Ilithi Socialites/Logs/Ten'ra Agalith/06172023

Year of the Iron Toad, 445 years since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer. It is the 9th day in the 9th month of Dolefaren, the Brigantine. It is currently fall. (6/17/2023)

Hosted By

Lady of Elamiri Ayrell Evyntine-Vershir, Archmagess of Ilithi

You see Lady of Elamiri Ayrell Evyntine, Archmagess of Ilithi, an Elf.
Ayrell has elegant arched eyebrows, pointed ears and exquisite lashes accentuating lustrous sapphire eyes. Her deep blue-streaked raven hair is hip length and wavy, and is worn in an elegant upswept arrangement threaded with an ornate silversteel chain twined with pale mistglass Elamiri roses. She has fair skin and a gracefully slender figure. She appears to be an adult. She is in good shape.

She is wearing a pair of ravishing Idon's sapphire earrings set amid lucent moonsilver strands, a lustrous moonsilver lariat necklace ornamented by Idon's sapphire roses, an alluring cowl-necked gown of lapis-hued songsilk strewn with Idon's sapphires, a gleaming silver signet ring bearing an intricate family seal, a lifesculpted moonsilver wedding band cradling a trillion-cut twilight sapphire, a spiraling lilac moonsilver engagement band crowned by a blue Elamiri sapphire and a pair of sultry lapis songsilk thigh boots strung with ropes of Idon's sapphire.

High Priestess Maraisel Issalde of Ilithi

You see High Priestess Maraisel Issalde of Ilithi, an Elf.
Maraisel has elegant arched eyebrows, pointed ears and sparkling emerald eyes. Her black hair is very long and curly, and is worn pulled up in an elaborate four-stranded braid. She has fair skin and a slender figure. She appears to be an adult. A brilliant orb of rippling cerulean light hovers like a will-o-wisp, following her diligently. She is in good shape.

She is wearing some sparkling diamond heart-shaped earrings, a dendritic choker of diamonds and Ilithi emeralds shaped like twining leaves, a form-fitting gown of emerald shadesatin overlaid with dendritic jeweled vines, a delicate spiraling crystal ring, a black steel mourning band inlaid with ivory lilies and a pair of dark green velvet slippers adorned with winter emeralds bound in gold.

Location & Audience

[Temple of Darkness, Gela Wepaten]
At first glance, the room seems an open space beneath a starry sky: the dim light and the dull black of the walls merge into a dimensionless space in the center of which candles glow on a black altar. Their light reflects from hundreds of tiny silvered points on the ceiling.

Also here: Crystallomancer Klaros, Life Weaver Ysilda, War Wizard Etasia whose form wavers within a roiling cloud of blue smoke, Field Medic Darkewolff, Kintryn, Knight of Meraud Tirost, Fanatic Jecala, Songbird Mendira whose figure is gracefully highlighted in a soft aurora of silvery-violet light, Philomath Miskton, Guard Elizzibiana, Kingpin Menthu who is wreathed in Katamba-black shadows, Mountain Lord Ezerak, Ryeka who is shrouded in ghostly flames, Nedora we Oras Ruea, Primal Lady Zalinyar, Dawnsworn Briaen who is surrounded by a corona of fiery light, Mother Jaelia who is emanating a benevolent holy aura, Aluwyyn, Lady of Elamiri Ayrell, and High Priestess Maraisel who is shrouded in ghostly flames.

Introduction

Ayrell asks Maraisel, "Shall we begin?"

Maraisel says to Ayrell, "I'll leave that to you. I'm so nervous, I barely know where I am."

Maraisel waves dismissively.

Ayrell laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.

Ayrell nods.

Ayrell says, "Very well. We shall begin."

Aluwyyn gazes at Ayrell.

Jaelia smiles at Ayrell.

Ayrell says, "Good evening, everyone, and thank you for joining us this evening."

Ayrell smiles.

Etasia gazes at Ayrell.

Menthu applauds.

Ayrell says, "As you are all likely aware, else you would not be here," she pauses to smile out at the crowd, "the purpose of our gathering this evening is to celebrate an ancient holiday here in Shard known as Ten'ra Agalith, or, when translated into the common language, Heaven Truce."

Zalinyar smiles, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Zalinyar takes a sip of her rum.

Darkewolff smirks.

Ayrell says, "To start, I will admit that the Ten'ra Agalith, in its original form, was both a festival as well as a religious ritual. As much as I would have loved to present the holiday in all its traditional glory, I sadly do not have the resources, nor the contacts, to arrange for a festival here in Shard - especially with so many merchants already on site for the festival in Therengia. My hope is that the Dark Immortals will understand our limitations and trust our hearts are no less reverent simply due to a lack of shopping stalls along our streets."

Aluwyyn gazes upward.

Aluwyyn gazes at Ayrell.

Ayrell says, "Before I turn the floor over to our Clerical hostess this evening, it was asked that I present you all with a brief history of the Ten'ra Agalith, and, as I am not one to shy away from an opportunity to discuss the past, I have agreed to so."

Ayrell smiles.

Ezerak chuckles.

Ryeka smiles, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Aluwyyn cocks his head.

Ayrell says, "The reason for this, however, is that we all must understand the origins of the holiday in order to understand what it is we hope to accomplish."

Tirost whispers something to Ezerak.

The History of Ten'ra Agalith

Ayrell says, "To do this, allow me to take you all back to the early days of Shard. The days when the city was still in its youth, and the temples of Light and Dark did not yet exist in their respective places of honor upon which they stand today. Life was a whirlwind for the people as they worked to build their lives, leaving little time to think about the gods, or the fact that there was nowhere for the people to worship the Immortals, save for two small shrines."

Ayrell says, "But the Immortals noticed. The Immortals noticed and they were not pleased. Of course, Hodierna and the gods of light were forgiving. The Dark Immortals, however, were not. For it was in retribution of this lack of faith that the Dark Immortals began to act. Traders ceased to make profit. Hot rain pitting the city streets. Children disappearing without a trace. Plagues upon the people who had turned so far from the Immortals, they could not even fathom the cause of the terrible things they suffered."

Ezerak whispers something to Tirost.

Ezerak grins at Tirost, his dimples flashing into view.

Etasia frowns.

Tirost grins at Ezerak.

Ayrell says, "It was a young cleric by the name of Serillyn who is said to have been the first to truly take the matter to heart. Desperate for answers, she walked down to the Lake of Dreams to think on the situation where she remained for three days, seated at the edge of the shore. Praying. Meditating. Fasting until she was weakened from hunger and teetering on the brink of exhaustion."

Ayrell says, "In the end, it was Eluned who finally took pity on the poor priestess. A mist rose from the lake, taking the form of a young woman with flowing hair, who spoke to Serillyn of the Dark Immortals' displeasure. Fearful of what she learned, Serillyn ran with haste back to the city to relay the information to the Elders."

Ayrell says, "Serillyn spoke, and the Elders listened, and they realized the error of their ways. That the gods had led the people to this place, helping them to thrive and prosper, while asking only for respect in return. And it was with that respect in mind that the Elders called for a special tribute to be made in honor of their patron gods."

Ayrell says, "When word of this tribute spread, people came from far and wide to pay homage to the Dark Gods. Begging for mercy and relief from their wrath. The Elders ordered the temples constructed. Prayers were whispered, incense burned, hymns sung, and gifts offered with elaborate ritual to the Dark Immortals in reconciliation, until eventually the Dark Gods were appeased by the efforts and the city was blessed with peace once more."

Mendira smiles.

Ayrell says, "And peace is what we hope to maintain by gathering here tonight."

Ayrell smiles.

Aluwyyn nods in agreement.

Ryeka nods in agreement.

Nurse Tranta just arrived.

Ayrell says, "So, without further ado, let us commence as I turn the floor over to our hostess this evening - Ilithi's own, High Priestess Maraisel Issalde."

Ayrell gestures at Maraisel.

Ayrell smiles at Maraisel.

Aluwyyn looks at Maraisel and applauds!

Miskton looks at Maraisel and applauds!

Etasia smiles at Maraisel, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Kintryn smiles at Maraisel.

Maraisel grins.

Tirost gets a quiet, peaceful look on his face.

Maraisel waves.

Maraisel says, "Hello, and good evening."

Etasia gazes at Maraisel.

Maraisel smiles.

Jecala nods politely.

Maraisel says, "To add onto what Ayrell was saying about the history, the Ten'ra Agalith was celebrated as an annual holiday in Shard for many years. Over time, however, it started to become less frequent, less common, until it seemed to fade into obscurity. No more festivals - no more rituals - for what records indicate to have been nearly a century."

Menthu looks at Maraisel and applauds!

Ryeka nods in agreement.

Aluwyyn gazes at Maraisel.

Maraisel says, "That's not to say the Dark Immortals have been forgotten. Variations of the holiday have come and gone, but no longer in the traditional format, in the traditional way, with the traditional name of Ten'ra Agalith."

Tranta joins Ayrell's group.

Jaelia nods to Maraisel.

Maraisel says, "Now, I make no promises that the ritual we're about to do is exactly like the ones performed in the past, but I know a thing or two about the Immortals, and rituals, so I've put something together that I'm hoping will express our devotions in a way the Dark Immortals will appreciate."

Aluwyyn raises an eyebrow.

Maraisel says, "Well, I say I put something together -."

Maraisel chuckles to herself.

Ruea smiles.

Maraisel says, "It was more of a group effort between myself and Ayrell, combining my knowledge of the Immortals and her ability to put words together in a way that sound pretty, so you all have her to thank for making me sound good tonight."

Maraisel grins.

Ezerak grins, revealing his dimples.

Aluwyyn chuckles.

Ryeka grins, revealing her dimples.

Etasia chuckles.

Tirost smiles.

Distribution of Offerings and Incense

Maraisel says, "To begin, it's important that everyone have some kind of offering to... offer. If anyone needs an item, please raise your hand, and we'll supply you with something suitable for the Dark Gods."

Briaen raises his hand.

Jecala raises her hand.

Aluwyyn raises his hand.

Tranta raises her hand.

Ryeka rummages through a black spidersilk backpack, pausing once in a while and then quickly resuming the search.

Kintryn raises her hand.

Mendira raises her hand.

Menthu gets a luscious red apple with a glossy sheen from inside a swirling eddy of incandescent light bound by a gold-striated coralite frame.

Ryeka rummages through a duffel bag, pausing once in a while and then quickly resuming the search.

Miskton raises his hand.

Ezerak ponders.

Ezerak rummages about his person, looking for something.

Menthu asks, "Does a poison apple work as an offering?"

Ryeka raises her hand.

Maraisel says, "Oh, good. I was worried all these primers were going to end up at the bottom of my backpack."

Maraisel grins.

Ezerak raises his hand.

Miskton chuckles.

Maraisel gets a canvas knapsack from inside her backpack.

Menthu flashes a wide grin.

Maraisel asks, "Anyone have a preferred Immortal they would like to have a primer for?"

Tirost smiles at Maraisel.

Aluwyyn raises his hand.

Jecala quietly says, "Be'ort for me."

Maraisel says, "I can accommodate a few requests until my stock runs low."

Maraisel grins.

Aluwyyn calmly asks, "Asketi?"

Etasia says, "Meraud."

Ezerak says to Maraisel, "I am sure you can guess mine."

Maraisel gets a parchment coyote primer from inside her canvas knapsack.

Miskton ponders.

Maraisel offers Jecala a parchment coyote primer.

Jecala accepts Maraisel's coyote primer.

Ryeka says, "I usually seek favor with Damaris, so I should think of Dergati."

Jecala beams at Maraisel!

Maraisel gets a parchment adder primer from inside her canvas knapsack.

Miskton asks, "Kerenhappuch, perhaps?"

Maraisel offers Aluwyyn a parchment adder primer.

Aluwyyn accepts Maraisel's adder primer.

Aluwyyn bows to Maraisel.

Maraisel nods to Ryeka.

Maraisel gets a parchment shrike primer from inside her canvas knapsack.

Elizzibiana says, "Ushnish if you have him."

Maraisel offers Ryeka a parchment shrike primer.

Jaelia says, "I have several rpimers."

Ryeka accepts Maraisel's shrike primer.

Tirost gets an ebony shrew totem from inside his storyteller's bag.

Kintryn says, "Any are fine with me."

Jaelia says, "Oh ... Sorry.."

Aluwyyn opens the cover of his adder primer to the first page.

Maraisel gets a parchment viper primer from inside her canvas knapsack.

Jaelia covers her mouth with her hand.

Tranta says, "I have no preference."

Maraisel offers Elizzibiana a parchment viper primer.

Ryeka curtsies to Maraisel.

Elizzibiana accepts Maraisel's viper primer.

Tirost says to Maraisel, "I brought this."

Jaelia says, "Any is fine with me, but not Aldauth."

Darkewolff rummages through a swirling eddy of incandescent light bound by a gold-striated coralite frame.

Elizzibiana says, "Thank you."

Maraisel gets a parchment shrew primer from inside her canvas knapsack.

Tirost shows Maraisel his shrew totem.

Aluwyyn closes his adder primer.

Maraisel offers Miskton a canvas knapsack.

Maraisel smiles at Tirost.

Maraisel says, "Perfect."

Maraisel grins.

Aluwyyn gazes at Maraisel.

Tirost nods to Maraisel.

Jaelia rummages through a spidersilk scrip with a frantic look of loss.

Jaelia says, "Hmm."

Jaelia gets a parchment weasel primer from inside her scrip.

Jaelia nods.

Jaelia applauds.

Maraisel coughs.

Mendira says, "Any would be fine for me as well."

Maraisel offers Miskton a parchment shrew primer.

Miskton accepts Maraisel's shrew primer.

Miskton smiles at Maraisel.

Maraisel chortles softly at some secret joke.

Maraisel says, "Nerves."

Maraisel laughs!

Miskton chuckles.

Maraisel gets a parchment heron primer from inside her canvas knapsack.

Ezerak grins at Maraisel, his dimples flashing into view.

Maraisel offers Ezerak a parchment heron primer.

Maraisel moves a canvas knapsack to her left hand.

Maraisel moves a parchment heron primer to her right hand.

Ezerak accepts Maraisel's heron primer.

Ezerak says to Maraisel, "Thank you."

Maraisel asks, "Did I miss anyone who had a preference?"

Kintryn raises her hand.

Etasia nods to Tirost.

Kintryn says, "Sorry. No preference."

Maraisel smiles at Kintryn.

Kintryn blushes a bright red color.

Tirost smiles at Etasia.

Maraisel says, "Let's see..."

Maraisel rummages through a canvas knapsack with a frantic look of loss.

Tirost nods.

Maraisel gets a parchment spider primer from inside her canvas knapsack.

Menthu examines a luscious red apple with a glossy sheen.

Maraisel offers Kintryn a parchment spider primer.

Kintryn accepts Maraisel's spider primer.

Maraisel says, "For Harawep."

Maraisel nods.

Kintryn grins at Maraisel.

Ryeka grins, revealing her dimples.

Kintryn says, "Appreciated."

Tirost smiles at Kintryn.

Jaelia just kissed a parchment weasel primer!

Maraisel smiles at Etasia.

Kintryn smiles at Tirost.

Maraisel asks, "Okay... who is left who needed an item?"

Briaen raises his hand.

Darkewolff raises his hand.

Kintryn says to Tirost, "I follow all gods so I never have a preference."

Zalinyar raises her hand.

Mendira raises her hand.

Ruea smiles.

Tirost nods to Kintryn.

Tranta raises her hand.

Zalinyar says, "I only seek favor from Damaris."

Maraisel gets a parchment vulture primer from inside her canvas knapsack.

Maraisel says, "I'm grabbing randomly now."

Maraisel grins.

Maraisel offers Briaen a parchment vulture primer.

Tirost says to Kintryn, "I am lucky to have found favor with Meraud, and so I will make an offering to Kerenhappuch."

Jaelia says to Zalinyar, "Offering a devotional sacrafice to another Immortal is not seeking favor from another, just a recognition of their gifts, but it is your choice."

Briaen accepts Maraisel's vulture primer.

Kintryn smiles at Tirost.

Zalinyar says, "But for the sake of this ritual, I'll offer to whomever will listen."

Zalinyar nods to Jaelia.

Kintryn says, "Good choice."

Tirost smiles.

Ezerak nods at Jaelia, obviously agreeing with her views.

Maraisel gets a parchment shark primer from inside her canvas knapsack.

Jaelia nods.

Maraisel offers Darkewolff a parchment shark primer.

Jaelia nods to Zalinyar.

Darkewolff accepts Maraisel's shark primer.

Darkewolff smiles.

Darkewolff says to Maraisel, "Thank you."

Maraisel nods to Darkewolff.

Maraisel gets a parchment weasel primer from inside her canvas knapsack.

Maraisel offers Mendira a parchment weasel primer.

Mendira smiles at Maraisel.

Mendira says, "Thank you."

Etasia puts her runestone in her kidskin haversack.

Mendira accepts Maraisel's weasel primer.

Maraisel gets a parchment raccoon primer from inside her canvas knapsack.

Maraisel offers Zalinyar a parchment raccoon primer.

Zalinyar accepts Maraisel's raccoon primer.

Zalinyar smiles at Maraisel, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Maraisel gets a parchment centaur primer from inside her canvas knapsack.

Briaen nods graciously at Maraisel, giving her a polite smile.

Maraisel offers Etasia a parchment centaur primer.

Zalinyar says to Maraisel, "Thank you."

Etasia accepts Maraisel's centaur primer.

Maraisel asks, "Anyone else I missed?"

Etasia smiles at Maraisel, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Tranta raises her hand.

Etasia says, "Thank you."

Maraisel gets a parchment viper primer from inside her canvas knapsack.

Maraisel offers Tranta a parchment viper primer.

Tirost shakes his head at Kintryn.

Maraisel smiles at Tranta.

Tranta accepts Maraisel's viper primer.

Maraisel says, "Sorry about that."

Tranta says to Maraisel, "Thank you."

Tranta smiles at Maraisel.

Klaros says, "This was actually interesting."

Kintryn grins at Tirost.

Tirost smiles at Kintryn.

Tirost nods to Kintryn.

Maraisel gets a parchment adder primer from inside her canvas knapsack.

Klaros nods to Jaelia.

Maraisel offers Ayrell a parchment adder primer.

Ayrell accepts Maraisel's adder primer.

Ayrell nods to Maraisel.

Tirost nods to Etasia.

Jaelia exclaims to Klaros, "Everything in Shard is interesting!"

Jaelia winks at Klaros.

Maraisel says, "Next, I would like to offer some blessed incense to anyone who might want some. Although I'll be doing a lot of talking through the ritual, you are all a part of it, therefore, it's important that we all do our part, in some way. One of the easiest ways to do that is to wave around some incense while we pray."

Kintryn grins at Jaelia.

Ryeka grins at Jaelia, her dimples flashing into view.

Klaros says to Jaelia, "Its starting to grow on me."

Miskton grins at Jaelia.

Aluwyyn nods.

Tirost shows Etasia his shrew totem.

Maraisel grins.

Maraisel says, "If anyone would like some incense for the ritual, please raise your hand."

Darkewolff nods to Maraisel.

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

Darkewolff raises his hand.

Maraisel gets a stick of blessed incense from inside her canvas knapsack.

Jecala raises her hand.

Aluwyyn raises his hand.

Ezerak raises his hand.

Ryeka gets some burnt incense from inside her spidersilk backpack.

Etasia moves a parchment centaur primer to her left hand.

Maraisel puts her knapsack in her backpack.

Jaelia moves a parchment weasel primer to her left hand.

Etasia raises her hand.

Maraisel gets a gold-plated lava drake with bared teeth from inside her draping cloak.

Jaelia puts her primer in her scrip.

Tranta says, "I don't have a way to light it."

Jaelia gets a small silver dragon from inside her spidersilk bag.

Aluwyyn's large eyes drift, scanning the area with an intense yet aimless gaze.

Ryeka says, "I have a lighter."

Tranta blushes a bright red color.

Jaelia says, "We have ways to light it for you."

Jaelia nods.

Tranta nods.

Jaelia says, "I do as well."

Maraisel points her lava drake at a stick of blessed incense and a flame shoots from the creature's mouth, making the incense quickly catch fire.

Maraisel offers Darkewolff a burning blessed incense.

Darkewolff accepts Maraisel's blessed incense.

Jecala quietly says, "I need mine lit too."

Ryeka puts her primer in her spidersilk backpack.

Tranta says, "Then I'll take some as well please."

Tirost says, "I have a cantrip, if anyone needs light."

Zalinyar puts her rum in her firesilk backpack.

Ryeka gets a ruby-eyed cinder beast with glittering black diamond claws from inside her spidersilk backpack.

Zalinyar says, "I can light."

Maraisel gets a stick of blessed incense from inside a canvas knapsack.

Darkewolff says to Maraisel, "Thank you."

Zalinyar grins, revealing her dimples.

Jecala moves a parchment coyote primer to her left hand.

Ryeka points her cinder beast at some burnt incense and a flame shoots from the creature's mouth, making the incense quickly catch fire.

Maraisel points her lava drake at a stick of blessed incense and a flame shoots from the creature's mouth, making the incense quickly catch fire.

Maraisel offers Jecala a burning blessed incense.

Ryeka puts her beast in her spidersilk backpack.

Ryeka gets a parchment shrike primer from inside her spidersilk backpack.

Jaelia taps a carved wooden altar.

Jecala accepts Maraisel's blessed incense.

Maraisel gets a stick of blessed incense from inside a canvas knapsack.

Maraisel points her lava drake at a stick of blessed incense and a flame shoots from the creature's mouth, making the incense quickly catch fire.

Tirost grins at Etasia.

Maraisel offers Aluwyyn a burning blessed incense.

Ryeka moves a parchment shrike primer to her left hand.

Ryeka moves some burning burnt incense to her right hand.

Aluwyyn accepts Maraisel's blessed incense.

Maraisel gets a stick of blessed incense from inside a canvas knapsack.

Aluwyyn smiles at Maraisel.

Maraisel points her lava drake at a stick of blessed incense and a flame shoots from the creature's mouth, making the incense quickly catch fire.

Maraisel offers Ezerak a burning blessed incense.

Aluwyyn calmly says, "Thank you."

Maraisel smiles.

Ezerak accepts Maraisel's blessed incense.

Aluwyyn gets a gold-plated lava drake with bared teeth from inside his thigh bag.

Ezerak says to Maraisel, "Thank you."

Maraisel gets a stick of blessed incense from inside a canvas knapsack.

Maraisel points her lava drake at a stick of blessed incense and a flame shoots from the creature's mouth, making the incense quickly catch fire.

Maraisel offers Tranta a burning blessed incense.

Ezerak sniffs at a burning blessed incense.

Tranta accepts Maraisel's blessed incense.

Aluwyyn puts his drake in his scavenger's pack.

Tiny puffs of smoke rise from Aluwyyn's blessed incense as it burns.

Tranta says, "Thank you."

Aluwyyn waves some blessed incense over himself.

A wisp of smoke settles around Aluwyyn, surrounding him with the scent of smoke.

Maraisel asks, "Anyone else?"

Maraisel smiles.

Etasia says, "Me please."

Maraisel nods.

Maraisel gets a stick of blessed incense from inside a canvas knapsack.

Etasia smiles at Maraisel, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Ryeka waves some burnt incense over herself.

A wisp of smoke settles around Ryeka, surrounding her with the scent of smoke.

Maraisel points her lava drake at a stick of blessed incense and a flame shoots from the creature's mouth, making the incense quickly catch fire.

Kintryn asks, "Myself as well?"

Maraisel offers Etasia a burning blessed incense.

Etasia accepts Maraisel's blessed incense.

Jecala's blessed incense glows faintly as it burns down.

Maraisel nods to Kintryn.

Maraisel gets a stick of blessed incense from inside a canvas knapsack.

Lazy curls of smoke drift off of Aluwyyn's blessed incense.

Kintryn smiles at Maraisel.

Maraisel points her lava drake at a stick of blessed incense and a flame shoots from the creature's mouth, making the incense quickly catch fire.

Etasia says, "Thank you."

Jaelia gets a stick of fragrant incense from inside her spidersilk bag.

Maraisel offers Kintryn a burning blessed incense.

Jaelia points her silver dragon at a stick of fragrant incense and a flame shoots from the creature's mouth, making the incense quickly catch fire.

Kintryn accepts Maraisel's blessed incense.

Jaelia puts her dragon in her spidersilk bag.

Maraisel gets a stick of blessed incense from inside a canvas knapsack.

A light haze of smoke wafts off Ezerak's blessed incense.

Maraisel points her lava drake at a stick of blessed incense and a flame shoots from the creature's mouth, making the incense quickly catch fire.

Maraisel offers Ayrell a burning blessed incense.

Ayrell accepts Maraisel's blessed incense.

Ayrell smiles.

Jaelia waves some fragrant incense over herself.

A wisp of smoke settles around Jaelia, surrounding her with the scent of smoke.

Aluwyyn softly says, "Might have to make the next ritual meeting a BYOI."

Ryeka's burnt incense glows faintly as it burns down.

Maraisel says, "I think that's everyone."

Ryeka grins at Aluwyyn, her dimples flashing into view.

Klaros begins to listen to Briaen teach the Brawling skill.

Maraisel says, "I have more, in case it's needed."

Etasia grins at Aluwyyn, her dimples flashing into view.

Jaelia's fragrant incense glows faintly as it burns down.

Aluwyyn winks.

Ayrell waves some blessed incense over herself.

A wisp of smoke settles around Ayrell, surrounding her with the scent of smoke.

Ezerak's blessed incense glows faintly as it burns down.

Jaelia waves some fragrant incense over herself.

A wisp of smoke settles around Jaelia, surrounding her with the scent of smoke.

Etasia moves a burning blessed incense to her left hand.

Etasia moves a parchment centaur primer to her right hand.

Aluwyyn waves some blessed incense over himself.

A wisp of smoke settles around Aluwyyn, surrounding him with the scent of smoke.

Jaelia nods to Tranta.

Jaelia puts her incense in her spidersilk bag.

Tiny puffs of smoke rise from Jecala's blessed incense as it burns.

Jaelia gets a small silver dragon from inside her spidersilk bag.

Tranta offers Jaelia a burning blessed incense.

Tiny puffs of smoke rise from Kintryn's blessed incense as it burns.

Jaelia accepts Tranta's blessed incense.

Jaelia moves a small silver dragon to her left hand.

Jaelia moves a burning blessed incense to her right hand.

Lazy curls of smoke drift off of Ayrell's blessed incense.

Jaelia offers Tranta a burning blessed incense.

Tranta accepts Jaelia's blessed incense.

Jaelia puts her dragon in her spidersilk bag.

Jaelia gets a burning fragrant incense from inside her spidersilk bag.

Tranta waves some blessed incense over herself.

Jaelia waves some fragrant incense over herself.

A wisp of smoke settles around Jaelia, surrounding her with the scent of smoke.

Kintryn moves a parchment spider primer to her left hand.

Kintryn moves a burning blessed incense to her right hand.

Aluwyyn waves some blessed incense over himself.

A wisp of smoke settles around Aluwyyn, surrounding him with the scent of smoke.

Ryeka's burnt incense goes out and crumbles away.

Maraisel says, "So... I'm not sure how full we can get this altar tonight, but when we reach the Immortal in the ritual that matches the primer you hold, feel free to add it to the altar with the offering I'll be making."

Tiny puffs of smoke rise from Aluwyyn's blessed incense as it burns.

A light haze of smoke wafts off Jaelia's fragrant incense.

Ezerak's blessed incense glows faintly as it burns down.

Ryeka moves a parchment shrike primer to her right hand.

Maraisel puts her drake in her draping cloak.

Opening Prayer

Maraisel says, "Now, to begin, I would like to start by reciting a prayer. Some of you may be familiar with it. It is titled Haleer Li Seord Alyi, discovered and translated by Father Risden. If you will all bow your heads."

Jaelia kneels down.

Tiny puffs of smoke rise from Kintryn's blessed incense as it burns.

Tiny puffs of smoke rise from Aluwyyn's blessed incense as it burns.

Maraisel smiles.

Ryeka smiles, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Zalinyar opens the cover of her raccoon primer to the first page.

Ryeka kneels down.

(Maraisel bows her head in reverence.)

Ayrell kneels down.

Zalinyar studies her raccoon primer.

Miskton kneels down.

(Aluwyyn bows his head.)

Briaen bows his head in acknowledgement.

Tirost kneels down.

Tranta kneels down.

A light haze of smoke wafts off Etasia's blessed incense.

(Jaelia lowers herself and her head and glances up, then drifts her eyes back downwards in reverence.)

Maraisel recites:

   "Naen li gaenwen esar din leor,
    Rae li alyi tema esar mirser.
    Leor rae pama phofer ve li misekar,
    Naen li alyi tema albir din ri ziallar."

Tiny puffs of smoke rise from Darkewolff's blessed incense as it burns.

Zalinyar flips forward a page in her primer, creasing a page in the process.

Tirost bows his head.

Etasia bows her head in acknowledgement.

Ruea smiles.

Maraisel recites:

   "All the children do not learn,
    Of the gods you do turn.
    Learn of this dream in the end,
    All the gods you seek not to offend."

Ruea bows her head in acknowledgement.

Tranta waves some blessed incense over herself.

A wisp of smoke settles around Tranta, surrounding her with the scent of smoke.

Darkewolff throws his head back and howls!

Maraisel recites:

   "Gweld seordavcaen naen pomger halmir rema,
    Orek halmircaen kus kartaiscaen rae achor.
    Kus li thia tema hentor vi dael,
    Haleer li sword alyi ul aevir li masinyo."

Ezerak kneels down.

Jaelia gets a parchment weasel primer from inside her scrip.

Aluwyyn's blessed incense goes out and crumbles away.

Jaelia waves some fragrant incense over herself.

A wisp of smoke settles around Jaelia, surrounding her with the scent of smoke.

Jaelia moves a burning fragrant incense to her left hand.

Jaelia moves a parchment weasel primer to her right hand.

Maraisel recites:

   "Death eclipses all who come here,
    Terror comes on wings of fear.
    On the world you travel a path,
    Respect the dark gods or see the wrath."

Darkewolff bows his head in acknowledgement.

Tiny puffs of smoke rise from Ayrell's blessed incense as it burns.

(Maraisel lifts her head.)

Maraisel nods.

Tiny puffs of smoke rise from Etasia's blessed incense as it burns.

Zachriedek

Maraisel gets a crystal raccoon bead from inside her shoulder sack.

Tiny puffs of smoke rise from Kintryn's blessed incense as it burns.

Darkewolff's blessed incense goes out and crumbles away.

Jaelia's fragrant incense goes out and crumbles away.

Maraisel says, "Our first offering this evening is to Zachriedek. The dark to Divyaush's light. The shadow aspect of Kertigen."

Zalinyar studies her raccoon primer.

Lazy curls of smoke drift off of Ezerak's blessed incense.

Ezerak waves some blessed incense over himself.

A wisp of smoke settles around Ezerak, surrounding him with the scent of smoke.

Zalinyar closes her raccoon primer.

Maraisel says, "His symbol - the raccoon."

Tranta's blessed incense goes out and crumbles away.

Tiny puffs of smoke rise from Etasia's blessed incense as it burns.

Maraisel holds a crystal raccoon bead high into the air for all to see.

Jecala's blessed incense goes out and crumbles away.

Jaelia puts her primer in her scrip.

Jaelia gets a stick of fragrant incense from inside her spidersilk bag.

Jaelia gets a small silver dragon from inside her spidersilk bag.

Jaelia points her silver dragon at a stick of fragrant incense and a flame shoots from the creature's mouth, making the incense quickly catch fire.

Jaelia puts her dragon in her spidersilk bag.

Maraisel says, "Where descriptions are concerned, Zachriedek is said to be a cruel deity. The weakness in a wagon's axle that would cause it to snap in the rain. The crack of a sword as it breaks in battle. Poor conditions that cause a merchant's stock to sour. When he is angered, it is said that he sends his favored pets - the gremlins - to plague the local craftsman."

Jaelia moves a burning fragrant incense to her left hand.

Jaelia waves some fragrant incense over herself.

A wisp of smoke settles around Jaelia, surrounding her with the scent of smoke.

Darkewolff opens the cover of his shark primer to the first page.

Maraisel says, "All the more reason to show him the respect he deserves."

Kintryn's blessed incense glows faintly as it burns down.

Maraisel reverently places a crystal raccoon bead atop the wooden altar.

Aluwyyn nods in agreement.

Tiny puffs of smoke rise from Etasia's blessed incense as it burns.

Kerenhappuch

Maraisel says, "Next, we have Kerenhappuch."

Darkewolff studies his shark primer.

Maraisel gets a flowing skirt of soft mulberry silk with gold beading from inside her backpack.

Lazy curls of smoke drift off of Kintryn's blessed incense.

Maraisel holds a flowing skirt of soft mulberry silk with gold beading high into the air for all to see.

Tiny puffs of smoke rise from Jaelia's fragrant incense as it burns.

Ayrell's blessed incense goes out and crumbles away.

Tranta stands up.

Jaelia waves some fragrant incense over herself.

A wisp of smoke settles around Jaelia, surrounding her with the scent of smoke.

Maraisel says, "Kerenhappuch is the dark aspect of Meraud. The negative to Firulf's positive. Symbolized by the shrew, and known for the extraordinary skirt of rainbow hues crafted for her by Kertigen. Well... crafted by Kertigen for Hodierna, but because the Hodierna in question was actually Kerenhappuch in disguise."

Aluwyyn gazes at Maraisel.

Maraisel taps a flowing skirt of soft mulberry silk with gold beading that she is holding.

Tranta kneels down.

Etasia's blessed incense goes out and crumbles away.

Kintryn's blessed incense goes out and crumbles away.

Maraisel says, "Kerenhappuch, the red-lipped, blonde-haired beauty who is not above blackmail, extortion, or murder to get what she desires. She is said to be capable of ruthlessness to the point of destruction, and has no qualms about manipulating men to do her bidding or turning women against one another."

Lazy curls of smoke drift off of Jaelia's fragrant incense.

Maraisel says, "To spare us her wrath, we make our offering today."

(Maraisel places the skirt in front of the altar.)

Maraisel's eyes glisten with a strange red light.

Maraisel drops a flowing skirt of soft mulberry silk with gold beading.

Tirost drops an ebony shrew totem.

(Miskton places his primer on the altar as well.)

Miskton drops a parchment shrew primer.

Ruea smiles.

Miskton continues praying.

Dergati

Maraisel says, "Next - Dergati."

A pair of spectral fiery wings flicker into view around Maraisel, stretching outward in a graceful arc before fading away once more.

Maraisel gets a maple shrike bead from inside her shoulder sack.

Maraisel holds a maple shrike bead high into the air for all to see.

A light haze of smoke wafts off Jaelia's fragrant incense.

Maraisel says, "Dergati, the Shrike. The dark side of Damaris in opposition of Phelim's light. Sister of Kerenhappuch and known as the goddess of nightmares. Although she is rarely seen, it is said that Dergati is a black-haired beauty, marked by a third eye in the center of her forehead. She walks only at night, such is her loathing for the sun."

Ayrell smiles at Etasia.

Maraisel says, "Known as the unraveller of souls, Dergati is said to kill with slow efficiency. Death by her hand, however, allows for no resurrection. She is the "all-seeing." Impatient with incompetence and prepared to kill, without warning, anyone who would act foolishly in front of her."

Jaelia's fragrant incense glows faintly as it burns down.

Maraisel says, "To show we are not fools, we offer our respect."

Aluwyyn nods in agreement.

(Maraisel places the bead with the skirt in front of the altar.)

Darkewolff nods.

Maraisel drops a maple shrike bead.

Menthu nods in agreement.

Menthu kneels down and begins to pray.

Trothfang

Maraisel says, "Next we have the Centaur - Trothfang."

(Zalinyar blushes as she realizes her primer should have been placed on the altar at the mention of Zachriedek and quickly but reverently places her primer by the others)

Maraisel gets a Trothfang fire pepper from inside her shoulder sack.

Maraisel holds a Trothfang fire pepper high into the air for all to see.

Aluwyyn smiles at Zalinyar.

Jaelia's fragrant incense goes out and crumbles away.

Maraisel says, "Trothfang is the darkness of Everild. Even darker still to the light of Kuniyo. Wild and untamed, he despises civilization, his bloody wars the cause of death to thousands. Deaths at his hand are slow, messy, and torturous, and he thrives on drinking the fresh blood of the fallen. Those who challenge him are often faced with slow dismemberment prior to their death - and it is even said that he is known to devour the flesh in front of particularly hated victims while they die, then ripping their heart out to consume it as well."

Maraisel says, "It is said Trothfang has no honor in combat and loves to see cities fall. To avoid this fate, we make this offering today."

(Maraisel reverently places the pepper in front of the altar.)

Maraisel drops a Trothfang fire pepper.

Etasia drops a parchment centaur primer.

Aluwyyn nods in agreement.

Etasia kneels down and begins to pray.

Huldah

Maraisel says, "Moving along, we now come to Huldah."

Maraisel gets a Huldah's surprise cake from inside her shoulder sack.

Maraisel holds a Huldah's surprise cake high into the air for all to see.

Maraisel says, "Symbolized by the weasel, Huldah is the black to Alamhif's white. The negative to Truffenyi's neutral."

Jaelia gets a parchment weasel primer from inside her scrip.

Maraisel says, "Known also by the terms of imp, trickster, and fouler of best laid plans, Huldah is a schemer whose ideas appear grand at first only to sour soon after. He creates storms composed of magic instead of lightning and poses danger to any who seek to reason with him. Huldah despises mortals, delighting in seeing that which is pure become despoiled, preferably by an act of his own hand."

Maraisel says, "To evade such acts, we honor Huldah today."

The vibrant blue nimbus fades from around Maraisel.

(Jaelia folds her primer, kisses it gently while whispering a short prayer, and lays it at the base of the altar.)

(Maraisel places the cake with the other items in front of the altar.)

Maraisel drops a Huldah's surprise cake.

Jaelia drops a parchment weasel primer.

Aldauth

Maraisel says, "The next, I will count as our halfway point for this ritual. The Vulture - Aldauth."

Maraisel gets a vulture heart from inside her shoulder sack.

Ruea smiles.

Maraisel holds a vulture heart high into the air for all to see.

(Mendira steps forward to place her primer at the base of the altar beside the other items, her head bowed.)

Ryeka drops a parchment shrike primer.

Jaelia gets some burnt incense from inside her spidersilk bag.

Jaelia gets a small silver dragon from inside her spidersilk bag.

Maraisel says, "Aldauth is the dark aspect of Urrem'tier, balanced by the light of Eylhaar. He is the faceless god of agony, both feared and worshiped by sadists. Deaths at his hand are always painful, his victims kicking and screaming their way to his void. He is said to taunt and trick people out of their lives and enjoys seeing people die in foolish ways. A scavenger, Aldauth is said to ghost along battlefields at the end of long campaigns just to wring the last ounce of pain from the dying."

Jaelia points her silver dragon at some burnt incense and a flame shoots from the creature's mouth, making the incense quickly catch fire.

Mendira drops a parchment weasel primer.

Jaelia waves.

Jaelia waves some burnt incense over herself.

A wisp of smoke settles around Jaelia, surrounding her with the scent of smoke.

Etasia stands up.

Maraisel says, "To spare our people from that pain, we pray to Aldauth today."

Etasia bows her head in acknowledgement.

Maraisel says, "And, as the time feels right, I will now take a moment to further our respect to Aldauth with a recitation of The Chant of Aldauth, by Rashahaverik DeBarsaive."

Maraisel recites:

   "I am the steel that cuts you deep.
    I am the foe that makes you weep.
    I am the help that never comes.
    I am the life-line made undone.
    I am the bolt that strikes from high.
    I am the pain that never dies.
    I am the flame that burns the flesh.
    I am the woe that gives no rest."

Menthu bows to a carved wooden altar.

Tiny puffs of smoke rise from Jaelia's burnt incense as it burns.

Maraisel recites:

   "When death comes slowly,
    Look for I,
    And see my visage by your side."

Maraisel recites:

   "I am the wound that bleeds you slow.
    I am the cure that no one knows.
    I am the poison in your cup.
    I am the fever that runs amok.
    I am the cloud that blocks the sun.
    I am the reason that you run."

Maraisel recites:

   "When death comes slowly,
    Look for I,
    And see my visage by your side."

Jaelia's burnt incense goes out and crumbles away.

(Maraisel places the vulture heart with the other items before the altar.)

Maraisel drops a vulture heart.

Menthu just kissed a carved wooden altar!

Maraisel gives a slight nod.

Maraisel says, "Moving on..."

Maraisel smiles.

Jaelia bends forward and kisses a carved wooden altar.

Jaelia looks up and sighs, smiling.

Jaelia nods to Maraisel.

Ushnish

Maraisel gets a viper skin from inside her backpack.

Jaelia gets some burnt incense from inside her spidersilk bag.

Jaelia points her silver dragon at some burnt incense and a flame shoots from the creature's mouth, making the incense quickly catch fire.

Jaelia waves her incense over a carved wooden altar. Wisps of smoke slowly settle down onto the wooden altar before quickly fading away.

Jaelia looks up and sighs, smiling.

Maraisel holds a viper skin high into the air for all to see.

Maraisel says, "Ushnish, the Viper. Dark of Hav'roth and Peri'el's light. Known as the "Serpent of Discord," he brings disease, old age, ice ages, floods, and famines. His anger is what causes lava to flow and the World Dragon to explore up and out. His tantrums are known to cause earthquakes - and to save us from this fate..."

Elizzibiana clicks her claws together.

Maraisel says, "We pay homage to Ushnish today."

(Maraisel adds the viper skin with the other items in front of the altar.)

Maraisel drops a viper skin.

(Elizzibiana slowly kisses her primer and respectfully places it at the altar)

Drogor

Maraisel gets a sharkskin hide from inside her backpack.

Elizzibiana drops a parchment viper primer.

Maraisel holds a sharkskin hide high into the air for all to see.

Darkewolff glances at a parchment shark primer.

Tiny puffs of smoke rise from Jaelia's burnt incense as it burns.

Maraisel says, "As many of you may have guessed by the offering, our next Immortal to speak on is Drogor. The Shark. Dark to Lemicus's Light, for all the neutrality of Eluned."

(Tranta gently places her offering on the altar)

Tranta drops a parchment viper primer.

Darkewolff nods.

Jaelia waves some burnt incense over herself.

A wisp of smoke settles around Jaelia, surrounding her with the scent of smoke.

Maraisel says, "God of the angry oceans and creator of hurricanes and tsunamis, Drogor is known to take his anger out on hapless mortals who dare set foot in his waters. He is the drowner of children and destroyer of knowledge."

Motes of glimmering cerulean light trail from the orb as it hovers placidly near Maraisel.

Jaelia puts her incense in her spidersilk bag.

Maraisel says, "To retain our knowledge and avoid Drogor's floods, we give this unto him today."

Jaelia gets a tall silvery altar candle from inside her spidersilk bag.

(Maraisel places the hide with the other items at the altar.)

(Darkewolff places his primer at the altar reverently.)

Maraisel drops a sharkskin hide.

Jaelia points her silver dragon at a tall silvery altar candle and a flame shoots from the creature's mouth, making the candle quickly catch fire.

Aluwyyn's large eyes drift, scanning the area with an intense yet aimless gaze.

Darkewolff drops a parchment shark primer.

Jaelia drops a burning altar candle.

Be'ort

Maraisel asks, "So what, then, can we say of Be'ort?"

Jaelia gets some burning burnt incense from inside her spidersilk bag.

Jaelia waves some burnt incense over herself.

A wisp of smoke settles around Jaelia, surrounding her with the scent of smoke.

Tirost frowns slightly - a strange expression touches his features as if he is momentarily lost in a memory.

Zalinyar grins, revealing her dimples.

Ryeka nods.

Maraisel gets a maple coyote bead from inside her shoulder sack.

Maraisel holds a maple coyote bead high into the air for all to see.

Jaelia sings in a soprano voice:

   "Every rose has it thorn..."

Zalinyar gets a glass goblet of darkefire rum with silver varked flames from inside her firesilk backpack.

Kintryn smiles at Tirost.

Raising her darkefire rum to Jaelia, Zalinyar gives her a toast.

Zalinyar takes a sip of her rum.

Maraisel says, "Symbolized by the coyote. Shadow to Saemaus's light in the line of Glythtide. The god of bitter partings, lost love, opportunities wasted, and insanity."

Maraisel says, "Be'ort is said to be the rain on a wedding day and the wine that turns to vinegar before a party. He despises revelry and wallows in melancholy, specializing in wars of attrition, such as the Elven-Human War. When he appears, he is seen as being wild-eyed with mussed hair and giggling just a bit oddly. His wrath ensures his victims' relationships sour, then moving to the destruction of their professional status, and then - when his victim has sunk in life to their absolute lowest - he snaps their mind."

Tirost glances at Kintryn.

Tirost smiles.

Maraisel says, "To protect our minds and our hearts, we beseech Be'ort to hear us pray today."

(Jecala raises her primer to her lips and adds it to the pile at the altar with a quiet prayer)

Aluwyyn winces.

Jecala drops a parchment coyote primer.

(Maraisel reverently places the bead at the base of the altar.)

Maraisel drops a maple coyote bead.

Harawep

Maraisel gets a twilight-blue nightshade blossom from inside her draping cloak.

Maraisel says, "The spider, Harawep."

Maraisel holds a twilight-blue nightshade blossom high into the air for all to see.

(Kintryn places the primer near the altar)

Kintryn drops a parchment spider primer.

Maraisel says, "Dark of Tamsine's neutral and darker still to the light of Albreda, Harawep is the disrupter of peace treaties among races and nations. The destroyer of families, augur of disloyalty, and turner of children against parents, clan against clan. She is a vicious warrior who fights with twin swords. A hag, who moves swifter than any eye can follow."

Maraisel says, "Wielder of lightning, Harawep's capricious will causes unstoppable forest fires that destroy entire settlements. Though some of her ways may be abrupt and obvious, she is also known as a weaver of deception, brandishing it as well as she does destruction. Also known as "the Widowmaker," she forms plots and schemes that are as intricate as the web of her favored spiders."

(Jaelia continues her soft prayers mixed with a gentle humming as she continues to shift her gaze from between the altar, a glance up, then back down in respect and reverence)

Maraisel says, "So to escape her web and spare the peace of our city - to Harawep, let us pray."

Menthu prays fervently.

A finger of flame leaps up from an altar candle on the floor.

Aluwyyn kneels down and begins to pray.

Menthu drops a luscious red apple with a glossy sheen.

Menthu bows to a carved wooden altar.

(Maraisel gently rests the nightshade blossom with the other items near the altar.)

Ryeka continues praying fervently.

Maraisel drops a twilight-blue nightshade blossom.

Aluwyyn stands up.

Botolf

Maraisel gets a maple goshawk bead from inside her shoulder sack.

Maraisel holds a maple goshawk bead high into the air for all to see.

Kintryn ponders.

A golden flame wavers across the tip of an altar candle on the floor.

Maraisel says, "We then have Botolf. The Goshawk. Chadatru's dark side in contrast to Rutilor as his light."

Ryeka stands up.

Jaelia gets a stick of fragrant incense from inside her spidersilk bag.

Ryeka reaches out and touches a carved wooden altar.

Ryeka shivers slightly.

Maraisel says, "Botolf is the god of dishonesty and deceit. The symbol of corruption and bribery. The god of fallen Paladins, and known to manifest in tarnished armor in need of polish. His blessings are what cause murderers to go free and thieves to be released with all damages paid by the victim who prosecuted them."

Jaelia points her silver dragon at a stick of fragrant incense and a flame shoots from the creature's mouth, making the incense quickly catch fire.

Jaelia waves some fragrant incense over herself.

A wisp of smoke settles around Jaelia, surrounding her with the scent of smoke.

Ryeka gets some burnt incense from inside her spidersilk backpack.

A finger of flame leaps up from an altar candle on the floor.

Tirost glances at Ryeka.

Maraisel says, "We seek to maintain the peace of our city, avoid corruption, and minimize deceit. For that, we honor Botolf."

Ryeka kneels down.

Ryeka gets a ruby-eyed cinder beast with glittering black diamond claws from inside her spidersilk backpack.

(Maraisel places the bead with the others by the altar.)

Aluwyyn nods.

Maraisel says, "Two more."

Tiny puffs of smoke rise from Jaelia's fragrant incense as it burns.

Maraisel smiles.

Tirost nods to Kintryn.

Jaelia waves some fragrant incense over herself.

A wisp of smoke settles around Jaelia, surrounding her with the scent of smoke.

Jaelia puts her incense in her spidersilk bag.

A finger of flame leaps up from an altar candle on the floor.

Jaelia gets a tall silvery altar candle from inside her spidersilk bag.

Ryeka points her cinder beast at some burnt incense and a flame shoots from the creature's mouth, making the incense quickly catch fire.

Idon

Maraisel gets a tambourine from inside her shoulder sack.

Ryeka puts her beast in her spidersilk backpack.

Jaelia points her silver dragon at a tall silvery altar candle and a flame shoots from the creature's mouth, making the candle quickly catch fire.

Jaelia waves some altar candle over herself.

Etasia smiles softly at Maraisel

Maraisel holds a tambourine high into the air for all to see.

Jaelia waves some altar candle over herself.

Maraisel says, "A Ten'ra Agalith would not be complete without a tribute to Idon. The heron - dark aspect of Faenella in contrast to her light aspect, Murrula."

Jaelia nods.

Jaelia drops a burning altar candle.

Jaelia gets a burning fragrant incense from inside her spidersilk bag.

Jaelia waves some fragrant incense over herself.

A wisp of smoke settles around Jaelia, surrounding her with the scent of smoke.

Maraisel says, "Also known as the "reaver," Idon is a god of roving bands of thieves and rakish rogues who love and leave women. He is also the god of mothers who abandon their children to continue a life "without burden." It is said he is obsessed with his own good looks and turns those he believes to outshine him into pigs."

A golden flame wavers across the tip of an altar candle on the floor.

Maraisel says, "Along with his vanity, Idon is also known for his charisma and charm. His nature is lustful, his music loud and wild, and it is said all percussion instruments are a creation of his."

Maraisel taps a tambourine that she is holding.

Jaelia smiles at Maraisel.

Maraisel grins.

A light haze of smoke wafts off Ryeka's burnt incense.

Aluwyyn raises an eyebrow.

Maraisel says, "Idon appears as a black-haired, blue-eyed youth, lean, and muscular. Although he is not known for his fighting prowess, his ability at catching people unawares with an ambush is second only to Damaris."

Jaelia waves some fragrant incense over herself.

A wisp of smoke settles around Jaelia, surrounding her with the scent of smoke.

Maraisel says, "To spare us from the reaver and any ambush he may set, we make this offering today."

(Maraisel places the tambourine with the other offerings.)

Briaen gazes at his knife.

A light haze of smoke wafts off Ryeka's burnt incense.

Tirost glances at Briaen.

A golden flame wavers across the tip of an altar candle on the floor.

Menthu continues praying fervently.

Etasia bows her head in acknowledgement.

Maraisel says, "Now..."

Zalinyar gets a tall bottle of crude sugar-cane rum from inside her beverage holster.

A light haze of smoke wafts off Jaelia's fragrant incense.

Asketi

Maraisel gets a maple adder bead from inside her shoulder sack.

Zalinyar puts her rum in her beverage holster.

Jaelia waves some fragrant incense over herself.

A wisp of smoke settles around Jaelia, surrounding her with the scent of smoke.

Zalinyar puts her primer in her firesilk backpack.

Zalinyar takes off a small dragon charm.

Jaelia puts her dragon in her spidersilk bag.

Ryeka waves her incense over a carved wooden altar. Wisps of smoke slowly settle down onto the wooden altar before quickly fading away.

Ryeka looks up and sighs, smiling.

Zalinyar weaves the dragon charm through a convoluted series of gestures. A glass goblet of darkefire rum with silver varked flames appears in her left hand!

Maraisel says, "I saved the Adder, Asketi, for last - for a reason. That being... her wrath is the one we have all suffered through, a time or two - or ten - and deserves a special place in this ritual."

Zalinyar puts on a small dragon charm.

Maraisel holds a maple adder bead high into the air for all to see.

Zalinyar moves a glass goblet of darkefire rum with silver varked flames to her right hand.

Jaelia grins at Maraisel.

Aluwyyn nods in agreement.

Maraisel says, "Asketi is the dark of Hodierna and darker still of Berengaria. The "hag," known also as the stealer of children, the wild mistress of barren fields and the midnight hunt. She is the master of the North Wind and delights in causing pain and terror in the lands. I won't say "it is said" because we all know that on the darkest night of the year, Asketi rides on the backs of hideous black unicorns and carves a bloody path through any city that has failed to venerate her the most. Asketi is the stealer of life, and carries a rough burlap sack at her hip in which to carry the souls of those she has killed."

Etasia bows her head in acknowledgement.

Jaelia prays fervently.

Tiny puffs of smoke rise from Ryeka's burnt incense as it burns.

An altar candle on the floor crackles as a spark rises from it.

Briaen gazes upward.

Aluwyyn shudders.

Maraisel says, "As the time of Asketi's Ride draws near, it is imperative we show her we have not forgotten her. That we wish to appease her and honor her, with all the other Immortals, and the respect her power commands."

A finger of flame leaps up from an altar candle on the floor.

Tiny puffs of smoke rise from Ryeka's burnt incense as it burns.

Maraisel gets a large sack from inside her backpack.

Maraisel holds a large sack high into the air for all to see.

Jaelia nods to Maraisel.

Maraisel says, "With these offerings in hand, I will close my portion of the ritual with a final prayer. Another of which some of you may be familiar, titled "Asketi's Respect," by an unknown poet."

(Briaen silently removes a steel knife from his belt. He gazes at the blade for a long moment, contemplating a multitude of choices, their causes and outcomes. Taking a short breath he quickly grips the blade with his other hand, grimacing as he pulls the knife's blade along his palm. Gazing at the offerings, he steps forward and allows the wound to drip before the altar as he walks a circle. Finally coming to where he started, he returns the knife to his belt and folds his hands before him, his head bowed.)

Etasia gazes at Maraisel.

A light haze of smoke wafts off Ryeka's burnt incense.

Maraisel recites:

   "Asketi, thou who must take,
    To meet the balance of all life,
    May I another morning wake,
    And it yet be another's strife."

Maraisel recites:

   "But when the black unicorn,
    Must come to take me for my ride,
    Let not my soul find scorn,
    When my midnight wind wails and sighs."

Jaelia gazes upward.

Briaen bows his head in acknowledgement.

Maraisel recites:

   "As barren fields grow again,
    And souls retrace the Road,
    Immortals send me mercy's rain,
    Asketi keep me not in her abode!"

Ruea smiles.

(Ezerak adds his primer to the offerings.)

Ezerak drops a parchment spider primer.

(Maraisel steps forward to place the sack and the bead with the other items in front of the altar.)

Maraisel drops a large sack.

Maraisel drops a maple adder bead.

(Aluwyyn raises his adder primer high up toward the night sky before slowly lowering it and laying it reverently at the base of the altar.)

Maraisel begins to dance, her eyes tightly shut and her head thrown back.

Ezerak drops a parchment heron primer.

Aluwyyn drops a parchment adder primer.

Maraisel dances, seeking the attentions of her deity.

Tirost gazes silently at Maraisel.

Maraisel dances so flawlessly you find yourself catching your breath, tears in your eyes as the performance all too soon comes to an end. Maraisel looks up and sighs, smiling.

An altar candle on the floor burns with a comforting glow.

Menthu looks at Maraisel and applauds!

Various tones and shades of blue wash over the cerulean orb floating near Maraisel, illuminating the surroundings in the full scale of rich, oceanic hues.

Aluwyyn praises Maraisel.

Open Floor

Maraisel says, "At this time, we will open the floor to any who wish to add their prayers to this occasion. Prayers, poems, stories... anything you like that may further show the Immortals our care."

Tirost stands up.

Briaen exhales softly on his sanowret crystal, and scintillating sparks of light dance across its surface.

(Jaelia rises slowly, flicking her eyes upwards. She seems lost in thought as she begins to continue a soft humming melody.)

Aluwyyn casually observes the area.

An altar candle on the floor burns with a comforting glow.

Ryeka's burnt incense glows faintly as it burns down.

Maraisel asks Tirost, "I believe I heard you had something to say?"

An altar candle on the floor crackles as a spark rises from it.

Maraisel says, "We will take turns."

Maraisel grins.

Tirost asks Maraisel, "I have prepared a poem, if it would be appropriate?"

Kintryn smiles at Tirost.

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

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

Maraisel smiles at Tirost.

Maraisel nods to Tirost.

Tirost nods.

Maraisel says to Tirost, "The floor is yours."

Maraisel smiles.

Jaelia beams at Tirost!

Aluwyyn gazes at Tirost.

Maraisel nods to Jaelia.

Aluwyyn appears to be listening intently for something.

(Tirost comes to stand before the altar, uttering a few quiet words, before turning to face those assembled.)

A golden flame wavers across the tip of an altar candle on the floor.

Tirost gets a votive candle from inside his storyteller's bag.

Tirost touches a votive candle with a glowing finger, and it quickly catches fire.

Briaen gazes at Tirost.

Tirost chants in a baritone voice:

   "Sing, heavenly muse, whose spirit of
    Divine fire traverses all that is
    Seen and unseen, e'en to the foundations
    Of the world."

An altar candle on the floor crackles as a spark rises from it.

Tiny puffs of smoke rise from Ryeka's burnt incense as it burns.

Tirost chants in a baritone voice:

   "Remind us, with your far-reaching gaze,
    That passes over the hills and vales of time,
    Of the wrath of the gods, whom we neglected
    In the indolence wrought by glutting
    Ourselves on wealth, and imbibing - to the
    Point of heedless drunkenness - from the
    Cup of power."

Tirost chants in a baritone voice:

   "For in those ancient days, respect gave way
    To pride, even as the warm-burning log,
    Gives way to ash. Let us now keep the faith,
    As true stewards of this glorious creation
    In which we have been entrusted -
    Emissaries of the gods and goddesses
    From whom the wonders of nature spring,
    And the mysteries of the cosmos become known."

Tiny puffs of smoke rise from Ryeka's burnt incense as it burns.

(Tirost's silver-flecked crystal blue eyes shine in the light of a votive candle.)

Tirost's votive candle sputters as it burns.

Tirost chants in a baritone voice:

   "Let us respect those generative
    Impulses of desire, greed and destruction,
    Which justly frighten us, and lead to
    Inexorable ruin. For only
    By knowing the darkness can we enjoy
    The glory of the light."

Tirost chants in a baritone voice:

   "And so, desirous Kerenhappuch,
    And all your chthonian cohort,
    Accept our sacrifices and deep respect.
    We acknowledge your terrible power
    And honor you and your role in the
    Sad beauty of our existence."

A column of smoke trails off Tirost's votive candle.

Tirost traces a geometric sigil in the air.

(Tirost's voice fades from the area, leaving in its absence a momentary silence.)

A tongue of colorless flame erupts from Tirost's hand, and the votive candle that he is holding explodes in a splash of black sparks! The ebon embers of the candle are quickly and utterly consumed as the Blackfire fades.

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

A wisp of spectral fire sweeps about Maraisel briefly.

Aluwyyn smiles at Tirost.

Aluwyyn praises Tirost.

(Etasia applauds quietly)

Maraisel praises Tirost.

Kintryn smiles at Tirost.

Mendira smiles at Tirost.

(Tirost turns and bows before the altar, before coming to stand beside Kintryn.)

(Ayrell offers a quiet applause)

Ruea smiles.

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

Maraisel smiles.

Kintryn says to Tirost, "Very beautiful and well put."

Aluwyyn softly says, "I have a modest prayer to Asketi if we have time."

Tirost smiles at Kintryn.

Maraisel asks Aluwyyn, "Would you like to be next?"

(Jaelia offers a small smile to Tirost and makes a sign of appreciation before kissing her fingers and touching them to a burning candle.)

Maraisel nods to Aluwyyn.

Aluwyyn smiles.

Ryeka's burnt incense goes out and crumbles away.

Etasia gazes at Aluwyyn.

Maraisel says to Tirost, "Excellent job, thank you."

Maraisel nods politely to Tirost.

An altar candle on the floor burns with a comforting glow.

Aluwyyn nods.

Aluwyyn clears his throat.

Aluwyyn gazes upward.

Aluwyyn recites:

   "Mistress of the night
    Stealer of children
    Delighter in murder and mayhem
    She who wields scythe
    And chill winds alike
    I offer words of recognition
    To appease your craven desires"

Aluwyyn recites:

   "Look upon my simple offering with favor
    Know that my devotion to
    Your lighter and neutral aspects
    Is by no means meant
    To slight you, your existence
    Or power"

Tirost smiles at Jaelia and Maraisel, before turning his attention to Aluwyyn.

Aluwyyn recites:

   "Aketi. Your name I speak in trepidation
    I join my voice with these gathered here
    To offer you, if not my devotion
    At the very least my respect"

Aluwyyn recites:

   "When next you ride, upon your midnight steed, remember
    The humility shown here this evening
    Within the walls of the Crystal City"

Aluwyyn inhales a great swallow of air.

An altar candle on the floor crackles as a spark rises from it.

(Aluwyyn bows his head quietly for a few moments)

Aluwyyn slowly empties his lungs.

Aluwyyn's large eyes drift, scanning the area with an intense yet aimless gaze.

Aluwyyn nods.

Raising her darkefire rum to Aluwyyn, Zalinyar gives him a toast.

Etasia rubs her signet ring.

Zalinyar continues to praise Aluwyyn.

Zalinyar takes a sip of her rum.

Maraisel smiles.

Aluwyyn smiles shyly.

Maraisel applauds.

Etasia smiles at Aluwyyn, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Etasia applauds.

Mendira smiles at Aluwyyn.

An altar candle on the floor crackles as a spark rises from it.

Maraisel says to Aluwyyn, "Very well done."

Mendira applauds.

Aluwyyn smiles.

Ryeka smiles, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

(Jaelia makes a nod of grateful acknowledgement to Aluwyyn and she smiles enough to crinkle the edges of her eyes before returning her gaze back to the altar.)

Aluwyyn gives a gracious nod.

Maraisel asks, "I know Jaelia wished to speak at the end, but is there anyone else who wished to say something?"

A golden flame wavers across the tip of an altar candle on the floor.

Maraisel casually observes the area.

Maraisel smiles.

Maraisel nods.

Jaelia stands up.

Maraisel says to Jaelia, "The floor is yours."

Aluwyyn gazes at Jaelia.

An altar candle on the floor crackles as a spark rises from it.

Etasia gazes at Jaelia.

Menthu glances about furtively as he draws his nightsilk wings around him like a shroud.

Jaelia says, "Before I begin, these are my meditations upon the Dark Immortals - all experience faith differently. If you wish to share beyond what I share today through sermon and preaching song, please feel free when it completes, especially if you feel compelled and I hope you will. Thank you, Shard, for Hosting this."

Jaelia stops listening to Briaen.

Jaelia intones:

   "Many feel the Dark Immortals are to be feared, are spoiled divine beings set loose to terrorize and tempt us, to be depraved and appeased and sacraficed so that we may make them "feel powerful and respected" or variations of this. While there are elements of truth to this, this is a very simplistic idea and is akin go a child's scary stories of monsters."

Jaelia intones:

   "Instead, what the Dark Immortals teach us is several things, light and dark are a cycle that forever lead and bleed into each other, and are needed for balance in our aspects of life and to grow, and why the Primary Aspects are Neutral. Also, I often find the Dark Immortals to be the ones who reach down to us when we are at our lowest, and/or are falling, and things have shunned us because our own hubris or stupidity, and they will teach us lessons, and they will hurt, but this is because it makes us stronger."

Jaelia intones:

   "There are times we used to think the Dark Immortals attacking us with their "strange creatures" should be worshipped and prayed to in hopes if we appeased them to make them go away and worship these gifts. Is it possible the gift might be that the Dark Immortal are giving us insight, and like in a forge, are honing the weapons and our wisdom so that we will be stronger as individuals and as a community together?"

Jaelia intones:

   "Yes, they say, give us your passions, give into your passions, be a base impulse animal, be lower, be like a demon compelled by your darkest desires. And you can debase yourself, or you can own your pain, your struggles and become YOU - and be stronger and rise up and reclaim your life and the pain and come out stronger and better for it. We offer you this gift, can you rise from the dregs to claim it? Or are you unworthy of your gifts as even a base mortal and cannot rise any higher, then we shall let you wallow in your filth. We gave you the gifts of life and choice - so what will you do with those and are you worthy of these gifts?"

Jaelia intones:

   "And if you are, will you waste them away in depravity or will you raise yourself up. If there is any true Transendence, this is how we accomplish it. By overcoming our internal base impulses and finding peace. Not by living a life where we choose, and subjigate others to suffer the consequences of our actions, thereby freeing us from them so we may live as superiors. These are teh actions of demons, and the sweet lies and promises they offer, but will never keep and  giving up our gifts of life and choice to serve as they will - and to lock away everything for eternal torment. The Dark Immortals are your best friends. Learn to appreciate and be grateful to them, and remember them in your acts of offering, service, action and devotion. "

(Jaelia gazes upward and flings her arms open and offers and loud yell of gratitude towards the Darkness.)

Jaelia intones:

   "In the depths of the night, when shadows loom,
     We embark on a journey, through the dark and gloom
     A path filled with trials, where doubts reside,
     But it's in this darkness, our strength does hide."

Jaelia looks up and sighs, smiling.

Etasia gazes at Jaelia.

Jaelia intones:

   "We wander through the abyss, uncertain and afraid,
     Yet our faith keeps us going, not willing to trade,
     For it's in these moments, we learn to fight,
     Embrace the darkness, and seek the light."

Jaelia intones:

   "Through the darkness, we find our way,
     It's the trials we face that lead us to a brighter day.
     With each step we take, we grow stronger still,
     In the depths of the night, we find our will."

A finger of flame leaps up from an altar candle on the floor.

Jaelia intones:

   "In the shadows, we stumble and we fall,
     But it's through these struggles, we stand tall.
     For the stars shine brightest in the darkest night,
     And our wounds heal, revealing our might."

Jaelia intones:

   "Let us not fear the blackness that surrounds,
     For it is in the silence, our true selves are found.
     The darkness is a canvas, waiting to be painted,
     With the colors of hope, faith, and love unabated."

(Jaelia gathers a soft handful of fine deepest black powder, she fills it in her hands, and crystaline indigo sprinkled throughout. She blows softly, then tosses it into the air. The winds pick it up and offer a comforting shadowy haze throughout the room.)

Menthu gazes intently into his sanowret crystal, and scintillating sparks of light dance across its surface.

Jaelia intones:

   "Through the darkness, we find our way,
     It's the trials we face that lead us to a brighter day.
     With each step we take, we grow stronger still,
     In the depths of the night, we find our will."

A finger of flame leaps up from an altar candle on the floor.

An altar candle on the floor crackles as a spark rises from it.

(Jaelia begins to slowly move in utter rapture and delight.)

Jaelia intones:

   "And when we reach the light, it shines so bright,
     Illuminating our souls with its radiant might.
     But we'll remember the darkness, the lessons it taught,
     For without its guidance, our growth would be naught."

Jaelia begins to dance, her eyes tightly shut and her head thrown back.

Jaelia intones:

   "We wander through the abyss, uncertain and afraid,
     Yet our faith keeps us going, not willing to trade,
     For it's in these moments, we learn to fight,
     Embrace the darkness, and seek the light."

Jaelia dances, seeking the attentions of her deity.

Aluwyyn gazes at Jaelia.

Jaelia intones:

   "Through the darkness, we find our way,
     It's the trials we face that lead us to a brighter day.
     With each step we take, we grow stronger still,
     In the depths of the night, we find our will."

Jaelia dances so flawlessly you find yourself catching your breath, tears in your eyes as the performance all too soon comes to an end.

Jaelia looks up and sighs, smiling.

Menthu nods in agreement.

Etasia looks at Jaelia and applauds!

Aluwyyn praises Jaelia.

Jaelia intones:

   "So let us embrace the shadows without fear,
     For it is through darkness that our purpose becomes clear.
     In this journey of life, we'll walk hand in hand,
     Knowing that darkness reveals the light, as we understand."

An altar candle on the floor crackles as a spark rises from it.

Tranta praises Jaelia.

Menthu looks at Jaelia and applauds!

Jaelia smiles darkly with a hint of knowing gleaming in her eyes. She shifts her gaze out towards the crowd, and steps forward.

Aluwyyn applauds.

Raising her darkefire rum to Jaelia, Zalinyar gives her a toast.

Etasia beams at Jaelia!

Jaelia says, "Make your statements, share your faith, do them now, in this place of grace."

Darkewolff nods to Jaelia.

Jaelia says, "Speak the aloud for the Dark Ones to Hear, do not live in sorrow and fear."

Ryeka looks at Jaelia and applauds!

Ryeka smiles, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

(Jaelia steps aside and lowers back to her kneeling postion)

Jaelia kneels down.

Maraisel applauds.

Maraisel smiles.

An altar candle on the floor burns with a comforting glow.

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

Ayrell applauds.

Mendira smiles at Jaelia.

Tirost softly says to Jaelia, "Beautifully performed, Mother Jaelia."

Ezerak applauds.

Maraisel says to Jaelia, "Thank you. That was very moving."

Maraisel nods to Jaelia.

Aluwyyn nods in agreement.

Ruea smiles at Jaelia.

Etasia nods in agreement.

Darkewolff smiles at Jaelia.

Tranta looks at Jaelia and applauds!

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

Kintryn smiles at Jaelia.

Miskton smiles at Jaelia.

(Jaelia gazes out towards those gathered and looks at each individually.)

Tranta smiles at Jaelia.

Maraisel says to Ayrell, "In that case, I'll turn it back over to you."

Aluwyyn's large eyes drift, scanning the area with an intense yet aimless gaze.

Maraisel grins at Ayrell.

Ayrell smiles.

Aluwyyn gazes at Ayrell.

Jaelia nods.

Conclusion

Ayrell says, "I believe that brings this Ten'ra Agalith to a close. On behalf of the Ilithi Socialites, I thank you all for attending and wish you all a good evening with safe paths and sweet dreams."

Ezerak stands up.

Ayrell stands up.

Ayrell curtsies gracefully.

Jaelia smiles.

Aluwyyn applauds.

Darkewolff nods.

Ryeka stands up.

Etasia smiles at Ayrell, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Miskton applauds.

Tirost smiles at Ayrell.

Darkewolff smiles.

Ryeka bows to a carved wooden altar.

Etasia applauds.

Jaelia stands up.

Kintryn curtsies to Ayrell.

Aluwyyn praises Ayrell.

Tranta stands up.

Zalinyar applauds.

Maraisel says, "What she said."

Maraisel grins.

Aluwyyn praises Maraisel.

Mendira applauds.

Ruea smiles.

Mendira smiles at Ayrell.

Aluwyyn grins.

Jaelia applauds.