The Birth of the Akkari

Benedicto

Added to The Chronicles of Benedicto.

CONTEXT
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The second War of Night rages on, its shadowy grip tightening across the land. The insidious rot spreads, devouring the landscape as Mortalkind, aided by the Divine, battle on. Despite the deaths of several Shadow Generals and their commanders, many yet remain and the darkness threatens still. The dark star, conjured by the dreaded Shadow General Irgech, still blots out the light of Sol Eos, casting the world into an unnatural twilight. Slyphe, the Maelstrom, fell heroically defending Enorian, cast down by the hand of the Shadow General Isalemei. Isalemei's victory was short-lived - undone by the power of a single word, as Ael'mael, Fury of the Dawn, manifested Their angelic presence upon the Prime Material Plane.

Earlier in the week, a chosen representative from each city ventured deep into a forgotten dungeon beneath Arbothia, where whispers spoke of a powerful Shard of Truth - each one a key to the prison of the Shadowmother, Ohslana. There, after braving numerous perilous trials alongside Sibatti of Duiran, Taj of Bloodloch, and Feirenz of Spinesreach, they unearthed the Shard. Yet, it was Benedicto, claiming it on behalf of Lord Damariel, the Unbound, who seized it - much to the ire and frustration of his fellow delvers, who had hoped to take it as their own prize.

Meanwhile, the people of Enorian hasten to Kald, summoned by the Exarchs - Aban, Berrad, and Saebi.

Eastern side of the courtyard.
The rain pours down from the unnaturally darkened sky, the clouds blotting out the sky. Wizened and timeworn, a stone tablet wreathed in mist rises from the ground. Staring about stoically, an enormous firehawk rests here. There are 3 synthetic crystal elementals here. Standing vigilant, a tattooed ancestral simulacrum waits here. Standing vigilant, a tattooed ancestral simulacrum waits here. Standing vigilant, a veiled ancestral simulacrum waits here. A fearsome, ebon-scaled drakir stands watch here. Suffused by a warm glow, a brilliant white phoenix perches here. Eyes keenly observing the environment, a brindled saker falcon is perched here. Bathing its surroundings in incandescent light, a golden angel draped in white floats here. Silhouetted by sacred light, Exarch Berrad abides here in mute observation. He wields the mace of the Inquisitor in his left hand and a tower shield of the Naarak in his right. Rhesk is here. Xavin is here, wrapped in an aura of bright energy. Undirnath is here. He wields a buckler in his left hand and a barbarous selkachoar in his right. Emhyra is here, shrouded. She wields an iron-tipped whip in her left hand and a buckler in her right. Kalena is here. She wields an elegant, flame-bladed greatspear in her hands. Orunmila is here. He is riding on a white-cloaked gryphon. He wields a barbarous selkachoar in his left hand and a buckler in his right. Annerissa is here. She is riding on a war-painted orel. She wields a buckler in her left hand and a flanged, shining mace in her right. Incandescent rays of holy light suffuse the imposing figure of Saebi in a resplendent halo. Aban stands here, light ebbing in fragmented tendrils about his form. He wields a curved shotel in his left hand. Church is here. He wields a crenelated, blackened steel buckler in his left hand and a vicious crescentine selkachoar in his right. Eoros is here.
You see exits leading northeast, northwest, and south.

Berrad says, "I will wait a short while for Herald Benedicto."

Berrad adds, "And Herald Rasani, of course."

The dispassionate cogitation of Linne intones with clinical cadence, "Designation 'eunuch' for Iesid is improbable due to large numbers of free-roaming spawn."

Annerissa nods her head emphatically.

Berrad just thought:
He remembers the fighting, here. Not so long ago.

Rasani enters from the south, riding Cahir, a box-headed Havothi warhound.

Rasani gives the world a smart salute.

Aban's wan visage takes in those that continue to gather as the congregation makes its way through the restored landscape of Kald. He offers the occasional courteous nod, though his customary warmth is palpably diminished, and his mood visibly taut.

Occasional raindrops fall on your head as the drizzle continues.

Kalena settles the butt end of an elegant, flame-bladed greatspear against the ground, bright eyes scanning over the citizenry of the mighty Hammer then to each Exarch in turn.

A light rain wets your surroundings, falling pleasantly around you.

"Godsmith." The warm baritone of Saebi greets Rasani like an old friend and the Exarch offers another crisp salute, though her arm falls heavily and quickly back to her side as those drawn eyes flick skyward for but a moment.

Berrad coughs, raising a hand to his chest as he rasps and hacks unpleasantly. His eyes flit to Saebi, remarking "I know," in response to some unasked question.

Warmth overwhelms you, like a raging fire, as Roux enters from the south.

(Leaders of the Beacon): Roux says, "I would like to know where the shard is going to be kept, what place is safe enough?"

The corners of Church's mouth turn downward ever-so-slightly, gaze slowly roving gates-ward.

Rasani smiles at Saebi, despite this she does seem a fair bit worried. "Exarch, a pleasure as always."

Trailing footsteps of ice behind him, Sryaen enters from the south.

(Leaders of the Beacon): Benedicto says, "The less that know the better."

Rasani gives a wide clay cup to Saebi.

Rasani says, "Maybe it'll help."

Xavin nods his head at Benedicto.

(Leaders of the Beacon): Roux says, "An unsurprising answer."

Aban just thought:
His attention roams restlessly, attention continually pulled back to a single, keening desire: to feel the warmth of the sun once more.

Annerissa purses her lips pensively, gazing thoughtfully at some distant point.

Roux mutters discontentedly.

Benedicto looses a long, slow sigh. "Apologies for my tardiness." He declares whilst crisply saluting Saebi and Berrad.

Berrad clears his throat again, this time apparently for good. Though his expression is queasy, he visibly brightens as everyone gathers, and raises a hand for quiet.

Rhesk just thought:
"So close to home..wonder how overtaken it is."

Rasani gives a wide clay cup to Berrad.

Rasani gives a wide clay cup to Aban.

Meandering wisps of smoke from nearby homes reach into the sky.

Kalena watches Berrad attentively, her weight held steadily against her greatspear.

Aban arches a single eyebrow, drawn eyes settling on Benedicto. "And what of me, old friend?" He needles lightly.

Roux's features are drawn into flat lines of disapproval as he comes to stand near Annerissa, giving the young woman a squeeze of one shoulder before he takes a visible breath and releases whatever irks him to instead pay attention to better things.

Church just thought:
"There are enough of us that those grubby-fingered bastards probably won't have the gall to interrupt, yet still..."

Raising his voice to a loud and zealous intonation, Berrad begins, "Our tradition is a long standing one, and I - we, the three of us - invite you now to share in it. Statues and monuments, effigies and celebratory constructions are not solely the domain of braggarts and ne'er do wells." The Rajamala's expression darkens somewhat but he presses on. "Reminders of the light's victories, the triumphs of the righteous over the evil, are important to maintain."

Benedicto turns and offers Aban a bright grin. He reaches out and draws Aban's forehead to his. "Hij aal-Indra, Aban. My good friend." He chortles to him before loosing him and turning back to Berrad.

Undirnath simply stood quietly among the others, with his head slightly bowed and his fingers laced together neatly in place before himself. Simply content, it seemed, to listen to the various exchanges.

Annerissa gives Roux a silent nod before returning her focus on Berrad.

"We remember Kald." Berrad says, his tone becoming just the tiniest bit laden with bitterness and fatigue. "We remember the tenacity of its people. We remember the Templars - ," At this, his eyes swivel to regard Kalena and Rasani in particular, the faintest hint of pride in his face. "- And their devotion to saving these people. Their devotion to the light. To good. To seeing evil undone."

A nod is all Saebi offers Benedicto and a passing look of concern is grazed over Aban before the dimly lit Exarch focuses entirely on Berrad. The two share a glance. An unspoken conversation. She kneels before the Inquisitor, her paling hands clasping together and pressing over her heart as she closes her eyes.

The wind blows suddenly through the nearby buildings and presses strongly against you.

At Church's side, Kaiara nudges him affectionately, her too-wide, too-dark gaze focused on Berrad as her scarred hand seeks Church's own, seeking his reassurance. She remains silent, attentive.

Berrad just thought:
His mind wanders briefly, to the witch, the Indorani who sought to kill him even as shadow closed in all around. She will burn. They all will burn.

Saebi just thought:
We remember Kald. Light will be shed again on the victory these people earned.

Aban's returning greeting is less enthusiastic, the Exarch's demeanor seeming stretched, even sickly, yet good-natured and familiar nonetheless. As Berrad's voice lifts for all to hear, the Duamvi turns to listen.

A sly smile passes over Kalena's lips as she stands a bit straighter, her head nodding firmly towards Berrad.

Rasani doesn't seem to know if -she's- meant to kneel, but a Knight is good at that, so she does, respectfully to Berrad.

Sryaen's jawline tightens visibly as he tucks a blackthorn dhurive of miasmic shadows against his shoulder in a more comfortable stance while his bright golden eyes shift from Kalena to Rasani, then briefly to Benedicto before his gaze settles upon Berrad.

Eyes closing briefly as he find's Kaiara's hand in his own, Church turns his attention properly to the gathering of knights and their proceedings.

Berrad seems to lose focus for a fraction of a second, but regathers and presses on. "We remember the intervention of Lanos. And we remember the Shadow's fear." He draws a hand through the air and trails of brilliant light follow with his gesture, sparkling motes alighting the village. "We remember the storm of light, the merciless light, and we have faith that it will always prevail."

Berrad murmurs again, as if bidding you to join him, "The light will always prevail."

Benedicto just thought:
[The audacity of his recent actions shocks even him, but it was important. More than important. Now, the location of the precious artifact and his worry regarding its safety is all he can think about.]

Uncertain, Kaiara echoes softly, "The light will always prevail."

Orunmila says, "The light will always prevail."

"The light will always prevail," Aban echoes firmly.

Giving a firm nod, Sryaen says, "The light will always prevail."

Emhyra says, "The light will always prevail."

Annerissa chants, "The light will always prevail."

The murmured echo of Saebi is like a prayer delivered into the sky, "The light will always prevail."

Eoros says, "The light will always prevail."

Softly, Rhesk says, "The light will always prevail."

Benedicto nods firmly. "The Light will always prevail!" He declares confidently.

Rasani says, "The light will always prevail."

Somewhat bashfully, Nimiphi says, "The light will always prevail."

Church just thought:
"The light... cannot be broken."

Kalena elevates her voice in a rallying manner, "Until the Dawn, We are the Light. Eternally!"

Undirnath opens his mouth but says nothing.

Behind the gloomy veil of the dark star, the sun begins its inevitable descent toward the western horizon.

Undirnath peers between the three, and with a twitch of his lips, he intones, "The light will always prevail."

Berrad nods encouragingly at the responses, and he answers with a rare smile of his own. Turning west now, he beckons a village labourer to him and whispers something unheard. As the man scurries away to join his colleagues, they work as one to bring their work to completion, a modest temple space now visible westward.

A wave of comforting heat flows over you and settles deep into your heart.

You follow Berrad to the west.

A modest temple.
Rain pours down from dark thunderclouds, the already blackened skies roiling as the nigh-invisible sun sets behind the black star.
You see a single exit leading east.

Aban just thought:
He makes sure to remain vigilant. There is no telling which shadow holds a blade tipped with voyria - even in this place.

Emhyra gazes in awe at the space around her, though keeping quiet as she watches the other Knights, doing her best to follow example.

Annerissa gasps as she looks around a modest temple.

"Kald shall forever know of the power of the light." Berrad murmurs. "Visit here often. Revere the fallen."

Kalena smiles faintly as she takes in the temple, and approving nod following Berrad's words.

Rasani blinks, looking around the space. "By the Gods..." She murmurs, reverent.

Rhesk just thought:
[There is a sense of awe that is muted by a tinge of pain within her mind.]

Eoros pauses after entering, the glow of her golden eyes shifts to take in the temple, a small smile on her lips.

Xavin's gaze lingers on the headstones at the foot of the obelisk. "None of us will forget the sacrifices that made victory here possible," he says softly.

Eoros just thought:
Hope.

Kaiara just thought:
"It was not just the Templar that secured Kald. The Illuminai and the Ascendril were here, too, serving in various capacities..." A twinge of quiet dismay overtakes her thoughts, stealing away this precious moment from her.

Berrad allows a few more moments to take in the newly built temple before opening his mouth to speak again, but he immediately closes it, turning to regard Saebi. Frowning, she shakes her head and the Exarch reluctantly abandons whatever he was about to say, instead remarking, "Let us journey next to Saluria, where Murgraxis fell."

Rasani nods. "Yes, yes, of course."

Emhyra chews thoughtfully on her lip."

Coolly, Berrad says, "We three shall find our way. Join us there.""

----------------MOVEMENT TO SALURIA----------------------------------------------

The Square of Sonn.
Rain pours down from dark thunderclouds, the already blackened skies roiling as the nigh-invisible sun sets behind the black star. A cluster of Salurian hunters and warriors has gathered together in defence of their land. Silhouetted by sacred light, Exarch Berrad abides here in mute observation. He wields the mace of the Inquisitor in his left hand and a tower shield of the Naarak in his right. Incandescent rays of holy light suffuse the imposing figure of Saebi in a resplendent halo. Aban stands here, light ebbing in fragmented tendrils about his form. He wields a curved shotel in his left hand.
You see exits leading north, northeast, southeast, and west.

Berrad looks around again, gladdened by all those surrounding him. As night draws closer, he draws a deep breath to steady the nausea now clearly affecting him, refusing Aban's outstretched arm with a shake of his head.

Berrad just thought:
I am fine.

Xavin casts a concerned look towards Berrad but says nothing.

Orunmila tilts his head curiously.

"This place," Berrad begins, gesturing all around the square, "Has long suffered from Shadow. Here, a Shard of the precious sword rested, and by your own tenacity, and that of the Salurian people, it was kept from the Darkness."

Benedicto just thought:
[Despite his minor discomfort at the current state of affairs regarding the Shadow-blocked sun and the darkening night, his mind worries about the Exarch's. His memory takes him back to a time just before the formation of the Sciomancers and the Ascendril. Exarch Aban and the others: Perceptor Merkava, Nianvi and Grand Master Aeclan - all similarly afflicted by the growing presence of Shadow upon Prime.]

Rasani kneels onto one knee, demonstrating her humility and respect.

"To battle the Shadow demands an unwavering strength of resolve. An inexhaustible well of faith." At this, Berrad's eyes wander out and across the village. "There is no mercy for the darkness. No pity for those who embrace it."

Church just thought:
Memories of the battle against Sphere and the dragonlings fill his mind - the horrible thrum of the black heart, and the satisfaction in finally silencing it.

Lips drawn into a thin line, Church gives a nod of agreement.

Sryaen just thought:
Repent or be put to the sword.

Emhyra nods her head in agreement.

Annerissa nods her head emphatically.

Kalena just thought:
"Burn them all to the ground."

Roux just thought:
[Saluria... a place of too many sorrows. Memories centuries old. The ever-present darkness feels like a weight cast over his shoulders, his very thoughts, dredging them for the worst memories... of losing a Goddess.]

Eoros just thought:
Cleanse it all. Only the light shall prevail.

Berrad's voice carries louder and more resolute now, even as he seems to lose his footing slightly. "We remember those who died to defeat the filthy spawn. We remember those who led the armoured knights into combat without fear or hesitation."

Xavin just thought:
"Mercy for those that ask, but redemption only for those that earn it."

Benedicto's expression sets into a stern frown as he nods along in agreement with Berrad's words.

Kalena extends an elegant, flame-bladed greatspear towards Berrad in offering.

As before, Saebi kneels before Berrad and beside Rasani's own bent frame. Her hands come together again over her heart, the paling skin whitening further as she clenches her fingers into fists over her armor.

Kaiara just thought:
We're here with you, Berrad.

Rhesk just thought:
"I will remember them all, even if they are just faces I saw before their end."

Berrad's head cranes skywards, and now he does hesitate, but exhales a sigh and speaks anyway. "Too, we remember the Dragon, who felled Murgraxis from the air for good." The words clearly bring him little comfort or passion.

Benedicto looks from Saebi to Rasani and then to Berrad. Swiftly, he lowers himself to one knee and places his hands together over his own heart.

"We will always hold the line." Berrad says through grit teeth and icy timbre, once more encouraging you to join in.

Benedicto exclaims, "The light will always prevail!"

Kalena keeps her greatspear extended, but glances out over the gathered. After only a heartbeat or two, she lowers herself to one knee, "We will always hold the line. The light will always prevail."

Annerissa says, "We will always hold the line."

At the outskirts of the kneeling, Kaiara lingers still beside Church, her gaze curious and open as she watches. At the words, she echoes once more, "We will always hold the line. The light will always prevail."

Berrad just thought:
He knows what he must do after this.

Orunmila says, "We will always hold the line."

Undirnath says, "We will always hold the line."

With a rising but steady voice, Roux says, "We will always hold the line."

Rasani says, "We will always hold the line, the light will always prevail."

With a firm tone, Rhesk says, "We will always hold the line."

Gruffly, Sryaen says, "We will /always/ hold the line. The Light will /always/ prevail."

Eoros says, "We will always hold the line, the light will always prevail."

Emhyra says, "We will always hold the line, and the light will always prevail."

Calmly, Saebi says, "We will always hold the line."

Their expression curious and open, Myrnma joins in the recitation. "We will always hold the line," they say.

Quietly, Xavin says, "We will always hold the line."

Berrad's demeanour softens again, the words seeming to re-inspire him to action. Shaking off whatever lethargy was plaguing him, he gestures to the east, where the people of Saluria have finished their construction efforts and await the Exarch's approval.

Aban kneels not, instead situating himself beside the prostrated form of Saebi and resting a weathered hand upon Saebi's shoulder. The timbre of his voice seems at odds with the sickly appearance of his visage as he utters, "We will always hold the line."

Exarch Berrad departs.

A modest temple.
Rain pours down from dark thunderclouds, the already blackened skies roiling as the nigh-invisible sun sets behind the black star. Chiming notes ring out with the presence of a synthetic elemental abiding here. Silhouetted by sacred light, Exarch Berrad abides here in mute observation. He wields the mace of the Inquisitor in his left hand and a tower shield of the Naarak in his right. Undirnath is here. He wields a buckler in his left hand and a barbarous selkachoar in his right. Incandescent rays of holy light suffuse the imposing figure of Saebi in a resplendent halo. Aban stands here, light ebbing in fragmented tendrils about his form. He wields a curved shotel in his left hand.
You see a single exit leading west.

Berrad paces the newly revealed space, painstakingly examining the obelisks standing at either end. The corners of his mouth twitch as he reads aloud the scripture, the primeval tongue coming easily to his lips and he nods, satisfied.

Rhesk's eyes wander the template before she bows her head, letting out a soft, inaudible prayer.

"May this space forever stand as a tribute to the Shadow's defeat." Berrad declares in booming tones.

Rasani gives a worried look to Saebi and sticks close.

Orunmila nods slowly.

"To Shadow's defeat!" Kalena roars in return.

Xavin nods in approval, a small smile gracing his lips.

Rasani slams her gauntlet against her vestments thrice. "To Shadow's defeat!"

Interest clearly heightening at this reveal more than the former, Church wanders to examine one of the obelisks. Bending and peering at the stone and script, yet keeping hands carefully tucked into his pockets, he absently makes a quiet clicking sound behind his teeth.

Myrnma's green eyes openly roam the temple, their curiosity unabashed. "To Shadow's defeat," they say, distracted by the chapel.

Looking to Saebi with some concern, Berrad says quickly, "We ail." He clearly struggles to admit it, but the words do come, albeit through gritted teeth and a faint hiss. "Let us turn to the Pash Valley, now."

Benedicto nods his head emphatically.

----------------MOVEMENT TO THE PASH----------------------------------------------

The threat of night's encroachment causes Berrad to blink rapidly, and he lifts a hand to his head. Looking up, his eyes seem to blur, but a flash of light bolsters and restores him, if temporarily.

Rasani rumbles, pulling a cloak out of her pouch and putting it on, only to attempt to cover the space above Saebi's head to guard the larger Duamvi from the rain.

Reaching out a steadying hand, Saebi's wide grip presses into Berrad's back. "A little more. As we must." The woman ushers, the familiar baritone of the woman dipping and rasping slightly as she steels her expression. The commanding Exarch turns to look towards Aban, her chin lifting in a silent beckon that the trio should stand together.

Rain cascades down from the skies, drenching you and your environment.

Sryaen drags his fingers through the light upon a pair of glowing, blackened steel manacles, gathering some upon his fingertips. With an uttered word, he flings his hand skyward, releasing the light in a bright flare that reaches towards the heavens.

A bright beam of pale, pure light flares towards the sky, brightening the area for a few moments.

You see Rasani raise her voice and shout, "UNTIL THE DAWN, WE ARE THE LIGHT!"

A herald of Chaos shouts, "THE SUN ONLY RISES FOR XA'AZAMIT'S (MAY SHE LIVE FOREVER) PENETRATING FORKED TONGUE!"

You see Sryaen raise his voice and shout, "UNTIL THE DAWN, WE ARE THE LIGHT!"

A herald of Chaos shouts, "THE SUN ONLY RISES FOR XA'AZAMIT'S (MAY SHE LIVE FOREVER) INCREDIBLE EGO!"

You see Emhyra raise her voice and shout, "UNTIL THE DAWN, WE ARE THE LIGHT!"

A herald of Chaos shouts, "THE SUN ONLY RISES FOR XA'AZAMIT'S (MAY SHE LIVE FOREVER) GLORIOUS TRUMPET!"

A herald of Chaos shouts, "THE SUN ONLY RISES FOR XA'AZAMIT'S (MAY SHE LIVE FOREVER) WORLD-TREMBLING FACE!"

You see Eoros raise her voice and shout, "UNTIL THE DAWN, WE ARE THE LIGHT!"

Berrad takes a deep breath and offers no protest to Saebi's steadying arm, instead relaxing slightly before gesturing to the south. "It was here, so very few weeks ago, that the filth that was Isalemei sought to break the Hammer and shatter your hope." The Exarch spits on the ground with disgust, not bothering to spare any of the righteous fury in his voice.

Ulo blinks.

You see Rhesk raise her voice and shout, "UNTIL THE DAWN, WE ARE THE LIGHT!"

A herald of Chaos shouts, "THE SUN ONLY RISES FOR XA'AZAMIT'S (MAY SHE LIVE FOREVER) MOIST FLATULENCE!"

A herald of Chaos shouts, "THE SUN ONLY RISES FOR XA'AZAMIT'S (MAY SHE LIVE FOREVER) ALLURING OTHER LEFT FOOT!"

The journey continues to wear upon the Exarch as they continue, though the set of his jaw behind features grown even paler speak to a doggedness that has not forsaken the man. Aban steps forward into synchronicity beside his companions, stoic and silent even as voices lift up in adulation all around.

Ulo just thought:
Why are there so many people gathered...

Kaiara glances towards Eliadon, offering a little cheerful wave.

Eliadon nods his head at Kaiara.

The light that shines within a pair of glowing, blackened steel manacles slowly fades away, like metal cooling from the forge.

Roux nods towards Annerissa and then lifts one of his hands, evoking the shining light of his spirit in an effort to ease the Exarchs and Duamvi around the group as they work.

"When first I ventured from Rewh'va, departing the holy land to fight a war that we have all fought for too long..." As Berrad begins he exchanges looks with his fellow Exarchs, becoming sombre. "... I had thought many of you lacking in faith, easily broken." Another pause of apparently monumental effort, before he finally mutters, quickly and as fast as possible, "I was wrong."

Ulo just thought:
I guess I will watch, I hope they do not mind.

A thin smile passes over Kalena's lips.

Rhesk notices Roux and Annerissa and brings a palm upwards, evoking her spark within it and holding it towards the crowd.

Sryaen's ashen lips turn upwards in a slow smile at Berrad's words, and he gives a single nod of his head.

Emhyra makes a strange gesture towards herself.

Regaining most of his former confidence with the difficult words out of the way, Berrad boldly utters, "We remember the Hammer's siege." Eyes flit now from Xavin to Benedicto to Sryaen and others, taking in all of you with a long, passing look. "We remember the Ember's fall, by your own hands."

Saebi just thought:
We were wrong. [The correction tips into the silence of the Exarch's mind, her quiet agreement lending what little strength she seems to be able muster to the Inquisitor's holy vision.]

Eliadon just thought:
"Well, until recent times at least."

Berrad draws another long, laboured breath, pressing on through the discomfort. "We remember those who fell. And above all, we remember the Maelstrom, Who gave Their all to defend the bastion of the light. Whose heroism and courage are an inspiration to us all."

Benedicto just thought:
"Yunva." [Concern for his wounded Divine].

Rhesk just thought:
"May They recover soon."

Annerissa lowers her head solemnly.

"No evil is beyond defeat for those who walk in the light." Berrad booms, adding, "No darkness too bleak."

Eoros just thought:
Blessed be the light.

Rasani continues to keep her gaze on the assembled Duamvi, brows knit with concern.

Church turns his gaze solemnly downward for the briefest of barely-notable moments, concern lining his visage, before his flat facade returns.

Kaiara just thought:
The Kelki's mind is raptly focused upon Berrad, as though waiting for the next thing she should echo. She's ready this time.

Berrad turns fully to the south now, still largely propped up by his fellow Exarchs. He raises his arms high, voice lifting to a throaty, resonate bellow of a prayer. Words spill from his lips as he denounces evil and purifies the space for a future working. "And here, in this third site, we work a miracle." Streams of fantastically bright light form in the Exarch's hands as he works, the brilliant illumination surging southwards and solidifying, becoming more real, more sacred, more true.

As Berrad hands lower and the font of radiance dims, the makings of a temple become visible to the south, the entire area seeming to become more vital and hale, freed from any residual corruption.

Church just thought:
"Impressive."

You follow Kalena to the south.

A modest temple.
Dim, lazy sunset fights to break through the veil of black clouds drifting overhead. Chiming notes ring out with the presence of a synthetic elemental abiding here. Silhouetted by sacred light, Exarch Berrad abides here in mute observation. He wields the mace of the Inquisitor in his left hand and a tower shield of the Naarak in his right. Undirnath is here. He wields a buckler in his left hand and a barbarous selkachoar in his right. Incandescent rays of holy light suffuse the imposing figure of Saebi in a resplendent halo. Aban stands here, light ebbing in fragmented tendrils about his form. He wields a curved shotel in his left hand.
You see a single exit leading north.

Now visibly struggling to stay upright from the sickness taking root, Berrad reaches out to Saebi for aid again. "A place whose origins we shall never forget."He declares in a weakened voice.

Kalena steps towards Berrad and Saebi, offering a hand though she makes it a point to look around and not set direct gaze on either Exarch.

Curious and awed as they are by the temple's manifestation, even Myrnma cannot fail to notice the weakening of Berrad's voice, watching with a flicker of uncertainty.

Sryaen flicks a concerned glance towards Berrad, and his slender brow furrows into a deep frown before he looks over to Benedicto and Rasani.

Kaiara's gaze is concerned, focused on Berrad for the moment, and it seems her enthusiasm has escaped her, but now is the time, she looks fairly sure. She echoes on a soft breath, nearly unable to be heard: "We will never forget."

Benedicto just thought:
[It pains him to watch the Exarchs struggle so, but he remains distant from the trio, knowing that they must complete whatever they have begun. The support would come after.]

Eliadon kneels onto one knee, demonstrating his humility and respect.

Aban remains close beside the fellow Exarch as the trio moves lockstep into the temple, the sickness pulling heavily at his now haggard mien. "We will never forget," he echoes, and even now you can hear the threat of weakness insidiously worming its way into his voice.

Softly, Annerissa says, "We will never forget."

Rasani nods. "Never." She murmurs, before moving closer as well, offering her gauntlet out to stable Aban.

Benedicto's pearlescent gaze is fixed avidly upon the rapidly weakening trio of Berrad, Aban and Saebi. "We will never forget." He echoes.

Rhesk says, "We will never forget."

Orunmila nods slowly and says quietly, "We will never forget."

With a resolute nod of his head, Sryaen says, "We shall never forget."

Quietly, Kalena says, "We will never forget."

Emhyra closes her eyes, taking in the temple with a deep breath before looking towards the Exarch's, worry filling her gaze. "We will never forget." She says, placing a hand above her heart.

Eoros says, "We will never forget."

Undirnath says, "We will never forget."

"Let us never forget," Saebi's waning strength leaves her voice weakened and lacklustre. However the war-forged Ogre dips a nod of appreciation to Kalena only to rest her free hand on Aban, the trio joined by the soldier. "We cannot linger. It is time we turn to the Triad to deliver us from this suffering."

Nervously watching the Exarchs now, Myrnma too joins in this recitation. "We will never forget."

Xavin's gaze lingers on the headstones and he murmurs, "We will never forget," echoing the words of those gathered.

Quietly, Saebi says, "We should return to the pyre."

Ulo just thought:
In death our legacies live in the memories of the future. We cannot avoid our inevitable end, we can only seek to bring forth greatness in life.

Kalena opens her mouth but says nothing.

Eliadon stands up and stretches his arms out wide.

Orunmila creases his brow in a frown.

"Not the Flame," Berrad hastily responds. "We need to reach Them directly."

With a slight nod, Benedicto demonstrates his understanding.

----------------MOVEMENT TO THE AKKARI BASTION----------------------------------------------

A windswept sanctum holding a massive pyre.
Motes of hallowed light anoint the air with heavenly splendour. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Chasing away the darkness, a brilliant pyre blazes bright here. Proudly taking up space, an enormous wooden cart is stationed here.
You see a single exit leading down.

Exarch Berrad arrives, radiating light.

Eliadon kneels onto one knee, demonstrating his humility and respect.

Kalena drops down to one knee, watching the trio of Exarch intently.

Emhyra kneels onto one knee, demonstrating her humility and respect.

The presence of the pyre seems to soothe Berrad somewhat, though he remains pallid and sickly. He steps nearer to the flame and reaches out to Aban and Saebi to join hands with him. "We are not leaving. Not if we cannot avoid it." He responds to the worried faces before him, before devoting his attention completely to his prayer.

Annerissa drops down onto one knee.

Benedicto also takes a knee beside Kalena, continuing to eagerly watch the Exarchs, albeit with a growing expression of concern. Berrad's words do away with that however, and a faint smile plays across his lips.

Rhesk just thought:
[Memories of the ceremony return to her mind. The searing. The sounds. The holy things that came from it all. A sense of awe and wonder following with it.]

Xavin drops to one knee, gnawing his lip worriedly as he gazes at the Exarchs.

Rhesk glances at the crowd a moment before she bends down to one knee, bowing her head downwards respectfully.

Kalena exhales a soft breath, bowing her head to likewise pray quietly while reaching out to grip Benedicto's hand alongside her.

Benedicto just thought:
"Thank the Triad! Ael-Mael, Ubarin and Nyasia!"

Eoros slides down to one knee.

Roux moves to settle on one knee beside Rhesk this time, resting his hands atop the bent one.

Sryaen comes to stand beside Eoros, and he drops down to one knee as the others do; all the while keeping his bright golden eyes upon the trio of Exarchs.

Orunmila lowers himself to one knee to join the others.

Undirnath kneels onto one knee, demonstrating his humility and respect.

"The hour is bleak." The words clearly bring Berrad no pleasure, but he remains expressionless, utterly captivated by the pyre's flames. "Ael'mael, Blade of the Host, we ask that you grant us the strength to fight on." The fellow Exarchs respond in kind, zealous and earnest.

Kaiara glances around at everyone kneeling, her brow drawing together in a small furrow for a moment before she, too, drops to a knee, setting her staff gingerly at her side.

Church stands beside Kaiara with a hand upon her shoulder, bowing his head in solidarity.

"Ael'mael, Blade of the Host! Give them the strength to fight on!" Benedicto adds his prayer to those of the Exarchs, his words uttered quietly, though no less zealous or earnest in their intent.

"But the Shadow does not relent, and nor can we." Berrad lifts his voice again, "Ubarin, Shield of the Host, grant us the will to endure, and the resolve to persist against this filth." Again the Exarchs follow suit, the pyre crackling its approval as its flames seem to grow more intense, brighter, and larger.

Rasani slams her gauntlet against her vestments. "We beg you help them persist, Three Most Holy!"

Benedicto bows his head. "Ubarin, Shield of the Host, grant them the will to endure!" He echoes.

Sryaen just thought:
The Shadow does not relent. And nor can we.

The whole of their focus resting keenly on the Exarchs now, Myrnma barely register that most everyone else is kneeling. Though they remain standing, their expression is one of sympathy as they listen in respectful silence.

Kalena lifts her head from her prayers to glance towards the familiar pyre, "Give them strength," she murmurs quietly towards the rising flame.

Church just thought:
"Begging and beseeching... Well, I hope it works."

Rhesk just thought:
"May the Three Most Holy grant what is needed."

"We cannot afford to fail." Berrad's voice becomes more like a plea than a prayer now, a weakness entirely unsuited to his typically uncompromising attitude. "Holy Nyasia, in whose radiance I am blessed to wield your flame. Sage of the Host, we pray to you for enlightenment, that this curse of flesh and fragility be cast down!"

Fervently, Benedicto says, "Holy Nyasia, Sage of the Host, give them enlightenment!"

The corners of his eyes twitching ever so slightly at Berrad's words, Sryaen gives a sharp nod of his head, though he remains knelt where he is.

Sryaen just thought:
We cannot afford to fail.

Benedicto

Eliadon kneels his heads, closing his eyes and focusing despite the lack of vocalization of his own prayers.

In moments the burning pyre swells to envelop the entire chamber, but it harms you not. Contorting from the rich red and orange to flawlessly captivating gold, the intensity rises along with the flames, a pillar so dazzlingly bright that it threatens to blind.

Kaiara just thought:
Less sharp-edged than Church's implication, the Kelki's hope seems more gentle, more optimistic as she echoes her companion's thoughts."I hope this works."

Annerissa pulls back slightly at the roar of the flames, she inhales deeply and leans lightly against her Guardian. Her lips moving fervently in prayer.

Emhyra closes her eyes and makes a prayer.

Eyes upon the pyre, Roux's lips move in silent words, prayers perhaps though there's nothing to hear, features cast in reverent lines.

Orunmila bows his head quickly, closing his his eyes tight and uttering a prayer.

Benedicto just thought:
"Holy Triad - watch over us. Guide us in our quest for the Dawn and strengthen, guard us and enlighten us within the Light!"

Kalena's hand tightens around Benedicto, her head lifting to squint at the blinding light surrounding the sanctum.

Hypnotic in its shine, the lightborne silhouettes of three figures form in the flames, distant yet strangely, impossibly distinct. Each is different from the others yet all abide in faceless serenity, the dozens of eyes that they share between them aglow in shades of rich cobalt and soothing azure.

Rasani smiles slightly, kneeling as soon as the light and flame fills the space.

One hand remaining upon Kaiara's shoulder, the other drifts absently to settle above Church's heart as his lips move quietly. Seeming to notice this and, it not having been of his volition, the appendage snaps back to his side as he frowns.

Roux just thought:
Triad of the holy Host... blessed be, shine as Aevoi fio Oihia - the Eye that is blocked. Guide and protect.

Emhyra opens her eyes, watching the flames with hope.

Bells sing out in ancient hymns, a chorus of thousands conjoining to create one ineffable hosanna. That brilliant light surrounds the Exarchs, mantling each of their distinct figures in a veil of hallowed radiance. They stand taller, their pallour returning to its former glow. The Triad, one voice and three, intone, "Walk in the light," and the angelic manifestations disappear without another word.

Fronds of hallowed light spiral upwards into the firmament from the heart of the Akkari tower, spilling out across the heavens.

Rich and full-bodied, the distant pealing of heavenly bells tolls through the air, hymns of light and fire sung in notes of celebration for the ascension of Exarchs Aban, Berrad, and Saebi.

Kaiara's gaze moves from the pyre, now, to the Exarchs, her optimism painfully apparent.

Orunmila opens his eyes, watching the Exarchs in awe.

Kalena blinks several times towards the pyre, the trio of figures having disappeared before her very eyes. Her gaze snaps back towards Aban, Berrad, and Saebi.

Awe momentary replaces concern in Myrnma's features as the silhouettes materialize within the flames, squinting slightly. As the manifestation abruptly disappears, they immediately turn back to the Exarchs, watching them avidly.

Rasani blinks, bowing her head slowly.

Rasani just thought:
Gods, this... am I worth witnessing this?

Benedicto just thought:
[Raw unadulterated awe].

As holy light suffuses his body, Berrad gasps in wonderment, examining his limbs through a blinking gaze.

Annerissa's eyes grow wide as she raises her head to glance at the Exarchs.

Xavin gazes at the trio of Exarchs in awe, eyes wide with wonder and curiosity.

Sryaen's jaw hangs slack a bit as his eyes widen to take in the sight before him.

Scents of honey and cinnamon are carried through on a breeze.

Kaiara just thought:
"Completely unquantifiable. Faith is an indescribable force."

The change in Aban's demeanor is as immediate as it is ruthless, the Exarch seized violently by the scathing rays of unrelenting light and forced to absorb the succor without warning or kindness. His skins flushes back to warm color and his single, golden eye opens wide with the shock of what courses through him as the apparent sickness within him is banished.

Colour returns to Saebi's cheeks and the warmth of her smile is shared with all of you as it blossoms in full across her mouth. Her radiance shimmers brilliantly, the halo around the Ogre almost blinding in its illumination as the blessing from the Triad falls over her like a spirit-forged blanket.

Berrad staggers in shock, but his smile, and the light on his features are undeniably warm.

Berrad looks to Saebi and Aban, whose faces seem equally shocked and awed. "There is no pain." He blurts out in surprise.

Aban just thought:
Blessed relief.

Rasani blinks.

Nimiphi can do little but watch in awe, still blinking away at the dazzling effect of the light on her vision.

Rasani says, "By the Gods."

Rhesk just thought:
"Thank the Three Most Holy."

Myrnma grins with relief, uncomprehending of all except that the Exarchs all seem hale once more.

Emhyra mouth drops in awe.

Kaiara comes to her feet, gathering up her staff as she beams at the Exarchs, clearly satisfied with the outcome here. "I'm glad," she murmurs on a breath, her smile radiant.

Berrad just thought:
We should share this gift.

Eliadon's mouth turns up as his face breaks into a smile.

Kalena exhales a breath of relief, a light smile pulling at her lips.

Annerissa's mouth turns up as her face breaks into a smile.

The bright light of the Grand Flame shines down upon the City from the Temple's apex.

Tears of joy stream unabashed down Benedicto's cheeks as he regards the newly ascended Duamvi.

Benedicto just thought:
"Triad be praised!"

Rhesk pushes to her feet, a look of relief matching much of the others gathered.

Church just thought:
A sense of satisfied relief, one he is only now realizing he needed, overcomes him.

Annerissa pushes her hair out of her face as she stands up.

Aban steps free of his companions as the ability to hold himself upright - unsupported - returns. Customary warmth suffuses the Akkari's features as he steps towards the gathering, golden eye settling onto Benedicto. The Exarch offers out a hand towards the Templar as the rich baritone of his voice asks, "I could think of no one better suited, my old friend."

Benedicto steps towards Aban. "I would be grateful if I could join you." There is a plea in his voice. "I would serve the Light better, if I can."

Berrad just thought:
Blood and spirit. Life surges through him like he was young again.

Rasani looks at Saebi, then Benedicto. "Aye, as would I. I... it's..."

Sryaen's head dips in an agreeable nod towards Benedicto. "As would I," he says gruffly while rising to his feet.

Aban zealously extols the virtues of the holy light to Benedicto, guiding them along the path to ascendance. Placing both hands on his shoulders, they share an earnest prayer and solemn plea, and Benedicto closes his eyes. Blinding radiance surrounds them both in a lucent aura, and as the prayer concludes, Aban offers Benedicto a glimpse of sacred enlightenment.

"Likewise," Xavin breathes out, nodding as he stands himself.

Rhesk just thought:
"I will wait until later to seek more on this. Make myself worthy first."

Kalena pushes herself up off her knee, her gaze curiously watching Aban and Benedicto before glancing towards Berrad.

Eliadon stands up and stretches his arms out wide.

Eoros just thought:
I need this.

"I could pick no other to share this with," Saebi ushers on a voice full of warmth, the Ascended Duamvi closes the distance between her and Rasani in a mere step or two. "You are certain of this path, Godsmith?" The war-worn woman searches Rasani's face for any hint of hesitance.

Rasani just thought:
OH DAMN.

Benedicto stands, looking down at himself in mute appreciation for the gift bestowed upon him. "My thanks, old friend." He presses his forehead once more to Aban's, before he then turns towards Saebi and Berrad, bowing towards them both in thanks.

Rasani nods. "I am. My life for the Light. My hands for Spirit. I was born for this. It is written in my bones."

Saebi zealously extols the virtues of the holy light to Rasani, guiding them along the path to ascendance. Placing both hands on her shoulders, they share an earnest prayer and solemn plea, and Rasani closes her eyes. Blinding radiance surrounds them both in a lucent aura, and as the prayer concludes, Saebi offers Rasani a glimpse of sacred enlightenment.

Annerissa smiles as she moves to stand next to Roux and Rhesk.

As his fellow Exarchs bestow the gift of the Triad on Rasani and Benedicto, Berrad allows his eyes to shift and land upon Sryaen, joy evident in his tone. "Vanguard. I can think of no better sign of my own misjudgement than to offer this boon to you." He stills, awaiting acceptance.

Kalena's mouth turns up as her face breaks into a smile.

Berrad just thought:
He hopes it mends some of his former commentary.

Xavin nods at Sryaen in approval, a small smile tugging at the Idreth's lips, though it fades swiftly enough.

Benedicto also nods towards Sryaen, a small smile of approval tugging at his lips.

Eliadon bowing his head lightly, also speaks up to say, "I, too, would join you in this if you will have me."

Hands behind their back, Myrnma shifts somewhat restlessly but otherwise simply hums and watches on with the smile of someone who enjoys seeing others happy.

Sryaen's dark features seem to soften at Berrad's words, and he gives a slow, respectful nod of his head. "It has been a journey up to this point and some much-needed self-reflection, but there's still more work to be done. And these hands stand ready to continue to do what's required of them," he says gruffly while his bright golden eyes shift to him. "For the Light."

"For the light." Berrad agrees.

Berrad zealously extols the virtues of the holy light to Sryaen, guiding them along the path to ascendance. Placing both hands on his shoulders, they share an earnest prayer and solemn plea, and Sryaen closes his eyes. Blinding radiance surrounds them both in a lucent aura, and as the prayer concludes, Berrad offers Sryaen a glimpse of sacred enlightenment.

Eoros' lips slide further upwards as she watches Sryaen, her golden eyes sparkling.

With a small smile upon her features, Nimiphi quietly slips down the stairs.

Emhyra stands, watching the group with a proud look in her eyes as she stands at attention. "I do not think I can join as of yet, but I hope to very soon." She states, placing a hand on her chest.

Rhesk nods her head at Emhyra.

Church just thought:
A twinge of... sadness? It should not be so, this is a glorious thing. This power, this bond! He should be rejoicing for them, yet...

Inclining her head, Rhesk says, "Excuse me."

Rhesk leaves to the down.
She is followed by an enormous firehawk.

A sudden sense of fatigue washes over Berrad and he blinks the tiredness out of his eyes. "Yes." He agrees with Saebi. "Each of you will be able to pass on the blessing to others, and form hierarchies of your own."

"As the Triad bestowed to us, and we bestowed to you, so should you choose your own successors with conviction and virtue." Saebi instructs, planting a wide hand on Rasani's shoulder and clapping at Rasani's back. The Exarch turns towards all of you now, "Miracles and blessings were seen this day."

Eoros gives the world a smart salute.

Rasani grins at Saebi. "I'll do you proud, my friend. I swear it to you."

"I go to my rest, beside the warmth of the pyre." Berrad murmurs. "The Shadow is not yet defeated." To Aban and Saebi he remarks, "We have work to do." And his attention wanes, devoted entirely to the flames.

Eliadon raises a staff of flame-charred oak and draws an arcane glyph in the air in salute.

Quickly snapping to a rigid stance, Emhyra brings her weapon to a vertical position infront of her chest in an act of respect.

Annerissa holds her hand out in open air, spark flaring to life in the center of her palm and covering her skin in a purifying glow.

Roux holds his hand out in open air, spark flaring to life in the center of his palm and covering his skin in a purifying glow.

Sryaen brings a clenched hand to his chest and he gives another respectful dip of his head. "Thank you," he replies gruffly but simply. The Azudim's jawline tightens at Berrad's words and he exhales a sharp, rumbling grunt. "Much work to be done," he agrees.