#hypogeum

[ukdamo]

Today's Flickr photo with the most hits - the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum.

Fantastic neolithic underground burial complex. In use for over 1000 years, and excavated with bone and horn tools, the complex once housed 7000 bodies. For conservation reasons, visitor numbers are limited and there is no photography: the photos in my Flickr album were found on the web and uploaded for illustrative purposes.

[1-50thofabuck]

Need feedback for first release/minor updates

It's not what was planned as a "first release," but it seemed like the easiest adventure I've written to rework quickly into a publishable form. Of course, it took a lot longer as I kept finding things to alter or ideas to add! I need commentators and proofreaders. Any help you're willing to offer will get your name on the front page as a thanks. The module will be released for free once finalized. Anyone interested in reading through and offering suggestions, fixes, and so forth? Let me know! I'll send you a PDF or a link to a Google doc, your choice! So, please let me know if you'd like to check this out! Anything you want to help with or "contribute" will be appreciated!

A synopsis: a cavern and mine dating to prehistoric times, reputed to be haunted by a banshee, has led to death and suffering each time anyone has attempted to reclaim it. Now, goat-headed fomorians and other horrors are flocking to it to serve the dark being that has revealed itself. As their numbers swell, aided by a spying bandit cultist and his unwitting accomplices from town, the number and power of monsters in the area has increased, ruining trade and travel, yet due to a calamity in a nearby town, the influx of needy individuals has continued. This unfortunate situation is made the more sorrowful for the many desperate refugees that have been lost to the vicious creatures whose frequency and strength have grown. As if all this is not enough, the falling of a star has unleashed a terror from beyond. Trade, travel, and pilgrimages have been all but cut off; economic disaster looms as the number of needy continue to increase; cultists set traps, goblin tribes kidnap and enslave, something that fell from the sky devours all in its path, and all the while, fomorians gather together and plan for a war to retake the land that was once theirs.

In other news, I completed half of an "All the World's Monsters" readthrough entry, but gave it a rest to work on the adventure module I'm previewing here! Also because it was getting a bit frustrating as it became increasingly more difficult to review some of the atrocities in that book without being overly negative(they get real dumb, with about 10 "alignment: hungries" in a row!). Aside from that, since the posts I make here are a mixture of materials and general posts, I'm going to add an index to the website of the posts here that are actually relevant such as adventures, monsters, NPCs, graphics or anything else potentially useful for a GM, as opposed to the ones about kickstarters or whatnot. I'll index readthroughs there as well.

[loregoddess]

I have lots of random, minor bones to pick with lots of random aspects of pop fantasy, but I really gotta say the lack of imagination and creativity surrounding dwarves is a damned crime

you're telling me there's an entire fantasy race known for "living in mountains", spaces which would probably produce some of the most insane acoustics, and this race is not stereotypically known for producing the most ethereal and incredible music in all the fantasy world? where is my dwarven opera and dwarven metal and dwarven smithing shanties? why is so much pop fantasy a simulacra of other pop fantasy with about as much imagination as a weak tea has flavor

[catominor]

malta and gozo neolithic sites save me... save me malta and gozo neolithic sites....

[tarnishedtwill]

Nevarran Locations & Landmarks

Nevarra City– This is the capital of Nevarra. Home to the Grand Necropolis among other things. This is also primarily where most festivals and balls are held, as well as where the Palace of King Markus is located. Nevarra City is also home to the  residence of the Anaxas house, and location of the Duchess Games. [Though the current ruler of Cumberland hails from this family: Duke Sandral Anaxas.] It is also home to the Castrum Draconis as well as the Minanter River which carves through it.

Castrum Draconis– Vast Botanical Gardens with hundreds of statues depicting Royalty and Heroes of legend [Powerful Generals, Dragon Hunters etc.] Along the roadways leading up to the Castrum are stately columns of black marble amidst which statues of Kings & Queens of Nevarras past are on prominent display. In Autumn there is a festival held [ see Ancestral Pageant in my Nevarran Culture Post] where many great families hire performers to recreate famous moments in the statues lives by lantern light. Often draping the statues themselves with their house colors. Notably the Pentaghasts and Van Markhams tend to compete for the best show each year.

Blackthorne Manor– The estate was gifted to a family who then took on it’s name by Queen Vanneska the Fourth. [codex: ‘A Tale of the Blackthornes’] Twenty Generations have walked its halls, [meaning if a generation is estimated at 25-30 years, I would potentially date both the manner and Vanneska to 500-600 years ago, placing somewhere around 3:50 Towers to 4:50 Black.] That said, the codex this is from is annotated by Emmrich stating this must have been written in better days– that no one knows what horrible fate befell the Blackthornes. Noting rumors of suspicious deaths, untended crypts and salacious affairs. [This means that my date estimates could be to young and the manor could be even older.] At some point since its abandonment, it became the base for the Necromancer Johanna Hezenkoss.

Grand Necropolis– A large mausoleum sometimes said to be at the heart of Nevarra city while other sources say it's on the outskirts of the city. This is the main base of operation for all Mortalitasi, including the Mourn Watch. There are open-air gardens, crypts, and mausolieums. The structure is as large as a city in its own right, some royal burials being described as palaces of their own. [Lead concept artist Matt Rhodes remarked while designing the structure that, at least in early concepts, his inspiration was an inverted Tower of Babel. The Mortalitassi, instead of seeking knowledge from the stars, they seek it from their dead.] It is also of note that the geography of the Necropolis shifts quite a bit. Chambers are known to shift and change sporadically. [Note the Memorial Gardens being lost until Rook discovers they had moved to the Vault of the Beloved & also the lack of panic over the Basalt Hypogeum at first because it was thought they moved within the Necropolis, not that they were stolen.] Though Emmrich does say during the 'Walking the Graves' questline that it is unlikely for a section to move while people are inside of it, impling it's more common for less traversed chambers to shift. Unless I am mistaken it appears the cause of this is shift is largely unknown, if not gently implied that it's something to disuade tomb raiding. [I cannot remember which dialogue it is said in, I will search, but I am pretty sure looting deterents are mentioned at one point.] While some areas like the gardens are open to the public for days of mourning, many of the lower wings are heavily restricted even among the order.

Basalt Hypogeum– A vast section of the Necropolis that was stolen and transported to Blackthorne Manor to facilitate Johanna Hezenkoss’ experiments. Many Watchers were curious of its disappearance as it was sudden, though the Necropolis does tend to shift often. Myrna noted it was a ‘matter of strange obliquity’. Once Johanna is defeated Myrna notes a great magic will be required to attempt to transport and restore the wing to its place in the Necopolis. Design wise we know this is one of the more impressive and old sactums within the Necropolis, the basalt being shipped from Rivain in 4:57 Black. We also know the name of the Stonemason who crafted its impressive halls: Othmar Gerdebrand.

Cascades– One of the ‘Lost Watcher’s Wings’

Chamber of the Unforged– This is a hexagonal chamber with several small treasure caches on each spoke. Notably this is where Rook faces the Formless One when it possessed the body of a taxidermied high dragon. It is considered one of the ‘Lost Watcher’s Wings’. The hallway leading to this chamber seems to hold several important memorials, as statues, paintings and gated off rooms of gold and urns line each side. [Knowing that the Tanhausen family commissioned the high dragon to be taxidermied it could possibly be a wing for their quite prominent family. However we do know that the ‘last’ crypt of the Tanhausen’s is in the Memorial Gardens.]

Charnel Bridge– Mentioned briefly in banter between Bellara and Emmrich for good places to learn more about undead. It’s briefly mentioned that the ‘nightmare fog’ has overwhelmed it.

Charnel Pyramid– A section of the Necropolis that is ‘disagreeably cursed.’ [Codex entry: From Myrna, on Rediscovering the Gardens] Myrna recommended that the Pyramid should go through a lustration before the next Equinox. [Lustration: a policy that removes public officials or beings from positions of power associated with a repressive regime; this makes me wonder if it is similar to the situation with undead during the War of Banners.] The area surrounding the pyramid must also be quite sizeable as it was debated to be used as a backup location for public days of mourning in the event the location of the Memorial Gardens was not rediscovered in time.

Cobalt Ossuary– A resting place for skulls within the Necropolis. This is the location of the spiritual disturbance in the short story ‘A Flame Eternal’ in which a skull began to hiss and scream from it’s niche. [We know that some royal families and high nobility have full Palaces as their resting places. I would assume an Ossuary with skulls in niches more than likely is for lower nobility, or even commoners if they are able to be inturned in the necropolis, based oh how unextravagant in sound in comparison. But this is just a guess.]

Crescent Fane– Another chamber of burial, described vaguely as having sunken black walls, with bowls of silver flames [I am not sure if this is a descriptor for veilfire or something else entirely.] around each coffin. [‘A Flame Eternal’] The only known person interred here is a woman named Mathilde, whose husband’s skull became restless until they were once again joined together. [Fane, also means a temple or shrine, so it is possible this is a temporary resting place for the recently dead, maybe to prepare them or just until they are moved to a more final resting place, as Emmrich mentions Mathilde passed ���in her sleep, last midnight.’]

Hollow Belfry– This seems to be a common area, or main spoke. Several hallways branch off into the other chambers of the Necropolis. The center has a lowered portion where Myrna and Vorgoth tend to be stationed, alerting watchers to hauntings & providing the guild market. It also has an upper atrium.

The Memorial Gardens– This is where public days of mourning are held, while we don’t know it’s original location we do know that this chamber went missing before appearing at the vault of the Beloved [Which, in my opinion is in some way the Necropolis foreshadowing Emmrich & Rook getting together (conditional) since this seems to be Emmrich’s favourite spot to wander, and well Vault of the Beloved… anyways I digress.] The Garden is a cemetery that spralls outward amongst an array of flowers and statues.  This includes the Tableau of the Dead, created from real skeletons in 7:20 Storm. As well as the large statuary monument ‘Love in Life and Death’ which displays two skeletons kissing among other posed figures, overgrown with a flower called shrouds kiss. This is a statue dedicated to the enduring passion of those bound by love. We know that the Rites of Rememberance can be performed by Watchers here as well as a meditative puzzle involving the cleansing bells. In addition to that, the only known/named people to be buried here are Rupert & Elannora Volkarin [Emmrich’s parents], and  the last tomb of the Tanhanhausen line. 

The Path of Glory– Just off to the Side of the Memorial gardens. It holds rooms featuring boardgames, grave mist, and such along with it’s skeletons. This is alo where Emmrich prepares an intimate dinner date for Rook if Romanced. [Trying to confirm]

The Path of Sighs– One of the ‘Lost Watcher’s Wings’.

Shrouded Halls– One of the ‘Lost Watcher’s Wings’.

Spectral Court– One of the ‘Lost Watcher’s Wings’.

Unspoken Valley- Mentioned briefly in banter between Bellara and Emmrich for good places to learn more about Spirits. It’s briefly mentioned that the ‘nightmare fog’ has overwhelmed it.

Upper Mortuary- in banter with Neve, Emmrich mentions he left several of his books in his apartment at the Necropolis. When questioned if most Mourn Watchers live on the Necropolis grounds, he simply replies that the ‘Upper Mortuary is quite pleasant.’ this to me signifies that he is not the only one, and/or this could be one of many more residential areas within the Necropolis. I would assume if this is an area for high up faculty, students and trainees may be housed elsewhere.

Vault of the Beloved– One of the ‘Lost Watcher’s Wings’. This is the new resting place of the Memorial Gardens.

Weeping Vale– We simply do not know much about what the Weeping Vale is, but dialogue between Emmrich and Rook (conditional to Mourn Watch) tells us that recently there was a problem solved by the Mourn Watch to stop wandering cenotaphs from appearing. [A cenotaph is a memorial or monument to someone whose body is buried elsewhere. This is typically done to honor those who died in war, but not always.]

Flora of the Necropolis– I cannot find much on plants related to Nevarra specifically, but some are mentioned directly: variegated weeping widower, shrouds kiss, & unknown willows capable of making their own noises [Codex: New Fauna].

Hunter Fell– A small city west of the capital. This is where King Caspar Pentaghast is from, as well as the location of the tea house that Charter calls a meeting of spies to discuss the movements and motivations of Solas. [Tevinter Nights: The Dread Wolf Take You] The only other thing to really note is that when Tylus Van Markham seized the throne from King Nestor Pentaghast [5:37 Exhalted], several surviving Pentaghasts fled to Hunter Fell. Eventually in 9:42 Dragon, the Inquisiton was called in to investigate Duke Tythas Pentaghst, ruler of Hunter Fell. He commanded a network of spies and warriors called the ‘Five Belles of Hunter Fell’ suspected of being tied to the Venatori.

Cumberland– One of the largest cities in Thedas, it sits South of Nevarra city, where the Imperial highway forks and portside to the Waking Sea. Not only does it function as a major trading port but also as a seat of immense knowledge. Home to the College of Magi, which is thought to bear the brightest mages and scholars throughout Thedas. It is also where many tournaments of combat, and archery are held. The current ruler is Duke Sandral Anaxas.

College of Magi– The college of Magi sits at the center of the city the Sun Dome’s golden exterior and massive spires making the city itself seem gilded and brilliant.  The palace itself was gifted to the Chantry by  a Nevarran Duchess. Keeping with the Nevvarran tradition of statues, the College of Magi is no different, the entryway featuring busts of ever Grand Enchanter from the last 600 years since this is the place from which they are chosen by a council of First Enchanters. The College of Magi is thought to bear the brightest mages and scholars throughout Thedas, some of which then move on to recruitment with the Mortalitasi.

Additional notes about historical events at the College of Magi [& some Dorian and Ashur lore]: In 9:38 following the Kirkwall Rebellion, the Chantry disbands meetings of the College of Enchanters [Based on context and what I am able to find, it seems the College of Enchaters is the name of the council of First Enchanters.], as well as any unsanctioned mage gatherings. This meant the dissolving of mage fraternities. This is also around the time that former Warden Fiona is elevated to the position of Grand Enchanter. [Wynne blames this as the reason the conclave was disbanded.] Grand Enchanter Fiona was quick to begin campaigning for independence, leading a vote among the College of Enchanters to secede from the Chantry entirely. Though the vote did not pass, the existence of the vote was enough for the Templar order to call for the dissolution of the College of Enchanters. More political unrest insues leading to Divine Justinia II calling for a meeting of the College of Enchanters, now disbanded, to the White Spire instead of their traditional seat in Cumberland. This lead to Grand Enchanter Fiona once again pleading for secession, causing High Seeker Lambert to declare the College of Enchanters treasonous. After a daring rescue of some of the enchanters, Fiona once again led a vote on succession in Cumberland. This time since too few first enchanters remained, some having died in capture, the fraternities casted their votes. This lead  ultimately to the dissolution of the circles and the movement towards mage freedom. The factions mentioned above include:

Aequitarians– This is the most dominant of the fraternities in the College of Magi. Their ideology is moderate, and thus popular. It is that mages must use their abilities ethically, and responsibly within society regardless of Chantry law. They believe mages have the power to help people, and should be doing so. Historically leaders of this group include Wynne & Rhys.

Isolationists– While less popular, this smaller faction simply believes mages should separate from the Chantry, and society as a whole. Creating their own systems and culture without any scrutiny towards the practice of magic or danger towards those without.

Libertarians– This group desires the Circle to become self governed and separate rom the chantry. While on the surface the Libertarians seek to do this peacefully, a subgroup of resolutionists within the faction have no issue usng violent means to achieve this. This group has been led historically by Fiona & Adrian.

Loyalists– As the name implies this group is the most devout, following the word of the Chantry. They are often viewed negatively by other mages for being apologists to the oppression faced by mages.

Lucrosians– the smallest fraternity amongst the College of Magi, these mages simply align themselves with the priority of gaining wealth, and political influence over any social cause.

In Veilguard we receive a conversation between Dorian Pavus and Ashur [who may or may not be Divine Aequitas II] in which Dorian comments, ‘Speaking of brash rebels, remember Cumberland? Spring of ‘38?’ to which Ashur replies ‘I wish I didn’t.’ This has had me so curious as to why they were present, were they part of the fraternities that helped vote against the circles since fraternities voted in the place of first enchanters? Or were they simply there as support to keep templars from intervening the College of Enchanters meeting. Either way. Super interesting additional lore on Dorian & Ashur. We know Dorian was part of the Lucerni [a faction dedicated to redeeming and restoring Tevinter] but that is a group exclusive to the Magistirium and not one of the fraternities of the College of Magi. In fact it is more than likely closer tied to the Shadow Dragons. [If you want a less summarized version of 9:38 Dragon, most of the information comes from Dragon Age: Asunder.]

Diamond Lass– in the ‘Dragon’s Den’ district of Cumberland, this is a luxury inn. Drinks are said to be served with crystal goblets alongside runes said to keep the beverage cold.

‘Dragon’s Den’– This is a walled off sector of town, adjacent to the more wealthy quarters of the city. It functions as a Dwarven trading hub and due to his most of the buildings are described to have distinctly Dwarven Architecture.

Forsythia Estate– This is the ancestral residence of the noble house Forsythia

Thank you all for the kind words on my first lore post. In this next section I tried to break down several key locations. If there are ones you'd like to see that I did not explore please let me know! If there is anything I missed or got incorrect, I am open to corrections! Additionally I would love any additional descriptions or information about the sections of the Necropolis, information is scarce, so any additional notes are welcomed. For more posts on this topic, they will be marked on my page under the tag Nevarran lore.

I hope for this to be a resource for fic writers but also knowledge for my fellow lore nerds. More will be posted soon as feel sections become complete.

Update Edits: More insight on the shifting chambers of the Necropolis, and additional lore on the Basalt Hypogeum. Thank you guys for the feedback <3

[ancientcharm]

Carvilio's ring and its holographic image. Tito Carvilius Gemello's ring was found in a Flavian-Trajan tomb, known as the "Hypogeum of the Garlands." The tomb was discovered in 2000 in the Grottaferrata necropolis, near Rome. Two sarcophagi were found there; that of Titus Carvilius Gemello, who died at the age of 18, and that of his mother Aebutia Quarta, 40 years old. She was wearing this gold ring with the holographic image of her son. The ring is on display at the National Archaeological Museum in Palestrina, Italy.

[hanssloane]

One of the loveliest sculptures I think I’ve ever seen. And it was made thousands of years ago in the Neolithic period.

‘The Sleeping lady’ 3300-3000 BC unearthed from the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum and now on the National Museum of Archeology in Valetta, Malta

[yaellaharpe-blog]

Antigua Via Latina / The ancient Via Latina

In the middle of the Roman periphery, between the modern Via Appia and Via Tuscolana, a section of the 3rd mile of the ancient Via Latina is preserved in perfect condition.

It has ancient origins: the natural route, already followed in prehistoric times, was used by the Etruscans to colonise Campania in the 8th-6th centuries BC.

Definitely laid out by the Romans around the IV-III centuries B.C., it connected Rome with Capua, maintaining its importance throughout Antiquity. In fact, even in the Middle Ages, it was preferred as an access road to Naples because of its better preservation compared to the Appian Way and the presence of a number of Christian places of worship along the route..

Entering the Archaeological Park of the Tombs of the Via Latina, it is now possible to walk along a section of the original paving of the street. With a pleasant walk you can admire the rich tombs dating back to the I-II century A.D. that overlooked the route, which still have perfectly preserved polychrome decorations on the façades and inside: vaults covered with painted plaster and stucco, walls frescoed with funerary scenes and rich mosaic floors are still substantially intact in their original context.

From the street it is also possible to reach the Basilica of S. Stefano, a rare example of an early Christian building erected under the pontificate of Leo the Great in the middle of the 5th century.

Santo Stefano en Vía Latina, restos parcialmente reconstruidos, 1911.

Santo Stefano in Via Latina, partially reconstructed remains, 1911.

The Archaeological Park of the Tombs of the Via Latina was created in 1879 following the acquisition by the State of a vast area in which important remains from Roman times had been discovered.

BARBERINI TOMB

The so-called Barberini Sepulchre, or Sepulchre of the Corneli. The funerary monument, dating from the 2nd century AD, consists of two above-ground floors and a hypogeum in an excellent state of preservation. The upper floor is covered by a ribbed vault completely covered with plaster painted with a red background and stucco elements. Groups of figures, winged victories on chariots, love affairs, birds, marine animals, mythological themes and architectural backgrounds can be recognised.

Sepulcro Barberini y su interior / Barberini Tomb and its interior

TOMB OF THE VALERI

The Tomb of the Valeri. The richly decorated underground rooms dating from the mid-2nd century AD are preserved, while the elevation is a hypothetical reconstruction dating from the mid-19th century. An elaborate white stucco covering, articulated in 35 medallions and panels, adorns the lunettes and the barrel vault of the underground room. The medallions depict Dionysian themes, female figures and sea animals, while in the central tondo there is a delicate-veiled figure on the back of a griffin, representing the deceased being carried to the afterlife.

Tumba de los Valeri, exterior e interior / Tomb of the Valeri, exterior and interior

THE TOMB OF THE PANCRATII

The Tomb of the Pancratii. Much of the visible structure is a modern construction that protects the monument below by resting on the original 1st-2nd century AD walls, about a metre high. Upon entering the tomb, one can admire the beautifully decorated underground rooms, with mosaics on the floors and vaults and walls frescoed in bright colours and stucco in an excellent state of preservation. They depict mythological scenes, natural and architectural landscapes, images of women and animals. In the centre of one of the underground chambers is a large sarcophagus for two Greek marble depositions.

Sepulcro de los Pancracios, exterior e interior / Tomb of the Pancracios, exterior and interior

[shizuu-chann]

I cannot express with words how much I simply ADORE the Grand Necropolis. Any words I can think of sound woefully insufficient to explain my love. It speaks to my spooky soul on a spiritual level (no pun intended, but it is welcomed!). Seriously, this entry in the Mourn Watch codex makes me weirdly giddy.

From Myrna, on Rediscovering the Memorial Gardens Dear Professor Volkarin: Thank you for your missives. Your discovery of the new location of the Memorial Gardens is most fortunate; we feared the next public days of mourning would have to be held adjacent to the Charnel Pyramids, which remain disagreeably cursed. I've recommended it undergo a lustration before next equinox. I regret to inform you that a portion of the Basalt Hypogeum has vanished. Its disappearance was more violent than the typical reshuffling of the Necropolis. We will send word if it returns. Cordially yours, Watcher Myrna, Keeper of the Seals

That the Necropolis rearranges itself? Fantastic. The nonchalance regarding that a part of the Necropolis called the "Charnel Pyramids" remains "disagreeably" cursed? Hilarious. Amazing, strange, mystical, mysterious--fun as hell. Everything about Nevarra makes me happy. I haven't finished the game, so I don't know for sure yet, but I don't think we see any other part of Nevarra, which disappoints me a little. I really wanted to see what Nevarra City looked like! But I'll definitely take the Necropolis, I'm not complaining about that in the least.

[zippidi-dooda]

Loki x His Variant's Reader

- Love in the wrong timeline -

Pt 3

●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○

Loki hid in the hypogeum of the arena as Anneli and the other warriors went out to fight.

Obnoxious hollers and whoops from the audience practically shook the earth. The scent of dust and sweat filled the air and was sure to mingle with the coppery taste of blood by the end it of it.

None of which was something he was particularly happy to be living through again.

So Loki busied himself with the tempad instead. If all went well, he'd be able to leave before the battle was over and at the latest, he'd be gone like a whisper in the night.

No time for goodbyes or excess attachments.

Neither party would be able to handle it.

As he tinkered with the device, the young girl ambled up to him, slapping a hand onto his shoulder.

"I'm all ready, Dad, gonna do ya proud tonight!"

He rolled his shoulder, holding back his scowl. "Yes, yes, have fun, I'm watching and all that ...."

He pause as he scanned her over.

She was a grinning bundle of nerves, clad in golden armor with twin blades at her sides. Accompanied by a familiar crown of horns upon her brow, she looked the spitting imagine of him.

Only, he had never been so enthusiastic about such things.

"Geez just having you around is making this ten times more nerve-wracking." Her fingers rubbed the gold band on her head. "I've dedicated all my matches to you, so to have you here now is just ... wow ...."

Feigning pride, Loki smiled and began to nudge her forward. "Ah is that so? Don't worry, Dear, in a few minutes it'll be like I was never here. Now go on out there, hurrah and such-"

"But, dad-"

"Oh and don't look back. Can't have you getting distracted now, can we?"

"Dad!"

The girl dug her heels into the ground and spun around.

"What?" Loki grumped, facade waning.

"Thank you for coming. And spending the day with me. You probably could have gotten situated sooner if you'd gone to the palace first. And you'll probably be out for weeks after this to get things back to normal. But it really means a lot."

The girl suddenly wrapped her arms around him.

"I ... I love you."

She stepped back. "Alright, time to get my head in the game. See ya from the arena!"

A strange feeling bubbled up inside Loki as he watched her bound for the battlefield. Though he couldn't quite pin what it was yet, the diety had been experiencing the same emotion ever since he found himself involved with duplicates and tempads. Or maybe, he already knew what it was and still hadn't found the courage to acknowledge it ...?

As the hours grew later and the sky darker, Loki found himself transfixed on Anneli's match.

She was loud and agile, roaring to the tune of the audience, each hit vigorous and sharp. Her snide grin and boisterous guffaws did wonders to fuddle her opponents. It was a strange display, like a stoat trying to parade around as an ox.

Clear habits wrought by his brother's influence.

He wondered what her tactics would look like if he had been the one to train her ....

But soon, the whole ordeal was over and he looked on as his daughter was lifted into the air by rowdy Asgardians. The cheering applause was thunderous and only grew louder as Thor approached, tossing the young warrior up onto his shoulder.

Something inside him gave a dull ache, and Loki found himself backtracking into the dark of the hypogeum, the roars dimming by a fraction.

And still the tempad sat fractured in his pocket.

***

Loki stayed away from the girl that night. It was to allow her to enjoy her celebratory feast, he was sure she'd be better off that way. Plus, it's not like he could just introduce himself to his ruling brother and expect himself to get home any faster. This was the best choice for him.

And those banquets lasted ages, he knew from experience, there would be nothing but ample to time to get up to some mischief. Or in this case, fix his ticket out of here.

He teleported himself back to the girl's home, scrounging around for spare parts.

Though there wasn't much, he was able to tinker around enough to replace the screen and external casing.

Caught up in a silent appraisal of making progress, Loki missed the sound of the front door clinking open.

He stretched languidly, planning how he'd get the power needed to turn on the device, then stood.

Right as he was about to head to the kitchen for a break, he was shocked by a visitor.

"Loki...?"

A woman ladden with worn leather packs and dressed in travel garb stood in the doorway.

Her expression was weary, shoulders sagging with fatigue. She looked about ready to collapse.

But her e/c eyes were wide and alert, scanning him over with an air of disbelief.

The two stared at each other for a moment, both at a loss for words.

He watched as quiet tears steadily built up in her eyes.

She ran.

His body tensed and he prepared to counter an attack if need be.

But his being couldn't comprehend anything afterward as she threw herself at him, trapping him in a deep kiss.

It was desperate and warm and he could feel his heart racing to match hers. She kept her lips to his for an eternity and if he had even the slightest chance of hoping to recognize the woman, her actions completely threw it out the window.

When they finally broke apart, Loki was able to rack his brain for the information he'd gained from this world.

"I missed you so much." She murmured, a forlorn frown trembling at her lip.

...?

So, she knew him. Who else in this world-oh.

His eyes clocked on the framed photos decorating the house ...

"Your hair's gotten shorter. Fluffier." Her hands tangled in his raven curls.

... this world's Loki cuddling up to a h/c haired woman ...

Then she smiled.

... a ring on both their fingers ...

"I like it."

[digitalblasphemy]

Added "Hypogeum" to my gallery this morning 💜 https://digitalblasphemy.com/sec/hypogeum1/

[shamandrummer]

Archaeoacoustics: The Archaeology of Sound

Archaeoacoustics, a burgeoning field within archaeology, combines the study of ancient sites and artifacts with the science of sound. By examining how sound was used and experienced in historical contexts, researchers can gain unique insights into the lives, cultures, and environments of ancient peoples. This post will delve into the principles of archaeoacoustics, its methodologies, significant findings, and the implications of these discoveries for our understanding of history.

What is Archaeoacoustics?

Archaeoacoustics is the interdisciplinary study that merges archaeology, acoustics, and sometimes anthropology, to understand the role of sound in past human activities. This field investigates how ancient peoples produced, manipulated, and perceived sound, whether in rituals, communication, or daily life. By reconstructing these soundscapes, archaeoacoustics offers a sensory dimension to historical inquiry, enriching our interpretation of archaeological sites and artifacts.

Methodologies in Archaeoacoustics

Acoustic Measurements and Simulations

One of the primary methods in archaeoacoustics involves acoustic measurements and simulations. Researchers use modern technology to analyze the acoustics of ancient structures such as theaters, temples, and caves. Tools like sound level meters, directional microphones, and computer simulations help in understanding how sound behaves in these environments. By measuring reverberation times, frequency responses, and sound distribution, archaeologists can infer the acoustic properties and possible uses of these spaces.

Sound Mapping

Sound mapping is another critical technique, where the distribution of sound within a particular area is documented. This involves creating detailed maps that illustrate how sound travels and is experienced at different locations within a site. These maps can reveal areas of optimal acoustics that may have been used for specific activities, such as speech, music, or ritual practices.

Experimental Archaeology

Experimental archaeology also plays a role in archaeoacoustics. By recreating ancient instruments or sound-producing devices, researchers can explore how these tools might have been used and what kind of sounds they produced. This hands-on approach provides tangible insights into the auditory experiences of ancient peoples.

Significant Discoveries in Archaeoacoustics

The Acoustics of Stonehenge

One of the most fascinating studies in archaeoacoustics involves Stonehenge, the prehistoric monument in England. Researchers have used acoustic modeling to understand how sound would have behaved within this stone circle. Findings suggest that the stones could have amplified speech and musical sounds, creating an immersive auditory experience. This has led to speculation that Stonehenge may have been used for rituals or gatherings where sound played a crucial role.

The Hypogeum of Hal-Saflieni

The Hypogeum of Hal-Saflieni in Malta, an underground temple complex, is another site of interest. Acoustic studies have shown that certain chambers within the Hypogeum have unique resonance frequencies that enhance the human voice. This has led researchers to believe that the temple may have been designed with acoustic properties in mind, possibly for chanting or other vocal rituals.

Chavin de Huantar

At the ancient site of Chavin de Huantar in Peru, archaeoacoustics has revealed that the temple complex was built with sophisticated sound manipulation in mind. Researchers discovered that the architecture of the site, including its network of tunnels and chambers, could have been used to create disorienting and awe-inspiring auditory effects during religious ceremonies. The use of conch shell trumpets and other sound devices would have added to these effects, enhancing the spiritual and psychological impact on participants.

The Maya Pyramid of Kukulkan

At the Maya ceremonial center of Chichen Itza in Mexico, an incredible acoustic phenomenon can be heard at the Pyramid of Kukulkan. If you clap your hands directly in front of the pyramid's main staircase, it echoes back an almost mechanical bird-like chirping sound. Handclaps from different positions along the base of the staircase likewise trigger the echo, but with different musical tones spanning half an octave. Recordings of the hand-clap echoes match the chirp of the nearly extinct Quetzal, the sacred bird associated with both the name of the pyramid and its plumed serpent deity Kukulkan.

The Maya Ruins of Palenque

Archaeologists discovered that the temples and public squares in Palenque, Mexico could clearly project the sounds of a human speaker and musical instruments of the time across at least a hundred meters, or about the length of a football field. The investigation identified rooms that could have been used by musicians, speakers or priests to amplify the frequency, quality and volume of sound, allowing the music or the message to travel further and reach more people. The findings strongly suggest the design and structures at Palenque involved a great deal of knowledge about acoustics and the behavior of sound.

Implications and Insights

Understanding Rituals and Ceremonies

Archaeoacoustics provides valuable insights into the rituals and ceremonies of ancient cultures. By reconstructing the soundscapes of these events, researchers can better understand the sensory experiences of participants and the role of sound in these practices. This can shed light on the spiritual and cultural significance of sound in ancient societies.

Reinterpreting Archaeological Sites

The study of sound can lead to new interpretations of archaeological sites. Structures that were previously thought to serve purely functional purposes may be re-evaluated in light of their acoustic properties. For example, a room that was assumed to be a storage area might be reconsidered as a space for ritual chanting if it has unique acoustic characteristics.

Enhancing Public Engagement

Archaeoacoustics also has the potential to enhance public engagement with archaeology. By recreating the sounds of the past, museums and heritage sites can offer immersive experiences that bring history to life. This sensory approach can make historical sites more accessible and engaging for visitors, fostering a deeper connection with the past.

Conclusion

Archaeoacoustics offers a fascinating and innovative approach to the study of ancient cultures. By exploring the acoustic properties of archaeological sites and artifacts, researchers can uncover new dimensions of historical experience and gain deeper insights into the lives of ancient peoples. Despite its challenges, the field holds great promise for enhancing our understanding of the past and engaging the public with history in new and exciting ways. As technology advances and interdisciplinary collaboration continues, the future of archaeoacoustics looks both promising and intriguing, inviting us to listen to the echoes of history in ever more profound ways.

[deathnskulls]

Sleeping Goddess statue found inside Hypogeum. The Hypogeum (Malta island, Mediterranean Sea) is an underground funerary temple characteristic of pre-Christian period. The start of construction occurred about 3500 years BC.

[girljeremystrong]

do you think paul mescal and pedro pascal explored each other's bodies in the hypogeum of the colosseum

[nerdanel01]

wip

Agnes would have flown into a fit of rage to hear anyone call Rolf Magnusson her friend, but the truth was that Rolf was, and had always been, terribly kind to her… and remained so, though Agnes gathered that the end of their brief affair several years back had left his heart bruised, which made that kindness all the more magnanimous (at the time, Agnes had not exactly been kind to him in return.) Though Agnes may not have liked to acknowledge it, Rolf probably was the closest thing she had to a friend in the Watch—second only to Emmrich, who was not really her friend, either, but something much more important and difficult to define.

None of that, however, altered remotely the fact that Agnes always had, and still did, find Rolf duller than rocks.

“It’s so sad, isn’t it?”

Rolf sounded more glum than grieved; Agnes fingered the pommel of the blade sheathed at her side, and repressed a sigh of exasperation. “What is sad, Magnusson?”

“Commander Lowe,” Rolf said, gazing at the procession ahead of him. Agnes did not think she had ever seen him this introspective; it did not suit him. “She was so strong—I can’t think of anyone tougher than her. Maybe you, though I think Lowe had you beat. But just like that… she’s dead.”

Ordinarily, Agnes would have hotly contested that allegation—though she may not have been an accomplished necromancer, she was a ruthless and efficient battlemage; it was a point of pride for her. She didn’t think there was anyone in the Watch who could have beaten her in one to one combat, the late Commander included—but out of respect for Commander Lowe’s memory, Agnes let Rolf’s comment slide.

“And that is precisely why one shouldn’t fuck around in the Basalt Hypogeum,” Agnes answered, a little callously, keen to shut down this line of conversation before Rolf started to feel too loquacious. It wasn’t exactly good form to be chatting in the procession anyway, and Agnes did not need to give the other Watchers yet another reason to think she was ill-suited to her position within their ranks. “I swear, there are some things down there older than Andraste’s ashes—as vile as the ashes are sacred, and twice as dangerous.”

[thethirdromana]

There was unexpected enthusiasm for this 9,000-year-old guy so here are my favourite Neolithic places that I've visited.

These are almost all from the UK and Ireland but that's because I haven't been to Göbeklitepe, Caral-Supe, Çatalhöyük, Uruk or many others around the world (yet).

Newgrange! A 5,000 year old passage tomb aligned with the rising sun of the winter solstice! The front is reconstructed, which was a controversial choice, but means that it looks SO. COOL.

Maeshowe! A 4,800 year old passage tomb designed along much the same principles as Newgrange, but smaller and in Scotland! Except - and this is the fun bit - it was broken into by Vikings in the 12th century, who covered the interior in runic graffiti. My favourite is "Tholfir Kolbeinsson carved these runes high up." Good job, Tholfir.

Skara Brae! A rare non-tomb entry! It's a honeycomb-shaped village of 10 little houses with beds and dressers and hearths. So well-preserved that it's effortless to imagine living here, but it was built 5,200 years ago.

Stoney Littleton Long Barrow! If you want to visit Newgrange or Maeshowe, you have to get a timed ticket and go in with a tour guide, whereas this 4,500 year old tomb is accessible at any time as long as you're up for the long walk through cowpat-covered fields from the car park. 100% worth it even though I fell over in the mud on the way back.

Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum! Honestly I could have put every Neolithic site in Malta on this list but this one is staggering. It's a 5,000 year old necropolis hewn out of limestone - those are not limestone slabs in the photo, they are solid limestone carved to look like slabs. They made this without metal tools.