>>> Before Serra had fully regained her memory... her first meeting with Valindra after re-awakening and the first time the "Coven" conjures together.
<HERALD> Odile the Crier: 'The winds welcome your return, Valindra the Sage of Arcane Power, Chronicler of Myth.'
[ Gobln ] <PK> <HERALD> (Chronicler) Valindra Skitterwit the Sage of Arcane Power, Chronicler of Myth
[ Drow ] Lothidon the Circumventor
[ H-Elf ] Leitha Dondeleon the Paladin Lady
[ Stone ] <PK> [WARLORD] High Warlord Shaghroth Stonefist the Volcano of Infinite Rage
[50 Storm Hea] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Doyenne) Serra the Paradigm of Water, Doyenne of Physical
[ Human ] <PK> [WARLORD] Tearea the Red Lotus, Standard Bearer of Warlords
[ Drow ] Xorhae the Disciple of Combat
[ Elf ] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Duchess Ilromie Illistarre the Sage of Arcane Power, Polymath of History
[ Human ] Dregvant the Knight of Legion
Players found: 9
[WARLORD] The clamour of War prevails.
There are 9 characters on; the most on this past month was 15.
<SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Ilromie: 'Greetings Valindra!'
<HERALD> (Chronicler) Valindra: 'My friend, what a treat.'
<HERALD> (Chronicler) Valindra: 'And I should know. I've had several today already.'
<SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Ilromie: 'Have you?'
<HERALD> (Chronicler) Valindra: 'Started early, took my dog . . .'
<SCHOLAR> (Doyenne) Serra: 'Do you eat dogs?'
<HERALD> (Chronicler) Valindra: 'Do my tiny, watery eyes deceive?'
<HERALD> (Chronicler) Valindra: 'Is that the Doyenne herself, famously returned?'
<SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Ilromie: 'It is.'
<SCHOLAR> (Doyenne) Serra: 'Have we met?'
<HERALD> (Chronicler) Valindra: 'A veritable buffet for a stinky little witch.'
<HERALD> (Chronicler) Valindra: 'If you have forgotten me, you have been gone too long indeed.'
<SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Ilromie: 'In fact, she remembers very little.'
<HERALD> (Chronicler) Valindra: 'Then it is more serious than my glib nature abides.'
<SCHOLAR> (Doyenne) Serra: 'I have been trying to recover my memories for weeks now.'
<HERALD> (Chronicler) Valindra: 'Then I shall bring my crystal ball. Perhaps it will jog something loose.'
<HERALD> (Chronicler) Valindra: 'You gave it to me, after all.'
<SCHOLAR> (Doyenne) Serra: 'I appreciate your kindness.'
<HERALD> (Chronicler) Valindra: 'I have never been accused of such before, but times change as much as memories do, I suppose.'
Valindra walks in.
A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity flies in.
Ilromie smiles at Valindra.
Serra's eyes light up at the sight of the little wisp.
Valindra totters into the room, shedding motes of wisp essence like skin.
You say 'These were in Acadia!'
Yuck, try to cover your mouth next time!
You bow before her.
A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity flits about the room, alighting briefly on Serra's shoulder.
You smile at her.
Valindra greets Ilromie with a light kiss upon the cheek, though she must strain to reach.
You ponder the question.
Ilromie says to Valindra 'It is good to see you.'
Valindra's smile is nearly so wide as her waist.
Valindra says 'And you, Duchess. You are a sight for these eyes.'
Valindra gets the Golden Flower of the Jungle from a satchel embroidered with the crest of Heralds.
Valindra tucks the flower behind Ilromie's ear before darting back to observe the pair of scholars.
Valindra gives the Golden Flower of the Jungle to Ilromie.
Serra looks curiously at Hibbadibbity.
Ilromie shifts the flower behind her ear.
Ilromie looks at Valindra.
Valindra says 'Doyenne, I am Valindra, another old witch of Acadia . . . but you should know that already.'
You say 'I should...'
You nod.
Valindra studies Serra as one might a particularly vexing book in another language.
You say 'It is a pleasure to meet you... again.'
Valindra gives you a veiled hat of mourning.
You are zapped by a veiled hat of mourning and drop it.
A veiled hat of mourning dissolves into smoke.
You bat your eyelashes.
Serra rubs her fingers.
Valindra gasps as the hat disintegrates.
Valindra says 'I thought you . . . might have need of that, considering.'
Valindra says 'But that is for the best, yes.'
You say 'What was that?'
Valindra says 'I wore it after . . . Gimbolin died.'
You say 'Did I know this Gimbolin?'
Glolath walks in.
Valindra blinks her tiny eyes, and they emit a little water.
Glolath says 'Hello.'
Glolath says 'I forgot the way to this house of ill repute.'
Valindra looks at Glolath.
You say 'Greetings, miss.'
Glolath curtsies gracefully.
Glolath says 'I'd like to make an announcement.'
Ilromie says 'In fact, it has a high reputation.'
Serra listens attentively.
Glolath says 'Ilromie is not interested in this line of thought.'
Glolath says 'However.'
Ilromie smirks.
Glolath says 'I engaged myself in public service for some time.'
Glolath says 'I was formerly a Justice.'
Valindra retreats behind Ilromie's shoulder, straining on her tiptoes to observe Glolath.
Glolath says 'In fact, a decorated officer.'
Glolath says 'However I have turned my eyes towards politics.'
Ilromie says 'In fact, I have cause to doubt such statement.'
Ilromie gives a raspberry flan to Valindra.
Valindra eats a raspberry flan.
Valindra smacks her lips rather loudly to demonstrate her appreciation. Flecks of it now dot her many chins.
You say 'Politics?'
Glolath says 'I need water.'
Valindra utters the words, 'qcandusahz gsfuio'.
A magical spring flows from the ground.
Glolath drinks water from a magical spring.
Valindra says 'Drink of my spring, Spectre, and be sated.'
Valindra says 'Yes. That's it. Drink. Drink your fill.'
Valindra blinks her tiny, watery eyes.
Glolath says 'Anyways.'
Glolath says 'I seek to become the mayor of Seringale.'
You peer intently at a magical spring.
You whisper to Valindra 'What did you put in it?'
Glolath says 'I would like your support.'
Ilromie says 'No.'
Glolath says 'You two.'
Valindra holds one stubby finger to her lips as she looks to Serra.
Glolath says 'Along with Kali.'
Valindra says 'There is to be an election?'
Glolath says 'You are people who want the best for all of us.'
Serra shuffles her feet awkwardly.
Valindra doesn't quite hiss at Vikka, but the impetus is there.
Glolath says 'I feel that I understand the capitol.'
Glolath says 'And perhaps, I can serve the people better as an administrator than a policeman.'
Glolath says 'Which is why I stepped down.'
Glolath peers intently at Ilromie.
You say 'What do you aim to administer?'
Ilromie says 'It was not due to your fear of repercussions for failing to defend against the invasion of the Warlord?'
Glolath says 'Those god damned...'
Glolath says 'No.'
Valindra claps her stubby fingers together in delight.
Ilromie says 'I'll not buy your honeyed lies.'
Glolath says 'It was a self delegation.'
Glolath says 'Fine.'
Glolath says 'Speak amongst yourselves.'
Glolath offers to shake Valindra's hand.
Ilromie snorts derisively.
Valindra refuses to shake hands.
Glolath offers you a handshake, type 'accept' to shake her hand.
You scratch yourself on the head... confused.
You refuse to shake hands.
Ilromie looks at you.
Glolath offers to shake Ilromie's hand.
Valindra shies back from the tentacle, though her eyes avidly track the room.
Ilromie says 'Begone.'
Ilromie refuses to shake hands.
Valindra looks at Glolath.
Ilromie crosses her arms.
Glolath says 'Rude.'
Glolath says 'Fine.'
Glolath says 'Cavort as you will, I'm sorry I can't count on you.'
Glolath says 'For I will be the next mayor.'
You say 'I still don't know what your platform is.'
Ilromie snorts derisively.
Valindra nods at you in agreement.
Glolath says 'And I will remember those who disappointed me.'
Valindra says 'What is your position on witches?'
Glolath spits in utter disgust!
You say to Valindra 'Not great, apparently.'
Glolath walks north.
Valindra rolls her eyes, quite a feat considering their size.
You say 'Strange person.'
[WARLORD] the Juggernaut: 'Tearea has challenged Glolath to a fight to the death.'
Ilromie says 'She is quick to spin her story.'
Valindra says 'Perhaps we should support an opposition candidate.'
You say 'Who wants to be mayor?'
You grimace painfully at the thought.
Valindra says 'Any who want it don't deserve it.'
Valindra says 'That is the trick of politics, yes.'
You say 'Oh dear.'
Ilromie says 'It is likely whomever would win would need pay great sums to the Justice.'
You let out a hearty laugh.
Glolath yells 'Help! I am being attacked by Tearea!'
A ray of light shines down briefly nearby, then vanishes.
Ilromie blinks and a distant scene starts to reflect in her eyes.
Valindra gives you a bloody silken pillow.
This bloodied silken pillow has seen better days.
You bat your eyelashes.
You say 'What is this for?'
Valindra says 'You gave this to me once, Doyenne.'
You examine a bloody silken pillow closely.
Object is type furniture, material silk.
Weight is 1, value is 0, unit value is 0, level is 1.
This item originated from Graveyard.
Made to be held.
Valindra says 'We were . . . traveling somewhere. I forget.'
You say 'Something from the Graveyard.'
Valindra says 'It seems we have that in common.'
Valindra blinks innocently.
You give a bloody silken pillow to Valindra.
You say 'Did we steal it from a coffin?'
Valindra says 'Oh, yes, I think so.'
You boggle at the concept.
Valindra says 'This was shortly before . . . Gimbolin's accident.'
You say 'Good gracious.'
Valindra says 'So the time recollects strangely to my mind.'
You say 'Who... who was this Gimbolin?'
Glolath walks in.
Valindra says 'A little gnome, too good and pure for this world. It gobbled him right up, as will happen here from time to time.'
Glolath stretches luxuriously. Kinda makes you want to doesn't it?
Glolath says 'True.'
You ponder the question.
Glolath says 'I agree with what Valindra was saying.'
<SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Ilromie: 'Stand back.'
Glolath utters the words, 'oahz'.
Glolath moves her tentacles in a circular motion, creating a gate.
Tearea walks in.
Glolath steps through a gate and vanishes.
You chuckle politely.
Tearea cracks her knuckles menacingly.
Tearea walks west.
<SCHOLAR> (Doyenne) Serra: 'Back where?'
<HERALD> (Chronicler) Valindra: 'What a tiresome squid.'
<SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Ilromie: 'She is offensive on an entirely new level for Justices.'
<HERALD> (Chronicler) Valindra: 'That takes some trying, as I recall.'
<SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Ilromie: 'She has put in the effort.'
Valindra gives you a news pamphlet.
***
Observations on the Vampires of the Isles of Illusion
Nevahana - a storm giant king, from Storm Hill (elsewhere previously?)
Lordana - a servant of the lord of light (which one?) but was tempted by the Lord of Darkness (darkhan?) to gain immortality in exchange for "a mere ounce of his youth." accepted and turned into a corpse-devouring creature
Rothon - a 'kind and generous man" who somehow became corrupted. Very little about his background.
(so far)
Lorend - a powerful mage of the light outcast due to greed caused by enchantments (an invoker!). Turned upon by his guildmates, and outcast - they were the ones who turned him undead?
Nevahana - Sorrow
Rothon - Anger
Lordana - Envy
Lorend - Purity
Sheundan - Hatred, and the Summoning Stone of Wrath, and Elundaris, the Flail of Lifestealing...
The Gems of the Isles - what or who created them?
Monument to the former mayor of the Isles: Tazmekian, a wizard. Sealed away Sheundan for all time.
Sheundan is also an undead, created by black magic. Perhaps he turned the others, but something yet created him...
His prison contains an illusion of himself, and when it is destroyed he appears at Tazmekian's monument upon a hill.
When he is slain, the holy figure of Sevokan appears. She bears Summersong, the Divine Ceremonial Bow.
***
Valindra says 'You wrote this for me . .. about Vampires, I think?'
A bolt from the heavens streaks past.
You ponder the question.
Valindra says, and rather proudly, 'I kept everything you ever gave me.'
You smile at her.
Valindra says 'I could say the same for the Duchess here, but I . . . ate most of her gifts.'
You let out a hearty laugh.
Valindra smacks her lips once more.
Ilromie says 'Not the handkerchief?'
Ilromie grimaces painfully at the thought.
Valindra roots in her satchel before producing a soiled handkerchief with a flourish. She dabs herself in all the wrong places before returning it whence it came.
Ilromie says 'You missed a bit...'
You say 'We just fought these vampires recently.'
Ilromie gestures on her own face.
You say 'It might use some washing, that handkerchief.'
A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity flitters and flaps a bit before resting lightly on Ilromie's shoulder.
Valindra says, somewhat aghast, 'Oh-I would never.'
Valindra amends, 'It reminds me of a happier time.'
You say 'Oh.'
You nod.
Ilromie turns her head to the wisp.
Ilromie says to a tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity 'Hello, Hibbadibbity.'
A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity whispers something into Ilromie's ear, shedding a little wisp essence.
Valindra gives a potion of steelskin to Ilromie.
Ilromie says 'Where did you find these?'
Valindra says 'Serra gave them to me once.'
Valindra says 'They were . . . from a friend, who left. I think too soon.'
Ilromie gives you a potion of steelskin.
You bat your eyelashes.
You examine a potion of steelskin closely.
Object is type potion, material glass.
Weight is 1, value is 4500, unit value is 4500, level is 45.
This item originated from Mystic Forest.
Made to be held.
You give a potion of steelskin to Ilromie.
Ilromie says 'It is an unfortunate fact that the longer we live, the more friends we lose.'
You nod.
You say 'But the more we make, as well.'
Ilromie nods in enthusiastic agreement with you.
Valindra sits on a chair.
Valindra puts a fragile crystal ball on a table.
Ilromie says 'There is always that to look forward to.'
You get a dark-blue wish-giving fish from a mysterious bag of the Magi.
You get a dark-blue wish-giving fish from a mysterious bag of the Magi.
You give a dark-blue wish-giving fish to Ilromie. <-- THE ROTTING FISH
You give a dark-blue wish-giving fish to Valindra.
Valindra holds the fish up to her ear. She listens for a moment, seeming satisfied.
Valindra gestures to Ilromie and then the chair closest to herself.
Ilromie sits on a chair.
Valindra says to you 'Do you remember this ball, Doyenne?'
You peer intently at a fragile crystal ball.
Valindra waves her hand over the ball somewhat dramatically.
Serra frowns as she tries to remember.
Glolath walks in.
You say 'Perhaps you can refresh my memory.'
Glolath curtsies gracefully.
Glolath says 'Valindra.'
Valindra peers intently into the ball as a small flame kindles there.
Glolath says 'Busy at this time?'
Valindra seems taken by a trance as her white hairs billows behind her in an unfelt breeze.
Glolath peers around herself intently.
Glolath says 'Hellow you two.'
You nicely ask Glolath to be more quiet.
Glolath says 'Where's Kali>'
Valindra says 'I peer into flame and claim a piece of the future, Spectre. Why do you seek me?'
Glolath sighs.
Glolath says 'I need you to write something for me.'
Ilromie says 'No.'
Glolath says 'Don't worry about Ilromie.'
A Beer Garden
S-F-F | You step outside the Mocker's Tavern into a beer garden, filled
| | | with tables for its patrons to sit down on and chug back their
* *-* | drinks. A well-groomed carpet of grass blankets the ground
| | | | beneath your feet, and a six feet high wooden fence protects
* *-@ | the garden from the nosy intrusions of passersby on Main Street.
| There is a rather large white canopy sitting over your head,
| protecting the garden from the rain. Doors back into the tavern
| are to the north and west. To the east you spy a small window
| in the fence, just about big enough to wriggle through.
---------+
[Exits: north west window]
A magical spring flows from the ground here.
A fragile crystal ball is on a table.
Some tables with white chairs are arranged under the awning.
Glolath the Grand Spectre of Beguilement is here.
(Charmed) A tiny wisp hovers here, shedding its essence as it bobs in the air.
Valindra is sitting on a chair.
Ilromie is sitting on a chair with a distant scene reflecting in her eyes.
Valindra tilts her head to the side curiously.
<SCHOLAR> (Doyenne) Serra: 'Perhaps we should move to somewhere quieter.'
Valindra says to Glolath 'The Duchess is a true friend, and wise, Spectre.'
Tearea walks in.
Glolath sighs.
Valindra gets a fragile crystal ball from a table.
You stand up.
Tearea maneuvers to coil around Glolath, and grapples her to the ground.
Tearea's grapple DISMEMBERS Glolath!
Tearea's jab mauls Glolath.
Tearea's back fist DISEMBOWELS Glolath!
Tearea's roundhouse kick decimates Glolath!
>>> Serra leaves the Tavern and Glolath runs for the exit. Valindra, Serra and Ilromie move to a quieter place.
<SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Phostan: 'Tsk, look at them fighting in the bar.'
<HERALD> (Chronicler) Valindra: 'Buncha drunks.'
<SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Phostan: 'Someone should start some beef and demand a written apology from Warlords for disturbing the peace, or face being barred.'
<HERALD> (Chronicler) Valindra: 'Sounds tedious. You write it and put my name at the bottom, won't you.'
<SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Phostan: '....If only one amongst us was an instigator.'
<SCHOLAR> (Doyenne) Serra: 'Who me?'
<SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Ilromie: 'It is I he means.'
<SCHOLAR> (Doyenne) Serra: 'Oh.'
<SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Phostan: 'You are my favorite instigator, it's true.'
<SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Phostan: 'I mean, I excel at it too, but it might seem a bit heavy handed coming from me.'
<SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Ilromie: 'I have seen the offenses given to Tearea from Glolath.'
<HERALD> (Chronicler) Valindra: 'Glolath will make a right politician yet, it seems.'
<HERALD> (Chronicler) Valindra: 'Abuse of power comes as no great surprise.'
Restaurant
S o | This room is actually fairly small, since most people take
| | | their food out and eat in the Main Hall or one of the other
*-*-S-* | rooms. Even so, it is still decorated richly, and a number
| | of tables are available for those who wish to eat right here.
*-@ | To the south is a counter where you may order food. You can
| | | also see a set of swinging doors that leads to the kitchens.
* * | Several loud curses occasionally drift in from that direction.
| One or two people sit here eating, and there is a murmur of
| quiet conversation that is almost drowned out by the raucous
---------+ noise from the Main Hall. You can return to it northwards.
[Exits: north south west]
A heavy oak table sits here, surrounded by eight chairs.
Alanna the waitress stands behind the counter, ready to take your order.
Valindra walks in.
A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity flies in.
You sit down at a heavy oak table.
Ilromie sits down at a heavy oak table.
Valindra sits down at a heavy oak table.
Valindra produces her fragile crystal ball with another well-tried flourish.
A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity flitters and flutters rather frenetically before returning to the little goblin.
You smile at her.
Valindra places the ball squarely before Serra. A tiny flame winks merrily within.
Serra watches the flame intently.
Valindra speaks after a long moment, the cadence of her voice slowing.
<SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Ilromie: 'Furthermore, I know this Warmistress would demand that honor be settled with more dueling, where I face little chance of success.'
Valindra says to you 'What do you see, Doyenne, when you seek the flame's counsel?'
<SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Phostan: 'I'd allow you to lynch her.'
<HERALD> (Chronicler) Valindra: 'I'll bring the feathers.'
You say 'I see... a shadow there.'
Valindra says to you 'Does it take a shape?'
Serra frowns as she tries to concentrate on the silhouette in the flame.
You say 'It seems to be a person of some sort.'
You say 'But it keeps flickering.'
A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity emits a faint trail of her essence as she flutters off to return to Serra's shoulder. Once there, she remains very still.
You say 'I cannot tell who it is.'
You sigh.
Valindra says to Ilromie 'Duchess, what do you see?'
Ilromie glances at the ball from afar.
Valindra gestures across the table.
Valindra says 'Perhaps we should take hands.'
Valindra extends an emerald palm to each of the other Scholars.
Ilromie hesitates a moment before placing her hand on Valindra's and offering the other to you.
Valindra's hair billows behind her as if caught in a great gale the moment her hand connects with Ilromie's.
Serra takes Ilromie's hand carefully, then Valindra's.
Valindra's eyes are now but milky white. She stares into the flame as a feeling of enchantment courses between the trio.
Ilromie draws in a deep breath as the power starts to flow.
Serra glances at the two invokers nervously.
Serra gulps.
Valindra blinks her tiny, watery eyes, now only white, as the wind increases in force.
Valindra says 'We are witches three. Dark and light, power to envy.'
You whisper to Ilromie 'I'm a witch??'
Ilromie whispers to you 'Perhaps we are for this ritual.'
Valindra says 'What will the flame show you, sisters? How will you trace the arc of your soul?'
You say 'I should like to seek truth.'
Valindra's eyes narrow upon Serra, though there are no pupils there.
Valindra says to you 'Why do you return now? What business have you left unfinished?'
You ponder the question.
Valindra intones, orating in a voice not quite her own.
Valindra says 'Go your seeking, soul. Mine the proven path of times foretelling. Yours accordance with some mysteried whole. I am but your passion-haunted dwelling.'
Valindra continues, picking up force, as a storm does.
Ilromie tightens her grip on both hands.
Valindra says 'Bring what news you can, Stranger, loved of body's humbled heart. Say one whispered word to mortal man from that peace whereof he claims you part.'
Serra says slowly 'Mysteries...'
Valindra says 'Hither-hence, my guest, Blood and bone befriend, where you abide till withdrawn to share some timeless quest. What of the brain that dreamed and died.'
Valindra collapses back into her chair rather dramatically.
Valindra says, and somewhat lamely, 'This I foretell.'
Serra says slowly 'You have conjured forth another memory.'
Ilromie gives a silver chalice ornamented with pearls to Valindra.
Valindra releases each of the hands in her own, and that mysterious wind dissipates, her hair settling.
Ilromie says to Valindra 'Drink something.'
Valindra drinks water from a silver chalice ornamented with pearls.
Valindra gulps from the chalice rather greedily before passing it back.
Valindra gives a silver chalice ornamented with pearls to Ilromie.
Serra lets go of Ilromie's hand and looks down at her hands, flexing them as if they ache.
Ilromie discretely wipes the chalice with her robe.
Ilromie drinks water from a silver chalice ornamented with pearls.
Valindra says to you 'What . . do you remember . . anything, Doyenne?'
You say 'The last time I sat here, a dark figure was my company.'
Valindra returns a fragile crystal ball to one of the many pouches dangling from her waist.
Valindra says to you 'Who did you attend, Doyenne?'
Serra says slowly 'It spoke of a dream. A nightmare.'
Serra frowns, trying to concentrate.
Ilromie says 'Dogran?'
You say 'A man, it was.'
Serra tilts her head to one side.
You say 'Is it possible? But Dogran is a god.'
Valindra says 'A minister most sinister, ascended and tried.'
Valindra says 'He was not always such, and perhaps will not always be. Who can say?'
Ilromie says 'In fact, he is but recently ascended.'
You say 'Then perhaps it was he.'
Valindra's eyes dart around furtively.
Valindra says 'The gods must be crazy . . . to leave us here.'
You say 'Did they leave us, or lead us?'
Valindra says to you 'Do you remember the dream, Doyenne?'
You say 'It was not my dream, but his. He was recounting something that filled me with dread, but also, a certain familiarity.'
Valindra says 'They are petty and powerful, as are we. It is only a matter of degrees, I think.'
Valindra says 'Forgive an old blasphemer.'
You say 'I cannot remember the words, just the feeling.'
Valindra says 'Familiar dread?'
Ilromie frowns and cracks open the Tome of Scholars.
You say 'Something that terrified me.'
You nod.
Valindra whispers something to Ilromie.
Ilromie whispers something to Valindra.
Ilromie flips another page in the book.
Ilromie says 'Here it is, I thought you might have writ of such an event.'
Valindra's eyes track Ilromie and the book before her carefully.
Ilromie reads '"Dogran has been receiving dreams since a young boy from an unknown dark entity."'
Ilromie reads '"He says it is a greater power than even his own God, Lord Thorgoth - a larger, faceless force filling him with purpose."'
Ilromie skips ahead a little.
You ponder the question.
Valindra does not shudder, but Hibbadibbity returns to her shoulder.
Ilromie reads '" He described one of his recurring dreams. In it, he was engulfed in pure darkness, then burned by a dark flame. It made me think of the destructive particles in Acadia and their consumption of light, magic, and life."'
Valindra does shudder now, but only a frisson that she attempts to subdue.
You say 'YES - The Darkness.'
Ilromie looks up from the book.
You say 'Particles?'
You say 'Not the demon?'
You say 'Hmm.'
Valindra says 'What Demon, Doyenne?'
You say 'Were there particles in Acadia?'
You get a leather-bound book titled 'Adventures in Acadia' from a mysterious bag of the Magi.
You give a leather-bound book titled 'Adventures in Acadia' to Valindra.
You say 'I found that I wrote about it in the last chapter there.'
Ilromie nods.
Ilromie says 'It is my understanding that they were created of Acadia itself, to destroy the demons that they might rebuild.'
Valindra's eyes digest the book with an amazing alacrity. Perhaps she reads by osmosis, for she holds it very close.
You ponder the question.
You say 'Is this written in the next volume?'
Valindra gives you a leather-bound book titled 'Adventures in Acadia'.
You say 'I suppose I do have to finish my homework after all.'
Ilromie nods.
You sigh at yourself. You MUST be lonely.
You put a leather-bound book titled 'Adventures in Acadia' in a mysterious bag of the Magi.
Ilromie glances down at the page open in front of her, letting her eyes run over the rest of the entry.
Valindra says 'Your garb hangs off you, Doyenne.'
An extremely tall, broad-shouldered woman stands before you. Her face is
rather plain and square, with a wide, crooked nose which has been previously
broken, and pale white scars from what appear to be claw slashes on her left
cheek. Her large, oddly colored eyes are framed with long black lashes.
The irises are dark blue with large specks of glowing crimson which appear
and disappear with every blink. Her snow-white hair is bound in tiny plaits
ending in small white and cerulean beads that swing and clack as she moves.
A beautiful pink ribbon is woven into one of the plaits and terminated with
a crimson bead. The plaits are kept back from her forehead with a simple,
plain leather band. Her skin is the color of rainclouds, with a smattering
of dark blue freckles across the bridge of her nose, and darker purplish
shadows beneath her sunken eyes. Worry lines are deeply etched on her
forehead and at the set corners of her mouth. She is emaciated, almost
skeletal in appearance, yet her enormous frame belies her Giant heritage.
Old stretch marks are visible on her bared upper arms belying her former
weight. When she is quiet, she has a pensive air about her. You notice
that her stride is somewhat pigeon-toed, though she moves with a
determination that belies the strength within her. Fading calluses and
scars on her hands show evidence of past hard labor. Streaks of blood are
smeared on the simple robes wrapping her gaunt body.
She is a master explorer.
Serra is in excellent condition.
You say 'I suppose it does.'
Valindra says 'Duchess, do you divine further?'
Valindra looks at Ilromie.
Ilromie says 'No, there is nothing more of Dogran in this section.'
Ilromie closes the book quickly.
Serra peers curiously at Ilromie.
Valindra taps her lip with a stubby finger.
Ilromie says 'The only remaining comment was that Dogran coveted the power of the dark particles you described.'
Valindra says to Ilromie 'Has . . he found it?'
Serra says slowly 'He has become immortal...'
Ilromie says 'Had he brought such power to Serin, I doubt he could hide it.'
Ilromie says 'In fact, it would likely consume him Immortal or not.'
You shudder at the horror and repress tears.
Valindra says 'It would likely consume us all.'
Ilromie nods.
You say 'Where may I find a copy of the next book?'
Ilromie stands up.
Ilromie beckons for everyone to follow.
You follow Ilromie.
Printing Works
| The hall that was originally the location of the Herald archives
| has been replaced by new shiny machines, printing Mystiques
* | like mad.
| |
* * @ |
| | | |
*-*-*-* |
| |
* |
---------+
[Exits: north south]
(Charmed) A tiny wisp hovers here, shedding its essence as it bobs in the air.
Valindra the Sage of Arcane Power, Chronicler of Myth is here.
Ilromie the Sage of Arcane Power, Polymath of History is here.
Ilromie says 'This is the printing works.'
Ilromie says 'You can print any book that has been written.'
Serra looks at the strange machines.
Valindra whispers something to Ilromie.
You say 'Good gracious.'
Ilromie whispers something to Valindra.
Ilromie creates a leather-bound book titled 'Return to Acadia'.
Ilromie says 'Just like that.'
Serra stares at the newly printed book with wonder.
Valindra claps her stubby hands together in delight.
Ilromie gives you a leather-bound book titled 'Return to Acadia'.
You thank Ilromie heartily.
You say 'This one is even longer than the last one.'
You sigh at yourself. You MUST be lonely.
Valindra comforts you.
Valindra clears her throat.
Valindra says 'Self-knowledge, too, is a kind of curse. How will you break the spell? -- Olgarda, Eater of All Things Good and Evil, circa the Second Age.'
You say 'That is the question I struggle with daily.'
Ilromie says 'Consider the alternative...'
Valindra says 'It seemed appropriate, even though it is the epigraph for MY manuscript.'
Heh.
Ilromie says 'Had you not written so many pages, there would be little to remind you except the poor memories of your friends.'
Valindra says 'And some bloody pillows.'
You wince in agony.
Valindra looks around herself after a long moment.
Valindra says 'I did not think . . . we three would ever stand in the same room again.'
Valindra blinks, 'And I am rarely surprised.'
Ilromie smiles at you.
You say 'Luck and fate are powerful forces.'
Ilromie says 'Yet...is there some unfinished business you have left?'
You say 'There must be.'
You say 'It may be related to the contents of Dogran's dream.'
Ilromie says 'More importantly, what woke you?'
You ponder the question.
You say 'An excellent question.'
You say 'The first thing I heard was a crack in the ice.'
Valindra says 'Frozen, were you?'
You say 'Indeed.'
Ilromie nods.
Valindra says 'Only another state of water, yes.'
Valindra says 'And you--the paradigm.'
Valindra says 'What did you see, after the crack?'
You say 'When I opened my eyes - a corpse. Death, all around me, and snow.'
Ilromie frowns.
Valindra says 'And nothing to eat? How terrible.'
You say 'I thought the same, after my body slowly awakened to its hunger and drove me out of Winter.'
You say 'All I had was a cake, which instructed me to eat it, and sated nothing.'
You mutter quietly to yourself.
Valindra says 'Did you see a portal? Did you travel? From Acadia?'
You shake your head.
Valindra whispers something to Ilromie.
A fire crackles softly with a burst of sparks.
Valindra nods approvingly at the fire.
Ilromie whispers something to Valindra.
You say 'This corpse I saw held a bag much like this one.'
You pat a mysterious bag of the Magi reassuringly.
Valindra whispers something to Ilromie.
You say 'But when I reached out to touch it, it zapped me.'
Ilromie whispers something to Valindra.
Valindra whispers something to Ilromie.
Ilromie whispers something to Valindra.
Ilromie says 'That is an exceptionally strange fact.'
Valindra whispers something to Ilromie.
You bat your eyelashes.
Ilromie says 'Did it feel like wood?'
You say 'I only felt pain, as if struck by lightning.'
Ilromie frowns.
Valindra clears her throat once more. Hibbadibbity stirs before relaxing again upon the goblin's shoulder.
Glolath tells you 'Hi.'
Valindra says 'The squid returns and may make a nuisance of herself.'
[ Illit ] <PK> Glolath Ghaik the Grand Spectre of Beguilement
[ Undea ] Lucidas the Brute
[ Drow ] Lothidon the Shieldman
[ Duerg ] Regdar the Militant
[ Gobln ] <PK> <HERALD> (Chronicler) Valindra Skitterwit the Sage of Arcane Power, Chronicler of Myth
[50 Storm Hea] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Doyenne) Serra the Paradigm of Water, Doyenne of Physical
[ Elf ] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Duchess Ilromie Illistarre the Sage of Arcane Power, Polymath of History
Players found: 7
[KEEPER] The Balance prevails within the four kingdoms.
There are 7 characters on; the most on this past month was 15.
You chuckle politely.
Valindra says 'She keeps petitioning for my attention.'
You tell Glolath 'Greetings, miss.'
Valindra says 'I told her I sought the vapors and would not be disturbed.'
Glolath tells you 'My name is Glolath, are you adventuring?'
Ilromie nods.
Ilromie says 'She is persistent.'
You tell Glolath 'No, I am not.'
You say 'Why did you ask if it felt like wood?'
Ilromie says 'Is it not wood that stings you?'
You ponder the question.
Ilromie says 'Some day, I should like to return to the River where you rested, but I sense now is not the time.'
Serra rubs her hands over the oak table's surface.
Serra grimaces as her palms begin to redden and itch.
Valindra cranes her neck.
You say 'It does not feel the same.'
Ilromie nods.
A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity stirs from the goblin's shoulder and zips about before resting upon Serra's hands.
Serra cups the wisp carefully in her palms.
Valindra says 'A sight, I think, to see a giant cradle a wisp.'
You chuckle politely.
Valindra says 'That is your nature, Doyenne. That is what you must remember.'
Ilromie says to you 'In fact, I have seen few others with such tolerance as you.'
Valindra nods at Ilromie.
You say 'Thank you both.'
Valindra says 'Do not thank me for truth, for sometimes it will not serve your interest!'
You say 'But I am always interested in the truth, I think.'
Ilromie agrees absolutely.
Valindra nods, her chins wobbling.
Valindra says 'You are wiser than most then.'
Ilromie says 'She was...'
Ilromie says 'And will be again.'
Valindra nods at Ilromie.
Ilromie says 'Perhaps not at this very moment.'
Ilromie winks suggestively at you.
You say 'I only hope I do not need to live another giant's lifetime to regain it.'
You wince in agony.
Valindra says 'You two are sisters, you know--friends, rivals, but sisters, I think, first.'
You nod.
Ilromie says 'In fact, it was one of the happiest days of my life to find you chose to make your home so near to mine.'
You say 'Anywhere further would have been a most inconvenient walk.'
Valindra smiles, revealing some yellow teeth.
Valindra says 'You two make a proper coven, you know. Get your memory back, Doyenne, and then let us make some trouble.'
You say 'What trouble do you have in mind?'
Ilromie says 'I know not if I am pleased to be considered part of a coven...'
Valindra says 'I have shed my veil of mourning and now seek a diversion.'
Valindra says 'Pleased or not, Duchess, you cannot deny our connection.'
Valindra blinks again as if to illustrate her point.
Valindra says 'It is powerful.'
Serra says a little too firmly 'Yes, a diversion.'
Ilromie glances down at the hand through which power was previously shared.
Ilromie says 'It is fact.'
Valindra amends, after a long moment, 'I would not cause either of you harm, despite my skin . . . I am many things, but I hope near the top is friend.'
Ilromie agrees absolutely.
Ilromie says 'It is, my friend.'
Valindra pokes her belly.
Valindra says 'I grow soft in my dotage, but perhaps it suits.'
You say 'I only hope I do not delay your diversion overmuch.'
Valindra says 'Shaking the rocks in your head loose should suffice, Doyenne, for now, I think.'
You nod.
You say 'With the forces of the Consortium supporting me I feel I have a good chance.'
Valindra says to you 'This is especially funny because you are a Stone Giant . . . in case you forgot.'
You bat your eyelashes.
Valindra says 'Oh, drat!'
Valindra says 'Wrong giant.'
Valindra checks her notes.
You let out a hearty laugh.
Ilromie agrees absolutely.
You say 'If you had told me that a week ago, I would have believed you.'
Valindra giggles.
You say 'But I met a real stone giant who said otherwise.'
Valindra gives you the Golden Flower of the Jungle.
A golden flower rests here.
Valindra says 'Smelly things. Too much perfume.'
You say 'I remember this scent.'
You sniff the Golden Flower of the Jungle curiously.
Valindra says 'Scent is a powerful reminder, Doyenne.'
You say 'There are many sounds associated with it. Animals, insects rushing... clashing weapons.'
Valindra says 'Follow the thread to its terminus.'
You say 'Raindrops. And some pain.'
Ilromie nods.
You say 'I will seek this flower in its native land on my next travel.'
Valindra nods at you in agreement.
You say 'I think I will attempt to write a little... I know, I know... too much writing... but if I forget again...'
Ilromie smiles at you.
Valindra says 'Your writing shall guide you, Doyenne, as we cannot.'
Valindra nods sagely, though the effect is spoiled by the dots of Ilromie's flan upon her chins.
Serra shivers a little bit.
Ilromie says 'I have started a new Mystique, it requires your contribution.'
Serra perks up a little.
You say 'What do you need of me?'
Ilromie says 'Whatever it is what you produce, friend.'
You say 'Any direction in particular?'
Ilromie says 'News, stories, poetry perhaps?'
Valindra says 'Write what you -can- remember, please.'
You let out a hearty laugh.
Ilromie says 'Though you never were called to that.'
Ilromie nods.
You say 'It is difficult to write what I know nothing of.'
You say 'I will stick to easier subjects.'
You say 'I will try a story.'
You mull over the idea at hand, asking for patience.
Valindra says 'Funnily enough, you are a teacher. I think a part of that feeling drives you.'
Ilromie says 'Though I find the requirement of meter and rhyme helps straighten my thoughts.'
Serra squirms a bit.
Valindra says 'Form is a lovely cage, yes.'
Valindra says 'It can free you.'
You say 'How...?'
Valindra says 'As a . . . technique . . . such a stricture . . . can help you . . . unlock your subconscious element.'
Ilromie considers that question very carefully.
You say 'If you set me such structure as a task, I will face it.'
Ilromie shakes her head.
Ilromie says 'In fact, I try to avoid setting requirements on tasks when I can avoid it.'
Valindra smiles at Ilromie.
Ilromie says 'I wish every member of the Consortium to shine according to their own wills.'
You say 'But... I don't quite know what I will.'
Ilromie sits down and thinks deeply.
Ilromie says 'Where is that poem...'
Valindra says 'I should like you to write something in a received or nonce form--heroic couplets, a sonnet, a villanelle, a scheme of your own design. Use it as a tool to peer into the past.'
Ilromie says 'Here it is.'
Valindra breathes heavily on her fragile crystal ball and then uses her sleeve to wipe it clean.
Ilromie holds The Compiled Poetry Contests of Serin in her hand and clears her throat.
Valindra watches Ilromie with dogged interest.
Ilromie recites 'Not for Lack of Trying by Sir Alkas, Archon of Valour.'
Ilromie recites 'Hovering resolutely in the air.'
Ilromie recites 'Intentions well and good but directed nowhere.'
Ilromie recites 'Ink dripping off the wavering point.'
Ilromie recites 'Frozen in fear, not wanting to disappoint.'
Ilromie recites 'Furrowed brow and beginning to perspire.'
Ilromie recites 'Hoping to make something to admire.'
Ilromie recites 'At long last a first stroke has been inspired.'
Ilromie recites 'Knowing full well it will leave much to be desired.'
Ilromie recites 'A simple idea to express.'
Ilromie recites 'Could be done in a poem, I guess.'
Ilromie recites ''The only point worth stressing.'
Ilromie peers around herself intently.
Ilromie recites 'Is that not trying at all is most depressing.''
Ilromie bows deeply.
Valindra bursts into applause, her stubby fingers giddy as they press against each other.
You say 'I.... That is quite inspiring.'
You say 'Very well, a poem I shall attempt.'
Ilromie says 'Sir Alkas doubted himself before he wrote this, yet it is my favorite poem of all those that were submitted for that contest, or the next.'
You smile happily.
Valindra says 'Alkas always had a way.'
Valindra says 'I read his fortune once.'
Ilromie says 'Do you recall?'
Valindra shakes her head.
Valindra says 'I remember he was kind, which surprised me.'
You nod.
You say 'It is Alkas who taught me tolerance.'
You get a leather-bound book titled 'The Book of Teachings' from a mysterious bag of the Magi.
The Book of Teachings
<><><><><><><><><><><
[ Foreword ]
This book contains the wisdom imparted to me by the mentors who have
taught me everything. Without their guidance I would not have become the
person I am today. It is my hope that their wisdom may pass on to the rest
of Serin, and on through the ages, that their teachings and their names may
never be forgotten.
1) Markus (see Markus)
2) Ethaac (see Ethaac)
3) Alkas (see Alkas)
4) Lumubella (see Lumubella)
May the waters guide you and keep you safe.
Serra, Doyenne of the Physical
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
***
Alkas taught me of the Spirit of Serin, to open my heart to even those who
walk a different path, and how to find peace in a world of turmoil. For not
all who were born dark act upon it, and violence only breeds more strife.
He taught me that the Heart and the Spirit must be aligned for the soul to
be at peace. Frictions between these lead to rash acts and discontent.
He taught me that seeing the faults in ourselves, even as we perform our
duties, are what anchor us and ultimately give us strength through the
Virtue of Humility.
He taught me that my greatest fears are borne out of love, not hatred, and
thus my greatest opponent is myself.
***
You give a leather-bound book titled 'The Book of Teachings' to Valindra.
Ilromie frowns.
Ilromie says 'Perhaps he expanded upon what you knew.'
Ilromie says 'But you were ever thoughtful and kind, even without his influence.'
Valindra peers at the book so closely that she practically disappears within it.
You say 'I did not cast judgment before I met him, but I did not attempt to understand those of other paths, either.'
Valindra gives you a leather-bound book titled 'The Book of Teachings'.
Valindra says 'I have thought much on this.'
You put a leather-bound book titled 'The Book of Teachings' in a mysterious bag of the Magi.
You say 'What were your reflections?'
Valindra says 'I . . .'
Valindra looks down at herself.
Valindra says 'How many skins have you worn, Doyenne? This is not your first, I think.'
You bat your eyelashes.
You say 'Skins?'
Valindra says 'That body contains you, but barely.'
Valindra says 'It is the light in your eyes I recognize.'
Serra looks at her old and gnarled hands.
Ascribing an age to this little goblin witch might prove difficult:
though her eyes appear milky, the rest of her features dissolve into folds
of flesh indistinguishable from each other as wrinkles or fat creases. Her
hair, the whitish yellow of pus pushing against the skin, flickers around
her small if bulbous frame, animated by a fool's wind or some other lesser
cantrip. She herself could be cast from an emerald were her complexion
brighter: not the green of living things, but the green of living things
unaccustomed to catching and reflecting light. A variety of worn pouches
dangles from her waist, bone protuberances peeking from some, others whose
contents remain a mystery.
She has travelled quite a lot.
Valindra is in excellent condition.
You say 'Did you know me....from another time?'
Valindra says 'Is there a beginning or ending to what we know? I am not certain.'
You say 'Not unless it is written.'
Heh.
Valindra says 'You have been called to such.'
Ilromie pats the Ancient Tome of Scholars reassuringly.
Valindra says 'You two are the stewards of Serin's past and future, for who else will remember?'
Valindra says 'I have been born many times, and will die one more than that. But who can say?'
Ilromie says 'You include yourself not in such number?'
You nod in enthusiastic agreement with Ilromie.
You say 'Of the future, perhaps you know more than us both.'
Ilromie nods.
Valindra smiles mysteriously, the little wisp on her shoulder snoring.
Valindra says 'I cannot wait to read your poem, Doyenne.'
You say 'I shall try not to let you down.'
You let out a hearty laugh.
You say 'I am fairly certain I have never been a poet.'
Valindra says 'You have not yet, and I always set a high bar.'
Ilromie says 'Wait...'
Ilromie says 'There is one poem recorded by you.'
You say 'No! Really?'
Valindra perks up a bit in her seat.
Ilromie says 'It was submitted in the first Mystique we wrote together.'
Ilromie agrees absolutely.
You wince in agony.
Ilromie says 'It notes you scribed it, though I trust you authored it as well.'
Ilromie says 'Shall I?'
You say 'Oh... oh dear.'
Ilromie starts flipping through the Tome.
Valindra drums her fingers on her knees, excitement rather palpable.
Ilromie says 'Here it is. Volume 15, Issue 2.'
Serra squirms in her seat.
Ilromie recites 'Friendship by Serra.'
Ilromie says 'Though I sense it was not written of me.'
Ilromie says 'We hardly knew each other then, though I can hardly recall such time.'
You nod.
You say 'It must have been one of my application tasks.'
Ilromie says 'I recognize my own in here.'
Ilromie agrees absolutely.
Valindra says 'Now I must seek them all.'
Ilromie recites 'Friendship by Serra.'
Ilromie recites 'Once, you taught me how to let loose the chaos dragon.'
Ilromie recites 'I thought it was just an adventure, another terrible beast.'
Ilromie recites 'As the altar erupted and it soared to the skies.'
Ilromie recites 'A wild laugh tore from your body.'
Ilromie recites 'I didn't recognize the glint in your eye.'
Ilromie recites 'Now, facing the moon, I reflect.'
Ilromie recites 'Sitting where the heavens meet the sea,'
Ilromie recites 'Surrounded by wisps of clouds and slowly spinning stars:'
Ilromie recites 'The emotionless, the serene.'
Ilromie recites 'Once, your eyes met mine here,'
Ilromie recites 'Through their light and your darkness.'
Ilromie recites 'It was the first time I truly saw you.'
Ilromie recites 'I traced the path of countless gazes.'
Ilromie recites 'Whose wishes and desires cast long shadows.'
Ilromie recites 'And twisted your form to their grip.'
Ilromie recites 'Twisted, yet whole, like a tree in Dankbark Forest.'
Ilromie recites 'Buffeted by the wind of fate,'
Ilromie recites 'You held your poisonous conch to your ear.'
Ilromie recites 'Amidst the whispering waves.'
Ilromie recites 'Whose comfort brought only torment.'
Ilromie recites 'Beholden to a voice only you could hear,'
Ilromie recites 'You committed your soul to chaos.'
Ilromie recites 'My friend! you called me, then,'
Ilromie recites 'With blood beating in your ears,'
Ilromie recites 'The taste of death tinging your tongue.'
Ilromie recites 'I did not know this, too, could be friendship.'
Ilromie bows deeply.
Brrrrrrrrr.
Valindra starts, and rather abruptly.
Valindra says 'I should have known you would not be glib, but prophetic.'
You say 'It has no structure at all.'
Ilromie says 'Not all poems do.'
Ilromie says 'Others, follow one strictly.'
Valindra nods at Ilromie.
Valindra says 'And it's almost blank verse. There is a kindled rhythm I appreciate.'
Valindra says 'But--it reminded me . . . of what the Duchess spoke of earlier. The particles.'
You nod.
Ilromie says 'In fact, that is one of the beauties of poetry...'
Ilromie says 'They are written with one idea in mind and tend to inspire others.'
Valindra nods at Ilromie.
Valindra says 'The poet and her audience.'
You say 'How does one find the subject of inspiration?'
Valindra says 'Yours eludes you, so you must chase it.'
You ponder the question.
Valindra says 'It is there, in the corner of your eye, I think.'
Ilromie says 'I often find inspiration in events, but perhaps you would find it in more tangible sources.'
Ilromie says 'In fact, one of the locations in your book of water might spark something.'
Valindra nods at Ilromie.
You say '...Ah.'
You nod.
You say 'Yes. I have an idea.'
You say 'I will go chase it before it eludes me.'
You say 'Thank you, my friends.'
Valindra strains toward Serra from her tiny stature.
You say 'Someday I will learn enough to repay your kindness.'
Valindra settles for gripping part of Serra's leg.
You smile at her.
Ilromie shakes her head.
Ilromie says 'Repayment is wholly unnecessary.'
Valindra nods at Ilromie.
Ilromie says 'Such is the power of friendship.'
You say 'It is, to me.'
You bow deeply.
Valindra says 'A goblin, an elf, and a storm giant walk into a bar.'
Valindra says 'Stop me if you've heard this one.'
You let out a hearty laugh.
Valindra blinks.
Ilromie giggles.
You say 'We were just in one earlier.'
Valindra nods at you in agreement.
Valindra says 'You are two suns, and I am a dark moon lucky enough to reflect your light. I hope you rest well, my friends.'
You say 'And you, fortune-teller.'
Valindra waves happily.
A Tranquil Respite
| This bedroom is the complete opposite of the havoc-filled
| sitting-room downstairs. Though the room is quite spacious,
| it is sparsely furnished with a single, modest bed and a small
| fur rug, both a simple white. Large windows on the north and
*-@ | east walls let in a good amount of natural light, while a
| set of breezy linen curtains ensures privacy. A small, battered-looking
| writing desk sits against the north window where its occupant
| can peer out over the rustling sea of grasses and peep into
| the garden below. The walls are painted a soft neutral grey
---------+ color, the color of clouds just after a storm. The sensation
of calm and tranquility persists here. A spot of warm color is lent by the
cinnabar-speckled flower pot that rests in the northeast corner.
[Exits: west down]
A cozy fur rug is placed at the side of the bed.
A large flower pot is here.
A small white shelf next to the bed acts as a nightstand.
A dozen red roses is on a modest bed.
A modest, neatly made bed rests against the east wall.
A dozen red roses is on a small writing desk.
A filled circlet of security is on a small writing desk.
A white lily is on a small writing desk.
A small, scuffed writing desk faces the north window.
You get a leather-bound book titled 'The Book of Water' from a mysterious bag of the Magi.
The Book of Water
<><><><><><><><><
[The frontpiece of the book is emblazoned with a warm, glowing sun
setting over an endless sea.]
Within these pages, I have attempted to describe the wonders that Serin
inspires in me. It is my wish that someday a young mind may read it,
feel inspired to take up the mantle of Water and see the world with new
eyes.
This humble offering is dedicated to my Lord Kedaleam, and the bright
youth of our future.
1) The Source (see Springs)
2) Flows (see Streams, Rivers, Waterfalls)
3) Bodies (see Ponds, Lakes, Oceans)
4) The Sky (see Clouds, Mist)
May these waters ever guide you and keep you safe.
Serra, Paradigm of Water
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
***
At dawn, the sun's waking rays stir vapors from the surface of the sea
and release the dew from sleeping leaves. A bird takes off, its resting
branch dipping and jostling as its weight releases. Tiny droplets swirl
lazily in its wake. The drowsy sounds of morning stirs are muffled by the
weight of the fog.
From above, the mist looks just like a sea made of clouds nestled against
the shore. Atop a cliff, a lone figure stands. The seabird circles below,
and below that, invisible waves whisper upon the hidden rocks. The figure
breathes. The air, full of ocean, and the vigor of Serin, flows into it.
And as it exhales, it becomes one with the mist.
***
You say 'This...'
You say 'Is this the last memory I have of you?'
From: <SCHOLAR> Serra
To: Serra
Subject: Scraps
Content:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Your form still echoes everywhere like mist permeating the air of each land
I walk. With you I traveled far and wide, fearing nothing. For nothing
could pierce the shields we raised around each other.
Now I travel also far, also wide, but my defenses were not taught to protect
me from you. And I fear, not you, but missing you.
<SCHOLAR> Xerties the Sage: 'Farewell Serra, may the winds guide you to a swift return.'
***
Echoes by Serra
------
When did I last taste the dew?
The morning's mist slowly fades,
grey haze giving way to blue
skies. City spires cast their shade
upon the blank cobblestones.
Wisps of steam drift upward, bade
leave by the sun's grace. The throne
sits forgotten, meaningless.
Far away, a wizened crone
pressed my palm, broke a stillness.
An echo of Light's bulwark
clamored then for consciousness:
But I had not enough heart
to keep it. Away it sped,
spurred to seek a counterpart.
Instead, entangled, I drew
upon the empowered dread
of a god. I left unsaid
the hope that it was not true.
***
[reply to Ilromie]