>>> Snippets on Yngfre, the origin of the Holy Sandwich of Ceridwel

>>> Baby Serra interviews one of the most notorious figures in Serin, quaking in her boots.

[22 Storm Hea] <PK> Serra the Bishop
[ Avian ] (OUTLAW) (WANTED:*****) (OUTCAST) Yngfre the Windswept Failure
[ Human ] Mokoto the Master of the Soul
[ Avian ] Tetka Reborn the Initiate of Animation
[ Human ] <PK> [Rival] Tei Cori the Seeker of Knowledge
[ H-Elf ] Elandre the Deacon
[ Drow ] Sslvn the Master of Hearing
[ Avian ] <PK> Jiyuva Windkeeper the Guardian of the Path
[ Avian ] Daela the Student of Deception
[ Duerg ] Ralow the Herb Keeper
Players found: 10
[KEEPER] The Balance prevails within the four kingdoms.
There are 10 characters on; the most on this past month was 18.

The Infirmary
| This room is quite obviously where the sick and needy
| are brought for the attention of the Healers, since the
| walls are lined with beds and cots and are filled with
| the injured and diseased. Soft cries and moans are sometimes
@-G | punctuated by a shrill shriek of joy, as a patient discovers
| | they have been fully restored, often brought back from
+ | the brink of death by the skilled practitioners that
| | wander the room tending them. The entire infirmary is
+-+-+-+| sheathed in polished white marble, and the normal sickly
---------+ smell and aura that is associated with a place where
the sick are gathered is strangely absent here, and instead is replaced by
a supreme aura of peace and tranquility. The guild hall can be reached to the
east.

[Exits: east]
A half-elf city guard of Seringale stands watch here.
(Charmed) An angry bird stands here, postured aggressively.
(Golden Aura) A poor sick patient is lying here suffering.
(White Aura) Korvoduin the healer guildmaster is here teaching the young priests.

Dagnir the enforcer of law yells 'Yngfre is a criminal! PROTECT THE INNOCENT! BANZAIII!!!'

Players near you in Seringale:
<PK> Serra The Infirmary
Elandre City Hall
Daela Beneath the Eastern Wall of the Mausoleum

[ 4]: <HERALD> Trelanya: Serra's tasks
Sun Jun 14 04:17:44 2020
To: Serra Consortium
Serra,

Thank you for your interest in the Consortium! As a reminder, these are
your tasks for induction:

1. Interview one noteworthy inhabitant of Serin (cabal member or Immortal);
2. Two battle reports (one may be substituted with a work of fiction of
your choice);

3. A piece of juicy gossip about a cabal member, with bonus points if they
were seen falling flat on their face;
4. An area report about Valour;

We are looking forward to reading your writing samples!

- Duchess Trelanya Laurenlarath, on behalf of the Consortium

You tell Yngfre 'Excuse me, could I ask you a question?'
Yngfre tells you 'Y-yeah, love. hM hm hm.'
You tell Yngfre 'I am applying to be a Scholar and one of my tasks is to interview somebody important. I heard people shouting your name in Seringale, so you are probably important... might I interview you?'
Yngfre tells you 'Okee, but I m-must ask for the interview t-to be held someplace out of the ordinary.'
You tell Yngfre 'I will go anywhere you ask - as long as I can find it!'
Yngfre tells you 'The sewers.'

You raise a level!! New ability: infravision.
You gain: 12/374 hit points, 14/472 mana, 6/232 move, and 2 practices.
You receive 81 experience points from exploring.
The muddy sewer
| You are standing in mud that reaches up to your knees.
| This is not the kind of place for a picnic. The muddy
| sewer stretches further into the south.
|
@ *|
| ||
*-* *|
| | ||
* *-*|
---------+

[Exits: south up]
A small gosling flies in.

Yngfre walks in.
Yngfre beckons for everyone to follow.
You dazzle Yngfre with your smile.
You now follow Yngfre.

>>> Serra has never been in the Sewers before, so she allows Yngfre to take her where she will. She is quite aware that following the most wanted thief in Serin into a dark alley is likely a terrible idea, but she would do anything to enter the Consortium...

Yngfre walks south.
You follow Yngfre.
The Sewer Store Room
*-*>*>*-*| You stand in a small room lit by a single torch set in the
| | | wall. The only way out of here is to the north.
*)*-*-* |
, | | | |
*-* @ * *|
| | | |
*-*-* ~-*|
| |
* |
---------+

[Exits: north]
(WANTED) (OUTLAW) (OUTCAST) Yngfre the Windswept Failure is here.
A shady smuggler is here, leaning against the wall.
A small gosling flies in.

You say 'This is my first time in the sewers!'
You stop following Yngfre.
You rest.
Yngfre nods.
You say 'Thank you for taking the time to speak with me.'
Yngfre coats a spiked mithril trident with deadly venom.
Yngfre looks at you.
Yngfre nods at you in agreement.
Yngfre cracks a roguish smirk 'Anytime, love..'
You say 'I was wondering, maybe, you could tell me a little about yourself, and why are people shouting your name in town?'
Yngfre eases her wings behind her back as she leans against the sewer wall.
Yngfre nods, stroking her bare chin in thought 'I will g-give you the short story... as mine is quite long 'n complicated.'
You nod.
Yngfre says 'I'm a wanted criminal.'
You say 'What crime did you commit?'
Yngfre continues 'Have been, most of my life.. but.. when I was a lil' girl, I was locked up for defendin' myself. 'N I guess over time that bitterness kinda stuck with me.'
You say 'That doesn't sound very fair.'
Yngfre explains 'I take f-full responsibility for my actions; I knocked out a Justice 'n took his things.'
Yngfre explains further, her smile diminishing into a stoic look ''n then I slew 'em a bit later.'
You wince in agony.
Yngfre whispers to her right hand 'Shhhh, I got this unner control love.'
Yngfre caresses her right hand achingly.
Serra peers curiously at Yngfre's hand.

From out behind the petite human frame, a pair of grey feathery wings
arch high into the air around her. These stormy appendages have a
wingspan that is capable of engulfing her like a tower shield. Their
bottom rows have feathers that have started to turn white from late
moulting, occasionally shedding to drift off into the wind.

This winged human has ashen grey hair that falls beneath her
shoulders unkempt and weathered. The long strands frame a youthful
face that is etched with a stoic look. She looks to be athletically
toned with no blemishes on her pale skin, except for a tiny pewter
ring in her right nostril. Her eyes are a deep, rich brown that are
windows into the calmness of her very soul.
Yngfre has some small wounds and bruises.

Yngfre is using:
<pile o' birdy things>

You say 'What's that?'
Yngfre twitches nervously 'I'm sorry, I was d-daydreamin', did that kinda answer your question a lil'?'
Yngfre says 'You see, I have a lotta crimes unner my belt.'
Yngfre says 'To pick a mere one out isn't fair to the others, yeah?'
Yngfre gives a polite little chuckle.
You say 'You must have many stories.'
Yngfre says 'I've watched Kings 'n Queens live 'n die.'
You say 'Kings and queens...'
Yngfre brushes her greyish hair back, showing a fleeting, rare smile 'Life is precious, yeah?'
You say 'Indeed, indeed it is.'
Yngfre clutches her right hand, it shakes vigorously 'I valued mine before I was locked up for a decade.'
You say 'Are you alright?'
You say 'Your hand is trembling.'
You stand up.
You heal Yngfre.
Yngfre glances at her hand nervously, stowing it behind her back as she continues to lean against the sewer wall 'Y-yeah, I'm fine.'
Yngfre gives a chaste wink 'Thank you for askin', love.'
You say 'It must be a lot of pressure to be watching out for Justices all the time.'
Yngfre nods in agreement, going on 'I learned a long time ago to trust no one.'
You say 'Ahh.. is it not lonely?'
Yngfre frowns sadly 'YEAH it is! bUt..I'm safer that way.'
You nod.
You say 'I understand.'
Yngfre giggles.
Yngfre coats a sapphire encrusted dagger with deadly venom.
Yngfre looks at you.
You say 'Do you fight to survive, now, or do you seek to change things, overthrow order?'
Yngfre says 'A mixture of both, but if I had my way...I'd eradicate all civilization 'n start over, unless I could be s-saved, 'n start over myself.'
You say 'All civilization?'
You boggle at the concept.
Yngfre slightly cringes 'I made some not-so-great decisions 'n the past.'
You say 'Would you care to talk about them?'
Yngfre says 'Sure! wHy not? bUt I guess I could go either way.'
Yngfre shrugs helplessly 'A rogue 'n the biggest cities has a full-time job with benefits.'
Yngfre contemplatively adjusts her nose ring 'I guess my worst d-decision was sacrificin' my soul to Darkhan. bEen lost 'n messed up ever since...'
You gasp in astonishment.
You say 'Oh...What made you do such a thing?'
Yngfre says 'I lost my b-beloved Ruby to 'n undead, but then He 'n the Alhoon promised me a new path - a new unlife. iT was a lie I feel like.'
Yngfre explains 'So I lost faith 'n my Elusive Mother - my greatest regret.'
You say 'Elusive mother?'
Yngfre nods.
Yngfre says 'She was there for me when no one else was 'n she gave me purpose.'
Yngfre sighs.
Yngfre slowly sinks down to the floor.
Yngfre sits down on the ground.
You say 'Is she no longer with us?'
Yngfre giggles softly 'She is always with us! I c-could only hope she is listenin' now.'
You say 'Oh!'
Serra looks around the shadowy corners.
Yngfre grows happier 'You would near taste the scent of muffins, but it might already be too late.'
You say 'Muffins! Are you speaking of Vevier? I met her last renewal.'
You smile happily.
Yngfre gasps as she realizes what you did.
Yngfre exclaims in happiness 'I am!'
You say 'She is very kind.'
Yngfre asks 'You met her? hOw is she?'
You say 'She sat in on an interview I had with the herald Trelanya and provided us with muffins and tea.'
Yngfre smiles happily.
Yngfre says 'I wish I could sp-eak with her once again.'
You say 'Can one arrange meetings with immortals?'
Yngfre sits down and thinks deeply.
Yngfre says 'I felt like my l-letters had fallen upon deaf ears, just before my condemnin'.'
You say 'Oh...'
Yngfre says 'But yeah, I believe so, just gotta ask hm hm hm.'
Yngfre says 'I can't muster the courage.'
You say 'If I see her again, would you like me to pass on a word?'
Yngfre nods happily.
You say 'I would be happy to help.'
You smile at her.
Yngfre thanks you heartily.
Yngfre cracks her old roguish grin 'That is very sweet of you thank you!'
You say 'Thank YOU for speaking with me, again! I am honored to make your acquaintance.'
Yngfre flips a double-faced coin.
Yngfre says 'My pleasure, m'lady!'
You say 'I will write something now. I wish you the best and safe travels.'
Yngfre idly runs the coin across her left hand knuckles 'Did you have more q-questions?'
You say 'Oh, yes... How do I get out of here?'
Yuck, try to cover your mouth next time!
Yngfre nods.
Yngfre beckons for everyone to follow.
You now follow Yngfre.
Yngfre laughs 'It can be a bit confusin'.'
You agree absolutely.

From: Serra
To: Consortium Yngfre
Subject: An interview with Yngfre
Content:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
I chose Yngfre to interview as a noteworthy inhabitant of Serin, because
her name was ringing from the walls of Seringale when I awoke.

In a secret room away from the angry city guards we sat to chat, and she
told me a little bit about her life and how she came to become a wanted
criminal.

In fact, Yngfre said, she had been a wanted criminal for most of her life.
As a child she was locked up for ten whole years for defending herself. It
seemed that she had been subject to many unjust incidents which left a
bitterness in her that persists to today.

Her most recent crime, however, was knocking out, stealing from, and
ultimately murdering a Justice. Yngfre told me she has committed many
crimes over her life, however, and that the last one was no more noteworthy
than the others. She has lived a long time, long enough to watch Kings and
Queens live and die. One could assume, then, that she has committed many
thefts and murders over her life. (Thus, even though she is not in a cabal
or an Immortal, I believe she still satisfies the "noteworthy" requirement
for this task.)

Living outside the law and with much of society against her has taken a
heavy toll on her, however. She always seems to be on edge, and one of her
hands sometimes has a tremor, possibly due to stress. Furthermore, Yngfre
told me how once she had thought life to be precious, but she stopped
valuing her own after her unfair incarceration. Now she fights, both for
her own survival and to overthrow the chains that civilization puts upon
people.

In her lifetime, Yngfre has sought divine guidance from two deities. The
first, Vevier, she called her Elusive Mother. She was once devoted to
Vevier, whom she said was there when no one else was and gave her purpose.
At her lowest point, Yngfre lost her "Ruby" to an undead and was tempted by
Darkhan to sacrifice her soul to him. When she sought advice from her
Elusive Mother, she heard no reply. Without Vevier's guidance, ultimately
Yngfre sacrificed her soul to Darkhan, only to find out that the dark
Immortal had been offering her a lie. Since then, she says, she has been
"lost 'n messed up ever since..."

These days, Yngfre tends to travel in solitude and trust no one for safety's
sake. Still, she wishes to one day have an audience again with her Elusive
Mother, perhaps to find a way to redemption.

>>> Serra grows up, joins the Consortium, and winds up traveling several times with Yngfre, adventuring around the lands to slay dragons. The thief appears to be a friend of Ilromie's, and therefore Serra trusts her, too. She comes to learn Yngfre is in a relationship with Kaa the warlord, with whom Serra attempts to fight the Chaos Dragon. Kaa is unfortunately slain in this incident, which Serra takes as her own fault for failing her job as a healer.

>>> One day, Serra is meandering around the lands when she makes a terrible discovery.

[======----] [ Drow ] <PK> Dzaela the Grand Mistress of Larceny
[ Human ] Wardobaen the Ranger of the Woodlands
[ Gnome ] <PK> Wylsin Plindane the Sage of Arcane Power
[ Human ] <PK> Dame Rhoa the Holy Lady, Knight of Valour
[ H-Elf ] [Rival] Fream Jereilor the Seeker of Knowledge
[50 Storm Hea] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Chronicler) Serra the Holy Matriarch of Healing
[ Undea ] (OUTLAW) [Rival] Noculem the Bloodfiend
Players found: 7
[KNIGHT] Light shall prevail throughout the lands.
There are 7 characters on; the most on this past month was 17.

The Grand Mistress yells 'Rhoa! Now you die!'

[======----] Path to the Tower
f-f-o-f-f| You are on a solid path of hard-packed dirt and gravel.
| | The edges of the path are meticulously maintained and
o | perfectly straight leading to the north and south. In
/ | | the distance you see a grand tower climbing into the sky.
=*)@ | It appears to be so tall that you are not sure where the
| | / | tower ends and the sky begins. Perhaps they are one and
=*-*-*- | the same...
/ / | |
-*= |
---------+

[Exits: north south]
An emaciated adventurer is here looking lost and hopeless.
A white tiger walks in.
A lost adventurer says 'Do you have any food you can spare, Serra?'

Players near you in The Towers of High Sorcery:
<PK> Rhoa Northern Skybridge to the High Council Chamber
<PK> Serra Path to the Tower

You yell 'Greetings miss!'
Rhoa yells 'Hello Serra!'
You yell 'Do you need any help?'
Rhoa yells 'I am fine, thank you!'
You yell 'Indeed miss!'

The Fountain of the Arcane
F-* * | You are standing before the Fountain of the Arcane in the
| | | center of the Grand Hall. The fountain has been carved
*-*-*-*-*| out of a light blue-colored marble the likes of which you
| | | | || have never seen before. Along the edges and rim of the
*-*-@-*-*| stone are gilded carvings of arcane symbols representing
| | | | || the three schools of magic - invokation, illusionary, and
*-*-*-*-*| necromantic. The fountain is a hub of social activity in
| | | the hall. People are gathered in groups discussing various
* *-*-S | topics of magic and scholarship, while others sit by themselves
---------+ on the edge of the fountain in quiet introspection.

[Exits: north east south west]
An invigorating potion is here.
A marble fountain is here filled with a glowing liquid.
A swirling orb of magic floats here mysteriously.
A white tiger walks in.

Object 'potion invigorating' is type potion, material glass.
Extra flags: glow.
Made to be held.
Weight is 3 lbs, value is 4000, level is 25.
Level 35 spells of: 'wilderness healing'.

You say 'Oh!'
You get an invigorating potion.
You get a leather medic's bag from a mysterious bag of the Magi.
You put an invigorating potion in a leather medic's bag.
You say 'How curious.'

>>> Off she goes exploring some more and prepare some shards for experimentation, when...

The Lazarus Pit
| You are standing on the edge of a smouldering, ravaged pit
| torn into the ground by some unknown catastrophic force. What
| grass and underbrush once covered the area has been burned
| away, leaving only ash and ruin. Even the tree trunks have
@ | been charred with a sooty dust. A strange heat emanates from
| the center of the pit, as does the acrid smell of burning
| rock and metal. The gloomy path to the east would take you
| safely away towards fresh air.
|
---------+

[Exits: east shack]
The twisted spine of Kaa is here, decomposing.
The cracked skull of Quardaz is here, gazing at you with empty sockets.
The twisted spine of Mandin is here, decomposing.
The cracked skull of Vinson is here, gazing at you with empty sockets.
This simple shack door has been crafted from deadfall.
A white tiger walks in.

You bat your eyelashes.
You wince in agony.
You rest.

Rhoa rides in on a brass Asc'Liena stallion.
A bloated, old bloodhound walks in.

You smile at her.
Rhoa must like you a great deal to beam at you so broadly!
Rhoa jigs about furiously.
Rhoa rudely grabs you by the collar and shouts 'Make me a sandwich!!'
Heh.
Rhoa chuckles politely.
You say 'Oh no!'
You stand up.
A stack of pancakes suddenly appears.
Rhoa says 'I'm just joking.'
Rhoa says 'But, seriously. Do you have a sandwich?'
You say 'I do not know the secrets of sandwiches.'
Rhoa pouts.
You say 'But you may have some pancakes!'
You get a stack of pancakes.
You give a stack of pancakes to Rhoa.
Rhoa curtsies gracefully.
Rhoa thanks you heartily.
You say 'It appears sandwiches are much too grand an art form for my simple prayers.'
Rhoa mulls over the idea at hand. Please be patient.
Rhoa says 'I should pray.'
Rhoa says 'To Ceridwel.'
You say 'For sandwiches?'
Heh.
Rhoa says 'And ask him to bless me with the art of making heavenly sandwiches.' <- The Holy Sandwich of Ceridwel!
You agree absolutely.
Rhoa beams broadly!
Rhoa rudely grabs a bloated, old bloodhound by the collar, shakes her about and shouts 'Make me a sandwich!!'
You say 'This would be a blessing indeed.'
Rhoa says 'It surely would, Serra.'
You say 'I have just found these most disturbing remains.'
Rhoa says 'A matter like this takes serious consideration. What meat would I want on it?'
Rhoa agrees absolutely.
You bat your eyelashes.
Rhoa says 'Quite nasty indeed.'
You say 'Did you know any of these poor folk here? I am thinking to write an obituary.'
Rhoa says 'Well..'
Rhoa says 'Let me think.'
Rhoa says 'I never met Vinson or Mandin.'
You nod.
Rhoa whispers holy words as she calls on Ceridwel's name.
Rhoa says 'I don't think I met Kaa either.'
Rhoa says 'Now Quardaz, on the other hand.'
Rhoa says 'I met him with the shard blade of my polearm.'
You chuckle politely.
You say 'What was he like?'
Rhoa says 'So close to cleansing the poor squidy.'
You say 'Other than squishy.'
Rhoa says 'We had no conversation.'
You say 'Oh, indeed.'
Rhoa says 'I saw him coming at me with a full army of illusions.'
You wince in agony.
Rhoa says 'And he was surrounded by a white aura.'
You say 'I see.'
Rhoa says 'So I was preemptive, and struck him first.'
You nod.
Rhoa looks at you.
Rhoa smiles happily.
Rhoa jigs about furiously.
You let out a hearty laugh.
You say 'You are a good dancer, miss.'
Rhoa curtsies gracefully for you.
Rhoa says 'Well thank you.'
You let out a hearty laugh.
Rhoa says 'Care to move to the cabin just north?'
You nod.
You now follow Rhoa.

>>> Rhoa leads Serra to an empty but furnished cabin in the Mystic Forest.

Rhoa rides south on a brass Asc'Liena stallion.
You follow Rhoa.
The Bedroom
* | Reflecting riches and wealth, the bedroom confirms that the
| | owner of this place is not short of money. A giant bed is
*-o | accented with a golden headboard and at each corner are golden
| | rods with silver spheres mounted on top. A crystal clear mirror
@ | stretches from ceiling to floor, its border containing a variety
| of gems that are embedded into its rectangular structure.
|
|
|
---------+

[Exits: north]
A giant bed in the middle of the room beckons at you.
(White Aura) Rhoa the Holy Lady, Knight of Valour is riding on the back of a brass Asc'Liena stallion.
A white tiger walks in.
A bloated, old bloodhound walks in.

Rhoa dismounts from a brass Asc'Liena stallion.
You bat your eyelashes.
You now follow yourself.
You stop following Rhoa.

Rhoa closes her eyes momentarily.
A delicious sandwich suddenly appears.

You boggle at the concept.
Rhoa says 'This bed is nice and comfy.'
You say 'You made...'
You say 'A sandwich!'

A delicious sandwich is here.

Rhoa cheers and sings... she is just BURSTING with joy!

Rhoa closes her eyes momentarily.
A delicious sandwich suddenly appears.
You say 'Astonishing!'
Rhoa closes her eyes momentarily.
A delicious sandwich suddenly appears.
Rhoa yells 'Ceridwel, you heard my cries!!!'
Serra prays furiously to Kedaleam.
Rhoa gets a delicious sandwich.
A stack of pancakes suddenly appears.
You sigh.
You say 'The secrets elude me yet.'
You say 'Some day!'
You say 'I will learn.'
Rhoa says 'Try to focus on a sandwich.'
Rhoa closes her eyes momentarily.
A delicious sandwich suddenly appears.
Serra squints her eyes very hard.
Rhoa bursts into tears.
A stack of pancakes suddenly appears.
Rhoa says 'I'm so happy, it brings a tear to my eyes.'
Rhoa gets a delicious sandwich.
You smile at her.
Rhoa says 'Only pancakes?'
You say 'Folk will come from miles around just for one of your sandwiches.'
You say 'I have tried.... I am only good at pancakes. And very rarely bacon.'
Rhoa says 'A heavenly sandwich.'
You agree absolutely.
Rhoa says 'That all can enjoy.'
You say 'A divinely inspired sandwich.'
Rhoa says 'Divinely crafted sandwich.'
Rhoa gives a delicious sandwich to a bloated, old bloodhound.
A bloated, old bloodhound eats a delicious sandwich.
Rhoa pats a bloated, old bloodhound on her head.
Rhoa gets a delicious sandwich.
Rhoa gives a delicious sandwich to a brass Asc'Liena stallion.
You let out a hearty laugh.
Rhoa mounts a brass Asc'Liena stallion.
A brass Asc'Liena stallion eats a delicious sandwich.
Rhoa pats a brass Asc'Liena stallion on his head.
Rhoa says 'They deserve to indulge in such a blessing, as well.'
You say 'I didn't know horses ate sandwiches.'
Rhoa smiles happily.
Heh.
Rhoa says 'Of our course they do.'
Rhoa says 'If you offer it to them.'
Rhoa says 'I need to sleep for a moment.'
You nod.
Rhoa goes to sleep in a bed.
You stand up.
Rhoa's eyes are filled with serenity.
You rest.

[ Human ] Wardobaen the Ranger of the Woodlands
[ Human ] <PK> Dame Rhoa the Holy Lady, Knight of Valour
[ H-Elf ] [Rival] Fream Jereilor the Seeker of Knowledge
[50 Storm Hea] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Chronicler) Serra the Holy Matriarch of Healing
Players found: 4
[KNIGHT] Light shall prevail throughout the lands.
There are 4 characters on; the most on this past month was 17.

Rhoa wakes and stands up.
Rhoa yawns.
Rhoa mounts a brass Asc'Liena stallion.
Rhoa eats a delicious sandwich.
Rhoa says 'Nourish myself before my journey continues.'
You nod.
Rhoa dismounts from a brass Asc'Liena stallion.
Rhoa curtsies gracefully for you.
Rhoa mounts a brass Asc'Liena stallion.
You wave.
You say 'Travel well miss!'
Rhoa says 'Always a pleasure.'

A Window by the Sea
| This room is clean and sparsely furnished, with a simple
| table upon which is a small assortment of gathered wild edibles.
| The walls, floor and ceiling are lined with cured pine boards,
| which fill the room with a light fragrance. A gigantic window
@ | to the west reveals water as far as the eye can see. The
| | sound of gentle waves can be heard, hitting the shore where
*-o | the cabin stands.
| |
* |
---------+

[Exits: south]
A small fur rug has been placed by the window with a cushion upon it.
A white tiger walks in.

<SCHOLAR> Serra: Kaa's passing
Wed Aug 12 16:37:50 2020
To: Yngfre
Dear Yngfre,

I have heard the sad news of Kaa's passing and wished to send you my
condolences. I would like to write an obituary for him to submit to the
Mystique. Would you have some words to share in remembrance? If it is too
painful to speak of yet, I understand.

Warmly,
Serra

<SCHOLAR> Serra: Obituaries
Wed Aug 12 16:45:41 2020
To: Ilromie
Dear Ilromie,

I stumbled upon several remains of unfortunates in the Lazarus Pit. These
included Kaa, Quardaz, Mandin, and Vinson. I have not met the latter three,
except Quardaz only in passing - so I think perhaps you might be better
suited to write about him. I have written to Yngfre to see if she has
anything to share about Kaa, and perhaps we could talk to Thoom or other
Warlords to get some of their thoughts on him as well. What do you think?

Warmly,
Serra

[ Avian ] <PK> (OUTLAW) (WANTED:*****) (OUTCAST) Yngfre the Windswept Failure
[ Fire ] [Rival] Glorbag the Apprentice Shaman
[ Alhoo ] <PK> Svesdozelt the Ruler of the Dead
[ H-Elf ] <PK> [Rival] Sevrin Greenwood the Grand Master of Seasons
[ Quasi ] Qinzira the Lord of the Underworld
[ Illit ] Gailaa the Street Magician
[50 Storm Hea] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Chronicler) Serra the Holy Matriarch of Healing
Players found: 7
[KNIGHT] Light shall prevail throughout the lands.
There are 7 characters on; the most on this past month was 17.

Yngfre tells you 'What is this!!?'
You tell Yngfre 'I am terribly sorry.'
Yngfre tells you 'YOU LIE! t-tell me it isn't true!'
You tell Yngfre 'I only learned of the news when I found his remains in the Lazarus Pit...'

>>> Coincidentally, Serra was exploring Exile when this occurred.
Execution Chamber
| Bloodstains are splattered upon the stone walls of this
| grim chamber. The darkness seems to part for the glimmering
| of the various execution tools hanging from the walls.
| A cold air creeps around you that makes the hairs on
*-@ | your neck stand on end. The darkness captures a room
| | to the west.
* * * |
| | | |
*-*-*-*|
---------+

[Exits: west]
A huge table with leather straps awaits your body.
Standing over a huge table, an executioner awaits the next victim.

Yngfre tells you 'A lady of the church is not suppose t-to lie!'
You tell Yngfre 'I do not lie, miss! I do not wish to hurt you.'
You tell Yngfre 'But I thought it is better to know...'
Yngfre tells you 'No...'
Yngfre tells you 'Kaa would n-never leave me, we were suppose to travel together agin.'
Yngfre tells you 'WHO DID THIS!'
You tell Yngfre 'I do not know, miss.'
Yngfre tells you 'Kaa is still alive!'
You tell Yngfre 'Ahh, miss... I hope that is true.'
Yngfre tells you 'YOU LIE.'
You tell Yngfre 'I am not lying, miss.'
Yngfre tells you 'STOP! was it that dark prophet wannabe demigod??! I will show 'em.'

>>> Serra travels back to the Lazarus Pit to look for clues.

The Lazarus Pit
| You are standing on the edge of a smouldering, ravaged pit
| torn into the ground by some unknown catastrophic force. What
| grass and underbrush once covered the area has been burned
| away, leaving only ash and ruin. Even the tree trunks have
@ | been charred with a sooty dust. A strange heat emanates from
| the center of the pit, as does the acrid smell of burning
| rock and metal. The gloomy path to the east would take you
| safely away towards fresh air.
|
---------+

[Exits: east shack]
This simple shack door has been crafted from deadfall.
The twisted spine of Mandin is here, decomposing.
The cracked skull of Quardaz is here, gazing at you with empty sockets.
The twisted spine of Kaa is here, decomposing.

You tell Yngfre 'Hmm, I do not know who did the deed, but there is a shack here. The owner could be the caretaker and might know more.'

>>> Serra waits at the pit for a short time, but Yngfre does not come, so she heads to the nearby cabin to rest.

A Beautiful Garden
| A truly extraordinary display of plants is all around you.
| Flowers sway from their stems in visual harmony in every color
| of the spectrum. A patch of tall red roses in one corner seems
| to symbolize nature's perfection, each one with bountiful
@ | beauty and life. The air carries the divine scent across the
| small clearing. Residing to the west is a well-built log cabin.
| A stone path leads down the middle of the garden to the structure's
| entrance. The sound of waves rushing onto shore can be heard
| nearby.
---------+

[Exits: east (west)]

You open the door west of you.

[##########] Inside the Cabin
| A warm and cozy atmosphere greets you inside this home. On
| the far wall, the fireplace glows and crackles with flames.
* | Laid out in front of it is a large bearskin rug. The smooth
| | black fur resembles the velvet blanket that is folded and
@-o | placed neatly on a white wooden chair. Hallways lead off to
| | the north and south, each lit with the light of torches.
* |
|
|
---------+

[Exits: north east south]
A white wooden chair sits next to the bearskin rug.
In front of the fireplace is a large bearskin rug.

You say 'I wonder whose home this is.'

A Window by the Sea
| This room is clean and sparsely furnished, with a simple
| table upon which is a small assortment of gathered wild edibles.
| The walls, floor and ceiling are lined with cured pine boards,
| which fill the room with a light fragrance. A gigantic window
@ | to the west reveals water as far as the eye can see. The
| | sound of gentle waves can be heard, hitting the shore where
*-o | the cabin stands.
| |
* |
---------+

[Exits: south]
A small fur rug has been placed by the window with a cushion upon it.

You rest.

[ Avian ] <PK> (OUTLAW) (WANTED:*****) (OUTCAST) Yngfre the Windswept Failure
[ Fire ] [Rival] Glorbag the Apprentice Shaman
[ Alhoo ] <PK> Svesdozelt the Ruler of the Dead
[ H-Elf ] <PK> [Rival] Sevrin Greenwood the Grand Master of Seasons
[ Quasi ] Qinzira the Lord of the Underworld
[ Illit ] Gailaa the Stage Magician
[50 Storm Hea] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Chronicler) Serra the Holy Matriarch of Healing
Players found: 7
[KNIGHT] Light shall prevail throughout the lands.
There are 7 characters on; the most on this past month was 17.

Sevrin tells you 'This guy is not bright. Apparently he attacked Yngfre! '
You tell Sevrin 'Oh dear!'
Sevrin tells you 'I even told him, I would never come between her and Ruby!'
You tell Sevrin 'She is in mourning now, too... she has just learned of Kaa's death.'
You tell Sevrin 'I didn't realize she didn't know when I wrote to her earlier!'
Sevrin tells you 'Aye. That is sad. I hope she will be alright. '
Sevrin tells you 'I suppose now she has someone to take the anger out on. '

The whisper of waves breaking upon the beach casts an aura of calm over you.

You tell Sevrin 'I hope it does not drive her out of control. She always seems to be walking such a fine line.'
Sevrin tells you 'I hope she will still be able to tell friend from foe. '
Sevrin tells you 'Someone has destroyed all of his minions. '
You tell Sevrin 'Hmm.'
You tell Sevrin 'That does not bode well...'
Sevrin tells you 'We are still grouped from earlier. And well I can see his minions are gone, but he is still hearty. '
Sevrin tells you 'He has gone. '

[ Avian ] <PK> (OUTLAW) (WANTED:*****) (OUTCAST) Yngfre the Windswept Failure
[ Fire ] [Rival] Glorbag the Apprentice Shaman
[ H-Elf ] <PK> [Rival] Sevrin Greenwood the Grand Master of Seasons
[ Quasi ] Qinzira the Lord of the Underworld
[ Illit ] Gailaa the Stage Magician
[50 Storm Hea] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Chronicler) Serra the Holy Matriarch of Healing
Players found: 6
[KNIGHT] Light shall prevail throughout the lands.
There are 6 characters on; the most on this past month was 17.

Yngfre has invited you to join their group.
You may accept or decline this invitation.

You tell Sevrin 'Ahh.'

You now follow Yngfre.
You join Yngfre's group.

Yngfre's group. Overlord: Sheeka Trilquill [-- ]
[50 Thi] Yngfre 98% hp 100% mana 98% mv 515620 xp Kills: 28
[50 Hea] Serra 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv 556307 xp Kills: 0
* [29 Pet] A stylish rat 0% hp 0% mana 0% mv 8649 tnl (ghost) (Yngfre)

Yngfre tells the group 'What do you mean!'
You tell your group 'The shack?'
Yngfre tells the group 'What shack?'
You tell your group 'I just thought..perhaps... someone would have seen it.'
You tell your group 'It is a shack built here at the Lazarus Pit.'

The Lazarus Pit
| You are standing on the edge of a smouldering, ravaged pit
| torn into the ground by some unknown catastrophic force. What
| grass and underbrush once covered the area has been burned
| away, leaving only ash and ruin. Even the tree trunks have
@ | been charred with a sooty dust. A strange heat emanates from
| the center of the pit, as does the acrid smell of burning
| rock and metal. The gloomy path to the east would take you
| safely away towards fresh air.
|
---------+

[Exits: east shack]
This simple shack door has been crafted from deadfall.
The twisted spine of Mandin is here, decomposing.
The cracked skull of Quardaz is here, gazing at you with empty sockets.
The twisted spine of Kaa is here, decomposing.

Yngfre tells the group 'Erruh!'

Players near you in The Towers of High Sorcery:
<PK> Yngfre Before the Tower Doors
<PK> Serra The Lazarus Pit

You tell your group 'Ah, miss, but be warned the sight is not a nice one...'
Yngfre swoops down and lands upon the ground.
Serra smiles sadly at Yngfre.
Yngfre approaches the remains of Kaa with sobbing tears.
You sigh.
Yngfre whispers to Kaa 'My Love... you..'
Serra says softly 'I shall let you two alone.'

A Gloomy Path
| You are on a thin, gloomy path in the northeastern corner
| of the Tower of High Sorcery gardens. The sounds and liveliness
| of wildlife in the main gardens has subsided into a quiet
| din. Even the air seems more still, and noticeably cooler
@ | here. The path continues to the west and north.
|
|
|
|
---------+

[Exits: north west]

You rest.

Sevrin tells you 'Where do you hide? I shall come to you, if you dont mind the company. '
You tell Sevrin 'I am with Yngfre... she is making her visit to Kaa's body. I would let her alone for a bit, she is grieving heavily.'
You sigh.
Sevrin tells you 'Then I shall leave you be. Please tell her my thoughts and prayers are with her. '
You tell Sevrin 'I will, thank you.'

>>> Serra waits for some time, then hesitantly returns.

Players near you in The Towers of High Sorcery:
<PK> Yngfre A Web of Bones, near The Lazarus Pit
<PK> Serra The Lazarus Pit

[ Undea ] (OUTLAW) [Rival] Noculem the Bloodfiend
[ H-Elf ] [Rival] Cara the Legacy of the Lost Art
[ Avian ] <PK> (OUTLAW) (WANTED:*****) (OUTCAST) Yngfre the Windswept Failure
[ H-Elf ] <PK> [Rival] Sevrin Greenwood the Grand Master of Seasons
[ Quasi ] Qinzira the Lord of the Underworld
[ Illit ] Gailaa the Stage Magician
[50 Storm Hea] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Chronicler) Serra the Holy Matriarch of Healing
Players found: 7
[KNIGHT] Light shall prevail throughout the lands.
There are 7 characters on; the most on this past month was 17.

Yngfre arrives from a shack door.
Serra says hesitantly 'Are you alright, miss?'
Yngfre kneels down one last time beside the remains of Kaa and whispers something incoherent.
The air suddenly crackles with arcane energy.
Yngfre rises to glance to the East with pure hatred in her eyes, then at you.
Yngfre looks at you.
You say 'Were there any clues?'
Yngfre mutters 'The dark prophet... the undead thing..'
You ponder the question.
You say 'He is connected?'
You frown disapprovingly.
Yngfre mutters 'I was last with Kaa 'n he was there..'
You say 'Ahh...'
An illusion briefly appears before your eyes, then disappears.
Yngfre mutters 'I d-don't know...but I will kill every last one of 'em.'
You sigh.
Yngfre lashes out at her dagger 'No! hE is responsible.. he has to be!'
Yngfre whispers to a ruby-hilted dagger 'Don't defend 'em, why are you doin' that!'
You say 'Does Ruby know something?'
Yngfre twitches nervously.
Yngfre says 'N-no...'
You ponder the question.

The twisted spine of Mandin crumbles into dust.

Yngfre whispers to Ruby before losing control 'I stopped that a long time ago!'
Yngfre sinks slowly to her knees upon the ground.
Yngfre mutters 'What is this....'
Yngfre mutters 'A story of love? HA!'
Yngfre mutters 'You make me sick Yngfre.'
You say 'Yngfre?'
Serra gingerly touches Yngfre's shoulder.
You say 'Are you alright, miss?'
Yngfre tries to bite your hand.
Serra pulls her hand back quickly.
You say 'Ah!'
Yngfre screams 'Don't touch me!'
You say 'I'm sorry!'
Yngfre cowers in the corner of the vicinity.
You say 'Perhaps... perhaps we should go elsewhere, miss?'

<SCHOLAR> Xerties the Sage: 'The winds welcome your return, Ilromie the Sage of Arcane Power.'
<SCHOLAR> (Chronicler) Serra: 'Greetings!'
<SCHOLAR> (Chronicler) Ilromie: 'Hello my friend!'
<SCHOLAR> (Chronicler) Serra: 'I have... shared sad news with Yngfre by accident.'
<SCHOLAR> (Chronicler) Ilromie: 'Sad news?'

Yngfre now follows you.

A Window by the Sea
| This room is clean and sparsely furnished, with a simple
| table upon which is a small assortment of gathered wild edibles.
| The walls, floor and ceiling are lined with cured pine boards,
| which fill the room with a light fragrance. A gigantic window
@ | to the west reveals water as far as the eye can see. The
| | sound of gentle waves can be heard, hitting the shore where
*-o | the cabin stands.
| |
* |
---------+

[Exits: south]
A small fur rug has been placed by the window with a cushion upon it.
(WANTED) (OUTLAW) (OUTCAST) Yngfre the Windswept Failure is here.

A magical spring flows from the ground.
A stack of pancakes suddenly appears.
Yngfre's hunger injures her.
Seagulls cry faintly over the sound of the ocean.

<SCHOLAR> (Chronicler) Serra: 'She had not heard of Kaa's passing.'
You say 'Please, miss.'
You get a stack of pancakes.
You give a stack of pancakes to Yngfre.
Yngfre eats a stack of pancakes.

The whisper of waves breaking upon the beach casts an aura of calm over you.

Yngfre sits down on the ground.

<SCHOLAR> (Chronicler) Ilromie: 'In fact, I did not know they knew each other.'

Yngfre rubs her temples as her elbows become drawn upon her knees.

<SCHOLAR> (Chronicler) Serra: 'I had only learned recently that they were lovers.'
<SCHOLAR> (Chronicler) Ilromie: 'Are you with her, now?'
<SCHOLAR> (Chronicler) Serra: 'I am.'

Yngfre says 'I saw him... Kaa.'
You nod.

<SCHOLAR> (Chronicler) Ilromie: 'I am fetching tea, where shall I meet you?'
<SCHOLAR> (Chronicler) Serra: 'We are in the cottage by the sea next to the Mystic Trail.'

Yngfre asks angrily 'Why didun you do somethin' about it?'
You say 'Me?'
You say 'If I had been there, I would have tried my best, miss.'
Yngfre sighs.
Yngfre looks at a small fur rug.
Yngfre crawls and rests on the rug placed by the window with a cushion upon it.
The whisper of waves breaking upon the beach casts an aura of calm over you.
You heal Yngfre.
You say 'I am sorry, miss. I did not know you were unaware.'
You say 'The note... seems so callous now.'
Yngfre explains in a softer, Yngfre voice 'It's funny, little things use to mean so much to me..'
You say 'What kinds of things?'
The whisper of waves breaking upon the beach casts an aura of calm over you.
Ilromie gives a large jug to Yngfre.
Ilromie gives you a large jug.
You drink tea from a large jug.
You thank Ilromie heartily.
Yngfre explains softly 'The way he touched me, the feelin' of not bein' alone.. 'n, the utter joy we had of travellin' together.'
Yngfre peers around herself intently.
Yngfre looks at Ilromie.
You nod.
Yngfre whispers to the ruby-hilted dagger 'But they are my friends..'
Ilromie says 'In fact, it is never easy to come to terms with such loss.'
Ilromie says 'Perhaps have some tea and cake?'
Ilromie gives a raspberry flan to Yngfre.
Yngfre sighs with an exaggeration 'I want blood 'nstead...'
Yngfre eats a tiny halfling brain.
Yngfre says 'Ruby says I need blood.'
Ilromie says 'Adventure it shall be then.'
Yngfre whispers to the ruby-hilted dagger 'But they are my friends, they will unnerstan.'
You say 'If you must have blood, take mine.'

From out behind the petite human frame, a pair of grey feathery wings
arch high into the air around her. These stormy appendages have a
wingspan that is capable of engulfing her like a tower shield. Their
bottom rows have feathers that have started to turn white from late
moulting, occasionally shedding to drift off into the wind.

This winged human has ashen grey hair that falls beneath her
shoulders unkempt and weathered. The long strands frame a youthful
face that is etched with a stoic look. She looks to be athletically
toned with no blemishes on her pale skin, except for a tiny pewter
ring in her right nostril. Her eyes are a deep, rich brown that are
windows into the calmness of her very soul.
Yngfre is in excellent condition.

Yngfre is using:
<pile o' birdy stuff>
<wielded> (Glowing) a ruby-hilted dagger

You are affected by the following:
Spell: detect invis : lasts for 16 hours

Ilromie says 'Killing won't change things.'
Yngfre tenderly caresses a ruby-hilted dagger.
Yngfre looks at you.
You say 'I will not run from you.'
You rest.
Yngfre sighs with relief, and sadness 'But you have a part to play, says Ruby..'
Yngfre gestures slowly at Ilromie ''n so does she.'
You say 'A part? What part could that be?'
Your ears fill with sounds of muted waves rushing upon the shore.
Yngfre mutters 'She said, um...'
Yngfre twitches nervously.
Yngfre says 'She said, um, there is a t-time 'n place to kill others, especially those who are of greater threat.'
Yngfre whispers to a ruby-hilted dagger 'B-but that is what I said. no, I won't say that.'
Serra peers curious at a ruby-hilted dagger.
Yngfre stands up.
Yngfre puts a rusted iron sword in an Assassin's Cloak.
Yngfre puts a fiery dagger in an Assassin's Cloak.
Yngfre covers her ears.
Yngfre says 'She talks too much!'
You chuckle politely.
Yngfre mutters 'That.. Yngfre will have her m-moment of clarity, shortly before achievin' the real goal of global chaos.'
Yngfre loosely laughs.
You tell Ilromie 'She worries me.'
Yngfre says 'That's funny, because I actually agree with you!'
Ilromie says 'In fact, that seems awfully precise.'
Ilromie says to Yngfre 'Do you have a plan?'
Yngfre says 'I never wanted to live 'n a society or unner the laws that trapped me.'
Ilromie tells you 'In fact, she seems worse today than I have ever seen her.'
Yngfre whispers to a ruby-hilted dagger 'All of it for granted?'
You tell Ilromie 'Not long before we came to this hut she thought Vhrael might have had a hand in Kaa's death, and looked most murderous.'
Yngfre says 'HA! NO! I will kill 'em for what they've done.'
Ilromie tells you 'Do you think he could have?'
Yngfre mutters 'I dun unnerstan why.'
You tell Ilromie 'It is possible, though I do not see any proof. A destabilization here and there could bring about the end of the world we know.'
You tell Ilromie 'The end of Kaa could be her catalyst.'
Ilromie tells you 'Was he Warlord? Thoom did not name him such when I interviewed him.'
You tell Ilromie 'He was.'
Yngfre says to a ruby-hilted dagger 'This is not about us anymore..'
Ilromie tells you 'Warmaster, I mean.'
You tell Ilromie 'Ah, this I do not know.'
Ilromie says 'Its about the Justices.'
Yngfre twitches nervously.
You ponder the question.
Yngfre mutters 'I will crumble their Iron Fist.'
You say 'But, miss... Fighting the Justices is just what the dark Lord wants.'
Yngfre mutters 'And then they shall turn to dust, as all Cabals do before they are exterminated.'
You say 'This is indeed the vision he spoke of.'
Ilromie says 'The fall of Justice need not be the end of the world, in fact.'
You say 'It is a shift...towards chaos.'
Ilromie nods.
You say 'But the world must return to balance. It cannot simply be chaos.'

[ Elf ] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Chronicler) Duchess Ilromie Illistarre the Sage of Arcane Power
[ H-Elf ] [Rival] Cara the Legacy of the Lost Art
[ Avian ] <PK> (OUTLAW) (WANTED:*****) (OUTCAST) Yngfre the Windswept Failure
[ H-Elf ] <PK> [Rival] Sevrin Greenwood the Grand Master of Seasons
[ Illit ] Gailaa the Thaumaturgist
[50 Storm Hea] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Chronicler) Serra the Holy Matriarch of Healing
Players found: 6
[KNIGHT] Light shall prevail throughout the lands.
There are 6 characters on; the most on this past month was 17.

Yngfre giggles.
Ilromie says 'It has seen balance for some time yet.'
Yngfre asks 'Need a job done? I can do it for a nice price.'
You bat your eyelashes.
Yngfre says 'They did this..didun they?'
Yngfre's thirst devastates her!
You heal Yngfre.
You say 'Please drink, miss.'
Yngfre drinks water from a magical spring.
Ilromie says 'Who did what?'
Yngfre shakes her head.
Yngfre apologizes 'I'm sorry.'
You say 'For what?'
Ilromie tells you 'What's coming?'
Yngfre looks at you.
You tell Ilromie 'I haven't a clue.'
Ilromie looks at Yngfre.
Ilromie says 'There's no need for violence.'
Yngfre mutters 'The chaos I'm soon to 'nflict upon the world will be great.'
Ilromie says 'In this cabin, I'll clarify.'
Yngfre mutters 'I will not stop. Not until I am dead.'
You sigh.
Yngfre mutters 'You're both... friends, but.. hm hm hm.. um.'
Yngfre mutters 'I should go...'
Ilromie says 'Take care of yourself.'
You nod.
Yngfre has left the group.
Yngfre stops following you.
You stop following Yngfre.
You become the group leader.

A Window by the Sea
| This room is clean and sparsely furnished, with a simple
| table upon which is a small assortment of gathered wild edibles.
| The walls, floor and ceiling are lined with cured pine boards,
| which fill the room with a light fragrance. A gigantic window
@ | to the west reveals water as far as the eye can see. The
| | sound of gentle waves can be heard, hitting the shore where
* | the cabin stands.
| |
* |
---------+

[Exits: south]
A magical spring flows from the ground here.
A small fur rug has been placed by the window with a cushion upon it.
Ilromie the Sage of Arcane Power is here.

Players near you in Drkshtyre Wood:
<PK> Ilromie A Window by the Sea
<PK> Serra A Window by the Sea

You sigh.
Ilromie says 'We'll be here, Yngfre.'
Serra looks at the small imprint left in the rug with consternation.
Ilromie says 'Or somewhere about.'
Ilromie peers into the shadows.
You say 'Again, I am sorry for your loss. We all are.'
Yngfre steps out of the shadows.
Yngfre says 'No you aren't.'
Someone has left the realms.
You mull over the idea at hand, asking for patience.
Ilromie winces in agony.
You say 'I hope she just needs time.'

You invite Ilromie to join your group.

Ilromie now follows you.
Ilromie joins the group.

Ilromie tells the group 'As do I.'
Ilromie tells the group 'But I have never seen her so distracted by that dagger.'

You say 'Do you want to see what she saw?'
You grimace painfully at the thought.

The Lazarus Pit
| You are standing on the edge of a smouldering, ravaged pit
| torn into the ground by some unknown catastrophic force. What
| grass and underbrush once covered the area has been burned
| away, leaving only ash and ruin. Even the tree trunks have
@ | been charred with a sooty dust. A strange heat emanates from
| the center of the pit, as does the acrid smell of burning
| rock and metal. The gloomy path to the east would take you
| safely away towards fresh air.
|
---------+

[Exits: east shack]
This simple shack door has been crafted from deadfall.
The cracked skull of Quardaz is here, gazing at you with empty sockets.
The twisted spine of Kaa is here, decomposing.

You wince in agony.
Ilromie frowns.
You say 'It was my fault she saw this.'
You say 'I fear I caused her to crack.'
Ilromie says 'In fact, it does seem traumatic.'
You sigh.
Ilromie says 'But I suspect she would have fallen this way regardless.'
You say 'I wonder if... sometimes... it is better not to know.'
Ilromie says 'There are a number of journals in my family line which, upon reading, provide a similar tale of such madness.'
Ilromie says 'Perhaps at times.'
You say 'I did not think of it until I saw how wretched she became.'
You say 'And then...'
You sigh.
You say 'It was too late then.'

A brilliant glow radiates from your body, basking the room with purity.

You say 'Rest in peace, Kaa.'

You bow your head in worship of your god.
Kedaleam grants you a little favor.
Reputation with Kedaleam increased by 5.

Journal #5: On loss, and truth
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
Day of the Fall of Thalos, 13th Renewal of the Celestial of Malice

Last renewal, I hurt a friend thoughtlessly in the pursuit of knowledge. I
thought she knew her love had passed away, and I asked about some memories
of him to store in the Mystique.

I thought she knew, but she didn't! My words... My callous words truck her
terribly, the way even a blade could not. I saw her slip into madness and
despair and could not take them back. If only I could silence myself. If
only I could turn back time.

In truth, I do not know how to handle loss. I lost my parents, but so long
ago I cannot even remember their faces. And there is not even a single clue
left for me to seek them. I have never fallen in love, or let anyone close
enough that I could feel anything like she did. So the little words I
wrote, which I had meant kindly, were like poison... I did not know words
could be so hurtful.

Since I entered Serin, I have only known the pursuit of truth. This pursuit
has only brought me good things - friendship, clarity, confidence. But it
seems that there are some truths that are better - or kinder - left unknown.

Perhaps such is true of my own origins. I have often imagined the
possibilities since I was a girl. My parents loved me and accidentally lost
me in the woods, and have been frantically looking for me ever since. Or
they were great nobles whose only child was kidnapped for a ransom they
could not pay. The truth? The truth is likely much more humble. Perhaps
they had too many children and were relieved to be rid of me. Perhaps they
died and somehow I was the only survivor of an attack, like Fya.

Perhaps if I unlock the truth in my mind, like my friend, I will find
terrors there I cannot face.