Zynell/Logs/Stories Songs and Sorcery Party

Stories, Songs, and Sorcery Party: Kertigen

[Shrine of Kertigen]

The shrine here consists of a small rock garden with several stone benches placed at odd angles for meditation. It is a cool and quiet respite that so delights you that you do not at first notice something most remarkable. The miniature landscapes of tiny mountains and dwarf trees are not of stone and twig, but are actually fashioned out of precious metals and minerals. You also see a jade statue.

Also here: Dreambound Prophet Miskton, Vela'Tohr Caretaker Andervol, Bastion of Life Karthor, Faebound Leilanie, Valta Varna Mistanna, Rienth, Vythlak, Healer Aerilia, Lanahh Pejek'zhra Isaish, Shh'oiyvh-ur Ograth Elizzibiana who is shadowed by the spectral image of a grey-eyed viper formed of fire and smoke, Umptiskrunk, Ectheleon, Reverend Gragnel, Reverend Renni, Nicolet and Desert Blossom Zersha who is enveloped in a cloud of iridescent glitter.

Vythlak loudly exclaims, "Welcome friends, favored of the Immortals, and champions of Elanthia!"

Vythlak loudly exclaims, "Welcome to our second Holy Sorcery Party, this time in honor of Kertigen, whose shrine we grace this day!"

Gragnel nods.

Vythlak says, "We come to venerate and support the Gods, just as they have supported us since the beginning."

Vythlak says, "We will start with an opening prayer by Reverend Gragnel, I will share a story of the elder days, then Priestess Zynell will sing a song."

Vythlak says, "After that, Zynell will open the floor to others."

Vythlak says, "Once all who wish to speak have finished, I will give a final benediction for our cause."

(Vythlak pauses as a non-descript human in Trader's Guild livery comes into the shrine and whispers in his ear.)

(Vythlak frowns at the human then sighs.)

Vythlak loudly says, "Lastly, before I turn things over to the good Reverend, I have been informed that the Trader's Guild has hired several fledgling Warrior Mages eager to cast fire rain if we don't reconsecrate the shrine and then scram. Apparently they have their own offerings for prosperity to make in an anlas."

Vythlak says to Gragnel, "The floor is yours."

Klausette ponders.

Gragnel gives Vythlak a slight nod.

You giggle.

Nicolet chuckles.

Nicolet nods.

Gragnel

Gragnel gets a pitted iron comb from inside his leather longcoat.

Gragnel runs his iron comb through his hair.

Gragnel runs his iron comb through his hair.

Gragnel puts his comb in his leather longcoat.

Gragnel smiles broadly as he steps forward and takes a position facing the crowd.

Gragnel loudly says, "Greetings, one and all. My name is Gragnel Durbin and I am a Priest in the service of our mighty and noble, Lord Damaris of the Immortal Thirteen."

Gragnel lightly touches his panther pin as he says a quick prayer.

Gragnel nods.

* Defender of the Faith Unaka joins the adventure.

Gragnel matter-of-factly says, "Now, as any sane individual should, I carry great reverence for all of the Thirty-Nine of our faith. If you believe in one, I feel like ya kinda don't have a choice about believing in them all."

Umbraa kneels down and begins to pray.

Gragnel loudly says, "And, in keeping with the theme tonight, I have prepared something on Lord Kertigen for you."

Gragnel says, "I thank you in advance for your time."

Gragnel gets a ceremonial prayer tome embedded with a trio of night diamonds from inside his leather longcoat.

Gragnel opens his prayer tome.

You grin.

Gragnel adjusts his silver spectacles into place.

Gragnel clears his throat.

Gragnel recites:

"Lord Kertigen, ever have you been as a loving tutor unto we mortals.
Your divine inspiration alone is responsible for many amazing works.
From the craftsmen who revere your vast skills and commanding knowledge,
To the weary traveler in need of protection from pilfering hands.
All professions bow before you and your majesty."

Nicolet kneels down and touches her lips with the tips of her fingers.

Karthor makes a reverential grunting noise.

Gragnel recites:

"Lord Kertigen, you inspire our greatest mediators and are venerated by Traders far and wide.
Creator of the very moons which hang over our heads each day.
Wise and stalwart, you give us all a reason to exercise common sense and honest dealings.
We gather here today in your glorious name.
The name of Kertigen."

Vythlak places his hands together in silent prayer. A smile passes his lips and you can't help but notice how he begins to rub his hands together.

Gragnel recites:

"Lord Kertigen, we ask that you aid us in our fight against those who would steal from our number.
Vile thieves who block out the stars and loom menacingly over us.
Be ever like a father to us and help the children of you and your fellow Immortals.
Help us to create one of the best creations one could make..."

Gragnel loudly says, "Thank you all once again."

Gragnel closes his prayer tome.

Gragnel says, "Help us create a peace ful end."

Gragnel bows.

Nicolet praises Gragnel.

Blastera applauds.

Aerilia applauds.

Mistanna looks at Gragnel and applauds!

Vythlak looks at Gragnel and applauds!

You gaze into Gragnel's eyes and applaud him heartily.

Klausette looks at Gragnel and applauds!

Renni applauds.

Mazilyn beams at Gragnel!

Zersha looks at Gragnel and applauds!

Leilanie looks at Gragnel and applauds!

Miskton looks at Gragnel and applauds!

Renni smiles.

Vythlak coughs.

You grin at Vythlak.

Gragnel smiles.

Vythlak

(Vythlak steps forward.)

Vythlak confidently says, "Today is a good day, for all days are good when we are in the embrace of the Immortals."

Vythlak bows his head in acknowledgement.

Vythlak confidently says, "However, that is not to say that the day could not be better, or that we cannot do more to help the Immortals."

Nicolet nods at Vythlak, obviously agreeing with his views.

Leilanie smiles at Sothios.

Ectheleon nods.

Vythlak softly says, "Now I will turn to a tale of the older days, bridging the last gathering we held and the present."

Vythlak softly says, "Gather close and listen to the time when the moons were forged by Kertigen at Phelim's request, so they may hang in the skies and guide us."

Defender of the Faith Unaka just arrived.

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

Unaka waves.

Vythlak lightly touches his nightingale pin as he says a quick prayer.

Vythlak recites:

"The world was young in Phelim's day.
No moons yet upon the world were seen.
No stars cast down their silvery light.
The night was dark and long."

Vythlak recites:

"So he gathered gems and shells,
And imbued them with his holy light.
Then cast them into the black listless night."

Vythlak recites:

"Still the skies were too dark,
so peering around Phelim saw a light.
Coming closer he heard to his delight,
the thunder and clamor and forge-fires furious."

Vythlak recites:

"Phelim came within, then waited
At Kertigen's glance, Phelim revealed his plan.
With a grunt and a grin, so did Kertigen begin."

Vythlak recites:

"So did Kertigen begin."

Vythlak recites:

"First with granite
next with copper,
third with rubies,
and last with cinnabar."

Vythlak recites:

"His hands worked fast, the hammers rang their ruddy tune.
A sphere was formed with a grey hue.
The copper, rubies, and cinnabar were strung,
Filaments in the firmament,
Spinning quickly, twisting into celestial fire, like clouds it hung."

Vythlak recites:

"Phelim pointed and Kertigen threw,
Setting the red moon so deep."

Vythlak recites:

"Next did Kertigen reach into his forge,
Grabbing cobalt and sapphire,
He forged them hot -- then set them to cool,
Upon his sill so still."

Vythlak recites:

"Turning now to the hardest task,
Kertigen got tongs and chisel,
Hammer and anvil,
Shooed Phelim out,
And set to work."

Vythlak recites:

"In secret he forged,
Tongs taking - hammer hitting,
Chisel chipping - rasps... well..."

Ectheleon chuckles.

Vythlak recites:

"Rasping."

Vythlak recites:

"Colors flared out the forge's windows,
Greens and gold,
Blues and silvers."

Vythlak recites:

"Sounds were heard, the songs of birds,
Scents of grasses and trees."

Vythlak recites:

"For days the clamor was heard,
All while Xibar cooled,
And Yavash looked down with crimson hue."

Vythlak recites:

"Then with a shout - 'Phelim come in! - did Kertigen begin.
Door thrown wide all could see -
Inside, the marvelous Katamba gloaming so green."

Vythlak softly says, "And that is where this story will end, with Yavash above, Xibar cooled, and Katamba most green and fair."

Vythlak softly says, "In the time before the moons were hung, when their maker's prints were still cooling."

Vythlak softly says, "Before the dragon fire twisted the wire, and verdant green became a dirge of black."

Zersha furrows her brow.

Vythlak begins to weep softly.

Vythlak inhales a great swallow of air.

Nicolet frowns.

Vythlak slowly empties his lungs.

Vythlak recites:

"Blessings upon Kertigen and his forge.
Blessings of Kertigen upon our tools.
May we be blessed by Kertigen in our endeavors."

Gragnel nods.

Vythlak softly says, "And now Priestess Zynell will share a song regarding Damaris and Kertigen."

Nicolet looks at Vythlak and applauds!

Vythlak sighs.

Vythlak smiles at you.

Klausette smiles at you.

Mistanna looks at Vythlak and applauds!

(Vythlak steps back next to Gragnel.)

Gragnel pats Vythlak on the back.

Zynell

You say, "Aye, this is my second favorite song, and one that shows many interactions of the immortals."

Unaka nods to Vythlak.

You grin mischievously.

Vythlak nods to Unaka.

Nicolet smiles at you.

Unaka says to Vythlak, "Good story."

You get a sleek fey-bone fiddle set with a lounging damaryn pearl panther from inside an e'erdream musician's case which is in your encompassing shadows.

You get a fey-bone instrument bow inlaid with tiny night diamond stars from inside an e'erdream musician's case which is in your encompassing shadows.

You effortlessly begin a wistful lullaby on your fey-bone fiddle, your heart swelling in pride at your hard-earned skill.

You recite:

"To Catch A Thief - By Shavay"

Vythlak softly says to Unaka, "Than kyou."

You recite:

"As Kertigen was crafting, preparing for a faire,
Damaris from the shadows watched, upon the gold he'd stare.
Then the caravan embarked upon the fest'val road.
From the shadows a Panther struck and seized the Raven's gold."

You recite:

"To the Lion did Kertigen appeal, 'Stop this thief, I pray!
He steals gold, he steals goods, where will his hand not stray?'
Chadatru promises justice swift and stalks off into the night,
While star-strewn hair chuckles in the shadows out of sight."

You recite:

"To Hodierna did Kertigen rant, complaining of his loss.
'Just make more, my Raven dear. What was taken is but dross.'
'The Panther is a menace, he e'en robs some of their life.
He will be stopped, I swear it,' said the Raven to his wife."

You recite:

"It takes money to make money,
It takes love to foster love.
It takes a thief to catch a thief,
E'en from the stars above."

You recite:

"To the Heron and the Goshawk, Kertigen pled his case.
'What's in it for us?' they asked him, greed written upon each face.
'Justice,' replied Kertigen, hope built within his voice.
And it crashed down about his ears as away walked his last choice."

You recite:

"Returning to his workshop then, he created yet again.
Making toys of beauty great, and an instrument for the Wren.
And as nighttime drew its cloak, and the dark'ning shadows laughed,
Damaris hummed to himself, planning on how to work his craft."

You recite:

"It takes money to make money,
It takes love to foster love.
It takes a trap to catch a thief,
E'en from the stars above."

You recite:

"Midnight approached, Midwinter's Eve, and the Raven took his wares
Traveling swiftly house to house, instead of selling at faires.
'Curious,' the Panther thought, 'But more practice for my skills.
As cat-burglar instead of highwayman, I'll avoid more of Winter's chills."

You recite:

"After Kertigen would leave each home and hurry on to the next,
Shadows would drift quietly inside, disturbing not a single rest.
The toys that had been crafted, so beautiful to behold,
Were collected by the Panther then, to add to his piles of gold."

You recite:

"It takes money to make money,
It takes love to foster love.
It takes all night to catch a thief
Come from the stars above."

You recite:

"The night grew old, daylight approached. The Raven had returned home.
Damaris was stealing a carved raccoon from a tiny little Gnome.
Then the Gnome-child did awake, and saw before her eyes
A big black cat with a wooden toy - what a beautiful surprise!"

You recite:

"The Panther snarls, prepared to kill, or at least severely maul...
When, unafraid the Gnome hugs him, and thanks him for the doll.
She kisses him on the nose, startling him the more.
At a loss for what else to do, he walks right out the door."

You glance at Klausette, a female Gnome.

You recite:

"It takes money to make money,
It takes love to foster love.
It takes a child to catch the Thief
Come from the stars above."

Nicolet chuckles.

Vythlak chuckles.

You recite:

"Damaris returned to each house, with all the stolen toys,
And looked again at the children, the sleeping girls and boys.
Thinking of the little Gnome, he replaces all he stole,
Kissing each child on the cheek, whispering, 'Be safe, I'll keep ye whole."

You recite:

"The Raven, Lion, and Unicorn watch the Panther from afar,
And witness these acts of redemption under the light of fading stars.
'Justice,' quoth Chadatru. Kertigen argues, 'But my costs were well above--'
'Hush,' says Hodierna. 'He has proven himself with Love."

Nicolet smiles.

You recite:

"Damaris shall guard the children, and keep them safe and dear.
His hand shall not be raised to them - of the Panther they will not fear.
But guard ye your pockets well, for your gold is still his to share.
You're just holding it for the Shadow with the star-strewn night-black hair."

Ectheleon smiles.

You smile.

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

Gragnel looks at you and applauds!

Karthor applauds.

Nicolet looks at you and applauds!

Vythlak says to you, "Thank you."

Nicolet says, "Beautiful."

Renni looks at you and applauds!

Unaka nods to you.

Ectheleon exclaims, "Wonderful tale!"

Unaka says, "Really good."

Mistanna looks at you and applauds!

Aerilia smiles.

Umptiskrunk applauds.

Aerilia looks at you and applauds!

Vythlak says, "Next up is Ectheleon! As a reminder if you'd like to speak or share a story or a prayer, please whisper to me."

Ectheleon

Ectheleon nods to Vythlak.

Blastera applauds.

Vythlak smiles at Ectheleon.

Ectheleon takes a deep breath.

Ectheleon bows.

Ectheleon says, "Welcome everyone, thank you for being here and I hope you are enjoying the party. As we discuss Kertigen today I wanted to share a story of another aspect of the Thirteen."

Ectheleon reaches up to tap the surface of a luminous orb of coruscating rainbowed light floating near him, setting off a dazzling reaction as the colors within it shift through the full spectrum rapidly.

Nicolet smiles at Ectheleon.

Ectheleon says, "Kertigen, being a loving father, keeps watch over his children but allows them to make their own mistakes. The story I am going to tell is about mistakes made."

Ectheleon smiles.

Ectheleon says, "Many years ago Kertigen was approached by Hodierna with a crafting request; she wanted a skirt made to entertain the Dwarves who followed him."

Ectheleon says, "Kertigen agreed to the request, a skirt of fabulous colors would be crafted with the utmost care. The colors would be entertainment while the craftsmanship would be a motivator for his children."

Ectheleon says, "As Kertigen worked on the skirt he faceted many jewels of every color, pouring his love into the care and quality of the skirt."

Ectheleon says, "As the skirt came to completion, he found himself thinking on the skirt, the shining colors reminding him of an aspect of one of the other gods."

Ectheleon slowly empties his lungs.

Nicolet beams at Ectheleon!

Ectheleon says, "Kertigen discovered that it was not Hodierna looking for a skirt but Kerenhappuch, the dark aspect of Meraud."

Ectheleon gasps!

Ectheleon smiles at Nicolet.

Vythlak shudders.

Ectheleon says, "The skirt was to fulfill Kerenhappuchs desire to be adored. She sought to accentuate her wiles and control those around her."

Nicolet exclaims, "Praise Kerenhappuch!"

Ectheleon says, "Kerenhappuch wanted the skirt not to entertain the Dwarves, but to have any man fall in love, or any Dwarf to swear fealty to her."

Ectheleon shakes his head.

Mazilyn beams at Nicolet!

Ectheleon says, "The skirt was indeed fabulous, covered in gems and jewels and shining with every color of the rainbow. Unfortunately, for Kerenhappuch it was cursed."

Nicolet smiles at Mazilyn.

Ectheleon says, "Kertigen placed a curse on the skirt that would cause any woman that gazes upon it to become extremely jealous. Kerenhappuch would live her days with the skirt only gaining the adoration from men and inciting jealousy in every woman."

Ectheleon grins.

Nicolet nods at Ectheleon, obviously agreeing with his views.

Ectheleon says, "While there are lessons to be learned from the story I do not attempt to push my own upon you. I only ask that you consider the story for yourself and what you may choose to take from it."

Nicolet sighs.

Ectheleon says, "The aspects of the Thirteen allow us the chance to learn from them. The freedom to learn, feel, and live our lives is something to be appreciated."

Gragnel nods.

Ectheleon says, "Thank you for listening and for allowing this story to take your time. May each day continue to be a blessing for you and those around you."

Ectheleon bows his head in acknowledgement.

Gragnel pats Ectheleon on the back.

Nicolet lets out a hearty cheer for Ectheleon!

Vythlak says to Ectheleon, "That I am only a longer beard and a stouter waistline away from falling for a fancy skirt."

Nicolet lets out a hearty cheer for Ectheleon!

Zersha applauds.

Aerilia looks at Ectheleon and applauds!

Vythlak looks at Ectheleon and applauds!

Ectheleon snorts at Vythlak.

Vythlak grins.

Unaka looks at Ectheleon and applauds!

Umptiskrunk looks at Ectheleon and applauds!

Umbraa applauds.

Mistanna looks at Ectheleon and applauds!

You gaze into Ectheleon's eyes and applaud him heartily.

Miskton looks at Ectheleon and applauds!

(Vythlak steps forward again and surveys the gathered folks.)

Vythlak points at Umptiskrunk.

Umptiskrunk

Umptiskrunk just traced a circle around his face.

Zersha grins at Umptiskrunk, her dimples flashing into view.

Vythlak exclaims, "My friend, and toggish weather reporter!"

Umptiskrunk strikes a heroic pose.

Unaka glances up at the sky.

Mazilyn places her hands together in silent prayer. A smile passes her lips and you can't help but notice how she begins to rub her hands together.

Zersha glances up at the sky.

Vythlak says, "Please, everyone give a round of appluase to Ump, who has also asked to speak today."

Nicolet winks at Ectheleon.

Umptiskrunk says to Unaka, "Is okay. Just clouds. No rain."

Vythlak beams at Umptiskrunk!

Ectheleon looks at Umptiskrunk and applauds!

Umbraa looks at Umptiskrunk and applauds!

Unaka nods to Umptiskrunk.

Umptiskrunk waves.

Mistanna looks at Umptiskrunk and applauds!

You grin at Umptiskrunk.

Renni looks at Umptiskrunk and applauds!

Unaka applauds.

Zersha looks at Umptiskrunk and applauds!

Nicolet applauds.

Umptiskrunk inhales a great swallow of air.

Umptiskrunk slowly empties his lungs.

Aerilia looks at Umptiskrunk and applauds!

Umptiskrunk smiles.

Umptiskrunk says, "Ump not best with common, but Ump do best Ump can."

Umptiskrunk smiles.

Umptiskrunk slowly says, "Kertigen is raven. Like raven, Ketigen like shiny. Kertigen help us make shiny."

You grin.

You nod to Umptiskrunk.

Umptiskrunk slowly says, "Long long ago, Kertigen do favor. Phelim, who Ump loves, ask: "Hey, pal, you make moon?" in sweet Phelim voice."

Zersha gazes thoughtfully at Umptiskrunk.

Umptiskrunk slowly says, "Kertigen say: "Yeah, guy, Kertigen do you a solid." And then we get the big, round, sky rocks."

Vythlak grins at Umptiskrunk.

Nicolet grins at Umptiskrunk.

Umptiskrunk excitedly says, "Ump loves sky rocks, big and small, and far lights, and bright shapes, and all those things. Ump is Moon Mage. Duh, guys."

Zersha chortles softly at some secret joke.

Karthor grins.

Mistanna chuckles.

Ectheleon chuckles.

Aerilia grins.

Mazilyn giggles.

Umptiskrunk slowly says, "And Ump love Phelim like Ump love Ump's Dad. So, if Kertigen is pal, then He gonna be Ump's pal, too."

Umptiskrunk confidentially says, "Holy people say Phelim want Sorcery. Holy people say all Immortals want Sorcery."

Zersha gazes off into the distance.

Umptiskrunk confidentially asks, "Ump can do this. You do, too. Okay?"

Aerilia nods in agreement.

You give Umptiskrunk an emphatic nod.

Umptiskrunk nods emphatically.

Karthor frowns.

Zersha shakes her head.

Umptiskrunk appreciatively says, "Ump gives thanks for hearing."

Umptiskrunk bows.

You gaze into Umptiskrunk's eyes and applaud him heartily.

Miskton smiles at Umptiskrunk.

Miskton looks at Umptiskrunk and applauds!

Vythlak looks at Umptiskrunk and applauds!

Mazilyn lets out a loud "Huzzah!" for Umptiskrunk!

Unaka looks at Umptiskrunk and applauds!

Nicolet looks at Umptiskrunk and applauds!

Aerilia looks at Umptiskrunk and applauds!

Umbraa looks at Umptiskrunk and applauds!

Gragnel pats Umptiskrunk on the back.

Mistanna looks at Umptiskrunk and applauds!

Renni applauds.

Ectheleon lets out a hearty cheer for Umptiskrunk!

Blastera applauds.

Gragnel says to Umptiskrunk, "Loved it."

Gragnel grins at Umptiskrunk.

Unaka says something in Toggish.

Unaka pats Umptiskrunk on the back.

Nicolet says to Umptiskrunk, "Very nice."

Nicolet nods.

(Vythlak gazes around the room.)

Umptiskrunk says something in Toggish.

Umptiskrunk looks at Unaka and blushes.

Ectheleon exclaims, "Ump story was great!"

Vythlak asks, "Is there anyone else who would like to speak?"

Gragnel glances at Mazilyn.

Umptiskrunk says, "Ump knows. Ump give stunning message."

Vythlak says, "Folks got quiet all of a sudden."

Vythlak grins.

Ectheleon nods at Umptiskrunk, obviously agreeing with his views.

Ectheleon nods.

Nicolet giggles at Umptiskrunk.

Vythlak nods at Umptiskrunk, obviously agreeing with his views.

Nicolet grins at Vythlak.

Mazilyn giggles.

Mazilyn raises her hand.

Vythlak says, "Everyone must be thinking of the Trader's Guild and their vague discussion of letting loose a bunch of fire rain or the like...."

Mazilyn

Gragnel beams at Mazilyn!

Vythlak gazes at Mazilyn.

Ectheleon beams at Mazilyn!

Vythlak points at Mazilyn.

Nicolet grins.

Zersha grins at Mazilyn, her dimples flashing into view.

Vythlak exclaims to Mazilyn, "Yes, go ahead!"

Mazilyn says, "Someone mentioned that if they were a cleric maybe they would get answers to their questions."

Mazilyn says, "So i said hey. im a cleric. i can try and ask."

Gragnel grins.

Unaka chuckles.

Nicolet grins at Mazilyn.

Mazilyn says, "So. here goes."

Vythlak nods to Mazilyn.

Aerilia tilts her head to one side.

Mazilyn recites:

"Ketigen, crafter of moons on high
Master of gems and metal
We beseech you now to bless us with clarity"

Mazilyn recites:

"We seek your guidence,
We seek your knowledge,
We seek your prospective,
We seek your craft"

Gragnel leans forward on his walking cane, listening intently.

Nicolet kneels down and touches her lips with the tips of her fingers.

Unaka softly says, "Or sometimes what you get is just a whole mess of visions that give you more questions."

Mazilyn recites:

"We know not what happened in full
We know not the mistakes that were made
Enlighten us so we can help fix it
Bless us with the common sense to understand the visions."

Gragnel chuckles at Unaka.

Mazilyn recites:

"Father of the forge
Etch us a tale
Craft us a sculpture
Engrave us a story"

Nicolet nods at Mazilyn, obviously agreeing with her views.

Sothios beams at Mazilyn!

Mazilyn recites:

"Show us what happened when when you first arrived
What put you at odds with the Heralds?
Why is NOW so different than before?
Send us guidance, show us what changed"

Mazilyn places her hands together in silent prayer. A smile passes her lips and you can't help but notice how she begins to rub her hands together.

Gragnel just touched a jade statue.

Gragnel gazes up at the sky.

Aerilia smiles.

Unaka gazes at Mazilyn.

Klausette gazes down at the ground.

Ectheleon kneels down and touches his lips with the tips of his fingers.

Mazilyn fidgets nervously.

Vythlak smiles at Mazilyn.

Ectheleon stands up.

Nicolet continues to praise Mazilyn.

You grin at Mazilyn.

Ectheleon smiles at Mazilyn.

Sothios wraps his arms lovingly around Mazilyn, snuggling close.

Aerilia glances up at the sky.

Raven Sighting 1

An enormous, coal-black raven suddenly descends from the sky, settling upon the shoulder of the jade statue, its heavy black beard feathers puffed pridefully. It lets out several soft croaks, turning its head to regard you with one intelligent black eye, and an iridescent sheen of gold flashes across its feathers. You briefly hear the ringing sound of a hammer on metal and smell smoke and ash. The raven flaps its wings and twists its head in something like a nod, then leaps up and flies away.

Aerilia blinks.

Klausette casually observes the area.

Vythlak says to Mazilyn, "Excellent questions and mayhaps soon with enough efforts and prayer we will have answers."

Mazilyn gasps!

Nicolet's jaw drops.

Vythlak blinks.

Karthor smiles.

Zersha gazes up at the sky.

Miskton strokes his beard in thoughtful contemplation.

Gragnel gasps!

Renni studies the ground for a moment.

Renni nods.

Nicolet glances up at the sky.

Aerilia drops to one knee, bowing her head in deference.

Vythlak says to you, "We certainly are getting signs."

Vythlak kneels down.

Umptiskrunk says, "Kertigen is raven."

Vythlak dreamily murmurs a brief prayer to himself.

Umptiskrunk nods.

Ectheleon nods to Umptiskrunk.

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

Nicolet casually observes the area.

Vythlak stands up.

Unaka says to Mazilyn, "Good questions. I've been thinking a lot on these questions you all keep asking."

Mazilyn places her hands together in silent prayer. A smile passes her lips and you can't help but notice how she begins to rub her hands together.

Klausette comes and stands near you.

Vythlak gazes at Unaka.

Mazilyn nods to Unaka.

Vythlak asks Unaka, "Any thoughts you would care to share?"

You snuggle up to Klausette.

Unaka says, "The more I've been thinking and praying to Truffenyi, the more I've practiced, the better I got at being able to share my visions."

Nicolet places her hands together in silent prayer. A smile passes her lips and you can't help but notice how she begins to rub her hands together.

Gragnel smiles.

Unaka slowly says, "I think... a lot of time it takes time, and a lot of prayer. Maybe I'm wrong, but that's what I think."

Unaka says, "So if you have questions for Kertigen, or for Truffenyi especially, maybe I can try to help. I dunno. But I think it'll take time."

Aerilia nods to Unaka.

Vythlak nods to Unaka.

Ectheleon says, "Time is always a good thing to take."

Ectheleon smiles at Unaka.

Unaka says, "And it'll take a lot of you together too."

Nicolet smiles at Unaka.

Unaka says, "Feels more powerful to me that way, anyway."

Vythlak says to Ectheleon, "As long as time is a currency we have to still spend in this matter."

You say, "We do intend to hold more of these with sharing, sorcery, and prayer."

You bow to Unaka.

Unaka says, "I'm still recovering from last time, but in a couple andu I'm gonna try again with Truffenyi."

Gragnel nods.

You nod to Unaka.

Aerilia nods.

Vythlak nods to Unaka.

Renni nods to Nicolet.

Mazilyn beams at Unaka!

Renni nods to Nicolet.

Karthor says, "Ya certainly look to be recoverin', at any rate."

Vythlak asks, "Do we have any others who would like to speak today?"

Unaka asks, "So, I dunno. Get together your biggest question for me now? What do you think it is?"

Nicolet shakes your hand.

Vythlak coughs.

Unaka says to Karthor, "Thanks."

Vythlak nods to Unaka.

Nicolet shakes Vythlak's hand.

Aerilia ponders.

You grin at Nicolet.

Nicolet winks at you.

Karthor strokes his beard in thoughtful contemplation.

Nicolet says, "Thank you."

Gragnel says, "Awww, jeez. I'm not too good at questions. I stick to sermons."

Gragnel chuckles.

Unaka says, "And also, no promises. I'm new at all this and just doing my best."

Renni leans on Nicolet.

You say, "That is all any of us can do."

You nod to Unaka.

Renni smiles at Nicolet.

Vythlak says to Unaka, "As are many of us here today. Trying to do our part here."

Aerilia says to Unaka, "I'm as curious about the whys of it all as anyone, but I care more about how we can best help them achieve victory."

Klausette nods in agreement.

Unaka nods to Aerilia.

Unaka asks Mazilyn, "What about you, you had some questions?"

Vythlak glances up at the sky.

Mazilyn says, "The jist seemed to be the "why specifically now or what changed" questions."

Umptiskrunk says, "Good questions."

Umptiskrunk nods.

Mazilyn says, "And more about What happened with the Heralds when they first got here? i heard there was a drinking vision, but that cant be all of it."

Unaka asks, "Sorry, maybe I don't understand. Why now meaning what? Why do sorcery now?"

Mazilyn says, "Why are they fighting now and not hundreds of years ago."

Zersha nods at Mazilyn, obviously agreeing with her views.

Unaka nods to Mazilyn.

Klausette says, "It's hard just not to feel like a pawn in something that we don't, or I don't, quite understand."

Ectheleon ponders.

Unaka asks, "Okay, what's everybody think? Those are the two questions to focus on?"

Unaka nods to Klausette.

Vythlak ponders.

Umptiskrunk says, "Ump would like to know."

Karthor says, "Seems reasonable to me. Leastwise nothin' better springs to mind."

Umptiskrunk shrugs.

Karthor grins.

Unaka nods to Karthor.

You nod in agreement.

Aerilia nods.

Zersha nods to Karthor.

Umptiskrunk idly picks at some deep blue suede shoes.

You smile at Mazilyn.

Vythlak mutters something into the air about wiser minds than mine.

Unaka says, "Think it might take a lot of faith too. Lots of prayer and offerings. I was gonna ask people to be really prepared to open up to Truffenyi."

Aerilia nibbles her lip thoughtfully.

Unaka says, "So if you all have any ideas of how to do that best, something to think on."

Klausette asks Unaka, "Before Truffenyi came to you, were you devoted or did it come after?"

Unaka says, "I was devoted to him first, yeah. He's always been the one for me."

Klausette gives Unaka a slight nod.

Klausette smiles.

Umptiskrunk says, "Ump knows this feeling. Phelim always been with Ump."

Umptiskrunk nods.

Mazilyn asks, "Question about Truffenyi.... the prayer they taught us is asking for forgiveness on our failings. Is that a key feature?"

Vythlak nods at Umptiskrunk, obviously agreeing with his views.

Unaka says, "I spent a lot of time in the wilds near the Clan. Protecting people who were scouting or hunting, or building. Building was always my favorite. I liked to watch the wilds change, to adapt and turn into something that we Togs made."

Umptiskrunk nods at Unaka, obviously agreeing with her views.

Umptiskrunk makes a grunting noise.

Unaka says to Mazilyn, "Truffenyi is the Father. I think we always think about the mistakes we make when talking to a father, right? But it's not everything, and he doesn't always need to hear that, I think."

Zersha furrows her brow.

Mazilyn asks Unaka, "But you have to have failings to be sorry for?"

Unaka says, "More than anyone, I believe Truffenyi is our Father and our guide. He looks after us, loves us. And he has helped us learn the tools we need to build a civilization."

Unaka absently traces her fingers across the pictograms on her cheek.

Vythlak ponders.

Umptiskrunk nods to Unaka.

Vythlak asks, "But what is civilization?"

Unaka says, "Not necessarily. Think about how you would feel with your father. If you had failings, you might tell him and try to learn and grow. But that's not all you would tell him."

Vythlak asks, "The places? The people? The deeds?"

Unaka fixes Vythlak with a heavy, ponderous stare.

Mazilyn nods to Unaka.

Vythlak says to Unaka, "Hopefully, that you love him."

Unaka thoughtfully says, "Civilization... I showed a few of you. But to put into words, I'd say it is the transformation of a people from many individuals into one great system, working together. Using tools to elevate themselves into something more." Most of the clouds drift away to reveal starry skies.

Unaka nods to Vythlak.

Aerilia nods to Unaka.

Vythlak nods to Unaka.

Gragnel nods at Unaka, obviously agreeing with her views.

Unaka says, "That is one thing that is really special about us mortals. It's something nothing else does, not rocks or elements, not plants or other animals."

Klausette asks Unaka, "The visions you showed us the other day, you had seen them all before?"

Unaka nods to Klausette.

Unaka says, "And many, many more."

Unaka says, "But kinda all at once. Makes my head hurt."

Gragnel lays his hand on Unaka's arm.

Klausette says, "May I ask when you took from the vision of the Gorbesh? I am still not sure what I was supposed to take from that."

Unaka says, "And it took me a long time to really... think through them all, if that makes sense."

Klausette nods to Unaka.

Klausette says, "It does. I am struggling with just the one."

Klausette smiles at Unaka.

You grin at Klausette.

Klausette says, "I can only imagine being flooded with them."

Vythlak ponders.

You hug Klausette who wraps her arms around you with a warm smile. A faint scent of lavender clings to her skin.

Unaka says, "I dunno much about the Gorbesh myself. But it looked like a couple of different groups were disagreeing. Guessing Truffenyi was giving some guidance there."

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

You say, "Guiding civilization in the improvement direction and not destruction."

Vythlak asks, "I'm getting way over my toe-hairs here, but wasn't it Truffenyi who led the... split?... that in no part resulted in the Kaldar movement?"

Unaka says to you, "Could be."

Aerilia ponders.

Vythlak mutters something into the air about perhaps the Kaldar formed seeing that.

You say, "I did not enjoy the gorbesh their second go here."

You shudder.

Unaka says to Vythlak, "I don't know, haven't studied the Gorbesh and Kaldar myself."

Vythlak nods to Unaka.

Aerilia says, "The division between the Gorbesh and the Kaldar had to do with their faith in the Immortals, right? Maybe it was something to do with that."

Umptiskrunk says to Unaka, "They tall. Not big like us. But tall."

Klausette smiles at you.

Unaka says, "But I have gotten the sense of his hand acting as a guide in lots of ways, in lots of places."

Unaka nods to Umptiskrunk.

Karthor says, "Hm, I s'pose the Gorbesh were the ones what destroyed the old temple, eh? Without that we may never've gotten the big, labyrinthine one."

Karthor scratches his head.

Klausette shifts her weight.

You say, "They nearly destroyed this one too."

You giggle.

Ectheleon chuckles.

Unaka says, "Anyway, of all the gods, I feel like Truffenyi is the one who is really, uh. On our side. Protecting, guiding. He doesn't want us, or our civilizations, to fall to the Heralds."

Gragnel nods in agreement.

You ponder.

Vythlak nods.

Aerilia nods.

Karthor says, "The lot of 'em seem pretty well united on that particular point."

Vythlak says to you, "Might be time to dig deeper into the underlying reasons of the first time why they showed up."

Klausette twiddles her thumbs.

You say to Vythlak, "Not my historical interest."

Unaka says, "I can't really speak for the others of course. But through a connection to him, I hope I can give more guidance. Try to ask those questions, at least, or just share more of what I've seen."

Vythlak nods at Unaka, obviously agreeing with her views.

Mazilyn beams at Unaka!

Unaka says, "So yeah. I'm asking you to come up with some good ways to honor Truffenyi, when I come again."

Gragnel gives a slight nod.

Aerilia nods to Unaka.

You say, "I will bring the tobacco."

You shrug.

Vythlak says to Unaka, "I will certainly ask Phelim to help guide the torrent of dreams, if that is acceptable to you."

Unaka nods to you.

Vythlak says to you, "Just bring Necho."

You pat a shadowleaf tobacco connoisseur's pouch.

Saragos nods to Unaka.

Gragnel says, "I can definately prpare a sermon in His name."

Unaka nods to Vythlak.

Unaka says to Vythlak, "I'd like that."

Vythlak bows to Unaka.

You say to Vythlak, "Aye, i just make some special blends."

Vythlak says to Umptiskrunk, "Maybe we can join prayers together on that front."

Umbraa continues praying.

Saragos says, "Might be we could honor Him by making a better civiilization. Find something we can improve here."

Unaka nods to Saragos.

Zersha nibbles her lip thoughtfully.

Unaka says, "Interesting idea."

You say to Saragos, "I think the defense group is doing a great job at organizing and bringing folk together... civily."

Saragos nods to you.

You say, "Though i always vote to do better by the middens. bring snacks and blankets and such."

You shrug.

You say, "Ophanage always needs helpers."

Vythlak says, "All of these focused activities are, I believe, part of the whole of civilization. We have folks who worship all gods. Some who worship primally one god. But all working together to aid in the signular affair."

Unaka says, "I think he likes the use of tools, a lot like Kertigen. Inventions, coming up with new and better and different ideas."

Saragos says, "I've always been the doing type, rather than the praying type. So I look for ways I can honor Them by doing what They would want."

Unaka nods to Saragos.

Vythlak smiles at Saragos.

Mazilyn slowly says, "New invention..."

Mazilyn says, "I am so bad at tinkering."

Mazilyn giggles.

Gragnel says to Mazilyn, "You and me both."

Gragnel chuckles.

Unaka says, "Or just really appreciating those kinds of things. All the amazing things we've made."

Mazilyn holds her hand out towards Gragnel for a highfive.

Gragnel drops his hand down low and Mazilyn responds by bringing her own hand down onto Gragnel's hand in a gesture of camaraderie.

Unaka says, "Like a really good pie."

Unaka flashes a wide grin.

Karthor chuckles.

Umptiskrunk drools.

Klausette smiles at Unaka.

Aerilia grins.

Umptiskrunk blinks.

Umptiskrunk licks his lips.

Vythlak grins.

You ask Klausette, "You bring the pies?"

Unaka says, "Anyway, sorry if I stopped all the stories. Didn't mean to interrupt."

Vythlak grins at Unaka.

Vythlak says to Unaka, "It was getting quiet."

Ectheleon says, "The discussion was wonderful."

Klausette says, "I think I can find pie."

Klausette nods.

You nod.

Klausette nods at Ectheleon, obviously agreeing with his views.

Mazilyn says, "And we got questions to make sense of."

Vythlak says, "Is there anything else anyone else would like to bring up, otherwise I will offer a closing benediction and ask for offerings to be left to Kertigen."

Mazilyn giggles.

Gragnel casually observes the area.

Unaka says, "Or maybe just find the thing that really makes you get filled with wonder and appreciation."

Unaka shrugs.

Gragnel gives Unaka a slight nod.

Vythlak says to Mazilyn, "Who makes the best pie is a good start."

Mazilyn points at Klausette.

Mazilyn says to Vythlak, "She's gonna find out."

Mazilyn nods.

Klausette nods emphatically.

Klausette says, "They will not be homemade, but hopefully they will be tasty."

Vythlak loudly says, "Thank you all for coming, and doubly so to Gragnel, Zynell, Echeleon, Umptiskrunk, Mazilyn, and Unara for sharing things today."

Vythlak loudly says, "Please leave offerings of gems, tools, and crafted items to Kertigen on your way out."

Gragnel bows.

Mazilyn beams at Klausette!

Mazilyn beams at Vythlak!

You gaze into Vythlak's eyes and applaud him heartily.

Aerilia says, "Thank you for hosting us."

Vythlak recites:

"Kertigen bless the work this day
We offer our blessings to Kertigen the Maker
Thank you for setting the big rocks in the sky."

Vythlak kneels down.

Vythlak places his hands together in silent prayer. A smile passes his lips and you can't help but notice how he begins to rub his hands together.

Vythlak gets a large clear crystal from inside his midnight-blue cloak.

Mazilyn glances at Unaka.

Mazilyn sighs and says a soft prayer to herself.

Blastera asks, "Where should i leave my gem?"

Vythlak puts his crystal in a jade statue.

Blastera says, "Ah."

Vythlak says, "PUT your offering IN THE STATUE."

Vythlak points at a jade statue.

Mistanna puts her ruby in a jade statue.

Vythlak exclaims, "Thank you all for coming today!"

Gragnel bows to Vythlak.

You say, "Well hosted."

Vythlak bows.

You nod to Vythlak.

Vythlak adjusts his lambswool stole into place.

Blastera puts her hematite in a jade statue.

Raven Sighting 2

Far above, a raven swoops into view, cawing loudly and flapping in three circles overhead, before flying off again.

Mazilyn beams!

Unaka gazes up at the sky.

Klausette puts her sapphire in a jade statue.

Aerilia smiles.

Miskton gazes up at the sky.

Umptiskrunk softly says to Unaka, "Ump was hoping to see Unaka. Ump got thing."

Vythlak says, "Kertigen does indeed bless us."

Unaka chuckles.

Unaka accepts Umptiskrunk's white heather bouquet.

Vythlak beams at Umptiskrunk!

Karthor says, "Thanks fer hostin'. There've been a great many Raven sightings since this all started. More'n the several decades prior methinks."

Unaka says, "Uh, thanks! People usually give snacks."

Unaka sniffs at an aromatic bouquet of wild roses and white heather.

Umptiskrunk says to himself, "Want Unaka to know, Ump thinking about."

Unaka says, "Smells nice though."

Unaka nods to Umptiskrunk.

Umptiskrunk gazes off into the distance.

Umptiskrunk fidgets nervously.

Umptiskrunk goes out.

Vythlak hugs you, and you give him a smile in return.

Vythlak softly asks you, "Did I do okay?"

You grin at Karthor.

Vythlak yells, "Tarts Ump, tarts!"

You say to Vythlak, "You did well enough that you get to do another one if you want."

You giggle.

Gragnel says to Vythlak, "You did fantastic, don't doubt yourself one bit."

Vythlak laughs at you!

Vythlak smiles at Gragnel.

Mazilyn exclaims, "I think ya did great!"

Mazilyn beams at Vythlak!

Vythlak shakes Mazilyn's hand.

Mistanna nods to Mazilyn.

Unaka says, "You all did great."

Mistanna nods at Mazilyn, obviously agreeing with her views.

Unaka says, "Warms my heart to see more Clerics around speaking about the Immortals."

Vythlak says to Mazilyn, "Thank you for speaking. By the way, I am Vythlak, cleric of Phelim."

Unaka says, "I think that's just what we need right now."

Mazilyn says to Vythlak, "I'm Mazilyn. cleric of... still figuring it out."

Vythlak says, "My heart even moreso that its not just Clerics doing it, even if we're leading the gatherings."

Gragnel says, "There are so many great things to talk about with our mighty Immortals."

Vythlak says to Mazilyn, "Cleric of questions."

Unaka conspiratorially says to Mazilyn, "Truffenyi."

Gragnel says, "They've done some really amazing stuff."

Unaka winks at Mazilyn.

Mazilyn giggles.

Mazilyn exclaims, "Today maybe!"

Mazilyn bounces around happily.

Unaka nods to Mazilyn.

Vythlak says to you, "If I have time with wanting to research the older archives."

Unaka nods to Vythlak.

You nod to Vythlak.

Unaka says, "Well I'd better get going. Need to rest more."

Vythlak mutters something into the air about has to be some parallel to the old wars at play.

Vythlak says to Unaka, "I will offer prayers nightly."

Mistanna waves to Unaka.

Mazilyn exclaims, "Nice ta see you again!"

Unaka nods.

Karthor says, "Right then, well ya folks take care."

Mazilyn beams at Unaka!

Gragnel nods.

Unaka waves.

Mistanna waves.

Vythlak waves.

You wave.

Aerilia waves to Unaka.

Defender of the Faith Unaka strides out.

* Unaka returns home from a hard day of adventuring.