The Griffin Sword Saga (storyline)/2004-06-15 - Cerisago (log)
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Cerisago, recently resurfaced in Solhaven, is found praying to Fash'lo'nae in the Garden of Forbidden Knowledge on 6/5/04, in the third year of the Griffin Sword Saga. She appears to be half-mad, her mind shattered; according to the gardener, Donavierna, she has been slowly declining ever since Cerisago was reuinited with her husband, Deshian. Her decline into madness has sped up in recent days. She has been running errands for Deshian, who was hired by the Dark Alliance to find a way to turn the banshee Harith corporeal again, and as part of it has been bringing him tkaro root. Raelee and Charna try to convince Cerisago to speak with them, or at the very least to get some rest. When more begin to gather in the garden, Cerisago flees.
This log is from Raelee's perspective. It has been edited.
[Garden of Forbidden Knowledge] Shrubs, small trees and neatly bordered garden beds filled with a variety of plants and herbs are clustered about the garden, centered around sculptures of granite, sandstone and limestone. At the heart of the park rests a bronze statue of an aged man with a thick tome open on his lap, a brass plaque set into a granite boulder at its feet. You also see a graceful grey-robed woman. Also here: Cerisago who is kneeling Obvious paths: out >look woman Slender pearl-tipped hairpins secure the woman's dark red tresses in a complex arrangement of braids atop her head. Though the tips of her ears are hidden, the angles of her face suggest that she is at least partially elven. Her grey robes conceal her form entirely. On a slender leather cord, she wears a gold slit-pupilled eye talisman. You see Cerisago. She appears to be an Erithian of the Tichan Dai. She appears to be in the flower of life and average height. She has overly bright pale blue eyes and fair skin. She has long, sparse silver hair worn in many thin braids. She has a delicate face and stooped shoulders. She has some minor cuts and bruises on her left hand, and some minor cuts and bruises on her right hand. She is wearing a hooded soft grey wool cloak stained heavily with dried blood, a dirty and tattered silk robe edged with painted blue cranes, a braided circle amulet, a stained misty green silk tunic, a bloodstained azure silk sash, a small textured linen pouch, some dirt-stained ripped ivory silk leggings, and a pair of laced blue ankle boots. A graceful grey-robed woman quietly says, "She is fading, but I have never seen her so lost before." A graceful grey-robed woman walks in front of Cerisago, breaking the line of sight with the statue. A graceful grey-robed woman kneels down. Speaking to a graceful grey-robed woman, you say, "Do you know what happened? I cannot understand her mindless wailing." Cerisago snaps her eyes shut. A graceful grey-robed woman sighs. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Something to do with her husband." (Raelee leans forward to peer at Cerisago's face.) You quietly say, "I figured as much. She has been seeking him..." Cerisago glances to you for a split second before burying her face in her hands. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Seeking? She has found him." You frown. You stare at a graceful grey-robed woman. Speaking to a graceful grey-robed woman, you ask, "When?" A graceful grey-robed woman asks, "I believe they have been reunited for... a month, now?" You blink. You ask, "A month?" A graceful grey-robed woman says, "She has been running errands for him." You examine Cerisago closely, sizing her up and taking note of all the details. Speaking to Cerisago, you ask, "Cerisago. What has he done?" Cerisago gasps for breath behind her hands, and then resumes her keening. Suddenly you have the strangest feeling that you are being watched. The feeling fades as quickly as it came. You glance around the area. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "The last time she came was... perhaps three days ago." You quietly say, "I was not here... I was immersed in my work..." You glance at a graceful grey-robed woman. A graceful grey-robed woman rests a hand on Cerisago's shoulder for a moment before straightening again. Speaking to a graceful grey-robed woman, you ask, "What happened?" Cerisago's voice rises and falls in an endless wail of misery before pausing as she gasps for breath. Then, the keening resumes. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "This time? I do not know." You frown. You sigh impatiently. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "She is fading, but I have not seen her in such a state before." (Raelee reaches for Cerisago's shoulder, giving it a firm shake.) Cerisago gasps at the contact and shudders sharply, breaking off her cry. Speaking to Cerisago, you say, "Cerisago." A graceful grey-robed woman takes a step back, observing quietly. Cerisago makes a low, sad mewling sound through the hands that conceal her face. (Raelee shifts to kneel directly in front of Cerisago.) You glance at a graceful grey-robed woman. A graceful grey-robed woman raises an eyebrow your direction. Speaking to a graceful grey-robed woman, you ask, "What can be done?" You pass a hand over your face to bring some color back into your milky white complexion. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "She cries, and she prays." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "And when she is done, she goes away." You tersely say, "Crying and praying solves nothing." Charna whispers, "Wha' has happened? Why is she so sad?" A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Never like this before. She is fading quickly." A graceful grey-robed woman studies Cerisago contemplatively. Speaking to a graceful grey-robed woman, you ask, "What do you mean... 'fading'?" You focus your mind on Charna and think: "She will not speak, Charna. I do not know." Roundtime: 5 sec. A graceful grey-robed woman asks, "Oh, ch-- my dear. It is not obvious?" A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Sheru is taking her." Charna moves to stand in front of Cerisago. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "She is going mad." Charna cocks her head. A dusky mastiff saunters in. Cerisago gasps into her hands before beginning to wail, a high-pitched, keening sound of purest anguish. (Raelee gives Charna a quick, helpless glance.) A graceful grey-robed woman says approvingly, "That's a beautiful dog." (Charna moves to Cerisago's right so that she is not in Raelee's way.) Speaking to a graceful grey-robed woman, you ask, "This is his doing? Her husband?" Charna looks over at you and shakes her head. Charna says, "Tha' is Cosain." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Not if I understand the matter." A dusky mastiff's tail wags slowly back and forth! Charna kneels down. A graceful grey-robed woman asks, "Ah, he's a friendly one. Does he like to be petted?" A graceful grey-robed woman smiles at Charna. Charna nods. (Raelee quickly rakes a hand through her hair in frustrating.) Charna looks at Cerisago with concern. (Raelee quickly rakes a hand through her hair in frustration.) Cerisago catches her breath again and falls into silence, rocking fitfully back and forth with her face buried in her hands. Charna touches Cerisago. A graceful grey-robed woman walks over to a dusky mastiff and scratches it behind its ears. A graceful grey-robed woman smiles. (Raelee attempts to make a grab for Cerisago's hands to pull them away from her face.) Cerisago does not resist the contact, exposing her face. A graceful grey-robed woman tells a dusky mastiff, "You are a good one, aren't you..." Speaking slowly to a graceful grey-robed woman, Charna asks, "Ye 'er sure tha' it is tha' Jackal?" Cerisago ducks down, trying to push her face back against her hands without providing any resistance to the pressure on her hands. (Raelee tilts her head down to stare directly into Cerisago's eyes, not releasing her hands.) A graceful grey-robed woman says, "She was quite sane when she first came here." Charna grins crookedly. Speaking clearly to Cerisago, you say, "Cerisago. I want you to listen to me. Focus." You glance at a graceful grey-robed woman. Charna says, "Sheru doesnae hold all o' tha' enlightened." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Considering her companions, I hardly think it was your Lady, child." A graceful grey-robed woman smiles at Charna. Speaking to a graceful grey-robed woman, you ask, "First came here? When?" A graceful grey-robed woman softly says, "No. Sheru has his teeth in her." Charna frowns. Cerisago begins to keen again, a high-pitched, anguished sound. You flinch. Charna flinches. Charna glances at Cerisago. A graceful grey-robed woman sighs. (Raelee releases her hold on Cerisago's hands, leaning back away from her.) Charna asks, "Did 'e die?" Charna glances at a graceful grey-robed woman. Charna cocks her head at Cerisago. Cerisago hesitates for a moment before dropping her hands in her lap and staring at the statue. You glance at a bronze statue. >look statue Appearing quite advanced in years, due to the length of his beard and the lines and wrinkles evident in his face, this is clearly a respectful depiction of Fash'lo'nae as The Grandfather. Only close examination reveals the intensity of the statue's gaze, locked upon the pages of the large book opened across his legs. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Perhaps... I do not know." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "It may be the cause of her grief today." Charna says, "She said 'e was sick." Charna places her hand on her translucent crystal. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Three nights back, she asked me again for tkaro root for him." You quietly say, "Madness is a sickness..." You glance at Charna. Charna starts chuckling at you! Charna says, "Aye, in ah way it is." Charna nods to you. Speaking to Charna, you say, "Tkaro root is for the mind." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I have been supplying her with tkaro and acantha for... two weeks now, I believe. She seemed to need it very badly." Charna nods to the grey-robed woman. Charna says, "Aye, she did." Cerisago runs out of breath and falls silent again, though she continues to rock fitfully back and forth. Speaking to a graceful grey-robed woman, you say, "Perhaps another herb? Valerian? There are others with... numbing effects..." Charna says, "She's.. so worn." Charna says, "Angelica.... Was tha' root.... it made tha' fever leave." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "She could use some valerian tea, herself, and chamomile." Charna places her hand on her translucent crystal. A graceful grey-robed woman studies Cerisago critically. Charna shivers. Charna mutters chamomile. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "And something for those hands." You quietly say, "I do have a supply of valerian root." You mutter something about bushes. Charna says, "She did tha' when in tha' bushes.." Charna says, "I remember, I had asked 'er ta' stop." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "As for her husband... I do not know what he was doing with the tkaro root." Charna removes a fresh white cotton bandage from in her saddlebag style hip-satchel. Charna offers you a fresh white cotton bandage. Type ACCEPT to accept the offer or DECLINE to decline it. The offer will expire in 30 seconds. Cerisago slowly twists her hands back and forth against each other. You accept Charna's offer and are now holding a fresh white cotton bandage. You nod to Charna. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Ah, when did she do this? I have not seen her for three days now." Speaking to you, Charna says, "Ye'll need water." (Raelee gently grabs Cerisago's hand again.) You nod to Charna. Charna says, "I ha'e seen 'er in tha' poison ivy o'er there, seekin' always." Charna nods to the grey-robed woman. Charna stands up. Charna just went out. A dusky mastiff scrambles out of sight. A graceful grey-robed woman looks thoughtfully at Cerisago. Speaking to a graceful grey-robed woman, you ask, "If you are a gardener... have you considered removin that ivy?" A graceful grey-robed woman raises an eyebrow your direction. You say, "It is a nuisance." You shake your head. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "It was deliberately planted." Charna just arrived. A dusky mastiff saunters in. Charna offers you a tall glass of fresh water. Type ACCEPT to accept the offer or DECLINE to decline it. The offer will expire in 30 seconds. You tersely say, "I am aware of that." You accept Charna's offer and are now holding a tall glass of fresh water. You nod to Charna. Charna removes a small cup of hot tea from in her silver-trimmed longcoat. Charna asks, "Is this right?" A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Perhaps you will find some enlightenment if you consider why we might have planted it here." Charna shows a graceful grey-robed woman her hot tea. Charna cocks her head. You glance at a graceful grey-robed woman. You say, "I have..." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Anything warm and soothing will help her, child." Charna flushes slightly, some color reaching her cheeks. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "If you can convince her to drink it." Charna says, "I could sit on 'er." Charna says, "We could pour it in." You glance at Charna. Charna blinks at you. Charna asks, "Wha'?" (Raelee pours a bit of water over Cerisago's hands, gently cleaning them.) Cerisago rocks slowly back and forth, and her eyes shine as she stares at the statue. A single tear slowly spills over the edge and slips down her right cheek. Speaking to Charna, you say, "I doubt that would be the best course." Charna says, "O." Charna says, "Mayhap nae." Charna sighs. Charna says, "She used ta' work on flatware made o' metal." You nod to Charna. A second tear parallels the first down Cerisago's cheek, and more follow as the woman weeps silently, never ceasing her fitful rocking. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "She mentioned it, once." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "She told me she wanted to go home." Speaking to Cerisago, you say, "Please sit still. I must tend to your hands." Cerisago does not resist the ministrations, but does not cease her rocking, either. (Charna glances at Cerisago, clearly uncomfortable.) Charna says, "She was with ah caravan." Charna says, "Jist wanted ta' see 'er husband." You sigh. You quietly say, "Her work was quite skilled... I have some of it in my possession." Charna says, "We ne'er should ha'e tol' 'er tha' he had been 'er." You nod to Charna. Charna nods to you. Speaking to Charna, you say, "Withholding information is never the way." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I do not think the Dark Alliance has much of a need for fine metalwork." Speaking to you, Charna asks, "Wha' is worse? Peace an' bliss 'er knowledge an' this?" (Raelee gently wraps one of the bandages around Cerisago's right hand.) Speaking to Charna, you say, "Knowing." Charna grins crookedly. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "But I am not sure it was their fault. She did not speak to me of being abused... back when she spoke." Charna says, "Says tha' child o' Fash'lo'nae." Charna cocks her head at a graceful grey-robed woman. You glance at Charna. Charna says, "Nae all harm." Charna says, "Though they 'er persistant." You quietly say, "I am not a child..." Speaking to you, Charna says, "We 'er all children." Speaking to a graceful grey-robed woman, you ask, "How long has it been since she has spoken?" A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Child, we are all children to Him." You mutter something inaudible. Charna grins at a graceful grey-robed woman. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "He is not called the Grandfather without cause." Brimzstone's group just arrived. (Raelee turns back to Cerisago, pouring a bit of water over her left hand.) Charna agrees with a graceful grey-robed woman. Charna waves to Brimzstone. Brimzstone waves to Charna. Cerisago does not cease her rocking or her silent weeping, but turns her head, slowly, to watch the blood being cleaned off her hand. Speaking softly in broken common, Eldaria says, "Ohh, I've never been here." Eldaria smiles. Brimzstone asks, "No more making silverware?" Brimzstone begins chuckling at Cerisago! Eldaria gawks at Brimzstone. Charna frowns at Brimzstone. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "She must have been good at what she did." (Raelee gently wipes Cerisago's hand until the last of the dried blood has been removed.) You nod to the grey-robed woman. Charna nods to the grey-robed woman. Charna says, "She was." Charna shifts her weight. Brimzstone nods to the grey-robed woman. Brimzstone smiles at the grey-robed woman. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "As I said, I last saw her three days ago." (Raelee takes another bandage and carefully wraps it around Cerisago's left hand.) A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I believe I arrived at the end of a time of prayer. She was definitely praying when I arrived." Brimzstone says, "Hmm." Brimzstone says, "Cerisago is hurt." Charna asks, "Were they Erithian words?" Eldaria shivers. Eldaria nods to Brimzstone. Brimzstone frowns. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Yes. I do not speak Erithian." Speaking to Brimzstone, Charna says, "She's been fallin' inta' Madness fer days now." Eldaria glances over at Charna and winces. >look sculpture Sheltered by the overarching limbs of an unusually large hemlock bush, an alchemist's workbench has been carved from a slab of limestone and laden with sculpted representations of flasks, lamps and alembics. >look other sculpture Resting atop a fluted sandstone pedestal is a crystal orb about the size of a large melon. Glowing softly, the over-sized sphere must hold some useful visions, if only it weren't standing in the center of a bed of poison ivy and barbed tangle-thorns. Speaking quietly to Cerisago, you say, "Stay out of the poison ivy and tangle-thorns. They are damaging. I know." You offer your white cotton bandage to Charna, who has 30 seconds to accept the offer. Type CANCEL to prematurely cancel the offer. Charna has accepted your offer and is now holding a fresh white cotton bandage. Brimzstone says, "Errr tell her to snap outta of it." Brimzstone says, "She might end up like me." Brimzstone nods to Charna. Brimzstone says, "That be a horrible horrible thing." Brimzstone grins. Cerisago lifts her eyes back to the statue and begins to keen, a soft, high-pitched sound redolent of anguish and torment. Charna waves a hand at Brimzstone, dismissing him indifferently. Charna says, "Nae anytin' wrong with ye." You quietly say, "It is..." Charna says, "Jist need ta' ha'e yer wife smack ye around." Brimzstone scowls. Eldaria begins chuckling at Charna! Speaking to you, Charna says, "I warned 'er." Brimzstone says, "We do not need my wife to smack me around." Brimzstone folds his arms over his chest. Charna begins chuckling at Brimzstone! Eldaria gawks at Brimzstone. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "She prayed for perhaps another five minutes while I waited, and then she suddenly realized I was there." Speaking to Charna, you say, "She seems to be beyond listening." Charna says, "I mean tha' first time." You glance at a graceful grey-robed woman. Speaking to a graceful grey-robed woman, you ask, "And then?" A graceful grey-robed woman asks, "The first time?" Charna says, "Almost ah month gone." A graceful grey-robed woman raises an eyebrow in Charna's direction. Charna nods to the grey-robed woman. Charna says, "She was lost in Market." Charna says, "Seekin' 'im." Speaking quietly to Charna, you ask, "May I have the tea?" Charna nods to you. Charna offers you a small cup of hot tea. Type ACCEPT to accept the offer or DECLINE to decline it. The offer will expire in 30 seconds. You accept Charna's offer and are now holding a small cup of hot tea. Speaking softly in broken common, Eldaria asks, "May I be of aid, lady? Or do the wounds go deeper than what a small healer like myself could cure?" Eldaria smiles at Cerisago. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "The first time I saw her here, we did not speak." You offer your hot tea to Cerisago, who has 30 seconds to accept the offer. Type CANCEL to prematurely cancel the offer. Cerisago has accepted your offer and is now holding a small cup of hot tea. Charna says, "She spoke then." Charna says, "She was sad." Speaking quietly to Cerisago, you say, "Drink that." Cerisago cradles the tea in her hands without dropping it, but her keening continues, and she does not really seem to notice she is holding it. Charna says, "She was confused an' searchin'." Charna hesitantly says, "I saw 'er..." Charna says, "I had ah vision." (Charna shakes her head in confusion.) You frown at Cerisago. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "She arrived and she prayed. She asked me if it was all right to leave an offering." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I told her it was quite acceptable." (Raelee carefully lifts Cerisago's hand with the tea in it, attempting to encourage her to drink.) Charna nods to the grey-robed woman. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "She planted a seed near the statue. I did not recognize the type. I believe it was stillborn in the earth." Charna tilts her head up. Charna asks, "Seed?" You glance at a bronze statue. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "She was not grieving, then. She seemed joyous, and purposeful." You glance at a graceful grey-robed woman. Speaking to a graceful grey-robed woman, you ask, "Did she say anything about it? What it may have been?" Cerisago allows Raelee to move her hand, but does not part her lips for the tea. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "It was an offering to the Grandfather." Speaking to a graceful grey-robed woman, you ask, "More specifically?" A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I found it fitting that it was not a seed I knew, and I did not ask her about the matter." You sigh. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "If it did not live here, it was not knowledge that would benefit me." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "If it did, I would learn all in time." A dusky mastiff's tail wags slowly back and forth! Charna rubs the mastiff's snout and gently scratches him. You glance at a graceful grey-robed woman. Speaking to a graceful grey-robed woman, you say, "You must be very patient..." You shake your head. (Raelee slowly releases Cerisago's hand.) A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I see the doubt in your eyes." You give your eyebrow a little workout. Cerisago slowly lowers the teacup to rest on her knees, constantly rocking back and forth, back and forth, without spilling the tea. You quietly say, "I cannot force her to drink it." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "But... no." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I have not confused my path with Lumnis's veils." Speaking to a graceful grey-robed woman, you ask, "What do you mean?" Charna grins crookedly. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "You are surprised that I did not seek the knowledge immediately." Charna says, "Waitin' fer knowledge ta' happen an' makin' it happen." A graceful grey-robed woman smiles at you. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "But knowledge never comes without a price. Sometimes, that price is patience." Speaking to a graceful grey-robed woman, you say, "I would have asked." You say, "And prices are generally negotiable." Charna chuckles. Cerisago lets out a sigh that sounds almost more like a sob at the end. Eldaria ponders. You glance over at Cerisago and wince. A dusky mastiff barks loudly! Charna shakes her head at a dusky mastiff and clucks her tongue. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "As you say. I have more time to wait than you do, I think." A graceful grey-robed woman smiles. A graceful grey-robed woman studies Cerisago for a moment. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "It may be that she will not recover this time." Speaking slowly to a graceful grey-robed woman, you say, "Yes... you likely do." You glance at Cerisago. You frown. You slowly say, "That would be... most unfortunate." Brimzstone asks, "Got any more hot tea for her?" Brimzstone smiles at you. Speaking to Brimzstone, you say, "She will not drink it." Brimzstone frowns. Brimzstone says, "She was lively last time i saw her up north." Brimzstone nods. Cerisago's fingers slacken, and the tea drops from her hand to the ground, spilling over her leggings on the way. She does not react to the contact of the hot liquid in any way. Speaking hesitantly to a graceful grey-robed woman, Charna says, "Did ye feel-" Charna gasps. You breathe in slightly. A graceful grey-robed woman sighs. Charna frowns at Cerisago. Speaking to Charna, you ask, "Have a cloth... or a rag?" Charna removes a bloodstained blue handkerchief from in her black silk vest. Charna offers you a bloodstained blue handkerchief. Type ACCEPT to accept the offer or DECLINE to decline it. The offer will expire in 30 seconds. You accept Charna's offer and are now holding a bloodstained blue handkerchief. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Every time I see her, she turns farther inward." You wrinkle your nose. (Raelee quickly attempts to mop up what she can of the tea.) A graceful grey-robed woman asks, "Did she speak in her tongue before you arrived?" A dusky mastiff bares his teeth hungrily at Cerisago! Charna shakes her head at a dusky mastiff and clucks her tongue. You offer your blue handkerchief to Charna, who has 30 seconds to accept the offer. Type CANCEL to prematurely cancel the offer. Charna has accepted your offer and is now holding a bloodstained blue handkerchief. Charna wraps her blue handkerchief around her fingers. Charna put a bloodstained blue handkerchief in her black silk vest. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Pardon. Before I arrived. I misspoke myself." You shake your head at a graceful grey-robed woman. Cerisago slowly twists her fingers back and forth in her lap as she continues rocking. You say, "She did nothing more than wail..." Brimzstone searches around for a moment. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I have, perhaps, one way to bring her out of her trance. If it still works." You blink. Speaking to a graceful grey-robed woman, you ask, "What is that?" Charna cocks her head at a graceful grey-robed woman. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "To give her what she sought, every other time. The tkaro root." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "If he is not dead. If he is dead...." A graceful grey-robed woman shrugs eloquently. You glance at a graceful grey-robed woman. Charna says, "Tha' poisoner..." Brimzstone says, "Shall i get some Tkaro root? i know where to find it up north." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I have some. It will not be necessary." Brimzstone nods to the grey-robed woman. You bite your lip. You quietly say, "If he is dead... then all would be lost." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I hesitate to try, however." You cock your head at a graceful grey-robed woman. Charna looks over at you and shakes her head. Charna says, "Nae anythi' is e'er lost." Speaking to Charna, you say, "Some things can be." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "If she becomes aware of a crowd, I believe she will run." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "In the last two weeks, she told me she was afraid of being followed." Speaking to you, Charna says, "Tha's tha' human in ye. Yer cup is always half empty instead o' half full." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "You asked why I thought her Sheru-taken, child..." Charna looks at Cerisago with concern. Charna nods to the grey-robed woman. You glance at Charna. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I think it so because someone, or something, has been playing on her fears." Speaking to a graceful grey-robed woman, Charna says, "Some'un did tha' ta' me once, an' I fought it ... I'm Zelia's... She kin be too." Charna nods to the grey-robed woman. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Look at her now, and remember what she was when she came here." You quietly say, "She seemed... quite intelligent." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "She is not completely gone, I do not think. If she were... she would not have come here." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "There must be some amount of trust, or perhaps hope, still..." Charna nods to the grey-robed woman. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Because she has left her husband's side." Charna says, "Its tha' hope." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Unless the worst has happened." Charna furrows her brow. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "From her perspective." You cock your head at a graceful grey-robed woman. Charna says, "There ha'e been... two visions o' 'er..." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Nothing to leave." You glance at Charna. A graceful grey-robed woman asks, "Indeed?" A graceful grey-robed woman raises an eyebrow in Charna's direction. Charna smiles faintly. Charna says, "Aye." Charna says, "One.... saw tha' world drawn out, crimson an' burnt... She was happy there with 'er husband at 'er side...." Charna says, "But in ah flash tha' word went right an' she was lost." Charna says, "Her body broken but tha' world whole." Charna uneasily says, "An' then there was tha' one I had." A graceful grey-robed woman asks, "Two paths... and the second chosen?" A graceful grey-robed woman inspects Cerisago. Charna nods to the grey-robed woman. Charna says, "Two paths, aye." A graceful grey-robed woman asks, "Can you be more precise about the first?" Charna says, "It was one vision." You say, "She seems to be on the path to 'broken'..." Cerisago slowly raises her left hand toward her face and touches her cheekbone. For an instant, it seems she will brush away a straying wisp of hair... and then she covers her eyes with the hand instead, blocking out the world as she rocks back and forth. (Raelee watches Cerisago, frowning slightly.) Charna cocks her head at you. Charna says, "She's on tha' path o' unchosen." You frown at Charna. Charna says, "Iwasnae tha' one wha' saw tha' one." Speaking slowly to a graceful grey-robed woman, Charna says, "I kinnae say more cause I donnae know more." Charna says, "Tha' vision I saw..." Charna says, "Well..." Charna slowly empties her lungs. You cock your head at Charna. Cerisago layers her second hand over the first, hiding in the darkness behind her hands. Charna says, "Ye ha'e ta' slap it away, tha's tha' only way.... I saw it... ye ha'e ta' slap it away." Charna nods to Cerisago. Speaking to Charna, you say, "'Slap it away?'." Speaking encouragingly to Cerisago, Charna says, "Slap it away." You furrow your brow, probably adding a wrinkle or two in the process. Cerisago does not even seem aware that she is being spoken to as she rocks back and forth. You examine Cerisago closely, sizing her up and taking note of all the details. Charna says, "Wha' I saw was ah woman, cringin' an' cryin'... She was blue, its wha' I think o' 'er as.... tha' Blue Woman." Charna says, "She was on my arm." She raises her right arm. "Jist cringin' an' cryin' but then... on this 'un. "She raises her left arm. "Was ah beast, ah jackal beast tryin' ta' snap at 'er." (Charna drops her arms to her side.) Charna says, "I slapped at tha' vision o' tha Jackal... It hurt... but... it squished it an' then, she jist kinda went away." You blink at Charna. Speaking to you, Charna says, "She's like me." Speaking to Charna, you ask, "Mad?" Charna starts chuckling at you! Charna says, "Tha's nae wha' I mean." Charna places her hand on her translucent crystal. Charna says, "An' I'm nae mad, I'm nae e'en insane." A graceful grey-robed woman raises an eyebrow in Charna's direction. Charna says, "Zelia touches me." Charna says, "Sheru wanted me, he wants 'er." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Blue is Zelia's color, they say. Perhaps your goddess wants to take her away from the... influence upon her." Charna nods to the grey-robed woman. Charna traces the edges of her translucent crystal, and it pulses rhythmically for but a moment with a multitude of different hues. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I would be interested to observe such an experiment." Charna removes a tightly woven silver mesh gem pouch from in her saddlebag style hip-satchel. (Raelee presses the heel of her hand against her forehead, tightly closing her eyes for a moment.) You shake your head. You blink. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "But she cannot be allowed to remain here in this state forever... if she can be roused from it. If nothing else, she must eat, and drink, or she will weaken." Charna says, "She could be put ta' harness." You blink at Charna. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I do not think she would pull a plow so very well, either." Charna just touched a clear blue statuette. Charna removes a clear blue statuette from in her saddlebag style hip-satchel. Charna gets a blank look on her face. You tersely say, "No, she would not." Charna laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement. Charna says, "Tha's nae wha' I mean." Brimzstone says, "We can all lift her and bring her to the inn and let her rest." Brimzstone nods. Charna says, "In Zelia's Temple, those wha' 'er tightly in tha' Touch o' Enlightenmen 'er put inta' a' harness." Charna put a tightly woven silver mesh gem pouch in her saddlebag style hip-satchel. You ask, "Bound and tied?" You cock your head at Charna. Charna says, "Covered an' hugged." You mutter something about semantics. Charna says, "Risin' in tha' air ta' feel tha' freedom o' nae any ground." Cerisago twists her fingers back and forth as she rocks ceaselessly. Charna moves to stand in front of Cerisago. Charna kneels down. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "It would be an interesting matter to witness." You quietly say, "Perhaps..." You nod to the grey-robed woman. Charna says, "When I ferst saw ye, ye said tha' ye lost ah statue... One tha' was yer husbands." Charna cocks her head at Cerisago. (Charna tentatively takes Cerisago's hand.) Charna gently takes hold of Cerisago's hand. A graceful grey-robed woman muses, "And what would the impact of such a trial be on someone Sheru-taken?" Brimzstone's group just went out. You nod to the grey-robed woman. (Charna gently presses the statuette into the other woman's hand and curls her fingers around it.) Charna offers Cerisago a clear blue statuette. Cerisago accepts Charna's blue statuette. You quietly say, "Likely they would react violently... or eventually quiet for lack of a better course..." You say, "If they were even aware of their... harness..." Speaking quietly to Cerisago, Charna says, "Me iaar aht Zelia ort tu." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "We shall have to see." You slowly say, "Indeed..." You say, "I would... hope that she could recover from this state, however." You say, "Lest what she may know may be lost..." Charna shakes her head. Charna says, "Wha' she knows isnae important anymore, its wha' she is tha' is." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "If she recovers, I believe she will return, unless she is restrained." Cerisago begins to cry again silently as she rocks, and several of the tears fall down her face to splash over the statuette in her hands. You glance at Charna. You frown. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Her husband is apparently a priest of the Grandfather... or a fallen priest. It is difficult to determine which." You nod to the grey-robed woman. You say, "She did mention that..." Charna says, "He was possessed by 'im on several occasions ta' do tha' Grandfather's work." A graceful grey-robed woman dryly says, "I doubt it." Charna says, "It is wha' was said ta' me by 'er." (Charna does not turn from Cerisago, nor does she release the woman's hand.) A graceful grey-robed woman says, "The Grandfather does not take so direct a part in mortal affairs as... possessions." Charna grins crookedly. Charna says, "I'm jist tellin' ye wha' was said." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Very well." (Raelee nods slowly at the grey-robed woman's words.) Charna says, "Ye ha'e ta' slap tha' jackal if'n ye nae want 'im an' ye ha'e ta' believe he's nae fer ye." Cerisago continues to weep silently as she rocks back and forth. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "At least once, she came because her husband sent her here specifically to pray." Charna nods to Cerisago. A graceful grey-robed woman asks, "If he were so favored, why would he send her into danger?" Charna asks, "Here is danger?" A graceful grey-robed woman asks, "For her?" A graceful grey-robed woman chuckles. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Yes." You say, "He did not wish to endanger himself... for certain dangers can end one's work." Charna says, "Mayhap she is jist part o' tha' work." You say, "It is possible." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "If he were truly engaged in the Grandfather's work, he would not send a proxy to pray." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "At the essence of the Grandfather's worship is a simple truth..." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "If you are favored, you do not need to run about asking for favors. You do what needs to be done until you are finished doing it." You say, "If he were truly engaged in the work of Fash'lo'nae he would wish to actually work... not sit praying." A graceful grey-robed woman studies Cerisago contemplatively. Charna slowly says, "He was hired ta' do tha' work fer tha' Alliance." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I am merely a gardener, of course. These are the guesses of a stranger." (Raelee gives the woman a skeptical glance.) Charna says, "Hired ta' find ah way ta' bring tha' Whip back." A graceful grey-robed woman asks, "The Whip... that would be Harith of Torre?" Charna says, "Aye." Charna says, "Some say tha' she is ta' be tha' new... body o' tha' banshee." Charna says, "I won'er wha' it feels like ta' ha'e some'un else in yer body." Charna cocks her head at Cerisago. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Ivasian." Charna peers quizzically at a graceful grey-robed woman. You blink. A graceful grey-robed woman smiles whimsically. Charna asks, "Huh?" A graceful grey-robed woman says, "It's a joke, child. Don't worry about it." You scowl. Charna peers quizzically at you. Speaking tersely to Charna, you say, "The joke." Charna cocks her head at Cerisago. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Someone will tell you in a few years." A graceful grey-robed woman looks over towards Charna and nods. The voice of Wulfhen says, "I'm sure she already knows, it's simply not within her to.. understand." (Charna loosens her hold on Cerisago's hand.) Charna shakes her head, totally at a loss. Cerisago drops a clear blue statuette. Charna says, "I donnae un'erstan' wha' they mean, Bear." Charna sighs. Charna picks up a clear blue statuette. The voice of Wulfhen says, "Yes little one. I guarantee you do." Charna dusts off a clear blue statuette. The voice of Wulfhen says, "If not. I'll, aha. Have Laleena explain." Charna gets a blank look on her face. You shake your head. You say, "Regardless..." A graceful grey-robed woman gently scratches the dusky mastiff behind the ears. A dusky mastiff growls menacingly! A graceful grey-robed woman pulls her hand away. Charna shakes her head at a dusky mastiff and clucks her tongue. A graceful grey-robed woman gives a dusky mastiff a reproachful look. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I'm confusing your mistress, not threatening her." The voice of Mekthros quietly says, "And amusing the sorcerer." The voice of Wulfhen says, "Sometimes Cosain takes both the same way." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Ah, well, there had to be someone with a sense of humor present." A dusky mastiff barks loudly! You tersely say, "Doubtful." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "By the tone of voice, I expect it is Mekthros." Charna nods to the grey-robed woman. Charna says, "Nightmare's Chant... 'e should sing ta' 'er." Charna stands up. The voice of Mekthros asks, "Curious. How do you know me, gardener?" A graceful grey-robed woman smiles. (Charna tenderly paces her hand over Cerisago's head, her fingers tugging lightly at the braids to pull them back from her face and shoulders.) A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Someday, you will tell me how I know you. For now, I will leave it as a study to the student." A graceful grey-robed woman asks, "Do you wish to take your try at awakening the woman, before I take mine?" Charna peers quizzically at a graceful grey-robed woman. Charna asks, "Who?" Cerisago begins to keen softly, a miserable, hopeless sound. The voice of Wulfhen says, "And just how would you attempt such a thing." You cock your head. Charna looks at Cerisago with concern. Charna says, "Floatin' Enlightenment." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Or anyone else. I am curious to see what will come of your various attempts." You blink at Charna. Charna cocks her head at you. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I am curious to see what will come of mine... but, if I am successful, I am certain she will bolt." Speaking to you, Charna says, "One day, I will float." Charna places her hand on her translucent crystal. You stare at Charna. The voice of Wulfhen says, "Charna has trouble in water.. she sinks." Charna grins crookedly. Charna says, "Tha's why I need ladders." The voice of Wulfhen says, "Quite. So you can climb up from the bottom of the sea." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I suppose she would not be able to bolt under Charna's method." A graceful grey-robed woman contemplates Cerisago for a moment. You nod to the grey-robed woman. The voice of Wulfhen says, "By all means gardener, attempt your.. well. Method." You say, "Charna's... method... would likely take a good deal of time." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I am waiting to see what becomes of the situation, first." Charna cocks her head at you. Speaking to a graceful grey-robed woman, Charna says, "Tha' Chants prolly already whisper ta' 'er." The voice of Wulfhen says, "The sound of my voice, and the literal non-appearance of my body is my usual method." Cerisago pauses for breath before beginning to keen again in a low, agonized tone. Charna slowly says, "He does tha'." The voice of Wulfhen says, "And that.. is not working." The voice of Wulfhen says, "Nor has.. Mekthros' method." You glance around the area. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "If he is still present, you should let the man speak for himself." Speaking carefully to a graceful grey-robed woman, you ask, "Perhaps she could be... restrained... before attempting your method?" You glance at a graceful grey-robed woman. A dusky mastiff's tail wags slowly back and forth! Charna rubs the mastiff's snout and gently scratches him. Charna grins crookedly. A graceful grey-robed woman asks, "But... what, precisely, do you want of her?" The voice of Wulfhen says, "Oh nothing but for her to be with her husband." Cerisago pauses to take a quick breath before resuming her anguished keening. The voice of Wulfhen says, "In whatever condition he is.. currently." Speaking to a graceful grey-robed woman, you say, "I want to know what she knows. Something has happened to her, I want to know what and how." (Charna presses her thump to her left ear.) Charna takes a few steps back. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Her Common is terrible in the best of times." You say, "That is true..." Charna slowly says, "Tha' itsy bitsy spider, caught ah mouse in its web." You glance at Charna. The voice of Wulfhen says, "Down came the rain, and drowned the mouse like a.. rat." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "As for rejoining her husband... I expect she would do that, but not in any way that anyone could follow." You ponder the meaning of life, the universe, and everything. The voice of Wulfhen says, "I have no intention of following." Charna asks, "Tha' itsy bitsy spider bit off tha' mouses head......" She turns to Raelee. "Whose tha' spider?" Speaking to Charna, you ask, "Must you speak in metaphors?" Speaking to you, Charna asks, "Must ye speak plain?" Speaking tersely to Charna, you say, "Yes." Charna says, "Then ye ha'e yer answer." You frown at Charna. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I merely say this because she fogged out the last time I saw her." The voice of Wulfhen says, "Oh really? I've never observed her do this before." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Not by her own spell. Someone fogged in, grabbed her wrist, and left with her. I can only assume she thought to him for help." The voice of Wulfhen asks, "And what did this person look like?" The voice of Wulfhen asks, "Male, female?" The voice of Wulfhen asks, "Elf? Giant?" Charna cocks her head at a graceful grey-robed woman. A dusky mastiff's tail wags slowly back and forth! Charna grins at a dusky mastiff. Speaking to a dusky mastiff, Charna asks, "So, who fogged 'er out?" A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I would say an elf, by the build, but it was past midnight, and we were outside on the street of South Solhaven." The voice of Wulfhen asks, "Just why were you wandering the streets past midnight with her?" A graceful grey-robed woman chuckles. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "He is suspicious, isn't he." You slowly say, "Many are..." The voice of Wulfhen says, "I generally have a multitude of daggers aimed at my back." The voice of Wulfhen says, "I've learned to be." Cerisago's keening voice breaks on a sob, and she does not resume her keening again, but falls into silence as she rocks. You glance at Cerisago. The voice of Wulfhen says, "If you are going to be senseless, by all means do so silently." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Here, I will save you the bother of making up your own stories." You cock your head at a graceful grey-robed woman. The voice of Wulfhen asks, "Hmmph?" The voice of Mekthros says, "Hm." The voice of Mekthros says, "No, if she is to awaken, my Lord will grant her that." The voice of Mekthros says, "Elsewise she remains asleep." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I am actually an avatar of the Grandfather, and I am the one who summoned her husband to this part of the world. I secretly control the Dark Alliance through a certain plant venom. Morvule is quite addicted." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Therefore, I wandered around with her on the street because I wanted to use her as bait to attract Resistance members." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "You may use that as your answer until you figure out the truth." (Raelee narrows her eyes at the woman, rolling them at the same time.) The voice of Wulfhen says, "You know.. I seem to have a habit of finding Fash'lo'nae followers who are just so.. droll." The voice of Wulfhen says, "It must be a gift of mine." A graceful grey-robed woman walks over to stand beside Cerisago and touches the Erithian woman's hair gently. You say, "They are not always so droll..." (Raelee levels her gaze on the woman.) A graceful grey-robed woman says, "For my part, I find shadow-skulking Mularosians boring." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "So at least we both know where we stand." You hear someone chuckling. The voice of Wulfhen says, "Yes well. I've been told that before. I care little however." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "In that matter, at least, we are in agreement." The voice of Wulfhen says, "Quite." The voice of Wulfhen asks, "And I take it you know me as well then, woman?" A graceful grey-robed woman says approvingly, "My, you are a bright one, aren't you?" The voice of Wulfhen says, "That's not something I'm often called, no." A graceful grey-robed woman smirks. A graceful grey-robed woman walks around to stand in front of Cerisago. A graceful grey-robed woman kneels down. A graceful grey-robed woman reaches out to pull Cerisago's hands down from her eyes. Cerisago does not resist the movement. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Cerisago..." A graceful grey-robed woman clearly says, "Deshian." A graceful grey-robed woman clearly says, "Deshian needs you." Charna blinks. Cerisago shudders. (Raelee nods slowly.) A graceful grey-robed woman clearly says, "Deshian needs you to take him this." Charna frowns. A graceful grey-robed woman searches through the pockets of her robes for a moment. You quickly ask, "Will you not restrain her?" Charna folds her arms over her chest. A graceful grey-robed woman removes a sprig of tkaro root and presses it gently into Cerisago's hand. Charna says, "I donnae ha'e anythin' but webs." Speaking to you, Charna asks, "Should I cast tha' at 'er?" The voice of Wulfhen asks, "How would she take the root to Deshian restrained?" The voice of Mekthros asks, "You are attempting to awaken her.... why?" Cerisago closes her eyes, opens them again, and slowly focuses on the grey-robed woman's face. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "She can't stay in the garden all night, you know." You say, "She cannot tell us anything if she runs." You say, "Nor can she tell us anything in this state." Cerisago ignores all the talk around her as she slowly looks down at the tkaro root in her hand. Charna asks, "Is tha' an' aye?" A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Then you had best do something to stop her from running." Charna utters a light chant and raises her hands, beckoning the lesser spirits to her aid... You hear someone calling upon the powers of the elements... The voice of Mekthros says, "Very well." You glance at Charna. You nod to Charna. Charna gestures at Cerisago. Strands of webbing shoot forth towards Cerisago. CS: +211 - TD: +40 + CvA: +25 + d100: +24 == +220 Warding failed! Cerisago is firmly webbed in place. Speaking quietly to Cerisago, Charna says, "I'm sorry." Cerisago lets out an agonized, fearful moan. You say, "That should do." Mekthros suddenly fades into view. Mekthros gestures at Cerisago. CS: +234 - TD: +40 + CvA: +25 + d100: +39 == +258 Warding failed! Cerisago suddenly stops all movement. Mekthros rubs an onyx-bound bloodjewel amulet. Mekthros suddenly disappears. The voice of Wulfhen says, "Much better.." A graceful grey-robed woman takes a step backward. You mutter something inaudible. You say, "That was not necessary." The webs dissolve from around Cerisago. A graceful grey-robed woman studies Cerisago thoughtfully. Charna furrows her brow. Cerisago raises her gaze to the bronze statue, and her hand slackens slightly around the tkaro root, though the magical restraints prevent her from dropping it. You cock your head at Cerisago. (Raelee lowers the tone of her voice to be as gentle as she can muster.) You quietly say, "Cerisago..." Silent tears slide down Cerisago's cheeks as she stares silently up at the bronze statue. You examine Cerisago closely, sizing her up and taking note of all the details. Speaking to Cerisago, you ask, "Can you understand me?" Charna takes a few steps back. Cerisago's eyelids drift closed for a moment, and she slumps in the webbing as if about to faint. Charna looks at Cerisago with concern. A graceful grey-robed woman sharply says, "Deshian." Cerisago twitches slightly, barely able to move in the webbing, but does not open her eyes. Cerisago begins to move again. Cerisago sighs. Cerisago blinks. You glance at a graceful grey-robed woman. Charna utters a light chant and raises her hands, beckoning the lesser spirits to her aid... You glance at Cerisago. A graceful grey-robed woman stands up. Wulfhen suddenly fades into view. Wulfhen gestures at Cerisago. CS: +187 - TD: +40 + CvA: +25 + d100: +10 == +182 Warding failed! Cerisago suddenly stops all movement. Wulfhen nods. Wulfhen rubs an onyx-bound bloodjewel amulet. Wulfhen suddenly disappears. You quietly ask, "Cerisago?" You frown. Cerisago murmurs something unintelligible in a low, despondent tone. You quietly say, "Focus, Cerisago. Focus." (Raelee moves to stand before Cerisago, staring into her face.) Speaking quietly to Cerisago, you ask, "You have your tkaro. It is very important. Can you tell me why? Why does he need it?" Cerisago lifts her gaze briefly to meet yours, but then lets it slide away as she looks downward. (Raelee lowers her head, attempting to catch Cerisago's gaze again.) You manage to catch Cerisago's gaze, and she looks at you miserably. You softly say, "Cerisago... we can help, but you must tell how." Charna shifts her weight. Cerisago trembles in the bonds and squeezes her eyes closed. Speaking quietly to Cerisago, you ask, "What it is? Why do you tremble so?" Cerisago begins to move again. Charna places her hand on her translucent crystal. Cerisago falls over. Charna looks at Cerisago with concern. You hear someone calling upon the powers of the elements... Wulfhen suddenly fades into view. Wulfhen gestures at Cerisago. CS: +187 - TD: +40 + CvA: +25 + d100: +37 == +209 Warding failed! Cerisago suddenly stops all movement. Charna strides a few steps forward. Charna winces. Wulfhen rubs an onyx-bound bloodjewel amulet. Wulfhen suddenly disappears. You pass a hand over your face to bring some color back into your milky white complexion. You touch Cerisago. You quietly say, "Do not bind her again..." You shake your head. You hear someone sniffle nearby. Cerisago stares blindly up into the night with unfocused eyes, and then, after a moment, shuts her eyes. Charna closes her eyes for a moment. Charna shakes her head and turns away. A tear slips out of the corner of Cerisago's right eye and rolls down toward her ear. The voice of Wulfhen asks, "Then perhaps she will run. You wish to run the risk?" (Raelee leans over Cerisago.) You quietly say, "I do not believe she is strong enough..." Charna says, "Runnin' is better'n cryin' an' nae doin' anythin'." Cerisago suddenly twitches against the magical bonds, and says, in a low, horrified tone, "Harith." The voice of Wulfhen asks, "What of.. Harith?" Charna glances at Cerisago. Cerisago begins to move again. (Raelee reaches for Cerisago's shoulder, holding it firmly.) Speaking slowly to you, Charna says, "Deshian is Harith." Cerisago cries, "No! Not kill... please..." Speaking to Cerisago, you ask, "Tell us more, Cerisago. Is Deshian Harith?" You shake your head. Speaking quietly to Cerisago, you say, "No, Cerisago. We will not kill you. No one here will harm you." Cerisago makes a low, frightened mewling sound in the back of her throat. Charna takes a few steps back. (Raelee allows her tone to soften, almost pleading.) A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I don't think she's reacting to you, child." Charna says, "Memory." A graceful grey-robed woman inspects Cerisago for a moment. Speaking to Cerisago, you say, "You must tell us something." You sigh. You glance at a graceful grey-robed woman. Speaking tersely to a graceful grey-robed woman, you ask, "Then what?" Cerisago laughs, a crazed, dizzied sound. You breathe in slightly. You stare at Cerisago. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "There's at least two others here. I expect she's hearing more than one voice." The voice of Wulfhen says, "Quite." You scowl. Speaking in Erithian, Cerisago says something you don't understand. You tersely ask, "How do you expect to learn a thing by frightening her?" The voice of Mekthros quietly says, "That is precisely the point, dear." The voice of Mekthros quietly says, "Consider your own words." Cerisago repeats a single word or a single series of syllables several times in Erithian, and then trails off into a low, fearful moan. You tersely say, "Surely she holds secrets that would be of use to you as well." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "It all depends on his rank." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "If his rank is high enough, he holds them already... and you are interviewing the wrong person." You frown at a graceful grey-robed woman. A graceful grey-robed woman shrugs. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "It was just a thought." Charna slowly says, "If'n she in memory.. Ye ha'e ta' be tha' memory." Charna smiles slowly at the woman for a moment before turning back to Cerisago. Charna moves to stand in front of Cerisago. Charna kneels down. You ponder the meaning of Cerisago's existence. You furrow your brow, probably adding a wrinkle or two in the process. Cerisago drops a tkaro root. You glance at a tkaro root. Cerisago relaxes against the ground as she lets out a long, shaking sigh. The voice of Mekthros quietly says, "I will... return." Cerisago picks up a tkaro root. Cerisago tightens her grip on her tkaro root. Cerisago gazes up into the sky. You say, "The root serves to... repress Harith from Deshian..." Cerisago's eyes shimmer with tears as she stares up into the night. >look stars You gaze up into the sky and see a broad field of lights... Seven stars form the distinct pattern of a dragonfly around two shimmering, multicolored nebulae just visible in the night sky. Both the stars and the brilliant nebulae are cast in perpetual gloom as they slowly fade away into the darkness of night. Cerisago haltingly says, "Repress..." Cerisago shakes her head slowly as her brow furrows in confusion. You say, "Yes. Repress. To keep away. To stop." Speaking to Cerisago, Charna says, "Ta' pretend its nae real, ta' make it fake 'er ta' dampen it." Charna slowly empties her lungs. Cerisago furrows her brow. Speaking in Erithian, Cerisago says something you don't understand. Cerisago shudders. Speaking quietly to yourself, you say, "For all of the foreigners in this town... there are not enough Erithians..." Charna starts chuckling at you! You glance at Charna. Speaking tersely to Charna, you say, "It is the truth." The voice of Wulfhen says, "Quite. Well. The spells have worn down. And she doesn't appear to wish to run." The voice of Wulfhen says, "Is there truly a need to crowd her now child? She may wish some air in the summer heat." Cerisago slowly says, "Tkaro." Charna nods to Cerisago. The voice of Wulfhen says, "Yes.. Tkaro root. The nice.. woman has handed you some." You ask, "Wulfhen, is it?" Charna says, "Big Bear." Charna nods to you. You glance around the area. The voice of Wulfhen says, "Yes. Wulfhen. I would not advise calling me Big Bear." Charna looks rather confused. You say, "If Wulfhen is your name. That is what I will call you." You shake your head. Charna flushes slightly, some color reaching her cheeks. Cerisago carefully says, "Please..." (Raelee quickly turns back to face Cerisago.) Cerisago touches your arm, apparently trying to get you to release her shoulder. The voice of Wulfhen says, "See. She wishes some room and air child." (Raelee hesitates for a moment, then slowly draws her hand back.) The voice of Wulfhen wryly says, "What a good girl." Charna peers quizzically at you. Speaking confusedly to you, Charna asks, "Why did ye pull away?" You say, "Holding her is accomplishing little..." Cerisago slowly rolls over to rest her cheek against the ground. Charna shakes her head at you and clucks her tongue. Charna mutters humans. You glance at Charna. Charna touches Cerisago. Speaking to Charna, you ask, "What of it?" (Charna gently rubs Cerisago's back, ignoring Raelee's question.) Cerisago tightens her grip on her tkaro root. Cerisago moves very slowly and carefully as she levers herself toward a sitting position, wincing slightly as her wounded hands touch the earth. Speaking to Cerisago, Charna says, "Please... Yer hurt... rest..." Cerisago whimpers, shakes her head like someone bothered by a fly, and bats at the air with her free hand. You glance at Charna. You glance at Cerisago. Cerisago moves to a kneeling position. Cerisago stares at the root in her hand. (Charna continues to rub Cerisago's back.) Cerisago twitches. You cock your head at Cerisago. Cerisago slowly empties her lungs. Charna looks at Cerisago with concern. Charna quietly says, "I ne'er mean ye any harm." Cerisago shudders. Cerisago says, "Deshian." Charna quietly asks, "Deshian?" You nod to Cerisago. Cerisago shakes her head again like a horse bothered by a fly, and then hunches her head slightly down on her shoulders. Cerisago put a tkaro root in her textured linen pouch. You bite your lip. You glance at Charna. Cerisago touches the ground for a moment, apparently testing the earth beneath her hand. She pauses, and gives her wounded hand a puzzled look, then dusts some of the dirt out of her scrapes and abrasions. Cerisago presses her fingertips to the ground again. Oelinia's group just arrived. >look [Garden of Forbidden Knowledge] Shrubs, small trees and neatly bordered garden beds filled with a variety of plants and herbs are clustered about the garden, centered around sculptures of granite, sandstone and limestone. At the heart of the park rests a bronze statue of an aged man with a thick tome open on his lap, a brass plaque set into a granite boulder at its feet. You also see a frosted cherry cookie, a silver wand, a dusky mastiff and a graceful grey-robed woman. Also here: Ramallo, Oelinia, Charna who is kneeling, Cerisago who is kneeling Obvious paths: out (Raelee watches Cerisago carefully.) Oelinia asks, "Someone here requested help. Was who?" Ramallo watches a dusky mastiff closely for a moment. Ramallo leans on her runestaff, taking a momentary rest. (Charna glances over her shoulder at the woman speaking but continues rubbing Cerisago's back.) You glance at Ramallo. Cerisago curls one leg under herelf, and then, without any warning, launches herself for the gate, diving past the new arrivals. Cerisago falls over. Cerisago stands up. Cerisago just went out. Ramallo smiles at you. Oelinia blinks. Charna groans. You scowl. You stand back up. Ramallo cocks her head. Oelinia turns around. (Oelinia calmly looks out past the gate, mystified.) A graceful grey-robed woman glances at the gate. Speaking in Erithian, Ramallo says something you don't understand. The voice of Wulfhen says, "Well and truly.. gone." Charna stands up. Charna mutters under her breath. Oelinia says, "Perhaps she was not who asked for help." Charna says, "Aye, i did." You frustratedly ask, "Where would she have gone?" A graceful grey-robed woman sardonically says, "Do be proud of yourself, Mekthros." [Oelinia and Ramallo carry on a conversation with each other in Erithian, which is omitted.] Charna says, "I donnae know." You hear someone chuckling. Charna shakes her head, totally at a loss. The voice of Wulfhen says, "Proudly enough, I don't believe Mekthros had much.. to do with it." You scowl. The voice of Wulfhen asks, "And where has she gone?" The voice of Wulfhen says, "To Deshian no doubt." You say, "Deshian is a person, not a location." A dusky mastiff bares his teeth hungrily at you! The voice of Wulfhen says, "Quite. But Deshian is at a location." Speaking to Charna, Oelinia asks, "It was you who needed us?" Ramallo cocks her head. The voice of Wulfhen says, "She has the root for him." The voice of Wulfhen says, "No doubt she will deliver it." A graceful grey-robed woman gently scratches the dusty mastiff behind the ears. The voice of Wulfhen asks, "It would be foolish for her not to now would it?" Charna nods. Charna says, "Aye, but ... I did nae know." A graceful grey-robed woman scoops up a frosted cherry cookie and a silver wand, tucking them into the pockets of her robe. You glance at a graceful grey-robed woman. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "I'd hate to leave litter when I left." You fold your arms over your chest. You pace back and forth. You tersely say, "Curious indeed..." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "And I am leaving. I have other duties to attend to, and I have shirked them too long today in my curiosity over this matter." Charna hesitantly asks, "Wha' o' 'er though?" The voice of Wulfhen says, "And it certainly is a curious matter." The voice of Wulfhen says, "Good day to you, Avatar of Fash'lo'nae with a sense of humour." The voice of Wulfhen says, "May you reign over the Alliance be long and enjoyable." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Good eve, Wulfhen." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "And Charna." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "And Mekthros." A graceful grey-robed woman says, "And Raelee." The voice of Wulfhen says, "My dear woman.. Mekthros has departed." You ask, "Do you have a name, gardener?" Charna blinks. Charna smiles faintly. A graceful grey-robed woman smiles. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Donavierna. Kind of you to ask." You nod to the grey-robed woman. You say, "Donavierna." Charna slowly asks, "Ye know us all, nae?" Charna cocks her head at a graceful grey-robed woman. A graceful grey-robed woman asks, "This is the Garden of Knowledge. Do you expect its gardener to be unlettered?" Ramallo's group just went out. Charna chuckles. You say, "Not at all." A graceful grey-robed woman smiles. A graceful grey-robed woman says, "Good night." You say, "A good night to you." You nod to the grey-robed woman. The voice of Rekarth says, "Good evening." The voice of Wulfhen says, "Quite.. good night." A graceful grey-robed woman bows in a swirl of pale grey silk. A graceful grey-robed woman just went out. Charna curtsies. You let out a long, contemplative breath. The voice of Wulfhen says, "And a good evening to you, Rekarth." The voice of Wulfhen says, "I did wonder who that was shuffling behind me."