This episode content warnings for insect infestation of a human body, death, murder, human sacrifice, surgery, detailed integration of human and machine parts.
A concert hall shakes with rage and burns with fire's echo as just yards away, steeling themselves for what is to come, Duvall, Lyke, and Virtue descend below the haunted framework of Pledge House. But how could they ever be prepared for what they'd find, and what it would compel them to do?
This week on Sangfielle: The Perpetual Oratorio of Davia Pledge Pt. 4
The Almanac of the Heartland Rider
Places
Sapodilla: One of, if not the, largest city inside of the walls of Concentus. Sapodilla rests on the western shore of the vast lake that takes up much of southeastern Sangfielle, and prizes itself as the rare hub of culture in the bloodfields. In recent years, the powerful witch hunting organization called the Glim Macula has grown in power there, owing to the city's focus on furthering "civilization."
Pledge House: A mysterious manor in Sapodilla's Hibiscus District. Thirty odd years ago, a fire ravaged its attached (and magnificent) concert hall. In two days time, a rebuilt concert hall will host Davia Pledge's grand return to the stage.
Facts and Figures
Lenore Voivode (he/him): In the pre-Panic heartland, Lenore was the nebbish and prissy human thrall to Lord Asator Crosley, one of Virtue's many rival vampire lords. Today, he is of the blood in his own right, the Night Librarian of the prestigious Rotundana library, and a member of the Telluricist Union.
Lady Zizilliana "Zizi" Esterházy (she/her): Once a well known artist of Sapodilla, Zizi reportedly died during the great fire of Pledge House. According to the book Remembering the Zahir, Lady Esterhazy was the last known owner of the titular Zahir, a painting which supposedly fates the person watching it to develop over time into their apprehension of either the subject of the painting or a striking yet elusive figure in the painting's far distance.
Davia Pledge (she/her): "The mad composer of Sapodilla" who vanished from the public view for decades after the fire of Pledge House. Every year, they say, she invites a select few to a private concert of her newest composition, and getting an invite is either a high honor or a mark of one's own corruption, depending on which aristocrat you ask. In the past year, her name has become widely known not for her concerts, but for "Pledge Cylinders," recordings which produce crisp, beautiful music, though by what devilry it is not known.
Marcos Soto (he/him): Decades ago, Marcos was a well known member of the Glim Macula and Sapodilla's lingering aristocracy. Last seen decades ago, on his way to to a private performance of Davia Pledge.
Darling Malice (she/her): Once, Darling Malice hunted Virtue Mondegreen across the whole of the heartland. She even managed to kill her. But that didn't stick, it seems. And now, Darling's own ghastly existence is tied to her twice-undead prey's.
Aterika'Kaal (it/its): An ambivalent and ancient spirit. Offers the sweet smell and sublime beauty of roses and the sturdy foundation of a root structure. In exchange: Feed it. Only a small, dangerous
The Ravening Beast (it/its): A howl in the mind of Lye Lyken. A beast on the hunt. It haunts through the course of time, the shape of mind. An echo of a possible future?
Organizations
Glim Macula: Whether Sapodilla looks postcard-perfect to you or if you find yourself looking for a place to spit when someone repeats the claim that it is the "most civilized" corner of the heartland, it is the Glim Macula you have to thank. Empty faces. A flame that burns through you. Witch hunters in white coats.
The Boundless Conclave: Less of an individual church, more of an association between hundreds of independent faiths. Small sects, nearly forgotten cults, and unjealous gods make up this vast pantheon.
Hosted by Austin Walker (@austin_walker)
Featuring Sylvi Clare (@sylvibullet), Art Martinez-Tebbel (@atebbel), Keith J Carberry (@keithjcarberry)
Produced by Ali Acampora and Austin Walker
Music by Jack de Quidt (available on bandcamp)
Text by Austin Walker
Cover Art by Craig Sheldon (@shoddyrobot)
A transcription is available for this episode here.
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