Rising Smoke

While wondering across rocky crags, you come across a scene. A lioness, wearing gilded jewelry and silky fabric. Her head was lifted towards a barren branch, speaking to. . . a crow, perched upon the sticks, speaking back to her? You don't get much of a chance to say anything before the corvid notices you and immediately swoops you, and as he flies back to his tree, you notice he stole some of your own jewels! What the hell? At least it wasn't something important.

"Oh, hello." The lioness finally speaks to you, and her voice. . . it sends chills down your spine and makes your hair stand. You cannot fathom why, as she seems innocent enough-- perhaps there is more that meets the eyes, though? "We haven't had many visitors in a while, you must. . . forgive the Count of Hell, as he hasn't had the opportunity to, let's say, borrow in quite some time." She informs you, turning to face you fully as she gives insight on his petty theft. Raum flies down to her, resting on her shoulder. You can't quite tell if he is whispering to her or not. "I am Rising Smoke, the Jewel of Raum. I am his medium, his student, if you will."

You can't quite help but notice that as the lioness continues to speak to you, your flight or fight kicks in-- and it is begging for you to run. You decide to listen to your gut, and tell Rising Smoke and Raum that you will be departing.

"Very well. You should come visit some time again. Raum likes you and your shinies. Besides, we always love speaking to. . . royalty." Rising Smoke responds to you, and. . . she grins. An unsettling, soft grin.

Oh, Apedamak. Let's get out of here.