Merlin

Merlin is an exceptionally powerful Oneiros whose Eidolon has never allowed itself to be summoned by mortals. The entity possesses the rare ability to manifest independently by siphoning memories from nearby individuals.

Nature and Abilities

Unlike most Eidolons, Merlin cannot be summoned through normal Eidomancy techniques. Only the most powerful Oneiros can incarnate without permission by hijacking imagination and drawing on nearby memories to shape physical form.

When manifesting, Merlin assembles appearance from observer’s memories without consent, rummaging through recollections “like you would with a box of keepsakes.” This technique bypasses normal summoning requirements entirely.

Physical Manifestation

When appearing to Akesha Adhikari, Merlin constructed form from her memories:

• Outfit from her father’s business attire
• Stubble from her cousin
• Cloak from her graduation ceremony
• Scepter from display at Museum of Alteration
• Hat of a style she favored

The assembled form featured sad and cynical eyes reflecting “thousands of years” with a “glimmer of madness” dancing within them, and lips bearing only a “semblance” of a smile.

Prophecy and Purpose

Merlin’s imperious voice resonates directly in the mind, tolerating no interruption. When manifesting before Akesha Adhikari, declared: “Destiny is in motion. The king will awaken, and you will play your part.”

The prophecy appears connected to broader events involving kingship and destiny, though specific meaning remains unclear.

Interactions

391 AC - Summoned by Aroro Niski

Aroro Niski summoned Merlin among sixteen Eidolons during her final stand against the tsunami, though circumstances of this summoning differed from Merlin’s typical refusal to be called.

393 AC, June-September - Authorized for Crow’s Eye Mission

The Yzmir arcane college at Nilam Spires debated at length before authorizing Merlin’s use “just this once” to aid Teija in The Crow’s Eye. Merlin and Cuddly Corgi then disappeared through a portal leading to the depths of the Eye.

393 AC, June-September - Involuntary Manifestation to Akesha

Merlin manifested before Akesha Adhikari in the underground labyrinth of the City of Scholars by siphoning her memories without permission, blocking her path with raised scepter pulsing with menacing glow. When Akesha attempted to resist with mental concentration like a “metal vice,” Merlin simply raised eyebrows with a twitching smile.

Relationships

• Teija: Muna Exalt whom Merlin was authorized to aid in The Crow’s Eye (393 AC)
• Cuddly Corgi: Eidolon who accompanied Merlin through portal to The Crow’s Eye (393 AC)
• Akesha Adhikari: Subject of involuntary manifestation, recipient of prophecy about awakening king (393 AC)
• Aroro Niski: Summoned Merlin among sixteen Eidolons during 305 AC tsunami defense
• Taru: Present during Merlin’s manifestation to Akesha, waggled tentacles in reaction (393 AC)