Briaen/Logs/20240906 Gathering the Steadfast

Event Name: Gathering the Steadfast

Event Instance: Prime

Real Date: 2024-09-06

Game Date of Event: 450-09-38

Point of View: Allye

[Tamsine's Rest] A shady clump of sicle saplings cluster around a large, moss-encrusted fragment of pink coral. Carved into a hollow in the center of the coral landmark is a crude yet moving image of Tamsine, one of the patron goddesses of the town. Before the simple shrine is a low limestone bench, where the weary traveler might take some rest in the shade, leave offerings of flowers or food, and contemplate matters of the soul and spirit.You also see a low gate and a flat rock. Also here: Firehawk Casari, Musical Enthusiast Kentara, Serial Killer Damiza who is darkened by an unnatural shadow, Veteran Apprentice Anuril who has a fiery visage, Knight of Meraud Tirost, Knight Errant Trajan, Ezathiel, Holy Vengeance Imroth, Lanahh Pejek'zhra Isaish, Khozh Elizzibiana who is shadowed by the spectral image of a grey-eyed viper formed of fire and smoke, Druid Zyros who has a stony visage, Dawnsworn Briaen who is surrounded by a corona of fiery light, Reverend Gragnel, Holy Lash Nawain who is shrouded in ghostly flames, Sister Severei, Doctor of Kittens Sukidesu who is kneeling and Enelne's Daughter Azume. Obvious paths: east. Room Number: 11691 Room Exits: go low gate Briaen says, "We will give others a few more moments to join us. Nawain has candles to distribute, if you would like one." Briaen says, "For those of you have only just arrived, welcome. The floor will be opened for any who wish to speak to this gathering. Do please let me know if you have prepared statements, prayers, or hymns." * Holy Guardian Unaka joins the adventure. Tirost asks Illiya, "Can I trouble you for healing?" You say to Nawain, "Thank you." Tirost warmly says to Illiya, "Thanks as always." Ezathiel softly says to Nawain, "I have no prayer to offer but would like a candle to show my honoring of Tamsine." Unaka quietly says, "Not right now, thank you." Briaen says, "Good evening, gathered faithful. Please take a moment to find a comfortable location to sit. Nawain is passing out candles, should you like one. If you've come prepared with statements, hymns, or prayer, do please let me know. We will begin momentarily." Zyros says, "I'd like a candle as well." Imroth says to Nawain, "I would take a candle, if I am offered." (Elurora moves to stand behind the bench.) Briaen says, "Brothers and sisters, we gather in these uncertain times, with the warmth of our hearths threatened and the safety of our homes shaken by forces beyond our understanding." Briaen says, "Once peaceful clans, where families broke bread and the fires of hearths burned brightly, now lie in ruin. Struck down by the meteors from the above, brought by the Heralds and their foul representative." Briaen strongly says, "But here, in the heart of Crossing, we stand yet unbowed." Briaen says, "Though fear tries to creep into our hearts, we will not be ruled by it. We call upon Tamsine, the gentle hand who weaves the threads of peace and protection through our lives." Unaka quietly asks, "May I have a candle?" (Nawain flinches a bit and firms her lips at some thought, then offers a lit candle to Unaka, failing to meet the 'Togs gaze.) Briaen says, "Tonight, the faithful gather in hopes that Tamsine will hear our prayers, as we uplift our voices in hopes of protection of this, the city of the Crossing. I will be calling on several of those gathered here tonight. If you have no yet let me know you wish to speak, please do so quietly as we call upon our first guest." Briaen asks Gragnel, "Reverend Durbin. If you would please?" Gragnel worriedly says, "Wolf Clan... Home..." Gragnel distractedly asks himself, "Where was I?" Gragnel says, "Oh. I remember. Tamsine." Gragnel recites: "Tamsine, sweet sister and mother. Today we bring reverance to you. You who gifted us with the idea of civilization. Gragnel recites: "Tamsine, goddess of warm hearths and comfortable homes. Today we bring celebration to your name. You who gifted us with both peace from Albreda balanced by destruction from Harawep." A golden flame wavers across the tip of Trajan's altar candle. Gragnel recites: "Tamsine, loving tutor and reverent instructor. We seek your guidence in this time of trial and test. Show us the way to preserve what we have built here in your name. Aide us in finding the path to take." Unaka quietly says to Aaiyaah, "I need to focus right now." Gragnel recites: "Tamsine, look upon us with favor today. Bring us the dove and spare us the spider. We raise our voices to you and exhalt you in our words. We, those of the faith who in your grace have given so much to." Gragnel recites: "Tamsine, hear our prayers and bless us in our deeds." Gragnel loudly says, "Thank you all." Gragnel nods to Briaen. Ezathiel nods to Gragnel. Tirost nods to Gragnel. Gragnel sits down on the limestone bench. Sukidesu nods to Gragnel. Briaen nods to Gragnel. Elurora continues to praise Gragnel. Aerilia nods to Gragnel. Unaka nods to Gragnel. Briaen says to Gragnel, "Well said. We thank you for your guidance." You smile at Gragnel. Imroth smiles at Gragnel. A golden flame wavers across the tip of Unaka's altar candle. Briaen says, "Gragnel calls upon Tamsine, to look upon us with favor. We humbled, who face dangerous and uncertain times. Let Her be praised. Let Her hear us." Sukidesu quietly says, "Tamsine be praised..." Unaka says, "Let her hear us." Briaen asks Tirost, "My old friend. Knight of Meraud. If you would please?" (Elurora cups the candle in her hands as she listens thoughtfully to the speakers.) Briaen says to Tirost, "Thank you." Briaen says, "I would ask now, just for a brief moment - for silence. As we sit still, present in this moment. I want you to envision those we may have lost in these attacks." Briaen says, "Think of the lives they may yet not live. Think of the good and grace they could have brought to each of us." (Aerilia bows her head and closes her eyes.) Unaka takes in a deep breath, closing her eyes, as her great form achieves remarkable stillness. (Sukidesu closes his eyes as he prays silently to Tamsine) Briaen upliftingly says, "Tamsine, whose fire has always been the center of many a hearth, is not only the tender mother but also the shield over our roofs and the quiet strength in our temple walls. It is by Her grace that we find the power to protect our families, to stand firm in the face of destruction." Briaen says, "We do not ask for comfort alone." Unaka's altar candle crackles as a spark rises from it. Briaen asks you, "Yet I can think of no other who would see us comforted than Cateress Karayilma. If you would, please?" Unaka gazes at you. You say, "Gracious Tamsine, keeper of the hearth and protector of home, please wrap your gentle warmth around the people of Zoluren." You say, "In their struggles, be their shelter, in their joys, be their light. Guide their hearts with your steady flame that they may find peace in your embrace." You say, "May your love guard their homes, and may your comfort fill their spirits, now and always. May we yet see the safe return of the many missing." You say, "Blessed Tamsine, watch over them with kindness and grace." (Allye lowers her candle, its flickering light cast across her somber face. She places it gently upon the bench before the shrine, pausing to gaze at the Goddess' image before returning to her seat.) Imroth solemnly says, "Tamsine protect our home." Ezathiel softly says, "Tamsine guard us." Sukidesu quietly says, "Tamsine be with us..." Briaen says, "We can but remain steadfast in our faith, in prayer, and kinship. In times such as these, it is the food of the soul." Briaen asks Nawain, "Sfarns del Dzive, if we could be graced by your words, please?" Unaka gazes at Nawain. (Nawain straightens, letting the familiar feeling of ritual give her voice a confidence she doesn't feel.) Nawain recites: "O Tamsine, Guardian of Hearth and Home, whose warmth kindles peace in mortal souls, extend Your grace over the city of Crossings." You gaze at Nawain. Briaen gazes up at the sky. Nawain recites: "Protect it and all those who find refuge within its walls from those who threaten the safety of our people." Nawain recites: "Let Your hearthflame burn strong, Gentle Mother, in every Hearth and every Heart that calls this place Home." (Elurora gazes up at the night's sky as she listens to the prayer.) Nawain recites: "In Your name, may we always find refuge and strength. In Your name."" (Nawain gazes towards the West, towards the Clans. Her eyes well with tears, and she offers, in a quieter, more urgent voice) A tear runs down Ezathiel's face. Gragnel frowns. Briaen gazes at Nawain. Nawain urgently says, "Protect them, please, Tamsine. Everyone we can't find right now. They need to be okay." Unaka nods to Nawain. Imroth solemnly says, "Tamsine protect our home." Aerilia quietly says, "Let families be reuinited." Elurora quietly says, "Please keep the innocent safe." Briaen says to Nawain, "The faith is strengthened by your resolve. By your courage. By your leadersihp. We raise our voices in concert with your plea." Ezathiel softly says, "Tamsine, let no more be lost." Briaen asks, "Is there anyone here gathered that has been moved to speak who has yet to have the chance?" Tirost quietly says to Nawain, "Thank you." Unaka quietly says, "I would speak." Elurora smiles at Unaka. Briaen nods graciously at Unaka, giving her a polite smile. Unaka stands up. Gragnel observes Unaka with fascination. Unaka's altar candle crackles as a spark rises from it. Unaka moves ponderously forward toward the image of Tamsine, directing her gaze into the hollow. Unaka takes a deep breath. Nawain gazes at Unaka. Elurora gazes at Unaka. Unaka says, "There are people out there who still live, suffering after these... encasements. The Traders who were away on business. Those visiting family. A few yet remain." Ezathiel gazes at Unaka. Nawain nods to Unaka. Sukidesu nods to Unaka. Unaka says, "Tamsine, I bid you protect these people. Lend them the warmth of your fire, a small sense of peace." A finger of flame leaps up from Unaka's altar candle. Madigan praises Unaka. Unaka says, "They feel lost. Without their homes, without their people. Tamsine, grant them a small piece of home, though you cannot fill this wound." Unaka gives a slight nod. You nod to Unaka. Briaen nods to Unaka. Unaka steps back again. (Tirost's attention is entirely held by Unaka and her words.) Briaen says to Unaka, "Thank you." Imroth solemnly says, "Tamsine give them a home." Ezathiel softly says, "Tamsine help them know they are watched over." Briaen says, "The Maul of Truffenyi reminds us of the pain of loss and uncertain. And yet calls upon the hearth as the center of healing. Let us raise our voices in collective calling for that peace, short as it may be." Kethrai quietly says, "Small piece of home..." Elurora nods to Briaen. Ezathiel softly says, "Peace." Nawain nods to Briaen. Briaen asks, "Who else is moved? Are there yet more voices amongst the faithful tonight?" Madigan takes a sip of his coffee. Briaen says, "Tamsine. Tonight we ask for your guidance, your strength, and your protection." Suddenly, you smell the scents of cinnamon and cloves, and you feel a gentle get firm squeeze on your shoulder, though when you look no one is there. The air feels heavy and honeyed, and a sense of warmth pervades you, as if you were sitting in front of a cozy fire. You hear the tinkling sound of laughter around you. Sukidesu quietly says, "Mother...we feel you..." Briaen passionately says, "As meteors fall and destruction looms, we invoke Tamsine s steadfast love to shelter us and this city. Let her spirit be the bulwark that no flame can breach, the wind that diverts the darkest clouds, and the silent hand that mends all that is broken. Let us call out to her now, that her watchful eye might see our need and preserve our home." A shimmering, silvery cat materializes before you, padding softly across the ground. Looking aimless at first, it wanders its way toward Unaka and slips around her her ankles, luxuriously pulling itself between and around both feet in little circles. Unaka bends down to scratch the cat's ears, but it skips behind her legs and vanishes without a trace. Unaka blinks. Elurora blinks. Kerennya grins at Unaka. Gragnel glances at Unaka. Ruea says, "Oh..." You smile at Unaka. Kethrai quietly says to Unaka, "We won't tell Truffenyi if you won't." Sukidesu quietly says, "Perhaps it is true that Tamsine is Truffenyi's consort." Unaka looks surprised a moment as the cat appears again, its tail brushing against her calf. It casually extracts itself and walks through the area, wending its way around the gatherers. Looking down, you find yourself staring into the cat's eyes, and for a moment you see a glimmer of stars. You hear a voice, "You are seen, and welcome. Continue on the path you have chosen. Right this world. Trust in Us." The cat sits for a moment, purring, as if inviting you to pet it. However, before you can reach it, it slips off and fades away entirely into air. Madigan's altar candle burns with a comforting glow. Nawain smiles. Aerilia nods. Ezathiel smiles. Gragnel rubs his right ear. Ezathiel nods in agreement. Elurora gives a slight nod. Nawain nods in agreement. Kethrai distantly says, "Like trying to pet the Captain..." Briaen says, "Praise the hearth, gathered faithful." Nawain gazes heavenward with a long-suffering look and murmurs a prayer to Tamsine for patience. You nod to Briaen. Ezathiel softly says, "Blessed be Tamsine." Unaka quietly says to Kethrai, "Cats are always too quick for me." Madigan just touched a large coral shrine. Briaen says, "Praise the peace between battles, the times ahead may have few moments of passing times such as these. Brief respites in what will surely be chaos." (Sukidesu runs his fingers over his ruby cat and cries happy tears, "Blessed be Tamsine.") Nawain glances at Briaen. Gragnel nods to Briaen. Imroth praises Briaen. Unaka nods to Briaen. Kethrai says, "Connection to the hearth..." (Elizzibiana rubs her face tiredly) Briaen says, "Before we disband, I will offer a closing prayer. Please bow your heads." (Elurora bows her head as requested.) Kerennya bows her head in acknowledgement. Gragnel bows his head in acknowledgement. Imroth bows his head in acknowledgement. Ezerak gazes down at the ground. Valynn bows her head in acknowledgement. Unaka bows her head. (Tirost bows his head silently.) (Aerilia bows her head.) Briaen recites: "Tamsine, Keeper of the Hearth, Mother of Peace, we stand before you with our hearts laid bare. Guard us now, as you have guarded countless homes before." Briaen recites: "Let your warmth surround this city, this shrine, and turn aside the destruction that seeks to darken our doors." Briaen recites: "As destruction looms from the skies above and fear howls with fury, we beseech you, Tamsine! Calm the storm with your steady presence. Like the watchful cat who guards the hearth, shelter the Crossing from the dangers that seek to claim us." Briaen recites: "So that we may rise to greet the challenge, still whole, still unbroken, under your steadfast gaze. May your blessings hold us and shelter us now and always, Tamsine, Lady of Hearth and Home." Unaka quietly says, "Now and always." Briaen recites: "In your name, we humble mortals beg you - hear our plea." Ezathiel pleasantly says, "Now and always." Briaen grins at Unaka. Nawain says, "Now and always." Tempest Knight Saragos strides east. Sukidesu says, "Now and always." Madigan says, "Just so." Briaen firmly says, "Now and always." Imroth says, "Now and always." Ezathiel whispers something to Nawain. Briaen says, "Thank you, gathered faith. For your patience. For your trust. For the honor of serving you. Please depart and know that you are blessed." Imroth says, "I hope that anyone who is without shelter during these difficult times can find the peace of the hearth that Tamsine brings." Unaka nods to Briaen. Tirost says to Briaen, "Thank you and Nawain for gathering us together." Madigan says to Briaen, "Great message. Thank you." Aerilia says, "Thank you for the service." Illiya says, "Thank you for a beautiful service." Unaka quietly asks Briaen, "Do you mind if I ask a question of people while they are here? If you are finished?" Tirost says to Unaka, "And thank you for being here, Unaka." Madigan says to Nawain, "And, thank you." Aaiyaah says, "Fantastic service, well done." Elurora cocks her head at Unaka. Briaen says to Unaka, "I do not mind at all." Unaka nods to Tirost. Nawain glances at Madigan. Gragnel says to Briaen, "Thank you for bringing this congregation together." Kerennya says, "Go ahead, Unaka." Nawain rubs her head. Nawain gives Madigan a slight nod. Gragnel says to Nawain, "And to you as well." Unaka clears her throat. Nawain gazes at Unaka. Aerilia gazes at Unaka. Trajan nods to Unaka. Gragnel raises an eyebrow in Unaka's direction. Unaka slowly says, "I want to know if anyone is certain yet of who the real enemy is. Or where people are thinking." You gaze at Unaka. Briaen says, "I believe my thoughts on the matter are well known." Kerennya says, "Someone we haven't met yet, I think." Kyreena says, "I usually think in my head." Kyreena says, "Sometimes outloud." Elurora says, "I've said before it was something else, now I'm wondering if it was that thing the Rangers and Emapaths saw." Unaka nods to Kyreena. Casari says, "It's less clear than ever." Sukidesu says, "I am less certain than ever before." Nawain asks Elurora, "That thing Waydren mentioned?" Unaka slowly says to Kyreena, "Sorry. I meant, if you think anything about what is causing all this, or who." Kyreena smiles at Unaka. Elurora says to Nawain, "The Gardener? The one that was hungry." Madigan says, "No one bloody knows for sure Unaka." You say, "At Waydren's gathering tonight, we were granted visions of a Gardener who once tended to Elanthia, who was imprisoned." Kyreena says to Unaka, "Oh, thats a whole lot different." Tirost says to Unaka, "I don't know, but I am told Asildu called out to the Heralds to prove that he could, and the clans were encased." Kyreena beams at Unaka! Trajan says, "I don't know if the Heralds wear boots, but if they do, Asildu for certain knows what their leather tastes like." Trajan says, "And that concerns me." Aerilia says to Unaka, "There was a new vision, just before this gathering. In it.. well, it appeared something ancient hungered to devour mana." Unaka tensely says to Madigan, "I understand. I am simply... ready. I am ready to fight Truffenyi's true enemies, if only I can find them." Unaka nods to Aerilia. Unaka asks, "Devour mana, you say?" Madigan says to Unaka, "}unak You and me both. I will be glad when the smart people figure it out." Trajan says, "There's been destruction, and it's only come from one source so far." Aerilia nods to Unaka. Madigan clears his throat. Elurora nods to Unaka. Shaylynne nods to Unaka. Unaka nods to Madigan. You say to Unaka, "I believe many of us are feeling the same way." Aerilia says, "It wanted mana so much that it tore open the plane and brought in outside mana, and thus let outsiders in." Sukidesu says, "I have difficulty believing that it's the Heralds...but it's hard to see what is unknown." Kerennya says, "The mana devouring was from the past. We think it got the gardener from the vision in trouble, and they were imprisoned in a prison like the one our friends are in." Gragnel says, "I can offer no more insight than the next fella, but what I do know is that I choose to place my faith in the Immortals. I advise others to do the same." Ezathiel softly says, "I do not think we are going to be able to defeat such enemies without aid. So I think we should be seeking the favor of the immortals." Unaka says, "Hmmm. I have asked Valenal to meet with me. I've heard he is a researcher of magic, and mana I would imagine." Briaen nods at Gragnel, obviously agreeing with his views. Elurora nods at Nawain, obviously agreeing with her views. Nawain nods at Elurora, obviously agreeing with her views. You ponder the meaning of Unaka's existence. Unaka tensely says, "I must understand. I need to find the true cause." You ask Unaka, "Do you trust him?" Tirost nods to Unaka. Madigan nods to Unaka. Tirost says to Unaka, "I agree, Unaka. We must find the root cause." Unaka says to Gragnel, "Your faith is well received." Sukidesu says, "If only there was a being as old as Elanthia that we could seek guidance from..." Unaka says to you, "Truffenyi said not to trust just anyone coming with a message. But I have to do something." Elurora says, "I tried to ask the Zemmy but alas." Gragnel says to Unaka, "Your words bolster my resolve." You nod at Unaka, in complete agreement with her views. Unaka says, "And I don't trust those other two." Trajan nods to Unaka. Imroth says, "The enemy is suffering. Pointing a finger at the culprit is difficult." Briaen says, "Asildu deserves oblivion and I intend to deliver him unto." Unaka says, "I figure, if this Valenal can explain things simply enough that an untrained 'Tog like me can understand, maybe there's a chance he's telling the truth." Madigan says, "An Asildu death costs two clans. I recommend we wait for whomever is pulling his strings to show himself." Unaka says, "Even if he's not, worth a shot." Unaka nods to Briaen. Casari says, "I wonder if Asildu is just... overcome and not in control of his own emotions. At least sometimes. And unfortunately, I found out... as Madigan said." Kyreena says, "Not a very good trade." Imroth says, "I have seen some clear intentions though. Asildu does not have people's wellbeing in his heart." Madigan says, "It is not a good trade." Unaka nods to Madigan. Madigan says, "And...it does nothing. Asildu goes down like a cheap cloak." Shaylynne says to Unaka, "I thought he was a little odd at first, but thinking on it, he may be the only one not pushing an agenda on people..." Ezerak says, "He does seem to feel the anger of the Heralds." Briaen says to Madigan, "Your caution is wise, however my blood lust will not be tamed by wisdom." Briaen says, "If his strings need be severed so that we can chase them to the puppet master's hand. So be it." Kerennya says, "I have to wonder if Valenal isn't just an opportunist of some sort, driven by the elementals inside of him." Avrenka says, "Valenal has an agenda, just as Liraxes does." Briaen says, "And should he turn to seek forgiveness, may he find it at the edge of reality and may he pray his prayers can be heard from such places." Unaka slowly asks, "Wait. He's got... elementals inside him?" Aerilia asks Briaen, "There's no valor to be had in putting more people at risk to sate your bloodlust. Do you want to be responsible for the separation of more families?" Ezerak asks Briaen, "And if your lack of restraint costs us another Clan, what then?" You nod to Unaka. Tirost nods to Unaka. Madigan nods to Unaka. Kerennya nods to Unaka. Unaka rubs one hand across her scalp, looking worried. Kentara says to herself, "Totally not my scene here." Madigan says to Unaka, "If he goes crazy, just kill him. He is not overly offended by it." Danyte asks, "So more lost clan and people are worth "blood lust"?" You say, "It is difficult to know whether you are speaking with him, or... one of them." Unaka says, "Uhh. I didn't know that. Well, I guess maybe I'll talk to him anyway." Unaka nods to Madigan. Sukidesu says, "He usually tries to warn people though, I'm told." Avrenka says to you, "Illiya figured it out ... watch how he speaks and how he behaves ... each elemental has its own personality quirks." You say, "Well, perhaps not always difficult. If he tries to eat rocks, it might be an elemental, for example." Kerennya says, "I missed the warning, to my own sorrow." You say to Avrenka, "That does make sense." Madigan says to Sukidesu, "He is polite like that. Interesting fellow." Briaen says to Ezerak, "I understand the wisdom of your question. I do not understand the patience to continue to allow us to be attacked." Trajan asks, "As long as they're all in consensus, I'm sure that's... fine?" Avrenka says, "Fire elemental is flighty, desire state change ... earth elemental is slow speaking, rooted in concrete ideas." Unaka slowly says, "So I'm trusting my understanding to... a guy who eats rocks." Azume casually asks you, "...does that mean my brother Tystreith is an elemental??" Unaka grunts softly. Elurora says, "And wears sandwiches as hats." Elurora nods to Unaka. Azume casually says, "He is an elemental mage, I guess..." Trajan says, "I've seen barbarians eat worse." Madigan nods to Unaka. You quietly ask Azume, "Does your brother eat rocks?" Imroth exclaims, "Also wears sandwiches as hats!" Unaka says, "Well. I still guess it's worth a shot." Azume casually says, "He licks them. He says he's 'communing' but..." Shaylynne nods to Unaka. Madigan says to Unaka, "As far as I know, we have wrung everything we can out of him. However...at this point, any breadcrumbs are good." You say to Azume, "Perhaps worth looking into." Aerilia says to Unaka, "He's.. at times a reasonable man, like any other. At times he is controlled by entities with.. childlike curisoity and no restraint." Shaylynne says, "Maybe he has a mineral deficiency." Avrenka says, "Him eating rocks and wearing sandwiches was likely the Electricity elemental." Avrenka says, "Procedural driven, spoke in mathematics, didn't understand anatomy or individuality." Unaka says to Madigan, "Oh? Yeah. I guess I haven't heard it all yet. Anyway I told him to explain it all in small words." Madigan says to Elurora, "I think your point got talked over in the beginning. I agree. The vision today may have shed a ton of light on the real culprit behind all of this." Imroth says, "I have eaten weird stuff too, he seems alright." Madigan grins at Unaka. Ezerak says to Briaen, "I'll not stop you. And I hope I'll not say that I told you so." Kerennya says to Unaka, "If you are lucky enough to get Valenal the man, you just might get that." Madigan says to Unaka, "I like small words. I understand them better as well." Tirost asks Madigan, "Do you have a sense of who or what it might be?" Briaen says to Ezerak, "On this point, we are in accord." Unaka says to Elurora, "Did you have an idea? I might have missed it." Unaka says, "Sometimes it's hard to hear when you all talk at once." Sukidesu nods at Unaka, obviously agreeing with her views. Imroth asks Ezerak, "I told you so?" Briaen says to Ezerak, "But let us also not forget that I am not a more accomplished warrior than is Casari. My vengence my well flow true and strong now, but my ability to deliver it may not be enough." Elurora says to Unaka, "Of sorts. The Empaths and Rangers did a thing today, and in their vision they saw, let's call it the First Gardener, it created but it was also hungry." Casari says to Briaen, "It seems like I won't be able to predict what side I will think is right by the time that's tested." Elurora says to Unaka, "It seemed to desire mana? And it was seen tearing holes to get at this mana? I think? Then it was put in a null prison." Unaka nods to Elurora. Nawain quietly says to Briaen, "You can take him." Unaka slowly asks, "What do you mean, Gardener?" Ezerak says to Imroth, "If Briaen were to attack Asildu, and the Heralds strike another Clan, village, or town. Or city." Unaka fixes Elurora with a heavy, ponderous stare. Briaen says to Casari, "For my sake, let us hope we are aligned." Severei says, "I just want to stab him a little." Avrenka asks Elurora, "I missed this vision ... mind telling me its entiriety?" Kerennya says to Unaka, "Our best guess is, the First Gardener was a Herald." Elurora asks Avrenka, "I did not see it myself, but perhaps Allye or Illiya did?" Imroth says to Ezerak, "I am laughing because you seem to be on my side now when you were once clearly not. I should be saying "I told you so" to you." Elurora says, "Or Lady Valynn." Unaka slowly asks, "The Heralds like... plants?" Elurora asks Unaka, "I'm not sure. We saw an orange dragon become a woman, then touch this being and it started to create things?" Madigan says to Elurora, "Which...is the best breadcrumb we have had as far as I can tell. That was a very, very interesting vision." Elurora says to Unaka, "Well, they saw." Unaka says, "Wow. Okay." Ruea says to Imroth, "Be sweet, darling. It's a stressful time." Ezerak says to Imroth, "Perhaps so. And feel free, if it helps you in some way. But I cannot ignore the evidence in front of me." Imroth says, "We all can change sides as quickly as we can change where our finger points." You quietly say to Avrenka, "I'd be happy to share it with you in detail after this. It was... quite a lot to take in." Illiya says to Unaka, "Our guess is that it was a Herald, but perhaps an earlier one than what we know as the Heralds." Unaka nods to Illiya. Unaka asks, "Okay. So it made a new Herald, and that Herald started to create?" Aerilia nods to Unaka. Imroth says, "We could all use a bit of sweetness." Gragnel says, "No need to change sides when you side with the Immortals, so there's that." Aerilia says, "But creating made it hungry for mana. More and more of it." Madigan says, "Which...Asildu may be representing...that disgruntled Heralds or Outcast Heralds. That is a working theory." Unaka nods at Gragnel, obviously agreeing with his views. Unaka nods to Madigan. Unaka asks, "And what's this about mana?" Kerennya says to Unaka, "But it made a hole and pulled in mana from the outside, and that led to the world being damaged, which is why that Herald got put into the null prison." Avrenka says, "It's interesting cuz Asildu claimed that all the Heralds worked and thought in unison." Madigan says, "Pardon me friends." Avrenka says, "Clearly a complete lie." Sukidesu says, "Either that, or even he is misinformed." Unaka says to Avrenka, "Yeah. I don't trust him." Unaka looks at Avrenka and shrugs. Trajan asks, "Does it matter who the puppet master is, when we only have access to the puppets?" Elurora asks, "If it's a Herald, perhaps since it was the First Gardener, it is...something not quite a Herald?" Unaka says to Trajan, "Yeah. I think it does." Sukidesu asks, "A proto-Herald?" Avrenka asks, "By the way ... what was the origin of this vision that Waydren just received? Was this channeled thru someone? Or was it just another Elanthia vision?" Ezerak says to Avrenka, "If it is untrue, that does not make it a lie. He could just be ignorant on the matter, the same as the rest of us." Sukidesu says, "It was a vision, no channeling through anyone but Empaths and Rangers." Ezathiel softly says, "It has been a long night. I must bed down and get some rest. Safe paths all. My thanks to those who put this together." Unaka says, "See, if I want to stop a gopher from getting into the turnips, I can't just plug the holes. I've got to get the gopher." Avrenka says to Ezerak, "Or perhaps the Heralds that he is thinking of work in unison." Elurora gives Unaka a slight nod. Trajan nods to Unaka. Illiya affectionately says to Ezathiel, "Night Ezzy." Shaylynne says to Avrenka, "A ritual similar to the one we tried the first time we got a vision." Ezathiel pleasantly says, "Safe paths." Ezerak says to Avrenka, "Or the only ones he knows of." Avrenka asks, "So not thru Asildu?" (Nawain distracts herself from the conversation by cleaning the parts of the pink coral shrine that aren't moss-covered, refilling incense, adding holy water and more candles.) Shaylynne says to Avrenka, "Correct." Trajan asks Unaka, "'What will we do when we puzzle through it?" Avrenka says, "One would hope Elanthia is not a deceiver." Valynn says to Avrenka, "All the rangers and empaths saw the same thing." Unaka says to Trajan, "Once we find the enemy, we fight it. Whatever it takes." You nod at Unaka, in complete agreement with her views. Illiya says to Avrenka, "It was an attempt to seal the wounds caused by sorcery using knitted aether with Rangers beseeching Elanthia to reveal the location of the wounds." Gragnel says, "I have duties to tend to at the Temple, so I shall leave you all in peace. Walk in the light of the Immortals and no shadow shall harm you." Trajan says to Unaka, "'The real enemy seems to be staying just out of blade's reach, though. We would need a way to draw it out." Avrenka says to Illiya, "Interesting." Imroth says, "Finding the enemy seems to be the hard part." Unaka nods to Trajan. Unaka says, "Well, we've got to. We'll keep at it." Aerilia says, "If it's hungry for mana, could we.. draw a lot of mana to one location? Maybe that's what attracted it to Arhat's in the first place." Unaka says, "There are towns that depend on us. Refugees from the Clans now, too." Unaka asks, "What kind of mana does it like?" You ask, "Set a trap for it somehow?" Aerilia says, "All kinds." Trajan says, "The best way to capture prey is to use appropriate bait." Sukidesu says, "I would think Life...but...yeah, probably all." Kerennya says to Aerilia, "I think Saragos has something like that in the works. A repeat of what led to our friends being taken." Unaka asks, "All mixed together?" Briaen says, "Perhaps it will accept the blood of Asildu." Avrenka says, "I wonder if there's a way to convince the Heralds that sorcery isn't bad." Avrenka says, "Get them on our side, y'know." Casari says, "I wonder if it can eat the Bulwark." Trajan says to Unaka, "'It doesn't seem to appreciate holy mana, but I'm unsure what it prefers." Elurora slowly asks, "The Null Prison doesn't have holy mana, is this because the Heralds cannot make use of holy mana?" Imroth says, "Life I would guess." Ezerak says to Elurora, "Perhaps so." Kerennya says to Avrenka, "I think that may have been the point of the vision, though. The Heralds think sorcery is bad because one of them was the one who may have brought it to this world." Unaka says to Briaen, "I know you're an Inquisitor, and you want him dead. I hear that. I am itching to fight too. But I've gotta talk to Truffenyi first." Trajan says to Avrenka, "'I believe they're of the opinion that sorcery is bad for *them*." You ask, "If they cannot use Holy mana, could it perhaps be used better against them?" Avrenka says, "I wonder why we don't see any Lunar dragons." Briaen says to Unaka, "Dead is but the first stage of his repentence." Avrenka says, "Since they apparently can use that mana type." Elurora asks Ezerak, "If this thing likes sorcery, which would perhaps make sense if it was after something not native to our plane, could holy mana then be...more useful against it?" Aerilia asks, "That's a thought. Lure it in with life, elemental and lunar. Trap or kill it with holy?" Unaka nods to Briaen. Unaka says to Briaen, "If it turns out it was all him, he will taste my maul." Casari says, "Or can't use holy mana... yet? If it was having to keep trying new types to sustain its hunger." Ezerak says to Elurora, "That is as solid of an idea as any so far." You say to Casari, "Hmm, that could get messy, in that case." Casari says, "Or to sate it, anyway. You know what I mean." Kyreena asks, "Or maybe it has holy and using the others to feed its sorcery tastes?" Tirost nods to Unaka. Elurora says, "Which could mean when folks are casting sorcery like Sir Imroth's party, we're feeding it." Unaka asks, "So wait, it can't use Holy?" Unaka rubs her head. Trajan says, "Asildu is a pawn. A culpable pawn, but still a pawn." Casari says to Unaka, "That's a guess. It's all guesses." You say, "There was no Holy mana used in the Null Prison. Perhaps we are assuming too much based on that, though." Ezerak says to you, "Also possible." Ezerak says, "We know so little still, that all we can do is make assumptions and conjecture." Nawain asks, "Hunh. Maybe it wasn't Sihmiauri eating the aether, then. Maybe it was this.. Gardener, thing?" Avrenka says, "According to Valenal, the energy stealing only happens with native mana casting ... and not sorcery casting." Trajan says to Unaka, "'It doesn't seem to have interest in holy mana, but it's a leap to guess what that means." Aerilia says, "Liraxes has said the same." Unaka nods to Trajan. Elurora says to Nawain, "Which might have been what cut your strings." Avrenka says, "And the Immortals have made it clear, at least to me, that Sorcery aids them as well." Unaka fixes Avrenka with a heavy, ponderous stare. You say to Shaylynne, "It felt... unhappy to see decay happen to the things it created, yes. I'm not sure if that was its original intent in using more and more mana." Aerilia asks, "So maybe holy isn't the weapon, but sorcery?" Casari asks, "That just... sounds wrong, doesn't it?" Briaen says, "There are such things as Sorcerous Holy entities. Rare, as we may be." Kerennya says to Shaylynne, "To me, the hunger for mana seemed more like an addiction." Shaylynne says, "It was a lot to take in, but I wonder if it understood you can't have life without death and have balance." Unaka slowly says, "Well... thanks for all your thoughts." Elurora slowly asks, "This may sound a little crazy, but what if we had Sir Imroth do another party...but this time we're ready with a...net or something to pull it out?" Trajan says, "If anyone is keeping track of these clues on a cork board, I'm sure they're running out of string by now." Imroth asks, "A net!?" Shaylynne asks, "A holy net?" Elurora asks, "A lasso?" Elurora says, "But, yes." Illiya says, "Oh this idea gets better and better." Shaylynne nods to Unaka. Illiya says, "Imroth loves nets." Ezerak says to Elurora, "Interesting idea." Reriyn says, "Bless a bunch of nets." Shaylynne says to Unaka, "I hope you find some answers with Valenal, Good luck." Tirost says to Unaka, "It seems to me that the Immortals sense of balance and that of Liraxes and Valenal - or the elementals inhabiting him - point back to the state of things before wild magic. Asildu and Miraena's message has always been to cease sorcery, and their visions seem to focus on a pure plane to the exclusion of others." Imroth exclaims, "I am ready with the net!" Unaka nods to Shaylynne. Unaka nods to Tirost. Elurora says to Imroth, "We might need a big net." Unaka says, "Yeah. But I don't like them." Sukidesu says to Unaka, "I know these are trying times, but how are you faring, Lady Unaka? You seemed...unlike yourself, today." Avrenka asks, "What are we trying to catch?" Ezerak says to Elurora, "I am not sure that this is an enemy that any of our conventional weapons will work on, but that is an interesting idea." Trajan nods to Unaka. Tirost says to Unaka, "If their goal excludes the Immortals, I don't like them eithr." Aerilia says to Unaka, "They're very quick to justify the murder of three clans as due punishment. It's disgusting." Unaka says to Sukidesu, "Uh. Tired." Elurora asks Ezerak, "It wouldn't be a physical net or rope, it would be made out of holy mana. Clerics and Paladins working together, perhaps?" Unaka rubs her head. Sukidesu nods to Unaka. Trajan says, "At their most benign, Asildu and Miraena are pawns." Unaka says, "Been a lot of work to do, helping the refugees." Elurora says to Ezerak, "But I am tired and the idea sounds crazy to me now, it will probably sound even crazier when I get some rest." Unaka nods at Aerilia, obviously agreeing with her views. Shaylynne nods to Unaka. Briaen says to Trajan, "Perhaps. A conduit is still a threat." Tirost says to Unaka, "Grateful for what you do, Unaka. Thanks again for coming." Ezerak asks Elurora, "I understood that part, but...what do we do next if it works?" Unaka says, "Yeah. I'm glad folks are taking comfort in the Immortals." Nawain says, "It is gratifying to see so many choose the Gods, even under such threat." Sukidesu says to Unaka, "Do not forget to rest, even heroes need downtime." Elurora asks Ezerak, "We're going to need a really big holy weapon?" Unaka says, "I'd better go now." Unaka nods to Sukidesu. Unaka says, "Yeah. Rest." Briaen says to Unaka, "Thank you for your prayer and your continued guidance." Elurora glances at Unaka. Trajan says to Unaka, "'Your presence is always comforting. Thank you for attending." Unaka says, "Good bye." You say to Unaka, "Safe paths and good rest to you." Trajan snaps to attention and hails Unaka with a crisp hand salute. Nawain waves to Unaka. Kerennya says, "Safe paths, Unaka." Illiya says to Unaka, "Thank you for coming." Imroth waves to Unaka. Aerilia says, "Be well." Holy Guardian Unaka strides east. * Unaka returns home from a hard day of adventuring. Tirost says, "I should take my leave as well." Avrenka says to Illiya, "Did you see the vision that just occurred in its entireity? I'd be curious to hear of it all if you've the time." Tirost says to Briaen, "Take care, my friend." Elurora says, "I should go feed Dog and get soem rest." Ezerak says, "I should head back south." Briaen says to Tirost, "Dawnmother guide you." (Illiya gives Avrenka some notes about the vision) Ezerak says to Briaen, "Good luck on your quest, whatever that may mean." Briaen says to Ezerak, "Let us hope it returns our lost friends." Imroth says, "Alright well I am out too." Trajan says, "I do find it reassuring that the Immortals seem to approve of what we've been doing so far." Imroth says, "I hope we can actually point at the evil soon." Aerilia says, "This idea of luring it out has me hopeful." Imroth says, "Also, I would love to throw another socery party. If you all want." Imroth says, "Let me know." Illiya exclaims to Shaylynne, "Stuff keeps happening, we'll never be caught up!" Shaylynne exclaims to Illiya, "I know!" Shaylynne says, "We will try." Trajan says, "If he throws another 'party', someone needs to be in charge of bringing the void trap."