Episode 26 - Starshore: The Beach Awaits!

In the heart of the bustling city of Starshore, Amara tests the abilities of Class Red. Nova uncovers startling truths about Meliora. As Nova, Ren, and Briar navigate the vibrant solstice festival, they prepare for their next challenge, with the looming threat of the Foundation ever-present. 

Transcript

Warlock Episode 26: Starshore: The Beach Awaits!

Mendel: The hum of the airship's engines began to fade as the airship approached its destination. Over the past few days, they had glided through the skies toward Starshore, most of Class Red basking in the wonder of the journey. Ren and Nova gazed eagerly out of the windows, while Briar made a valiant effort to keep her lunch from making an unexpected appearance. Their sorcerer uniforms had been exchanged for everyday attire, with even Amara unidentifiable to the average citizen. Nova motioned to Briar, who had just re-emerged from the bathroom—for the third time that hour.

Nova: Briar, you gotta see this!

Briar: I’m good.

Nova: Is this what it feels like to be a dragon?

Amara: Pretty close! This airship doesn’t breath fire, of course, but it’s a close second to the real deal.

Ren: Just look at that ocean! I’ve never seen anything like it!

Nova: Me either, it stretches on forever!

Briar: I’ll look when we’re on the ground.

Airship Captain: We have begun our descent into Starshore, please return to your seats.

Amara: I’m starving already, you all like seafood?

Ren: Do fish swim?

Amara: You’re right, dumb question. Don’t worry, Briar, they do some amazing things with the seaweed here, too!

Mendel: Kaida chittered on Nova’s shoulder. Nova couldn’t tell if the blink pseudodragon was excited, nervous, hungry…or all three!

Nova: We’ll get you some food too, Kaida. Whatever you eat.

Amara: Meat’s probably a safe bet! They’ll have tons when we land: eels, crabs, and giant squid! 

Briar: Sound of her trying to keep a vomit in

Amara: Oops, sorry Briar.

Mendel: As the ship touched down and Class Red disembarked, they were immediately greeted by an unexpected warmth. Despite the season being the heart of winter, a balmy breeze brushed against their faces, carrying the scent of saltwater and tropical flora. 

Amara: Welcome to Starshore! 

Nova: Wow, I feel….overdressed. How is it this warm here?

Amara: The ocean currents bring warm water up from the south, keeps it pretty comfortable all year round.

Nova: Ooo, I can’t wait to look around!

Ren: I’m ready to train. 

Briar: I need to lay down.

Amara: Normally, visiting students would stay at the Lighthouse, Starshore’s magic school. But, we’re trying to keep it incognito. I think a tavern might be the best place. So, why don’t you all get some new clothes, something to blend in. Then we’ll do some training!

Ren: Hell yeah!

Amara: On the beach.

Nova: Hell yeah!

Amara: I’ll bring a potion of vitality!

Briar:(Trying not to vomit)…hell yeah

Amara: I’ll see if the Slimy Gill has any space, they’ve got some GREAT food.

Nova: The…Slimy Gill?

Amara: Trust me, the old name was….much worse.

Nova: C’mon Briar, let’s get us some new clothes and Ren some new…pants. Take your mind off your stomach!

Briar: Just promise me that we’ll NEVER do that again.

Nova: Dex, what can you tell us about Starshore?

Mendel: Dex flew out of Nova’s bag, the scroll unfolding and a magical mouth forming out of the paper.

Dex: Starshore, one of the ten great cities. Founded by Marcus Arden, it is the premier vacation destination. The Lighthouse, governed by The Keepers, maintain peace along most of the coast and open water in the Bay of Stars. 

Ren: Thanks, Dex!

Dex: If you require additional information, I am at your disposal!

Ren: C’mon Mosshead, I hear this place has BANANAS! Supposed to be great for this sorta thing. I can’t wait to try them, I’ve only ever read about ‘em in books. Did you know it’s actually a BERRY? And don’t get me started on pineapples, they apparently don’t taste anything like an apple (trails off)

Briar laughing and saying: You Dunderhead! Is food the only thing you can think about?

Nova:(Int) I think we’re going to be alright. It’s nice to see them smiling again. I hope Class Blue is doing ok. Especially Rick.

Mendel: Meanwhile.

Rick: AH CHOO! Pardon me! What was I saying? RIGHT! Although we have been dealt a terrible blow, that doesn’t mean we won’t welcome you with open arms. You aren’t replacing Kira, you’re just joining our little family.

Mendel: Shiri stood tall over Balthazar and Xander, her giant kin heritage making her taller than most students her age. Her teal hair complemented her skin, which was beautifully marbled with patches of fair and tan. Anxiously, she stood next to Rick as they spoke.

Bal: She is literally replacing Kira.

Xander: Shush! I look forward to learning with you!

Shiri: Thank you so much, I will do my best!

Mendel: Shiri Cane, Legacy: Chains.

Rick: Now, I know we are on solstice break, but I think it might be best to hit the training field ASAP, we need to start TEAMBUILDING. And if anyone needs a hug or to cry it out, let me know.

Bal: Do you need a hug, sir?

Rick: YES (Sobbing).

Xander: Safe to assume you are aware of our situation, correct?

Shiri: I am, I’m…not great with emotions, if I’m being honest.

Bal: What do you mean?

Shiri: May I?

Xander: Of course.

Mendel: Chains of myst shot out from Laira, connecting to the other three.

Shiri: I see, this is a big loss. I’m sorry.

Mendel: The chains went back into her body.

Shiri: I know you all might not be showing it. Well, you are Professor. But please don’t hesitate to do whatever you need to heal.

Xander: I like her.

Shiri: You’re right, I’m not going to try to replace your friend. But thank you for welcoming me with such kindness.

Bal: Well, you’re a lot nicer than Kira, so, there’s that!

Rick: Sorry about that, pulled myself together! Now, why don’t we see what you can do?

Shiri: I’d love to.

Mendel: Back at Starshore, Nova was trying on a massive sun hat, while Briar browsed their clothing selection. Ren was already sporting his new blue pants. 

Ren: It’s a good thing I don’t wear a shirt, I am looking forward to getting a wicked tan while we’re here.

Donaar: Just make sure you pick up a potion of sunhealth, you don’t wanna get burned, little bro.

Mendel: The lizard folk shopkeeper picked up a small vial of golden liquid. He wore purple tinted eyeglasses, and he appeared closely related to an iguana.

Ren: I don’t need no sun protection! 

Nova: We’ll take it, thanks.

Briar: You can’t fight the sun, you idiot.

Donaar: Not from around here, huh? And where might you be visiting us from?

Ren: We’re from Oak-

Briar: Smokehill! Up north! It’s uh…much warmer here, huh? Heh heh (Nervous laugh)

Donaar: ….Okay…Sorry, not trying to pry, just making conversation.

Briar: Haha, why would you  be prying, you’re not prying? We’re just visiting…traders, that…um…we..

Nova: Thank you so much! This should cover everything!

Mendel: Nova placed a large pouch of gold on the counter.

Donaar: And then some! Thanks, little dudes, enjoy our fair city!

Mendel: The three students walked out onto a warm, busy boardwalk.

Ren: If you didn’t almost blow our cover, that would have been hilarious.

Briar: You almost blew it first!

Nova: We’re ok! I don’t think the random store guy was a Foundation spy.

Briar: But, we need to be careful. We should think about changing our backstories and names.

Ren: Ooo, good idea, I’ll be….Ben.

Nova:(anime style under breath) Very clever.

Briar: I’ll say my name is Iris. Nova, how about Aurora instead. 

Nova: Aurora…I like it! 

Amara: Hey! I like the new outfits. The blue pants suit you, Ren.

Ren: Sorry, name’s Ben now.

Nova: We picked new names to hide our identities. Well, at least in public.

Briar: I’m Iris, and that’s Aurora.

Amara: Choosing a new name to hide your identity, huh? Pretty clever! I got us a suite at the tavern, let’s drop off our stuff and go train!

Ren: YES!

Briar: We can get changed while we’re there.

Mendel: The students changed into their warmer clothes and headed out to the beach. They found a quieter location away from the other beachgoers where they could spar without interruption. 

Amara: As much as I’d like to see what all of you can do together, I want to spar Ren, first.

Nova: That doesn’t seem fair, you’re a…you know.

Briar: When someone is polymorphed, they only keep their mental abilities and personality. Right now, Amara is as strong and tough as a halfling.

Nova: That’s right! But what about spells and stuff?

Amara: That’s where you come in, Nova! I want you to use your elder sight to make sure I don’t use any myst whatsoever, got it? 

Nova: Right! Elder Sight!

Mendel: Nova’s eyes glowed.

Amara: Alright, BEN. Let’s see what you’ve got.

Mendel: Ren dashed through the sand towards Amara, throwing a punch at her as soon as he was able. Amara dodged out of the way faster than Ren could see.

Ren: Hey, you said no myst!

Nova: She didn’t use any!

Amara: I’m just that fast, kid!

Mendel: Amara flipped forward, landing on Ren’s outstretched arm. She quickly followed up with a spinning kick to Ren’s jaw, sending him tumbling to the sand.

Ren: Damn, you’ve got a lot of power for being such a shrimp.

Amara: I didn’t become a Pillar because of my charming personality.

Ren: Alright, try this!

Mendel: Ren launched forward, a hammer kick flying down at Amara. But Amara sidestepped, gripping the top of his leg and forcing it down even faster causing Ren to faceplant in the sand below.

Amara: You are strong, kid, I’ll give you that. But you’re just relying on physical strength. I saw you at the tournament, you tend to fire yourself forward with as much power as you can, but you’ll always lose to a more nimble opponent.

Ren: Nimble my ass, I’m not done yet!

Mendel: Ren began a barrage of attacks at Amara, with the halfling easily dodging them. Just when it appeared that he would strike, she would sidestep him. After a particularly powerful punch, Amara sidestepped Ren, kicking his foot out from underneath him with her heel. Ren tumbled to the ground.

Ren: Dammit!

Amara: You're not bad. I’d put you at…level 2 right now.

Ren: Level 2? 

Amara: Without any myst, that’s pretty damn good! I mean, the average person is…well…a zero.

Ren: Alright, one more time.

Amara: If you insist.

Mendel: Ren began another barrage of attacks towards Amara, pushing her closer and closer to the ocean. He brought down a hammer kick once again, but this time, Amara couldn't move as quickly. As she glanced down, she noticed her feet had sunken into the wet sand. She caught Ren’s leg with her hands, throwing him back.

Ren: Now I got you!

Mendel: Ren dashed forwards towards Amara, as she remained motionless in the sand.

Briar: She's not moving at all! She can't be that stuck.

Nova: Ren might get her this time!

Mendel: Amara took a deep, slow breath as she closed her eyes. 

Ren: Take this!

Mendel: Ren's fist flew towards Amara, with as much speed and power as he could muster. Just as the punch was about to connect, Amara punched both her fists down towards the sand. A searing hot jet of flame shot out of both hands, shooting her into the air above Ren.

Nova: Anime gasp  

Ren: Anime gasp 

Briar: Anime gasp

Mendel: As she flipped over Ren, she lightly kicked the back of Ren's head, sending him tumbling into the water.

Ren: Hey, what the hells!? You said no Myst.

Amara: And I stayed true to my word.

Nova: She's telling the truth, Ren, those flames weren't magical. At least, not magic that I can see.

Briar: Maybe she should have held back, I feel like Ren is going to be-

Ren: IF ITS NOT MYST THEN ITS FAIR GAME! YOU GOTTA TEACH ME HOW TO DO THAT! 

Brain: Nevermind.

Mendel: The three students sat in the shade of a palm tree.

Amara: What you saw out there wasn't magic. I didn't cast a spell or use any mystic energy at all. What I used was spiritual energy. 

Ren: What now?

Amara: Mystic energy comes from the power of the dragons, passed down through the bloodlines. But anything with a soul has spiritual energy. Although it's more difficult to harness, it is just as powerful.

Ren: Why are we just now hearing about this stuff?

Amara: Because we were forbidden from teaching it. Along with the druidic arts, among a few others.

Briar: Druidic arts?

Amara: We'll get to that, Briar. I think it's a good idea for all three of you to learn how to harness your spirit energy.

Nova: Wait, go back, who forbade you from using it?

Amara: Our leader, the Gold Dragon. Aurelius. We came to this world with the idea that if the only kind of magic could be from dragons, then it would become a world of peace. And it worked…at first. 

Nova: What happened?

Amara: We learned the true reason - Aurelius was building an army. An army he would have complete dominance over. He could leave this world to find others, and repeat the process. He is the one who sealed away Akashima.

Nova: And she needs him to let her out.

Amara: Exactly. Well, that…or she needs the origins of the other nine dragons. When we learned of our true purpose here, some of us rebelled. We managed to defeat Aurelius, but he was too powerful to be killed. So, we used what magic we could to seal HIS myst into the origins. We figured hiding him with the most powerful sorcerers in the world would keep him safe.

Nova: That’s why Diamond wants them! 

Amara: Exactly, he’d have the power of a god. 

Ren: Aren’t you afraid of him coming for you?

Amara: He already has the origin I passed down to Hugo! Inferno. So, unless he just wants to get me out of the way, I don’t think I’m a priority.

Nova: When he fought the Lady, he said he had four, one from a pure dragon source.

Amara: He took Sylvana’s myst. The Green Dragon.

Nova: We heard her cry out.

Amara: We all did, I wish I could have done more to save her.

Briar: Diamond would have killed you, too. And then we wouldn’t have your help right now.

Amara: Damn, Briar, you think he would have stood a chance against two dragons? Speaking of Sylvana, it’s a shame she couldn’t be the one to teach you the druidic arts. How is that seed?

Briar: I can still feel it.

Amara: Don’t cast any spells, we don’t want to risk it. You’re going to have to learn how to harness primal energy. It’s a good thing you’re a prodigy, Briar, it’s the hardest one to master. It’s a tough one to use, even for me!

Nova: What about me? What do I have to do?

Amara: Akashima’s myst is some of the strongest and most potent in the universe. It’s honestly pretty amazing that it doesn’t burn you up when you use it.

Nova: Why did you have to put that in my head?

Amara: We’re going to condition your body and mind so you can harness that power better! If you can do that, you should be able to use a level 2 veil! So, let’s focus on that for now.

Briar: Where do we start?

Amara: Ren and Nova, we’re going for a run! Briar, you stay here.

Briar: What? Why?

Amara: Because you’re going to focus on growing this.

Mendel: Amara reached into her pouch and pulled out an acorn.

Amara: I brought this from home! I want you to meditate here with this in your hand. I want you to think about pouring primal energy from the nature around you into this seed. When the acorn starts to sprout, we’ll move to the next step!

Ren: C’mon, let’s get running, I’m ready!

Amara: You asked for it.

Smash cut

Ren: Out of breath noises

Nova: Out of breath noises

Amara: A little over an hour, not bad for 10 miles! 

Nova:(out of breath) I’m m ore of a short jog kind of runner myself.

Ren:(Out of breath) holy hell, why was that so hard? My whole body is on fire.

Amara: Well, Nova…you just need to get in better shape. Ren, you’re still getting used to a body without Myst. And I think you got sunburned. We’ll try again in the morning. 

Nova: I know you’re right, but it still hurts.

Amara: Briar, how did things go here?

Briar: I sat here with the seed…and nothing happened.

Amara: Well, obviously you’re not going to master this in one hour. Let’s call it a day and go get some food. And Ren, maybe put some lotion on your face.

Ren: WHY IS MY SKIN PEELING?

Nova: Told ya.

Nova: For the next few days, Amara would wake us up to run every morning before breakfast, followed by sparring on the beach. It was grueling to say the least, but at least the location was beautiful. On our last day in Starshore, we decided to pretend to be tourists rather than exhaust ourselves all day.

Amara: There is supposed to be some solstice festival tonight, let’s check it out after dinner! They snuff all the candles and torches in the city so we can see the stars.

Mendel: They explored the festival, captivated by the vibrant stalls, lively music, and dazzling performances. The aroma of delicious food filled the air as they wandered through the colorful tents and attractions. As the evening progressed, Nova found a quiet spot on the beach to relax. Suddenly, all the lights in Starshore went out, plunging the town into darkness. The stars above gleamed even brighter, their brilliance reflecting off the waves, creating a breathtaking and serene scene.

Nova(Int): Hey, can you hear me?

Lady: If you intend on me hearing you, then yes. Seems that’s how things work now.

Nova: It’s beautiful isn’t it. But I suppose you know that.

Lady: Yes, it is. Even after eons, it still is as beautiful as ever to me.

Nova: Look around, look at all these people. 

Mendel: Nova turned to see her friends gazing upwards, as well as children and their parents, holding hands as they gasped in wonder.

Nova: They’re in awe of it, too. 

Lady: I know what you’re going to say, and it’s not that simple.

Nova: How can it not be? 

Lady: You have to understand, I’m older than anything you know. Even the star that warms you is like an infant. The people of this world mean nothing to me.

Nova: A little harsh, but it seems like you need the people of this world.

Lady: No, I need ONE person.

Nova: Assuming that's me, I need those people. Let’s go for a walk.

Mendel: Nova walked down the beach, each step revealing even more breathtaking views. The moonlight shimmered on the waves, and the silhouette of the distant cliffs stood out against the starry sky. She marveled at the beauty of the night, feeling a sense of peace wash over her as she continued her stroll along the shore.

Nova: I know you feel betrayed but the dragons you must have trusted, but you can’t approach the whole world like that. 

Lady: Don’t lecture me, girl. You don’t know what I’ve been through.

Nova: I know. I’m not trying to. I just think that if you really looked around at the world, you’d see more good than evil. Isn’t that worth saving?

Lady: It’s not about sparing the virtuous and punishing the wicked. It’s more complicated than all of your fairytale fantasies.

Nova: Well, try me! Why won’t you save the world?

Lady: Because I AM the world.

Nova:....what?

Lady: I am Meliora.

Nova: Figuratively or…

Lady: Every few millennia, I must rest after completing my work. When I do, my body floats among the stars for centuries. This world is my…cocoon. But the last time…that's when things changed. I awoke to find myself imprisoned by them. They told me they needed my help, that my sacrifice was for the greater good. See how that turned out.

Nova: I'm sorry they hurt you. That actually explains a lot about you.

Lady: Don't you pity me, girl. That's the last thing I need.

Nova: Well, then, what do you need? Why me? And be honest!

Lady: I need you to get stronger. So you can help me reunite with my body.

Nova: But that would mean the destruction of…everything.

Lady: And a return to the balance of how things should be. I don’t know how things came to be while I slept, but there is only one solution.

Nova: Not true. There are always more solutions.

Lady: What brilliant idea do you have, then? How are you going to fix this?

Nova: I don’t know. But I do know one thing: I am going to show you that this world is worth preserving. That there are good people here. And they might now have value to you, but they have value to others. 

Lady: And how exactly are you going to do that?

Nova: I don’t know yet, but I’m gonna figure it out!

Lady: I’m looking forward to being thoroughly disappointed. 

Ren: Hey Twinkles! They’re gonna launch some fireworks, get over here!

Nova: We’ll talk more, I promise. 

Lady: I can’t wait.

Mendel: Nova rejoined the group just in time for the fireworks display. As the vibrant explosions lit up the night sky, she felt a sense of joy and contentment. Class Red held hands, united in the moment.   The next day….

Amara: I hope you all packed some walking shoes, we’re on foot from now on!

Ren: Hell yeah, Bronze Dragon, here we come!

Amara: Well, it’s gonna take us a while to get there, don’t get too excited.

Ren: Not if we run the whole time!

Mendel: Ren took off in a full sprint.

Amara: Wait, Ren, wrong way! WRONG WAY!

Nova: You ready for this?

Mendel: Briar looked down at the acorn in her hand, the smallest green sprout emerging from the bottom.

Briar: Bronze Dragon…here we come.

Mendel: She smiled.

Nova: Oh, hey, wait for us!

Nova: Next time, on Warlock. Class Red visits a sleepy little village with a curious looking statue.

Ren: Wait…do I know that guy? 

Briar: Look in the mirror, you dunderhead.

Nova: Warlock: Episode 27: The Return of White Dragon