Session 17

Umbra, the One True Being

Heroes (lvl 7): Bastion, Thrum, Aibell, Emile

After a night's rest, the heroes set out for the Temple of Zactar to fulfill their bargain with Inimigle. Before they can depart, however, Karylin the succubus changes the terms of their agreement. If Umbra is to accompany them willingly, the succubus demands a payment of her own.

After tense negotiation, Emile offers something no coin could buy: the memories of the song he composed to celebrate his journey through Elysium. Karylin accepts the bargain, and the memory is lost to him forever.

With Umbra at their side, the heroes enter the cathedral. Inside, Inimigle and a gathering of fiendish allies await, expecting the child to be delivered as promised.

Instead, the heroes refuse.

The fragile alliance shatters, and battle erupts within the temple. As steel clashes and magic fills the cathedral, Umbra slips away toward an ancient magical circle. The moment she activates it, a planar portal tears open. Inimigle seizes the opportunity, stepping through the gateway and escaping to Gehenna before the heroes can stop him.

The conflict is far from over.

Durkayle arrives with a force of Harmonium soldiers, intent on reclaiming Umbra and returning her to his custody. Yet events have already passed beyond anyone's control.

Standing within the circle, Umbra awakens as the One True Being, the long-awaited figure of the Waiting Ones' prophecy. Possessed of newfound power and confidence, she rejects both those who sought to possess her. She refuses to follow either her mother or Durkayle, declaring that she will remain within the cathedral and choose her own destiny.

Karylin departs in anger, swearing vengeance upon the heroes. Before vanishing, she warns them that her master, Thay'lor the Swift, has taken notice of their actions.

Durkayle, recognizing that force can no longer prevail, reluctantly accepts Umbra's decision. Though he withdraws his soldiers, he makes it clear that the Harmonium will continue to watch the heroes closely.

With the conflict finally at an end, Umbra thanks the party for granting her the freedom to choose her own path. As a token of her gratitude, she presents them with several magical gifts before sending them onward.

The heroes leave the cathedral having gained a powerful new ally—but also the attention of enemies whose reach extends far beyond the streets of Sigil.