View source for The Pilgrimage of the Snakes Part 1

==<span style="color: #b1871b;">Welcome</span>==

 Cherisse recites:

 "Welcome Everyone to our Vigil for Peri'el. We will be traveling by gate to the shrine here shortly, and then be lead through a series of prayers and offerings by some wonderful people. Please make sure you are in Ect's group"

Siendra says, "I hope it is a very big gate..."

Casari says, "Last time I was here, Dragon Priests attacked the Ru'atin Peri'el."

Rozalynde frowns.

In a blazing fountain of red-gold sparks, a red Moongate blazes into life.

Cherisse says in a Kreshi accent, "That's our ride."

Ectheleon's group went through a red Moongate.

 [Aesry Surlaenis'a, Underground Spring]
 A rough rock ledge surrounds the source of the spring, with water welling out through hundreds of tiny cracks far too small to enter. Dim light illuminates the grotto, apparently entering through fissures above, and glinting off the black surface of the pool. Where the ledge widens, the rock has been smoothed and covered with sand, and a small black stone altar has been raised. You also see a red Moongate.
 Also here: Mother Superior Jaelia who is emanating a benevolent holy aura, Amputator Laveaux, Sea Priestess Mazilyn, High Priestess Aemaranth who is shrouded in ghostly flames, Reverend Gragnel, Dive Master Daring, Dragon Priest Eskerith, Spirit Guide Dilemma who is shrouded in ghostly flames, Ryeka who is shrouded in ghostly flames, Truthseeker Elurora whose figure is gracefully highlighted in a soft aurora of silvery-violet light, Valta Varna Mistanna who is being harassed by an intrigue of phantasmal kittens, Harkour, Cremator Relay, Wrath of Tenemlor Sneeky whose form is ablaze in a shroud of forge dust mixed with glowing ember motes, Lady of Frostbite Siendra, Enelne's Champion Nawain who is shrouded in ghostly flames, Tipsy Trailblazer Shaylynne who is encircled by ethereal phofe flowers, Doctor of Kittens Sukidesu who is enveloped in shadowy smoke vaguely shaped like a Rakash in moonskin, Tylliana, Chieftain Elizzibiana who is surrounded by a shimmering shield, Lanahh Pejek'zhra Isaish, Comedian Rozalynde who is trailed by an animated wardrobe looking very concerned, Mageling Anba, Maven of Fire Kiashandra who is trailed by blazing fire-roses that smolder into ethereal ash, Firehawk Casari, Strawberry Nurse Illiya, Knight of Meraud Tirost who has a stony visage, Sir Imroth, Ahneya, Faebound Allye who is haloed by ethereal lotus and gladiolus blooms dancing in a gentle breeze, Ectheleon who is emanating a benevolent holy aura, Dreamweaver Itheron and Aide Mewawl.

Ectheleon says, "Not gonna be slow this time."

Ectheleon grins.

Casari asks, "We're near the bay now, right?"

Shaylynne says to Elurora, "This isn't much less cramped than the well."

Cherisse says in a Kreshi accent, "We are I'm not sure to be honest. You swim to get here though."

Ectheleon says, "Please feel free to find space where available enjoy the food and drink from the cloth."

Elurora says to Shaylynne, "At least until someone started pushing people over the ledge."

Shaylynne smirks.

Ryeka chuckles.

Gragnel idly picks at a black stone altar.

Gragnel nods.

Ryeka reaches out and touches a black stone altar.

Ryeka shivers slightly.

Shaylynne says, "Sounds like a job for Ahneya."

Ectheleon kneels down.

 Cherisse recites:

 "Thank you everyone! We are going to start our program tonight with Ectheleon. Assuming he is ready."

Daring looks at Ectheleon and applauds!

Ryeka says, "White blossoms. I think She is pleased we are here."

Ectheleon exclaims, "I am ready!"

Ectheleon exclaims, "Food and drink on the cloth!"

==<span style="color: #b1871b;">Ectheleon</span>==
Ectheleon says, "I was asked to speak in front of you all today as we offer a Vigil to Peri'el."

Siendra smiles at Ectheleon.

Ryeka smiles at Ectheleon, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Ectheleon says, "My words will be brief to allow time for all the more wonderful folk who will follow me."

Ectheleon smiles.

Ryeka smiles at Ectheleon, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Ectheleon says, "Peri'el is my favored Immortal for a number of reasons. Her history will be shared by another so I will share my thoughts on her a bit more simply."

Ectheleon recites:

"Before she was known for her quiet vigilance, Peri'el stood as one of the greatest war-bound Immortals among the Thirteen."

Ectheleon recites:

"Even after her right leg was maimed and wounded in combat, she refused to break."

Ectheleon recites:

"For her strength to never wane I find resolve in my own actions."

Ryeka smiles at Ectheleon, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

You smile at Ectheleon.

Ryeka nods in agreement.

Ectheleon recites:

"For instead of retreating into defeat, she chose to endlessly guard over the earth below in solitude."

Ectheleon recites:

"Deep within the inner world, her soft and unerring lullabies keep the great beast asleep and save our realm from ruin."

Elurora gazes down at the floor.

Ectheleon recites:

"Her song resonates within me as well, as I take on the challenges of each day."

Laveaux ponders Ectheleon words.

Cherisse smiles, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Siendra smiles.

Ectheleon recites:

"To me Peri'el is not just an aspect of the Immortals, she is the ultimate symbol of quiet and enduring resilience."

Ectheleon recites:

"She proves that true strength isn't about remaining unblemished, but about standing firm through your wounds to protect what you love."

Allye beams at Ectheleon!

Tirost nods to Ectheleon.

Elurora smiles at Ectheleon.

Ryeka nods to Ectheleon.

Nawain smiles at Ectheleon.

Ectheleon recites:

"She reminds us that the scars we carry do not mark the end of our purpose. Rather, our sacrifices transform us into the steadfast pillars that hold the peace together."

Sukidesu nods.

Ectheleon recites:

"Tonight, we gather under her watchful gaze to honor that same quiet fortitude within ourselves and each other."

Ectheleon recites:

"Let us remember her endless song, and find our own strength in her enduring grace."

Ectheleon kneels down.

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

Ectheleon gets a golden stained pi sitar with engraved brass fittings from inside his gravecloth tombstone.

Ectheleon reverently places a golden stained pi sitar with engraved brass fittings atop the stone altar.

Ectheleon offers his sitar to the gods in homage of their greatness.

Ectheleon stands up.

Ectheleon smiles.

Ectheleon nods to Cherisse.

Your ears straighten up smartly as you gaze at Ectheleon with pride.

Cherisse says in a Kreshi accent, "Thank you. That was lovely."

Daring smooches Ectheleon all over his face.

Siendra smiles at Ectheleon.

Elurora smiles at Ectheleon.

==<span style="color: #b1871b;">Gragnel</span>==
Cherisse recites:

"Gragnel has prepared a sermon for us this evening. So we may honor the Lady Peri'el."

Elurora grins at Gragnel.

Gragnel stands near a black stone altar.

Kiashandra smiles at Gragnel.

Tirost gazes at Gragnel.

Ectheleon smiles at Elurora.

Ryeka smiles at Gragnel, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Sukidesu praises Gragnel.

Gragnel says, "Thank you, Cherisse. Also, well said, Ectheleon."

Ectheleon smiles at Gragnel.

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

Gragnel runs his iron comb through his hair.

Gragnel puts his comb in his leather longcoat.

Gragnel clears his throat.

Gragnel loudly says, "Greetings, all. I am Reverend Gragnel Durbin, a priest in the service of our noble and glorious Lord Damaris."

Elurora flashes a quick grin at Gragnel.

Gragnel says, "But I have faith in all thirty-nine of our holy Immortals."

Gragnel truthfully says, "Only a fool would deny them and their power. More so after what we all witnessed with the Heralds not too long ago."

Ryeka nods to Gragnel.

Gragnel nods in agreement.

Gragnel significantly says, "Today I have the great honor of speaking to you all of Lady Peri'el, what some of us know as the light aspect of Lord Hav'roth."

Gragnel profoundly says, "It is our Lady Peri'el whom you have to thank for your very existence, for She is the one who keeps the fearsome World Dragon in its eternal slumber through the gentle and dulcet sound of Her voice as she sings to the mighty creature."

Gragnel says, "In fact, many say that if you listen close enough, you can hear Her in the steady rhythm of the ocean waves or even in a seashell put up to your ear."

Gragnel gratefully says, "Our land is stilled by Her power, which she uses to save us from both tumultuous earthquakes and from fiery lava flows. Disasters that throughout history have claimed many innocent lives."

Ryeka smiles, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Gragnel nods.

Gragnel sadly says, "However, as many of you know, during the battle with the World Dragon, She was gravely wounded."

Gragnel frowns.

Ryeka nods.

Gragnel says, "So, it should be no surprise that She has a place of great honor in the hearts of war veterans who consider Her their patroness."

Ryeka smiles, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Gragnel matter-of-factly says, "In many artworks, She is shown with instruments of many kinds, though it is said Her favorite is the sitar, making Her a popular deity among many musicians."

Gragnel says, "We have many things in this world to be thankful for, but one could argue we would have none of it, nor even be here, if it were not for Her adherence to placating the Dragon through her sweet song."

Gragnel nods in agreement.

Gragnel reverentially says, "So, today, we gather here to lift Her name on high and raise our voice in praise of Her. Glory everlasting for the kingsnake and may these lands continue to persevere through Her protection from calamity."

Gragnel exclaims, "Again, I say, glory everlasting to Lady Peri'el!"

Tirost mumbles a word of general praise.

Gragnel exclaims, "Glory to the thirty-nine!"

Gragnel smiles.

Cherisse smiles, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

You grin at Gragnel.

Dilemma smiles at Gragnel.

Gragnel pours some of his wine onto the altar. Oddly, the liquid seems to turn into a pale mist as it touches the altar. Gragnel takes a deep, long breath, and sighs.

Imroth lets out a loud "Huzzah!"

Gragnel appreciatively says, "I thank you all for your time and attention."

Siendra quietly says, "And the Great Pack..."

Gragnel bobs a brief, respectful bow.

Gragnel nods to Cherisse.

Siendra hums to herself.

Laveaux smiles at Gragnel.

Elurora grins at Siendra.

Raising her divine white to Gragnel, Illiya gives him a toast.

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

Sukidesu mumbles a word of general praise.

Cherisse recites:

"Thank you Gragnel. That was very informative. Next up we have another of Damaris' Panthers. Priestess Zynell with an offering."

==<span style="color: #b1871b;">Zynell</span>==
Elurora smiles at you.

You stand near a black stone altar.

Ryeka smiles at you, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

You say, "Hello, i join this gathering as Damaris' Priestess of Dreams."

You say, "It was Phelim who sprinkled the original sands in the World Dragon's eye, lulling it into the sweetest of dreams."

Siendra smiles at you.

Gragnel nods at you, obviously agreeing with your views.

You grin.

You say, "Today i offer a reminder of those sands."

You detach a night-black bottle labeled "Dream Sand" from your thigh.

You hold a night-black bottle labeled "Dream Sand" high into the air for all to see.

You push the release catch on your night-black bottle, releasing some dirt into your hand.

You reverently place some dirt on the stone altar.

You offer your dirt to the gods in homage of their greatness.

You say, "May it remind Peri'el that she is supported in her task."

Ryeka smiles, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

You say, "And may the World Dragon stay happily in Damaris' dreaming."

Ryeka nods in agreement.

Cherisse smiles, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

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

Eskerith nods.

You nod to Cherisse.

Elurora smiles at you.

Dilemma smiles.

Ectheleon smiles at you.

Cherisse recites:

"May the World Dragon continue his sleep. Uhm, so the schedule I was handed lists Jaelia next, but by it is says, gets 5 rois. Let us welcome our beloved Mother."

Elurora chortles softly at some secret joke.

You giggle.

Elurora smiles at Jaelia.

Kiashandra grins at Cherisse.

Ryeka grins, revealing her dimples.

Gragnel chuckles.

==<span style="color: #b1871b;">Jaelia</span>==
Jaelia says, "Ok, my offering will be these thoughts."

Jaelia chants in a soprano voice:

"There was a time when Peri'el was far greater than the goddess we know today."

Jaelia chants in a soprano voice:

"In her battle with the World Dragon, she sacrificed much of her power. Yet even diminished, she remains one of the most powerful of the Immortals. We know what Peri'el represents now, but we do not truly know what she was before that sacrifice, what greater powers she possessed, or what other themes she may have represented."

Jaelia chants in a soprano voice:

"There is something beautiful in that mystery. In the unknown, Peri'el becomes something of a mirror."

Jaelia chants in a soprano voice:

"Sometimes we seek something from the Immortals and cannot quite find it. Wisdom, courage, patience, comfort, or simply the strength to endure. What we need may have no obvious or Triad or aspect."

Jaelia chants in a soprano voice:

"In those moments, I look to Peri'el."

Jaelia chants in a soprano voice:

"The mystery of what she once was leaves a place for us to seek what we need. We can hold that need before her like a light before a mirror, and perhaps she can reflect some of that light back to us."

Jaelia chants in a soprano voice:

"I have sought her guidance when I did not know where else to turn, and I have found in her a steady hand and the strength to seek the wisdom I needed."

Jaelia chants in a soprano voice:

"So when you search among the Immortals and find something missing, look to Peri'el."

Jaelia chants in a soprano voice:

"Look into the mystery of what she was, what she sacrificed, and what remains. Perhaps there you will find the light you were seeking."

Jaelia gets a dragon-engraved book tote dyed a bright golden hue from inside her dragonar haversack.

Jaelia chants in a soprano voice:

"Mother Peri'el guide us in all knowledge - Espcially regarding Dragons and Their Priests"

Jaelia reverently places a dragon-engraved book tote dyed a bright golden hue atop the stone altar.

Eskerith smiles.

Jaelia offers her tote to the gods in homage of their greatness.

Ectheleon smiles at Jaelia.

Jaelia nods to Cherisse.

Kiashandra smiles at Jaelia.

Ryeka smiles at Jaelia, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Tirost nods to Jaelia.

Cherisse recites:

"Thank you for those words of wisdom. Something truly lovely to consider. Mazilyn will be going next with an offering."

==<span style="color: #b1871b;">Mazilyn</span>==
Mazilyn exclaims, "Oh that's me!"

Ectheleon lets out a hearty cheer for Mazilyn!

Mazilyn bounces around happily.

Ryeka lets out a hearty cheer for Mazilyn!

Cherisse nods to Mazilyn.

Mazilyn animatedly exclaims, "Peri'el is super!"

Laveaux grins at Mazilyn.

Ryeka grins, revealing her dimples.

Harkour chuckles.

Mazilyn indecisively says, "She's definately in my top 15 immortals."

Mazilyn glances at Ectheleon.

Ryeka chuckles.

Mazilyn asks, "Top 8?"

Mazilyn shrugs.

Mazilyn earnestly says, "I end up in the water a lot or strolling on Eluned's shores. One of the best ways additions to the view is Peri'el's singing."

Siendra laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.

Ryeka grins, revealing her dimples.

Mazilyn gets a translucent conch shell inlaid with gold swirls from inside her sea-green backpack.

(Mazilyn smile in delight as she holds a conch shell to her ear.)

Ectheleon smiles at Mazilyn.

Tirost smiles at Mazilyn.

Mazilyn sheepishly says, "Sometimes, I try to hum along even though it doesn't help and I'm comparatively tone-deaf."

Mazilyn hums to herself.

Mazilyn says, "See."

Mazilyn nods.

Sothios beams at Mazilyn!

Gragnel smirks at Mazilyn.

Ryeka chuckles.

Siendra smiles at Mazilyn.

Dilemma grins.

Siendra nods to Mazilyn.

Mazilyn vivaciously says, "I brought some of my favorite conch shells to offer."

Mazilyn beams!

Sothios grins at Mazilyn.

Mazilyn reverently places a translucent conch shell inlaid with gold swirls atop the stone altar.

Laveaux grins at Mazilyn.

Mazilyn offers her shell to the gods in homage of their greatness.

Mazilyn gets a translucent conch shell inlaid with asini swirls from inside her sea-green backpack.

Mazilyn reverently places a translucent conch shell inlaid with asini swirls atop the stone altar.

Mazilyn offers her shell to the gods in homage of their greatness.

Mazilyn recites:

"Peri'el, we hear your songs and are grateful."

Mazilyn beams!

Mazilyn nods to Cherisse.

Mazilyn bounces around happily.

Casari appears to be trying hard not to grin.

(Ectheleon wonders at how pretty all the conches are!)

Cherisse recites:

"Thank you Mazilyn, that was in the top 5 of presentations we've had today. Dilemma, Priestess of Drogor has an offering and prayer for us."

Illiya grins at Cherisse, her dimples flashing into view.

Mazilyn preens. Someone's pleased with herself!

==<span style="color: #b1871b;">Dilemma</span>==
Dilemma bows her head in acknowledgement.

Dilemma gets an oval willow foraging basket from inside her leather haversack.

(Dilemma steps forward to stand before the group, allowing a brief silence to settle.)

Dilemma smiles.

Ryeka grins, revealing her dimples.

Dilemma says in an Ilithian accent, "Hello, everyone. I only have a few words I'd like to share, so I will be brief."

Dilemma says in an Ilithian accent, "While Peri'el is not the Immortal I am closest to, some moments ask us to step beyond what is familiar. I felt it was important to be here."

(Dilemma turns to face the altar.)

Ectheleon smiles at Dilemma.

Your ears straighten up smartly as you gaze at Dilemma with pride.

Gragnel nods at Dilemma, obviously agreeing with her views.

Dilemma serenely says in an Ilithian accent, "Lady Peri'el, your vigil endures in the darkness beneath our feet, and still we are granted peaceful days because your song does not falter."

Dilemma serenely says in an Ilithian accent, "You have kept watch over a danger greater than most of us will ever know, neither denying what it is nor abandoning your vigil."

Dilemma absentmindedly rubs her shark's teeth, deep in thought.

Dilemma solemnly says in an Ilithian accent, "Lord Drogor has taught me not to look away from what is dangerous simply because it is feared."

Dilemma gets a dark blue pearl whelk shell from inside her foraging basket.

Dilemma reverently places a dark blue pearl whelk shell atop the stone altar.

Dilemma serenely says in an Ilithian accent, "May your song remain unbroken. And may we be quiet enough to hear you."

Dilemma offers her shell to the gods in homage of their greatness.

Ectheleon bows his head in acknowledgement.

Dilemma gives a courteous nod and tips her balaclava politely.

Ryeka smiles, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Siendra smiles.

Dilemma nods to Cherisse.

Elurora smiles at Dilemma.

You grin at Dilemma.

Kiashandra mumbles a word of general praise.

Dilemma grins at you.

Cherisse recites:

"Thank you. I think its important to know that while we all have those we are fanatical for, that the other Immortals are important as well

Relay, follower of the Scorpion of Death has a presentation for us.

After which I will open the floor."

==<span style="color: #b1871b;">Relay</span>==
Relay recites:

"Beautiful voice, a lullaby refrain

Huffs of dragons breath warm the air

The sweet serenade starts all over again

Early struggles cease"

Relay recites:

"Soft soothing tones echo the wall

Twitching tail tries to trip the tango

A swift two step avoids any fall

Naptime defeat"

Relay recites:

"Tenacious find every chord

Dragon claw taps the crescendo

Quiet smiles at her sleeping ward

Slumbering snores"

Relay recites:

"To remain tucked in once and for all

A fate determined long ago

Our life goes on above Peri'el's thrall

To find the Void"

Relay recites:

"Or perhaps one day he'll wake

Consume all in his path

Cause every mortal, demon, and immortal to quake

It matters not"

Relay recites:

"All things are rendered unto Urrem'tier"

Relay nods.

Ectheleon nods to Relay.

Relay nods to Cherisse.

Laveaux beams at Relay!

Mazilyn giggles.

Ryeka lets out a hearty cheer for Relay!

You grin at Relay.

Cherisse recites:

"Thank you Relay. Dilemma has brought a basket of shells for anyone who wishes to offer

Dilemma smiles.

Dilemma drops an oval willow foraging basket.

Cherisse nods to Dilemma.

Dilemma smiles at Cherisse.

Siendra smiles.

Cherisse offers her shell to the gods in homage of their greatness.

Cherisse says in a Kreshi accent, "If no one wishes to speak, then I'll close out this portion of our evening with a simple poem."

Cherisse nods to Siendra.

==<span style="color: #b1871b;">Siendra</span>==
Cherisse recites:

"Please welcome Siendra"

Elurora smiles at Siendra.

Sukidesu praises Siendra.

Nawain lets out a hearty cheer for Siendra!

Kiashandra smiles at Siendra.

Ectheleon smiles at Siendra.

Ryeka lets out a hearty cheer for Siendra!

Siendra quietly says, "Since Dilemma so wonderfully brought shells to offer..."

Jaelia beams at Siendra!

Raising her divine white to Siendra, Illiya gives her a toast.

Siendra gets a sea shell from inside an oval willow foraging basket.

Tirost smiles at Siendra.

Siendra says, "Um, hello. I really just wanted to voice my awe from hearing these speeches."

Ryeka smiles at Siendra, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

You proudly stand up your ears for a moment.

Dilemma smiles at Siendra.

Nawain smiles at Siendra.

Elurora grins at Siendra.

Gragnel smiles.

Elurora nods at Siendra, obviously agreeing with her views.

Siendra says, "I do not think I gave Peri'el enough thought, but what I have heard tonight has made me realize she is a beautiful deity to follow."

Ryeka nods in agreement.

Tirost nods.

You nod in agreement.

Siendra exclaims, "And I appreciate that. And I appreciate you all for helping me realize that!"

Tirost smiles.

Ryeka smiles at Siendra, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Ryeka kneels down.

Siendra says, "So, Peri'el, keep singing. And thank you."

Ryeka offers her shells to the gods in homage of their greatness.

Siendra offers her shell to the gods in homage of their greatness.

==<span style="color: #b1871b;">Ryeka</span>==
Ryeka says, "Wings to help carry the song."

Ryeka smiles, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Ryeka stands up.

Gragnel nods to Ryeka.

You grin at Ryeka.

Siendra nods to Cherisse.

Cherisse recites:

"Do we have anyone else who would like to speak?"

Siendra beams at Ectheleon!

Cherisse dusts herself off.

==<span style="color: #b1871b;">Cherisse</span>==
Cherisse says in a Kreshi accent, "Well, then you all can listen to me continue my facade at being a bard."

Ryeka grins, revealing her dimples.

Cherisse gets a temple drum stained a deep ebony hue from inside her leather rucksack.

Gragnel begins chortling at Cherisse.

Ryeka observes Cherisse with fascination.

Ryeka chuckles.

Cherisse takes a seat.

Siendra grins at Cherisse.

Laveaux grins at Cherisse.

Ectheleon grins at Cherisse.

(Cherisse cradles the temple drum, tapping out a slow, steady heartbeat that echoes like a weary, heavy march.)

Allye giggles at Cherisse.

Harkour smiles at Cherisse.

Elurora grins at Cherisse.

Cherisse recites:

"The soldiers come limping away from the line,

With ghosts in their shadows, surviving alone.

They carry the scars of a brutal design,

And wake in the night to a war of their own.

They sit in the quiet and wonder who cares,

Or carries a burden as heavy as theirs."

(Cherisse brushes her fingertips softly across the drumskin, the rhythm shifting from a march to a deep, resonant thrum.)

Cherisse recites:

"But deep in the earth sits a veteran too,

Who paid for our peace with her sight and her stride.

She laid down her sword when the slaughter was through,

And swallowed her fury, but never her pride.

She watches the maimed and the weary of soul,

And shares in the weight of the terrible toll."

Ryeka smiles at Cherisse, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

(Cherisse pats a low, repetitive cadence on the edge of the drum, mimicking a restless slumber and a quiet, unbroken vigil.)

Cherisse recites:

"She walked from the battlefield, broken and scarred,

To sit where the ancient, great serpent is curled.

She took up a silent, unyielding new guard,

To quietly shoulder the weight of the world.

She sings without ceasing to hold it in sleep,

A tireless watch in the dark of the deep."

Daring offers her shell to the gods in homage of their greatness.

Ectheleon praises Daring.

Daring beams in loving admiration at Ectheleon!

(Cherisse strikes the drum with a deeper, heavier cadence, the sound swelling with a solemn pride before returning to a slow, steady beat.)

Cherisse recites:

"So honor the soldiers who carry the pain,

The ones who gave pieces of body and mind.

They share a deep bond in the blood and the rain,

With one who left glory and violence behind.

She sings for her comrades from where she must dwell,

Our sister in sacrifice, Lady Peri'el."

(Cherisse strikes the center of the drum one final, echoing time, letting the vibration slowly fade into a reverent silence.)

Cherisse gets a banded tulip shell from inside an oval willow foraging basket.

Cherisse reverently places a banded tulip shell atop the stone altar.

Ryeka looks at Cherisse and applauds!

Allye beams at Cherisse!

Cherisse offers her shell to the gods in homage of their greatness.

Raising her divine white to Cherisse, Illiya gives her a toast.

Cherisse stands up.

Cherisse puts her drum in her leather rucksack.

Siendra looks at Cherisse and applauds!

Raising her glacial water to Cherisse, Elurora gives her a toast.

Ryeka reaches out and touches a black stone altar.

Ryeka shivers slightly.

Cherisse says in a Kreshi accent, "Thank you all. We will now make our way to the Rua'tin Peri'el, so ensure Suulnir has not been where she is not wanted."

Gragnel pours some of his wine onto the altar. Oddly, the liquid seems to turn into a pale mist as it touches the altar. Gragnel takes a deep, long breath, and sighs.

Gragnel smiles.

Itheron says, "The gate is just outside it."

Ectheleon whispers to your group, "Moving!"

==<span style="color: #b1871b;">Rua'tin Peri'el</span>==
[Aesry Surlaenis'a, Liva'an Cha'walkas]

The soft ground near the water's edge slants in a steady slope up to an undulating grassy hill. A cluster of buildings dot the knoll, the largest house crowning the mound's top. The sound of singing and low chanting comes from the Cloister and echos off the blanketing cloud of mist over the lake. The singing fades softly and dissipates like the fingers of fog, even the crunching of the shells underfoot grows quieter and shushes before the home of the Ru'atin Peri'el. You also see a black Moongate and a pool of black shadows.

Cherisse says in a Kreshi accent, "The house is up the hill, Ect."

Ryeka says, "I have tried to be kind to the Sisters of Peri'el who are far from home."

Ectheleon's group wandered up a grassy hill.

 [Grassy Hill, House of Ru'atin Peri'el]
 A grassy lawn atop the knoll leads to a solid wooden gate and pale stone walls surrouding a large home. Little is visible of the house itself, beyond the dark tile roof that slopes in a gentle curve. The sounds of singing and chanting from within rise and die rhythmically, but there is always some sound of strange singing, even if it is a single voice alone. You also see a picket gate and a wicker gate.
 Also here: Mother Superior Jaelia who is emanating a benevolent holy aura, Amputator Laveaux, Sea Priestess Mazilyn, High Priestess Aemaranth who is shrouded in ghostly flames, Reverend Gragnel, Dive Master Daring, Dragon Priest Eskerith, Spirit Guide Dilemma who is shrouded in ghostly flames, Ryeka, Truthseeker Elurora whose figure is gracefully highlighted in a soft aurora of silvery-violet light, Harkour, Cremator Relay, Wrath of Tenemlor Sneeky whose form is ablaze in a shroud of forge dust mixed with glowing ember motes, Lady of Frostbite Siendra, Enelne's Champion Nawain who is shrouded in ghostly flames, Tipsy Trailblazer Shaylynne who is encircled by ethereal phofe flowers, Doctor of Kittens Sukidesu who is enveloped in shadowy smoke vaguely shaped like a Rakash in moonskin, Tylliana, Chieftain Elizzibiana who is shadowed by the spectral image of a grey-eyed viper formed of fire and smoke, Lanahh Pejek'zhra Isaish, Comedian Rozalynde who is trailed by an animated wardrobe looking very concerned, Mageling Anba, Maven of Fire Kiashandra who is trailed by blazing fire-roses that smolder into ethereal ash, Firehawk Casari, Strawberry Nurse Illiya, Knight of Meraud Tirost who is surrounded by seven circling blades of ice, Sir Imroth, Faebound Allye who is haloed by ethereal lotus and gladiolus blooms dancing in a gentle breeze, Sothios who is shrouded in shifting shadows, Lava Bringer Cherisse who is shrouded in ghostly flames, Ahneya and Ectheleon who is emanating a benevolent holy aura.

Cherisse recites:

"The Rua'tin Periel are a sacred sisterhood and order. They are the reason Lady Peri'el can keep her eternal syntax"

Cherisse says in a Kreshi accent, "Song..."

Cherisse babbles incoherently.

Ryeka grins at Cherisse, her dimples flashing into view.

Ryeka pats Cherisse on the back.

Elurora grins at Cherisse.

Elurora says, "That makes more sense."

Ryeka asks, "Long night?"

Cherisse nods to Ryeka.

Ryeka chuckles.

Ryeka says, "I trip over my words when I'm tired too."

Elurora says, "I do it even when I'm not tired."

Elurora grins at Cherisse.

Ryeka grins at Elurora, her dimples flashing into view.

Kiashandra grins at Elurora.

Elurora winks at Kiashandra.

Gragnel says, "I blame it on the wine. It's a good scapegoat."

Harkour chuckles.

Gragnel hums to himself.

You grin at Gragnel.

Ryeka laughs!

Cherisse recites:

"You can faintly here the song from here.

If legend is to be believed, striking out at the order could lead to end of Lady Peri'el's song

But that could just be conjecture."

(Elurora closes her eyes and seems to be listening.)

Cherisse recites:

"The held belief is that the first Reshalian King discovered that devastating, unnatural earthquakes were beginning to spring up

He felt this signaled the awakeneing of the World Dragon

He felt that Lady Peri'el was exhausting herself"

Ryeka smiles at Cherisse, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Eskerith nods.

Cherisse recites:

"High Priestess Maligen relinquished her traditional leadership role and established the order

Taking the title of Ur'Kapo, which translates as First Singer, she gathered devoted female S'kra Mur"

Cherisse recites:

"Both clerics and bards who channel their spiritual strength, their breath, and song

The goal to connstantly reinforce the Goddess' power."

Cherisse recites:

"With the quieting of the disaters, the belief was estalibhed that Lady Peri'el benfited from the order

So it makes sense that if Suulnir's plan is to waken the dragon

She would strike here, but it seems as if the wards are in place."

You hear Cherisse whisper something inaudible before she walks toward the picket gate.

You follow Cherisse.

[Aesry Surlaenis'a, Pine Courtyard] (3117131)

A tall pine stands in the middle of the spacious courtyard, its needle-covered branches wide and spreading. Rough cobblestones provide narrow pathways between the garden beds that separate the houses within the courtyard. A low wall of moss-covered rocks forms the outer wall of the housing district. You also see a picket gate, an unremarkable ondjai, an unremarkable ondjai, an unremarkable ondjai and an ivory tile-roofed ondjai with a howling wolf-shaped topiary growing next to the front door.

Lava Bringer Cherisse's group went through a picket gate.

[Grassy Hill, House of Ru'atin Peri'el] (3102200)

A grassy lawn atop the knoll leads to a solid wooden gate and pale stone walls surrouding a large home. Little is visible of the house itself, beyond the dark tile roof that slopes in a gentle curve. The sounds of singing and chanting from within rise and die rhythmically, but there is always some sound of strange singing, even if it is a single voice alone. You also see a storm-grey cat with gold-flecked crystal blue eyes that is sleeping, a picket gate and a wicker gate.

You ponder.

You say, "According to her original statements, her goal was not waking the World Dragon, but finding a way for it to be worshiped alongside the 39."

You shrug.

Imroth ponders.

You say, "How true that remains, who knows."

Cherisse says in a Kreshi accent, "Suulnir doesn't seem much of a talker, at least not considering her last appearance."

Imroth says, "It is a great cosmic power I suppose."

Tirost frowns.

Cherisse says in a Kreshi accent, "More throwing insults and turning to violence."

Ryeka nods.

Elurora asks you, "It's not their emperor she wanted to turn into a God?"

You say, "When we knocked upon her door she was far more gracious."

You say to Elurora, "She is doing research and experiments with him involved."

Aemaranth says to you in a melodic accent, "Knocking on a door tends to get a better response than kicking it."

Aemaranth grins at you, her dimples flashing into view.

Ryeka grins, revealing her dimples.

Ectheleon chuckles at Aemaranth.

You say to Aemaranth, "Well they kicked it too and got beaten up."

You shrug.

Elurora says, "Knocking is much more polite."

Aemaranth asks in a melodic accent, "Did they knock or kick first?"

Aemaranth ponders.

You say, "Ayrell and i made them knock first."

Cherisse says in a Kreshi accent, "Seems hard to think of her as gracious when she sends assassins and steals things."

You fold your arms across your chest.

Elurora grins at you.

Eskerith articulately says in a Musparan accent, "Taking advantage of a peaceful gathering."

Eskerith nods to Cherisse.

You say, "That is what a Dragon Priestess of the Empire should do when a priest of the old ways shows up and does rituals."

You shrug.

You say, "Seems natural for her culture."

Aemaranth nods at you, obviously agreeing with your views.

Cherisse asks you in a Kreshi accent, "So an acceptable intra-religious conflict?"

Eskerith rubs his neck.

Eskerith gazes off into the distance.

Ectheleon ponders.

Cherisse asks Eskerith in a Kreshi accent, "Thoughts?"

Elurora glances at Eskerith.

Ectheleon says, "A little understanding can go a long way when it comes to intra-religious talks."

You say, "An understandable, not particularly acceptable."

You shrug.

Eskerith articulately says in a Musparan accent, "I have none to share at this time. I have been thinking on it more and more. There are words my elders have shared but I'm not ready to share them yet."

Eskerith smiles.

Cherisse nods to Eskerith.

Elurora nods to Eskerith.

Cherisse says in a Kreshi accent, "Understandable."

Kiashandra nods to Eskerith.

Jaelia says, "There is a lot going on. We do not know all the aspects involved, but there is more going on than we can possibly guess. Seeking the Guidance of the Immortals and their blessings and guidance upon our actions makes the difference in helping to find a resolution."

Eskerith articulately says in a Musparan accent, "We do continue to talk about things, and I have been given permission to hold another gathering. So, I will likely be ready to speak on things more at that time."

Jaelia smiles at Eskerith.

You nod to Eskerith.

Aemaranth says in a melodic accent, "If memory serves those who seek to worship the world dragon have not always been thought of in kind ways and tend to get cut to pieces for sport. So, them being distrustful does make sense."

Cherisse says in a Kreshi accent, "I am happy to sit around and discuss our Dragon Priest issue, but I have nothing else formal for today. We will be making similar pilgrimages to the other Immortals close to the World Dragon. Those are at least our current plans."

Elurora nods to Cherisse.

Cherisse says in a Kreshi accent, "A moongate will be opening just down the hill for those that want to return to Crossing."

Elurora says, "I should probably get back to the mainland and feed Dog."

Ryeka exclaims, "Thank you for a most enlightenning evening!"

Cherisse says in a Kreshi accent, "I do appreciate everyone coming out, and hopefully Lady Peri'el feels the warmth and kindness."

Eskerith articulately says in a Musparan accent, "I will remain on the island for a time. This is the first I have traveled to it and would like to see the sights, so to speak."

Harkour says to Cherisse, "Well hosted and a thoughtful eve."

Sneeky says in a Prydaenese accent, "Thank ya fer a relaxin' evenin'."

Ectheleon exclaims, "Wonderfully done, Cherisse! Thank you for organizing and hosting everything!"

Tirost says, "I learned a lot. Thank you to all who spoke, and all who offered to Peri'el."

Ectheleon exclaims, "And thank you to everyone for coming and to those that shared!"

Ectheleon exclaims, "May you all be well!"

Laveaux sweetly says, "Thank you everyone for those enligtening words and lessons."

Ghust quietly says in a Rakash accent, "I learned alot."

Jaelia says, "Blessings of the Immortals guide your Path, Peri'el grant you light in dark times."

Cherisse says in a Kreshi accent, "I'm glad it was informative."

Gragnel says, "Sharing knowledge of our divine Immortals is something I enjoy doing. There is much that is not known or simply forgotten in our studies through the years."

Tirost says to Gragnel, "Drinking fine wine must be a close second..."

Tirost grins at Gragnel.

Gragnel says to Tirost, "I find that when the Immortals are concerned, they go hand-in-hand."

Anba says, "Whisp lets leave the group then."

Cherisse says in a Kreshi accent, "A little alcohol always helps."

Gragnel says to Tirost, "I did share some with the altar."

Gragnel nods.

Tirost nods to Gragnel.

Gragnel says to you, "I shall go to His altar and offer prayer. I will catch up with you later, Priestess."

Tirost asks Siendra, "Shall we take the gate back to the Crossing?"

Illiya says, "Thank you all for hosting this."

Gragnel says, "May the Lord of Shadows keep your secrets safe, all."