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{{Major spoiler}} | {{Major spoiler}}<blockquote>''"The threads of fate have no colour and take no dyes. Their appearance is a matter of perspective. Cast the right light upon them, and you'll be elsewhen."<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Colour_of_Fate|The Colour of Fate|Fallen London|}}</ref>''</blockquote>'''Destinies''' are possible futures that may be viewed through a variety of methods. | ||
This | The most consistent means of access is a '''Loom''' located at [[Irem]], capable of weaving all that will be from the threads of destiny.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Seven-Serpent,_Revisited|The Seven-Serpent, Revisited|Fallen London|}} ''"The Seven-Serpent will coil upon that pedestal [...] It will look over the city of snow and roses, placidly tallying up days yet to come. And it will hold destiny in its teeth, awaiting those who come to claim it."''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Grip_the_thread_of_your_own_destiny|Grip the thread of your own destiny|Fallen London|}} ''"The thread will feel so thin and strong that it will threaten to cut your hands to ribbons as you grip. You will at first feel as if you are pulling it; then, as if you are dangling over a precipice, hanging on by that same thread. And then, you will be falling."''</ref> With the Loom, one can rip away the threads that lead to all manner of death<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Tighten_your_mortal_coil|Tighten your mortal coil|Fallen London|}} ''"Cut the threads that lead to painful demises. Unravel these bodily miseries. [...] rip it all out, discard the yarn. Card the remaining strands and start again."''</ref> and madness,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Tend_to_your_fraying_sanity|Tend to your fraying sanity|Fallen London|}} ''"Find the right thread, pull, rip – there. Now you never saw that."''</ref> but unwise use will unravel any results.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Unraveled!|Unraveled!|Fallen London|}} ''"One frayed thread too many, and the strands beneath your fingers are snapping. Searching down the loose stitches of destiny can be dangerous."''</ref> It is a labyrinth of potential futures. Pick a thread to follow;<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Throwing_the_Shuttle|Throwing the Shuttle|Fallen London|}} ''"This deep in the labyrinth of potential futures, one might weave one's fate anew. You need only choose a thread to follow"''</ref> choose where Ariadne will lead you.<ref>The Greek myth of Theseus and the Minotaur.</ref> | ||
Below is a chronicle of possible futures. | |||
==A Nearby Future== | ==A Nearby Future== | ||
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==A Chilly Future== | ==A Chilly Future== | ||
<blockquote>''"The wind of the High Wilderness on your pinions. You are home."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Chilly_Future|A Chilly Future|Fallen London|}}</ref> | <blockquote>''"The wind of the High Wilderness on your pinions. You are home."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Chilly_Future|A Chilly Future|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote><blockquote>''"ASCEND NOW TO YOUR PLACE IN THE SUN"''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Long_Road|A Long Road|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>You have risen to become a [[The Masters of the Bazaar|Master of the Bazaar]].<ref name=":1">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Conversation_on_the_Road|A Conversation on the Road|Fallen London|}} ''"The fifteenth year of your journey. Your wings have never been spread to their fullest extent, and as you approach the blazing Judgement ever more closely, you must contract them further still [...]"''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Conversation_on_the_Road|A Conversation on the Road|Fallen London|}} ''"Why, I have grown very fond even of our new associate here. Lowly origins notwithstanding. [...] And you, my friend? Have you grown fond of us?"''</ref> You have been journeying with your companions<ref name=":2">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Conversation_on_the_Road|A Conversation on the Road|Fallen London|}} ''""Our employer grows nervous," Hearts opines. "Like a maid on her wedding-day, hey?""''</ref> and the [[Bazaar]] herself<ref name=":3">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Aver_it|Aver it|Fallen London|}} ''"Ahead, your employer soars towards the Judgement, its hide flaring with the message it carries."''</ref> toward the [[Sun]] for the last fifteen years.<ref name=":1" /> It is time to deliver a message,<ref name=":3" /> and after that you will all be free.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Aver_it|Aver it|Fallen London|}} ''"Our employer made us a promise. All shall be well, it said, and all manner of thing shall be well. When it has delivered its message, we shall find other feasts, of music and more."''</ref> You can only hope your home planet will survive the consequences.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Indicate_a_fondness_for_the_Bazaar|Indicate a fondness for the Bazaar|Fallen London|}} ''"Perhaps you are right. Perhaps the Judgement will be overwhelmed by its own despair; in that case the Bazaar will certainly not survive the experience. And my poor birth-world will suffer no further interference."''</ref> | ||
''"ASCEND NOW TO YOUR PLACE IN THE SUN"''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Long_Road|A Long Road|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>You have risen to become a [[The Masters of the Bazaar|Master of the Bazaar]].<ref name=":1">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Conversation_on_the_Road|A Conversation on the Road|Fallen London|}} ''"The fifteenth year of your journey. Your wings have never been spread to their fullest extent, and as you approach the blazing Judgement ever more closely, you must contract them further still [...]"''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Conversation_on_the_Road|A Conversation on the Road|Fallen London|}} ''"Why, I have grown very fond even of our new associate here. Lowly origins notwithstanding. [...] And you, my friend? Have you grown fond of us?"''</ref> You have been journeying with your companions | |||
Mr Fires is notably absent from this future. It was always the one who loved [[London]] the most. | Mr Fires is notably absent from this future. It was always the one who loved [[London]] the most. | ||
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==A Silvered Future== | ==A Silvered Future== | ||
<blockquote>''"Stray notions grazing lazily on the grass that grows on buried dreams. You are home."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Silvered_Future|A Silvered Future|Fallen London|}}</ref> | <blockquote>''"Stray notions grazing lazily on the grass that grows on buried dreams. You are home."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Silvered_Future|A Silvered Future|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote><blockquote>''"OPEN ARE THE DOUBLE-DOORS OF THE HORIZON..."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Castle_of_Forests|The Castle of Forests|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>You have allied yourself with the [[Fingerkings]].<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Wednesday_in_Parabola|Wednesday in Parabola|Fallen London|}} ''"Sandwiches! A prosaic snack to consume in dreams, but that's how the Fingerkings rewarded me today."''</ref> You have always been their Huntsman, after all.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Wednesday_in_Parabola|Wednesday in Parabola|Fallen London|}} ''"They summoned me to confirm me as their Huntsman. In fact, I have always been their Huntsman. History in Parabola is mutable. When I complete my plan, I'll always have been something quite different."''</ref> In [[Parabola]], you bargain with serpents<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Bargaining_with_Serpents|Bargaining with Serpents|Fallen London|}} ''"Market day in Parabola! The exchange of notions, figments, hopes and fears."''</ref> and play the [[Great Game]] with sleeping grandmasters.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Game_of_Chess_(Irem)|A Game of Chess (Irem)|Fallen London|}} ''"You never play chess with the Fingerkings, of course – they are terrible cheats. But they host exhibition matches in the Castle's courtyard, pitting you against slumbering grandmasters. You play for the placement of pieces on a much greater board: chess, in Parabola, is a map and a territory of intrigue."''</ref> From your perch in the [[Castle of Forests]], you can watch the Is-Not go by, and see into others' dreams.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/High_Upon_the_Parapets|High Upon the Parapets|Fallen London|}} ''"The Castle of Forests is a watchful place. It is a place for watching. Watching the world (that is not the world) go by. Climb the highest tower and you'll see as far as one can see [...] Watch the dreamers in their slumber, and see all that they dream."''</ref> | ||
''"OPEN ARE THE DOUBLE-DOORS OF THE HORIZON..."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Castle_of_Forests|The Castle of Forests|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>You have allied yourself with the [[Fingerkings]].<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Wednesday_in_Parabola|Wednesday in Parabola|Fallen London|}} ''"Sandwiches! A prosaic snack to consume in dreams, but that's how the Fingerkings rewarded me today."''</ref> You have always been their Huntsman, after all.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Wednesday_in_Parabola|Wednesday in Parabola|Fallen London|}} ''"They summoned me to confirm me as their Huntsman. In fact, I have always been their Huntsman. History in Parabola is mutable. When I complete my plan, I'll always have been something quite different."''</ref> In [[Parabola]], you bargain with serpents<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Bargaining_with_Serpents|Bargaining with Serpents|Fallen London|}} ''"Market day in Parabola! The exchange of notions, figments, hopes and fears."''</ref> and play the [[Great Game]] with sleeping grandmasters.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Game_of_Chess_(Irem)|A Game of Chess (Irem)|Fallen London|}} ''"You never play chess with the Fingerkings, of course – they are terrible cheats. But they host exhibition matches in the Castle's courtyard, pitting you against slumbering grandmasters. You play for the placement of pieces on a much greater board: chess, in Parabola, is a map and a territory of intrigue."''</ref> From your perch in the [[Castle of Forests]], you can watch the Is-Not go by, and see into others' dreams.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/High_Upon_the_Parapets|High Upon the Parapets|Fallen London|}} ''"The Castle of Forests is a watchful place. It is a place for watching. Watching the world (that is not the world) go by. Climb the highest tower and you'll see as far as one can see [...] Watch the dreamers in their slumber, and see all that they dream."''</ref> | |||
It is [[Hallowmas]], and the veil grows thin. You have taken many prisoners: an agent of [[Hell]],<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Diabolical_Diplomat|The Diabolical Diplomat|Fallen London|}} ''"What he promises, Hell will deliver. Riches, power, pleasures, glory. All seven."''</ref> the long-suffering [[Genial Magician]],<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Genial_Magician|The Genial Magician|Fallen London|}} ''"He betrayed the Fingerkings for the sake of compassion, and he knows what awaits me. [...] He'll visit a stranger's house and offer him a hint of things to come, and the stranger will save him in turn. Or he saved him long ago."''</ref> the [[Bishop of Southwark]],<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Bishop_of_Southwark_2|The Bishop of Southwark 2|Fallen London|}} ''"He bargained for the Fingerkings' help. He didn't understood he was giving up his freedom. If he returns to London, of course, they'll keep their side of the bargain."''</ref> [[Mr Wines]] itself,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Mr_Wines_(Destiny)|Mr Wines (Destiny)|Fallen London|}} ''"He’s angry, but he does enjoy the music. The balance in London is out of kilter without him. If I release him, it’ll be as it was. And he’ll be grateful. Though I can hardly trust him."''</ref> and even the [[Red-Handed Queen]],<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Bloody-Handed_Queen|The Bloody-Handed Queen|Fallen London|}} ''"It would be terribly irresponsible to set her loose in the real world. [...] But she'll prepare the path for me, to be the King Underneath. The power she owns! To have such a piece in my hand..."''</ref> who presides over ambition and victory in Parabola. Who will you unleash from the realm of dreams into reality?<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Wednesday_in_Parabola|Wednesday in Parabola|Fallen London|}} ''"Today is the Feast of Masks. In London, the mirrors are growing soft. The Kings, in their smiling stolen flesh, congratulate me for the prisoners I have brought them. They would like to release one [...] They asked me to choose."''</ref> Or perhaps you might free yourself instead...<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Myself_(10_FATE)|Myself (10 FATE)|Fallen London|}} ''"When the Sixth City falls, I will be safe in Parabola."''</ref> | It is [[Hallowmas]], and the veil grows thin. You have taken many prisoners: an agent of [[Hell]],<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Diabolical_Diplomat|The Diabolical Diplomat|Fallen London|}} ''"What he promises, Hell will deliver. Riches, power, pleasures, glory. All seven."''</ref> the long-suffering [[Genial Magician]],<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Genial_Magician|The Genial Magician|Fallen London|}} ''"He betrayed the Fingerkings for the sake of compassion, and he knows what awaits me. [...] He'll visit a stranger's house and offer him a hint of things to come, and the stranger will save him in turn. Or he saved him long ago."''</ref> the [[Bishop of Southwark]],<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Bishop_of_Southwark_2|The Bishop of Southwark 2|Fallen London|}} ''"He bargained for the Fingerkings' help. He didn't understood he was giving up his freedom. If he returns to London, of course, they'll keep their side of the bargain."''</ref> [[Mr Wines]] itself,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Mr_Wines_(Destiny)|Mr Wines (Destiny)|Fallen London|}} ''"He’s angry, but he does enjoy the music. The balance in London is out of kilter without him. If I release him, it’ll be as it was. And he’ll be grateful. Though I can hardly trust him."''</ref> and even the [[Red-Handed Queen]],<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Bloody-Handed_Queen|The Bloody-Handed Queen|Fallen London|}} ''"It would be terribly irresponsible to set her loose in the real world. [...] But she'll prepare the path for me, to be the King Underneath. The power she owns! To have such a piece in my hand..."''</ref> who presides over ambition and victory in Parabola. Who will you unleash from the realm of dreams into reality?<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Wednesday_in_Parabola|Wednesday in Parabola|Fallen London|}} ''"Today is the Feast of Masks. In London, the mirrors are growing soft. The Kings, in their smiling stolen flesh, congratulate me for the prisoners I have brought them. They would like to release one [...] They asked me to choose."''</ref> Or perhaps you might free yourself instead...<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Myself_(10_FATE)|Myself (10 FATE)|Fallen London|}} ''"When the Sixth City falls, I will be safe in Parabola."''</ref> | ||
==An Abyssal Future== | ==An Abyssal Future== | ||
<blockquote>''"The presence of the lorn-flukes. The approach of the feast. You are home."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/An_Abyssal_Future|An Abyssal Future|Fallen London|}}</ref> | <blockquote>''"The presence of the lorn-flukes. The approach of the feast. You are home."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/An_Abyssal_Future|An Abyssal Future|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote><blockquote>''"THERE ARE GODS WHO LIVETH ON THEIR FATHERS, FEEDETH ON THEIR MOTHERS"''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Down_among_the_Lorn-Flukes|Down among the Lorn-Flukes|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>You sit at the Drowning Feast with the three most ancient of [[Lorn-Flukes]]. One eats fear.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/It_Eats_Fear|It Eats Fear|Fallen London|}} ''"An eye surrounded by spines, staring out into the world in horror. It sees so much and likes none of it."''</ref> One eats hatred.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/It_Eats_Hatred|It Eats Hatred|Fallen London|}} ''"Look upon it and be cut. Its hate is vast. Its hate is not enough."''</ref> One eats regret.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/It_Eats_Regret|It Eats Regret|Fallen London|}} ''"It knows what you did. If it had eyes, they would be fixed on the amber you carry closest to your heart."''</ref> What have you brought them?<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Down_among_the_Lorn-Flukes|Down among the Lorn-Flukes|Fallen London|}} ''"Three great presences. [...] The Drowning Feast. The greatest yet. [...]The oldest Lorn-Flukes. [...] Swollen with hate. Swollen with wisdom. [...] WHAT HAVE YOU BROUGHT US? [...] Answer in haste. They are hungry."''</ref> | ||
''"THERE ARE GODS WHO LIVETH ON THEIR FATHERS, FEEDETH ON THEIR MOTHERS"''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Down_among_the_Lorn-Flukes|Down among the Lorn-Flukes|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>You sit at the Drowning Feast with the three most ancient of [[Lorn-Flukes]]. One eats fear.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/It_Eats_Fear|It Eats Fear|Fallen London|}} ''"An eye surrounded by spines, staring out into the world in horror. It sees so much and likes none of it."''</ref> One eats hatred.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/It_Eats_Hatred|It Eats Hatred|Fallen London|}} ''"Look upon it and be cut. Its hate is vast. Its hate is not enough."''</ref> One eats regret.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/It_Eats_Regret|It Eats Regret|Fallen London|}} ''"It knows what you did. If it had eyes, they would be fixed on the amber you carry closest to your heart."''</ref> What have you brought them?<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Down_among_the_Lorn-Flukes|Down among the Lorn-Flukes|Fallen London|}} ''"Three great presences. [...] The Drowning Feast. The greatest yet. [...]The oldest Lorn-Flukes. [...] Swollen with hate. Swollen with wisdom. [...] WHAT HAVE YOU BROUGHT US? [...] Answer in haste. They are hungry."''</ref> | |||
Are you here to become something greater?<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Myself|Myself|Fallen London|}} ''"You are the seed which will be the youngest of the Lorn-Flukes. Far less than your siblings. Far greater than anything human."''</ref> To deliver a message?<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Sky_(10_FATE)|The Sky (10 FATE)|Fallen London|}} ''"Do you recall how they came to that place? And you sang of your lightnings and shapeful disgrace? They tilted their vanes and ennobled their spires. You welcomed them then and commingled all choirs. You can remember those days. It can be as it was."''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Name|The Name|Fallen London|}} ''""A reckoning," you shriek, "will not be postponed indefinitely!""''</ref> Or are you here to wreak destruction?<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/%22I_bring_the_Bazaar.%22|'I bring the Bazaar.'|Fallen London|}} ''"Not literally. But this [...] could be the key to the Bazaar's defences. Deliver it to the Lorn-Flukes, and the Bazaar may be on borrowed time. [...] Do you hate the Bazaar, and the Masters, that much? Do you pity these old and unforgiven things, down in the dark?"''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Nothing|Nothing|Fallen London|}} ''""Prepare the device," you say to your navigator. Quietly, as if they might somehow overhear you. "Let's end this." Your own destruction will be a fair price to pay for the end of these horrors. Not an easy price. But a fair one."''</ref> | Are you here to become something greater?<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Myself|Myself|Fallen London|}} ''"You are the seed which will be the youngest of the Lorn-Flukes. Far less than your siblings. Far greater than anything human."''</ref> To deliver a message?<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Sky_(10_FATE)|The Sky (10 FATE)|Fallen London|}} ''"Do you recall how they came to that place? And you sang of your lightnings and shapeful disgrace? They tilted their vanes and ennobled their spires. You welcomed them then and commingled all choirs. You can remember those days. It can be as it was."''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Name|The Name|Fallen London|}} ''""A reckoning," you shriek, "will not be postponed indefinitely!""''</ref> Or are you here to wreak destruction?<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/%22I_bring_the_Bazaar.%22|'I bring the Bazaar.'|Fallen London|}} ''"Not literally. But this [...] could be the key to the Bazaar's defences. Deliver it to the Lorn-Flukes, and the Bazaar may be on borrowed time. [...] Do you hate the Bazaar, and the Masters, that much? Do you pity these old and unforgiven things, down in the dark?"''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Nothing|Nothing|Fallen London|}} ''""Prepare the device," you say to your navigator. Quietly, as if they might somehow overhear you. "Let's end this." Your own destruction will be a fair price to pay for the end of these horrors. Not an easy price. But a fair one."''</ref> | ||
==A Jewelled Future== | ==A Jewelled Future== | ||
<blockquote>''"The Light of the Mountain filtering through the flap of your command tent. You are home."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Jewelled_Future|A Jewelled Future|Fallen London|}}</ref> | <blockquote>''"The Light of the Mountain filtering through the flap of your command tent. You are home."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Jewelled_Future|A Jewelled Future|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote><blockquote>''"THIS COUNTRY - MOUTH-OF-THE-RIVER - THIS WAS THE PLACE OF HER OVERTHROW"''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Approach_to_the_Mountain|The Approach to the Mountain|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>It is September 21, 1911. You have cleared a path across the [[zee]],<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Shores_of_the_Elder_Continent|The Shores of the Elder Continent|Fallen London|}} ''"Weeks at zee, and then days skirmishing with the Prester's navy. [...] The war could not be won at zee, but a path could be carved."''</ref> flouted the [[Presbyterate]]'s desperate attempts to keep you out of [[Adam's Way]],<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Lead_your_fleet_down_Adam%27s_Way|Lead your fleet down Adam's Way|Fallen London|}} ''"Normally, Apis Meet would let any fool who wants to sail up the Nameless River do so – no ordinary ship can survive the trip. But they know who you are, and they know you are terribly prepared. So they raise their seldom-used harbour chain to block the mouth of the river. Against this, you employ [...] nominative determinism. At the head of your flotilla, just in front of your flagship, zails the Iron Republic icebreaker Ender of Chains."''</ref> and crossed the dangerous Desert of Delights.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Prepare_yourself_(Irem)|Prepare yourself (Irem)|Fallen London|}} ''"When you emerge from the tent, days later, your quartermasters are on the verge of tears. But you tell them that you will resume your march soon; and that you will cut a clean path through the desert. You tell them that you now see the truth of everything."''</ref> Now you stand with your allies, including [[December]] and the [[Bishop of St Fiacre's]],<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/September_21st,_1911|September 21st, 1911|Fallen London|}} ''"By the time you return to your pavilion, it is already crowded with your captains [...] The Bishop of St Fiacre, face frozen in a grimace of delight. And safe behind a pale mask, December of the Calendar Council."''</ref> at the precipice of the final battle.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Mountain_and_the_Light|The Mountain and the Light|Fallen London|}} ''"This close to Nidah, the Light of the Mountain is like a blazing sun. [...] Your army – at least those in your army who are not devils or snuffers or Clay Men – brays in suffering. From a greater distance, the light is a beacon. But up close, flesh demands relief."''</ref> | ||
In three days, you will breach the [[Mountain of Light]] and claim eternal life for yourself.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/September_21st,_1911|September 21st, 1911|Fallen London|}} ''"We have shamed the Presbyter, the Old God, the hirelings of the Bazaar. [...] In three days time, we will breach the Mountain. The spoils are nothing less than life eternal!"''</ref> ''If'' you succeed, will you share it among all people?<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/%22...give_it_to_the_world.%22|'...give it to the world.'|Fallen London|}} ''"Death is the final country! Once we have conquered the Mountain, we will conquer Death. Mankind will be free of age and oblivion."''</ref> Will you follow the example of the Prester, and keep the power to grant immortality to those who merit it?<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/%22...reserve_it_for_those_who_merit_it.%22|'...reserve it for those who merit it.'|Fallen London|}} ''"I will bestow it as a gift on those who merit it."''</ref> Or will you end the treachery of the Mountain's vitality for good?<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/%22..end_it,_as_I_swore_I_would.%22|'..end it, as I swore I would.'|Fallen London|}} ''"We were meant to die. The brevity of our lives is what makes us human. Look at the torments and taints of the Neath. We will put an end to the Sun's experiment."''</ref> | |||
==A Brilliant Future== | ==A Brilliant Future== | ||
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== A Ruinous Future == | == A Ruinous Future == | ||
<blockquote>''"All is lost. You are home."<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Ruinous_Future|A Ruinous Future|Fallen London|}}</ref>''</blockquote>Everything you knew has been destroyed. Even the vermin are gone.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Absence_of_Rats|The Absence of Rats|Fallen London|}} ''"Even the vermin are gone. Starved, vanished, fled. Sometimes you find piles of tiny bones, arranged into trails."''</ref> You and the other survivors are bleeding,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Bleeding_(Irem)|Bleeding (Irem)|Fallen London|}} ''"You usually are, these days."''</ref> bandaged,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Bandage_yourself|Bandage yourself|Fallen London|}} ''"Again, and again. It occupies much of your time | <blockquote>''"All is lost. You are home."<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Ruinous_Future|A Ruinous Future|Fallen London|}}</ref>''</blockquote>Everything you knew has been destroyed. Even the vermin are gone.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Absence_of_Rats|The Absence of Rats|Fallen London|}} ''"Even the vermin are gone. Starved, vanished, fled. Sometimes you find piles of tiny bones, arranged into trails."''</ref> You and the other survivors are bleeding,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Bleeding_(Irem)|Bleeding (Irem)|Fallen London|}} ''"You usually are, these days."''</ref> bandaged,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Bandage_yourself|Bandage yourself|Fallen London|}} ''"Again, and again. It occupies much of your time."''</ref> starving,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Barter_for_food|Barter for food|Fallen London|}} ''"Some are too far gone even to eat. They hoard a little food, to trade for trinkets."''</ref> and scrounging the ruins for supplies.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Unravel_someone|Unravel someone|Fallen London|}} ''"The knife is horribly dull [...] But you come away from the collapsed figure with a few fresh bandages and a white stone fragment untangled from the filthy linen. Move on quickly, before more scavengers appear."''</ref> None of you can die.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Scavenge_for_miserable_sustenance|Scavenge for miserable sustenance|Fallen London|}} ''"Nothing is worse than starving but being unable to die."''</ref> | ||
''Get me out of here!'' | ''Get me out of here!'' | ||
==An Altered Future== | ==An Altered Future== | ||
<blockquote>''"Sense-memory: Threads running through your fingers, scraping just a little of your skin away as they move. You are home. You've always been home."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/An_Altered_Future|An Altered Future|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>You are weaving the threads of fate. They all lead to the same conclusion.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Doom/Knot|Doom/Knot|Fallen London|}} ''"The familiar twist of yarn pinched in your fingers. The weave of a tapestry. But your hands are slick with blood. Follow any thread to its conclusion and they're all dyed the same colour."''</ref> Perhaps you drowned,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Thread-Collapse:_%27Asphyxia%27|Thread-Collapse: 'Asphyxia'|Fallen London|}} ''"Here are all the threads that end in drowning [...]"''</ref> or bled to death,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Thread-Collapse:_%27Haemorrhagia%27|Thread-Collapse: 'Haemorrhagia'|Fallen London|}} ''"Here are all the threads that end in blood."''</ref> or were poisoned.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Thread-Collapse:_%27Katal%C4%93psis%27|Thread-Collapse: Katalēpsis|Fallen London|}} ''"Here are all the threads that end in poison. All so different from one another; all end in the same place."''</ref> Escape your inevitable death. Live, somehow, forever.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Turn_the_key_(Destiny)|Turn the key (Destiny)|Fallen London|}} ''"At the end of the universe there will always be a version of you [...] Death needs no witness; but you will be there to witness the vastness of death, all the same. And you won’t be alone."''</ref> | <blockquote>''"Sense-memory: Threads running through your fingers, scraping just a little of your skin away as they move. You are home. You've always been home."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/An_Altered_Future|An Altered Future|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>You are weaving the threads of fate. They all lead to the same conclusion.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Doom/Knot|Doom/Knot|Fallen London|}} ''"The familiar twist of yarn pinched in your fingers. The weave of a tapestry. But your hands are slick with blood. Follow any thread to its conclusion and they're all dyed the same colour."''</ref> Perhaps you drowned,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Thread-Collapse:_%27Asphyxia%27|Thread-Collapse: 'Asphyxia'|Fallen London|}} ''"Here are all the threads that end in drowning [...]"''</ref> or bled to death,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Thread-Collapse:_%27Haemorrhagia%27|Thread-Collapse: 'Haemorrhagia'|Fallen London|}} ''"Here are all the threads that end in blood."''</ref> or were poisoned.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Thread-Collapse:_%27Katal%C4%93psis%27|Thread-Collapse: Katalēpsis|Fallen London|}} ''"Here are all the threads that end in poison. All so different from one another; all end in the same place."''</ref> | ||
Escape your inevitable death. Live, somehow, forever.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Turn_the_key_(Destiny)|Turn the key (Destiny)|Fallen London|}} ''"At the end of the universe there will always be a version of you [...] Death needs no witness; but you will be there to witness the vastness of death, all the same. And you won’t be alone."''</ref> | |||
==A Neon Future== | ==A Neon Future== | ||
<blockquote>''"Cool, dry, air-conditioned air. You are home."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Neon_Future|A Neon Future|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>It is June 22, 2023. Welcome to | <blockquote>''"Cool, dry, air-conditioned air. You are home."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Neon_Future|A Neon Future|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>It is June 22, 2023. Welcome to the [[Seventh City]]. Somehow you have survived for over a century, through the Fall of two more cities.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/June_22nd,_2023|June 22nd, 2023|Fallen London|}} ''"You belong to an exclusive club. Few entities survive the fall of a city, let alone two."''</ref> | ||
Why have you stayed here? Do you hope to keep this last city alive, even after the [[Bazaar]] has completed its mission?<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/%22For_the_memory_of_London.%22|'For the memory of London.'|Fallen London|}} ''"The Seventh is supposed to be the last. You mean to ensure that implies its survival and independence – to defy the bleakness of that pronouncement."''</ref> Are you here because your love is still here with you?<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/%22For_you,_of_course.%22|'For you, of course.'|Fallen London|}} ''"As your life together has fit into smaller spaces, it has become denser. Every touch and glance is a world of meaning; you can no longer escape the gravity of your love."''</ref> Or was this simply how long it took to be able to travel somewhere far away?<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/%22That_was_simply_how_long_it_took_to_put_my_plan_into_motion.%22|'That was simply how long it took to put my plan into motion.'|Fallen London|}} ''"For some things, you simply had to wait: advances in naval technology that allow you to make this voyage with such a small crew. But others did indeed take you over a century."''</ref> | Why have you stayed here? Do you hope to keep this last city alive, even after the [[Bazaar]] has completed its mission?<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/%22For_the_memory_of_London.%22|'For the memory of London.'|Fallen London|}} ''"The Seventh is supposed to be the last. You mean to ensure that implies its survival and independence – to defy the bleakness of that pronouncement."''</ref> Are you here because your love is still here with you?<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/%22For_you,_of_course.%22|'For you, of course.'|Fallen London|}} ''"As your life together has fit into smaller spaces, it has become denser. Every touch and glance is a world of meaning; you can no longer escape the gravity of your love."''</ref> Or was this simply how long it took to be able to travel somewhere far away?<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/%22That_was_simply_how_long_it_took_to_put_my_plan_into_motion.%22|'That was simply how long it took to put my plan into motion.'|Fallen London|}} ''"For some things, you simply had to wait: advances in naval technology that allow you to make this voyage with such a small crew. But others did indeed take you over a century."''</ref> |
Latest revision as of 01:00, 6 June 2025
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Beyond this point lie major spoilers for Fallen London, Sunless Sea, Sunless Skies, or Mask of the Rose. This may include endgame or major Fate-locked spoilers. Proceed at your own risk. You can find out more about our spoiler policy here. |
"The threads of fate have no colour and take no dyes. Their appearance is a matter of perspective. Cast the right light upon them, and you'll be elsewhen."[1]
Destinies are possible futures that may be viewed through a variety of methods.
The most consistent means of access is a Loom located at Irem, capable of weaving all that will be from the threads of destiny.[2][3] With the Loom, one can rip away the threads that lead to all manner of death[4] and madness,[5] but unwise use will unravel any results.[6] It is a labyrinth of potential futures. Pick a thread to follow;[7] choose where Ariadne will lead you.[8]
Below is a chronicle of possible futures.
A Nearby Future[edit]
"Smog, hooves on cobblestones, the clicking of bats. You are home."[9]
You have accomplished everything you wished to in life, and then some. You have explored the Neath, founded a railway, bargained with powers beyond your comprehension.[10] These days, the Empress' power wanes.[11] London is powered by electricity.[12] Mr Fires' factories are shutting down,[13] and it may or may not be dead.[14] In this future, someone else has become a Master.[14]
What will you do now? Do you wish to become something greater?[15] Or, after all this time, would you rather simply go home?[16]
A Chilly Future[edit]
"The wind of the High Wilderness on your pinions. You are home."[17]
"ASCEND NOW TO YOUR PLACE IN THE SUN"[18]
You have risen to become a Master of the Bazaar.[19][20] You have been journeying with your companions[21] and the Bazaar herself[22] toward the Sun for the last fifteen years.[19] It is time to deliver a message,[22] and after that you will all be free.[23] You can only hope your home planet will survive the consequences.[24]
Mr Fires is notably absent from this future. It was always the one who loved London the most.
An Obscure Future[edit]
"I HAD A DREAM, WHICH WAS NOT ALL A DREAM"[25]
The Liberation of Night has descended upon the Neath. The lights are out.[26] Who will you save?[27] Do you wish to stop the darkness from spreading?[28] Would you rather take advantage of the chaos?[29] Or was this your goal all along?[30]
A Dark Future[edit]
"Total darkness. You are home."[31]
The lights have gone out. But in this future, London itself has gone out, too.[32] Under the un-light of the Neathbow, present and past are mutable,[33] selfhood is negotiable,[34] and social relationships are more important than individuality.[35] (From each according to their ability. And to each according to their need.)[36]
Will you build something new in London's place?[37] Or will you reach for the stars with knife in hand, ensuring the spread of the Liberation?[38]
A Silvered Future[edit]
"Stray notions grazing lazily on the grass that grows on buried dreams. You are home."[39]
"OPEN ARE THE DOUBLE-DOORS OF THE HORIZON..."[40]
You have allied yourself with the Fingerkings.[41] You have always been their Huntsman, after all.[42] In Parabola, you bargain with serpents[43] and play the Great Game with sleeping grandmasters.[44] From your perch in the Castle of Forests, you can watch the Is-Not go by, and see into others' dreams.[45]
It is Hallowmas, and the veil grows thin. You have taken many prisoners: an agent of Hell,[46] the long-suffering Genial Magician,[47] the Bishop of Southwark,[48] Mr Wines itself,[49] and even the Red-Handed Queen,[50] who presides over ambition and victory in Parabola. Who will you unleash from the realm of dreams into reality?[51] Or perhaps you might free yourself instead...[52]
An Abyssal Future[edit]
"The presence of the lorn-flukes. The approach of the feast. You are home."[53]
"THERE ARE GODS WHO LIVETH ON THEIR FATHERS, FEEDETH ON THEIR MOTHERS"[54]
You sit at the Drowning Feast with the three most ancient of Lorn-Flukes. One eats fear.[55] One eats hatred.[56] One eats regret.[57] What have you brought them?[58]
Are you here to become something greater?[59] To deliver a message?[60][61] Or are you here to wreak destruction?[62][63]
A Jewelled Future[edit]
"The Light of the Mountain filtering through the flap of your command tent. You are home."[64]
"THIS COUNTRY - MOUTH-OF-THE-RIVER - THIS WAS THE PLACE OF HER OVERTHROW"[65]
It is September 21, 1911. You have cleared a path across the zee,[66] flouted the Presbyterate's desperate attempts to keep you out of Adam's Way,[67] and crossed the dangerous Desert of Delights.[68] Now you stand with your allies, including December and the Bishop of St Fiacre's,[69] at the precipice of the final battle.[70]
In three days, you will breach the Mountain of Light and claim eternal life for yourself.[71] If you succeed, will you share it among all people?[72] Will you follow the example of the Prester, and keep the power to grant immortality to those who merit it?[73] Or will you end the treachery of the Mountain's vitality for good?[74]
A Brilliant Future[edit]
"Sunlight streaming in through a window. You are home."[75]
Sunlight streams into the Neath, and with light comes law.[76] The Ministry governs all, and assures London that all will remain well.[77] They have even taken devils captive to harvest the lily-balm that protects London's citizens from the Sun,[78] although lily-balm can only do so much.[79] It's hard to sleep, though.[80] And no one dreams.[81]
Fortunately for you, the Special Constables will find nothing when they search your home.[82] Have you been good?[83] (Even so, you notice something is wrong with the Sun.)[84] Or have you simply kept your activities well-hidden?[85] (It must go out.)[86]
A Ruinous Future[edit]
"All is lost. You are home."[87]
Everything you knew has been destroyed. Even the vermin are gone.[88] You and the other survivors are bleeding,[89] bandaged,[90] starving,[91] and scrounging the ruins for supplies.[92] None of you can die.[93]
Get me out of here!
An Altered Future[edit]
"Sense-memory: Threads running through your fingers, scraping just a little of your skin away as they move. You are home. You've always been home."[94]
You are weaving the threads of fate. They all lead to the same conclusion.[95] Perhaps you drowned,[96] or bled to death,[97] or were poisoned.[98]
Escape your inevitable death. Live, somehow, forever.[99]
A Neon Future[edit]
"Cool, dry, air-conditioned air. You are home."[100]
It is June 22, 2023. Welcome to the Seventh City. Somehow you have survived for over a century, through the Fall of two more cities.[101]
Why have you stayed here? Do you hope to keep this last city alive, even after the Bazaar has completed its mission?[102] Are you here because your love is still here with you?[103] Or was this simply how long it took to be able to travel somewhere far away?[104]
No Future[edit]
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WARNING: Beyond this point lie spoilers for the Discordant Studies storyline from Fallen London. Do not proceed forward. You can find out more about our spoiler policy here. |
"You are not home."[105]
Existence itself has ceased.[106] There is only one thing left to do. Enact the law. Obliterate the last traces.[107]
No thing shall be
References[edit]
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