Witchful Thinking - 2019-11-15 - Day of Reckoning (log)

Eoantos 15-16, 5119

by Leafiara Autumnwind of the [[::The_TownCrier|TownCrier]]

Summary

• Townspeople carrying candles gather outside the Brass Tower, whispering among themseves as Walkar beholds them from a window. They leave rows of candles and disperse as he withdraws out of sight again.

• Pylasar rolls over to Moot Hall and pretends to be a cat, saying he's been to today and "to-meow-ow." Leafiara notes he's in good spirits for the final paragon, with no more memory journeys or opening portals for him, but Pylasar hesitates and says there might be one more. He needs to test a theory--but for tonight it's the planned hunt. The group heads over to Lake Eonak, where Pylasar plays around a bit more by clambering up behind [[::Xorus_Kul'shin|Xorus]] on his nightmare steed... but soon after it's time to get down to business.

• Pylasar relays the info about Harland the Bastard, who was a cleric of Koar and the bastard son of the Empress and the Head of the Church of Koar at the time. Rachel ensured that his son would land in the hands of House Kestrel who would later gain magical control of the [[::Turamzzyrian_Empire|Empire]]. He says Harland might be known as "the Patron" since he had a small following when they took him.

• The group enters the portal to find themselves at the DragonSpines, under attack from frosty wildlife and storm clouds hailing ice shards. They battle through to a dead end of the trail, where the high winds and snow briefly cease to reveal small forms--only to pick back up again.

• Adventurers continue battling off persistent creatures until at last a child's voice is heard telling them to go away. No one listens, but they're met with several [[::Meteor Swarm (525)|Meteor Swarm]]s that wipe out more or less everyone. As a few regroup and go in, Captain Stormyrain reports over the Symbol of Thought that the children are saying they have what they need and urging others to turn back against an endless tide of monsters. As everyone reconvenes, the children claim to be the children of Koar and say they'll call for their Father.

• The area begins to warm and a cavern reveals itself as out comes a bearded man. It's Patron, AKA Harland, who welcomes everyone to Sanctuary--a haven from evil and darkness. He asks if we've come to join them in devotion to Koar and says they'll be ready for when the golden light rises that he's seen in dreams; Katiesa, Mayor Lylia, and [[::Ysharra_Nagorn|Ysharra]] recognize that he's thinking of Chaston Griffin.

• Goldstr and Sir Cryheart note that centuries have passed since the time Patron knows, so he asks if their minds are sick and says others have come with similar claims. Ysharra, Leafi, and Dame Evia press for details and he says there were two with the same face and eyes, with hair of night and eyes of the sea--a description fitting Grishom Stone, which Zosopage confirms by showing him a siegery miniature. Goldstr asks if he knows the name Grishom, but Patron says they never spoke of names.

• Patron says the others they didn't survive long in the world of darkness and ice, but perhaps he can save those gatherered now; he asks to join him in prayer. Many do, though many don't, but says none called to Koar--everyone's sickness has corrupted their minds and he can't welcome them to Sanctuary, telling them to turn back, renew their faith, and maybe return another time.

• Behind him in the cavern, children, priestesses, and aged warriors come into view. Patron motions for them to stop and the Landing crowd tries to explain the situation of his illusionary world, but he says they'll protect their sanctum if needed.

• The children begin to sing a chant, then eventually the children and warriors come forward to attack! Adventurers at first respond with non-harmful maneuvers like Shield Trample, [[::Grasp of the Grave (709)|Grasp of the Grave]], [[::Mass Calm (619)|Mass Calm]], [[::Censure (316)|Censure]], and Symbol of Sleep, as a few like Goldstr, Lylia, and Captain Shinann try to get Patron to stand down. However, as Madmountan, Guarrin, and Leafi remind everyone they're not real, Mad draws first blood and slaughters all of the visions.

• Cryheart, Goldstr, Bernadette, Staceyrain, and Zoso try to sing their own chant to help Patron see the truth, but the attackers keep coming as several others--though not nearly all--join in retaliation!

• Patron recoils in shock, saying they've never lost before, but comes to realize that this world is a lie. He notes that everyone tried peaceful solutions first and weren't really of the darkness, but he pushed them to attack... and he thinks he's the darkness. Everyone tries to explain the situation with Raznel, but he says he's failed the children--and so they come out, along with the elderly, and begin stabbing him! At least he utters one final prayer and they push him off the cliff to the valley below.

Log

By Candle Light

[at a Dreavening]

Some townspeople begin to emerge from their shops and homes, many of them holding small lit candles.

[travel]

[Town Square Central]

This is the heart of the main square of Wehnimer's Landing. The impromptu shops of the bazaar are clustered around this central gathering place, where townsfolk, travellers, and adventurers meet to talk, conspire or raise expeditions to the far-flung reaches of Elanith. At the north end, an old well, with moss-covered stones and a craggy roof, is shaded from the moonlight by a strong, robust tree. The oak is tall and straight, and it is apparent that the roots run deep. You also see an herbal remedy donation bin and some stone benches with some stuff on it.

Speaking to Pukk, Maags says, "Was jus about to pretend I was yous."

Speaking to Maags, Pukk says, "Had to see a man about a dog."

Speaking to Pukk, Zosopage says, "You're late."

Speaking to Maylan, Lazaryth says, "There's our wise little land pirate."

Speaking to Lazaryth, Maylan says, "HEY! I resemble that remark."

Speaking to Zosopage, Pukk says, "Well, even if I'm late....you're not the dad."

Speaking to Zosopage, Pukk says, "I hope."

Speaking to Melikor, Ysharra says, "I'm glad she moved south, for once."

Pukk recites:

"Sorry about being late

Everybody join Cryheart!"

Pukk says, "Now it's official."

Speaking to Ysharra, Melikor says, "Yes, though she's up here often enough."

Pukk says, "I'm the town herald."

Speaking to Maags, Alisette asks, "I am hard to see amongst these giants, but I am good! How are you?"

Leafiara curiously asks, "So are our shop owners holding some ritual with all those candles?"

Cryheart says, "Good question."

Leafiara amusedly says, "They're really coordinated about it."

Speaking to Alisette, Pukk says, "Join Cryheart."

Cryheart says, "She did."

[had to step away go induct Daijauvex as a new cleric guild master]

A group of candle-carrying townspeople gather outside of the Brass Tower.

[eventual return]

[Wehnimer's, East Jetty]

This windswept jetty, built of granite and basalt boulders, shelters the beach here from the river currents made more insistent by the pounding surf of Darkstone Bay. A corroded bronze gate stands high across the path, blocking further travel. You also see a group of candle-carrying townspeople, some town militiamen and a weathered wooden trunk.

Also here: Event Planner Leafiara, Ramith, Aleid, Marshal Meureii, Goldstr, Avalera, Dame Evia, High Lady Lauranathalasa, Rasson, Lazaryth, Pukk, Oculatcion, Lady Alisette, Bernadette, Guarrin, Zosopage, Lord Chamorr, Lady Staceyrain, Land Pirate Maylan, Cyar, Katiesa, Maags, Melikor, Ysharra, Relic Hunter Madmountan, Mayor Lylia, Lord Thrassus, Sir Cryheart, Xorus who is riding a fiery-eyed nightmare steed, Grand Lady Cinabar, Shinann, Grand Lord Gryzzlbok, Lady Psyryn, Great Lord Nazarr

Pukk exclaims, "That Walkar fellow might also be Lylia in disguise!"

Madmountan says, "We use the term alive loosely around here."

Speaking to Lylia, Pukk says, "Oh, hi there mayor."

Lylia stresses, "We do not know who or what this person is. Yet."

Speaking amusedly to Madmountan, Leafiara says, "Just need Crux here to best demonstrate that point."

Speaking simply to Maylan, Aleid asks, "You smell like burnt toast. Does jam recognize you?"

Evia says, "And I remember what he did when he was his best, but we shall see what it all comes down to."

Speaking to Lylia, Nazarr says, "True. Someone resembling Walkar, and claiming to be him, is here. That doesn't make him Walkar or alive."

Goldstr says, "Remember his best."

Speaking to Madmountan, Ysharra says, "I would never be an estate arbiter here."

Speaking to Cryheart, Maags says, "I am rather shocked I did not hear of this."

Aurla melodically asks, "He's here??"

Aurla melodically asks, "Is he really?"

Xorus indifferently says, "There are many possibilities."

Nazarr says, "I heard about it after the fact myself, Maags."

Leafiara neutrally says, "Something looking like him is, anyway."

Pukk recites:

"If everything goes south and things attack

everybody hide behind Madmountan!"

Aurla melodically says, "After all these years of tending his grave site."

Aurla melodically says, "And putting violets there."

Cryheart says, "His grave was empty."

At a window of the tower, Walkar's face appears, looking down at those gathered. Slowly, many in the crowd come forward and place their candles on the ground, one by one. The crowd whispers more then slowly begins to disperse, leaving rows of flickering candles like a bed of fireflies beneath the tower and Walkar's gaze. He nods and steps back into the tower out of sight.

Speaking surprisedly to Aurla, Leafiara says, "Ahhh, was wondering who left that."

Speaking to Aurla, Maylan says, "His grave was empty."

Evia says, "Fascinating."

Aurla melodically says, "It's ok it still represented him."

Pukk yells, "Walkar blow some kisses, the town folk will love it!"

Speaking sheepishly to Aurla, Leafiara says, "I kinda thought it was Pylasar since it was purple."

Aurla melodically says, "No."

Aurla melodically says, "It was always me."

Ramith says, "That's not creepy at all."

Ysharra asks, "These people are mad. Don't any of them remember?"

Lazaryth says, "I'll never understand it."

Speaking to Shinann, Pukk exclaims, "It's true!"

Aurla melodically says, "I brought him something if it's truly him."

Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra says, "It's the hunger and the fear, I know."

Speaking to Ysharra, Goldstr says, "I members da good mer den da bad."

Pylasar's Theory

A bolt of purple lightning streaks across the snow-filled sky, nearing Moot Hall.

Speaking to Katiesa, Maylan explains, "It's a purdy for Walkar."

Evia says, "Oh golly."

Cryheart says, "Ok..moving to Moot Hall."

Speaking calmly to Maylan, Katiesa says, "Perhaps the acorns would have been better."

Ysharra says, "Here he comes."

Thrassus says, "Speaking of..."

[travel]

Pukk says, "Yep, it's Pylasar."

Speaking to herself, Katiesa murmurs, "Nuts."

Zosopage says, "There's a little purple mage in the sky."

Speaking to Katiesa, Maylan exclaims, "Those are mine!"

Bernadette softly says, "I see purple."

Ramith says, "I don't think my axe works against lightning..."

Speaking to Katiesa, Maylan says, "I have an ...art project I'm working on."

Maags says, "If that is trulies Walkar, why did he return."

Speaking cautiously to Ramith, Leafiara says, "Oh, it does, just maybe not the way you might want."

[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 large purple wooden barrel and a polished bleakstone statue.

Speaking to her broom hare, Aleid says, "Not this time."

Speaking to Maags, Maylan says, "To find his Kiske."

Speaking to Maags, Lylia says, "Ostensibly to seek Kiske in the Bleaklands."

Maags exclaims, "Well Kiske is not here and has been away a long time!"

Pukk yells, "Owlie, come back! We need you too!"

Speaking offhandedly to Maags, Leafiara says, "Claims he wants help finding Kiske, saying the witch took her."

Speaking to Maags, Leafiara explains, "He says she left back in Lormesta to be with him and live in secrecy."

Speaking to Maags, Maylan says, "If you had seen Winston last night, you would have no doubt. The hound caught his scent and the poor fella howled after his long lost friend."

Pukk says, "Well, he gives a hoot for us anyways."

Speaking to Pukk, Ysharra says, "That was charming."

Nazarr asks, "Don't bloodhounds usually howl?"

Evia says, "He did? Golly."

Speaking to Nazarr, Maylan says, "Not like this."

Speaking wryly to Evia, Leafiara says, "I don't believe it for a second, but just reporting what he said."

Speaking to Maylan, Maags says, "Scents are not that difficult to move."

Speaking to Maylan, Lylia says, "The animal would also have howled if he were some form of golem or animate, resembling his master in superficial ways but not having his scent."

Speaking to Nazarr, Maylan says, "He was all worked up, and quite distraught when Walkar was not with us."

Maags says, "I mean, he died."

Lylia says, "Not to be gloomy. Just realistic."

Evia says, "Didn't see his apparent self return, so still piecing it all together."

Speaking to Lylia, Maylan insists, "NO. Winston knows."

Speaking to Maags, Katiesa agrees, "With many witnesses present."

Lylia flatly says, "Yes. An animal with a brain the size of my fist knows more than the rest of us all put together. This is clearly on the side of logic, reason, and clear thinking."

Speaking to Evia, Leafiara admits, "Didn't give us much of a good explanation why he was gone all this time. Just claimed that he needed to seem dead or the Landing couldn't move on."

Speaking to Lylia, Madmountan says, "Stop talking about Pukk like that."

Evia says, "Now an animal with the brain the size of MY fist...maybe."

Pylasar rolls in and springs to his feet.

Speaking to Lylia, Maylan urges, "Winston is special."

Speaking amicably to Pylasar, Leafiara exclaims, "Evenin'!"

Speaking heartily to Lylia, Chamorr says, "We do however know the traits of a bloodhound."

Pukk asks, "Wait...what...somebody talking about me?"

Speaking to Pylasar, Ysharra says, "Hello, Peter."

Ramith says, "Snowing, and I forgot my cloak.."

Pylasar claws at the air like a cat.

Cryheart says, "Good evening."

Pylasar says, "Meow."

Aurla melodically says, "Hello Pylasar."

Leafiara amusedly says, "Well alright then."

Maags exclaims, "That was an unusual entrance!"

Maags exclaims, "Always keeps us guessing!"

Speaking heartily to Pylasar, Chamorr says, "Evenin."

Speaking wryly to Pylasar, Katiesa says, "Very realistic."

Pylasar says, "I've been to today, and I've been to to-meow-ow."

Pylasar snickers to himself.

Speaking curiously to Pylasar, Leafiara says, "Staying in good spirits for this final paragon, I take it."

Staceyrain says, "I would trust a hound to know its master, not to do math, but know its master yes."

Maags says, "Better at lightning."

Pylasar says, "Yes...final."

Leafiara grins.

Pylasar says, "If we say so."

Madmountan says, "That sounded convincing."

Pukk says, "Good idea."

Speaking to Pylasar, Leafiara clarifies, "No more memory journeys for you, at least. Must be a relief."

Leafiara says, "Or opening portals."

Pylasar says, "No...we..."

Pylasar says, "We may have one more."

Evia says, "Merf."

Leafiara tentatively asks, "Oh?"

Pylasar says, "We'll....let's see how tonight goes. I um..."

Speaking to Pylasar, Pukk asks, "Remember that time when you remembered that time?"

Pylasar rubs his chin thoughtfully.

Speaking airily to Pylasar, Katiesa says, "Leafi says one, and I rather like that better."

Ysharra says, "Of the first set of paragons."

Pukk says, "Good times."

Pylasar says, "I have a theory we'll need to test."

Chamorr heartily says, "Uhoh."

Maags says, "Experiments."

Speaking to Pylasar, Ysharra asks, "Need to?"

Leafiara states, "Well, you have the aid of many here, at least."

Maags exclaims, "Call the sorcerers!"

Maags says, "Well and the bartenders."

Zosopage asks, "Are the Hendorans prepared to defend the town if needed?"

Pylasar nods at Zosopage.

Zosopage says, "Good."

Maylan says, "OH."

Pylasar says, "And Thaddy Daddy."

Maylan asks, "Should I sound the alarm?"

Pukk says, "They will defend themselves and the tower."

Lylia says, "No."

Pukk says, "Not us."

Speaking to herself, Maylan says, "I think I'd better sound the alarm."

Pylasar joins Cryheart's group.

Maags says, "That was Kiske's nickname for him."

Chamorr heartily says, "Well, that's a relief, the Hendorans will protect us."

Lakeside Prep

Pylasar exclaims, "To the lake!"

Lazaryth murmurs, "Wise Maylan."

Cryheart says, "All join in three."

Cryheart says, "Two."

Cryheart says, "One."

Maags quickly prompts, "Threetwoone!"

Cryheart says, "To the lake."

Speaking to Lazaryth, Maylan says, "Drat. It looks like we are moving out, anyhow."

[travel]

[Melgorehn's Reach, Lake Eonak]

You are on the bank of a beautiful mountain lake that is fed by a waterfall gushing from the mountain side. There is a path which seems to actually lead up the side of the mountain. You also see a cedar chip path and a barely visible trail leading into a grove of ancient trees.

Speaking to a blue-footed lesser booby, Pukk says, "I don't know why, but you make me laugh."

Evia says, "Alright then."

Pylasar climbs up on the fiery-eyed nightmare steed and scoots up real close behind Xorus, placing his hands on his hips.

Leafiara admits, "If I'm still alive by the time this is over, I might start to miss these constant trips to the lake."

Speaking in Faendryl to Lylia, Ysharra says something you don't understand.

Pylasar says, "Quick, someone paint us."

Xorus leans forward and rests his chin in his hand, a thoughtful expression on his face.

Evia says, "Or is it now then."

Aurla melodically says, "That IS the idea of him."

Leafiara grabs a thin silver paintbrush from a small pocket inside of her red silk cape.

Pylasar strikes a heroic pose.

Leafiara grabs a bold red easel splashed with white musical notes from one of the small pouches lining the inside of her red silk cape.

Speaking to Leafiara, Lazaryth says, "If we've got to go to our dooms by a lake, this is a good candidate."

Speaking to Xorus, Ysharra says, "I hope that horse is as ill-tempered as he looks."

Zosopage asks, "There a portrait painter here?"

Speaking to Xorus, Ysharra instructs, "Buck."

Speaking to Ysharra, Xorus says, "I assure you, he is."

Speaking to Lazaryth, Pukk says, "I have always said that water will be the death of me."

Xorus grabs some scorched leather reins with both hands and digs his heels into his steed's sides, causing him to buck wildly, nearly throwing him off!

Speaking to Pylasar, Evia says, "Tuck your little hand into your coat, all portrait like."

Speaking to Zosopage, Leafiara admits, "It would take too long to finish right now, but... I've got it well burned into my memory."

Speaking to Pukk, Lazaryth says, "Have you always said that? I can't recall hearing it."

Pylasar arches his back and tucks his hand into his mantle.

Evia says, "Perfect."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "He hasn't heard me say that."

Pylasar says, "You could at least smile."

Pylasar nods at Xorus.

Evia says, "Need a big big hat now."

Pylasar dismounts.

Xorus says, "This is me smiling."

Lylia whispers something to Ysharra.

A mocking sneer twists across Xorus's lips.

The steed plants his front hooves firmly and kicks up his rear legs in a frolicking and playful display, nearly throwing Xorus from his seated position!

Speaking to Pylasar, Pukk says, "Xorus smiling is like Lylia smiling...it's unnerving and kinda spooky."

Lylia says, "Oh, but I smile frequently."

Leafiara pleasantly says, "Ah, morale boosters before the danger. Great idea."

Maags says, "The professor onlies smiles at old things revealed."

Speaking to Lylia, Ysharra reminds, "With many teeth."

Speaking to Lylia, Maylan says, "You also immolate folks frequently."

Pukk says, "Still spooky though."

Chamorr heartily says, "Kinda sardonic."

Speaking to Maylan, Katiesa says, "It's cold out."

Evia asks, "What's the theory?"

Pylasar says, "Tonight we embark upon the final paragon I helped create."

Evia asks, "How not to spell strip us ????"

Speaking to Katiesa, Maylan says, "It's rather nice of her, really."

Goldstr exclaims, "Harland da Bastard!"

Zosopage says, "You helped create? So that means it isn't necessarily the last paragon."

Ramith asks, "Can I hides from the take away magicks magick?"

Maags says, "Maybes this one will has less grouch."

Pylasar says, "His name is Harland, he was a cleric of Koar. He is the bastard son of the Head of the Church of Koar and the Empress of the Empire...."

Pylasar says, "Well, at the time."

Speaking to Zosopage, Leafiara reminds, "Yes, there's potentially another one Raznel made on her own."

Speaking to Cryheart, Maags says, "Told yous."

Chamorr heartily says, "Brumas is still around, right."

Nazarr says, "If my spells will be stripped away, then I had better stay behind. I wouldn't survive without them."

Zosopage asks, "Why does that name ring a bell?"

Speaking to Chamorr, Leafiara says, "Buried somewhere in the Bleaklands."

Zosopage says, "Harland..."

Pylasar says, "Rachel ensured his son, still in the womb, was arranged to land into the hands of House Kestrel."

Speaking to Zosopage, Maylan says, "I've never met the fella."

Chamorr heartily says, "I wonder if Walkar is that paragon."

Maags says, "Why are Koar associates almost always trouble."

Pylasar says, "And then the Kestrels would later go on to gain magical control of the Empire."

Speaking to Maags, Lylia says, "Good question."

Pylasar says, "Irony, really."

Speaking to Maags, Katiesa agrees, "We must just get the wrong ones in this town."

Speaking to Katiesa, Maags says, "Problies."

Pylasar says, "He..um..."

Pylasar says, "May go by another name now."

Maylan confusedly asks, "This baby has already been conceived?"

Pylasar says, "The bastard."

Speaking to Chamorr, Maags says, "I do not think that is Walkar."

Lylia asks, "Gavrien?"

Pylasar says, "No, a different bastard."

Pylasar snickers.

Ysharra says, "Or Stephos."

Leafiara muses, "Well, as long as we know what he looks like I don't suppose it matters what he calls himself..."

Lylia nods.

Ysharra says, "We have a lot of bastards."

Speaking exasperatedly to herself, Katiesa murmurs, "All these people changing names. As if life is not confusing enough."

Speaking to Katiesa, Maylan says, "It is most rude of them, aye."

Chamorr heartily says, "Maybe a paragon of Walkar."

Diamondelille says, "Yint kiddin."

Pylasar says, "Not Gavrien...or Pierate...or Demyse...or Setzier...or Pukk...."

Pylasar snickers at Pukk.

Maags says, "If it was we would not has to has Pylasar go on this journey."

Pukk exclaims, "Oh good, it's not me!"

Maags exclaims, "So, problies not him!"

Aurla melodically says, "Pierate. There's a name I miss and have not heard in many years."

Pukk says, "I was worried."

Pylasar says, "When we took him, he had a small following."

Speaking to Pylasar, Raelee asks, "Are you looking for the name of the son the Kestrels fostered?"

Pylasar says, "He was known as the Patron."

Aurla melodically says, "He was a dear friend."

Ysharra says, "I remember some of this story."

Chamorr heartily asks, "Davidson?"

Ysharra asks, "It involved the Kestrels, yes?"

Speaking to Ysharra, Raelee says, "Yes."

Maylan says, "All of the Kestrels were bastards. This does not narrow it down."

Speaking mildly to Ramith, Katiesa says, "Please do not put an eye out."

Chamorr heartily says, "Harland Davidson maybe."

Speaking to Raelee, Maylan says, "Cept the grandma, maybe."

Speaking to Maylan, Maags says, "There are several definitions of that word."

Ysharra says, "They decided to support his claim."

Pylasar slowly empties his lungs.

Pylasar asks, "Are you ready then?"

Speaking to Maags, Maylan exclaims, "And I mean the worst one!"

Maags exclaims, "Nevah not!"

Ramith exclaims, "Ah!"

Lylia says, "Of course."

Ysharra says, "I just told someone I never know what to expect."

Pylasar sits down.

Maylan exclaims, "Gird your loins! Gird your loins for battle!"

Ysharra says, "So being ready is an illusion."

Chamorr heartily says, "That was funny, you should all laugh."

Ysharra says, "Might as well rip off that bandage."

Leafiara says, "From the sounds of it, this one might be just like the days of beating back Chaston's forces. Should be good."

Lazaryth says, "I've got my swords out and I'm paying attention. If that counts as ready, then yes."

Maags says, "Without the snow which should makes it eaiser."

Pylasar gestures as he reveals an ethereal ivory compass from the folds of his mantle.

Evia says, "That booby needs a mate."

Guarrin deeply says, "Ah."

Speaking to Guarrin, Raelee says, "Consider your question answered."

Speaking to Evia, Lazaryth says, "Don't talk about Pukk that way."

A light of silver appears and begins to firm into a portal.

Pylasar nods at Cryheart.

Cryheart says, "Off we go."

To the... DragonSpine?

Sir Cryheart's group just went through a shimmering silver portal.

[Northern DragonSpines, Icy Path]

Strong winds whip around the area, threatening to knock you off the edge of this formidable mountainside. Continual snows have covered all recent traffic, either by man or animal. A thick fog blankets the view over the eastern side of the DragonSpines, concealing the valley below. You also see a shimmering silver portal.

Sir Cryheart's group just went east.

[Northern DragonSpines, Icy Path]

The mountain rises to the west while the cliff drops off drastically to the east. As the path slopes upward, the layers of frozen snow and ice make the climb dangerous.

Evia says, "What out for, well everything."

Katiesa resignedly says, "Still cold."

Cryheart says, "Ice, be careful."

Sir Cryheart's group just went up.

[Northern DragonSpines, Icy Path]

Wind and snow has painted intricate white designs against the mountain's rock wall. The icy walkway continues upward and the return path has all but disappeared beneath the thick fog and snow.

Sir Cryheart's group just went up.

[DragonSpines, Ice Plateau]

A generous ice plateau has formed at the top of the trail, and recent avalanches have left large boulders covering the area. Swirling snow obscures the ground, making the footing quite dangerous. You also see a giant white arctic spider.

Maylan surprisedly says, "Oh."

[combat]

Ysharra says, "...we're on the central monterrserat..."

[combat]

Maylan asks, "Did we take a wrong turn?"

Cryheart says, "I will allow time for berserkers to reccover."

Maags says, "Do not care for spiders reallies."

Cryheart says, "No."

Cryheart says, "Dragonspines."

Pukk recites:

"Warriors do your shout

Bards run Tonis and Power if you can

Sorcerers and Wizards kill like crazy

the rest of us will watch"

Leafiara dubiously asks, "Who's made a sanct?"

Cryheart asks, "Who sancted?"

Maags says, "Not me."

A look of concentration briefly passes across Maylan's face.

The sense of peace and security begins to wane from the area.

Ysharra says, "About five thousand feet up."

Chamorr heartily says, "Drop peace dangit."

[combat]

Bernadette softly says, "Wasn't me."

Cryheart says, "Moving east."

Sir Cryheart's group just went east.

[DragonSpines, Ice Plateau]

The ice deck continues to provide ample standing space and the rocks provide protection from a potential plunge off the mountainside. Seemingly sturdy handholds and footholds are carved into the ice wall around you, leading up to another icy platform.

Sir Cryheart's group just went up.

[DragonSpines, Ice Platform]

Reaching the top of the platform, the view is spectacular. Jagged rocks form a sculpted landscape while fog and dense clouds partially cloak them. A hidden crevice is nestled between the formed walls of ice and snow. You also see a giant white arctic spider, a frozen human corpse and a hulking tundra giant.

[combat]

Ysharra says, "Climbing."

Cryheart says, "Fear." [sheer fear affecting lower leveled characters with us]

Aleid says, "Huh."

Cryheart says, "Be wary."

Aleid says, "I feel fine."

Maylan asks, "Are you quite sure you don't want sanctuaries?"

Cryheart says, "Undead are close by."

Cryheart says, "Or the spiders fear folks."

Speaking to Maylan, Maags says, "Onlies gives them time to congregate."

Dark blue-black storm clouds begin to form across the Dragonspine mountains, bleeding across the sky overhead.

Maags says, "Into bigger mobs."

Lazaryth says, "I wish the spiders feared us."

Cryheart asks, "All ready?"

Maags quickly prompts, "Threetwoone!"

Cryheart says, "Stand all."

Ysharra says, "Watch out for ice."

Sir Cryheart's group just went north.

[DragonSpines, Ice Tunnel]

Walls of ice threaten to smother you as the path continues deeper through the extremely narrow frozen walkway. The brutal winds outside occasionally whip through the ice tunnel.

Speaking to Alisette, Zosopage says, "Stay behind us."

Ysharra says, "It hides in the plateaus."

Sir Cryheart's group just went north.

[DragonSpines, Arctic Trail]

The ice tunnel opens generously, but the unrelenting winds continue to whirl around, creating a vortex of snow and debris. A cave has been carved into the mountainside, possibly providing enough shelter from the inclement weather. You also see a frozen human corpse.

[combat]

A glistening ice shard falls from the storm clouds and lands on Chamorr!

... 25 points of damage!

Strange how the cold can burn.

He is stunned!

Chamorr heartily says, "Ow."

A glistening ice shard falls from the storm clouds and lands on Cryheart!

... 30 points of damage!

Boiling water would feel better than that!

He is stunned!

Xorus says, "Harland was a century after the Ice Witch. Small comfort."

Leafiara muses, "There comes the ice."

A glistening ice shard falls from the storm clouds and lands on Alisette!

... 60 points of damage!

Alisette fails to avoid the icy blast and that, as the story goes, is it!

Alisette drops dead at your feet!

Chamorr heartily says, "Good thing that was me head."

A glistening ice shard falls from the storm clouds and lands on Maylan!

... 21 points of damage!

Maylan gets a glassy look in her eyes as blast connects solidly... or is that an icy stare?

Maylan drops dead at your feet!

Cryheart says, "Ouch."

Cinabar heartily says, "Oops."

A glistening ice shard falls from the storm clouds and lands on Zosopage!

... 12 points of damage!

A gallant effort to elude the blast, but Zosopage got hit in the hip!

He is stunned!

Evia says, "Drat."

Leafiara surprisedly says, "Hm."

[very extended combat]

Cryheart says, "Get the dead up."

Shadows leap from the surroundings, engulfing Oculatcion's body!

Shadows leap from the surroundings, engulfing Alisette's body!

[extended combat]

Speaking to Cryheart, Maags says, "Cannot heal and raise here safelies."

[combat]

Lazaryth says, "We lost Maylan."

Leafiara notes, "The dead are being pulled away like in past time pockets."

Cryheart says, "Oh..we lost the bodies."

Maylan: "Where did you folks go?"

Zosopage says, "They port out when they die."

Cryheart asks, "All ready?"

Avalera says, "I assume they were being sent to town."

Cryheart says, "Moving slowly."

Lylia: "We are still where you fell. You were torn away from us."

Stormyrain: "We are still where we were when you fell."

Sir Cryheart's group just went east.

[DragonSpines, Arctic Trail]

The trail ends abruptly at an enormous boulder, blocking further travel. Beyond, the path continues its ascent up and over the DragonSpines. Moss has grown in the nooks and crannies of the stone, adding a bit of color to an otherwise washed out view. You also see a crystal wand.

Sir Cryheart's group just went up.

[DragonSpines, Arctic Ascent]

Another small platform of ice and snow has formed on this side of the boulder, but a small fissure, too wide to jump across, has formed across the traveled path. The downward slope is decorated with broken and jagged rocks but the opposite side of the fissure is a steep wall. You also see a mammoth frost-covered sentinel.

[combat]

Cryheart says, "Moving."

Sir Cryheart's group just went up.

[DragonSpines, Icy Fissure]

Partially concealed by snow and ice, old bones and frozen flesh are scattered across the floor of this fissure. A sheer wall leads up and footholds of various sizes have been carved into the rock. Imbedded in the wall's ice, a gold ring flashes briefly as light moves across. You also see a giant white arctic spider and a hulking tundra giant.

[combat]

Cryheart says, "Moving."

Sir Cryheart's group just went northwest.

[DragonSpines, Snowy Path]

A long snowy path opens, but the exposed area grants passage to the occasional surge of stinging gusts. The terrain changes dramatically between packed snow and ice, and a fine powdery base, making travel risky. You also see a giant white arctic spider.

[combat]

Cryheart says, "Moving."

Sir Cryheart's group just went northwest.

[DragonSpines, Snowy Path]

The snowy path has become perilous, as wind and ice swirl about, often obscuring where the mountain ends and the drop-off begins. Glistening icicles form along the frozen walls of the summit. You also see a gargantuan glacial titan, a mammoth frost-covered sentinel and a mammoth frost-covered sentinel.

[combat]

Ysharra says, "...Munin isn't far. I can feel her."

[very extended combat]

Bernadette softly says, "Good here fer now."

Cryheart says, "Moving."

Speaking to Cryheart, Maylan says, "We need to move faster."

Sir Cryheart's group just went northeast.

[DragonSpines, Snowy Path]

The hazardous trail winds narrowly around the mountain, the ground covered in thick ice and a heavy coat of snow. Frozen piles of animal feces are scattered around the path.

[very extended combat]

Cryheart says, "Moving."

Sir Cryheart's group just went north.

[DragonSpines, Narrow Edge]

The jagged, icy trail ends at a dead-end, where only snow and rock await dangerously thousands of feet below. The cold fog hugging the mountain has lifted slightly, revealing tiny snow-covered treetops in a deep valley beyond. You also see a giant white arctic spider and a frozen human corpse that appears stunned.

Obvious paths: south

[combat]

Cryheart says, "Hmmm."

[extended combat]

Leafiara roars!

Speaking to Leafiara, Shiril requests, "Do that again?"

Speaking curiously to Shiril, Leafiara asks, "What?"

Shiril whispers something to Leafiara.

Leafiara roars!

Leafiara gazes in amusement at Shiril.

Shiril nods appreciatively to Leafiara.

Dead End

Cryheart says, "Ok..there is a valley down below..we need to find the path."

Cryheart searches around for a moment.

Speaking to Cryheart, Shiril asks, "We can't just push people over the edge?"

Cryheart says, "I see a valley down below."

Zosopage says, "Bah."

Speaking to Cryheart, Maylan says, "Let us run fast."

Cryheart says, "We are at the end."

Maylan exclaims, "Oh!"

Cryheart says, "We are at a dead end...search for a trail."

[combat]

Cryheart asks, "See anything?"

A sudden torrent of uncontrolled mana surrounds Cyar!

... 19 points of damage!

Flames engulf head searing hair and scalp. Sickening!

He is stunned!

Stormyrain says, "No."

Evia says, "All I'm finding is weird looking disks."

Speaking dubiously to Cyar, Leafiara asks, "A mana storm?"

Ysharra says, "There's wolf tracks."

The high winds and snow cease briefly and small forms appear, they then suddenly vanish as the snow flurries about once more.

Ysharra says, "Hm."

Pukk says, "My eyes are playing tricks on me."

Katiesa resignedly says, "That's not unsettling."

Speaking gently to Pukk, Leafiara assures, "Not just you."

Shinann asks, "What was that?"

[combat]

Ysharra says, "There's a few large cats that live up this far."

[combat]

Shinann says, "Oh."

[extended combat]

Pukk exclaims, "Ouch!"

[very extended combat]

Leafiara exclaims, "Feras!"

[combat]

Leafiara says, "All the feras."

Ysharra says, "Mhm."

Cryheart says, "Ok..there has to be a path or trail."

Speaking to Bernadette, Pukk asks, "Did you know you died?"

[extremely extended combat]

The ghostly voice of Pukk exclaims, "So, I seem to have them right where I want them!"

[combat]

The ghostly voice of Pukk exclaims, "Get them closer to me, I will bite them!"

[extended combat]

The ghostly voice of Pukk exclaims, "Rar!"

[extended combat]

The ghostly voice of Pukk exclaims, "I'm still okay, I can help...push them closer to me!"

The ghostly voice of Pukk says, "I will bite them."

Speaking to Pukk, Shiril asks, "While you're dead?"

[combat]

The ghostly voice of Pukk exclaims, "I will bite them!"

[very extended combat]

A child's voice echoes from nearby, "Go away."

Guarrin deeply says, "No."

Leafiara yells, "We wanna come for a visit!"

Zosopage says, "Dang feras weapons."

Cryheart says, "We are nae moving."

Ysharra says, "Just a tad."

Katiesa says, "Far too much trouble to get here to turn around now."

Goldstr yells, "Harland!"

Speaking to Thrassus, Shiril says, "Looks good, the very slightly battle-worn aesthetic."

(OOC) Cryheart's player whispers to the group, "The trail will be revealed hopefully soon to us."

Speaking to Lylia, Ysharra says, "Under different circumstances, I would love to show you around."

Katiesa surprisedly says, "Oh! My leg feels better. How odd."

Leafiara yells, "Is this your secret hideout?"

[combat]

Maags says, "If yous warned us at start yous would has had a better chance but problies not."

[combat]

Much to your horror, a devastating inferno of flaming rocks ignite the entire sky and smite the area!

Leafiara is brutally battered by the burning projectiles, taking 31 points of damage!

... 33 points of damage!

The bones in her neck are shattered leaving her head hanging loosely!

Leafiara drops dead at your feet!

Avalera is brutally battered by the burning projectiles, taking 107 points of damage!

... 25 points of damage!

Massive blow removes Avalera's left forearm at the elbow!

She is stunned!

... 24 points of damage!

Right eye catches fire, quickly bringing Avalera's brain to a boil.

Avalera drops dead at your feet!

Evia is brutally battered by the burning projectiles, taking 68 points of damage!

... 19 points of damage!

Strong shot to head messes up brain fatally.

Evia drops dead at your feet!

Rasson is brutally battered by the burning projectiles, taking 38 points of damage!

... 70 points of damage!

Blow to back removes the spinal column!

Rasson drops dead at your feet!

Guarrin is brutally battered by the burning projectiles, taking 109 points of damage!

... 39 points of damage!

Left arm is torn from shoulder!

He is stunned!

... 39 points of damage!

Right eye catches fire, quickly bringing Guarrin's brain to a boil.

Guarrin drops dead at your feet!

Zosopage is brutally battered by the burning projectiles, taking 41 points of damage!

... 18 points of damage!

Strong blow to back!

He is stunned!

... 20 points of damage!

Flames cook Zosopage's abdomen. Looks about medium well.

Chamorr is brutally battered by the burning projectiles, taking 65 points of damage!

... 35 points of damage!

Massive blow removes Chamorr's left forearm at the elbow!

He is stunned!

... 45 points of damage!

Flame consumes Chamorr's right arm all the way to the shoulder.

Cyar is brutally battered by the burning projectiles, taking 101 points of damage!

... 23 points of damage!

Hard strike to right arm breaking tendons and bone!

He is stunned!

... 59 points of damage!

Intestines rupture from intense heat; Cyar dies a slow, painful death.

Cyar drops dead at your feet!

Katiesa is brutally battered by the burning projectiles, taking 88 points of damage!

... 29 points of damage!

Hard blow to chest breaking ribs!

Hard to breathe!

She is stunned!

... 62 points of damage!

Flame burns through Katiesa's abdomen. Greasy smoke billows forth.

Katiesa drops dead at your feet!

Maags is brutally battered by the burning projectiles, taking 51 points of damage!

... 22 points of damage!

Hard strike to left arm breaking tendons and bone!

She is stunned!

... 23 points of damage!

Extreme heat causes Maags's right arm to expand and snap. That must hurt!

Ysharra is brutally battered by the burning projectiles, taking 112 points of damage!

... 29 points of damage!

Massive blow removes Ysharra's right foot!

Ysharra screams and falls to the ground grasping her mangled right leg!

She is stunned!

... 29 points of damage!

Ysharra takes a breath of super-heated air and expires gasping.

Ysharra drops dead at your feet!

Madmountan is brutally battered by the burning projectiles, taking 41 points of damage!

... 13 points of damage!

Strong blow to right leg breaks it!

He is knocked to the ground!

He is stunned!

... 17 points of damage!

Extreme heat causes Madmountan's right arm to expand and snap. That must hurt!

Thrassus is brutally battered by the burning projectiles, taking 40 points of damage!

... 60 points of damage!

Blow to back crushes spinal column.

Talk about no backbone!

Thrassus drops dead at your feet!

Gryzzlbok is brutally battered by the burning projectiles, taking 113 points of damage!

... 30 points of damage!

Hard strike to left leg breaking tendons and bone!

Gryzzlbok drops dead at your feet!

Cryheart is brutally battered by the burning projectiles, taking 42 points of damage!

... 16 points of damage!

Strong shot to head messes up brain fatally.

Cryheart drops dead at your feet!

Goldstr is brutally battered by the burning projectiles, taking 63 points of damage!

... 24 points of damage!

Strong blow to chest!

He is stunned!

... 35 points of damage!

Several fingers consumed from left hand. The rest are unusable.

Shiril says, "That was..."

The ghostly voice of Ysharra says, "Ugh..."

The ghostly voice of Evia says, "That was unexpected."

Goldstr is struck by a burning projectile, taking 23 points of damage!

Goldstr drops dead at your feet!

The ghostly voice of Avalera says, "Yes it was."

The ghostly voice of Cryheart says, "Ouch."

Madmountan says, "That's what I'm talking about."

The ghostly voice of Ysharra says, "Indeed."

Zosopage says, "Oh that was a bad move."

Maags says, "Veries hurt."

The ghostly voice of Evia says, "I do not even have the honor of knowing what the hail kilt me."

The ghostly voice of Goldstr asks, "Wha got us?"

Madmountan says, "Not every day does one get tickled that hard."

Lylia says, "Meteors."

Speaking to Madmountan, Shiril asks, "Why not?"

Jiarine asks, "Now who is leading this mess?"

Maylan says, "Stormy."

Leafiara musingly says, "Well, I can get to work, I suppose."

Stormyrain asks, "Yes?"

The ghostly voice of Avalera says, "I think that might have hurt, but I'm really not sure."

Madmountan says, "There we go."

Zosopage says, "Thank you."

Leafiara exclaims, "Don't see any fallen clerics, so... going in order!"

Stormyrain says, "Only until the Harbinger of Discord is back."

Maylan says, "Okay, sanctuary is up...for now."

Shadows leap from the surroundings, engulfing Avalera's body!

Shadows leap from the surroundings, engulfing Evia's body!

Shadows leap from the surroundings, engulfing Rasson's body!

Shadows leap from the surroundings, engulfing Guarrin's body!

Shadows leap from the surroundings, engulfing Cyar's body!

Shadows leap from the surroundings, engulfing Ysharra's body!

Shadows leap from the surroundings, engulfing Thrassus's body!

Shadows leap from the surroundings, engulfing Gryzzlbok's body!

Shadows leap from the surroundings, engulfing Cryheart's body!

Shadows leap from the surroundings, engulfing Goldstr's body!

Leafiara musingly says, "...back in a bit."

Recovery

[triage in TSC]

Speaking to Lazaryth, the ghostly voice of Ysharra says, "Avalanche. Or something."

The ghostly voice of Cryheart says, "Rocks crushed me head."

The ghostly voice of Thrassus says, "Meteor storm."

Lazaryth asks, "Meteors?"

The ghostly voice of Goldstr says, "AHHH."

The ghostly voice of Thrassus says, "Meteors, yes."

[triage]

The ghostly voice of Evia says, "So the situation is...back to square one it looks."

The ghostly voice of Cryheart says, "Not all died."

Stormyrain: "We will wait for the recently dead to return, where you all fell."

[triage]

Leafiara: "Almost clear here in the square. We'll be on our way back in not too long."

[she said, and then back out in the paragon world...]

Maags just bit the dust!

Lylia just bit the dust!

Zosopage just bit the dust!

Maylan just bit the dust!

A swirling patch of shadows appears along the ground and transforms into Maylan's body.

The ghostly voice of Maylan says, "Weeeee."

Evia says, "Ow they are falling now."

The ghostly voice of Zosopage says, "Dang feras."

Leafiara tentatively says, "Hmm. I'll go check."

Chaoswynd just bit the dust!

Balley just bit the dust!

[Leafi goes back in to scout, but wouldn't you know...]

Leafiara curiously says, "Oh, even more meteors. Hm."

[withdrawing from their range]

Madmountan just bit the dust!

[return to TSC]

Leafiara wryly says, "Well, those meteors are a problem."

The ghostly voice of Ysharra says, "Mhm.."

Aurla just bit the dust!

Evia says, "Don't forget to turn back on your amulets and such."

The ghostly voice of Aurla melodically says, "Welp that's the end of the night for me."

Pukk asks, "I wonder. When Madmountan decays, will there be a lot of manure left over?"

[extended triage]

Speaking to Melikor, Ysharra says, "I'm glad you had the sense to run."

Shiril just bit the dust!

The ghostly voice of Shiril says, "Well..."

The ghostly voice of Shiril says, "That went well."

Speaking to Ysharra, Melikor says, "Not much we could do at that point."

Aleid drops dead at your feet!

The ghostly voice of Aleid says, "Hmmph."

Cymbia quietly asks, "What was that?"

Speaking to Aleid, Pukk says, "Well, you are in the right place to die."

The ghostly voice of Aleid says, "My sprite killed me. I shall hate it forever."

[extended triage]

[Voln - Evia] "was anyone still alive in there?"

[Voln - Stormyrain] "Yes"

[Voln - Evia] "Looks like we are about ready to return I think"

Cryheart whispers to the group, "Moving out in 5 minutes."

[Voln - Stormyrain] "We still stand on the Narrow Edge, conversing with creepy children."

[Voln - Stormyrain] "They are saying they have what they need and urging us to turn back against the endless tide of monsters"

[Voln - Katiesa] "Creepy disembodied children at that."

[Leafi heads over]

[DragonSpines, Narrow Edge]

The jagged, icy trail ends at a dead-end, where only snow and rock await dangerously thousands of feet below. The cold fog hugging the mountain has lifted slightly, revealing tiny snow-covered treetops in a deep valley beyond. You also see the bloodstained Xorus disk with scuffed and dented sides and a cup of rich mocha coffee.

Also here: Event Planner Leafiara, Relic Hunter Madmountan, Magister Raelee, Xorus, Land Pirate Maylan, Katiesa, Stormyrain

[Voln - Evia] "oh golly"

Cryheart: "We will be back in 4 minutes."

Maylan: "We are talking to some creepy ghost kids. Do take your time."

Katiesa resignedly says, "My coffee."

Leafiara picks up a cup of rich mocha coffee.

Maylan coaxes, "Let us through and I'll give you candy."

Leafiara offers Katiesa a cup of rich mocha coffee.

Morofinwe: "That sounds super creepy to me."

Katiesa asks, "My spirit dropped it. Is it cold?"

Maylan: "It surely is."

Stormyrain: "..it's not pleasant."

Leafiara thumbs her mocha coffee.

Katiesa accepts Leafiara's mocha coffee.

Maylan offers Katiesa a pumpkin spice muffin with maple cream frosting.

Speaking to Katiesa, Leafiara exclaims, "Not yet!"

Katiesa takes a drink from her mocha coffee.

Katiesa gives her mocha coffee to a malcontent badland spirit.

Speaking to Katiesa, Maylan says, "This'll raise yer spirits."

Katiesa accepts Maylan's pumpkin spice muffin.

Thrassus: "Sounds like a typical Day of the Huntress to me."

Maylan coaxes, "I also have booze. Betcher ghost parents never let you drink booze. Mamma Maylan would. Let us through."

Speaking airily to Maylan, Katiesa says, "You should experiment with lemon."

Lylia just bit the dust!

Maylan coaxes, "I have....lemon."

[extended combat]

Cryheart: "We coming back."

[combat]

Stormyrain: "Hurry."

Maylan recites:

"Form on Madmountan"

[combat]

Shinann just bit the dust!

[extended combat]

Daniels says, "I have itchy waggle finger."

Cryheart says, "Ok..we are back."

Cryheart says, "Whew."

Speaking to Cryheart, Maags says, "Well done."

The Children's Voices

A child's voice echoes through the wind, "The monsters of darkness and ice are endless. Turn back."

Pukk yells, "Okay!"

Ysharra says, "We have to see you."

Leafiara defiantly says, "We're pretty endless too."

Katiesa says, "It is in the darkness that light is born."

Maylan coaxes, "You know you want candy. Even ice ghosts like candy."

Maags says, "We has seen such and remain."

Cryheart says, "Come to the light."

Speaking pleadingly to Maylan, Pukk exclaims, "Ooh I want candy too!"

Ysharra asks, "Could you come out?"

[combat]

Speaking to Pukk, Maylan exclaims, "It's for the ghosts!"

[combat]

Chamorr heartily says, "Hey kid, come out, promise we won't eat you."

[combat]

Daniels says, "I thought he said don't attack."

Cryheart asks, "To whom are we speaking?"

Lazaryth says, "That was so we could move quickly."

Rasson exclaims, "Your animals are impressive, but we have a kitten!"

Speaking to Cryheart, Leafiara admits, "No idea."

Daniels says, "Ahh."

A child's voice echoes through the wind, "We are the children of Koar."

A tiny angular lilac-point kitten says, "More than one kitten."

Zosopage says, "I am a follower of Koar as well."

A child's voice echoes through the wind, "Do you know his love?"

Xorus sarcastically asks, "Voln?" [claimed to be a son of Koar]

Leafiara simply says, "Well then."

Ysharra says, "You've been up here a long time."

Pukk exclaims, "Oh good, I'm a child of Cholen. We can all have fun together!"

The voice of Gryzzlbok asks, "Did he really say children of the corn?"

Cryheart says, "Ye sound like a child...many of us follow Koar."

Evia says, "Hello children, we are the ones come to help you."

Lazaryth mouths, "Children of Koar?"

Cryheart says, "We know Koar."

Maylan says, "Koar? That fella is okay I spose."

Rasson says, "I know of Koar's blessing, it provides me with mana." [referring to Symbol of Mana]

Goldstr exclaims, "We are the Real childfren of Koar!"

Maags says, "We do know Koar yes."

Maylan says, "I wrastled him once." [referring to fighting Kai for a step in Voln]

Jiarine blandly says, "Oh look, more murder done in the name of one deity or another."

Ysharra says, "Many of us have been to his Shrine on the highest peak." [referring to Mount Aenatumgana]

Speaking to Maylan, Maags says, "Or Kai."

Speaking to Maylan, Madmountan asks, "Koar or Kai?"

Speaking to Maylan, Meureii asks, "Kai?"

Speaking to Maags, Daniels asks, "Youve met Koar?"

Lylia says, "Love is best when it is shared. You could show us. And we could show you."

Speaking to Madmountan, Maylan asks, "A fella?"

Speaking to Daniels, Maags exclaims, "Indirectlies!"

Cryheart says, "Child, I pray to Koar and Kai."

Zosopage says, "I took refuge at his temple for years when I was seeking guidance."

You hear the sound of a dozen or so voices, young, all of them, whispering unseen.

Lylia softly says, "But we should see you first to know. You see us, after all..."

Cryheart says, "Great is Koar's love and blessings."

Evia asks, "Children, why has Koar left you up here with endless monsters, may I ask?"

A child's voice echoes through the wind, "We will ask Father."

Maylan coaxes, "Come to Mamma Maylan, little ones."

Ysharra says, "Thank you."

Maylan says, "I have treats."

Cryheart says, "Aye, please do that."

Speaking deeply to himself, Guarrin mutters, "Oh good."

Madmountan says, "And then we all get eaten by a Drake. The End."

Jiarine says, "Your spit cups of ale are not exactly treats."

Speaking to Madmountan, Maylan exclaims, "Good story!"

Meureii amusedly says, "Children of Koar sending undead hordes.."

Bernadette softly says, "Maybe it be Rufus." [referring to Svardin's... good friend :D]

Meureii says, "Sounds logical."

Speaking to Cryheart, Maylan says, "Aye."

Speaking to Bernadette, Madmountan says, "I'm sure Rufus and Koar are good buds."

Speaking to Bernadette, Leafiara admits, "I needed that. This is really bloody creepy."

Chamorr heartily says, "Who is father."

Patron's Sanctuary

The area begins to grow slightly warmer.

Evia says, "Hmm."

Ysharra says, "Now the question is."

Goldstr says, "Children ask yer father to greet us."

Pukk says, "Uh oh...it's getting warmer...that's not a good sign."

Cryheart says, "Children, we give thanks for the warmth from ye father."

Ysharra says, "Are they bringing the warmth to us..."

Madmountan says, "Sorry, I peed."

Evia says, "Hope we don't fall off in a catastropic ice melt."

Maags says, "Seems so."

Speaking to Ysharra, Shiril says, "And here I thought it was warmer because of the pretty one..."

Ysharra says, "Or is it them withdrawing..."

Meureii sets his steel against some tinder and strikes it with the flint. A few sparks fly from the steel and ignite the tinder, which glows red at first then erupts with small flames.

Meureii exclaims, "Quick someone get some sticks!"

Meureii points at a crackling fire.

Cryheart says, "Well done."

Cryheart nods at Meureii.

Speaking to Pukk, Daniels asks, "Huh?"

Evia says, "No sticks about."

Maags says, "Usuallies nobodies withdraws from us. We seem to has an unusal attraction."

Speaking to Cryheart, Meureii says, "Was worth the effort."

Maylan says, "Apologies for the busy busy while we wait for those ghost folks."

Along a jagged wall the wind and snow slow and beyond a veil of white cold is revealed the mouth of a large cavern. Beyond the snow, deep within the cavern you see a man with blue eyes staring out behind a tangled mess of dark brown hair. He approaches slowly, golden flecks scattered among his long beard. He is simple, donned in a robe and boots. Behind him, scattered about the cavern are dozens, if not hundreds of people. Young, old, women and children, some garbed in white robes as well.

Leafiara surprisedly says, "Hm."

Goldstr says, "Cavern."

Ysharra says, "Mm."

Jiarine asks, "Another cult. Can I say that is shocking?"

Meureii curiously whispers aloud, "Harland?"

Evia says, "Golly."

Stepping out of the cavern and harmlessly through the wall of falling snow steps the bearded man.

Patron gazes in wonder at his surroundings.

Madmountan asks, "What are they always Koar cults though?"

>look patr

You see Patron the Herald of the Godking.

He appears to be a Human.

He is shorter than average. He appears to be mature. He has tilted murky blue eyes and taned skin. He has shoulder-length, tanged dark brown hair woven with tiny white beads. He has a weathered face, a thin nose and a long dark brown beard that is faintly dusted with flecks of gold.

He is in good shape.

He is wearing a carved wooden Koar symbol, a simple leather pack, some wrinkled white robes, a crested gold ring, and a pair of fur-lined boots. You feel more refreshed.

Evia says, "Hello."

Cryheart says, "Hello."

Jiarine asks, "Easily led?"

Goldstr says, "Hail Harland."

Cryheart says, "Good evening."

Speaking in Faendryl, Lylia says something you don't understand.

Cryheart says, "Thank ye for coming."

Speaking in Faendryl, Ysharra says something you don't understand.

Shinann asks, "Did we miss a building or cave or something?"

Madmountan says, "Amazingly, I didn't kill any little kids today."

Speaking curiously to Patron, Leafiara says, "Runnin' some kind of sanctuary up here? Normally when I think of this much cold, I think of Lorminstra..."

Speaking in Faendryl, Xorus says something you don't understand.

Madmountan says, "Yet."

Speaking to Madmountan, Pukk asks, "Slow day?"

Jiarine says, "It is still sort of early."

Speaking to Madmountan, Maylan says, "There's always tomorrow."

Evia says, "Think was just we couldn't see it."

Speaking to Madmountan, Shiril says, "There's also always still... the rest of today."

Speaking to Patron, Daniels says, "Love your title.. I want one."

Cryheart says, "Great is Koar."

Patron smiles.

Evia says, "Amazing beard, I must say."

Speaking to Evia, Leafiara whispers aloud, "Must be how he keeps warm."

Evia says, "Could be."

Evia says, "That, and the Light of Koar."

Patron extends his hands out, palms facing you. The area grows even warmer.

Speaking to Evia, Shiril says, "Bit too... flashy for my tastes."

Cryheart says, "Thank ye."

Leafiara slowly says, "Or that."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "Thank you."

Patron says, "Hail, may the light of Koar warm you."

Cryheart says, "The warmth is most welcome."

Speaking heartily to Patron, Chamorr says, "Evenin Patron."

Speaking to Patron, Evia says, "Thank you."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "Warmth is the prime currency in this part of the world."

Speaking to Patron, Pukk says, "May the laugher of Cholen keep you warm."

Speaking serenely to Patron, Katiesa replies, "May the Ronan walk with you through the ways of the night."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "And light, depending on the season..."

Speaking heartily to Patron, Chamorr says, "Invite us in, out of this cold."

Speaking to Patron, Evia asks, "How come you to be here may we ask?"

Speaking to Patron, Zosopage asks, "Is Patron your given name or do you go by another?"

Patron says, "Welcome to the Sanctuary."

Cryheart says, "Thank ye."

Evia says, "It is...quite something."

Patron says, "Patron is my purpose. The name shall serve well when you address me."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra asks, "Sanctuary from the monsters of the dark and the cold?"

Speaking heartily to Patron, Chamorr says, "Thank you and greetings."

Biinc says, "How did I get here."

Patron says, "There are monsters beyond these mountains."

Cryheart says, "Aye."

Madmountan says, "You don't say."

Leafiara remarks, "On 'em too."

Speaking to Patron, Daniels says, "We have fire power."

Patron says, "The corrupt. The dark-hearted."

Xorus says, "There are monsters right here."

Patron says, "There is evil in the world. We are a sanctuary from it."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "Well-met. Ysharra Nagorn, of Wehnimer's Landing currently. Not far from here, originally."

Cryheart says, "There are indeed evil spirits."

Patron says, "I am not familiar with your place of origin."

Madmountan says, "I mean, I didn't eat any of the children either."

Patron says, "But welcome."

Ysharra says, "No. You wouldn't be."

Ysharra says, "It's one of the reasons we've come."

Speaking to Patron, Evia asks, "You are here long?"

Speaking to Patron, Goldstr says, "We come from a time far in yer future."

Patron says, "Until I serve no more."

Patron peers quizzically at Goldstr.

Evia says, "Perplexing."

Lylia says, "You must be quite resilient to remain here, amidst the terrors of the wild and the killing cold."

Daniels says, "I wanna see these dark forces near by."

Cryheart asks, "How long hae ye been in the sanctuary?"

Ysharra says, "If you would Serve, then you will need to listen to us."

Speaking to Patron, Evia asks, "You look forward to your purpose to be fulfilled then and serve no more?"

Patron says, "Beyond the cold veil, we thrive. We eat, we are warm, Koar is good to us."

Patron says, "Here, it is dark and cold, but we are protected."

Goldstr whispers to the group, "Well said by Evia."

Cryheart says, "Koar is good for many."

Meureii whispers something to Aleid.

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "The northern mountains are not always dark."

Patron says, "Our family has grown, but we are cautious."

Speaking to Patron, Evia asks, "Your purpose is to keep the light alive, is that somewhat right?"

Cryheart says, "Understandable."

Speaking to Patron, Daniels says, "To die a warrior's death is an honor in our town... dark or not .... we are here to aid."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "But right now, it's the start of the long winter, yes."

Patron asks, "Have you come to bring your sacrifice to Koar, to pledge your devotion, and join us?"

Aleid cheerfully says, "If you want."

Nightstoarm says, "That is not what I am here for..."

Cryheart says, "We are looking for someone."

Speaking to Patron, Maylan says, "Aye. We offer Pukk as sacrifice."

Pukk exclaims, "Yeah!"

Pukk says, "Wait.."

Speaking to Patron, Maylan says, "He belongs to you now. Do enjoy."

Speaking to Patron, Evia asks, "What does one sacrifice? Have all with you done such?"

Maags says, "We needs Pukk."

Speaking to Patron, Pukk says, "Well, if you have lots of candy...."

Madmountan says, "Children."

Patron says, "My blood is fated. Born of the Church and the Crown, together we will see Koar's promise and works accomplished in this world."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "It's a sacrifice to live here."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "To come from so far away."

Patron says, "We will be ready for when the golden light rises."

Lazaryth asks, "Your blood is fated, mm?"

Cryheart asks, "Do ye know what year it is, Patron?"

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "And to such a severe world, and say, this, this place is where I shall Serve."

Leafiara mumbles, "Oh, I bet you will..."

Speaking quietly to Patron, Katiesa says, "For when the dawn rises, even."

Lylia says, "I have seen the golden light, though it arose in an unexpected place."

Cryheart says, "Considering you probably hae been in the sanctuary for a long time."

Lylia says, "In a man's eyes, in fact. Eyes like the dawn."

Patron says, "It is 4754. The year of Koar."

Speaking to Lylia, Ysharra says, "Golden and intense."

Speaking to Patron, Evia says, "Only here, my good sir, is it such a year."

Rasson says, "You have been stuck here a long time...."

Daniels asks, "Is he right?"

Lylia says, "And a warmth surrounding him, like the sun itself."

Daniels says, "I thought not."

Patron nods at Lylia.

Speaking to Daniels, Madmountan says, "5119."

Cryheart says, "Time has passed since you recall Patron."

Speaking heartily to Patron, Chamorr says, "We are from the wanning days of 5119."

Patron asks, "You have seen it in dreams as well?"

Speaking to Patron, Evia says, "We come to you from a different year, perhaps our blood was fated to help you."

Patron says, "The promise to come. The crusader with the eyes of the dawn."

Leafiara mutters, "More than just in dreams."

Lylia says, "Not in dreams. In truth, and in the flesh, where and when I live."

Speaking heartily to Patron, Chamorr says, "He has come."

Cryheart says, "We live in the year of 5119, Patron."

Patron says, "A new reckoning for the church."

Speaking heartily to Patron, Chamorr says, "And gone."

Speaking to Patron, Evia says, "Lylia speaks the truth."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "You are not wrong."

Patron says, "You dangerously tease the role of a heretic."

Speaking to Patron, Meureii says, "Harland..."

Speaking to Lylia, Xorus asks, "I was in Ta'Faendryl in the 4750s, were you still living at home then?"

Patron nods at Lylia.

Some of the women and children move closer to the edge of the veil of falling snow, still within the cavern, but inching closer to view Patron.

Cryheart says, "By your account, Patron, you have been in this sanctuary for over 300 hundred years."

Daniels whispers to the group, "He is certainly polite.. almost too polite...."

Speaking to Patron, Katiesa says, "In our dreams, we may meet the Gods. But the golden light in the eyes of a crusader, we have seen it bring the darkness, some of us."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra asks, "Are these the rest of your family?"

Speaking to Xorus, Lylia murmurs, "I was practically a girl."

Patron says, "We are all children of Koar."

Patron says, "Even those still lost in the darkness."

Cryheart says, "Indeed."

Maags whispers to the group, "Also not so shocked or disbelieving as the others."

Cryheart says, "But there is a time difference between us."

Lylia whispers to the group, "If you believe six impossible things before breakfast, what is a seventh after dinner?"

Patron asks, "Is there sickness in your mind?"

Cryheart says, "Time has passed in centuries it seems since you entered into the sanctuary."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "We did come here to seek you."

Patron says, "Others have come before."

Speaking to Patron, Evia asks, "One with sickness of mind is often the last to know such, reckon?"

Patron says, "Such claims. Such sickness."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra asks, "What claims did they make, Patron?"

Speaking curiously to Patron, Leafiara says, "Tell us more about the others."

Lylia says, "We are, for the most part, mentally hale and hearty. But we do speak the truth, about our time."

Speaking to Patron, Evia says, "Can you recall how you came to be here, and when? It must have been..."

Maylan exclaims, "Yeah. I'm hale!"

Speaking to Patron, Zosopage asks, "Have you ever heard of Peter or Rachel?"

Cryheart says, "Centuries."

Patron says, "They were lost, their faces and eyes the same, and they spoke of riddles and of time."

Speaking to Cryheart, Evia says, "Best to hear it from him."

Lylia asks, "Did they also talk of a man with golden eyes?"

Katiesa repeats, "Their faces and eyes the same."

Evia says, "Hmm."

Leafiara asks, "Two or more people with the same face, you're saying?"

Patron says, "They did not survive long here, beyond the cold veil, in the world of darkness and ice."

Patron says, "Yes, brothers, I believe. Hair of night, eyes of the sea."

Lylia says, "Perhaps they were lost, whereas we are here with purpose and resolve."

Patron says, "We could not save them. Perhaps you can be saved."

Leafiara slowly says, "Ahh, I see."

Xorus says, "Intriguing."

Evia asks, "Two or many?"

Speaking carefully to Patron, Katiesa asks, "What would you save us to do?"

Patron says, "Tell me then, of what you believe to be true."

Patron says, "Let us unravel your demons."

Patron says, "Two."

Patron nods at Evia.

Evia says, "Two the same."

Patron says, "Yes."

Speaking heartily to Patron, Chamorr says, "Well, they did survive betond the veil."

Patron says, "Hair like night, eyes of the sea."

Patron nods at Evia.

Speaking to Patron, Evia asks, "They...died here?"

Patron says, "Yes."

Speaking to Patron, Pukk says, "Well then we shall have to start at the beginning. In the beginning there were these huge Drakes...."

Cryheart says, "Hmmm."

Maags says, "Sea."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra asks, "And the other?"

Patron says, "Both died. May Koar have blessed them in the end. Only the Godking knows."

Cryheart whispers to the group, "Eyes of the sea...is he referring to Peter and Rachel?"

Speaking heartily to Patron, Chamorr asks, "Did you see them die?"

Xorus whispers to the group, "Stone."

Patron says, "Yes."

Evia says, "I have seen such a person but far from here in more ways than one."

Maags whispers to the group, "Stone has eyes of the sea."

Lylia whispers to the group, "I thought of Stone, yes."

Cryheart whispers to the group, "That was my first thought."

Speaking to Patron, Evia exclaims, "In fact...we still see such a person!"

Leafiara whispers to the group, "Perhaps it wasn't only the captain whose visions Stone has appeared in... in other words."

Prayer

'Patron says, "Will you join me in prayer? Your end does not need to be the same as theirs."

Zosopage whispers to the group, "Should I pull out my Stone miniature heh."

Patron says, "There is always hope."

Evia says, "Dark hair, eyes of sea."

Maags says, "Cannot hurt evah."

Zosopage removes a blue-eyed robed summoner miniature from in his black leather pack.

Cryheart says, "Aye, we can join ye in prayer."

Patron glances at Zosopage.

Katiesa whispers to the group, "Many Stones, weren't there once many of him? That would be precedent."

Leafiara curiously asks, "What are we praying for, exactly?"

Zosopage asks, "Is this who you are meaning?"

Patron nods at Zosopage.

Zosopage nods.

Zosopage put a blue-eyed robed summoner miniature in his black leather pack.

Speaking to Patron, Evia asks, "Tell us what shall we pray?"

Patron says, "A very close likeness, indeed."

Maylan whispers to the group, "Well that confirms it."

Maags whispers to the group, "One Stone, manies ...what do yous call them....the copies and imposters he made."

(OOC) Evia's player whispers to the group, "Clones of stones."

Ysharra whispers to the group, "Clones."

Patron says, "Please, let us pray."

Patron kneels down.

Leafiara whispers to the group, "Deshal remembered seeing Stormyrain, though as far as we know she hadn't visited him... so it's not unreasonable for Stone to visit Harland in his world."

Goldstr asks, "Da name Grishom sound familiar?"

Evia kneels down and begins to recite prayers.

Zosopage kneels down.

Cryheart kneels down.

Bernadette kneels down.

Maylan asks, "Do I have to?"

Leafiara whispers to the group, "Or to make his appearance known, at least."

Goldstr kneels down and begins to recite prayers.

Patron says, "They spoke of no names."

Patron says, "Many here never do."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "You don't."

Patron says, "Please kneel."

Evia asks, "Are we praying yet?"

Staceyrain kneels down.

Maags kneels down.

Rasson kneels down.

Aleid kneels down.

Cyar kneels down.

Goldstr continues to beseech the gods for mercy and guidance.

Maylan complains, "It's too cold for kneeling."

Zosopage continues to beseech the gods for mercy and guidance.

(OOC) Evia's player whispers to the group, "For if he has savior delusions and they fail him with us...."

Katiesa kneels down.

Patron begins to pray, closing his eyes. He rocks side to side, the beads in his hair clanking against each other.

Avalera kneels down.

Goldstr exclaims, "Lord Koar give guidance to your Patron!"

Bowing her head, Avalera offers her prayers to the silver idol.

Goldstr continues to beseech the gods for mercy and guidance.

Evia says, "Still very cold."

Bernadette continues to beseech the gods for mercy and guidance.

Evia asks, "Is it working?"

Cryheart says, "Make him see the light."

Patron gazes up into the heavens.

Chamorr heartily says, "A good whack on da head might work."

Patron runs a hand through his long dark brown beard, golden dust clinging to his fingers.

Patron frowns.

Evia says, "I still feel the cold, what...."

Shinann whispers to the group, "Maybe the praying is breaking the illusion."

Goldstr continues to beseech the gods for mercy and guidance.

The air grows colder and some of the children and women stir at the edge of the cavern.

Bernadette continues to beseech the gods for mercy and guidance.

Ramith kneels down.

Zosopage continues to beseech the gods for mercy and guidance.

Patron stands up.

Lauranathalasa kneels down and begins to recite prayers.

Maags stands up.

Evia says, "It's ...very cold."

Cryheart stands up.

Speaking to Patron, Rasson says, "I think your mission here is complete, maybe it is time to go in out of the cold."

Evia stands up.

Bernadette continues to beseech the gods for mercy and guidance.

Goldstr stands up.

Leafiara whispers to the group, "Can only hope. I'm not joining someone in prayer when we don't know what he's praying for, though."

Katiesa stands up.

Rasson stands up.

Cyar stands up.

Bernadette stands up.

Zosopage stands up.

Patron says, "So many of you...."

Staceyrain stands up.

Lylia whispers to the group, "I do not pray. And I rarely kneel."

Patron says, "...none called to him."

Shiril whispers to the group, "That is my hesitation. Not knowing what is being prayed *for*..."

(OOC) Evia's player whispers to the group, "Because his delusion is the savior of all who come here."

Ramith stands up.

Maags whispers to the group, "I say my own prayers!"

Patron says, "Just like those of the same face."

Speaking to Patron, Maylan says, "I could send a messenger bird."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "I don't believe that's true."

Cryheart says, "Some pray in silence."

Patron says, "Your sickness has hardened your hearts, corrupted your minds."

Speaking to Patron, Goldstr says, "I did pray to him for you Patron."

Maylan says, "Well this is getting awkward..."

Speaking to Patron, Evia asks, "But Patron, we prayed and prayed, what happened?"

Shinann whispers to the group, "I am not praying either.... just an observation."

Speaking carefully to Patron, Katiesa asks, "You believe you can hear our very prayers?"

Speaking slowly to Patron, Shiril says, "Perhaps we need more time."

Lylia says, "But we have seen the man with the golden eyes."

Patron says, "Please. Turn back now."

Speaking soothingly to Patron, Shiril clarifies, "A gentle hand and heart to guide us."

Patron says, "We cannot welcome you to Sanctuary."

Speaking to Patron, Evia asks, "Your prayer did not work!?"

Thrassus says, "That was a quick turnaround on that decision."

Lylia says, "It is not a sanctuary if it does not welcome those in need."

Leafiara says, "I could've sworn you said earlier that some you welcome in even if they're still in darkness." [well... not quite; he said everyone's children of Koar even if lost in darkness]

Speaking to Patron, Evia asks, "How can this be?"

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra asks, "Did you call to him?"

Cryheart asks, "Ye doubt our faith?"

Patron says, "Koar has not vouched for any here, as before."

Lazaryth asks, "None?"

Speaking to Patron, Shinann asks, "Are you saying you are a more apt judge than Koar?"

Lazaryth glances at Zosopage.

Patron says, "The darkness will destroy you. Please, turn back."

Lazaryth asks, "Not even him?"

Maylan says, "Well, that's sorta rude of the fella."

Patron says, "Maybe there is hope for you yet, but not here, not now."

Speaking to Ysharra, Melikor says, "Well that's a shame."

Zosopage says, "I have devoted my entire life to Koar. Only He can judge us, not you."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "I'm afraid it is the other way around."

Cryheart says, "Ye are in darkness of what time you exist."

Speaking to Patron, Evia asks, "When?"

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "We do not come to you for hope."

Rasson says, "To save our land we cannot turn back."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "We come to you with truth."

Patron says, "Go, turn back, to the world, do good, renew your faith and then perhaps return."

Speaking to Patron, Shinann asks, "What was that golden dust?"

Lylia says, "Do not turn your eyes from the truth."

Speaking to Patron, Goldstr says, "Ye are trapped here in time an we wish yer freedom."

Speaking to Patron, Evia asks, "But you said you could save us?"

Maylan says, "I don't really care for homework."

Falvicar quietly says, "Over my dead rotting corpse."

(OOC) Zosopage's player whispers to the group, "To be continued?"

Cryheart says, "Patron, you are frozen in time."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "These peaks around us, the cauldrons, the tundras..."

Maags whispers something to Shinann.

Cryheart says, "This is not the time you believe it to be."

Patron says, "You are sickened. Please...go."

Speaking to Patron, Lylia says, "What we say is not mere trumpery. Not gold dust and mummers' flames."

Speaking to Patron, Shiril asks, "Have you considered that it may be you who is in darkness?"

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "They are a world I know, far better than the Landing I mentioned."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "But this is not them."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "This world is alien to me. A dream."

Xorus whispers something to Lylia.

Protector of Light, Answer With Might

White-robed children and priestesses inch towards the edge of the cavern.

Speaking to Patron, Zosopage says, "Perhaps it is you that should come with us and see the world as it truly is."

Pukk whispers something to Patron.

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "If you have your faith, then use it to open your eyes, as well."

Shinann asks, "Are there no other males here?"

Shinann asks, "In your sanctuary?"

Slowly coming into view beyond the curtain of falling snow are a handful of aged warriors. Some old men, some even older, most of them all weathered or seasoned and past their prime.

Evia says, "Hello little children, hello everyone."

Shinann nods slowly.

Speaking to Patron, Goldstr says, "Put yer true trust in yer Godking Koar an ye will see."

Patron turns back, holding up his hand, motioning for those within the cavern to pause.

Aleid confusedly says, "But those aren't..."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "You have been here a long time. Longer than you know."

Cryheart says, "From the looks of your people...you have been here a very long time, Patron."

Zosopage says, "Perhaps they would like to see what is beyond. Where we come from."

Evia says, "Come, come to us, we will help you be free of this eternal home of sadness."

Patron says, "There are many among us."

Speaking to Cryheart, Shiril comments, "... too long."

Patron says, "Young, old...."

Patron says, "All children of Koar."

Cryheart asks, "Exactly how long hae ye had this sanctuary, Patron?"

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra asks, "Eyes unfurled? For truth?"

Evia exclaims, "Come children, come and see us, we are really here to see you!"

Speaking to Patron, Xorus says, "The great shrine of the God King was revealed some time ago, in the far north at the end of the world high upon Aenatumgana."

Pukk yells, "Evia has candy for you!"

Speaking to Patron, Evia says, "He speaks truly."

Patron glances at Xorus.

Rasson says, "We are not looking for a fight.. and your warriors do apear to be past their prime."

Patron says, "These are heretics."

Patron says, "I demand you turn back."

Zosopage says, "I sought refuge there while I was in doubt."

Speaking to Patron, Shiril asks, "How do you know that they are heretics?"

Maylan says, "No, I think we shall not."

Patron says, "We seek peace, but we will protect our sanctum if needed."

Rasson says, "We cannot turn back."

Evia says, "It is too late, you see we are here on our mission."

Evia says, "Our purpose is here."

Speaking to Patron, Maylan exclaims, "Have at you!"

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "We are not here to hurt you or the others."

Speaking to Patron, Shinann asks, "The prophecy was fufilled. Are you not pleased?"

Lylia says, "And we would prefer peace too, but we cannot turn back at this point."

Speaking to Patron, Pukk says, "We call them women, not heretics. Although they do get crazy sometimes."

Patron exclaims, "You speak of wild things, or futures. It is darkness!"

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "We are here to bring what is left of you back to Koar."

Speaking to Goldstr, Pukk exclaims, "See, you had to go and say that!"

Speaking heartily to Patron, Chamorr says, "Dear Patron, we are not here to engage your group, we are here for freedom."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "We could take you there, for rest."

Patron glances back at the veil of falling snow.

Patron sighs.

Lylia says, "Not all visions are darkness! Those who have stood on a taller mountain than you and seen a wider view are not mad for having seen it."

Speaking to Patron, Evia asks, "That is your desire no, to be with Koar?"

Patron nods towards those within the cavern.

Xorus says, "The Cavern of Ages itself is revealed near His throne itself."

Patron says, "There is no other way."

Speaking to Patron, Goldstr says, "We seek to bring you the true light. Jess trust in Koar."

Xorus says, "Surely, this is worthy of seein."

Patron says, "We must purge the sickness."

Maylan says, "Alright then."

Leafiara relievedly says, "Finally."

Speaking to Patron, Shiril mutters, "It is you who has the sickness."

Evia exclaims, "We will not be purged!"

Shinann says, "Do not endanger them."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "We would take you there, save for one thing."

Pukk says, "Purge...doesn't sound good."

Speaking in Faendryl, Lylia hisses something you don't understand.

Speaking to Patron, Maylan exclaims, "You, sir, are a the rump of a pus-covered rolton!"

Speaking to Ysharra, Lazaryth whispers aloud, "Are we at risk of avalanche in this spot?"

Speaking to Patron, Shiril says, "You've been here for so long that you've allowed your own mind to become corrupted by that very thing that you fear."

Speaking to Patron, Evia says, "And should you fall...it will reveal the truth to you."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "We were sent here, you know. To explain that you're long dead."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "If you would listen to us, we could rescue your soul."

Patron says, "Go. I will not ask again, and they will not wait longer."

Lylia simply says, "No."

Leafiara simply says, "We won't."

Cryheart says, "Patron, ye hae been in this sanctuary for a good cause, but it began way in the past."

Lylia says, "We cannot."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "And take you where you could rest in the God-King's eye."

Draught says, "It would seem we are at an impasse."

Maylan says, "I think we shall stay."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "Here you are severed."

Evia says, "We shall not be moved."

Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra says, "Yes."

From beyond the veil of snow, the children begin to chant and sing. "Protector of Light, Answer with Might. We are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar."

Speaking to herself, Katiesa murmurs, "Echoes to be brought out of the dark night."

Patron smiles.

Chamorr heartily says, "Sheesh."

Cryheart says, "Your time is of the past."

Speaking to Madmountan, Meureii says, "Hope you're hungry."

Cryheart says, "And ye dinnae realize how long ye hae been here."

Chamorr heartily says, "Looks like we has to whack some kids."

The children sing, "Protector of Light, Answer with Might. We are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar."

Maags says, "We do not wish to battle."

Pukk says, "That is pretty catchy."

Zosopage says, "If I have offended Koar in any way, let Him strike me down right here and now."

Shinann says, "Do not put them in danger."

Speaking deeply to himself, Guarrin mutters, "Always creepy kids with the zealots."

Evia says, "The poor sad souls, shall meet their end in a poor way."

Patron tilts his head, smiling, enjoying the children's song.

Speaking heartily to Patron, Chamorr says, "Keep the children inside."

Speaking to Guarrin, Shiril says, "Always creepy kids."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "If you are a child of Koar, then do what you are bound to do by his Law. Seek the truth."

Speaking to Patron, Pukk says, "It is a good song."

The children sing, "Protector of Light, Answer with Might. We are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar."

Falvicar whispers something to Avalera.

Speaking to Patron, Pukk says, "You know if you shared that song with the world, more people would follow it and sing it too."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "You know they're alien, too."

Speaking to Patron, Goldstr says, "I will nae raise me blade to yer folks here."

Cryheart asks, "How old are the children?"

Lylia impatiently asks, "Why does it matter?"

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "They aren't real, either."

The children sing, "Protector of Light, Healer of Blight, we are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar."

Speaking to Lylia, Shiril says, "He's looking for a chink."

Evia says, "It doesn't really, they are....not as they seem."

Speaking to Patron, Pukk says, "People in our town could use some cheering up. Cholen knows I try."

Lylia warningly says, "If they are not moved to safety and out of any coming battle, they shall not grow any older."

Speaking to Patron, Pukk asks, "Come with us?"

Speaking to a smoke wolf, Rasson says, "He's not food."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "Seek the truth."

The children sing, "Protector of Light, drive away the night, we are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar."

Speaking softly to Patron, Shiril asks, "What if you're wrong?"

Patron slowly empties his lungs.

Patron clears his throat.

Patron sings:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Might. We are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar."

Lylia says, "It is not my nature to threaten. I simply speak of truths that will come to pass."

Zosopage sings:

"Protector of Light, Healer of Blight, we are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar"

(OOC) Zosopage's player whispers to the group, "Worth a shot."

Speaking to Zosopage, Pukk says, "Not quite as catchy."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra asks, "Interesting that they sing your song. Do they know any other?"

Speaking to Patron, Pukk says, "He wasn't meant to sing."

Cryheart recites:

"Great Koar, open their eyes "

Speaking to Patron, Pukk says, "Have the children sing some more."

Speaking to Patron, Maags says, "We took great risk to get to yous for the truth."

Maylan sings:

"My name is Sing Song Sam..."

Patron sings:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Might. We are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar."

Speaking to Patron, Evia says, "You would have them, those children as your sacrifice? for that is what they shall end as."

Maylan says, "Even that one is a better song than this."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "The truth is that you're being used. For the sake of a darkness far greater than anyone here."

Zosopage whispers to the group, "Maybe if everyone sang that?"

Patron slowly empties his lungs.

Lylia softly says, "Koar does not seem to be listening. Here I stand."

Patron sings:

"Answer....with...might."

Speaking deeply to Cryheart, Guarrin says, "And us without our instruments."

Speaking to Patron, Shiril asks, "Is there anything that we could offer as proof that things are not what you believe?"

Lylia whispers to the group, "I am not singing some doggerel about Koar! He can get stuffed."

Cryheart asks, "How about answer with sight?"

Speaking to Patron, Goldstr exclaims, "Listen to yer Godking Really listen!"

Beyond the veil of snow, the followers of Koar stir and take up arms and move forward.

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "You are the tool of a woman named Naimorai Kestrel."

Speaking to Patron, Pukk says, "Come and share your vision of Koar with our town and not fighting."

Crusade

A white-robed human child ambles in.

A white-robed human child positions himself to attack Leafiara.

The evanescent shield shrouding Leafiara flares to life and absorbs the oncoming blow. [OOC: here's an irony... the Soul Ward spell here was released during Kenstrom's Cross Into Shadows storyline when a high priest of Koar gathered people of all faiths to commune]

A white-robed human child ambles in.

A white-robed human child ambles in.

A white-robed human child positions himself to attack Katiesa.

The evanescent shield shrouding Katiesa flares to life and absorbs the oncoming blow.

Cryheart raises his black tower shield and charges headlong towards a white-robed human child!

[Roll result: 267 (open d100: 155)]

Cryheart's charge connects!

Cryheart slams into the human child, who is sent careening headlong into a nearby group of combatants as he falls to the ground!

A white-robed human child is struck!

[Roll result: 191 (open d100: 72)]

The human child is knocked to the ground!

A white-robed human child is struck!

[Roll result: 170 (open d100: 64)]

The human child is knocked to the ground!

Evia says, "It shall be the their end."

A young human boy ambles in.

Shadows dance between Lylia's outstretched fingers as she issues a command in archaic Faendryl.

Lylia gestures at a white-robed human child.

Numerous grotesque limbs in varying states of decay suddenly burst out of the snow! With startling speed and ferocity, the arms grab at whatever they can!

The arms snatch viciously at a young human boy and drag him down to the snow!

[and so on for the rest]

A young human boy just arrived!

Ysharra whispers to herself, her cobalt blue eyes enshrouded by a vibrant sanguine haze. Rivulets of bright red rise through her skin, thickly coating her arms and hands, disappearing as it makes contact with the ground...

Ysharra gestures.

A calm washes over a young human boy.

[and so on for the rest]

A young half-elven girl ambles in.

Ethereal white ribbons shimmer into being near Leafiara and lightly dance around her body, twisting and twirling in the air.

Leafiara gestures.

Leafiara's voice echoes with sharp, strident rhythms as she chants an incantation in an unknown language.

CS: +522 - TD: +410 + CvA: +20 + d100: +24 == +156

Warding failed!

A young half-elven girl freezes, overwhelmed by the strength of the holy incantation.

[and so on for the rest]

An aged human warrior ambles in.

Pukk draws an intricately glowing pattern in the air before him.

An aged human warrior's eyes roll up into its head as it slumps to the ground.

[and so on for the rest]

[more disabling]

Bernadette softly asks, "Kill kids?"

Cryheart says, "No."

[more disabling]

Goldstr exclaims, "Stand Down Please!"

Cryheart says, "Ye hae done this Patron."

[more disabling]

Evia says, "RECALL what you know what you see here is FALSE."

Bernadette softly says, "I don't kill kids."

Speaking to Patron, Shinann says, "Send them back. You risk their lives."

Xorus says, "Children's crusade. Splendid."

Speaking to Patron, Lylia warns, "Do not make me harm them. I shall immobilize them if I can, but I shall do what I must."

Madmountan asks, "I mean...they aren't really kids anyway right? Why do we even care?"

Guarrin deeply says, "No more real than anything else we've faced."

The children sing, "Protector of Light, Answer with Might. We are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar."

Leafiara dubiously asks, "Your idea of might is seriously children and the elderly?"

Speaking to Patron, Pukk says, "I will not raise my hands in retaliation. Please come with us."

Speaking amusedly to Madmountan, Leafiara says, "Beats me."

Madmountan lets out a loud snarling growl and goes berserk!

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra asks, "You would send your children against us rather than listen to truth?"

Madmountan rages across the battlefield, striking with unrelenting fury!

An aged human warrior is awakened by Madmountan's attack!

Madmountan swings a glowing coraesine mekya ne'rutka at an aged human warrior!

AS: +674 vs DS: +148 with AvD: +29 + d100 roll: +49 = +604

... and hits for 219 points of damage!

Blow cracks a rib and punctures a lung.

Breathing becomes a challenge.

[and so on for the rest]

Xorus wryly says, "The Meek are all powerful."

[combat, and by that I mean Madmountan]

Falvicar glances at Madmountan.

Falvicar quietly says, "Stop it."

Speaking to Patron, Evia exclaims, "We stand unharmed and whole...look what is happening!"

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra asks, "And your elders?"

[combat, and by that I mean Madmountan]

Cryheart sings melodically:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light"

Lazaryth says, "Someone stop him."

Cryheart sings melodically:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light"

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra asks, "What sort of Koarite are you?"

Speaking to Lazaryth, Shiril asks, "Why?"

Madmountan says, "There." [all dead]

Speaking to Shiril, Lazaryth asks, "What's wrong with you?"

Xorus says, "Much quieter."

Cryheart says, "Patron, end this madness."

Rasson says, "Such pointless death."

Speaking to Patron, Evia exclaims, "Your song has failed, see the truth of it!"

Goldstr sings with a clear tenor:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light"

Speaking simply to Lazaryth, Shiril says, "Not a thing."

Speaking to Patron, Leafiara says, "Surely you must see now... these people are far too resilient to be real." [children surviving even one hit from Madmountan...]

Madmountan asks, "They aren't even real, aye?"

Cryheart says, "Recall this is a memory."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "Your cage is rattling."

Speaking pleadingly to Patron, Pukk says, "Please come with us and let us share in your light and merriment."

Speaking heartily to Patron, Chamorr says, "Blood is on yer hands, stop it."

Cryheart says, "Patron, end this madness...you are under a spell."

Goldstr sings with a clear tenor:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light"

Cryheart sings melodically:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light"

Lylia reasons, "We slaughtered Imperial soldiers who were not real. We slaughtered Faendryl fighters who were not real. We should not quail at fighting children who are not real."

Speaking to Patron, Evia says, "I am sorry your song has failed you, and it has failed you because you have been deceived, I am truly sorry."

Lylia says, "I dislike it too. it is an uglier task than most."

Staceyrain sings:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light""

Speaking to Lylia, Maylan says, "I spose so."

Bernadette sings:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light""

Goldstr sings with a clear tenor:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light"

Speaking to Lylia, Madmountan says, "I'm used to it."

Falvicar quietly says, "There was no reason to attack them."

Speaking to Patron, Evia asks, "Do you begin to see the truth of it, is as we say?"

Speaking to Falvicar, Leafiara says, "Not necessarily. It might have opened some eyes."

Shinann whispers to the group, "I was going to try to prove we did not hurt children... there goes my angle."

Goldstr sings with a clear tenor:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light"

Zosopage sings:

"Protector of Light, Answer with sight, Make these followers see the light"

Cryheart says, "Patron, the truth is you have been living under a spell for a very long time...this is nae real."

Patron gazes in wonder at his surroundings.

Cryheart sings melodically:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light"

Bernadette sings:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light""

Staceyrain whispers to the group, "If they are holding a dagger aimed at my heart, is that a child?"

Speaking to Patron, Evia says, "It is clear to see, if your song were truth the children would be alive, and not we. Please look."

Goldstr sings with a clear tenor:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light"

Lylia whispers to the group, "At some point, we must consider what is at stake and ask ourselves if we would rather leave these phantasms of children 'alive' in a vision lost in time, or think of our own townsfolk and their children."

The children sing, "Protector of Light, Answer with Might. We are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar."

Cryheart sings melodically:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light"

[more of them attack]

Goldstr sings with a clear tenor:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light"

[more disabling]

Falvicar quietly says, "See? No need to attack them."

Katiesa murmurs, "Echoes of children through time and darkness."

Falvicar quietly says, "She has them calmed."

[more disabling]

The children sing, "Protector of Light, Answer with Might. We are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar."

Madmountan says, "I'm giving this guy a chance to come to his senses."

(OOC) Evia's player whispers to the group, "The children are delusions/illusions, people just want to believe they aren't."

Goldstr sings with a clear tenor:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light"

Madmountan says, "Sure he knows I can kill them."

Cryheart says, "Stop this delusion, Patron."

Goldstr sings with a clear tenor:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light"

[Meureii attacks]

Cryheart sings melodically:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light"

Lylia says, "Enough."

Speaking to Patron, Madmountan says, "Wake up, ya dolt."

[Lylia attacks]

Ysharra says, "We don't wish to keep proving this point. It makes our souls weary with horror."

Goldstr sings with a clear tenor:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light"

Speaking heartily to Patron, Chamorr says, "Stop this."

Ysharra says, "Even if it's not real."

[combat]

Zosopage says, "We do not wish to harm you. Stop provoking us."

[Xorus joins the attack]

[Leafi joins the attack]

[Maylan joins the attack]

[combat]

Goldstr sings with a clear tenor:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light"

[combat]

Staceyrain sings:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light""

[combat]

Bernadette sings:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light""

[Chamorr joins the attack]

Maags looks over at Patron and shakes her head.

[combat]

Cryheart says, "Patron, cease and desist."

[combat]

Maags says, "Stop."

[combat]

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "Only you can stop this. By seeing the truth. Your sacred duty."

[extended combat]

Evia asks, "Chanting a silly song at illusionary beings is helping?"

Speaking to Patron, Lylia snarls, "This is what your god brings you!"

Leafiara simply says, "There." [all dead]

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra asks, "Will you be blind to the bars of your cell, and watch these poor dreams die, over and over?"

Stab in the Dark

Patron stumbles back, looking around.

Lylia says, "Wake up."

Patron says, "We..."

Falvicar quietly says, "If we're killing children, I'm not part of this."

Speaking to Patron, Katiesa urges, "Do not call them back. Let them go meet the golden light of the morning."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "Yes. Wake up."

Patron says, "We have never..."

Lazaryth wearily says, "If we must kill them to get through this, then we must. But the images are going to remain in the part of my mind that doesn't realize this isn't real."

Speaking to Patron, Evia exclaims, "You said your purpose was to save and give sanctuary, but you are tricked sir, tricked, please see truth!"

Speaking loudly to Falvicar, Meureii repeats, "They are nae real."

Patron says, "We have never faltered...never lost..."

Speaking to Falvicar, Shiril says, "They aren't..."

Pukk says, "It's a little dry."

Cryheart says, "They are nae real."

Speaking amicably to Patron, Leafiara says, "First time for everything."

Speaking to Pukk, Rasson says, "300 year old cupcake, eww."

Lylia softly says, "Then do not lose more."

Cryheart says, "It's an illusion."

Speaking to Patron, Zosopage says, "Enough of this, hear us and realize the truth."

Patron walks around, looking at the fallen children, while even more children, women and men look on in amazement, still deep within the cavern, but they do not come out.

Speaking heartily to Patron, Chamorr says, "Stop this, and listen."

Speaking to Patron, Evia says, "Because none has challenged your delusion, I am very sorry."

Falvicar quietly says, "I don't give a damn. They were under control and their minds calmed when you decided to butcher them."

Speaking confusedly to Falvicar, Meureii asks, "You side with the forces of evil?"

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra asks, "They failed because the truth is coming to you, isn't it?"

Cryheart says, "Hmm...I dinnae attack..I knocked them down."

Patron walks along the narrow edge, the backrop of snow-covered treetops and a deep valley behind him. He looks down at his fallen, dead followers.

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "You know we're right."

Speaking to Patron, Evia says, "She speaks truth."

Lylia says, "They are no more children than my people were my people when you cut them down. When I cut them down."

Patron says, "They have sacrificed...."

Speaking to Falvicar, Lylia stresses, "We do what we must."

Maylan says, "At least now he's paying attention. Might be this is the only way to bring him back to reality."

Evia says, "It is very sad, and we are sorry what has happened to you, it is not your fault, you were deceived and...USED BY A WITCH."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "The north takes things from you."

Speaking heartily to Patron, Chamorr says, "Save the rest and listen."

Falvicar quietly says, "You didn't need to kill them."

Speaking tentatively to Falvicar, Leafiara asks, "You do remember helping us kill your father's own imaginary soldiers, right?"

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "And you arrived here with far too little."

Lylia says, "What is not living cannot truly die."

Speaking pleadingly to Patron, Pukk says, "Help us fight the witch."

Speaking gently to Falvicar, Shiril says, "Perhaps we did."

Speaking quietly to Falvicar, Lazaryth says, "I understand you, my friend."

Speaking to Patron, Shinann asks, "Koar would ask for that sort of sacrifice?"

Leafiara cautiously says, "Would be pretty hard to forget..."

Patron slowly empties his lungs.

Speaking to Patron, Zosopage says, "Koar does not need sacrifice of this nature."

Falvicar quietly asks, "Do you want to dream about killing children in your sleep?"

Patron says, "This world is a lie."

Lylia exclaims, "No one gave me such understanding when I had to cut down my own!"

Speaking to Falvicar, Shiril says, "He is at least taking notice of us now, rather than simply turning us away."

Speaking to Patron, Evia exclaims, "Pukk speaks true (for once) Help us destroy the witch that caused all of this!"

Speaking to Patron, Maylan says, "Yes, exactly."

Speaking ruefully to Patron, Leafiara agrees, "It is."

Speaking to Patron, Zosopage says, "Yes it is."

Cryheart says, "The Sanctuary is a lie."

Speaking in Faendryl, Lylia snarls something you don't understand.

Speaking to Patron, Goldstr says, "Truth has been said to ye. YE are not truly alive, jess a ghost in time. Realize dat."

Cryheart says, "For it is created by a witch."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "And now you can see."

Speaking to Patron, Katiesa says, "The children are in a different Sanctuary now."

Speaking heartily to Patron, Chamorr says, "The year is 5119."

Patron says, "You...you were not of the darkness."

Speaking to Patron, Staceyrain says, "Join with us and destroy that which holds you decieved."

Speaking to Patron, Pukk says, "You know they are crazy when they agree with me. But don't hold that against them. Help us destroy the witch and stop her from hurting more children."

Patron says, "You silenced them...slept them..."

Maags says, "Are. Are not."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "No. We're shades of grey."

Cryheart says, "We are nae of the darkness."

Patron says, "...but I kept pushing them...they...they followed."

Speaking to Patron, Zosopage says, "There is an evil witch named Rachel or Raznel as she is now known as that has done this to you."

Cryheart says, "Cause ye were under a spell."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra asks, "You sent your children to their death. Is that your truth?"

Patron sighs.

Speaking to Patron, Evia says, "You can free yourself and any of the rest, it is not too late to undo this."

Lylia quietly says, "You have been here alone so long. It is easy for judgment to...drift."

Patron turns towards the veil of falling snow before the cavern mouth.

Speaking to Patron, Pukk says, "Come with us and help us save more children."

Speaking helpfully to Patron, Leafiara says, "Your mind was twisted. You wouldn't have done this on your own volition."

Patron says, "I have failed you children. I am a lie. I am the darkness."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "You've been kept here, in this strange place. It is not your fault."

Speaking reassuringly to Patron, Leafiara says, "No, not really... just cursed by one who is."

Maylan says, "Oh this mister is about to blow himself up."

Speaking to Patron, Maags says, "Not yous fault and it was a trick. yous are not the lie."

Cryheart says, "Nae, you were under the illusion of a sanctuary..tis nae your fault."

Speaking to Patron, Rasson says, "Your mission is complete, it is time to come out of the cold."

Speaking to Patron, Zosopage says, "You are not but you have been infected with it."

Speaking serenely to Patron, Katiesa says, "It is in the Darkness, that hope may be born."

The children of the cavern step forward.

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "You have been preserved and cursed."

The children sing, "Protector of Light, Answer with Might. We are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar."

Speaking to Patron, Goldstr says, "Ye nae be da Darkness but was under its control."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "And you can turn back from it."

Patron hangs his head.

Speaking to Patron, Evia exclaims, "Tell them no! hurry!"

Speaking to Patron, Shinann says, "Make them go back inside."

The children sing, "Protector of Light, Answer with Might. We are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar."

Speaking to Patron, Shiril says, "This allows you to now free your mind of the darkness."

Speaking heartily to Patron, Chamorr says, "Stop this."

Speaking to Patron, Pukk says, "You, knowing this darkess, would be best to help others avoid it."

Speaking to Patron, Shiril says, "And truly see the light."

A child steps forward, out of the cavern.

Speaking to Patron, Pukk says, "Come with us."

Cryheart says, "This is nae real, Patron."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra asks, "What's your name, Patron?"

Speaking to Patron, Evia exclaims, "Save them by tellling them no!"

Speaking gently to Patron, Leafiara encourages, "Hey, no need to be too sorrowful. We're ending the darkness now."

Speaking to Patron, Lylia suggests, "Protector of light, help end a blight. Lay down your arms."

A second child steps forward, then a third, then six more.

Cryheart says, "Stop children."

The children sing, "Protector of Light, Answer with Might. We are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar."

Speaking to Patron, Evia says, "Only you can stop them...please."

Speaking to Patron, Zosopage says, "Let go of your hatred and anger, Let Koar take you within his love."

A child suddenly stabs Patron with his dagger.

Goldstr sings with a clear tenor:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light"

Madmountan says, "Oh nice, didn't see that coming."

The children sing, "Protector of Light, Answer with Might. We are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar."

Evia says, "Well that was...."

Goldstr sings with a clear tenor:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light"

Xorus says, "Excellent."

Speaking curiously to Falvicar, Meureii asks, "Save them?"

Cryheart says, "Well..this is a memory."

Ysharra says, "Stop. Let it end. If it has to tear itself apart..."

A second child stabs Patron in the leg.

Ysharra says, "So be it."

(OOC) Ramith's player whispers to the group, "I didn't expect that! I like it!"

Chamorr heartily says, "Koar sure do work in mysterious ways."

Speaking to Patron, Pukk exclaims, "By the gods man, please don't let them resort to a sing off....!"

The children sing, "Protector of Light, Answer with Might. We are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar."

Leafiara acknowledges, "This guy had some pretty interesting imagination for his paragon world..."

Meureii quietly says, "Just like the Rooks..."

Patron winces, stumbling back from the two wounds in his body.

Madmountan says, "These kids are brutal."

Speaking to Leafiara, Evia says, "Savior complex is pretty bad-arse."

Speaking wryly to Meureii, Leafiara says, "Was just gonna say, not sure even Rysus would have dreamed up this one."

Speaking to Madmountan, Shiril asks, "Isn't it lovely?"

Speaking to Patron, Maylan says, "Well, enjoy your afterlife. Say hi to Koar for us."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "Crucified in the north. I told you, it only takes."

A grey-haired woman steps out of the cavern, moving among the children. He takes a blade from a boy and drives it into Patron's ribs.

Maylan says, "I spose we'll just be on our way here...."

Speaking heartily to Patron, Chamorr says, "Your freedom is at hand."

Evia says, "Perhaps it is his only deliverance..."

Patron stumbles back further towards the edge, dropping to one knee, clutching his side. Blood seeps out from between his lips.

Xorus says, "The colossus of Koar is wounded in the leg as well. It is fitting, herald."

Leafiara distractedly says, "Is what it is."

Meureii whispers something to Patron.

The children sing, "Protector of Light, Answer with Might. We are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar."

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "I bear witness."

Meureii whispers something to Patron.

Xorus says, "Onward to Koargard."

Speaking to Patron, Evia says, "Your army has come at last to deliver you out of this bondage, accept your fate."

Speaking to Patron, Goldstr says, "Step thru da Gate."

Speaking heartily to Leafiara, Chamorr says, "Kin I lop his head, he's dyin anyways."

An aged warrior ambles forward, a jagged knife in his hand. He grabs Patron by the back of the neck, jerking his head back awkwardly and begins to cut at Patron's beard!

Speaking to Patron, Ysharra says, "End your lie."

Speaking to Patron, Pukk says, "I will remember you and your will in protecting all those children."

Speaking to Patron, Zosopage says, "Lorminstra guide you through the gates."

Rasson exclaims, "Not the beard!"

(OOC) Ramith's player whispers to the group, "His beard! Now that's just mean!"

The children sing, "Protector of Light, Answer with Might. We are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar."

Speaking to Patron, Evia says, "Go to your reward with courage, and honor, kneel and pray your last."

Leafiara acknowledges, "Would be a bigger offense if he were a dwarf..."

Goldstr sings with a clear tenor:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light"

The aged warrior drives the knife into Patron's shoulder.

Patron kneels down.

Staceyrain says, "Lorminstra forgive him, guide him to light."

Xorus says, "One never cuts off the beard of a dwarf woman."

Speaking to Patron, Katiesa says, "Go well into your golden morn, sir."

Speaking to Patron, Zosopage says, "Honor, courage, faith and glory be yours."

Speaking to Patron, Evia says, "My your god deliver you."

Chamorr heartily says, "Hey warrior, strike true dang it."

Patron holds out his hands, gritting his teeth, wincing in pain. He opens his arms wide, as if embracing his once followers.

Patron sings:

"Children...of...Koar...."

(OOC) Evia's player whispers to the group, "Glorious story here, just amazing (thank you)."

More children move forward, blades in hand, each taking one strike to break flesh of the Patron. He then closes his eyes, uttering a prayer through bloodied lips and the children push him closer to the edge, where his limp body finally topples back, falling to the deep valley and icy grave below.

Returning

Leafiara muses, "Guess that's that, then."

Shiril says, "Well..."

(OOC) Cryheart's player whispers to the group, "These so-called children of Koar, are certainly tainted."

Evia says, "Be at peace."

Goldstr sings with a clear tenor:

"Protector of Light, Answer with Sight. Make these followers see the Light"

The children sing, "Protector of Light, Answer with Might. We are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar."

Zosopage asks, "There still a cocoon we must destroy?"

Ysharra says, "We had best go, soon."

Shiril dryly says, "I did suggest we push people over the edge earlier..."

Leafiara thoughtfully says, "Wonder if he was secretly a follower of Mularos or Arachne or someone else too."

(OOC) Maylan's player whispers to the group, "It was indeed a grand finale. I keep resisting the urge to make Maylan applaud."

Ysharra says, "With him ended..."

Cryheart says, "There goes a child."

Speaking to Goldstr, Pukk says, "Enough, your singing has gone and done killed him."

Ysharra says, "This place won't last much longer."

Cryheart says, "Ok..let us leave."

A child looks down and his hand begins to melt like wax.

Evia says, "No, I don't believe it will."

Cryheart says, "Moving."

Evia exclaims, "Let's go!"

[travel]

Shinann says, "Wait."

Ramith says, "The robed child..."

Speaking to Zosopage, Lazaryth asks, "You mentioned a cocoon?"

Lylia says, "...They may catch up sometime."

The children sing, "Protector of Light, Answer with Might. We are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar."

Chamorr heartily says, "Not done."

Cryheart says, "Come child."

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara guesses, "Worried about confirming the body?"

The children sing, "Protector of Light, Answer with Might. We are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar."

Shinann whispers to the group, "No... they were melting... I guess we should leave."

Draught says, "He's rather badly wounded."

Evia says, "How uhm, can they be released."

The side of a mountain begins to melt like wax.

Draught says, "But I suppose he isn't real so..."

Draught says, "Oh."

The children sing, "Protector of Light, Answer with Might. We are the Children, the Children, the Children of Koar."

Ysharra says, "That's definitely a cue to go."

Ramith asks, "Is that not a ghost?"

Chamorr heartily says, "Time to go."

[travel]

[Melgorehn's Reach, Lake Eonak]

You are on the bank of a beautiful mountain lake that is fed by a waterfall gushing from the mountain side. There is a path which seems to actually lead up the side of the mountain. You also see a shimmering silver portal, a cedar chip path and a barely visible trail leading into a grove of ancient trees.

Cryheart says, "Indeed."

Evia says, "Apparently illusions."

Goldstr says, "Whew."

The portal melts away.

Speaking to Cryheart, Maylan says, "Well done."

Cryheart says, "To Moot hall."

Evia exclaims, "GOLLY!"

Katiesa uneasily says, "I think I prefer the melting to wondering if they will endlessly be singing that song in the echoes of time and darkness."

Ysharra says, "...so desolate. And beautiful."

Leafiara admits, "Always surprised the paragon worlds hold up even briefly after the paragon's dead... guess the magic takes a while to unwind since it's no simple ward like the ones that fade when we die."

Cryheart says, "Pylasar is resting it seems."

[travel]

Evia says, "Like the illusions they were, they melt away."

Speaking to Leafiara, Lazaryth says, "You think a lot, even if you like to pretend you don't."

Speaking amusedly to Lazaryth, Leafiara asks, "When do I pretend I don't?"

[travel ends]

[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 large purple wooden barrel and a polished bleakstone statue.

Speaking to Leafiara, Lazaryth says, "You act as if you're all about battle."

Speaking to Leafiara, Katiesa guesses, "When you're swinging the blades?"

Speaking to Cryheart, Goldstr exclaims, "Tankee fer da fine guidance Sir!"

Evia asks, "So that was the last original one besides Brumas?"

Zosopage says, "That had to be the saddest yet most horrifying one yet."

Cryheart says, "Welcome."

Speaking to Cryheart, Pukk says, "You were walking so much, you walked past Moot Hall."

Speaking lightly to Lazaryth, Leafiara says, "Well, much as I can be."

Maylan says, "Well, I'm going to go drink myself to sleep."

Lylia says, "Yes. The last of the ones Pylasar aided with creating."

Speaking to Zosopage, Shiril asks, "Horrifying?"

Speaking to a smoke wolf, Rasson says, "Go to the inn."

Speaking wryly to Lazaryth, Leafiara says, "I gotta pass the time somehow while we're listening to a paragon ramble and no one wants me to just stab him."

Ysharra says, "And one more that we don't know much about."

Zosopage says, "Children...."

Ysharra says, "Save for some wild conjecture."

Ysharra says, "And I do mean wild."

Cryheart says, "Ok...time to rest I think."

Chamorr heartily says, "Raznel must be feeling this loss."

Zosopage says, "She will most likely hit us back hard."

Lylia says, "I hope she feels all these losses."

Lylia says, "And I hope they hurt."

Speaking to Goldstr, Pukk says, "Good thing you're not a bard."

Leafiara amicably says, "Have a good eve all. Soon, very soon... Brumas awaits."

Evia says, "Glad was able to help him unwind his delusion."

Madmountan says, "Alright, well let me know if you need more kids exterminated."

Goldstr says, "Rest well friends, we may be searchin fer Lady Kiske tomorrow."

Lylia says, "He died knowing more truth than he did when he lived. It was a kind of gift we gave him."

Speaking to Shiril, Lazaryth says, "Just checking."

Katiesa lightly says, "It is well past the hour of Ronan and that golden dawn will be here too soon. A fair night to you all."

Pukk says, "This was a night that needed the most humor."

Speaking approvingly to Lazaryth, Shiril says, "Likewise."

Lazaryth noncommittally says, "Mm."

Leafiara musingly says, "Off to find my way back to the Vaalorian festival."