[RP] Tapestry Of Secrets

[Tadano Hitoshi]

Months had passed since his last visit to Gugrontid, there had been no further clues, and Giroum had been left with nothing but to ponder over Hythoret's old journal and the poem they had found.
Again and again he read over the passage
To those who seek the truth I beg of you to question your motives before you venture forth.
He missed Zephan and Alce, the former returned to the lower levels on family business, the latter murdered, tossed from atop the Windowless Tower to break like a doll on the ground. There was Ingcha, the devotees' archivist, but she was always on the move and hard to pin down.
It came then as a welcome surprise when the old lemur entered the Iron Temple to find yet another old lemur sat on a pew: Izalox.
Soon the two moved up to the chamber containing the sacred Book of Names and, in the light of the magical braziers, Giroum confided in Izalox that the search had floundered and he was unsure of what to do.

Izalox proved a valuable discussion partner; questioning the veracity of the book, the poem and the entire quest. And, if anything, this served to temper Giroum's stubborn resolve.

The conversation eventually moved on to the subject of -should the hidden statue be discovered- what would its fate be? Having been crafted by Konroran surely the krans would want it returning to Gugrontid...yet, as it had been a gift to Laanx should it not be presented in the Iron Temple for the glory of all who worship the masked lord?
It was this second opinion that the two lemur firmly agreed upon.
No matter what, the treasure would come to Laanx...

(20:48:16) Giroum shifts in his seat, "There is one further issue I would discuss with you...*if* such a statue is found, and it is authentic. Where would you see such a work finding a home?"
(20:48:37) Giroum says: The work of a child of Talad...yet the form of the Masked God.
(20:49:55) Izalox's eyes widen a bit as he lifts a finger and says "Oh.." but then stops. "Thats not an easy question now. "
(20:50:56) Giroum relights his pipe, puffs on it and nods, "Quite. Hence I sought to hear your thoughts on the matter."
(20:52:42) Izalox says: I suppose it would depend on the quality of the piece.
(20:53:00) Giroum arches an eyebrow, "Oh?"
(20:53:01) Izalox says: It would depend on how he interpreted Laanx.
(20:53:10) Giroum says: Aaah.
(20:54:07) Izalox says: Quite frankly Im not sure at this point.
(20:55:17) Izalox says: I wonder how these early Talad wirshipers viewed Laanx.
(20:55:55) Izalox says: If their view of Laanx was much different that our current views then such a piece of artwork might not be welcomed by all.
(20:56:39) Giroum says: I understand. You have a good point. The artistic eye of a kran versus the aethsetic appreciation of a lemur...true. I fear that it could cause...friction...betwixt our faiths, you see.
(20:57:04) Giroum lowers his voice, "I must say, I do not think much of their poetry...have you heard any of it?"
(20:57:33) Izalox chuckles "Unfortunately yes. "
(20:57:49) Izalox says: Perhaps this is why this statue was hidden. Perhaps to keep the peace.
(20:58:49) Izalox says: When I view art I want to feel realaxed, pleased. Not disturbed and conflicted.
(20:59:32) Giroum nods slowly, thinking it over, "I fear that the steps I and others have taken upon the path to discovery might not be ones we can take back. Perhaps it would be best to keep any discovery secret from the followers of Talad, no?"
(21:00:13) Izalox says: That's very wise of you Giroum.
(21:00:47) Giroum says: Hmm...yes. And if it not a fitting image of our lord...
(21:01:00) Giroum lowers his voice, "Destroyed."
(21:01:17) Izalox says: Yes. Absolutely.
(21:01:40) Giroum looks to Izalox and nods, his will hardening
(21:01:53) Izalox says: The last thing we need is a bunch of Talad worshipers duplicating such an artifact and selling it onthe streets.
(21:02:17) Giroum almost chokes on his pipe, "Most certainly not!"
(21:02:23) Izalox says: Please dont get me wrong...
(21:03:27) Izalox says: The idea of a Talad worshiper crafting an Idol of Laanx is nice in that it resembles the relationship between Laanx and Talad..
(21:04:29) Izalox says: But I just dont trust a mortal to represent such a relationship in a work of art without imposing some inaccuracy.
(21:05:09) Izalox says: The work could be biased towards Talad a little too much.
(21:05:23) Giroum says: Yes, quite. I appreciate the sentiment, of course...it was the kran`s creation that scarred our lord...but nothing made by their hand can repair that damage.
(21:06:20) Izalox wipes the palms of his hands on his sides Talad hurt Laanx. That action was irreversible and should not be forgotten.
(21:06:38) Izalox says: Such a work may have been valid prior to that point in time..
(21:06:49) Giroum says: Indeed. Our lord has not yet forgiven. Nor can we.
(21:07:09) Izalox says: but at this point I see no need to mix Talad and Laanx together. its like pouring salt on a wound.
(21:07:48) Giroum nods vigourously now, "I shall be careful who accompanies me."
(21:08:11) Izalox says: I would gladly offer my assistance if you would like.

[Tadano Hitoshi]

Giroum's faithful little yulbar Rectitude scampered across the countryside on the trail of three particular scents. Finding the source of each it dropped a letter at the individual's feet.
The necromancer Vilthis, to whom Giroum had taught the basics of magic some months previously.
The menki Mogweh and nolthrir Mellas, both of whom had assisted Giroum in his work in the past, most recently in the slaying of the kran deceiver Geis.
The letter, short though in the lemur's distinctive flowing penmanship, requested that they meet him at the Stonehead tavern.

Mogweh was the first to arrive, finding the tavern empty until a kran entered, clad head-to-foot in armour. A kran he had not seen for quite some time: the jeweller Voorevon.
Voorevon exchanged greetings with the menki, reacquainting himself. Kra then commented that kra had seen Mogweh, Mellas and a priest of Laanx coe to the kran city some months earlier, that fateful day when ulbernauts, lead by a fearsome vilenaut, had stampeded the city. Kra's tone was all but accusative ane kra asked of their quest, believing it uncommon to see a devotee of Laanx so close to the temple of Talad. To which Mogweh, and Mellas who had just arrived, related Giroum's quest for Konroran's statue. The kran was immediately suspicious and only the two's insistence that Giroum could be trusted assuaged Voorevon's doubts. Still, kra hurried to leave before the lemur arrived...but before parting, the kran jeweller commented to the enkidukai, nolthrir and newly arrived Vilthis that, whilst gathering mushrooms up by the Eagle Bronze doors, kra had seen the Dark Circle rogues lugging a large, canvas-wrapped package. At first kra had thought in horror that it had been a body, and
only afterwards wondered about how rigid it had appeared...

Giroum, his age having slowed him, arrived shortly after and suggested that the four together could surely discover something in the city.
It was then that, as the lemur, enkidukai, nolthrir and the xacha Vilthis spoke, a dark figure slipped all but unseen into the tavern, taking a seat not conspicuously close yet near enough to eavesdrop.

Mogweh and Mellas eventually related the tale Voorevon had imparted to them and, despite that the clue poem had stated QUOTE, which had lead them to Gugrontid, Giroum insisted that any trail be investigated. It was becoming an obsession.
The four set out, the other individual in the tavern following a discrete distance behind...

Crossing the wilderness they followed the Bronze Door road, passing the still waters of the Lake of Tears and the Explorers Camp. Soon they found themselves upon the vast, undulating plain before the wall that made up the very edge of Yliakum. The rock face stretched up into the clouds and off out of sight to both sides. The chasm at the back of which lay the Eagle Fort was before them. A breath-taking sight no matter how many times one took it in.


Vilthis was, Giroum knew, a necromancer. Such was clearly apparent from the necrotic limb seemingly grafted on in place of one of his hands. A worshipper of Dakkru. Though Giroum had held lady death in a position of respect if not worship, the changes in Vilthis since they had first met and the xacha had been a keen magical student shocked Giroum deep down. All the same, Vilthis had always respected the lemur and there was a bond of trust between them.
Mogweh however, had been introduced to him via Mellas...and hadn't it been only a month ago that Elady had warned Giroum that Mogweh was a bad influence on Mellas? Mogweh and...what was his name? Mellas' romance? Giroum cursed his age and memory. As yet neither had given him cause to be suspicious, but before they entered the caves he spoke to all three, asking for their loyalty...

(00:38:12) Giroum looks to Mellas and Mogweh, "I know that Vilthis here worships Dakkru, and I have no issue with that..."
(00:38:50) Mogweh taps his finger seemly unconsiously on his medallion
(00:39:09) Mellas sends Vilthis a rather dark look, remembering her issues with the goddess of death.
(00:39:25) Giroum studies the two carefully, "As I said, I wish to return the statue to the Iron Temple...I need to know that you two will not oppose me in this?"
(00:40:10) Mellas shakes her head. 'It goes where you wish for it to be, Giroum.'
(00:40:21) Vilthis consciosuly grips the hilt of his claymore sensing the tensions
(00:40:22) Mogweh's eyes widen,'Oppose you Giroum? Not I'
(00:41:19) Giroum finally nods after a tense few moments and seems relieved.
(00:42:06) Mogweh glances at Vilthis` claymore,'you still wielding that beast Vil?'
(00:42:40) Vilthis releases the grip upon his ornate claymore "Something, for the intimidation factor"
(00:42:44) Giroum says: If we do find the statue, and I pray to Laanx that we do, I will need you to lie to this kran who told you the clue. Understand?"
(00:42:59) Giroum says: Garosan too, if necessary.
(00:43:59) Vilthis says: I have no particular affinity for the interest in the matter, do as you deem necessary. I'm merely here to reap souls.
(00:44:01) Mogweh shrugs,'sure. Dont want the Brotherhood sniffing arround do we?''

The cave mouth lay ahead and, drawing their weapons -for all had faced the Dark Circle rogues who lay within at one time or another- they left the Azure Sun's warm light and entered the dimly lantern-lit passage.
Soon enough they encountered one of the rogues, a merciless-looking cutthroat with a jagged-edged dagger in his hand...but even this hardened criminal posed little opposition as he was assailed by magic and blades, soon falling lifeless to the hard stone ground.

Yet another was slain before the four made it to the lake within the cave, yet there was no sign of any statue nor other treasures.
It was only as they made their way back through the passage that they noticed a dark passage off to one side, almost concealed by curtains of roots hanging down from the ceiling they had penetrated through...and within the small, barely-lit store room at the end of the passageway they made a great discovery...

A statue of purest lumium akin to a lemur female, rubies for eyes and a silver ring encircling one ankle, just as it was written in the Song of Lemur.
And lumium...the stone most precious of Hythoret`s poem?
(00:58:32) Giroum shouts: By Laanx!
(00:58:36) Hewn is a statue similar in form to a female lemur, carved in flawless gleaming white lumium. Two sparkling rubies are set in her face as eyes and a silver band encircles one ankle.
(00:59:13) Giroum studies the statue in the dim light, speachless
(00:59:21) Mellas is stunned when she spots the statue, impressed with the craftsmanship. 'That's... beautiful.'
(00:59:44) Vilthis studies the statue nonchalantly as he replies "Before we are lost in awe, losgistic issues have to be considered"
(00:59:49) Mogweh opens his mouth then closes it wordlessly
(01:00:12) Mogweh rolls his eyes at Vilthis' comments and smiles
(01:00:22) Giroum kneels before the statue
(01:00:38) Jacula presses himself against the wall, peeking into the narrow entrance
...for indeed the one who had followed them from the Stonehead tavern was still nearby!

Vilthis, not moved as much as his companions, was quick to suggest constructing a stretcher to carry the statue. Using his own staff and Giroum`s, with some sacks between, he and Mogweh carefully set the artwork upon the stretcher and began to carry it from the room.

As they made their way out of the caves they came across another individual: not a rogue but rather a ynnwn who, at least he claimed, was a miner, prospecting in the caves. He [Jacula] introduced himself as Gonthil and, exclaiming Laanx`s name in surprise at their meeting, revealed his faith upon being questioned. While Mogweh stood guard over the statue Giroum told the miner of their joyous discovery to Gonthil`s amazement...but Vilthis, not driven to such enthusiasm by their discovery, was suspicious of the newcomer and, to the repulsion of the others he removed tendrils of flesh from his necrotic hand, fashioning them into some form of bracelet that he insisted Gonthil wear if he were to accompany them. The necromancer`s stubbornness was unrelenting and he finally chose to part ways with them if Gonthil would not submit.
The xacha walked off through the cave passages while Gonthil took up the stretcher with Mogweh...

At last they returned to the light of the Azure Sun and the truth of the statue was revealed...
(01:52:58) Hewn, in the light, is clearly relatively newly made.
(01:53:25) Giroum looks again at the statue, his brow creased
(01:53:35) Jacula coughs slightly 'Careful'not to drop'it now'
(01:53:53) Giroum says: Wait..wait...this...
(01:54:11) Mellas glances back to look at the statue and sheaths her remaining sabre. 'Don't tell me...'
(01:54:30) Jacula trails his gloved hands over the statues surface 'What's wrong'master Duphra?'
(01:54:51) Giroum says: Konroran`s statue would be...several centuries old, this cannot be anywhere near that!
(01:55:30) Mellas stomps the ground. 'Great! Tricked by the old rogues!! Then where could the statue be!?'
(01:55:48) Jacula nudges the statue gently
(01:55:51) Giroum scowls, "The rogues...or that kran?!"
(01:56:04) Hewn wobbles....and wobbles...
(01:56:37) Jacula tries to hold the statue still
(01:56:51) Hewn continues to wobble...and topples
(01:57:07) Hewn, though made of fine lumium, is apparently rather fragile, as she smashes into pieces.

(01:57:44) Jacula takes a step back towards the edge 'I.. I dident'mean to. I ruined'it!'
(01:58:16) Giroum's jaw drops as the lumium shards scatter across the path
(01:58:19) Mellas gasps, raising her hands to her mouth. 'It was quite the masterwork... just be thankful it isn't the original.'
(01:59:10) Mogweh looks at his hands and wonders what her was doing all that time.
(01:59:17) Giroum kneels in the debris
(01:59:47) Jacula gets a sudden urge which he has felt only at times before, yet the malign feeling has grown more frequent. He takes a step towards Mogweh before stopping in his tracks, trying to advert his gaze from under his hood
(01:59:59) Mellas gestures for Gonthil to step away from the edge. 'Careful not to fall...'
(02:00:36) Mogweh glares at the advancing Jacula and takes astep back defensively.
(02:00:54) Giroum's eyes leak a single tear but he looks up with a face contorted with barely contained anger, "That kran...you say kra could have made this?"
(02:01:03) Mellas steps over to Giroum and places her hand on his shoulder. 'I'm sorry,' she says softly. 'We'll find the statue and return it... I guess we have a few questions for Voorevon.'
(02:01:20) Giroum stands and turns to face Mellas
(02:01:23) Mellas simply nods.
(02:01:36) Jacula swallows hard as he reaches out to brush off some dust of the broken lumium from Mogwehs shoulder
(02:02:11) Jacula keeps his hand on Mogwehs shoulder for an awkward period of time before turning back to the debris
(02:02:15) Mellas says: He was very skilled in the creation of jewellery, a true artist with stones.
(02:02:45) Giroum says: I want answers. If kra tricked us...and why.

And so the hunt was on for Voorevon. Had kra tricked them? If so, why?

[Mogweh]

An excellent roleplaying event: loads of atmosphere, plenty of twists & turns and bags of fun.

I hope Vilthis returns to the scene to get under, erm, Gonthil's feet 

Elady had warned Giroum that Mogweh was a bad influence on Mellas? Mogweh and...what was his name? Mellas' romance?

Now where did she get an idea like that from, I wonder?

[jaculapundactum]

[Jacula's perception]

"Giroum's faithful little yulbar Rectitude scampered across the countryside on the trail of three particular scents. Finding the source of each it dropped a letter at the individual's feet. [...]
The letter, short though in the lemur's distinctive flowing penmanship, requested that they meet him at the Stonehead tavern."

Jacula had followed the group of four from Gurgontid where they had idly bantered about a artifact of great worth and sentiment to those devoted to laanx, yet his interest had been peaked by the presence of Mellas and Mogweh . Tracking them had not proven to be difficult as they where led by the elderly priest Giroum. His pace of walking had obviously diminished compared to his young years as he wandered through the landscape with the group following close behind. Hours passed and Jacula followed closely, hidden by the lush flora the outskirts of the bronze doors held.
The group found themselves standing before the massive wall of the bronze doors which appeared to loom as high as the crystal itself. Ebon eyes watched closely as Giroum led them into the caverns where the dark circle resided.
Light on his feet he followed, the priests excited demeanor could be heard echoing throughout the cave.
Well hidden in his environment the amazed shouts and gasps of the group could soon be heard coming from a small room hidden by the ancient roots which dangled from the ceiling. Realizing time was short before they would spot him he dragged his hood over his face, placing a thick rag over his mouth. His uncharacteristic clothes given the suit of pelts an hide he wore made his appearance resemble that of a miners.
Luckily he had been in Gurgontid with the intent of mining and thus he had a rockpick strapped neatly to his back.
With the dented pick in hand he began to swing it forcefully into the nearest boulder leaving his intent in the cave seemingly a docile one. As the group approached with what appeared to be a ancient statue strapped to a stretcher he greeted them in a friendly and nonthreatening manner, making sure to alter his tone of voice and accent as well as introducing himself as "Gonthil". Yet the groups approach to the seemingly docile miner was not a humble one. With swords drawn they confronted him about his intentions in the cavern, weary of rogues who sought to steal their precious cargo. Jacula lied through his teeth as he ensured the agitated group that he was but a poor miner, making sure to awake Giroums empathy by claiming to be devoted to laanx.
A long discussion followed, the most skeptical opinions was uttered by a xacha who went by the name of Vilthis. He demanded that Jacula wore a magic trinket which would leave his life in his hands. Jacula refused and looked to Giroum for a decision. The priest disagreed with Vilthis demands and thus the Xacha left steaming with anger. And so there where three, and Jacula had been entrusted of helping to carry the statue.
After a long walk they exited the dark ambiance of the cave and found themselves standing in the light of the azure sun, the statue carefully carried by the combined strength of Jacula and Mogweh.
To their dismay what darkness had hidden the sun revealed, and Giroum soon realized that the statue was a fake, it's glossy lumium surface made it clear that it had been recently crafted. Flustered by this realization Jacula accidentally dropped the statue, leaving only shattered shards as it crashed to the ground.
Dark thoughts entered his mind as he kept his gaze seemingly transfixed on the ground, fearing that the malign urge boiling in him might lead to a poorly thought out attack. He glanced at Mogweh from time to time, only to rip his gaze back to the debris of the statue.
Yet soon he learned that all was not lost, the kra who went by the name Voorevon had probably tricked them. Yet the same still held the knowledge of where one could find the original relic.
After a brief speculation Mogweh and Giroum departed in search of the kra, leaving Mellas and Jacula standing on the narrow passage leading to the caverns. Mellas seemed surprised by their swift departure, inquiring if the supposed miner would help them to search for the kra.

Jacula coughs, having grown hoarse by his altered voice
Jacula makes sure the others are gone 'Certainly.. Melamin'
Mellas raises an eyebrow when she finds that Giroum, Mogweh and Vilthis have gone. 'Well... in a hurry...'
Mellas turns swiftly to face Gonthil, her expression one of pure surprise 'Jacula?'
Jacula lets his gloved hand wander over her back slowly 'Shh..'
Jacula removes the hood taking a deep breath of air. His eyes snaps to Mellas as his lips part in a smile
Mellas closes her eyes and takes a deep breath, smiling at the feel of his hand against her back. 'I should've known... though that disguise was excellent. Well no wonder you had no trouble carrying that statue.'
Jacula keeps his hand on Mellas back as he exclaims 'Do you realize what we could do with the amount of tria such an artifact could generate?'
Mellas opens her eyes and reaches up to run a hand through his hair. 'What were you doing here, anyway? Ah...' she sighs softly and shakes her head. 'I promised Giroum I'd return it to the temple.'
Jacula tilts his head as she runs her fingers through his hair 'Indeed.. Zak would be interested in such a object' he says softly
Mellas frowns slightly. 'You mean to sell it to him?'
Jacula turns to Mellas completely 'Nay.. Just a thought. The iron temple has enough relics as it is.. Wouldn't you agree?'
Mellas seems to be slightly taken aback by this point of view. 'I suppose they do, though what would you want to do with the tria? Wouldn't it be better to sell it to Giroum instead?'
Jacula puts his hands on Mellas waist, gently embracing her 'For our future melamin.. Maybe a house in a nice neighborhood. Maybe a extravagant wedding' he whispers in her ear
Mellas leans into the embrace and smiles warmly, her eyes sparkling at the idea. 'Did you have something in mind?' she whispers as she wraps her arms around his chest, pulling him closer against her.
Jacula squeezes her softly 'If this statue happened to be.. Lowered into the laanx dungeon Zak and his associates would be able to keep it hidden.. And pay the ones making it possible handsomely' he says in a reassuring tone of voice
Jacula runs his fingers through Mellas hair in return 'It would be enough for us to start anew.. Enough to start a life together'
Mellas thinks it through, yet doesn't seem to be entirely sure. 'If you wish to do this, you have my support, my love... but please be careful, if they catch you.. I don't know what I'd do.'
Mellas trails her fingers along his disguising clothes. 'It would be... ideal, yes...' she whispers, but the hesitating tone remains. 'Promise me you'll be safe?'
Jacula caresses her cheek softly 'If you keep me posted I'll make a deal with Zak, and after the statue is brought to the temple we can lower it in after luring the others elsewhere'
Jacula gives Mellas a loving kiss before exclaiming 'We would have the means to live happily ever after'
Mellas smiles and takes a hold of his hand as he caresses her cheek, placing a soft kiss upon it, before leaning up to kiss him passionately on the lips. 'Leave it to me, I will tell you everything you need to know... from where he'll store it to when the best time for acting will be.'
Jacula savors the taste of her lips as he breaks into a deceptive smile 'We can do this.. I love you' he says in a caring tone
Mellas takes a few steps down the path, holding Jacula's hand as she beams at him. 'We can do anything, I love you too, melamin,' she replies warmly and inspired.

The couple made their way down the narrow passage having come to a understanding. After returning to Hydlaa Jacula visited the laanx temple to contemplate over his idea, his eyes glowing with magic fury as the requirements of his plot became clear. The giant well like construction leading to the dungeon where Zak and his kin resided where more than large enough to lower down the artifact. It was just the matter of creating a device strong enough and to come to a understanding with the rogues. Would Jacula's plot be successful?

"Jacula visited the laanx temple to contemplate over his idea, his eyes glowing with magic fury as the requirements of his plot became clear."

[I tip my hat to Tadano for creating such a excellent ambiance and storyline in this event. My thanks to Mellas, Mogweh and Vilthis for a entertaining RP  ]

[Vilthis Trayus]

Vilthis' perception

In midst of his studies deep within in the bowels of Hydlaa away from prying eyes, Vilthis was paid a visit by Giroum's pet yulbar `Rectitude` whom arrived at his lair panting his little lungs out, and drops a note at his feet. The letter, short though in the lemur's distinctive flowing penmanship, requested that he meet him at the Stonehead tavern.

"If you are available, would you please join me at the Stonehead Tavern. Yours, Giroum Duphra, Devotee of Laanx."

Vilthis, compelled by reverence towards his former mentor obligingly packed his essentials, and begun his ascension towards the surface of Hydlaa with little resistance from the indigenous creatures of the sewers. He promptly laid his necrotic hand upon any opposition, appallingly siphoning their life force away leaving them to succumb to their condition as they shrivel painfully in the malignant entropic aura.

Surfacing from the alley behind the Kada El the crystal ray above rained mercilessly upon Vilthis, momentarily robbing him of his sensory perception as he gradually adapts to the  intense luminance of his surroundings before making his way to the North Gate where....

(22:14:57) >Giroum Duphra greets Vilthis Trayus.
(22:14:59) >Vilthis Trayus stands up.
(22:15:01) >Vilthis Trayus greets Giroum Duphra.
(22:15:09) Giroum says: Ah! There you are!
(22:15:10) Giroum smiles
(22:15:22) Vilthis says: Master Duphra, I've received your correspondence.
(22:15:43) Vilthis says: I suppose my instincts proved accurate to have known that you would pass through these gates.
(22:15:48) Giroum says: I am glad to hear it. You can accompany me to Gugrontid?
(22:15:57) Vilthis says: Much obliged.
(22:16:07) Vilthis says: Lead on.
(22:16:25) Giroum nods and turns to the gate

Giroum and Vilthis then begun their journey towards the Stonehead Tarven.
Owing to Giroum's advanced age the old priest had to pause at an interval in transit...

(22:32:47) >Giroum Duphra takes a seat.
(22:33:03) Giroum eases himself to a sitting position, panting
(22:33:19) Vilthis looks on as he waits patiently

Inopportunely Vilthis is plagued with a syndrome of his own...

(22:33:57) Vilthis clutches on his appendage as he winces slightly from the occasion phantom pains from his appendage
(22:34:26) >Giroum Duphra stands up.
(22:34:40) Giroum frowns at Vilthis, "Are you alright?"
(22:35:21) Vilthis nods "A regular occurrence, my nervous system links poorly with the cadaverous flesh"
(22:35:30) Vilthis says: Lets be on our way.
(22:35:47) Giroum nods slowly, a look of concern on his face.

Gradual progress led the Giroum and Vilthis at the foot of Gugrontid where Vilthis first make the ascension up the ramps towards the Stonehead Tarven. Lacking respect for the Krans Vilthis...

(22:39:58) Vilthis enters the tarven as he suppresses his spirit of oppression
(22:39:58) Voorevon rubs kra`s stony jaw, "Then....do you know of the Dark Circle rogues?"
(22:40:37) Voorevon spots Vilthis and quietens, kra`s expression blanking
(22:40:53) Vilthis says: Greetings ladies, gentlemen.
(22:41:21) Voorevon raises a hairless brow, "Lacking gender, I am unwelcome?"
(22:41:44) Mogweh is about to answer but seeing Vilthis enter he smiles ,'Welcome Vilthis, good to see you in such fine health'
(22:41:54) Mellas nods a greeting to Vilthis, and gives Voorevon a look. 'Dark Circle Rogues, eh?'
(22:41:57) Vilthis says: By convention, since you are garbed with the trapping of a male. I respect you decision to be part of the male gender.
(22:42:31) Mogweh glances at mellas and gives her a meaningful stare before he chuckles to himself
(22:42:46) Voorevon curls his lip at Vilthis, "We krans are neither male nor female. Kindly refer to me as kra, or more politely Gemma."
(22:43:59) Vilthis turns to Vooevon with a slight disdain and nods
(22:44:03) Voorevon lowers his voice and looks to Mellas, "I saw them carrying a body once...or that`s what I thought it was...wrapped in canvas....though too stiff. I was there collecting mushrooms and am no warrior...."
(22:44:56) Voorevon says: I know no more...and will say only that. If you do find that which you seek...I trust you to do what is best, in the name of Konroran.
(22:45:03) Voorevon turns quickly and leaves
(22:45:11) Mellas shivers... not entirely sure what to do with the information given

Giroum shortly of the the krans departure finally overcame the steep ramp leading to the citadel...

(22:45:49) >Giroum Duphra greets everyone.
(22:45:53) >Vilthis Trayus greets Giroum Duphra.
(22:46:03) Giroum pants heavily, "Damned slope."
(22:46:07) Vilthis nods "Master Duphra"
(22:46:31) Giroum bows in greeting to Mellas and Mogweh, though somewhat reservedly
(22:46:40) Giroum says: Thank you for coming.
(22:47:14) Mellas stands up and returns Giroum's bow. 'Greetings!'
(22:47:17) >Mellas Fenixxes stands up.
(22:47:48) Mogweh smiles warmly at Giroum,'Greetings Giroum, you look well'
(22:48:24) Giroum smiles slightly, "It is good to see you, both." He nods again to Vilthis, "All."
(22:48:50) Giroum says: I thought, with the four of us, we might be able to search the city more thoroughly for clues to....you know."

However it was soon apparent that a tension was developing within the party...

(22:49:49) >Mogweh Parduu stands up.
(22:49:53) Vilthis nods thoughtfully
(22:49:57) Mellas nods, glancing at Mogweh, then uncertainly at Vilthis, as if she doesn't entirely trust him.
(22:50:55) Vilthis manages to steal a glance at Mellas expression before turning away feigning ignorance.

A prolonged discussion then soon took place concerning a course of action...

(22:51:48) Giroum raises his chin, "It is supposedly a work depicting Laanx, no? It should be taken to the Iron Temple for preservation and praise."
(22:52:47) Mogweh replies lightly,'Oh right..sure.' then mutters to himself,'I wonder how the kran will react to that?'
(22:54:20) Giroum says: If the legend is correct, it was a gift to Laanx. If it is no longer in his possession, I think it only right that it be kept for him in the temple.
(22:54:58) Giroum says: I spoke with another member of the priesthood and he agreed wholeheartedly.
(22:55:39) Vilthis with the appearance of disinterest "Archaeologically sound, though I'm troubled about the potential state of the artifact after the considerable duration that has passed"
(22:56:56) Mogweh glances at Vilthis and blinks before turnig to Giroum and saying,'another member huh? Anyone we know?'
(22:57:22) Giroum says: Have you ever met a fellow lemur by the name of Izalox?
(22:57:36) Mogweh shakes his head
(22:57:43) Vilthis says: The name is familiar to me.
(22:57:57) Giroum looks to Vilthis, "It is?"
(22:58:04) Vilthis says: Assuming if my memory serves me right he was among the party on the trail leading to the pool of stealth
(22:58:11) Mogweh rasies an eyebrow but says nothing
(22:58:33) Mellas seems interested. 'Yes, I did... he was going to teach me more about the laanx religion, but I haven't seen him since.' [backie]
(22:59:12) Giroum says: Ah! Yes! Vilthis, you met him then. I spoke with him on these matters and he agreed the best place for the statue is in the Iron Temple. Now...how shall we carry out this search?

Notably a new arrival...

(23:16:00) Jacula walks in with a limp in his step, he adjusts his hood as he takes note of the small crowd before finding himself a bench to sit
(23:17:53) Vilthis eyes strays towards the cloaked figure as he strolls in and settles in the corner
(23:17:57) Mellas follows the stranger's moves with her eyes before focussing back on the conversation between Mogweh and Giroum."......."

Vilthis at this stage has lost considerable interest in the trail for the statue in midst of lacking any executive action. And Finally...

(23:19:36) Giroum stamps the ground with his staff, an enthusiastic smile on his face
(23:20:07) Giroum says: Let`s be off!
(23:20:40) Vilthis nods with some satisfaction for the resolve of an executive action
(23:21:01) Mellas runs a hand through her hair, her expression thoughtful. 'Well then, we best start searching...'
(23:23:19) Vilthis collapse his staff into a compact form and stucks it in his satchel
(23:23:32) Mogweh glances over at Mellas and gives her a "race you there" look

As expected after a prolonged journey Giroums age catches up with him

(23:23:47) Giroum begins to pant
(23:24:09) >Giroum Duphra takes a seat.
(23:24:23) >Giroum Duphra stands up.
(23:24:30) Mellas smirks at Mogweh
(23:33:57) Vilthis says: It would be helpful if you had a leg appendage transplant Master Duphra.
(23:34:02) Vilthis grins
(23:34:20) Giroum mutters to himself like the old man he is
(23:34:32) Giroum pushes himself to his feet with his staff and moves off
(23:34:34) >Giroum Duphra stands up.

It was not long before the party was before the large yawning canyon before the Eagle's Head Bronze Door where they stopped. However, tensions started escalating...

(23:38:12) Giroum looks to Mellas and Mogweh, "I know that Vilthis here worships Dakkru, and I have no issue with that..."
(23:38:50) Mogweh taps his finger seemly unconsiously on his medallion
(23:39:09) Mellas sends Vilthis a rather dark look, remembering her issues with the goddess of death.
(23:39:25) Giroum studies the two carefully, "As I said, I wish to return the statue to the Iron Temple...I need to know that you two will not oppose me in this?"
(23:40:10) Mellas shakes her head. 'It goes where you wish for it to be, Giroum.'
(23:40:21) Vilthis consciosuly grips the hilt of his claymore sensing the tensions
(23:40:22) Mogweh's eyes widen,'Oppose you Giroum? Not I'
(23:42:07) Mogweh glances at Vilthis Claymore,'you still wielding that beast Vil?'
(23:42:40) Vilthis releases the grip upon his ornate claymore "Something, for the intimidation facor"
(23:42:44) Giroum says: If we do find the statue, and I pray to Laanx that we do, I will need you to lie to this kran who told you the clue. Understand?"
(23:42:59) Giroum says: Garosan too, if necessary.
(23:43:59) Vilthis says: I have no particular affinity for the interest in the matter, do as you deem necessary. I'm merely here to reap souls.
(23:44:01) Mogweh shrugs,'sure. Dont want the Brotherhood sniffing arround do we?''
(23:45:05) Giroum shakes his head, "For the glory of Laanx," and touches the symbol of Laanx at his neck.
(23:45:15) Mellas tilts her head. 'Why lie? He gave us a hint...'
(23:45:52) Giroum says: If we find the statue, surely kra would want the statue to go to the temple of Talad, no? Kra being a child of Talad.
(23:46:43) Mellas sighs and nods. 'Very well, he will not learn anything from me.'
(23:46:57) Giroum nods, "Let us go."

The party then begun their ascension towards the entrance of the caverns that perched atop the canyon face. Upon Arrival at the mouth of the caverns..

(23:50:27) Vilthis sniffs deeply the atmosphere in the cave
(23:50:32) Giroum takes out a pair of glyphs in preparation
(23:50:39) Vilthis says: Moisture...
(23:51:39) Mellas unsheathes her newest sabres, sharp like an ulbernaut's claw.
(23:51:52) Giroum says: Everyone ready?
(23:51:57) Vilthis draws his sabers "I'll not have to trouble the Twilight Cleaver for this"
(23:52:02) Mogweh cracks his knuckles and chuckles
(23:52:08) Mellas grins. 'Ready as ever.'
(23:52:20) Vilthis infuses his hand with necrotic powers "Ready"

The passage through the caverns was met with little opposition as the party easily slaughtered their way through the opposing Dark Circle Rogues whom are domiciled within. The search in the vicinity under the directions of Giroum yielded in due time where the party discovered the supposed artifact...

(23:57:57) Giroum says: Wait! Here!
(23:58:13) Hewn is a statue similar in form to a female lemur, carved in flawless gleaming white lumium. Two sparkling rubies are set in her face as eyes and a silver band encircles one ankle.
(23:58:17) Mellas chuckles when Mogweh and Vilthis join them. 'About time.'
(23:58:32) Giroum shouts: By Laanx!
(23:58:36) Hewn is a statue similar in form to a female lemur, carved in flawless gleaming white lumium. Two sparkling rubies are set in her face as eyes and a silver band encircles one ankle.
(23:59:13) Giroum studies the statue in the dim light, speachless
(23:59:21) Mellas is stunned when she spots the statue, impressed with the craftsmanship. 'That's... beautiful.'


However, the size of the statue and it's fragility made bare handling of the statue near impossible...
 
(23:59:44) Vilthis studies the statue nonchalantly as he replies "Before we are lost in awe, logistic issues have to be considered"
(23:59:49) Mogweh opens his mouth then closes it wordlessly
(00:00:12) Mogweh rolls his eyes at Vilthis' comments and smiles
(00:00:21) Giroum kneels before the statue
(00:01:48) Mogweh glances at Vilthis and eyebrow raised,yes my friend?'
(00:02:10) Mellas smiles and sheathes her sabres. 'How shall we take the statue all the way to Hydlaa? No offense, but it looks... heavy.'
(00:02:12) Vilthis says: Are you capable of lifting a mass of such dimemsion...With care.

Fortunately a solution was devised...

(00:02:54) Vilthis eyes lightens with an idea
(00:03:02) Vilthis says: Master Duphra, I have need of your staff.
(00:03:14) Giroum sits staring at the statue and nods dumbly
(00:03:36) Vilthis says: I could fashion a rudimentary stretcher with both our staff
(00:03:45) >Giroum gave Vilthis a Quarterstaff.
(00:05:08) Vilthis pierces 2 holes on a satchel as he inserts the staff accordingly in the slots.

Suddenly...
(00:06:13) Jacula moves past the door swiftly causing a slight sound of movement
(00:06:38) Vilthis ears are alerted by the rustling.
(00:06:53) Giroum looks to the others questioningly
(00:06:57) Mogweh stands back from the group shifting from foot to foot uneasily
(00:07:14) Vilthis says: Mogweh, did you sense that?
(00:07:32) Mellas turns to look at Mogweh. 'Everything okay?'
(00:08:00) Mogweh replies,'I feel a presence.. haven't felt since...' and he trails off lost in thought.
(00:08:10) Vilthis says: I initially feared my sense were playing tricks on me, however I am of the assumption that we're being followed.

The urgency to leave the cavern discarded the concerns over the suspicious sounds...

(00:08:43) Giroum's eyes dart to the entrance, "That kran? Voorevon?"
(00:08:46) Mogweh chuckles,'just the dark playing tricks on us my friend, lets continue with the task at hand and get out of here'

They party proceeds to make their way out of the caverns encountering several more rogues much to Vilthis' chagrin. Proceeding onwards a cloaked figure was seen in a distance, Mellas approaches it...

(00:16:24) Jacula turns with a gasp and recoils a bit 'By laanx, you'got me fright!'
(00:16:40) Vilthis looks visibly frustrated and the perpetual interception
(00:16:44) Mellas steps forward, her sabres raised. 'Please step aside, sir.'
(00:17:08) Jacula alters his voice into a unusual accent 'I'm just'a miner sir, digging for'crystal I'am'
(00:17:37) Giroum says: This is a dangerous place..there are rogues here.
(00:17:43) Mellas chuckles. 'Well then I suggest you mine elsewhere, I don't believe crystals have been found in these caves.'
(00:18:18) Jacula backs away slowly 'Easy'there missy.. I mean'no harm!'

Vilthis' too is aware that the carverns geology has no known mineral and felt particularly suspicios about a miner's presence within the premise of the hostile Dark Circle Rogues.
Upon his intuition...

(00:18:23) Vilthis gestures for Mogweh to lay down the stretcher
(00:18:32) Mogweh lowers the stretcher
(00:18:41) Vilthis draws his massive claymore
(00:18:47) Jacula raises his arms seemingly civil
(00:19:02) Vilthis approaches the cloked figure with considerable disdain
(00:19:07) >Hewn Demiurge takes a seat.
(00:19:30) Giroum says: Let us just get on...the statue is more important than this.
(00:19:32) Mogweh glances at Vilthis,'Easy there Vil, he's just a simplton - let him alone for a while'
(00:19:37) Mellas glances at Vilthis and Mogweh. 'We can move on, no harm done.' She turns back to the stranger. 'Then be careful here, these rogues aren't gentle if you mine in their halls.'
(00:19:40) Jacula looks drops his rockpick 'Relax'guv, why'you so uptight?'
(00:19:50) Vilthis says: I pray that you step aside m'friend, lest our demeonors give rise to 'complications'
(00:19:59) Vilthis infuses his hands with necrotouch
(00:20:37) Vilthis says: Now, we are confident of our passage m'friend?

However, it was much to Vilthis displeasure that Giroum...

(00:20:20) Giroum steps forward, arms up peacefully and stands between the two
(00:20:45) Giroum looks ot the stranger, "you said `By Laanx`, no?"
(00:20:53) Jacula notices the stretcher, he swallows hard at Vilthis threats 'What'are you lugging there?'
(00:21:16) Giroum says: You worship the masked lord?
(00:21:23) Jacula looks down, clasping his hands together in a rehearsed way 'Aye.. Laanx be praised sir'
(00:21:56) Giroum looks the stranger up and down before clapping him on the shoulders and smiling
(00:21:58) Vilthis respectfully permits Giroum to assume control of the situation
(00:22:10) Giroum says: Then praise be, friend! Praise be!
(00:22:23) Mellas looks relieved, smiling from the stranger to Giroum. 'Coast clear, let's move on!'

However Vilthis is not lulled into the false security when...

(00:22:23) Jacula reaches into his suit slowly, as if grabbign something
(00:22:39) Vilthis leaps back
(00:22:41) Giroum's smile drops and he steps back wariliy
(00:22:44) Mogweh leans against the cave wall, bored
(00:23:12) Mellas raises an elegant eyebrow. 'What's this?'

Fortunately the gesture was not hostile...

(00:23:25) Jacula takes out a simple amulet of a serpent, he seems suprised as the group recoils 'Hey.. I'm sorry.. Diden't mean'to get you fright!'
(00:23:37) Giroum sighs deeply

Vilthis at this point was visibly insecure of the circumstances and demanded for the cloaked character's transparency...

(00:24:05) Vilthis in a grim tone "We'd require your identifications, uncloak yourself"
(00:24:38) Mogweh calls,'do we have time for this,let just be on our way huh?'
(00:25:23) Jacula squeezes the amulet tightly in his gloved hand, he takes a step to the side picking up his rockpick 'My name be Gonthil sir.' he looks over at the stretcher from under his hood 'You don't look like miners'to me, what'sthat?'

The cloaked figure was in delibration attempting a subject change in the inquiry, this was however not the worst of the matter when the old priest with a lack of discretion disclosed the nature of the artifact...

(00:25:42) Giroum says: Friend..we have found a statue. A statue of the masquerade lord himself! Made, we believe by Konroran kraself!
(00:25:56) Mellas rolls her eyes and gestures for Vilthis and Mogweh to pick up the stretcher. 'We should move, we don't have much time.'
(00:26:13) Vilthis says: Master Duphra...We'd have preferred if you had some discretion on the information...
(00:26:19) Giroum says: Yes, let us get it out into the light of the Azure Sun itself!
(00:26:21) Jacula gasps as if amazed 'praised be laanx'
(00:26:31) Mogweh nods and mutters,'Yeah, let's tell evey random peasant we meet our business'
(00:26:39) Jacula says: Do yo uneed another strong back to carry it? i'll help gladly
(00:26:56) Vilthis says: We will decline on your 'generous' offer.
(00:27:06) Hewn *is* mighty heavy
(00:27:21) Vilthis says: I'm confident my enki friend and i are quite capable of hauling sizable laods
(00:27:37) Vilthis flails his undead appendage
(00:27:45) Mogweh sighs and says,'actually my back *is* playing up on me so, I could use a hand'
(00:27:49) Jacula seems a bit hurt at Vilthis decline 'Oh.. well'I guess I'm not'needed'
(00:28:19) Jacula turns to Giroum 'May Laanx bless you and this sacred artifact'

The party would at last resume with the transit without the potential dangers of travelling with a stranger unknown to them till...

(00:28:36) Giroum says: Please, sir, accompany us with our prize back to the Iron Temple!
(00:29:19) Jacula stops in his tracks, and turns to Giroum 'Why.. Certainly'sir!'
(00:29:56) Vilthis says: Master Duphra...Are you truly confident of this?
(00:30:14) Jacula straps his pick axe to his back, bowing his head gracefully to Giroum
(00:30:33) Giroum says: I have seen no sign of ill will on his part, Vilthis.

Being utterly dissatisfied yet compelled by reverence to his former mentor, Vilthis deferred to the decision, however he imposed a condition...

(00:30:50) Vilthis nods "However, I have a condition"
(00:31:29) Vilthis opens his palm upon his appendage revealing several gruesome tendrils"
(00:31:33) Jacula turns his head to Vilthis keeping himself from smirking 'I'm a good'man sire, tell'me if you get tired. I'll gladly'carry your burden!'
(00:31:49) Vilthis says: Oh the burden upon you is much easier...
(00:31:51) Giroum winces at the look of Vilthis`s hand.
(00:32:14) Vilthis formed a gruesome bracelet from a loose piece on the tendrils
(00:32:44) Jacula cowers slightly at Vilthis remarks, stepping to the side as if hiding behind Mellas
(00:32:50) Vilthis proceeds to infuse the the bracelet through a brief incarnation
(00:32:56) Mogweh walks over to the group and gives the stranger a look over peering closely into his eyes
(00:33:05) Vilthis says: I would require you to wear this for the duration of the transit
(00:33:24) Vilthis holds out the tendril bracelet to the cloaked figure
(00:33:36) Jacula looks down into the ground, his heart beating wildly as he takes in Mogwehs scent
(00:34:17) Vilthis says: It would do you no harm...lest of course if if you supposedly went wayward.
(00:34:18) Jacula takes a step back as his eyes snap to the bracelet 'Wha'this this?' he exclaims in a stutter
(00:34:51) Mellas turns to look at the stranger as he steps more or less behind her, and watches Vilthis approach with uncertainty. 'What is that strange *thing*?'
(00:35:32) Jacula winces as he keeps his head bowed, turning to Giroum 'Master'Duphra was it? I refuse to wear such'a darksided thing'
(00:35:46) Vilthis says: It's a leech bind, it's used as a restraining device known in the lower depths of the Death Realm. It functions as a vitality drain should our friend here turns against us.
(00:35:46) Jacula adds softly 'Respectfully refuse'
(00:36:06) Giroum says: Vilthis, really? Is this necessary?
(00:36:29) Vilthis says: Master Duphra...We're contemplating upon a figure unknown to us and privied to our cargo.
(00:36:44) Vilthis says: I pray you defer to my cautions
(00:37:13) Mogweh turns to Vilthis,'erm what's he goin to run of with Vilthis? The staue?'
(00:37:17) Mogweh says: statue*
(00:37:29) Giroum says: I have an idea!Sir, would you mind guarding our rear?
(00:37:35) Mellas moves ahead, searching the tunnel for any more dark rogues.
(00:37:45) Vilthis looks to Jacula "I'm not contemplating alternatives"
(00:38:43) Giroum says: I will return shortly
(00:38:45) Jacula nods intently to Giroum 'Indded I'would sire.. But I will not'wear tha'thing. I say with'Laanx as my witness!'
(00:39:36) Mellas sighs and sheaths one of her sabres. 'The road ahead is clear,' she says when she returns. 'Gonthil can help guard the statue if he wishes to do so, I'm sure you...' she glares at Vilthis. 'Are quite capable to keep an eye on him.'

Vilthis at this point nearing his end of his patience issued his final stand deeply entrenched for the safety of the party

(00:39:51) Vilthis says: Master Duphra, you may easily replace me with your 'trusted' new acquaintance as you deem fit, I'm not travellign without reassurance
(00:40:58) Vilthis says: I do not accomodate complacency, my stance is clear.

However Vilthis' views were not shared by those within the party and remarks upon the delay ensued as the party begins to fracture heralded by suspicious miner's pleading thats fills the cavern along with in-supportive remarks perceiving Vilthis' concerns to be trivial..

(00:40:28) Jacula says: With'all do respect master'xacha I could'not make of'with such a heavy burden!
00:40:34) Mogweh mutters to himself and walks off
(00:40:51) Jacula seems to be concentraiting in a breif prayer 'Have a'little faith sire'
(00:42:02) Jacula walks up and stands next to Giroum, glanceing over at the statue
(00:42:02) Mellas keeps her eyes on Vilthis, narrowing them slightly. 'You seem oddly content keeping the statue inside the rogues' caves...'
(00:42:31) Vilthis says: As you oddly seem compelled you permit a stranger within our caravan mademoiselle.
(00:42:49) Jacula nods at Mellas remark before brushing some dust of his shoulder
(00:43:57) Mellas tightens her grip on her sabre. '*I* simply want to get the statue back to Hydlaa, without being surrounded by rogues as we chatter up Gonthil here.'

Suddenly the party came under the ambush of more Dark Rougues...

(00:44:11) Jacula gasps as a dark rogue suddenly charges him


The party promptly intercepted the attacks however sustained injuries, and noted the miner's cowardice...

((00:44:53) Jacula exclaism loudly 'By laanx'are you'alright?'
(00:45:06) Vilthis noted the miners gestures "And we trust this man to guard our rear?"
(00:45:19) Vilthis says: The man abandon his ground upon danger.
(00:45:35) Vilthis says: master Duphra, i pray that you'll be wise about this
00:45:40) Mellas charges the rogue, but not without taking a few blows herself. 'See what I mean, thank you for the delay, Vilthis,' she says with a deep sigh, beginning to cast her healing spells upon the wounds.
(00:46:36) Jacula says: whilst'you rather bicker than'tend for our wounded'sir'xacha
(00:46:45) Mellas turns to look at Mogweh. 'Are you alright?' she asks, taking out a few bandages.
(00:46:47) Mogweh thumbs Jacula,'look at him Vil, he's no fighter. What's got you so spooked? Let's just pick the statue up and get out of here before any more rogues turn up - in greater number''
(00:47:05) Vilthis holds out the bracelet once more "It's absolute, for ALL our safety"
(00:47:18) Vilthis says: And the safety of the legacy that is the statue.

However Vilthis' pleas went to deaf ears...

(00:47:25) Giroum looks to Jacula, "Will you guard our rear, sir?"
(00:47:33) Mellas says: Who would want to wear such a nasty device!
(00:47:39) Mogweh glances over at Mellas,'Sure Mell, just bored with standing here doing nothing'

Vilthis have concluded that his advice has little impact upon the party...

(00:47:41) Vilthis says: If these risk mean little to you, i suppose the party has little need for me.
00:48:34) Giroum looks to Vilthis in surprise
(00:48:36) Mogweh sighs,'at last - a decision!' and stumps off.
(00:48:44) Vilthis nods as he departs non-chanlantly in his usual demeanor unfazed.
(00:48:50) Jacula bows his head at vilthis 'may laanx guide your'path then sire'

It was apparent that the old priest naivety and the party's complacency had triumphed, and Vilthis whom has self imposed his exile has to find different means to assist the party under the shadows and above all ascertain the identity of the cloaked stranger that has successfully won entry within the party...

[Tadano Hitoshi]

The lemur priest wandered dark, damp caverns, crossing walkways which seemed extruded from the very rock of the abyss, paved not with flagstones but with rusting iron grates.
Long ago he had come to accept that the number of years behind were greater than those which lay ahead and it had been a long time since he had last found himself within Dakkru`s Realm. He had hoped - and prayed - that he would not see the wastes nor the citadel again though in a strange way it was almost a relief. He knew that, one time sooner or later, should he die he would not be coldly greeted with the sight of the Death Realm`s caves but rather Dakkru would deem that his life had run its course and his spirit would be claimed in a final tithe.
His staff, beating a slow tattoo on the ground as he walked, was evidence that Lady Death had granted him a reprieve, though who knew for how long?
He panted as he drew himself up a grime-encrusted ladder, hauling himself to the top of a walkway to be confronted by the huge skeletal remains of some great beast crouched over the path ahead. He knew that this lead to the Citadel but he took a moment to rest and reflect upon the events which had lead to his death...

After the events at the Bronze Doors he had trekked back to Hydlaa with more questions than when he had set out. When they had found, in that dark storage chamber, such a beautiful sculpture he had been so sure that their quest was finally at an end.
...in stone most precious, Hythoret`s poem had said. What stone could be more precious to the kran than lumium, the very stone from which their home of Gugrontid was made?
Clearly the kran Voorevon had either been mistaken...or had sought to deceive them.

It had been as the priest inquired unsuccessfully with the guard Jefecra about the kran that Vilthis had approached. Having parted on somewhat bad terms, Giroum had been eager to speak with the gaunt xacha. He told Vilthis of the statue`s accidental destruction and the realization that it had been far from old. The xacha reaffirmed his suspicions about the ynnwn Gonthil and, though the two were again speaking, they could come to no agreement. Had Giroum been blinded by a shared faith with Gonthil, where Vilthis had seen reason for suspicion?
The two made their way into the nearby tavern, perhaps to discuss matters further over a friendly drink...though events would take a most unexpected turn, thought Giroum as he sat in the Death Realm, examining the deep slash across both of his palms.

The tavern had been empty but for Allelia and a single ynnwn clad in ragged leather armour, black tattoos adorning his red skin and one of his ring fingers evidently recently amputated. He had initially seemed congenial enough despite his raw wound, Giroum lighting the ynnwn`s cigar for him...but as he drank more and the thick, pungent smoke of his cigar spread, the half-breed`s mood had sullied.

Jacula took another puff of his cigar, its end glowing fiercely as he tasted the smoke before blowing it in Allelia's direction. He observed the serpent symbol on Giroum`s robe for a while before nonchalantly exclaiming to himself “That rotten cesspool of a clergy..” Upon hearing this Giroum, who had been about to join Vilthis at a table, turned back to the bar, asking the ynnwn to clarify his statement. The surly half-breed proceeded to accuse the lemur of heresy and call the priesthood a pack of dogs, sneering over his cigar. Vilthis meanwhile, feigned ignorance while keeping a careful eye on the situation from his seat.
Giroum knew that many had problems with his faith. Most found the doctrine of Laanx too harsh, too strict and unforgiving. This ynnwn was neither the first nor the last. But rather than ignoring or dismissing such criticisms, Giroum had always tried to confront them. To discover why others opposed Laanx and, when possible, correct them.
The nameless ynnwn continued to accuse the priests of Laanx of heresy, of spewing lies to the masses for their own aggrandizement. He also continued to puff away on his acrid cigar and drink fyran liquor like water while Vilthis left his seat to stand between the ynnwn and the lemur. This brought the xacha to the drunk`s attention, particularly his necrotic hand.
“The slander of the dark wench holds truth beyond my comprehension?”
It was clear that the ynnwn held as much love for Dakkru as he did Laanx, to which Vilthis inquired of the other`s religious beliefs...but received no answer. But before matters could escalate to unwanted bloodshed: the ynnwn, by now quite intoxicated by alcohol and the psychedelic herbs in his cigar was relieved of the pain in the remaining stump of his finger, but also his senses had been severely dulled and he began to stagger toward the stairs.
It was then that an idea came to Giroum. A weight in his satchel, something that he had been carrying now for many years and yet had never had need of. Perhaps now it could be made use of.

The Citadel loomed before him; its dark, stained-glass windows hinting at beauty that would never be revealed in this dark and forbidding realm. It had been here, years earlier that he had brought the mysterious sword and been told of its true nature. Had he been right to use it in the tavern bedroom? If not, he could not have learned what he had...

Giroum and Vilthis heaved the big ynnwn onto a bed in one of the upstairs rooms of Kada El`s, locking the door behind them. Jacula was now almost entirely insensate, his gaze hollow, his body unresisting. Giroum asked his xacha companion to keep an eye on them while he took out an ancient sword from his bag, explaining that it was an old and, by its enchanted nature, evil blade by the name of Heenarty. Also that its wielder`s will was weakened, that they would reveal their inner thoughts. Giroum intended to discover what it was that had made the ynnwn hate Laanx so.
Vilthis proceeded to restrain the prone Jacula with tendrils extended from his hand while Giroum unsheathed the sword and carefully placed the hilt in the ynnwn`s palm, closing his fingers round it. Blood from his severed finger began to run across the sword, it`s guard and the blade`s edge. His heart hammering in his chest, Giroum bent over the ynnwn to study his face and brought his mouth close to the other`s ear.

“Why do you hate Laanx so?”
The ynnwn`s breathing became heavy at the sound of Giroum`s voice.
“They wouldn`t stop beating us, they wouldn`t stop...forcing us,” he eventually replied.
“Who? Who beat you?”
The ynnwn shuddered, “They said we had to.. Begging angers Laanx.”
Giroum sighed in understanding; it was not uncommon for priests of Laanx to be overly harsh, particularly on youngsters. He had heard of other cases...and in those cases he had succeeded in bringing both back to the faith. Could he succeed with this lost soul too? As he pondered this question he did not notice that Jacula began to breath more normally, the self-inflicted drugging wearing off.
“Tell us...tell us who you are?”
The ynnwn winced, “I`m nothing, they told me. I`m nothing.”
Noticing their captive`s condition, Vilthis volunteered to anesthetize him but Giroum shook his head. The ynnwn had gotten himself into this condition, Giroum did not want there to be any signs that could be interpreted as abduction or torture.
“No one is nothing. We all have worth in the eyes of the gods. Do not hate Laanx. Tell us...how can you be saved from your hatred?”
Jacula suddenly blinked, his eyes having grown filled with blood-red veins. He seemed to grown uncomfortable by the fact that he was held down by the tendrils from the xacha necromancer. Giroum, noticing the ynnwn`s eyes, scrabbled backward from the bed. Vilthis responded by surging Jacula`s body with a weakness spell, causing Giroum to call out for him to stop. His aim was to save this man, and he feared that further restraining him could only be counter-productive.

Laanx forgive me! Did we go too far? Were my methods wrong? Did I not find out why the ynnwn hated us so? Giroum had often practiced that the ends justified the means, even if he would not admit or realize it.

Jacula`s head turned to stare with his black eyes at Giroum, the priest prone on the floor of the bedroom, watching as smoky black magic smothered the ynnwn, weakening him. As Vilthis restrained his spell Giroum reached for Heenarty and tried to pry it from the ynnwn`s hand, but the bloody red hand tightened on the hilt, his eyes locked with the lemur`s. Giroum stifled a cry as his hands slipped over the ancient sword, the blade slicing open his palms.
Then all of a sudden the ynnwn went limp.
As Vilthis approached to check the ynnwn`s pulse, Giroum brought himself to his feet and leaned over their subject to get a better grip on the sword, his own hands now slick with blood.
Yet it had been naught but a ploy. Jacula suddenly grabbed the handle of the sword as he stabbed it towards Giroum, believing himself attacked, still barely conscious. Giroum's eyes widened in shock as the blade slipped between his ribs, the tip protruding from his back. He mouthed words but could not give them voice before slipping to the floor, dead.
“Noo!” cried Vilthis, surging Jacula`s body with dark magic...

[Vilthis Trayus]

The Vestige of Giroum Duphra

Prologue

Jacula suddenly grabbed the handle of the sword as he stabbed it towards Giroum, believing himself attacked, still barely conscious. Giroum's eyes widened in shock as the blade slipped between his ribs, the tip protruding from his back. He mouthed words but could not give them voice before slipping to the floor, dead.
“Noo!” cried Vilthis, surging Jacula`s body with dark magic...

Vilthis watches in horror as he watches the blade of Heenarty plunges through the old priest, flooding Vilthis with a complex emotion concoction of abandonment, loss and rage which overwhelmed his rational mind. The thud of the old priest's falling body triggered malicious lashes of Vilthis' power against the Ynnwn, whom without reserve surged the half breed for a second with the full extent of his power. Entropic energies oscillate wildly through Vilthis body as coil like burn marks form upon the bound Ynnwn before he reined his primal nature where an epiphany dawned upon him - it would not be in the spirit or the intent of the old priest to have the man reduced to a hollow husk of himself.

Honouring Giroum, Vilthis reluctantly begins his exit as he floods the room with Darkness seizing the moment to wrench Heenarty from the hands of the Ynwnn as he loosens his binds upon him, darting down the flight of stairs, leaping from the balcony, and vanishes in the alleys leading to the underworks oh Hydlaa...

Approximately 28 Hours Later...
-----------
Vilthis approaches the Kada El where Trodgar's hulking physique dwarves all other patrons within the premise projecting an immense presence of strength

(15:16:08) Vilthis gestures to Allelia "The usual"
(15:16:45) Vilthis leans againt the bar as he lift his hood
(15:17:50) Trogdar nods to Vilthis. "Hello again."

The revellers of the tarven at the instance froze it's activities upon Vilthis' bare necrotic presence, emanating a spirit of oppression which devoured the ambience of mirth and joy that once permeated the tarven....

(15:20:34) Stuble points at Vilthis Trayus and cover his mouth with the other hand

Disregarding the reaction of disgust amongst the revellers, Vilthis in his nonchalant demeanor paced in a steady gait closer towards the spot where Trodgar stood. Whilst clutching on to his beverage on his good hand...

(15:25:10) Vilthis gulps red liquor as he turns his sights on to Trodgar

Their eyes meet where Trodgar seemingly understood the gravity of the situation through Vilthis' eyes. as...

(15:27:17) Vilthis produces a long wrapped bundle and lays it on the counter
(15:27:45) Vilthis looks hollowly into the eys of Trodgar and replies "This was the instrument"

Trodgar had heard prior from Vilthis the death of Giroum Duphra stemming from a botched interrogation session. Vilthis, however at his discretion did not elaborate wholly about the matter and the interrogated subject.

(15:27:58) Trogdar looks at the bundle.
(15:28:41) Vilthis proceeds to unwrap the bundle revealing a rather tarnished looking sword
(15:29:26) Trogdar looks over the sword.
(15:29:39) Vilthis points to the few inches coated with dried blood caked upon it
(15:30:34) Trogdar says: And who might this sword belong to?
(15:30:55) Vilthis grimly replies "Duphra"
(15:31:23) Trogdar frowns slightly. "His own weapon?"
(15:31:48) Vilthis nods "The old priest used it during the interrogation"
(15:32:42) Trogdar says: I wouldn't expect him to be involved in such a thing as torture.
(15:34:00) Vilthis continues with his brows furrowed "I assure you it's utillity isn't used in a martial capacity. Regardless, death has claimed the old priest"
(15:34:39) Vilthis continues "I'd be going after him in the Death Realm and bring him back"
(15:35:12) >Vilthis Trayus picked up an Ancient Sword
(15:35:14) Trogdar drinks some liquor.
(15:35:20) Trogdar says: And how long has he been there?
(15:35:35) Vilthis re-bundles the sword as re replies "Over 29 Hours now"
(15:36:00) Vilthis says: There is a known gestation period for the body to manifest in the realm, time work on a different principle within the death realm.
(15:36:58) Vilthis says: The trouble is with regards to his precise location in the dephts of the the realm.
(15:38:03) Trogdar nods. "Finding him in there could take quite a while."

Accordingly, Vilthis produced his grimoire from his satchel directing Trodgar to his plans. The rather grisly-looking tome holds the most important aspect of Vilthis' life's work. It's chilling to the touch and it seems to reek faintly of grave mould.

(15:39:51) Vilthis opens to a page in his tome and showing to Trodgar "There is a means to ascertain the vestige of where he may manifest in the Death Realm"
(15:41:37) Vilthis shows a page revealing various sorts of heiroglyphy diagrams
(15:42:31) Trogdar looks over the page.
(15:43:13) Trogdar says: What kind of means exactly?
(15:44:07) Vilthis says: Essentially it's a ritual to establish a blood bind with the sample we have on the sword
(15:44:52) Trogdar says: And this ritual will allow us to locate him in the Death Realm?
(15:45:38) Vilthis says: Indeed, we would inbue the sword with the bind which will accordingly lead us to the bond master
(15:46:13) Trogdar says: Bond master?
(15:46:23) Trogdar says: Being Giroum I assume.
(15:46:36) Vilthis nods "Most insightful"
(15:47:25) Vilthis says: And here comes a part which may be the most unpleasant process
(15:47:35) Trogdar raises an eyebrow.
(15:47:59) Vilthis replies with a grim tone "We would have to temporarily abandon this plane in pursuit of Duphra"
(15:49:02) Trogdar says: Well how else would we get him out of the Death Realm without going there?
(15:50:19) Vilthis says: I would've thought we could construct a summoning bind to forcefully eject his being back into our realm
(15:51:15) Trogdar says: Well would that work?
(15:51:39) Vilthis says: However, resulting from the nature of the cursed sword wound, it has rendered Duphra's material connection to our realm severed
(15:52:09) Vilthis says: Heenarty according to Duphra is the true name of the sword. I have researched into the sword quality ascertained it's evil alignment.
(15:52:52) Vilthis says: It's construct emanates a maglinant curse upon wounding which as I've interpreted has bound Duphra.
(15:54:35) Trogdar says: And he is not able to make it out of the Death Realm himself?
(15:55:46) Vilthis says: Resulting from the cursed nature of his injury, i doubt so.
(15:56:05) Vilthis says: If he was able, we would had heard from him
(15:56:36) Vilthis says: I feel accountable for his fate there.
(15:57:16) Trogdar says: So are you saying that he is doomed to suffer true death if someone does not help him?
(15:58:18) Vilthis says: It's not true death per say, he's more accurately doomed to be bound within the realm.
(15:58:49) Vilthis says: True death are suffered by atheist who shall not have solace or reprieve when no patron deities come claim their souls in death.
(16:00:21) Trogdar says: So the magic of his own sword will keep him trapped there?
(16:00:37) Vilthis says: If my interpretation is correct, yes.
(16:00:59) Trogdar says: Forgive me if I am slow to understand some of this.
(16:01:52) Vilthis says: I assure you that you are not at all imposing.
(16:02:09) Vilthis says: Which boils down to my intent of my visit
(16:02:28) Vilthis says: I wish to enlist your assistance in the search for Giroum Duphra
(16:03:13) Trogdar says: Well I have helped him before, and I will surely help him again.
(16:03:54) Vilthis nods as he grasp a vial from his bandolier and slides it across the counter to Trodgar
(16:04:21) Trogdar looks at the vial. "What is this?"t
(16:05:22) Vilthis says: It's a cardiovascular interrupter
(16:05:59) Vilthis says: In simpler words, it stops your heart for a stipulated duration.
(16:06:05) Trogdar tilts his head.
(16:06:40) Trogdar says: Allowing us to enter the Death Realm?
(16:06:59) Vilthis says: As you stated yes.
(16:07:38) Trogdar says: I suppose it will be more pleasant than the usual means.
(16:07:58) Vilthis says: It's actually a formula created by atheist alchemist to permit themselves to explore the Death Realm without suffering true death
(16:08:31) Vilthis says: Once the effect wears off the body forcefully manifest itself back to the material plane as the body skips back into life.
(16:08:38) Vilthis says: Or when we find a portal taking us back to the prime.
(16:09:25) Trogdar says: No permanent effects?
(16:09:47) Vilthis says: The toll paid for passing the Death Realm would be the common side effect
(16:10:06) Vilthis says: Otherwise it has no other known side effects
(16:10:50) Vilthis says: It's just more convenient compared to slashing the jugular...And also accommodate the certain potential atheist in the party.
(16:11:03) Trogdar nods. "So when do you hope to begin this plan?"
(16:11:31) Vilthis says: When i have succeeded fashioning the appropriate blood bind on the sword
(16:22:49) Vilthis lifts up his hood and turns to Trodgar
(16:23:10) Vilthis says: I shall contact you at the anointed time
(16:23:23) Trogdar nods.

Vilthis lifts himself off the counter as he takes measured strides out of the tarven, once again returning to his chambers in the depths of the sewers beneath the city as he makes his preparations....

[Vilthis Trayus]

Approximately 11 Hours later...

Gruelling hours passed slowly as Vilthis toiled in his underground quarters researching the components for the ritual, his eyes occasionally strays away from grimoire when Heenarty quivers in it's bundle. Visible nicks and dents could be seen upon his distressed suit of plate mail he wore specifically to handle the volatile sword; Heenarty had not taken Vilthis' earlier probings kindly when he cast Dweomoer Detection upon it. Vilthis refering to a new page of the grimoire lift himself off the chair up as he grasp a handful of Orilliphia and Devils Claw each from one of the sacks lined against the walls. Tossing them into the motar he proceeds to grind them into a fine powder which he carefully collects into a small pouch.

Picking up his grimoire, he carefully replicates a diagram of an evocation cirlcle scribed within on the floor using the collected powders....



Inspecting his completed work for a few seconds, Vilthis dons his hooded robes leaves his familiar in the chambers to watch over his work as he makes his ascension to the surface to contact Trogdar...

It wasn't long before Vilthis traced Trogdar to his common hangout at Kada El, where he satiates his impressive appetite for ale where Vithis identified himself before Trogdar by means of a medallion he holds out...


(14:34:14) Vilthis says: If you're ready we should retire to my chambers and make our preparations.
(14:34:44) Trogdar nods.
(14:34:52) >Vilthis Trayus motions to Trogdar to follow.

VIlthis then led Trogdar to the deep underworks of Hydlaa to his sparsely furnished quarters...

(14:39:57) Vilthis gestures to Trogdar "Take a seat"
(14:40:01) >Vilthis Trayus takes a seat.
(14:40:10) >Trogdar takes a seat.

Where Vilthis commences his ritual as he grabs some bone meal in his hands...

(14:41:02) Vilthis proceeds to hurl a bale full of dust before him which slowly nestled into geometric patterns and symbols before him
(14:41:21) Trogdar watches carefully.
(14:42:18) Vilthis unfurls the a bundle exposing Heenarty as he lays the sword at the axis of the diagram
(14:44:19) Vilthis proceeds with an incarnation where the insidious presence of Heenarty could be felt
(14:45:26) Trogdar shifts uncomfortably.
(14:45:29) Vilthis's diagram begins to emanate faintly with a sickly red glow as the caked blood on the blade begins to disperse from the sword

The dispersed blood partcicles initially swirled sluggishly, subsequently the sword itself sublimed into the swarm of red mist gaining greater momentum with each successive revolution. As the vortex stabilises into a consistent flow...

(14:46:50) Vilthis looks to Trogdar "Brace yourself"
(14:47:45) Vilthis stretches his appendage out into the vortex
(14:47:49) Trogdar looks nervously at Vilthis.
(14:48:59) Vilthis's gauntlet could be visibly seen to have warped into slight contortion as it is mercilessly shredded in the vortex seemingly attempting to grasp something.
(14:49:41) Trogdar stares at the vortex, grimacing.
(14:50:28) Vilthis eyes suddenly widens as the red mist starts to take a darker shade rippling unstably
(14:51:09) Vilthis looks at Trogdar with his eyes visibly sunken in the ritual "Prepare the vial"
(14:52:09) Trogdar continues to stare at the vortex for a few seconds before suddenly grabbing the vial out of one of the pouches on his belt.

Abruptly the vortex collapsed under it's own pressure - for a moment of silent prevailed in the chamber when the particles reformed itself into the sword in Vilthis' appendage, which he stared at it in daze before in a split second a mist of pure darkness erupted from the sword engulfing the room... They have weaken the barrier between the parallel planes at a vicinity where they would find Giroum in the vastness of the Death Realm....

(14:53:03) Vilthis shouts: Now Trogdar
(14:53:23) Trogdar uncorks the vial....

To be continued...

[MellasFenixxes]

Beneath the Surface

And so the hunt was on for Voorevon. Had kra tricked them? If so, why?

The warm rays of the azure sun refreshed the city of Hydlaa with the light of a new day, and awoke its citizens one by one. Amongst them was a blonde-haired nolthrir, stretching out on a large ulbernaut pelt upon the mountain behind Harnquist’s smithy. She had made her way up there to think, like she usually did when something troubled her. The lies and deceit were becoming too much to handle, every day the burden on her back became heavier, and yet, what could she do? Betray the one man that held her heart? Betray the one family she had been trying to take care of? Surely that was not an option…

“You cannot betray your faith, Mellas.”

Those words that Thidin whispered in her ears seemed to have continued ringing in her thoughts. A shocking realization of something she never wanted… or did she? Maybe the time had come to change… Furiously she gets up and shakes her head, the blonde locks whipping around her face. ‘Rahhh!!’ she exclaims in a frustrated growl, and with a simple swing of the hand she grabs her bag and stomps off the hill, leaving the ulbernaut fur behind for a next visitor to find.

Down and down she goes, in search of something to distract her… something to ease her mind. And surprisingly, she finds it. Deep down under the ground, inside the Laanx Dungeon, she releases all her tension and anger on the dark rogues, the ones that have recently joined their brothers in the dark depths of despair. One by one their heads roll over the green floor, splattering the stones with a rich texture of fresh blood. Time passes, and the large halls become ever more colorful. As the stench of death becomes too much, she swiftly flees the area, taking her newfound treasures with her.  She knows someone who would pay well for a couple of silver falchions…

Wiping the blood off her hands and sabers she jumps up the stairs to return to fresh air. She squints her eyes at the bright light at first, but gets used to the new colors very quickly and rushes off the slope onto the lush green grass. Her road is clear, her feelings have found their peace, and yet… she saw something familiar in the glimpse of her eyes as she passed by the stone benches. Turning around to make sure, she faces the same cursed kran they had been looking for all this time… 

Mellas is about to run off to Harnquist, but then, to her complete surprise, spots a familiar figure. 'Voorevon!'
Voorevon raises kra’s brow. “Mellas! I have not seen you since that time in the Stonehead... are you well?”
Mellas smiles and nods, though a bit uncertainly. 'Yes... I can't complain. How about yourself?'
The kran seems to have been relaxing in the small park. “ Well enough.” Kra replies to her question.  “Did you and Mogweh... did you go to the Dark Circle caves?"
Mellas shifts her weight from leg to leg nervously, suddenly not sure how to bring forward what had been discussed in the Bronze Doors. 'Yes... we did... what do you think we found?' she asks, watching Voorevon's expression closely. Yet, the kran doesn’t show any suspicious reaction and meets her gaze. “A statue?”
Mellas nods, trying to find a way to get the truth out of her stone companion. 'Yes... but....'
Voorevon tilts kra's head to one side, "Was there a problem?"
Mellas remains quiet for a moment, but then decides to just blurt out the truth. 'Yes... it broke.'
 Voorevon's eyes widen, "Oh my word!"
Mellas clasps her hands together. 'Into a zillion pieces... I picked them up,' she says softly, taking some lumium and silver sharves out of her backpack to show.
Voorevon examines the shards, "I see." Kra looks closely, "These, Mellas, they don’t seem so old,’ he says, looking up at the nolthrir again. "What do you think this means?"
Mellas frowns, if kra plays along, so will she. 'What are you saying?' Yet kra's honesty surprises her, and she examines the shards as well.
“What did you go there expecting to find?” kra asks her.
Mellas narrows her eyes. 'Not what we found, that's for sure,' she replies simply. “Giroum saw what you saw, the statue was new... a copy.”
Voorevon nods, "I see. How did your priest react?" he asks as Mellas places the shards back in her backpack. She sighs. 'He was very disappointed, and he has reason to. *Now* where do we look?'
Voorevon says: I feel you may be close to what you seek, Mellas. But, may I ask why you seek it?
Mellas tilts her head slightly to the left. 'To retrieve history, art, that which was lost. All have the right the admire the statue, don't you think?'
Voorevon nods, "You are not driven by religion then? Curiosity?"
Mellas chuckles. "Religion, nay, curiosity, yes. I very much enjoy and appreciate art, so of course I'd like to see the statue in its rightful place."
Voorevon nods, more to kraself than to the nolthrir. "Mellas, would you follow me, please?"
The kran stands up from the neatly designed stone bench, and gestures for her to follow kra. She gives kra a look, showing kra this came a bit unexpected and blinks as various thoughts go through her head. Then quickly, she nods. “Of course!”

Voorevon replied with a polite, “Thank you” and guided her out of the North Gate and into the forest, taking a left turn and bringing her to kra’s homeland. The city of Gugrontid.  As they stand before the great collection of stone houses, Voorevon comes to a stop, exhausted from the long run. The nolthrir stands beside kra as kra rests, admiring the view that stuns her time and time again.
Mellas looks up at the city of Gugrontid, admiring its built. 'Where are we going, actually?'
Voorevon shakes kra`s head, "Not to Gugrontid. To the Mound of Talad.” Kra is quiet for a moment. “Mellas, tell me... you know why the first kran made the statue of Laanx, yes?”
She chuckles in response. “Yes, Giroum has researched the history together with us, in the library.”
Voorevon gets back up on his feet and nods, "Good. We are almost there."
Mellas shifts her gaze from Gugrontid to the mount of Talad and follows Voorevon quietly.

Shortly after, they find themselves on their destination… and there’s nothing there but large hills and green grass. The nolthrir looks around, partially uncomfortable with the remotely chosen location.
Voorevon eases kraself down to sit on the hill and looks from Gugrontid to the Scar of Laanx to their left, then to Mellas.
Mellas wonders whether to follow kra's example and sit down beside kra, yet she doesn’t. “Why are we here?” she asks demandingly.
Kra’s reply is more blunt than she expected. “Mellas. The Dark Circle rogues did not steal that statue. I made it, and made sure they recovered it.”
Mellas turns to look at Voorevon and cautiously takes a step back. 'We thought you did,' she replies.
Voorevon continues, “I did so to test you. You, Mogweh and your priest.”
Mellas crosses her arms. 'What would you have to test us for?'
Voorevon looks back to the city before continuing, "Are you good at keeping secrets, Mellas?"
Mellas unfolds her arms and takes a seat on the hill after all, still keeping a small distance between herself and Voorevon. 'If I didn't, I'd be dead,' she murmers darkly.
Voorevon looks at Mellas with approval, "Then perhaps you can understand. There are some truths that are best left hidden."
Mellas hugs her knees to her chest and listens. 'I suppose that can be true... but can you explain to me why you'd rather keep it hidden?'
Voorevon nods and begins his story. “The First. Konroran. Kra too had a secret. That kra regretted the scarring of Laanx caused by our creation. As you know, kra created the statue as a gift to Laanx. Aedaisti, kra`s closest comrade, kra helped Konroran keep kra`s secret and to complete the statue in secret.
Mellas listens with her pointed ears perked up to catch every detail.
Voorevon quotes Kerryk Cor`s book "Wrapping the statue carefully, Konroran set out into the Stone Labyrinths in search of Laanx."
Mellas nods, recognizing the words. 'Yes!'
“Kra carved the statue in *stone most precious*. Mellas, do you know what this is?”
Mellas thinks for a moment, remembering the previous statue they found in the Bronze Door caves, then replies, “In my opinion that would be diamonds, but I suspect lumium?”
Voorevon shakes kra`s head, "There is something far more precious to us."
Voorevon stands and turns to face Mellas, then removes kra`s chainmail pants to reveal what at first appear to be white scars on kra`s right shin and left thigh. Kra continues by undoing the laces that keep the chainmail on kra`s arms, the armour dropping away to reveal white gouges in the stony flesh of kra`s forearms.
Mellas looks closely. 'You've been scarred…?' she asks hesitantly.
Voorevon continues to take off kra`s chainmail wordlessly, and strips off his chest armour. Finally kra lifts the helmet from kra`s head, revealing a face and head tattoo on kra`s scalp above his own face...no, not a tattoo but a carving.
Mellas bites her lip as she guesses once again. 'The statue was made of... kran?'
Voorevon crouches on one knee, crossing kra`s arms and bowing kra`s head, the white gouges on his legs, forearms and crown coming together to form the perfect image of a white-skinned, red-eyed beauty.
Mellas crosses her legs underneath her and watches as Voorevon takes off all his armor. 'Oh my....' she gasps at the sight of the true statue.

Voorevon, with kra’s head still bowed, says, "Now, you see. Mellas, I am a member of a group known as The Carven.
Mellas stands up and reaches out to touch Voorevon's arms. 'That's beautiful... pure art...'
Voorevon says: We have existed since the days of Konroran and Aedaisti and have kept alive a tradition that Konroran began, and Aedaisti tried to quell.
Mellas steps back again. 'Now I completely understand what you mean by keeping the statue secret.'
Mellas smiles and takes a seat again, still admiring the designs on Voorevon's body. 'The Carven?'
Voorevon says: Aedaisti `helped` keep Konroran`s work secret because kra disagreed with it. When Konroran `wrapped` the `statue` and set out for the Stone Labyrinths kra wrapped it not in cloth, but kra`s own clothing.... When kra perished kneeling, presenting kra`s work to Laanx, Aedaisti and others were sent by Talad to recover kra`s body. Of those, one was the first Carven.
Mellas is completely stunned. 'So, this is the truth... the Carven carry it with them, at all times?'
Voorevon nods, "`There are rumours` Kerryk writes, `that some of Konroran`s earlier attempts are hidden somewhere`. Now you know this to be true, from a certain point of view. There are very few of us, but we all bear the marks. We perform the ceremony upon each other."
Mellas smiles. 'And when one body does not wake, it will be carved upon the next one, going through generations?'
Voorevon nods solemnly, "Since the beginning."
Mellas takes a deep breath, still processing the sudden turn of events. 'Who'd have thought! And you want no one to know?”
Voorevon says: There are those who would expose us, destroy us, as Aedaisti made the first Carven swear never to speak of what they saw upon Konroran`s body. If people knew, what do you think would be their reaction?
Mellas frowns. 'You fear they will put you in glass boxes in the temple, for all to see?'
Voorevon says: That is quite likely. There are those -both Talad and Laanx worshippers- who would probably kill us.
Mellas sighs and scratches her head. 'Then why did you show me?'
Voorevon says: Because I feel that you, of all I have met, would be able to understand. Our tales tell that years ago one of our number met an artist and shared our history with him. You are but the second. We have no written history, for fear of it`s discovery. Only oral tradition.
Mellas drops her hands in her lap and beams. 'Thank you, I'm really grateful to have gotten the chance to see this; it's a stunning sight. I will keep your secret.'
Voorevon says: I thank you, but...your friend Mogweh, and this lemur priest...they will stop their hunt?
Mellas leans back in the grass, her gaze on the artwork that covers Voorevon's being. 'They will have to,' she replies. 'When they have nowhere else to seek... but they do seek you. Is there anything you would like me to say?'
Voorevon nods slowly as he begins to put his armour back on.
Mellas looks a bit disappointed when the beautiful carvings are covered up again, but gives Voorevon an understanding look.
Voorevon says: It might be best....if I die. Fake my demise.
Mellas exclaims. “No!! Surely there's another way that doesn't include Dakkru's realm, you already said there are few of you.” The kran grins in response, "I will not risk Dakkru`s Realm... I simply request that you tell them I died."
Mellas raises her eyebrows, but then nods. 'Very well... I will tell them that I found your body by the mount of Talad?'
Voorevon looks at the hill beneath them and smiles, "Yes...yes. That would be best. And most kind of you. Please, Mellas: make sure this quest ends. The Carven must remain secret for now."
Mellas winks. 'I will do all in my power to make sure that they have nowhere left to search, promise,' she says, extending her hand to Voorevon.
Voorevon shakes Mellas` hand with his chainmail gauntleted one.
Mellas smiles as she thinks of the artwork hidden underneath. 'I wish you all the luck in succeeding with keeping the Carved alive and well.'
Voorevon says: There may be a time when we can reveal ourselves. When Laanx finally forgives Talad. Until then we will remain hidden, between faiths.
Mellas stands up and nods. 'It would be best, yes. Thank you for solving this mystery for me, I would never have guessed.'
Voorevon stands up with her, "I will leave the dome, for now. Before I go..."
Voorevon unstraps a sword from his back and hands it to Mellas, "Take this."
Mellas looks a bit confused as she accepts the sword. 'What's this? Don't you need it when you leave the dome?'
Voorevon shrugs, "I have other weapons...though we prefer to avoid combat, lest one of us die and kra`s body be found and examined."
Mellas swallows. 'Aye, indeed... I will guard it for you until you return.'
Voorevon smiles and nods, "You have my thanks. And that of the Carven."
Mellas wraps the platinum sword in a thick cloth before placing it safely in her backpack. 'And you have my thanks, how will I contact you when the coast is clear?'
Voorevon smiles, "I will return from time to time. It is best that you do not try to contact me though. Now..." kra looks from Mellas to the hill, "I will stay a while to commune with my lord" and looks to the Scar of Laanx, "And with The First."
Mellas makes a small bow as she descends off the hill. 'Then I will leave you in peace, Voorevon, please be safe wherever you will travel.'
Voorevon says: And you, Mellas.
Mellas waves and then turns around to leave, a satisfied and happy expression on her face. The secret has been revealed to her... yet will it remain a secret to the others too?

The nolthrir made a promise, a choice. Since the morning she hadn’t really thought about it, lingering in the joy of sweet nothingness. It felt like a moment of proof had come, a moment where she could really finalize her decision. It had been so easy… so very easy. Yet the truth tends to be written on her face, what will she really tell the others...?

[Tadano Hitoshi]

[Disclaimer: Obviously, not being a member of the Settings Team I have no idea what form Konroran`s statue actually took. I was inspired by the available In Game background material, and that gave birth to the Carven. The group base their activities (and ritual scarification) upon oral traditions passed down through their members. Perhaps they are merely perpetuating a lie or half-truth. Who knows? However it is something they have absolute faith in.]

Nice write up Mellas...and very nice ritual Vilthis! I hope Vilthis, Trogdar and Giroum can meet up soon. The old lemur is getting mighty bored in the Death Realm!

[Tadano Hitoshi]

Abruptly the vortex collapsed under it's own pressure - for a moment of silent prevailed in the chamber when the particles reformed itself into the sword in Vilthis' appendage, which he stared at it in daze before in a split second a mist of pure darkness erupted from the sword engulfing the room... They have weaken the barrier between the parallel planes at a vicinity where they would find Giroum in the vastness of the Death Realm....

Within the murky shroud all sensory perception was lost. About Vilthis his surroundings were seemingly frozen in a stasis. His vision yielded nothing apart from the absolute black void and his aural capacities perceived only the tranquil silence that prevailed. Plunged into this momentary serenity he found in this he withdrew into the shadows, seemingly free as he let himself adrift in this transdimensional transition. It was known that those who do not have the strength or will to endure the transition into the Death Realm lie dead in Yliakum until someone has the good sense to drop their bodies into one of the burial wells.

Along with his body, his mind too was adrift in reminiscences of his past.
A few memories impressed particularly vigorously upon Vilthis’ life surfaced…A dull ache began to inundate on the stump at his elbow where Vilthis formerly had his left limb as he succumbed to the effects of the transition unconscious…

Vilthis eyes groggily opened, incited by the gentle glow and soothing warmth of the Azure Sun, however a lingering opaque mist still lingered. He was upon the temple green in Hydlaa, the gentle aroma of earth and grass laced with the subtle scent of incense floated upon this plain from the Iron Temple. He felt a light lick on his left hand, the sensation surprised him as it differed from the sensation upon his necrotic appendage. He started up in surprise to see his former yulbar familiar named Othella gently licking his once normal hand! A distant yet familiar warm voice called “Vilthis!” His vision once again began to be obscured as his eyes began to cloud in the same black shroud that engulfed him. Before he lost all sight he managed to steal a glimpse of 2 figures in a crowd full of mirth that was approaching him, one of them distinctively was clad in a robes of sorts tampered with the symbol of Laanx and the other bore a medallion of the House of Trayus upon his girdle. Vilthis tried to shout and reached out no avail as the chilling darkness begun to consume him. It did not discomfort Vilthis as much as the sense of loss, guilt and remorse that drowned him together in the black shroud, having not having treasured and loved for the people who cared for him…

“A test of strength or will” Vilthis reassured to himself as he relived the most turbulent moments of his life.

The retreat into this darkness brought a momentary solace before the shroud. Once again the shroud perforated, permitting some vision with the lingering opaque mist perpetually suspended in the air.
Whilst disoriented from his previous encounter, a vicious blow of a saber pommel struck Vilthis on his cheek followed by a punch that plunged toward his abdomen. Vilthis reeled back onto the cold floor. The musky subterranean odor was familiar to him, his now open eyes locked on to the mosaic work of the ground as he writhes in pain. No doubt this was the Dungeon beneath the Iron Temple. This however did not astonish him much till he was lifted by his collar and brought face to face with Dailon “Redbeard” Kesert, who declared in a confident booming voice “This is the end, apprentice”. He brought his wide cocksure grin before Vilthis’ face as he head-butted Vilthis repeated, his white ynnwn hair flailed as uncontrollably as his hysterical laughter as his head smashed into the xacha`s features cruelly. Vilthis endured the brutal bludgeoning as the dark shroud once again begun to engulfing his body robbing him from his senses; a godsend as every last ache upon his body soon dissipated into this chilling dark shroud.

The shroud cleared slightly once again, Vilthis now stood atop a peak where all of Hydlaa laid beneath him apart from the sharp spires that crowned the majestic windowless tower. A flurry of eldritch energies flashed passed Vilthis as he stood before a scarlet-cloaked cultist.

These words rang through Vilthis head as she pointed at him

“The whisper has spoken, this world shall be cleansed as we did to Kadaikos, Rooms and Iith Thalasind. No matter how Dakkru would control it, or how it taxes the mortal world she would not succeed. Nor will her agents, Vilthis. You have come a long way to learn about us, and I’m impressed with how much you’ve accomplished for an apprentice. However, your quest ends here…
Responding in kind, a fierce battle of spells started, however Vilthis was soon overcame by the superior abilities of this mysterious mage, elements rained upon him from scorching flames to lashing winds. Beaten down and in desperation Vilthis harnessed a potent, baleful entropic bolt and hurled it towards the cultist incinerating his left forearm…The pain of the ablation grew unbearable as he felt himself once again consumed by the chilling shroud. However the sensation seems different as a gust of air rushed by Vilthis and the shroud slowly dissipated, he could see himself falling through portal before landing flat on the ground…

And here he was once again, in this dimly lit chamber where people whom survived the transition to the death realm arrived. Vilthis exhaustedly rolled over onto his back and his appendage still grasped onto the ancient sword Heenarty. Vilthis looked at his shredded gauntlet that formerly covered his appendage with a sigh.

“Au natural” Vilthis remarked to himself.

Trodgar was nowhere to be seen, it worried Vilthis. However, knowing the effects of the potion that he gave Trodgar it was reasonably certain that he would back on the prime once the potion wore out, or that he never consumed it.

Vilthis propped himself up with Heenarty, noticing its energies ebbed weakly in this realm. Holding up the sword it tugged gently in the direction where Giroum was to be found…

Without the waxing and waning of the Azure Sun overhead the lemur priest of Laanx Giroum Duphra lacked any means with which to track the passing of days but for the slow yet steady healing of the wounds in his hands. He knew a little healing magic and could probably have healed the injuries faster but he found that gazing upon them, meditating upon the events that had lead to his death, was enlightening.
He still winced when he thought of the ancient sword -that he himself had put in the hands of that mysterious ynnwn- being pulled violently from his grip as he had frantically tried to pry it away. And then the immense pain as it had been thrust through his chest, his blood soon running down the old steel and staining the serpentine embroidery of his robes dark. Touching a scarred palm to his chest he could still feel a deep pain within his body. Unlike the ache in his healing palms: occasionally a stabbing pain as the cuts reopened when he clambered up rusting ladders, the pain in his chest was profound. As if his very soul had been cut.
Something told him that leaving the Death Realm in his current state would not be a wise choice.

After crossing the decrepit walkways, evading the foul vermin which scuttled about, he found his way to the Citadel seeking shelter and, if possible, answers. Even in death he could not help but spare a moment to admire the elaborate stained glass windows of the Citadel and wonder what artist in ages past directed their construction, knowing full well that they would never be granted the illumination their beauty hungered for. They reminded him of the similar windows adorning the Hydlaa Winch, and it saddened him.

The slashes on his palms soon scabbed over as he found a measure of sanctuary within the Citadel, as did the physical scars upon his chest and back though the pain in his chest remained. He could only imagine the passing of the days, as dozens of individuals passed through, all seeking the path back to the land of the living. He directed those who had the patience and sagacity to ask, and watched with scorn those who charged headlong without pause for retrospection, for it was inevitably those whom he saw again and again.
Finding his way to the library, and careful not to draw the attention of the Dark Grendols: towers of fetid muscle animated by necromancy, he sought a quiet corner and by the light of a candle filled his jade pipe with a small portion of pipeweed -he had a little left in a pouch and was determined to make it last as long as necessary- before taking out a large book from his satchel and preparing an ink and quill. The book, Herta Feer Garad, was a collection of his own private thoughts, the teachings of his old instructor and records of events he had partaken in. The nature of its contents dictated that few could be trusted with reading it. Indeed he had only ever let one other read it before. Now, finding himself with his hands free, horologically speaking, he was thankful that he had at least his book, quill and ink with which to fill his time.
After many years I find myself once more trudging the dark wastes of the Death Realm. Who can imagine how the first visitor to this dark land reacted? Was it a lemur or a kran? Did they, upon finding themselves here -a land so different to Yliakum- believe it some form of afterlife? Surely they must have thought it a cruel and harsh one and perhaps attempted to recollect and identify some ill perpetrated in life, thus damning themselves to their fate. Or perchance they thought this a far-off land, a new world. The scientists say Yliakum exists within a great stalactite. Perhaps that first `traveler` thought this another place upon the greater world. I recall my old friend Zephan telling us about a `moon`: said to be a vast rock in the sky over his ancestral homeland of Dermoria.
And what must their family have thought when their body disappeared before the onlookers` very eyes? Or perhaps did that first did alone, his, her or kra`s passing unknown? A lonesome fate indeed.
Who can imagine how that individual felt upon finding their way back to Yliakum (unless of course they did not succeed and still roam the ageless caverns)? How could one fail to be changed by such an experience?
It was as he wrote this question that he looked up at the sound of boots on the flagstones, closing and putting away the tome as a figure entered the library...

The dark garb, the distinctly `changed` hand and the pale skin. It could only have been Vilthis.
The xacha had changed considerably since Giroum had set him on the path to magehood many months earlier. A ynnwn thief had stolen goods from the Devotees` archives and, since the young xacha sought adventure and tutelage, Giroum had seen fit to both test him and attempt to recover the stolen goods in one move. Vilthis had succeeded in forcing `Redbeard` to relinquish that which he had pilfered, and Giroum had let the xacha keep the glyph that had been stolen, as payment. He had also taught him the basics of magic.
An art Vilthis had taken to with great zeal. He was soon publishing books of magical lore and delving into the Dark Way while bowing to Lady Death. Though he did not fully approve of the xacha`s choice of deity, it was not an uncommon choice for such practitioners.
Either way, he was most certainly pleased to see the xacha at that moment. He also noted the ancient sword grasped in that altered hand. Best it be in the xacha`s possession that that of the ynnwn.
After exchanging greetings, and Giroum`s expression of his gratitude for the other`s coming after him, they proceeded to the portal, that magical gateway of turbulence betwixt planes, fixed within the maw of a great helmed image of Dakkru herself.
Gripping his staff tightly and eyeing the portal warily, Giroum looked to Vilthis, “I believe, my friend, this is your area of expertise,” he nodded to the sword in Vilthis` hand and touched his chest with his free hand.
“What needs to be done to make my crossing safe?”


[A post written by both myself and Vilthis. Vil`, I`ll leave the final ritual to you ]

[Vilthis Trayus]

“Excuse me Master Duphra” Vilthis said as he widens the tear at the priest’s robes to have a closer examination of the wound. The puncture wound was still raw and gaping, exposed subcutaneous tissues refused to fuse together despite the tissue proximity. Fortunately the wound did not aggravate in such exposure. Though the wound still emanated a faint familiar aura akin to many entropic Dark Way magic, the effects are considerably less malignant than he imagined. Vilthis had suspected that the curse like the sword Heenarty have been weakened in this strange dimension.

The analytical Xacha mind hypostasized that returning back to the prime with such a wound would be futile. The effect of the curse would simply intensify in Yliakum, aggravating the mortal wound, leading Giroum to succumb to his condition and seized back into the Death Realm.

“It would seem that this is the true power of the sword –To render captivity in Death Realm to its victims.” Vilthis thought to himself with partial certainty.

Vilthis took out 3 glyphs in his glyph sack: Life, Crystal and Energy.
 
“I diversified” Vilthis replied droningly with a slight grin and he performed the somatic components for the spell “Cleanse”.

Giroum stared at Vilthis, surprised at his Crystal Way proficiency; Vilthis’ abilities are more commonly of Dark Way nature.

A bright light seared the wound as noxious wisp of boiled blood rose from the puncuture which is soon followed by an off set of heavy hemorrhage; seemingly the wound had finally taken it’s natural course of healing from the malicious torment of a wound cursed to never mend. Giroum have at this point became pallid from the procedure, his cries of pain soon drowned to nonsensical blabber as the last of the lingering dark way curse dissipates in the intense light that shone in an astonishing radiance in the gloom of the Death Realm.
Vilthis summoned his drifter as he placed Giroum upon it with great urgency. Giroum was losing a copious amount of blood and began to take a fever; he soon became unconscious as soon he was laid out upon the hovering creature. Tearing off the sleeves of the priest robes, Vilthis fashioned an improvised bandage to control the bleeding as bound the fabrics tightly across his chest over the cavity.

With haste Vilthis led the drifter with Giroum securely onboard through the portal, the drifter buckled slightly in weariness as the rays of the azure sun appeared overhead in Hydlaa, the apparent effects of the toll one has to pay for the transit back in the prime from the death realm – a condition commonly referred to as Dakkru’s Curse. The effects have taken a considerable toll on Giroum as age caught up on him upon his return, more streaks oh white hair then he knew before appeared on Giroum whom now at this point had completely became comatose. Vilthis scurried through the crowded the plaza to the temple greens where the local sanitarium was sited….
“Hang on Master, we’re are almost there” said Vilthis through his supressed anxiety as Vilthis raced across the temple greens greeted by a score of medical personnel’s as they soon claimed Giroum from his care. All he could do for now was to pray for Dakkru’s grace as Giroum struggle for survival under intensive care in the Sanitarium...

[Thanks Giroum for the liberty ]