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Corruption Strikes again!
You say, "This is the office of the Patriarch of Embers, please... avoid the foul sludge on the
floor, we had a run in with the Lady of Corruption Herself a few months back and we haven't been able to clean up this mess just yet."
Headmaster's office. (Enorian.)
The most dominant feature of this room is the mural painted on the unique, domed ceiling. The mural mimics a beautiful blue sky filled with fluffy white clouds. On the far wall, a saying has been carved, "Those who instruct among us bestow an endless horizon before a soul." A wooden desk is set over a gold-colored rug, neatly organized with charts of guild growth, future student curriculums, and grading sheets. A tropical plant fans outward in the left corner of the room, thriving in a gold planter. Three arched windows, wreathed in gold curtains, shed light on the room during the day. Resting on the ground is a cube-shaped silver sigil. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. A steadfast Templar patrols here, visor drawn and belt laden with weapons.The shining figure of a guardian angel floats in the air here. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and a sun-emblazoned buckler in his right. A foul-smelling black bile that's as viscous as sludge seems to coat a rather expansive section of the floor here.
You see a single exit leading west.
Zeziel follows you to the west.
A short hallway. (Enorian.)
Resting on the ground is a cube-shaped silver sigil. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular
monolith is on the ground. There are 3 shrouded Kingbound soldiers here.
You see exits leading east, southeast, and southwest.
Zeziel follows you to the southeast.
Outer Sanctum. (Enorian.)
The bright sun shines down, blanketing you with its life-giving warmth. A huge book set within a golden frame and wreathed in fire floats here. There are 2 cube sigils here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Eyes watching his surroundings closely, an imposing Luminary stands guard here. Standing loosely in stance, a Daru firebrand is constantly scanning her surroundings. Dark burnoose toying on the sea breeze, a shrouded Kingbound soldier patrols here.
You see exits leading west (open pine door) and northwest.
Zeziel follows you to the west.
Inner Sanctum. (Enorian.)
The bright sun shines down, blanketing you with its life-giving warmth. Soft light emanates from an exquisite chest of silvery crystal. An intense white flame, inexplicably formed into a sphere, hovers above the altar. There are 2 cube sigils here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. A steadfast Templar patrols here, visor drawn and belt laden with weapons.Eyes watching his surroundings closely, an imposing Luminary stands guard here.
You see a single exit leading east (open pine door).
You say, "And at the very heart of the Luminary is the Inner Sanctum, which holds the Great Spark, gifted to us by The Lady of Fire, Auresae."
You say, "We call upon it to strengthen our inner sparks, as well as fuel some of our most powerful abilities."
Inner Sanctum. (Enorian.)
The bright sun shines down, blanketing you with its life-giving warmth. Enclosed on three sides by glistening marble walls, the Inner Sanctum is open to the east to look out over the Outer Sanctum and view the sun during its radiant path toward high-noon. The floor is tiled with alternating squares of burgundy and gold which reflect on the marble walls creating soft patterns on the marble's glossy surface. Soft light emanates from an exquisite chest of silvery crystal. An intense white flame, inexplicably formed into a sphere, hovers above the altar. There are 2 cube sigils here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. A steadfast Templar patrols here, visor drawn and belt laden with weapons. Eyes watching his surroundings closely, an imposing Luminary stands guard here. The shining figure of a guardian angel floats in the air here. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and a sun-emblazoned buckler in his right.
You see a single exit leading east (open pine door).
Ember Zeziel says, "What happened with the Lady of Corruption, if I might ask?"
Zeziel's eyes repeatedly shut as he tries to stay awake.
Zeziel gives in to exhaustion, drifting off to sleep.
Your eyes sparkle with amusement as you gaze upon Zeziel.
Sighing deeply, Zeziel rolls over in his sleep.
You pat Zeziel in a friendly manner.
Zeziel whimpers in his sleep.
Zeziel spreads his wings as he sleeps.
Zeziel opens his eyes and stretches languidly, a smile on his face.
Zeziel stands up and stretches his arms out wide.
Zeziel coughs softly.
You laughingly say, "I must be awfully boring to put you to sleep."
Ember Zeziel says, "No, no! I am sorry! I should have rested before starting the tour."
Zeziel glances down, shuffling his feet uneasily.
Your mouth turns up as your face breaks into a smile.
You say, "Think nothing of it."
Zeziel's mouth turns up as his face breaks into a smile.
You say, "The Lady of Corruption tries to take things that do not belong to Her. She was after the heart of one of our younger Luminaries, She failed. The Lady of Corruption, Chakrasul gains strength as long as you recognize that She has Power. You can deny that power by denying to Her that she has power over you."
The bright sun shines down upon you.
The beats of a thousand duskycloak wings can be heard in a soft, sussurant whisper as a mortal heart still dripping blood is carelessly tossed aside here by an unseen source.
Inner Sanctum. (Enorian.)
The bright sun shines down, blanketing you with its life-giving warmth. Enclosed on three sides by glistening marble walls, the Inner Sanctum is open to the east to look out over the Outer Sanctum and view the sun during its radiant path toward high-noon. The floor is tiled with alternating squares of burgundy and gold which reflect on the marble walls creating soft patterns on the marble's glossy surface. Soft light emanates from an exquisite chest of silvery crystal. An intense white flame, inexplicably formed into a sphere, hovers above the altar. There are 2 cube sigils here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. A steadfast Templar patrols here, visor drawn and belt laden with weapons. Eyes watching his surroundings closely, an imposing Luminary stands guard here. The shining figure of a guardian angel floats in the air here. A mortal heart, still dripping blood is here. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and a sun-emblazoned buckler in his right.
You see a single exit leading east (open pine door).
You say, "Even now She toys with us."
You pick up a mortal heart still dripping blood.
"I need not chase after a thing, dear little mortal, I take what I please," comes a low, feminine
voice that seems to reverberate around you.
You stand with arms outstretched, your mouth moving rapidly in fervent prayer.
Zeziel blinks.
White strands of light weave themselves together before your eyes, and within seconds you hold a spiritual mace within your grasp.
You begin to wield a spiritual mace in your right hand.
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Zeziel calls out for the aid of his guardian angel.
A flower of white light blooms in the air beside Zeziel, and a shimmering figure emerges from within.
Zeziel peers about himself suspiciously.
A white candy heart comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
Zeziel creases his brow in a frown.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
You say, "Enough games, filth."
Inner Sanctum. (Enorian.)
The bright sun shines down, blanketing you with its life-giving warmth. Enclosed on three sides by glistening marble walls, the Inner Sanctum is open to the east to look out over the Outer Sanctum and view the sun during its radiant path toward high-noon. The floor is tiled with alternating squares of burgundy and gold which reflect on the marble walls creating soft patterns on the marble's glossy surface. Soft light emanates from an exquisite chest of silvery crystal. An intense white flame, inexplicably formed into a sphere, hovers above the altar. There are 2 cube sigils here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. A steadfast Templar patrols here, visor drawn and belt laden with weapons. Eyes watching his surroundings closely, an imposing Luminary stands guard here. There are 2 guardian angels here. A tiny candy heart the size of a coin has been dropped here on the ground. There are 9 mortal heart still dripping bloods here. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and a sun-emblazoned buckler in his right.
You see a single exit leading east (open pine door).
Zeziel glances at the hearts, frowning openly.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A white candy heart comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
Inner Sanctum. (Enorian.)
The bright sun shines down, blanketing you with its life-giving warmth. Enclosed on three sides by glistening marble walls, the Inner Sanctum is open to the east to look out over the Outer Sanctum and view the sun during its radiant path toward high-noon. The floor is tiled with alternating squares of burgundy and gold which reflect on the marble walls creating soft patterns on the marble's glossy surface. Soft light emanates from an exquisite chest of silvery crystal. An intense white flame, inexplicably formed into a sphere, hovers above the altar. There are 2 cube sigils here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. A steadfast Templar patrols here, visor drawn and belt laden with weapons. Eyes watching his surroundings closely, an imposing Luminary stands guard here. There are 2 guardian angels here. A tiny candy heart the size of a coin has been dropped here on the ground. There are 9 mortal heart still dripping bloods here. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and a sun-emblazoned buckler in his right.
You see a single exit leading east (open pine door).
Ember Zeziel says, "Why even bother us?"
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes speeding in from the east and strikes you!
Warmth radiates from the Temple District of Enorian as the Beacon of Light casts the city in multi-hued brilliance.
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Zeziel creases his brow in a frown.
The sun's rays fall upon he pile of hearts mercilessly, its warmth already beginning to elicit quite the foul stench.
You say to Zeziel, "Be brave, to not let Her get into your mind."
Zeziel nods his head at you.
Dark, red blood drips off this still-warm heart. Slippery and wet, you must stifle an urge to gag. A long piece of artery hangs off the heart, laying to one side.
Zeziel follows you to the east.
Outer Sanctum. (Enorian.)
The stars twinkle in the clear night sky. A huge book set within a golden frame and wreathed in fire floats here. There are 2 cube sigils here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Eyes watching his surroundings closely, an imposing Luminary stands guard here. Standing loosely in stance, a Daru firebrand is constantly scanning her surroundings. Dark burnoose toying on the sea breeze, a shrouded Kingbound soldier patrols here.
You see exits leading west (open pine door) and northwest.
Zeziel follows you to the northwest.
A short hallway. (Enorian.)
Resting on the ground is a cube-shaped silver sigil. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular
monolith is on the ground. There are 3 shrouded Kingbound soldiers here.
You see exits leading east, southeast, and southwest.
Zeziel follows you to the southwest.
A ceremonial hall in the administrative wing. (Enorian.)
There are 2 cube sigils here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. There are 2 steadfast Templars here.
You see exits leading northeast, southeast, and down.
Zeziel follows you to the down.
Before the Grand Staircase. (Enorian.)
There are 2 cube sigils here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Dark burnoose toying on the sea breeze, a shrouded Kingbound soldier patrols here.
You see exits leading east and up.
Zeziel follows you to the east.
The central fountain. (road) (Enorian.)
The stars twinkle in the clear night sky. At the heart of the Luminary, a beautiful, gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully. Sending dramatic sprays of water into the air, the atmosphere is quite misty with many rainbows reflected in the vapor. Benches have been set cordially in groups of two and four on the lawn surrounding the fount. The view is beautiful in all directions, providing visitors a unique vision of the green quadrangle and the towering, white marble walls beyond. Pathways lead in all directions to other portions of the quad or into the interior rooms of the Luminary. A gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Resting on the ground is a cube-shaped silver sigil. Standing loosely in stance, a Daru firebrand is constantly scanning her surroundings. Dark burnoose toying on the sea breeze, a shrouded Kingbound soldier patrols here. There are 2 guardian angels here. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and a sun-emblazoned buckler in his right.
You see exits leading north, east, south, and west.
Prelate Maelok Kanatov says, "Ember, we cannot fight Her. She is far too strong. We will succumb to Her."
Zeziel creases his brow in a frown.
Ember Zeziel says, "Do we leave then?"
Prelate Maelok Kanatov says, "We must give in to Her will. Bow."
You say, "Again with the games."
You say, "Show Yourself."
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
Zeziel blinks.
Zeziel shakes his head.
Ember Zeziel says, "I understand what You are doing. I will not give in so easily."
Prelate Maelok Kanatov says, "I offer you no tricks, Ember. Kneel. Kneel now to Her, lest She kills us."
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
Zeziel peers at you suspiciously.
The stars wink into existence, familiar constellations illuminating the night with tales of myth and legend.
Ember Zeziel says, "I will not."
You have emoted: Maelok smirks and says, "You have no power here, not even over someone so young. Begone from here, You will not succeed in Corrupting us."
Ember Zeziel says, "I will kneel to Her. I will kneel to Her."
Ember Zeziel says, "I will kneel to Her. I will kneel to Her."
Ember Zeziel says, "I will kneel to Her. I will kneel to Her."
Zeziel blinks.
Ember Zeziel says, "No, I will not!"
Ember Zeziel says, "At first, You almost convinced me that the Prelate here was truly telling me to bow.. but I see now. Tricks. That's all You have and will not bow!"
A Daru firebrand's eyes widen as its gaze falls upon a mortal heart still dripping blood.
The central fountain. (road) (Enorian.)
The stars twinkle in the clear night sky. At the heart of the Luminary, a beautiful, gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully. Sending dramatic sprays of water into the air, the atmosphere is quite misty with many rainbows reflected in the vapor. Benches have been set cordially in groups of two and four on the lawn surrounding the fount. The view is beautiful in all directions, providing visitors a unique vision of the green quadrangle and the towering, white marble walls beyond. Pathways lead in all directions to other portions of the quad or into the interior rooms of the Luminary. A gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Resting on the ground is a cube-shaped silver sigil. Standing loosely in stance, a Daru firebrand is constantly scanning her surroundings. Dark burnoose toying on the sea breeze, a shrouded Kingbound soldier patrols here. There are 2 guardian angels here. A mortal heart, still dripping blood is here. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and a sun-emblazoned buckler in his right.
You see exits leading north, east, south, and west.
Hesitantly, a Daru firebrand says, "Why is there a heart upon the ground?"
A Daru firebrand says to you, "Are you a necromancer? Carrying hearts on your person?"
A Daru firebrand snarls viciously at you.
Ember Zeziel says, "Do not fall for Her tricks! It is the Lady of Corruption toying with you!"
Zeziel peers at a Daru firebrand suspiciously.
Ember Zeziel says, "If that is even you.."
You have emoted: Maelok gazes down to the heart upon the ground, a look of disgust upon his face. He then turns to the Daru and says, " Stay strong, the Lady of Corruption is toying with you and playing games. Do not let Her gain power over you."
A Daru firebrand takes a slow step towards Zeziel, a hand outstretched as if to ward him from harm. "Stay away from this necromancer, child," he rumbles lowly. "She cannot influence us here in the city - you lie, like Her. What other reason do you have to carry a heart with you?"
Zeziel creases his brow in a frown.
Zeziel moves to gain the Daru's attention. "Please, he is not a necromancer. She is simply trying to warp your mind. You have to believe me!"
Memories flash through your mind - you see yourself quite clearly standing over a fallen Luminary, a sneer upon your lips as you reach down to plunge your hand into the corpse's chest before rising with a mortal heart held triumphantly above your head.
Zeziel begins blinking rapidly and shaking his head. "No.. no.. that's not true!"
The memory feels so... real. The blood that slicks your fingers seems to cater towards the truth of this story.
You have emoted: Maelok glares at the Daru and says, "I am a Servant of Light, Prelate of the
Luminaries, I would never fall to Darkness. She can and has gotten into the City, She attempted just a past few months ago to Corrupt one of our..... young ones." Maelok blinks and stops suddenly, he looks down towards his hands.
Hands, smeared from top to bottom in slimy, viscous blood. So thick it is that it drops droplet-by-droplet to stain the ground below you.
A Daru firebrand's eyes widen in alarm before he takes a step back away from you. He eases himself into the scorpion stance, his torso wavering defensively as if to ward off an attack. "Come no further," he spits forth.
Zeziel takes two steps back and stares at the ground, his face stricken with horror. "No! No! These are lies! Prelate, please! She is.. She is in my head!"
You have emoted: Maelok clearly shocked, mumbles out, "So.. much blood.. why is there so much blood.." Maelok begins to shiver, as he looks up towards the Daru.
Are they lies though? The images return to your mind again, and there you are walking so casually, so indifferently as you toss the heart up and down, up and down like it's a toy that you catch within your grasp.
"You killed somebody," a Daru firebrand pushes forth with only the slightest bit of a waver in his voice. "You murdered them, and took their heart. I see it. I feel it."
Zeziel continues backing up until he bumps into fountain which he leans upon, his head held in his hands. He whispers, "This.. this is too much.. I.. I can't.."
Nearly stuttering, a Daru firebrand says, "I- I see it in your memories. Y-you ripped it out, and
tossed it like a ball."
(Enorian): A Daru firebrand says, "I- Maelok may be a necromancer. I see his thoughts, his memory of ripping the heart from a Luminary."
You have emoted: Maelok shakes his head vigorously back and forth and whispers, "No, it.. it can't be. I wouldn't.. such brutality I would never... I am a Servant of the Light.. not some murderer." He takes several steps back away from the Daru.
(Enorian): Sarkis says, "Wait, what?"
(Enorian): A Daru firebrand says, "He has blood on his hands! There is blood!"
Ilarin tells you, "What is going on?"
The crackle and pop of flames accompanies your voice as you tell Ilarin, "The visions....please.. the visions..."
Ilarin tells you, "Where are you?"
Your hands twitch as the memory grows so vivid, you can nearly feel the warmth of the organ curled between your fingers. It's warm, oh so warm as it's suffused with the power of the recently-deceased.
Daweson arrives from the east.
(Enorian): Meltas says, "That's a deep accusation you say there."
(Enorian): Ilarin says, "Help me find him!!"
Zeziel continues to stare at the ground, his frown deep. "So.. so much blood.."
Ilarin enters from the east, riding a Jaziran stallion.
Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says, "What in the world..."
You have emoted: Maelok grasps his head and shakes it back and forth, "Why... please why..."
Ilarin grabs you and shakes you lightly, "Maelok, Maelok.. wake up!"
Meltas arrives from the east.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "Help me someone."
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "Maelok!"
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis asks Prelate Ilarin Brius, "What's wrong?"
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "He is having visions."
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "I think he is being attacked somehow."
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "Oooh."
Zeziel sits on the edge of the fountain shaking his head slowly. "I just.. I just can't take it.."
You have emoted: Maelok whispers, "So much blood.. why is there so much blood... my hands... did I do this?" Maelok continues to shuffle further away from the Daru.
Sarkis arrives from the east.
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis asks you, "Boy, do you remember where you are?"
Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says to Ember Zeziel, "Are you having them too?"
Sarkis tilts his head and listens intently to you.
You can see the blood that curls around your fingertips and drips to the ground before him where the heart lies. It's most certainly a fresh kill.
A frown wrinkles Meltas's brow as he articulates a "Hrm...."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "Well, that's... not good."
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "Interesting."
Ilarin pours blessings over you, and divine choirs begin to sing joyously at the edge of your
hearing.
Zeziel glances up slowly, his eyes glazed over. "Blood.. Lady.. Maelok.." He drops his head once
again. "So much blood.."
The divine choir lingers on in your mind, and your spirit soars.
Ilarin pours blessings over Zeziel, whose face lights up in joy.
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis asks Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar, "I assume you saw that?"
Sarkis nods his head emphatically.
"I saw it, I was using my telepathy as I watched and he was acting strangely," a Daru firebrand
hastily explains, his body still contorted into the scorpion stance as he levels a wary eye upon you. "He ripped it from the chest of a fallen Luminary, then tossed it in the air like a ball."
Ilarin whispers quiet words of prayer, and you are surrounded by a feeling of well-being.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "Is it possible he's being possessed or forced to?"
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "That sounds like a portraid vision."
Sarkis peers at you suspiciously.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "Sarkis, help me figure out what we need to do. This is my family."
You have emoted: Maelok casts a piercing glance towards the Daru, horror pasted across his face. "I.. never.. why..." He continues to pace backwards, before bumping against the fountain."
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "The thoughts are mixed within ones head and the one looking into that persons thoughts seen what he seen."
Ilarin tells you, "Please, please listen to me. Please come back to us."
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to you, "Focus."
Daweson wraps an arm comfortingly around Zeziel, surveying the rest of the scene even as he murmurs softly "Easy now...easy. Everything's alright." He glances over at you and then narrows his eyes to slits.
Ilarin shakes you again.
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis asks you, "What do you remember?"
Very quietly, Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says, "This has the stink of Corruption about it."
Zeziel lifts his head as life returns to his eyes momentarily. "Lady of.. Lady of Corruption.." A
twitch crosses his lips before his eyes glaze over again.
Comprehension flashes across Sarkis's face.
Sarkis nods his head at Daweson.
A Daru firebrand's eyebrows draw inwards and he shakes his head. "No, nothing is alright," he
remarks with an irritated bite, a finger thrust in your direction. "I -saw- it. I am no amateur telepath, I saw it happen like I was watching it myself."
You have emoted: Maelok closes his eyes and shakes his head vigorously back and forth. "Why would I.... its so warm... so soft. Was it me..?"
Meltas walks towards you. "Take some breaths and tell me what you remember." He says, hands resting on his staff.
Ilarin whispers soothing words to you, "We're here now."
The corpse's hollowed eyes seem to linger within the back of your mind as they gaze upwards at you from the ground. You hold its heart in your hands, and the corpse's visage seems to portray one single thought: why?
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to a Daru firebrand, "Your accusations are not helping the situation. Take a breath soldier."
Daweson growls softly in the back of his throat and glances at the Daru. "No one is doubting you. We are just doubting the source. The Lady plays her games. Mother teaches us to be wary of exactly this.
"
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to a Daru firebrand, "That may be so, but that doesn't explain all the circumstances of the situation. We must suss out the source of what caused this, for if the Lady of Corruption is involved, it may be any number of causes."
Flies begin to coalesce together, swarming over the dripping heart that's just barely out of reach of you by now.
Meltas's eyes twinkle enchantingly.
Zeziel blinks.
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Ilarin blinks.
You have emoted: Maelok continues to shake. "Games...blood.. why... so much blood, so warm. I didn't..."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to you, "You didn't what, Maelok?"
Sarkis tilts his head and listens intently.
Ilarin murmurs to you, "It's okay. You're safe. You're in the city. Please talk to me."
Zeziel begins twitching periodically and rocking back and forth. "Not.. strong.. Not.. strong enough.."
Meltas rubs his temples in frustration.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to Ember Zeziel, "What wasn't?"
Ilarin grabs Zeziel and in a firm voice says "You are strong enough! You are a Luminary. Stay with us!"
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Ilarin makes an impassioned plea for truth.
Meltas chants a brief spell and a flash of revealing light floods the room.
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Sarkis murmurs something softly to Ilarin.
Daweson stands away as Ilarin grabs Zeziel and clutches his icon tightly. In a deep, growling, voice he intones. "Ah Sister Sickness. Come to play Your games again. Why not try Yourself with one who is prepared? Let them be. We've seen through Your subterfuge already. Rather clumsy for You, I must say.
Daweson starts to wield the Beast Queen's icon of bone and bronze in his left hand.
You have emoted: Maelok slowly falls to the ground, hands clutching his head, "She... was here... why..." He shivers once more "Why.. did I hurt... why would I kill.. a Luminary." Maelok's eyes open and he stares at his hands.
Ilarin frowns in concentration, and a booming voice rings in your head: Follow ilarin
You cannot help but obey.
You begin to follow Ilarin.
Meltas nods his head emphatically.
Ilarin frowns in concentration and you see a glazed look momentarily cross Zeziel's face.
Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says to Prelate Ilarin Brius, "Can you make them sleep?"
Sarkis shakes his head.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "We need them awake, Daweson."
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "Where should we take them."
Before your very eyes the heart begins to twitch and convulse, elongating and spasming as it slowly but surely takes on a different shape in its entirety. In just a few moments the mangled corpse of a Luminary stands before you, eyes hollow and dead as it stares at you.
Sarkis quietly clicks his tongue against the roof of his mouth.
Meltas kneels down beside you. "It is alright, speak to us here. what is it you see?"
Zeziel looks up at Ilarin, tears streaming down his face. "Why? Why-" A scream erupts from his
throat. "A corpse! It is a corpse!"
Ilarin strokes your forhead and looks over at Zeziel frowning.
Sarkis turns his eyes skyward, hoping for divine inspiration.
The mangled corpse of a Luminary levels an accusatory finger towards you, his mace shifting to
indicate the massive hole in his chest. "He did this to me," it declares.
Meltas looks over to the undead corpse. His eye narrowing to thin slits. "I'm mildly impressed by the creation, I have to admit. But still.."
Meltas creases his brow in a frown.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to the mangled corpse of a Luminary, "He may have, but the reasons have yet to be discovered. Mere accusation does not reconstruct the truth of the issue."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "And you're also dead. So why are you speaking?"
You have emoted: Maelok gazes down towards the corpse of a Luminary, the look of pure horror across his face."I.... I... I'm.. sorry.... why... why would I..?"
Ilarin rolls her eyes.
Sarkis blinks.
You have emoted: Maelok whispers, "please.. why.. help me..."
The mangled corpse of a Luminary hardly seems to notice the others present, its attention settled firmly upon you. It takes a shambling step forward that causes the wound in its chest to shudder and expel a spurt of blood upon the ground.
The quiet sounds of nocturnal birds ring out in the night.
Ilarin tells you, "I'm here. I'm here. It is okay."
Zeziel creases his brow in a frown.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says to the mangled corpse of a Luminary, " You are an abomination. Even if he did this to you, you should not be here this way. You are artiface. Be gone!"
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Daweson steps into the path of the corpse, planting himself firmly between it and you, his teeth
bared in a feral snarl. "I think, not today, apparition."
Meltas stands up and walks over to the fountain. He dips a cloth into the waters and walks back
towards you. "Cool your head for a moment." He says with a smile.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to you, "I and the others are here to help. But we need you to focus on what we're saying and not the animated corpse of that poor luminary. I know it's hard, but you can overcome the shock and answer a few questions."
Ilarin lays her hands gently on your body.
A feeling of divine warmth and joy spreads through you.
"What corpse are you lot speaking of?" a Daru firebrand gruffly regards as he eases out of the
scorpion stance, his gaze wary. "There's no damned corpse or abomination anywhere."
Zeziel blinks.
Ilarin peers at a Daru firebrand suspiciously.
Comprehension flashes across Sarkis's face.
A frown wrinkles Meltas's brow as he articulates a "Hrm...."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "Illusion."
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "A damn good one too."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "Or a misdirection."
Sarkis peers about himself suspiciously.
Daweson throws his head back and laughs, though there is no humor in the sound. "Oh well played."
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to a Daru firebrand, "Peer through Daweson's mind, tell me if you can see what he saw of the corpse."
Holding out a jewel-encrusted buckler, Ilarin deftly paints the symbol of Damariel onto its surface. As she finishes, the symbol burns brightly before vanishing in a ripple of power.
Ilarin tells you, "Speak to me dear. I am here. You are okay."
Sarkis looks a little upset as his left eye begins to twitch spasmodically.
Meltas raises an eyebrow at Sarkis.
Meltas pats Sarkis in a friendly manner.
Ilarin squeezes your hand.
Cronides arrives from the east.
You have emoted: Maelok whispers, "Why.. Why is She here...." Maelok gazes towards his hands again, "Why?"
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis asks you, "Who do you see?"
Zeziel settles down on the ground and leans against the fountain in silence.
Ilarin tells you, "Shhh... It is okay."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to you, "To do what She does, and revel in the
suffering and anguish of mortals."
A small animal scurries off the path ahead of you before you have a chance to identify it.
Ilarin looks at Cronides and frowns then looks back at you with concern. "It is okay. We are here."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to you, "Beyond that, we don't know until you can
answer a few questions for us."
Daweson settles down next to Zeziel and ptiches his voice low and soothing. "Tell me...what did you see...what did you feel?"
Ilarin tells you, "Be strong brother. Only you can fight this. Only you can help us get to
the bottom of this."
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Ilarin murmurs to you, "I know you are strong. Stay with us. Clear your mind."
Cronides surveys the gathered crowd, saying nothing.
You have emoted: Maelok shakes his head and mumbles, "She..deny Her... She has... She has... no power..."
Ilarin gives Cronides a pleading look and then looks back at you.
Meltas nods his head at you.
Ilarin tells you, "Thats it! Deny her. You are a Luminary! You are strong!"
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis smiles and says to you, "Very good, deny her presence, focus on the now, you are doing good."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer, "We have an apparent murder, but are unsure who the murderer was. We think Chakrasul is involved, but we're having trouble getting any facts."
Meltas murmurs something softly to Sarkis.
Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect wryly says, "We'll always have trouble getting any facts when She is involved."
Ilarin tells you, "You are a Prelate of the Light. Fight her damn it!"
Meltas shrugs helplessly.
You have emoted: Maelok looks up from his hands to the large crowd that has gathered, "So many... so many people..must stay strong.."
Zeziel blinks slowly, his hands in his lap. "Chakrasul.. corruption.. blood.."
Sarkis murmurs something softly to Meltas.
Cronides raises his arms aloft, shaking with the exertion of some great feat of will.
The air about him crackles and sparks.
You hear the faint sound of running water.
Your spirits lift, but fade as suddenly.
Cronides lets out a long, slow exhalation, frowning in concentration. The charged tension of a major spellcasting fills the air around you, as you notice Cronides's hands begin to glow with an
unearthly light. As he chants and traces a glowing magical glyph in the air, you notice a rapidly
growing light take shape in his left hand, and within moments, Cronides finally holds the completed form of an intricate Aetherstaff aloft.
Meltas murmurs something softly to Sarkis.
Ilarin nods at you, "Yes dear. Be strong. You are a Luminary. You can deny her! You can do this."
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Meltas murmurs something softly to Sarkis.
You have emoted: Maelok shakes his head back and forth in an attempt to regain focus.
Daweson takes Zeziel's hands in his own and squeezes gently. "Alright...good. Tell me more...did you feel Her? How did She come to you?
The heart lurches from its position upon the ground to place itself within your arms, cradling
itself within the crook of your elbow to gather into a position much like an infant would within a
parent's arms.
Sarkis quietly clicks his tongue against the roof of his mouth.
Ilarin rolls her eyes.
A frown wrinkles Meltas's brow as he articulates a "Hrm...."
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "Artifice!"
You have emoted: Maelok whispers, "So warm..."
Ilarin tells you, "Stay with me."
Sarkis quietly clicks his tongue against the roof of his mouth.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "Someone take this thing out of here, please."
Ilarin tells you, "Drop the heart dear. Drop it and stay with me!"
Zeziel starts at the contact before stopping and staring. "She.. She is still here.. She.. She lies.
It was.. it was only a question.." He stares at Daweson and repeats, "I was only curious.."
The deepening dusk yields to impenetrable darkness as night claims the land.
Meltas reaches down and pokes at the heart with the butt of his staff. "But it looks comfortable..." He says turning back to Ilarin.
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
Ilarin tells you, "Deny her. You are strong Maelok. I know you are. I am begging you,
please."
Meltas nods his head at Daweson.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "What question?"
Sarkis peers about himself suspiciously.
Daweson squeezes again gently and nods, maintaining that soft, soothing tone. "Good. Alright...tell me the question. What did you ask?"
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar, "Let
Daweson deal with Zeziel. They are getting somewhere. Lets help Maelok with what we can, or try to that is."
You have emoted: Maelok whispers "I am... I am strong..."
Meltas nods his head at you.
Ilarin places her arms in a comforting embrace around you and whispers soothing words to him.
Ilarin tells you, "Yes, you are. You are my brother and you are strong. Deny Her!"
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis asks you, "Aye, that you are. Maelok what were you and
Zeziel doing before this happened?"
Zeziel quickly shifts into a standing position, his eyes wild. "Information! They.. they don't care
about us! All they want is information!"
Sarkis raises an eyebrow questioningly.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "We care. But we can't help without knowing what
happened."
You have emoted: Maelok gazes down towards his arms, toward the heart cradled there. His eyes and mouth open wide.
Daweson stands just as suddenly but his tone doesn't change. "Of course not, Zeziel. We need
information to help you. You know we can't help if we don't know what happened. Calm down..."
Ilarin tells you, "Are you with me dear?"
You have emoted: Maelok whispers, "Deny Her.. I am a Luminary... I am a Prelate.... be strong...
focus...."
And yet you can't quite seem to be able to drop the heart you cradle so endearingly.
Ilarin nods at you "Yes. You are. You are. Focus Maelok, please."
You have emoted: Maelok whispers, "So many.. people.. trying.. to help... but its.. so warm..."
Message #2 Sent By: Rashar
"Grab your balls, man. Stand up. She has no power over you, save what you give Her."
Zeziel frowns at Daweson. "Interrogating.. Maelok.." He pauses a moment, stumbling a moment as though dizzy. "I asked.. sludge.."
"Help you?" comes a voice within the back of your mind, warm and endearing. "My dear they're
treating this like an interrogation. Questioning and probing, lurching at you with all these
questions and no regard for your feelings or state of being."
Zeziel blinks.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to you, "Let go of the heart, Maelok and listen to us. Whomever did this is using the heart to influence and direct your thinking. You can let it go any time."
Daweson plants himself and catches Zeziel very gently, holding him up. "Alright. Easy now. You asked...sludge...Help me to understand Zeziel."
Ilarin chants arcane words and touches her weapon. Flames suddenly spring up along its length.
Cronides vigorously spins a pyramid carved of crystal, and it begins to hover in the air.
Cronides makes a forceful gesture and some crystals embed themselves into the ground.
A pleasing warmth cradles you.
Meltas releases his staff and it stays perfectly still in a straight up position. He kneels down
away from you. He begins to weave his hands slowly, forming a mirage of colours. They swerves
between his hands, elements of all colours. Quietly he sits there before nodding towards Daweson. The gentle colours switching between each hand, the rest of his body unmoving.
Sarkis squats on his haunches in front of you.
Zeziel pauses as if enraptured. "Such a nice harmony.." Turning to Daweson he says, "Sludge in.. office. I.. wanted to know.. Lady of Corruption.. young Luminary.. heart.."
Ilarin tells you, "You are strong. Remember that."
Cronides ponders the situation.
Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer says, "That seems to be helping."
You have emoted: Maelok clutches his head once more, and begins shaking back and forth. He whispers, "So strong.. So warm...." He gazes up towards the others. "I didn't.....why... why are you interrogating me.. I didn't... I didn't kill anyone." His eyes fall towards the heart cradled in his arms once more.
Zeziel snaps his head to the left. "Interrogating.. interrogating.. interrogating.."
Cronides ponders the situation.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to you, "No one is accusing you of anything. We just want to know what happened so we can help you both. Please, let go of the heart, Maelok."
Daweson leaves one hand on Zeziel and raises the other in a placating gesture towards you, pitching his voice such that it matches the harmony of the vibration. "Easy, both of you. No one is interrogating here...we just want to know how to help. We know you didn't hurt anyone Maelok. We just want to know how to help you stay strong."
Soothingly, Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says to Ember Zeziel, "Tell me about the office."
You say, "Tour... Inner Sanctum.. so many.. so many hearts.. Games... always games..."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to you, "Where you taking Zeziel on a tour of the
guildhall? What games?"
You have emoted: Maelok whispers, "Stay strong, focus, fight Her.. let go.. let go" Maelok gazes
towards the heart in his arms, and begins to release his grip upon it.
Ilarin takes a knee before you.
Meltas remains quiet, his attention shifting between you and Zeziel. The elements shifting around his hands in a delicate pattern, colors changing with each new movement. As you speaks his attention goes back to him.
Zeziel lowers his head and nods as if in agreement. "Maelok.. there was a tour.. office of Patriarch.. sludge from Corruption.."
Sarkis raises an eyebrow questioningly.
Ilarin slaps Maelok.
Zeziel lifts his head and turns his blank gaze on each gathered. "She is everywhere. You cannot hide from Her."
Sarkis stares at Ilarin and blinks.
Meltas blinks.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "Maelok!"
Ilarin glares angrily at Meltas.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to Ember Zeziel, "She may be, but that doesn't mean you can't resist her."
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
Daweson gently tilts Zeziel's head down to face him and speaks again, although this time his voice is cold and hard. "No one is hiding from Her. Indeed, I feel very much like She is hiding from us, with this little drama She's staged." He purses his lips in a grim smirk. "Points for the theatrics, I suppose."
Ilarin grabs Maelok and shakes him. "Look at me Maelok! Look at me! You can do this. You are a
Luminary. You are a Prelate! You are strong. Do this for me!"
Ilarin shakes you again.
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
You have emoted: Maelok gazes into Ilarin's eyes and begins to focus, and he releases his grip upon the heart within his arms.
Ilarin shakes Maelok again and says, "Look at me!"
Ilarin glares angrily at Meltas.
Ilarin slaps Maelok again.
Zeziel stares at Daweson. "Please.."
Message #3 Sent By: Rashar
"Follow her. Follow her words, and ascend from the Pit She has you in."
Meltas pauses and blinks. His gaze shifting to look at Ilarin. Giving a gentle shrug he continues
his elemental bending, a grim look on his face.
Though you release the heart, you seem physically incapable of letting it tumble to the ground as it stays upon your person try as you may to drop it. There's no attachment now any longer, it is as if the pulsating organ is merely cursed.
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says to you, "Don't you let her win! You fight Her. Do it! You are strong
enough to. I know it!"
Daweson squeezes Zeziel's hand gently, his voice soothing and calm again. "Please what? What do you need?"
Ilarin blinks.
Zeziel squeezes the hand in return, his voice shaky with emotion. "Get. Her. Out."
You have emoted: Maelok eyes fixate onto Ilarin and he whispers, "I am a Prelate.. She has no power..I am strong.."
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "Maelok, talk to me. Look at me!"
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "Yes, you are strong! Focus. Focus on me!"
"Oh you -are- strong," comes a voice within the back of your mind that's accompanied by a sinister chuckle.
Ilarin shakes you again and says "Focus! Look at me Maelok. Look at me and focus!"
You say, "I am.. I am strong."
Meltas stands up, the elements move towards his staff and hover around it. He grasps his staff and looks at the group. "Excuse me." He says softly.
Meltas leaves to the west.
Zeziel begins to blink rapidly and shaking his head. "What.. what?"
Ilarin blinks a tear away and shakes you again.
You shake your head.
You say, "Her games, they are.. just games."
You say, "She cannot have us.."
Daweson nods once, crisply, at Zeziel. "Alright then. Focus on me. Look at my eyes. She is
Corruption and Deception. She cannot capture that which is truly Free. Your Loyalty is to your home, the Beacon, to your Guild, the Luminaries. Focus on that, and focus on me. Be free and she cannot touch you." Daweson presses the icon he is clutching against Zeziel's chest. "Fight for your Freedom Zeziel. And know that you will win."
Kerryn arrives from the east.
Ilarin nods at you and says "Yes! You are strong."
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
Message #4 Sent By: Rashar
"Finally. Keep climbing, feller. A Prelate does not succumb so easily."
You have emoted: Maelok continues to focus his attention on Ilarin's face, he begins to stop
shivering and starts to regain some composure.
Ilarin tells you, "You are strong brother! You are a Luminary. You are a Prelate."
Zeziel stares at Daweson. "She.. cannot capture what is free. I.. I am Free. I.. will win." He
appears to stand straighter but frowns a bit.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to you, "She does not have power over us that we do not permit Her to have. You have a choice, Maelok. You always have a choice."
Ilarin watches you frowning and her eyes wet.
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
Daweson ceases to wield the Beast Queen's icon of bone and bronze in his left hand.
Ember Zeziel says, "Yes.. I.. I am free.."
Daweson presses the the Beast Queen's icon of bone and bronze into Zeziel's hands. "Hold this a moment."
You say, "She has no power, She cannot have me, I will not let Her."
Zeziel glances down at the item before lifting it up before himself.
Zeziel ceases to wield a sun-emblazoned buckler in his right hand.
You shake your head.
Zeziel starts to wield the Beast Queen's icon of bone and bronze in his right hand.
Daweson raises his hands above his head abruptly and nearly bellows "Now out with Your foulness...be cleansed by pure water!"
Daweson raises his arms aloft, shaking with the exertion of some great feat of will.
The air about him crackles and sparks.
You hear the faint sound of running water.
Your spirits lift, but fade as suddenly.
Ilarin nods and says "Yes, that's it Maelok. That's it."
Daweson summons the elemental waters, magically flooding the ground.
The central fountain. (road) (Enorian.)
This area is unnaturally flooded with water. The stars twinkle in the clear night sky. At the heart
of the Luminary, a beautiful, gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully. Sending dramatic sprays of water into the air, the atmosphere is quite misty with many rainbows reflected in the vapor. Benches have been set cordially in groups of two and four on the lawn surrounding the fount. The view is beautiful in all directions, providing visitors a unique vision of the green quadrangle and the towering, white marble walls beyond. Pathways lead in all directions to other portions of the quad or into the interior rooms of the Luminary. A gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Resting on the ground is a cube-shaped silver sigil. Dark burnoose toying on the sea breeze, a shrouded Kingbound soldier patrols here. There are 3 guardian angels here. Standing loosely in stance, a Daru firebrand is constantly scanning her surroundings. Prelate Ilarin Brius is here. She is riding on a Jaziran stallion. She wields a jewel-encrusted buckler in her left hand and a spiritual mace in her right. Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect is here. Auspicious Legacy, Abbess Kerryn Cardinalis is here. Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar is here. Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer is here. He wields a fiery aetherstaff of swirling spatial motes in his left hand. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and the Beast Queen's icon of bone and bronze in his right.
You see exits leading north, east, south, and west.
Ilarin tells you, "Stay with me. Stay with me Maelok."
The moment the water comes into contact with the plush ground underfoot, it begins to visibly pulse, ripples sent forth through its surface as it begins slowly but surely shifting into a turgid red hue not unlike the color of blood.
Ilarin looks up at Cronides with a frown and then back at you.
Zeziel coughs repeatedly and almost drops the icon.
Ember Zeziel says, "My head.."
Kerryn waves in and out of those gathered, silently searching.
Riding her chariot of light, the great life-giver rises from her long sleep and shoots a timorous
ray over the horizon.
Ilarin shakes you a little lighter this time and through half a tear filled smile says, "Stay with me.
You're almost there! You're strong. Stay with me."
Daweson narrows his eyes and growls quietly. "No, I think not today." He turns to Zeziel and nods. "Hold fast, Zeziel. You are Free. Your heart is Loyal. She cannot have it."
You have emoted: Maelok blinks his eyes several times and says, "I will not let Her have me, there are.. too many people I need to protect."
Meltas re-enters the room and turns his focus towards Daweson.
Ember Zeziel says, "No.. She cannot have my heart. My heart is Loyal.."
Zeziel blinks. "The.. water.."
You shake your head.
Ilarin nods at you "Yes, that's it Maelok. Fight Her! You are strong!"
Something bubbles up from within the depths of the water just once.
The central fountain. (road) (Enorian.)
This area is unnaturally flooded with water. The bright sun shines down, blanketing you with its
life-giving warmth. At the heart of the Luminary, a beautiful, gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully.
Sending dramatic sprays of water into the air, the atmosphere is quite misty with many rainbows reflected in the vapor. Benches have been set cordially in groups of two and four on the lawn surrounding the fount. The view is beautiful in all directions, providing visitors a unique vision of the green quadrangle and the towering, white marble walls beyond. Pathways lead in all directions to other portions of the quad or into the interior rooms of the Luminary. A gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Resting on the ground is a cube-shaped silver sigil. Dark burnoose toying on the sea breeze, a shrouded Kingbound soldier patrols here. There are 3 guardian angels here. Standing loosely in stance, a Daru firebrand is constantly scanning her surroundings. A mortal heart, still dripping blood is here. Prelate Ilarin Brius is here. She is riding on a Jaziran stallion. She wields a jewel-encrusted buckler in her left hand and a spiritual mace in her right. Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect is here. Auspicious Legacy, Abbess Kerryn Cardinalis is here. Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis is here. He wields a rune-covered cavalry shield of conflagration in his left hand and a lambent staff of milky skycrystal in his right. Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar is here. Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer is here. He wields a fiery aetherstaff of swirling spatial motes in his left hand. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and the Beast Queen's icon of bone and bronze in his right. The water that floods the area here is bathed a deep crimson hue so thick that discerning what lies beneath its depths is rendered nigh impossible.
You see exits leading north, east, south, and west.
The bright sun shines down upon you.
You say, "The water.... red.. blood.."
You blink.
Another bubble rises up from its depths, then another, and another, and even more until the water's been given the consistency of a bubbling spring.
Kerryn turns to look at where the bubbles surface and she takes a half step closer.
Ilarin shakes you again and again.
Meltas leaves to the west.
The central fountain. (road) (Enorian.)
This area is unnaturally flooded with water. The bright sun shines down, blanketing you with its
life-giving warmth. At the heart of the Luminary, a beautiful, gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully.
Sending dramatic sprays of water into the air, the atmosphere is quite misty with many rainbows reflected in the vapor. Benches have been set cordially in groups of two and four on the lawn surrounding the fount. The view is beautiful in all directions, providing visitors a unique vision of the green quadrangle and the towering, white marble walls beyond. Pathways lead in all directions to other portions of the quad or into the interior rooms of the Luminary. A gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Resting on the ground is a cube-shaped silver sigil. Dark burnoose toying on the sea breeze, a shrouded Kingbound soldier patrols here. There are 3 guardian angels here. Standing loosely in stance, a Daru firebrand is constantly scanning her surroundings. There are 9 mortal heart still dripping bloods here. Prelate Ilarin Brius is here. She is riding on a Jaziran stallion. She wields a jewel-encrusted buckler in her left hand and a spiritual mace in her right. Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect is here. Auspicious Legacy, Abbess Kerryn Cardinalis is here. Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar is here. Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer is here. He wields a fiery aetherstaff of swirling spatial motes in his left hand. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and the Beast Queen's icon of bone and bronze in his right. The water that floods the area here is bathed a deep crimson hue so thick that discerning what lies beneath its depths is rendered nigh impossible.
You see exits leading north, east, south, and west.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "Stay with me!"
Zeziel moves closer to Daweson. "The.. the water.."
Sarkis rests a paw on Kerryn's shoulder and says, "May not want to get too close."
Daweson inhales a great breath and lets it out as a vicious laugh. "Oh good show, good show. But You are not the only one who has the power to make others see..."
A single misstep within the water's turgid depths reveals something squishing just beneath your feet.
The central fountain. (road) (Enorian.)
This area is unnaturally flooded with water. The bright sun shines down, blanketing you with its
life-giving warmth. At the heart of the Luminary, a beautiful, gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully.
Sending dramatic sprays of water into the air, the atmosphere is quite misty with many rainbows reflected in the vapor. Benches have been set cordially in groups of two and four on the lawn surrounding the fount. The view is beautiful in all directions, providing visitors a unique vision of the green quadrangle and the towering, white marble walls beyond. Pathways lead in all directions to other portions of the quad or into the interior rooms of the Luminary. A gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Resting on the ground is a cube-shaped silver sigil. Dark burnoose toying on the sea breeze, a shrouded Kingbound soldier patrols here. There are 3 guardian angels here. Standing loosely in stance, a Daru firebrand is constantly scanning her surroundings. There are 19 mortal heart still dripping bloods here. Prelate Ilarin Brius is here. She is riding on a Jaziran stallion. She wields a jewel-encrusted buckler in her left hand and a spiritual mace in her right. Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect is here. Auspicious Legacy, Abbess Kerryn Cardinalis is here. Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar is here. Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer is here. He wields a fiery aetherstaff of swirling spatial motes in his left hand. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and the Beast Queen's icon of bone and bronze in his right. The water that floods the area here is bathed a deep crimson hue so thick that discerning what lies beneath its depths is rendered nigh impossible.
You see exits leading north, east, south, and west.
You say, "So many.. so many hearts..."
Ilarin tells you, "Stay with me, please! Please! Stay with me."
Cronides picks up a mortal heart still dripping blood.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says to Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer, "Can you please get that out of here."
Daweson raises his hands dramatically and then throws them down again, weaving a vision of pure clear water about the room.
Kerryn ignores Sarkis for the moment, thought she quickly lifts her foot out of the water and takes a step back. "Is there a follower of Damariel awake?" she asks aloud.
Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says, "It is a trick. A game."
Sarkis nods his head emphatically.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "A childish one at that."
The illusion's effect only manages to distort the murky hue of the water for a matter of seconds
before it darkens considerably once more.
Cronides drops a mortal heart still dripping blood.
Sarkis pokes at a mortal heart still dripping blood pointedly.
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Daweson picks up a mortal heart still dripping blood.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "No."
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "DROP IT."
Daweson starts to wield a mortal heart still dripping blood in his left hand.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "DON'T TOUCH IT."
Zeziel creases his brow in a frown.
You have emoted: Maelok whispers, "Games.. She plays games.... deny Her.. no power..." His eyes still fixated upon Ilarin.
Ilarin nods at you," That's it fight Her. Stay with me."
Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says, "Her trickery...does not impress me. Mother set me Free, and She will not bind me."
Daweson hurls a mortal heart still dripping blood south.
The heavy, ruddy metallic scent of blood begins to fill your nostrils. Where the water before may have been merely an illusion, it becomes frighteningly obvious by its warmth and thick viscosity that what you now linger in is indeed actually blood.
Rising higher in the sky, the sun illuminates the land, confining darkness to the shadows.
Ilarin laughs.
Ilarin shakes you and slaps him again. "Deny Her. Stay with me!"
Daweson releases an irritated "Psh!"
Ember Zeziel says, "Blood.."
You have emoted: Maelok whispers, "Blood.. so much blood.. why.." He shakes his head. "Focus... be strong."
Prelate Ilarin Brius says to you, "Look into my eyes. Stay with me."
"Everyone." Kerryn says calmly as she continues to back up, "Gather closer, lets do a cleansing."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "Lady Chakrasul, I've seen more blood than this in my lifetime. You're going to have to try harder than that to unsettle me."
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to Auspicious Legacy, Abbess Kerryn Cardinalis, "Do you have any salt or other items to act as a purifying agent?"
Ilarin tells you, "She is doing this to unsettle you."
Ilarin tells you, "Stay with me. STAY WITH ME!"
Meltas arrives from the west.
Daweson lays his hand back on Zeziel's shoulder and squeezes once, gently. "Just focus, Zeziel. You are free."
A twig snaps loudly on the path nearby, making obvious the passage of another.
Kerryn nods to Sarkis, "I do." she answers, "Everyone come closer to me and take a knee." she urges.
Sarkis sidles up to Kerryn furtively.
Sarkis kneels onto one knee, demonstrating his humility and respect.
Meltas kneels onto one knee, demonstrating his humility and respect.
Cronides nods solemnly, approaching Kerryn and kneeling nearby.
Ilarin kneels onto one knee, demonstrating her humility and respect.
Zeziel creases his brow in a frown.
A crack splinters through the ground that seems to suck the bloody mixture deep within its depths, leaving you coated from heel to waist in its horrid stench. The blood curls around the splinter in the ground before draining entirely, leaving nothing behind but the hearts that lingered below its surface.
Daweson kneels down, apparently unconcerned with the mess, gently urging Zeziel to do the same. "Almost there now. Just hold on."
Daweson kneels onto one knee, demonstrating his humility and respect.
Zeziel frowns and nods slowly, moving to a kneeling position.
Ilarin looks at you with a frown.
The bright sun shines down upon you.
floor, we had a run in with the Lady of Corruption Herself a few months back and we haven't been able to clean up this mess just yet."
Headmaster's office. (Enorian.)
The most dominant feature of this room is the mural painted on the unique, domed ceiling. The mural mimics a beautiful blue sky filled with fluffy white clouds. On the far wall, a saying has been carved, "Those who instruct among us bestow an endless horizon before a soul." A wooden desk is set over a gold-colored rug, neatly organized with charts of guild growth, future student curriculums, and grading sheets. A tropical plant fans outward in the left corner of the room, thriving in a gold planter. Three arched windows, wreathed in gold curtains, shed light on the room during the day. Resting on the ground is a cube-shaped silver sigil. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. A steadfast Templar patrols here, visor drawn and belt laden with weapons.The shining figure of a guardian angel floats in the air here. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and a sun-emblazoned buckler in his right. A foul-smelling black bile that's as viscous as sludge seems to coat a rather expansive section of the floor here.
You see a single exit leading west.
Zeziel follows you to the west.
A short hallway. (Enorian.)
Resting on the ground is a cube-shaped silver sigil. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular
monolith is on the ground. There are 3 shrouded Kingbound soldiers here.
You see exits leading east, southeast, and southwest.
Zeziel follows you to the southeast.
Outer Sanctum. (Enorian.)
The bright sun shines down, blanketing you with its life-giving warmth. A huge book set within a golden frame and wreathed in fire floats here. There are 2 cube sigils here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Eyes watching his surroundings closely, an imposing Luminary stands guard here. Standing loosely in stance, a Daru firebrand is constantly scanning her surroundings. Dark burnoose toying on the sea breeze, a shrouded Kingbound soldier patrols here.
You see exits leading west (open pine door) and northwest.
Zeziel follows you to the west.
Inner Sanctum. (Enorian.)
The bright sun shines down, blanketing you with its life-giving warmth. Soft light emanates from an exquisite chest of silvery crystal. An intense white flame, inexplicably formed into a sphere, hovers above the altar. There are 2 cube sigils here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. A steadfast Templar patrols here, visor drawn and belt laden with weapons.Eyes watching his surroundings closely, an imposing Luminary stands guard here.
You see a single exit leading east (open pine door).
You say, "And at the very heart of the Luminary is the Inner Sanctum, which holds the Great Spark, gifted to us by The Lady of Fire, Auresae."
You say, "We call upon it to strengthen our inner sparks, as well as fuel some of our most powerful abilities."
Inner Sanctum. (Enorian.)
The bright sun shines down, blanketing you with its life-giving warmth. Enclosed on three sides by glistening marble walls, the Inner Sanctum is open to the east to look out over the Outer Sanctum and view the sun during its radiant path toward high-noon. The floor is tiled with alternating squares of burgundy and gold which reflect on the marble walls creating soft patterns on the marble's glossy surface. Soft light emanates from an exquisite chest of silvery crystal. An intense white flame, inexplicably formed into a sphere, hovers above the altar. There are 2 cube sigils here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. A steadfast Templar patrols here, visor drawn and belt laden with weapons. Eyes watching his surroundings closely, an imposing Luminary stands guard here. The shining figure of a guardian angel floats in the air here. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and a sun-emblazoned buckler in his right.
You see a single exit leading east (open pine door).
Ember Zeziel says, "What happened with the Lady of Corruption, if I might ask?"
Zeziel's eyes repeatedly shut as he tries to stay awake.
Zeziel gives in to exhaustion, drifting off to sleep.
Your eyes sparkle with amusement as you gaze upon Zeziel.
Sighing deeply, Zeziel rolls over in his sleep.
You pat Zeziel in a friendly manner.
Zeziel whimpers in his sleep.
Zeziel spreads his wings as he sleeps.
Zeziel opens his eyes and stretches languidly, a smile on his face.
Zeziel stands up and stretches his arms out wide.
Zeziel coughs softly.
You laughingly say, "I must be awfully boring to put you to sleep."
Ember Zeziel says, "No, no! I am sorry! I should have rested before starting the tour."
Zeziel glances down, shuffling his feet uneasily.
Your mouth turns up as your face breaks into a smile.
You say, "Think nothing of it."
Zeziel's mouth turns up as his face breaks into a smile.
You say, "The Lady of Corruption tries to take things that do not belong to Her. She was after the heart of one of our younger Luminaries, She failed. The Lady of Corruption, Chakrasul gains strength as long as you recognize that She has Power. You can deny that power by denying to Her that she has power over you."
The bright sun shines down upon you.
The beats of a thousand duskycloak wings can be heard in a soft, sussurant whisper as a mortal heart still dripping blood is carelessly tossed aside here by an unseen source.
Inner Sanctum. (Enorian.)
The bright sun shines down, blanketing you with its life-giving warmth. Enclosed on three sides by glistening marble walls, the Inner Sanctum is open to the east to look out over the Outer Sanctum and view the sun during its radiant path toward high-noon. The floor is tiled with alternating squares of burgundy and gold which reflect on the marble walls creating soft patterns on the marble's glossy surface. Soft light emanates from an exquisite chest of silvery crystal. An intense white flame, inexplicably formed into a sphere, hovers above the altar. There are 2 cube sigils here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. A steadfast Templar patrols here, visor drawn and belt laden with weapons. Eyes watching his surroundings closely, an imposing Luminary stands guard here. The shining figure of a guardian angel floats in the air here. A mortal heart, still dripping blood is here. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and a sun-emblazoned buckler in his right.
You see a single exit leading east (open pine door).
You say, "Even now She toys with us."
You pick up a mortal heart still dripping blood.
"I need not chase after a thing, dear little mortal, I take what I please," comes a low, feminine
voice that seems to reverberate around you.
You stand with arms outstretched, your mouth moving rapidly in fervent prayer.
Zeziel blinks.
White strands of light weave themselves together before your eyes, and within seconds you hold a spiritual mace within your grasp.
You begin to wield a spiritual mace in your right hand.
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Zeziel calls out for the aid of his guardian angel.
A flower of white light blooms in the air beside Zeziel, and a shimmering figure emerges from within.
Zeziel peers about himself suspiciously.
A white candy heart comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
Zeziel creases his brow in a frown.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
You say, "Enough games, filth."
Inner Sanctum. (Enorian.)
The bright sun shines down, blanketing you with its life-giving warmth. Enclosed on three sides by glistening marble walls, the Inner Sanctum is open to the east to look out over the Outer Sanctum and view the sun during its radiant path toward high-noon. The floor is tiled with alternating squares of burgundy and gold which reflect on the marble walls creating soft patterns on the marble's glossy surface. Soft light emanates from an exquisite chest of silvery crystal. An intense white flame, inexplicably formed into a sphere, hovers above the altar. There are 2 cube sigils here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. A steadfast Templar patrols here, visor drawn and belt laden with weapons. Eyes watching his surroundings closely, an imposing Luminary stands guard here. There are 2 guardian angels here. A tiny candy heart the size of a coin has been dropped here on the ground. There are 9 mortal heart still dripping bloods here. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and a sun-emblazoned buckler in his right.
You see a single exit leading east (open pine door).
Zeziel glances at the hearts, frowning openly.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A white candy heart comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes falling down from above to land with a thump.
Inner Sanctum. (Enorian.)
The bright sun shines down, blanketing you with its life-giving warmth. Enclosed on three sides by glistening marble walls, the Inner Sanctum is open to the east to look out over the Outer Sanctum and view the sun during its radiant path toward high-noon. The floor is tiled with alternating squares of burgundy and gold which reflect on the marble walls creating soft patterns on the marble's glossy surface. Soft light emanates from an exquisite chest of silvery crystal. An intense white flame, inexplicably formed into a sphere, hovers above the altar. There are 2 cube sigils here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. A steadfast Templar patrols here, visor drawn and belt laden with weapons. Eyes watching his surroundings closely, an imposing Luminary stands guard here. There are 2 guardian angels here. A tiny candy heart the size of a coin has been dropped here on the ground. There are 9 mortal heart still dripping bloods here. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and a sun-emblazoned buckler in his right.
You see a single exit leading east (open pine door).
Ember Zeziel says, "Why even bother us?"
A mortal heart still dripping blood comes speeding in from the east and strikes you!
Warmth radiates from the Temple District of Enorian as the Beacon of Light casts the city in multi-hued brilliance.
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Zeziel creases his brow in a frown.
The sun's rays fall upon he pile of hearts mercilessly, its warmth already beginning to elicit quite the foul stench.
You say to Zeziel, "Be brave, to not let Her get into your mind."
Zeziel nods his head at you.
Dark, red blood drips off this still-warm heart. Slippery and wet, you must stifle an urge to gag. A long piece of artery hangs off the heart, laying to one side.
Zeziel follows you to the east.
Outer Sanctum. (Enorian.)
The stars twinkle in the clear night sky. A huge book set within a golden frame and wreathed in fire floats here. There are 2 cube sigils here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Eyes watching his surroundings closely, an imposing Luminary stands guard here. Standing loosely in stance, a Daru firebrand is constantly scanning her surroundings. Dark burnoose toying on the sea breeze, a shrouded Kingbound soldier patrols here.
You see exits leading west (open pine door) and northwest.
Zeziel follows you to the northwest.
A short hallway. (Enorian.)
Resting on the ground is a cube-shaped silver sigil. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular
monolith is on the ground. There are 3 shrouded Kingbound soldiers here.
You see exits leading east, southeast, and southwest.
Zeziel follows you to the southwest.
A ceremonial hall in the administrative wing. (Enorian.)
There are 2 cube sigils here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. There are 2 steadfast Templars here.
You see exits leading northeast, southeast, and down.
Zeziel follows you to the down.
Before the Grand Staircase. (Enorian.)
There are 2 cube sigils here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Dark burnoose toying on the sea breeze, a shrouded Kingbound soldier patrols here.
You see exits leading east and up.
Zeziel follows you to the east.
The central fountain. (road) (Enorian.)
The stars twinkle in the clear night sky. At the heart of the Luminary, a beautiful, gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully. Sending dramatic sprays of water into the air, the atmosphere is quite misty with many rainbows reflected in the vapor. Benches have been set cordially in groups of two and four on the lawn surrounding the fount. The view is beautiful in all directions, providing visitors a unique vision of the green quadrangle and the towering, white marble walls beyond. Pathways lead in all directions to other portions of the quad or into the interior rooms of the Luminary. A gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Resting on the ground is a cube-shaped silver sigil. Standing loosely in stance, a Daru firebrand is constantly scanning her surroundings. Dark burnoose toying on the sea breeze, a shrouded Kingbound soldier patrols here. There are 2 guardian angels here. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and a sun-emblazoned buckler in his right.
You see exits leading north, east, south, and west.
Prelate Maelok Kanatov says, "Ember, we cannot fight Her. She is far too strong. We will succumb to Her."
Zeziel creases his brow in a frown.
Ember Zeziel says, "Do we leave then?"
Prelate Maelok Kanatov says, "We must give in to Her will. Bow."
You say, "Again with the games."
You say, "Show Yourself."
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
Zeziel blinks.
Zeziel shakes his head.
Ember Zeziel says, "I understand what You are doing. I will not give in so easily."
Prelate Maelok Kanatov says, "I offer you no tricks, Ember. Kneel. Kneel now to Her, lest She kills us."
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
Zeziel peers at you suspiciously.
The stars wink into existence, familiar constellations illuminating the night with tales of myth and legend.
Ember Zeziel says, "I will not."
You have emoted: Maelok smirks and says, "You have no power here, not even over someone so young. Begone from here, You will not succeed in Corrupting us."
Ember Zeziel says, "I will kneel to Her. I will kneel to Her."
Ember Zeziel says, "I will kneel to Her. I will kneel to Her."
Ember Zeziel says, "I will kneel to Her. I will kneel to Her."
Zeziel blinks.
Ember Zeziel says, "No, I will not!"
Ember Zeziel says, "At first, You almost convinced me that the Prelate here was truly telling me to bow.. but I see now. Tricks. That's all You have and will not bow!"
A Daru firebrand's eyes widen as its gaze falls upon a mortal heart still dripping blood.
The central fountain. (road) (Enorian.)
The stars twinkle in the clear night sky. At the heart of the Luminary, a beautiful, gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully. Sending dramatic sprays of water into the air, the atmosphere is quite misty with many rainbows reflected in the vapor. Benches have been set cordially in groups of two and four on the lawn surrounding the fount. The view is beautiful in all directions, providing visitors a unique vision of the green quadrangle and the towering, white marble walls beyond. Pathways lead in all directions to other portions of the quad or into the interior rooms of the Luminary. A gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Resting on the ground is a cube-shaped silver sigil. Standing loosely in stance, a Daru firebrand is constantly scanning her surroundings. Dark burnoose toying on the sea breeze, a shrouded Kingbound soldier patrols here. There are 2 guardian angels here. A mortal heart, still dripping blood is here. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and a sun-emblazoned buckler in his right.
You see exits leading north, east, south, and west.
Hesitantly, a Daru firebrand says, "Why is there a heart upon the ground?"
A Daru firebrand says to you, "Are you a necromancer? Carrying hearts on your person?"
A Daru firebrand snarls viciously at you.
Ember Zeziel says, "Do not fall for Her tricks! It is the Lady of Corruption toying with you!"
Zeziel peers at a Daru firebrand suspiciously.
Ember Zeziel says, "If that is even you.."
You have emoted: Maelok gazes down to the heart upon the ground, a look of disgust upon his face. He then turns to the Daru and says, " Stay strong, the Lady of Corruption is toying with you and playing games. Do not let Her gain power over you."
A Daru firebrand takes a slow step towards Zeziel, a hand outstretched as if to ward him from harm. "Stay away from this necromancer, child," he rumbles lowly. "She cannot influence us here in the city - you lie, like Her. What other reason do you have to carry a heart with you?"
Zeziel creases his brow in a frown.
Zeziel moves to gain the Daru's attention. "Please, he is not a necromancer. She is simply trying to warp your mind. You have to believe me!"
Memories flash through your mind - you see yourself quite clearly standing over a fallen Luminary, a sneer upon your lips as you reach down to plunge your hand into the corpse's chest before rising with a mortal heart held triumphantly above your head.
Zeziel begins blinking rapidly and shaking his head. "No.. no.. that's not true!"
The memory feels so... real. The blood that slicks your fingers seems to cater towards the truth of this story.
You have emoted: Maelok glares at the Daru and says, "I am a Servant of Light, Prelate of the
Luminaries, I would never fall to Darkness. She can and has gotten into the City, She attempted just a past few months ago to Corrupt one of our..... young ones." Maelok blinks and stops suddenly, he looks down towards his hands.
Hands, smeared from top to bottom in slimy, viscous blood. So thick it is that it drops droplet-by-droplet to stain the ground below you.
A Daru firebrand's eyes widen in alarm before he takes a step back away from you. He eases himself into the scorpion stance, his torso wavering defensively as if to ward off an attack. "Come no further," he spits forth.
Zeziel takes two steps back and stares at the ground, his face stricken with horror. "No! No! These are lies! Prelate, please! She is.. She is in my head!"
You have emoted: Maelok clearly shocked, mumbles out, "So.. much blood.. why is there so much blood.." Maelok begins to shiver, as he looks up towards the Daru.
Are they lies though? The images return to your mind again, and there you are walking so casually, so indifferently as you toss the heart up and down, up and down like it's a toy that you catch within your grasp.
"You killed somebody," a Daru firebrand pushes forth with only the slightest bit of a waver in his voice. "You murdered them, and took their heart. I see it. I feel it."
Zeziel continues backing up until he bumps into fountain which he leans upon, his head held in his hands. He whispers, "This.. this is too much.. I.. I can't.."
Nearly stuttering, a Daru firebrand says, "I- I see it in your memories. Y-you ripped it out, and
tossed it like a ball."
(Enorian): A Daru firebrand says, "I- Maelok may be a necromancer. I see his thoughts, his memory of ripping the heart from a Luminary."
You have emoted: Maelok shakes his head vigorously back and forth and whispers, "No, it.. it can't be. I wouldn't.. such brutality I would never... I am a Servant of the Light.. not some murderer." He takes several steps back away from the Daru.
(Enorian): Sarkis says, "Wait, what?"
(Enorian): A Daru firebrand says, "He has blood on his hands! There is blood!"
Ilarin tells you, "What is going on?"
The crackle and pop of flames accompanies your voice as you tell Ilarin, "The visions....please.. the visions..."
Ilarin tells you, "Where are you?"
Your hands twitch as the memory grows so vivid, you can nearly feel the warmth of the organ curled between your fingers. It's warm, oh so warm as it's suffused with the power of the recently-deceased.
Daweson arrives from the east.
(Enorian): Meltas says, "That's a deep accusation you say there."
(Enorian): Ilarin says, "Help me find him!!"
Zeziel continues to stare at the ground, his frown deep. "So.. so much blood.."
Ilarin enters from the east, riding a Jaziran stallion.
Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says, "What in the world..."
You have emoted: Maelok grasps his head and shakes it back and forth, "Why... please why..."
Ilarin grabs you and shakes you lightly, "Maelok, Maelok.. wake up!"
Meltas arrives from the east.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "Help me someone."
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "Maelok!"
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis asks Prelate Ilarin Brius, "What's wrong?"
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "He is having visions."
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "I think he is being attacked somehow."
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "Oooh."
Zeziel sits on the edge of the fountain shaking his head slowly. "I just.. I just can't take it.."
You have emoted: Maelok whispers, "So much blood.. why is there so much blood... my hands... did I do this?" Maelok continues to shuffle further away from the Daru.
Sarkis arrives from the east.
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis asks you, "Boy, do you remember where you are?"
Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says to Ember Zeziel, "Are you having them too?"
Sarkis tilts his head and listens intently to you.
You can see the blood that curls around your fingertips and drips to the ground before him where the heart lies. It's most certainly a fresh kill.
A frown wrinkles Meltas's brow as he articulates a "Hrm...."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "Well, that's... not good."
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "Interesting."
Ilarin pours blessings over you, and divine choirs begin to sing joyously at the edge of your
hearing.
Zeziel glances up slowly, his eyes glazed over. "Blood.. Lady.. Maelok.." He drops his head once
again. "So much blood.."
The divine choir lingers on in your mind, and your spirit soars.
Ilarin pours blessings over Zeziel, whose face lights up in joy.
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis asks Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar, "I assume you saw that?"
Sarkis nods his head emphatically.
"I saw it, I was using my telepathy as I watched and he was acting strangely," a Daru firebrand
hastily explains, his body still contorted into the scorpion stance as he levels a wary eye upon you. "He ripped it from the chest of a fallen Luminary, then tossed it in the air like a ball."
Ilarin whispers quiet words of prayer, and you are surrounded by a feeling of well-being.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "Is it possible he's being possessed or forced to?"
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "That sounds like a portraid vision."
Sarkis peers at you suspiciously.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "Sarkis, help me figure out what we need to do. This is my family."
You have emoted: Maelok casts a piercing glance towards the Daru, horror pasted across his face. "I.. never.. why..." He continues to pace backwards, before bumping against the fountain."
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "The thoughts are mixed within ones head and the one looking into that persons thoughts seen what he seen."
Ilarin tells you, "Please, please listen to me. Please come back to us."
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to you, "Focus."
Daweson wraps an arm comfortingly around Zeziel, surveying the rest of the scene even as he murmurs softly "Easy now...easy. Everything's alright." He glances over at you and then narrows his eyes to slits.
Ilarin shakes you again.
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis asks you, "What do you remember?"
Very quietly, Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says, "This has the stink of Corruption about it."
Zeziel lifts his head as life returns to his eyes momentarily. "Lady of.. Lady of Corruption.." A
twitch crosses his lips before his eyes glaze over again.
Comprehension flashes across Sarkis's face.
Sarkis nods his head at Daweson.
A Daru firebrand's eyebrows draw inwards and he shakes his head. "No, nothing is alright," he
remarks with an irritated bite, a finger thrust in your direction. "I -saw- it. I am no amateur telepath, I saw it happen like I was watching it myself."
You have emoted: Maelok closes his eyes and shakes his head vigorously back and forth. "Why would I.... its so warm... so soft. Was it me..?"
Meltas walks towards you. "Take some breaths and tell me what you remember." He says, hands resting on his staff.
Ilarin whispers soothing words to you, "We're here now."
The corpse's hollowed eyes seem to linger within the back of your mind as they gaze upwards at you from the ground. You hold its heart in your hands, and the corpse's visage seems to portray one single thought: why?
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to a Daru firebrand, "Your accusations are not helping the situation. Take a breath soldier."
Daweson growls softly in the back of his throat and glances at the Daru. "No one is doubting you. We are just doubting the source. The Lady plays her games. Mother teaches us to be wary of exactly this.
"
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to a Daru firebrand, "That may be so, but that doesn't explain all the circumstances of the situation. We must suss out the source of what caused this, for if the Lady of Corruption is involved, it may be any number of causes."
Flies begin to coalesce together, swarming over the dripping heart that's just barely out of reach of you by now.
Meltas's eyes twinkle enchantingly.
Zeziel blinks.
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Ilarin blinks.
You have emoted: Maelok continues to shake. "Games...blood.. why... so much blood, so warm. I didn't..."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to you, "You didn't what, Maelok?"
Sarkis tilts his head and listens intently.
Ilarin murmurs to you, "It's okay. You're safe. You're in the city. Please talk to me."
Zeziel begins twitching periodically and rocking back and forth. "Not.. strong.. Not.. strong enough.."
Meltas rubs his temples in frustration.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to Ember Zeziel, "What wasn't?"
Ilarin grabs Zeziel and in a firm voice says "You are strong enough! You are a Luminary. Stay with us!"
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Ilarin makes an impassioned plea for truth.
Meltas chants a brief spell and a flash of revealing light floods the room.
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Sarkis murmurs something softly to Ilarin.
Daweson stands away as Ilarin grabs Zeziel and clutches his icon tightly. In a deep, growling, voice he intones. "Ah Sister Sickness. Come to play Your games again. Why not try Yourself with one who is prepared? Let them be. We've seen through Your subterfuge already. Rather clumsy for You, I must say.
Daweson starts to wield the Beast Queen's icon of bone and bronze in his left hand.
You have emoted: Maelok slowly falls to the ground, hands clutching his head, "She... was here... why..." He shivers once more "Why.. did I hurt... why would I kill.. a Luminary." Maelok's eyes open and he stares at his hands.
Ilarin frowns in concentration, and a booming voice rings in your head: Follow ilarin
You cannot help but obey.
You begin to follow Ilarin.
Meltas nods his head emphatically.
Ilarin frowns in concentration and you see a glazed look momentarily cross Zeziel's face.
Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says to Prelate Ilarin Brius, "Can you make them sleep?"
Sarkis shakes his head.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "We need them awake, Daweson."
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "Where should we take them."
Before your very eyes the heart begins to twitch and convulse, elongating and spasming as it slowly but surely takes on a different shape in its entirety. In just a few moments the mangled corpse of a Luminary stands before you, eyes hollow and dead as it stares at you.
Sarkis quietly clicks his tongue against the roof of his mouth.
Meltas kneels down beside you. "It is alright, speak to us here. what is it you see?"
Zeziel looks up at Ilarin, tears streaming down his face. "Why? Why-" A scream erupts from his
throat. "A corpse! It is a corpse!"
Ilarin strokes your forhead and looks over at Zeziel frowning.
Sarkis turns his eyes skyward, hoping for divine inspiration.
The mangled corpse of a Luminary levels an accusatory finger towards you, his mace shifting to
indicate the massive hole in his chest. "He did this to me," it declares.
Meltas looks over to the undead corpse. His eye narrowing to thin slits. "I'm mildly impressed by the creation, I have to admit. But still.."
Meltas creases his brow in a frown.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to the mangled corpse of a Luminary, "He may have, but the reasons have yet to be discovered. Mere accusation does not reconstruct the truth of the issue."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "And you're also dead. So why are you speaking?"
You have emoted: Maelok gazes down towards the corpse of a Luminary, the look of pure horror across his face."I.... I... I'm.. sorry.... why... why would I..?"
Ilarin rolls her eyes.
Sarkis blinks.
You have emoted: Maelok whispers, "please.. why.. help me..."
The mangled corpse of a Luminary hardly seems to notice the others present, its attention settled firmly upon you. It takes a shambling step forward that causes the wound in its chest to shudder and expel a spurt of blood upon the ground.
The quiet sounds of nocturnal birds ring out in the night.
Ilarin tells you, "I'm here. I'm here. It is okay."
Zeziel creases his brow in a frown.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says to the mangled corpse of a Luminary, " You are an abomination. Even if he did this to you, you should not be here this way. You are artiface. Be gone!"
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Daweson steps into the path of the corpse, planting himself firmly between it and you, his teeth
bared in a feral snarl. "I think, not today, apparition."
Meltas stands up and walks over to the fountain. He dips a cloth into the waters and walks back
towards you. "Cool your head for a moment." He says with a smile.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to you, "I and the others are here to help. But we need you to focus on what we're saying and not the animated corpse of that poor luminary. I know it's hard, but you can overcome the shock and answer a few questions."
Ilarin lays her hands gently on your body.
A feeling of divine warmth and joy spreads through you.
"What corpse are you lot speaking of?" a Daru firebrand gruffly regards as he eases out of the
scorpion stance, his gaze wary. "There's no damned corpse or abomination anywhere."
Zeziel blinks.
Ilarin peers at a Daru firebrand suspiciously.
Comprehension flashes across Sarkis's face.
A frown wrinkles Meltas's brow as he articulates a "Hrm...."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "Illusion."
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "A damn good one too."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "Or a misdirection."
Sarkis peers about himself suspiciously.
Daweson throws his head back and laughs, though there is no humor in the sound. "Oh well played."
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to a Daru firebrand, "Peer through Daweson's mind, tell me if you can see what he saw of the corpse."
Holding out a jewel-encrusted buckler, Ilarin deftly paints the symbol of Damariel onto its surface. As she finishes, the symbol burns brightly before vanishing in a ripple of power.
Ilarin tells you, "Speak to me dear. I am here. You are okay."
Sarkis looks a little upset as his left eye begins to twitch spasmodically.
Meltas raises an eyebrow at Sarkis.
Meltas pats Sarkis in a friendly manner.
Ilarin squeezes your hand.
Cronides arrives from the east.
You have emoted: Maelok whispers, "Why.. Why is She here...." Maelok gazes towards his hands again, "Why?"
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis asks you, "Who do you see?"
Zeziel settles down on the ground and leans against the fountain in silence.
Ilarin tells you, "Shhh... It is okay."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to you, "To do what She does, and revel in the
suffering and anguish of mortals."
A small animal scurries off the path ahead of you before you have a chance to identify it.
Ilarin looks at Cronides and frowns then looks back at you with concern. "It is okay. We are here."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to you, "Beyond that, we don't know until you can
answer a few questions for us."
Daweson settles down next to Zeziel and ptiches his voice low and soothing. "Tell me...what did you see...what did you feel?"
Ilarin tells you, "Be strong brother. Only you can fight this. Only you can help us get to
the bottom of this."
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Ilarin murmurs to you, "I know you are strong. Stay with us. Clear your mind."
Cronides surveys the gathered crowd, saying nothing.
You have emoted: Maelok shakes his head and mumbles, "She..deny Her... She has... She has... no power..."
Ilarin gives Cronides a pleading look and then looks back at you.
Meltas nods his head at you.
Ilarin tells you, "Thats it! Deny her. You are a Luminary! You are strong!"
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis smiles and says to you, "Very good, deny her presence, focus on the now, you are doing good."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer, "We have an apparent murder, but are unsure who the murderer was. We think Chakrasul is involved, but we're having trouble getting any facts."
Meltas murmurs something softly to Sarkis.
Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect wryly says, "We'll always have trouble getting any facts when She is involved."
Ilarin tells you, "You are a Prelate of the Light. Fight her damn it!"
Meltas shrugs helplessly.
You have emoted: Maelok looks up from his hands to the large crowd that has gathered, "So many... so many people..must stay strong.."
Zeziel blinks slowly, his hands in his lap. "Chakrasul.. corruption.. blood.."
Sarkis murmurs something softly to Meltas.
Cronides raises his arms aloft, shaking with the exertion of some great feat of will.
The air about him crackles and sparks.
You hear the faint sound of running water.
Your spirits lift, but fade as suddenly.
Cronides lets out a long, slow exhalation, frowning in concentration. The charged tension of a major spellcasting fills the air around you, as you notice Cronides's hands begin to glow with an
unearthly light. As he chants and traces a glowing magical glyph in the air, you notice a rapidly
growing light take shape in his left hand, and within moments, Cronides finally holds the completed form of an intricate Aetherstaff aloft.
Meltas murmurs something softly to Sarkis.
Ilarin nods at you, "Yes dear. Be strong. You are a Luminary. You can deny her! You can do this."
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Meltas murmurs something softly to Sarkis.
You have emoted: Maelok shakes his head back and forth in an attempt to regain focus.
Daweson takes Zeziel's hands in his own and squeezes gently. "Alright...good. Tell me more...did you feel Her? How did She come to you?
The heart lurches from its position upon the ground to place itself within your arms, cradling
itself within the crook of your elbow to gather into a position much like an infant would within a
parent's arms.
Sarkis quietly clicks his tongue against the roof of his mouth.
Ilarin rolls her eyes.
A frown wrinkles Meltas's brow as he articulates a "Hrm...."
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "Artifice!"
You have emoted: Maelok whispers, "So warm..."
Ilarin tells you, "Stay with me."
Sarkis quietly clicks his tongue against the roof of his mouth.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "Someone take this thing out of here, please."
Ilarin tells you, "Drop the heart dear. Drop it and stay with me!"
Zeziel starts at the contact before stopping and staring. "She.. She is still here.. She.. She lies.
It was.. it was only a question.." He stares at Daweson and repeats, "I was only curious.."
The deepening dusk yields to impenetrable darkness as night claims the land.
Meltas reaches down and pokes at the heart with the butt of his staff. "But it looks comfortable..." He says turning back to Ilarin.
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
Ilarin tells you, "Deny her. You are strong Maelok. I know you are. I am begging you,
please."
Meltas nods his head at Daweson.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "What question?"
Sarkis peers about himself suspiciously.
Daweson squeezes again gently and nods, maintaining that soft, soothing tone. "Good. Alright...tell me the question. What did you ask?"
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar, "Let
Daweson deal with Zeziel. They are getting somewhere. Lets help Maelok with what we can, or try to that is."
You have emoted: Maelok whispers "I am... I am strong..."
Meltas nods his head at you.
Ilarin places her arms in a comforting embrace around you and whispers soothing words to him.
Ilarin tells you, "Yes, you are. You are my brother and you are strong. Deny Her!"
Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis asks you, "Aye, that you are. Maelok what were you and
Zeziel doing before this happened?"
Zeziel quickly shifts into a standing position, his eyes wild. "Information! They.. they don't care
about us! All they want is information!"
Sarkis raises an eyebrow questioningly.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "We care. But we can't help without knowing what
happened."
You have emoted: Maelok gazes down towards his arms, toward the heart cradled there. His eyes and mouth open wide.
Daweson stands just as suddenly but his tone doesn't change. "Of course not, Zeziel. We need
information to help you. You know we can't help if we don't know what happened. Calm down..."
Ilarin tells you, "Are you with me dear?"
You have emoted: Maelok whispers, "Deny Her.. I am a Luminary... I am a Prelate.... be strong...
focus...."
And yet you can't quite seem to be able to drop the heart you cradle so endearingly.
Ilarin nods at you "Yes. You are. You are. Focus Maelok, please."
You have emoted: Maelok whispers, "So many.. people.. trying.. to help... but its.. so warm..."
Message #2 Sent By: Rashar
"Grab your balls, man. Stand up. She has no power over you, save what you give Her."
Zeziel frowns at Daweson. "Interrogating.. Maelok.." He pauses a moment, stumbling a moment as though dizzy. "I asked.. sludge.."
"Help you?" comes a voice within the back of your mind, warm and endearing. "My dear they're
treating this like an interrogation. Questioning and probing, lurching at you with all these
questions and no regard for your feelings or state of being."
Zeziel blinks.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to you, "Let go of the heart, Maelok and listen to us. Whomever did this is using the heart to influence and direct your thinking. You can let it go any time."
Daweson plants himself and catches Zeziel very gently, holding him up. "Alright. Easy now. You asked...sludge...Help me to understand Zeziel."
Ilarin chants arcane words and touches her weapon. Flames suddenly spring up along its length.
Cronides vigorously spins a pyramid carved of crystal, and it begins to hover in the air.
Cronides makes a forceful gesture and some crystals embed themselves into the ground.
A pleasing warmth cradles you.
Meltas releases his staff and it stays perfectly still in a straight up position. He kneels down
away from you. He begins to weave his hands slowly, forming a mirage of colours. They swerves
between his hands, elements of all colours. Quietly he sits there before nodding towards Daweson. The gentle colours switching between each hand, the rest of his body unmoving.
Sarkis squats on his haunches in front of you.
Zeziel pauses as if enraptured. "Such a nice harmony.." Turning to Daweson he says, "Sludge in.. office. I.. wanted to know.. Lady of Corruption.. young Luminary.. heart.."
Ilarin tells you, "You are strong. Remember that."
Cronides ponders the situation.
Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer says, "That seems to be helping."
You have emoted: Maelok clutches his head once more, and begins shaking back and forth. He whispers, "So strong.. So warm...." He gazes up towards the others. "I didn't.....why... why are you interrogating me.. I didn't... I didn't kill anyone." His eyes fall towards the heart cradled in his arms once more.
Zeziel snaps his head to the left. "Interrogating.. interrogating.. interrogating.."
Cronides ponders the situation.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to you, "No one is accusing you of anything. We just want to know what happened so we can help you both. Please, let go of the heart, Maelok."
Daweson leaves one hand on Zeziel and raises the other in a placating gesture towards you, pitching his voice such that it matches the harmony of the vibration. "Easy, both of you. No one is interrogating here...we just want to know how to help. We know you didn't hurt anyone Maelok. We just want to know how to help you stay strong."
Soothingly, Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says to Ember Zeziel, "Tell me about the office."
You say, "Tour... Inner Sanctum.. so many.. so many hearts.. Games... always games..."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to you, "Where you taking Zeziel on a tour of the
guildhall? What games?"
You have emoted: Maelok whispers, "Stay strong, focus, fight Her.. let go.. let go" Maelok gazes
towards the heart in his arms, and begins to release his grip upon it.
Ilarin takes a knee before you.
Meltas remains quiet, his attention shifting between you and Zeziel. The elements shifting around his hands in a delicate pattern, colors changing with each new movement. As you speaks his attention goes back to him.
Zeziel lowers his head and nods as if in agreement. "Maelok.. there was a tour.. office of Patriarch.. sludge from Corruption.."
Sarkis raises an eyebrow questioningly.
Ilarin slaps Maelok.
Zeziel lifts his head and turns his blank gaze on each gathered. "She is everywhere. You cannot hide from Her."
Sarkis stares at Ilarin and blinks.
Meltas blinks.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "Maelok!"
Ilarin glares angrily at Meltas.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to Ember Zeziel, "She may be, but that doesn't mean you can't resist her."
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
Daweson gently tilts Zeziel's head down to face him and speaks again, although this time his voice is cold and hard. "No one is hiding from Her. Indeed, I feel very much like She is hiding from us, with this little drama She's staged." He purses his lips in a grim smirk. "Points for the theatrics, I suppose."
Ilarin grabs Maelok and shakes him. "Look at me Maelok! Look at me! You can do this. You are a
Luminary. You are a Prelate! You are strong. Do this for me!"
Ilarin shakes you again.
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
You have emoted: Maelok gazes into Ilarin's eyes and begins to focus, and he releases his grip upon the heart within his arms.
Ilarin shakes Maelok again and says, "Look at me!"
Ilarin glares angrily at Meltas.
Ilarin slaps Maelok again.
Zeziel stares at Daweson. "Please.."
Message #3 Sent By: Rashar
"Follow her. Follow her words, and ascend from the Pit She has you in."
Meltas pauses and blinks. His gaze shifting to look at Ilarin. Giving a gentle shrug he continues
his elemental bending, a grim look on his face.
Though you release the heart, you seem physically incapable of letting it tumble to the ground as it stays upon your person try as you may to drop it. There's no attachment now any longer, it is as if the pulsating organ is merely cursed.
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says to you, "Don't you let her win! You fight Her. Do it! You are strong
enough to. I know it!"
Daweson squeezes Zeziel's hand gently, his voice soothing and calm again. "Please what? What do you need?"
Ilarin blinks.
Zeziel squeezes the hand in return, his voice shaky with emotion. "Get. Her. Out."
You have emoted: Maelok eyes fixate onto Ilarin and he whispers, "I am a Prelate.. She has no power..I am strong.."
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "Maelok, talk to me. Look at me!"
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "Yes, you are strong! Focus. Focus on me!"
"Oh you -are- strong," comes a voice within the back of your mind that's accompanied by a sinister chuckle.
Ilarin shakes you again and says "Focus! Look at me Maelok. Look at me and focus!"
You say, "I am.. I am strong."
Meltas stands up, the elements move towards his staff and hover around it. He grasps his staff and looks at the group. "Excuse me." He says softly.
Meltas leaves to the west.
Zeziel begins to blink rapidly and shaking his head. "What.. what?"
Ilarin blinks a tear away and shakes you again.
You shake your head.
You say, "Her games, they are.. just games."
You say, "She cannot have us.."
Daweson nods once, crisply, at Zeziel. "Alright then. Focus on me. Look at my eyes. She is
Corruption and Deception. She cannot capture that which is truly Free. Your Loyalty is to your home, the Beacon, to your Guild, the Luminaries. Focus on that, and focus on me. Be free and she cannot touch you." Daweson presses the icon he is clutching against Zeziel's chest. "Fight for your Freedom Zeziel. And know that you will win."
Kerryn arrives from the east.
Ilarin nods at you and says "Yes! You are strong."
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
Message #4 Sent By: Rashar
"Finally. Keep climbing, feller. A Prelate does not succumb so easily."
You have emoted: Maelok continues to focus his attention on Ilarin's face, he begins to stop
shivering and starts to regain some composure.
Ilarin tells you, "You are strong brother! You are a Luminary. You are a Prelate."
Zeziel stares at Daweson. "She.. cannot capture what is free. I.. I am Free. I.. will win." He
appears to stand straighter but frowns a bit.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to you, "She does not have power over us that we do not permit Her to have. You have a choice, Maelok. You always have a choice."
Ilarin watches you frowning and her eyes wet.
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
Daweson ceases to wield the Beast Queen's icon of bone and bronze in his left hand.
Ember Zeziel says, "Yes.. I.. I am free.."
Daweson presses the the Beast Queen's icon of bone and bronze into Zeziel's hands. "Hold this a moment."
You say, "She has no power, She cannot have me, I will not let Her."
Zeziel glances down at the item before lifting it up before himself.
Zeziel ceases to wield a sun-emblazoned buckler in his right hand.
You shake your head.
Zeziel starts to wield the Beast Queen's icon of bone and bronze in his right hand.
Daweson raises his hands above his head abruptly and nearly bellows "Now out with Your foulness...be cleansed by pure water!"
Daweson raises his arms aloft, shaking with the exertion of some great feat of will.
The air about him crackles and sparks.
You hear the faint sound of running water.
Your spirits lift, but fade as suddenly.
Ilarin nods and says "Yes, that's it Maelok. That's it."
Daweson summons the elemental waters, magically flooding the ground.
The central fountain. (road) (Enorian.)
This area is unnaturally flooded with water. The stars twinkle in the clear night sky. At the heart
of the Luminary, a beautiful, gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully. Sending dramatic sprays of water into the air, the atmosphere is quite misty with many rainbows reflected in the vapor. Benches have been set cordially in groups of two and four on the lawn surrounding the fount. The view is beautiful in all directions, providing visitors a unique vision of the green quadrangle and the towering, white marble walls beyond. Pathways lead in all directions to other portions of the quad or into the interior rooms of the Luminary. A gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Resting on the ground is a cube-shaped silver sigil. Dark burnoose toying on the sea breeze, a shrouded Kingbound soldier patrols here. There are 3 guardian angels here. Standing loosely in stance, a Daru firebrand is constantly scanning her surroundings. Prelate Ilarin Brius is here. She is riding on a Jaziran stallion. She wields a jewel-encrusted buckler in her left hand and a spiritual mace in her right. Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect is here. Auspicious Legacy, Abbess Kerryn Cardinalis is here. Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar is here. Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer is here. He wields a fiery aetherstaff of swirling spatial motes in his left hand. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and the Beast Queen's icon of bone and bronze in his right.
You see exits leading north, east, south, and west.
Ilarin tells you, "Stay with me. Stay with me Maelok."
The moment the water comes into contact with the plush ground underfoot, it begins to visibly pulse, ripples sent forth through its surface as it begins slowly but surely shifting into a turgid red hue not unlike the color of blood.
Ilarin looks up at Cronides with a frown and then back at you.
Zeziel coughs repeatedly and almost drops the icon.
Ember Zeziel says, "My head.."
Kerryn waves in and out of those gathered, silently searching.
Riding her chariot of light, the great life-giver rises from her long sleep and shoots a timorous
ray over the horizon.
Ilarin shakes you a little lighter this time and through half a tear filled smile says, "Stay with me.
You're almost there! You're strong. Stay with me."
Daweson narrows his eyes and growls quietly. "No, I think not today." He turns to Zeziel and nods. "Hold fast, Zeziel. You are Free. Your heart is Loyal. She cannot have it."
You have emoted: Maelok blinks his eyes several times and says, "I will not let Her have me, there are.. too many people I need to protect."
Meltas re-enters the room and turns his focus towards Daweson.
Ember Zeziel says, "No.. She cannot have my heart. My heart is Loyal.."
Zeziel blinks. "The.. water.."
You shake your head.
Ilarin nods at you "Yes, that's it Maelok. Fight Her! You are strong!"
Something bubbles up from within the depths of the water just once.
The central fountain. (road) (Enorian.)
This area is unnaturally flooded with water. The bright sun shines down, blanketing you with its
life-giving warmth. At the heart of the Luminary, a beautiful, gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully.
Sending dramatic sprays of water into the air, the atmosphere is quite misty with many rainbows reflected in the vapor. Benches have been set cordially in groups of two and four on the lawn surrounding the fount. The view is beautiful in all directions, providing visitors a unique vision of the green quadrangle and the towering, white marble walls beyond. Pathways lead in all directions to other portions of the quad or into the interior rooms of the Luminary. A gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Resting on the ground is a cube-shaped silver sigil. Dark burnoose toying on the sea breeze, a shrouded Kingbound soldier patrols here. There are 3 guardian angels here. Standing loosely in stance, a Daru firebrand is constantly scanning her surroundings. A mortal heart, still dripping blood is here. Prelate Ilarin Brius is here. She is riding on a Jaziran stallion. She wields a jewel-encrusted buckler in her left hand and a spiritual mace in her right. Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect is here. Auspicious Legacy, Abbess Kerryn Cardinalis is here. Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis is here. He wields a rune-covered cavalry shield of conflagration in his left hand and a lambent staff of milky skycrystal in his right. Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar is here. Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer is here. He wields a fiery aetherstaff of swirling spatial motes in his left hand. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and the Beast Queen's icon of bone and bronze in his right. The water that floods the area here is bathed a deep crimson hue so thick that discerning what lies beneath its depths is rendered nigh impossible.
You see exits leading north, east, south, and west.
The bright sun shines down upon you.
You say, "The water.... red.. blood.."
You blink.
Another bubble rises up from its depths, then another, and another, and even more until the water's been given the consistency of a bubbling spring.
Kerryn turns to look at where the bubbles surface and she takes a half step closer.
Ilarin shakes you again and again.
Meltas leaves to the west.
The central fountain. (road) (Enorian.)
This area is unnaturally flooded with water. The bright sun shines down, blanketing you with its
life-giving warmth. At the heart of the Luminary, a beautiful, gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully.
Sending dramatic sprays of water into the air, the atmosphere is quite misty with many rainbows reflected in the vapor. Benches have been set cordially in groups of two and four on the lawn surrounding the fount. The view is beautiful in all directions, providing visitors a unique vision of the green quadrangle and the towering, white marble walls beyond. Pathways lead in all directions to other portions of the quad or into the interior rooms of the Luminary. A gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Resting on the ground is a cube-shaped silver sigil. Dark burnoose toying on the sea breeze, a shrouded Kingbound soldier patrols here. There are 3 guardian angels here. Standing loosely in stance, a Daru firebrand is constantly scanning her surroundings. There are 9 mortal heart still dripping bloods here. Prelate Ilarin Brius is here. She is riding on a Jaziran stallion. She wields a jewel-encrusted buckler in her left hand and a spiritual mace in her right. Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect is here. Auspicious Legacy, Abbess Kerryn Cardinalis is here. Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar is here. Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer is here. He wields a fiery aetherstaff of swirling spatial motes in his left hand. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and the Beast Queen's icon of bone and bronze in his right. The water that floods the area here is bathed a deep crimson hue so thick that discerning what lies beneath its depths is rendered nigh impossible.
You see exits leading north, east, south, and west.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "Stay with me!"
Zeziel moves closer to Daweson. "The.. the water.."
Sarkis rests a paw on Kerryn's shoulder and says, "May not want to get too close."
Daweson inhales a great breath and lets it out as a vicious laugh. "Oh good show, good show. But You are not the only one who has the power to make others see..."
A single misstep within the water's turgid depths reveals something squishing just beneath your feet.
The central fountain. (road) (Enorian.)
This area is unnaturally flooded with water. The bright sun shines down, blanketing you with its
life-giving warmth. At the heart of the Luminary, a beautiful, gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully.
Sending dramatic sprays of water into the air, the atmosphere is quite misty with many rainbows reflected in the vapor. Benches have been set cordially in groups of two and four on the lawn surrounding the fount. The view is beautiful in all directions, providing visitors a unique vision of the green quadrangle and the towering, white marble walls beyond. Pathways lead in all directions to other portions of the quad or into the interior rooms of the Luminary. A gilded fountain bubbles cheerfully here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Resting on the ground is a cube-shaped silver sigil. Dark burnoose toying on the sea breeze, a shrouded Kingbound soldier patrols here. There are 3 guardian angels here. Standing loosely in stance, a Daru firebrand is constantly scanning her surroundings. There are 19 mortal heart still dripping bloods here. Prelate Ilarin Brius is here. She is riding on a Jaziran stallion. She wields a jewel-encrusted buckler in her left hand and a spiritual mace in her right. Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect is here. Auspicious Legacy, Abbess Kerryn Cardinalis is here. Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar is here. Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer is here. He wields a fiery aetherstaff of swirling spatial motes in his left hand. Ember Zeziel is here. He wields a spiritual mace in his left hand and the Beast Queen's icon of bone and bronze in his right. The water that floods the area here is bathed a deep crimson hue so thick that discerning what lies beneath its depths is rendered nigh impossible.
You see exits leading north, east, south, and west.
You say, "So many.. so many hearts..."
Ilarin tells you, "Stay with me, please! Please! Stay with me."
Cronides picks up a mortal heart still dripping blood.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says to Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer, "Can you please get that out of here."
Daweson raises his hands dramatically and then throws them down again, weaving a vision of pure clear water about the room.
Kerryn ignores Sarkis for the moment, thought she quickly lifts her foot out of the water and takes a step back. "Is there a follower of Damariel awake?" she asks aloud.
Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says, "It is a trick. A game."
Sarkis nods his head emphatically.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "A childish one at that."
The illusion's effect only manages to distort the murky hue of the water for a matter of seconds
before it darkens considerably once more.
Cronides drops a mortal heart still dripping blood.
Sarkis pokes at a mortal heart still dripping blood pointedly.
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Daweson picks up a mortal heart still dripping blood.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "No."
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "DROP IT."
Daweson starts to wield a mortal heart still dripping blood in his left hand.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "DON'T TOUCH IT."
Zeziel creases his brow in a frown.
You have emoted: Maelok whispers, "Games.. She plays games.... deny Her.. no power..." His eyes still fixated upon Ilarin.
Ilarin nods at you," That's it fight Her. Stay with me."
Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says, "Her trickery...does not impress me. Mother set me Free, and She will not bind me."
Daweson hurls a mortal heart still dripping blood south.
The heavy, ruddy metallic scent of blood begins to fill your nostrils. Where the water before may have been merely an illusion, it becomes frighteningly obvious by its warmth and thick viscosity that what you now linger in is indeed actually blood.
Rising higher in the sky, the sun illuminates the land, confining darkness to the shadows.
Ilarin laughs.
Ilarin shakes you and slaps him again. "Deny Her. Stay with me!"
Daweson releases an irritated "Psh!"
Ember Zeziel says, "Blood.."
You have emoted: Maelok whispers, "Blood.. so much blood.. why.." He shakes his head. "Focus... be strong."
Prelate Ilarin Brius says to you, "Look into my eyes. Stay with me."
"Everyone." Kerryn says calmly as she continues to back up, "Gather closer, lets do a cleansing."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "Lady Chakrasul, I've seen more blood than this in my lifetime. You're going to have to try harder than that to unsettle me."
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to Auspicious Legacy, Abbess Kerryn Cardinalis, "Do you have any salt or other items to act as a purifying agent?"
Ilarin tells you, "She is doing this to unsettle you."
Ilarin tells you, "Stay with me. STAY WITH ME!"
Meltas arrives from the west.
Daweson lays his hand back on Zeziel's shoulder and squeezes once, gently. "Just focus, Zeziel. You are free."
A twig snaps loudly on the path nearby, making obvious the passage of another.
Kerryn nods to Sarkis, "I do." she answers, "Everyone come closer to me and take a knee." she urges.
Sarkis sidles up to Kerryn furtively.
Sarkis kneels onto one knee, demonstrating his humility and respect.
Meltas kneels onto one knee, demonstrating his humility and respect.
Cronides nods solemnly, approaching Kerryn and kneeling nearby.
Ilarin kneels onto one knee, demonstrating her humility and respect.
Zeziel creases his brow in a frown.
A crack splinters through the ground that seems to suck the bloody mixture deep within its depths, leaving you coated from heel to waist in its horrid stench. The blood curls around the splinter in the ground before draining entirely, leaving nothing behind but the hearts that lingered below its surface.
Daweson kneels down, apparently unconcerned with the mess, gently urging Zeziel to do the same. "Almost there now. Just hold on."
Daweson kneels onto one knee, demonstrating his humility and respect.
Zeziel frowns and nods slowly, moving to a kneeling position.
Ilarin looks at you with a frown.
The bright sun shines down upon you.
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Comments
You drop to one knee, demonstrating your humility and respect.
Kerryn reaches into her pack and pulls our a small box, which she opens. "You will repeat after me."
she says loudly as she pulls a leather pouch from the box and tugs the it open. "We anoint ourselves
with earth made pure of the Earthen Lord, for it is without Shadow and will carry the taint of
Darkness from our lungs and blood!" she says aloud, before tossing the handful of salt upon those
kneeling before her.
Darkness conceals the source of a loudly snapping twig behind you.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "We annoint ourselves with earth made pure of Earthen Lord, for it is
without Shadow and will carry the taint of Darkness from our longs and blood!"
Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer says, "We anoint ourselves with earth made pure of the Earthen Lord,
for it is without Shadow and will carry the taint of Darkness from our lungs and blood!"
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Ilarin tells you, "Repeat it if you can dear."
The salt flies through the air, transitioning itself mid-arc into droplets of blood before it
splatters upon your face as it's tossed.
Ilarin nonchalantly wipes blood off her face.
Zeziel snaps his eyes shut as the blood hits his face, his voice shaky as he declares, "We anoint
ourselves with earth made pure of the Earthen Lord, for it is without Shadow and will carry the
taint of Darkness from our lungs and blood!"
Attaining her fullest glory, the shining sun sits upon her throne at the apex of her daily trek
through the firmament.
You have emoted: Maelok whispers softly, "We.. anoint ourselves with earth.. made pure of the
Earthen Lord, for it is without Shadow.. and will carry the taint of Darkness from our lungs and
blood."
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Ilarin squeezes your hand as you repeat the words.
Daweson refuses to even blink as the blood splatters his face, intoning clearly "We anoint ourselves
with earth made pure of the Earthen Lord, for it is without Shadow and will carry the taint of
Darkness from our lungs and blood."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "We anoint ourselves with earth made pure of the
Earthen Lord, for it is without Shadow and will carry the taint of Darkness from our lungs and blood."
Warmth radiates from the Temple District of Enorian as the Beacon of Light casts the city in multi-hued brilliance.
The bright sun shines down upon you.
The crackle and pop of flames accompanies your voice as you tell Ilarin, "I was... I was...
showing Zeziel the hall... then She started playing games... then... the body.. and heart.. I'm.. sorry.."
Ilarin tells you, "Shhh.. it is okay."
Kerryn pulls her hand from the pouch, giving it a slight shake as if to send anything clinging to
her fingers from her hand. The pouch is returned to the box and she pulls out a stick of incense
which she lights, "We breathe in air made pure of the Sovereign, for it is without Shadow and will
carry the taint of Darkness from our lungs and blood." she says aloud before stepping forward and
waving the smoke before each person in turn.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "We breathe in air made pure of the Sovereign, for it is without Shadow
and will carry the taint of Darkness from our lungs and blood."
Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer says, "We breathe in air made pure of the Sovereign, for it is without
Shadow and will carry the taint of Darkness from our lungs and blood."
Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says, "We breathe in air made pure of the Sovereign, for it is
without Shadow and will carry the taint of Darkness from our lungs and blood."
The air of the courtyard surges sullenly, suddenly tasting of bitter ice and ozone.
Zeziel whispers, "We breathe in air made pure of the Sovereign, for it is without Shadow and will
carry the taint of Darkness from our lungs and blood."
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Ilarin squeezes your hand.
You have emoted: Maelok still focused upon Ilarin, continues to mimic her words, "We breathe in air
made.. pure of the Sovereign,.. for it is without Shadow and will carry the taint.. of Darkness.. from our lungs and blood."
Ilarin nods at you and gives him a warm smile.
A small animal scurries off the path ahead of you before you have a chance to identify it.
The sun begins her downward journey towards eventual sleep, casting even, full light upon the land.
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Kerryn bends down and snuffs out the incense before setting it aside and reaching into the box once
more, a glance given over the courtyard before her attention returns to the small branch she holds.
Lighting the end she moves first to you, "Extend your tongue." she instructs, "We suffer by fire as
once Idar suffered, for this will strengthen our resolve and render us less vulnerable to weakness."
she says loudly.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says, "We suffer by fire as once Idar suffered, for this will strengthen our
resolve and render us less vulnerable to weakness."
Ilarin nods at you.
You say, "We.. suffer by fire as once Idar suffered, for this.. will strengthen our resolve and
render.. us less vulnerable to weakness."
Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer says, "We suffer by fire as once Idar suffered, for this will
strengthen our resolve and render us less vulnerable to weakness."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "We breathe in air made pure of the Sovereign, for it
is without Shadow and will carry the taint of Darkness from our lungs and blood. We suffer by fire
as one Idar suffered, for this will strengthen our resolve and render us less vulnerable to weakness."
Zeziel whispers, "We suffer by fire as once Idar suffered, for this will strengthen our resolve and
render us less vulnerable to weakness."
The bright sun shines down upon you.
Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says, "We suffer by fire as once Idar suffered, for this will
strengthen our resolve and render us less vulnerable to weakness."
Ilarin looks at Kerryn and nods at her in appreciation.
Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says, "We suffer by fire as once Idar suffered, for this will
strengthen our resolve and render us less vulnerable to weakness."
The deepening dusk yields to impenetrable darkness as night claims the land.
"We suffer by fire as once Idar suffered, for this will strengthen our resolve and render us less
vulnerable to weakness," Chakrasul repeats, Her arms crossed over Her chest as Her tongue slides out
in a way that mirrors your. "Oh, hrm," She confesses before closing Her mouth. "How awkward. It was
by My hand that he suffered."
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
Prelate Ilarin Brius says to Chakrasul, Goddess of Corruption, "Do You, a Divine have nothing better
to do with Your time?"
Kerryn turns to face Chakrasul, "Lady Chakrasul." she murmurs. "I wondered how long it would take
You." she says, giving the twig between her fingers a flick, extinquishing the flame.
A ring of jade flames erupt around Ilarin and begins to shrink rapidly around her. Unholy tongues of
emerald fire leap upwards into the heavens above as they reach Ilarin, setting her alight. Screams
of agony, like a benediction to suffering itself, fill the air as she fades amidst the acrid smoke
and smell of charred flesh.
Daweson rises slowly off his knees and claps his hands together slowly, a fierce, cold grin
splitting his face. "I knew You would grace us with Your presence eventually."
Cronides narrows his eyes at Chakrasul.
Zeziel creases his brow in a frown.
Cronides spits on the ground in disgust.
"You claim to pure the air of My Brother Sovereign's touch," Chakrasul comments, Her head tilting
just slightly to the side as a quizzical look pushes itself upon Her countenance. "What a positively
silly notion."
Daweson glances warningly at Cronides. "Easy friend. Corrupt though She may be, She is still Divine,
still worthy of respect, if only of Her power and Her temper."
Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer says to Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect, "Let Her do Her worst."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "Mortals have an irritating tendency to have silly
notions. They're at least free to have them. It's what makes them mortal to begin with. I'd hope
that never changes, as much as it's a problem at times, it's also a boon."
Chakrasul pivots upon a heel to approach Cronides slowly, each step She takes seeming to elicit a
gruesome squish from the blood-soaked grass. "You wish to spit at Me?" She regards, a slender
eyebrow arching as She utters the query.
"Silly or not." Kerryn murmurs to Chakrasul, "They are Lord Damariel's teachings, He believes in it,
taught it to us even."
Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer says to Chakrasul, Goddess of Corruption, "Spit at you Lady? No. This
whole situation disgusts me. Playing with the minds of those over whom You have unlimited power?
Deplorable."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer, "She cannot change
what She is."
"No, no Cronides." he says with a shake of his head. Daweson chuckles coldly, his eyes fierce.
"That's just it. She doesn't have unlimited power over anyone's mind. If She did, the game wouldn't
be fun. She has to find what drives us and twist it."
"And His accuse Me of theatrics," Chakrasul remarks over Her shoulder to Kerryn before swiveling Her
focus back to once more land upon Cronides. "You know what is truly deplorable?" She croons forth, a
hand lifting to slide tenderly down the side of Cronides' face. "Holding yourself back from
accomplishing what it is you wish to accomplish as a result of some constantly-shifting paradigm of
what's considered right and wrong." Her lips push into a thin line, eyes alight a deep green hue.
"That's deplorable."
Ilarin tells you, "Are you with me?"
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "That's not true, Lady Chakrasul. Not everyone acts
merely on instinct or self-interest alone. They frequently do, but that does not mean they must. I
find it rather admirable that mortals are capable of overcoming those things and become so much more
than slaves."
The crackle and pop of flames accompanies your voice as you tell Ilarin, "...y..es."
Cronides sets his jaw, firmly, but remains still as Chakrasul makes contact with him. "What do you
call this, Lady, if not theatrics? You are arguing that the end goal should be achieved by any means.
That is not a position that those gathered here will support."
"You've had Your fun, M'Lady." Kerryn says with a lift of her chin, "Surely, You have more
entertaining things to do."
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
"This is a lesson, free of charge," Chakrasul remarks, Her lips curling upwards at the corners into
a grin. She turns Her back now to Cronides to reclaim Her place in the very center of the gathering
as She sweeps Her focus upon those assembled. "You make yourselves your own slaves to this notion of
the light," She regards. "You inhibit your own actions, suppressing the thrill of life deep down
because to live -truly- in a way becoming of its nature would be frowned upon by those who lord
themselves above you."
"Speak for you and yours, Cronides. The Lady's position has it's points." His grin turns even more
savage, if that were possible. Daweson paces slightly, eyeing Chakrasul "I could almost get behind
Her teachings, if they weren't the sweetest of lies. She promises Freedom and gives slavery instead.
So close to what Mother teaches and yet, not quite all the way there there." His eyes harden.
"Freedom implies choice, Lady, and You don't really offer one."
Her attention shifting to level itself upon you, Chakrasul, Goddess of Corruption says, "When you
are ready, truly ready to experience life, you will succumb. You will find Me. You will come
crawling, begging for a chance to experience what it is like to live. Until then, I await."
A mirage-like ripple passes over Chakrasul's limbs, blurring and unnaturally distorting them until
She altogether vanishes.
Zeziel creases his brow in a frown.
Daweson snorts arrogantly.
Cronides exhales sharpy. "Nothing but lies."
Ilarin nods.
Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says to Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer, "Indeed."
Zeziel moves toward Daweson quietly, shakily handing the icon back.
Zeziel gives the Beast Queen's icon of bone and bronze to Daweson.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "By Her reasoning, She is also a slave. She cannot be
anything but what Her essence makes Her."
Sarkis purses his lips pensively, gazing thoughtfully at some distant point.
The night sky is clear, and the stars twinkle like diamonds.
You say to Ilarin, "Thank... thank you.."
Daweson nod his thanks and pats Zeziel gently on the shoulder. "Alright yes?"
Ilarin gives you a tight hug.
Daweson nods his head at Sarkis, showing his acceptance.
Message #5 Sent By: Rashar
"(Mass: Cronides, Daweson, Ilarin, Zeziel, Maelok) Are they lies? Or are they simply truths that are
painful to hear? Hm."
Zeziel nods, "I believe I will be.. th-thank you."
The ebon of the night hugs close, obscuring your view.
Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer says, "Zeziel and Maelok...I am glad both of you are okay."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "In that, mortals are perhaps fortunate, in that they
have a choice."
Sarkis looks about himself, rubbing his chin thoughtfully.
Zeziel smiles weakly and nods.
Ember Zeziel says to Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer, "Thank you."
You say, "Thank you, everyone.. you saved me."
Daweson shakes his head at you.
Zeziel seems to think for a moment before nodding slowly.
Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says, "No. You saved yourself."
Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer says, "Inner strength."
Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says, "We just showed you that you could."
Sarkis nods his head emphatically.
Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer says, "That was what was needed here."
Cronides Ta'sa, the Procurer says, "Resolve."
Your mouth turns up as your face breaks into a smile.
Ember Zeziel says, "Th-thank you all nonetheless."
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says, "Do not ever down play your own willpower. Don't over-
estimate it, but don't downplay it."
Sarkis pats Zeziel in a friendly manner.
Deacon Sarkis Aneneas, Sentaari Scholar says to Ember Zeziel, "If you ever need to discuss what
happened or have someone just to talk to, I am more than happy to."
Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says to Ember Zeziel, "And you are much stronger than you know.
Not many so young could survive such a temptation as well as you did. Never ever forget that."
Ilarin tells you, "Are you alright?"
Zeziel nods and smiles weakly. "Thank you both."
You smile at Ilarin.
You say to Ilarin, "I'm alright now.. I'm just tired, I should rest."
Zeziel nods his head in agreement.
Ember Zeziel says, "Yes, same here.."
Magister Daweson Dark, Ward Prefect says, "Then rest well both of you. You will Dream. It is part of
the healing. Embrace them."
I had a great deal of fun with this event, a huge thanks to @Chakrasul for once again showing up while helping out another guild member and stirring things up. Also a big thank you to @Zeziel, @Ilarin, @Daweson, @Meltas, @Cronides, @Kerryn, @Sarkis for joining in! Oh and to @Rashar for his messages!
I only wish I could turn off guards for long enough to do some RP. It was kind of a pain to communicate with everyone through messages.