Ayrell/Logs/Diplomacy With Dragon Priests Part One/09032021

Event Occurred on the 1st day of the 4th month of Shorka, the Cobra in the year 439. (9/3/2021) Log is from the view of Ayrell Evyntine.

Introduction

[Shard, Temple of Light] Gold-veined white marble columns set upon square gilt bases support an arching roof with a fresco depicting the final battle between the Immortals and the World Dragon. Hushed voices echoing from hidden alcoves soothe all who enter with melodious chants. Candles burning in niches lining the walls between the pillars provide soft illumination. A pair of embossed silver doors leading out onto the street stand wide open. You also see a blue-eyed ebony kitten, a Halfling peasant and a dim alcove emanating faint candlelight.

Navesi says, "I don't hear any calls of others on the way, so I'll begin talking since we have a lot to cover."

Angel joins Navesi's group.

Hoshii says to Casari, "I just hope our dear Dragon-loving friends burn like dry tinder."

Mazrian nods to Navesi.

Casari exclaims to Hoshii, "They do!"

Casari beams at Hoshii!

Hoshii lets out a loud "Huzzah!" for Casari!

Navesi says, "Today's mission is a complicated one, so please pay attention and minimize talking and movements for a bit."

Whiteburn gazes at Navesi.

Hoshii gazes silently at Navesi.

Aislynn takes a sip of her coffee.

Navesi says, "Our aim is to talk to the Dragon Priests. To learn about them, at the very least, and in the best case scenario work out some sort of peace. However, that likelihood is extremely slim, so we are also going in prepared for battle."

Madigan shakes Casari's hand.

Madigan shakes Ezerak's hand.

Navesi says, "We will first take a few moments here to pray to Peri'el, led by Mother Whiteburn. Then we will gate over to the Spire, where the false Priests reside."

Madigan bows to you.

Madigan snaps to attention and hails Saragos with a crisp hand salute.

You curtsy gracefully to Madigan.

Madigan waves to Zynell.

You smile.

Zynell grins at Madigan.

Whiteburn bows her head in acknowledgement.

Andante rubs her hands together.

Madigan bows to Kaelie.

Madigan smiles at Kaelie.

Kaelie gently kisses Madigan on the cheek.

Navesi says, "We will be gating directly to a location that we will use as a triage point, which is naturally safe and also just next to their war camp -- you go through a fence to get to it."

Navesi says, "Once there, we will observe via mirror as Ayrell attempts the diplomacy."

You smile.

Ezerak smiles at you, revealing the dimples in his cheeks.

Navesi says, "They may show up and talk. They may show up and try to kill her. They may not show up at all."

You softly say, "Attempt..."

Casari asks you, "Is diplomacy the name of your new sword?"

Andante smiles at you.

Ezerak grins at Casari, his dimples flashing into view.

Kaelie says, "If not..."

Nilme grins at Casari.

Dantia places her hands on her temples.

Dantia's countenance takes on a sublimely tranquil air.

You chuckle at Casari.

Mazrian says, "If it's not, it should be."

Kaelie nods to Casari.

You say to Casari, "It may be."

You chuckle at Mazrian.

Navesi says, "IF they do want to talk, I urge you all to show restraint. Ayrell is a master diplomat and she may at least be able to learn something we can use against the Priests."

Ezerak chuckles.

Navesi says, "Please do not interfere with her attempts."

Dantia gives a slight nod.

Navesi says, "It is very likely we will have a chance to wet our swords just afterward."

Hoshii says to you, "Good luckpraise ayrell."

Ezerak says to you, "Sounds like a fine name for your khopesh."

Hoshii babbles incoherently.

Hoshii covers her mouth with her hand.

Andante smiles.

You smile at Ezerak.

Madigan nods to Dantia.

You nod at Ezerak, in complete agreement with his views.

Navesi says, "Just before the talks begin, we will be splitting into groups to be prepared for battle. There will be a Heckling group, Strike Team, Research Team, and Triage."

Navesi says, "If you are of a lower circle, I encourage you to be with the Hecklers or Triage."

Mazrian nods to Saragos.

Ahneya says, "I will take the heckers and keep them kind of safe."

Ahneya smiles.

Andante grins at Ahneya.

Hoshii grins at Ahneya.

Aislynn just nudged Ahneya.

Aislynn chuckles.

Mendira chortles softly at some secret joke.

Miskton grins.

Mazrian says, "Also, if you have some sick digs prepared."

Navesi says, "The Strike Team will be attempting to enter the Spire and proceed through the various areas, pausing in each to kill Priests. The goal is eventually to make it to the intercessors and kill as many as possible."

Mazrian nods.

Navesi says, "The Research Team will be entering and visiting four or five separate locations, chosen by my apprentice, Mendira."

Hoshii lets out a hearty cheer for Mendira!

Mendira blushes, the tips of her ears turning a delicate scarlet hue.

Andante smiles.

* Ecclesiarch Suulnir joins the adventure.

Navesi says, "There we will be evoking the history of the locations and also searching for physical clues that we can use against the Priests, such as their plans and papers."

Angel smiles at Mendira.

Navesi says, "If you've never been in the Spire, it will be quite the tour."

Navesi grins wryly.

Mazrian nods in agreement.

Nilme gets a silversteel longsword with a black diamond pommel from inside her hip pouch.

Mazrian says, "The layout is intentionally confusing, so pay attention to where you are and which direction is back to safety, and try to stay grouped."

Navesi says, "It will also be quite dangerous. I am hoping to use our Paladins to ensure some level of safety, but it is NOT guaranteed."

Navesi nods.

Nilme gestures at a silversteel longsword with a black diamond pommel.

Nilme puts her longsword in her hip pouch.

Mendira nods.

Navesi says, "Miskton will be with us to gate any bodies back to Triage, or anyone who becomes overwhelmed."

Miskton nods.

Navesi says, "As for the Strike Team, Keldyn I was hoping you would lead them as one of our most competent and experienced Bards."

Navesi says, "On that team you will be on your own if you get in trouble and need to get back out, so do get your maps out and memorize the triage location when we get there."

Navesi says, "The Hecklers -- you will be heckling. If you get overwhelmed, step through the BARRIER back to triage. Heckle from there if you want to. I am hoping to collect the insults at the end for a bit of a contest for the best one-liner."

Aislynn nods to Navesi.

Navesi says, "Aislynn, I am hoping you will lead the Hecklers, with aid from Ahneya."

Dantia smiles at Madigan.

Dantia gently kisses Madigan on the cheek.

Aislynn nods in agreement.

Madigan smiles at Dantia.

Madigan gently kisses Dantia on the cheek.

Ahneya smiles at Aislynn.

Navesi asks, "Any questions so far?"

Aislynn grins.

Betlind giggles at Aislynn.

Andante shakes her head.

Andante smiles.

Mazrian says, "Inside the Spire, there is a relatively safe area just outside the door that leads into the Intercessor section. It may not STAY safe but if you need a breather that could save your life."

Hoshii grins at Nilme.

Hoshii just nudged Nilme.

Ahneya says to Aislynn, "They are getting the team back together for the first time."

Ezerak asks Navesi, "Should we invite Raikage to join us?"

Madigan quietly says, "If you are a paladin, find a target for your shield protect."

Dantia closes her eyes for a moment and grows still.

Navesi says, "Raikage can choose where he wants to be."

Aislynn holds her hand out towards Ahneya for a highfive.

Ezerak nods in agreement.

Navesi nods to Madigan.

Ahneya and Aislynn highfive each other.

Zynell asks, "Can we call dibs on him?"

Kaelie rubs her neck.

Kaelie says, "Hoping that isn't right behind me."

Ezerak whispers something to Navesi.

Navesi says, "I'm going to ask Paladins to join the Research team to help me guard the lower circle researchers."

Kaelie spins around!

Navesi nods to Ezerak.

Hoshii grins sheepishly.

Miniature Aetheline just arrived.

Zynell beams!

Mazrian beams at Aetheline!

Navesi asks, "Is there a Paladin here confident enough to Banner in the intercessor area?"

Angel smiles.

Aetheline waves.

Madigan says, "I can pop a banner there if someone tells me where."

Ahneya says to Aislynn, "One favor, just remind everyone you are the leader there and are definitely the prime target for any attacks."

Navesi nods to Madigan.

Zynell mutters something into the air about his gweth being broke.

Aislynn snickers at Ahneya.

Aetheline nods.

Madigan says, "Fair warning, the banner was shredded last time we were there."

Aetheline joins Navesi's group.

Zynell scoffs.

Angel rubs Aislynn gently.

Aislynn hums happily to herself.

Navesi says to Madigan, "Good, then you will be with us, and I can lead you there when the time comes if need be."

The tip of Aislynn's tail makes lazy circles in the air.

Aetheline beams at Mazrian!

Navesi nods to Madigan.

Aislynn takes a sip of her coffee.

Nilme offers Zynell a platinum kyanite gwethdesuan.

Ezerak nods at Madigan, obviously agreeing with his views.

Navesi says, "I think we are all aware that this is a dangerous mission. Be prepared for that."

Zynell declines Nilme's offer.

You nod.

Zynell grins.

Navesi asks, "Any last questions before we go to pray?"

Nilme smiles.

Nilme puts her gwethdesuan in a swirling eddy of incandescent light bound by a gold-striated coralite frame.

Aetheline furrows her brow and rubs her fingers together vigorously.

Dantia raises an eyebrow in Madigan's direction.

Saragos nods to Mazrian.

Hoshii bows to Madigan.

Ezerak says, "I expet it will be shredded again, should it come to violence."

Ahneya says, "One question."

Navesi nods to Ahneya.

Ahneya asks, "Sanctuary for the hecklers or do we want to start a fight out there?"

Hoshii smiles.

Navesi says, "Remember. Aislynn is leading the Hecklers. Keldyn is leading the Strike Team, and I am leading the Researchers."

Aislynn quietly says to Ahneya, "Start a fight."

Ahneya nods to Aislynn.

Andante grins.

Navesi says, "Good question."

Aislynn chortles softly at some secret joke.

Dantia asks, "And Madigan is with the Researchers, not the Strike Team?"

Dantia grins at Madigan.

Aetheline exclaims, "Oh I'm a researcher!"

Aetheline strikes a heroic pose.

Navesi says, "Sanctuary for a few at the start to let people get some quips in, then let them come. We want them distracted as our Strike Team pierces their heart."

Dantia smiles at Aetheline.

Aislynn quietly says, "I mean.... It depends on what we get, and who is there."

Aislynn chuckles.

Dantia just touched Aetheline.

Aislynn nods to Navesi.

Mendira grins at Aetheline.

Dantia nods to Madigan.

Kaelie says, "Maybe I missed the reasoning behind having hecklers when this is a mission of Diplomacy."

Navesi says, "This is the back up plan, Kaelie."

Navesi smiles at Kaelie.

Mazrian says, "There are several related missions."

Mazrian flashes a quick grin.

Kaelie says, "If all else fails, tease them. Got it."

Kaelie nods.

You say, "My understanding is that the heckling is only for if the diplomacy fails."

Navesi says, "We have a feeling the diplomacy will not go well."

Angel chuckles.

Ahneya nods to Kaelie.

Navesi says, "Teasing is a time-honored Bard tradition. Fitting for our Bardic enemy."

Zynell says to Kaelie, "Or our team, moral support and all."

Navesi flashes a quick grin.

Zynell winks at Kaelie.

Aislynn quietly says to Kaelie, "I'm told its Bardic tradition. I don't question those sorts of things."

Ahneya says, "We will practice on eachother until then."

Navesi says, "Oh yes, and Kaelie will be in charge of Triage."

Andante snickers.

Nilme grins at Ahneya.

Kaelie says, "And by in charge she means I'll be there handing out heals."

Aislynn squints at a Halfling peasant.

Hoshii giggles at Aislynn.

Andante grins.

Aetheline pops her knuckles and breathes deep, trying to look calm.

Mendira smiles at Kaelie.

Navesi nods to Kaelie.

You say, "If the attempt at diplomacy is somehow successful, to any degree, I would ask that the heckling wait until the diplomacy concludes... as that conclusion will likely be due to violence."

Aislynn nods at you, obviously agreeing with your views.

Andante nods.

Navesi nods to you.

Navesi says, "If they somehow decide to be very conciliatory and offer peace, we will back off of the combat mission and heckling."

Navesi says, "I just don't think it at all likely."

Dantia chuckles.

Navesi asks, "Any last questions?"

Aislynn wryly says, "I promise, peace really is a part of our vocabulary."

Kaelie says to Zynell, "You and I might be very busy."

Aislynn rolls her eyes.

Aislynn clicks her claws together.

Zynell looks at Kaelie and shrugs.

Zynell says to Kaelie, "It is a day."

Angel smiles at Aislynn.

Dantia pats Kaelie on the back.

Madigan grins at Zynell.

Kaelie nods to Zynell.

Delani says, "Peace seems a bit generous considering all they've done to the people of these lands."

Hoshii says to Aislynn, "We know many words, yes."

Navesi says, "Okay, then join me please if you haven't already."

Kaelie says to Zynell, "That's how we do."

Aislynn chortles softly at some secret joke.

Whiteburn nods to Navesi.

Keldyn joins Navesi's group.

Hoshii says to Aislynn, "Like 'burn' and 'dungbrains.'."

Navesi says, "Let us go and pray."

Opening Prayer to Peri'el

You follow Navesi north.
[Temple of Light, Grand Hall]
An alabaster dome, inset with crystal prisms and held aloft by vaulted arches, soars above the polished tile floor. Light filtering through the prisms creates a dancing multi-hued aurora high above the fountain. Centered beneath the dome is a fountain bubbling with water stained by the colorful reflected light. A series of detailed mosaic animal images symbolizing the deities paves the path between the fountain and surrounding arches. You also see a silver portal, some arches dedicated to each deity and some mosaics before each arch.

Also here: Singing Sword Andante who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Amicable Ahneya who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Maunderer Aislynn who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Hodierna's Fist Kaelie who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Inquisitor Whiteburn who is shrouded by swirling grey fog, Mountain Lord Ezerak who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Soul Surgeon Zynell who is emanating a bright holy aura, Bladesinger Hoshii who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Carnage Darling Dantia who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Philomath Miskton who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Shield Maiden Betlind who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Delani who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Vanzok who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Dancer Mendira who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Enchantress Angel who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Mazrian who is surrounded by seven circling blades of ice, Langen Esturi Nilme who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Aes-Amachi Casari who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Tempest Knight Saragos who is surrounded by seven circling blades of ice, Holy Being Maintain who is shrouded in ghostly flames, Warrior Poet Keldyn, Sir Madigan who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Miniature Aetheline and True Bard Navesi who is surrounded by a shimmering shield.
Obvious exits: north, south.

Mendira smiles.

Zynell says to Kaelie, "Aye, at least there is less running across the realms this time."

True Bard Navesi's group went through the Peri'el arch.

[Temple of Light, Alcove of Peri'el]
A marble statue of a S'kra woman, graceful arm bent to her harp as she sits before a recumbent dragon, fills the center of the chamber. Lame and half-blind, she seems oddly peaceful as she sings her eternal song, pausing only to sprinkle sand on the sleeping dragon. A niche in one of the walls holds several conch shells. Marble benches line the smooth marble walls, giving people a place to sit while admiring the statue. You also see a sturdy teak table with a glass shard hanging from a silken cord on it and a smooth marble arch.

Also here: Bladesinger Hoshii who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Inquisitor Whiteburn who is shrouded by swirling grey fog, Philomath Miskton who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Mountain Lord Ezerak who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Hodierna's Fist Kaelie who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Carnage Darling Dantia who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Soul Surgeon Zynell who is emanating a bright holy aura, Shield Maiden Betlind who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Singing Sword Andante who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Maunderer Aislynn who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Mazrian who is surrounded by seven circling blades of ice, Dancer Mendira who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Tempest Knight Saragos who is surrounded by seven circling blades of ice, Holy Being Maintain who is shrouded in ghostly flames, Aes-Amachi Casari who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Sir Madigan who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Langen Esturi Nilme who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Amicable Ahneya who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Vanzok who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Delani who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Enchantress Angel who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Miniature Aetheline, Warrior Poet Keldyn and True Bard Navesi who is surrounded by a shimmering shield.
Obvious exits: none.

Navesi nods to Whiteburn.

Whiteburn studies the faces around her.

Whiteburn gets some holy water from inside an ornate chalice carved from stormy-grey quartz trimmed with silver.

Whiteburn sprinkles some holy water on herself.

Whiteburn puts her water in a heavy linen rucksack.

Whiteburn gets some burnt incense from inside her caliginous greatcloak.

Whiteburn gets a diminutive tin magma viper from inside her caliginous greatcloak.

Whiteburn points her tin viper at some burnt incense and a flame shoots from the creature's mouth, making the incense quickly catch fire.

Whiteburn puts her viper in her caliginous greatcloak.

Whiteburn waves some burnt incense over herself.

Whiteburn drops some burning burnt incense.

Saragos nods to Mazrian.

Whiteburn takes a deep breath and then raises her hands, murmuring prayers under her breath. A strong white light fills her, exploding outward and blinding you momentarily. When the light fades Whiteburn is standing with head slightly bowed, looking exhausted but happy.

Whiteburn picks up some burnt incense.

Whiteburn puts her incense in her pilgrim's satchel.

Whiteburn takes a seat.

Whiteburn gets a sinuous carved bloodwood harp from inside her pilgrim's satchel.

Dantia grins at Kaelie.

(Whiteburn begins to sway her head from side to side as she begins to play on her bloodwood harp.)

Mendira gazes at Whiteburn.

Navesi gazes at Whiteburn.

Whiteburn begins a quiet psalm on her bloodwood harp with only the slightest hint of difficulty.

Betlind kneels down.

Aislynn's tail undulates passively just above the ground.

Navesi kneels down.

Betlind continues praying.

Andante kneels down.

Whiteburn chants in a soprano voice:

   "Purest Peri'el, eidolic, resplendent.
    Khosa'hhn aepivo'hrr'shuzh.
    Your gift, inestimable. Your sacrifice, unreckonable.
    Our beating hearts echo in gratitude.
    As we draw breath,
    No wicked word shall disjoin your sacred song.
    No malign hand shall menace you.
    Nor shall you ever be abandoned to darkness."

You kneel down upon the ground.

Miskton kneels down and begins to pray.

Andante continues praying.

Aislynn kneels down and begins to pray.

Ezerak kneels down and begins to pray.

Kaelie kneels down and begins to pray.

Whiteburn chants in a soprano voice:

   "Benevolent lady, abide with us
    We are imperiled by the ravages of hate and of time.
    Hear our prayers, and, heeding,
    Lay your pearlescent hand upon our brows, and render us inviolable.
    If armistice is achievable, then grant us the strength to forgive.
    In the face of our ancient foe, we shall not gnash our teeth, nor be brought down to the anima of lesser creatures.
    Lest the dragon stir in its sleeping, and, in its restlessness, rouse our foe to further tumult."

Mendira bows her head in acknowledgement.

Angel places a hand on her chest and bows her head.

Aetheline asks, "Er.. should I be praying?"

Mazrian nods to Aetheline.

Navesi softly says, "To Peri'el does my voice go, to mingle with Her song."

Aetheline nods.

Aetheline kneels down and begins to pray.

Ezerak prays fervently.

Whiteburn chants in a soprano voice:

   "But, if clam-like, their ears, and firmed their resolve to heresy
    Then, with your blessed aegis, shall we come upon them as a wave.
    We shall rebuke their advance with harsh word, with steel, and with fire.
    Quicken your song, good Mistress, that the dragon may not heed their infidel's cry.
    In death's repose, peace shall become them.
    And never shall you be abandoned to darkness.
    Smo'kku'par hat'kappo, aepoho'ame'hhrsk."

Aetheline continues praying.

Madigan adjusts his icesteel cuirass.

Aetheline stands up.

Andante stands up.

Whiteburn finishes playing a quiet psalm on her bloodwood harp.

Whiteburn looks up and sighs, smiling.

Aislynn's crest lays flat against her skull as she trills contentedly at Whiteburn.

Aetheline kneels down and begins to pray.

Dantia whispers something to Madigan.

Madigan draws forth a flame-bladed zweihander with a blade of firestained agonite.

(Whiteburn allows the final words of her prayer to drift off into silence as she slows to stillness.)

Aetheline stands up.

Betlind bows to Whiteburn.

Closing her eyes in utter tranquility, Whiteburn intones, "Softly sing out praises to Peri'el, whose gentle voice lulls the World Dragon in its eternal slumber."

Navesi gazes upward.

Madigan quietly says, "Just so."

Madigan just kissed a flame-bladed zweihander with a blade of firestained agonite!

Betlind stands up.

Madigan puts his zweihander in his hip pouch.

Madigan sheathes his flame-bladed zweihander.

Navesi slowly empties her lungs.

Aislynn stands up.

Kaelie stands up.

Navesi stands up.

Whiteburn stands up.

Miskton stands up.

Whiteburn puts her harp in her pilgrim's satchel.

Navesi says, "Thank you, Mother Whiteburn."

Whiteburn nods to Navesi.

Casari says, "My favorite part was the fire."

Mendira smiles at Whiteburn.

Navesi says, "And thank you, supplicants."

Aetheline nods to Casari.

Hoshii grins mischievously at Casari.

Navesi says, "Let our voices be heard this day, in honor of Peri'el."

You stand back up.

Madigan adjusts his icesteel cuirass.

Ezerak stands up.

Mazrian quietly says, "Peri'el, not the first time we've helped you in your work. Help us help you."

Navesi says, "Miskton, if you would please open the gate to our Triage location."

Miskton nods.

Miskton turns his gaze heavenward and traces a series of lunar sigils in the air.

Madigan snaps to attention and hails Saragos with a crisp hand salute.

Hoshii fidgets nervously.

Navesi raises an eyebrow in Whiteburn's direction.

Aetheline gets a chocolate storm cupcake with a whirl of lightning bolt sprinkles from inside her patched gearbag.

Aetheline offers Hoshii a chocolate storm cupcake with a whirl of lightning bolt sprinkles.

Kaelie says to Zynell, "This will be our stop."

Aetheline says to Hoshii, "Some chocolate courage."

Aetheline nods.

Zynell nods to Kaelie.

Hoshii accepts Aetheline's chocolate cupcake.

Miskton gestures.

Hoshii beams at Aetheline!

Miskton turns his gaze heavenward and traces a series of lunar sigils in the air.

Navesi nods to Whiteburn.

Keldyn grins at Hoshii.

Hoshii says to Aetheline, "I adore you."

Madigan smiles at Dantia.

Aetheline beams at Hoshii!

Madigan stands near Dantia.

Dantia smiles at Madigan.

Lashes lowered, Hoshii sinks down in a deep curtsy before Aetheline.

Madigan gently kisses Dantia on the cheek.

Aetheline looks extremely pleased with herself.

Hoshii takes a bite of the cupcake.

Miskton says, "Okay, gate's about to open."

Hoshii whimpers softly.

Navesi nods to Miskton.

Miskton gestures.

A fierce blue-white glare forces you to avert your eyes for a moment. When it subsides, a blue Moongate stands before you, rippling slightly. Keldyn peers through the Moongate.

Nilme peers through the Moongate.

Navesi peers through the Moongate.

Saragos peers through the Moongate.

Whiteburn peers through the Moongate.

Hoshii gives a slight nod.

Mazrian nods.

Hoshii puts her cupcake in her silk haversack.

Navesi says, "Heading through."

Aetheline rubs her hands together.

Arrival to Cragstone Vale

True Bard Navesi's group went through a blue Moongate.
[Cragstone Vale, Roadway]
The forest rises to the north of the roadway while the scarred wall of the ravine rises to the south. Some cataclysmic force fractured the cliff face above, causing a tumult of rock and debris to cascade across the road. You also see a blue Moongate and a jagged rockslide.

Also here: Bladesinger Hoshii who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Inquisitor Whiteburn who is shrouded by swirling grey fog, Philomath Miskton who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Mountain Lord Ezerak who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Hodierna's Fist Kaelie who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Carnage Darling Dantia who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Soul Surgeon Zynell who is emanating a bright holy aura, Shield Maiden Betlind who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Singing Sword Andante who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Maunderer Aislynn who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Mazrian who has a stony visage, Dancer Mendira who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Tempest Knight Saragos who has a fiery visage, Holy Being Maintain who is shrouded in ghostly flames, Aes-Amachi Casari who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Sir Madigan who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Langen Esturi Nilme who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Amicable Ahneya who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Vanzok who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Delani who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Enchantress Angel who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Miniature Aetheline, Warrior Poet Keldyn and True Bard Navesi who is surrounded by a shimmering shield.
Obvious paths: northeast.

Casari cracks her knuckles.

Kaelie left the group.

Miskton peers through the Moongate.

Aislynn peers through the Moongate.

Zynell joins Kaelie's group.

Navesi says, "Triage is here. Remember it."

Aislynn scowls.

Aetheline casually observes the area.

Hoshii quietly says, "Nilmeeeee. I don't want to die."

Navesi says, "The FENCE leads to their war camp. Once there, the BARRIER takes you back."

Miskton peers through the Moongate.

Raikage comes out of hiding.

Kaelie asks, "Try to keep it light in here, eh?"

Mazrian nods to Madigan.

Hoshii glances at Nilme.

You nod.

Navesi says, "Everyone finish spelling up please."

A blue Moongate collapses in on itself.

Navesi says, "Miskton, please place the mirror on Ayrell."

Vanzok casually observes the area.

Vanzok frowns.

Ezerak brushes the surface of his gais diadem and begins to reel! He clutches his head in pain!

Miskton turns his gaze heavenward and traces a series of lunar sigils in the air.

Navesi traces a curving sigil in the air.

Vanzok makes a grunting noise.

Kaelie casually observes the area.

Miskton gestures at you.

With a raspy sigh, a shadowy mirror drifts up out of the ground.

Navesi gestures.

A myriad of disjointed sounds seem to linger aimlessly in the air for a few moments. You hear a brief ringing in your ears before they blend together into phrases you quickly recognize.

You feel your mind sharpen further under the power of Navesi's spell.

Vanzok pads northeast.

Madigan nods to Mazrian.

Aetheline gestures at herself.

You nod politely.

Navesi designates Saragos as the new leader of the group.

Hoshii asks Navesi, "When do we start casting offensive spells as well? After peace talks, I suppose?"

Navesi says, "After the peace talks, yes."

Hoshii slowly empties her lungs.

Hoshii nods.

Navesi left the group.

Navesi says, "Saragos has the lead while I go with Ayrell to provide Sanctuary."

Saragos nods to Navesi.

Dantia hums happily to herself.

Andante nods.

Navesi says, "Ayrell, Ezerak, please join me."

Aislynn left the group.

You join Navesi's group.

Mazrian nods.

Aetheline beams!

Aislynn quietly says, "Hecklers, join me."

Ezerak joins Navesi's group.

Aislynn quietly says, "We're waiting here."

Andante joins Aislynn's group.

Psaero glances at Aislynn.

Mazrian joins Aislynn's group.

Aetheline joins Aislynn's group.

Navesi says, "Go ahead and join Aislynn if you want to heckle. For research just wait until I get back."

Ahneya joins Aislynn's group.

Aislynn quietly says, "But I'd like to have you in a group and ready to go, so we can chat."

Navesi nods to Aislynn.

Mendira nods.

Navesi grins at Aislynn.

Aislynn nods at Navesi, obviously agreeing with her views.

Aislynn grins.

The tip of Aislynn's tail makes lazy circles in the air.

Zynell ponders.

Navesi says, "All right, we're moving. Once we step off, look in the mirror to watch Ayrell."

Navesi nods.

Whiteburn nods to Navesi.

Madigan bows to Maintain.

Navesi weaves a soft melody, the notes so light and airy they can barely be heard.

You say, "Hopefully, everyone will get to see talking and not... me dying."

You smile slightly.

Dantia nods to Saragos.

Andante grins.

Whiteburn says to you, "May the Gods smile."

Madigan grins at you.

Ezerak frowns.

Aetheline grins at you, her dimples flashing into view.

Aislynn praises you.

You chuckle to yourself.

Mendira smiles at you.

Aislynn grins at Mazrian.

Ezerak says to you, "They'll have to go through me first."

Angel smiles at Ezerak.

You smile at Ezerak.

You enfold Ezerak in a warm embrace. A faint scent of lilac clings to his skin.

Navesi says, "Actually, looks like we all need to move northeast first."

Ezerak enfolds you in a warm embrace.

Kaelie says to Zynell, "We got gypped out of mirror watching."

Tempest Knight Saragos strides northeast, leading his group.

Aislynn chuckles.

You follow Navesi northeast.

[Cragstone Vale, Roadway]
An occasional twittering bird breaks the silence of the forest canopy that hangs over this stretch of road. Boughs of mikkhalbamar block most of the sky from view. The pathway widens to the southwest while a rain-washed gully blocks the way east. You also see a translucent brilliant red sphere.

Also here: Mountain Lord Ezerak who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, True Bard Navesi who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Warrior Poet Keldyn who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Enchantress Angel who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Delani who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Langen Esturi Nilme who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Sir Madigan who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Aes-Amachi Casari who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Holy Being Maintain who is shrouded in ghostly flames, Dancer Mendira who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Carnage Darling Dantia who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Philomath Miskton who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Bladesinger Hoshii who is surrounded by a shimmering shield and Tempest Knight Saragos who is surrounded by seven circling blades of ice.
Obvious paths: southwest.

Madigan nods to Dantia.

Maunderer Aislynn just arrived, leading her group.

Shield Maiden Betlind just arrived.

Navesi says, "THIS is the Triage point, looks like we were off by one."

Inquisitor Whiteburn just arrived.

Andante smiles.

Mazrian says, "Not all bad considering distance."

Aetheline casually observes the area.

Aislynn rests her hand on Aetheline's arm with a soft smile.

Madigan pivots in Betlind's direction and salutes her with his flame-bladed zweihander, bringing the weapon downwards in a precise, fluid movement.

Soul Surgeon Zynell just arrived, leading her group.

Betlind bows to Madigan.

Kaelie beams at Zynell!

Casari asks Miskton, "Can you make another mirror?"

Navesi says, "No, still wrong."

Miskton turns his gaze heavenward and traces a series of lunar sigils in the air.

Miskton nods.

Arms outstretched, Aetheline fans her rainbow-colored skirt wide, fluttering like the wings of some brilliant tan and lime-green butterfly.

Whiteburn joins Saragos's group.

Casari says, "Whenever we get where we're going."

Casari grins.

Navesi says, "Moving."

Tempest Knight Saragos's group climbed up a rain-washed gully.

Zynell says, "Told you."

Zynell winks at Kaelie.

Kaelie joins Navesi's group.

Aislynn chuckles.

Soul Surgeon Zynell climbed up a rain-washed gully.

Ahneya joins Navesi's group.

Aetheline nods.

Andante joins Navesi's group.

True Bard Navesi's group climbed up a rain-washed gully.

[Cragstone Vale, Roadway]
The forest crowds the road as the neglected path winds its way through a depression in the valley floor. Rainwater and mountain snowmelt have eroded a sharp gully that blocks the way westward. No movement comes from the surrounding trees despite an occasional breeze passing through the area.

You follow Navesi northeast.

[Cragstone Vale, Roadway]
The overgrown roadway stretches to the southwest, while a section of crushed fence leads to a rocky shelf above. The sound of rushing water can be heard from the north where a huge, fallen tree has been toppled away from the road, creating a narrow void through the underbrush. You also see a shadowy mirror, an enormous electrical fissure, a blue-eyed ebony kitten and a translucent brilliant red sphere.

Mendira pats a crushed fence.

Navesi points at a crushed fence.

Zynell giggles at Kaelie.

Kaelie grins at Zynell.

Navesi says, "Okay, here."

Navesi gazes up at the sky.

You ask, "Is the mirror still in place?"

Navesi says, "This is definitely the triage point this time."

Miskton says, "There's one up here now."

Navesi flashes a quick grin.

Zynell asks, "This is triage?"

Kaelie says to Zynell, "See this is why I have you close."

Zynell nods.

You nod.

Navesi says, "Miskton, make sure your beam is here please."

Maunderer Aislynn just arrived, leading her group.

Miskton turns his gaze heavenward and traces a series of lunar sigils in the air.

Andante joins Aislynn's group.

Bastion of Life Karthor wandered up a crushed fence.

Mazrian says, "There we are."

Mazrian moves into a position to dodge.

Zynell says to Kaelie, "Dragging through a gully was going to be annoying is alll."

Madigan pivots in Karthor's direction and salutes him with his flame-bladed zweihander, bringing the weapon downwards in a precise, fluid movement.

Mazrian says, "Heyo, Karthor. Just in time."

Zynell chortles softly at some secret joke.

Mazrian smiles at Karthor.

Whiteburn rubs her scalp in agitation.

Karthor raises his hand in a quick salute.

Zynell takes a seat.

Madigan shakes Karthor's hand.

Aislynn's tail undulates passively just above the ground.

Karthor says, "H'lo folks. An' here I was afraid I was late."

Miskton gestures.

A beam of clear silvery-blue light descends from the heavens.

Zynell joins Navesi's group.

Karthor grins.

Angel nods to Mazrian.

Andante smiles at Karthor.

Casari hums to herself.

Mendira nods graciously at Karthor, giving him a polite smile.

Dantia stretches her arms.

Navesi says, "Recast the mirror too please."

Navesi nods to Miskton.

A Halfling peasant wandered up a crushed fence.

Karthor asks, "What're we up to, where do ya need me, an' all that sort o' thing?"

Karthor ducks his head.

Angel smiles at Karthor.

Navesi says to Karthor, "Here, for now."

Karthor smiles.

Dantia nods at Madigan, obviously agreeing with his views.

Karthor says, "Perfect."

Angel pets a blue-eyed ebony kitten.

Without warning, the ebony kitten lets out a yowl so loud it could wake up your ancestors.

Dantia grins at Madigan.

Angel giggles.

Dantia leans on Madigan.

Madigan grins at Dantia.

Dantia winks at Madigan.

Angel plucks a dainty Taisidonian rat from a lilac heartstring lace ball strung with tiny silver bells, the creature yawning as she wakes it up.

Angel carefully places a dainty Taisidonian rat on her shoulder.

Angel pats a dainty Taisidonian rat.

Navesi says, "Okay, I'm going to move Ayrell out now. Look in the mirror once we are gone."

Navesi forces Ahneya out of her group.

Aetheline nods.

Navesi forces Kaelie out of her group.

Aetheline rubs her hands together.

Navesi forces Zynell out of her group.

Hoshii exclaims to you, "Good luck!"

Kaelie joins Zynell's group.

Madigan says, "See, now the clerics have some style when they get their weapons ready."

You smile.

Dantia touches you.

You feel a warmth radiate from Dantia's touch.

You have a brief sensation that leaves your wounds tingling.

Madigan smiles at Hoshii.

Andante grins.

You say, "Thank you."

Navesi briefly spreads her arms outward while continuing to sing softly. A dome of light begins to build up around Navesi as the whispered notes get more complicated.

Aetheline looks at you and lets out a hearty cheer on your behalf!

Initial Contact With Suulnir

True Bard Navesi's group wandered down a crushed fence.

[Cragstone Vale, Corral]
The mountain's flank flattens, creating a broad ledge between the cliffs above and the forest below. A fence of stout mikkalbamar logs has been erected around the area to create an enclosure in which the Dragon Priests train their war mounts, but some great force has left the barricade in ruins here. You also see a trampled barrier.
Also here: Mountain Lord Ezerak who is surrounded by a shimmering shield and True Bard Navesi who is surrounded by a shimmering shield.
Obvious paths: east, southeast, south.

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Maintain's face.

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Aetheline's face.

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Casari's face.

Navesi gets a slender helical warhorn trimmed with orichalcum knotwork from inside her canvas rucksack.

Navesi sounds a fierce call from her warhorn that would warn away almost anything!

Navesi puts her warhorn in her canvas rucksack.

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Miskton's face.

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Betlind's face.

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Mazrian's face.

A faint rustling grows louder, stops briefly, and then fades again.

A faint rustling grows louder, stops briefly, and then fades again.

Navesi nods to you.

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Aislynn's face.

Ezerak smiles at you, revealing the dimples in his cheeks.

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Andante's face.

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Mendira's face.

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Hoshii's face.

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Kaelie's face.

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Karthor's face.

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Nilme's face.

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Delani's face.

Navesi says, "Once everyone seems to be watching, go ahead and begin."

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Whiteburn's face.

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Zynell's face.

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Angel's face.

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Saragos's face.

You nod.

Navesi's voice grows deeper, hovering at the edge of her register. As she completes each phrase the notes hang on the air, blending together in a wraith- like array of sound.

The music takes hold, manifesting as a large dome of bright light.

Ezerak searches around for a moment.

You say, "Here is hoping they are watching us as well."

As Navesi nears to the end of her enchante, she gently lets the line of melody dwindle, fading into silence.

The dome of light extinguishes as the final notes of music die away.

Ezerak searches around for a moment.

Ezerak searches around for a moment.

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Dantia's face.

Ezerak grumbles.

You hear a voice say, "Just me."

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Ahneya's face.

Navesi gets a slender helical warhorn trimmed with orichalcum knotwork from inside her canvas rucksack.

Navesi sounds a fierce call from her warhorn that would warn away almost anything!

Navesi puts her warhorn in her canvas rucksack.

You peer quizzically at Ezerak.

You hear a voice say, "Raikage."

As you utter those words, the hair stands on the back of your neck. You have a feeling you have your answer.

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Yvela's face.

A shimmering mirror of shadows appears momentarily in the air above, briefly revealing Eyst's face.

A shiver runs up your spine.

You say, "We come in peace. We only wish to speak."

Navesi comes and stands near you.

You say, "We have a few questions. We hoped you might entertain them so we may better understand."

Navesi gets a slender helical warhorn trimmed with orichalcum knotwork from inside her canvas rucksack.

Navesi sounds a fierce call from her warhorn that would warn away almost anything!

[Personal] Your mind hears Suulnir thinking, "<to you>" "It would be rude of me not to offer -- entertainment -- to guests in my home."

Navesi seems to be waiting for something.

You hear your mental voice echo to Suulnir, "That depends on the entertainment."
You project your thoughts to Suulnir.

You ask, "Are you willing to speak with us?"

Ezerak scans the area briefly.

Ezerak chuckles.

Navesi sounds a fierce call from her warhorn that would warn away almost anything!

[Personal] Your mind hears Suulnir thinking, "<to you>" "I have consecrated the altar to the World Dragon. If you wish to speak, I would encourage you to ascend the Spire. I assure you, the temple is -- quite safe."

Ezerak says, "A whole lot of assassins to the south, I assume because of the warhorn."

Ezerak moves over to guard you.

You say, "I am told that the altar to the World Dragon has been consecrated. And if we wish to speak, we can... ascend."

You hear a voice ask, "We trying to talk first?"

Navesi quietly says, "Assassins are not usually in this area. This is their mounted training."

Navesi glances at you.

[Personal] Your mind hears Suulnir thinking, "<to you>" "As for the rest of the Spire, I make no promises -- my colleagues are not fond of being hunted like beasts."

Ezerak says, "Shouldn't be assassin around, normally, I am told."

Ezerak nods to Navesi.

Navesi says to you, "You are in charge of the diplomacy. It is your decision. But we will lose the mirror once we are indoors."

Raikage says, "Sometimes they come into the Corral though."

You say, "I am assured that area is safe... no promises for the rest of the Spire."

Raikage says, "Seen them here before."

Navesi says to you, "If you choose to go, I will gather the others. I can lead us there."

You nod to Navesi.

Navesi asks, "Is that your wish?"

You say to Navesi, "I would like to try. It is the best chance we have at peaceful discussion."

Navesi nods.

Ezerak tried to join you, but you indicate to him that Navesi is leading.

True Bard Navesi's group wandered down a trampled barrier.

[Cragstone Vale, Roadway]
The overgrown roadway stretches to the southwest, while a section of crushed fence leads to a rocky shelf above. The sound of rushing water can be heard from the north where a huge, fallen tree has been toppled away from the road, creating a narrow void through the underbrush. You also see a blue moonbeam, a floating vessel of flaring crimson light, a shadowy mirror, a large electrical fissure, a blue-eyed ebony kitten and a translucent brilliant red sphere.

Also here: Mountain Lord Ezerak who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, True Bard Navesi who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Telo'Getha Tirost who has a stony visage, Esotericist Eyst, Philosopher Yvela, Bastion of Life Karthor, Miniature Aetheline who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Mazrian who has a stony visage, Shield Maiden Betlind who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Maunderer Aislynn who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Singing Sword Andante who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Amicable Ahneya who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Hodierna's Fist Kaelie who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Soul Surgeon Zynell who is sitting, Inquisitor Whiteburn who is shrouded by swirling grey fog, Warrior Poet Keldyn who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Enchantress Angel who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Delani who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Langen Esturi Nilme who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Sir Madigan who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Aes-Amachi Casari who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Holy Being Maintain who is shrouded in ghostly flames, Dancer Mendira who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Carnage Darling Dantia who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Philomath Miskton who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Bladesinger Hoshii who is surrounded by a shimmering shield and Tempest Knight Saragos who is surrounded by seven circling blades of ice. Obvious paths: southwest.

Whiteburn says, "A Dragon Priest's invitation to 'ascend' is troubling, to say the least."

Angel whispers something to Tirost.

Whiteburn sneers disdainfully and flicks the tip of her tail downward.

Mazrian says, "If you're comfortable with the idea of fighting a ton of priests inside.."

Madigan nods to Whiteburn.

Casari grins.

Navesi says, "Everyone, join up if you wish to go inside to see the speaking."

Madigan grins at Mazrian.

Casari joins Navesi's group.

Yvela joins Navesi's group.

Dantia joins Navesi's group.

Eyst joins Navesi's group.

Mazrian joins Navesi's group.

Miskton joins Navesi's group.

Betlind joins Navesi's group.

Madigan says, "Well, that is why we are here."

Tirost warmly says to Dantia, "Much appreciated, Dantia."

Delani joins Navesi's group.

Karthor joins Navesi's group.

Andante joins Navesi's group.

Nilme joins Navesi's group.

Aetheline joins Navesi's group.

Hoshii joins Navesi's group.

Dantia smiles at Tirost.

Mendira joins Navesi's group.

Hoshii mumbles something unprintable.

Aislynn joins Navesi's group.

Ahneya joins Navesi's group.

Raikage wavers into view for a moment.

Raikage joins Navesi's group.

Navesi says, "I will move quickly but it will still be dangerous."

Tirost joins Navesi's group.

Madigan joins Navesi's group.

Nilme gets a silversteel longsword with a black diamond pommel from inside her hip pouch.

Madigan nods to Dantia.

You say, "Please, everyone be careful and on guard."

Betlind moves into position to cover Aislynn from harm.

Andante gets a diacan marauder blade with a grip wrapped in morgawr leather from inside her war belt.

Betlind loosens the straps securing her heater shield and removes it.

Mazrian says, "Just be ready, everyone, for the situation to change at literally the drop of a hat."

Zynell asks, "You do not want to be on triage Raikage?"

Navesi puts her warhorn in her canvas rucksack.

Hoshii says, "Just tell me when I can burn sh-tuff."

Navesi nods to Mazrian.

Tirost nods to Mazrian.

Zynell's ears droop for a moment.

Hoshii frowns.

Aetheline nods to Hoshii.

Whiteburn joins Navesi's group.

Kaelie gazes down at the ground.

You hear someone chuckling.

You hear a voice say, "I'm not very good at the triage stuff."

You hear a voice say, "I'm good at sending people there though."

Angel whispers something to Tirost.

Kaelie says to Zynell, "And I thought we were the cool place."

Madigan grins at Kaelie.

Tirost smiles at Angel.

Tirost nods.

Zynell says to Kaelie, "Well i am."

Madigan says, "Toss some waffles out and he will stay."

Zynell looks at Kaelie and shrugs.

Hoshii grins at Madigan.

Kaelie grins at Zynell.

Madigan grins.

Dantia laughs at Madigan.

Ahneya left the group.

Maintain blinks at Madigan.

Kaelie says to Zynell, "I am too. He's just missing out is all."

Navesi says, "Join me if you want to see what they have to say."

Saragos takes his rightful place beside Navesi.

Zynell says, "I have booze...."

Kaelie folds her arms across her chest.

Maintain asks, "You'd throw waffles...away?"

You hear a voice say, "Don't give alway all my secrets Madigan."

Madigan laughs!

You hear a voice say, "Jeez."

Navesi says, "If things change, we will evacuate back out here."

Dantia grins.

Zynell says, "And cupcakes."

Navesi says, "This is a change in our plan -- they have invited us inside."

Madigan says to Maintain, "No sir, in fact I had to fight Raikage over some waffles just the other day."

Hoshii gazes hopefully at Zynell.

Madigan nods at Maintain, obviously agreeing with his views.

Maintain nods at Madigan, obviously agreeing with his views.

Mazrian nods to Navesi.

Navesi says, "Miskton has a beam here so we can move quickly if need be, and reform our teams."

Aetheline says, "Everybody is rainbowy."

You hear your mental voice echo to Suulnir, "We will meet you there, then. I thank you for the warning."

You project your thoughts to Suulnir.

Aetheline looks extremely pleased with herself.

Zynell offers Hoshii a blue-frosted cupcake topped with purple sprinkles.

Miskton nods.

Saragos nods to Navesi.

Dantia just touched Aetheline.

Hoshii beams at Zynell!

Navesi says, "Paladins, please choose someone to protect. Mendira could use it."

Hoshii accepts Zynell's blue-frosted cupcake.

Kaelie says, "Of course Madigan had already eaten them so there was only one way to get them."

Whiteburn says to Navesi, "I will attend you, although I fear their intentions are not like to be pure."

Zynell giggles.

Kaelie winces.

Madigan grunts at Kaelie.

Navesi nods to Whiteburn.

You hear someone chuckling.

Hoshii exclaims to Zynell, "My second favorite cleric ever!"

Miskton says, "I'll be prepared to open a moongate back here, assuming they don't block me."

Lashes lowered, Hoshii sinks down in a deep curtsy before Zynell.

Mazrian says, "If this turns bad suddenly, priority is getting back here to regroup."

Ahneya says, "I will stay here and wish the best while I prepare for the worst."

Hoshii takes a bite of the cupcake.

Navesi says, "All right, we are moving out shortly. Last chance to join."

Navesi nods to Mazrian.

You nod.

Zynell shrugs.

Sothios wandered up a crushed fence.

Ezerak fidgets nervously.

Aislynn hugs Sothios, who wraps his arms around Aislynn with a warm smile.

Zynell clasps Sothios's hand tenderly and draws him into her arms.

Aetheline hugs Sothios, who wraps his arms around Aetheline with a warm smile.

Madigan quietly says, "Note this location, this is your rally point if things go bad."

Aetheline waves to Sothios.

You rub Ezerak's back.

Betlind hugs Sothios, who wraps his arms around Betlind with a warm smile.

Navesi nods to Madigan.

Navesi says, "This is rally and triage."

Aetheline nods.

Tirost nods to Navesi.

Navesi says, "Next to the fence here."

Sothios waves.

Navesi points at a crushed fence.

Aislynn's tail undulates passively just above the ground.

Aetheline catches Sothios up in a fierce embrace, swinging him around exuberantly.

Navesi says, "Moving in 5."

Aetheline giggles.

Angel joins Navesi's group.

Hoshii pets a blue-eyed ebony kitten.

The ebony kitten suddenly starts whapping her arm over and over with both its front paws. Then, just as suddenly, it stops.

Delani stifles a yawn.

Zynell says to Sothios, "Want to be on triage? Raikage did not think we were cool enough."

Ascent into the Spire

True Bard Navesi's group wandered down a crushed fence.

[Cragstone Vale, Corral]
The mountain's flank flattens, creating a broad ledge between the cliffs above and the forest below. A fence of stout mikkalbamar logs has been erected around the area to create an enclosure in which the Dragon Priests train their war mounts, but some great force has left the barricade in ruins here. You also see a trampled barrier.

You follow Navesi southeast.

You follow Navesi southeast.

You follow Navesi southeast.

True Bard Navesi's group went through some massive gates.

Saragos moves over to guard Navesi.

True Bard Navesi's group went through a portcullis.

[The Black Spire, Entry Hall]
Lit by lamps in stands placed in the corners, this somewhat square room is lined with trophies of past conquest. Suits of Dwarven mail and old-styled armor from the other races have been set on stands. Weapons and banners captured from various houses and cultures adorn the walls. A large, serrated sword hangs over an arch of black obsidian. A raised portcullis leads to the gatehouse. You also see a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin and a sloping ramp.

True Bard Navesi's group wandered up a sloping ramp.

[The Black Spire, Upstairs Hall]
Large and unadorned by furniture, the hall serves as a rallying point for this section of the fortress. The darkness here is broken only by the occasional flickering lamp suspended from claw-shaped hooks. A set of double doors open out to the parapet and a narrow corridor leads southeast. You also see a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin and a sloping ramp.

You follow Navesi southeast.
[The Black Spire, Corridor]

True Bard Navesi's group went through an oak door.
[The Black Spire, Stairwell]

You follow Navesi up.
[The Black Spire, Stairwell]

You follow Navesi up.
[The Black Spire, Stairwell]
The central core of the tower descends with a stone stair spiraling down its length. A very steep stairway cuts directly across the precipitous drop to an opening in the lower floor's ceiling. The risers show the marks and scratches of something being dragged up and down. You also see a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin, a Dragon Priest assassin and an ebony door.

True Bard Navesi's group climbed up a steep stairway.
[The Black Spire, Temple of the World Dragon]
The smell of incense is intense and choking in this circular chamber at the top of the tower. Numerous black candles cast a flickering light over a large block of black stone. The image of the World Dragon, meticulously carved in granite, supports the altar in its giant maw. Plain, wooden kneelers have been placed in front of a large tapestry that covers the opposite wall. You also see a grim watchsoul, a heavy fur blanket stitched together from the hides of several animals and a steep stairway.

Also here: Mountain Lord Ezerak who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Aes-Amachi Casari who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Philosopher Yvela who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Carnage Darling Dantia who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Esotericist Eyst who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Mazrian who has a stony visage, Philomath Miskton who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Shield Maiden Betlind who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Delani who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Bastion of Life Karthor who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Singing Sword Andante who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Langen Esturi Nilme who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Miniature Aetheline who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Bladesinger Hoshii who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Dancer Mendira who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Maunderer Aislynn who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Telo'Getha Tirost who has a stony visage, Sir Madigan who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Inquisitor Whiteburn who is shrouded by swirling grey fog, Tempest Knight Saragos who is surrounded by seven circling blades of ice, Enchantress Angel who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, True Bard Navesi who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Ecclesiarch Suulnir who is shrouded by swirling grey fog and Avatar of Empathy Zamara who is sitting.

Suulnir says, "Some have. Some have not. I am curious to see which remain in which of those categories."

Zamara asks, "Ah, these the ones?"

You nod to Suulnir.

Whiteburn gazes at Suulnir.

Suulnir says, "Ah. Welcome, guests. I was worried that you might not make it to the Temple."

You curtsy gracefully to Suulnir.

You see Ecclesiarch Suulnir, Voice of the World Dragon, a S'Kra Mur Apostate.
Suulnir has a flat-featured face that is obscured by a large golden mask fashioned to resemble the maw of a snarling dragon. Crinkled slitted green eyes peer out from empty golden sockets. Her scales are a gold-flecked black, and she has a long, thick tail and a stout figure.
She appears to be young.
She is in good shape.

She is holding a radiant javelin of searing light in her right hand.
She is wearing a pearl-white chenille gamantang, a heirophant's cassock embroidered with resplendent sungold, a shalswar-hide targe with a reinforced design, a gold tailband engraved with a sinuous dragon grasping a cambrinth orb and a pair of leather sandals with scale-patterned stitching.

Aislynn observes Suulnir with fascination.

Suulnir nods politely.

Navesi gazes at Suulnir.

Angel stands near Tirost.

Aetheline exclaims, "Hello!"

Aislynn bows her head, raising her arms with palms facing entreatingly upward and her tail curling humbly about her left ankle.

Navesi whispers to your group, "Everyone please remain quiet for Ayrell to speak."

Yvela tilts her head to one side.

(Mazrian gives Suulnir a very direct look.)

Aetheline quickly clasps both hands over her mouth.

You say to Suulnir, "I apologize for our delay."

Tirost glances at Yvela.

Mendira whispers something to Navesi.

Suulnir says, "I see that some of you have come a second time. No doubt to poach my people for their beliefs, as your -- you call them hunters, but I call them assassins -- no doubt have; or, perhaps in retaliation for those that struck out three years ago. No matter -- these things have brought us together. Out of atrocity, hope."

Yvela whispers something to Tirost.

You say to Suulnir, "It is our hope that we may be able to speak with you about that very matter."

Tirost nods to Yvela.

Aetheline observes Suulnir with fascination.

Suulnir smiles sincerely, her words a juxtaposition to her rather pleasant demeanor.

(Mazrian crosses his arms across his chest, eyes flat.)

Suulnir says to you, "Three years ago, we still had not fully realized a unified purpose. There were members of the old vanguard who still held to the old ways. The attacks on Aesry, and on your Bards, were acts of that old vanguard." Suulnir offers a dispassionate shrug. "They have come around to my way of thinking, at least for now, and have been dealt with in a matter befitting their station."

Hoshii blushes furiously!

Hoshii joins Navesi's group.

Dantia raises an eyebrow.

Eyst scratches distractedly at his stubble.

Suulnir clenches a fist in thought, playing with the holy fire in her hand as if it were a toy.

You ask Suulnir, "Would we be correct in assuming this means you are indicating yourself to be their new... leader? Of sorts?"

Aetheline gazes at her fingernails.

Suulnir says, "I am not an Emperor, no. That title belongs to the Dragon alone."

You nod.

Suulnir says, "I am, simply, one who preaches a new way."

Aetheline cocks her head.

Navesi shakes her head at Tirost.

Angel reaches up and snags a dainty Taisidonian rat, pulling the creature off her shoulder.

You ask Suulnir, "So Ael'tharaxus remains the Emperor?"

Suulnir viciously says, "Do not mention the Dragon's name. It has taken thirty years for the Dragon to come to full ascendance. You have not proved yourself worthy of speaking the name of the Dragon Emperor, and do not appreciate the gravity of which you speak. His brilliance has given us the largest hope of all, and thus unified purpose."

Saragos whispers something to Mazrian.

Mazrian gives a slight nod.

Hoshii joins Navesi's group.

You nod.

Suulnir coughs slightly to herself, resuming her stoic demeanor.

Whiteburn grows still, fixing Suulnir with a cold, calculating look and lowering her tail slightly.

Mendira furrows her brow.

You say to Suulnir, "Forgive me. I merely hoped to clarify. I shall not make that error again."

Navesi whispers to your group, "This woman is new to me. The attacks of three years ago I believe refer to when the Priests attacked a group on Aesry, and two years ago they attempted to assassinate me personally at the Bard guild."

Suulnir says, "The deaths of Hhrsaraa and of Tenebraus were a setback to some, undoubtedly. We have taken the better part of three decades to recover from the fragmentation. But with every setback comes an opportunity." Suulnir paces, keeping an eye on each of you in a predatory, yet calm manner. "An opportunity to establish a new order among the servants of the Dragon. And the Emperor has finally established himself on a unified throne that stretches an Empire that claims territory from the gates of Raven's Point to the Nirefrei River -- and to Steelclaw Clan."

Suulnir says, "With the Dragon, the past thirty years have been ... enlightening. It has taken this long to find a semblance of unity -- though others still follow the old ways. For the first time in nearly four decades, we have a singular goal. The breeding pits again twist with life. The assassins have sharpened their blades. And now, our Emperor brings us guidance and hope. The children of the Dragon will usher in a new era of enlightenment that you will be honored to witness."

Aetheline leans over and whispers to your group, "Seems silly that we have to call him Dragon."

A faint grinding echoes from within the corridors of the Black Spire, as if a large creature is sliding through hallways much too small for its body in the lower chambers of the citadel.

Mazrian says, "Time for Diplomacy."

Yvela raises an eyebrow.

Aetheline blinks.

Mendira appears to be listening intently for something.

Whiteburn's tail cautiously lifts into a kind of "U" shape.

Eyst frowns.

Miskton raises an eyebrow.

Zamara hums to herself.

Hoshii grins at Mazrian.

You look around, trying to appear nonchalant.

[The Black Spire, Temple of the World Dragon]
The smell of incense is intense and choking in this circular chamber at the top of the tower. Numerous black candles cast a flickering light over a large block of black stone. The image of the World Dragon, meticulously carved in granite, supports the altar in its giant maw. Plain, wooden kneelers have been placed in front of a large tapestry that covers the opposite wall. You also see a gaping fiery fissure, a blue-eyed ebony kitten, a scruffy lynx that is sitting, a grim watchsoul, a heavy fur blanket stitched together from the hides of several animals and a steep stairway.

Karthor appears to be listening intently for something.

Ezerak acts puzzled.

Aislynn clicks her claws together.

Suulnir says, "The promise of peace remains. Even here in the spire, we have kept the word of the Emperor. Much as the Emperor promised we would not attack the city -- we have not. I cannot, naturally, speak for all who serve the Dragon, given the schism after the death of Hhrsaraa. But I counter that we have expectations as well -- ones that I feel the Dragon did not adequately communicate. Simply -- we reserve the right to defend ourselves using any means we see fit, and no wall will stop us -- especially not one that simple ruffians could bypass."

Navesi whispers to your group, "That grinding... a grinding was heard previously when Yraggahh attacked the Spire as well."

You ask Suulnir, "You speak of the attacks three years ago. May I inquire of the more recent attacks? The one within the Zoluren Bards' guild and the other within the gates of Shard itself?"

You say, "Those were far more recent than three years."

Navesi leans over and whispers, "What of the attack on me? May I ask about that? I would speak for the Bards if I can."

Aetheline folds her arms across her chest.

Whiteburn whispers to your group, "That bodes ill. "

Suulnir says, "There are, naturally, dissenters to the new will of things. Those who feel threatened will, naturally, not stand idly by."

You whisper to Navesi, "That was the attack on the guild I mentioned. But if you wish to speak more directly, you may."

Navesi gazes at Suulnir.

Suulnir says, "Still, my hope is that peace remains."

Mazrian leans over and whispers, "For that matter, I think the "enlightenment" she offers is probably something we want to probe into."

You ask Suulnir, "So these attacks were... rogues? So to say? Not connected to the... Dragon?"

Dantia grins at Madigan.

Eyst whispers to your group, "This talk of breeding pits. It sounds as if they're either creating Adan'f or Elpalzi again... or perhaps something new."

Mazrian nods at Eyst, obviously agreeing with his views.

Mazrian whispers to your group, "Gearing up, building forces."

Suulnir says, "The Dragon, and I, have a more glorious purpose in mind -- one that is not focused on conquest."

Aetheline narrows her eyes.

Miskton scratches distractedly at his beard.

You nod to Suulnir.

(Mazrian's right eyebrow raises the barest amount)

Hoshii raises an eyebrow.

Ezerak acts puzzled.

Yvela folds her arms across her chest.

You ask Suulnir, "Would we be permitted to inquire of that purpose?"

Suulnir says, "The Emperor has seen the light. We did not initially come to terms, but now, we have a glorious unified purpose -- the creation of something new, something beautiful. A new dawn of reborn magic the likes that have only been seen by the Shunned. Glorious creation will be wrought, and you will behold the works of new magic that we shall manifest something both brilliant and divine."

Whiteburn frowns and narrows her good eye as she continues to stare silently at Suulnir.

Karthor strokes his beard in thoughtful contemplation.

You nibble your lip thoughtfully.

Zamara observes Suulnir with fascination.

Navesi asks Suulnir, "As the attack was against me personally, and the Bards, I would like to hear it plainly said. You are claiming that the ones who attacked me were not with you? And that they are not in power?"

Saragos squints.

Miskton ponders.

(Yvela opens her mouth to say something, then snaps it shut.)

Saragos nods to Yvela.

Suulnir says to Navesi, "No, I had no involvement in an attack on you."

Navesi gives a slight nod.

You say to Suulnir, "Surely, you must understand our concern when talk of new creations and magic are mentioned."

Navesi nods to you.

You say to Suulnir, "We desire peace as well, but we also prefer to be cautious."

Suulnir shows no sign of deceit. The Dragon Priest appears calm, and at peace.

Navesi whispers, "How can we trust them, after so many years of deceit and pain?"

Aetheline blinks.

Angel shivers.

You nod to Navesi.

Navesi whispers, "Keep prodding her for more information. Even if this goes south, we can learn."

Suulnir says to you, "Quite understood. As, I am certain, you will allow me the same luxury in my own home. I give you my word, I will not harm any who do not draw steel against me. My purposes are much higher minded."

Miskton gazes at Suulnir.

You nod.

Navesi whispers, "I think we should allow some others to speak after a time too, so perhaps a few more questions and then we do that."

You say to Suulnir, "I thank you. And, in the hope of understanding, I would ask if there is more you can tell us of this purpose."

You say, "Information is, after all, the key to avoiding misunderstandings."

Suulnir says, "When the time comes, all will witness the glory we hope to attain."

You ask Suulnir, "And this glory... retains peace? It will not harm anyone?"

Navesi whispers something to Miskton.

Suulnir says to you, "This glory is not of conquest, no."

Saragos leans over and whispers, "Sounds Necromantic to me."

Casari narrows her eyes.

You nod at Saragos, in complete agreement with his views.

Mendira nibbles her lip thoughtfully.

Navesi whispers to your group, "This outcome is certainly unexpected."

Eyst whispers to your group, "An awfully specific choice of words."

Casari nods at Eyst, obviously agreeing with his views.

Mazrian nods in agreement.

Hoshii nods emphatically at Eyst.

You say to Suulnir, "Yes, though that veiled response does make one concerned about safety."

Madigan nods to Navesi.

Hoshii whispers to your group, "I've spent too much time fighting their 'glorious creations' not far from here to feel comforted in the least."

Aislynn whispers to your group, "She talks in circles. She does not feel she is speaking to an equal."

You say to Suulnir, "Protecting the innocent is my duty."

Suulnir asks you, "Safety that a dozen armed soldiers cannot provide?"

Suulnir casually observes the area.

Saragos whispers to your group, "Sounds to me like she's breeding Necromantic horrors, and hoping that a bit of politeness will deflect any opposition."

Zamara chuckles.

Dantia rubs Madigan's left hand.

Whiteburn whispers to your group, "I am in agreement with Saragos. "

Mazrian nods at Saragos, obviously agreeing with his views.

Angel nods to Saragos.

Navesi whispers to your group, "We must decide how much we want to learn from her."

Karthor whispers to your group, "Tha'd certainly fit their track record."

Mazrian leans over and whispers, "What are the breeding pits breeding?"

You say to Suulnir, "A dozen armed soldiers may be able to provide protection in the moment. But, without further understanding of this purpose you seek, it is difficult to speak for the future."

Aetheline whispers to your group, "Does that mean we can heckle now?"

Casari whispers to your group, "I don't know. What's with that javelin?"

Angel whispers to your group, "I was going to say Feral Magic if not Necromantic."

Miskton whispers to your group, "Likely. Though for the immediate moment, she hasn't offered any violence. We should definitely learn more, however."

Suulnir asks, "If this collection could not provide safety, I would suggest that matters of conquest perhaps are not your largest concern?"

Ezerak chuckles.

You say to Suulnir, "We do harbor concerns that go beyond mere conquest, yes."

Aislynn whispers to your group, "Methinks Old'thorax wants to be a Lich, too. Perhaps his age weighs poorly. Wouldn't that be a lovely thing? Let's not let that happen, yes?"

You say to Suulnir, "History is a dark thing."

Hoshii whispers to your group, "There's conquest and then there's total annhilation. Conquest implies they plan to let us live."

Aetheline grins at Aislynn, her dimples flashing into view.

Aetheline nods to Hoshii.

Whiteburn whispers to your group, "This Priest speaks of divinity, but that cannot be. The world dragon, though worshipped by heretics as a god, is not of the divine. That is the sole provenance of the Immortals."

Suulnir says, "You refer to Dzree, and the horrors she created."

Betlind whispers to your group, "Gold and black caterpillar..."

You nod to Suulnir.

Mazrian gives a slight nod.

Tirost gazes thoughtfully at Betlind.

You say, "Thus the concern when we hear talk of... creation."

Suulnir says, "I am not of her line, nor of her inclinations. My focus is squarely on honoring the Divine."

Whiteburn twitches.

You nod to Suulnir.

Eyst whispers to your group, "If they are truly loyal minions of this dragon then it would stand to reason they've had to give up Necromancy. At least from what I understand of Dragons."

Navesi gives Eyst a slight nod.

Navesi leans over and whispers, "Ask of Necromancy and their use of it?"

You ask Suulnir, "So we have your word that those who follow you will not stage any further attacks on the bards or the City of Shard?"

Suulnir says, "The Dragon, quite similarly, has expressed himself and stands precisely where he was forty years ago."

You nod to Navesi.

Hoshii whispers to your group, "Or the Sisters."

Mendira nods to Hoshii.

Hoshii folds her arms across her chest.

Suulnir says, "Shard is not an enemy. And, I can quite assure you, Bards also are not an enemy. We have much more glorious goals than promoting the wrath that once was."

Navesi folds her arms across her chest.

You say to Suulnir, "There is also curiosity regarding your views on necromancy. Again, a question which blooms from history."

Mazrian whispers, "How does honoring the Immortals not conflict with glorifying the World Dragon?"

Miskton strokes his beard in thoughtful contemplation.

Whiteburn gives Suulnir a studious look, as if committing her to memory.

You say to Suulnir, "Not an accusation. Again, merely an attempt to understand your goals."

Suulnir says, "You will witness what we aim to create, and it will be wondrous and full of awe, resplendent in its glory. It is strictly holy, and divine, not some filth to be polluted by demons."

You nod to Suulnir.

Yvela tilts her head to one side.

Eyst frowns.

Aislynn observes Suulnir with fascination.

Navesi whispers, "I'd like to give someone else a chance to speak. Do you think you are ready for that?"

Aislynn clicks her claws together.

You nod to Navesi.

You ask Suulnir, "Would you be willing accept questions from others who are present here?"

Suulnir asks Whiteburn, "Did you witness? Did you witness the glory that will be?"

Suulnir peers quizzically at Whiteburn.

Navesi whispers to your group, "I've agreed with Ayrell, we should allow other speakers. If you would like to ask questions, please raise your hand and we will go in turns."

Maintain chuckles.

Aislynn glances at Whiteburn.

Zamara angles her ears forward, gazing curiously at Whiteburn.

Mazrian searches around for a moment.

Whiteburn cautiously says to Suulnir, "I do not believe I have, no."

Suulnir says to Whiteburn, "You will."

Mazrian looks over Suulnir very closely.

Suulnir nods to you.

Warrior Poet Keldyn climbed up a steep stairway.

Aetheline glances at Whiteburn.

Eyst raises his hand.

Suulnir says to you, "Very well."

Navesi points at Eyst.

You say to Suulnir, "You have my gratitude."

Suulnir nods to Eyst.

Whiteburn whispers, "I have a question for this priest."

Atuen climbed up a steep stairway.

You nod to Whiteburn.

You ask Whiteburn, "You wished to make an inquiry?"

Aislynn scowls.

Whiteburn says, "I do."

Aetheline squints at Atuen.

Suulnir nods to Whiteburn.

Whiteburn gazes at Suulnir.

Suulnir says to Whiteburn, "Very well."

Atuen gazes at Aetheline.

Aetheline looks over Atuen very closely.

Eyst asks, "If you are some interested in peace between our peoples then perhaps you would welcome participation in your efforts? Do you have any desire to recieve our aid and perhaps provide it in kind, should this be a truly benevolent endeavor?"

Aetheline nods to Eyst.

Atuen says to Aetheline, "Keep your eyes to yourself, Gnome."

Dantia nods to Madigan.

Hoshii glowers darkly at Atuen.

Aetheline says to Atuen, "I can look wherever I want."

Mazrian gazes at Atuen.

Aetheline sticks her tongue out at Atuen.

Whiteburn slowly asks Suulnir, "I have witnessed the mark of the divine upon you, in the form of favor. From which of the Immortals did this divine protection originate?"

Suulnir says to Eyst, "We are quite motivated to keep our work to ourselves until the time comes, for the same reasons you may be reticent about history. Some of you have been in these walls with intent to slaughter wantonly."

Aislynn mutters to herself.

You nod to Suulnir.

Eyst says, "Mm."

Suulnir says to Whiteburn, "You are clever. You wish to know if I follow Peri'el. I do not."

Nature's Titan Turuk climbed up a steep stairway.

Atuen's tail undulates in an agitated fashion.

Navesi raises her hand.

You smile at Navesi.

Suulnir nods to Navesi.

Turuk appears calmer than he did a moment ago.

Suulnir says to Navesi, "Please."

Eyst gives a slight nod.

Casari says, "I don't think the last question was answered yet, really."

Navesi asks Suulnir, "You claim to follow the treaty of peace with Shard, and you say the Bards are no enemy of yours. Would you be willing to formalize a treaty to that effect?"

Whiteburn says to Suulnir, "Would you permit me to gaze upon you through a magical device? It would not harm you in any way."

Suulnir says to Navesi, "I am not one to speak for the Emperor. I am simply a spiritual advisor."

Yvela raises her hand.

Navesi asks, "Are you one to arrange a meeting with him for such diplomatic purposes?"

Delani gazes at her fingernails.

Suulnir says to Navesi, "That would be at the Emperor's discretion."

Navesi says, "My guild has suffered many years at the hands of... your people."

Suulnir says to Whiteburn, "Please, if you must."

Whiteburn gets a translucent crystal chalice inset with teardrop sapphires along the base from inside her interrogator's case.

You say to Suulnir, "Should he deem it so, it is something we would be most interested in arranging."

Navesi says to Suulnir, "Consider this my official request to speak directly to him, then."

Navesi nods to you.

Madigan asks Suulnir, "What magic was used against us when we came here to answer the attack on the bards. Was that you and your group or another?"

Whiteburn holds her chalice at arm's length, gazing at Suulnir through its translucent structure. After a moment she blinks and lowers it, glancing at Suulnir thoughtfully.

Mazrian nods to Madigan.

Casari glances at Whiteburn.

Whiteburn frowns.

Suulnir says to Madigan, "I am no Crone, no."

Mendira gazes at Whiteburn.

Yvela asks, "You mentioned a new dawn the likes of which has only been seen by the Shunned. Who are the Shunned?"

Whiteburn puts her chalice in her interrogator's case.

The antique hinges of Whiteburn's interrogator's case chirp musically as she closes it.

Eyst ponders.

Zamara mutters something into the air about Xerasyth.

Zamara flicks her ears back savagely, narrowing her eyes to mere slits.

Suulnir says to Yvela, "You will know, if you do not now."

Keldyn puts his greatsword in his thigh pouch.

You nod to Suulnir.

Tirost narrows his eyes.

(Yvela inclines her head slightly.)

Casari whispers to your group, "Who did you see, Whiteburn?"

A louder grinding echoes from within the corridors of the Black Spire, as if a large creature is sliding through hallways much too small for its body in the lower chambers of the citadel.

Turuk ponders.

Karthor appears to be listening intently for something.

Saragos asks Suulnir, "Does this new dawn involve the awakening of the World Dragon?"

Whiteburn whispers to your group, "... She does not appear to bear the favor of any of the Immortals. "

Mazrian nods to Madigan.

Turuk scans the area briefly.

Navesi frowns.

Turuk's claws slowly retract as his hands return to normal.

You gaze at Whiteburn.

Aislynn whispers to your group, "Yet she bears favors?"

Mazrian whispers to your group, "Might as well ask the question directly."

Miskton ponders.

Atuen folds his arms across his chest.

Suulnir says to Saragos, "No, we have, for now, made our peace with the state of things. I cannot speak for others, but I and the Emperor are of like mind on this matter."

Atuen casually observes the area.

Atuen's tail undulates in an agitated fashion.

You nod.

Eyst whispers to your group, "Has anyone else heard that sound coming from below?"

Aislynn nods to Eyst.

Miskton nods to Eyst.

Aetheline nods to Eyst.

Mendira nods to Eyst.

Saragos nods to Eyst.

Hoshii nods to Eyst.

Casari whispers to your group, "Don't worry, it's probably just a dragon."

You ask Suulnir, "As you have been so gracious in answering our questions, are there any you wish you ask us in return?"

Hoshii just nudged Casari.

Eyst frowns.

Aislynn's tail undulates passively just above the ground.

Navesi whispers to your group, "Yes, it is similar to what was heard at the previous assault."

Mazrian says, "I had one."

Whiteburn whispers to your group, "Unless she bears some sort of corrupting force that stymmies my perceptions. "

Madigan asks, "Did anyone ask what the bloody sound below is that we are hearing?"

Tirost raises his hand.

Mazrian gazes thoughtfully at you.

Navesi nods to Mazrian.

You nod to Mazrian.

You say to Mazrian, "Of course."

Suulnir says to Mazrian, "Please, go ahead."

Boltproof Brisknite climbed up a steep stairway.

Mazrian asks, "In this new glorious, divine working, where are the Immortals?"

Karthor nods at Madigan, obviously agreeing with his views.

Aislynn whispers something to Madigan.

Madigan smiles at Aislynn.

Navesi whispers to your group, "Mother Whiteburn, could it be that the World Dragon has granted favor?"

Brisknite stretches his arms.

Brisknite says, "Hey there."

Navesi asks Brisknite to join her group, but Brisknite declines.

Hoshii tips her hat to Brisknite with a courteous nod.

Navesi smiles at Brisknite.

Keldyn joins Navesi's group.

Suulnir says to Mazrian, "Precisely where they are."

Casari whispers to your group, "Wouldn't that imply some degree of consciousness?"

Brisknite joins Navesi's group.

You nod to Casari.

Atuen sarcastically says to Madigan, "Doubtful, everyone is to intent of trying to usher in the new era of peace."

Mazrian asks, "So what is going to change?"

Suulnir says to Mazrian, "In relation to your relation to the Immortals? Nothing. This is a matter of our own focus, but you will bear witness."

Whiteburn whispers to your group, "Such a thing is assuredly impossible. It cannot be. She appears the same as one who is forsaken of the Immortals. "

Maintain ponders.

Yvela whispers to your group, "Favor isn't necessarily the sole domain of the Immortals, if we consider the western gods as being separate from them."

Madigan nods to Navesi.

Mazrian gazes thoughtfully at Suulnir.

Dantia raises an eyebrow in Madigan's direction.

You nod.

Hoshii whispers to your group, "Is the question, then, perhaps what pantheon of immortals she references? If they're from another plane, perhaps there's an incursion or addition of some sort?"

Mazrian asks, "Why then breeding pits churning, and assassins sharpening their knives?"

Dantia nods to Madigan.

Hoshii whispers to your group, "I'm not asking. She's terrifying."

Aislynn pats Hoshii on the back.

Hoshii shivers.

Aetheline giggles at Hoshii.

Suulnir says to Mazrian, "You bring an army to my door prepared for war, when I invite you to talk."

Navesi stands near Hoshii.

Casari whispers to your group, "What does your device show you when you look at someone with favors from the western or southern deities?"

Suulnir says to Mazrian, "And you wonder why knives are being sharpened."

Maintain casually observes the area.

Aislynn gets a crispy fried potato skin generously stuffed with spiced vegetables from inside her white apron.

Aislynn offers Hoshii a crispy fried potato skin generously stuffed with spiced vegetables.

Aislynn grins at Hoshii.

Ezerak chuckles.

Hoshii giggles at Aislynn.

Ezerak says, "Valid, I suppose."

Hoshii shows Aislynn her blue-frosted cupcake.

Maintain says, "This is an admittedly well-armed group of people, but hardly an army."

Aislynn nods to Hoshii.

Whiteburn whispers to your group, "I have not applied the device to such an one as of yet. "

You say to Suulnir, "Our warriors were merely a precaution, I assure you. We were unsure if you would be willing to speak with us."

Eyst whispers something to Yvela.

Suulnir's rage dissipates.

The powerful divine aura slowly wanes from about Suulnir.

Aislynn chortles softly at some secret joke.

Navesi says to Suulnir, "We are the people who Remember, and there is quite a lot of blood to remember. We are showing our willingness to listen peacefully now."

The soft silver glow fades from around Suulnir.

The field of silver-blue light dissipates from around Suulnir.

Thin, wispy lines of light alternately appear and disappear near Suulnir's head.

The soft white glow fades from around Suulnir.

The glowing aura fades from around Suulnir.

The lucent sphere fades from around Suulnir.

The air around Suulnir shimmers with a weak yellow light that quickly disperses.

Saragos quietly says, "And more suspecting you would try to blow us up."

Aislynn makes a chirring noise in Brisknite's direction.

Suulnir says to Maintain, "It took about as much to fell a centuries-old Demon."

Betlind blinks.

Madigan grins at Saragos.

Mazrian says, "We're a fair force, yes."

Aetheline blinks.

Mazrian smiles.

Aislynn puts her skin in her white apron.

Atuen says, "And the Bard does not speak for everyone."

Maintain says to Suulnir, "I only know of that second-hand, and what I heard was it took an excess of luck and a lot of favors."

Atuen motions to Navesi.

Navesi pointedly ignores Atuen.

Suulnir pauses, as if disconnected from something. She appears troubled for a moment, before composing herself, inhaling sharply.

Mazrian says, "I remember the Crusade that we stopped at the foot of this spire, not too many decades ago."

Mazrian gazes at Suulnir.

Casari searches around for a moment.

Madigan asks Suulnir, "What is the noise we heard a moment ago?"

Mazrian nods to Madigan.

Aislynn quietly says to Atuen, "Hush, you tail-leasing wantwit. I was promised heckling today, and you'll still do in a pinch."

Aislynn squints at Atuen.

Aetheline nods at Aislynn, obviously agreeing with her views.

You say to Suulnir, "I feel it necessary to bring forth a statement similar to one you made to us... about not being able to speak for all of your kind where peace is concerned. Sadly, we cannot speak for all of ours as well, but know that many of us do not wish violence."

Hoshii praises Aislynn.

Ezerak chuckles at Aislynn.

Psaero says to Mazrian, "I remember ya from a couple weeks ago."

Psaero winks at Mazrian.

Atuen says to Aislynn, "Quiet my Queen, when you are needed to speak i will motion to you."

Angel smiles at Tirost.

Aetheline gags.

Brisknite finishes playing a quiet sonata on his kertig cowbell.

Angel gazes at Tirost.

Hoshii whispers to your group, "What was up with the little disconnect she had going on there? Creepy just got creepier?"

Aetheline nods to Hoshii.

Hoshii holds her breath.

Suulnir says to you, "Very well. I will, in a show of good faith, allow you safe passage out. But, mark my words, any who linger to slaughter wantonly will be judged in a manner befitting their intent."

Aislynn whispers to your group, "Almost like she's controlled from elsewhere, like Risen? But not quite. She did say she and the Emperor were of one mind. Several times."

You nod to Suulnir.

Navesi whispers to your group, "Perhaps whatever being she is connected to... the connection is not fully formed?"

You say to Suulnir, "Understandably so."

Hoshii gazes thoughtfully at Aislynn.

You say to Suulnir, "Please, accept my thanks for allowing us this opportunity to speak with you. Peacefully."

Aetheline observes Suulnir with fascination.

Navesi whispers to your group, "Please confirm she is not a Risen. An Empath could tell, surely?"

Suulnir nods to Tirost.

Dantia whispers to your group, "She is not."

Maintain folds his arms across his chest.

Casari asks, "Before we go, mind answering that question about the source of your divine favor?"

Suulnir says to Tirost, "Please. Ask away."

Angel whispers to your group, "I can perceive her aura."

Tirost asks Suulnir, "May I ask what means has the Emperor come to see the light? Divine visions? A visitor, perhaps?"

Whiteburn whispers to your group, "The undead could certainly not bear divine favor."

Aislynn whispers to your group, "She might be something... controlled. Like Srinoja."

Zamara points at Casari.

Hoshii whispers to your group, "Could she, perhaps, be one of the 'glorious creations' of which she speaks? Somehow? I'll admit I know exactly nothing about that vile art."

Zamara points at a granite World Dragon.

Zamara points at Suulnir.

Aetheline ponders.

Mendira whispers to your group, "She seemed unsettled as the different spells about her began to fade. Perhaps some different kind of connection."

Suulnir nods to Zamara.

Navesi whispers to your group, "She seems in control of herself. Simply not favored by an Immortal."

Suulnir says to Tirost, "The Emperor has seen the glory of the Divine in a way that is quite tangible."

Casari says, "I was so hoping to hear it stated plainly."

Tirost asks Suulnir, "A visitor?"

Whiteburn fixes Suulnir with a cold, reptilian stare.

Delani sighs.

Suulnir says to Tirost, "In a manner of speaking."

Yvela raises an eyebrow.

Psaero looks Atuen's way a moment with a grin. He claps his hands together once and reaches toward Atuen's face. He puts one hand at his chin while the other taps him on the nose lightly. A gold coin falls from Atuen's nose and into Psaero's hand.

Psaero says, "I didn't know you had it in you, Atuen."

He gives Atuen a wink.

Miskton strokes his beard in thoughtful contemplation.

Tirost nods to Suulnir.

You nibble your lip thoughtfully.

Aetheline giggles.

Saragos asks Suulnir, "Are you implying that the Emperor plans to grasp the divine fire himself?"

Suulnir says to Saragos, "Heavens, no. The Emperor will not sully himself in that pursuit."

Navesi nods to Angel.

Eyst nods.

Mendira tilts her head, clearly curious about something.

Aislynn whispers to your group, "Meaning he could send others, without breaking her word."

Aetheline nods to Aislynn.

Mazrian whispers to your group, "For example, a spiritual advisor."

Aislynn nods at Mazrian, obviously agreeing with his views.

Tirost nods to Mazrian.

You nod to Mazrian.

Navesi nods to Angel.

Angel nods to Navesi.

Angel raises her hand.

Suulnir nods to Angel.

Suulnir says to Angel, "Please."

Whiteburn folds her arms across her chest.

Dantia whispers to your group, "She could also be connected to and controlling something herself. The sound we've been hearing? The other Dragon Priests in the area?"

Mazrian whispers to your group, "Word from triage is they're going to pack it in in about 15 minutes."

Betlind whispers to your group, "Madigan, sir, does this sound at all like some perverse Bonding to you?"

Aetheline nods to Dantia.

Angel asks Suulnir, "I am very intrigued by you. Would you grant me to perceive your aura?"

Casari whispers to your group, "Well, she won't say the World Dragon grants her favor. So it's something else."

Navesi whispers to your group, "Tell them to come here if they are interested. We can always return to triage if needed."

Suulnir says to Angel, "If you must, I will not stop you."

Madigan whispers to your group, "It does not, but I am not the smartest person in that regard. Vanzok might have a better feeling on it."

Angel whispers to your group, "Holy Magic clinging to her"

You nod to Angel.

Angel says to Suulnir, "Thank you Suulnir."

Whiteburn whispers to your group, "Impossible. "

Navesi raises her hand.

Suulnir nods to Navesi.

Navesi asks, "Where could I find those who attacked me, and the Bards?"

Tirost whispers to your group, "Could it be high sorcery?"

Suulnir says to Navesi, "They have been dealt with. You will not find them, intact."

You nod to Suulnir.

Navesi frowns.

Aetheline glances at Navesi.

Angel whispers to your group, "I sence many spells, Tranquility, Ghost Shroud, and others. Again, Holy Magic clinging to her."

Eyst whispers to your group, "It is doubly odd they've somehow stumbled on holy magics given dragons aversion to it. And as she herself says, they were not aided by their Emperor in these efforts."

Navesi says, "A shame. We wanted to see to them ourselves."

Turuk grins.

A bellow echoes from the chambers below, as something large -- and hungry -- makes a resonating cry.

Aetheline raises an eyebrow.

Whiteburn says, "Tch..."

Miskton gazes down at the floor.

Eyst winces.

Casari asks, "So what's the noisy thing below?"

Aislynn raises her head slightly, uttering a brief, inquiring trill.

Mazrian asks, "What is below?"

Hoshii nibbles her lip thoughtfully.

Mazrian raises an eyebrow.

Angel checks her footing.

Aislynn quietly asks, "Time for waffle-tsann?"

Mazrian nods at Casari, obviously agreeing with her views.

Madigan nods to Casari.

Aislynn clicks her claws together.

You say, "Yes, I was about to ask..."

Aetheline nods emphatically at Aislynn.

Suulnir innocently asks Casari, "What, you begrudge me my pets?"

Casari says, "I love pets."

Yvela frowns in thought.

You say, "It does sound like a rather... large... pet."

Suulnir says to Casari, "Perhaps one day you will meet them. They are quite -- lovely."

Casari says, "You're really bad at answering questions."

Dantia chuckles at Casari.

Suulnir says, "Cuddly, even."

Ezerak chuckles at Casari.

You give Casari a gentle poke in the ribs.

Navesi glances at a black stone altar.

Casari shrugs.

Turuk says, "I'm interested."

Turuk nods.

Aetheline asks Suulnir, "But --what-- is it?"

Angel whispers to your group, "I would have loved to ask that follow up question about the Holy Magic I senses clinging to her if the given the dragons aversion to it."

Suulnir asks Aetheline, "Likely? Hungry, I suppose?"

Aetheline giggles.

Suulnir ponders.

Karthor chuckles.

Navesi whispers to your group, "When this question is done, go ahead Angel."

You whisper to Angel, Brisknite, Keldyn, Hoshii, Ezerak, Casari, Yvela, Dantia, Eyst, Mazrian, Miskton, Betlind, Delani, Karthor, Andante, Nilme, Aetheline, Mendira, Aislynn, Tirost, Madigan, Whiteburn, Saragos, and Navesi, "Angel, you can, if you like."

Aetheline says, "Okay that was good."

Aetheline nods.

Angel nods.

Zamara asks Suulnir, "Does it hunt on its own?"

Zamara says, "The pet."

Hoshii whispers to your group, "Holy magic such as hers comes from the Spiritual Plane, correct? Where the Immortals dwell? And one of the demons claims to have once dwelled? And...other things?"

Suulnir says to Zamara, "It does not have quite enough room to do so comfortably, I'm afraid, but I assure you -- we are working on ensuring that it has adequate space."

Navesi whispers to your group, "Where are you learning such about demons, Hoshii!"

Whiteburn whispers to your group, "Demons do not dwell on the spiritual plane. "

Hoshii whispers to your group, "I'm not a cleric, but that makes me even more nervous than pets at the moment."

Navesi glances at Hoshii.

Casari whispers to your group, "What kind of magic do demons use, though?"

Dantia looks at Madigan and sighs.

Zamara nods to Suulnir.

Turuk says, "I assume renovations, then."

Yvela whispers to your group, "Arcane magic, typically. Mana mixtures."

Brisknite whispers to your group, "arcane"

Delani seems to be waiting for something.

Whiteburn whispers to your group, "Ask Yvela. She is their plaything, after all. As you can see. "

You ask Suulnir, "Am I correct to assume that this pet is part of your workings that we are not yet to be made aware?"

Suulnir says, "After all, it would be cruel to keep a cherished pet in inadequate confines."

Hoshii whispers to your group, "Oh. Good. I thought Maelshyve or someone. I must be misremembering."

Zamara says, "Keeping odd pets. Very common these days. Popular trend."

Hoshii shudders.

Yvela smirks at Whiteburn.

Tirost glances at Whiteburn.

Brisknite whispers to your group, "arcane and most are found on the plane of exile by the way"

Suulnir says to Zamara, "Have you tried a pivuh? They are delightful."

Aislynn makes a chirring noise in Suulnir's direction.

Hoshii whispers to your group, "I'm sorry. I'll be quiet."

Angel whispers to your group, "I can sense Arcane though and when Necromancers cloak it, it shows as life, not Holy."

Angel raises her hand.

Navesi whispers to your group, "Not at all, Hoshii. Your voice is needed."

Zamara ponders.

Suulnir nods to Angel.

Suulnir says to Angel, "Please."

Angel asks Suulnir, "When I perceived your aura Suulnir, I sensed Holy Magic clinging to you and the Dragons have aversion to Holy Magic. Could you clarify that for us?"

Angel smiles at Suulnir.

Zamara asks Suulnir, "No. Should hunt one. Best raw?"

Madigan says, "Pardon me friends."

Madigan puts his zweihander in his hip pouch.

Madigan sheathes his flame-bladed zweihander.

Navesi nods to Madigan.

Sir Madigan climbed down a steep stairway.

Suulnir says to Angel, "Absolutely. I am, as you likely have presupposed, not a Dragon."

Maintain chuckles.

Angel smiles.

Carnage Darling Dantia climbed down a steep stairway.

Angel blushes a bright red color.

Turuk smirks.

Delani chuckles.

You chuckle.

Ezerak grins, revealing his dimples.

Hoshii quietly exclaims, "That would be exciting, though!"

Hoshii covers her mouth with her hand.

Angel smiles at Hoshii.

Suulnir says to Hoshii, "Oh, it would be incredibly exciting. I quite agree."

Hoshii blushes furiously!

Angel nods.

Brisknite grins.

Navesi stands near Hoshii.

Navesi fixes Suulnir with a proud, defiant stare.

Navesi raises her hand.

Suulnir nods to Navesi.

Suulnir says, "Please."

Navesi motions toward a black stone altar.

Navesi asks Suulnir, "Why do you need all this blood?"

Hoshii joins Navesi's group.

Suulnir asks, "Would you accept -- Ambience?"

Aetheline giggles.

Navesi gazes at Suulnir.

You ponder the meaning of Suulnir's existence.

Hoshii blinks.

Turuk chortles softly at some secret joke.

Maintain shakes his head.

Andante grins.

Mazrian snorts, loudly.

Whiteburn squints.

Navesi quietly says to Suulnir, "We have been listening, but we are no fools."

You nod at Navesi, in complete agreement with her views.

Turuk searches around for a moment.

Mendira wrinkles her nose.

Suulnir asks, "In all seriousness, we have rites that we must maintain, lest we lose our focus. I am certain you understand the solemnity of tradition, yes?"

Yvela says, "That tapestry makes it rather clear, if you give it a read."

Yvela points at a large tapestry.

Eyst raises his hand.

Navesi says to Suulnir, "If you are so confident in the peace that can be between us, perhaps you would allow our Bards to perform a harmless ritual of our own."

Aislynn quietly asks, "And the tradition demands that the... ehm. Supplicants be bound to the altar?"

Aislynn observes a black stone altar with fascination.

Aislynn mutters to herself.

Aetheline just touched a large tapestry.

You ask Suulnir, "As you have assured us you do not follow the old ways, can you also assure us that the blood is not being spilled from sacrifices like those in the past?"

Suulnir says to Yvela, "It does. But, if you also read the tapestry, it states quite clearly that the blood is given willingly."

Yvela nods to Suulnir.

Yvela says, "I did note that."

Whiteburn glances at a large tapestry.

Angel shudders.

You nod.

Atuen asks Suulnir, "May i also ask a question?"

Whiteburn stiffly says, "Blood is due to the Immortals."

Aetheline observes Atuen with fascination.

Whiteburn asks Suulnir, "Do you not agree?"

Aislynn snorts, loudly.

Suulnir says to you, "Sacrifices do indeed involve spilled blood. But the blood is given quite willingly."

Saragos says to Suulnir, "But it also states that it will bring the World Dragon forth once more, and then there's a bit about cleansing fire. Cleansing fire doesn't sound altogether peaceful."

Suulnir says to Whiteburn, "Blood is given to the Divine."

You nod to Suulnir.

Suulnir says to Atuen, "You have, yes."

Casari says, "Oh, just not given willingly by the original owner. Got it."

Aetheline giggles at Suulnir.

Aislynn chortles softly at some secret joke.

Aislynn chortles softly and draws tiny circles in the air with the tip of her tail.

Tirost whispers to your group, "'The Divine' is not The Immortals, apparently."

Suulnir Altercation with Atuen

Atuen says to Suulnir, "I will take that as a yes....."

Atuen fixes Suulnir with a cold, reptilian stare.

Aislynn rolls her eyes.

Suulnir says to Atuen, "Please, proceed."

Whiteburn whispers to your group, "She will not speak of the Immortals. "

Navesi whispers to your group, "For any who have not visited this Spire and explored in detail, there are several shrines -- Talon, Scale, and Fang, in addition to this high altar. They all seem to use blood. It was my original thought that they fed into something deep within the Spire."

Mazrian gives Whiteburn a slight nod.

Atuen says to Suulnir, "Tell me one thing, what happened to your Ilk, that you succumb to these heretics in this manner. Im am surprised you haven't offered them a cup of tea and shortbread while they prove you are all nothing but a distant memory of fear and superiority."

Angel whispers to your group, "Agreed The Divine is listed alongside Demons"

Atuen gazes at Suulnir.

Aislynn rubs her snout.

Aetheline cocks her head.

You frown at Atuen.

Aetheline says, "Have to decode that word salad.."

Suulnir says to Atuen, "Ah. You long for the old ways."

Eyst raises an eyebrow.

Suulnir nods.

Atuen says, "I am quiet impressed with how you have disgraced the Priest and the Mur in one go."

Suulnir says, "I understand."

Ezerak looks at Atuen and sighs.

Casari says to Aetheline, "I think he's saying she's not dragon priesty enough for the dragon priest club."

Suulnir says, "Allow me to elaborate."

Hoshii giggles at Casari.

Aetheline giggles.

Nilme grins at Casari.

Mazrian chuckles.

Navesi whispers to your group, "So far Casari is winning the heckling contest."

Mendira nibbles her lip thoughtfully.

Atuen's tail undulates in an agitated fashion.

Suulnir's javelin illuminates ghost-white, crashing with an incinerating brilliance and lands an obliterating hit (20/23) (Hodierna winces!) that just barely penetrates the skin to nick the stomach ('Tis but a scratch!), lightly stunning him.

Suulnir's radiant javelin returns to her hand.

Aetheline nods at Navesi, obviously agreeing with her views.

Angel whispers to your group, "and there goes Diplomacy"

Hoshii whistles low.

Atuen scoffs.

Mazrian moves into a position to parry.

Suulnir asks Atuen, "Do you wish to be sacrificed?"

Raikage leaps from hiding and ambushes Suulnir!

Raikage's parazonium lands a massive strike (11/23) that pokes a clean hole right through the back, narrowly missing vital organs, severely stunning her. The air around Raikage reverberates unnaturally, hindering the attack.

Raikage's ethereal shield crackles with energy!

Suulnir's cassock flares, sending a twilight purple frigid blast towards Raikage!

Suulnir's frigid blast lands a drafty strike to Raikage's right hand!

Aislynn observes Atuen with fascination.

Mazrian moves into a position to dodge.

Raikage leaps from hiding and ambushes Suulnir!

Raikage's parazonium lands a massive strike (11/23) that skewers a perfect hole between the shoulder blades (Heart Burn!).

* Suulnir is slain before your eyes!

Suulnir exhales involuntarily and shifts her stance, as if now under a heavy burden.

The shimmering ethereal shield fades from around Suulnir.

The swirling grey fog surrounding Suulnir disperses.

Hoshii mumbles something unprintable.

Atuen asks, "That it?"

Aislynn rests her hand on Suulnir's arm with a soft smile.

The ghostly laughter of Suulnir echoes through the room, sending a shiver down your spine.

Atuen nods.

Yvela mumbles something unprintable.

Aislynn sighs.

You grimace.

Betlind sighs.

Brisknite sighs.

Navesi frowns.

Miskton winces.

Karthor groans.

Angel sighs.

Ezerak frowns.

Whiteburn gazes upward.

Aetheline rolls her eyes.

You say, "This was supposed to be peaceful."

Hoshii frowns, shaking her head with an expression of exasperation before resting her face in the palm of her hand.

Atuen says, "And that there is what these Mad priest have become."

You sigh.

Atuen points at Suulnir.

With amazing speed, Ezerak strikes Atuen in the throat with the edge of his flattened palm. Atuen clutches his throat, wheezing pathetically.

The corpse of Suulnir trembles, writhing as if propelled by a larger force.

Andante says, "Some of us might be fools."

Mazrian says, "Uh oh."

Aislynn quietly says to Atuen, "You're an idiot."

Navesi says, "Raikage does not act on behalf of us."

Aetheline beams at Ezerak!

Hoshii quietly says, "Awww bugger."

Suulnir suddenly fades away.

Yvela says, "Well, there goes the peace."

Hoshii stands near Navesi.

Zamara says, "Quite rude. In her own home."

Karthor asks, "Maybe this'd be a good time to withdraw?"

You hear a voice say, "Peace was never an option."

Yvela pulls the hood of her cloak up.

Aislynn rolls her eyes.

Ezerak says, "For small minded fools, it is not."

Atuen gazes at Ezerak.

Aetheline nods to Ezerak.

A golden serpent rises from the charred ashes of Suulnir, drawing the form back into life.

Tirost says, "But timing is everything."

Whiteburn slowly empties her lungs.

Navesi frowns.

Atuen taps his foot impatiently.

Karthor raises an eyebrow.

Mendira blinks.

Angel's shadow shivers slightly.

Brisknite applauds.

A cackle trembles, resonating through the halls.

Whiteburn asks, "Hav'roth?"

Maintain says, "I'm not very concerned with the priest mistaking the actions of one for the actions of all."

Mazrian says, "Mmm."

You say, "If you can still hear us, please know they do not act on behalf of us."

Aetheline nods.

Casari glances at Whiteburn.

Turuk searches around for a moment.

Eyst says, "I suppose that's another question answered about what their newfound powers entail."

A Dragon Priest sentinel slips from the shadows, hissing, "All the infidelsss will burn!" as it reaches into its cloak and produces a curious-looking arrow lashed with a large crystal bottle from within its dark folds. With practiced movements, it quickly notches the arrow and fires at Atuen!

Atuen is soaked with naphtha!

Atuen fails to move out of the path of the curious-looking arrow in time, and it strikes your chest with tremendous force. On impact, the crystal bottle attached to the arrow shatters and douses Atuen in copious amounts of naphtha, igniting with a massive *WHOOOMPH*!

Atuen bursts into flames!

Atuen is stunned!

Brisknite searches around for a moment.

Atuen is stunned!

A vicious Dragon Priest intercessor just arrived!

A Dragon Priest assassin just arrived!

A blue-green pivuh just arrived!

A Dragon Priest zealot just arrived!

A Dragon Priest sentinel just arrived!

A Dragon Priest crone just arrived!

A Dragon Priest juggernaut just arrived!

A Dragon Priest juggernaut glances around with a deranged grin.

A Dragon Priest juggernaut just arrived!

Zamara stands up.

A stunned Atuen slowly tips over, falling on his face!

Atuen shakes off the stun.

Betlind draws forth a haledroth tachi with an elegant crystal-bone tsuba.

Hoshii mumbles something unprintable.

A blue-green pivuh skulks around the area with a bloodthirsty snarl, keeping a careful watch over the Dragon Priest crone.

Zamara picks up a heavy fur blanket stitched together from the hides of several animals.

Zamara puts her blanket in her hitman's backpack.

Atuen thrashes around on the ground as the flames consume his head!

Atuen screams in agony and thrashes around on the ground as the flames consume his chest!

Atuen frantically thrashes around on the ground as the flames consume his abdomen!

Atuen thrashes around on the ground as the flames consume his neck!

Atuen screams in agony and thrashes around on the ground as the flames consume his chest!

You notice Eyst slip into a hiding place.

The Dragon Priest assassin discovers Eyst, ruining his hiding place!

Hoshii asks, "Now do we burn it all down?"

The Dragon Priest intercessor gazes around analytically, assessing present threats and avenues of attack.

Atuen stands up.

Atuen runs around in circles as the flames consume his right leg!

Atuen runs around in circles as the flames consume his left arm!

Atuen runs around in circles as the flames consume his right arm!

Atuen runs around in circles as the flames consume his back!

A Dragon Priest sentinel slips from the shadows, hissing, "All the infidelsss will burn!" as it reaches into its cloak and produces a curious-looking arrow lashed with a large crystal bottle from within its dark folds. With practiced movements, it quickly notches the arrow and fires at Raikage!

Atuen runs around in circles as the flames consume his left leg!

Atuen runs around in circles as the flames consume his right hand!

Atuen runs around in circles as the flames consume his left hand!

Raikage fails to move out of the path of the curious-looking arrow in time, and it strikes your chest with tremendous force. On impact, the crystal bottle attached to the arrow shatters and douses Raikage in copious amounts of naphtha, igniting with a massive *WHOOOMPH*!

A veteran veteran sentinel's slowly glances around and hisses in disgust.

A vicious Dragon Priest intercessor just arrived!

A Dragon Priest assassin just arrived!

A blue-green pivuh just arrived!

A Dragon Priest zealot just arrived!

A Dragon Priest sentinel just arrived!

A Dragon Priest crone just arrived!

A Dragon Priest juggernaut just arrived!

A Dragon Priest juggernaut just arrived!

Angel assesses her combat situation.

Whiteburn exclaims, "Tch!"

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

The Dragon Priest zealot discovers Zamara, ruining her hiding place!

Keldyn traces a curving sigil in the air.

A stunned Raikage slowly tips over, falling on his face!

The Dragon Priest intercessor gazes around analytically, assessing present threats and avenues of attack.

A Dragon Priest zealot snorts in disgust and hisses, "Your pitiful magic will not hold back the fury of the World Dragon Priessstsss!"

A Dragon Priest zealot flexes its arms and scans the area with slow, liberal breaths.

A Dragon Priest assassin assesses the area with a smirk and hisses, "Do you really think you can ssstop me with your pathetic enchantmentsss?"

[The Black Spire, Temple of the World Dragon]
The smell of incense is intense and choking in this circular chamber at the top of the tower. Numerous black candles cast a flickering light over a large block of black stone. The image of the World Dragon, meticulously carved in granite, supports the altar in its giant maw. Plain, wooden kneelers have been placed in front of a large tapestry that covers the opposite wall. You also see a Dragon Priest juggernaut, a Dragon Priest juggernaut, a Dragon Priest crone, a Dragon Priest sentinel, a Dragon Priest zealot, a blue-green pivuh, a Dragon Priest assassin, a vicious Dragon Priest intercessor, a Dragon Priest juggernaut that appears rather calm, a Dragon Priest juggernaut that appears rather calm, a Dragon Priest crone that appears rather calm, a veteran veteran sentinel that appears rather calm, a Dragon Priest zealot that appears rather calm, a blue-green pivuh that appears rather calm, a Dragon Priest assassin that appears rather calm, a vicious Dragon Priest intercessor that appears rather calm, a blue-eyed ebony kitten, a scruffy lynx that is sitting and a steep stairway.
Also here: Enchantress Angel who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Bladesinger Hoshii who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Boltproof Brisknite who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Nature's Titan Turuk, Atuen, Warrior Poet Keldyn who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Holy Being Maintain who is shrouded in ghostly flames, Mountain Lord Ezerak who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Aes-Amachi Casari who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Philosopher Yvela who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Esotericist Eyst who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Mazrian who has a stony visage, Philomath Miskton who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Shield Maiden Betlind who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Delani who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Bastion of Life Karthor who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Singing Sword Andante who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Langen Esturi Nilme who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Miniature Aetheline who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Dancer Mendira who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Maunderer Aislynn who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Telo'Getha Tirost who has a stony visage, Inquisitor Whiteburn who is shrouded by swirling grey fog, Tempest Knight Saragos who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, True Bard Navesi who is surrounded by a shimmering shield and Dafo Zamara.
Obvious exits: none.

A Dragon Priest juggernaut glances around with a deranged grin.

A Dragon Priest juggernaut glances around with a deranged grin.

The Dragon Priest intercessor gazes around analytically, assessing present threats and avenues of attack.

Atuen climbed down a steep stairway.

Raikage reveals himself!

Raikage screams in agony and thrashes around on the ground as the flames consume his chest!

Raikage seems not to notice as the flames consume his neck!

The flames burning Raikage's neck suddenly flare out and ignite his chest!

Raikage seems not to notice as the flames consume his head!

Raikage screams in agony and thrashes around on the ground as the flames consume his chest!

A veteran veteran sentinel's slowly glances around and hisses in disgust.

Raikage seems not to notice as the flames consume his back!

Raikage seems not to notice as the flames consume his right arm!

Raikage seems not to notice as the flames consume his abdomen!

Raikage seems not to notice as the flames consume his left arm!

A Dragon Priest juggernaut glances around with a deranged grin.

Raikage seems not to notice as the flames consume his right hand!

Raikage reveals himself!

Raikage thrashes around on the ground as the flames consume his left leg!

Raikage thrashes around on the ground as the flames consume his right leg!

Raikage seems not to notice as the flames consume his left hand!

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

Raikage leaps to his feet!

A blue-green pivuh skulks around the area with a bloodthirsty snarl, keeping a careful watch over the Dragon Priest crone.

Casari shrugs.

Raikage screams in agony and runs around in circles as the flames consume his chest!

Aetheline cackles!

A Dragon Priest zealot snorts in disgust and hisses, "Your pitiful magic will not hold back the fury of the World Dragon Priessstsss!"

A Dragon Priest zealot scans the area with keen perception, issuing a low hiss.

A Dragon Priest assassin assesses the area with a smirk and hisses, "Do you really think you can ssstop me with your pathetic enchantmentsss?"

The Dragon Priest intercessor gazes around analytically, assessing present threats and avenues of attack.

The Dragon Priest intercessor gazes around analytically, assessing present threats and avenues of attack.

Casari says, "They haven't attacked me yet, anyway."

Yvela exclaims, "Don't be quick to fight!"

A Dragon Priest zealot snorts in disgust and hisses, "Your pitiful magic will not hold back the fury of the World Dragon Priessstsss!"

A veteran veteran sentinel's slowly glances around and hisses in disgust.

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

A blue-green pivuh skulks around the area with a bloodthirsty snarl, keeping a careful watch over the Dragon Priest crone.

A Dragon Priest sentinel's slowly glances around and hisses in disgust.

A Dragon Priest assassin just arrived!

A Dragon Priest assassin just arrived!

A Dragon Priest assassin just arrived!

A Dragon Priest assassin just arrived!

A Dragon Priest assassin just arrived!

A Dragon Priest assassin just arrived!

A Dragon Priest assassin just arrived!

A Dragon Priest assassin just arrived!

A Dragon Priest assassin just arrived!

A Dragon Priest assassin just arrived!

A Dragon Priest assassin just arrived!

A Dragon Priest assassin just arrived!

Mazrian says, "Huh."

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

A Dragon Priest zealot snorts in disgust and hisses, "Your pitiful magic will not hold back the fury of the World Dragon Priessstsss!"

A Dragon Priest zealot scans the area with keen perception, issuing a low hiss.

A Dragon Priest assassin assesses the area with a smirk and hisses, "Do you really think you can ssstop me with your pathetic enchantmentsss?"

The Dragon Priest intercessor gazes around analytically, assessing present threats and avenues of attack.

A vicious Dragon Priest intercessor frowns slightly at the lack of avenues of egress.

Tirost says, "Db."

A Dragon Priest assassin assesses the area with a smirk and hisses, "Do you really think you can ssstop me with your pathetic enchantmentsss?"

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

The Dragon Priest intercessor gazes around analytically, assessing present threats and avenues of attack.

You say, "Yes, everyone, please do not engage."

A Dragon Priest juggernaut glances around with a deranged grin.

A Dragon Priest zealot snorts in disgust and hisses, "Your pitiful magic will not hold back the fury of the World Dragon Priessstsss!"

A Dragon Priest sentinel's slowly glances around and hisses in disgust.

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

A veteran veteran sentinel's slowly glances around and hisses in disgust.

Navesi assesses her combat situation.

Aislynn quietly says, "Hullo, pivuh..."

Yvela says, "If they only want the aggressors, so be it."

Hoshii gazes at her cupcake.

The Dragon Priest crone looks for a way out, but only gets confused!

A Dragon Priest zealot snorts in disgust and hisses, "Your pitiful magic will not hold back the fury of the World Dragon Priessstsss!"

A Dragon Priest assassin assesses the area with a smirk and hisses, "Do you really think you can ssstop me with your pathetic enchantmentsss?"

Navesi says, "I have calmed them."

A Dragon Priest juggernaut glances around with a deranged grin.

Aislynn makes a chirring noise in the back of her throat.

Maintain nods.

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

The Dragon Priest intercessor gazes around analytically, assessing present threats and avenues of attack.

A Dragon Priest assassin assesses the area with a smirk and hisses, "Do you really think you can ssstop me with your pathetic enchantmentsss?"

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

A Dragon Priest juggernaut glances around with a deranged grin.

A Dragon Priest zealot snorts in disgust and hisses, "Your pitiful magic will not hold back the fury of the World Dragon Priessstsss!"

The Dragon Priest intercessor gazes around analytically, assessing present threats and avenues of attack.

A Dragon Priest sentinel's slowly glances around and hisses in disgust.

Zamara says, "Perhaps you loud people. Leave."

A veteran veteran sentinel's slowly glances around and hisses in disgust.

A Dragon Priest zealot snorts in disgust and hisses, "Your pitiful magic will not hold back the fury of the World Dragon Priessstsss!"

A Dragon Priest assassin assesses the area with a smirk and hisses, "Do you really think you can ssstop me with your pathetic enchantmentsss?"

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

Tirost lets out a long, contemplative breath.

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

A Dragon Priest assassin assesses the area with a smirk and hisses, "Do you really think you can ssstop me with your pathetic enchantmentsss?"

The Dragon Priest intercessor gazes around analytically, assessing present threats and avenues of attack.

A vicious Dragon Priest intercessor frowns slightly at the lack of avenues of egress.

You continue to feel an uncanny confidence, bolstered by Mazrian's fearlessness.

A Dragon Priest zealot snorts in disgust and hisses, "Your pitiful magic will not hold back the fury of the World Dragon Priessstsss!"

A Dragon Priest assassin assesses the area with a smirk and hisses, "Do you really think you can ssstop me with your pathetic enchantmentsss?"

A Dragon Priest sentinel's slowly glances around and hisses in disgust.

The Dragon Priest intercessor gazes around analytically, assessing present threats and avenues of attack.

Whiteburn says to Yvela, "Hold your fire, Necromancer."

Eyst frowns.

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

A Dragon Priest zealot snorts in disgust and hisses, "Your pitiful magic will not hold back the fury of the World Dragon Priessstsss!"

A Dragon Priest assassin assesses the area with a smirk and hisses, "Do you really think you can ssstop me with your pathetic enchantmentsss?"

The Dragon Priest crone looks for a way out, but only gets confused!

You hear a female Human voice say, "A bit disappointed I didn't get to do the stabbing myself. But that right there kind of made up for it."

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

A Dragon Priest assassin assesses the area with a smirk and hisses, "Do you really think you can ssstop me with your pathetic enchantmentsss?"

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

A blue-green pivuh skulks around the area with a bloodthirsty snarl, keeping a careful watch over the Dragon Priest crone.

A Dragon Priest assassin assesses the area with a smirk and hisses, "Do you really think you can ssstop me with your pathetic enchantmentsss?"

A Dragon Priest sentinel's slowly glances around and hisses in disgust.

The Dragon Priest intercessor gazes around analytically, assessing present threats and avenues of attack.

Keldyn's pick fades over the course of a few seconds, returning to normal.

You notice as a scruffy lynx begins to pant.

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

The Dragon Priest intercessor gazes around analytically, assessing present threats and avenues of attack.

Suulnir fades into view.

Suulnir Suulnir steps from the shadows, gesturing, and allowing a sense of calm to take the area.

Yvela says to Whiteburn, "Well ahead of you."

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

A Dragon Priest zealot snorts in disgust and hisses, "Your pitiful magic will not hold back the fury of the World Dragon Priessstsss!"

A veteran veteran sentinel's slowly glances around and hisses in disgust.

A Dragon Priest assassin assesses the area with a smirk and hisses, "Do you really think you can ssstop me with your pathetic enchantmentsss?"

A Dragon Priest zealot snorts in disgust and hisses, "Your pitiful magic will not hold back the fury of the World Dragon Priessstsss!"

Eyst gazes at Suulnir.

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

A blue-green pivuh skulks around the area with a bloodthirsty snarl, keeping a careful watch over the Dragon Priest crone.

The Dragon Priest intercessor gazes around analytically, assessing present threats and avenues of attack.

Aislynn nods to Suulnir.

A Dragon Priest zealot snorts in disgust and hisses, "Your pitiful magic will not hold back the fury of the World Dragon Priessstsss!"

You continue to feel an uncanny confidence, bolstered by Casari's fearlessness.

A veteran veteran sentinel's slowly glances around and hisses in disgust.

Aetheline nods to Suulnir.

Navesi asks Suulnir, "Will you call off your people?"

A Dragon Priest zealot snorts in disgust and hisses, "Your pitiful magic will not hold back the fury of the World Dragon Priessstsss!"

A Dragon Priest assassin assesses the area with a smirk and hisses, "Do you really think you can ssstop me with your pathetic enchantmentsss?"

A Dragon Priest sentinel strokes its neck softly with the back of its talons, searching for an exit.

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

The Dragon Priest intercessor gazes around analytically, assessing present threats and avenues of attack.

The Dragon Priest crone looks for a way out, but only gets confused!

A Dragon Priest zealot snorts in disgust and hisses, "Your pitiful magic will not hold back the fury of the World Dragon Priessstsss!"

A Dragon Priest assassin assesses the area with a smirk and hisses, "Do you really think you can ssstop me with your pathetic enchantmentsss?"

The Dragon Priest intercessor gazes around analytically, assessing present threats and avenues of attack.

A vicious Dragon Priest intercessor frowns slightly at the lack of avenues of egress.

Suulnir gestures to the stairwell, and the Dragon Priests begin filing out

Betlind puts her tachi in her weapon harness.

Betlind sheathes her haledroth tachi.

A blue-green pivuh skulks around the area with a bloodthirsty snarl, keeping a careful watch over the Dragon Priest crone.

A Dragon Priest assassin assesses the area with a smirk and hisses, "Do you really think you can ssstop me with your pathetic enchantmentsss?"

A veteran veteran sentinel's slowly glances around and hisses in disgust.

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

A veteran veteran sentinel suddenly looks rather less content with life in general.

A Dragon Priest zealot snorts in disgust and hisses, "Your pitiful magic will not hold back the fury of the World Dragon Priessstsss!"

A Dragon Priest zealot scans the area with keen perception, issuing a low hiss.

A Dragon Priest assassin assesses the area with a smirk and hisses, "Do you really think you can ssstop me with your pathetic enchantmentsss?"

A Dragon Priest sentinel's slowly glances around and hisses in disgust.

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

Maintain nods politely.

You continue to feel an uncanny confidence, bolstered by Mazrian's fearlessness.

You notice as a scruffy lynx looks around suspiciously.

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

You continue to feel an uncanny confidence, bolstered by Casari's fearlessness.

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

A Dragon Priest juggernaut glances around with a deranged grin.

A Dragon Priest zealot snorts in disgust and hisses, "Your pitiful magic will not hold back the fury of the World Dragon Priessstsss!"

You say to Suulnir, "While they are not of ours, please accept our apologies on their behalf. Violence was not our goal here today."

Angel nods.

(Aislynn makes little shooing motions at the sentinels nearest her, squinting.)

Suulnir says to you, "Leave this place."

Hoshii hums a nervous tune.

A Dragon Priest sentinel's slowly glances around and hisses in disgust.

Aetheline says, "Also, thanks for disposing of them."

Aetheline nods emphatically.

You nod to Suulnir.

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

A blue-green pivuh skulks around the area with a bloodthirsty snarl, keeping a careful watch over the Dragon Priest crone.

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

Eyst frowns.

Saragos nods.

You say to Suulnir, "As you wish."

A blue-green pivuh paces, its eyes burning with rage and teeth exposed in a snarl.

Maintain nods politely to Suulnir.

Saragos says, "Time to go, people."

Navesi nods to Saragos.

Miskton nods.

Betlind bows.

Maintain joins Navesi's group.

Suulnir composes herself, standing silently by the altar.

Yvela nods.

Ezerak bows to Suulnir.

Navesi says, "Miskton, the gate please."

You say to Suulnir, "Should your Dragon wish to accept our request for peaceful talks of a treaty, we shall look forward to it."

Mazrian nods.

Angel smiles.

You curtsy gracefully to Suulnir.

Miskton turns his gaze heavenward and traces a series of lunar sigils in the air.

Navesi says, "Join me everyone."

Eyst asks Suulnir, "I don't suppose you'd be open to entertaining more discourse at a later date... in the name of strengthening relations so that they don't end this way again?"

With a graceful flutter of her hands, Angel sinks down in a formal curtsy.

Whiteburn says to Suulnir, "I will remember this restraint."

Miskton says to Navesi, "The moons have set."

You say to Suulnir, "Thank you again for your time, and your words."

Navesi says to Suulnir, "I reiterate that the Bards wish to speak to your Emperor as well."

Aetheline curtsies to Suulnir.

Nature's Titan Turuk climbed down a steep stairway.

Navesi sighs.

Navesi says, "I will lead us back out then."

Whiteburn says to Suulnir, "Until next we meet, Priest."

Brisknite nods to Suulnir.

Angel softly says to Suulnir, "Thank you for allowing us to come and speak with you."

Eyst bows to Suulnir.

Andante says, "May the words of peace spoken here lead to deeds of peace."

Navesi says, "Moving in 10 everyone. Join me if you haven't."

Eyst whispers to your group, "How unfortunate."

Navesi gives Suulnir a slight nod.

Maintain bows to Suulnir.

Miskton nods politely to Suulnir.

You curtsy gracefully to Suulnir.

Maintain says, "Your parlay was appreciated, even if not by all present."

Saragos says, "Join up - we were here for diplomacy, and safe passage will only last so long."

You nod.

Navesi says, "Moving now."

Casari waves.

With a graceful movement of her hands, Angel lowers her head and sinks into a formal curtsy before Suulnir.

Descent From the Spire & Closing Discussion

True Bard Navesi's group climbed down a steep stairway.

[The Black Spire, Stairwell]

You follow Navesi down.

[The Black Spire, Stairwell]

You follow Navesi down.

[The Black Spire, Stairwell]

True Bard Navesi's group went through an oak door.

[The Black Spire, Corridor]

You follow Navesi northwest.

[The Black Spire, Upstairs Hall]

True Bard Navesi's group wandered up a sloping ramp.

[The Black Spire, Entry Hall]

True Bard Navesi's group went through a portcullis.

[The Black Spire, Gatehouse]

True Bard Navesi's group went through some iron-banded gates.

[The Black Spire, Gates]

You follow Navesi northwest.

[Cragstone Vale, Roadway]

You follow Navesi northwest.

[Cragstone Vale, Corral]

You follow Navesi northwest.

[Cragstone Vale, Corral]

True Bard Navesi's group wandered down a trampled barrier.

[Cragstone Vale, Roadway]
The overgrown roadway stretches to the southwest, while a section of crushed fence leads to a rocky shelf above. The sound of rushing water can be heard from the north where a huge, fallen tree has been toppled away from the road, creating a narrow void through the underbrush. You also see a snifter of apple brandy and a floating vessel of flaring crimson light.
Also here: Mountain Lord Ezerak who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Aes-Amachi Casari who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Philosopher Yvela who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Esotericist Eyst who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Mazrian who has a stony visage, Philomath Miskton who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Shield Maiden Betlind who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Bastion of Life Karthor who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Singing Sword Andante who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Langen Esturi Nilme who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Miniature Aetheline who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Dancer Mendira who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Maunderer Aislynn who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Telo'Getha Tirost who has a stony visage, Inquisitor Whiteburn who is shrouded by swirling grey fog, Tempest Knight Saragos who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Enchantress Angel who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Warrior Poet Keldyn who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Boltproof Brisknite who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Bladesinger Hoshii who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Holy Being Maintain who is shrouded in ghostly flames, True Bard Navesi who is surrounded by a shimmering shield and Amicable Ahneya.
Obvious paths: southwest.

Karthor adjusts the fit of his spectacles.

Ahneya smiles.

Tirost frowns.

Betlind slowly empties her lungs.

Mazrian searches around for a moment.

Navesi says, "Back at the triage location."

Aislynn quietly says, "Fascinating."

You frown.

Mendira smiles.

Yvela says, "That went well, all considering."

Ezerak sighs.

Tirost nods to Yvela.

Miskton nods.

Karthor strokes his beard in thoughtful contemplation.

Andante says, "That was impressive."

Ezerak says, "The Peacocks strike again."

Navesi says, "That mission went completely the opposite of what I expected."

Ahneya says, "Let me know if I should drop the song I just restarted."

Aetheline exclaims, "That was FUN!"

Betlind slides her left arm through the straps on her heater shield and flexes.

Eyst says, "It did exceed expectations."

Aetheline bounces around happily.

Keldyn says, "That was dissapointing."

Miskton says, "Certainly not what I expected at the start."

Aislynn nods at Ezerak, obviously agreeing with his views.

Aislynn rolls her eyes.

Tirost glances at Navesi.

Saragos nods to Miskton.

Hoshii quietly says, "That was, all considered, the most terrifying thing that's ever happened to me."

Navesi says to Ahneya, "No need, we are finished with them for now."

Hoshii exclaims, "She turned into a bloody snake!"

You say, "For once, an attempt at diplomacy... mostly... worked."

Hoshii flails her arms about.

You sigh.

Mendira grins at Hoshii.

You gaze up at the sky.

Navesi pats Hoshii on the back.

Saragos says, "Our understanding of the Immortals and favors is certainly turned upside down."

Ahneya nods to Navesi.

Tirost chuckles at you!

Aetheline exclaims to Hoshii, "That was awesome!"

Maintain asks Saragos, "Is it?"

Eyst nods at Saragos, obviously agreeing with his views.

Hoshii gazes silently at Aetheline.

Mazrian says, "Seems so."

Aetheline stares meekly at the ground in a moment of embarrassment.

Navesi says, "I'd like to go somewhere more comfortable to discuss it, though without moons that will be difficult."

Hoshii says to Aetheline, "We have very different ideas of awesome. I need a drink."

Maintain says, "Immortals are immensely powerful beings. It isn't entirely impossible that another powerful being could grant a favor."

Casari says, "At least it means another divine being has gotten close enough to this area to do something."

Aetheline gets a bottle of Halfling Apple wine from inside her patched gearbag.

Tirost says to you, "You were an excellent representative for us, Ayrell. Thank you."

Aetheline offers Hoshii a bottle of Halfling Apple wine.

Ahneya joins Navesi's group.

Hoshii puts her cupcake in her silk haversack.

Navesi asks, "I could get us to Raven's Point with just one stop. Is there a tavern there?"

Hoshii accepts Aetheline's Halfling Apple wine.

Hoshii bows to Aetheline.

Enchantress Angel wandered up a crushed fence.

You smile at Tirost.

Aetheline curtsies to Hoshii.

Hoshii takes a sip of her wine.

Whiteburn says, "Inconceivable. That creature is an anomaly."

Saragos says to Maintain, "According to Inquisitor Whiteburn she had favors, but not granted by the Immortals."

Casari says, "Too bad she never really... actually said anything."

Tirost smiles at Angel.

You graciously say to Tirost, "Thank you."

Brisknite says, "I have to head to the town hall in haven."

Brisknite bows.

You nod graciously at Tirost, giving him a polite smile.

Navesi nods to Brisknite.

Hoshii nods at Casari, obviously agreeing with her views.

Navesi says to Brisknite, "Thank you for coming."

Tirost smiles at you.

Saragos nods to Brisknite.

Aislynn quietly says, "So do I."

Yvela says, "What happened with the serpert... reminded me of the self-revival spell clerics use. The one with Murrula's pheonix."

Aislynn quietly asks Brisknite, "Can I come with you?"

Navesi nods to Yvela.

Whiteburn says to Casari, "Indeed. She was deliberately avoiding answering certain questions."

Mendira nods at Yvela, obviously agreeing with her views.

Hoshii says, "That was nothing like Murrula."

Brisknite left the group.

Hoshii folds her arms across her chest.

Aislynn joins Brisknite's group.

Hoshii says, "Nothing."

Brisknite chuckles.

Andante says, "Our spokespeople did a really nice job."

Saragos says to Navesi, "We can get everyone together to discuss implications later."

Brisknite waves.

Aislynn praises Brisknite.

Brisknite raises his hand in a quick salute.

Ezerak nods at Andante, obviously agreeing with her views.

Ezerak gazes fondly at you.

Aislynn nods to Brisknite.

Aetheline says, "Turning into a snake would be really fun..."

Hoshii squints at Aetheline.

Aetheline stares meekly at the ground in a moment of embarrassment.

Hoshii asks Aetheline, "You already drank half this bottle, didn't you?"

Aetheline giggles.

Aetheline shakes her head.

Hoshii gazes at her wine.

Aetheline exclaims, "No!"

Delani says, "A little jealous of Raikage..except for the dying on fire part."

Navesi asks Saragos, "No drinks now then?"

Delani waves her hand distractedly.

Boltproof Brisknite's group wandered down a crushed fence.

Hoshii takes a sip of her wine.

Aetheline exclaims, "But think of the things you could get into!"

Hoshii offers Navesi a bottle of Halfling Apple wine.

Aetheline grins at Hoshii, her dimples flashing into view.

Navesi accepts Hoshii's Halfling Apple wine.

Navesi takes a sip of her wine.

Navesi winces.

Hoshii gives Navesi a wry grin.

Hoshii says to Navesi, "Never said it was good."

Navesi says to Hoshii, "Goodness."

Navesi offers Hoshii a bottle of Halfling Apple wine.

Tirost says to Yvela, "The advisor's rhetoric was not unfamiliar..."

Hoshii takes a sip of her wine.

Aetheline picks up a snifter of apple brandy.

Aetheline offers Hoshii a snifter of apple brandy.

Hoshii quietly says to Aetheline, "I think I love you."

Mazrian says, "I want to say that as much as she seemd sincere, none of that was very reassuring."

Aetheline beams at Hoshii!

Hoshii offers Aetheline a bottle of Halfling Apple wine.

Aetheline accepts Hoshii's Halfling Apple wine.

Hoshii puts her cutlass in her silk haversack.

Casari nods to Mazrian.

Hoshii accepts Aetheline's apple brandy.

Aetheline puts her wine in her patched gearbag.

Aetheline gets a glass of Iron Hill whiskey from inside her patched gearbag.

You nod at Mazrian, in complete agreement with his views.

Navesi says, "It was not, at all."

Hoshii takes a sip of her brandy.

Karthor nods in agreement.

Aetheline offers Navesi a glass of Iron Hill whiskey.

You say, "Quite unnerving, really."

Navesi accepts Aetheline's Iron Hill whiskey.

Navesi takes a sip of her whiskey.

Yvela folds her arms across her chest.

Miskton says, "Will be a fair bit before another moon is up to faciliate group transportation, I'm afraid."

Whiteburn says, "I would not take the priest at her word."

Ezerak nods at Mazrian, obviously agreeing with his views.

You say, "I certainly have some reservations about this... purpose... of theirs."

Navesi says, "She is not to be trusted. They are not. But we used the opportunity to learn what we could."

Ezerak nods at you, obviously agreeing with your views.

Miskton nods.

Hoshii says, "She sincerely commited to nothing. She spoke in circles and careful phrasing."

Mendira nods in agreement.

Casari asks, "So they're making something big?"

Maintain asks Mazrian, "You do not find the idea of Dragon Priests convinced they can accomplish their goals without violence reassuring?"

Tirost nods at Navesi, obviously agreeing with her views.

Navesi says, "I will certainly have a discussion soon with the Bards about our next steps."

Maintain offers Mazrian a shot of Darkstone Whiskey.

Mazrian accepts Maintain's Darkstone Whiskey.

Mazrian says to Maintain, "Shocking, I know."

Mazrian puts his Whiskey in his black backpack.

Maintain looks at Mazrian and shrugs.

Hoshii grins at Mazrian.

Maintain offers Ahneya a Hangman's Noose.

Whiteburn asks Maintain, "I find it unlikely that they will cleave to that promise of non-violence. See how quickly and efficiently they dealt with Atuen and his ilk?"

Aetheline says to Navesi, "She also said --she-- had nothing to do with your attack, but didn't quite answer your question as to whether those now in charge did."

Hoshii nods emphatically at Aetheline.

Ahneya declines Maintain's offer.

Ahneya says, "Thank you though."

You say to Navesi, "Yes, even in vagueness, there was something to be learned that we would not have gleaned from mere battle."

Ahneya smiles.

Navesi says to Aetheline, "Well. She said they are no longer intact."

Angel nods in agreement.

You say, "I appreciate that, at least."

Yvela frowns in thought.

Aetheline nods to Navesi.

Maintain offers Hoshii a Hangman's Noose.

Andante smiles.

Andante nods.

Mendira wrinkles her nose.

Navesi nods to you.

Hoshii declines Maintain's offer.

Hoshii bows to Maintain.

Angel casually observes the area.

Hoshii shows Maintain her apple brandy.

Maintain shrugs.

Miskton says, "If she was telling the truth, they at least do not consider attacking the Bards to be to their advantage. For now."

[General] Your mind hears Atuen thinking, "While your Ilk entertain any notion of peace with those do-gooders of this world, you will be marked by us.... Suulnir"

Maintain takes a sip of his Noose.

Andante nods.

Ezerak says, "She did seem to say that the ones that were responsible for the attack are...no more."

Maintain nods at Hoshii, obviously agreeing with her views.

Navesi says, "I thank you all for giving us the opportunity to learn, much as my blood raged to keep still."

Maintain takes a sip of his Noose.

Ezerak says, "Unless I misunderstood."

[General] Your mind hears Mazrian thinking, "I'm sure she's just terrified."

Navesi nods to Miskton.

You say to Miskton, "Nor attacking Shard. That is good as well."

Aetheline giggles at Mazrian.

Saragos says to Mazrian, "I'm not sure I believe a word of what she was saying, but it's certainly interesting."

Nilme whispers, "It was a privilege to observe your diplomacy in action."

Mazrian nods at Saragos, obviously agreeing with his views.

Navesi says, "Whatever she is doing cannot be to the good, though."

Karthor says, "Well that was certainly interestin' if nothin' else. I must be off fer now, take care folks. Nice to have us all stay in one piece with out needin' to be actively held together."

You smile at Nilme.

Nilme smiles.

Hoshii says, ""She made no promise to leave the Sisters on Aesry alone, unless I missed something. I kept blacking out."

Saragos nods to Karthor.

Tirost bows to Karthor.

Andante says, "I'm so glad I was here to witness that."

Navesi nods to Karthor.

Ezerak whispers to your group, "I believe Raikage is back"

Karthor raises his hand in a quick salute.

Navesi nods to Ezerak.

Tirost says to Karthor, "Take care, Karthor."

Karthor smiles.

Aetheline curtsies to Karthor.

Angel smiles at Karthor.

[General] Your mind hears Maintain thinking, "She seems very scared. What with demanding we leave the Spire from a position of power."

[General] Your mind hears Kintryn thinking, "shes probably prepping a good recipe that involves chicken like the rest of us Maz"

Maintain takes a sip of his Noose.

Yvela says, "If she is connected to some source of divinity.. hereotfor unknown to us.. well, it'll be very interesting to see what happens next."

Andante turns her gaze to the sky for a few moments.

Angel says to Karthor, "Good evening Vice Speaker."

Andante smiles.

[General] Your mind hears Atuen thinking, "Ca Caw"

Angel nods to Yvela.

Navesi whispers to your group, "I have no concern for him. I don't need to hear how it felt to die that way."

Karthor nods to Angel.

Karthor waves.

Hoshii nods to Yvela.

Yvela folds her arms across her chest.

Andante says, "Thank you to the folks who organized this encounter."

Andante says, "I think we have a lot to ponder."

Andante nods.

Betlind nods in agreement.

Aetheline nods.

Keldyn waves.

You nod at Andante, in complete agreement with her views.

Navesi nods politely to Andante.

Warrior Poet Keldyn goes southwest.

Angel smiles.

Angel nods.

Warrior Poet Keldyn just arrived.

Warrior Poet Keldyn wandered down a crushed fence.

Hoshii quietly says, "I had a lot more trust in divinities before marrying a cleric and meeting darker-worshiping priests. The last thing we need is some new source of divinity that a Dragon Priest would worship."

[General] Your mind hears Suulnir thinking, "Interesting. Gnats can use gwethdesuans -- and make bird sounds."

Tirost whispers something to Angel.

Hoshii says, "There are worse things than death, and most of them seem related to immortals."

[General] Your mind hears Casari thinking, "Gwethdesuaen."

[General] Your mind hears Maintain thinking, "That's a bird sound? Well, that's a different spin on it. I thought it was referential to bowel movements."

Navesi gets a spiral silver neithrel band set with small fire opals from inside her canvas rucksack.

Navesi gently tugs her neithrel band into place on her hand.

Nilme says, "Interesting."

Whiteburn says, "Tch. I cannot stomach the stench of Necromancy here any longer. I must away."

Hoshii curtsies to Whiteburn.

Aetheline waves to Whiteburn.

Whiteburn says to Yvela, "Be on your guard, foulness."

Navesi nods to Whiteburn.

Mazrian turns his gaze to the sky for a few moments.

Whiteburn seizes one corner of her greatcloak and throws it across her opposite shoulder, then turns upon her heels.

Angel chuckles to herself.

Inquisitor Whiteburn glides southwest.

Yvela rolls her eyes.

Maintain asks Yvela, "Can we just pretend I said something denigrating and skip the posturing?"

Hoshii glances at Yvela.

Yvela says, "Whiteburn walks away from this concerned about ME? Strange priorities."

Angel whispers something to Yvela.

Yvela nods to Maintain.

Yvela says, "Let's."

Mazrian says, "She's very focused."

Maintain nods at Yvela, obviously agreeing with her views.

Mazrian chuckles.

Tirost chuckles.

Hoshii grins.

[General] Your mind hears Atuen thinking, "You think your voices to us in death frighten us..... We are the true servants of the One..... We will see you again, Mur."

You say to Navesi, "I will make notes and add this information to the lecture I have scheduled here soon, regarding the Dragon Priests."

Maintain says, "She's a sterling example of doctrinal Temple adherent."

Yarah wandered up a crushed fence.

Yarah rambles southwest.

Navesi nods to you.

You say, "To help get word out of what we learned... even if little."

Navesi says to you, "We should compile something written."

Angel winks at Tirost.

Navesi glances at Mendira.

Maintain says, "I'm fortunate that my training has been...outside."

You nod to Navesi.

Hoshii says to you, "I'd love to attend that, if it's public."

Maintain chuckles.

Mendira smiles at Navesi.

You nod to Hoshii.

Tirost smiles at Angel.

Nilme nods at Hoshii, obviously agreeing with her views.

You say to Hoshii, "It is."

Andante nods.

You smile.

Andante says, "Me too."

Hoshii beams!

You say to Hoshii, "It will be on the rooftop stage of the theater in Shard."

Navesi says, "Well, unfortunately the moons have gone."

Angel nods to Navesi.

[General] Your mind hears Suulnir thinking, "You willingly turn on your own people to pretend to worship the Dragon, yet you know nothing of the will of the Emperor. I wonder what it is like to be a tourist in a child's costume."

Delani says, "I still don't believe the dragon worshippers deserve peace, let alone even the smallest of kindnesses."

Angel says, "Public transportation now for folks I fear."

You say, "I believe it is posted on the calendar, for any who are interested."

Delani sighs.

Andante nods.

Navesi says, "Who here needs help getting back to civilization? I can try, though it's difficult."

Hoshii takes a sip of her brandy.

Aetheline asks, "I kinda like her...?"

Aetheline blushes a bright red color.

Angel smiles at Aetheline.

Navesi frowns at Aetheline.

Ahneya says, "I will make my own way to make your group a little smaller."

Ahneya left the group.

Ahneya smiles.

Mazrian says to Navesi, "I'm heading up north."

Navesi nods to Ahneya.

Mazrian smiles.

You say to Delani, "It is not always peace or kindness, so much as a necessity to determine what they are up to and how to ensure everyone remains protected."

Saragos raises two fingers to his brow in a quick hand salute.

Mendira says, "Home is nearby for me. Safe paths to you all."

Casari says, "Her Gamgweth needs some work, though."

Mendira smiles.

Hoshii waves to Mendira.

Miskton says, "I'll be fine on my own. Sorry I can't help out with moving people."

Andante says, "Smile."

Tempest Knight Saragos strides southwest.

Nilme nods.

Miskton left the group.

Nilme left the group.

Mendira waves to Hoshii.

Hoshii says, "I can make it home from here. Thank you, though."

Hoshii left the group.

Maintain says to Navesi, "Thank you for the intivation. I learned some things."

Mendira left the group.

Navesi says to Miskton, "Not at all. Thank you for your help."

Navesi nods to Maintain.

Maintain left the group.

Nilme says to Navesi, "Thank you so much."

Ahneya says, "It was fun standing outside, I hope to do it again soon."

Yvela turns her gaze to the sky for a few moments.

Nilme smiles.

Taurture runs southwest.

* Suulnir returns home from a hard day of adventuring.

With a graceful flutter of her hands, Ahneya sinks down in a formal curtsy.

Betlind says, "Thank you, everyone."

Betlind bows.

Nilme grins at Ahneya.

Mendira nods graciously at Navesi, giving her a polite smile.

Ahneya smiles.

Navesi says, "Glad to hear you're all fine to travel on your own."

Mazrian wandered down a crushed fence.

Maintain bows.

Tirost left the group.

Andante says, "I have some jewelry that will work when the moons come up."

Amicable Ahneya wandered down a crushed fence.

Andante left the group.

Navesi stops you from following her.

Andante smiles.

Maintain says, "Stay safe."

Tirost nods to Angel.

Holy Being Maintain wandered down a crushed fence.

Navesi nods to Andante.

Yvela nods.

Dancer Mendira wandered down a crushed fence.

[General] Your mind hears Atuen thinking, "Your greatness has been reduced to slader and petty insults, Mur. I will not honour you with the title of Priest or that Mad Man who calls himself Dragon"

Shield Maiden Betlind wandered down a crushed fence.

Andante says, "Good evening folks."

Andante waves.

Tirost waves.

Angel says, "Ninety rois for Yavash."

Hoshii says to Nilme, "See you around the Oak, I hope."

Navesi says, "I'll say farewell then. I'll talk to the Bards again soon."

Quick Reference - Suulnir Dialogue & Actions

[Personal] Your mind hears Suulnir thinking, "<to you>" "It would be rude of me not to offer -- entertainment -- to guests in my home."

[Personal] Your mind hears Suulnir thinking, "<to you>" "I have consecrated the altar to the World Dragon. If you wish to speak, I would encourage you to ascend the Spire. I assure you, the temple is -- quite safe."

[Personal] Your mind hears Suulnir thinking, "<to you>" "As for the rest of the Spire, I make no promises -- my colleagues are not fond of being hunted like beasts."

Suulnir says, "Some have. Some have not. I am curious to see which remain in which of those categories."

Suulnir says, "Ah. Welcome, guests. I was worried that you might not make it to the Temple."

Suulnir nods politely.

Suulnir says, "I see that some of you have come a second time. No doubt to poach my people for their beliefs, as your -- you call them hunters, but I call them assassins -- no doubt have; or, perhaps in retaliation for those that struck out three years ago. No matter -- these things have brought us together. Out of atrocity, hope."

Suulnir smiles sincerely, her words a juxtaposition to her rather pleasant demeanor.

Suulnir says to you, "Three years ago, we still had not fully realized a unified purpose. There were members of the old vanguard who still held to the old ways. The attacks on Aesry, and on your Bards, were acts of that old vanguard." Suulnir offers a dispassionate shrug. "They have come around to my way of thinking, at least for now, and have been dealt with in a matter befitting their station."

Suulnir clenches a fist in thought, playing with the holy fire in her hand as if it were a toy.

Suulnir says, "I am not an Emperor, no. That title belongs to the Dragon alone."

Suulnir says, "I am, simply, one who preaches a new way."

Suulnir viciously says, "Do not mention the Dragon's name. It has taken thirty years for the Dragon to come to full ascendance. You have not proved yourself worthy of speaking the name of the Dragon Emperor, and do not appreciate the gravity of which you speak. His brilliance has given us the largest hope of all, and thus unified purpose."

Suulnir coughs slightly to herself, resuming her stoic demeanor.

Suulnir says, "The deaths of Hhrsaraa and of Tenebraus were a setback to some, undoubtedly. We have taken the better part of three decades to recover from the fragmentation. But with every setback comes an opportunity." Suulnir paces, keeping an eye on each of you in a predatory, yet calm manner. "An opportunity to establish a new order among the servants of the Dragon. And the Emperor has finally established himself on a unified throne that stretches an Empire that claims territory from the gates of Raven's Point to the Nirefrei River -- and to Steelclaw Clan."

Suulnir says, "With the Dragon, the past thirty years have been ... enlightening. It has taken this long to find a semblance of unity -- though others still follow the old ways. For the first time in nearly four decades, we have a singular goal. The breeding pits again twist with life. The assassins have sharpened their blades. And now, our Emperor brings us guidance and hope. The children of the Dragon will usher in a new era of enlightenment that you will be honored to witness."

A faint grinding echoes from within the corridors of the Black Spire, as if a large creature is sliding through hallways much too small for its body in the lower chambers of the citadel.

Suulnir says, "The promise of peace remains. Even here in the spire, we have kept the word of the Emperor. Much as the Emperor promised we would not attack the city -- we have not. I cannot, naturally, speak for all who serve the Dragon, given the schism after the death of Hhrsaraa. But I counter that we have expectations as well -- ones that I feel the Dragon did not adequately communicate. Simply -- we reserve the right to defend ourselves using any means we see fit, and no wall will stop us -- especially not one that simple ruffians could bypass."

Suulnir says, "There are, naturally, dissenters to the new will of things. Those who feel threatened will, naturally, not stand idly by."

Suulnir says, "Still, my hope is that peace remains."

Suulnir says, "The Dragon, and I, have a more glorious purpose in mind -- one that is not focused on conquest."

Suulnir says, "The Emperor has seen the light. We did not initially come to terms, but now, we have a glorious unified purpose -- the creation of something new, something beautiful. A new dawn of reborn magic the likes that have only been seen by the Shunned. Glorious creation will be wrought, and you will behold the works of new magic that we shall manifest something both brilliant and divine."

Suulnir says to Navesi, "No, I had no involvement in an attack on you."

Suulnir shows no sign of deceit. The Dragon Priest appears calm, and at peace.

Suulnir says to you, "Quite understood. As, I am certain, you will allow me the same luxury in my own home. I give you my word, I will not harm any who do not draw steel against me. My purposes are much higher minded."

Suulnir says, "When the time comes, all will witness the glory we hope to attain."

Suulnir says to you, "This glory is not of conquest, no."

Suulnir asks you, "Safety that a dozen armed soldiers cannot provide?"

Suulnir asks, "If this collection could not provide safety, I would suggest that matters of conquest perhaps are not your largest concern?"

Suulnir says, "You refer to Dzree, and the horrors she created."

Suulnir says, "I am not of her line, nor of her inclinations. My focus is squarely on honoring the Divine."

Suulnir says, "The Dragon, quite similarly, has expressed himself and stands precisely where he was forty years ago."

Suulnir says, "Shard is not an enemy. And, I can quite assure you, Bards also are not an enemy. We have much more glorious goals than promoting the wrath that once was."

Suulnir says, "You will witness what we aim to create, and it will be wondrous and full of awe, resplendent in its glory. It is strictly holy, and divine, not some filth to be polluted by demons."

Suulnir asks Whiteburn, "Did you witness? Did you witness the glory that will be?"

Suulnir peers quizzically at Whiteburn.

Suulnir says to Whiteburn, "You will."

Suulnir nods to you.

Suulnir says to you, "Very well."

Suulnir nods to Eyst.

Suulnir nods to Whiteburn.

Suulnir says to Whiteburn, "Very well."

Suulnir says to Eyst, "We are quite motivated to keep our work to ourselves until the time comes, for the same reasons you may be reticent about history. Some of you have been in these walls with intent to slaughter wantonly."

Suulnir says to Whiteburn, "You are clever. You wish to know if I follow Peri'el. I do not."

Suulnir nods to Navesi.

Suulnir says to Navesi, "Please."

Suulnir says to Navesi, "I am not one to speak for the Emperor. I am simply a spiritual advisor."

Suulnir says to Navesi, "That would be at the Emperor's discretion."

Suulnir says to Whiteburn, "Please, if you must."

Suulnir says to Madigan, "I am no Crone, no."

Suulnir says to Yvela, "You will know, if you do not now."

A louder grinding echoes from within the corridors of the Black Spire, as if a large creature is sliding through hallways much too small for its body in the lower chambers of the citadel.

Suulnir says to Saragos, "No, we have, for now, made our peace with the state of things. I cannot speak for others, but I and the Emperor are of like mind on this matter."

Suulnir says to Mazrian, "Please, go ahead."

Suulnir says to Mazrian, "Precisely where they are."

Suulnir says to Mazrian, "In relation to your relation to the Immortals? Nothing. This is a matter of our own focus, but you will bear witness."

Suulnir says to Mazrian, "You bring an army to my door prepared for war, when I invite you to talk."

Suulnir says to Mazrian, "And you wonder why knives are being sharpened."

Suulnir's rage dissipates.

The powerful divine aura slowly wanes from about Suulnir.

The soft silver glow fades from around Suulnir.

The field of silver-blue light dissipates from around Suulnir.

Thin, wispy lines of light alternately appear and disappear near Suulnir's head.

The soft white glow fades from around Suulnir.

The glowing aura fades from around Suulnir.

The lucent sphere fades from around Suulnir.

The air around Suulnir shimmers with a weak yellow light that quickly disperses.

Suulnir says to Maintain, "It took about as much to fell a centuries-old Demon."

Suulnir pauses, as if disconnected from something. She appears troubled for a moment, before composing herself, inhaling sharply.

Suulnir says to you, "Very well. I will, in a show of good faith, allow you safe passage out. But, mark my words, any who linger to slaughter wantonly will be judged in a manner befitting their intent."

Suulnir nods to Tirost.

Suulnir says to Tirost, "Please. Ask away."

Suulnir nods to Zamara.

Suulnir says to Tirost, "The Emperor has seen the glory of the Divine in a way that is quite tangible."

Suulnir says to Tirost, "In a manner of speaking."

Suulnir says to Saragos, "Heavens, no. The Emperor will not sully himself in that pursuit."

Suulnir nods to Angel.

Suulnir says to Angel, "Please."

Suulnir says to Angel, "If you must, I will not stop you."

Suulnir nods to Navesi.

Suulnir says to Navesi, "They have been dealt with. You will not find them, intact."

A bellow echoes from the chambers below, as something large -- and hungry -- makes a resonating cry.

Suulnir innocently asks Casari, "What, you begrudge me my pets?"

Suulnir says to Casari, "Perhaps one day you will meet them. They are quite -- lovely."

Suulnir says, "Cuddly, even."

Suulnir asks Aetheline, "Likely? Hungry, I suppose?"

Suulnir ponders.

Suulnir says to Zamara, "It does not have quite enough room to do so comfortably, I'm afraid, but I assure you -- we are working on ensuring that it has adequate space."

Suulnir says, "After all, it would be cruel to keep a cherished pet in inadequate confines."

Suulnir says to Zamara, "Have you tried a pivuh? They are delightful."

Suulnir nods to Angel.

Suulnir says to Angel, "Please."

Suulnir says to Angel, "Absolutely. I am, as you likely have presupposed, not a Dragon."

Suulnir says to Hoshii, "Oh, it would be incredibly exciting. I quite agree."

Suulnir nods to Navesi.

Suulnir says, "Please."

Suulnir asks, "Would you accept -- Ambience?"

Suulnir asks, "In all seriousness, we have rites that we must maintain, lest we lose our focus. I am certain you understand the solemnity of tradition, yes?"

Suulnir says to Yvela, "It does. But, if you also read the tapestry, it states quite clearly that the blood is given willingly."

Suulnir says to you, "Sacrifices do indeed involve spilled blood. But the blood is given quite willingly."

Suulnir says to Whiteburn, "Blood is given to the Divine."

Suulnir says to Atuen, "You have, yes."

Suulnir says to Atuen, "Please, proceed."

Suulnir says to Atuen, "Ah. You long for the old ways."

Suulnir nods.

Suulnir says, "I understand."

Suulnir says, "Allow me to elaborate."

Suulnir's javelin illuminates ghost-white, crashing with an incinerating brilliance and lands an obliterating hit (20/23) (Hodierna winces!) that just barely penetrates the skin to nick the stomach ('Tis but a scratch!), lightly stunning him.

Suulnir's radiant javelin returns to her hand.

Suulnir asks Atuen, "Do you wish to be sacrificed?"

Suulnir's cassock flares, sending a twilight purple frigid blast towards Raikage!

Suulnir's frigid blast lands a drafty strike to Raikage's right hand!

• Suulnir is slain before your eyes!

Suulnir exhales involuntarily and shifts her stance, as if now under a heavy burden.

The shimmering ethereal shield fades from around Suulnir.

The swirling grey fog surrounding Suulnir disperses.

The ghostly laughter of Suulnir echoes through the room, sending a shiver down your spine.

The corpse of Suulnir trembles, writhing as if propelled by a larger force.

A golden serpent rises from the charred ashes of Suulnir, drawing the form back into life.

A cackle trembles, resonating through the halls.

Suulnir Suulnir steps from the shadows, gesturing, and allowing a sense of calm to take the area.

Suulnir gestures to the stairwell, and the Dragon Priests begin filing out

Suulnir says to you, "Leave this place."

Suulnir composes herself, standing silently by the altar.