>>> This episode brackets the Trial of Kali Windbreeze.
>>> Serra completes a study on fighting Sheundan.

[ Gnome ] <PK> Calion the Sage of Arcane Power
[ Dwarf ] <PK> Hadrelan the Grand Hierophant of the Forest, Squire of Leitha
[ Elf ] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Duchess Ilromie Illistarre the Sage of Arcane Power, Polymath of History
[ Elf ] <PK> (OUTCAST) Kali Windbreeze the Rebuked Chimera
[ Human ] <PK> Zelarayan the Unholy Knight
[ Beast ] <PK> Tonke Barklowe the Grand Hierophant of the Forest
[50 Storm Hea] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Doyenne) Serra the Paradigm of Water, Doyenne of Religion
[ Stone ] <PK> <STRIFE> Battlelord Jomorl the Volcano of Infinite Rage, Observer of the Obvious
Players found: 8
[WARLORD] The clamour of War prevails.
There are 8 characters on; the most on this past month was 17.

Serra's group:
[50 Hea] Serra 99% hp 71% mana 100% mv 556140 xp Kills: 5

A Trail Intersection
| You find yourself at an intersection in the forest. The mess
| of branches and fallen leaves have been swept to one side
f-f| to allow your passage. The air here is magically misty and
| | a fresh light breeze is present. Scattered on the ground
f-@-f | are small twigs and leaves. The pathway east and west of
| | here leads abruptly into a dense forest trail. The path is
f | lighter to the south.
| |
f-f |
---------+

[Exits: east south west]
(Translucent) (White Aura) Sheundan the scourge of the unliving prepares for his last fight.
A pile of wood comes to life before your very eyes.

774hp 871m 397mv 2276g no opponent no opponent active forest (outside) [##########]
Continual healing soothes your body.
Sheundan yells 'Time to die, Serra!'
Sheundan's life drain DISMEMBERS you!
Sheundan's life drain DISMEMBERS you!
Sheundan is in awful condition.

668hp 871m 397mv 2276g segment defensive active forest (outside) [##########]
You brandish your holy symbol and utter words of divine power!
Your turn undead *** DEMOLISHES *** Sheundan!
Sheundan is in awful condition.

668hp 821m 397mv 2276g segment defensive active forest (outside) [##########]
Continual healing soothes your body.
Sheundan's life drain DISEMBOWELS you!
Sheundan's kiss of death DISMEMBERS you!
Sheundan awkwardly parries your wrath with a loud clang.
A longsword sheathed in everflowing water glows warmly.
You feel better.
Sheundan is in awful condition.

600hp 821m 397mv 2276g segment defensive active forest (outside) [##########]
Your turn undead MANGLES Sheundan!
Sheundan is SLAIN!!
A loud clap of thunder is heard as the curse of Sheundan lifts from the
island and the spirit of Sevokan is freed from its eternal captivity.
You receive 300 relics of <MYSTIC>.
Kedaleam gives you 450 gold coins for your tenacity.
Sheundan's body disintegrates into dust.
You get 624 gold coins.

You cackle gleefully.
<SCHOLAR> (Doyenne) Serra : 'I have done it.'

<SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Ilromie : 'Excellent!'
<SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Ilromie : 'Would you like to join Kali and me in my search to gain favor with the Desert Fox?'

<SCHOLAR> (Doyenne) Serra : 'I would be happy to lend my aid.'

Ilromie has invited you to join their group.
You may accept or decline this invitation.
You now follow Kali.
You join Kali's group.

An Abandoned Camp Site
f-f-f | Despite the camp being apparently deserted a small fire burns
| | here as brightly as ever. The air is blanketed with a grey
f | mist that carries with it a fresh wintery breeze reminiscent
| | of the ocean. A collapsed tent lies untidly on the ground here.
f-@ | The trail veers off sharply to the west down a dirt track.
| | North of here takes you back into the forest.
f |
| |
f |
---------+

[Exits: north west]
(Translucent) An evil demon lurks here thirsting for blood.
A Yattering screams and attacks you!
A Yattering's scratch injures you.
You parry a Yattering's scratch.
A Yattering is in excellent condition.

628hp 878m 395mv 3358g none mob active forest (outside) [##########]
No way! You are still fighting!
A Yattering is in excellent condition.

628hp 878m 395mv 3358g none mob active forest (outside) [##########]
You thrust a Yattering's scratch aside in a skillful parry.
Your wrath DISMEMBERS a Yattering!
Your wrath DISEMBOWELS a Yattering!
A Yattering has some small wounds and bruises.

628hp 878m 395mv 3358g none mob active forest (outside) [##########]
Your exorcism MANGLES a Yattering!
A Yattering has some small wounds and bruises.

628hp 863m 395mv 3358g none mob active forest (outside) [##########]

You awkwardly parry a Yattering's scratch with a loud clang.
You parry a Yattering's scratch.
You parry a Yattering's scratch with an easy flourish.
Your wrath DISMEMBERS a Yattering!
A longsword sheathed in everflowing water glows warmly.
You feel better.
A Yattering has quite a few wounds.

664hp 900m 399mv 3358g none mob active forest (outside) [##########] Your exorcism *** DEMOLISHES *** a Yattering!
A Yattering has quite a few wounds.

664hp 885m 399mv 3358g none mob active forest (outside) [##########]

A Yattering peels his face away to reveal his demonic image.
A Yattering's demonic appearance does not affect you.
A Yattering has quite a few wounds.

664hp 885m 399mv 3358g none mob active forest (outside) [##########]
A Yattering's scratch misses you.
Your wrath DISEMBOWELS a Yattering!
A Yattering has quite a few wounds.

664hp 885m 399mv 3358g none mob active forest (outside) [##########] Your exorcism *** DEMOLISHES *** a Yattering!
A Yattering has some big nasty wounds and scratches.

664hp 870m 399mv 3358g none mob active forest (outside) [##########]
Your shield wobbles and barely deflects a Yattering's scratch.
Your wrath misses a Yattering.
A Yattering has some big nasty wounds and scratches.

664hp 870m 399mv 3358g none mob active forest (outside) [##########]
You thrust a Yattering's scratch aside in a skillful parry.
You parry a Yattering's scratch with an easy flourish.
Your wrath DISMEMBERS a Yattering!
Your wrath DISMEMBERS a Yattering!
A Yattering has some big nasty wounds and scratches.

664hp 870m 399mv 3358g none mob active forest (outside) [##########]
You awkwardly parry a Yattering's scratch with a loud clang.
Your wrath DISEMBOWELS a Yattering!
A Yattering looks pretty hurt.

664hp 870m 399mv 3358g none mob active forest (outside) [##########]
You tell your group 'I must clean out some of these Yatterings before I join you. They are leaving a mess in the town.'
A Yattering looks pretty hurt.

664hp 870m 399mv 3358g none mob active forest (outside) [##########]
Kali's group:
[50 Ill] Kali 100% hp 68% mana 100% mv 564571 xp Kills: 0
[50 Inv] Ilromie 100% hp 94% mana 100% mv 564400 xp Kills: 0
[50 Hea] Serra 85% hp 74% mana 100% mv 556140 xp Kills: 0
* [40 Chm] An illusion of a young juvenile 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Kali)
* [50 Chm] A marionette 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Kali)
A Yattering looks pretty hurt.

664hp 870m 399mv 3358g none mob active forest (outside) [##########]
A Yattering bites you!
You feel momentarily ill, but it passes.
A Yattering looks pretty hurt.

664hp 870m 399mv 3358g none mob active forest (outside) [##########]
Your exorcism *** DEMOLISHES *** a Yattering!
A Yattering is in awful condition.

664hp 855m 399mv 3358g none mob active forest (outside) [##########]
You thrust a Yattering's scratch aside in a skillful parry.
Your wrath DISMEMBERS a Yattering!
A Yattering is in awful condition.

664hp 855m 399mv 3358g none mob active forest (outside) [##########]

A Yattering bites you!
You feel momentarily ill, but it passes.
A Yattering is in awful condition.

664hp 855m 399mv 3358g none mob active forest (outside) [##########] Your exorcism *** DEMOLISHES *** a Yattering!
A Yattering disintegrates in your exorcism!
A Yattering is DEAD!!
A Yattering hits the ground ... DEAD.
You get 37 gold coins from the corpse of a Yattering.
Kedaleam gives you 30 gold coins for your sacrifice.

Town Square
*-+ o| The City's Town Square seems to be the center of all activity.
| || The magical creatures that have gathered here appear to
S +-F *| be very social with each other, laughing and joking about
| | || a variety of things. A sign has been erected here. Illusion
+-+-@-+-+| Avenue runs from the north to south. Arcane Way leads off
| | | | to the east and west.
F S-+ * |
| | |
o +-S |
---------+

[Exits: north east south west (cell down)]
A shimmering fountain flares with an illusionary aspect.
(Translucent) (White Aura) Sevokan the seeker of peace and truth is here bathed in light.

A holy figure rescued from a time long since past, Sevokan has risen like
a phoenix to roam Serin again. Her eyes are a clear white, not even a trace
of iris or pupil amongst them, for she is oblivious to her surroundings and
feels only the shifts of chaos and order within the realm. Ancient legends
told of a chosen one being released from her imprisonment by an unlikely
hero. Her beauty is so great that you can barely look. Her clothes are so
bright that they blind you as you look upon her. The shadows flow directly
into her and disappear without trace.
Sevokan is in excellent condition.

Sevokan is using:
<worn around neck> (Invis) (Glowing) the brooch of truth
<wielded two-handed> (Invis) 'Summersong', the Divine Ceremonial Bow
<stored in quiver> (Humming) silver-tipped arrows (40)

You tell your group 'Would you perhaps come to the Illusionary Isles?'

Ilromie tells the group 'Of course.'

Outside the North Gate
| You are outside the north gate of the town. A grey stone wall
| reaching at least 20 feet high soars above you blocking your
* | view. Sitting on top of the wall is a few small birds. Draping
| | down the walls are red banners inscribed with golden magical
@ | symbols. The beginning of a hill is to your north. South of
| you is the gates of the city.
|
|
|
---------+

[Exits: north (gate south)]
(Translucent) An evil demon lurks here thirsting for blood.

691hp 825m 395mv 3425g no opponent no opponent active city (indoors) [##########]
A Yattering screams and attacks you!
You awkwardly parry a Yattering's scratch with a loud clang.
You thrust a Yattering's scratch aside in a skillful parry.
A Yattering is in excellent condition.

691hp 825m 395mv 3425g none mob active city (indoors) [##########]
Your exorcism MANGLES a Yattering!
A Yattering has some small wounds and bruises.

691hp 810m 395mv 3425g none mob active city (indoors) [##########]

You parry a Yattering's scratch.
You grip your shield firmly, staving off a Yattering's scratch.
Your wrath DISEMBOWELS a Yattering!
A Yattering has some small wounds and bruises.

691hp 810m 395mv 3425g none mob active city (indoors) [##########]
You feel less righteous.
A Yattering has some small wounds and bruises.

699hp 847m 399mv 3425g none mob active city (indoors) [##########] Your exorcism *** DEMOLISHES *** a Yattering!
A Yattering has quite a few wounds.

699hp 832m 399mv 3425g none mob active city (indoors) [##########]

You awkwardly parry a Yattering's scratch with a loud clang.
You parry a Yattering's scratch with an easy flourish.
Your wrath DISEMBOWELS a Yattering!
Your wrath DISMEMBERS a Yattering!
A Yattering has quite a few wounds.

699hp 832m 399mv 3425g none mob active city (indoors) [##########]
A Yattering peels his face away to reveal his demonic image.
A Yattering's demonic appearance does not affect you.
A Yattering has quite a few wounds.

699hp 832m 399mv 3425g none mob active city (indoors) [##########] Your exorcism MANGLES a Yattering!
A Yattering has some big nasty wounds and scratches.

699hp 817m 399mv 3425g none mob active city (indoors) [##########]

You parry a Yattering's scratch with an easy flourish.
Your wrath DISMEMBERS a Yattering!
A Yattering has some big nasty wounds and scratches.

699hp 817m 399mv 3425g none mob active city (indoors) [##########]
A Yattering bites you!
You feel momentarily ill, but it passes.
A Yattering has some big nasty wounds and scratches.

699hp 817m 399mv 3425g none mob active city (indoors) [##########] Your exorcism *** DEMOLISHES *** a Yattering!
A Yattering has some big nasty wounds and scratches.

699hp 802m 399mv 3425g none mob active city (indoors) [##########]
You parry a Yattering's scratch with an easy flourish.
You block a Yattering's attack with your shield.
Your wrath DISMEMBERS a Yattering!
A Yattering looks pretty hurt.

699hp 802m 399mv 3425g none mob active city (indoors) [##########]
You parry a Yattering's scratch with an easy flourish.
You block a Yattering's attack with your shield.
Your wrath misses a Yattering.
A Yattering looks pretty hurt.

699hp 802m 399mv 3425g none mob active city (indoors) [##########]
A Yattering peels his face away to reveal his demonic image.
A Yattering's demonic appearance does not affect you.
A Yattering looks pretty hurt.

699hp 802m 399mv 3425g none mob active city (indoors) [##########]
Your shield wobbles and barely deflects a Yattering's scratch.
Your wrath DISMEMBERS a Yattering!
A Yattering looks pretty hurt.

699hp 802m 399mv 3425g none mob active city (indoors) [##########]
You parry a Yattering's scratch with an easy flourish.
A Yattering's scratch hits you.
Your wrath DISEMBOWELS a Yattering!
Your wrath DISMEMBERS a Yattering!
A Yattering is in awful condition.

687hp 802m 399mv 3425g none mob active city (indoors) [##########]
You tell your group 'I believe Sevokan's brooch will be of use for the trial. At least as a symbol.'
A Yattering is in awful condition.

687hp 802m 399mv 3425g none mob active city (indoors) [##########]
Your exorcism *** DEMOLISHES *** a Yattering!
A Yattering disintegrates in your exorcism!
A Yattering is DEAD!!
You hear a Yattering's death cry.
You get 70 gold coins from the corpse of a Yattering.
Kedaleam gives you 30 gold coins for your sacrifice.

An illusion of a young juvenile walks in.
A marionette walks in.
Sevokan gives the stone of Kindness to Ilromie.

Kali smiles at you.
Kali bows before you.
Kali looks at Sevokan.

You stand up.
You bow deeply.
You rest.

Ilromie says to Sevokan 'In fact, it was Serra.'
Ilromie looks at Sevokan.

Kali's group:
[50 Ill] Kali 80% hp 63% mana 100% mv 564571 xp Kills: 1
[50 Inv] Ilromie 100% hp 98% mana 100% mv 564400 xp Kills: 0
[50 Hea] Serra 98% hp 78% mana 100% mv 556140 xp Kills: 2
* [40 Chm] An illusion of a young juvenile 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Kali)
* [50 Chm] A marionette 92% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Kali)

You stand up.
You cure Kali's continual wounds.
Kali's continual curing intensifies.
You cure Kali's critical wounds.
Kali's continual curing intensifies.
You cure Kali's critical wounds.

Ilromie attempts to request from Sevokan.
Sevokan says 'But you can't see it!'

Ilromie utters the words, 'oculoinfra uizug'.

You bat your eyelashes.
You let out a hearty laugh.

Ilromie says 'I could a moment ago.'
Ilromie attempts to request from Sevokan.
Sevokan places the brooch of truth on the ground.
Ilromie sits down and rests.

You say 'Life's truth. Rather fitting, I think.'
Ilromie is surrounded by a white aura.
You rest.

Kali agrees absolutely.

You say 'What steps do you seek next with your quest?'

Ilromie stands up.
Ilromie says 'In fact, we were just in the Battlezone, seeking to aid the elves there.'

You nod.

Kali agrees absolutely.

Ilromie gets the brooch of truth.
Ilromie says 'May this help guide our journey.'
Ilromie removes an earthen mithril-white ascot of the mountains from her neck.
Ilromie wears the brooch of truth around her neck.

You nod.

Kali looks at Ilromie.
Kali says to Ilromie 'It looks very fitting on you.'
Kali says to Ilromie 'You have ever spoken the truth.'

Ilromie says 'In fact, someone must, though there are many that wish I would not.'

Kali says 'I hope that the jury is able to see through the thinly veiled lies of Solmundi.'

Ilromie says 'If you have other suggestions, I would bow to your wisdom, my friend.'

You say 'It is an interesting challenge. One must present the facts, with emotion, but with control.'

Kali says 'I am very glad that I am not forced to represent myself...'
Kali runs a hand through his hair and sighs.

You say 'If one is derailed by passion over reason the effect will be less convincing.'

Sevokan closes her eyes momentarily, deep in thought.

Ilromie says to Kali 'Have you given any thought to the element of Water over the Storm?'

Kali nods.
Kali says to Ilromie 'Quite a bit, actually.'
Kali says 'I think our lives are more fluid than the Gods say they must be.'
Kali gets The Serin Mystique, Volume 15, Issue 4 from a Big Ol'Pack Sack.

You nod.
You say 'History agrees it is so.'

Kali says 'Just like the tale of Morgolta and Tuston.'
Kali says 'I have come to think of our lives as a winding stream.'
Kali says 'Sometimes placid and serene.'
Kali says 'Sometimes building to raging whitewater rapids.'
Kali says 'Twisting this way and that.'
Kali says 'But always moving forward.'

You nod.
You say 'You are learning well.'

Kali says 'I have been in a turbulent stretch of late.'

You say 'It is not forever.'

Kali says 'But just beyond the bend it may once again calm.'
Kali says 'Even if I cannot see it....it may be just beyond the bend.'

You agree absolutely.
You say 'Often the turmoil of water is caused by elements out of our control.'
You say 'But we persevere, and persist, and control returns to us.'

Kali nods.
Kali says 'We must continue forward and have faith that it will improve.'

You say 'Have you spoken with your grandfather about your new studies?'
You say 'I am afraid I did not get a chance to write to him, although I suppose I should have.'

Kali shakes his head.
Kali says 'I have not heard from him since he sent me an urgent scroll after Tearea took Ilromie's life.'

You nod.

Kali says 'I am thankful I had read his scroll before I learned of it.'

You chuckle politely.

Ilromie says 'In fact, that life was not taken, it was gambled.'

Kali says 'Ah, well put.'
Kali nods at Ilromie.

You say 'What is it you wished to learn from her with the gamble?'

Ilromie says 'The Warlords mentioned the pendulum in my presence.'

You say 'Ah yes. Their curious behavior.'

Ilromie says 'I hoped to learn the specifics of their relationship with the Keepers.'

You nod.

Ilromie says 'Instead, I learned what is scribed in the first page of the news section.'

***
Deathmark by the Arena
======================

On a day of many duels, one ranger came to kill
He targeted Madroic and swiftly let mage-blood spill.
Honor offended, Shaghroth sought revenge for his friend
He hunted Kelkah and brought about his end.

Later Warlord fought Warlord in a duel to the stun.
Shaghroth defeated his Warmistress, the battle hard-won.
While Kelkah slew the Juggernaut and forced his way inside
His bow aimed true, and Shaghroth once again died.

Honor greatly offended, the warlord swore vengeance
The pixie had shown only vile intentions.
A deathmark was issued and is yet outstanding
Stand not in the path of the Warlord collecting.

-II

***

You let out a hearty laugh.

>>> Shortly after the Trial...

Kedaleam yawns.

You say 'Well, that concludes the festivities of the evening, I think.'
You are no longer in the limelight.
<HERALD> Odile the Crier: 'Serra is no longer in the limelight.'

Ilromie agrees absolutely.

Kedaleam smiles at you.

You dazzle Kedaleam with your smile.
You say 'It is ever so good to see you, my Lord.'

Wylsin says to you 'Thank you for the Limelighting.'

You put a quill with a white feather in a mysterious bag of the Magi.
You nod.

Kedaleam says 'Let's talk soon?'

You say 'I missed a bit there with the ruckus after Valindra's disappearance.'

You nod in enthusiastic agreement with Kedaleam.

Kedaleam says to you 'Are you around for a bit yet?'

Villidan says 'If anyone needs me, I'm sure some of you will know where I'm at.'
Villidan opens the door south of you.
Villidan flies south.

You say 'I can stay.'

Thunder rolls across the sky.

Kearic says 'Kaelric Illistarre.'
Ilromie smiles at Kearic.
Kearic smiles at Ilromie.
Wylsin glances about into the shadows.

You say 'Ah, much better indeed.'
You chuckle politely.

Wylsin says 'Is it still here?'

Ilromie nods.
Ilromie says 'Listening, at least.'

Wylsin says 'Ah.'
Wylsin nods.

You bow your head in worship of your god.
Kedaleam grants you a little favor.
Reputation with Kedaleam increased by 6.
You receive 1 relic of <MYSTIC>.

Kaelric runs a hand down each of his arms.
Kaelric says 'I feel no different, to be sure.'
Kaelric says 'I am still me, my friends.'

Wylsin smiles at Kaelric.

You say 'I suppose you feel lighter, at least!'

Kaelric says 'I have thought long and hard about identity.'
Kaelric says 'We are so much more than our names.'

You nod.

Kaelric says 'We are our experiences.'

Kedaleam nods.

An Immortal says 'I bet you were sweating about that verdict huh?'

Kaelric says 'I am who I am because of all of you, and because of the memories we share.'
Kaelric coughs loudly.

You chuckle politely.

Kaelric says 'I was prepared to face whatever judgement I deserved.'

Ilromie says 'In fact, I was confident.'

Kaelric says 'I would not have argued if the outcome came out differently.'
Kaelric says 'Though I had utmost confidence in Ilromie and I knew we were right.'
Kaelric says 'Were I slain, I would not have complained.'

Ilromie says 'Will you excuse us?'

Wylsin nods.
You nod.
Wylsin gallantly tips his hat to Ilromie.
Wylsin gallantly tips his hat to Kaelric.

Ilromie bows deeply.
Ilromie beckons Kaelric to follow.

Wylsin says 'Who's up for dragon hunting?'
Wylsin says 'Oh they already left.'
Wylsin says 'Quiet steps, those elves.'
Kedaleam laughs at Wylsin's joke.

You nod.
You say 'That was not at all what I was expecting.'
You let out a hearty laugh.
You say 'The whole trial.'

>>> Some time later...

Kaelric tells you 'May I have a moment when you are free? Please do not delay your rest on my behalf though.'

You tell Kaelric 'Where may I find you, sir?'

Kaelric tells you 'On my way to seringale.'

North Square
B-+-* | You are at the North Square of Seringale. It is peaceful
| | | and quiet here. The square is a large opening space surrounded
S-+ *-o| by grand buildings made by fanciful stonework. You see
| | the Main Street to the north and the south and the North
+-+-@-+-+| Road to the east and the west. A small tuft of grass
| | | || pokes up defiantly in the middle of the square. A set
* + F +| of dents shaped curiously like one's rear end has been
| || well-worn into the paving stones here.
+-S-+-F +|
---------+

[Exits: north east south west]
(Glowing) (Humming) A brass finger post stands here.
(Glowing) The Herald Bulletin Board gleams majestically in the middle of the square.
A beggar, wearing a decaying, dirty and stinky old hat, wanders around asking for spare gold.

Kaelric bows before you.

You smile at him.

Kaelric says 'Thank you as always, for your presence and support.'

You say 'It is my pleasure, sir.'

Kaelric says 'I was wondering if you could initiate me in the ways of water?'

You can't initiate others into differing religions.
You ponder the question.
You say 'I may need some assistance with that.'
Kaelric is now an initiate of Water.
You say 'Oh.'
You boggle at yourself. Hmmm...intriguing.

Kaelric beams broadly!

You let out a hearty laugh.

Kaelric says 'I was about to say there was no rush!'
Kaelric says 'I have a lifetime ahead of me.'
Kaelric lets out a hearty laugh.

You say 'I just did not know what I was doing!'
You let out a hearty laugh.

Kaelric says 'Am I your first disciple?'

You dazzle Kaelric with your smile.
You say 'You are indeed.'

Kaelric boggles at the concept.

You say 'I have not spent much time trying to seek students.'
You say 'Most of my life I have been the student.'

Kaelric says 'I am deeply honoured.'

You say 'As am I, sir. I was impressed at your initial forays into our philosophy the other day.'

Kaelric says 'I want to throw myself into it.'
Kaelric says 'From the very moment you handed me the book and told me about the potential path towards the light.'
Kaelric says 'I delved into it.'

You nod.

Kaelric says 'Now that I have been redeemed, I shall not forsake it.'
Kaelric says 'I shall continue my studies and try to learn from you.'

You say 'I encourage you to study the book and write your own thoughts of Water to share with me.'
You say 'For as I keep learning, each individual's connection to their spiritual side is very different.'

Kaelric nods.
Kaelric says 'I cannot promise that they will be well written, insightful, or regularly proferred.'

You let out a hearty laugh.

Kaelric says 'I shall try though.'

You say 'I do not ask such a thing. Simply to try.'

Kaelric says 'I am no scholar and I am no cleric...'
Kaelric says 'I am a warrior of the light.'
Kaelric says 'I am more comfortable on a battlefield against the Forsaken of Legion than I am in a quiet room with a bright candle and a sharp quill.'

You let out a hearty laugh.
You say 'What about a dull quill, sir?'

Kaelric gasps in astonishment.
Kaelric says 'Oh I would be quite useless.'

You let out a hearty laugh.

Kaelric taps his chin in thought.
Kaelric says 'Would a sharp dagger point suffice?'

You say 'Dipped in ink? Why not?'

Kaelric says 'Or perhaps the key is to carry many quills?'

You let out a hearty laugh.
You say 'A sharp dagger may sharpen a dull quill.'

Kaelric agrees absolutely.
Kaelric says 'There we go.'
Kaelric says 'A simple solution.'

You smile happily.
You say 'I am glad you are restored to us, sir. We may need your strength soon against rising tides.'

Kaelric says 'Nobody is more glad than I am.'
Kaelric says 'Except perhaps Ilromie.'
Kaelric lets out a hearty laugh.
Kaelric says 'She has been so very supportive, and one of the main reasons I was able to maintain my path.'

>>> A few Renewals later, Serra has a nightmare.

Journal 2.6: A dream... A nightmare
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><
Day of the Horizon, 16th Renewal of the Celestial of Retribution

It is not often that I remember a dream, despite Valindra's best attempts at
coaching me into focus. Yet this one I wish I could forget.

---

The land around me was strange. The sky met the earth in a wash of muddy
orange light, not a feature in the landscape to be seen for miles but sand.

I could sense that I was dreaming, for there was no scent to the air and I
felt no choking from the dust that billowed about. I could see clouds of it
swirling all around me, yet I felt nothing. The only sound was the howling
of the wind and the flapping of my robes before it.

I stood upon the crumbled ruin of a wall, the remnant of a civilization that
had fallen. Broken furniture and forgotten furnishings lay scattered and
torn within. A home had stood here, now abandoned on these plains of sand.

Of its owner, there was no trace.

Though it was deathly quiet, I felt a sense of urgency within me, that
something - or someone - yet could be saved. Was it a fruitless hope? My
own hopeless rote response from decades of training to save lives?

The wind breathed, and some of the sand shifted to reveal dried, dead grass.
I began to recognize the rivulets and dips in the sands - the now dry bed of
the winding stream. This endless expanse had once been the Ford... I
called to my Lord Kedaleam for a spring, but I could no longer feel him with
me...

A wild, wicked, triumphant laugh suddenly rent the air. I looked around and
saw nothing. And then I realized the laugh came from my own mouth. Such a
foreign sound.

"Soon this shall come to pass," I said. *It* said. My hands traveled
without guidance to my throat, where I felt the pulse, thin muscles and
cartilage beneath the thin skin there. "Soon, you shall be mine," I/it
said.

I/it squeezed then, and squeezed, and squeezed.

---

I awoke gasping in my tent, a cloak wrapped around my neck. Had I simply
twisted and turned myself into such a predicament? Was something there,
lurking behind - or within - me?

I conjured a spring and knelt before it, staring at the crimson specks in my
eyes. Were they larger? I could not remember, for years had passed since I
had last truly looked at my own reflection. And then my gaze had been
distracted by love, and I had not paid attention to the details of my face
but hers peering over my shoulder...

Could I have been carrying my own secret passenger, all this time? Could it
sense my every thought? Was it learning as I learned? Was I endangering
Serin?

Gods, no! I must be able to sense another being... Mustn't I?

***

[ Gobln ] <PK> <HERALD> (Lore Keeper) Valindra Skitterwit the Poetic Prognosticator, Lore Keeper of Myth
[ Dwarf ] Eryn the Honorable
[ Human ] <PK> [WARLORD] Tearea the Red Lotus, Standard Bearer of Warlords
[ DmElf ] <PK> [LEGION] (OUTCAST) Aelaldric the Unholy Knight
[ Demon ] Uggvalt the Chosen
[ Avian ] Sucha the Adept of Animation
[ Avian ] Nilvvariil the Adept of Animation
[50 Storm Hea] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Doyenne) Serra the Paradigm of Water, Doyenne of Religion
[ Gnome ] <PK> <MYSTIC> (Savant) Wylsin Plindane the Sage of Arcane Power, Savant of Arcane
[ Orc ] Golmog the Hired Killer
[ Elf ] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Duchess Ilromie Illistarre the Sage of Arcane Power, Polymath of History
Players found: 11
[KEEPER] The Balance prevails within the four kingdoms.
There are 11 characters on; the most on this past month was 18.

Players near you in Holy Grove:
<PK> Valindra Office of the High Herald
<PK> Serra Office of the High Herald
<PK> Wylsin Office of the High Herald
<PK> Ilromie Office of the High Herald

Valindra says to Ilromie 'I hear congratulations are in order.'

Ilromie smiles happily.
Ilromie says 'In fact, formal compliments may be given at my reception.'

You say 'I expect it will be quite an event.'

Valindra whispers to you 'The gods mock me at every turn.'

You whisper to Valindra 'What do you mean?'

Valindra whispers to you 'Did I tell you--after my return from court . . . I discovered a portal with Calram.'
Valindra whispers to you 'And little purple wisps I chased all around these halls . . . and the sound of cruel laughter.'

You boggle at the concept.

Ilromie whispers something to Wylsin.

Valindra shakes her head curtly, chins wobbling.

Wylsin whispers something to Ilromie.

You whisper to Valindra 'In here?'
You whisper to Valindra 'They have never entered the Rest previously...'

Valindra whispers to you 'Here, the bathroom, all about the Rest.'

Brrrrrrrrr.

Valindra walks east.
A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity flies east.

Ilromie whispers loudly 'Perhaps they are discussion what to bring to the reception.'

Outside the Hall of Archives
* | You have now reached the top floor of the Inn. The second
| | floor looked wealthy, but this is amazing! The paintings alone
* * * | must have cost a fortune, and all the furniture is chunky,
| | | | solid and expensive looking. Some of the treasures resting
*-*-@-* | on tables in alcoves are probably the rarest things you have
| | ever seen. The wood panelling on the walls is of some type
* | now lost to the world, being very light but silky to the touch.
| The rugs covering the highly polished wooden floor are of
| the very best material and cut, and would in all likelihood
---------+ fetch a king's ransom at any auction. You guess the owner
of the inn herself must live up here, for who else could afford such a place?
A brightly lit passageway full of books extends to the north. To the west is
a set of large open double doors that lead to the High Herald's personal quarters
and office. To the south is a small quiet alcove.

[Exits: north east south west]
(Charmed) A tiny wisp hovers here, shedding its essence as it bobs in the air.
Valindra the Poetic Prognosticator, Lore Keeper of Myth is here.
(White Aura) Calram the Moo Herald guards the entrance to the Heraldic offices.
(White Aura) Keeb, the halls curator, snoozes here peacefully on a hammock suspended from the ceiling.
Wylsin flies in.
A large, adolescent dragon flies in.
A spotted owl flies in.
Keeb snorts himself awake and sits up tiredly.
Keeb peers around himself intently.
Keeb peers intently at Wylsin.
Keeb says 'What the...Who the...Baa!'
Keeb rolls around and goes back to sleep.

Valindra says 'The portal was here.'

Brrrrrrrrr.

Wylsin whispers something to Ilromie.

Valindra whispers to you 'It felt like teasing? Maybe it was mama.'
Valindra says 'Who can say? Only the wind.'

You ponder the question.
You nod.

Ilromie whispers something to Wylsin.

You say 'I hope so.'

Wylsin whispers something to Ilromie.

You say 'Still, cruel laughter...'
You whisper to Valindra 'I must consult with you, as well.'
You whisper to Valindra 'I remembered a dream.'

Ilromie says 'In fact, you're speaking too quietly to be heard over here.'

You say 'Valindra observed a portal open up here in our very tavern.'

Ilromie frowns.

Valindra tilts her head, and her bedraggled white hair begins wiggling like fingers.

Ilromie says 'I thought they only opened in wooded areas.'

Wylsin creates a small stone chair.
Wylsin sits in a small stone chair.
Wylsin sits down on the ground.

You nod.
You say 'I had always thought so as well.'

Valindra says to Ilromie 'I discovered a portal at Calram.'
Valindra says to Ilromie 'And little purple wisps I chased all through these halls.'

Ilromie says 'All purple?'

Valindra says to Ilromie 'And the sound of cruel laughter . . .'

Wylsin sits down and thinks deeply.

Valindra smiles that oracle's smile, but her voice is hesitant.
Valindra says 'It unnerved me.'

You nod.

Ilromie looks at Valindra.
Ilromie says to a tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity 'Did you notice anything different?'

You whisper to Valindra 'Will you tell them? About... Hibbadibbity?'

Valindra grabs Hibbadibbity unceremoniously by the neck before stuffing the wisp away.
A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity transforms into a miniature chess piece of itself.
a tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity has left the group.

Wylsin boggles at the concept.

Valindra taps a pouch at her waist reassuringly.
Valindra says 'That is not Hibbadibity.'
Valindra clears her throat.

Ilromie blinks innocently.
Ilromie says 'What?'

Valindra says 'I'm not sure who it is.'

You say 'We sent Hibba through the portal and when she returned... it returned...'
You sigh.

Ilromie says 'Is she...possessed?'
Ilromie glances around the room nervously.

Valindra says 'The magic that binds the wisp's body to mine still holds.'

You say 'So... something can inhabit even wisps.'
Brrrrrrrrr.

Ilromie sighs.
Ilromie says 'Each new speck of information casts the light darker than before.'

Valindra says 'Might it be . . . your friend? Alkas? I read his fortune once.'
Valindra says 'I cannot tell. Such secrets remain opaque to me.'
Valindra blinks her eyes ponderously.

You say 'What sort of aura does she exude now?'

Valindra says 'Only . . . I do not sense anger. Or fear.'

Ilromie says 'You think...she is kindly possessed?'

A miniature chess piece transforms to form a tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity!

A tiny fey hovers delicately in the air before you, trailing motes of
wisp essence behind it like a tail. Prismatic, the creature traps the light
as if it were a gem, shining, then evanescing, between shades of white,
purple, and green--the latter a color not often seen in the species. The
creature caroms through the air like a maniacal hummingbird before
alighting on the shoulder of its goblin master.
A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity is in excellent condition.

Ilromie looks at a tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity.
Wylsin looks at a tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity.

A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity flies from the pouch at the little goblin's waist with visceral force, nearly caroming into the ceiling.

Valindra says to a tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity 'Well?'

<HERALD> Odile the Crier gossips 'Aelaldric has broken the peace code of the tavern!'

A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity does not leave the rafters, shedding essence aggressively on the assembled consortium.

Grrrrrrrrrr...

<HERALD> Odile the Crier: 'Aelaldric has been barred from the tavern by Ilromie.'

Wylsin disintegrates a small stone chair.

Valindra yells 'Come, come. No need for that, dear.'

A bouncer arrives at Ilromie's side.
A bouncer says 'It's clobbering time!'

A bouncer arrives at Wylsin's side.
A bouncer says 'It's clobbering time!'

Players near you in Holy Grove:
<PK> Valindra Outside the Hall of Archives
<PK> Aelaldric Bottom of the stairs
<PK> Serra Outside the Hall of Archives
<PK> Wylsin Outside the Hall of Archives
<PK> Ilromie Outside the Hall of Archives

Aelaldric yells 'Why would you exclude poor Aelaldric from your conversation?'

Valindra yells 'Aelaldric's not here. Try again later!'

Aelaldric yells 'Perhaps he simply wants to talk.'
Aelaldric yells 'Perhaps he wants to tell you all of our secrets.'

Valindra yells 'Or you do, dear.'
Valindra yells 'You seem desperate for a confession, and I'm the littlest witch to hear it! Tell me your secrets.'

A soft buzz of words hangs in the air around Wylsin.
Wylsin walks east.
A bouncer walks east.
A spotted owl flies east.
A large, adolescent dragon flies east.

Top of the stairs
* | You have now reached the top floor of the Inn. The second floor
| | looked wealthy, but this is amazing! The paintings alone must
* * | have cost a fortune, and all the furniture is chunky, solid
| | | and expensive looking. Some of the treasures resting on tables
*-*-@ | in alcoves are probably the rarest things you have ever seen.
| | The wood panelling on the walls is of some type now lost to
* | the world, being very light but silky to the touch. The rugs
| covering the highly polished wooden floor are of the very best
| material and cut, and would in all likelihood fetch a kings
---------+ ransom at any auction. You guess the owner of the inn herself
must live up here, for who else could afford such a place? The stairs lead
back down to the other floors of the inn, or a short hallway stretches out west.


[Exits: west down]
(White Aura) (OUTCAST) Aelaldric the Unholy Knight is riding on the back of a nightmare.
(Charmed) A large, adolescent dragon is here, its scales changing colour every moment.
(Charmed) A large spotted owl is perched here.
(Charmed) A burly looking bouncer stands before you, arms crossed about his muscular chest.
(White Aura) Wylsin the Sage of Arcane Power, Savant of Arcane is here.
A bouncer walks in.
Valindra walks in.
A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity flies in.
Wylsin bows his head in worship of Denadlyr.

Aelaldric rides west on a nightmare.
Aelaldric rides in on a nightmare.
You raise your eyebrow at Aelaldric.
Aelaldric rides down on a nightmare.

Valindra smiles, her chins wobbling.

Wylsin scans down.

Aelaldric rides in on a nightmare.

Valindra looks very uncomfortable around Aelaldric.
A bouncer looks very uncomfortable around Aelaldric.
Ilromie looks very uncomfortable around Aelaldric.
You feel extremely uncomfortable in Aelaldric's presence.
Wylsin looks very uncomfortable around Aelaldric.

Top of the stairs
* | You have now reached the top floor of the Inn. The second floor
| | looked wealthy, but this is amazing! The paintings alone must
* * | have cost a fortune, and all the furniture is chunky, solid
| | | and expensive looking. Some of the treasures resting on tables
*-*-@ | in alcoves are probably the rarest things you have ever seen.
| | The wood panelling on the walls is of some type now lost to
* | the world, being very light but silky to the touch. The rugs
| covering the highly polished wooden floor are of the very best
| material and cut, and would in all likelihood fetch a kings
---------+ ransom at any auction. You guess the owner of the inn herself
must live up here, for who else could afford such a place? The stairs lead
back down to the other floors of the inn, or a short hallway stretches out west.


[Exits: west down]
(White Aura) (OUTCAST) Aelaldric the Unholy Knight is riding on the back of a nightmare.
(Charmed) A tiny wisp hovers here, shedding its essence as it bobs in the air.
(White Aura) Valindra the Poetic Prognosticator, Lore Keeper of Myth is here.
(Charmed) A burly looking bouncer stands before you, arms crossed about his muscular chest.
(White Aura) Ilromie the Sage of Arcane Power, Polymath of History is here.
(Charmed) A large, adolescent dragon is here, its scales changing colour every moment.
(Charmed) A large spotted owl is perched here.
(Charmed) A burly looking bouncer stands before you, arms crossed about his muscular chest.
(White Aura) Wylsin the Sage of Arcane Power, Savant of Arcane is here.

693hp 1184m 418mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]
Aelaldric says 'I lied.'

693hp 1184m 418mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]
Aelaldric utters the words, 'yucandusbarr'.
<HERALD> Odile the Crier gossips 'Aelaldric has broken the peace code of the tavern!'
A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity yells 'Help! Aelaldric just filled the room with fire!'
Aelaldric's fireball DISEMBOWELS a tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity!
<HERALD> Odile the Crier gossips 'Aelaldric has broken the peace code of the tavern!'
Valindra yells 'Help! Aelaldric just filled the room with fire!'
Aelaldric's fireball injures Valindra.
<HERALD> Odile the Crier gossips 'Aelaldric has broken the peace code of the tavern!'
A bouncer yells 'Help! Aelaldric just filled the room with fire!'
Aelaldric's fireball maims a bouncer!
<HERALD> Odile the Crier gossips 'Aelaldric has broken the peace code of the tavern!'
Ilromie yells 'Help! Aelaldric just filled the room with fire!'
Aelaldric's fireball DISEMBOWELS Ilromie!
<HERALD> Odile the Crier gossips 'Aelaldric has broken the peace code of the tavern!'
You yell 'Help! Aelaldric just filled the room with fire!'
Aelaldric's fireball mauls you.
<HERALD> Odile the Crier gossips 'Aelaldric has broken the peace code of the tavern!'
A large, adolescent dragon yells 'Help! Aelaldric just filled the room with fire!'
Aelaldric's fireball DISEMBOWELS a large, adolescent dragon!
<HERALD> Odile the Crier gossips 'Aelaldric has broken the peace code of the tavern!'
A spotted owl yells 'Help! Aelaldric just filled the room with fire!'
Aelaldric's fireball DISMEMBERS a spotted owl!
<HERALD> Odile the Crier gossips 'Aelaldric has broken the peace code of the tavern!'
A bouncer yells 'Help! Aelaldric just filled the room with fire!'
Aelaldric's fireball maims a bouncer!
<HERALD> Odile the Crier gossips 'Aelaldric has broken the peace code of the tavern!'
Wylsin yells 'Help! Aelaldric just filled the room with fire!'
Like a tidal wave, a roar of sound quickly grows to fill the room and then suddenly silences.
Aelaldric is in excellent condition.

671hp 1184m 418mv 59g a tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity: 90%hp segment offensive evasive:60 inside (indoors) [##########]
Aelaldric's illusionary spectre DISMEMBERS a tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity!
Aelaldric's illusionary spectre DISMEMBERS a tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity!
A bouncer's slash mauls Aelaldric.
Ilromie's pierce injures Aelaldric.
Aelaldric awkwardly parries your wrath with a loud clang.
Valindra's disease injures Aelaldric.
A spotted owl's slash grazes Aelaldric.
Aelaldric is in excellent condition.

671hp 1184m 418mv 59g a tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity: 62%hp segment offensive evasive:60 inside (indoors) [##########]
Aelaldric has fled!
A bouncer tosses Aelaldric out of the tavern!

A peaceful aura floods forth as you close your eyes.
You can't make a nightmare calmer.

Wylsin chuckles politely.

A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity transforms into a miniature chess piece of itself.

You let out a hearty laugh.
You say 'Well done, bouncer.'

Ilromie agrees absolutely.

[WARLORD] the Juggernaut: 'Szrevan has challenged Aelaldric to a fight to the death in The Mudfall.'

[ Slith ] <PK> (KING) [WARLORD] Szrevan Sra'Tak the Serpent King, Blademaster of Warlords
[ Gobln ] <PK> <HERALD> (Lore Keeper) Valindra Skitterwit the Poetic Prognosticator, Lore Keeper of Myth
[ DmElf ] <PK> [LEGION] (BARRED) (OUTCAST) Aelaldric the Unholy Knight
[ Demon ] Uggvalt the Chosen
[ Avian ] Sucha the Adept of Animation
[ Avian ] Nilvvariil the Adept of Animation
[50 Storm Hea] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Doyenne) Serra the Paradigm of Water, Doyenne of Religion
[ Gnome ] <PK> <MYSTIC> (Savant) Wylsin Plindane the Sage of Arcane Power, Savant of Arcane
[ Orc ] Golmog the Hired Killer
[ Elf ] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Duchess Ilromie Illistarre the Sage of Arcane Power, Polymath of History
Players found: 10
[KEEPER] The Balance prevails within the four kingdoms.
There are 10 characters on; the most on this past month was 18.

Ilromie chuckles politely.

Hall of Learning
| Beauty is the only thing that can describe this section
| of the Archives. Surrounding you are all sorts of decorative
| touches all working together with rich, dark tones and
| a stunning gothic grace. Across from where you stand rises
@ | a large fireplace created of a dark stone, its black mantle
| | carved with swirling designs of grape vines. On either
* * * | side of the fireplace, set into a wall covered in dark
| | | | wood paneling are two large windows, filling from the floor
*-*-*-* | to the top of the high ceiling. These windows are covered
---------+ in deep purple, velvet curtains that match the tiny jewels
used for the grapes on the fireplace. The rest of the walls, to your surprise,
are covered in a giant mural, each wall depicting a certain scene, but each
picture blending perfectly into the next.

[Exits: south]
A large decorative dark wood coffee table containing many books.
A dark wood sofa with deep purple cushions sits beside a roaring fireplace.
(Charmed) A burly looking bouncer stands before you, arms crossed about his muscular chest.
(Charmed) A large spotted owl is perched here.
(Charmed) A large, adolescent dragon is here, its scales changing colour every moment.
(White Aura) Wylsin the Sage of Arcane Power, Savant of Arcane is here.
(Charmed) A burly looking bouncer stands before you, arms crossed about his muscular chest.
(White Aura) Valindra the Poetic Prognosticator, Lore Keeper of Myth is here.
(White Aura) Ilromie the Sage of Arcane Power, Polymath of History is here.


Valindra says 'I expected a little more excitement.'
Valindra sits on a dark wood sofa.
Valindra crosses her stubby emerald legs as a child might.

Ilromie stands by the fire, reaching her hands towards it.

You say 'Poor Hibba.'

Top of the stairs
* | You have now reached the top floor of the Inn. The second floor
| | looked wealthy, but this is amazing! The paintings alone must
* * | have cost a fortune, and all the furniture is chunky, solid
| | | and expensive looking. Some of the treasures resting on tables
*-*-@ | in alcoves are probably the rarest things you have ever seen.
| | The wood panelling on the walls is of some type now lost to
* | the world, being very light but silky to the touch. The rugs
| covering the highly polished wooden floor are of the very best
| material and cut, and would in all likelihood fetch a kings
---------+ ransom at any auction. You guess the owner of the inn herself
must live up here, for who else could afford such a place? The stairs lead
back down to the other floors of the inn, or a short hallway stretches out west.


[Exits: west down]
A large, black mare is here, engulfed in flames.
Wylsin walks in.
A bouncer walks in.
A spotted owl flies in.
A large, adolescent dragon flies in.
A bouncer walks in.

You bat your eyelashes.
You say 'Tossed him without his horse, even.'

Wylsin looks at a nightmare.

A stallion, the deepest of black shades for a coat, appearing nearly
spectral in nature, bares gritted teeth suggesting your continued existence
is merely an option still being considered. Red eyes with cold grey pupils
pierce your confidence. A healthy mane of black flame waves over the side
of the stallion's head, the mane's ends seeming to evaporate into thin air.
Its tail shares the same behavior, but even the hooves that support this
imposing mass of evil are engulfed in black flame. Who or what could
possibly mount this flaming monstrosity?
A nightmare is in excellent condition.

Wylsin utters the words, 'xafe ay candusqarr'.

Ilromie smirks.
Ilromie says 'In fact, horses of any sort ought not be allowed.'

Wylsin nods at Ilromie.

[WARLORD] the Juggernaut: 'Aelaldric has declined Szrevan's challenge.'

Ilromie says 'I recall Solmundi tried to bring his horse to the first trial we held.'

You let out a hearty laugh.

The holy grove
| You are standing amidst the ancient oaks and poplars in the
/ | holy grove. You can feel a strange sensation of joy and calm
S-f-f | seeping through you, as if great burdens have been lifted
| | | | from your shoulders. To the south, lies an open area through
f-S-@ | the trees, while paths lead away north and west.
| | | |
f-o o |
| |
* |
---------+

[Exits: north south west]
Some grayish herbs are scattered here.
A small snake slithers between the grass.
A small snake slithers between the grass.
An elder druid stands here, watching the local flora and wildlife.
A small snake slithers between the grass.
Wylsin walks in.
A spotted owl flies in.
A large, adolescent dragon flies in.
Valindra walks in.

Something is interfering with the summon.
You grumble distractedly.
You say 'Well, funnily enough, it cannot be summoned out.'
You say 'I suppose we are stuck with a four-legged guest.'

Top of the stairs
* | You have now reached the top floor of the Inn. The second floor
| | looked wealthy, but this is amazing! The paintings alone must
* * | have cost a fortune, and all the furniture is chunky, solid
| | | and expensive looking. Some of the treasures resting on tables
*-*-@ | in alcoves are probably the rarest things you have ever seen.
| | The wood panelling on the walls is of some type now lost to
* | the world, being very light but silky to the touch. The rugs
| covering the highly polished wooden floor are of the very best
| material and cut, and would in all likelihood fetch a kings
---------+ ransom at any auction. You guess the owner of the inn herself
must live up here, for who else could afford such a place? The stairs lead
back down to the other floors of the inn, or a short hallway stretches out west.


[Exits: west down]
A large, black mare is here, engulfed in flames.
Wylsin walks in.
A spotted owl flies in.
A large, adolescent dragon flies in.
A bouncer walks in.
Valindra walks in.
A bouncer walks in.

Valindra looks at a nightmare.
You peer intently at a nightmare.
A nightmare stallion's bite scratches you.

You glare icily at him.
A nightmare stallion's bite scratches you.

A Triton Watchman's charge DISEMBOWELS a nightmare!

Valindra says 'We could kill it, I suppose.'

A Triton Watchman's charge DISEMBOWELS a nightmare!

You bat your eyelashes.

A peaceful aura floods forth as you close your eyes.
You can't make a nightmare calmer.

You say 'Erm.'
You say 'That was ... odd.'

Ilromie says 'How strange.'

A Triton Watchman's charge MUTILATES a nightmare!

Valindra taps her lip with a stubby emerald finger.

A Triton Watchman's charge DISEMBOWELS a nightmare!

Wylsin says 'Where is this watchman...'
Wylsin scans all around.

You say 'I have no idea.'
You say 'The last time I saw one it was in Seringale.'
You say 'Spooky.'

Valindra says 'The boundaries blur.'
Valindra says 'The demons . . .'
Valindra says 'They make this world less stable.'

You say 'Indeed.'

Valindra says 'They will gobble it up if we let them.'

You say 'I...'

Valindra says 'Will we?'

Odile the Crier's pound mauls a nightmare.

Valindra tilts her head to the side as if listening to something.

You bat your eyelashes.

Valindra says 'He returns.'

Odile the Crier's pound misses a nightmare.

Players near you in Holy Grove:
<PK> Valindra Top of the stairs
<PK> Aelaldric Entrance to the Travellers' Rest
<PK> Serra Top of the stairs
<PK> Wylsin Top of the stairs
<PK> Ilromie Top of the stairs

You say 'So it seems.'
You chuckle politely.
You say 'I suppose he comes for his horse.'

1st floor landing
| From the stairwell a landing extends westwards, the first
| floor of the inn. Small brass lamps can be seen lighting
| the way, and numerous doors line the hall. All are plain,
| with small numbers designating which room is which. The stairs
*-*-@ | continue up to the second floor, or down to the ground floor.
|
|
|
|
---------+

[Exits: west up down]
A bouncer walks in.
Valindra walks in.
Wylsin walks in.
A bouncer walks in.
A large, adolescent dragon flies in.
A spotted owl flies in.

You say 'Wait here.'

Wylsin sits down and rests.
Valindra sits down on the ground.

Entrance to the Travellers' Rest
| Laughter and music fill the air as you near the entrance
| to this Inn. The sign above the door proclaims it to
S o | be the Travellers Rest, famed throughout the lands for
| | | its fair and equal policy. The rich smell of cooking
S-*-@-S-f| floats about the air, and the sound of glasses being
| | || clinked can be heard from inside. Through one of the
F(f-f-f-S| front windows you can see many different people inside,
| | | || all apparently having a good time. The doorway is to
* f f-o| the west, while the somber altar room of the monk monastery
---------+ lies to the east.

[Exits: east west]
A board on the wall shows the rules of this establishment.
(White Aura) Odile the Crier is here welcoming Heralds to their time-honored home.
Odile the Crier says 'Farewell, someone. We hope to see you again.'
Odile the Crier says 'Farewell, someone. We hope to see you again.'

You heal Odile the Crier.

Curly locks fall down to thin, gaunt shoulders, glimmering pearlish
bleach-blonde in the surrounding light. Fierce blue eyes squint out at all
that enter her presence, quietly glancing at everyone with a questioning
stare. She is clad in all white, giving her a washed out appearance that is
sure never to leave her, due to her milky-white skin. Three long hairs poke
out of her upper lip from a large mole. They appear to be four inches long.
Odile the Crier looks pretty hurt.

Players near you in Holy Grove:
<PK> Valindra 1st floor landing
<PK> Serra Entrance to the Travellers' Rest
<PK> Wylsin 1st floor landing
<PK> Ilromie Entrance to the Travellers' Rest

Ilromie frowns.

You heal Odile the Crier.
You cure Odile the Crier's continual wounds.
<PATRON> Istina the usher: 'Help! someone is attacking the tavern!'
Odile the Crier's continual curing intensifies.
You cure Odile the Crier's critical wounds.
You heal Odile the Crier.

Valindra walks in.
Odile the Crier says 'Farewell, someone. We hope to see you again.'
Odile the Crier's continual curing ends.

You heal Odile the Crier.
Odile the Crier writhes in agony as plague sores erupt from her skin.
Odile the Crier is no longer blinded.

Wylsin walks in.
A spotted owl flies in.
A large, adolescent dragon flies in.
Odile the Crier says 'Farewell, Wylsin. We hope to see you again.'

Curly locks fall down to thin, gaunt shoulders, glimmering pearlish
bleach-blonde in the surrounding light. Fierce blue eyes squint out at all
that enter her presence, quietly glancing at everyone with a questioning
stare. She is clad in all white, giving her a washed out appearance that is
sure never to leave her, due to her milky-white skin. Three long hairs poke
out of her upper lip from a large mole. They appear to be four inches long.
Odile the Crier has some big nasty wounds and scratches.

Odile the Crier looks relieved as her sores vanish.

You tell your group 'Plague.'

Odile the Crier fiddles idly with a wart hair.
Wylsin walks west.
A large, adolescent dragon flies west.
A spotted owl flies west.

Valindra tells the group 'Yuck.'

Valindra doesn't appear to have a disease.
Ilromie doesn't appear to have a disease.
You aren't ill.

Ilromie coughs politely.

You tell your group 'I have cured it, we do not seem to have the disease.'

Curly locks fall down to thin, gaunt shoulders, glimmering pearlish
bleach-blonde in the surrounding light. Fierce blue eyes squint out at all
that enter her presence, quietly glancing at everyone with a questioning
stare. She is clad in all white, giving her a washed out appearance that is
sure never to leave her, due to her milky-white skin. Three long hairs poke
out of her upper lip from a large mole. They appear to be four inches long.
Odile the Crier has some big nasty wounds and scratches.

You cure Odile the Crier's continual wounds.
Odile the Crier's continual curing intensifies.
You cure Odile the Crier's critical wounds.
You heal Odile the Crier.
Odile the Crier's continual curing intensifies.
You cure Odile the Crier's critical wounds.
Odile the Crier screams and attacks Aelaldric!

693hp 846m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Aelaldric utters the words, 'gurunsoqz'.
Ilromie yells 'Die! Aelaldric, you sorcerous dog!'
Aelaldric steps aside, exposing a nightmare.
Ilromie's pierce injures Aelaldric.

693hp 846m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Aelaldric yells 'Help! I am being attacked by Valindra!'
Valindra looks very uncomfortable around Aelaldric.
Ilromie looks very uncomfortable around Aelaldric.
You feel extremely uncomfortable in Aelaldric's presence.
Odile the Crier's pound injures Aelaldric.
Aelaldric's stab MUTILATES Ilromie!
Aelaldric's stab devastates Ilromie!
Ilromie's fire shield grazes Aelaldric.

693hp 846m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Ilromie utters the words, 'yrawz abrafax'.
Ilromie creates a flaming arrow.
Ilromie's flame arrow injures Aelaldric.

693hp 846m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Aelaldric utters the words, 'gurunsoqz'.

693hp 846m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Aelaldric's stab DISEMBOWELS Ilromie!
Ilromie's fire shield maims Aelaldric!
Aelaldric steps aside, exposing a nightmare.

693hp 846m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Odile the Crier's continual curing intensifies.
You cure Odile the Crier's critical wounds.

693hp 814m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]

Ilromie utters the words, 'yrawz abrafax'.
Ilromie creates a flaming arrow.
Ilromie's flame arrow maims Aelaldric!

693hp 814m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]

Aelaldric utters the words, 'gurunsoqz'.
Wylsin walks in.
A spotted owl flies in.
A large, adolescent dragon flies in.
Odile the Crier says 'Farewell, Wylsin. We hope to see you again.'

693hp 814m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Wylsin looks very uncomfortable around Aelaldric.
Aelaldric's stab decimates Ilromie!
Aelaldric's stab DISEMBOWELS Ilromie!
Ilromie's fire shield grazes Aelaldric.
Ilromie's engulfing flames wound Aelaldric.
Valindra's disease wounds Aelaldric.
Ilromie's pierce hits Aelaldric.

693hp 814m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########] Ilromie's group:
[50 Inv] Ilromie 74% hp 97% mana 100% mv 564400 xp Kills: 1
[50 Hea] Serra 100% hp 68% mana 100% mv 556140 xp Kills: 1
[50 Inv] Wylsin 100% hp 99% mana 99% mv 484840 xp Kills: 0
[50 Inv] Valindra 100% hp 86% mana 100% mv 484840 xp Kills: 0
* [50 Chm] A bouncer 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Ilromie)
* [50 Chm] A spotted owl 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (in The Miden'nir) (Ilromie)
* [30 Pet] Llywehh the snarling doberman 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv 17886 tnl (in Cloud Castle) (Ilromie)
* [50 Chm] A bouncer 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Wylsin)
* [50 Chm] A spotted owl 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Wylsin)
* [20 Pet] A large, adolescent dragon 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv 11041 tnl (Wylsin)

693hp 814m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########] You heal Ilromie.

693hp 774m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]

Aelaldric has fled!
Odile the Crier says 'I don't think so!'
Odile the Crier blocks Aelaldric from entering the tavern.
Ilromie's engulfing flames injure Aelaldric.
Odile the Crier screams and attacks Aelaldric!

693hp 774m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Aelaldric has fled!

693hp 774m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########] You heal Ilromie.

693hp 734m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Ilromie's group:
[50 Inv] Ilromie 90% hp 97% mana 100% mv 564400 xp Kills: 1
[50 Hea] Serra 100% hp 61% mana 100% mv 556140 xp Kills: 1
[50 Inv] Wylsin 100% hp 99% mana 99% mv 484840 xp Kills: 0
[50 Inv] Valindra 100% hp 86% mana 100% mv 484840 xp Kills: 0
* [50 Chm] A bouncer 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Ilromie)
* [50 Chm] A spotted owl 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (in The Miden'nir) (Ilromie)
* [30 Pet] Llywehh the snarling doberman 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv 17886 tnl (in Cloud Castle) (Ilromie)
* [50 Chm] A bouncer 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Wylsin)
* [50 Chm] A spotted owl 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Wylsin)
* [20 Pet] A large, adolescent dragon 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv 11041 tnl (Wylsin)

693hp 734m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Wylsin scans east.

693hp 780m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Entrance to the Travellers' Rest
| Laughter and music fill the air as you near the entrance
| to this Inn. The sign above the door proclaims it to
S o | be the Travellers Rest, famed throughout the lands for
| | | its fair and equal policy. The rich smell of cooking
S-*-@-S-f| floats about the air, and the sound of glasses being
| | || clinked can be heard from inside. Through one of the
F(f-f-f-S| front windows you can see many different people inside,
| | | || all apparently having a good time. The doorway is to
* f f-o| the west, while the somber altar room of the monk monastery
---------+ lies to the east.

[Exits: east west]
A board on the wall shows the rules of this establishment.
(Charmed) A large, adolescent dragon is here, its scales changing colour every moment.
(Charmed) A large spotted owl is perched here.
(White Aura) Wylsin the Sage of Arcane Power, Savant of Arcane is here.
(White Aura) Valindra the Poetic Prognosticator, Lore Keeper of Myth is here.
(White Aura) Ilromie the Sage of Arcane Power, Polymath of History is here.
(White Aura) Odile the Crier is here welcoming Heralds to their time-honored home.
Odile the Crier's continual curing ends.

693hp 780m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
You cure Ilromie's critical wounds.

693hp 755m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Ilromie utters the words, 'oculoinfra uizug'.

693hp 755m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Curly locks fall down to thin, gaunt shoulders, glimmering pearlish
bleach-blonde in the surrounding light. Fierce blue eyes squint out at all
that enter her presence, quietly glancing at everyone with a questioning
stare. She is clad in all white, giving her a washed out appearance that is
sure never to leave her, due to her milky-white skin. Three long hairs poke
out of her upper lip from a large mole. They appear to be four inches long.
Odile the Crier has quite a few wounds.

693hp 755m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
You heal Odile the Crier.

693hp 715m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]

Wylsin utters the words, 'diesilla gpuzre'.

693hp 715m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########] Players near you in Holy Grove:
<PK> Valindra Entrance to the Travellers' Rest
<PK> Serra Entrance to the Travellers' Rest
<PK> Wylsin Entrance to the Travellers' Rest
<PK> Ilromie Entrance to the Travellers' Rest

693hp 715m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########] [ Gobln ] <PK> <HERALD> (Lore Keeper) Valindra Skitterwit the Poetic Prognosticator, Lore Keeper of Myth
[ DmElf ] <PK> [LEGION] (BARRED) (OUTCAST) Aelaldric the Unholy Knight
[ Avian ] Sucha the Adept of Animation
[ Avian ] Nilvvariil the Adept of Animation
[50 Storm Hea] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Doyenne) Serra the Paradigm of Water, Doyenne of Religion
[ Gnome ] <PK> <MYSTIC> (Savant) Wylsin Plindane the Sage of Arcane Power, Savant of Arcane
[ Orc ] Golmog the Hired Killer
[ Elf ] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Duchess Ilromie Illistarre the Sage of Arcane Power, Polymath of History
Players found: 8
[KEEPER] The Balance prevails within the four kingdoms.
There are 8 characters on; the most on this past month was 18.

693hp 715m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
You heal Odile the Crier.

693hp 675m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Players near you in Holy Grove:
<PK> Valindra Entrance to the Travellers' Rest
<PK> Serra Entrance to the Travellers' Rest
<PK> Wylsin Entrance to the Travellers' Rest
<PK> Ilromie Entrance to the Travellers' Rest

693hp 675m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########] [ Gobln ] <PK> <HERALD> (Lore Keeper) Valindra Skitterwit the Poetic Prognosticator, Lore Keeper of Myth
[ DmElf ] <PK> [LEGION] (BARRED) (OUTCAST) Aelaldric the Unholy Knight
[ Avian ] Sucha the Adept of Animation
[ Avian ] Nilvvariil the Adept of Animation
[50 Storm Hea] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Doyenne) Serra the Paradigm of Water, Doyenne of Religion
[ Gnome ] <PK> <MYSTIC> (Savant) Wylsin Plindane the Sage of Arcane Power, Savant of Arcane
[ Orc ] Golmog the Hired Killer
[ Elf ] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Duchess Ilromie Illistarre the Sage of Arcane Power, Polymath of History
Players found: 8
[KEEPER] The Balance prevails within the four kingdoms.
There are 8 characters on; the most on this past month was 18.

693hp 675m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Entrance to the Travellers' Rest
| Laughter and music fill the air as you near the entrance
| to this Inn. The sign above the door proclaims it to
S o | be the Travellers Rest, famed throughout the lands for
| | | its fair and equal policy. The rich smell of cooking
S-*-@-S-f| floats about the air, and the sound of glasses being
| | || clinked can be heard from inside. Through one of the
F(f-f-f-S| front windows you can see many different people inside,
| | | || all apparently having a good time. The doorway is to
* f f-o| the west, while the somber altar room of the monk monastery
---------+ lies to the east.

[Exits: east west]
A board on the wall shows the rules of this establishment.
(Charmed) A large, adolescent dragon is here, its scales changing colour every moment.
(Charmed) A large spotted owl is perched here.
(White Aura) Wylsin the Sage of Arcane Power, Savant of Arcane is here.
(White Aura) Valindra the Poetic Prognosticator, Lore Keeper of Myth is here.
(White Aura) Ilromie the Sage of Arcane Power, Polymath of History is here.
(White Aura) Odile the Crier is here welcoming Heralds to their time-honored home.

693hp 675m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Curly locks fall down to thin, gaunt shoulders, glimmering pearlish
bleach-blonde in the surrounding light. Fierce blue eyes squint out at all
that enter her presence, quietly glancing at everyone with a questioning
stare. She is clad in all white, giving her a washed out appearance that is
sure never to leave her, due to her milky-white skin. Three long hairs poke
out of her upper lip from a large mole. They appear to be four inches long.
Odile the Crier has some small wounds and bruises.

693hp 675m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
You heal Odile the Crier.

693hp 635m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Ilromie's group:
[50 Inv] Ilromie 99% hp 99% mana 100% mv 564400 xp Kills: 1
[50 Hea] Serra 100% hp 53% mana 100% mv 556140 xp Kills: 1
[50 Inv] Wylsin 100% hp 92% mana 100% mv 484840 xp Kills: 0
[50 Inv] Valindra 100% hp 88% mana 100% mv 484840 xp Kills: 0
* [50 Chm] A bouncer 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Ilromie)
* [50 Chm] A spotted owl 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (in The Miden'nir) (Ilromie)
* [30 Pet] Llywehh the snarling doberman 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv 17886 tnl (in Cloud Castle) (Ilromie)
* [50 Chm] A bouncer 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Wylsin)
* [50 Chm] A spotted owl 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Wylsin)
* [20 Pet] A large, adolescent dragon 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv 11041 tnl (Wylsin)

693hp 635m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########] You heal Odile the Crier.

693hp 595m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Valindra's weapon ward expires.
The transparent sphere around Wylsin dissipates.

Wylsin utters the words, 'diesilla gpuzre'.
Wylsin is surrounded by a field of lightning.

693hp 662m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
You are filled with serenity by the prayer.

693hp 632m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Wylsin utters the words, 'wlghuq hunsoefurg'.
Wylsin's mystic tendrils wound him.

693hp 632m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Odile the Crier fiddles idly with a wart hair.
A Cloakroom
| As you close the door you feel the warmth coming from
| the Main Hall. You are currently standing in a cloakroom,
S o | where people leave their coats and cloaks before going
| | | on further into the Inn. The two walls are lined with
*-S-@-+-S| hooks and have quite a lot of coats and cloaks. This
| || Inn seems popular. On the window sills next to the door
*-F(f-f-f| are two well-watered and very healthy flowers, one a
| | | || red carnation and the other a blue tulip. A few small
* * f f| gold lanterns light the room, and the smells of cooking
---------+ drift in from further into the Inn. You can return to
the forest through the door to the east, or enter the main hall westwards.


[Exits: north east west]
A dusty welcome Mat lies here inscribed with the words 'Close the door please!'.
(Charmed) A burly looking bouncer stands before you, arms crossed about his muscular chest.
(Charmed) A burly looking bouncer stands before you, arms crossed about his muscular chest.
Wylsin walks in.
A large, adolescent dragon flies in.
A spotted owl flies in.

693hp 632m 418mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]
Wylsin utters the words, 'wlghuq hunsoefurg'.
Wylsin's mystic tendrils maul him.

693hp 632m 418mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]
Main Hall of the Travellers Rest
| Walking into the Main Hall you are hit by a wave of sound.
| People laughing and shouting, dancing and generally having
S o | fun are everywhere. Many tables are dotted around the edges
| | | of the room, but plenty of space is left for the dance floor.
*-*-@-*-+| A large stage has been placed against one wall, ready for
| | the regular musician to perform when required. Tapestries
*-F | and paintings decorate this luxurious hall, along with the
| | | expensive looking candelabras that light the room. The floor
* * | around the wooden dance area is covered in a thick, rich
---------+ red carpet that looks like it cost the owners a few pennies.
To the north stands the bar, and to the south the restaurant. Eastwards lies
the entrance to the Inn, and to the west is a hallway. A large sign reads
"Performance List!"

[Exits: north east south west]
A long oaken table has been set up here, laden with food for a feast.
A comfy looking leather sofa with room for six people sits here.
The inn musician stands on stage here, singing away and playing a lute.
Wylsin walks in.
A spotted owl flies in.
A large, adolescent dragon flies in.
A bouncer walks in.

693hp 632m 417mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]
You pitch a small tent.

693hp 632m 417mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########] You go to sleep in a small tent.

693hp 632m 417mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]
Ilromie's group:
[50 Inv] Ilromie 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv 564400 xp Kills: 1
[50 Hea] Serra 100% hp 51% mana 99% mv 556140 xp Kills: 1
[50 Inv] Wylsin 96% hp 88% mana 99% mv 484840 xp Kills: 0
[50 Inv] Valindra 100% hp 91% mana 100% mv 484840 xp Kills: 0
* [50 Chm] A bouncer 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Ilromie)
* [50 Chm] A spotted owl 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (in The Miden'nir) (Ilromie)
* [30 Pet] Llywehh the snarling doberman 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv 17886 tnl (in Cloud Castle) (Ilromie)
* [50 Chm] A bouncer 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Wylsin)
* [50 Chm] A spotted owl 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Wylsin)
* [20 Pet] A large, adolescent dragon 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv 11041 tnl (Wylsin)
You feel infused with a little energy.

693hp 658m 417mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]
You feel a very slight tickle.

693hp 682m 417mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]
[ Gobln ] <PK> <HERALD> (Lore Keeper) Valindra Skitterwit the Poetic Prognosticator, Lore Keeper of Myth
[ DmElf ] <PK> [LEGION] (BARRED) (OUTCAST) Aelaldric the Unholy Knight
[ Avian ] Sucha the Adept of Animation
[ Avian ] Nilvvariil the Adept of Animation
[50 Storm Hea] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Doyenne) Serra the Paradigm of Water, Doyenne of Religion
[ Gnome ] <PK> <MYSTIC> (Savant) Wylsin Plindane the Sage of Arcane Power, Savant of Arcane
[ Orc ] Golmog the Hired Killer
[ Elf ] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Duchess Ilromie Illistarre the Sage of Arcane Power, Polymath of History
Players found: 8
[KEEPER] The Balance prevails within the four kingdoms.
There are 8 characters on; the most on this past month was 18.

693hp 682m 417mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]
You feel a very slight tickle.

693hp 704m 417mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]
Ilromie's group:
[50 Inv] Ilromie 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv 564400 xp Kills: 1
[50 Hea] Serra 100% hp 57% mana 99% mv 556140 xp Kills: 1
[50 Inv] Wylsin 92% hp 83% mana 99% mv 484840 xp Kills: 0
[50 Inv] Valindra 100% hp 91% mana 100% mv 484840 xp Kills: 0
* [50 Chm] A bouncer 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Ilromie)
* [50 Chm] A spotted owl 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (in The Miden'nir) (Ilromie)
* [30 Pet] Llywehh the snarling doberman 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv 17886 tnl (in Cloud Castle) (Ilromie)
* [50 Chm] A bouncer 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Wylsin)
* [50 Chm] A spotted owl 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Wylsin)
* [20 Pet] A large, adolescent dragon 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv 11041 tnl (Wylsin)
You feel a very slight tickle.

693hp 724m 417mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]
You feel infused with a little energy.
You feel less unnerved by the presence of evil.
The white aura around your body fades.

693hp 914m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]
You wake and stand up.

693hp 914m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########] You roll up a small tent as you pick it up.
Wylsin utters the words, 'sfainfrauzz gpuzre'.
Wylsin is surrounded by a protective shell of magic.

693hp 914m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]
You are surrounded by a white aura.

693hp 839m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]

Wylsin utters the words, 'wlghuq hunsoefurg'.
Wylsin's mystic tendrils injure him.

693hp 839m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########] Players near you in Holy Grove:
<PK> Valindra Entrance to the Travellers' Rest
<PK> Serra Main Hall of the Travellers Rest
<PK> Wylsin Main Hall of the Travellers Rest
<PK> Ilromie Entrance to the Travellers' Rest

693hp 839m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]
You pitch a small tent.

693hp 839m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########] You go to sleep in a small tent.

693hp 839m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]
Ilromie's group:
[50 Inv] Ilromie 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv 564400 xp Kills: 1
[50 Hea] Serra 100% hp 68% mana 100% mv 556140 xp Kills: 1
[50 Inv] Wylsin 89% hp 82% mana 100% mv 484840 xp Kills: 0
[50 Inv] Valindra 100% hp 93% mana 100% mv 484840 xp Kills: 0
* [50 Chm] A bouncer 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Ilromie)
* [50 Chm] A spotted owl 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (in The Miden'nir) (Ilromie)
* [30 Pet] Llywehh the snarling doberman 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv 17886 tnl (in Cloud Castle) (Ilromie)
* [50 Chm] A bouncer 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Wylsin)
* [50 Chm] A spotted owl 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Wylsin)
* [20 Pet] A large, adolescent dragon 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv 11041 tnl (Wylsin)

693hp 839m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]
You feel infused with energy.

693hp 911m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]

You feel infused with a little energy.

693hp 947m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]

693hp 947m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]
You tell your group 'One of us could attempt to use the circlet on him? though I doubt it will be effective.'

693hp 1159m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]
You wake and stand up.

693hp 1159m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########] You roll up a small tent as you pick it up.

693hp 1159m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm inside (indoors) [##########]
Players near you in Holy Grove:
<PK> Valindra Entrance to the Travellers' Rest
<PK> Serra Main Hall of the Travellers Rest
<PK> Wylsin Entrance to the Travellers' Rest
<PK> Ilromie Entrance to the Travellers' Rest

693hp 1221m 418mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Ilromie's group:
[50 Inv] Ilromie 79% hp 100% mana 100% mv 564400 xp Kills: 1
[50 Hea] Serra 100% hp 100% mana 99% mv 556140 xp Kills: 1
[50 Inv] Wylsin 90% hp 82% mana 100% mv 484840 xp Kills: 0
[50 Inv] Valindra 100% hp 98% mana 100% mv 484840 xp Kills: 0
* [50 Chm] A bouncer 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Ilromie)
* [50 Chm] A spotted owl 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (in The Miden'nir) (Ilromie)
* [30 Pet] Llywehh the snarling doberman 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv 17886 tnl (in Cloud Castle) (Ilromie)
* [50 Chm] A bouncer 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Wylsin)
* [50 Chm] A spotted owl 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Wylsin)
* [20 Pet] A large, adolescent dragon 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv 11041 tnl (Wylsin)


693hp 1221m 418mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Ilromie utters the words, 'gaiqhjabral'.
Ilromie is surrounded by a white aura.

693hp 1221m 418mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
You cure Ilromie's continual wounds.

693hp 1211m 418mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]

Ilromie utters the words, 'sfainfrauzz gpuzre'.
Ilromie is surrounded by a protective shell of magic.

693hp 1211m 418mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Ilromie's continual curing intensifies.
You cure Ilromie's critical wounds.

693hp 1179m 418mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Wylsin tells the group 'Quite right.'

693hp 1179m 418mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]

A soft buzz of words hangs in the air around Ilromie.

693hp 1179m 418mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########] You cure Wylsin's critical wounds.

693hp 1154m 418mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########] Ilromie's continual curing intensifies.
You cure Ilromie's critical wounds.

693hp 1122m 418mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Ilromie's continual curing ends.

693hp 1122m 418mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Ilromie tells the group 'It seems to provide little aid without the power of the Stones.'

693hp 1122m 418mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Wylsin utters the words, 'hiqahz abyzqh'.

693hp 1122m 418mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Valindra shakes her head vigorously.

693hp 1122m 418mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Valindra's thirst grazes her.
Valindra's protective shield dissipates.

693hp 1168m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
You tell your group 'Ah, indeed.'

693hp 1148m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent calm city (outside) [##########]
Aelaldric utters the words, 'yucandusbarr'.
You yell 'Help! Aelaldric just filled the room with fire!'
Your prayer has been disrupted.
Aelaldric's fireball DISMEMBERS you!
A large, adolescent dragon yells 'Help! Aelaldric just filled the room with fire!'
Aelaldric's fireball *** DEMOLISHES *** a large, adolescent dragon!
A spotted owl yells 'Help! Aelaldric just filled the room with fire!'
Aelaldric's fireball *** DEVASTATES *** a spotted owl!
Wylsin yells 'Help! Aelaldric just filled the room with fire!'
Aelaldric's fireball MASSACRES Wylsin!
Valindra yells 'Help! Aelaldric just filled the room with fire!'
Valindra's force shield shatters!.
Aelaldric's fireball *** DEVASTATES *** Valindra!
Ilromie yells 'Help! Aelaldric just filled the room with fire!'
Like a tidal wave, a roar of sound quickly grows to fill the room and then suddenly silences.
Aelaldric's fireball MASSACRES Odile the Crier!
Aelaldric has some small wounds and bruises.

638hp 1148m 419mv 59g blade offensive evasive:60 city (outside) [##########]
You feel extremely uncomfortable in Aelaldric's presence.
Aelaldric's stab decimates you!
Aelaldric steps aside, exposing a nightmare.
Aelaldric steps aside, exposing a nightmare.
Your wrath maims a nightmare!
Your wrath wounds Aelaldric.
Aelaldric steps aside, exposing a nightmare.
Aelaldric has some small wounds and bruises.

610hp 1148m 419mv 59g blade offensive evasive:60 city (outside) [##########]
A peaceful aura floods forth as you close your eyes.
You fail to calm Aelaldric.
You can't make Odile the Crier calmer.
Aelaldric has some small wounds and bruises.

610hp 1118m 419mv 59g blade offensive evasive:59 city (outside) [##########]
Wylsin utters the words, 'pzrrghcandusaw'.
The ground erupts as Aelaldric is caught in a searing beam of arcane light.
Wylsin's hellstream *** DEVASTATES *** Aelaldric!
Aelaldric has some small wounds and bruises.

610hp 1118m 419mv 59g blade offensive evasive:59 city (outside) [##########]
Aelaldric has fled!
Odile the Crier says 'I don't think so!'
Odile the Crier blocks someone from entering the tavern.
Ilromie utters the words, 'wzhar gpabraeg'.
Aelaldric yells 'Die! Ilromie, you sorcerous dog!'
A spray of shrapnel erupts from the ground beneath Ilromie!
Ilromie's shard of iron wounds Aelaldric.
Ilromie's shard of silver injures Aelaldric.
Ilromie's shard of silver injures Aelaldric.
Ilromie's shard of silver hits Aelaldric.
Ilromie's shard of silver injures Aelaldric.

610hp 1118m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent evasive:60 city (outside) [##########]
Aelaldric has fled!

610hp 1118m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent evasive:60 city (outside) [##########]
Valindra utters the words, 'gaiqhjabral'.
Valindra is surrounded by a white aura.

610hp 1118m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent evasive:58 city (outside) [##########]
Ilromie's group:
[50 Inv] Ilromie 98% hp 92% mana 100% mv 564400 xp Kills: 1
[50 Hea] Serra 88% hp 93% mana 100% mv 556140 xp Kills: 1
[50 Inv] Wylsin 98% hp 82% mana 100% mv 484840 xp Kills: 0
[50 Inv] Valindra 81% hp 93% mana 100% mv 484840 xp Kills: 0
* [50 Chm] A bouncer 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Ilromie)
* [50 Chm] A spotted owl 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (in The Miden'nir) (Ilromie)
* [30 Pet] Llywehh the snarling doberman 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv 17886 tnl (in Cloud Castle) (Ilromie)
* [50 Chm] A bouncer 100% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Wylsin)
* [50 Chm] A spotted owl 70% hp 100% mana 100% mv (Wylsin)
* [20 Pet] A large, adolescent dragon 63% hp 100% mana 100% mv 11041 tnl (Wylsin)

610hp 1118m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent evasive:55 city (outside) [##########]
Valindra winces in agony.

610hp 1118m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent evasive:54 city (outside) [##########]
You heal Valindra.

610hp 1078m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent evasive:53 city (outside) [##########]
Wylsin utters the words, 'xzasai xabrae'.
A jewel-encrusted spatula glows as it is imbued by a weapon ward.

610hp 1078m 419mv 59g no opponent no opponent evasive:48 city (outside) [##########]
A warm feeling fills your body.

You tell Aelaldric 'This is fruitless, demon.'

Aelaldric tells you 'Ah, but you should hear the elf whimper.'

<HERALD> (Lore Keeper) Valindra : 'Barred from the House of Bards. This poem is writing itself. Or a demon is.'

Aelaldric tells you 'He begs me to stop.'

<HERALD> (Lore Keeper) Valindra : 'Did I say that already? I meant to.'

Aelaldric tells you 'He cannot stand the pain.'

You tell your group 'He says the elf begs him to stop.'
You tell your group 'Perhaps we should continue for the stones.'
You tell your group 'To the Underworld.'

Ilromie tells the group 'Yes.'

Valindra tells you 'What are we doing?'
Valindra tells you 'I want to hear about your dream, Doyenne.'

You tell Valindra 'Completing the circlet of security.'
You nod.
You tell Valindra 'I will tell you of it soon.'

Wylsin tells the group 'I fear I must depart for now. I think you're well equipped to make the adventure without me, though it pains me to leave such fun and company.'

Players near you in Enthema:
<PK> Valindra In Utter Darkness
<PK> Serra In Utter Darkness
<PK> Wylsin In Utter Darkness
<PK> Ilromie In Utter Darkness

You tell your group 'Thank you for your aid, Wylsin.'

Ilromie tells the group 'It was good to see you, my friend.'

Aelaldric tells you 'But perhaps that is enough for now.'

Valindra whispers something to Wylsin.

Aelaldric tells you 'Together you are quite strong.'

You tell Aelaldric 'So it seems.'

Aelaldric tells you 'But you shall not always be together. '

Wylsin tells the group 'Likewise. I look forward to hearing the outcome.'

You say 'The demon may depart soon.'

Aelaldric tells you 'I shall find each of you alone.'

You tell Aelaldric 'I shall be ready.'
You nod.

Wylsin flies west.
A spotted owl flies west.
A large, adolescent dragon flies west.

Aelaldric tells you 'And if I do not, I shall fling this pathetic elf at you so he can feel the pain of your blows.'

A ray of light shines down briefly nearby, then vanishes.

You tell your group 'Be wary. He says he will find each of us alone if he can.'

<MYSTIC> Glorwinda the Psi-Ascetic: 'Farewell Wylsin, may the winds guide you to a swift return.'
a spotted owl has left the group.
Wylsin stops following you.
a bouncer has left the group.
Wylsin has left the group.
a large, adolescent dragon has left the group.

Valindra tells the group 'I should like to meet him, I think.'

Ilromie tells the group 'It seems he is too proud to sneak up silently.'

You tell your group 'He is strange.'

Valindra tells the group 'He is proud.'

Ilromie tells the group 'When our paths first crossed, he came across me resting near Redhorne, one drinkme potion deep.'

You let out a hearty laugh.

[ Drow ] Reiko the Apprentice of Awareness
[ Gobln ] <PK> <HERALD> (Lore Keeper) Valindra Skitterwit the Poetic Prognosticator, Lore Keeper of Myth
[ Avian ] Sucha the Mage of the Blood-Star
[ Avian ] Nilvvariil the Adept of Animation
[50 Storm Hea] <PK> <SCHOLAR> (Doyenne) Serra the Paradigm of Water, Doyenne of Religion
[ Orc ] Golmog the Hired Killer
[ 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 18.

You tell your group 'He is gone.'

Ilromie tells the group 'He will return.'

Valindra tells the group 'Though it has so rarely been the three of us lately, I might enjoy it.'

You smile at her.

Ilromie smiles at Valindra.

>>> The coven enter the Underworld in search of the soul of an innocent.

Valindra says 'Some say Serin will end in fire, some say ice.'

You say 'I should rather it not end.'
Brrrrrrrrr.

Ilromie tells the group 'In fact, I'm inclined to agree with you.'

Valindra tells the group 'All things end, but will we see it?'

You say 'And yet... my dream was about such a thing.'

Valindra tells the group 'Tell us of your dream, Doyenne.'
Valindra tells the group 'The weird sisters would hear it.'

Ilromie chuckles politely.

You tell your group 'I saw a land destroyed, turned to desert.'

>>> They retrieve the soul and release it.

Ilromie says 'Sands of time, restore this soul to purity.'
Ilromie puts an innocent's soul on a sandstone altar.
A bright flash of light washes over the area as the soul lifts itself off the altar.
The soul shimmers and condenses into a stone, which falls into your hands.
An innocent's soul gives the stone of Chastity to Ilromie.

Ilromie says 'All that remains is charity.'

You say 'Indeed.'

The Checkpoint
f| You reach the checkpoint of the Eastern Road. This point
|| serves as both a guardpost for keeping the road safe from
o-o-o| highway robbery and also is the main means of checking
| | the smoothness of trade flowing in and out of the two hometowns.
+-+-@-+-+| The post is guarded day and night by heavily armored knights
| | | that are ever vigilant and alert.
+ + |
| |
+-+ |
---------+

[Exits: north east south west]
Valindra the Poetic Prognosticator, Lore Keeper of Myth is here.
(White Aura) Ilromie the Sage of Arcane Power, Polymath of History is here.
A knight stands here, guarding the checkpoint.
A knight stands here, guarding the checkpoint.

You tell your group 'Have you many more acts of charity to complete?'

Valindra says 'Duchess, I am working on a spell to free your flame. It will be done soon.'
Valindra blinks her eyes as a toad might.

Ilromie blinks as an elf might, very politely.

You chortle mischieviously at Ilromie.

Ilromie says 'In fact, I'm certain it would be dangerous to make such an attempt.'

Valindra beams, and widely, at Ilromie.
Valindra says to Ilromie 'I quite agree.'
Valindra says to Ilromie 'But I could not think of what else to get you.'
Valindra wrings her hands in pantomime.

Ilromie chuckles nervously, summoning a flame in her palm.

Valindra says to Ilromie 'For your wedding.'
Valindra says to Ilromie 'I thought a curse would do.'

Ilromie says 'Gifts are not what matters my friend.'

You let out a hearty laugh.
You say 'A curse for the wedding?'

Valindra says to Ilromie 'This is no gift, duchess. It is a curse. As is proper from a witch to the landed upon a special occasion.'
Valindra says to Ilromie 'But -- I think we will need it.'
Valindra finishes baldly.

Ilromie draws in her lips, considering carefully.

Valindra says 'In the days to come.'

Ilromie glances off towards the east.

Valindra says to Ilromie 'I see the flames dance in your eyes.'

Ilromie closes her long fingers over the flame in her palm, snuffing it.

Valindra says 'Three witches sit at a crossroads. Stop me if you've heard this one.'

You chuckle politely.
You say 'I'm not a...!'
You sigh.

Valindra says 'We should have brought a cauldron.'

You bat your eyelashes.

Valindra says 'We could tell fortunes for passers-by, refill our coffers.'

You let out a hearty laugh.

Ilromie chuckles politely.

You say 'I fear that would be mostly you doing all the work, while I sat and watched.'

Ilromie says 'In fact, I hope never to resort to daily labor to fill my purse.'

You let out a hearty laugh.
You say 'Only many days of labor, enchanting?'
You chortle mischieviously at Ilromie.

Ilromie lets out a hearty laugh.

The sacred glade
| You are standing in the middle of the sacred glades, where
/ | the citizens of Seringale come to celebrate the spring,
+-S-f-f | where farmers give thanks for bountiful harvest in the
| | | | fall, and where lovers stroll in summer. You feel seasons
f-f-@-f | of remembered happiness and joy taking your sorrows and
| | | | | worries away from you, leaving you calm and invigorate,
f f-o o | ready for the world. Even in the darkness, you feel totally
| | | safe here. Paths lead into the holy grove to the east,
o * | north and west, while to the south a wide field slopes
---------+ down to a lake. Above you is a strange shimmering light,
almost like something from another world....

[Exits: north east south west]
(White Aura) Valindra the Poetic Prognosticator, Lore Keeper of Myth is here.
Ilromie the Sage of Arcane Power, Polymath of History is here.
(White Aura) A triton Watchman stands here, with purpose.
A deer is here, staring back at you.
A small snake slithers between the grass.
(White Aura) The old hierophant of the holy grove is here, gathering hollies.

You say 'This hierophant sells cauldrons, if you need one.'

Valindra says 'I have hauled one from here before.'
Valindra says 'Though it disappeared from my office. Likely purloined!'

Valindra removes a wide brimmed hat from her head.
Valindra wears an oversized hat says "Feelin' Salty" on her head.

You let out a hearty laugh.
You say 'An apt hat.'

Valindra says 'With a hat like that!'

You say 'Soon you will have a hat for every occasion.'

Valindra says 'I better.'

You let out a hearty laugh.

Valindra says 'The occasions keep coming.'

You agree absolutely.

Ilromie says 'But first, I go to free some more gnomes.'

You let out a hearty laugh.
You rest.

Ilromie says 'I will meet you back here.'

Valindra sits down on the ground.
Valindra says 'Be careful.'

>>> Shortly after...

Valindra says 'Duchess, the Doyenne and I endeavor to finish Notes on a Trial.'
Valindra says 'It is booklet 10 if you wish to review any part of it.'

Ilromie nods.

Valindra says 'In fact, you are one of the main characters. So have some dispossession.'

You let out a hearty laugh.

Ilromie says 'In fact.'
Ilromie grins evilly.
Ilromie says 'Such stories happen to be my favorite.'

Valindra preens, her white hair billowing behind her in a conjured wind.

Ilromie flips through the book.

Valindra tells the group 'I wish to study it for symbols.'
Ilromie lets out a hearty laugh.
Ilromie says 'Did your practice on the cat prepare you for the event?'

You say 'Should we include that in the book?'

Valindra says 'I did, and I wonder.'
Valindra says 'With a cat like that.'
Valindra mutters something under her breath.

You let out a hearty laugh.
You say 'We ought to give it a name.'
You say 'Poor little thing.'

Valindra says 'I call it Cat, but I am partial.'

You bat your eyelashes.
You say 'Cat the cat?'

Valindra nods at you, her chins wobbling.

Ilromie says 'Tac a cat.'

You let out a hearty laugh.

Ilromie says 'Tac, a cat.'

A deer stares at you blankly.
You nod in enthusiastic agreement with a deer.

Valindra says 'In fact, I love a palindrome.'

Ilromie grins evilly.

You sigh.
You say 'Very well.'

Valindra says 'Duchess, do not be mad when I curse you.'

Ilromie says 'How terrible a curse shall it be?'

Valindra says 'It may be your undoing.'
Valindra says 'But it was always going to happen.'
Valindra says 'With -- or with out me. I am a prism. You are a flame.'
Valindra says to you 'And you.'

Ilromie adjusts one of the flowers in her hair.

Valindra says to you 'You are a witch.'

You mutter quietly to yourself.

You feel holy and pure.

Ilromie says 'I'm certain I can withstand it.'

Valindra smiles, though her emerald pales a little.
Valindra says to Ilromie 'I'm counting on it.'

Ilromie says 'Time for more gnome freeing.'
Ilromie makes a quick exit.

You say 'Your curse doesn't require.... sacrifice of children or anything like that, does it?'

The sunny field
+-S-f-f | You are standing in the middle of a wide, moonlit field.
| | | | There is a fragrance of spring in the air, a sound of
f-f-S-f | summer and a feeling of eternal Saturday evening. To
| | | | | the south is a lake, and to the north and west is the
f f-@ o | holy grove. In the wood's edge, to the east, is a mansion.
| | | You feel as if you could spend the rest of your life
o * | here, lying on your back and staring at the bright moon
| | and myriad of stars in the sky.
*-*-*|
---------+

[Exits: north (south) west]
(Magical) A magical spring flows from the ground here.
Some bluish herbs are scattered here.
Some grayish herbs are scattered here.
Some reddish herbs are scattered here.
Some pinkish herbs are scattered here.
This small hovel door has moss and vines growing upon it.
A deer is here, staring back at you.
Valindra is resting here.
A small snake slithers between the grass.
A doe is here, munching on grass.

Valindra smiles, her chins wobbling.
Valindra says to you 'Not unless Olgarda gets out.'

You grimace painfully at the thought.

Valindra taps one of the pouches at her waist reassuringly.

Ilromie blinks innocently.

Valindra claps her stubby emerald fingers together in delight.

You say 'You are quick.'

Ilromie says 'Not quick enough to hear the answer to your question.'

You let out a hearty laugh.

Valindra says 'I would like to string her with a bell.'

You say 'Like a cat.'
You chortle mischieviously at Valindra.

Valindra blinks her tiny, watery eyes.

You say to Ilromie 'It was no, unless Olgarda escapes.'

Ilromie nods at you in agreement.

Valindra says 'Paradigm--know only--'
Valindra says 'The Duchess will need you, one way or the other. After the curse, I mean.'
Valindra says 'The Duchess of Flame.'
Valindra shivers against the cold.

You ponder the question.

Ilromie glances at you, a nervous look flashing in her eyes.

You say 'How so?'

Valindra says 'I do not yet know. It changes.'
Valindra says 'Know only--water, flame. One of you must contain it.'
Valindra tilts her head to the side as if listening to something.
Valindra says 'One of you will.'

Serra looks over at Ilromie, concern in her eyes.

Valindra nods, her chins wobbling.

Ilromie says 'And the other...?'

You say 'If it makes you more volatile, I will endeavor to calm you.'

Ilromie says 'More volatile? Could such a thing be possible?'

You chuckle politely.

Ilromie grins with a lot of bravery.

Valindra narrows her eyes such that they almost disappear.

You say 'It is hard to imagine, but imagine we must!'

Valindra taps her lip with a stubby emerald finger.

You say 'Though perhaps the two of you will have to contain me.'
You frown disapprovingly.

Valindra says 'Don't tease.'
Valindra blinks as a toad might.

Ilromie drops the stone of Charity.
Ilromie gets the stone of Charity.

You clap at her performance.

Valindra claps her stubby emerald fingers together in delight.

You say 'I saw in my dream, as I mentioned, desert. A land without water.'

Ilromie frowns and she tucks the stone away.

Valindra says 'What did you feel?'

You say 'I called to my Lord, and heard nothing.'

Valindra cants her head to the side, listening to the wind and you.

You say 'I felt an urge to save it somehow. Though I saw no souls to save.'
You say 'And then as I stood there, a voice came out of me saying it was the way the world would be, soon.'

Ilromie says 'Out of you?'

Valindra says 'Cruel laughter.'

You nod.

Valindra says 'It echoes, I think.'

You nod.

Ilromie says 'I saw a vision of the world as Vhrael described.'
Ilromie says 'When last I looked into the ball.'

Brrrrrrrrr.

Valindra says 'Duchess?'

Ilromie says to Valindra 'You recall?'

Valindra says 'I must know what you see in the flame. I must.'

Serra runs her hands through the grass, a troubled look on her face.

Ilromie says 'Skies as dark as night from smoke, with the ground burning as bright as the sun below...'

Valindra cranes her short neck toward Ilromie.

Ilromie says 'Armies marching through Seringale and Valour...Lord Vhrael looming near, his vile stench-'
Ilromie shakes her head.

You say 'If my dream was an omen, it must have come after yours.'

Valindra does not shiver, but the impetus is there.

Ilromie says 'The future cannot be proscribed.'

You say 'The world I saw was empty.'
You say 'Broken.'

Valindra says 'They are but threads in a skein.'
Valindra says 'But we may yet be the weavers.'
Valindra says 'When I read omens, portend what is to come, I . . . am only taking averages.'

You say 'I wondered this.'

Valindra says 'You two drag too much from me! But you are my sisters, and clever little witches. You feel it too. What is happening.'

You say 'Whether the dream could be simply a trick of my subconscious playing with facts it learned while I was awake.'
You say 'It might not be an omen at all but a fear.'
You say 'But I do not understand dreams and omens and fortunes.'

Valindra says 'The flame spoke to me once, but now it only whispers Ilromie's name. Now it is the wind in my ear.'

You ponder the question.
You say 'The elements have shifted for you?'

Valindra nods, her chins wobbling.
Valindra says 'Since the first night we conjured.'
Valindra says 'The flame has trailed Ilromie . . . and the wind has dogged me.'
Valindra says 'And you sit in a puddle, praying for rain!'
Valindra nods, her chins wobbling.

You let out a hearty laugh.

Ilromie glances about the grove, turning her face into the light breeze.

Valindra whispers to you 'I worry for what is to come.'
Valindra whispers to you 'If she cannot contain it, you must.'

You nod at Valindra.

Valindra says to you 'You must.'

Ilromie glances at Valindra.

You say 'I can only try.'

Ilromie says 'Try?'

Valindra says to Ilromie 'You will be tested soon. And I am sorry for that.'

Ilromie says 'Not before my party, I hope.'

You say 'A spot of lightness before the dark.'

Valindra says 'When is your party? I will wait.'

Ilromie frowns and glances at the door nearby.

You say 'She calls it at Strythoween...'

Valindra says 'You only have so many fairy godmothers, you know.'
Valindra says 'You must settle for this little goblin.'

Ilromie lets out a hearty laugh.
Ilromie says 'Settle I shall.'

Valindra scampers to the edge of the field.
Valindra plucks a tiny wildflower from the edge of the field.
Valindra holds the flower in her stubby palms.
Valindra extends this gingerly to Ilromie.
Valindra says to Ilromie 'I am sorry I missed your wedding, Duchess.'

You say 'I was not even invited.'
Heh.

Kaelric bows deeply.

Ilromie says 'In fact, it was a very small ceremony.'

Valindra gasps audibly in pantomime.

Kaelric says 'Greetings friends.'

Valindra says 'Then you have earned the curse I will give you!'

Ilromie takes the flower from Valindra.
Ilromie braids the small flower into a few strands of hair

Valindra tells the group 'Sisters, I will adjourn.'
Valindra tells the group 'Let us conjure soon.'

<HERALD> Odile the Crier: 'Farewell Valindra, may the winds guide you to a swift return.'
Valindra has left the realms.
Valindra has left the group.

Ilromie tells the group 'To what dangerous end?'
Ilromie tells the group 'Though I find her difficult to deny.'

You tell your group 'Indeed...'
You tell your group 'She wishes me to contain you if it is necessary. But contain you from what? And how?'

Ilromie tells the group 'I am uncertain...'
Ilromie tells the group 'I suspect it is more than a small loss of control, as I suffered when I was training as a youth.'

You tell your group 'What can happen if you lose control?'

Ilromie tells the group 'Then, there was but the risk of fire spreading.'
Ilromie tells the group 'Little concern, for I surrounded by other invokers, with greater talent than I exhibited at the time.'

You tell your group 'Ah, indeed.'
You tell your group 'But... without them?'

Ilromie tells the group 'I have greater control now.'

>>> Is it enough? What will the curse do?

Journal 2.7: Spirits
<><><><><><><><><><>
Day of the Dark Ages, 18th Renewal of the Celestial of Retribution

More and more I feel the connection pulsing between myself and the others in
Serin. Young adventurers, old friends, new acquaintances... Those who are
either or both loved and hated... I see them, all the lives in Serin,
bright lights of possibility in the landscape, and wish only well for each
of them. If only others could see as I do!

In my younger years I studied the physical world, which gave me knowledge of
things, creatures, and places that do not change and others that do. And
through it I see how we (whether consciously or not) move through the
physical realm, leaving our transient imprints upon it. Yet the realm would
be as meaningless as the trinkets on my desk without its people and their
bright, distinct spirits.

It is this that I fear for most. Not the physical destruction of lands, for
they can always be rebuilt. The rubble of a Castle or a even City can be
replaced with sufficient dedication and intent. But it is their inhabitants
that must provide the intent.

What might a demon possessor desire, I wonder...? When the land is leveled
and turned to sand, and all lives snuffed out, what is left for them?
Perhaps some of them thirst for our lives and our connections for they have
none of their own. Perhaps they could be satisfied with something else that
fulfills the hollows they seek to fill.

***