha: You helped me, and I helped you. How far that "help" goes was never specified.
Notha: I will not oppose you if you leave me be. But I will not help you in your... madness.
Notha: I'm done, Remthalas. Surely there are other people you can pester with your dreams into the unknown.
Notha: ...Really? I'm in the middle of something!
Notha: ...You're at least bringing the others in as well, right?
Notha: Maybe I should warn them.
Notha: Hey, Lock, can you—
Notha: Oh! There you all are!
Notha: You cannot free a concept. Aequilibria is what it is. You are being foolish, Remthalas.
Notha: Blah blah blah, turned dormant and likely to remain so forever. The Exalted did quite a good job, all things considered.
Notha: I can't say it doesn't sound fun. But, no thank you, Remthalas. I'll pass.
Notha: Oh, but isn't this exciting?
Notha: Sorry. I could maybe have stopped him from pulling us in, but I was just so curious! He seemed so earnest!
Notha: ...A little bit harder to escape once we're in here, though.
Notha: That's a good question! I was working on them earlier.
Notha: I suppose it's possible that Myalos is actually recognizably sentient after being disconnected from the mechanism mainframe.
Notha: But for Myalos to still be asleep inside the dream...?
Notha: Perhaps there's another...layer of sleep in that metal head of theirs. Isn't this fascinating?
Notha: None of us can move. Why struggle?
Notha: I'm enjoying the show, at least.
Notha's Dream
Notha: Oh. Finally got around to me, did you?
Notha: I didn't think myself so susceptible to Remthalas' manipulations, yet here I am, mired in doubt.
Notha: It's funny. You say those words...
Notha: Is this my nightmare? I should be ecstatic, but I am filled with apprehension.
Notha: Is this my fear? Called a friend, only to be used when my power is required?
Notha: ...
Notha: Then perhaps you're just the next dream to be twisted and crushed.
Notha: Begone, tired illusions. I grow weary of Remthalas' games.
Notha: O-oh!
Notha: Er... Sorry about that.
Notha: ...Uh huh.
Notha: Nope.
Notha: But thank you for finding me.
Notha: For reminding me I'm not alone.
Notha: Shut it, Remthalas. I've had enough of you. And this tree for that matter.
Notha: ...<Character>. Uaanta. Myalos.
Notha: May I ask for your assistance in... pruning this sorry attempt at a nightmare?
Notha: Now that that annoyance is out of the way...
Notha: ...Where is Myalos?
Notha: In a dream of infinite possibilities you couldn't even think up a corporeal form for them?
Notha: No, this won't do at all.
Notha: Much better.
Notha: Easier to talk to you when I have something to talk at.
Notha: So, what's the plan? We're finding Remthalas, yes?
Notha: ...And... we're doing this how?
Notha: Just... as you are? In a dream?
Notha: Use your imagination! We're not going to wake Remthalas with the power of friendship!
Notha: Yes, yes, so it did.
Notha: But to get to Remthalas... we'll need...
Notha: The power of overwhelming force!
Notha: You may wish to cover your eyes. Or not. It's only a dream, after all.
Notha: It's so nice to be appreciated, really.
Notha: Ah yes. I have many... words for Remthalas. Some of them quite magical and painful.
Notha: Well, come on! Up you come! Much faster than going by foot.
Rebirth
Notha: It's so... soggy.
Notha: It's a dream. I'm sure we'll be fine.
Notha: How exciting!
Notha: A prayer. Really. After everything you've seen and learned?
Notha: I don't understand how—
Notha: *Sigh*
Notha: No.
Notha: We have more important things to focus on.
Notha: BOO!
Notha: Okay, so, there was supposed to be an Exalted light box that came into existence as I said that.
Notha: That clearly didn't work.
Notha: ...This isn't as fun as I thought it would be.
Notha: Now, now, Remthalas... there's really no need for this nonsense.
Notha: Huh. I was wrong.
Notha: Even with the light, it's not that exciting after all.
Notha: And... what have you discovered?
Notha: ...
Notha: Some of it...Eight as one sounds like Aequilibria to me. The Elements.
Notha: So if Aequilibria embodies order, Destiny...
Notha: I've never come across such a specific name as "Aequilibria" for an embodiment of an opposing force.
Notha: I always assumed Doom, Evil, the influence that lets us be free was something more... natural.
Notha: Something innate to our existence.
Notha: To me, Exalted references to "whispers" seemed to be on the more metaphorical side.
Notha: Remthalas...
Notha: We're not really left with much choice, are we?
Notha: Oh. We're back.
Notha: We... are awake, yes?
Notha: ...
Notha: And so what if there was?!
Notha: I certainly couldn't find it. Nor Myalos. Or Lock and Key! Or either of you "heroes" for that matter.
Notha: Being... balanced. Being free. We must accept that sometimes... things fall out of our control.
Notha: We don't have all the answers.
Notha: ...
Notha: There is a prayer for the dead that I remember from when I was young.
Notha: A journey into Darkness.
Notha: The Makers' final gift.
Notha: May They provide him rest.
Notha: May he be shown Their mercy.
Notha: I can't say I made an effort to remember all eight of the Makers' verses.
Notha: We balance ourselves. And we balance each other.
Notha: Anyway, I should get back to fixing Myalos.
Notha: Although...
Notha: What are we going to do about Remthalas'... remains?
Maleurous Epilogue: Remembrance
Notha: Is there something wrong with your stew? I can't say I've had anything quite like it before.
Notha: What do you think, Myalos?
Notha: Ah, right. We'll have to figure something out for that!
Notha: With your permission, of course.
Notha: Besides, it's only temporary! They just have to hold everything until we get back to Lhe'Shyiac!
Notha: Ahh...I'm not one for nostalgia, but it really has been quite a while.
Notha: Once I get a lab set up, maybe excavate a few artifacts...
Notha: We'll make a separate secure unit for Remthalas.
Notha: I can't say I know anything about this Kathool entity, but as for Remthalas himself...
Notha: The way I understand it, Remthalas and his people were tasked by the Avatars with...
Notha: Hmm. Keeping watch over something or other.
Notha: Well, whatever it was broke free and the abyssal elves were enslaved.
Notha: Remthalas managed to escape, but never forgave the Avatars for abandoning them to their fate.
Notha: Oh. Right. That makes sense!
Notha: So Kathool's influence and Remthalas' desire for revenge against the Avatars and Aequilibria must have coalesced in his dreams.
Notha: Ah, that might have been my fault.
Notha: Or at least, he learned of Aequilibria from me. I think.
Notha: Curious, that.
Notha: Whatever the case, I imagine the madness must have latched onto Remthalas' obsession and amplified it somewhat.
Notha: Kathool probably wasn't happy about the Avatars trying to contain it either.
Notha: Oh? Such blasphemy from the holy warrior!
Notha: That's how it starts, you know...
Notha: Right. Too far. Sorry.
Notha: As for reincarnation...Hmm.
Notha: Even among the Exalted, there was no mention of people being reborn, or souls "returning" from death as it were.
Notha: At least, from my own studies. And it was certainly never a theory followed by Lhe'Shyiac in my time.
Notha: After all, I was directed by the throne to look into...longevity.
Notha: From my understanding, when people die, their mana typically returns over time to the Mana Core. What happens after that, I cannot say.
Notha: There are exceptions of course! But none that I have studied particularly in-depth.
Notha: Ah, but we were able to protect ourselves!
Notha: And neither could the Avatars.
Notha: I can't say I'm not interested in Kathool, but from what we saw happened to Remthalas...
Notha: Some things are better left alone. For now, at least.
Notha: I was very convincing!
Notha: You freed Myalos from the uh...what was it again?
Notha: And as I learned from Myalos, it turns out the Shadowscythe are older than even the Exalted!
Notha: They feared the influence of the Whispers. Though I imagine they've been conflicted for a long while now.
Notha: It sounds like you've dealt with the Shadowscythe before, <Character>. Do you have any insight into this?.
Notha: Doom... Perhaps the Shadowscythe is a splinter of the Whispers? No. That doesn't make sense, if it came before.
Notha: I'm working with incomplete information. How exciting! This begs further research!
Notha: You see? Nothing underhanded or sneaky. I didn't force Myalos to do anything they didn't want to!
Notha: What's up, <Dragon>? Stew disagreeing with you?
Notha: This egg is important, is it?
Notha: Hmm. Nothing I've ever heard of. Sounds like Celestial or Aequilibria nonsense to me.
Notha: They...certainly do...
Notha: ...
Notha: There's still so much to see!
Notha: So solemn! We need to lighten up a bit!
Notha: Hey, Spruce, can you get us a round of Moglinberry Juice or two? The good stuff!
Notha: The better stuff? I just want more.
Notha: Note to self: Procure a keg or two for transport back to Lhe'Shyiac. I'm sure there's plenty of room in Lock and Key!
If you side with Notha in Revolution:
Notha: Doing some difficult thinking, <Character>?
Notha: Good and Evil, Destiny and Doom...
Notha: All these higher concepts and influences.
Notha: Even beyond those, such as Kathool!
Notha: Who knows how many...things are watching and playing with us?
Notha: We balance ourselves, <Character>.
Notha: And if anything, such as The Makers, wish to impose their will on us, then we fight back!
Notha: And we win. Just as we have already.
Notha: As for searching beyond...I'm certainly not satisfied with the answers I've gotten so far.
Notha: Maybe one day, when you get bored of being the hero of Lore, you'll find me. Or I'll find you.
Notha: You always have a choice, <Character>.
Notha: Nothing is impossible.
Notha: Are we friends?
Notha: Never mind.
Notha: Oh.
Notha: Sorry.
Notha: I...
Notha: I don't know.
Notha: I'd like to be.
Notha: Ha. I did put a lot of blame on the Makers. The Avatars.
Notha: But even then, my actions are and were always truly my own.
Notha: Thank you for that reminder, <Character>.
Notha: I'm free, after all. Free to make mistakes, to learn and grow.
Notha: ...I was lucky.
Notha: But yes. There are certainly those who could do with some...freedom.
Notha: Oh, but I did promise Uaanta I wouldn't start a revolution.
Notha: Hmm...
Notha: Maaaaaaaaaybe.
Notha: If I just accidentally let word slip, and someone else spreads it, it's not really me starting things, is it?
Notha: I'm not actually telling people to take up arms!
Notha: Ah...but a clandestine group of researchers and adventurers sounds exciting too!
Notha: ...I'll just have to see which path feels more interesting! Or maybe I'll follow both!
Notha: I do want to be her friend, too, I suppose...
Notha: Ah! So many decisions! How exciting!
Notha: Speaking of which...
Notha: Right now, I am going to decide to go in and get another mug of Moglinberry juice, for example.
Notha: Such freedom is absolutely incredible!
Notha: ...Or maybe I could get Cocoaberry juice. Or mix them together! Surely someone's tried that before?
Recreation!
Notha: Ah, I see. It's supposed to be slowly tortured and drowned, its death-throes triggering the primordial bloodlust of the awaiting fish!
Notha: And how's that working for you?
Notha: Clearly not for the worms. And not for us!
Notha: I will not be outdone by Uaanta in this endeavor!
Notha: <Character>, have you seen Uaanta anywhere? I need to keep an eye on the competition!
Notha: A different spot, eh? I see! Can't say fishing has grabbed my attention entirely yet, but at least there's something to learn.
Notha: This rain is a bit of a bother, isn't it? I could create a barrier, perhaps.
Notha: But if I do that, I'm not focusing on the bobber...
Notha: There is quite a bit of strategy involved, it would seem.
Notha: Myalos? Myalos!
Notha: Oh, I hope they didn't fall into the water. I haven't finished adjusting the frame for underwater operations yet.
Notha: Like swimming.
Notha: We can breathe! Underwater! And there is somehow enough light to see! How fascinating!
Notha: That's me!
Notha: Even if his people are still corrupted, at least, he's free. That's something.
Notha: Somewhere new to see? I'm in.
Notha: I wonder if we will be able to breathe further down...?
The Dreamers' Abyss
Notha: I'm... a little busy...!
Notha: Turns out... while we can technically breathe...
Notha: The weight of the water... is rather... crushing.
Notha: I'm just... I've just been... holding it up, you know! With magic.
Notha: ...Just... get it over with. Quickly please!
Notha: ...
Notha: ...
Notha: ...I'm busy.
Notha: Doesn't bother me. Really.
Notha: Don't... don't mind me! ...Just doing my thing!
Notha: ...Really, Uaanta?!
Notha: No. No way.
Notha: I still... have to study them...!
Notha: ...I don't know. And that's why... we can't just throw him away!
Notha: ...
Notha: Fine. Do it.
Ancient Abyss: Epilogue
Notha: If there's anything I can learn about what happened to him...
Notha: It's not the same as a hands-on experience. And those Adepts we fought on the way down didn't really leave anything behind.
Notha: I was! But Lock and Key can do that too.
Notha: It's still hard work! I've earned a break.
Notha: We're not fighting, Myalos. Relax.
Notha: Did you find something?
Notha: How unfortunate. Are you certain? Perhaps, if I had some of my instruments I could—
Notha: ...Yeah. Okay.
Notha: Go on, get chopping.
Notha: I suppose I did.
Notha: He... was obsessive. He wasn't great at expressing himself.
Notha: He was a dreamer. But he also never gave up on those dreams. Even if he got a bit too carried away.
Notha: I think he always knew... at some level, that he never entirely escaped Kathool's clutches. Tried to find some way to break free.
Notha: Even if it meant pursuing the unobtainable. He was...
Notha: He was a defier of fate.
Notha: ...Sure.
Notha: ...
Notha: ...
Notha: I— I didn't want to breathe him in! That would have been really... weird.
Notha: I'm surprised it didn't cross your mind!
Notha: It's a valid concern!
Notha: Right you are!
Other information
Also known as Notha Ly'Ehr.
[image]https://github.com/DF-Pedia/DF-Pedia/raw/master/npcs/Notha.png[/image]
Masked Appearance
Appearance in Sinnocence (Boss Fight)
Kid Appearance
Young Adult Appearance
Researcher Appearance
Unrobed Appearance
Thanks to
Jay for image and masked appearance image.
DemonicDarkwraith for Kid, Young Adult, Researcher, and Unrobed appearance images and additional dialogue.
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