The Grey Dragons/Logs/20240621 Grey Dragons Seek Anmuva

It has been 449 years, 208 days since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer.
It is the 6th month of Arhat the Fire Lion in the year of the Bronze Wyvern.
It is currently summer and it is late evening.

From the view of Ayrell Evyntine

Event Log

[Vela'Tohr Edge, Secluded Grove]
Quiet permeates this small glade, punctuated occasionally by sounds from the creatures of the night. Lichen growing along the branches and tree trunks cause the area to glow with a faint green light. You also see a coppery saluki puppy flaunting a goldenglow glaes collar and jadeleaf snood, an ethereal vela'tohr plant, Nadigo and a narrow path.

Dragon's Shadow Waydren came down a narrow path.

Zersha beams at Valynn!

Waydren gestures.

Zersha stands near Valynn.

Zersha giggles.

Nawain waves to Waydren.

Waydren says to Nawain, "I see you, Nawain."

Waydren swears, "Ever shall I seek the horizon."

Miskton nods politely to Waydren.

Nawain smiles at Waydren.

Waydren shakes Miskton's hand.

Waydren gestures.

Valynn nods emphatically at Zersha.

Zersha grins at Valynn, her dimples flashing into view.

Waydren says to Nawain, "Our mutual friend, our Little Life Sister, relayed plans for the West."

Nawain nods to Waydren.

Strawberry Nurse Illiya came down a narrow path.

Zersha grins at Hebion, her dimples flashing into view.

Waydren says to Nawain, "I caution you. The Hunter of the West leaves us alone largely because we do not trod his Domain."

Elurora hugs Illiya, getting a smile in return.

Illiya says, "Evening everyone."

Illiya hugs Elurora, getting a smile in return.

Karthor waves to Illiya.

Veteran Apprentice Anuril came down a narrow path.

Valynn smiles at Illiya.

Miskton nods politely to Illiya.

Waydren says to Nawain, "To enter his Domain is to court The Hunt."

Elurora waves to Anuril.

Illiya just hugged Waydren.

Elurora grins at Anuril.

Valynn hugs Illiya, getting a smile in return.

Kethrai takes his rightful place beside Anuril.

Anuril nods to Elurora.

Illiya hugs Jaelia, who wraps her arms around Illiya with a warm smile.

Illiya hugs you, and you give her a smile in return.

Jaelia hugs Illiya, getting a smile in return.

Waydren says to Nawain, "And that, Godspeaker, is to court death."

Waydren hugs Illiya, getting a smile in return.

Illiya bobs a quick curtsy to Kethrai.

Valynn nods to Anuril.

Valynn nods to Kethrai.

Anuril's body is dripping water everywhere.

You hug Illiya who gives you a smile in return. A faint scent of strawberries clings to her skin.

Anuril ponders.

Illiya just hugged Nawain.

Veteran Apprentice Anuril went up a narrow path.

Ezerak waves to Kethrai.

Veteran Apprentice Anuril came down a narrow path.

Illiya bobs a quick curtsy to Miskton.

Anuril takes his rightful place beside Kethrai.

Anuril nods.

Ezerak waves to Anuril.

Jaelia grins at Anuril.

Esotericist Eyst came down a narrow path.

Hebion grins at Zersha.

Illiya taps something inside a purple gem pouch.

Zersha giggles at Hebion.

Miskton nods politely to Eyst.

Eyst nods politely to Miskton.

Nawain says to Waydren, "I don't suspect we'll be much interested in violating his space. They didn't slay our ancestors when they crossed. So perhaps there is someplace where travelers can pass West without disturbing the Kather."

Waydren says, "We shall give others a few additional moments to arrive. The way from where many call home is long."

Zersha looks at Hebion, obviously trying not to grin, but the dimples in her cheeks give her away.

Waydren says to Nawain, "Perhaps."

Zersha nods to Waydren.

Vaerek came down a narrow path.

Illiya waves to Vaerek.

Waydren says to Nawain, "I fear that this Kather is different than his kin, and only in recent years walked his Domain near here."

Vaerek waves to Illiya.

Vaerek slowly empties his lungs.

Waydren waves to Zersha.

Vaerek waves to Miskton.

Zersha smiles at Waydren, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Nawain nods to Waydren.

Illiya gestures.

Eyst asks Waydren, "Are you the fellow orchestrating this endeavour?"

Anuril blinks at Valynn.

Knight of Meraud Tirost came down a narrow path.

Anuril shakes his head at Valynn.

Vaerek waves to Waydren.

Waydren smiles at Eyst.

Waydren nods to Vaerek.

Valynn smiles at Anuril.

Valynn nods to Anuril.

Miskton nods politely to Vaerek.

Miskton nods politely to Tirost.

Valynn nods to Tirost.

Karthor waves to Tirost.

Tirost bows to Miskton.

Waydren says to Eyst, "I guide so that those who seek The Kather might not get lost or killed."

Illiya hugs Tirost, who wraps his arms around Illiya with a warm smile.

Tirost smiles at Valynn.

You nod politely to Tirost.

Atuen came down a narrow path.

Tirost shakes Karthor's hand.

Tirost hugs Illiya, getting a smile in return.

Jaelia nods to Atuen.

Tirost smiles at Karthor.

Hebion grins at Zersha.

Jaelia beams at Tirost!

Tirost says to Karthor, "Thank you as always, my friend."

Karthor says to Tirost, "Customary head un-scratchin' complete."

Tirost smiles at Jaelia.

Jaelia beams at Vaerek!

Eyst gives a slight nod.

Tirost laughs!

Tirost grins at Karthor.

Vaerek waves to Jaelia.

Tirost's rage dissipates.

In the distance to the west, you hear a howl not unlike the call of a wolf.

Waydren raises an eyebrow.

Tirost frowns.

Illiya says, "A howl..."

Ezerak raises an eyebrow.

Kethrai gazes off to the west.

Elizzibiana ponders.

Karthor gazes off to the west.

Nawain gestures.

You gaze off to the west.

Miskton gazes off to the west.

Waydren gestures.

A grey and cream muted tortoiseshell leopard arrives, snarling at Elizzibiana with a deep, rumbling growl.

Jaelia gazes off to the west.

Nawain stands up.

Atuen yawns expansively.

Ezerak scans the area briefly.

Atuen gets a winged tyrium scarab clasping a golden eye from inside his dreamweave lootsack.

Elurora raises an eyebrow.

Valynn ponders.

Waydren says, "It seems we might have drawn attention to ourselves. As a reminder. This is His Domain, not ours."

Ezerak moves over to guard you.

Illiya gazes at a grey and cream muted tortoiseshell leopard.

Valynn nods to Waydren.

You look at Ezerak and blush.

Jaelia bows her head and chants catechisms.

Kethrai gives Waydren a slight nod.

Vaerek scans the sky from horizon to horizon.

Anuril casually observes the area.

Atuen raises his scarab up, and a cold white glow surrounds it.

Zersha casually observes the area.

Hebion moves into position to cover Zersha from harm.

Waydren says, "The Kather care not for what we consider important. Anmuva more than most. He is a predator, and we are adjacent to his land. Approach him as you would a lion or drake within its bounds."

Atuen gazes at Waydren.

Waydren gestures.

Waydren's left eye takes on a wild sylvan hue.

Atuen smirks to himself.

Waydren rummages about his person, looking for something.

Zersha smiles at Hebion, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Waydren gets an azurelle battle longbow sporting seventeen forged ka'hurst raven feathers from inside his war belt.

Waydren loads his azurelle longbow with some Void's sting arrows.

Waydren says, "We shall remain here for a few. He might approach us. If not, there are two other locations we might look for him."

Illiya smiles at Tirost, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Tirost smiles at Illiya.

Vaerek scans the sky from horizon to horizon.

Valynn nods to Waydren.

Waydren scans the area briefly.

Elurora slowly asks, "Might I politely suggest that since magic is not acting normally right now, that we avoid casting spells least that cause him to avoid us?"

Waydren gestures.

Anuril nods at Elurora, obviously agreeing with her views.

Eyst ponders.

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

A prickling sensation wells at the back of your neck, as if you are being watched by a predator.

Waydren scans the area briefly.

You rub your neck.

Vaerek searches around for a moment.

Atuen asks Waydren, "Have you tried looking under rocks?"

Kethrai lays his ears back in alarm, gazing around warily.

Zersha nibbles her lip thoughtfully.

Elizzibiana glances at her fingers for a moment and shudders slightly.

Karthor casually observes the area.

Valynn ponders.

Elizzibiana grasps her chin roughly and jerks it to the side. You hear a loud pop and see her visibly relax.

Waydren says, "Calmly and quietly now. He approaches."

Hebion says to Atuen in Ilithic, "We've already found you."

Anuril grins.

Zersha laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.

Kethrai stands near Anuril.

Atuen observes Hebion with fascination.

Vaerek asks, "Should I be in a group?"

• Blight Druid Anmuva joins the adventure.

Illiya says, "I think we're okay here for now."

Miskton brushes the surface of his Imperial weave blindfold and begins to reel! He clutches his head in pain!

Waydren says, "Join me, for I will lead should we choose to give chase."

Ezerak scans the area briefly.

Nawain joins Waydren's group.

Illiya joins Waydren's group.

Miskton joins Waydren's group.

Kethrai joins Waydren's group.

Vaerek joins Waydren's group.

Jaelia joins Waydren's group.

Elizzibiana joins Waydren's group.

You join Waydren's group.

Anuril joins Waydren's group.

Valynn joins Waydren's group.

Karthor joins Waydren's group.

Ezerak joins Waydren's group.

Zersha joins Waydren's group.

Eyst joins Waydren's group.

Elurora joins Waydren's group.

Tirost joins Waydren's group.

Hebion joins Waydren's group.

Waydren says, "I will try and entice him to enter."

Waydren yells, "Anmuva. Druid of the West. We seek you."

Eyst says to Waydren, "Have you sighted him? I've got this lingering feeling that he's creeping right up behind us no matter which way I look."

Waydren nods to Eyst.

Kethrai nods at Eyst, obviously agreeing with his views.

Waydren searches around for a moment.

Kethrai sniffs the air around him.

Kethrai closes his eyes for a moment and grows still.

Vaerek asks, "What do we do if we see them?"

Kethrai asks Vaerek, "Don't may eye contact or move too suddenly, eh?"

Jaelia asks, "Kneel?"

Waydren says to Vaerek, "We talk quietly and move slowly."

Tirost says to Vaerek, "I'd suggest letting Waydren address him."

Sofina stands near Zersha.

Valynn nods to Waydren.

Zersha grins at Sofina, her dimples flashing into view.

Waydren searches around for a moment.

Illiya says, "If they come, it's because they have something to say."

Waydren scans the area briefly.

Mage Slayer Golameth came down a narrow path.

Waydren nods to Golameth.

Kethrai closes his eyes for a moment and grows still.

The shadow of an antlered quadruped appears at the treeline to the west, its gaze focused on you.

Golameth tucks his rum-colored kitten into its comfortable-looking plush shark.

Jaelia kneels down.

Elurora gazes off to the west.

Atuen gazes up at the sky.

Waydren says, "He approaches. Calm. Quiet."

Waydren shakes his head and then waves his fist forward.

Valynn nods.

Tirost nods.

Waydren quickly covers his eyes, mouth and then ears, waves his hands mystically and then crosses his wrists.

Zersha covers her mouth with her hand.

Karthor adjusts the fit of his spectacles.

Waydren holds a flat palm above his eyes, cups his hand to his ear, points to his eyes, points at his eyes and points outward, scrapes one hand with the other, points west, opens his fist as he raises it and then pounds his fists together.

Anuril observes Waydren with fascination.

The antlered figure slowly moves forward from the treeline. As it makes its way in your direction, it rears itself onto its hind legs, and as it approaches, you recognize the distinctive form of a very large Kather, wearing an antlered mask.

Waydren sweeps his hand under his chin, puts his two hands out and fans his face, points west, opens his fist as he raises it and then pounds his fists together.

Zersha gasps!

Waydren points west, opens his fist as he raises it, pounds his fists together, makes two circles with his hands and holds them to his temples briefly, waves his hands mystically, crosses his wrists, holds a flat palm above his eyes and then cups his hand to his ear.

You see Blight Druid Anmuva, Grove Tender of the Vela'tohr Valley, a Kather Watcher.
Anmuva's face is obscured by the hollowed-out skull of a stag, with blank, cold eyes peering out from within its sockets. A rack of enormous antlers, marked by a full seventy-two tines, stretches nearly eight hands behind from the bleached mask. Two channels are carved beneath the eyes, painted a deep crimson. Tufts of fur extend downward from a square maw with visibly pronounced canines, honed to wicked points from hunting large prey. His silver mane is long and thick, with tufts of ghostly white fur providing distinction in markings. Teeth of small animals are tied by leather into braided fur. He has rust-colored fur with a brown belly and white marbling, a long, thick tail and a thin build, wreathed in a robe of skins accented with shards of bone.
Anmuva has a tall, wry build and is above average height for a Kather.
He is of indeterminate age for a Kather.
He is in good shape.

He is holding a lapis lazuli tree statuette in his right hand.
He is wearing a robe of hides stitched together with leather straps bearing fragments of animal bone and teeth, a long bearskin cloak with ragged gashes in perpendicular patterns that reveal wide holes in the garment and a fang-tipped flint earring.

Ezerak bows to Anmuva.

(Nawain gazes at Waydren blankly.)

Waydren nods to Anmuva.

Hands moving gracefully, you lower your head and sink into a formal curtsy before Anmuva.

Atuen fixes Anmuva with a cold, reptilian stare.

Miskton nods politely to Anmuva.

Atuen folds his arms across his chest.

Anmuva says, "You step again near Peak and Island."

The Kather sniffs sharply at the air, pausing in contemplation to analyze your scent.

Anmuva says, "Hunter who spend sun in mud still smell like fear. Weeks to lose smell of walls and pigs. But you try. Like Balance -- one foot in stream and one on land."

Anmuva dips his head slightly, in only mild irritation, before pausing in satisfaction.

Elurora bows to Anmuva.

Jaelia gazes down at the ground.

Zersha tilts her head, clearly curious about something.

Waydren asks Anmuva, "One foot in both worlds. But whole Domain in danger. Do you know of the twisting magic?"

Atuen's tail undulates in an agitated fashion.

Sofina moves a chocolate stout beer to her right hand.

Anmuva says, "Miners, loggers, Prydaen and Rakash try to cross water before -- death waits each. Easy. No challenge -- pick apart bit by bit. Smell of rot, of cut trees, swine. Bad meat, all. Leave bad meat for buzzard and jackal, leave bones to warn."

Anmuva says, "Cross Lake or Falls -- you see what waits. Eyes feed vultures, tongues feed jackals. Teeth found by next fool."

Anmuva says, "Stay on land, no need for hunt -- keep Balance, keep life. Balance stay here, and Wild stay to West."

Anmuva paces in a slow half-circle around you, not unlike a predator who is analyzing prey. His gaze lingers upon each Prydaen and Rakash in the group.

Anmuva says, "You not here to find teeth in grass. Good. You here about River."

Anmuva tilts his head in curiosity, pausing his pacing.

Elurora furrows her brow.

Waydren asks Anmuva, "Yes, about the River. Do you know why its course bends and twists?"

Nawain observes Anmuva with fascination.

Atuen gazes at Anmuva.

Tirost glances at Waydren.

Karthor strokes his beard in thoughtful contemplation.

Anuril frowns.

Atuen's tail undulates in an agitated fashion.

Eyst tugs at the tip of his mustache distractedly.

Anmuva says, "Life is River -- we like Nomlas in stream. Ripples swell. Still, dead fish float in river. Magic seem like dead fish now -- see dead fish, leave to buzzards -- or eat dead fish, sick for weeks. Too many dead fish, no Balance, and all water no good, too -- all fish dead."

Anmuva peers at each of you, in turn, before taking a long, sharp breath.

Anmuva asks, "Some smell like eat dead fish and swim in bad water. Tell Anmuva -- why fish dead and water bad?"

Anmuva observes each of you curiously, intrigued by the idea that you may have findings from experiencing this magical phenomenon.

Kethrai gazes silently at Anmuva.

Illiya ponders.

Tear Reaper Tambellis came down a narrow path.

Valynn sighs sadly.

(Jaelia continues to listen while kneeling, keeping her eyes downcast.)

Waydren asks Anmuva, "Is there source of water bad? Do you know of it? Do the Dragons?"

Atuen asks Anmuva, "Your stench has poluted the waters?"

Nawain squints at Anmuva.

Anmuva pointedly ignores Atuen.

Illiya glances at Atuen.

Atuen casually observes the area.

Elurora frowns at Atuen.

Anuril shakes his head at Atuen.

Tirost nods to Waydren.

Valynn raises an eyebrow in Atuen's direction.

Eyst asks, "I'm having a little trouble following him, is he saying he's as flummoxed by these anomalies as we are?"

Waydren gestures.

Valynn tilts her head inquisitively.

Waydren says to Eyst, "Perhaps."

Karthor asks, "Sounds a bit like he's askin' us the same thing we're askin' him. An exchange of ideas?"

Illiya says, "I think he says some people are the ones polluting the river."

Waydren nods to Karthor.

Valynn glances about with concern on her face.

Atuen's tail undulates in an agitated fashion.

Forest Sprite Lileath came down a narrow path.

Kethrai says, "It feels like Life mana... The River. Like it's being... constricted. Crushed above and below."

Kethrai asks, "Is that why the... water is bad, and the fish are dying?"

Elurora slowly says, "For myself, as a Paladin, I feel as though the balance has been thrown off and this is harming the Balwark."

Anmuva says to Waydren, "Water source seem bad -- like logs building dam at fork. All fish dying. Dragon think you do it -- Sundreamers think Moon do."

Tambellis gazes about, drinking in her surroundings.

Tirost frowns.

You ponder.

Miskton strokes his beard in thoughtful contemplation.

Karthor strokes his beard in thoughtful contemplation.

Sofina says in Ilithic, "A blockage of sorts."

Tirost thoughtfully says, "Sundreamers..."

Elurora gives Sofina a slight nod.

Waydren says to Anmuva, "Do you know where the source is? How we can help? Balance is important. Must be kept."

The last few clouds drift away to reveal a sky full of twinkling stars.

Jaelia glances up at the sky.

Karthor nods in agreement.

Vaerek's barrier of light dims and gently fades away.

The faint emerald glow surrounding Anmuva fades away.

You quietly say, "Moon..."

Anmuva says, "Some say Sun, some say Moon. Anmuva say Wild. You say Balance."

You ponder.

Elurora chews on her lip, looking deep in concentration.

Ezerak leans over and whispers, "You seem intrigued. Do you have an idea?"

Tirost nods to Kethrai.

Waydren says to Anmuva, "Many do not know. This is true."

Atuen mutters something into the air about others saying pagans.

Atuen fixes Anmuva with a cold, reptilian stare.

Waydren asks, "You have questions for Anmuva, friends?"

Anmuva says to Atuen, "Anmuva also say you smell like swine that hide in walls."

Illiya asks Anmuva, "What can we do to fix the Balance?"

Zersha bursts out in a sudden snort of laughter.

Zersha covers her mouth with her hand.

Atuen waves his hand distractedly.

Sofina grins at Zersha.

You whisper to Ezerak, "I am unsure. But, the mention of the moon makes me think the Immortals... which makes me think back to the thoughts I had the other evening."

Ezerak nods at you, obviously agreeing with your views.

Vaerek sniffs at Atuen.

Vaerek blanches.

Vaerek nods to Anmuva.

Anuril frowns.

(Nawain muffles a giggle behind her hand.)

Harurs del Cawna Warbrolus came down a narrow path.

Anmuva says to Illiya, "No cut trees. No dig ground. No send fools West to count teeth in grass."

Waydren gestures.

Jaelia stands up.

Tirost nods to Warbrolus.

Warbrolus raises his hand in a quick salute.

Nawain observes Anmuva with fascination.

Warbrolus smiles at Tirost.

Valynn smiles at Warbrolus.

Sofina shifts her weight.

Elurora frowns thoughtfully.

Kethrai observes Anmuva with fascination.

Illiya asks Anmuva, "Recently magic feels as if it has buckled from above and below, do you know the cause of that?"

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

Eyst asks Anmuva, "You seem to have some sense of what's polluting the 'River'. Are the tangible effects of the anomalies equivalent to these 'dead fish' you speak of? Does dealing with them help clear the river or is it creating further pollution?"

Waydren smiles at Eyst.

Anmuva says to Illiya, "Anmuva thought you did it."

Atuen's scales gleam with a fiery lustre, his eyes determined and ready.

Warbrolus's body is soaked.

Illiya ponders.

Golameth says, "Or rather is the blockage that is caused not allowing for things to flow naturally, which is causing the pollution and dead fish."

Waydren gestures.

Tambellis joylessly asks, "Heh can you do it without knowing you did it?"

Illiya grins at Tambellis, her dimples flashing into view.

Waydren grins at Tambellis.

Anmuva asks Eyst, "When fish dead, you ask fish, or you find new stream?"

Miskton ponders.

Nawain asks, "Count... teeth? Someone is counting teeth?"

Waydren says to Nawain, "Trophies."

Nawain ponders.

Tambellis joylessly says, "I mean you might have to fix the old stream if there is no new stream."

Anmuva says to Nawain, "Only thing left after jackals eat tongues."

Miskton asks Anmuva, "Who are the ones you call Sundreamers?"

Fingers of spectral flame flicker down Atuen's forearms to dance playfully over the surface of his tyrium scarab.

Elizzibiana just left.

Illiya says to Nawain, "He's talking about the adventurers who go west and die."

Zersha politely asks Anmuva, "I got a sense that Life Dragons might know the cause, if you do not, do you have a way to...talk to them?"

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

Eyst asks Anmuva, "Well, when there's only one stream your options become rather limited don't they?"

Hebion rests his hand on Zersha's arm with a soft smile.

Valynn smiles at Zersha.

Anmuva says to Miskton, "Ones who know Wild, keep it Wild. Ones who listen to Dragon sing Life."

Miskton nods.

Elizzibiana joins Waydren's group.

Miskton nods to Waydren.

Waydren gestures.

Waydren's flesh momentarily swirls, though he seems unhurt by the experience. When the magic stabilizes, his body is covered with scales of shifting color.

Atuen quietly says to himself, "False dragons."

You nibble your lip thoughtfully.

Zersha gives Waydren a slight nod.

Zersha grins at Waydren, her dimples flashing into view.

Kethrai observes Atuen with fascination.

Anmuva says to Zersha, "I listen to song. Dragon sings what Dragon wants. No ask Dragon to change song."

Elizzibiana chortles softly at some secret joke.

Zersha gazes thoughtfully at Anmuva.

Anmuva says to Atuen, "You not even leave teeth."

• Anmuva suddenly extends to his full height -- you estimate as tall as an Ogre -- and lunges unexpectedly at Atuen, a snarl baring vicious teeth. Atuen falters at the gesture, her willpower failing to maintain composure!

Anmuva appears satisfied, and stands his ground.

Illiya chortles softly at some secret joke.

Zersha blinks.

Elurora glances at Atuen.

Anuril raises an eyebrow.

Golameth pats Atuen on the back.

Golameth says, "I suggest you stay down."

Atuen continues to huddle against the ground, shivering slightly.

Golameth says, "Where you belong."

Anuril ponders.

Tear Reaper Tambellis went up a narrow path.

Nawain makes a grunting noise.

Kethrai scratches one ear, looking bemused.

Atuen stop shivering.

Atuen stands up.

Atuen dusts himself off.

Tirost asks Anmuva, "You said Dragon thinks we made river bad. Why now? What did we do to make river bad?"

Anuril asks Anmuva, "Is sorcery polluting the stream? Users of one mana type performing magic with other types?"

Atuen gestures at Anmuva.

You sense the arrival of a dark presence.

A lucent sphere enfolds Atuen.

Kethrai gazes at Atuen.

Miskton glances at Atuen.

Waydren raises an eyebrow.

Nawain observes Atuen with fascination.

Atuen gazes at Anmuva.

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

Kethrai edges away from Atuen.

Jaelia gazes at Atuen.

Illiya glances at Atuen.

Waydren says, "That is one way to approach an apex predator..."

Anmuva springs towards Atuen, with the speed of a tiger. Anmuva angles himself to knock him to the ground!

Anmuva slams into Atuen, knocking him prone!

Fractals of pale light materialize in a cascading pattern around Atuen, outlining the faint beginnings of a complex gyre. With a bestial moan, shafts of brilliant white light erupt from the ether, illuminating the pattern as if it were lifeblood sustaining the vein. The wall of light echoes outward rapidly, leaving a misty white halo to shroud Atuen in its wake.

A lucent sphere enfolds Atuen.

Atuen's halo of misty white light echoes outward!

Eyst says, "Oh my."

Atuen stands up.

Valynn winces.

Atuen retreats from combat.

Atuen retreats from combat.

Atuen begins to focus intently on Anmuva.

Golameth begins sprinting forward, eyes closed, like a wind spirit too fleet to be bound to earth. He whips through the air, vaulting over Atuen and hurtling behind him with a double kick!

Atuen's silver glow flares.

The air around Atuen solidifies into a blinding yellow luminescence and intercepts the attack with a shower of coruscating light.

Golameth's foot lands a good hit (2/23) to Atuen's right arm.

Atuen's silver glow flares.

The air around Atuen solidifies into a blinding yellow luminescence and throws off bright waves of light as it resists the attack.

Golameth's foot lands a good strike (3/23) to Atuen's left arm.

Atuen closes his eyes, drawing his closed fist toward his chest.

Seconds later he swings his arm outward, pointing at Anmuva as his eyes fix on him in a vehement stare.

Anmuva winces slightly.

A lucent sphere enfolds Atuen.

Atuen tries to back away from Golameth, who pursues him relentlessly!

Atuen tries to back away from Golameth, who pursues him relentlessly!

Atuen tries to back away from Golameth, who pursues him relentlessly!

Atuen tries to back away from Golameth, who pursues him relentlessly!

Atuen tries to back away from Golameth, who pursues him relentlessly!

Several bolts of flashing silver flame flare into view, churning around Anmuva. With surprising speed, they swirl upward into the sky with a wailing shriek!

Elurora gazes up at the sky.

Jaelia moves over to guard Atuen.

Illiya says to Anmuva, "We don't mind if you kill him."

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

Atuen begins to focus intently on Anmuva.

Golameth takes a full step back and plants his feet firmly.

Golameth makes an agile leap towards Atuen, attacking him with a mighty cleave!

Atuen deftly sidesteps Golameth's flame-bladed zweihander.

Bolts of flame begin to fall from the sky like fiery fists of Everild, punching savagely into the ground as collateral energy sprays outward!

A bolt of holy fire strikes Anmuva's buckler and quickly fades.

Jaelia exclaims, "STop it!"

Golameth grabs hold of Atuen in a tight grip.

A bolt of holy fire smashes to the ground near Anmuva.

Atuen closes his eyes, drawing his closed fist toward his chest.

Seconds later he swings his arm outward, pointing at Anmuva as his eyes fix on him in a vehement stare.

Golameth sheathes his flame-bladed zweihander.

A bolt of holy fire strikes Anmuva's buckler and quickly fades.

Golameth draws forth a lifesculpted sledgehammer flourishing with growths of greenery.

Golameth takes a step back and hefts his sledgehammer behind him.

Atuen's silver glow flares.

The air around Atuen solidifies into a blinding yellow luminescence and throws off shimmering light in the wake of the attack.

Golameth unleashes his sledgehammer to crash upon Atuen

Golameth's lifesculpted sledgehammer lands a good strike (3/23) to Atuen's left arm!

Several bolts of flashing silver flame flare into view, churning around Anmuva. With surprising speed, they swirl upward into the sky with a wailing shriek!

Elurora moves into position to cover Anmuva from harm.

A bolt of holy fire strikes Anmuva's buckler and slams into his back, lightly singeing his flesh.

Golameth sheathes his lifesculpted sledgehammer.

Golameth draws forth a serrated Imperial spear with a diamondwood haft.

Golameth takes a step back and angles his spear behind him.

Golameth swiftly launches an assault with wide swipes of his spear!

Golameth's errant spear results in nothing more than a sharp cling against Atuen's ka'hurst shield.

Streamers of glistening silver light trail in the air as bolts of flame begin to fall from the sky like miniature comets!

A bolt of holy fire strikes Anmuva's buckler and slams into his back, lightly singeing his flesh.

Anuril gestures at Anmuva.

A veil of ice forms around Anmuva.

Golameth suddenly bursts into a frothing avalanche of rage!

Golameth sheathes his Imperial spear.

Waydren says, "Jaelia, remain calm and silent."

Golameth draws forth a rockwood bo staff.

Golameth bursts forth with a whirling shield defense!

• Anmuva bites off Atuen's face!

A lucent sphere enfolds Atuen.

A bolt of holy fire strikes Anmuva's buckler and slams into his back, lightly singeing his flesh.

Golameth sidesteps and adjusts his footing while twirling his staff.

Atuen's silver glow flares.

The air around Atuen solidifies into a blinding yellow luminescence, buckling and losing much of its mass under the force of the attack.

Golameth angles his twirling staff down upon Atuen.

Golameth's bo staff lands a light hit (1/23) to Atuen's left leg!

A bolt of holy fire strikes Anmuva's buckler and slams into his right leg, lightly singeing his flesh.

* Atuen is slain before your eyes!

An eerie, whispered sigh echoes around Atuen.

The soft silver glow fades from around Atuen.

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

Tendrils of ethereal blue light suddenly enwreathe Atuen, fading from view as they race in a swirling pattern down his body, disappearing into the ground.

The powerful divine aura slowly wanes from about Atuen.

The lucent sphere fades from around Atuen.

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

Atuen's rage dissipates.

Sofina gasps!

Golameth sheathes his bo staff.

Jaelia shakes her head.

Elurora says, "Or that works."

Golameth explodes in a wild rage of dangerous power, his bloodshot eyes gleaming with an insatiable lust for battle!

Miskton says to Jaelia, "Best not to get in the way, once a predator is striking."

Golameth takes a full step back and plants his feet firmly.

Golameth explodes into a storming fury of pure violence!

You calmly say, "Everyone, please."

Golameth changes stance and becomes the epicenter of a violent rage!

Golameth's timing improves and he begins to move with supernatural grace!

Elizzibiana shakes her head.

Valynn folds her arms across her chest.

Zersha blanches.

Anuril nods.

Valynn fixes Atuen with a serene, lofty stare.

You calmly say, "This is not how we learn."

A dancing aura of spectral flame begins to waver about Atuen's lifeless body.

Nawain says to Jaelia, "You're lucky his aim is excellent."

Golameth visibly quakes with an inner fury!

Jaelia says to Miskton, "Golameth is not the predator it is not his kill to make."

The faint outline of a spectral bird rises from the flame surrounding Atuen's corpse, spreading its wings wide as it raises its head to the heavens and calls out with a keening cry!

Atuen's body is fully engulfed in a funeral pyre of insatiable, roaring flame!

Valynn nods at you, obviously agreeing with your views.

Golameth whirls about in a bold, flashy manner!

Golameth visibly churns with an inner rage!

The raging flames continue to consume Atuen's body, charring it badly. The spectral bird silently beats its wings, its gaze affixed on the heavens above.

Golameth draws forth a serrated Imperial spear with a diamondwood haft.

Golameth visibly churns with an inner rage!

Amid the swirling fervor of the sweltering flame, Atuen shudders once and his eyelids snap open. he fixes his gaze unflinchingly upward, yielding to the feverish fire that devours and nurtures him. his chest rises and falls with renewed, instinctive breath.

The spectral bird stretches out its wings, held aloft in the air by the pyre of flame.

Waydren nods to Anmuva.

Golameth narrows his eyes, focused within his fury.

Anmuva spits the lump of mangled flesh on the ground, before dissipating into a cloud of birds that take off toward the West.

Waydren asks Anmuva, "You gave Dragon Magic on the Island. Dragons provide more answers on the Island?"

A serene expression crosses Atuen's face as he stands amid the blazing pyre, staring past you, as if seeing something of divine importance in the beyond. The flames continue to dance and swirl about him, but he seems to take comfort in their presence.

Miskton gazes off to the west.

The dancing aura of spectral flame surrounding Atuen suddenly falls dim as he steps from the circle of ashen ruin. As the pyre dies, the ghostly bird soars into the sky with a joyous keen, leaving a blazing trail of brilliant gold and red flame in its wake.

Waydren sighs.

Kethrai gazes off to the west.

Anuril shakes his head at Tirost.

Golameth narrows his eyes, focused within his fury.

Jaelia shakes her head.

Mother Jaelia went up a narrow path.

Atuen went up a narrow path.

Mother Jaelia came down a narrow path.

Jaelia nods.

Jaelia kneels down.

Waydren scans the area briefly.

Jaelia gazes down at the ground.

Valynn sighs.

Elurora glances at a narrow path.

Elurora gives a slight nod.

Waydren says, "Let us pause for a moment."

Kethrai says, "That might be all the discussion we get for today, mmh."

Waydren asks, "Anmuva has left. What did we learn?"

Illiya says, "Kill Atuen first next time."

Illiya folds her arms across her chest.

Karthor chuckles.

Kethrai laughs at Illiya.

Waydren smirks.

Miskton says, "Well, we did manage to learn something, at least, in that there are conflicted opinions on the matter within their circles, as well."

Elurora says, "Cast banner next time."

Kethrai nods at Miskton, obviously agreeing with his views.

Sofina says, "Theres a blockage preventing the streams from flowing it sounded like."

Tirost nods to Miskton.

You sigh.

Valynn nods to Miskton.

Jaelia stands up.

Jaelia rolls her eyes.

Vaerek asks, "I was wondering what happens to harnessed mana that dissapates?"

Waydren says to Miskton, "Agreed. Dragons think we did it, or at least Anmuva does."

Illiya says, "They don't know the cause of wild magic, and think we are the ones to blame."

Kethrai says to Sofina, "That matches what I've sensed of the flow of Life mana."

Illiya nods at Waydren, obviously agreeing with his views.

Karthor says, "Aye, sounds like his experience's much the same's ours. Folks see the problem through their own respective lens."

Waydren says to Miskton, "Everyone seems to think someone else is the cause."

Waydren nods at Karthor, obviously agreeing with his views.

Waydren points at Karthor.

Waydren says, "That."

Elurora nods at Waydren, obviously agreeing with his views.

Valynn nods to Karthor.

Eyst says, "Goodness. The warnings against angering the Kather certainly were accurate."

Ezerak nods at Karthor, obviously agreeing with his views.

Tirost nods.

Mage Slayer Golameth went up a narrow path.

Waydren nods at Eyst, obviously agreeing with his views.

The wild fervor in Tirost's eyes reminds you of your own inner beast.

Elurora grins at Eyst.

Ezerak nods at Eyst, obviously agreeing with his views.

Zersha nods at Eyst, obviously agreeing with his views.

Elizzibiana's throat contracts as a faint wisp of smoke rises from her lips.

Mage Slayer Golameth came down a narrow path.

Zersha looks at Sofina, obviously trying not to grin, but the dimples in her cheeks give her away.

Elizzibiana left the group.

Nawain sighs.

Sofina nods to Zersha.

Zersha giggles at Sofina.

Ezerak scans the area briefly.

Waydren asks, "Any other takeaways?"

Waydren says to you, "I fear we did not get the answers we hoped, but we can rule out further possibilities."

Tirost says to Waydren, "He mentioned daming a river..."

Nawain cheerfully says to Kethrai, "Looks like we're going to need to be prepared to defend ourselves against the Kather, too. Why not? Things weren't doing shouldn't be easy."

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

Kethrai says, "He seemed to suggest leaving magic alone entirely. Treat it as a dead fish."

Zersha asks, "Perhaps there is a way we can clean the 'river'?"

You say, "I am curious about his mention of the moon."

Tirost nods to you.

You say, "It aligns with a thought I had the other evening when we gathered at Milene's."

Waydren says to you, "The competing faction in the Kather Origin Myth."

Kethrai nods to Waydren.

Waydren unloads his azurelle longbow.

You nod to Waydren.

Illiya says, "He said magic seems like dead fish now."

Ezerak nods in agreement.

Waydren puts his arrows in his kirmiko pocket.

Waydren closes his kirmiko pocket.

Waydren puts his longbow in his war belt.

Sofina says, "Find the source of magic."

You say, "Potentially the Immortals."

Waydren nods to you.

Nawain glances at you.

Waydren says to you, "That is also my takeaway."

Waydren asks you, "A productive use of our time, yes?"

You nod to Waydren.

You say to Waydren, "I agree, yes."

Karthor strokes his beard in thoughtful contemplation.

Miskton says, "The Dragon thinking we're responsible for it is certainly something to think on. But we don't know the reason for that theory."

Illiya asks you, "Can you explain the thought, for those of us not versed in Kather lore?"

You say to Waydren, "I cannot thank you enough for aiding in arranging this gathering."

Tirost nods to Miskton.

Zersha nods at Illiya, obviously agreeing with her views.

Waydren says to you, "Anmuva and I have an understanding. I understand that I do not understand him, but I honor him."

Kethrai asks Miskton, "Any problem I didn't cause has to be somebody else's fault, eh?"

Waydren grins at you.

Tirost says, "Gods! There were still so many questions to ask..."

Miskton grins at Kethrai.

Illiya nods at Tirost, obviously agreeing with his views.

Ezerak chuckles.

Tirost runs his fingers through his hair.

Anuril nods to Tirost.

Waydren nods to Valynn.

You say, "It is part of the Kather lore, regarding the battle with the "upstarts" and their "moon dragon" which has been speculated to be the World Dragon."

You nod to Illiya.

Waydren nods to you.

Elurora quietly says, "Next time we tell Atuen the wrong location."

Elurora folds her arms across her chest.

Waydren says, "Atuen is as welcome as any."

Hebion chuckles at Elurora.

Zersha grins at Elurora, her dimples flashing into view.

Golameth narrows his eyes, focused within his fury.

Kethrai nods to you.

Golameth whirls about in a bold, flashy manner!

Ezerak says to Elurora, "I doubt it will help."

Ezerak chuckles.

Elurora grins at Ezerak.

Valynn gazes at her fingernails.

Golameth says to Waydren, "Until he's not."

Elurora says to Ezerak, "A person can hope."

Elizzibiana asks, "Upstarts and their dragon? Moonmages or Dragon Priests?"

Kethrai says, "Immortals, and the World Dragon."

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

Elizzibiana says, "Ahh."

You say, "Yes."

Waydren says to Elurora, "Sometimes answers can be found in the oddest of places. Atuen might in fact be the source of answers."

Elurora says to Waydren, "Yeah, even dung has a use, I understand, but I don't have to like it."

Golameth visibly churns with an inner rage!

Waydren asks Elurora, "Today he was the source of the answer to, "Is Anmuva truly an apex predator, and do we need to trod quietly?"

Elurora flashes a quick grin at Waydren.

Waydren says, "The answer is "Yes."

You say, "The lore references the upstarts to have created the moons, whereas the Kather worship the sun dragons."

Tirost grins at Waydren.

Waydren says to you, "Specifically, a single moon."

You say, "Our lore attributes the creation of the moons to the Immortals."

Waydren says to you, "Not all moons."

Hebion says, "If more people were actually cautious about things they shouldn't meddle with, we may not be in this position."

You nod to Waydren.

Valynn gives Waydren a wry grin.

Illiya asks you, "Do you think the sundreamers refers to the Kather themselves then?"

Jaelia says, "And if any Immortals are going to have a closely tied Dragon Aspect, it would be Hav'roth, Peri'el and Ushnish. I don't think Atuen likes to think about that and can be left to slaughtered by a predator themselves if he provokes it."

Elizzibiana says, "Havent really met a Jathor before, was interesting."

Waydren says to Illiya, "The Sundreamers are likely the Kather Shaman."

Valynn gazes thoughtfully at Hebion.

Elurora says to Waydren, "He is, though I'm not sure I needed to see someone's face bit off to believe it."

Elurora gazes off into the distance.

You say, "Well, the moons are said to have all been created by the Immortals. But one theory is that Huldah placed the World Dragon inside Grazhir, yes."

Elurora glances at you.

Sofina says to Elurora, "It truely was a remarkable feat."

Elurora gazes thoughtfully at Sofina.

Elizzibiana taps an olivine ring inset with the viper of Ushnish that she is wearing.

Tirost says to Waydren, "It's interesting that the shaman and dragon were not in agreement."

Kethrai says, "And some very old sources say the Immortals lived on Katamba, as a kind of natural preserve. If you view them as a single faction, it would be reasonable to call that faction 'Moon.'."

Waydren says to Tirost, "Indeed."

Elurora says to Sofina, "It was impressive, if...unpleasant."

Miskton nods to Tirost.

Ezerak nods at Kethrai, obviously agreeing with his views.

* Anmuva returns home from a hard day of adventuring.

Jaelia says, "And another myth says Hodierna requested it be done as a way to save the world or in her wisdom. There is a lot we can read into myths for various reasons, although we know the World Dragon caused a Shattering amongst the Divine and all aspects of our Worlds."

Elizzibiana says, "Sometimes it is wiser to be quiet and unassuming then brash and loud."

You say, "The lore actually specifically mentions the upstarts forming four moons."

You ponder.

Valynn gazes thoughtfully at Kethrai.

Tirost says to Kethrai, "I do not think the gods are the cause."

Elurora quietly says to you, "Don't the Karther worship dragons as Gods? It's been a bit since I read the book, I might need to reread my copy."

Kethrai angles his ears forward, gazing curiously at Tirost.

Waydren asks Tirost, "But something equally powerful? Rivals? Systems beyond their control, or perhaps escaped from their control?"

Tirost nods to Waydren.

You say to Elurora, "They do. But the sun dragons."

Waydren says to Elurora, "The original dragons, yes. The Life Dragons and Elemental Dragons, no."

Waydren nods at you, obviously agreeing with your views.

Elurora gives you a slight nod.

Elurora nods to Waydren.

Tirost says to Waydren, "Exactly what I was thinking. This uncertainty from the Kathar and the dragon, and the sensation we felt recently, along with the visions, make me think it's something else - maybe from the Plane of Exile."

Zersha grins at Sofina, her dimples flashing into view.

You say to Tirost, "Based on some information I have heard from those conducting research, I fear this may be above even the Immortals."

Golameth says, "They respect and have a deeper understanding of all the dragons."

Tirost gazes thoughtfully at you.

Waydren says to you, "The Grey Dragons will continue our research into the matter. We may walk quieter for a time, in the hopes of a longer conversation."

Waydren winks at you.

You smile at Waydren.

Waydren says to Tirost, "Perhaps."

Tirost smiles at Waydren.

Waydren nods to Tirost.

Kethrai asks Tirost, "What makes you rule out the Immortals as being involved in some way? Or perhaps just some set of them?"

Ezerak nods at you, obviously agreeing with your views.

Sofina nods to Zersha.

Sofina wobbles, looking a bit faint.

Ezerak says to you, "Some of the research indicated that even the gods are effected by it."

Tirost asks Kethrai, "I can't - but do you recall the entity approaching the barrier?"

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

Elurora gazes thoughtfully at Ezerak.

You say, "Specifically described as Divinity is suffering for it."

Elurora asks Ezerak, "What can do that to the Gods?"

Illiya asks Tirost, "What entity approaching the barrier?"

Waydren nods to you.

Elurora furrows her brow.

Tirost asks, "The mention some made of sensing Sivorch?"

Eyst tugs at the tip of his mustache distractedly.

Waydren asks you, "Seek us again when further steps are planned?"

You say to Elurora, "That is the million platinum question."

Ezerak says to Elurora, "No idea, but I wouldn't want to meet it in a dark alley."

You nod to Waydren.

Elurora chuckles at Ezerak.

Elurora gives you an emphatic nod.

Ezerak says to Elurora, "Or a well-lit courtyard, for that matter."

Karthor chuckles.

Elurora says to Ezerak, "Anywhere, really."

Elurora flashes a quick grin at Ezerak.

You say to Waydren, "I am planning another gathering soon at Milene's. If you would like to join."

Ezerak nods at Elurora, obviously agreeing with her views.

Kethrai says to Tirost, "I definitely felt Sivroch, yes, but I got the sense she was... capitalizing, more than anything."

You say to Waydren, "Shortly before the upcoming vigil."

Tirost nods to Kethrai.

Anuril nods to Kethrai.

Sofina casually observes the area.

Waydren says to you, "This many people for this long make me uncomfortable."

Sofina says to Kethrai, "It was a message to my sorts."

Waydren says to you, "I mean no disrespect. But I will pass."

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

Kethrai glances at Sofina.

Anuril glances up at the sky.

Kethrai asks Sofina, "A message saying what...?"

Tirost asks Kethrai, "But what would she be able to capitalize on that would be unknown to the Kathar and the life dragon?"

Illiya studies her silkcress-bound almanac closely.

You say to Waydren, "No disrespect taken."

You smile at Waydren.

Karthor strokes his beard in thoughtful contemplation.

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

Waydren says to you, "May you be well, Earthwalker."

Zersha smiles at Waydren, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

You say to Waydren, "And you as well."

You curtsy gracefully to Waydren.

Waydren nods to Zersha.

Waydren hugs Illiya, getting a smile in return.

With a graceful movement of her hands, Zersha lowers her head and sinks into a formal curtsy before Waydren.

Waydren just hugged Golameth.

Illiya just hugged Waydren.

Waydren bows.

In the blink of an eye, Waydren disappears into his surroundings.

Valynn ponders.

Nawain slowly empties her lungs.

Anuril takes his rightful place beside Kethrai.

Nawain says, "Back to the remedies."

Tirost smiles at Nawain.

Khozh Elizzibiana went up a narrow path.

Golameth leans on his spear.

Sofina says to Kethrai, "It was first a vision, and then her message was vague. A meeting, and all are welcomed."

(Nawain frowns and wanders of, pulling a thorn from under her fingernail with determination.)

Pilgrim Nawain went up a narrow path.

Valynn softly says to herself, "Well, that's a lot to think about."

Kethrai frowns thoughtfully.

Miskton says, "If nothing else, the more beings that aren't sure what the cause of the problem is, the higher in scope the scale would seem to be."

Miskton strokes his beard in thoughtful contemplation.

Sofina nods to Zersha.

Hebion nods to Zersha.

Ezerak nods at Miskton, obviously agreeing with his views.

Tirost softly says, "It it is caused by us, I wonder why now..."

Karthor nods to Miskton.

Illiya nods.

With a graceful movement of her hands, Zersha lowers her head and sinks into a formal curtsy before Hebion.

Hebion bows to Zersha.

Zersha casually observes the area.

With a graceful movement of her hands, Zersha lowers her head and sinks into a formal curtsy before Valynn.

Zersha giggles.

Zersha waves.

Desert Dancer Zersha went up a narrow path.

Vaerek scans the sky from horizon to horizon.

Kethrai says to Sofina, "I take that to mean all of your sort, since the rest of our invitations got lost in the mail."

Karthor asks Tirost, "Because now there's enough "pollution" built up to cause a mess?"

Sofina looks at Kethrai and shrugs.

Karthor looks at Tirost and shrugs.

Sofina asks, "Who am I to turn down new recruits?"

Anuril nods to Karthor.

You say, "I will think on this and consider some theories I can perhaps present at the upcoming gathering."

Illiya nods to you.

Sofina gets some deep-fried lamb-tail fat from inside her scavenger's pack.

Sofina takes a bite of the fat.

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

Tirost asks Karthor, "You think it may've hit a tipping point?"

Vaerek scans the sky from horizon to horizon.

Karthor babbles incoherently.

Tirost grins at Karthor.

Vaerek glances up at the sky.

After a few moments he lowers his gaze.

Tirost nods.

Elurora quietly says to Hebion, "Maybe we need someone to invent a mana cleaning spell."

Jaelia glances up at the sky.

Elurora grins at Hebion.

Karthor asks Tirost, "No idea, but it seems plausible enough, eh?"

Hebion grins at Elurora.

Hebion says, "They can practice on cleaning the moat in Theren first."

Eyst ponders.

Elurora slowly says, "He did liken it to fish in a river, one might use a net to gather dead fish..."

Elurora asks, "Could we do something like to mana streams?"

In the blink of an eye, Valynn disappears into her surroundings.

Kethrai looks at Elurora and shrugs.

Out of the corner of your eye, you notice Valynn trying to sneak up a narrow path.

Jaelia says, "Dead Fish rot, pollute the waters, make more dead fish, make waters worse, cycle gets worse."

Kethrai says, "I think that would be addressing the symptom rather than the cause, anyway."

Illiya asks, "Clean mana streams?"

Elurora nods to Illiya.

Illiya nods at Kethrai, obviously agreeing with his views.

Illiya says, "The problem is whatever is killing the fish in the first place."

Warbrolus puts his oil in his heavy backpack.

Tirost says, "Perhaps - but the gods make clear what they tolerate and what they do not, and it would seem strange that they would send no message before something that was a true threat to our plane."

Kethrai says, "There is a constriction in the flow, logs damming the stream as he called it..."

Elurora asks, "I'd say both might be important, clean the mess that is there and stop it from continuing?"

Kethrai says, "What we've sensed as the flow getting crushed from above and below."

Tirost ponders.

A gentle summer breeze warms the air.

Kethrai says, "To keep the metaphor going, if we're able to unblock the river, the dead fish will get naturally swept out to sea. Stagnation is what allows them to pollute and poison."

Miskton nods.

Tirost nods.

Anuril dryly says, "Ah, the sea. No one's problem."

Elurora asks Kethrai, "We'd want to be careful with how we unblock it if we're still comparing it to a river, right? Otherwise, we might get floods?"

Elurora grins at Anuril.

Jaelia says to Tirost, "But the Immortals have been sending messages for eons reminding us of our obligation to serve and find balance and remember humility, not to abuse mana streams in our quests to become like false divinites in this world - we train to defeat the worst catatraophes, but this abuse of power and balance without cleansing also makes those things more likely and eventually breaks the balance of things. Corruption, leaks, etc. WE are just as responsible."

Kethrai nods to Elurora.

Illiya says, "I don't know if the metaphor should be taken that literally."

Kethrai says, "I'm also not convinced that this is the most... real description of what's happening. It's how I can best imagine the damage being caused, but..."

Kethrai nods to Illiya.

Tirost says to Jaelia, "Maybe, but we're also sensitive to what the gods say. We've sought answers to the oddities in magic for some time and heard nothing on that, though they have manifested Themselves in that time."

Tirost nods to Kethrai.

Kethrai says, "He was relaying ideas to us from the Life Dragons, who might see the problem the same limited way I'm seeing it."

Tirost says to Kethrai, "Anmuva's metaphor aligns well with his understanding, but it seems likely that he doesn't know the cause and is in a position much like we are."

Kethrai asks, "Their shaman caste sees it differently -- maybe they're seeing it more the way our Clerics are?"

Jaelia raises an eyebrow.

Kethrai says to Jaelia, "A threat to Divinity, to the Font of Creation."

Eyst asks, "One has to wonder that it seems like something that would spring from the gods themselves yet, perhaps, isn't. Perhaps division within the Immortal's pantheon? Or indication of some divine rivals from beyond it?"

Tirost frowns.

Tirost says to Kethrai, "That is one of the scariest possibilities."

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

Jaelia says, "I mean no direspect, but how do you not see the Immortals and their communications? I think we are expecting a large blaring sound every time we ask for it. Some things require patience. Much like approaching in this Glade."

Ezerak nods at Tirost, obviously agreeing with his views.

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

You notice as a sand-hued lynx with a tufted black-tipped tail begins to pant.

Harurs del Cawna Warbrolus went up a narrow path.

You say, "That sounds a bit to me, like a threat to the Immortals."

You say, "Which is why I was curious about the moon reference."

Kethrai nods to you.

Ezerak says to you, "And to everything, for that matter."

Ezerak frowns.

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

You say, "Well, yes. A threat to the Immortals would certainly be a threat to everything."

Kethrai says, "To put it in mana theory terms, their Holy mana users think it's a Holy problem, their Life mana users think it's a Life problem, same as ours."

Jaelia says, "If I were to give any communication from the Immortals it would be a giant STOP sign on casting unnecessary spells, reducing our spell casting, and to stop reseraching Wild Mana and wait and seek more meditation and contemplation through any and all means. Not just one."

Tirost asks Jaelia, "Many of us were present when Hodierna and her aspects appeared, and many other present when Her unicorn lead us through Zaulfung. If we were the cause, would Asketi not seek our blood? Would Hodierna not council our restraint? Would the Heralds not intervene?"

Jaelia says, "And to not perform sorcery."

Vaerek went up a narrow path.

Tirost says, "I can't help but feel this is some other threat."

Jaelia says to Tirost, "Upon your whim to see them the way you want represented? You are in greater favor than I if you can command that."

Anuril nods to Tirost.

You say, "Unless, like I suggested the other evening, something is preventing the Immortals from reaching out."

Mage Slayer Golameth went up a narrow path.

Eyst nods to you.

Miskton says, "With all the different threats being seen, it does seem like it may be something happening at a fundamental level with mana, above the different frequencies."

Kethrai asks Jaelia, "How are they telling us to practice patience and caution? What would it look like if they were telling us to be urgent with this?"

Tirost says to Jaelia, "Not my whim. Each time I've seen the gods manifest is was to guide us. This is such a time, but perhaps they are silent because they are already engaged."

Ezerak says to you, "Yet another terrifying thought."

Ezerak chuckles.

Tirost nods to Miskton.

You say, "It is why I suggested we engage in a great many prayer gatherings. If the Immortals are in danger, perhaps they could send some sort of... distress signal..."

You ponder.

Eyst says to you, "If indeed they are suffering from the effects of it as well, they may have more pressing matters, or at least assume the problem is quite evident enough."

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

Tirost slowly says, "That vision of something pressing against the barrier..."

Tirost glances at Miskton.

You say, "All the visions are utterly terrifying."

You sigh.

Tirost gives a rueful grin.

Tirost nods to you.

Illiya says, "Perhaps the pieces are all here and we need only to put them together."

Jaelia asks, "You all must have very different training in your Guilds when the manifestations of your power and being of Life and Elemets and other things present themselves to you. Are they always so clear and bright? Or are they like that when things are incredibly serious?"

Ezerak nods at you, obviously agreeing with your views.

Jaelia says, "If it is time for that, we will receive them. Until then, we have information, we just need to research and not rule things out."

Tirost nods.

You say, "I think there remains much for us to learn yet."

You nod.

Illiya says to you, "I look forward to hearing your theories."

Elurora nods at you, obviously agreeing with your views.

Elurora nods to Illiya.

Tirost blinks at Illiya.

Ezerak nods at you, obviously agreeing with your views.

You smile at Illiya.

Tirost gazes at you.

Tirost asks you, "You have theories?"

Tirost smiles at you.

You say to Tirost, "I have a few I am working through. I am hoping to have them more in order before the upcoming gathering prior to Jaelia's planned vigil."

Illiya says, "Ayrell is one of the foremost experts on the Kather, so I imagine she can interpret what just happened better than we can."

You blush slightly, the tips of your ears flushing with warmth.

Illiya nods to you.

Ezerak nods at Illiya, obviously agreeing with her views.

Tirost nods to you.

Elurora says, "I'm goign to agree with Miss Illiya."

Elurora grins at Illiya.

Elurora smiles at you.

You blush slightly, the tips of your ears flushing with warmth.

Tirost asks Kethrai, "Will be joining Ayrell's gathering?"

You smile bashfully.

Ezerak says, "She is brilliant, really."

Elurora nods to Ezerak.

Illiya grins at Ezerak, her dimples flashing into view.

Tirost smiles at Ezerak.

Tirost nods in agreement.

You bashfully say, "Oh, goodness..."

Miskton says, "I'm going to be doing an experiment myself, in the near future. Attempting to predict in the presence of wild magic, and on those exposed to it. For the possibility that we might be able to get some more focused information from the Web of Fate."

Kethrai nods to Tirost.

Illiya says to Ezerak, "Totally."

You softly say, "I do my best with the information I have gathered over the years. I only hope I might be able to use it to help us in this matter."

Karthor says, "Well, I s'pose the mystery remains mysterious. I should probly be off fer now though, take care folks."

Karthor pushes his spectacles up the bridge of his nose.

Tirost says to Miskton, "I'd like to be present, if you wouldn't mind."

Ezerak nods politely to Karthor.

Illiya waves to Karthor.

Karthor waves.

You nod to Miskton.

Miskton nods to Tirost.

Tirost waves to Karthor.

You wave to Karthor.

Karthor just left.

Tirost scratches his sand-hued lynx.

Miskton says, "We'll be setting up in the old Gorbesh fortress south of Shard, since there's the possibility of some risks."

Anuril frowns at Miskton.

You nod.

You say to Miskton, "It is my intent to attend."

Elurora says, "And mine."

Elurora nods to Miskton.

Jaelia says, "It is a good way to test it. If there is a reason to use that power, that is a good reason."

Tirost nods in agreement.

Illiya asks Miskton, "When will this experiment take place?"

Kethrai scratches one ear, looking bemused.

Hebion snaps to attention and hails Elurora with a crisp hand salute.

Elurora snaps to attention and hails Hebion with a crisp hand salute.

Lord Knight Hebion went up a narrow path.

Miskton says, "It'll be a little bit yet, but I've put up some postings about it on the public calendars."

Jaelia smiles at Miskton.

Kethrai says, "The, er... Gorbesh fortress might be a fraught place to work. Necromantic rituals have been performed there, that might have already thinned the Plane."

Jaelia asks, "That might make it an ideal place then too?"

Anuril smirks.

Illiya nods to Miskton.

Kethrai says to Jaelia, "I suppose so."

Jaelia says to Kethrai, "Sometimes the only way to dig out rotten fish is by wading right in..."

Anuril looks at Tirost and shrugs.

Tirost smiles at Anuril.

Eyst ponders.

Tirost nods.

You say, "If you will all excuse me, I have a few books I would like to consult. I bid you all a safe and pleasant evening and look forward to speaking with you all again soon."

You curtsy gracefully.

Illiya hugs you, and you give her a smile in return.

Tirost bows to you.

Anuril nods to you.

Ezerak takes your hand and gently kisses the back of it.

You hug Illiya who gives you a smile in return. A faint scent of strawberries clings to her skin.

Miskton says, "For now... I think I'll enjoy some lighter matters, and see what's going on with the Dragon Shield event. No moons to help with travel for others though, I'm afraid."

You curtsy gracefully to Ezerak.

Illiya nods in agreement.

Miskton nods politely.

Eyst nods politely to you.

You nod politely to Anuril.

You curtsy gracefully to Tirost.

Illiya asks Tirost, "Do you think Navesi will want an article about this?"

Ezerak waves to you.

Miskton gestures.

A brief wave of disorientation washes outward as reality itself tears wide open, forming an unstable Moongate around Miskton!

Miskton is drawn through the unstable Moongate just before it collapses.

Elurora hugs Jaelia, getting a smile in return.

Forest Sprite Lileath went up a narrow path.

You nod politely to Eyst.

Elurora hugs Illiya, getting a smile in return.

Kethrai asks Anuril, "Shall we?"

Elurora hugs you, and you wrap your arms around her with a warm smile.

Elurora hugs Kethrai, who wraps his arms around Elurora with a warm smile.

Elurora bows.

Illiya hugs Elurora, getting a smile in return.

Truthseeker Elurora went up a narrow path.

Eyst glances at a kertig orlog suspended from a forged iron chain.

Eyst turns over his orlog and looks at it a moment.

Eyst puts his orlog in his tinker's pack.

Tirost smiles at you.

Illiya hugs Jaelia, who wraps her arms around Illiya with a warm smile.

You smile at Tirost.

Anuril nods to Kethrai.

You wave.

Kethrai bows.

Jaelia says, "Hopefully those choices may have something to say. If not, I still offer my gratitude for what they've done in the past."

Eyst says, "I suppose I will retire as well. Good luck to the rest of you on your endeavors."