Ayrell/Logs/Wild Magic 07252025/Seeking the Final Artifact

Seeking the Final Artifact
Event Date: 7/25/2025
Event Instance: Prime

Date

It has been 453 years, 204 days since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer.
It is the 6th month of Arhat the Fire Lion in the year of the Emerald Dolphin.
It is currently summer and it is mid-afternoon.

Gathering at Gaethrend's Court

[Gaethrend's Court, Solarium]
Amongst a variety of unrecognizable red-orange plants, you notice a small riolur bush flourishing in the sunlight. The ceiling is much lower here but is made up of a number of small multi-colored glass panes which add a curious tint to the atmosphere. You also see a coppery saluki puppy flaunting a goldenglow glaes collar and jadeleaf snood and a void-black moth antenna.
Also here: Bookkeeper Parkons, Lord Knight Hebion, Bioexorcist Karthor, Enelne's Champion Nawain who is shrouded in ghostly flames, Ruea, Light of the World Gwenddolyn who is surrounded by a corona of fiery light, Mountain Lord Ezerak, Healer Aerilia, Shield of Starlight Betlind, Lexxa and Truthseeker Elurora whose figure is gracefully highlighted in a soft aurora of silvery-violet light.
Obvious exits: northeast, east, southeast.

Strawberry Nurse Illiya just arrived.

Elurora hugs Illiya, getting a smile in return.

Illiya waves.

Betlind hugs Illiya, getting a smile in return.

Illiya hugs Elurora, getting a smile in return.

Illiya hugs Betlind, who wraps her arms around Illiya with a warm smile.

Aerilia hugs Illiya, getting a smile in return.

Karthor waves to Illiya.

Illiya hugs Aerilia, who wraps her arms around Illiya with a warm smile.

Illiya hugs Nawain, who wraps her arms around Illiya with a warm smile.

Nawain hugs Illiya, getting a smile in return.

Illiya bobs a quick curtsy to Karthor.

Lexxa hugs Illiya, getting a smile in return.

Ezerak waves to Illiya.

Firehawk Casari just arrived.

Illiya just hugged Lexxa.

Elurora waves to Casari.

Betlind bows to Casari.

Illiya hugs Casari, getting a smile in return.

Illiya hums to herself.

Casari waves.

Betlind smiles, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Casari says, "Afternoon."

Maraisel waves to Casari.

Gwenddolyn says, "There is sand in the dunes of despair in Qi but we thought it was Muspari in that visiion."

Illiya lays her hand on Elurora's arm.

Elurora smiles at Illiya.

Elurora says to Illiya, "Thank you, Miss Illiya."

Casari briefly spreads her arms outward while singing very softly. A dome of light begins to build up around Casari as the whispered notes get more complicated.

Illiya beams at Elurora!

As each feathery note falls from Casari's lips, she weaves it into a tapestry of subtle harmonics that support a line of melody in a minor key, forming the complex measures of the Sanctuary enchante.
The music takes hold, manifesting as a large dome of shimmering light.

Illiya says to Elurora, "Anytime."

Illiya bobs a quick curtsy to Ezerak.

Casari briefly spreads her arms outward and begins to chant sharply. The skipping, sparkling rhythm entices the air to shed moisture and to warm as if under a summer sun. The warm, flowing rhythm of the enchante flows around you, seeking out every drop of moisture until your body is dry once more.
The air shifts as the persuasive melody of the enchante surrounds you, and suddenly the area seems hotter and drier.

Ruea smiles at Illiya.

Citizen Miraeven just arrived.

Betlind bows to Miraeven.

Miraeven bows to Betlind.

Betlind smiles, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Forest Sprite Lileath just arrived.

* Breath of the Heralds Asildu joins the adventure.

Aerilia lays her hand on Miraeven's arm.

Gwenddolyn glances outside a moment.

Gwenddolyn says, "Well the Heralds can watch us here."

Lileath glances outside a moment.

Nawain glances outside a moment.

Elurora asks, "Is there a place they can't?"

Aerilia says, "Not that I ever heard of, unfortunately."

Miraeven pats Aerilia on the shoulder appreciatively and offers her a tip.

Gwenddolyn says, "Inside."

Aerilia accepts Miraeven's tip and slips it away.

Karthor says in a Haakish accent, "I rather doubt they're constrained by pesky things like line o' sight."

Karthor chuckles.

Illiya says, "He said they can watch us anywhere."

Casari asks, "What would possibly possess you to think they can't see under a roof?"

Elurora nods at Karthor, obviously agreeing with his views.

Ezerak nods at Karthor, obviously agreeing with his views.

Gwenddolyn says, "They cannot see us in a closed room."

Ezerak nods at Illiya, obviously agreeing with her views.

Hebion snickers.

Illiya grins at Casari, her dimples flashing into view.

Elurora says, "I wouldn't bet my life on that."

Nawain says in a Rakash accent, "I rather doubt that a roof limits can blind the most powerful beings on this planet."

Nawain chuckles.

Elurora nods to Nawain.

Ryeka just arrived.

Ryeka rubs her eyes.

Ryeka grins, revealing her dimples.

Elurora waves to Ryeka.

Ryeka beams at Elurora!

Breath of the Heralds Asildu just arrived.

Betlind bows to Ryeka.

Casari moves over to guard Asildu.

Betlind bows to Asildu.

Ezerak nods politely to Asildu.

Ryeka beams!

Aerilia nods to Asildu.

As each feathery note falls from Casari's lips, she weaves it into a tapestry of subtle harmonics that support a line of melody in a minor key, forming the complex measures of the Sanctuary enchante.

Illiya bobs a quick curtsy to Asildu.

Ryeka curtsies to Asildu.

Asildu bows.

Ruea smiles at Asildu.

Elurora nods to Asildu.

Lexxa says, "Oh rats, I was gonna kill you."

Lexxa cackles!

Asildu raises an eyebrow.

Gwenddolyn folds her arms across her chest.

Lexxa says, "I'm joking."

Betlind bops Lexxa over the head.

Lexxa smiles.

Lexxa chuckles.

Elurora says, "She was making up for the lack of Imorth."

Elurora says, "Imroth that is."

Ryeka says, "I stopped to get a little something."

Ryeka gets an iced coffee from inside her spidersilk backpack.

Lexxa grins.

Ryeka offers Asildu an iced coffee.

Betlind grins, revealing her dimples.

Asildu says, "If you don't want to know about the last artifact, I can try to deal with it on my own."

Asildu accepts Ryeka's iced coffee.

Ryeka says, "As it is so hot."

Asildu nods politely to Ryeka.

Elurora shakes her head.

Elurora says, "I would like to know."

Aerilia says, "You're looking considerably more human these days. I'm glad for that."

Illiya nods in agreement.

Lexxa nods at Elurora, obviously agreeing with her views.

Betlind nods at Aerilia, obviously agreeing with her views.

Illiya says, "It will be faster if we help you deal with it."

Esotericist Eyst just arrived.

Ezerak nods at Aerilia, obviously agreeing with her views.

Elurora nods to Illiya.

Asildu nods at Illiya, obviously agreeing with her views.

Ezerak nods at Illiya, obviously agreeing with her views.

Asildu says, "We've a greater chance at success if you help me as well."

Perune just arrived.

Gwenddolyn asks, "Where is it and what is it?"

Ezerak tips his hat to Perune with a courteous nod.

Nawain waves to Perune.

Ryeka steps towards Asildu to join him, but Asildu steps away.

Asildu says to Gwenddolyn, "Ah, patience. We'll get to that."

Illiya grins at Perune, her dimples flashing into view.

Perune nods politely.

Ryeka grins, revealing her dimples.

Elurora gazes off into the distance.

Ryeka joins Elurora's group.

Karthor says in a Haakish accent, "We have to cover "why is it" first, methinks."

Nawain joins Elurora's group.

Karthor looks at Gwenddolyn and shrugs.

Nawain leans on Elurora.

Lexxa joins Elurora's group.

Elurora looks about with a puzzled expression on her face.

Betlind joins Elurora's group.

Elurora says, "I don't know why people are joining me..."

Illiya gazes at Elurora.

Illiya chortles softly at some secret joke.

Lexxa chuckles at Elurora.

Nawain cheerfully exclaims to Elurora in a Rakash accent, "Guess you're leading now!"

Ryeka winks at Elurora.

Lexxa says, "Guess you're leading."

Asildu says, "I want to give others a chance to arrive before we delve too much into details."

Lexxa nods.

Ruea joins Elurora's group.

Gwenddolyn says, "I think skipping to the destroy it part is easier."

Gwenddolyn chuckles.

Lexxa nods to Asildu.

Betlind nods to Asildu.

Elurora says, "I think we have to know where we're going first..."

Elurora glances at Asildu.

Elurora says, "Unless you all just want to go for a stroll."

Asildu says, "Oh, for this one, I volunteer to guide you all."

Elurora flashes a quick grin.

Aerilia tilts her head to one side.

Ryeka grins, revealing her dimples.

Casari asks Asildu, "How long do you think you can avoid their attention?"

Ruea joins Asildu's group.

Illiya says, "Oh, very nice."

Lexxa joins Asildu's group.

Illiya joins Asildu's group.

Ryeka joins Asildu's group.

Betlind joins Asildu's group.

Nawain joins Asildu's group.

Aerilia joins Asildu's group.

Elurora joins Asildu's group.

Casari joins Asildu's group.

Perune joins Asildu's group.

Eyst says to Elurora, "Your guildmasters will be pleased with the aura of leadership you seem to have cultivated."

Ezerak joins Asildu's group.

Asildu says to Casari, "I'm hoping long enough."

Nawain pats Elurora on the back.

Elurora grins at Eyst.

Eyst joins Asildu's group.

Betlind nods at Eyst, obviously agreeing with his views.

Casari gives a slight nod.

Karthor joins Asildu's group.

Lileath joins Asildu's group.

Miraeven glances at Asildu.

Miraeven joins Asildu's group.

Asildu says, "I am unable to perform my song and assist with this at the same time, however. So if we have any Bards present who would like to assist in keeping minds calm, I would be much obliged."

Miraeven shifts his weight.

Elurora says to Eyst, "Just don't tell them about how lost I got in the forests north of Theren."

Hebion joins Asildu's group.

Illiya asks, "Albreda's Balm?"

Casari says, "I can try, but my songs aren't quite like yours."

Hebion begins chortling at Elurora.

Ryeka grins at Elurora, her dimples flashing into view.

Asildu says to Casari, "Something is better than nothing."

Asildu says, "After the destruction of the first two artifacts, control is a bit easier for me to maintain."

Comedian Rozalynde just arrived.

Aerilia nods.

Maraisel joins Asildu's group.

Ruea smiles at Maraisel.

Asildu takes a sip of his coffee.

Ruea says to Maraisel in a lilting accent, "Keep up darling."

Ruea winks at Maraisel.

Maraisel grins at Ruea.

Maraisel says to Ruea, "I'm slow. I can't help it."

Parkons joins Asildu's group.

Elurora chews on her lip, looking deep in concentration.

Parkons rummages about his person, looking for something.

Ezerak grins at Maraisel, his dimples flashing into view.

Ruea says to Maraisel in a lilting accent, "Say you're leisurely, it sounds better."

Shuffling closer, Eyst attends Asildu with an intense, scrupulous gaze, giving Asildu his undivided attention.

Nawain stretches her arms.

Asildu says, "I apologize it took so long for me to return. This one, once the memory hit me, I realized I needed a plan before I came to you all."

Casari says, "I have a Sanctuary in place at the moment, but let me know if and when you would prefer me to sing Albreda's Balm. It may be disruptive to the rest of you, but bear with it."

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

Asildu nods politely to Casari.

Aerilia looks thoughtfully at Asildu.

Asildu says to Casari, "Thank you."

Aerilia asks, "Is it somewhere dangerous, then?"

Dzive Asini Leayne just arrived.

Asildu says, "It's not the location so much as the object."

Lexxa hugs Leayne, who wraps her arms around Lexxa with a warm smile.

Elurora hugs Leayne, who wraps her arms around Elurora with a warm smile.

Nawain observes Asildu with fascination.

Elurora moves into position to cover Aerilia from harm.

Asildu says, "This one is... quite powerful."

Illiya hugs Leayne, who wraps her arms around Illiya with a warm smile.

Leayne hugs Illiya, getting a smile in return.

Aerilia smiles at Elurora.

Ryeka asks, "Aye?"

Rozalynde gets a blue notebook with a dirt-smudged binding from inside her thigh workbag.

Rozalynde moves a blue notebook with a dirt-smudged binding to her left hand.

Elurora says to Aerilia, "Just in case."

Casari asks, "More powerful than the others?"

Aerilia nods to Elurora.

Rozalynde gets a silver-tipped black t'deri feather quill from inside her thigh workbag.

Karthor strokes his beard in thoughtful contemplation.

Leayne smiles at Parkons, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Aerilia says to Elurora, "I appreciate it, thank you."

Parkons waves to Leayne.

Elurora smiles at Aerilia.

Leayne hugs Nawain, who wraps her arms around Leayne with a warm smile.

Gwenddolyn asks, "What exactly does it do?"

Nawain hugs Leayne, who wraps her arms around Nawain with a warm smile.

Leayne just hugged Ruea.

Eyst tugs at the tip of his mustache distractedly.

Leayne hugs Gwenddolyn, getting a smile in return.

Leayne hugs Aerilia, getting a smile in return.

Ruea smiles at Leayne.

Gwenddolyn grins at Leayne, her dimples flashing into view.

Leayne hugs Betlind, getting a smile in return.

Aerilia hugs Leayne, who wraps her arms around Aerilia with a warm smile.

Leayne hugs Elurora, getting a smile in return.

Elurora flashes a wide grin at Leayne.

Betlind hugs Leayne, who wraps her arms around Betlind with a warm smile.

Leayne does a happy little dance!

Asildu says to Gwenddolyn, "It will be easier for me to show you all. But I will warn you, unless you want to end up like me, be on your guard."

Illiya winces.

Eyst frowns.

Rozalynde looks at Asildu and jots down some notes.

Betlind frowns.

Aerilia tilts her head to one side.

Leayne leans on Illiya.

Betlind gives a slight nod.

Nawain whispers a prayer from her mouth into the wind, certain it will reach Enelne's ear.

Illiya leans over and scratches Leayne's back.

Asildu casually observes the area.

Asildu asks, "Do we think anyone else will want to join us?"

Ezerak says to Asildu, "Is this the one that...did that to you."

Asildu nods to Ezerak.

Ezerak gives a slight nod.

Elurora rubs her nose.

Leayne joins Asildu's group.

Eyst asks, "Do you expect the risk only to be in uncautious interaction with this artifact?"

Asildu says to Eyst, "The risk is being near it at all."

Aerilia nibbles her lip thoughtfully.

Casari says, "Then we'd best steel ourselves and be prepared to act swiftly and directly toward its demise."

Betlind nods emphatically.

Aerilia nods in agreement.

Elurora says, "I don't see that we have much choice unless we can just open a moongate and have a Warrior Mage lightning bolt it or something."

Karthor says in a Haakish accent, "Hence the need fer a plan, I s'pose."

Rozalynde furrows her brow.

Rozalynde joins Asildu's group.

Lexxa moves over to guard Ruea.

Nawain asks in a Rakash accent, "Could a familiar drop it in a volcano or something?"

Nawain shifts her weight.

Ruea smiles lexz

Ruea says to Lexxa in a lilting accent, "Thank you."

Lexxa nods to Ruea.

Asildu nods.

Elurora grins at Nawain.

Asildu says, "I will explain a bit more after we get there. The explanation will be easier for you all to understand when you can see it."

Leayne nods to Gwenddolyn.

Casari asks, "Did you choose this place because it is near?"

Forest Watcher Damoone just arrived.

Betlind bows to Damoone.

Rozalynde says, "I think as much forwarning as possible is desirable, other than "be on your guard."

Leayne waves to Damoone.

Elurora bows to Damoone.

Aerilia waves to Damoone.

Rozalynde frowns.

Asildu nods to Casari.

Damoone smiles.

Asildu says, "It's near and easy enough to gather at."

Damoone bows.

Lexxa says, "I got a feeling it's in Therenbrought."

Leayne nods to Gwenddolyn.

Asildu says, "No, it's much closer than that."

Lexxa says, "Oh."

Lexxa smiles.

Damoone joins Asildu's group.

Elurora chews on her lip, looking deep in concentration.

Gwenddolyn joins Asildu's group.

Rozalynde points northeast.

Leayne smiles at Gwenddolyn, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Rozalynde asks, "It's in the dining room?"

Aerilia chuckles.

Gwenddolyn moves into position to cover Leayne from harm.

Lexxa cackles at Rozalynde!

Ryeka chuckles.

Eyst puts his stick in his tinker's pack.

Asildu asks, "As I'll be the one leading this expedition, has everyone joined me who'd like to come along?"

Parkons nods.

Elurora casually observes the area.

Leayne nods.

Lileath nods to Asildu.

Observer Amailia just arrived.

Karthor adjusts the fit of his spectacles.

Gwenddolyn mutters something into the air about regretting this.

Ryeka pats Gwenddolyn on the back.

Leayne grins at Gwenddolyn, her dimples flashing into view.

Lexxa pats Gwenddolyn on the back.

Asildu takes a sip of his coffee.

Amailia joins Asildu's group.

Asildu says, "I may need this..."

Asildu guzzles down some of his coffee and then smacks his lips and wipes them with his sleeve.

Elurora flashes a quick grin at Asildu.

Ryeka chuckles.

Betlind chortles softly at some secret joke.

Asildu guzzles down some of his coffee and then smacks his lips and wipes them with his sleeve.

Illiya smiles at Asildu, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Asildu slowly empties his lungs.

Ruea asks in a lilting accent, "Is this a "we hold weapons" kind of event or more investigative?"

Ruea raises an eyebrow.

Damoone grins at Ruea.

Ezerak chuckles at Ruea.

Asildu says to Ruea, "Investigative - unless something goes horribly wrong."

Astral Traveler Middler just arrived.

Middler joins Asildu's group.

Ruea sighs.

Ruea says in a lilting accent, "So probably weapons."

Damoone moves over to guard Ruea.

Illiya grins at Ruea, her dimples flashing into view.

Karthor chuckles.

Lexxa chuckles.

Rozalynde asks, "Oh, it always does, doesn't it?"

Ryeka nods to Asildu.

Maraisel pats Ruea on the back.

Aerilia says, "Best be prepared, at least."

Amailia chortles softly at some secret joke.

Karthor says in a Haakish accent, "That's how ya can spot a seasoned adventurer, right there."

Casari asks Ruea, "Isn't fashion your weapon?"

Casari grins at Ruea.

Asildu asks, "If we're ready, I will take us on a stroll?"

Elurora nods to Asildu.

Olkerde just arrived.

Olkerde joins Asildu's group.

Aerilia nods to Asildu.

Ryeka grins, revealing her dimples.

Ruea says to Casari in a lilting accent, "This is why you have a special place in my heart."

Casari laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.

Casari cracks her knuckles.

Casari nods to Asildu.

Miraeven gets some holy oil from inside his traveler's rucksack.

Illiya says, "I think we are ready."

Miraeven sprinkles some holy oil on himself.

Karthor nods in agreement.

Miraeven puts his oil in his silver phylactery.

Asildu asks, "I'm not used to being around people. How is it you all do this? Announce we're moving in... five?"

Illiya says, "Everyone join Asildu."

Aerilia smiles quickly.

Leayne waves to Middler.

Illiya nods to Asildu.

Parkons grins at Asildu.

Elurora says, "At least as ready as I'm going to be going who knows where to find who knows what..."

Ryeka winks at Asildu.

Betlind grins at Asildu, her dimples flashing into view.

Perune says in an Ilithic accent, "Sometimes we like to just move and leave half the people behind."

Gwenddolyn says, "We count down."

Nawain begins chortling at Perune.

Ezerak grins at Perune, his dimples flashing into view.

Karthor grins at Perune.

Asildu says, "Well, then. We'll leave in five."

Illiya nods to Asildu.

Rozalynde looks at Asildu and jots down some notes.

Asildu says, "I may count fast. Let us begin."

Parkons says to Asildu, "You're shaping up to be a great leader. Much better than a puppet."

Illiya chortles softly at some secret joke.

Ryeka grins, revealing her dimples.

You follow Asildu southeast.
[Gaethrend's Court, Foyer]
An elaborately ornamented desk serves as a check-in point for travellers seeking a night's rest. Beside the ancient-looking wooden doorway which leads out, two amazingly detailed stone statues stand guard over the entryway. You begin to wonder if they are truly the product of genius or perhaps the unfortunate result of some powerful mage's disfavor. In the corner, a staircase leads up into darkness. You also see an ancient wooden door.

Breath of the Heralds Asildu's group went through an ancient wooden door.
[The Crossing, Boar Alley]
This quaint alley connects Magen Road to the south and Firulf Vista to the north. An ornately carved building with an ancient wooden door is set back from the curb. You would hardly stop and give it a second glance, except that the windows on the second story all seem to glow with soft, pulsating hues that cycle through the colors of the spectrum.

Betlind says, "Good move."

Betlind nods.

You follow Asildu south.
[The Crossing, Magen Road]
This bustling junction presents a cross section of the world's inhabitants in various states of health and disrepair. Bloodied adventurers, impaired healers, overextended spellsingers, and other members of the walking wounded lurch their way towards the Healing Hospital to the west. Litters, carts and horses carry those too badly hurt to move under their own power. In striking contrast are the strapping barbarians who swagger by, towards the Arena and Barbarians' Guild southwest.

Ryeka chuckles.

You follow Asildu west.
[The Crossing, Magen Road]
Not far off you spot the town walls, which meet at a right angle in this northeast corner of town. This road is kept busy by the traffic to and from the popular haunts crowded into this sector - the Barbarians' Guild, the Champions' Arena, the Empaths' Guild, Martyr Saedelthorp's Healing Hospital, and the convivial Gaethrend's Court Inn. In addition, the Paladins' Guild farther north, and the gate leading out of town to the Warrior Mages' Guild and the wilds all are accessed through this street.

You follow Asildu west.
[The Crossing, Magen Road]
The whitewashed building before you is stark and functional. A sign mounted on it is hand painted and carved with cunning skill. White-robed figures and all manner of injured and infirm people stream in and out of a double door, leaving thin trails of blood on the spotless pavement. You also see a town guard, a wide arch and a stone urn.

You follow Asildu south.
[The Crossing, Champions' Square]
Statues of famous barbarians and arena champions form an arcade leading to the arched steel-clad door of the Barbarians' Guild. The building itself is high and massive, and the roof rises into a dome towards the east, covering the Champions' Arena. Through narrow, slit windows you can hear the clang of weapon on shield, and the voice of the trainers barking out instructions to the would-be fighters, gladiators, knights and mercenaries within. You also see a sturdy stone structure.

You follow Asildu west.
[The Crossing, Clanthew Boulevard]
Intimidatingly large passersby crowd around you, and you gulp as you notice most of the men and women here of all races tower above their average counterparts. They also tend to dress differently - fully equipped, even in the midst of the city - in leathers, hide and armor, weapons drawn or at the ready over shoulders or at their sides. Carefully you make your way through the throng, since something tells you this would not be a good spot to step on anyone's toes. You also see a city meeting hall.

You follow Asildu west.
[The Crossing, Clanthew Boulevard]
The cobblestones here are grey and flecked with crystals that sparkle as you move along the boulevard. High walls over which loom still higher structures with shuttered, mute windows that face the street and baked tile roofs, indicate you are passing through one of the wealthier residential sections of the Crossing. You also see a grand stone archway with a bronze plaque on it and a small hut with a grey raven perched on the roof.

You follow Asildu west.
[The Crossing, Clanthew Boulevard]
You pause a moment at one of the busiest crossroads of town. Through this intersection must pass most of those traveling from the wilderness of the Western Tier into the heart of the Crossing, and those departing as well. To the east lie the gates to the Eastern Tier, affording access to the Warrior Mages' Guild and the Observatory, and other, more perilous, destinations.

Yavash slowly rises above the horizon.

A pink-eared white piglet trots into the room.

You follow Asildu west.
[The Crossing, Clanthew Boulevard]
A side entrance to the Academy, in the form of a low, bronze gate, stands here. Students and faculty come and go through it, since it provides convenient access to the inns and eateries clustered to the north and east of Elanthia's most renowned seat of learning and research. Several blocks to the east looms the dome of the Champions' Arena, which also houses the Barbarians' Guild and farther north, both within and without the sheltering walls of town, lie various other Guilds.

You follow Asildu west.
[The Crossing, Clanthew Boulevard]
From the west comes the sound of currents rushing through a narrow river bend, while in the distance, just barely evident to the northwest, is a corner of the outer town wall, over which the calls of birds can be heard. Mingled among the sublime sounds of nature, are the equally sweet sounds reaching your ears from a small, unpretentious building set unobtrusively off to the south side of the road. You also see a wrought-iron gate and a small building.

Ruea says in a lilting accent, "Oh how fun, a battle piglet."

Lexxa chuckles.

Ryeka grins, revealing her dimples.

Asildu says, "There's a lot of faces, so if we're missing anyone... let me know."

A pink-eared white piglet trots into the room.

You follow Asildu west.
[The Crossing, Clanthew Boulevard]
The meandering course of the River Oxenwaithe lies dead ahead. Wooden carts, powered by all manner of two- and four-legged beasts, rumble past, headed west towards the broad, well-worn planks of the Oxenwaithe Bridge and east into the heart of the Crossing. Groups of armed adventurers, mystics, merchants and rogues weave in and out of the wheeled and hoofed mobs.

Leayne softly says, "That is Daisy."

Lexxa asks, "Is that Daisy?"

Ryeka chuckles.

Breath of the Heralds Asildu's group went across the Oxenwaithe Bridge.
[The Crossing, Oxenwaithe Bridge]
This bridge is wide and sturdy, its strong oaken planks weathered but in good repair. Across this span must stream all the traffic directly proceeding to or coming from the Northern and Western Tiers. Oxcarts laden with imports and exports rumble past.

Lexxa nods.

You follow Asildu west.
[The Crossing, Goodwhate Pike]
The gates to the west, the river and Oxenwaithe Bridge to the east, the town walls and dense forests and scrub just beyond to the north - all serve as a reminder of the dichotomy between the untamed forces of nature and the works of mortals that life in Elanthia constantly confronts its inhabitants with. Such cosmic musings are soon cut short, however, as a foul-smelling Dwarf barbarian shoves aside a few passersby rudely and lumbers past.

Leayne softly says, "The one and only."

Gwenddolyn says, "Yes do not leave daisy behind."

You follow Asildu west.
[The Crossing, Goodwhate Pike]
A long, barn-like structure hunkers just by the road here, wedged between the cobbled way and the high outer walls of town that lie just north. A very high, very wide double door leads in and from it the lowing of oxen, the whinnying of steeds and the braying of obstinate pack animals can be heard. An exotic-looking trader in a silk robe forcibly leads a recalcitrant camel from the building, almost knocking a nearby attendant to the ground. You also see a huge mound of manure.

You follow Asildu west.
[The Crossing, Goodwhate Pike]
Old woodframe buildings that appear to be vacant border the wide pike here. Heavy traffic has taken its toll, leaving deep ruts and almost demolishing the curb, so that the already decrepit mud-and-twig structures almost seem to spill out upon the road. You have no doubt that, during the height of the rainy season, they literally do. Directly west lies the Western Gate.

Ryeka exclaims, "Hi-ho Daisy Awaaaaayyyyy!"

Ryeka grins, revealing her dimples.

You follow Asildu west.
[The Crossing, Western Gate]
Camels, oxen, and mules compete with Elves, Gor'Togs, and Humans to pass through the narrow gate which breaches the stone wall between town and the western reaches. The lowing of animals, and the bellowing of irate travelers become almost indistinguishable the more you listen. After a few minutes, so do the unmistakable odors of unwashed sojourners and domestic beasts of burden. It begins to dawn on you why folks are anxious to pass through customs, whatever the cost, as quickly as possible. You also see the Western Gate, the Guard House and some stone stairs leading to the top of the town wall.

Betlind says, "No worries, we'll reach out to the stragglers and rescue 'em if they fall behind."

Leayne giggles at Ryeka.

Asildu nods.

Asildu says, "Thank you."

Breath of the Heralds Asildu's group went through the Western Gate.
[Mycthengelde, Flatlands]
Well-worn paths lead through a grove of trees to a gate in The Crossing's western wall. Now and again you hear birds calling to one another in the branches, or the bustling of a merchant's cart as it makes its way past. A handful of adventurers nod at you in greeting as they make their way into town. An aromatic mix of wildflowers mingles with wyndwood, oak and juniper trees as the grove stretches north and south, while to the west, you can see grassy flatlands through a small clearing. You also see a wooden sign printed in large block letters, a path that heads westward toward the grasslands, a town wall, a narrow trail and the western gate.

Breath of the Heralds Asildu's group wandered up a path that heads westward toward the grasslands.
[Grassland Road, Meadow]
An endless vista of meadows and grasslands stretches out to the west, traveled by this meandering dirt road compacted to a hard surface by years of trekking feet, hooves and wheels. A path leads to the bustling gate of the Crossing to the east.

You follow Asildu west.
[Grassland Road, Meadow]

Aerilia ponders.

You follow Asildu northwest.
[Grassland Road, Meadow]

You follow Asildu west.
[Grassland Road, Meadow]

You follow Asildu northwest.
[Grassland Road, Farmlands]

You follow Asildu west.
[Grassland Road, Farmlands]

You follow Asildu west.
[Grassland Road, Orchard]

You follow Asildu southwest.
[Grassland Road, Farmlands]

You follow Asildu west.
[Grassland Road, Farmlands]

You follow Asildu northwest.
[Grassland Path, Farmlands]

You follow Asildu west.
[Grassland Path, Village Gate]

You follow Asildu west.
[Grassland Path, Meadow]

You follow Asildu northwest.
[Woodland Path, Forest's Edge]

You follow Asildu west.
[Woodland Path, Dense Forest]

You follow Asildu west.
[Woodland Path, Brook]

Breath of the Heralds Asildu's group entered a shallow brook.
[Woodland Path, Brook]

Breath of the Heralds Asildu splashes west, moving sideways to the light current.
Ruea splashes west, moving sideways to the light current.
Lexxa splashes west, moving sideways to the light current.
Strawberry Nurse Illiya splashes west, moving sideways to the light current.
Ryeka splashes west, moving sideways to the light current.
Shield of Starlight Betlind splashes west, moving sideways to the light current.
Enelne's Champion Nawain splashes west, moving sideways to the light current.
Healer Aerilia splashes west, moving sideways to the light current.
Truthseeker Elurora splashes west, moving sideways to the light current.
Firehawk Casari splashes west, moving sideways to the light current.
Perune splashes west, moving sideways to the light current.
Mountain Lord Ezerak splashes west, moving sideways to the light current.
Esotericist Eyst splashes west, moving sideways to the light current.
Bioexorcist Karthor splashes west, moving sideways to the light current.
Forest Sprite Lileath splashes west, moving sideways to the light current.
Citizen Miraeven splashes west, moving sideways to the light current.
Lord Knight Hebion splashes west, moving sideways to the light current.
High Priestess Maraisel splashes west, moving sideways to the light current.

You splash west, moving sideways to the light current.
[Woodland Path, Brook]

You follow Asildu west.
[Woodland Path, Dense Forest]

You follow Asildu southwest.
[Woodland Path, Dense Forest]

You follow Asildu west.
[Woodland Path, Dense Forest]

You follow Asildu west.
[Dense Forest]

You notice as a black dog pads into the area.

The black dog begins to watch the goings on carefully.

Breath of the Heralds Asildu's group climbed up a steep trail.
[Rocky Outcrop]

Perune stares intently at a black dog for a moment.

Breath of the Heralds Asildu's group climbed up a rutted cliff.
[Rocky Outcrop]
Small, bent satinwoods cling to the rocky slope, their gnarled roots seeking patches of soil. Tiny purple flowers spread across the ground, thriving and flourishing where the larger and greedier trees barely hang on. A path levels out to the northwest, following the curve of the outcrop, while to the southwest the way continues on up. You also see a rutted cliff.

You follow Asildu northwest.
[Rocky Outcrop]
A narrow stony shelf runs along one edge of the rocky outcrop, winding among boulders and gaps and the occasional stunted tree. The view down to the east is green, a dense tree canopy only a short distance below. Small grey birds dart back and forth between the trees, quarreling over something.

You follow Asildu northwest.
[Rocky Outcrop]
A gnarled satinwood grows jammed into a rocky corner, its stunted branches reaching up out of the shadow, seeking the sun. Yellowish ferns carpet the ground wherever a patch of soil lies, in crevices around the bare grey rocks.

You follow Asildu north.
[Rocky Outcrop]
A tangle of trees and shrubs growing in a deep patch of soil forces the path dangerously near the ledge to the east. The rocky outcrop drops away, giving a view of a vast, dense forest. Opposite the ledge, the rock rises up high overhead, the grey stone climbable only by spreading lichen and moss.

You follow Asildu north.
[Rocky Outcrop]
Millenia of streaming rain have cut vertical grooves into the solid rock of the outcrop. Looking like the scored bark of some huge grey tree, the grooved stone runs down the rock face into a shadowy hollow.

You follow Asildu northwest.
[Rocky Outcrop]
A cool breeze blows past the rocky outcrop and up the slope to the west. Between the breeze and the perpetual shade here on the north side, it's rather chilly. The trees don't seem to mind, though, nor do the scrubby bushes that cling to the rocky soil.

You follow Asildu up.
[Rocky Outcrop]
The footing is treacherous here on this particularly steep stretch of winding path. The trail turns south as it climbs higher, while the lower reaches are down to the east. Not even bushes grow in this immediate area -- all is steep cliff and featureless rock, with a narrow trail made even more harrowing by gusting winds. You also see a twisty trail.

A blood wolf gracefully trots into the area.
A blood wolf gracefully trots into the area.
A blood wolf gracefully trots into the area.
A blood wolf gracefully trots into the area.
A blood wolf gracefully trots into the area.
A blood wolf gracefully trots into the area.

Breath of the Heralds Asildu's group wandered over to a twisty trail.
[Rocky Outcrop]
The view to the northwest is grand at this elevation, with the landscape spread out like a patchwork quilt. An eagle soars in the distance, keeping a sharp eye out for prey on the distant ground. Closer in, the path curves east and west around the boundary of the rocky outcrop. Sea level is far below, and most of the surfaces within immediate reach are vertical. You also see a twisty trail and a twisting trace.

The black dog begins to watch the goings on carefully.

The black dog growls, "Where even are you guys.."

A silver-backed bear lumbers in.
A silver-backed bear lumbers in.
A silver-backed bear lumbers in.
A silver-backed bear lumbers in.

Ruea shrugs.

You wince as a black dog barks loudly at a silver-backed bear.

Illiya says, "We're in silver-back bear territory."

You follow Asildu southeast.
[Rocky Outcrop]
Stringy creepers spread out across the rock like a fisherman's net spread to dry. Ragged bell-shaped blossoms in a pale yellow decorate the vines, their faces turned up to the sun like little cups. A dull yellow butterfly flutters from one flower to the next, collecting what little nectar they manage to produce. Down in the dry dirt among the creepers is a large paw print, suggesting that creatures larger than butterflies do frequent this place. You also see a silver-backed bear, a silver-backed bear, a silver-backed bear, a silver-backed bear and a silver-backed bear.

Perune says in an Ilithic accent, "The outcrops west of Crossing."

Aerilia says, "West of the Crossing, near wolf and ogre territory."

You follow Asildu south.
[Rocky Outcrop]
The path runs straight north and south here, scoured clean of dirt by the gusting wind. A narrower trail, out of the wind but rough with loose stones, winds its way down the slope to the east. Farther east and much closer to the ground, a deep green forest spreads across the land. Farther yet, beyond the forest, are the regular, colored patches that mark croplands. A tiny village is barely discernable as an irregular blotch in the rectangular blocks of fieldland. You also see a silver-backed bear, a silver-backed bear and a silver-backed bear.

Eyst gets a long gilt-edged dagger with a central blood channel from inside his war belt.

A silver-backed bear saunters in, swinging its head from side to side.
A silver-backed bear saunters in, swinging its head from side to side.
A silver-backed bear saunters in, swinging its head from side to side.

You follow Asildu south.
[Rocky Outcrop]
The northern lobe of the outcrop rises high above, even though this intersection itself is nowhere near ground level. A spindly looking satinwood tree grows on the slope below and to the east, blocking most of the view in that direction. No birds flutter in its branches -- the only creatures immediately visible on the tree are some black ants, marching in a line along one of its nearer limbs. Some large claw marks in the bark suggest that larger animals are about, however. You also see a silver-backed bear, a silver-backed bear, a silver-backed bear, a twisting trail, a silver-backed bear, a silver-backed bear and a silver-backed bear.

You follow Asildu southwest.
[Rocky Outcrop]
Little light penetrates this narrow gap between the two mounds of the outcropping. Grey rock soars toward the sky to the north and south, with a deep, treacherous looking crevasse in between to the immediate south of the trail. A few sickly ferns grow in gaps and chinks in the rock, and a scrubby bush with poisonous looking berries clings to one side of the slope. You also see a silver-backed bear and a narrow trace.

Breath of the Heralds Asildu's group wandered over to a narrow trace.
[Rocky Outcrop]
Piles of rubble indicate frequent rockslides on this side of the outcrop. The loose boulders and rocks and pebbles make footing treacherous. A narrow trail leads the eye up and to the northeast, toward the ridge crest. Silhouetted trees whip back and forth in what appear to be strong winds. You also see a narrow trace.

You follow Asildu northwest.
[Rocky Outcrop]
Tiny star-shaped flowers in purple and yellow dot coarse vines that cling, like grey-green twine, to what little soil is to be found in hollows and chinks of the rock. A few hearty insects, always thriving wherever there's even a ghost of life, march among the flowers. Some collect pollen or nectar, while others prey upon their neighbors. You also see a dire bear.

You follow Asildu north.
[Rocky Outcrop]
The trail winds around this northern lobe of the rocky outcrop, and a smaller path makes its way up to the eastern ridge. Low bushes with grey-green leaves grow here and there on the slope, finding whatever pockets of soil there may be. Occasional rustling sounds from the bushes suggest some sort of animal life, although if there are any small creatures here, they stay well hidden. You also see a rocky ridge.

You follow Asildu northeast.
[Rocky Outcrop]
A pile of white bones and a few shreds of rotting hide suggest that something had a good meal not too long ago. A scrap of what looks like a hare's ear lies to one side, and the bones are about the right size to have been a hare. Large paw prints cover the ground around the carcass, but they're too overlapped to show where the predator went. You also see a dire bear, a twisting trace and a dire bear.

You follow Asildu southwest.
[Rocky Outcrop]
The trail winds around this northern lobe of the rocky outcrop, and a smaller path makes its way up to the eastern ridge. Low bushes with grey-green leaves grow here and there on the slope, finding whatever pockets of soil there may be. Occasional rustling sounds from the bushes suggest some sort of animal life, although if there are any small creatures here, they stay well hidden. You also see a black dog and a rocky ridge.

You follow Asildu south.
[Rocky Outcrop]
Tiny star-shaped flowers in purple and yellow dot coarse vines that cling, like grey-green twine, to what little soil is to be found in hollows and chinks of the rock. A few hearty insects, always thriving wherever there's even a ghost of life, march among the flowers. Some collect pollen or nectar, while others prey upon their neighbors. You also see a dire bear.

You follow Asildu down.
[Rocky Outcrop, Slope]
The slope on this side of the outcrop is just barely navigable, about down to here. The drop-off farther to the west is vertical, and the thought of climbing down it is unpleasant. The view is spectacular, however, and the western lands spread out from one horizon to the other are awe-inspiring in their beauty and variety. You also see a narrow crack.

You notice as a black dog pads into the area.

The black dog begins to watch the goings on carefully.

Asildu nods.

Elurora glances at a narrow crack.

Lexxa raises an eyebrow.

A dire bear lumbers in.
A dire bear lumbers in.
A dire bear lumbers in.
A dire bear lumbers in.

Aerilia says, "Oh dear."

Discovering and Destroying the Artifact

Breath of the Heralds Asildu's group went through a narrow crack.
[Enclosed Pathway, Cavern]
A tight pathway crushes all around, the rock face revealing deep cracks and sparkling minerals. A breathless sigh can be felt ahead as the air is pulled forward, stirring the dust around your feet. Something shimmers in the air, and there is an odd pressure behind your eyes. You also see a narrow crack.

Rozalynde says, "No, I think those were bear."

Nawain squints.

Aerilia grins.

Ryeka grins at Rozalynde, her dimples flashing into view.

Betlind chortles softly at some secret joke.

Leayne softly asks, "Is it safe here finally?"

Asildu says, "Safe..."

Betlind says, "Seems so."

Betlind gnaws on her lip.

Elurora rubs her head.

Ezerak says to Leayne, "Depends on how you define safe."

Asildu casually observes the area.

Elurora says, "Feels weird."

Ryeka says, "At least no critters."

Leayne softly says, "True."

Aerilia nods in agreement.

Betlind says, "Mm, true."

Gwenddolyn says, "I was going to suggest all going west and one of us paladins banner."

Nawain rubs her hands together.

Casari says, "This feels like the others."

Eyst says, "Well, I can see why no one else has stumbled across this artifact. We're certainly off in the wilderness."

Ezerak nods at Casari, obviously agreeing with her views.

You follow Asildu west.
[Enclosed Pathway, Cavern]
The pathway narrows, making it difficult to squeeze forward. The walls are brecciated and catch at your clothing. Faint whispers angrily echo ahead.

Casari covers her ears with her hands.

Elurora furrows her brow.

Asildu says, "Be wary of the whispers."

Aerilia furrows her brow.

You follow Asildu northwest.
[Crushing Pathway, Cavern]
There is barely enough space to progress along the pathway. Thin branches writhe through cracks in the tunnel, grasping at you. A repeated command beckons you to continue on, but you cannot remember the exact words.

Leayne softly asks, "How?"

Ryeka nods to Asildu.

Damoone casually observes the area.

Elurora says, "They sound mad."

Betlind slowly empties her lungs.

Asildu nods.

Middler appears to be listening intently for something.

(Nawain sticks her fingers in her ears dutifully.)

Gwenddolyn says, "Pfe maybe."

Damoone appears to be listening intently for something.

Asildu says, "They will be even angrier soon enough."

You follow Asildu north.
[At the foot of the Ziggurat, Cavern]
A massive cavern stretches in all directions, wide and large enough to engulf a massive ziggurat that stretches upward, an enormous stairwell leading to the top. The gigantic steps are clearly for something greater than a mortal such as yourself, and the steps are well worn in the middle. The ziggurat is without adornment, save a single strip of unknown symbols written in a tight script along the center of the staircase. The cavern walls seethe with writhing branches, which glows with a gentle but steady light. Nearby stands a simple plinth, atop which rests a stone and ivy crown.

Asildu stumbles slightly upon entering the cavern, his gaze immediately drawn to the plinth. With a grimace, his hands rise to grasp his head, groaning in pain as if assailed by some unseen force.

Eyst gazes upward.

Betlind glances at a thinly braided crown of flowing stone and ivy.

Ryeka says, "I used to hunt the Death Spirits of Leth. There were whispers there too- from the mists."

Observer Amailia just arrived.

Ezerak gazes at Asildu.

Amailia joins Asildu's group.

Karthor says in a Haakish accent, "An otherwise fine cavern, if ya ignore the unsettlin' bits."

Aerilia frowns quickly.

Betlind frowns at Asildu.

Karthor casually observes the area.

Lileath rummages about her person, looking for something.

Ezerak steps forward, eyes wide and rapturous. After a moment, he gasps, panting.

Leayne softly says, "Ignore, ignore."

Damoone casually observes the area.

An unusual thrum of energy fills the cavern in a brief, yet powerful wave that whirls around your head, increasing pressure at your temples before receding once again, leaving you feeling somewhat woozy in its wake.

Betlind holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Ezerak shakes his head.

Ryeka rubs her eyes.

Ezerak holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and his eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, he gasps, panting.

Ruea frowns.

Casari cracks her knuckles.

Ezerak holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and his eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, he gasps, panting.

Aerilia rubs her head.

Nawain frowns.

Betlind holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Damoone inhales a great swallow of air.

Elurora steps forward, eyes wide and rapturous. After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Perune winces.

Casari holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Rozalynde jots down some notes.

Damoone slowly empties his lungs.

Asildu points a shaky finger at the crown.

Ezerak says, "Push it."

Betlind holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Ezerak holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and his eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, he gasps, panting.

Elurora holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Asildu says, "Wait."

Gwenddolyn says, "The crown."

Betlind frowns.

Casari glances at Asildu.

Ryeka holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Asildu says, "Do not touch it yet."

Ezerak gazes at Asildu.

Leayne sighs.

Olkerde just left.

Ryeka rubs her eyes.

The crown calls, glittering and gold, and all around you fades to shadow.

Casari asks Asildu, "Are you sure? The longer we leave it, the more risk there is, right?"

Betlind frowns.

Asildu says, "I need to explain something first."

Ryeka nods to Asildu.

Asildu says, "So you will all understand what I need from you."

Illiya nods to Asildu.

Amailia folds her arms across her chest.

Hebion gazes thoughtfully at Asildu.

Karthor squints through his spectacles at a thinly braided crown of flowing stone and ivy.

Asildu says, "This one will not be like the others."

Casari's eyes glaze over slightly as she seems momentarily unaware of her surroundings. Only moments pass before she snaps back to the present.

Eyst says, "Hm. Rather understated for something of such apparent importance."

>study crown As you take a closer look, you are certain you could PUSH or PULL the crown to attempt to shove it off its pedestal and disrupt its power, or RUB it to get a closer look. The crown feels impossibly ancient, and you are unsure what to make of it.

Aerilia nibbles her lip thoughtfully.

>l crown Held between a pair of obsidian pinchers, the crown appears fairly nondescript. A frame of flowing stone winds sinuously, and is wrapped with a lush ivy. You believe you could STUDY it to learn more.

Betlind glances at a thinly braided crown of flowing stone and ivy.

Asildu winces, forcing his eyes from the plinth to focus on something in the distance. His breathing is slow, deliberate. Taking great care to maintain his mental presence.

A keening buzz echoes across your mind. You remember falling on a dirt path, and skinning your knee. Someone bent to help you up. Who was it? Or... did you help someone up? It all feels unclear.

Betlind says, "I don't... like this..."

Eyst frowns.

Ruea nibbles her lip thoughtfully.

Elurora blinks.

Aerilia blinks.

Betlind shakes her head.

Illiya squints.

Perune asks Middler in an Ilithic accent, "Do you know Psychic Shield?"

Elurora nods at Betlind, obviously agreeing with her views.

Asildu shakily says, "When I stumbled upon this cavern, it was more by chance that it was intention. The faint connection I had begun to feel after researching the other artifacts made it easier to locate the chambers where the Heralds were keeping their... toys. I would feel a draw, telling me there was something more to be found, something more to be learned. I was a man obsessed with knowledge and on the precipice of what I believed would be something great, so I obeyed the pull and found myself here. In this place. In front of that plinth."

Ezerak rubs his right eye.

Ryeka gestures at Asildu.
A shaft of pure white light pools in Ryeka's hands and streaks out toward Asildu, bathing him in its radiance.

Ryeka nods to Asildu.

A pained expression crosses Nawain's face.

Asildu nods to the plinth in emphasis.

Betlind gives a slight nod.

Danger Wizard Dasheek just arrived.

Karthor strokes his beard in thoughtful contemplation.

Leayne smiles at Dasheek, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Dasheek joins Asildu's group.

Asildu shakily says, "I spent days here. Weeks, even. Studying that thing. Gleaning from it every morsel of information I could. But the longer I was near it, the greater the pull of its power became. A desire to be near it, at first. Then to touch it. Then came the whispers, urging me to pick it up and place it atop my head. The voices of the Heralds, making promises, giving assurances. Telling me all the things a devout follower wanted to hear. So I did it. I plucked it from its resting place and did as I was bidden."

Illiya lays her hand on Dasheek's arm.

Nawain winces.

Betlind gnaws on her lip.

Aerilia frowns.

Rozalynde frowns aslidu

Rozalynde sighs.

From out of thin air you hear, "It is a mistake to trust them. We are absolute."

Asildu shakily says, "It didn't feel the way I expected it to feel once I had it on. I thought it would appease the voices and hush them so I could concentrate on my studies. Instead, I found myself feeling a bit ill. Disoriented... no, that's not quite the right word. Disconnected, rather. As if I was no longer in complete control over my body. I felt the tiny spark of my connection with the Heralds blossom into a flame that has only continued to grow since that day."

Elurora tilts her head, clearly curious about something.

Eyst tugs at the tip of his mustache distractedly.

Ruea frowns.

Ezerak blinks.

The crown rustles, and you hear the thoughts of everyone standing near. They all want to kill you.

Ryeka nods to Asildu.

Betlind shakes her head.

Ezerak casually observes the area.

Aerilia shivers.

Leayne gasps!

Asildu says, "But today..."

Lileath casually observes the area.

Damoone casually observes the area.

Casari rubs her head.

Elurora raises an eyebrow.

Nawain scowls.

Rozalynde looks at Asildu and jots down some notes.

Dasheek laughs!

Asildu gives a painful groan, wobbling slightly on his feet.

Aerilia says, "That thing is projecting awful thoughts."

Betlind quietly says, "We need be done with this..."

Elurora nods to Aerilia.

Betlind glances at a thinly braided crown of flowing stone and ivy.

Asildu says, "Today is the day my madness ends."

A firefly drifts past you, and lands on the back of your hand. You watch, mesmerized. It is so beautiful.

Suddenly your other hand slaps the firefly, crushing it in a fading smear of light. You do not know why you did that. You blink a moment, and there is nothing on your hand. It all feels unclear.

Ryeka says, "I noticed."

Miraeven casually observes the area.

Rozalynde puts her notebook in her thigh workbag.

Ryeka frowns crown

Elurora gazes down at her hands.

Rozalynde puts her quill in her thigh workbag.

Asildu lifts his head, peering through pain-filled eyes at the faces gathered.

Damoone blinks.

Leayne jots down some notes.

Casari says, "As before, the echoes of their malice linger in this chamber. Bards can hear them."

Ryeka rubs her eyes.

Eyst shakes his head.

Betlind slowly empties her lungs.

Amailia says to Aerilia, "No kidding."

Dasheek says, "Awful? Those were just my normal thoughts..."

Ryeka nods.

Karthor rubs his head.

Asildu says, "When my memory came back to me, I knew I couldn't leave you all to find this treasure alone. If I am ever going to be free of the Heralds, the destruction of this artifact must be done by me. But I can't do it alone. The relic is too powerful to simply be destroyed by a mortal man. Which is why I need your help."

Dasheek says, "Kidding.. I kid.."

A gust of wind flows from the ziggurat, and you smell magnolia and eucalyptus.

Betlind nods emphatically.

Elurora slowly empties her lungs.

Gwenddolyn says, "So can paladins apparently."

Leayne grins at Dasheek, her dimples flashing into view.

Ryeka nods to Asildu.

Asildu says, "The crown is powerful, but the research I conducted on it revealed a weakness. The control it exerts has its limitations. I can't say with absolute certainty, but I have reason to believe that, the more mortals who interact with it, the more diluted the Heralds' connection to it will become, thus potentially allowing me to damage it."

Betlind nods to Asildu.

Aerilia nods.

Leayne gulps.

Elurora glances at Asildu.

Eyst frowns.

Another wash of energy courses from the plinth, your ears feeling as if they are full of water. You think you hear a voice beckoning you toward the crown, but when the energy dissipates, you find yourself questioning if you ever heard it at all.

Elurora glances at a thinly braided crown of flowing stone and ivy.

Illiya asks, "What do you need us to do?"

Asildu shakily says, "Remember my warnings and be cautious. Whatever urges you feel, try to fight them. We're trying to weaken the Heralds, not make them stronger."

Eyst asks, "After warning us to be wary of it's influence you'd have us all partake in it?"

Betlind rubs her head.

You look down and see a kitten wobbling at your feet, mewing pitifully. It terrifies you, but you are not sure why. It all feels unclear.

Asildu shakily says, "Everyone gather close. On my mark, try to PULL the crown from the plinth."

Ruea rubs her head.

Betlind nods to Asildu.

Lileath stands near Asildu.

Amailia slowly empties her lungs.

Karthor pops his knuckles and breathes deep, trying to look calm.

Miraeven stands near Asildu.

Ryeka stands near Asildu.

Aerilia nods.

Elurora inhales a great swallow of air.

Ezerak stands near a thinly braided crown of flowing stone and ivy.

Casari glances at Asildu.

Elurora stands near Asildu.

Amailia stands near Asildu.

Asildu Looks at the crown hungrily, greed and desire clearly writ across his face. The crown shivers slightly.

Karthor stands near Asildu.

Asildu takes a half-step closer to the crown, his brow creased with determination despite the flicker of pain and mental struggle still visible in his eyes.

Rozalynde frowns.

Leayne stands near Asildu.

Betlind glances at Asildu.

Nawain observes Asildu with fascination.

Asildu exclaims, "Now!"

Illiya holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Ezerak holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and his eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, he gasps, panting.

Amailia holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Aerilia holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Karthor holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and his eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, he gasps, panting.

Elurora holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Nawain holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Rozalynde holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Leayne holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Lileath holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Betlind softly says to Asildu, "Stay with us."

Miraeven steps forward, eyes wide and rapturous. After a moment, he gasps, panting.

>pull crown You step forward and grasp the crown and try and yank it from the pedestal. The ivy writhes and courses up your arm, yanking you forward! You feel poison coursing up your arm, into your heart, and everything goes quiet. Three scowling faces glare at you, and suddenly, reality rushes back, and you find yourself panting, your arm numb, your heart racing.

Maraisel holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Casari holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Eyst snorts, loudly.

Betlind holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Aerilia holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Nawain holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Ezerak holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and his eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, he gasps, panting.

Ryeka holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Elurora rubs her right arm.

Parkons holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and his eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, he gasps, panting.

A pained expression crosses Aerilia's face.

Asildu glares at you, and smirks menacingly! You definitely cannot trust him. The crown shivers slightly.

Miraeven holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and his eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, he gasps, panting.

Betlind holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Middler holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and his eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, he gasps, panting.

Rozalynde holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Nawain holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Aerilia holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Ryeka holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Casari holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Maraisel holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Elurora holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Nawain growls ferociously!

Karthor holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and his eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, he gasps, panting.

Ezerak holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and his eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, he gasps, panting.

Miraeven holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and his eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, he gasps, panting.

Asildu jerks his head suddenly and squints in pain! The crown shivers.

Betlind holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Ryeka holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Middler holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and his eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, he gasps, panting.

Casari says, "Fight through it. Ignore anything except destroying the crown."

Leayne glares at a thinly braided crown of flowing stone and ivy.

Gwenddolyn folds her arms across her chest.

Parkons holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and his eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, he gasps, panting.

Olkerde just arrived.

Aerilia holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Casari holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Nawain holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Rozalynde holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Olkerde holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and his eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, he gasps, panting.

Elurora holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Lileath holds up a hand and glares at the crown, and her eyes jerk back and forth! After a moment, she gasps, panting.

Asildu exclaims, "Keep PULLing!"