The Curse on Isis

This thread follows Theodosia’s accidental transfer of the Bastet curse to Isis and her efforts to restore her companion.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Ritual Misstep

The Ritual Misstep A learned remedy Theodosia prepares a wax replica and a potion to draw the Bastet statuette’s curse away. Her research gives her a method but not a clear account of what could go wrong. A fatal distraction When Isis reacts during the chant, the curse flows into the cat instead of the wax figure. The peaceful statuette is neutralized, but Theodosia has created a frightening new danger.

A Demonic Companion

A Demonic Companion Familiarity turned frightening Isis becomes feral, attacking Theodosia and disappearing into the museum’s shadows. Theodosia fears both for her cat and for the possibility that the curse cannot be reversed. Guilt and urgency Theodosia’s mistake makes the magic personal: she must protect others from the animal while searching for a cure. Her normal confidence gives way to anxious responsibility.

An Uncharted Remedy

An Uncharted Remedy Research reaches its limit Theodosia searches her books for a method to exorcise a cat but finds none. Rather than surrender, she assembles a new amulet from linen, a kitten tooth, catnip, and protective symbols. A risky application She catches Isis and fastens the amulet around her neck, then pours water as part of the rite. The ceremony is improvised and imperfect, leaving the cat’s recovery uncertain.

Names as a Lure

Names as a Lure A gentler experiment Unable to sleep without Isis, Theodosia traces the cat’s name and calls to her using ancient Egyptian words. The attempt draws on creative utterance rather than a fixed recipe. A fragile response Isis approaches the sardines and calms when Theodosia repeats her name. The scene offers a small sign that recognition and affection can reach through the curse, even though the improvement does not yet last.

The Mud Bath Cure

The Mud Bath Cure A borrowed technique After seeing cursed flesh treated with Nile mud at Level Six, Theodosia adapts the method for Isis using rain-soaked earth. The experiment is messy and risks making the cat more distressed. The return of Isis By the next morning, Isis is affectionate again and purring at Theodosia’s feet. The cure restores their companionship, though Isis’s recovery does not erase the danger of mishandled magic.

The afternoon before Henrietta’s arrival

The evening after the failed ritual

The next morning

The night after the first attempted cure

The following day at the museum