Omen Episode 112: New Horizons
Transcript & Credits
Narrator: Omen is intended for an adult audience. The story explores mature themes and contains instances of dramatized violence. Full transcripts of each episode can be viewed at omen cast dot com.
SCENE 1
[[SFX: birds chirping, Gwen weeps softly]]
[[SFX: forlorn music, Drakeheel's voice carries from a distance]]
Drakeheel: [[reciting, saddened]] "If the greatest achievement of mankind is the love we demonstrate to one another, then the pinnacle of that love… is sacrifice. Greatest are those who would give of their worldly selves to safeguard my children. Few bards sing anthems for the Guise of the Shepherd, but this solemn oath I swear to you: none shall sit higher in my court nor hold more intimate counsel with me than a protector of the weak. Your soul, most assuredly… has been gilded in my halls."
[[SFX: book closes]]
Drakeheel: [[clears throat]] First Constable Quentin Charthagnion was taken from us in the line of duty. He served as a stalwart protector to the free peoples of Andoran, and he gave his life defending the defenseless. While not yet risen to the station of Eagle Knight, Quentin's service shall be recorded amongst our most honored ranks. And to commemorate his sacrifice, Quentin's sword shall be handed down to a newly appointed recruit. Through this simple tradition, his legacy lives on within the… [[trails off]]
[[SFX: walking on grass]]
Toby: [[sniffs]] [[softly, voice wracked from crying]] I'll take that.
Drakeheel: [[hesitant, under breath]] Investigator Porte? You're… but you aren't an--
Toby: [[interrupting, softly]] I know. But you're still going to give me that sword. [[pause]] Please.
Drakeheel: [[clears throat]] Uhh… yes, of course. [[louder]] Quentin's legacy lives on within… his friends and loved ones.
[[SFX: walking away, Drakeheel's voice fades into the distance]]
Drakeheel: He lives on within our citizens, whose lives he shielded with his own. He lives on within our grateful hearts. Grateful for his service. Grateful for having known him. [[tired sigh]] Iomedae welcomes you home, lad. Rest well.
[[Gwen gently weeps]]
Lewin: [[stifling a sob, to self]] Oh, my dear boy… Please forgive me…
[[SFX: distant bells tolls]]
Toby: [[miserable]] I didn't move a muscle. I could see what was happening… I knew what was coming and… I just stood there.
Gwen: [[sniffs, miserable]] It all happened so fast. We couldn't have known.
Toby: [[fighting back tears]] She killed him because of me. Because of what I told her in Escadar. [[tearing up]] If only I had just kept my stupid mouth shut--
Gwen: [[resolved]] Then Quentin would have died in the House of the Cresting Wave. [[sniffs]] You saved his life, Toby.
Toby: [[sniffs, miserable]] Not well enough.
Lewin: [[shuddering breath]] Gwendolyn is right, Tobias. [[miserable]] The blame for Quentin's death… for all of the lives Tamar'anoth has destroyed… lies entirely with me. [[tearful sigh]] If I had… for one moment… even an inkling that any of you would be swept up in this--
Toby: [[interrupting, through gritted teeth]] Just… stop talking, Perseus. [[shuddering breath]] Just stop. [[tearing up]] Gods… I miss him so damn much, Gwen.
Gwen: [[sniffs]] So do I. [[shuddering breath]] [[quiety]] It's alright, Toby. You don't have to punish yourself any longer.
[[SFX: rustling cloth of an embrace, Toby weeps]]
[[SFX: approaching footsteps]]
Tom: [[clears throat]] Uhh… Miss Gainsborough?
Gwen: [[sniffs, composing self]] Yes?
Tom: [[awkward]] Sorry to trouble you. Tom Nesmith. We… spoke last month about the, uhh…
Gwen: [[polite]] Yes, of course. How is Hannah?
Tom: [[respectful]] Safe and sound, thanks to you both. Thanks to… your friend, Quentin. I ah… I didn't want Hannah coming along with me for the… for today. But I wanted to thank you personally for bringing her home to us and to… pay my respects. [[reverent]] The world needs more heroes like you.
Gwen: [[touched, holding back tears]] I can't tell you what that means to me. Thank you.
Tom: No, Miss Gainsborough. Thank you. I've got my family back 'cause of you and your friends. And as such--
[[SFX: rustling cloth]]
Gwen: [[surprised, confused]] What's this?
Tom: [[embarrassed]] A token, is all. I noticed you took to maces so I made this for you. Been working on her for three days straight.
Gwen: [[touched]] I… I don't know what to say…
Tom: Don't need to say anything, Miss. [[proud]] I call her… "Heavy Heart".
Gwen: [[marvelling]] She's beautiful.
Tom: [[pleased]] I took a few liberties with the shaft length and head size. Don't know why I bothered, though. I'll wager your wrists can handle her well enough. [[hurried]] Of course, I'm happy to make any adjustments you'd like.
Gwen: [[touched]] No, she's perfect. Thank you, Mister Nesmith.
Tom: Least I could do for the "Heroes of Almas". I only just heard about how you saved all those people at the Fair. And that blasting powder you took care of, Inspector Porte. That was some handy work!
Toby: [[sniffs, polite]] Yeah, well… thanks.
Tom: [[warmly]] Anyway, just wanted to say you're both welcome at our home any time. And, of course… you have our deepest sympathies.
Gwen: [[sniffs]] Thank you.
[[SFX: walking away, pause, turning back]]
Tom: [[awkward]] I… I hope you won't think me too bold, but… the way they're saying he died? From a gunshot wound? [[with conviction]] Well, I know the truth, thanks to my daughter. And… forgive me for saying so, but… I think it's a shame more people don't know the sort of hero he really was.
Toby: [[sniffs, miserable]] Yeah… it is a shame.
Tom: [[respectful]] We'll never forget. I promise. [[sad sigh]] Iomedae's comfort be with you both.
[[SFX: walking away]]
Lewin: [[softly]] Well. Hannah is finally home safe. I suppose that is some small comfort, at least.
Toby: [[bitter, under breath]] You don't deserve comfort.
Lewin: [[surprised, hurt]] Tobias…
Toby: Not until you explain why.
Gwen: [[aghast]] Toby! This is hardly the time!
Toby: And when is, Gwen? We've been sitting on our hands for days now! He's had plenty of time, hiding from the law on your ship. He owes us answers.
Gwen: [[quietly]] We don't need answers.
Toby: [[bitter]] Maybe you don't. I convinced Quent to hear him out. That's right--before we got to town, I promised Quentin that his "wise and benevolent" uncle would have a damn good explanation for all of this.
Gwen: [[stern]] Professor Lewin said he'd tell us when he was ready.
Toby: [[frustrated]] Yeah, well I'm ready. So how about it, Perseus? Is there a point to this asinine story? Or did I waste my breath defending you?
Lewin: [[sadly]] My boy, that depends entirely on what you want to believe.
Toby: [[disgusted scoff]] So much for a straight answer.
[[SFX: stomping off]]
Gwen: [[calling]] Toby! Where are you going?
Toby: [[calling, bitter]] Somewhere less… disappointing.
Gwen: [[worried sigh]] I'm sorry, Professor. He didn't mean it.
Lewin: [[mirthless laugh]] Oh, no--he most certainly did. [[sigh]] But Tobias is right--I do owe you answers. Come, walk with me. It's probably best not to linger here. I've found that, while hooded cloaks can indeed obscure facial features, they do little to stave off raised suspicions.
[[SFX: walking]]
Gwen: [[worried]] It was a terrible risk, your coming here. Even standing so far back, I was terrified Drakeheel would recognize you.
Lewin: [[knowing]] You may want to put up your own hood… Lady Karthis.
Gwen: [[bewildered gasp]] You know?
Lewin: Since you've been away, in addition to "laying low" as they say, I have been working to keep the streets clear of a certain persistent flyer… announcing a reward for a certain missing Taldan noblewoman.
Gwen: [[flustered]] Gods--I didn't think word would spread so quickly! Thank you, Professor.
Lewin: Your secret is safe with me, my dear. And I can't take all of the credit. Venture-Captain Brackett brought the news to my attention ahead of the printing presses.
Gwen: [[curious]] Was he the man I saw nod to you during the funeral?
Lewin: [[anxious]] Yes. We have… an understanding, of sorts.
Gwen: [[wary]] About Mara?
Lewin: We've discussed her, yes. But he fears, with this new attack, that every Pathfinder from here to the Worldwound will be tied up in local politics. And with a warrant out for my arrest, well… there is little I can do in Almas any longer.
Gwen: [[knowing, disapproving]] You want me to smuggle you out of the city?
Lewin: [[grim]] Yes. I'm afraid I have desperate need of your help, Gwendolyn. I fear we're the only ones who can truly stop Tamar'anoth. But beyond that… [[tearing up]] I will admit I have a somewhat selfish desire to keep both you and Tobias… safe. [[tearful chuckle]] Such as my limited abilities will allow, in any case.
Gwen: [[quietly]] It's what Quentin wanted…
Lewin: [[fighting back tears]] Yes. Yes it is. [[shuddering sigh, composing self]] Tamar'anoth is hunting an old colleague of mine--Theodric Basri. If we can reach him before she's able to track him down--
Gwen: [[interrupting, surprised]] Hold on--do you mean Father Basri? The Bishop in Oppara?
Lewin: Archbishop, actually. [[saddened]] The last Archbishop of Aroden.
Gwen: [[grim]] And you're certain she's going to him?
Lewin: [[tired]] It was Theodric who first discovered and bound Tamar'anoth. He taught us her name, Ostarian and I. [[darkly]] It seems she will not rest until all three of us have been… dealt with.
Gwen: [[worried]] My family. My sister, Gretchen. They could be in danger. Along with everyone I've ever known…
Lewin: [[guilty]] I'm sorry to ask this of you, my dear. I realize I've done nothing but impede and bring misfortune upon you. [[resolved]] But I promise you… I will do whatever is needed to atone for my sins.
Gwen: [[stern]] Is there a quiet tavern nearby?
Lewin: [[confused]] A tavern?
Gwen: Yes. I need to know everything, Professor. From the beginning.
Lewin: [[sigh]] Yes. Yes you're right, of course. However, I'll need a few of my texts to explain everything properly.
Gwen: Then I suggest you include them in a packing list of everything you'll need. I'll have a porter sent to the antiquities shop for your things.
Lewin: [[hopeful]] You'll take me with you, then?
Gwen: [[resolved]] I can't believe I'm saying this. But once you and I have had a proper chat… [[deep breath]] We make for Oppara.
[[SFX: TRANSITION MUSIC]]
SCENE 2
[[SFX: harbor ambiance, a match is lit, small muffled explosion]]
Toby: [[coughing violently]]
[[SFX: running downstairs, door flings open]]
Lola: [[calling, alarmed]] What in Hell what that!?
Toby: [[coughing, triumphant]] I knew it! Gods damn it all--I was right!
Lola: [[angry]] Cayden's balls! Are you trying to blow us all up?
Toby: [[coughing, laughing]] More like blow this case wide open!
Lola: [[angry]] I told you not to bring that damned stuff aboard! You could've taken us out, along with half the bloody pier!
Toby: [[ignoring, excited]] It's nearly identical! Same saltpeter proportions, same chemical composition, same potency, for gods' sake!
Lola: [[annoyed]] What are you going on about now?
Toby: [[excited]] The propellant! It… it isn't propellant at all!
Lola: [[wary]] You mean the stuff that took out the Witch's Teat?
Toby: [[furiously thinking]] I had initially thought it to be some sort of industrial explosive due to the small size of the granules, along with the sheer force of the discharge and the low amounts of smoke and residue it produced.
Lola: [[annoyed]] I'm picking up like… one in five words here, boy wonder.
Toby: But that stuff is way too unstable to just pack into a firearm! The slightest jostle could set it off. [[grim]] In fact, when Barlow's crew first grabbed us, I was kind of just waiting to get blown to smithereens at any moment. [[excited]] But we never did!
Lola: [[wary]] So… you're saying that powder you brought aboard won't go off at random?
Toby: [[mildly annoyed]] Of course not! Haven't you been listening? [[moving on]] So anyway, I then theorized the warding Gwen had sensed on the flask we took from Hogshead was somehow keeping the compound from detonating. Some kind of seismic dampener, or maybe even a miniaturized vacuum. I wasn't even sure if lighting a fuse in it would do anything. Luckily, I was able to prove the extent of its volatility aboard the Witch's Teat. Remember when Gwen was making her big dramatic "Captain speech" after taking down Stoddard?
Lola: [[flatly]] I wasn't there, genius.
Toby: [[dismissive]] Oh yeah, that was during your whole "thing", wasn't it? [[moving on]] Well anyway, that's when I snuck below deck and lit the fuse. [[beaming]] Oh man! You should have been there, Lola! One of my finest moments, if I do say so myself.
Lola: [[impatient]] Fair warning--I'm just going to walk away in about thirty seconds.
Toby: [[annoyed]] Hey--I had to halt my research while we went looking for you! [[sheepish]] Also because I sort of… vaporized all available materials in the heat of the moment. [[beat, amused]] Pun very much intended.
Lola: [[frustrated sigh]] I've changed my mind. I'm leaving now.
[[SFX: walking]]
Toby: [[steamrolling, hurrying after]] Anyway, after the Witch's Teat went up, that was pretty much the end of any testing. That is, until Gwen sensed the same aura on the explosives used in the attack a few days ago!
Lola: [[terse]] Same stuff. Got it.
Toby: [[impatient]] Yeah, obviously! But that's not the point! What do you think I've been doing these past couple days?
Lola: [[frustrated]] Certainly not helping me hire a replacement crew. [[under breath]] Not that anyone wants to join up, what with this gods damned embargo--
Toby: [[interrupting, excited]] It was never refined propellant! It wasn't even unrefined propellant! It's only ever been plain old black powder!
[[SFX: walking stops]]
Lola: Rubbish! A wee vial of blasting powder can start one Hell of a fire, sure. But do you have any idea how much it would take to send up an entire bloody ship in one go?
Toby: [[excited]] It's been enchanted, Lola! I was right!
Lola: [[puzzled]] What--you mean the powder kegs?
Toby: The powder itself! All of it! Enchanted with a permanent shrinking spell! Down to one sixteenth its usual grain size… but with the exact same potency!
Lola: [[skeptical]] A permanent Shrink Item spell? On that much black powder? [[scoffs]] Impossible. The cost alone would be--
Toby: [[interrupting, excited]] Exorbitant! I know! That's why, when I finally managed to dispel the enchantment, I compared the chemical composition to a small charge of musket powder I swiped from the estate of one Asema Malik.
Lola: [[impatient]] You say that name like I should know it.
Toby: Known firearm collector, benefactor of the Platinum Line… and sole proprietor of the Pepperbox Trading Company.
Lola: [[bewildered]] Pepperbox? The cheesemongers?
Toby: [[excited]] The everything mongers! The assassination, Hogshead, even the attacks during the Fair… this links them all to Malik!
Lola: [[skeptical]] You've been reading too many Flatfoot Felix books, kid. Why would Pepperbox blow up their own bloody train?
Toby: I have no idea! But they have the funds and resources to burn--literally! [[excited]] Gods, this case just keeps getting better and better! But this! This is our ticket to finally taking down that smug, self-righteous fat cat and her murderous pet glacier!
Lola: [[confused]] And… this gunpowder proves what again?
Toby: [[put out]] Well… it's more evidence than anything. [[excited]] But evidence leads to proof! And once I have it, we'll finally be able to walk the streets of Almas without threat of being hunted by one of the most powerful trade magnates on the continent!
[[SFX: heavy footsteps approach, door opens]]
Battoh: Message just arrived for you, Quartermaster.
Toby: [[annoyed]] Ugh--not now, Battoh! I'm extrapolating!
Lola: [[impressed]] Fancy. Sealed envelope and everything.
Toby: [[bitter]] It's probably just another sappy letter from Perseus.
Battoh: [[curious]] This one does not recognize the handwriting. There is one for Lady Gwen as well.
Toby: [[puzzled]] What? Let me see.
[[SFX: opening envelope, unfolding paper]]
Lola: [[curious]] Who's it from, then? [[pause]] [[concerned]] Uhh… kid? You alright?
Toby: [[ominous]] Give me Gwen's letter, Battoh.
Battoh: [[stern]] This one does not think--
Toby: [[interrupting, anxious]] Just give it here!
[[SFX: paper rustling]]
Lola: [[worried]] What's going on? What does it say?
Toby: [[worried]] Another address… Battoh--who gave you these notes?
Battoh: A courier. Common looking, young. This one did not see from where they came, but they departed to the north.
Toby: [[growing panic]] Did they tell you anything? Anything at all?
Battoh: They said nothing.
Lola: [[concerned]] Kid--what's going on?
Toby: [[worried]] It's a local address. This is where my foster family lives!
Lola: [[grim]] And Gwen's note?
Toby: Another address. I don't recognize it, though.
Lola: [[knowing, to self]] Bloody Hell--this is a street in Westpark.
Battoh: Is there no message?
[[SFX: crinkling paper]]
Toby: [[growing panic]] No! See? No instructions, no demands… nothing!
Lola: [[grim]] It's a message, alright. How much do you wanna bet this is the address of House Karthis' Estate?
Battoh: [[knowing]] We must locate Lady Gwen immediately!
Toby: [[confused]] Why? What does this mean?
Lola: [[serious]] It means someone's gunnin' for you two. This is a threat.
Toby: [[frustrated]] Damn it! She must have found us already.
Battoh: How many crew are left to hire?
Lola: [[thinking fast]] Uhh… only about ten or so. I could probably shave it down to five if we're leaving tonight.
Toby: [[alarmed]] What? No! We can't leave yet! I'm too close to finally uncovering the truth!
Lola: [[serious]] The truth is not worth tempting fate. I'd start thinking about a tactical retreat if I were you. Because you can bet whoever wrote this already has people watching these locations.
Toby: [[panicking]] No, no! We can fix this! All we need to do is stake out my old foster home and we can just take them out, right? [[unsure]] Right?
Lola: [[serious sigh]] Do that and you'd be putting Gwen's family at risk instead of yours. Besides, it's what these letters don't say that worries me the most. It shows the writer is getting desperate. Trust me--even if they're bluffing right now, things could easily escalate. The Brotherhood used to run rackets like this all the time.
Battoh: [[patient]] Lola speaks wisdom, young Quartermaster. And Lady Gwen shall decide whether we stay or leave.
Toby: [[angry]] No! That isn't fair! After all we've been through! After getting this far! [[desperate]] There has to be something we can do!
Lola: [[somber]] There is, love. We can get the Hell out of here before things get worse.
Toby: [[furious]] Idiots!
[[SFX: stomping off]]
Lola: [[calling after]] Hold on! Where do you think you're going!?
Toby: [[calling]] I need a drink. You cowards are giving me a headache.
[[SFX: door slams, footsteps fade]]
Lola: [[under breath]] Damn it.
Battoh: [[grim]] Follow him. This one shall prepare for Lady Gwen's return.
Lola: [[frustrated sigh]] [[crabby]] Fine. But you have to babysit the brat next time, yeah?
Battoh: [[stern]] This one must also purchase provisions and inquire after new hires in your absence, as well as direct the crew for a hasty departure.
Lola: [[crabby]] Believe me, Xoshak--you've still got the easy job.
[[SFX: TRANSITION MUSIC]]
SCENE 3
[[SFX: tavern ambiance/music]]
Gwen: [[shocked]] I'm sorry… did you say Aroden? As in the dead god Aroden?
Lewin: [[under breath]] Not dead, Gwendolyn. Only missing. Trapped, perhaps; diminished, even. But very much alive.
Gwen: But… all of the old Orders… his clerics and priests… none of them have had any divine connection with him for over a hundred years!
Lewin: [[excited]] Yes--well before my time, even. But Theodric has lived long enough to remember when Aroden would answer his prayers. And forty years ago… [[under breath]] he heard a whisper from the Last Azlanti himself!
Gwen: [[skeptical]] Aroden actually spoke to Father Basri?
Lewin: Well… not directly, per se. But, much like yourself as of late, Theodric has been receiving visions. Cryptic clues, bits of information, portents of things to come.
Gwen: [[skeptical]] Visions? From Aroden?
Lewin: [[intense]] Unmistakably, yes.
Gwen: And why haven't I heard of this until now? Or anyone else for that matter?
Lewin: [[frustrated sigh]] Because nobody has been listening, my dear. For decades, the disillusioned and disenfranchised have branded Theodric as "mentally unsound". Just a sad old conspiracy theorist who hasn't yet come to terms with the tragic death of his deity. Theodric has published many works explaining his various hypotheses. Some, I will admit, are a bit… eccentric. But these visions are authentic, I can assure you.
Gwen: How can you know?
Lewin: Because Theodric has shared them with me. Quite literally, in fact. I am gifted in comprehending and translating more than just ancient languages.
Gwen: [[wary]] What do you mean?
Lewin: [[under breath]] From a young age, I have been able to… interpret things. Patterns in history, insight into the hearts and minds of authors long deceased… I've even been able to make sense of the occasional dream.
Gwen: [[surprised]] You're an oracle?
Lewin: [[mirthless laugh]] I prefer to believe my areas of expertise and method of reasoning have had more to do with it than anything. But yes, I suppose I've had certain experiences that could only be described as… "metaphysical" in nature.
Gwen: [[wary]] So Father Basri has had visions and you've been interpreting them. What does any of this have to do with Mara?
Lewin: [[guilty]] Ah, yes. Well… [[reluctant]] I must admit even I found Theodric's plan to be somewhat… desperate. But I've never seen him so convinced, so certain of anything in all my time knowing him. [[grim]] And sadly, his plan worked. Frighteningly well, I might add.
Gwen: [[pressing]] You needed Mara to do something the three of you couldn't. What was it?
Lewin: [[tired sigh]] There is a certain stone… alleged to be a shard of the Starstone itself. Whatever it actually is, it does have an undeniable connection with Aroden… or at least some faint aspect of him. I know this because, when touched, this stone amplified Theodric's visions ten-fold. [[awed]] In ways I never thought possible…
Gwen: [[wary]] And why couldn't you travel to this stone yourselves?
Lewin: [[hesitant]] It is located on… let us say a very inaccessible place. As part of our binding ritual, Tamar'anoth was compelled to go to this stone… and simply touch it. Theodric would then experience a significantly heightened vision through a telepathic connection to the demon. [[distracted]] And when he passed it on to me, it was… thrilling, if I'm being quite honest.
Gwen: [[disgusted]] And you put the lives of children in danger for this?
Lewin: [[ashamed]] Yes. Yes, we did. I'm ashamed to admit that, without an offering of innocence, luring a succubus into a calling diagram would have been quite impossible. It was… a truly despicable stratagem. But Theodric insisted it was the only way to make contact with Aroden. [[distracted]] A claim he substantiated over the years with… very compelling evidence.
Gwen: [[disgusted]] At the cost of peoples' lives?
Lewin: [[guilty sigh]] I know it makes little difference now, Gwendolyn, but we never followed through on any of our promises to Tamar'anoth. It was a line we swore never to cross. And despite knowing the risks of repeatedly provoking the demon, we were able to keep the children safe. [[saddened]] Until recently, Ostarian was able to hide them from her.
Gwen: [[upset]] And what of their parents? Their siblings and friends? Do you have any idea how many people's lives you've uprooted?
Lewin: [[solemn]] Indeed I do. Crimes for which I intend to face judgment. I am not so foolish as to absolve myself from my part in all of this. I only wish to prevent… [[saddened]] further suffering. And then I swear to you… I will face justice for these terrible mistakes. [[to self]] For my terrible mistakes.
Gwen: [[deep sigh]] [[hesitant]] I… I'm not sure what to say.
Lewin: [[saddened]] There is no need, my dear. I can see the tapestry of your heart--and it is a reflection of my own. Turmoil… frustration… [[ashamed]] disgust with an irredeemable old fool.
Gwen: [[stern]] I am not disgusted with you, Professor. And you are far from irredeemable. If you must know, I feel only deep… sadness. For everyone unfortunate enough to be affected by this tragedy… including yourself.
Lewin: [[humbled]] If that is true, then it is more than I deserve--
Gwen: [[interrupting, stern]] Enough. If you truly wish to help, then I will thank you to abstain from all of this silly self-deprecation. If we are to hope for any chance of stopping Mara, then I will have need of your expertise and your courage. Your penitence and your pity, however, are not welcome aboard my ship.
Lewin: [[tearing up, sniffs]] Yes. Yes of course, Gwendolyn. [[grateful]] Thank you. [[deep breath]] I can only hope Tobias will be half as understanding when I tell him what I've told you.
Gwen: [[stern]] I cannot say I will ever understand what you've done, Professor. [[softer]] But if anyone might, it's Toby.
[[SFX: approaching footsteps]]
Lewin: [[relieved]] I appreciate that, Gwendolyn. I only ask you allow me to tell him in my own words… and in my own time.
Toby: [[crabby]] Unbelievable!
Lewin: [[startled gasp]] Goodness gracious! Tobias, it's you!
Gwen: [[surprised]] Toby! How long have you been here?
Toby: Long enough to overhear my name and immediately recognize the two hooded weirdos in the corner.
[[SFX: chair scrapes, Toby burps and sits, setting mug down]]
Toby: [[sardonic]] Great disguises, by the way.
Lewin: [[annoyed]] Do keep your voice down, Tobias.
Toby: [[dismissive]] Says the guy who got noticed in the first place. [[ornery]] So what--you thought you'd see how Gwen reacted to your little scheme before telling me? Typical.
Lewin: [[miffed]] I thought it best to wait until tensions between the two of us had… subsided a bit more.
Toby: [[ornery]] Oh yeah? And how's that been going?
Gwen: [[tired]] Please, you two. I've had quite enough drama for one day.
[[SFX: approaching footsteps]]
Lola: [[calling, annoyed]] Oi! There you are, you little creep!
Toby: [[rolling eyes]] Oh, great.
Lola: [[annoyed]] Thought you could lose me, did you? [[realization]] Oh! You found Gwen already? Lucky, that.
Gwen: [[suspicious]] You two were looking for us?
Toby: [[annoyed]] I was looking to enjoy a nice quiet pint and do some thinking. But here we all are, it seems.
Lewin: [[cordially]] Ah, Lola was it? You were the instigator of the initial mutiny, yes?
[[SFX: chair scrapes, Lola sits]]
Lola: [[no nonsense]] There'll be time enough for stories once we're well and away from this bloody warzone you lot call a town.
Toby: [[frustrated]] Oh, so now you get to decide when we leave? What happened to Gwen getting the final word, huh?
Lola: [[annoyed]] Oh shut it, will you? I've had just about enough of your--
Gwen: [[interrupting, miffed]] Excuse me. Would someone care to fill me in on whatever it is you're talking about?
Lola: [[serious]] We need to leave, Princess. And soon.
Toby: Yeah, so… we've got bad news… and worse news.
Lola: That's one way to put it. Here, look for yourselves.
[[SFX: paper rustling]]
Gwen: [[confused]] What are these?
Lola: Read them.
Lewin: [[alarmed]] Good gods! Isn't this the Porte residence?
Toby: [[bitter]] A-yup. And I'm guessing you recognize that address, Gwen?
Gwen: [[darkly]] Who wrote these?
Lola: Someone who wants you two well and away from here. And I suggest we do just that.
Toby: Malik knows we're back, Gwen. And apparently, she's done her homework.
Gwen: [[worried]] I suppose it was only a matter of time, with all of the witnesses. But that doesn't explain how she knew… [[gasps in realization]] Professor--the flyers!
Lewin: [[defeated sigh]] I am sorry, my dear. It seems the enemy is too well connected.
Gwen: [[horrified, to self]] She knows where my family lives… [[determined]] That settles it, then. We must set sail for Oppara immediately.
Lola: [[curious]] Really? What happened to never ever going back there, Princess?
Gwen: Professor Lewin believes Mara is headed there now. Since she cannot teleport anywhere she hasn't already been, we may have a chance of outrunning her. [[worried]] Gods only know what atrocities she's been carrying out these past few days.
Lewin: [[determined]] I believe with the proper strategy and a bit of cunning, we can put an end to Tamar'anoth once and for all.
Lola: [[unimpressed]] Oh that's all it'll take, will it? Should be a right walk in the park, yeah?
Gwen: [[resolved]] Mara is the most dangerous foe we've ever faced. I will not ask either of you to put yourselves in harm's way. And I understand if this is where we must part ways--
Toby: [[without hesitation]] I'm in.
Lewin: [[surprised]] But, Tobias… your research--
Toby: [[bitter]] Why do you think Malik wants us to leave Almas in the first place? I can't prove she's guilty, I can't risk telling the Aerie what I know… [[defeated]] I can't even go home anymore.
Lewin: [[worried]] My boy--surely there are safer options.
Toby: [[mirthless scoff]] Thanks to you, I have no more options. There's nothing left for me in this stupid town. [[darkly]] The only thing I care about now is avenging Quent. I'm coming with you, Gwen.
Lewin: Are you quite certain you've thought this through?
Gwen: It's alright, Professor. Toby, if you and Lola believe Almas is no longer safe, then you are of course welcome aboard. The Wheel's Woe may indeed be the last safe haven for all of us.
Lola: [[mirthless scoff]] The late Captain Stoddard might disagree with you… if he could. [[put out]] Poor old Wisp too, now that I think of it.
Gwen: [[saddened]] We've all been through so much, Lola. But we will be safer if we stay together. The Woe is as much your home as it is mine, and you will always have a place aboard her. Though I will not ask you to help shoulder this burden.
Lola: [[laughs]] Oh, I'm all for the danger and mayhem, love. And while I appreciate your including me and all, I ain't tagging along for any grand noble purpose. [[grinning]] Like the boy wonder here, I believe I'm entitled to a bit of payback for my trouble. And I intend to collect.
Toby: [[grinning]] Damn straight!
Lewin: [[tired sigh]] Very well then. [[hopeful]] What are your orders, Captain Gainsborough?
[[SFX: heavy boots approaching]]
Gwen: [[deep breath]] We depart for Oppara as soon as possible. I only hope that we're not too… [[trails off]] Umm, hello?
[[thuggish chuckling and leering]]
Merc: [[intimidating]] Afternoon, folks. How are we all doing today?
Toby: [[weirded out]] Uhh… yeah. We were just on our way out, thanks.
Merc: My mates and I couldn't help but overhear you was thinking of heading to the Gilded City. That right?
Lola: [[challenging]] What's it to you?
Merc: [[threatening]] Don't remember asking you anything, pet. Believe I was havin' a word with your pretty friend here.
[[SFX: chair scraping on floor]]
Lola: [[goading]] Is that right, scrub? Well maybe my boot wants a word with your arse, huh?
[[SFX: thuggish chuckling]]
Toby: [[annoyed]] Look, we're already having a crappy day. You guys really don't want to push your luck right now.
Merc: [[chuckles]] That right? I dunno… [[threatening]] maybe we do.
[[SFX: thuggish chuckling and leering, chair scraping on floor]]
Gwen: [[stern]] That's enough. What do you people want with me?
Merc: [[vaguely threatening]] Just offerin' our services, is all. You see, we was headed to Oppara too, weren't we boys? Thought it might be for the best if you came with us.
Gwen: [[stern]] I'm not going anywhere with you.
[[SFX: heavy bootsteps]]
Merc: [[under breath]] Here, now. Let's be reasonable, poppet. You wouldn't want anything bad to happen to your friends here--
[[SFX: blunt impact, Merc get the wind knocked out]]
[[SFX: Gwen grunts, blunt impact, body collapses]]
[[SFX: magical fire, thugs scream/run away, crowd murmurs]]
[[SFX: sword unsheathes]]
Toby: [[fierce]] They're getting away!
Lola: [[fierce]] Come on! We can't let them--
Gwen: [[interrupting]] No! Leave them! [[harried]] I'm sorry, Professor, but I don't think we'll have time to fetch your books after all.
[[SFX: chair scrapes]]
Lewin: [[shaken]] N-no no, my dear. I think I'll be quite alright without them.
Toby: [[impressed]] Huh. Nice work, Gwen. You knocked the creep out cold.
Lola: We should stick him for good measure.
Toby: [[shrugs]] Makes sense to me.
Gwen: [[frustrated]] Would you two stop it? We're not killing anyone! Come on--we're leaving!
[[SFX: hurried walking, tavern ambiance fades/harbor ambiance intensifies]]
Toby: [[bitter]] I'll give you one guess who sent those goons.
Lewin: [[harried]] Indeed. It seems Malik's patience has been pushed past the brink of subtlety.
Lola: [[crabby]] I'll say she's made her bloody point.
Gwen: [[stern]] Has the Woe been adequately restocked and crewed?
Lola: For the most part. Enough to make it to Oppara, at least. Though I don't know how you're planning on getting past the embargo.
Lewin: As per our "understanding", Venture-Captain Brackett has arranged for your ship to be granted special clearance under the Pathfinder Society.
Toby: [[sardonic]] Well that's certainly convenient… in a shady sort of way.
Lola: We'll take it. Now's not the time to be countin' a gift horse's teeth. Ah, good--it looks like Battoh's already got the rigging manned.
Toby: [[deep breath]] "Home sweet home," I guess.
[[SFX: walking stops]]
Gwen: [[serious]] This is it, everyone. There's no turning back once we set sail. If any of you have any second thoughts… now is the time to walk away.
Toby: [[smiling]] Thanks, Gwen. But I never have second thoughts.
Lewin: [[determined]] And I intend to see this through to the end.
Lola: [[smarmy]] Sorry, love. Looks like you're stuck with the lot of us.
Gwen: [[smiling]] I wouldn't want it any other way. [[deep breath]] [[serious]] Alright, friends. We have work to do.
[[SFX: OMEN MAIN THEME]]
SCENE 4
[[SFX: distant crickets, ticking clock]]
[[SFX: muffled footsteps, door opening]]
Olivia: [[emotionless]] Good evening, Minister.
Malik: [[mortified gasp]] Oliva! W-what are you doing back so soon?
Olivia: Creating more loose ends, are we?
Malik: [[nervous, wary]] …I'm not sure I follow you.
Olivia: Close the door.
Malik: [[hurried]] Please, Olivia--it wasn't my fault--
Olivia: [[interrupting, warning]] Close. The door.
[[SFX: door slowly closes]]
Malik: [[nervous, hurried]] I take it you've already heard what happened. Not exactly to plan, I realize. But I can assure you, the desired effects are already taking root in the People's Council--
Olivia: [[interrupting]] Do you know why I was sent here?
Malik: [[panicking, defensive]] I… I didn't… It was your team that blundered the mission! I was precisely where I was supposed to be when those damned Pathfinders showed up and--
[[SFX: rifle bolt latching loudly]]
Olivia: [[smiling]] Have you seen the newest models? We've really made some incredible advancements over the past month.
Malik: [[panicked]] W-wait a moment now, Gold! [[panicked laugh]] You don't actually mean to murder me in my own home? With all of my guards and servants within earshot?
Olivia: [[calm]] Our enchanters have finally managed to imprint a fairly effective Silence spell on the chamber. [[darkly]] No louder than a cough, I've been told.
Malik: [[panicked, pleading]] But I did as you asked! I stayed out of the way! I swear I didn't talk to anyone!
Olivia: [[annoyed]] Keep your voice down, Malik. [[beat]] I'm not here to kill you. Not yet, anyway. It seems I owe you… [[bitter]] an apology.
Malik: [[suspicious]] What? What is this?
Olivia: [[stern]] A compromise. You really have no clue who thwarted the attack, do you?
Malik: [[confused]] Some ratcatchers from Absalom, I presume. I've tried pumping Brackett for information, but he's been avoiding me at every--
Olivia: [[impatient]] The investigators, Malik. [[frustrated sigh]] The ones from the warehouse fire?
Malik: [[flabbergasted]] What? But… I thought you took care of them.
Olivia: [[annoyed]] It would seem… against every conceivable odd… that they have survived. [[bitter]] It appears this "Gainsborough" girl you had such high hopes for is now captaining her own bloody pirate ship.
Malik: [[surprised]] This… this can't be true!
Olivia: My sources have already confirmed it. I was just as surprised as you when I found out this morning. What's more, my men report that Perseus Lewin is with them.
Malik: [[thinking fast]] We have to fix this immediately! There's no telling what they know--
Olivia: [[interrupting]] Calm yourself. According to the Aerie, at least, your alibi is solid. No new evidence has been reported.
Malik: [[wary]] Then… why are you here?
Olivia: [[calmly]] Officially? To kill you. The mission has been scrapped as a failure and you simply know too much. But staging your somewhat ironic death would do nothing to amend our respective… [[bitter]] miscalculations.
Malik: [[gulps]] [[nervous]] W-what do you propose, then?
Olivia: [[calmly]] The Patrons are ready to pull out of Andoran completely. But if you were to, say, become elected mayor of Almas… it might be seen as a gesture of good faith.
Malik: [[wary]] And what do you get in return?
Olivia: Time and resources. [[bitter]] Enough to correct what I should have done in the first place. I take it we have an understanding?
Malik: [[nervous]] I suppose, but… what happens if I'm not elected?
[[SFX: rising from chair]]
Olivia: [[darkly]] Then the next time I visit Almas, you will not see me.
[[SFX: walking]]
Malik: W-where are you going?
Olivia: Reconnaissance. Our perpetual thorns in the side are making a hasty departure for Oppara--which just so happens to be our next staging area. [[wary]] Are you absolutely certain you didn't know?
[[SFX: door opens]]
Malik: [[serious]] I swear to you, if I'd have known those insufferable busybodies had returned… [[darkly]] I would have dealt with them personally.
Olivia: [[warning]] Don't think I've forgotten, Malik--it was your emotional compulsions that got us into this mess.
Malik: [[defensive]] I can't be held responsible for running interference. People tend to start noticing when you're actively funding a war.
Olivia: [[calmly]] We all have our parts to play. Though, as one professional to another, I suggest focusing less on your enemies and more on your upcoming campaign.
[[SFX: walking]]
Malik: [[smiling]] Yes… Yes, I quite like this plan.
Olivia: [[warning, from the hallway]] And just in case I've not been perfectly clear--this is your final chance… Mayor Malik.
[[SFX: dramatic stinger, OUTRO MUSIC]]
CREDITS
Narrator: Omen, episode 112: "New Horizons" was written and directed by Tim Krause. Featuring Mamito Kukwikila as Gwen, A.J. Beckles as Tobias, Méabh de Brún as Lola, Chris Einspahr as Lewin, Conor Cook as Drakeheel, Graham Rowat as Tom, Gary Scales as Battoh, Sena Bryer as Malik, and Meli Grant as Olivia. Thank you to special guest Phill Usher from Aethuran: Dark Saga as the mercenary. Additional voices provided by Sarah Golding, Graham Rowat, Phill Usher, Tom Laflin, and Brandon Jenkins. Original music composed by Matt Lee.
If you would like to support these independent creators as well as unlock exclusive Omen content, please consider becoming a patron at patreon dot com slash omenpodast. You can also show love for Omen by leaving a rating and review wherever you listen. Your encouragement is greatly appreciated. Thank you!
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Thank you so much for listening to Omen. And until next we meet, fair winds and following seas.
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