Festival of Sorrows
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This log is from the viewpoint of Iscikella Zinnonn. All second person references, therefore, refer to said character.
Volnes, day 13 of the month Jastatos in the year 5103
[Icemule Temple, Chancel Nexus] No light of sun or star reaches this chamber deep within the heart of the glacier. Three oil lamps hang from the ceiling, lighting a room clad in various colors of granite. Radiating out from the center of the floor in a pattern reminiscent of the nautilus shell are widening bands of white, black, and silvery-grey stone. The white granite leads up a well-lit stairway to the north, while the black stone descends a dark stairway to the south. The grey leads through the east wall into the shadows beyond. You also see the Rendena disk, the icy blue Daina disk, a wall-sized oil painting and an ice blue taper. Also here: Sheilagh, Kormn, Terrangel, Lady Rendena, Lady Jystema, Ellsbeth, Tayre, Morah, Lord Svardin, Shallira, Tazelhoffe, Cappurnicus, High Lady Blushes, Lord Ianeal, Lord Maeror, Lady Michiko, Lady Jayleena, Sente, Ichiko, Haloid, Lady Natsuki, Meos, Theogrim, Murp, Rasl who is sitting, Myrianna who is kneeling, Sherysse, Zosopage, Keloin, Thenidos, Valicar, Kasia, Archevald, Tierus, Daina, Great Lord Khaitiff, Mange Obvious exits: east, west, up, down Blushes says, "I just hope that annoying wizard stays away." Blushes mutters under her breath. Natsuki says, "I think someone should of added that politicians are always late...." Daina asks, "What wizard?" Blushes says, "Otherwise we'll be dealing with murder." Natsuki asks, "what annoying wizard?" Daina turns an inquisitive ear towards Blushes. Blushes says, "Some Bralledar." Natsuki peers quizzically at Blushes. Daina rubs her chin thoughtfully. Rasl begins chuckling at Natsuki! Tierus ponders. Kasia says, "There is much joy also, to celebrate in this occasion..." Theogrim says, "Sorcerer, not Wizard" Valicar says, "Hopefully, this gathering will not end with a bang like the Thurfel one." Daina says, "Bralledar is a wizard" Blushes says, "No, he's a wizard." Daina nods. Theogrim says, "oh" Svardin says, "there's a hope" Sherysse begins chuckling at Valicar! Natsuki says, "don't think I know him...." Theogrim says, "I thought thatcha meant.. Pherry.." Tierus says, "Ah woul've rather liked tae end Thurfel wif a bang." Sherysse says, "Just don't steal things off the altars this time." Sherysse grins at Valicar. (Tierus laughs, a bit bitterly.) Murp says, "I bet he was behind this." Blushes says, "Oh yes, Pheyrmerrin." Blushes struts about. Valicar says, "well, you would, Tierus" Valicar nods. Blushes says, "Look at me, I'm Pheyrmerrin." Blushes struts about. Myrianna softly says in guild speak, "i'm here for the joy of finding a child, and i'm here for the ones that we did not find" Blushes struts about. Rasl breathes in deeply as he clenches a pipe in his mouth, then exhales slowly, causing some dark amorphous clouds of puffy smoke to float up from his mouth. Myrianna softly says in guild speak, "nothing more, nothing less" Tierus turns to face Valicar. Duvalle just arrived. Natsuki begins chuckling at Blushes! You say, "Pheyrmerrin is being honored I believe, by the Town Council." Rasl rubs Myrianna tenderly. Tierus says, "Nae e'ery day tha' ye find yerself a dupe." You say, "But then again who knows if he will show." Cappurnicus nods to Duvalle in greeting. Ianeal nods to Duvalle in greeting. Duvalle smiles. You curtsy to Duvalle. Daina says, "As well he should." You say, "Evening, Dean." Svardin says, "I think I has a honor he deserves" Ianeal says, "Good evening, Duvalle." Duvalle says, "Good evening folks." You see Duvalle Ilexvert the Halfling Temple Dean. He appears to be in his 80's, has short dark brown hair, brown eyes, and alabaster skin. He is in good shape. He is wearing some wooden prayer beads, some wooden prayer beads, a crystal amulet, a leather sack, some braided goat hide sandals, some black woolen trousers with ice blue silk piping down each leg, an ice blue silk sash from which dangle several large keys, a black woolen cassock, an ice blue silk coin pouch, a crystal temple pin, and some white monir prayer beads. Kasia smiles and nods in greeting to Duvalle. Sherysse bows to Duvalle. Kasia says, "Evening Dean" Sherysse says, "Good evening to you." Duvalle says, "I'm so happy to see such a large crowd gathered." Blushes squints at Duvalle. Daina nods to Duvalle in greeting. Zosopage smiles and nods in greeting to Duvalle. Blushes says, "Someone shorter then me." Blushes raises her fist defiantly. Galesmight says, "Evenin everyone." Valicar smiles at Duvalle. Galesmight bows. Rasl softly says in guild speak, "we could only do what we could dear, there were at times to many of them, and to few of us" Rasl rubs Myrianna tenderly. Galesmight says, "It's a bit cold, should of dressed warmer." Blushes scratches her nose. Galesmight nods. Valicar says, "I like the renovations on the temple, Duvalle" Myrianna softly says in guild speak, "there were always too few of us" Myrianna sighs. Valicar nods to Duvalle. Myrianna hangs her head. Duvalle bows to Valicar. Natsuki says, "it's always cold in mule..." Ianeal says, "Icemule is always cold." Blushes asks, "It was renovated?" Blushes sniffs. Valicar bows to Duvlle. Daina nods to Blushes. Svardin says, "downright warm here" Zosopage asks, "cold?" Rasl softly asks in guild speak, "aye, but we did prevail aye?" Blushes says, "Drink less, observe more." You say, "Well, it's on a glacier." You chuckle. Tierus says, "Ah remem'er a time whin Icemule burnt." Zosopage asks, "What cold?" Zosopage rubs his chin thoughtfully. Galesmight says, "Aye, I know it's cold." Ianeal says, "You dress warm year-round... everyone knows that up here." Tierus says, "It wisnae cold then." Daina grins at Blushes. Natsuki frowns. Duvalle says, "We still have a few final things to get done." Duvalle nods. Tayre says, "There's cold, and then there's Khaitiff." Myrianna softly asks in guild speak, "did we?" Daina turns an inquisitive ear towards Duvalle. Tayre nods. Duvalle says, "A few items on order." Galesmight says, "I said warmer that is Ianeal." You nod to Duvalle. Valicar says, "But it is well underway" Maeror laughs at Tayre! Khaitiff smiles at Tayre. Kasia says, "Quite extensively so, and some areas re-renovated.. thank goodness." Valicar nods to Duvalle. Natsuki begins chuckling at Tayre! Svardin says, "I'll have Fang heat tings up" Rasl softly says in guild speak, "we saved those that we could" Khaitiff clearly says, "Thank you Tayre, thats the sweetest thing you've said to me" You ask, "Will the service for the dead be in the Nexus here?" Tayre smiles at Khaitiff. Tayre says, "anytime." Rasl softly says in guild speak, "we can't be in all places at every time" You ask, "Or Lorminstra's chapel?" You cock your head at Duvalle. Blushes says, "I remember when you came in and would go to the light, or go to the dark..." Duvalle says, "Seems its a difficult time for trade, what with the global disruptions." Tayre says, "It will be here." Tayre nods to you. Blushes nods to Duvalle. Tayre says, "A crier announced it." Valicar says, "I think you will find that things are getting back to normal again" Valicar nods to Duvalle. Blushes exclaims, "Evil elves dispelled dwarves!" Myrianna softly says in guild speak, "no, but we can wish we were able" Blushes nods to Duvalle. Myrianna sighs. Rasl breathes in deeply as he clenches a pipe in his mouth, then exhales slowly, causing some dark amorphous clouds of puffy smoke to float up from his mouth. Duvalle smiles at Valicar. Rasl nods to Myrianna. Rasl softly says in guild speak, "true" Blushes says, "Then the evil dwarves dispelled the elves." Rasl leans forward and rests his chin in his hand, a thoughtful expression on his face. Ianeal says, "Tensions are still hell everywhere and will stay that way for a long time." Blushes struts about. Duvalle says, "That would be a very welcome change, for me and mine." Duvalle sighs. Ianeal says, "I think things are worse down south than they've been in years." Valicar says, "You have one of the finest altars to Koar in the realms." Valicar nods to Duvalle. Tierus asks, "Ah s'ppose ye'll be requirin' mer silver soon, tae continue tha rennovations?" Tierus raises an eyebrow in Duvalle's direction. Duvalle beams with great pleasure. Blushes hiccups! Sheilagh glances at Blushes. Rasl cuddles closely with Myrianna, who smiles back happily. Halflings begin to file into the hall, many with tearstreaked cheeks or downcast eyes. Mothers and fathers hold their children tightly by the hands, and the aged lean upon the shoulders of the young as they shuffle in. Sheilagh smiles quietly to herself. Blushes peers quizzically at Sheilagh. Sheilagh giggles. Blushes asks, "What, what?" Blushes fidgets. Myrianna gives Rasl a lingering kiss on the forehead. Rasl gazes in wonder at his surroundings. You bite your lip. Sheilagh somberly says, "Ye hiccups." Natsuki stares off into space. Rasl ponders. Tayre sighs softly. Speaking little, the Halflings array themselves in a wide semi-circle, most standing in front of the elven, human, and giantman visitors to their community in order to get a better view of proceedings. Myrianna lets out a long, contemplative breath. (Tieus frowns ever-so-slightly.) Blushes chants a reverent litany and clasps her hands while tightly focusing her thoughts... Blushes exclaims, "I bless thee!" Sheilagh grins. Shallira gazes in wonder at her surroundings. Blushes says, "I can't bless thee." Ichiko gazes in wonder at her surroundings. Blushes babbles something unintelligible. Daina clears her throat. Kasia touches one finger to her lips. Blushes exclaims, "drat!" Blushes sobs. Natsuki ponders. Duvalle indicates some better places at one end of the circle. Meos begins chuckling at Shallira! A Halfling girl fidgets and tugs at her father's wrist, unnerved by the anxious, saddened demeanor of all around her. The Paradis man crouches, touches her cheek, and whispers softly to her, and she becomes still afterward, gazing around with large, solemn eyes. Councillor Larchus arrives, accompanied by an absolute gaggle of children and other adults, all of whom bear a distinct resemblance to him. One freckled Halfling girl seems a bit more alert and attentive than her siblings, but tears streak the face of almost every member of the large family. Only Larchus's eyes are fully dry, though his shoulders are slumped as if with some great burden. Valicar smiles at Larchus. Zosopage bows deeply at the waist, honoring Larchus. You see Larchus. He appears to be a Paradis Halfling. He appears to be in his golden years and average height. He has bright blue eyes and tanned skin. He has short, tousled dark blonde hair streaked with silver at the temples. He has a round face and knobby fingers. He is in good shape. He is wearing a hooded white leather cloak lined with wolverine fur, an elegant silver mule clasp, a polished snow leopard tooth suspended on a fine mithril chain, a vivid blue wool sweater, some fitted silvery leather gloves, a small mithril-threaded tobacco pouch, a pair of white fur-lined trousers, and some silver-toed white leather knee boots. Mange bows to Larchus. Valicar bows to Larchus. Cappurnicus nods to Larchus. Theogrim bows deeply at the waist, honoring Larchus. Morah takes a few steps back. Sente turns towards Larchus and renders a sharp hand salute. Daina nods to Larchus in greeting. You curtsy to Larchus. Rasl bows to Larchus. Sherysse bows to Larchus. Myrianna bows to Larchus. Ianeal folds folds his arms over his chest. (Evelith clasps her hands calmly behind her back.) Svardin bows to Larchus. Michiko turns to face Larchus. Khaitiff nods to Larchus in greeting. Natsuki curtsies to Larchus. Keloin bows to Larchus. Thenidos smiles at Larchus. The long, ivory velvet skirts of Michiko's elegant cotehardie puddle around her feet as she sinks into a curtsy low enough to honor royalty. Larchus bows. Ichiko bows to Larchus. Sente bows to Duvalle. Jystema bows to Larchus. Murp folds his arms over his chest. Sheilagh turns to face Larchus. An aged Halfling priestess hobbles in, leaning heavily upon a crystal-inlaid staff. A ring of golden keys hangs at her belt, and her simple robes are ebon black in hue. She is accompanied by two junior priests, a junior priestess, and a pair of skinny acolytes, all of whom wear beaded prayer shawls. The acolytes carry an ebonwood chest together. Kasia smiles and waves slightly to Tabbie. Jayleena bites her lip. The aged priestess hobbles to stand in front of the crowd, and then she pauses a moment, gazing solemnly around at those assembled. The Halflings fall into somber silence, although, from somewhere in the middle of the crowd, you hear the stifled wail of an unhappy baby. The child's mother tries to soothe it in worried, hushed tones. (Iscikella watches intently.) Duvalle nods respectfully to the priestess. Shallira shifts her weight. The priestess nods respectfully in reply. Larchus parts gently from his family, unwinding one child's grubby fingers from his cloak hem with great care, and then steps out in front of the crowd. Larchus clears his throat. Tayre turns to face Larchus. You listen carefully to Larchus. Rasl turns an inquisitive ear towards Larchus. Shallira turns an inquisitive ear towards Larchus. Larchus surveys the area. Blushes hiccups! Blushes clasps her hand over her mouth. Larchus slowly empties his lungs. Ianeal shifts his weight. Larchus says, "We're a simple folk, the Paradis, but strong ones, heart and soul." Jaylena glances at Blushes. Sheilagh nods. Larchus says, "We don't often grieve, and, when we sorrow, there aren't often those to see it except us." You bite your lip. Larchus says, "When we couldn't help ourselves enough, there were many of you -- visitors, strangers, outsiders, adventurers -- who came and gave a healing hand or a caring heart or a sword and shield to guard." Morah folds her arms over her chest. Rasl leans on his stick. Larchus says, "For that reason, we're going to be speaking in the Common tongue, and not our own. Grant our grief the same honor that you'd grant your own people's, or leave. It's not a right time for laughter." You nod. You remove some white monir prayer beads from in your lilac samite bodice. Larchus says something in Halfling. Blushes squints at Larchus. Whirlin nods to Larchus. Larchus bows deeply to the aged priestess before returning to his place in the crowd. Rasl nods. Thenidos kneels down. Jayleena bites her lip. The aged priestess clears her throat. The aged priestess speaks, and, although her voice has a distinct Halfling accent, her words are still clear enough to be understood. "Before Icemule Trace... before Maelshyve... before the Paradis were Paradis... there was a time when there was only Mother Land and Father Sky," she says. Sheilagh nods. The aged priestess says, "And from the EverForest, there came a grey wolf, and the Mother sent a puma to the grey wolf, and the children of these two were Mhoraga, Brugha, and Malghava, the first of our kind." Jayleena kneels down. Sente kneels down. The aged priestess says, "From those three we are descended, by the will of Mother Land, and all that comes to us is what She wishes. We are, now and forever, the children of Her heart, and we cherish Her within our hearts." Kormn kneels down. The aged priestess says, "From the hour that the grey wolf loped out of the forest, it has been the will of Mother Land and Father Sky that we should prosper, and be strong and fierce, and true to one another." The aged priestess says, "Yet an hour comes, again and again, when we see our brothers, sisters, children, parents, friends, and loved ones leave this world. There are few who grow up without knowing grief, and none who grow old without grieving or dying inside." The aged priestess says, "Our hearts are not dead. Father Sky bade us be strong, and be fierce, but we are true to one another. We are true to ourselves, and so we must grieve." Your lower lip trembles slightly. Jayleena nods. The aged priestess says, "There comes an hour when the body fails, and, in this hour, Lorminstra, Keeper of the Gate, judges each soul. Some, She turns away, and returns to life. Others, She draws through the Ebon Gate." The aged priestess removes her ring of golden keys from her belt and raises it overhead. The aged priestess says, "Look on Her symbol, and know this: Those who are loved will never leave those who love them." Tayre tilts his head down. You pull a single bead through your fingers, marking off another prayer to your god. Duvalle bows. (Tierus bites his lower lip. His eyes are soft in his stony face. ) Sheilagh sniffs. You kneel down. Theogrim rests a gentle hand on Jystema's arm. The aged priestess gazes around the chamber with a keen, raptor-like eye. Keloin hangs his head. Ianeal just tried to pull an ensigiled dark blue linen burnoose. The aged priestess says, softly but clearly, "Death is not the end of our kinship." Rasl hangs his head. Shallira nods. The aged priestess says, "Those who were your brothers, sisters, children, parents, friends, and loved ones in life... are still as close to you as ever they were. We are all children in Mother Land's will. We are all descended from two who went out from the EverForest, side by side." The aged priestess says, "Only those who die far from their homelands are at risk of wandering. Call home your loved ones, and they will come." You bravely hold back your tears, your eyes glistening with pain. Kasia sniffs. One of the junior priests steps forward slightly, and says, in a formal tone, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." The other junior priest echoes, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." First the two acolytes take up the chant -- and then it spreads through the crowd. Softly, the gathered Halflings recite, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." At first, it stumbles slightly, as some of the grieving Halflings forget at first to speak in Common, but then the rhythm stabilizes. Rasl ponders. Shallira shifts her weight. Sherysse closes her eyes for a moment. Jarlstrom says, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here."" Kasia closes her eyes for a moment. Raising her voice slightly to be heard above the chant, the aged priestess says, "Do trees grieve against nightfall, because their leaves will miss the light? Do wolves grieve against winter, because their paws will be cold in the snow? Even so, our hearts will grieve, for it is difficult to be separated from our loved ones -- but they hear and heed, for it is the gift of our kinship that they do so." Tierus slowly empties his lungs. You say, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." The aged priestess says, "It is the gift of Mother Land, the gift of Father Sky, the gift of Lorminstra..." You hang your head. (Tierus looks distinctly uncomfortable. ) The first junior priest touches a small sickle pin on his prayer shawl as he softly says, "The gift of Gosaena." The second junior priest says, "The gift of love. The gift of kinship." Duvalle bows. You thumb your prayer beads. Natsuki nods. Natsuki just touched some worn yew carved prayerbeads interlaced with three pristine white feathers. Rasl hangs his head. Like waves sweeping over the shore, the Halflings continue to murmur, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." Keloin rubs his eyes. Rasl sniffs. Blushes's cheeks flush with a deep shade of red. Cappurnicus surveys the area. You bravely hold back your tears, your eyes glistening with pain. The junior priestess says, in clarion tones pitched to carry, "So long as we remember and honor our dead, their spirits will be safe and happy forever. We, the living, may grieve the distance -- but we are strong, and fierce, and true, and ever shall be. We are the Paradis, the Lost -- and we have come home." You pull a single bead through your fingers, marking off another prayer to your god. (Morah stands in the shadows of the entryway, her lips pressed tightly together.) Larchus softly says, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." Sheilagh says something in Halfling. In response to a slight nod from the aged priestess, the Halfling chant crescendos: "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here. Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." Myrianna softly says in guild speak, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." Tears streak the face of the small, freckled girl standing near Larchus as she repeats again and again, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." Evelith quietly says, "Come home, spirits of the fallen. Come home - you are welcome here." Evelith nods. Tayre smiles sadly, his gaze lowered and his eyes glistening, as he himself falls into the rythmic chant. Jarlstrom softly says, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." Blushes blinks. The aged priestess signals to the pair of acolytes. The two skinny Halflings carry the ebonwood chest toward her and then lay it gently at her feet. You quietly say, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." Myrianna softly says, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." The first acolyte stands very straight while the second acolyte fiddles with the latches on the box. It takes a moment, but he finally manages to release the catches, and then stands back, relieved. Tazelhoffe calmly says, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." Rasl softly says, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here" Kasia says, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." Rasl hangs his head. The chanting from the crowd fades away into silence. Sheilagh somberly says, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." Keloin says, ""Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here" Zosopage softly says, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." Duvalle mutters through a tear-clogged throat, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." Jystema softly says, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." Thenidos says, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." The aged priestess reaches into the box, and removes, one by one, a stick of scarlet iceblossom incense, two white candles, a small pouch, and a flask of holy water. She gives the holy water to the other priestess, and each junior priest takes a candle. The aged priestess herself retains the pouch, and she stoops to place the incense on the ground. Whirlin says something in Halfling. Sente confidently says, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." You wrap your prayer beads around your hand as if binding yourself, body and soul, in service to your god. Tierus says, "Come 'ome, spirits o' our fallen. Come 'ome. Ye're welcome 'ere." Tierus mumbles something that you don't quite catch. Mange says, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." An acolyte hurries forward to light the incense, and then quickly retreats again. Michiko enfolds Whirlin in a warm embrace. Theogrim says, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." Myrianna rests a gentle hand on Rasl's arm. Valicar says, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." Sente lets out a loud keening cry of pure grief. Jayleena softly says, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." Ichiko says, "Come home, spirits of our fallen. Come home -- you are welcome here." Shallira slowly empties her lungs. A Halfling woman dressed in mourning steps forward from the crowd and approaches the aged priestess. She kneels in front of the priestess and mumbles something quietly, but her words are too indistinct to be discerned, except for the last -- she tilts back her head slightly, and, though her voice cracks with tears, she clearly says, "Come home, spirit of my husband. Come home -- you are welcome here." Jayleena pulls Sente closer to herself. Rasl snuggles Myrianna, who responds by cradling an arm around him. Sente rests a gentle hand on Jayleena's arm. Rasl sniffs. Some scarlet incense emits a tendril of iceblossom-scented smoke, which forms a lacy pattern in the air before fading away. Kasia cries in pain, her face contorted in torment as she weeps. Daina leans on Khaitiff resting her head on his shoulder. Myrianna weeps softly, quiet tears falling from her eyes. Tayre rests a gentle hand on Kasia's arm. Tazelhoffe hangs his head. The younger priestess dips a fingertip into the flask of holy water and touches it gently to the woman's forehead, and the two priests raise their candles slightly. The movement causes the flames to dance and flare, sending golden light washing over the woman's tearstreaked face. Jarlstrom rubs his eyes. Ichiko kneels down. Thenidos hangs his head. Rasl rubs Myrianna tenderly. You bravely hold back your tears, your eyes glistening with pain. Theogrim holds back his tears, his eyes glistening with pain. Archevald rubs Kasia tenderly. You hang your head. An arctic wolf pads into the room. Sherysse removes a black silk rose-imprinted handkerchief from in her spidersilk vest. The aged priestess takes a small seed from the pouch in her hand and bends down to place it in front of the widow. The woman picks it up, stands, and closes her hand tightly around it as she turns away to walk out of the hall. Sherysse wipes her face with a black silk rose-imprinted handkerchief, drying off the streaks left by tears. Zosopage weeps softly, quiet tears falling from his eyes. Khaitiff rests a gentle hand on Daina's arm. The wolf takes a look around. There is a twinkle in an arctic wolf's eyes for a moment. Jystema rests a gentle hand on Theogrim's arm. One by one, other Halflings approach the priestess. Only bits and pieces of words can be caught, because almost every voice is too shaky from tears or too quiet with inner grief to be properly understood, but the Halflings seem to be making promises to their dead loved ones or reminding their loved ones of past joyful memories, while the priests and priestesses look on with compassionate, sympathetic eyes. Keloin kneels down. Rasl hangs his head. The faint scent of iceblossom fills the air. A single tear rolls slowly down the cheek of the younger priestess, flickering in the candlelight, but she does not move to wipe it away as she gently presses a drop of holy water to the forehead of a Halfling man wracked by the shudders of grief. You remove a delicate silk lilac-scented handkerchief from in your spidersilk skirt. Ianeal looks very far away for a moment, a wistful expression on his face. Duvalle places his hand on his prayer beads. You bunch up your lilac-scented handkerchief in your fist. Keloin sniffs. Myrianna breathes almost without making a sound. The arctic wolf turns away, looks back over its shoulder once, and then pads off. Keloin rubs his eyes. Jayleena rubs her crystal green eyes. Myrianna weeps softly, quiet tears falling from her eyes. Gradually, the crowd lessens, as, one by one, each Halfling walks forward, kneels, speaks softly, receives the silent blessing of the clergy, and then departs the hall, many clutching the small seeds like protective talismans. Sherysse places a hand over her heart. Rasl rests a gentle hand on Myrianna's arm. You hear someone sigh. Ichiko hangs her head. Larchus quietly says, "Many of those you see here will not join us in the town hall, for their grief is too great for them to celebrate at this time. But some will, and it is there that we will honor the people who struggled in this crisis." Larchus walks forward to kneel in front of the priestess and bows his head. He barely does more than move his lips, speaking so quietly that it seems unlikely even the clergy can hear him, until the final, "Come home, spirits of my city. Come home -- you are welcome here." You wipe your face with your lilac-scented handkerchief, drying off the streaks left by tears. Tazelhoffe coughs. Kasia sniffs. Rasl coughs. Keloin closes his eyes for a moment. The faint scent of iceblossom fills the air. A shudder of grief passes through Larchus's body as the younger priestess touches a drop of holy water to his forehead. Theogrim sighs wearliy. Rasl clasps his hand over his mouth. Jayleena weeps softly, quiet tears falling from her eyes. Whirlin bites his lip. Larchus slowly stands. Sherysse bunches up a black silk rose-imprinted handkerchief in her fist. Mange kneels down. Daina clears her throat. (Iscikella gazes in sympathy at Larchus.) Jarlstrom weeps softly, quiet tears falling from his eyes. The aged priestess presses a small seed into Larchus's hand, and he briefly touches the seed to his lips before turning and walking out of the hall. The rest of his family has already gone. Khaitiff squints. Keloin stands up. Zosopage squints as if he has something in his eye. One by one, the Halflings go to the priestess, and, one by one, they depart with their seeds. Only a few remain now. Zosopage closes his eyes for a moment. Sheilagh sniffs. Kasia sighs. Thenidos bows. Rasl frowns. Valicar nods. Keloin sniffs. Thenidos stands up. You raise your prayer beads reverently to your lips. You stand back up. The last Halfling to approach the priestess is a boy of perhaps no more than thirteen years of age. No one watches or waits for him as he whispers a very long prayer to the dead. His face is as white as snow, and, when he sways, the younger priestess jerks downward, clearly meaning to catch him if he faints -- but he regains his balance, and continues until the final, "Come home, mother. Come home, father. Come home, Moreei. Come home, grandpa. Come home, auntie. Come home -- you are welcome here." Ichiko stands up. Daina's face turns slightly pale. Kasia gasps. Some scarlet incense burns softly as a stream of iceblossom-scented smoke rises from its smoldering ashes. The Halfling boy stands and stumbles away from the hall, tears streaming freely down his face. Tazelhoffe gets a blank look on his face. Shallira slowly empties her lungs. Tayre blinks. You weep softly, quiet tears falling from your eyes. Myrianna weeps softly, quiet tears falling from her eyes. Rasl blinks. Thenidos rubs his eyes. Kasia shakes her head. Ichiko sobs. Theogrim holds back his tears, his eyes glistening with pain. Rasl frowns. Tayre weeps softly, quiet tears falling from his eyes. Rasl hangs his head. Duvalle sighs. Jystema weeps softly, quiet tears falling from her eyes. Morah tilts her head up. Kasia sniffs. Rasl coughs. Sherysse wipes her face with a black silk rose-imprinted handkerchief, drying off the streaks left by tears. (Tierus turns his face aside.) Keloin weeps softly, quiet tears falling from his eyes. You wipe your face with your lilac-scented handkerchief, drying off the streaks left by tears. In unison, the priests kneel down and place their candles side by side, flanking the burning incense. Michiko rubs her amethyst-hued eyes. Kormn stands up. Rasl leans on his stick. Rasl moves to a kneeling position. Mange stands up. Jarlstrom rubs his eyes. Rasl leans on his stick. Jayleena's face turns slightly pale. Rasl stands up. The aged priestess closes her pouch of seeds and places it back in the ebonwood chest, and the younger priestess puts her flask of holy water there as well. One of the acolytes closes and latches the chest, and then both acolytes heft it up together. Whirlin rests a gentle hand on Michiko's arm. Rasl sighs. Jarlstrom sniffs. Jayleena leans softly against Sente. In formal procession, the priests and priestesses leave the hall. Theogrim rubs his steel grey eyes. Kasia sniffs. Myrianna hangs her head. Lumaco passes a hand over her lily white face. Lumaco slowly empties her lungs. Tayre tilts his head down. Michiko removes a black mournbloom candle from in her beaded evening purse. (Kasia suspiciously rubs her eyes) A faint, flickering light emanates from a white remembrance candle, warming the room with its glow. Soft wisps of scented smoke waft from the iceblossom incense. Rasl rests a gentle hand on Myrianna. Daina drops a wreath of Mournblooms. Natsuki removes a black mournbloom candle from in her silver hooded cloak. Natsuki kneels down. Jystema leans softly against Theogrim. Sherysse passes a hand over her fair face. Jayleena shudders. Natsuki carefully places her mournbloom candle on the ground. Michiko offers Whirlin a black mournbloom candle. You sniff. Jystema rests a gentle hand on Theogrim's arm. Sheilagh rubs her sea green eyes. Whirlin accepts Michiko's mournbloom candle. Sheilagh blinks. Daina lights the mournbloom candle, which flickers and begins to burn. Sheilagh sniffs. You raise your prayer beads reverently to your lips. Sherysse snuggles Zosopage, who responds by cradling an arm around her. Maeror sighs deeply. Natsuki lights the remembrance candle, which flickers and begins to burn. Whirlin kneels down. You put some white monir prayer beads in your lilac samite bodice. Rasl leans softly against Myrianna. Zosopage leans softly against Sherysse. Archevald rests a gentle hand on Kasia's arm. Tazelhoffe passes a hand over his dark face. Whirlin carefully places his mournbloom candle on the ground. Archevald nods to Kasia. Daina carefully places her mournbloom candle on the ground. Whirlin lights the mournbloom candle, which flickers and begins to burn. Kasia smiles at Archevald. Theogrim snuggles Jystema, who responds by cradling an arm around him. You hear someone sigh. Sherysse put a black silk rose-imprinted handkerchief in her spidersilk vest. Daina removes a ghostly white candle from in her ivory gossamer satchel. Myrianna lets out a long, contemplative breath. Whirlin slowly empties his lungs. Sherysse sniffs. You bunch up your lilac-scented handkerchief in your fist. Whirlin stands up. Rasl rubs Myrianna tenderly. Natsuki removes a wreath of Mournblooms from in her silver hooded cloak. Myrianna hangs her head. Kasia sniffs. Shallira smiles at Natsuki. Valicar smiles as he nods with empathy towards the Paradis. Myrianna stands up. Tayre clasps Kasia's hand tenderly. Valicar nods. Natsuki drops a wreath of Mournblooms. Jystema slowly empties her lungs. Tayre gives Kasia a lingering kiss on the hand. Daina carefully places her white candle on the ground. Tayre closes his eyes for a moment. Harplo smiles at Sherysse. Natsuki closes her eyes for a moment. Rasl gazes heavenward. Daina lights the white candle, which flickers and begins to burn. You sigh softly. A white remembrance candle burns with a warm golden light. Some scarlet smoke wafts up from the iceblossom incense, sending tendrils of fragrance throughout the room. Rasl sighs. Khaitiff carefully places his mournbloom candle on the ground. Jarlstrom kneels down. Natsuki stands up. Khaitiff lights the mournbloom candle, which flickers and begins to burn. Jarlstrom continues to beseech the gods for mercy and guidance. Myrianna hugs Rasl, who wraps her in a warm embrace. A black mournbloom candle burns with a warm golden light. Rasl hugs Myrianna, who wraps him in a warm embrace. Tayre just touched a heart-shaped willow locket. Jarlstrom gazes heavenward. A faint, flickering light emanates from a white remembrance candle, warming the room with its glow. Galesmight says in Elven, "For every life lost, five have been saved. It is in remembrance that the dead will always be with us." Shallira shifts her weight. The mournbloom candle burns warmly, lending a soft light to the room. Jarlstrom continues to beseech the gods for mercy and guidance. Kasia clasps Archevald's hand tenderly. Jarlstrom nods. Keloin sniffs. Jarlstrom stands up. Keloin sniffs. [Icemule Temple, Chancel Nexus] No light of sun or star reaches this chamber deep within the heart of the glacier. Three oil lamps hang from the ceiling, lighting a room clad in various colors of granite. Radiating out from the center of the floor in a pattern reminiscent of the nautilus shell are widening bands of white, black, and silvery-grey stone. The white granite leads up a well-lit stairway to the north, while the black stone descends a dark stairway to the south. The grey leads through the east wall into the shadows beyond. You also see a black mournbloom candle, a ghostly white candle, a wreath of Mournblooms, a black mournbloom candle, a black mournbloom candle, a black mournbloom candle, a wreath of Mournblooms, a white remembrance candle, a white remembrance candle, some scarlet iceblossom incense, the Rendena disk, the icy blue Daina disk, a wall-sized oil painting and an ice blue taper. Also here: Harplo, Tazelhoffe, High Lady Blushes, Lumaco, Jarlstrom, Great Lord Whirlin, Lady Evelith, Great Lord Galesmight, Tayre, Duvalle, Shallira, Sheilagh, Kormn, Terrangel, Lady Rendena, Lady Jystema, Morah, Cappurnicus, Lord Ianeal, Lord Maeror, Lady Michiko, Lady Jayleena who is kneeling, Sente who is kneeling, Lady Natsuki, Meos, Lord Theogrim, Rasl, Myrianna, Sherysse, Zosopage, Keloin, Kasia, Archevald, Tierus, Daina, Great Lord Khaitiff, Mange Obvious exits: east, west, up, down Evelith smiles and squeezes Kasia's hand softly. Evelith nods. Rasl hangs his head. A ghostly white candle burns with a warm golden light. Sherysse nods to Zosopage. Kasia rests a gentle hand on Evelith's arm. Kasia sighs. Rasl says something in Halfling. A white remembrance candle flickers a moment and nearly goes out, then its flame springs to life again, burning merrily. Some scarlet incense burns softly as a stream of iceblossom-scented smoke rises from its smoldering ashes. Jarlstrom softly says, "Come home, spirits of our fallen fury. Come home -- you are welcome here and we miss ya"" Harplo pulls his white fox fur cloak tighter around him, bundling the soft warm fur closely about his neck and shoulders. You rub Rasl. Myrianna softly says in guild speak, "If ever we part, love, I will always welcome you home" Theogrim pulls Jystema closer to himself. Ianeal just tried to pull an ensigiled dark blue linen burnoose. The mournbloom candle flickers softly, casting a warm light throughout the area. A black mournbloom candle flickers a moment and nearly goes out, then its flame springs to life again, burning merrily. Rasl smiles at Myrianna. Duvalle says, "The ceremony will conclude in Clovertooth Hall." The glow from a white remembrance candle softly illuminates the room. You nod to Duvalle. Tazelhoffe sadly says, "lost my appetite." Sheilagh nods to Duvalle. Myrianna gives Rasl a lingering kiss on the lips. Rasl softly says in guild speak, "and I you dear, but we shall never be parted" Keloin bows to Duvalle. Rasl gazes fondly at Myrianna. Sente stands up. Rasl gives Myrianna a lingering kiss. Sheilagh shakes her head. You sniff. Sente nods to Duvalle. You curtsy to Duvalle. Tierus turns to face Duvalle. Duvalle bows to you. Tierus nods to Duvalle. Sente bows deeply at the waist, honoring Duvalle. Tayre coughs. You say, "A lovely service, Dean." (Morah bows in the direction of the candles.) Jayleena curtsies to Duvalle. Morah turns around. Duvalle smiles. Morah just went west. A ghostly white candle glows warmly with a soft, flickering light. Natsuki bows. A wisp of smoke rises from a white remembrance candle as the hot wax drips and splutters. Some scarlet smoke wafts up from the iceblossom incense, sending tendrils of fragrance throughout the room. A small draft catches the flame of a black mournbloom candle and it flickers brightly. A wisp of smoke rises from a black mournbloom candle as the hot wax drips and splutters. Duvalle says, "I believe it was healing, yes." You nod to Duvalle. A faint, flickering light emanates from a white remembrance candle, warming the room with its glow. Galesmight nods. Sheilagh shuffles her feet. The mournbloom candle flickers softly, casting a warm light throughout the area. You say, "Aye, seemed so." You say, "Good eve to ye, Dean." You bunch up your lilac-scented handkerchief in your fist. Duvalle bows. [Clovertooth Hall, Main Lobby] White marble walls gleam and echo the chattering voices of travellers passing through this lobby. Stone benches line the walls, providing a resting place for those waiting to do official business with the government of Icemule Trace. You also see the Rendena disk, a polished monir door, a modwir door and a sturdy steel door. Also here: Meos, Lady Natsuki, Lady Rendena, Tierus, Lady Jayleena, Sente, Morah, Mange, Keloin, Lord Maeror, Great Lord Whirlin, Lady Michiko, Tayre, Murp, Jarlstrom, Tazelhoffe, Archevald, Lady Evelith, Kasia, Lord Ianeal, Councillor Larchus, Lady Jystema, Lord Theogrim, Sherysse, Zosopage, Daina, Great Lord Khaitiff, Ichiko, Thenidos, Valicar Obvious exits: east, out You put a delicate silk lilac-scented handkerchief in your spidersilk skirt. Larchus says, "It's important to go on from grief, and that's why we honor and celebrate as well as grieve. Because we have to." Rasl gazes in wonder at his surroundings. (Kasia hugs Evelith tightly.) Whirlin nods. You sniff. Tazelhoffe nods. A white panther saunters in. Sente nods to Larchus. Valicar says, "They are a sturdy people though. They have to be to survive this land" Sherysse nods to Larchus. Valicar nods to Larchus. Sente glances at a white panther. Larchus softly says, "It isn't easy, and no one ever said it would be. But strong and fierce and true we are." Larchus nods to Valicar. You smile at Larchus. Rasl nods to Larchus. Larchus glances through the crowd and frowns. Jayleena softly says, "I'm glad to see you brought your better half." Murp appears to be trying hard not to grin. (Tierus settles his eyes on Evelith for just a moment. The magician's head tilts slightly to the right, and he simply smiles. ) Murp says, "He will show you how glad he is to see you later, I'm sure of it." Larchus asks, "Has anyone heard from... that Faendryl?" Jayleena beams happily at Murp! Daina says, "Not for many days, I have not." Maeror looks over at Larchus and shakes his head. Morah holds up her hand and tilts it side to side in a so-so gesture. Tazelhoffe shakes his head. Sente pets the panther. Jayleena softly says, "I'm certain he will." Ianeal says, "That may not be a bad thing." You say, "Last I saw him was some days ago." Michiko nods to Larchus. Jayleena rubs the panther, scratching him behind the ears. Larchus raises an eyebrow in Morah's direction. Larchus says, "That's odd..." Blushes says, "That is such a nice way to refer to the man who helped stop the Morphs." Larchus says, "Last I heard, he was coming." You say, "He was staying in the guild." Larchus frowns. Natsuki quietly says, "last I saw him he wasn't too keen on coming here... though he said he would..." Khaitiff nods to Blushes. Blushes grunts, amused. Natsuki shrugs. Daina nods to Natsuki. Larchus says, "Can someone go shake him out of the guild? It's wrong that he wouldn't be here." Michiko says, "I saw him there a few days ago, but I wasn't able to ask if he would be attending." You say, "Perhaps if ye spoke to the Sorcerer Guildmaster." (Evelith notices Tierus' smile, inclining her head briefly before returning her attentions to Larchus.) Tierus says, "Ah saw 'im a few days back. 'e looked like 'e 'ad an 'eadache." Trevyr just arrived. You see Trevyr Dabbings the Rogue. He appears to be a Paradis Halfling. He appears to be in his dotage. He has brown eyes and tanned skin. He has short, amber hair. He is in good shape. He is wearing the Dabbings Family crest, a velvet pouch, a fur-edged sheath, an iron-banded hide shield, a white wolf's head helm, some fur-lined boots, a white wolf hide parka, a large backpack emblazoned with large white runes, and a crystal amulet. Larchus says, "That would be a place to start." Tierus looks thoughtfully at Larchus. Larchus nods to you. Tayre glances at Khaitiff. Blushes exclaims, "I can wake him up I'm sure!" Morah looks thoughtfully at Larchus. Natsuki quietly says, "I suppose daina or khait should try that..." Tierus says, "Ah'll go. Ah've somethin' tae give 'im." Natsuki quietly says, "em..." Khaitiff clearly says, "I can head to the guild" Natsuki coughs. Morah nods. Larchus nods to Trevyr in greeting. Tierus just went out. Morah joins Khaitiff's group. Trevyr rubs his chin thoughtfully. A white panther stares hungrily at Daina! Daina says, "I am a wizard" Great Lord Khaitiff's group just went out. Lumaco glances at a white panther. Michiko glances at a white panther. High Lady Blushes just went out. Jayleena glances at Murp. Natsuki flails her arms about. Daina says, "Khaitiff is going, though." Michiko grins. Sente confidently says, "Tell 'im we're gamblin' tonight, that should work." Natsuki quietly says, "yes but he likes you still" Natsuki quietly says, "you being a dark elf and all" Daina waves her hand in a dismissive gesture. Jayleena softly asks, "You haven't fed him lately, have you?" Ianeal folds his arms over his chest. Jayleena stares at Murp. Murp says, "I don't even know him." Jayleena snorts at Murp. Sente laughs! Larchus says, "Well, even if Pheyrmerrin's a laggard, it'll give folk time to filter over... and me time to take a few breaths." You smile at Larchus. Meos shifts his weight. Kasia sighs. Larchus rests a gentle hand on Kasia's arm. Larchus nods to Kasia. Kasia nods to Larchus. Rasl sits down. Rasl breathes in deeply as he clenches a pipe in his mouth, then exhales slowly, causing some dark amorphous clouds of puffy smoke to float up from his mouth. Rasl leans forward and rests his chin in his hand, a thoughtful expression on his face. Michiko leans on Whirlin resting her head on his shoulder. Myrianna turns to face Larchus. Myrianna softly asks, "May I ask you something?" Myrianna cocks her head at Larchus. Larchus raises an eyebrow. Larchus asks, "And what are you wanting to ask?" Trevyr removes a frosted chocolate tart from in his heavy backpack. Myrianna softly says, "The abbess... she told me..." Myrianna softly says, "that you and your family would grieve..." Myrianna softly asks, "did you lose someone dear to you?" Valicar says, "I am not sure that is appropriate to ask." Trevyr nibbles on his tart, watching the crowd with curiosity. (Iscikella licks her lips uncomfortably.) Kasia says, "Didnt everyone.." Natsuki quietly asks, "hasn't everyone who lives here lost someone...? be it friend or relative?" Natsuki works her fingers under her soulstone circlet and scratches her head. Ianeal quietly says, "I did not..." Larchus says, "It's hard for me not to see this whole city as but another child of mine. I've lived and loved here my whole life." Myrianna nods. Zosopage nods to Larchus. Sherysse smiles at Larchus. Sheilagh nods. Zosopage says, "Me too" Sheilagh sniffs. Zosopage gazes fondly at Sherysse. Zosopage leans softly against Sherysse. Sheilagh blinks. Larchus smiles at Zosopage. Suddenly you have the strangest feeling that you are being watched. The feeling fades as quickly as it came. Sherysse gazes fondly at Zosopage. Sheilagh gazes in wonder at her surroundings. Murp says, "Girls are too short around here for me." Larchus mutters something about slow sorcerers. Daina looks over at Larchus and shakes her head. Whirlin asks something in Halfling. Jayleena glances at Murp. Sheilagh glances at Murp. Whirlin cocks his head at Trevyr. Rasl chuckles. Trevyr nods to Whirlin. Whirlin says something in Halfling. Daina says, "He's been taken, apparently." Natsuki waves a hand at Murp, dismissing him indifferently. Jayleena softly says, "Don't make me beat you, Murp." Whirlin smiles. Daina says, "Pheyrmerrin has." Daina frowns. Sheilagh asks something in Halfling. You ask, "Taken?" Trevyr says something in Halfling. Murp says, "I'm just sayin'." Maeror peers quizzically at Daina. Kasia blinks. Whirlin nods to Trevyr. You blink at Daina. Sente blinks. You ask, "Taken ill?" Daina says, "Aye, he broke some laws, apparently." You ask, "Taken away?" Jayleena blinks. Valicar asks, "again?" Daina says, "No, some people came for him." Natsuki chuckles. You say, "Ah..." Rasl says something in Halfling. Daina nods to you. Ianeal says, "Surprise surprise." Jayleena softly asks, "People?" Natsuki quietly says, "that sounds so familiar" Daina says, "Two hours past." Lumaco asks, "Halfling people?" Tayre blinks. Natsuki gazes heavenward. Natsuki stares off into space. Whirlin says something in Halfling. Trevyr smiles at Rasl. Murp chuckles. A cloud of dense silvery fog suddenly appears. The fog quickly dissipates to reveal Blushes. Natsuki quietly says, "he'll be in a terrible mood now" Michiko cocks her head at Whirlin. Natsuki wrinkles her nose. You ask, "Faendryl?" Blushes says, "I hate to break the news..." Whirlin rubs Michiko gently. Larchus frowns. Blushes says, "But he's either dead or passed out." Blushes nods to Larchus. Tazelhoffe cocks his head at Blushes. Murp chuckles. Natsuki blinks at Blushes. Archevald blinks. Tayre says, "He's neither." Larchus says, "He's forgiven for his debts." Natsuki quietly asks, "dead?" Blushes says, "He does drink like a dwarf." Larchus says, "If he'd been tossed in the lockup, I'd surely have heard." Sherysse ponders. Valicar nods to Myrianna. Daina says, "Not jail" Blushes says, "and you know elves, can't hold it like us." Blushes nods. Sheilagh asks something in Halfling. Daina says, "Khaitiff is attempting to find out more now." Mange asks, "did someone check the guild yet?" You ask, "Didn't he have a bit of an issue with his own kind?" Daina nods to Mange. Michiko says, "Tell him that the extra eye-of-Koar emerald I gave him for free after the banishment should be able to pay off whatever 'debts' he has..." Morah just arrived. Maeror says, "That's where he is now" Michiko rolls her eyes. You say, "In his home town." Daina grins at Michiko. (Evelith pinches the bridge of her nose briefly, then reclasps her hands behind her back.) Maeror says, "Khaitiff that is" Larchus says, "Did he? I didn't ask on the matter." Larchus frowns. Trevyr takes a bite of his chocolate tart. You say, "I remember him muttering something." Rasl leans on his stick. You say, "Was vague." Rasl leans forward and rests his chin in his hand, a thoughtful expression on his face. Sente gazes heavenward. Great Lord Khaitiff's group just arrived. Rasl breathes in deeply as he clenches a pipe in his mouth, then exhales slowly, causing some dark amorphous clouds of puffy smoke to float up from his mouth. Daina takes her rightful place beside Khaitiff. Daina turns an inquisitive ear towards Khaitiff. Larchus asks, "What happened?" Khaitiff recites: "I have an annoucnement" Natsuki quietly says, "he seems to have so many problems so many troubles..." Natsuki shakes her head. Larchus glances at Khaitiff. Ianeal says, "Probably got himself in trouble for interfering." Sheilagh turns to face Khaitiff. Rasl turns an inquisitive ear towards Khaitiff. Larchus waves the crowd to silence. Michiko turns an inquisitive ear towards Khaitiff. Trevyr turns to face Khaitiff. Cappurnicus furrows his brow. Natsuki quietly says, "tsk tsk reminds me of someone..." Khaitiff recites: "Pheyrmerrin was arrested by his people not but two hours ago, they took him for his heroism" Meos blinks. Larchus blinks. Rasl blinks. Maeror babbles something unintelligible. Mange rubs his chin thoughtfully. Tierus ponders. Natsuki blinks at Khaitiff. Cappurnicus asks, "What was their reasoning?" Archevald rubs his chin thoughtfully. You blink at Khaitiff. Sente confidently asks, "Wad?" Rasl scratches his head. Sherysse gazes heavenward. Michiko gasps. You ask, "For his heroism?" Valicar asks, "the Dark Elves did?" Morah nods. Blushes says, "Magics." Blushes nods. Keloin scratches his head. Khaitiff recites: "He did not resist and I think he means for none to follow to rescue" Tierus says, "Oh, dun' look at me." Sheilagh raises an eyebrow. Larchus says, "They haven't much love for our people, but that's hardly cause to arrest him." Tierus stares off into space. Larchus frowns. Blushes says, "It would make sense." Larchus says, "It doesn't make sense." Ichiko furrows her brow. Blushes says, "no, no. Surely for his magic." Jarlstrom looks rather confused. Blushes nods to Larchus. Daina says, "Mayhap the sort of magicks he used." Meos says, "i suspect we won't be seeing him for a long time then" Daina nods to Blushes. Larchus peers quizzically at Blushes. Ianeal says, "He interfered in something that didn't involve him." Zosopage rubs his chin thoughtfully. You say, "Well, I believe he had other problems with them, as I said. But was so vague what he muttered." Valicar says, "perhaps he knows something" A white panther emits a surprisingly deep growl! Blushes asks, "It would make sense, like back in the days of Despana, no?" Khaitiff recites: "The Guild Master was helpful but I felt a sense of loss in his voice..." Blushes says, "Opening portals and stuff." Blushes nods to Larchus. You say, "Perhaps those books of his." Rasl softly asks, "he arrested for saving us, or not allowing us to be destroyed?" Mange rubs his chin thoughtfully. Larchus asks, "They took him for... sorcery?" Larchus gets a blank look on his face. Khaitiff recites: "I was told he broke their laws... tis all I was told" Larchus asks, "Isn't that what they DO?" Cappurnicus asks, "Was his arrest seen?" Natsuki quietly says, "I tell you... I'll never understand politics...." Ianeal says, "Good luck finding out why... you'll not get that information out of them." Natsuki gazes heavenward. You ask, "Perhaps for not reporting his findings?" Rasl nods to Natsuki. Valicar mutters elves. Sherysse stares off into space. Khaitiff clearly says, "Was seen by the Guild Master aye tis all" Morah nods to you. Ichiko glances at Valicar. Rasl blinks. Rasl shakes his head. Galesmight whispers, "Did you perhaps get one of Pheymerrin's globes?" Valicar winks at Ichiko. Natsuki shakes her head. Larchus says, "Well... that'll make it right hard to reward him." Larchus frowns. A white panther's tail darts back and forth sharply as he purrs. Sheilagh scowls. Khaitiff nods to Larchus. Michiko nods. You nod to Galesmight. Jayleena rubs the panther, scratching him behind the ears. Rasl inhales deeply upon his pipe, puckering his lips and sending out a small stream of smoke before him briefly. Sente confidently says, "I'd say." Blushes says, "I'll take it for him." Blushes grunts with a sparkle in her eye! Valicar asks, "Perhaps we should help him with his argument?" Blushes struts about. Meos says, "perhaps to keep his findings for themselves" Tazelhoffe chuckles. Daina grins at Blushes. Evelith rubs her silvery mark. Valicar idly picks at a spiked rolaren morning star. Galesmight whispers, "How much did you find out about them?" You remove a faenor-banded smoky glaesine globe from around your neck. Blushes says, "Look at me, I'm Pheyrmerrin." You show Galesmight your smoky glaesine globe. Blushes struts about. Blushes struts about. Blushes sniffs. Ianeal says, "Won't work." Morah frowns at Blushes. Ianeal looks over at Valicar and shakes his head. Blushes tilts her head up. Galesmight nods to you. Jayleena looks over at Blushes and shakes her head. Larchus chuckles. Larchus shakes his head. Larchus frowns. Mange gives Blushes a little prod between the shoulder blades. Natsuki coughs. Theogrim sighs. Galesmight taps his smoky glaesine globe lightly, and iridescent light shimmers briefly in its depths. Blushes says, "psh." Rasl chuckles. Khaitiff recites: "Tis fitting for this Festival of Sorrow I tell the bad news of his life..." Ianeal says, "If the Faendryl took him home for something, he's gone." Daina sighs worriedly. Blushes exclaims, "He stole my egg shard!" Trevyr takes a bite of his chocolate tart. Larchus says, "That's a rather dark spot in a moment of peace." Evelith traces the lines of her silvery mark. Ianeal says, "They won't listen to anyone else." Khaitiff leans on Daina propping his chin on her shoulder. You quietly whisper to Galesmight, "That the creature in it is alive. More than that, I cannot say. But my daughter heard its cries in loresong." Valicar asks, "Who said anything about talk?" Valicar winks at Ianeal. Larchus takes a deep breath. When you turn the globe, the crude blue green-eyed humanoid-shaped gelatin inside loses cohesion and flattens back into a pale blue blob. Larchus says, "WEll." Sherysse looks lost in thought. Meos slowly empties his lungs. Larchus coughs. Galesmight whispers, "Aye, I also heard that. Do you hear yours cry?" Larchus says, "Well." Natsuki gazes heavenward. Galesmight raises his smoky glaesine globe to his ear for a moment. You gaze in awe at the smoky glaesine globe in your hand. Evelith looks over at Lumaco and shakes her head. You nod to Galesmight. Sheilagh gazes heavenward. You hang a faenor-banded smoky glaesine globe around your neck. You sigh softly. Tierus says something in Dark Elven. Larchus says, "We're here to honor a few folk, sorcerer or no, who helped protect Icemule in its time of need...." Galesmight whispers, "Any more magics like if ye wave it at someone?" Ianeal says, "If you want to lead your people against Ta'Faendryl, be my guest. I'll sit back and watch." Sheilagh nods. Ianeal nods to Valicar. Morah removes a faenor-banded smoky glaesine globe from in her fleece shawl. Morah tightens her grip on her smoky glaesine globe, and the inside of the globe suddenly shimmers with a scarlet hue. The color fades as quickly as it came. Kasia turns an inquisitive ear towards Larchus. Valicar mutters lost_city. Natsuki looks over at Ianeal and shakes her head. Sheilagh says something in Halfling. Cappurnicus furrows his brow. Rasl turns to face Larchus. Valicar nods to Ianeal. Khaitiff clearly says, "Tis not lost if you know where to look" Larchus says, "Not puttin the focus on those who helped out Pheyrmerrin, but those who defended the city when we didn't know what we were doing." Tierus says, "Tha'd be a grave error." Khaitiff nods to Valicar. Larchus says, "When we thought it was lost." You quietly whisper to Galesmight, "Waving it someone causing it to try and take on that form, but it is not completely formed so can only manage the eyes." Trevyr nods to Larchus. Galesmight nods to you. Galesmight removes a faenor-banded smoky glaesine globe from his neck. Galesmight tightens his grip on his smoky glaesine globe, and the inside of the globe suddenly shimmers with a scarlet hue. The color fades as quickly as it came. You quietly whisper to Galesmight, "As to the rest, it feeds when I clench it. A somewhat painful experience." Galesmight hangs a faenor-banded smoky glaesine globe around his neck. Larchus says, "Who risked their lives more than once and wound up standin around in the bottom of an icy grave in the Trace or up in Pinefar." Galesmight whispers, "Aye, certainly I have learned that also." Whirlin shudders. Galesmight raises his smoky glaesine globe to his ear for a moment. You nod to Galesmight. Theogrim hangs his head. Murp winces. Larchus says, "I'm going to address two of my own here first." Sheilagh shivers. Blushes says, "Poor Belle, she's seen her fair share of loss." Blushes frowns. Natsuki nods to Blushes. Larchus says, "Not for fightin... though I understand they fought too..." Tazelhoffe leans back. Blushes exclaims, "I think she's gone crazy really, she didn't even seem to notice the morphs!" Jayleena shivers. Larchus says, "But for looking for one I thought lost. For caring about one when a thousand were in jeopardy." Larchus clearly says, "Rasl and Whirlin, step forward." Rasl blinks. Rasl leans on his stick. Rasl stands up. Whirlin blinks. Sheilagh applauds. Keloin applauds Rasl. Mange applauds Rasl. Zosopage smiles. Khaitiff turns towards Whirlin and renders a sharp hand salute. Natsuki applauds. Valicar smiles. Sheilagh rubs Rasl. Whirlin bows. Rasl bows. Rasl blushes a glowing shade of red. Larchus somberly says, "You're living when many among your kin are fallen." Larchus says, "That's a joy... to be breathing still... and a responsibility, to the fallen." Trevyr looks at his neighbors with great admiration. The white cat meows loudly. Larchus says, "And I'm going to ask you each in turn to search your hearts... remembering the blood that runs in your veins..." Larchus says, "And to say something to the dead, who are not here when you are... and something to the living, who are here because you are." You see Rasl Mahran the Healer. He appears to be a Halfling. He appears to be senescent and tiny. He has bright crystal blue eyes and tanned skin. He has cropped, tousled light brown hair with grey at the temples. He has a plump face, a button nose and deep laugh lines. He is inked with a pattern of intertwined crimson scaled serpents upon his arms. He has a long-stemmed dark ashwood pipe clenched between his teeth, and a smiling dolphin tattoo on his arm. He is in good shape. He is holding an enruned walking stick in his right hand. He is wearing a gold trimmed royal blue tunic, an ivory and golden topaz earring, a silver-trim blue spidersilk vest, a pearl-eyed onyx dragon locket, a blue diamond friendship ring, a silvery-blue tanik pipe case, a blue sapphire rearing mule pin, a small crystal Sovyn pin, a pale blue silk cloak held at the shoulder by a silver soyvn clove clasp, a crystal temple pin, a crystal-set silver thumb ring, a thin-chained tiny mistwood hourglass, a rune-etched black leather belt, a fragrant white rose corsage, a long chain-mail scabbard, and a royal blue kilt embroidered with two silvery swords overlaying a golden crown. You see Great Lord Whirlin the Zephyr Mage. He appears to be a Paradis Halfling. He appears to be in the prime of life and taller than average. He has silver-shot bluish grey eyes and tanned skin. He has shoulder-length, fiery auburn hair with lighter streaks loosely pulled back away from his face with a black spidersilk band. He has a weathered face, a thin nose and dimpled cheeks. He has a spider web tattoo on his forearm, a Wizard Guild tattoo on his arm, a lightning bolt tattoo on his finger, a large black spider tattoo on his neck, a crossed wands tattoo on his chest, and a lustrous dark ebonwood pipe clenched between his teeth. He is in good shape. He is wearing a midnight black wizard's hat emblazoned with a spiral of crescent moons, an ancient enruned pendant, a deathstone spiderweb pendant, an arachnid crested rolaren defender with intricate veniom runes inlaid along the edges, a vaalorn and veniom wedding band, a vruul skin wrist sheath, an olivine faenor-bloom pin, a red Arachne symbol, a rune-embossed leather cloak, a veniom-edged ebon spidersilk vest, a rune-trimmed dark spidersilk belt with a drake dagger hanging from it, a spidersilk enchanter's pouch, an enruned veniom flask, some tailored ebon spidersilk breeches, a whorled sleek onyx anklet, and a highly polished pair of krolvin-hide leather dress shoes adorned with shimmering veniom clasped buckles that catch the light. Larchus says, "...eh, whoever's ready first between the two of you." Larchus glances at Rasl. Larchus glances at Whirlin. Khaitiff nods to Trevyr. Rasl's face turns slightly pale. Whirlin chuckles. Blushes says, "Too many tall people, can't hardly see." Galesmight ducks his head. Galesmight asks, "Better?" Galesmight peers quizzically at Blushes. Whirlin ponders. Jarlstrom smiles and lifts up Blushes Blushes says, "No, you are still a whole torso over me." Blushes babbles something unintelligible. Rasl glances at Whirlin. Jayleena moves to stand behind Blushes. Whirlin softly asks, "I'm not much for public speaking... do you want to go first?" Galesmight sits down. Whirlin cocks his head at Rasl. Blushes babbles something unintelligible. Rasl softly says, "ummm, sure" Rasl gulps. Blushes glances at Jarlstrom. Jarlstrom asks something in Giantman. Larchus says, "Doesn't have to be long." Jarlstrom softly asks, "Betta?" Larchus says, "Just... something that matters." Blushes says, "Don't pick up a dwarf without asking first..." Blushes splutters. Larchus says, "And you can hush up over there, you're twice as thick as me but I could still thump you if I had to." Jarlstrom smiles and puts her down again Larchus snorts at Blushes. The white cat rubs up against a white panther. Whirlin chuckles. Blushes blinks. Blushes glances at Larchus. Blushes exclaims, "What, I can't see!" Rasl softly says, "for those that are gone, they are truly never gone" Larchus smiles. You listen carefully to Rasl. Rasl softly says, "and for those that are here, remember why you are" Larchus bows to Rasl. Rasl hangs his head. Rasl bows to Larchus. Larchus asks, "And ye, Whirlin, a few words?" Whirlin nods. Whirlin's face turns slightly pale. Whirlin clears his throat. Whirlin softly says, "Indeed, those who are lost are never truly lost, for they live on in our hearts and our memories forever..." Larchus steeples his fingers together. Whirlin softly says, "And to those who are here now... know that as long as I am here, I will try to protect you, as I've protected this town." Larchus nods his approval. Whirlin softly says, "I was born here, so.. I have a special attachment." Whirlin ducks his head. Rasl smiles. Sheilagh pets Tierus's white cat. Larchus says, "Rasl and Whirlin, by the authority given to me by the town that I represent... I bestow on you both the title 'Fahar dyur Kontiquaela.'" Larchus says something in Halfling. Larchus says, "For those of you who have no idea what I just said, it's a Truefolk term." Whirlin bows to Larchus. Rasl bows to Larchus. Larchus says, "It means Bane of the Child-Stealers." Larchus removes a frosted blue crystal pendant from in his white leather cloak. Galesmight says, "I like it." Larchus bows to Rasl. Larchus offers Rasl a frosted blue crystal pendant. Valicar bows to Rasl. Rasl blinks. Valicar bows to Whirlin. You say, "Impressive title." Rasl accepts Larchus's blue crystal pendant. Larchus removes a frosted blue crystal pendant from in his white leather cloak. Rasl bows to Larchus. Whirlin softly says, "I only hope I can live up to it.." Whirlin chuckles. Jayleena softly says, "Appropriate. And well spoken, each of you." Larchus offers Whirlin a frosted blue crystal pendant. Whirlin accepts Larchus's blue crystal pendant. Rasl softly says, "thank you sir" Larchus says, "In another day, another time, another place... that might've been it." Larchus says, "And I'd tell you all to take a few deep breaths, remember the dead, and joy for the living." Larchus says, "But it's not." Larchus says, "Because we weren't saved by our own hands, no matter how much we might have wished on it." Larchus says, "But by the hands and aid of those outside us." Trevyr nods. Larchus says, "When I thought one closest to me lost, it wasn't just her kin, Whirlin and Rasl, who went looking for her." Larchus says, "There were three others, who weren't kin to her at all." A white panther's tail darts back and forth sharply as he purrs. Larchus says, "...four." Rasl sits down. Whirlin sits down. Larchus says, "Kasia. Michiko. Myrianna. Tayre." Myrianna blushes a delicate shade of pale pink. Kasia smiles solemnly. Tayre blushes a florid shade of crimson. Rasl hangs a frosted blue crystal pendant around his neck. Whirlin hangs a frosted blue crystal pendant around his neck. Larchus says, "We can't call you by the title we would our own, because it's specific to us. It's not proper." Larchus says, "But there's a variant, slight, that means 'friend who isn't Truefolk' at the same as it means 'Bane of the Child-Stealers'." Trevyr nods sagely in agreement with the councillor. Tayre sheepishly says, "I don't want... it's not necessary..." Tayre gibbers incoherently. Natsuki begins chuckling at Tayre! Larchus says, "Kasia, Michiko, Myrianna, and Tayre... from this day forth, you are known to the people in this city, and those beyond if they pay attention, as Ka'Fahar'a dyur Kontiquaela." A white panther glances about briefly and then rapidly disappears from view. Myrianna blushes a delicate shade of pale pink. Michiko blushes a nice shade of bright pink. Rasl smiles. Larchus says, "And I'd ask you to each search your souls the same, for a few words to the living and words to the dead, before I formally place it upon you." Kasia breathes in slightly. Larchus says, "And, ah, don't stumble over each other, make sure the others know you're going to talk before you do." Larchus smiles. Tayre nervously says, "I'm... gonna need some rum fer this..." Tayre stares off into space. Michiko says, "You can go first." Kasia quietly says, "I will speak" Michiko nods to Tayre. Michiko chuckles. Myrianna nods to Kasia. Larchus nods to Kasia. Kasia breathes very slowly and looks much calmer. Kasia quietly says, "The loss in the hearts of those who grieve, runs deeper than any river I have ever crossed. The lives of those remaining, is the bridge that gets us over it." Kasia smiles sadly Kasia nods. Larchus bows to Kasia. Larchus removes a frosted white crystal pendant from in his white leather cloak. Larchus says, "Well said, lass." Larchus offers Kasia a frosted white crystal pendant. Trevyr bows to Kasia. Kasia accepts Larchus's white crystal pendant. Kasia curtsies to Larchus. Kasia nods. You see Kasia McCairnis. She appears to be a Vaalor Elf. She appears to be in the bloom of youth and taller than average. She has sultry stormy grey eyes and bronze skin. She has waist length, tousled silver hair worn in elaborate braids. She has a heart-shaped face, an upturned nose and slightly upswept pointed ears. She has a red fox tattoo on her thigh, and a red fire sprite tattoo on her ankle. She is in good shape. She is holding a frosted white crystal pendant in her right hand and a round-cut smoky topaz medallion in her left hand. She is wearing a pair of dark red ruby earrings, a burnished bronze fox locket, a long red velvet cloak, a cinnamon red velvet bliaut laced with fine bronze chains, a ruby-joined crystal ring bracelet, and some delicate crystal-heeled shoes. (Kasia steps back into the crowd) Larchus says, "I'm not leaving to rum the sylvan." Larchus snorts. Larchus says, "Though he might need it all the same." Larchus examines Tayre closely, sizing him up and taking note of all the details. Tayre stares off into space. Rasl chuckles. Tayre trembles. You hear the voice of Meos say, "speech speech speech" Tayre says, "I don't know how to make intelligable speeches..." Khaitiff clearly says, "Come Tayre tis time to show us your talents" Tayre fidgets. You see Tayre the Ka'Fahar'a dyur Kontiquaela. He appears to be a Sylvankind of the Lassaran D'ahranal. He appears to be in the spring of life and taller than average. He has sparkling crystal blue eyes and golden brown skin. He has short, mussed yew brown hair with a scattering of deep golden highlights that just reaches his ears in a riot of unruly curls. He has slightly upswept pointed ears. He is in good shape. He is wearing a heart-shaped willow locket, a faenor-banded smoky glaesine globe, a star-patterned vivid celestial blue cloak secured at the shoulder by a sapphire-inlaid platinum clasp, a gold-threaded white silk shirt, a silver crescent moon buckle, a pair of celestial blue pants, and some buckled blue leather boots. Blushes grumbles. Sherysse says, "Usually we can't shut him up." Maeror says, "wow, Tayre specechless" Tayre stares off into space. Maeror nods to Sherysse. Larchus whispers loudly to Tayre, "It's all right, lad. They'll understand your heart even if your words stumble." Michiko says, "It's a first." Natsuki quietly says, "there's a first time for everything...." You grin at Larchus. Tayre breathes very slowly and looks much calmer. Valicar says, "Just go with what you feel, Tayre." Ianeal quietly says, "Too bad it won't last." Tayre appears to be trying hard not to grin. Tayre just nudged Tazelhoffe. Tazelhoffe grins at Tayre. Lumaco quietly says in Sylvankind, "It's all right Tayre." Valicar says, "if it is from the heart, it is not ill-said" Valicar nods to Tayre. Tayre closes his eyes for a moment. Trevyr leans forward, complaining that he can't hear. Blushes nods to Trevyr. Blushes exclaims, "That's what I said!" Trevyr exclaims something in Halfling. Larchus quietly says, "Doesn't have to be Tayre next." Natsuki quietly says in Sylvankind, "I could use something witty and nice tayre the weight of grief in the air could use something to lighten it... after all we have to go on" Trevyr gasps. Valicar says, "meet the challenge" Valicar nods to Tayre. Marclar moves to stand behind Trevyr. Tayre says, "I.. don't have have the grasp of Common to express my sorrow for the loss this town experienced, but I hope as one, we can pull through, learn, and grow -- making Icemule the solace I have treasured for many, many years." Tayre fidgets. Larchus nods his approval. Larchus removes a frosted white crystal pendant from in his white leather cloak. Tayre blushes a florid shade of crimson. Tayre buries his face in his hands. Trevyr bows to Tayre. (Kasia nods approvingly at Tayre.) Larchus says, "You said it good enough." Larchus offers Tayre a frosted white crystal pendant. Tayre bows to Larchus. Tayre accepts Larchus's white crystal pendant. Larchus smiles gently. Blushes exclaims, "I need a target in town central, lickity split!" Blushes nods to Tayre. Blushes examines her fingernails. Larchus pokes Blushes in the ribs. Tayre hangs a frosted white crystal pendant around his neck. Tayre glances at Blushes. Tayre gazes heavenward. Blushes blushes and babbles a few incoherent words, looking sincerely flustered. Larchus asks, "Michiko?" Larchus asks, "Or Myrianna?" Michiko blushes a nice shade of bright pink. Michiko's long ivory velvet skirts rustle softly as she shifts her weight from one side to the other. Myrianna softly asks, "would you rather go, or shall i?" Myrianna cocks her head at Michiko. Michiko says, "I'll go, I suppose." Michiko blushes a nice shade of bright pink. Michiko says, "Though I myself am fortunate to not have lost anyone dear to me as of yet... I grieve for those who have." Michiko says, "To those still here with us, I'm glad that I could have helped you, as small a part as I played." Larchus removes a frosted white crystal pendant from in his white leather cloak. Michiko curtsies. Larchus smiles at Michiko. Michiko blushes a nice shade of bright pink. Larchus offers Michiko a frosted white crystal pendant. Michiko accepts Larchus's white crystal pendant. Michiko says, "Thank you, everyone." Larchus turns to face Myrianna. Michiko blushes a nice shade of bright pink. Myrianna softly says, "Unfortunately, you all have given me too much time to search my heart, I suppose." Myrianna blushes a delicate shade of pale pink. Michiko hangs a frosted white crystal pendant around her neck. Myrianna softly says, "For the children stolen, and the others who have passed on, I wish them to know that they have have not passed in vain, nor will they ever be forgotten. And though I am not "True folk" I wish to call them home. All that have passed, I wish them to return home." Larchus bows. Larchus removes a frosted white crystal pendant from in his white leather cloak. Myrianna softly says, "For those who remain with us... Grieve tonight, and let your sorrows overcome you for once. Let us remember those who have gone, and then... Celebrate. Celebrate our times with them, as well as the life that their passing has granted each of us." Larchus says, "Well spoken." Myrianna blushes a delicate shade of pale pink. Larchus offers Myrianna a frosted white crystal pendant. Myrianna accepts Larchus's white crystal pendant. Myrianna bows to Larchus. You quietly whisper to Trevyr, "I think ye can say the town stood together well, which is a thing to be proud of. I imagine the members of yer family on the Town Council found this a turn of events which made the sorrow somewhat bearable." Larchus says, "Now..." Myrianna hangs a frosted white crystal pendant around her neck. Trevyr nods approvingly, slowly, digesting the words. You nod to Trevyr. Trevyr nods to you. Larchus says, "There are others, here, also worthy of honor." Larchus says, "I won't miss the chance to say..." Larchus turns to face Valicar. Valicar bows to Larchus. Larchus says, "Thank you, and the Fury, for all your aid." Larchus bows to Valicar. Trevyr whispers, "Indeed yes. I think our little experiment on the glacier is succeeding beyond my foremothers' expectations." Valicar says, "Thank you for allowing us to make our home here in Icemule" Valicar nods to Larchus. You smile at Trevyr. Valicar bows to Larchus. Larchus says, "I'd name Perigourd in particular among them, but he's not here, and I'm truly sorry for it." Larchus says, "He led... charge after charge after charge... it was amazing." Valicar says, "Alas, Perigourd has passed Ebons" You quietly whisper to Trevyr, "Aye, would seem so is the case." Larchus shakes his head. Trevyr bows to Valicar with profound respect. Larchus sighs. Valicar bows to Trevyr. Evelith quickly says, "He's just gone to make pickles somewhere far away." Galesmight asks, "Perigourd has?" Valicar nods to Galesmight. Larchus says, "No one on the list I'm about to name stands higher than any other." Blushes says, "Better not be a short dwarf joke..." Larchus says, "But I did want to pay honor to your organization." Blushes grunts and sneers at the same time in obvious distaste! Valicar says, "I truly thank you, Sir for the honor" Valicar nods to Larchus. Larchus says, "And if any of the ones I name are able to speak a few words for the living and dead, I'll thank them for honoring our tradition, even though they're not among our people." Larchus says, "Though I'll name them all first and give the pendant for the title second." Larchus clears his throat. Larchus says, "And these aren't all the ones who aided, either." Larchus says, "They're just the names that kept coming back, again and again..." Larchus says, "Blushes." Larchus says, "Chomm." Larchus says, "Codwyr." Larchus says, "Daina." Larchus says, "Hrvac." Larchus says, "Imraith." Larchus says, "Kerl." Larchus says, "Khaitiff." Larchus says, "Lassitar." Larchus says, "Maadar." Larchus says, "Mange." Larchus says, "Methais." Larchus says, "Murp." Larchus says, "Natsuki." Larchus says, "Perigourd... who isn't here.." Larchus says, "Pheyrmerrin... who also isn't here..." Larchus frowns. Larchus says, "More missing faces than I would've wished." Larchus shakes his head. Larchus says, "Prospera." Galesmight says, "Prospera is on her way I believe." Larchus says, "Scaxton." Larchus says, "Svardin." Larchus says, "Tazelhoffe." Larchus says, "Valicar." Larchus says, "And Wholenote." Larchus says, "All those I've just named are also bein recorded with the title and honor of Ka'Fahar'a dyur Kontiquaela... friend, and Bane of the Child-Stealers." Trevyr starts, as is from a small nap, then joins in the applause. Valicar bows to Larchus. Blushes glances at Trevyr. Blushes gives Trevyr a little prod between the shoulder blades. Trevyr blinks. Blushes says, "wakey, wakey." Blushes nods to Trevyr. Trevyr nods to Blushes. Trevyr says, "I heard it all, I assure you." Trevyr coughs. Larchus says, "If any of you receiving the title are willing to speak a few words for the living and for the dead, I'd ask you do so." Larchus removes a frosted white crystal pendant from in his white leather cloak. Valicar rubs his chin thoughtfully. A young lad dashes into the room, hands Trevyr a message and dashes off. Larchus says, "If you run off on me, I'm going to tell all your relatives." Larchus stares at Trevyr. Larchus nods to Valicar. Blushes asks, "are we going in order of whatever, or what?" Larchus turns an inquisitive ear towards Valicar. Larchus quietly says, "In whatever order." Blushes nods to Larchus. Murp says, "Someone already said what I was going to say." Mange nods to Murp. Mange says, "me too" Larchus quietly says, "Then you can hush down till those who're up to saying something have said it, and think in your hearts what you don't want to say out loud." Blushes asks, "what?" Valicar says, "For those who have gone before we...Your names and deeds shall grace the voices of the bards till the heavens fall. And dishonored are we who did not follow you to Ebon's. For ne'er a more noble host has come to the gate before." Valicar says, "And for we who are behind...Koar speed the day when we too shall give our lives for the good of the Realm. For Icemule." Larchus bows to Valicar. Valicar says, "For no greater a gift can we give" Valicar bows to Larchus. Larchus formally says, "Valicar VonWraithmaster, Ka'Fahar'a dyur Kontiquaela." Larchus offers Valicar a frosted white crystal pendant. Valicar accepts Larchus's white crystal pendant. Valicar and Larchus shake hands. Blushes exclaims, "Oh, pick me, pick me next!" Larchus glances at Blushes. Khaitiff raises his hand. Valicar smiles. Valicar hangs a frosted white crystal pendant around his neck. Blushes sniffs. Larchus says, "I'm afraid of this." Larchus points at Blushes. Prospera just arrived. Larchus nods to Blushes. Blushes glances at Larchus. Prospera pants. Larchus removes a frosted white crystal pendant from in his white leather cloak. Prospera exclaims, "I'm here!" Prospera exclaims, "Am I in time?!" You say, "Never knew dwarves were so antsy." You wink at Blushes. You see High Lady Blushes Atad the Priestess. She appears to be a Dwarf. She appears to be elderly and short. She has thick-lashed violet eyes and black skin. She has waist length, tied back white hair with a red streak running through it. She has a plump face, a pinched nose and a long braided beard. She is in good shape. She is wearing an enruned red dreamstone earcuff, a crystal amulet, a topaz-inset gold stickpin, a blue-streaked razern beard clip, a gold trimmed black silk satchel, some dark shadowy black brigandine, a gem-encrusted gold cloak pin, a wispy silver cloak, an ominous ivory fang, a flowing silver threaded silk skirt, and some white silk boots. Blushes says, "Shh, I'm talking now." Blushes nods. Prospera frowns. Prospera asks, "I'm too late?" Blushes recites: "I just wanna say..." Blushes says, "That in all this, the misery and the loss...it was nice..." Blushes says, "That so many of us pulled together, when entire nations would war with each other." Blushes nods. Larchus relaxes, and blinks slightly in surprise. Blushes says, "It shows something, but who knows what." Blushes grunts in agreement. Rasl softly says, "well said" Larchus says, "Fair enough, and well said." Blushes says, "Now, who has liquor for me? I'm parched." Larchus offers Blushes a frosted white crystal pendant. Blushes accepts Larchus's white crystal pendant. Blushes bows to Larchus. Blushes turns towards Larchus and renders a sharp salute with her white crystal pendant. Blushes hangs a frosted white crystal pendant around her neck. Hrvac confidently asks, "can i say something?" Larchus nods to Hrvac. Larchus says, "Please." Prospera says, "I ran, and I mean ran, all the way from Illistim for this." Ianeal mutters something about cant-take-this-anymore... Lord Ianeal just went out. Hrvac confidently says, "after all my years here, ive never seen the young and old work together to defeat a threat....." Hrvac confidently says, "and the young were so determined to help" Hrvac confidently says, "i applaud them" Hrvac applauds. Mange applauds. Prospera applauds. Zosopage applauds. Imraith applauds. Sherysse applauds. Hrvac confidently says, "they showed great honor" Blushes says, "Not her, she's so old..." Larchus removes a frosted white crystal pendant from in his white leather cloak. Prospera points at herself. Blushes nods. Prospera scowls at Blushes. Blushes mutters wrinkles. Larchus offers Hrvac a frosted white crystal pendant. Hrvac confidently says, "thatsn all" Hrvac accepts Larchus's white crystal pendant. Hrvac bows to Larchus. Mange says, "i will say a little something" Prospera says, "Blushes, I'm too happy right now. I'll deal with you later." Larchus nods to Mange. Blushes sniffs. Blushes turns to face Mange. Mange says, "For those that there lives were lost we will never forget you and vist you in are dreams every night " (Blushes bumps Prospera with her wide hips.) Blushes hums distractedly to herself. Mange says, "For those of us that are standing alive this night everyone is glad your still here and thanks for the support" Prospera pushes on Blushes without much success. Mange nods to Larchus. Larchus smiles. Larchus removes a frosted white crystal pendant from in his white leather cloak. Larchus offers Mange a frosted white crystal pendant. Mange accepts Larchus's white crystal pendant. Mange bows to Larchus. Prospera asks, "We're each taking a turn at speaking?" Hrvac nods to Prospera. Hrvac confidently says, "wait your turn" Hrvac gives Prospera a good pinch! Prospera says, "I just want to say.." Prospera squeals. Prospera pokes Hrvac in the ribs. Hrvac snickers. Larchus says, "No, no, she can come to the front of the line." Larchus smiles. Khaitiff clearly says, "I think I wish to say something after all..." Prospera beams happily at Larchus! Larchus says, "I can tell some folk are still tryin to sort out what they want to say." Khaitiff clearly says, "When its my turn" Larchus says, "And that's all right." Larchus nods to Khaitiff. Hrvac hangs a frosted white crystal pendant around his neck. Prospera asks, "I'm not stepping out of turn then?" Prospera clears her throat. Larchus says, "No, you're not." Daina says, "There is no order" Prospera says, "Thank you, sir." Prospera curtsies to Larchus. Prospera says, "I just want to say that..." Prospera says, "Well..." Prospera says, "Saving Halflings is.." Prospera says, "Saving Halflings is what I do." Larchus chuckles. Blushes says, "Halfling babies have to save her half the time..." Blushes nods. Prospera says, "Along with dwarves, elves..." Larchus says, "I'm not sure it's all you do, but it's much appreciated." Blushes stares at Prospera. Prospera grunts. Larchus removes a frosted white crystal pendant from in his white leather cloak. Blushes smirks. Prospera turns away from Blushes, ignoring her. Larchus offers Prospera a frosted white crystal pendant. Prospera smiles at Larchus. Prospera accepts Larchus's white crystal pendant. Prospera says, "Thank you, Larchus." Larchus asks, "Khaitiff, you were ready to speak?" Daina asks, "I have a few words, after Khaitiff, if I may?" Khaitiff clearly says, "Blushes touched upon this briefly... My grief is not for those lost for their passing is part of the pattern and they continue the good fight. My grief is for the fact that over time all the races will forget our stand together...." Larchus slowly says, "Those of you who're standing here, and many who aren't... you've revisited ancient history, and it's up to future generations to see how the dice fall fully." Larchus says, "Save the elves, you can just take a nap and come back, I suppose." Larchus smiles wryly. Morah smiles faintly. Daina laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement. Khaitiff chuckles. Larchus removes a frosted white crystal pendant from in his white leather cloak. Larchus offers Khaitiff a frosted white crystal pendant. Imraith raises her hand. Khaitiff accepts Larchus's white crystal pendant. You quietly whisper to Kasia, "Show me yer pendant?" Larchus says, "Khaitiff Golconda, Ka'Fahar'a dyur Kontiquaela." Khaitiff bows to Larchus. Imraith smiles at Larchus. You remove a faenor-banded smoky glaesine globe from around your neck. You show Kasia your smoky glaesine globe. You hang a faenor-banded smoky glaesine globe around your neck. Kasia whispers, "Oh my, wow." Larchus nods to Imraith. Imraith curtsies to Larchus. Imraith says, "I am most honored to have been named amongst the others this night and the many unnamed who provided strength, courage, and desire to defeat the enemy and assure the safety of all." You quietly whisper to Kasia, "That is a morph globe got as a gift from Pheyrmerrin. What does yer pendant look like?" Kasia shows you a frosted white crystal pendant, which she is holding in her right hand. The surface of the tear-shaped crystal pendant has been etched in silver with the image of a man and a woman watching protectively over a plump Halfling baby swathed in a thick blanket. Above the three, a shield-shaped border surrounds several lines of small, fine script. Larchus smiles at Imraith. You smile at Kasia. Imraith says, "The recognition belongs to all." You quietly whisper to Kasia, "Oh! pretty." Imraith curtsies to Larchus. Larchus bows. Larchus removes a frosted white crystal pendant from in his white leather cloak. Larchus offers Imraith a frosted white crystal pendant. Larchus nods to Lassitar. Imraith accepts Larchus's white crystal pendant. Imraith says, "thank you sir" Imraith curtsies to Larchus. Lassitar says, "For all those still here, just remember those who have gone before you and honor their memory. They are the ones we learned from, they were the teachers, and deserve a special place of honor" Imraith hangs a frosted white crystal pendant around her neck. Larchus nods to Lassitar. Larchus removes a frosted white crystal pendant from in his white leather cloak. Larchus offers Lassitar a frosted white crystal pendant. Lassitar accepts Larchus's white crystal pendant. Larchus bows to Lassitar. Lassitar bows to Larchus. Larchus asks, "Daina?" Daina says, "Though I am not a Halfling, I call Icemule home. Would that I could have saved our town from such a tragedy, but I am proud to have fought shoulder-to-shoulder with such fine individuals. Those who were lost will not be forgotten, for we who persevere will not allow it." Daina curtsies to Larchus. Larchus smiles at Daina. Larchus clearly says, "Daina al'Varridien: Ka'Fahar'a dyur Kontiquaela." Blushes asks, "I want my pendant to read "Prospera morphs are bad", can that be arranged?" Larchus pokes Blushes in the ribs. Larchus removes a frosted white crystal pendant from in his white leather cloak. Blushes sniffs. Larchus says, "Maybe later." Blushes nods to Larchus. Prospera beams happily at Larchus! Blushes nods to Larchus. Larchus offers Daina a frosted white crystal pendant. Daina accepts Larchus's white crystal pendant. Prospera says, "Make mine read that too." Prospera giggles. Daina says, "My thanks." Blushes touches one finger to her lips. Blushes points at herself. Blushes nods. Larchus asks, "Others among the Ka'Fahar'a dyur Kontiquaela willing to speak a few words?" Tazelhoffe nods to Larchus. Larchus raises an eyebrow in Murp's direction. Larchus nods to Tazelhoffe. Larchus says, "Tazelhoffe." Tazelhoffe says, "I would just add my prayer for the families of the dead, an i cen hope those still living see a brightened future through this fresh pain. bacause with out the cooperation of all involved (those here to be honored and those tats not) i dont think we would be gathered here like this." Larchus removes a frosted white crystal pendant from in his white leather cloak. (Tazelhoffe strides few steps back.) Larchus strides over to stand before Tazelhoffe. Larchus offers Tazelhoffe a frosted white crystal pendant. Tazelhoffe bows. Tazelhoffe accepts Larchus's white crystal pendant. Larchus takes a few steps back. Mange points at Murp. Mange ducks his head. Murp chuckles. Larchus says, "If he doesn't want to talk, he doesn't have to. It would be nice, but sometimes there's a moment of silence called for too." Larchus pokes Mange in the ribs. Larchus sighs. Larchus takes a deep breath. Larchus asks, "Anyone else?" Sente confidently says, "We don't get enough moments of silence out of Murp." Natsuki raises her hand. Larchus nods to Natsuki. Svardin nods to Larchus. Mange gives Murp a little prod between the shoulder blades. Murp bows. Natsuki quietly says in Sylvankind, "I would like to say thanks to my friends since I have no family to call my own, the ones I have always known, those that I have met during this terrible time, and to the ones that I have lost, I shall live with them always in my heart and mind until the day we are once again reunited. Thankyou I would not have made it through without you all." Natsuki babbles something unintelligible. Larchus gets a blank look on his face. Natsuki blushes a nice shade of off-pink. Natsuki quietly says, "sorry I forgot" Natsuki quietly says, "I would like to say thanks to my friends since I have no family to call my own, the ones I have always known, those that I have met during this terrible time, and to the ones that I have lost, I shall live with them always in my heart and mind until the day we are once again reunited. Thankyou I would not have made it through without you all." Natsuki coughs. Natsuki quietly says, "In response to khaitiff's, I can't speak for others but you can be sure I will never forget the times I spent wandering with you, your wife and so many others, in those deep and dark burrows and I thought I would never again live to see the light. " Blushes says, "They weren't so dark, they were all glittery weren't they" Tayre says, "But thanks to a certain sylph with a sense of direction..." Larchus offers Natsuki a frosted white crystal pendant. Khaitiff waves a hand at Tayre, dismissing him indifferently. Tayre snickers. Natsuki quietly says, "sometimes but when they weren't there..." Natsuki stares off into space. Natsuki accepts Larchus's white crystal pendant. Natsuki curtsies to Larchus. Blushes exclaims, "True!" Blushes points at Tierus. Larchus nods to Svardin. Tierus peers quizzically at Blushes. Svardin says, "i am but a humble hoodlum amongst the powerful, but am honored to have been of service. That being said, da ancients has wisdom fer us as we mourn our dead and celebrate our victory. In truimph is joy and sorrow, but in triumph der is always a quiet whisper, a nearly silent urgin ta beware." Svardin bows to Larchus. Blushes exclaims, "Tierus should talk about not staying in caverns during cave-ins. Ouch!" Prospera says, "I like an honest hoodlum." Tierus says, "Le's jus' ferget ah e'er went doon intae tha' nest, Blushes." Larchus bows to Svardin. Larchus offers Svardin a frosted white crystal pendant. Svardin accepts Larchus's white crystal pendant. Blushes stares off into space. Larchus scans the crowd for a moment. (Blushes scans Larchus for a moment.) Blushes gazes fondly at Larchus. Prospera says, "Where's that charlatan Pheryr.." Larchus says, "Murp, I think you're the last one here who hasn't spoken, unless someone's hidden in the crowd." Blushes says, "He's arrested." Larchus glances at Prospera. Blushes nods to Prospera. Larchus says, "Apparently his own folk came for him." Daina says, "He is... indisposed." Larchus frowns. You say, "the Faendryl arrested him." Prospera asks, "He's in jail again?" Valicar says, "Dark Elves got em" Daina says, "Something of the sort." Larchus says, "Not in jail here." Prospera says, "How disgusting." Mange says, "think hes lost behind the barrior somewhere" You say, "Seems they didn't like him not reporting his sorcery findings or such." Blushes says, "Tierus died in the caverns after a cave in hit, he was down there too." Larchus removes a frosted white crystal pendant from in his white leather cloak. Blushes nods to Larchus. Larchus put a frosted white crystal pendant in his white leather cloak. Valicar says, "out of the fryin pan and into the fire for him I am afraid" Valicar nods to Prospera. Blushes says, "I had to go and be all like, heroic or something." Prospera says, "Ahh" Blushes says, "I nearly got crushed by a big old rock." Blushes exclaims, "but I didn't, only he did!" Blushes applauds. Mange says, "blushes i must say you kept me alive" Larchus says, "Murp..." Murp nods to Larchus. Blushes says, "We all kept each other alive." Blushes nods to Mange. Larchus says, "Ka'Fahar'a dyur Kontiquaela." Larchus smiles. Larchus offers Murp a frosted white crystal pendant. Murp says, "Thank you." Murp accepts Larchus's white crystal pendant. Blushes exclaims, "Why is Murp so untalkative!" Blushes scowls at Murp. Tayre says, "He's grieving." Larchus says, "Those who are marked today by titles and trinkets represent the many more who fought against the v'reen." Larchus says, "I've got a part list of those who were witnessed among the tunnels... and it's only a part list at that." Larchus says, "The ones who stand among you as Ka'Fahar'a dyur Kontiquaela are those who risked twice in burrows in Pinefar or Icemule, or performed another great act of heroism reported back to me." Larchus says, "But here are only some of the many others who deserve recognition." Larchus takes a deep breath. Larchus says, "Alleatha." Larchus says, "Atlanteax." Larchus says, "Atoyoz." Larchus says, "Barttonium." Larchus says, "Biggan." Larchus says, "Calean." Larchus says, "Catthief." Larchus says, "Celyx." Larchus says, "Charna." Larchus says, "Chayy." Larchus says, "Cromellach." Larchus says, "Cryheart." Larchus says, "Cyrendon." Larchus says, "Daergard." Larchus says, "Danios." Larchus says, "Delerium." Larchus says, "Dgry." Larchus says, "Eahlstan." Larchus says, "Evelith." Larchus says, "Grandevr." Larchus says, "Ironblue." Larchus says, "Iscikella." Larchus says, "Josslyn." Larchus says, "Jystema." Larchus says, "Karzak." Larchus says, "Katya." Larchus says, "Keloin." Larchus says, "Kourdeliah." Larchus says, "Kylinarr." Larchus says, "Landceal." Larchus says, "Mekthros." Larchus says, "Migrus." Larchus says, "Nitezor." Larchus says, "Nodyre." Larchus says, "Olgretien." Larchus says, "Ralagar." Larchus says, "Reyek." Larchus says, "Rhandi." Larchus says, "Ridgehar." Larchus says, "Sapphirea." Larchus says, "Savrin." Larchus says, "Silversoft." Larchus says, "Soulss." Larchus says, "Sraven." Larchus says, "Styker." Larchus says, "Theogrim." Larchus says, "Tierus." Larchus says, "Uthenegal." Larchus says, "Valqon." Larchus says, "Uthenegal." Larchus coughs. Valicar grins. Larchus says, "Maybe not twice, but at least once." Prospera grins. You chuckle at Larchus. Murp says, "Probably saw his morph." Mange says, "he does have a brother maybe you were thinking of him" Larchus says, "Violenttmoon." Larchus says, "Vivil." Larchus says, "Vixxon." Larchus says, "Xanith." Larchus says, "Xeniphite." Larchus says, "Zosopage." Jarlstrom softly says, "Ya left out sherysse" Blushes says, "He said partial list." Larchus says, "All those folk're heros to us tonight, and all nights... and all others who fought who weren't listed because there were so many more heros than non-heros." Jarlstrom softly says, "Sa I addin her" Larchus says, "Thank you." Larchus bows. You applaud Larchus. Rasl bows to Larchus. Trevyr bows. Lassitar applauds Larchus. Zosopage applauds. Prospera says, "A united front we were and are." Valicar says, "We would be here till sunrise if all the heros were named. We know who they are though and that is what matters" Larchus asks, "And Sherysse... and Kratchek... and... any other names I should say, that I've missed?" Kalishar exclaims, "Lets hear it for the heroes!" Kalishar applauds. Larchus says, "Maeror, the fire-tender. Hard to forget you." Larchus exclaims, "Yes, let's hear it for the heros!" Larchus applauds. Daina applauds. Imraith lets out a cheer! Marclar nods to Larchus. Prospera lets out a cheer! Sherysse lets out a cheer! Daina bursts out in a resounding cheer! Caladrial applauds. Theogrim bows deeply at the waist, honoring Larchus. Ichiko lets out a cheer! Murp applauds. Anmut lets out a cheer! Larchus says, "Malikhan." Trevyr says, "To be named a hero by other heroes is honor indeed." Trevyr nods. Daina nods to Trevyr. Lassitar nods to Trevyr. Jarlstrom softly says, "Maygog" You smile at Trevyr. Larchus says, "Maygog." Daina says, "Tylina" Zosopage says, "Syberus" Larchus says, "Blizzerdd, I heard about him playing tag with his own morph up and down the streets." Larchus says, "Tylina." Larchus says, "Syberus." Sherysse says, "Galesmight" Larchus says, "Galesmight." Larchus says, "Now... I'm not a crafter myself, and I admit... I'm not much in the mood to throw a celebration right well right now." Larchus says, "I plan to go home and be with my family, with my sincerest thanks to you all." You say, "Understandable." Valicar bows to Larchus. You nod to Larchus. Blushes nods to Larchus. Zosopage bows deeply at the waist, honoring Larchus. Khaitiff bows to Larchus. Valicar says, "thank you, Councillor" Ichiko bows to Larchus. Lassitar bows to Larchus. Sente confidently says, "Good night Larchus." Imraith curtsies to Larchus. Archevald bows to Larchus. Myrianna bows to Larchus. Daina says, "Many thanks, Sir." Caladrial curtsies to Larchus. Khaitiff clearly says, "I thank thee for the honor" Larchus says, "But there's a few who've agreed to give the time and energy to the proper celebration that I can't right now." Jarlstrom softly says, "Ohhh an ya fergot me" Khaitiff nods to Larchus. Lassitar says, "Aye, thank you sir" Theogrim bows deeply at the waist, honoring Larchus. You say, "Good eve to ye, Councillor." Prospera says, "The rest of us need to head to the tavern and get smashed." Jarlstrom slaps himself on the forehead. Lumaco nods to Larchus. Keloin bows to Larchus. Tazelhoffe snickers. Myrianna softly says, "Be well, Larchus" You curtsy to Larchus.