LADY SIMONA

Within the Heresy Inquisition of Greytide, the priests were embroiled in a heated debate. Priest Eismin, tired of the fruitless arguments, angrily rose from his seat. "Dura, pardon my utterance of this profane name, but the Chiming Order, Bantus' covert cult, is on the verge of infiltrating us. Both citizens and nobles have embraced the undead doctrine. If any doubts persist, this manuscript will bring clarity." With that, he slapped a worn page onto the table for all to see.

"Remember," my editor-in-chief cryptically advised when I first entered the trade, "tall branches have deep roots that delve into the depths." In those early days, I clung to his words like gospel, believing they'd lead me to fame and fortune. Now, after launching my own newspaper not long ago, I hunted for a major scoop for the inaugural issue. Lady Simona was the name whispered secretly among the upper crust of the city, and she was my target. Rumors suggested Lady Simona presented different personas to each, but her services were highly regarded. For nobles and tycoons facing issues that money and power couldn't solve, she was their last resort. I can confirm her ties to influential figures, some seemingly under her influence. She's rumored to be an illusionist, a poisoner, and even a noble's lover. Such secrets were regular gossip among the commoners. I thought exposing her and leaking a few scandals about the gentry would make our paper a sensation... How naive I was. On that fateful day, I disguised myself as a country baron. After persistent inquiries, I secured an audience with Lady Simona. Concealed behind veils and incense, her tall, slender form and cold elegance were evident. She spoke little but with a charming, antiquated accent. In our brief meeting, I spun a tale that a slovenly widower was disrupting my life. At the conclusion, Lady Simona simply said, "I'm willing to assist with your troubles." I responded with a knowing smile, confident she'd taken the bait. When I asked about payment, Lady Simona merely reached through the veil and revealed a small bell. She gently shook it, and an eerie chime resonated in my mind. When I regained my senses, she calmly instructed, "Place this bell in your home. Return it when my work is complete." I followed her directive, hanging the bell by my window, curious to see what tricks she had up her sleeve. On the third day, my partner in this endeavor, Daly the "widower," could not be reached. We had agreed to meet regularly to exchange information. The bell would ring unexpectedly, causing me to lose consciousness each time. Worried for Daly, I decided to check on him at night. At his residence, I found the door unlocked and the lights off. I called softly to him but received no answer. As I navigated to the study, a familiar ringing echoed in my mind. In the moonlight, I saw Daly lifeless at his desk, my name scrawled on parchment. Shocked, I collapsed. In my panic, I felt a presence behind me. Lady Simona, her pallid face visible, said, "Baron, your issue has been resolved." Fear overcame me, and I fled. I sought refuge in the countryside, but even miles from the bell, its eerie sound still haunted me. Each time it chimed, I couldn't help but dwell on Daly's fate and Lady Simona's haunting voice. After enduring countless nightmares, I had no choice. I returned to my dwelling, finding the bell undisturbed, swaying gently in the ocean breeze. As if compelled, I impulsively shook the bell as I removed it. The ringing filled the room, swirling and bouncing, escaping through the window only to return, infiltrating my thoughts once more. For the first time, I yearned for this painful experience. I couldn't resist ringing it a second and third time. That entire night, I remained spellbound by the bell's tolling, as if it kneaded my soul, making me savor death, the essence, and rebirth. It beckoned, whispering softly, 'Return... return.' In a haze, I brought the bell to Lady Simona's boudoir, where she remained behind the thin veil. The bell demanded my surrender, and I obediently handed it to her. The moment Lady Simona took it back, the ringing in my mind ceased abruptly, as if I had never heard it before, ripping away a part of my soul. "The contract is fulfilled, Baron, or should I say, Mr. Editor. You may leave now." Lady Simona said flatly. I had failed, paying a cruel price for my ambitions. There were depths to the darkness that exceeded my ability to withstand. All I can do now is record it all to warn those who come after.

(A final line in the corner. Hastily scribbled in frantic handwriting.) I cannot escape that sound. I must return.

"This editor's paper promotes the undead's doctrine. We seized this discarded manuscript from his residence, though he disclaims authorship. Our investigation of this Lady Simona has encountered secret resistance from the nobility. Thus, I propose submitting this matter for a vote and seeking aid from the Holy Tribunal in the capital," urged Priest Eismin. To Eismin's surprise, only a few of his fellow priests raised their hands. Just as he was about to speak again, a strange ringing suddenly resonated in his ears...

"This is just a small thank-you gift for our loyal patrons."

Has visit scenes with Cecilia, Fane and Thoran.