Lost Palestra (storyline)/2026-01-17 - Vortelis Explains How Aralyte's Soulstone Works (log)

The official GemStone IV encyclopedia.
< Lost Palestra (storyline)
Jump to navigation Jump to search

Synopsis

Harrower Vortelis Infernebrus Faendryl of the Extrachthonic Cartographer's Guild of House Faendryl arrived outside Moot Hall to discuss what he learned of the soulstone of Palestra Blade Aralyte Halanori Faendryl and to solicit suggestions on a few practical problems. He later posted a parchment on the message board in Town Square East listing these problems.

Vortelis said that Thagoria correctly surmised that the soulstone is a makeshift "chthonic anchor", which are safety tether methods the Harrowers use for ensuring they can return home from other valences. He explained that the metaphor of "chthonic" implies the difficulty of "climbing up" from other valences. He said that some near planes have transient or lasting rifts to Elanthia, but more generally, you would want to be linked back here through one of these anchors to keep the door slightly ajar. He compared the tether to the links used on minor demons, which send them back to the precise place they were taken from, where link severing makes them stranded.

Vortelis also explained that this resolves "targeting" issues in returning to Elanthia from other valences. He referred to the "needle in an ocean" problem, in that this valence is near infinite, with many worlds, and most of it is apparently vacuum, and this particular world is only habitable in a very thin shell of air around rock. One wishes to return here on the ground, not hundreds of feet up in the air, or a mile underground in the rock. The anchors are like beacons, leading back to a point, and become visible to valence travelers when rifts open to Elanthia. This helps sorcerers find their way back, as well as sorcerers to trace back missing sorcerers.

Vortelis then demonstrated his urglaes "quasi-sphere" example of such an anchor. He said these are very rare, found in excavations around the ruins of Maelshyve. They are believed to have been made in Despana's urglaes foundries, and the Faendryl have adapted them. He said there are thought to be larger ones that are Ur-Daemon relics. But these typically get found and lost by dark cults. Aralyte would not have had access to these spheres.

Vortelis then described how the soulstone is a jerry-rigged analog of this functionality. It tethers to Aralyte's soul. It is specially designed for the Shadow Realm valence, because the soulstone absorbs the shadows energy. It is able to hijack portals and direct them to the Shadow Realm by expending its shadows energy. When Harrower Ersix opened a rift to that valence a few months after Aralyte was lost, the soulstone was drawn to it like a magnet. Since Aralyte was effectively doing her mission solo, this soulstone would lead her to rifts to Elanthia, but could potentially be triggered to allow a portal to the Shadow Realm from the side of the demonic valence. Vortelis explained the Harrowers would never use such a device, because it would risk allowing demons to open portals to Elanthia from the side of Elanthia. Whereas they normally cannot.

He also said that there was a full year between the soulstone returning to Elanthia and the soulstone's energy having been drained (in the Ithzir invasion of 5116.) Aralyte had a whole year to get back, and was apparently unable. Vortelis mused that the Shadow Realm may have been accessible in the Deadfall during that year, but the Bleaklands (late 5116) did not exist until after the soulstone was drained (spring 5116), so the rifts to the Shadow Realm in the Bleaklands did not exist yet. Vortelis noted that the memory imprint (i.e. loresong) on the soulstone suggests Aralyte got entangled with that valence and stuck early on.

Vortelis acknowledged that Aralyte, or something else, may be trying to use the soulstone to access Elanthia. Vortelis noted that Barnom Slim likely used that tether to climb out of the Shadow Realm when the portal was open. He thinks the shock wave in the veil was caused by the soulstone acting as a conduit between the Reach's mana storm and the Shadows valence. He told Lylia she would not have been able to get Aralyte out, that we would not know of this emerging threat were it not for the soulstone, and that it is a good thing the soulstone has been drained all this time. When asked about destroying the soulstone, Vortelis said the Basilica will not allow that, as Aralyte is a security risk to House Faendryl and this is the means of locating her. And that this would only delay the problem, making it harder to source, as the Shadow Realm is bleeding into the Bleaklands.

Vortelis said they would have to recharge the soulstone before trying to go into the Shadow Realm. That it is a matter of finding the optimal mix of risk and reward, as more concentrated shadows will recharge it faster. He said hazy tenebrous orbs are loosely analogous to low-grade plinite found when slaying elementals. He said he could most likely siphon the shadows out of Puptilian, into the soulstone, but that would by itself not be enough. Ideally Moravius would identify the source of the shadows and Ithzir first, so that they know for certain they are coming from the same valence as Aralyte. Vortelis said it is still not clear to him why the Ithzir would have anything to do with this, suggesting they might have been cultists of Althedeus.

Vortelis said he will wish to be brought to wherever the bleakstone statue of Lylia is in the Bleaklands. He also said he wishes to study Aralyte's notes, which were in the possession of Pylasar, as Harrower Ersix and Pylasar adapted some of it when removing the root maw of the black trees in 5115. He wants to understand what Aralyte was trying to do. Vortelis asked where is Grand Magister Pylasar. People say he's missing in time. Vortelis then asked where his belongings might be kept. People suggest the mayor might know. Vortelis asked where is the mayor. People said the mayor is missing. (Because of the other storyline, involving the black roots and fruits.) Vortelis said in the worst case he will get the Basilica to draft a mage that does crime scene re-enactment visualizations to try to reconstruct whatever Aralyte did.

Vortelis then solicited suggestions on practical issues. He said he wants to displace water and expose at least the tip of the Ithzir pyramid in Darkstone Bay. He wants to make sure the pyramid is dormant, because those are their own kind of anchor, allowing the Ithzir to hold open portals to their valences. He disliked the idea of trying to get the Gale Stone / Star of Khar'ta to freeze part of the Bay. He said he did not want to give Ambassador Vespasius Koryth Faendryl a pretext to bring in the army that would be needed to seize that relic. He explained that the interior of the pyramid is probably flooded as holes were blasted into it and the water pressure would be very high.

Vortelis also said Moravius could use ideas for tracing mana flows back to the source when the shadows and Ithzir feed on it, and that Moravius was speaking with them about using mirrors and light to capture a shadows entity.

Parchment Vortelis Posted on the Message Board: 

>read parch
In the Common language, it reads:

Basilican Investigation

Harrow Vortelis hereby solicits suggestions from local mages on various matters of practical implementation:

(1) How to temporarily expose at least the tip of the Ithzir pyramid in the Bay?

(2) How to help triangulate the Ithzir and shadows source by tracing consumed mana?

(3) What materials and methods to entrap a shadows entity with mirrors?

(4) What materials and methods to absorb shadows energy, if different?

Previously in Lost Palestra storyline:

Log

Most greeting and farewell actions, as well as ambients and random actions and reactions to whispers, have been stripped from the log.

Introduction

[General] Vortelis thinks, "Good evening."

[General] Lylia thinks, "Good evening to you."

[General] Vortelis thinks, "I have been studying the soulstone you gave me, I will be along in some minutes."

[General] Lylia asks, "Outstanding. Are you joining the contingent at Lake Eonak?"

[General] Vortelis thinks, "There is too much commotion at the encampment.  I will come outside your Moot Hall."

[Town Square, East]
Here in the center of a broad plaza near the commercial area of the bazaar stands the impressive facade of the slate-roofed Moot Hall, where the citizens of Wehnimer's Landing hold various official, religious and social functions. Facing the square are some of the town's more prosperous shops, still doing business with the many customers who still frequent the streets at night. You also see a wood-framed message board, a large purple wooden barrel and a huge dark wagon with a glowing blue-white pylon on it.
Obvious paths: north, east, south, west

Imperatrix Lylia's group just arrived.

[General] Lylia thinks, "I shall be there."

Perigourd's group strides in with fluid grace, each footstep leaving behind a faintly glowing, forest green imprint of a doe's cloven hoof on the ground behind him.

A cloud of dense silvery fog suddenly appears. The fog quickly dissipates to reveal Bakarus.

Bakarus says, "My friends."
Bakarus says, "Eternal Light."
Speaking to Lylia, Puptilian says, "Mayor."
Missoni says, "Fair eve."
Speaking in Faendryl to Puptilian, Lylia says, "Mayor."
Speaking to Missoni, Bakarus says, "Dear Sister."
Speaking to Missoni, Thrassus asks, "You didn't trust my gate, eh?"
Lylia says, "...Which is something akin to 'Mayor' in Faendryl. More like 'magnate,' really."
Lylia smiles.
Speaking to Bakarus, Lylia says, "Eternal Light, First Pilgrim."
Speaking to Thrassus, Missoni says, "Oh, of course I did! Perigourd whisked me away as he does."
Thrassus snickers.
Speaking to Missoni, Perigourd says, "Marched."
Speaking to Lylia, Bakarus says, "Always a pleasure."
Speaking to Missoni, Perigourd says, "One could call it a forced march, if you wish."
Perigourd chuckles.
Speaking to Perigourd, Nyssia says, "It's a whisky sort of march."
Speaking to Perigourd, Bakarus says, "Eternal Light, Champion."
Missoni amends, "Marched."
Lylia smiles at Nyssia.
Nyssia smiles at Lylia.
Speaking to Xorus, Bakarus says, "Dreadlord."
Her hand lowered, Nyssia gives Lylia a subtle wave.
Xorus nods to Bakarus in greeting.
Speaking to Nyssia, Perigourd says, "I've not had quite enough this evening yet."
Perigourd nods at Nyssia.
Speaking to Perigourd, Nyssia says, "Not that sort."
Speaking to Xorus, Bakarus says, "We should need some legal advice soon, I hope."
Speaking to Nyssia, Perigourd says, "A shame too."

[Help] Lylia: "One of the Faendryl NPCs is going to be in front of Moot Hall shortly to talk about some story things, if anyone wants a little 
break from mechanics changes."

Perigourd leans against the Moot Hall.
Nyssia appears to be trying hard not to grin.
Speaking to Bakarus, Xorus says, "You did not do it."
Perigourd glances at Bakarus.
Lylia nods at Xorus.
Speaking to Bakarus, Perigourd asks, "You're on trial again?"
Perigourd raises an eyebrow in Bakarus's direction.
Speaking to Xorus, Bakarus says, "You know me too well my friend."
Lylia chuckles.
Speaking to Perigourd, Bakarus says, "Working on it."

[Help] Skulligei: "Omw!"
[Help] Vorlash: "Ugh, dark elves... so needy."

Geijon says, "Folks have been a lot more restrained or subtle as of late in their dealings, respectfully I guess."
Lylia says, "Whatever it was, we know with certainty that Bakarus did not do it."
Bakarus praises Lylia.
Speaking to Lylia, Perigourd says, "Right."
Lylia winks.
Missoni glances appraisingly at Bakarus.
Speaking to Lylia, Bakarus says, "You are truly, my people."
Speaking to Lylia, Missoni says, "Unless it was tithing to Phoen's Temple. Surely he did that."

There is a flash of light and tear in the fabric of space, which abruptly closes again as Harrower Vortelis steps through it.

[Help] Lylia: "Hey, we're not the ones who were all, 'unleash the demons, guys! Save us from big, scary Despana!' Ingrates. Ingrates, all!"

You see Harrower Vortelis Infernebrus Faendryl the Guildmaster of the Extrachthonic Cartographer's Guild.
He appears to be a Dark Elf.
He is taller than average. He appears to be ancient. He has silver-flecked brown eyes and ashen skin. He has shoulder length, thick dark brown hair worn in a single braid. He has a bony face, a sharp nose and tall upswept pointed ears. He is wearing an intricate twisted faenor headband with a murky shadowglass orb over his face.
He is in good shape.
He is holding a wretchedly fleshy thew bark runestaff in his right hand.
He is wearing a shadowy black hood, a suspended void black urglaes sphere with misty veins of crimson, a writhing vortex of shadows, a veniom-threaded grimoire satchel, some incarnadine vathor skin leathers enruned in burning glyphs, some tailored dark leather trousers, and some deep black vruul leather boots.

Speaking to Missoni, Bakarus says, "You can imagine, as a child of Phoen, I encounter many who walk the darkness who wish to taint my purity."
Thrassus nods to Vortelis in greeting.

Vortelis says, "Good evening."

Lylia nods in greeting to Vortelis.
Perigourd takes a moment to observe Vortelis.
Sir Tebon just arrived.
Missoni smiles at Vortelis.
Missoni nods sympathetically at Bakarus.
Speaking to Vortelis, Perigourd says, "Fair eve."

Speaking in Faendryl, Lylia says, "Honor and glory to the Patriarch."

Missoni smiles at Tebon.
Tebon says, "E'enin' m'friends."
Tebon waves to Missoni.

Vortelis nods at Lylia.

Missoni cheerfully greets, "Fair eve."
Nyssia smiles at Tebon.
Lylia nods politely at Tebon.

Vortelis says, "Honor and Glory to the Patriarch."

Speaking to Tebon, Bakarus says, "Eternal Light, Sir Tebon."

[Help] Vorlash: "Eh, I'm just a dark elven elementalist, I'd rather unleash the elements anyway. I leave the demon summoning and unleashing to the apprentices."

Tebon says, "Honor ta tha Landin' an' it's citizens."
Tebon casually glances around the area.
Nyssia nods approvingly at Perigourd.
Speaking in Faendryl, Thrassus says, "Honor and Glory to the Patriarch."
Puptilian nods to Vortelis in greeting.
Tebon folds his arms over his chest.
Thrassus nods.
Speaking to Nyssia, Perigourd says, "Fairly decent."

Chthonic Anchors

Bakarus asks, "Pardon the ignorance...which Patriarch is this?"

Vortelis says, "I have been studying this soulstone, that belonged to the Palestra Blade Aralyte. It was most unusual, indeed."

Speaking to Perigourd, Nyssia says, "I've had worse."
Missoni gazes with interest at Vortelis.
Lylia bites her lip.
Thrassus asks, "And what results did you find?"

Vortelis says, "Thagoria was correct in her surmise, that it is a kind of makeshift chthonic anchor beacon."

Vortelis taps a suspended void black urglaes sphere with misty veins of crimson that he is wearing.

Speaking to Bakarus, Lylia says, "Korvath Dardanus Faendryl." The emphasis of her words leaves no doubt as to their capitalization. "The Faendryl Patriarch."
Speaking to Bakarus, Missoni whispers aloud, "The Faendyl Patriarch, Korvath Dardanus Faendryl."

Vortelis says, "One of these is a proper one."

Bakarus says, "Ahh."
Bakarus nods appreciatively at Lylia.
Speaking to Lylia, Bakarus says, "With all due respect, my thanks."
Lylia inclines her head.
Speaking to Perigourd, Geijon says, "That sounded elven."

Vortelis says, "We use these anchors to tether ourselves to this world, when we are travelling in other valences, from which it would be difficult to return."

Lylia nods slowly to Vortelis.
Speaking to Geijon, Tebon says, "Hurt my ears some."
Missoni nods understandingly.
Perigourd folds his hands behind his back.
Geijon chuckles.

Vortelis says, "Much as a demonic summoner links their minor demon, to a precise place, in its home valence for returning it."

Vortelis says, "Or threatens to sever the link. Coercing it with the threat of being stranded."

Speaking to Vortelis, Perigourd says, "This would ask the question of why she hasn't used it to return herself to this plane, then."
Thrassus says, "She is entangled with the valence itself and cannot return on her own."
Lylia says, "She lost it at some point, which is how it fell into Aydan's hands and thence into mine. And after that... It was put to another purpose."
Lylia nods at Thrassus.

Vortelis drops a floating void black urglaes sphere with misty veins of crimson.

Missoni tilts her head down.

Vortelis says, "You can get a closer look at this one."

>look sphere
The nearly perfect sphere is only a few inches in diameter.  The deep black urglaes is striated with misty veins of crimson, and set within shifting bands of some strange alloy.  Darkness forms a halo around it, burning through with crimson.

Lylia glances at a floating void black urglaes sphere with misty veins of crimson.
Perigourd takes a moment to observe a floating void black urglaes sphere with misty veins of crimson.
Bakarus reaches out and touches a floating void black urglaes sphere with misty veins of crimson.

Vortelis says, "We sometimes call them 'quasi-spheres', as they are nearly perfect orbs."

Missoni nods once.
Lylia leans forward.
Fisherman Nairdin just arrived.
Skulligei just arrived.

Vortelis says, "These are very rare relics. They are typically found in excavations around the ruins of Maelshyve, we think these smaller ones originated in Despana's urglaes foundries."

Speaking to Skulligei, Lylia says, "Take a look at that sphere."
Lylia nods to a floating void black urglaes sphere with misty veins of crimson.
Geijon says, "That night was chaos."
Skulligei gawks at a floating void black urglaes sphere with misty veins of crimson.

Vortelis says, "The guild has virtually a monopoly on them.  Which is why Aralyte had to use something else."

Skulligei prods a floating void black urglaes sphere with misty veins of crimson with the tip of his finger.
Thrassus asks, "What's the largest one ever found, out of curiosity?"
Skulligei raspily asks, "Was this in the Lake?"
Speaking to Skulligei, Perigourd says, "No, this is what the Faendryl use to anchor themselves to this plane when travelling others, it seems."

Vortelis says, "There are we think extremely rare ones, a few feet wide perhaps, that are presumed to be Ur-Daemon artifacts."

Thrassus nods slowly.
Missoni murmurs, "Lovely."
Lylia nods at Missoni.

Vortelis says, "But those get found by cultists, and get lost in the destruction of those cults."

Vortelis shrugs.

Missoni frowns.
Lylia nods at Skulligei.
Skulligei glances at Vortelis and rubs his chin thoughtfully.

Vortelis says, "In any event.  These are capable of bleeding through the veil, and one may tether oneself spiritually to it."

Vortelis says, "Which allows one a kind of link back through the veil to these anchors."

Vortelis says, "There are a few factors which make it difficult to get to Elanthia from other valences. The 'chthonic' in the guild name speaks to this metaphor of needing to climb uphill."

Vortelis says, "There is also what you might call a needle in the ocean problem."

Lylia says, "It is a good thing, I think, or we would have more trouble with the Ithzir. Among others."

Vortelis says, "Which is that our valence is perhaps near infinite, and most of it seems to be vacuum, and the habitable part of our world is a narrow shell of air around rock."

Vortelis says, "One wishes to return here on the ground. Not hundreds of feet up in the air, or a mile underground in the rock."

Puptilian says, "So not just the right..."ocean"...but also the right location inside that ocean."

Lylia says, "Unless one is an enchanter set on fiddling about with time."
Missoni says, "I suppose any number of fluctuations can make it difficult to find the correct place."

Vortelis nods at Puptilian.

Missoni adds, "And time."
Lylia nods at Puptilian.
Lylia nods at Missoni.
Skulligei raspily asks, "And the Reach acts as sort of a lighthouse?"
Puptilian asks, "And these anchors are like a lighthouse saying we are here?"
Skulligei raspily says, "Ahh the thing."

Vortelis says, "There are near planes which are relatively easy to get back from by sensing transient or lasting rifts to Elanthia."

Vortelis says, "Others one wishes to keep the door slightly ajar."

Lylia asks, "Lorae'tyr, Shien'tyr, Grik'tyr?"

Speaking to Lylia, Vortelis says, "Those valences you would likely wish to keep ajar, but they are certainly summoned from quite often."

Lylia nods at Vortelis.

Puptilian asks, "So these anchors left....are they for any one to come in or are they specific to the soulstone?"

Lylia says, "Good question."

Vortelis says, "That is the rub."

Vortelis says, "So.  This sphere, for example, you tether yourself. It helps you get back, or helps others find you."

Missoni nods once.
Puptilian frowns.

Vortelis says, "But it is not useful for, say, demons to open a rift to Elanthia."

Puptilian nods.

Lylia says, "An anchor in the 'ocean' but not a gangplank for others to board, then."

Vortelis says, "If there is a rift open to our valence, the Harrower could see one of these as a beacon. Leading themselves to the rift, in a sense helping them climb out."

Aralyte's Soulstone as Makeshift Anchor

Vortelis removes a pale red soulstone suspended by a frayed leather cord from his vortex of shadows.

Vortelis says, "This soulstone is something of an imitation."

Vortelis says, "Being a soulstone, as it is, Aralyte tethered her soul to it."

(Lylia follows your hand as he gestures with the soulstone.)

Puptilian raises an eyebrow.

Tebon casually glances at Vortelis.

Vortelis says, "This soulstone absorbs shadows energy. In a sense it is very particularly designed for the Shadows valence."

Missoni murmurs, "A bit irregular for a Palestra to make such a thing, is it not?"

Vortelis says, "When the soulstone is charged up, it would be perceived as a beacon to Aralyte, when rifts have formed to Elanthia."

Vortelis nods at Missoni.

Lylia nods at Missoni.
Perigourd says, "One would think so."

Vortelis says, "Yes. It would seem that when her Palestra team was unable to find the Erythro Island, Aralyte did not drop the matter, and continued to pursue the matter in this fashion."

Speaking to Vortelis, Puptilian asks, "How can you charge it?"

Vortelis says, "It would be charged by absorbing shadows."

Perigourd asks, "What is the Erythro Island?"

Perigourd raises an eyebrow.

Vortelis says, "When the soulstone is fully charged, it can hijack portals, forcing them toward the Shadow Realm.  By expending its shadows energy."

Geijon says, "It was alive from memory."

Speaking to Perigourd, Vortelis says, "It was the blood island of the Shadows demon Althedeus."

Vortelis says, "It was a profaned place for allowing its power into this world."

Perigourd furrows his brow.
Lylia nods slowly.
Puptilian says, "It is the island we destroyed with what we thought was Stone...before Winter captured him."

Vortelis says, "Which the people of this town destroyed fifteen years ago."

Lylia nods at Puptilian.

Vortelis says, "We in the Extrachthonic Cartographer's Guild would never construct a device such as this."

Missoni nods once.

Vortelis says, "It would allow something on the other end, in the demonic valences, to expend energy on this side of the veil.  Opening a rift to that demonic realm."

Speaking to Perigourd, Lylia says, "Thank you for covering up for my social gaffe."
Lylia winks.
Perigourd chuckles.
Lylia blinks.

Vortelis says, "Which was surely what this Palestra Blade was doing with it. Giving herself a way to pull her own way back up."

Missoni frowns.
Tebon folds his arms over his chest.
Lylia asks, "To clarify: 'Something on the other end' means that in this case, it was a gangplank and not only an anchor?"

Vortelis nods at Lylia.

Tebon says, "Open a doorway, it's jus' open, an' werks both ways."
Tebon shrugs.
Skulligei glances at Vortelis and rubs his chin thoughtfully.
Missoni laments, "A shoddy way to do such a thing."

Vortelis says, "The idea of it would be to trigger a portal to open from Elanthia to the demonic valence."

Speaking to Missoni, Perigourd says, "A dangerous way."
Perigourd nods slowly.

Vortelis says, "From the demonic valence, rather than from Elanthia."

Speaking to Vortelis, Perigourd asks, "Than is this what has been happening?"

Vortelis says, "When Harrower Ersix opened a rift to the Shadow Realm in 5115, which was only months after Aralyte was stranded, this soulstone was drawn to our world like a lodestone."

Perigourd asks, "Is she triggering these portals from the Shadow valence?"
Lylia nods at Vortelis.

Speaking to Perigourd, Vortelis says, "The soulstone is depleted.  But it may be forming a conduit between the Shadows valence and the storm of the Reach."

Lylia says, "Indeed. It was cast out and landed at Aydan's feet."

Vortelis says, "So, yes. It is possible that she, or something else, is trying to use the Reach to gain access to this world."

Skulligei frowns.
Bakarus nods slowly.
Lylia asks, "All of this could just be her trying to find her way home?"
Lylia sighs.
Skulligei appears lost in thought.
Tebon grunts.
Perigourd says, "Or something that has captured her and learned of it, or is using her."
Speaking to Lylia, Puptilian asks, "I hate to ask this. What if a part of Althedeus when it was destroyed latched onto her?"
Speaking to Lylia, Perigourd says, "Hard to say as yet, it seems."
Nairdin shudders.

Vortelis says, "It is a somewhat reckless thing to do, endangering many to try to return."

Skulligei agrees with Bakarus.
Lylia says, "You should never hate to say what may be true. I have thought that for some time, that if she cannot be retrieved, she must be extinguished."
Missoni nods in agreement to Vortelis.

Vortelis says, "But Aralyte had a whole year of this soulstone being fully charged."

Lylia says, "But..."
Lylia says, "No. It cannot be her."

Vortelis says, "For whatever reason she was already stuck."

Bakarus raises his wyrmwood torch overhead, allowing the sickly green flame to illuminate the surroundings better.
Missoni says, "She would have acted immediately, one thinks."
Thrassus leans on his staff.

Vortelis says, "The memories imprinted on this soulstone suggest as much."

Lylia firmly repeats, "It cannot. Not if she is still herself, even slightly."
Lylia asks, "Why would she have ushered everyone else out, choosing to stay herself, if she would then sacrifice all that she tried to save to claw her way back home?"
Lylia nods at Vortelis.

Vortelis says, "Though the Bleaklands did not exist until after the soulstone was depleted, I should think the Deadfall would have been sometimes accessible from the Shadow Realm that preceding year."

Thrassus says, "Something likely found her, noticed the anchor connection, and followed it to the source."
Lylia nods at Vortelis.
Lylia says, "I remember going into the Deadfall, yes."

Vortelis says, "This tether is likely how your.. Barnom Slim... climbed his way out."

Recharging the Soulstone

Speaking to Vortelis, Puptilian asks, "How much energy do you need to charge it again?"

(Lylia's nostrils flare in indignation.)

Speaking to Vortelis, Tebon says, "So ifin this soulstone is tha key.....destroy it."

Vortelis says, "It depends on the concentration of the shadows. It can be fully charged, it is a matter of finding the optimal source, between risk and reward."

Lylia hisses, "Really! That wretch, who brought Vlashandra here, he used this!?"

Lylia hisses a filth-laden denunciation in icily precise Faendryl, each syllable sharp with menace.

Speaking quietly to Vortelis, Puptilian asks, "What about the shadows in me? Would that charge it?"

Lylia slowly says, "If you destroy it, you could be creating another Althedeus."
Missoni looks thoughtfully at Lylia.
Lylia says, "If it were that simple, I am sure it would already have been done."

Vortelis says, "The Basilica will not allow its destruction.  Aralyte is a security hazard to our House.  It would also only delay whatever issue is happening, as the Shadow Realm bleeds into the Bleaklands."

Lylia nods at Vortelis.
Lylia says, "Just so."

Vortelis says, "The soulstone can likely siphon the shadows out of you. But that by itself would not be enough."

Puptilian slowly empties his lungs.
Bakarus smiles.
Puptilian glances at Vortelis.
Bakarus says, "Barnom."
Skulligei raises an eyebrow.
Lylia narrows her eyes.
Puptilian stares at Lylia.
Lylia says, "I have nothing against the lich himself, in particular. But that wretch who serves him..."
Speaking to Lylia, Puptilian says, "I...."
Lylia nods at Puptilian.
Speaking to Lylia, Missoni asks, "Who?"

Vortelis says, "Lake Eonak is the obvious choice.  But that is a double edged sword."

Lylia hisses, "Vlashandra."

Vortelis says, "It may make more sense to charge it in the Bleaklands."

Missoni nods slowly.
Lylia nods at Vortelis.
Speaking to Lylia, Tebon says, "I've got sumthin' against tha lich."
Nairdin nods at Lylia.

Vortelis puts a pale red soulstone suspended by a frayed leather cord in his vortex of shadows.

Lylia nods at Tebon.
Missoni murmurs, "We have not met."
Thrassus nods at Vortelis.
Bakarus agrees with Tebon.

Vortelis removes a hazy tenebrous orb from his vortex of shadows.

Speaking to Tebon, Bakarus says, "Terrible."
Skulligei agrees with Missoni.
Vortelis says, "As for this."
Tebon agrees with Bakarus.
Lylia says, "She is a deceiver. Promised to deliver us to Aralyte."
Missoni cocks her head at Vortelis.
Lylia nods at Vortelis.
Perigourd folds his arms over his chest.

Vortelis says, "This seems to be a concentrate of shadows, elemental darkness, whatever you wish to call it."

Vortelis says, "It is something loosely analogous to the low-grade plinite one might fight when slaying powerful elementals."

Missoni nods slightly.

Vortelis says, "I believe that is what it is called in your language.  Plinite."
Thrassus says, "Interesting."
Lylia nods at Vortelis.
Perigourd says, "Indeed."
Missoni agrees, "Plinite."

Vortelis says, "So. These might help. It is possibly that sacrificing things in the Bleaklands for shadow essence may also help."

Vortelis puts a hazy tenebrous orb in his vortex of shadows.

Missoni nods slowly.

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "Blessings of the Night, Elanthia."

Speaking to Vortelis, Perigourd asks, "To.. activate a portal to go into the shadow realm?"

[General] Tebon thinks, "E'enin' M'lady Stormyrain."

[General] Perigourd thinks, "Fair eve, Marshal."

Vortelis says, "We would have to find the optimal place to go into the Shadow Realm."

Vortelis says, "It is increasingly likely Aralyte is at the root of this whole problem."

Skulligei frowns.
Skulligei raspily says, "Root..."

Speaking to Vortelis, Puptilian says, "If we can rip the shadows out of me, i like to talk through that. I...might want to explore how."

Missoni nods slowly.

[General] Lylia thinks, "Good evening to you."

Vortelis nods at Puptilian.

Skulligei rubs his chin thoughtfully.
A bushy charcoal cross fox with whiskey-toned markings sits down and stares at the black urglaes sphere.
Speaking to a bushy charcoal cross fox with whiskey-toned markings, Perigourd says, "Don't stare too long."
Stormyrain just arrived.

Vortelis says, "It would be siphoning the energy out of you, much as one of those elemental soulstones do with elemental essences."

Lylia sets her mouth in a thin line of disapproval.
Speaking to Stormyrain, Bakarus says, "Sister Stormyrain."
Geijon says, "Marshal."
Puptilian sits down.
Puptilian stares at Vortelis.
Stormyrain folds her hands behind her back.
Stormyrain inclines her head.
Stormyrain murmurs, "All."

Vortelis says, "I would have to toy with it, but it should not be complicated."

Where Is Pylasar

Vortelis says, "There is a sizable gap in my knowledge of Aralyte's research. What it is she was doing."

Lylia says, "None of us knew her well; she kept herself to herself, generally. She seemed driven by purpose."
Speaking to Vortelis, Puptilian asks, "No possible away that the shadows wouldn't use that as a way to pass more essence into me?"
Speaking to Lylia, Bakarus asks, "Reminds me of a certain Sister?"
Lylia nods at Bakarus.
Thrassus says, "She sought to destroy Althedeus from what I can tell."

Vortelis says, "Harrower Ersix told me that when he removed the root maw of these black trees, it was adapting from notes of hers possessed by a local member of the Hall of Mages."

Vortelis asks, "Where is your Grand Magister Pylasar?"

Stormyrain glances away.
Stormyrain folds her arms over her chest.
Missoni casually observes her surroundings.
Lylia says, "Where he is, is unknown. When he is, is also unknown."
A pained expression crosses Skulligei's face.
Stormyrain says, "When, might be a better--"
Stormyrain nods in agreement at Lylia.
Puptilian agrees with Lylia.
Perigourd furrows his brow.

Vortelis says, "That is unfortunate."

Puptilian nods at Stormyrain.
Thrassus says, "He was caught in a time rift or the like over Kezmon Isle."
Lylia says, "Pylasar is a complicated little bundle."
Thrassus says, "I think."

Vortelis asks, "Would the whereabouts of his possessions be more known?"

Skulligei glances at Vortelis and rubs his chin thoughtfully.
Deep in thought, Lylia laces her fingers before her.
Bakarus grins at Stormyrain.

Thrassus asks, "Which of his possessions?"

Stormyrain offers, "One or two of them, yes."
Lylia says, "Possibly. I would have to ask around."

Vortelis says, "I wish to find whatever notes he had that came from the Palestra Blade Aralyte."

Thrassus asks, "Would that count?"
Perigourd glances appraisingly at Vortelis.
Lylia says, "Not unless he wrote notes on the inside."
Thrassus nods.
Puptilian says, "Oh those notes are probbly boxed up with mine, Lylia and some of the other items in Moot Hall."
Puptilian says, "Be my guess."
Puptilian says, "Ask the mayor."
Puptilian ponders.
Nairdin heartily says, "Might be in the hall of mages."

Vortelis asks, "I see. Where is your mayor?"

Puptilian slowly empties his lungs.
Thrassus says, "She is missing currently."
A pained expression crosses Skulligei's face.
Lylia says, "She has not been seen in some days."
Puptilian mutters, "We dont know."

Vortelis raises an eyebrow.

Missoni shifts her weight.

Vortelis says, "Very well, then."

Bakarus grins.
Speaking in Faendryl, Lylia says, "They do not understand the concept of rule terribly well, regionally."
Thrassus says, "That's a seperate crisis from the one you are researching."
Perigourd says, "One would think the Hall ought to be asked before providing his notes, I should think."
Skulligei raspily asks, "Is it though?"

Vortelis says, "In the worst case I will have the Basilica draft one of those mages who conjures visions of crime scenes."

Thrassus nods at Vortelis.

Speaking to Puptilian, Vortelis says, "The shadows would be siphoned into the soulstone.  There would be nothing to flow into you from without."

Puptilian slowly empties his lungs.
Puptilian nods slowly to Vortelis.
Speaking to Vortelis, Puptilian says, "I had to ask."

Aralyte's Condition

Lylia says, "Harrower Vortelis, I do not mean to press the point too firmly, but Aralyte -- the last two times we saw her, at least -- sought to remove people from danger. First, with all of those who ventured into the valence of shadows behind her, and then with the urchin some time later, when she appeared to be half-mired in it."

Vortelis nods at Lylia.

Tebon folds his arms over his chest.

Lylia quietly asks, "Why would she then endanger what she endeavored to save?"

Vortelis says, "If her mind is intact, I am sure we will try to extract her."

Lylia nods slowly.

Vortelis says, "From what I understand that urchin incident was itself nearly a decade ago."

Stormyrain looks lost in thought.
Lylia says, "It was."
Puptilian says, "Alot of this was over a decade ago."
Puptilian grins slowly.

Lylia says, "And what remains may not have the same mindset."

Vortelis nods at Lylia.

Lylia shakes her head and turns away.
Stormyrain glances sharply over her shoulder.
Geijon says, "A rescue attempt I expect we can get people on board with and for."

Vortelis says, "Hopefully the cause of the Ithzir menace is the same as this Aralyte matter."

Tebon agrees with Geijon.
Speaking to Geijon, Perigourd says, "Especially if it leads to a closure of the breach into this valence."
Speaking to herself, Lylia murmurs, "I should have done more, and sooner."

Speaking to Lylia, Vortelis says, "She is in all likelihood stuck there."

Vortelis says, "I was hoping to learn more of what she was trying to do with the Shadows demon to try to understand why."

Speaking in Faendryl, Lylia exclaims, "Then I should have ended her!"
Lylia shakes her head.
Speaking to Lylia, Puptilian asks, "Might have to think, do we go to destroy what is left to let her go in peace?"
Lylia closes her eyes for a moment.
Geijon agrees with Perigourd.
Missoni frowns.
Thrassus leans on his staff.
Lylia says, "We can hope to find out."

Speaking to Vortelis, Missoni asks, "Is it prudent to power the stone, before finding that?"

The charcoal cross fox paws at the black urglaes sphere curiously.
Perigourd glances at a bushy charcoal cross fox with whiskey-toned markings.
Speaking to Thrassus, Bakarus says, "I need a staff to lean on. My constitution isn't what it once was."
Perigourd clenches his pipe between his teeth and lets it rest there.
Perigourd leans down and calls to the charcoal cross fox, who canters eagerly up to him. The fox stands up on his haunches, allowing Perigourd to slide one arm under his belly. Perigourd draws him in against his side and lifts him up.

Speaking to Missoni, Vortelis says, "Ideally, Moravius would trace the source of the Ithzir, first."

Perigourd says, "We ought to have a talk about such relics."
Perigourd nods to a bushy charcoal cross fox with whiskey-toned markings.
Missoni nods in agreement to Vortelis.

Speaking to Vortelis, Bakarus asks, "You mentioned Morvule?"

Perigourd surreptitiously glances at Bakarus.
Thrassus looks over at Bakarus and shakes his head.

Vortelis incredulously asks, "Morvule?"

Bakarus says, "Ahh, I misheard."

Vortelis asks, "The Luukosian cultist?"

Speaking to Vortelis, Bakarus says, "Terrible."
Thrassus says, "Moravius. Completely different person."
Speaking to Bakarus, Missoni clarifies, "Moravius."

Vortelis says, "I should certainly hope not."

Speaking to Missoni, Bakarus says, "Thank you."
Perigourd grunts.
Missoni mutters something about Morvule.

Triangulating the Shadows and Ithzir

Vortelis says, "The shadows and Ithzir both feed on mana, perhaps you all can imagine some way to help Moravius trace that flow back."

Speaking to Missoni, Tebon says, "Tha' was a bad time, but it is o'er an' done m'lady."
Lylia nods.
Missoni agrees with Tebon.
Speaking to Tebon, Missoni says, "Thankfully."
Tebon agrees with Missoni.
Thrassus says, "By dying in large numbers, I assume."

The Deadfall and the Bleakstone Statue

Vortelis says, "I have lost track of Ersix, he was off making sure the Deadfall is sealed off."

Thrassus snickers.
Missoni looks thoughtfully at Vortelis.

Vortelis says, "That whatever is happening around here is unrelated to it."

Lylia says, "From what I know of Harrower Ersix, he would be a difficult one to track."

Speaking to Vortelis, Puptilian says, "Sometimes to find a hole you have to feed it water. If we can feed mana to this area and see where its being pulled in to feed the Ithzir we might be able to trace where that mana goes."

Thrassus says, "I am certain the two are unrelated."

Vortelis nods at Puptilian.

Vortelis says, "Infusing mana around them? Yes, perhaps."

Perigourd says, "Especially if you could essentially dye the mana."
Speaking to Puptilian, Lylia says, "When they are active, that is. It seems intermittent. Only during storms."
Perigourd says, "And by that I mean, mark it somehow."
Lylia nods at Perigourd.
Speaking to Lylia, Puptilian says, "Like a good hunter, we give them a good enough bait."
Thrassus says, "You'd have to do something that taints a person's essence to do that."
Missoni says, "That should be easy enough. It is not as though they are trying to hide."

Vortelis says, "Not tonight.  But I would also have you show me this bleakstone statue, wherever it is in the Bleaklands."

Lylia says, "Attainted."
Thrassus nods at Vortelis.
Skulligei nods.
Thrassus says, "Easily done."
Lylia says, "Such as...someone who has feasted on those black apples, perhaps."

Skulligei takes a bite of his midnight black apple.

Lylia turns to face Skulligei.
Puptilian glances at Skulligei.
Skulligei ducks his head.
Skulligei whistles tunelessly to himself.
Puptilian flashes Skulligei a wolfish grin.

Lylia nods at Vortelis.
Lylia dryly remarks, "You shall have no trouble recognizing it, I am sure."

Ithzir Pyramid in Darkstone Bay

Vortelis says, "Perhaps you can also imagine up a way to displace water. I would like to at least expose the tip of the Ithzir pyramid in the Bay."

Skulligei grins.
Speaking to Skulligei, Thrassus says, "Indeed, I would say your insides are practically solid apple by now."
Skulligei raspily says, "How convenient."
Stormyrain leans against the Moot Hall.
Stormyrain folds her arms over her chest.

Speaking to Vortelis, Tebon asks, "Ye's want ta drain Darkstone Bay?"

Missoni muses, "Geomancy."
Puptilian ponders.
Puptilian stands up.
Perigourd says, "Magister Raelee has several ideas about that."
Missoni agrees with Perigourd.
Skulligei nods at Perigourd.
Puptilian says, "Probably be easier to find a way to lift it....."
Thrassus says, "Large amounts of cold magic could suffice."

Vortelis says, "Not drain the Bay.  Merely expose a column of it."

Missoni says, "She is keen to seee it done."
Speaking to Thrassus, Puptilian says, "Cold...."
Thrassus says, "Freeze a column and turnnel through it."
Puptilian ponders.
Lylia says, "Like overturning a glass and then blowing bubbles into it."

Vortelis says, "The pyramid itself is likely flooded.  Since holes were blasted into it."

Puptilian blinks.
Puptilian says, "Um...."
Skulligei raspily asks, "A good opportunity to examine the sea-floor....or...bay-floor?"
Skulligei shrugs.
Puptilian says, "This could be fun to do but....."

Speaking to Vortelis, Puptilian says, "If we can recover the Gale Stone."

Vortelis frowns.

Stormyrain can offer Puptilian only a blank expression.
Skulligei raspily says, "I'd like to enjoy the local fish again."
Puptilian says, "It froze the bay last time."
Puptilian shrugs.
Skulligei shudders.
Puptilian says, "Not saying its easy."
Lylia nods at Skulligei.
Puptilian says, "Just saying...."
Thrassus says, "That is monumentally easier said than done."
Reluctant to come out from hiding behind Lylia, the grantris is encouraged by Lylia's nudge.
Speaking to a light grey crimson-eyed grantris, Lylia says, "No hiding."

Vortelis says, "I would not wish to give Vespasius the pretext to bring in the army necessary to seize a relic such as the Gale Stone."

Thrassus nods at Vortelis.
Lylia nods at Vortelis.
Puptilian ponders.
Thrassus says, "The ripple effects from that would be beyond problematic."
Puptilian says, "I have another idea...."
Puptilian just opened a padded black leather gem pouch.
Skulligei glances at Puptilian.

Vortelis says, "I am not looking to make history books in an international crisis."

Skulligei raises an eyebrow.
Puptilian removes a small crimson glass orb from in his forest green pack.
Thrassus nods at Vortelis.
Tebon grunts.
Puptilian shows Vortelis a small crimson glass orb, which he is holding in his right hand.
Bakarus stares off into space.
Puptilian says, "Dont drop this....."
Perigourd nods thoughtfully.
Speaking to Vortelis, Lylia says, "Indeed. There are better ways to create history."
Puptilian offers Vortelis a small crimson glass orb.
Skulligei squints.

Vortelis accepts Puptilian's crimson glass orb.

Thrassus asks, "What is he supposed to do with that?"
Speaking to Vortelis, Puptilian says, "So that explodes...fire."
Speaking to Vortelis, Puptilian asks, "What if you can make something similar that gives out cold energy?"

Vortelis says, "Fire magic, incendiary."

Skulligei rubs his chin thoughtfully.

Vortelis offers Puptilian a small crimson glass orb.

Puptilian says, "Enough of that could freeze the bay...."
Puptilian has accepted your offer and is now holding a small crimson glass orb.
Perigourd ponders.

Vortelis asks, "Freeze the Bay, and drill into the ice?"

Skulligei tilts his pale blue orb, causing the pale blue energy inside to slosh like liquid light before settling again.
Puptilian nods at Vortelis.
Skulligei works his fingers under his sterling silver crown and scratches his head.
Perigourd says, "The bay was somewhat frozen before."
Perigourd says, "When Bodohal had that elemental in the bay."
Speaking to Perigourd, Puptilian says, "When the Krolvin attacked after they had possession of the Gale Stone."
Nairdin heartily says, "Or simply move the ice. until the investigation is done."
Missoni thoughtfully says, "Moving the earth around it sounds easier."
Missoni looks thoughtful for a moment, then shrugs.

Vortelis says, "Perhaps.  We would have to be careful to not freeze around the pyramid itself."

Speaking to Missoni, Stormyrain asks, "Raising the earth below the pyramid, you mean?"

Vortelis says, "The expansion could shatter the obsidian."

Speaking to Vortelis, Geijon says, "Armies have been here before. Ones with victories, that failed Harrower."
Thrassus looks thoughtfully at Vortelis.
Lylia says, "It seems it would be easier to displace liquid water than to move through solid ice."
Stormyrain ponders.
Earthdiver just arrived.
Speaking to Stormyrain, Missoni says, "Either that, or deepening an area nearby to hold more water and lower the overall level."
Earthdiver gives a short little hum of surprise.
Stormyrain nods slowly at Missoni.
Missoni says, "Only temporarily, of course."
Speaking to Geijon, Thrassus says, "He was arguing against it, don't worry."
Speaking to Missoni, Puptilian says, "The amount that we have to do to achieve that, the rest of the ocean."
Puptilian ponders.
Puptilian says, "Also have to stop the river."

More Pyramid Speculations

Vortelis says, "I will post a list to this message board later, of open questions on what might be done to assist various problems."

Thrassus nods at Vortelis.
Missoni nods appreciatively at Vortelis.
Nairdin grunts and nods.

Vortelis says, "Moravius had spoken to me, for example, of something involving mirrors and capturing shadow entities."

Lylia sighs.
Skulligei raspily asks, "Could we use that statue to teleport the pyramid somewhere more convenient? or is the intent to study why it's in that particular spot to begin with?"
Lylia says, "Yes. A light trap."
Geijon shifts his weight.

Vortelis says, "I wish to determine that the Ithzir pyramid is dormant."

Vortelis says, "It is its own kind of chthonic anchor for Ithzir valences."

Speaking to Vortelis, Lylia says, "Like your sphere, but very much larger."

Vortelis says, "They get those inside worlds, then hold the door open on portals."

Vortelis nods at Lylia.

Vortelis says, "Similar in principle."

Skulligei raspily asks, "Didn't someone see something there not too long ago? a ghost or something? or was that just some rumor?"

Vortelis asks, "A ghost?"

Lylia says, "I had not heard, but of course, I do not hear all the news of the day."
Puptilian asks, "Couldn't we simply use the same concept of the anchor to set up a portal from here?"
Skulligei shrugs.
Thrassus shrugs at Skulligei.
Skulligei raspily says, "Something...."
Puptilian says, "Similiar to how a wizard sends out his familar to setup a protal."

Vortelis says, "The interior of the pyramid is likely full of water at high pressures."

Vortelis says, "I could imagine pockets in the interior that might be sealed off."

Skulligei raspily says, "So we need to crack it open and relieve it."
Puptilian nods slowly.
Skulligei nods.

Vortelis says, "But then, sending in a familiar, or a golem as this Grand Magister Dennet Kestrel did, if you open the sealed compartment, it instantly floods."

Earthdiver asks, "Why is it full of high pressure water? Is the other side also high pressure water?"

Vortelis says, "It is at the bottom of Darkstone Bay."

Lylia says, "Just getting a glimpse could destroy what we wished to see."
Puptilian asks, "I know some people can phase their hands to pull out stuff from a box. Can't we do something similar?"

Vortelis says, "It had holes blasted into it."

Tebon says, "Physically, it's not high pressure, it's weight."

Earthdiver says, "Pressure is weight."
Earthdiver grins at Tebon.
Tebon says, "Water kin be displaced, removing said pressure-weight."

Vortelis says, "Yes.  The weight of hundreds of feet of water above it."

Vortelis nods at Tebon.

Earthdiver says, "Yes, yes. The weight of the infinitesimal column of water above it."
Lylia says, "Thus the idea of the bell-jar placed above it and then filled with air. Or frozen and drilled through. Or other such possibilities."
Perigourd says, "I wonder if you could evaporate enough water in the bay to do it."
Missoni looks thoughtfully at Perigourd.
Perigourd says, "Then it would naturally cycle back in rainfall afterwards."
Skulligei frowns.
Xorus's eyes grow wide and his features fall slack as he slips into a deep trance.
Perigourd ponders.
Skulligei raspily says, "You'd kill a lot of the life in the process raising the temperature even just a few degrees."
Speaking to Perigourd, Missoni says, "Perhaps. Someone could keep hold of the cloud."
Perigourd glances appraisingly at a glowing blue-white pylon on a huge dark wagon.
Xorus blinks several times as he slowly comes out of his trance.
Skulligei rubs his chin thoughtfully.
Missoni flashes a quick grin at Bakarus.
Speaking to Skulligei, Perigourd says, "Whatever is in the bay right now is already killing the fish."
Lylia nods at Xorus.

Vortelis says, "Exposing the tip of the pyramid, temporarily, would be sufficient for my purposes."

Thrassus nods.
Lylia says, "Just so. I do not know how far below the waters it lies."
Blades just arrived.
Speaking to Lylia, Xorus says, "It was a bear."
Blades yawns.
Earthdiver says, "A whirlpool would stabilize it without having to boil anything away."
Speaking to Xorus, Lylia says, "Ysharra would be horrified."
Speaking to Earthdiver, Tebon says, "That's actually nae a bad idea."
Earthdiver says, "Such things have been done."
Perigourd nods in agreement at Earthdiver.
Missoni says, "A whirlpool! That should not be too difficult."

Vortelis nods.

Missoni says, "Especially if we need only work with the tip of the pyramid."
Skulligei raspily says, "The fish can go for a nice ride instead of the frying pan."
Skulligei cackles!
Earthdiver says, "With water, as with air."

Back to Soulstone Recharging and the Bleakstone Statue

(Lylia chews at the corner of her lip in consternation.)

Thrassus says, "Current manipulation shouldn't be too difficult, in that case."

Lylia says, "While I understand that the discussion of the pyramid is interesting and valuable as well, my thoughts keep returning to the soulstone, and to Aralyte."

Thrassus says, "The only thing is keeping it stable and away from people."
Puptilian grins at Lylia.
Bakarus accepts Blades's bronze idol.
Puptilian nods at Lylia.
Bakarus gently places a bronze idol on the ground. As the idol settles on the ground, the air seems to grow stagnant and foreboding. Your nostrils are instantly assaulted by the overwhelming, musty scent of freshly turned soil and the metallic scent of blood.
Bakarus kneels down.
Speaking to Thrassus, Earthdiver says, "It is self stabilizing, as the great storms in the oceans of the south."
Missoni surreptitiously glances at Bakarus.
Earthdiver says, "So long as it is spinning."
Speaking to Missoni, Bakarus says, "It is nothing."
Bakarus smiles.
Bakarus clasps his hands piously and leans forward towards a bronze idol. As his skull touches the idol's sinuous form, a faint hum builds in the air. The serpent writhes, its eyes twin suns of putrid emerald. A ripple of heat accompanied by the scent of rotting flesh seems to course through the air before falling still.
Speaking to Lylia, Puptilian says, "Figure out how we get there and what i point my sword at and I'll be there to help."
Lylia nods appreciatively.
Stormyrain glances down.
Skulligei agrees with Puptilian.
Speaking to Earthdiver, Perigourd says, "I'll leave the spinning to you wizardly folks."
Perigourd nods at Earthdiver.
Earthdiver grins at Perigourd.

Vortelis says, "I will have to find an ideal way to recharge the soulstone."

Speaking to Bakarus, Missoni says, "Of course. Nothing."
Puptilian bows to Vortelis.
Puptilian says, "Good night."
Puptilian waves.
Perigourd turns toward Puptilian and renders a sharp hand salute.

Vortelis says, "The next time I am around, you should bring me to this bleakstone statue."

Puptilian says, "Night everyone."
Thrassus nods at Vortelis.
Speaking to Puptilian, Bakarus says, "Eternal Light."
Lylia nods at Vortelis.
Bakarus hisses with narrowed eyes before returning a forced smile.
Bakarus stands up.
Thrassus says, "Unless it has been moved, we should be able to find it quickly."
Skulligei raspily asks, "Ohh a picnic in the Bleaklands?"
Lylia says, "Someone else may know the way better. I used to know Darkstone Castle well, but in its current location, I am a bit turned about."
Skulligei agrees with Thrassus.
Skulligei raspily says, "I saw it just this morning."
Thrassus says, "I just hope we don't run into those blasted spores in the process."
Lylia nods at Skulligei.

Speaking to Thrassus, Perigourd says, "Or Estrion."

Perigourd says, "He's likely not happy about being sent there."
Earthdiver asks, "Spores?"
Thrassus says, "He can get over it."
Lylia gazes in amusement at Thrassus.
Thrassus says, "It's his own fault he's there after all, the fool."
Blades says, "Dropped that."
Stormyrain casually glances at Blades.
Stormyrain says, "Mhm."
Stormyrain accepts Blades's black crystal.
Lylia agrees, "He did make certain choices."
Stormyrain tucks a bound black crystal into a small pocket inside of her ebon lambskin jacket.
Blades offers Stormyrain a bound black crystal.
Blades says, "Theres..."
Blades says, "A hole."
Blades nods.
Stormyrain accepts Blades's black crystal.
Speaking to Earthdiver, Thrassus says, "There's these large floating explosive spores that have to be slain very carefully."
Stormyrain says, "Clearly. I'll need to find a good seamstress to fix that."
Speaking to Thrassus, Bakarus asks, "Where?"
Speaking to Stormyrain, Lylia says, "I know a woman who is marvelous with a needle."
Speaking to Thrassus, Earthdiver says, "I have a quite dangerous mushroom like that somewhere."
Thrassus says, "In the Bleaklands."
Stormyrain nods gratefully at Lylia.
Thrassus nods at Bakarus.

Vortelis says, "Your town has a recurring issue of mad wizards making dangerous mana storms."

Earthdiver says, "Ah."
Bakarus nods understandingly at Thrassus.

Speaking to Vortelis, Perigourd says, "Less oversight here, I imagine."

Missoni nods grimly to Vortelis.
Perigourd says, "It likely attracts the more rogue-ish element."
Speaking to Vortelis, Lylia says, "It is one of the reasons I live here."

Vortelis says, "Lucky you."

Vortelis smirks.

Lylia says, "Someone should keep watch."
Thrassus says, "Not to mention vulture-things that used to be human, bleakwalkers, and other abominations."

Vortelis nods at Thrassus.

Speaking to his light brown spore, Earthdiver says, "You are quite explosive."
Speaking to Earthdiver, Thrassus says, "Much larger than that."

Vortelis says, "That is one of the reasons I want to look at that statue."

Skulligei raspily exclaims, "Luckily, none of those on the way out the statue!"
Earthdiver carefully places a mottled light brown spore on the ground.
Lylia nods at Vortelis.
Lylia gazes in amusement at Earthdiver.
Skulligei put a metal-encased pale blue orb in his black leather pouch.
Skulligei removes an opalescent black glass jar containing slivers of bleakstone from in his black leather pouch.
Thrassus says, "The statue has proved to be a suitable vessel for spirit containment in the past."
Skulligei squints at an opalescent black glass jar containing slivers of bleakstone.
Missoni gazes thoughtfully at a mottled light brown spore.
Bakarus says, "Melgorehn had a mechanical dragon at one point, if I recall."

Future Role of the Soulstone

Lylia reluctantly says, "You should keep the soulstone, perhaps."

Lylia quietly says, "I was not a fit enough guardian of it."

Skulligei glances at Lylia.
Skulligei frowns.
Speaking to Lylia, Missoni says, "Nonsense."
Speaking to Lylia, Bakarus says, "I would disagree."
Perigourd says, "As would I."
Missoni says, "You have kept it safe these years."
Perigourd nods in agreement at Missoni.

Vortelis says, "There is nothing you could have done for it.  We would not even know of this emerging threat without it."

Speaking to Lylia, Bakarus says, "Though, if you wanted to entrust it to a humble and...simple pilgrim...I would certainly understand."
Bakarus grins wryly.
Lylia nods slowly to Vortelis.
Skulligei cackles at Bakarus!
Skulligei slowly rolls his cigar between his thumb and index finger.
Speaking to Bakarus, Lylia says, "Sorry, I have already promised the Talon of Toullaire to Xorus, when we find it again. I cannot give away all the interesting jewelry."
Lylia smirks as a haughty expression flits across her face.
Thrassus snickers at Lylia.
Perigourd glances skeptically at Lylia.
Xorus says, "Broken. I would have to put it back together."

Speaking sincerely to Vortelis, Lylia says, "Thank you."

Vortelis nods at Lylia.

Speaking to Xorus, Lylia says, "A little glue, a little glitter, right as rain."
Skulligei raspily says, "I wonder if you could make new snacks with it."
Speaking to Lylia, Bakarus says, "I suspect the Dreadlord and I will be in touch when this happens. I do trust him with...sensitive matters."

Vortelis says, "The soulstone will be key in tracing back to her."

Bakarus praises Lylia.
Lylia nods in agreement at Bakarus.

Vortelis says, "It will likely assist us in accessing the Shadows valence."

Speaking to Lylia, Perigourd says, "Or perhaps once fractured and repaired it will only mutate the bearer into a handsome young human."
Perigourd nods at Lylia.

Speaking in Faendryl, Lylia says, "It eases my heart to know I could not have done more. Even if it does not put my thoughts at similar ease."

Lylia nods appreciatively.

Missoni shifts her eyes to Perigourd.
Stormyrain shifts her weight.
Speaking to Missoni, Perigourd says, "I suspect it's broken for good."
Perigourd nods at Missoni.
Skulligei raspily says, "There was a thing in the Bleaklands I think....maybe we can use it somehow."

Lylia says, "It served a purpose in a different way, once. If it can be useful again, I welcome that."

Speaking to Tebon, Bakarus asks, "These things are of concern, Sir Knight?"

Ithzir and Althedeus

Vortelis says, "It still makes very little sense what the Ithzir have to do with it.  Maybe it will be that demon's followers of that race."

Lylia gazes with interest at Vortelis.
Speaking to Bakarus, Tebon says, "Aye, on multiple levels."

Lylia asks, "Worshipful Ithzir?"

Bakarus nods understandingly.

Vortelis says, "It had its own deranged cultists."

Lylia says, "I know they have religion of a sort. I do not follow faiths closely."
Speaking to Tebon, Bakarus says, "The Order thrives under a balanced perspective."
Tebon nods slowly at Bakarus.
Speaking to Tebon, Bakarus says, "Lean too far and one falls over."
Lylia indifferently says, "One god or another, they take little notice of their worshippers. I am certain Althedeus did not, either."

Vortelis says, "The Shadows valence is a primordial realm, it is in a certain sense sinking, becoming harder to reach over the eons."

Vortelis says, "A hundred millennia ago, Althedeus was able to assault the Ithzir."

Skulligei nods at Vortelis.
Speaking to Vortelis, Lylia says, "Fascinating. I really do need to talk with more Harrowers."

Vortelis says, "In a sense it was likely becoming weaker over thousands of years."

Lylia asks, "We saw the weakened form of it?"

Vortelis nods at Lylia.

Lylia murmurs, "Then I am glad I live in the time I do."

Vortelis says, "It was probably trying to get back here to regain its more ancient strength."

Vortelis says, "If there is nothing else for me, I suppose I will be off for now."

Geijon nods at Vortelis.
Thrassus nods at Vortelis.
Perigourd nods appreciatively at Vortelis.
Geijon says, "Promising research."
Thrassus says, "Do let us know if anything else is learned in the meantime."
Speaking to Vortelis, Missoni says, "Thank you for the information. This has been helpful."

Vortelis says, "I will post something on this message board later."

Skulligei nods at Vortelis.
Seraska says, "A crowd tonight..."
Lylia nods appreciatively at Vortelis.
Lylia nods at Seraska.
Speaking to Seraska, Lylia says, "We have been talking of Ithzir and pyramids and dangerous shadows."
Geijon bows to Tebon.
Tebon says, "Take care ol' friend."
Sir Geijon just went west.

Vortelis nods and walks through a rift, which vanishes in a flash of light.

There is a sudden opening of the veil, which draws the black urglaes sphere through it.
Retrieved from "https://gswiki.play.net/index.php?title=Lost_Palestra_(storyline)/2026-01-17_-_Vortelis_Explains_How_Aralyte%27s_Soulstone_Works_(log)&oldid=252126"