Zynell/Logs/Artifact Discussion

Artifact Discussion: Library Results - Asildu Side Quest

[The Militia Shack, Inside]

Not much is left of this building except mice and a few ratty blankets. It seems well and truly abandoned, of no significant notice whatsoever.

You say, "Alright, i want to make sure we get through as much as possible with ample sharing time, so......"

You say, "Hello."

You say, "Welcome to our artifact discussion."

Imroth takes a sip of his Justice.

You say, "This is part of our attempts to save Asildu's soul."

Kethrai angles his ears forward in curiosity.

Background

You say, "Brief background."

Mazilyn beams!

You say, "Yes Asildu has been under the Heralds control."

You say, "Yes we have had to fight him a couple of times."

You say, "Yes he has shown up a few times lately with more control and remembrance of himself."

You say, "Yes he has displayed a portion of what wrath the Heralds place upon him."

You say, "Yes he has expressed regret for his decisions."

You say, "No we do not know if it is a trap."

You say, "No he is not able to be saved until the Herald ties to him are cut or severely limited."

You say, "What he has discussed a couple times and something we perhaps saw glimpses of in the Beseeching of Elanthia is Artifacts created by the Heralds."

You say, "There might be similarities between these artifacts and what had been done with Ciriasa during the time of Maelshyve."

You say, "The thought is that IF we can find the artifacts then we can study and potentially repurpose or distort them to help unbind Asildu to the Heralds."

You say, "Asildu, in his distorted state, did not readily remember where or what the artifacts he saw were. He is attempting to recall for us."

You say, "However, he also mentioned that, like any good researcher does, he started at the library."

You say, "While we could simply wait for him to maybe perhaps sometime potentially recall pieces..."

You grin mischievously.

You say, "I thought it might be good to at least be able check his notes against ours for verification or start a search without relying on his memory."

You say, "So in an attempt to follow his footsteps and help us narrow down potential search options as well as make us more aware of if his words hold truth, I went to the library."

You say, "And then another library. . ."

You gaze at some tall black leather boots with supple wings and wickedly sharp heels.

You exclaim, "These boots may look uncomfortable to run in, and they are not the most ideal for travel, but across the realm we went anyway!"

You say, "So i bring you my notes and hopefully folk can add more information or context to these snippets."

So Many Library Notes

You say, "As a cleric, I stopped in the Crossing cleric library first."

You say, "The book, The Immortals, has some basic information that is fairly unclear and near useless other than to say there is no definitive understanding of the Heralds. The Religions of Elanthia in the Crossing Temple Library echoed this sentiment but added that the only certain thing was that these were beings of immense power."

You say, "There were several instances referencing the creation of the realms, there are a couple different versions, but the Origin of the Realms, also in the Crossing Temple Library mentioned that, and I quote."

You recite:

"And it is so that the Planes were under the Dominion of the Immortals, and the Immortals ever fated to strife and conflict and overweening desire.

As to how this Plane, and our world of Elanthia came to be wrought and populated, the venerable Lorethew is less definite:

The Planes had been born, separate and complete, whole unto themselves, and yet, as newborns experience much growth, so did the Planes. The Plane of Exile, the Plane of Abiding and the Plane of Unknowing all did evolve in separate ways, as did all the infinitely numbered Planes. Ours, the Plane of Abiding, contained the Thirteen Immortals who created the 13 worlds. Our world being the last, was the most perfect and complete, and yet the sum of all the strife and discord among its creators."

You say, "I found The Study of Omens and Celestial Portents in the Crossing Moonmage Library. This book is a little more lunar oriented but it added to my understanding of the ties between the immortals and the stars. I think this is a good one for someone more adept in the skies to review. A couple of examples that embody this are."

You recite:

"What we do know is that the stars can often reveal information about things closely tied to their god through observation.

Note that though these omens have all occurred before (some on multiple occasions), what they portended then may not be the same in the future. Foresight is an ever-changing process, and (no pun intended) is highly unpredictable. One of the most common celestial omens involves the constellation of the Raven. This constellation consists of seventeen stars, and it rests in the North. The Raven is the emblem of Kertigen, god of craftsmen, precious gems, and wealth. Kertigen is worshipped by traders, metalworkers, and jewelers alike. So festivals and merchant gatherings are events that hold a special place in the heart of this god.

When the Raven is seen flashing, or winking, it is an omen of a coming festival, or merchant."

You recite:

"The Phoenix constellation is just a single star in the sky. It is the emblem of Murrula, goddess of beauty and music. When the Phoenix star pulses, it is a portent of great music and festivity coming soon. The last time the Phoenix pulsed in this manner was to announce the restoration of the Bardic Guild, which had been ashes for more than three hundred years due to the slaughter carried out by the Dragon Priests."

You slowly and deliberately empty your filled lungs.

You say, "The History of Trefan Draus in Crossing The Strand Library gave me pause after the Beseeching of Elanthia. She had noted that there were several drastic land shifts. Though the ones seen in the visions may have been long long past, the following story struck a similarity to me."

You recite:

"One night and day was much like another near the waves' caress, until that fateful time we were sent away. No reason was given why we must leave our beloved Ocean. The Elvenkindred merely felt the Voice declare this one day, packed their meager belongings and left. The Voice has not returned since then, and all that remains is the heart's echo of pain, cutting across generations of River Elven like the distant roar of surf. It beats within us
that, and the knowledge that we must remain steadfast until we receive the Call. Only when the Call is heard shall we Elvenkindred find once more the sight of our beloved Ocean, our tears melting into her waters."

You recite:

"Bereft of lover, parent and counselor, our ancestors sought what relief could be found in distant images. Their steps turned westward, and they traveled long before coming upon the Namafal-- misnamed, perhaps. It is not very salty but blue as the eyes of day, and its banks sparkle with a rainbow of crystal deposited over the centuries.

The Namafal runs strong and swift between 2 ranges of hills"

You say, "Another tale i found odd and interesting was My Visions of the Lost Lands found in Ilaya Taipa Chapel Library. Though possibly irrelevant to the now, flower beings and caretaker references struck a similar note to some early visions of the first caretakers."

You recite:

"At Truffenyi's side, I have seen... something else. Something I never before imagined that I would behold with my eyes. The Elves spoke of them, and they called these beings... Loira.

I have learned that this is the word the Elves have for what is in Common called "flower.""

You recite:

"The Loira, the Elder Elves said, were created by Truffenyi as the living, sentient embodiment of the forests of the Lost Continent. They were created to care for their brethren, the forests, which possessed life but not sentience. They are caretakers of the wilderness, and have a connection to it that no other race (not even the Elves) does. Life Mana flows in their very veins!"

Elurora tilts her head, clearly curious about something.

You say, "The Diary of Ninrak Suwl from the Shard Cleric Guild Library mentions a place of legend. Upon reflection i think this may be more spiritually related than practical or herald."

Tirost gazes thoughtfully at you.

You recite:

"Fostramor means The Great Peace and it is both a place and a reward. Legend has it that to get to Fostramor you must pass through Fostra's Haven. No one knows where Fostra's Haven is. However, it is part of the legend that if a mortal ever finds Fostramor, they will become immortal and gain complete wisdom. Whether this place is real or not, it has fired the imagination of adventurers for centuries. It seems to be entwined with each of the races."

You ask, "The Silver Key of Artifacts in the Shard Great Tower Library is one that i found semi known locations of artifacts . Are they Herald artifacts or just trinkets being referenced with a keyword?"

You take in a great breath of air.

You recite:

"I have a special interest in Jevilnor! It was supposedly created over 85 years by Evenight Aratan, a craftsmaster of my tribe many centuries ago. Jevilnor is a dwarven hammer unlike any other. It does not kill, it creates--and what wonders it creates! Jevilnor is a jewelsmith's tool like none other. A single tap anywhere on a stone will reveal a flaw. Another will remove the excrescence, while a third will smooth the bevel if no further blemish lies underneath. A regular hammer in an expert's hands will require weeks, perhaps a month to release beauty from the confines of stone. Jevilnor requires minutes in the hands of a babe, a halfling or a gor'tog. The owner of Jevilnor is rich beyond measure, because he owns not merely the source of great wealth, but the origin of reputation."

You recite:

"Jevilnor currently resides in Darvagai Anliker. It is used by Osi Hamesen, Royal Gemcutter to Lord Vynwreth Thibilig, to fashion works of extraordinary complexity. I have seen some of the results on display during state functions, and they prefigure a craft which lies beyond mortal management. Hamesen, great craftsmaster that he is, could have imagined those works. Only the Jevilnor's speed and accuracy would have allowed him to realize these. They are a perfect match: no greater praise is possible to Osi Hamesen, whom I count a friend."

You recite:

"From The Tales of Deeder Jonathan, by Alain Martel: "Kelly Jonathan was again the genesis for this remarkable device. He convinced his less-worldly brother upon this occasion that he (Kelly) would be setting up shop as a healer, and that some item which allowed him to find people in need and move quickly to their side would be advantageous to all. Deeder was very enthusiastic in his support, and set to work at once."

You recite:

""Kelly employed the resulting horn-rimmed ocular to watch the head clerk at the First Elanthian State Bank. When he entered the vaults, Kelly tapped the eyepiece-- and was instantly transported to his side. The halfling thief grabbed a sack of gold from the astonished clerk's hands, and tapped the eyepiece again."

You recite:

""Nothing happened. Kelly had never specified to his brother that there was any need to hurry back
and by making the ocular a single-charge item the alchemist had sought to let it recharge quicker...once every 24 hours, in fact. Of course this sensible decision was not on Kelly's mind when he found himself surrounded by guards and hauled before a magistrate. He only escaped prison that time by claiming to be his brother and feigning madness. Truth to tell, Kelly's state of mind at being cheated for still-another fortune which lay within his grasp can only be imagined.""

You recite:

"The Ocular is in the possession of Asemath Academy. It resides in the Academy Vaults, and is shown to distinguished visitors upon rare occasions."

You say, "This next notation is also one that someone with more historical and rakash knowledge might be interested in investigating. Rakash Traditions and Dawvs from Ain Ghazal Chateau Archives discusses special rocks."

You recite:

"Before the eastward migration of the Rakash, many told tales, and more believed them, about a special rock called redivawzis. Sworn to be true by many, and believed by more, it became an accepted fact that this unusual stone was somehow able to link those who were found deserving with their God. I recall several variations on the results attributed to the special properties of redivawzis. One such benefit that I myself heard of was that if warriors journeyed to that site and performed certain rituals, they were often rewarded with the sense that they were protected by Coshivi and would not fall in battle. Of course, those that fell were not likely to contradict the prevailing belief in the powers of redivawzis. As to what preparations were required, all I was told when I inquired was that patience was a virtue and the process required an offering."

Valynn jots down some notes.

You say, "Prophetic Reflections in the Taisgath Guildhouse Library referred to the obelisks as artifacts."

You recite:

"Around 356:100:3 within Ker'Leor, the Therengian obelisk was uncovered by a tremor not far north of Laakmir. Later, when trade with Qi'Reshalia was resumed, another was seen by stu- dents on Taisgath. And a third, in Zoluren, was rediscovered in Tezirah's mansion beneath the observatory on 361:303:8. Note, if the reader would: "rediscovered". This will become clear in time.

These ancient artifacts, I've devoted my life to understand- ing. As my primary study since joining the Guild, I like to think I have gathered some information on them over the past decade."

You recite:

"To describe them properly: at some point in time, each was a translucent spire of forty-five hands in height (fifteen Human feet or so), excessively inscribed with runes and lan- guages, and inset with a single gem on each side. Those gems were, and are: a red ruby, a crystal blue sapphire, a golden topaz, and an iridescent pearl. Each obelisk radiated celes- tial magic so strongly that even untrained senses could feel its strength.

Interestingly enough, given that the obelisks are linked with the moons, having one gem for each, it would stand to reason that there is, in fact, a fourth obelisk somewhere, assuming it has not already been destroyed. From the "History of Mer'Kresh" by Lindryl Jinsaith on the ruined city found on M'Riss:"

(Crobin leans against the wall listening to what was going on.)

Tirost rests his hand on a leather belt.

You recite:

""Other stories claimed the Ancient Ones were mages who dared compare themselves to the gods and paid for their arrogance. Still more stories suggest this race of mages built the Star Stones, and that those megaliths are actually a portal to another world through which those mages disappeared. What- ever the truth, the city now lies in ruins, destroyed by time and volcanic activity.""

You say, "The same book also discussed the Web of Fate a little. Which, while the weaving visions are sorcery related, the concept of weaving connections across multiple looms seemed a little more broadly scoped so i took a note."

You recite:

"As for the web of fate and plane of probability, themselves, much can be drawn to aid understanding from the happenings of the Prophecy. Having briefly looked into the vortex, the plane is distinctly different from, though similar to, the plane of abiding -- a pale sunset with little to distinguish above the horizon from below it, strange winds and clouds -- the plane of probability is a seemingly colorless and silent landscape.

Through the use of her aforementioned mirror wraith talon, a strange magical artifact, the Lady Demosel is able to travel the plane (although how is speculation on my part). I would theorize that, since mirror wraiths seem to be reflections from the plane of probability to the plane of abiding, the talon acts as a link, much like moonbeams, to its landscape."

You recite:

"What is known is that the plane of probability is a place, separate and distinct from the plane of abiding, which we, as Moon Magi, tap into to sense visions, or weave the web of fate. Conversely, the web of fate seems not so much a plane but rather a linking of events across time.

On a smaller scale, each person could be seen to have a web surrounding his life and his self, which is what we affect by weaving the future, while on a larger scale, each person is simply a strand on the web as it relates to all things across time -- each meeting of two people being an intertwining or crossing of strands, while many strands meeting could form a nexus, as per Lady Amiss' treatise."

Keemar gazes at his claws.

You recite:

"Simply put - the plane of probability is more concerned with space (and spatial theories), while the web, itself, is more concerned with time and its passing."

Valynn jots down some notes.

Tirost glances at Valynn.

Keemar ponders.

You say, "I went to a few libraries..."

You gaze at your claws.

You say, "And the last major note i took was from the book on the Suur Pillar in Therenborough Gealeranendae College. The official creation attribution was to Meraud and Firluf, but I was questioning every origin and every crafted claim I came across."

Tirost chuckles.

Siendra grins at you.

Imroth takes a sip of his Justice.

Gwenddolyn nods to you.

You recite:

"A towering monolith reaching from the bowels of the mountain earth toward the lightning streaked clouds above -- that is the Suur Pillar. The generosity and indulgence of the noble Baron Jeladric Theren as well as the Therengian Warrior Mages have enabled the Gealeranendae College of Magical History to investigate the mysterious and magical Suur Pillar ruins in an attempt to understand its origins and magic.

Ancient legends tell of a mythical obelisk, formed by the hands of Meraud and Firulf themselves. This pillar was shaped of the stone of the earth, and the electricity of the skies. The gods of magic constructed this high above Elanthia before hurling it towards the planet. Where the Suur Pillar struck the land a crater was formed, and the elemental power of the obelisk caused pure water from the Elemental Plane of Water to flow into this crater. The gypsies would later name this Laakmir."

Tirost nods to you.

You recite:

"Centuries after Ferdahl Thaerine's rule had come to an end, the Suur Pillar was discovered in the Mountains of Ker'Leor. The Suur Pillar was unearthed near the major quarry sites around Fornsted. Time had been unkind to it, and portions of the pillar had collapsed. The entirety of the monolith was covered in granite, and the quarriers had to work carefully to move the rubble.

A portion of the obelisk that had crumbled and fallen to the ground, likely due to the ravages of time, was shipped back to the GCMH for study, though the research team remained to continue their analysis of what they called the Suur Pillar.

The magical study we conducted upon the Pillar is preserved in the College's archives."

Elurora furrows her brow.

Imroth says, "Well that sure was a lot."

Siendra nibbles on her fingers contemplatively.

Gwenddolyn says, "What you mentioned about The History of Trefan Draus in Crossing seemed very like recent visions."

Discussion Time

You say, "So. Now that i need new heels for my boots, those are all the notes i think Asildu could have easily found in the libraries as it relates to the Heralds and Artifacts."

You pat some tall black leather boots with supple wings and wickedly sharp heels.

Aerilia ponders.

Elurora grins at you.

You nod to Gwenddolyn.

Gwenddolyn says, "And there is an artifact very close to here."

Qetu lightly says in an Ilithian accent, "That was pretty thorough, thank you Zynell."

Elurora gazes off into the distance.

Aerilia nods in agreement.

Gwenddolyn says, "That could help, it is the missing Chimes of Disruption."

Gwenddolyn says, "It is high in a tree 8 paces south of here."

You say, "Aye, if anyone has more to add, knows of artifacts, thats the purpose of now."

You nod to Gwenddolyn.

You ask, "What is it?"

Gwenddolyn says, "It disrupts invasions."

Elurora slowly says, "Sometimes windchimes are just windchimes."

Aerilia smiles quickly.

Gwenddolyn says, "It keeps invaders from the north from invading crossings."

Valynn smiles at Elurora.

Tirost chuckles at Siendra.

Tirost nods in agreement.

Gwenddolyn says, "And those from the south from invading kaerna."

Imroth takes a sip of his Justice.

Gwenddolyn says, "Borruger created it and many other artifacts."

Gridaksma nods to Elurora.

Gwenddolyn says, "I would be more concerned about missing artifacts."

You ask, "Who?"

Rienth says, "I don't know. I get the impression that he's referring to less obvious artifacts. Ones that we aren't likely to find on our own. But that's just me."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Since it seems that Asildu is looking for them?"

Kethrai says, "Some of these artifacts seem too... recent in creation, eh? If they were created by mortals, they wouldn't be related to the Heralds."

Gwenddolyn says, "Borruger a moon mage."

Rienth nods at Kethrai, obviously agreeing with his views.

You say, "He was looking at ones specifically tied to the Heralds."

Elurora nods to Kethrai.

Aerilia nods to Kethrai.

Gwenddolyn says, "Borrugar."

Imroth says, "Too bad he didn't give us any sort of breadcrumb to follow."

You nod to Kethrai.

Elurora nods to Imroth.

You say, "Library was the breadcrumb."

You giggle.

Tirost nods to Imroth.

Gwenddolyn says, "If you stand in the deep forest south if here you can hear them and see them."

Eyst gives a slight nod.

Kethrai says, "The moon obelisks, the Suur Pillar, the Zaulfung Stones... Those sorts of things might be related."

Imroth says, "That's like a whole loaf."

Rienth says to Imroth, "My understanding was that he needed to break through the haze of his memories and remember the locations and then would get back to us."

Qetu lightly asks in an Ilithian accent, "Are any of the libraries considered and artifact?"

Gwenddolyn says, "The suur pillar and damaged obelisk are in ker leor."

Gwenddolyn says, "I gave a tour of them awhile back."

Tirost nods to Gwenddolyn.

Gwenddolyn says, "There were a few artifacts stolen."

Kethrai says, "There are a few different obelisks. There's one on the glacier north of Shard, as well."

Imroth asks, "You spoke very fast and I am sure I missed a lot. Was there any one in particular that stood out to you?"

Gwenddolyn says, "Some from the paladin vaults and one from asemath academy."

Traim says, "Shard of grazhir, emalerje, remains lost yes? That would be a nice one to find. Nice extraplanar impact there."

Rienth gazes upward.

You say to Rienth, "That is the case. However, we do not always like to wait if there is anything we can do to look for them."

Rienth looks at you and shrugs.

Imroth nods to Rienth.

You nod to Kethrai.

Gwenddolyn says, "And the shard the children took from the moon mage guild nearby here."

Zehira frowns.

Gwenddolyn says, "Tiv was abducted too, remember that."

Gwenddolyn says, "When that shard was taken."

Kethrai ponders.

Malorna says, "Thanks."

Eyst tugs at the tip of his mustache distractedly.

Gwenddolyn says, "I am curious what artifacts Asildu is talking about."

You say, "That is the question. We do not know what the Herald specific artifacts are."

Kethrai says, "The visions we saw of primal Elanthia took place... basically around here. Eastern Zoluren, around the Crossing. It stands to reason the artifacts he's referring to might also be found in this area. They might just be buried or long forgotten."

Aerilia says, "As are we all, really. There's precious little we know about them."

Zehira says in a Velakan accent, "Not surprising."

Elore smiles.

Eyst says, "I imagine we could make some assumptions as to the artifacts nature. Perhaps that would help us narrow the search."

You say, "The most we know is that they helped the heralds gain power over him."

Imroth says, "It, or they, are large."

Gwenddolyn says, "It must have something to do with vines."

Elore gives Tirost a gentle poke in the ribs.

Tirost grins at Imroth.

Gwenddolyn says, "Like binding him."

Imroth chuckles.

Keemar scratches one ear, looking bemused.

Tirost chuckles at Elore.

Traim asks, "The Heralds needed artifacts to control Asildu?"

You say, "No, it just gave them access."

Lexxa shakes her head.

Traim says, "Forgive me stupid questions."

Imroth says, "Asildu found artifacts that somehow brought him closer to the Heralds."

Traim nods.

Zehira says to you in a Velakan accent, "I am just glad for once this has nothing to do with my guild at all. Like so much nothing."

Eyst says, "For example, given what we know of the Heralds, any of their artifacts would not be holy or necromantic. They'd likely have some connection with the natural world, perhaps akin to something lifesculpted. And I expect their creator, or origin would be unknown or in dispute."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Remember the visions about a very large viney creature wandering?"

Rienth nods to Imroth.

Siendra looks at Tirost, obviously trying not to grin.

Tirost gazes at his fingernails.

Aerilia nods to Eyst.

Ectheleon chuckles.

Siendra giggles.

Qetu lightly asks in an Ilithian accent, "Then why would it need to be an artifact associated with the Heralds why not something associated with Asildu?"

Traim smiles at Mistanna.

Kethrai nods at Eyst, obviously agreeing with his views.

You say, "Lifesculpted would be interesting."

Gwenddolyn says, "Yes lifesculpted, exactly, well put."

You nod.

(Crobin watches the group as he leans on the wall his ears tilting back and forth)

Aerilia says to Eyst, "Reasonable assumptions."

Imroth nods to Eyst.

Gwenddolyn says, "Lifesculted vines."

Gwenddolyn asks, "What does one lifescultp with, what tool?"

Kethrai says, "But there's nothing else like those primal encasement spires they created out there."

You say, "Magic."

Imroth says, "Magic."

Gwenddolyn nods to Kethrai.

Gwenddolyn says, "Those seemed lifescultpted."

Lexxa says, "In the visions the Heralds was leaving them behind, we have no idea's whats on them but I thought we were hoping something we could use against them."

Lexxa shrugs.

Gridaksma says, "It depends on which type of lifesculpting."

Tirost says to Lexxa, "Those would have been left in very ancient times."

Gwenddolyn says, "Creating monsters more than likely."

Gridaksma says, "The Prydaen use prayers to their gods to lifesculpt."

Lexxa nods to Tirost.

Gwenddolyn says, "That they can control."

Lexxa says, "I did a little digging in the trenches but I didn't find anything like that."

Eyst says to Gwenddolyn, "It depends on its origin. There is prydaen lifesculpting which seems to be reliant on faith in their pantheon, and lifesculpting of Elvish origin which as I understand, has more to do with the will of the artisan."

Valynn ponders.

Gridaksma nods to Eyst.

You say, "A different type of magic."

You giggle.

Zehira shifts her weight.

Tirost asks, "Do we know where Asildu lived, studied or conducted his research? Has ever mentioned a place?"

Traim slowly says, "Asildu found...artifacts..."

You say, "So my hope is that we might consider if there is anything semi known to investigate further, like the obelisks or pillar."

Aerilia ponders.

Elurora shakes her head at Tirost.

Traim says, "Yes, what Tirost asked."

Lexxa blinks at Traim.

Traim gestures at Tirost.

Rienth says, "He said he left civilization when he conducted his studies."

Lexxa looks at Tirost and shrugs.

Gwenddolyn says, "That would require going to ker leor and me showing them to you."

Eyst ponders.

Rienth says, "That's the closest he got to a place that I know of."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Tirost did you come that time?"

You say, "Aye, there was not really a place after the library mentions."

Traim asks, "Anyone know what mana he is attuned to?"

Kethrai says, "He is a Bard."

Imroth says, "Life."

Aerilia says, "Elemental? He was a bard."

Imroth says, "Oh."

Kethrai says, "Or, was, I suppose."

Aerilia nods to Kethrai.

Imroth asks, "He is a bard??"

Elurora nods to Imroth.

Rienth nods.

Imroth laughs!

Gwenddolyn says, "If it is elemental then it must be in ker leor."

You bow your head and say in a hushed voice, "Damaris, guard and protect the children this night."

Kethrai says, "That's what led him to his interest in history to begin with, I believe."

Tirost says to Gwenddolyn, "I think so. I grew up there though, and played near that obelisk with all the other children in that area near the pool."

Qetu lightly says in an Ilithian accent, "Bards are always in the thick of it... Wren."

Valynn grins at Imroth.

Rienth nods at Kethrai, obviously agreeing with his views.

Kethrai says, "It may also be how he was affected by those artifacts."

Gwenddolyn says, "But I showed you the crumbling structures on the road past fornsted too."

Kethrai says, "If he tried to Evoke them, that might have given them influence."

Tirost nods to Gwenddolyn.

Lexxa ponders.

Gwenddolyn says, "They have runes on them still."

Valynn winks at Imroth.

Eyst gives Kethrai a slight nod.

Imroth grins at Valynn.

Rienth nods to Kethrai.

Gwenddolyn says, "My entry for the magic symposium spoke about it."

Lexxa asks, "Where is this place?"

Eyst says to Kethrai, "A good point. Something to remember if any of this bears fruit."

Tirost says to Kethrai, "That's a good point. Did he have training as Bard originally? I know he has used bardic elemental magic since."

Rienth nods to Tirost.

Kethrai says to Tirost, "He claims to be a guilded Bard, yes."

Imroth asks, "Did we ever figure out what was wrong with his skin?"

Gwenddolyn says, "Maybe he is lifesculpted into this thing."

Zehira asks in a Velakan accent, "I have never seen him, what does his skin look like?"

Kethrai says, "A sort of chitinous hardening under the surface. Protective magic."

You ask, "So perhaps our best bet might be a bardic lore adventure in ker leor?"

Imroth says, "Well he is like a swamp monster now."

Gwenddolyn nods to Imroth.

Imroth says, "But he had some rough growths before."

Zehira asks in a Velakan accent, "Like vines and leaves?"

Kethrai says, "Miraena had the same. Come to think of it... That could also be a place to start."

Imroth nods to Zehira.

Aerilia ponders.

Imroth nods at Kethrai, obviously agreeing with his views.

Zehira says in a Velakan accent, "Strange."

Aerilia asks, "It was scales or something under the skin, I think?"

Gwenddolyn asks, "Are hers gone now?"

Kethrai says, "If Miraena came into contact with the same artifacts, it could narrow down the location."

Kethrai nods to Aerilia.

Rienth says, "I don't think she did."

Imroth says, "Haven't seen her in a while."

You say, "She went home."

Rienth says, "She only claimed to have received visions from the Heralds. Or about them, at least."

Tirost says, "We may be able to write to her."

Tirost says, "She was on good terms with many of us when she left for home."

Kethrai says to Rienth, "Yes, but she might have come in contact with them unknowingly, rather than intentionally like Asildu."

Aerilia asks, "All we know is she lives in a small village some days to the west of here, right?"

Kethrai nods to Aerilia.

Rienth says to Kethrai, "Could be. If any of them were near her village."

Imroth says, "From a village with no name."

Aerilia nods.

Elurora ponders.

Lexxa says, "To the west."

Gwenddolyn says, "If anyone is interested in going to ker leor tomorrow, we can meet in the lake there and I can show you where they are."

Lexxa ponders.

Eyst says, "It could be she unknowingly came into contact with something similar."

Imroth nods to Eyst.

Aerilia says, "Maybe so. That could explain why the Heralds influenced her of all people. Maybe there's an artifact near her home."

Tirost says, "Ah, yes. A village with no name. I doubt even the Rundmolen extend their services that far, though they've contacted me in strange places before..."

Ectheleon asks, "My apologies for being slow but I have a question. If Prydaen can use prayer to lifescult and something helped with the focus is there a chance that something could offer a backwards path and it was used by the Heralds to resculpt Asildu? Is that what the artifacts represent?"

Rienth says, "I don't think the Rundmolen require places to have names."

Rienth chuckles.

Tirost glances at Aerilia.

Kethrai says, "I doubt the Heralds require any assistance to Lifesculpt. Their power equals or exceeds the known Immortals."

Lexxa nods at Kethrai, obviously agreeing with his views.

Gwenddolyn says, "They have no power without pure mana."

Kethrai casually observes the area.

Imroth says, "They have pretty extreme lifesculpting capabilities."

Kethrai asks, "Have any of us stopped casting pure mana spells entirely?"

Rienth says, "Since Asildu believed his contact with the artifacts he found was the reason for his connection to them, the idea was just that if the artifacts were found and destroyed, it might break their connection to him."

Aerilia shakes her head.

You say, "No."

Lexxa shakes her head at Kethrai.

Imroth points at Zehira.

Zehira says in a Velakan accent, "What."

Valynn shakes her head at Kethrai.

Zehira raises an eyebrow in Imroth's direction.

Kethrai says to Imroth, "I said stopped, not never started."

You say to Zehira, "You do not cast pure mana spells."

Imroth looks at Kethrai and shrugs.

Imroth nods.

Zehira says in a Velakan accent, "Oh no I do not."

You grin.

Zehira says in a Velakan accent, "Never have."

You say, "Similar was done with artifacts, before my time mind you, but during the Maelshyve raid."

Zehira says in a Velakan accent, "I do not think the Heralds care much about us one way or another, not like the Immortals."

You say, "To break the hold on her chosen one."

Lexxa blinks at Zehira.

Lexxa ponders.

Lexxa casually observes the area.

Kethrai says to you, "Difference being, Maelshyve has a home address..."

Traim says, "I think we need to string up Asildu and ask the questions more pointedly. Though I understand that may not be a popular suggestion."

Zehira says in a Velakan accent, "Our mana is mixed, always has been, the Heralds like that pure mana stuff."

Zehira nods to Lexxa.

You say to Kethrai, "Her artifacts and chosen did not."

Imroth says to Traim, "He isn't really of sound mind."

Thanator says, "I'm with Traim."

Valynn grins at Traim.

Aerilia says, "There's a chance that Asildu impodes any given time he's seen with us, so I doubt we can hold onto him for long."

Valynn nods.

Imroth says, "But I would string him up anyway."

Elurora says, "I don't think stringing him up would do us or him any good."

You say, "We will still be waiting for him to consider what artifacts he can remember, but i think waiting for him will be a while."

You shrug.

Tirost says, "I agree with Traim, though you make a good point, Aerilia. Maybe we could skip the stringing up, and instead try and support his memory with Bardic magic. In other words, make the most of the time he's with us."

Imroth says, "He seemed very lucid when he called for the death of an entire city."

Guess We Need a Bard!

You ask, "Do we want to try a bardic lore on the obelisk in ker leor as the next step?"

Rienth nods to Tirost.

Lexxa nods to you.

Traim says, "Be careful with the obelisks. Experimentation there has a strong history of unintended consequences."

Gwenddolyn says, "Or by the crumbling stones with runes past fornsted."

Kethrai nods at Traim, obviously agreeing with his views.

Traim says, "Far more dangerous than lighting the Herald flunkie on fire for awhile."

Lexxa nods at Traim, obviously agreeing with his views.

You say to Lexxa, "In addition to another beseech, i think we can learn a lot if we have pointed questions for her."

Traim says, "But just my take. My own proclivities towards lighting people on fire are relatively well known."

Crobin taps you lightly on the shoulder.

You angle your ears forward, gazing curiously at Crobin.

Crobin says, "Sorry to bother."

Zehira says to Traim in a Velakan accent, "I don't like fire, moonmage."

Crobin says, "I may of missed it or just don't know."

Valynn gives Traim a wry grin.

Traim says to Zehira, "Figurative. It can be acid. Or ice. Or shadow."

Crobin asks, "But it was said that Asildu had found some items he was studying...is there a way he could of absorbed them into himself?"

Zehira says in a Velakan accent, "Acid would be fine."

Kethrai says, "Another thing to consider, in visions we've seen the Heralds take the shape of dragons. So artifacts related to dragons could also fit the bill."

Aerilia ponders.

Tirost gazes at Crobin.

You say, "He also said he left them where they were."

Aerilia says to Crobin, "I think he claimed to leave them behind after he studied them."

Crobin says, "That he remembers."

Elurora nods to Aerilia.

Aerilia nods.

Valynn nods to Aerilia.

Rienth nods to Crobin.

Imroth says, "We can cut him open and check."

You nod to Kethrai.

Traim gestures at Imroth.

Elurora frowns at Imroth.

Valynn glances at Imroth.

Elore frowns at Crobin.

Ectheleon sighs.

Imroth chuckles.

Aerilia says, "But it must be that he absorbed /something/ from the artifacts to give the Heralds an avenue to influence him."

Aerilia ponders.

Valynn says to Imroth, "Even I think that's a bit drastic."

Gwenddolyn says, "If anyone is interested in going to ker leor tomorrow so I can show the runed stones to you tomorrow eve, let me know."

Kethrai quietly says, "Feels like you all might want to decide if your goal is to save the man or kill him."

Rienth nods at Kethrai, obviously agreeing with his views.

Mazilyn says, "Im savin."

Elurora nods to Mazilyn.

Kilenti smiles at Mazilyn.

Elurora says, "I agree, he deserves a chance to be saved."

Lexxa nods to Sceth.

Traim gestures at Zehira.

Ectheleon says, "I'm with saving, not a fan of cutting open folk asking for help."

Aerilia says, "An opportunity. It's for him to make the effort to be worthy of redemption."

Gwenddolyn says, "I would go where elemental is the strongest to look for answers."

Zehira smiles at Traim, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Thanator says, "I think the best way ta save im is ta kill im and let him hash it out with the gods face to face personally."

Tirost says, "Asildu has already suffered worse than death in my opinion. Let's do what we can to free him from the Heralds, and possibly gain useful information, and deprive dangerous beings of a tool they use to threaten and destroy us."

Sceth grins at Thanator.

Not a Demon Story Arc

Zfora flatly says, "Give him to the demonic, they can save him."

Mazilyn says, "I dont think he makes it to the gods when he dies."

Imroth says, "He can face justice after the Herald's influence is removed if that makes everyone feel better."

Zehira rolls her eyes.

Rienth nods to Tirost.

Kilenti smiles at Tirost.

Mazilyn says, "I think the heralds snatch his soul."

Aerilia nods to Mazilyn.

Zehira says in a Velakan accent, "Like you know anyting about the demonic."

Mazilyn says, "So killin him doesnt do much good."

Zfora smirks at Zehira.

Traim says, "All very generous approaches. You're all better men and women than me. If it becomes necessary to string him up for questioning, happy to help."

Zehira says in a Velakan accent, "So don't pretend you do."

Traim says, "Happy to help with anything else too, but that specifically."

Zfora raises an eyebrow in Zehira's direction.

Imroth ponders.

Elurora slowly says, "Killing people rarely does much good. It just creates more violence."

Imroth glances at Zehira.

Imroth glances at Zfora.

Siendra smiles at Elurora.

Traim says to Elurora, "People. The gods live on it. As do the Heralds."

Traim says, "Good hunting all."

Zehira says to Imroth in a Velakan accent, "She thinks she knows things she doesn't know."

Valynn idly picks at a long dark hooded cloak.

(Malorna searches for her popcorn and gives up)

Gwenddolyn says, "Many interesting ideas, but we have to decide what to do next. Waiting does not seem to be a wise option."

Elurora grins at Malorna.

Imroth says to Zehira, "I.. think she might."

You say, "Alright, so... OA starts shortly, if anyone knows a bard that like the lore things, let me know, we will plan something."

Zehira laughs!

Kethrai jots down some notes.

Zehira says in a Velakan accent, "I guarantee she doesn't."

Imroth says, "Ok."

Gwenddolyn says, "Thanks for hosting Zynell."

Zfora smoothly says to Imroth, "Zehria likes to think she has a monopoly on demonic knowledge."

Lexxa says, "I wanted to have another beseech to ask Elanthia to reveal more to us."

Elurora says to you, "Thank you for sharing the results of your research."

You say to Gwenddolyn, "Bard and the obelisk at ker leor is next. not tomorrow, but soon as we find one."

Imroth nods at Zfora, obviously agreeing with her views.

Aerilia says to you, "Thanks for scouring the libraries for us."

You exclaim, "I hope it saves you all the travels!"

Lexxa exclaims, "However if we find out sooner that would be great too!"

Ectheleon smiles at Lexxa.

Lexxa smiles.

Crobin says, "I must be off."

You nod to Lexxa.

Tirost says to Gwenddolyn, "Exploring known artifacts probably wouldn't hurt. I'm inclined to think he is still our best lead to the artifacts, and I think being as prepared as possible for meeting with him again would also be worth exploring."

Imroth nods.

Crobin says, "Zynell call if you need me."

Zehira says in a Velakan accent, "Anyone can read a book."

Gwenddolyn says, "It is not the obelisk that we should check on there."

Zehira nods to Imroth.

Gwenddolyn nods to you.

Rienth nods to Tirost.

Keemar exclaims, "To zynell thank you for hosting!"

Elurora quietly says, "Not if they can't read..."

Imroth says to you, "Thanks for gatherng us."

Elurora shifts her weight.

Gridaksma chuckles at Elurora.

Zehira says in a Velakan accent, "Or comprehend."

Elurora flashes a quick grin at Gridaksma.

Zehira nods to Elurora.

Kethrai says, "Thank you for gathering all this information."

Kethrai nods to you.

You nod.

Zehira says in a Velakan accent, "My favorite."

Valynn gazes upward.

You nod to Lexxa.

Zfora smirks at Zehira.

Lexxa nods to you.

Imroth nods.

Eyst says to you, "An excellent gathering, thank you for sharing the fruits of your research with us."

Tirost quietly asks Valynn, "So you've got all those notes, right?"

Valynn says to you, "Thank you."

You nod.

Mazilyn beams!

Mazilyn bounces around happily.

Malorna says, "K bye."

You say, "Many thanks for coming."

Qetu nods to you.

Qetu lightly says in an Ilithian accent, "Thank you."

Darkewolff nods to you.

Just Say No to Demons

Qetu lightly says in an Ilithian accent, "I still feel like we are looking in the wrong hole."

Tirost says to you, "Thanks for sharing the research."

Qetu shrugs.

Darkewolff says, "Thank you for organizing this discussion."

Ectheleon says, "Thank you for all your hard work, Zynell."

You say, "Perhaps we are."

You shrug.

You say, "We will find out though."

You grin at Qetu.

Qetu lightly says in an Ilithian accent, "Oh I am sure of that."

Ectheleon chuckles.

Qetu grins at you.

Darkewolff says, "When you eliminate all wrong items, only the right one remains."

You say, "Unless there are only wrong answer."

You nod to Darkewolff.

Zfora says, "Those who occupy the spacesin-between."

You say, "No."

Zfora cackles!

Zfora says, "Unless... the answer is yes."

You say, "Even you do not say yes to them."

Darkewolff says to you, "I have faith that there is a right answer, and it will be found with the right amount of determination and courage."

Zfora nods to you.

Ectheleon says, "I'm off to OA."

You nod to Ectheleon.

Zfora says, "Doesn't mean they don't have their uses."

You nod to Darkewolff.

Darkewolff says to you, "Damaris knows what needs to be done."

You say, "Then go use them. i am certain they will express their appreciation to you."

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

Zfora grins.

Zfora says, "I do use them - every day."

You patter out.