GemStone IV Wiki - User contributions [en]

Spell Book

2026-04-13T00:19:54Z

RAFFELS2: /* Additional Information */

<table><tr valign="top"><td>
A '''Spell Book''' can transfer spells from scrolls, storing individual spells for future use. Additional pages can be added to the book to allow for more spells to be stored.

At Tier 3, a chosen spell slot can be refreshed 1x/day.

At Tier 4, the book allows for 1x/day use of [[Fash'lo'nae's Gift (1750)]].

Spell Books are sold at the [[Rumor Woods]] shop [[RWShop:Tomeward Bound|Tomeword Bound]].
{{stub}}
{{TOC limit|2}}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 1/OTS 
|itemsummary=An OTS Spell Book is capable of holding spells, which are transferred to it from scrolls. The book can hold up to six spells, which can be {{boldmono|INVOKEd}} as with scrolls. 
|analyze= 
You analyze the dark leather grimoire and sense that the creator has provided the following information:
{{blue|OVERVIEW}}

Hello there, intrepid player! This dark leather grimoire is a Spell Book item. These items allow you to transfer spells (and their charges) from scrolls to be stored within this grimoire's pages.

{{blue|UNLOCKS}}

Tier 1 - OTS. You may TRANSFER spells into the grimoire, PONDER to select spells, and SCRATCH to remove them.
Tier 2 - The grimoire gives more information about the number of charges remaining.
Tier 3 - You may CLEAN the grimoire 1x/day to restore a selected spell slot (1 charge for non-war spells, 40 charges for war spells).
Tier 4 - You may STARE at the grimoire 1x/day to gain Fash'lo'nae's Knowledge (1750).
RP Verbs - Unlocks RP verbs (FLIP, SNAP, TOUCH, BRUSH, RUB, RAISE, and POINT).

Currently this book is {{blue|Tier 1}} and has {{blue|1}} pages which contain up to 6 spells each. You may "TURN grimoire" to go to the next page or "TURN grimoire TO #" to go to a specific page.

The RP verbs are: {{blue|Locked}}.

{{blue|ALTERING}}

This grimoire may be freely altered but should remain in relatively good repair (e.g. it cannot be in an unreadable state).

You get no sense of whether or not the grimoire may be further lightened.
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable=Yes 
}}
{| {{verbtable}} 
|- {{verbtableheader|90}}
! scope="col" style="width:5em;"|Verb
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|First
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|Third
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader" rowspan="2"|PONDER
| {{addmetext}}
| {{addmetext}}
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-align:center"|Select a spell, or an empty slot in the book to add one.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader" rowspan="2"|SCRATCH
| {{addmetext}}
| {{addmetext}}
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-align:center"|Remove a spell.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader" rowspan="2"|TRANSFER
| {{addmetext}}
| {{addmetext}}
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-align:center"|Add a spell to the grimoire from a scroll.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|TURN {BOOK}
| {{addmetext}}
| {{addmetext}}
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|TURN {BOOK} TO #
| {{addmetext}}
| {{addmetext}}
|}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 2 
|itemsummary=At Tier 2, the book displays the exact number of charges for each slot (up to 40 charges/slot). 
|analyze= 
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable= 
}}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 3 
|itemsummary= At Tier 3, a chosen spell slot can be refreshed 1x/day. War spells will refresh fully up to 40 charges while non-war spells will refresh 1 charge. 
|analyze= 
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable=Yes 
}}
{| {{verbtable}} 
|- {{verbtableheader|90}}
! scope="col" style="width:5em;"|Verb
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|First
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|Third
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader" rowspan="2"|CLEAN
| {{addmetext}}
| {{addmetext}}
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-align:center"|Refresh a spell.
|}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 4 
|itemsummary=The book may be used 1x/day to gain [[Fash'lo'nae's Gift (1750)]]. 
|analyze= 
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable=Yes 
}}
{| {{verbtable}} 
|- {{verbtableheader|90}}
! scope="col" style="width:5em;"|Verb
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|First
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|Third
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader" rowspan="2"|STARE
| {{addmetext}}
| {{addmetext}}
|-
| colspan="2" style="text-align:center"|Activate [[Fash'lo'nae's Gift (1750)]].
|}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Fluff Verbs 
|itemsummary=A separate certificate can be used to add a variety of fluff RP verb traps. This fluff verb unlock is separate from any Tier unlocks. 
|analyze= 
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable=Yes 
}}
{| {{verbtable}} 
|- {{verbtableheader|90}}
! scope="col" style="width:5em;"|Verb
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|First
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|Third
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|BRUSH
| {{addmetext}}
| {{addmetext}}
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|FLIP
| {{addmetext}}
| {{addmetext}}
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|POINT
| {{addmetext}}
| {{addmetext}}
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|RAISE
| {{addmetext}}
| {{addmetext}}
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|RUB
| {{addmetext}}
| {{addmetext}}
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|SNAP
| {{addmetext}}
| {{addmetext}}
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|TOUCH
| {{addmetext}}
| {{addmetext}}
|}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Page Addon 
|itemsummary=A separate certificate can be used to add additional pages to an existing Spell Book. A Spell Book can have up to 5 pages. Each page can hold up to 6 spells. Page addons are separate from any Tier unlocks. 
|analyze= 
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable= 
}}
==Additional Information==
To transfer a spell from a scroll, hold the scroll in one hand and your Spell Book in the other. Then, use {{boldmono|PONDER (book noun)}} to select the slot in which you want the spell to appear. Once the slot appears in monsterbold, use {{boldmono|TRANSFER (spell number) (book noun)}}, similar to a [[Sigil Staff]], to move the spell from the scroll to your Spell Book.

Spell knowledge scrolls (written in vibrant ink) cannot be transferred to the book. Only spells below level 20 may be transferred. The spell must be findable on scrolls to be recharged.

If the scroll has more charges than the book can hold, the book will transfer charges up to the maximum (40) and leave the remaining charges on the scroll.

Transferring a spell off of a scroll will reduce the value similar to how it is done with a [[Sigil Staff]].

If the last charge of a spell is used up in the book, that spell slot will become empty and available for transferring another spell. {{boldmono|SCRATCH}} can be used to remove a spell from the book, making that slot available for use again.

==See Also==
* [https://discord.com/channels/226045346399256576/1359226197480964176 Discord release discussion thread]
</td><td>
{{iteminfo
|type=Mechanical 
|itemclass=Miscellaneous 
|itemtype=Book 
|alter=Yes 
|ld= 
|feature= 
|customize= 
|custom= 
|origmerch= 
|releasevenue=Rumor Woods 
|releaseyear=2025 
|questitem= 
|tiered=Yes 
|tiersnumber=4 
|unlock=Certificate 
|legendary= 
|demeanor= 
|loresong= 
|corrscript= 
|attune= 
|attunement= 
|affinity= 
|spell= 
|enhancive= 
|swap= 
|add= 
|restrictions=Must remain some type of book and in relatively good shape. 
}}
{{itemverb
|verb=BRUSH 
|verb2=CLEAN
|verb3=FLIP
|verb4=INVOKE
|verb5=POINT
|verb6=PONDER
|verb7=RAISE
|verb8=RUB
|verb9=SCRATCH
|verb10=SNAP
|verb11=STARE
|verb12=TOUCH
|verb13=TRANSFER
|verb14=TURN
}}
</td></tr></table>

Fierce mask

2025-10-06T14:26:50Z

RAFFELS2:

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'''Fierce masks''' are an older fluff item script that change how several standard verbs display their messaging when used while the mask is worn. They are designed to bring out your fierce side!
{{TOC limit|2}}
==Analyze==
<pre{{log2}}>
First introduced in 5106, a scarlet shadowsilk mask framed by an octet of alum-jointed legs will bring out your fierce side by reinforcing yourGLANCE, GLARE, and GROWL.
</pre>
==Usage==
{| {{verbtable}} 
|- {{verbtableheader|90}}
! scope="col" style="width:5em;"|Verb
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|First
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|Third
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|GLANCE
|Your eyes twitch nervously behind your shadowsilk mask.
|Missoni's eyes twitch nervously behind a scarlet shadowsilk mask framed by an octet of alum-jointed legs.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|GLARE
| {{addmetext}}
| {{addmetext}}
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|GROWL
|You growl softly underneath your shadowsilk mask.
|You hear Missoni growling behind a scarlet shadowsilk mask framed by an octet of alum-jointed legs
|}
</td><td>
{{iteminfo
|type=Fluff 
|itemclass=Accessory 
|itemtype=Mask 
|alter= 
|ld= 
|feature= 
|customize= 
|custom= 
|origmerch= 
|releasevenue= 
|releaseyear=2006 
|questitem= 
|tiered= 
|tiersnumber= 
|unlock= 
|legendary= 
|demeanor= 
|loresong= 
|corrscript= 
|attune= 
|attunement= 
|affinity= 
|spell= 
|enhancive= 
|swap= 
|add= 
|restrictions= 
}}
{{itemverb
|verb=GLANCE 
|verb2=GLARE
|verb3=GROWL
}}
</td></tr></table>

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Found items

2025-06-14T23:21:43Z

RAFFELS2: /* Saltwater Blessing */

__ToC__
== Shadowy Abyss Found Items ==
=== 06.06.2025 ===
==== an antique Vornavian silk cloth ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key's Sleeve
!an antique Vornavian silk cloth
|-
|Smooth with a soft finish, the Vornavian silk cloth has hints of its original deep blue hue at its edges though largely it has faded to a watered azure hue. Faint seashell patterns decorate the edge, the silver and white embroidery creating scallop shells that overlap. Rolled silk cords aid the bundle in staying closed as needed, their ends capped in silver dolphin periapts.
|}

===== a blue-tinted white vellum parchment =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Letter to Tagetes from Aralinne
!a blue-tinted white vellum parchment
|-
|Slightly warped in shape and displaying clear signs of damage from humidity, the fine parchment is tinted with a subtle blue hue that is almost white and yet distinctly not. Crisp folds create precise lines in the top and bottom third of the piece, while the corners display fray signs where moisture has separated the layers.
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:
the seventeenth day of Olaesta in the year 4839

Tagetes,

Hopefully, we will return at the same time and all of this preparation will be for naught.

The temple will have no attendants as I have figured out the missing piece to get us to Pearl. It lies in an old Kannalan Temple to Charl. I believe I've tracked down its former location. I've hidden the plans in the old office at the end of the catacombs and sealed the entry.

So few people know of its existence that it should be safe to travel there. I do not think I will be gone more than a handful of days.

However, as I do not trust the Mercantile Guild, with their recent decisions to create gardens and shrines to the dark pantheon, I have sealed the doorway up and hidden it. Since you know where it is, you should have no issue finding it.

There are seven keys for entry. I've left the Empress key here, but you can easily obtain the other six by seeking the blessings of the Lover, the Mistress, the Sister, the Mother, the Daughter, and the High Priestess. I'm sure you'll remember who these are from our past talks. I dare not say more for fear this is found by others.

Please know that some wish to see the curse spread. Others are working hard to stop it. Young Bristena had the idea to buy back all the jewelry from the women whose husband, lovers, and brothers searched the North Beach to obtain them. I gave her enough coin to buy them all back.

Once she has every last piece, she'll have a sailor take her out to the spot we believe the "Pearl" to be waiting in and drop them back into the water. That should give us time to get the pieces together to free her. I used the last of the coffers to pay a crew to start the lighthouse.

If I don't return... Please let my husband and son know the depths of which I love them.

By my hand,

Aralinne Wynedowne
|}
===== a carved golden amber acorn =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key
!a carved golden amber acorn
|-
|Roughly oval in shape, a carved golden amber acorn is broad and flat, providing an excellent view of its transparent interior portion. Trapped within the golden yellow fossilized pine tree sap are several small flying insects and a dried flower.
|}
==== an aged grey stone tile ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+The Tile
!an aged grey stone tile
|-
|Your song touches the tile, and the memory begins with stillness, then the faint scrape of wood across stone. Gentle hands press close, fitting the tile snugly into place. A murmur of approval hums nearby, muffled by fabric and breath. Cool grout slides into the seams, and the air shifts. Salt lingers in the room, carried on a current scented with blossoms. Lilac and sea daisy rise together, soft and clean. A hush settles across the surface, and the tile recognizes it as belonging. Beneath the faintest sigh of sandals against stone, a woman's voice murmurs, "There. That's better." The sounds and sensations fade along with the last syllables of your song.

As your song continues to caress the tile, it stirs with echoes of passing time. Soft footsteps come and go, punctuated by the rhythmic sweep of bristles and the clatter of buckets. Voices rise and fall nearby, sometimes low with grief, sometimes bright with ritual. One speaks of a sister's safe return, another offers blessings over a sailor's name. A different voice complains about a cracked basin and the need for fresh oil. Each moment blends into the next, seasons marked only by the changing cadence of heels, the weight of silence, and the gentle creak of wood in damp air. Slowly, the sensation and sounds fade, one by one, until they fall as silent as your song.

Your melody draws forth a hush, and the tile remembers the scent first. Bitter and resinous, the thick smoke of funerary incense curls low to the ground. Voices follow in soft procession, cloaked in sorrow. Some weep openly, others murmur prayers with trembling breath. The weight of grief presses against the stone, heavy as tide against jetty. A name is spoken again and again, reverent and broken, until it becomes a lullaby of mourning. Between each word, silence holds vigil. The tile feels a deep stillness in the air, as if even the sea has paused to listen. A final name tumbles across your ears as your song slips into silence, "Elenne."

Your song stirs the memory of disturbance. The tile feels the grit of its seams loosened, the edge of a tool scraping carefully through old grout. Pressure lifts it from the floor, just briefly, and something small is slid beneath. When the tile returns to its place, the surface meets the subfloor with an unfamiliar firmness. A hand lingers upon it, smooth and warm, resting for a long moment before giving a gentle pat. Whispered words ride the still air, close enough to touch, "Keep this safe until Tagetes finds you." An absence of warmth is the last sensation the tile imparts before your song stills.

Your voice brushes the tile, and the past answers with hushed urgency. There is the soft shuffle of feet, the creak of worn boots on stone, and a sharp intake of breath. Mournful whispers crowd the silence. A voice, cracked with worry and soft with distance, murmurs, "I don't know where you are, Aralinne. I can't get into the catacombs to check on you as the Brisker's Cove bowl was broken in the latest Krolvin raids... Please come home to us. Please. Your plan for Bristena worked; she told me of it when I returned. The girls are free, but where are you? I'm going to hide my piece until it can unite with yours. Please be safe, be careful." A soft sigh blends with the ending resonance of your song.

Your voice draws forth only silence at first. Time passes, measured in distant echoes. Footsteps sound too far to name, and faint shifts in the air come and go with no purpose. Old wood creaks softly where it meets damp stone. Dust settles in the seams, and salt from the sea clings to the surface. Years drift by without notice. Then, without warning, fingers press along your edges. There is a pause, a breath held just beyond hearing, and the tile feels the careful pry of something firm beneath it. A clamor of voices overlaps with each other until they blend into the fading sound of your song.
|}

=== 06.13.2025 ===
==== a salt-stained blue leather ledger ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Ledger from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a salt-stained blue leather ledger
|-
|Bound in navy blue leather, the ledger bears clear signs of repair. Patches of mismatched hide reinforce the spine and corners, and thin linen cords hold the bindings tight. Though worn smooth with age, the cover still holds the faint imprint of Niima's shell crest, long faded by handling. The pages inside are slightly bowed from moisture, but the ink has held well. Each year occupies a single page, the writing steady and small.
|-
|4816

Tidy dates and notations for each month in 4816 are aligned neatly along the inner margin. Notes reference standard morning and mid-tide services, with modest attendance throughout the year. Several deaths at sea are marked during Phoenatos and Imaerasta. There are mentions of a small fishing vessel lost in late Charlatos, and a new lantern donated by a widow named Hessa. The last quarter shows increased visits near Solstice.

4817

Entries for 4817 remain even and uneventful. Most notes concern basin cleaning, donation handling, and ribbon replenishment. Storms in Lumnea and Koaratos disrupted service for several days. A merchant's wife is mentioned repeatedly for leaving folded prayers in the offering box. One record notes an unusual number of gulls gathered at the altar during a fogbound service, marked simply with, "observed by three."

4818

Standard service records dominate the page, with annotations in blue ink appearing during spring. One comment in the margin reads, "New basin stone fitted. Shell inlay cracked but held." Three names repeat throughout the year: a retired sailor, a midwife from Marshtown, and a girl recorded only as "A.M." Several deaths at sea appear again in Eorgaen. Coastal offerings increase during the fall months.

4819

The 4819 entries continue in a narrow hand, with an unusual number of weddings noted between Charlatos and Ivastaen. Ribbons tied at the altar outnumber funerary entries this year. A brief note in Phoenatos mentions a fisherman's body returned after fifteen tides. Repairs to the vestibule door are recorded in Koaratos. A delivery of hymnals is documented without name, signed only with "N.L."

4820

Attendance patterns remain steady throughout 4820. Notations of storm disruptions in Fashanos and Koaratos are followed by increased evening services during those months. One brief note in Charlatos mentions a girl from the lower quarter beginning "training for vow," though no name is listed. Seasonal surges continue, with quiet months between. A salt-caked page corner suggests the ledger was left open during a sea spray.

4821

Small, precise entries for 4821 follow the pattern of prior years. Services remained regular, with additional rites held after a coastal storm in Charlatos. A recurring visitor is listed only as "shell-bearer" during spring months. Repairs to the west garden wall are noted in Lumnea. One entry in Eorgaen records, "child left driftwood figure at basin, no adult nearby." The handwriting becomes slightly sharper near the year's end.

4822

The year opened with colder winds and reduced attendance through Lormesta. One note in Fashanos records an elderly priestess slipping on the altar steps, resulting in no injury. Minor construction is logged in Ivastaen: "stone bench repositioned, foundation settled uneven." Gulls are again noted during a fog-heavy morning service. No deaths at sea are marked for Koaratos, which is noted as rare by the author. Extra hymn practice is recorded for Imaerasta.

4823

Faint ink along the top edge shows early signs of moisture, but the page remains legible. Most entries follow the standard pattern. A sailor's wedding in Phoenatos brought increased attendance for several days. Someone left a carved shell token in the basin and returned each week through Jastatos. No name was ever recorded. One funeral in Eoantos references burial in the lower catacomb row, name lost to smudging. Elenne's name begins to appear more frequently.

4824

Ledger entries remain orderly. Elenne is noted as presiding over full services during three major seasonal observances. A short entry in Imaerasta reads, "saltwater damaged two hymnals, copies made by hand." Several deaths at sea were recorded across Phoenatos and Jastatos. A recurring note of "candles late" appears without clarification. Winter quarter shows an increased number of widows seeking individual prayer times, as marked by initials only.

4825

The writing becomes slightly more compact along this page, possibly due to a change in hand. Services are held regularly with minor disruptions caused by harbor traffic. One early Charlatos entry reads, "path blocked by hauling rig, services delayed." Garden growth noted as "vigorous" in Lumnea. An unnamed girl from Marshtown began regular cleaning duties in midyear. Entries suggest her presence became routine, though her name is not yet recorded. Several pages show signs of ash smudging near the bottom corner.

4826

Ledger entries remain narrow and consistent. Regular service records dominate the page, with a note in Ivastaen reading, "two hymnals lost to mildew, one copied by hand." The girl from Marshtown is noted more frequently, assisting with basin preparation and entry sweeping. Elenne is recorded as leading nearly all rites this year. In Koaratos, a sailor's wife donated wax and twine following her husband's return from the reefs.

4827

A colder year, with notations of light frost in Charlatos and a decline in visitors during the first quarter. The Marshtown girl is listed by initials for the first time: "A.L.". She appears often in notes tied to daily upkeep and chant transcription. Elenne requested additional salt deliveries from the quay, suggesting higher ritual use. A short record in Imaerasta reads, "boy returned with offering candle for sister." His name is not recorded, but the action repeats in later months.

4828

Ink across this page is slightly lighter but consistent. Notes describe steady attendance and quiet observances throughout the year. "A.L." continues to serve regularly and is mentioned copying seasonal verses. A new basin cloth was donated by a widow in Phoenatos. Calen Wynedowne is noted briefly in Koaratos as assisting with deliveries. In Eorgaen, a child is recorded as tying sea glass to the offering pole, noted without comment.

4829

The handwriting tightens slightly, with some changes in wording structure. "A.L." is listed as leading chants during two minor observances. A service disruption is recorded in Charlatos: "work crew halted access to west path." Garden repairs resumed in Ivastaen, with the stone bench noted as "settled, but now cracking." Calen Wynedowne is marked present on three service dates. Elenne's name appears as usual, though one note mentions "shortness of breath in colder months."

4830

Entries shift slightly in tone this year, with more detailed notations. "A.L." is no longer referenced only by initials. Her name appears as Aralinne, recorded assisting with vespers and receiving permission to copy the coastal prayers. Elenne continues to lead services throughout. In Fashanos, a marked entry reads: "Calen Wynedowne departed aboard the Drowned Boar." A note in Imaerasta logs the visit of the High Priestess from Selanthia. Garden notes cease after Koaratos, likely due to early construction of the new temple.

4831

Entries are steady, with services held regularly in the newly expanded chapel. The original altar remains in partial use during evening observances. Aralinne is recorded as leading chants and maintaining basin duties throughout the year. A note in Charlatos reads, "Calen returned, left shell at east bench." Additional visitors marked in Phoenatos. Several Kannalan hymn fragments reviewed in Jastatos, with Aralinne listed as transcriber. No disruptions recorded.

4832

Observances continue without interruption. Aralinne is noted frequently in preparation tasks, seasonal cleanings, and the transcription of coastal rites. One record in Koaratos reads, "private service held for three widows." Increased taper use recorded in Imaerasta. No name given, but a new assistant is mentioned briefly in Lumnea. Aralinne's duties expand across multiple entries. The final note of the year: "attendance steady; records filed."

4833

Standard notations occupy most of the year. Aralinne continues in her role, listed alongside Elenne for all major observances. Her name appears independently in entries for dusk services and catacomb visits. One summer note mentions, "garden basin cleared and refilled under Aralinne's guidance." No major incidents. Early signs of leadership transition appear in Eoantos, though no formal statement is recorded. The garden bench is listed as worn, but stable.

4834

Charlatos begins with a formal entry: "Calen Wynedowne and Aralinne joined in marriage, witnessed before first bell at east altar." Both continue in regular attendance. Aralinne is recorded as leading evening services and overseeing hymn preservation efforts. Her handwriting begins to appear in later entries. Koaratos notes her inclusion in guild correspondence. The final entry in Eorgaen lists: "preparations for early solstice rites under Aralinne."

4835

Year begins quietly. Aralinne is now noted as officiating several services in early Fashanos. In Jastatos, a central entry reads: "Elenne passed peacefully in the night, fifth day of Jastatos." Her name does not appear again. Subsequent entries mark Aralinne presiding over full rites. One note reads, "transition marked with coastal hymn, basin blessing unchanged." Calen continues to appear sporadically. The final entry of the year reads: "chapel remains steady under Aralinne's care."
|}
==== a small salt-stained journal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Aralinne's Journal from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a small salt-stained journal
|-
|Bound in salt-stained suede, the small journal shows signs of frequent handling. The edges of the cover have curled slightly, and faint salt residue clings to the seams. Interior pages are swollen from moisture, and many are warped or stuck together. Ink bleeds across several leaves, though a few entries remain legible. The faint scent of mildew and brine lingers between the covers.
|-
|1st day of Lormesta, 4830

The new year began in silence. No sun showed at dawn, only a pale mist rolling over the port that settled in the alleys and gutters. We opened the chapel doors late this morning. A thin crust of salt had gathered again on the threshold.

Mother Elenne asked me to polish the lamp basin and check our remaining wax. She said that if the year is to bring anything, let it be steadiness. I scrubbed the copper too hard and bent the rim along one edge. She noticed but said nothing.

After the evening bell, I stayed to copy the coastal prayer. My ink bled in the cold, and my fingers would not hold the quill straight. The letters blurred near the bottom of the page. I will try again tomorrow.

The gulls have returned early this year. Their cries sound sharper than I remember.

Faint ink marks show a date in the top right corner, though the precise date is difficult to decipher. There is an impression of repeated script beneath the date, but the parchment is too warped to decipher much of its contents. Only a few words remain distinguishable near the bottom:

"...salt left from the..."

"...sleeves wet from the basin..."

"...ribbon placed before bell..."

16th day of Fashanos, 4830

A merchant visited the chapel yesterday. He introduced himself as Vartrien and said he represented the Mercantile Guild. His boots were polished, but they slipped on the chapel stones. He smelled faintly of tallow and wine.

He spoke with Elenne behind the altar rail. I only heard part of what was said... something about extending the outer walls, adding a foyer and foyer, and pulling stone from the cliff quarry. He did not ask about the altar or the basin.

Before leaving, he placed a coin in the offering basin. It was heavier than most and bore the Guild's seal. Elenne closed the doors earlier than usual and asked me to boil the cloth and clean the entry stone. She did not speak again until morning prayers.

After the bell, I copied half of the sea-born hymn. I still mix the second and third lines. The gulls circled loudly over the garden. They did not land.

Humidity has irrevocably damaged this page of the journal. The faint impression of a coastal flower leaves a colored stain in the center of the page. Ink bleeds across the fibers, blending so completely that all writing is beyond recognition.

3rd day of Charlatos, 4830

Rain began early and found its way in through the northern window joint again. A track of droplets marked the covers of three hymnals before I noticed. I dried them the best I could and set them near the basin to air.

Mother Elenne told me I might be ready to take the vesper reading next month. I said I would do my best, though my voice still shakes when the wind comes hard off the bay.

A boy from the shipyard arrived just before first bell. He brought a candle for his sister and did not speak. He nodded once and placed it on the old bench near the shell altar. It burned quickly and left a streak of wax on the wood.

After evening prayers, I copied the saltwater blessing again. I continue to forget the fourth line. I will practice it aloud tomorrow when the chapel is empty.

12th day of Olaesta, 4830

The salted fog held all morning. The bells could barely be heard from the quay, and the floor stayed damp long after I wiped it. The gulls were quiet today, though I saw them gather on the breakwall at dusk.

Mother Elenne allowed me to lead the midday verses. I stumbled on the refrain but kept pace. She gave no correction afterward, which I think was kindness. I will ask her to let me try again next week.

The Guildman has not returned, but I saw carts from the upper quarry moving past the garden path. One of the workers spat too close to the basin. I scrubbed the stone clean before closing the gate.

27th day of Ivastaen, 4830

The High Priestess arrived again, as expected. She comes every five months, though she avoids Charlatos and Lormesta because she does not like to travel in cold weather. This time, she brought only one attendant and a thick letter sealed in white wax.

She asked after the basin and walked the outer path twice before speaking. I do not know why she finds our grounds so peculiar. She always looks longer at the walls than at the altar.

She complimented the order of the garden, though I had not yet swept. Her words are even and pleasant, but her eyes are always searching. I do not think she comes only for worship.

Moisture has warped the page outward from the center, and a small flower is pressed into the parchment. Once white, its petals have turned a pale yellow. The edges have melted into the fibers over time, leaving a faint outline and a darker stain beneath. Ink has bled into the margins, but a few lines remain legible:

"He brought it with both hands."

"Said it grew from the rocks near the basin."

"It smelled faintly of salt and rosemary."

Written near the bottom corner, in a careful hand: Calen

9th day of Lumnea, 4830

Calen came again just after midday. He did not knock, only waited near the side path until I saw him. He brought a bloom, he said he found growing from a crack in the harbor wall. I told him it would not last, but he said that was fine.

He stayed long enough to watch me refill the basin, then left without saying more. I placed the flower in the back of the book, where I thought it would keep. It did not.

Mother Elenne has begun sorting the storeroom shelves again. I do not know where she plans to move everything, but she said we may have to share with the masons soon. I do not think she approves.

2nd day of Koaratos, 4830

Rumors continue about the Guild's plans, but nothing official has been posted. One of the stone counters in the garden cracked under the weight of a builder's crate. They said it would be replaced, but no one has returned to measure.

The High Priestess's letter is still sealed. Elenne has not opened it, though she moved it twice. I think she is waiting for another message, or perhaps the Guildman himself.

A blue gull feather was left on the altar after the second bell. No one saw who brought it.

I placed it in the ribbon box, away from the salt.

13th day of Koaratos, 4830

The stone bench in the garden has been replaced. I was not told it would happen, but when I stepped out to light the sea taper this morning, it was there. Rosewood, newly finished and still carrying the scent of cut shavings. The legs are slightly uneven, but the surface is smooth.

Elenne said one of the sailors had it made for his wife. She is the one who always sits near the roses and watches the harbor light. She wept when the bench cracked beneath the masons' crate. I am glad it was rebuilt.

Ink has lifted across most of the page, leaving behind only faint strokes and a few recognizable shapes. The top third is nearly blank, and the lower margin is warped from long exposure to damp air. Visible along the center fold, in pale ink, are snatches of the original message.

"...asked if it would still be the same chapel..."

"...carried the basin water out into the garden..."

"...song lines lost in the stone dust..."

5th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Construction has begun. Dust rises even before the first bell. The builders come early and eat beside the garden wall. I do not know how they leave the crumbs behind, but the gulls are clearly happy about it.

Mother Elenne and I have moved our sleeping mats into the chapel itself. There is no space left in the quarters, not since the back wall was taken down. She said it is temporary, but we must keep everything folded and out of sight during services.

She reminded me that we are not bound by silence or separation, only by devotion and clarity of intent. Then she looked at me and said, "Even your Calen would agree." I nearly dropped the basin ladle.

16th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Calen returned with an oilskin pouch and handed it to me without speaking. Inside was a cloth wrapped around several dry biscuits and a folded slip of sea-blue ribbon. He said he heard the workers had overrun our stores and that I was likely too polite to complain.

I thanked him, but could not find the right words. Elenne watched from the entryway. Later, she only asked if I had shared them.

The builders left stone dust across the floor again. I swept until my arms ached, but it returned before the evening bell. It finds every crack.

28th day of Phoenatos, 4830

The High Priestess will return in Jastatos. Elenne received a note today. No seal this time, only a clean fold and pressed script. She read it twice, then tucked it into the ledger without comment.

I asked if she thought the Guildman would be here as well. She said most likely, and that the two had likely been speaking for longer than we realized. She did not sound surprised or pleased.

The rosewood bench has already dulled to a greyish tone. I tried wiping it with a damp cloth, but the color does not return. Still, the sailor's wife came today and stayed for the whole of the afternoon light. She did not speak. Only watched the water and smiled.

7th day of Imaerasta, 4830

The scaffolding now reaches above the garden wall. Boards cast a grid of shadow over the roses during morning light. One of the masons said that the new walls will block the ocean view. I had not thought of that until now.

If the wall rises the way they say it will, the garden will face stone, not sea. Elenne was not surprised when I told her. She only said, "It's easier to worship what you can see than what you must remember."

I wonder if the sound of the tide will carry once the last wall is raised.

18th day of Imaerasta, 4830

Mist held long into the afternoon. We lit the lamps early and brought the linens in before the sea air reached them. The dust hangs longer in the stillness.

Word came that Yenterreth of the Marshtown passed in her sleep. She was one of the spirit women, always with a ribbon in her sleeve and saltwater on her boots. I remember her from before I came to live with Elenne. She called me bird girl and once gave me a braid of kelp twine.

She will be interred below with the others. I carried the notice down to the stone chamber myself.

Much of the page has faded due to moisture, but several phrases remain readable:

"...could see the harbor lantern from the bench..."

"...ribbons tied to the low branches removed..."

"...the sound of chisel work does not pause for prayer..."

Smudged ink across the lower edge shows where the page was touched before drying.

3rd day of Jastatos, 4830

The High Priestess arrived just after midday. She wore a dove-colored cloak and had her hair in three loops at her crown. Guildman Vartrien stood beside her beneath the scaffolding. They did not speak during the service, but both stayed until the end.

Afterward, they walked the garden with Elenne. I followed at a distance, gathering petals. I overheard them speak of creating a fresco in Niima's likeness upon the foyer wall. The High Priestess said the space would command presence.

No one mentioned the old altar. I swept around it that night, as a kind of apology.

15th day of Jastatos, 4830

A whisper has spread through the workers. One of the cart drivers said the Krolvin have been seen in Brisker's Cove. No one knows if it's true, but another said the harbor patrol was doubled this week.

Elenne said we cannot shape our prayers to rumors. Still, she lit the tall tapers during evening service and left them burning until the last shadow faded from the stones.

Calen has not returned since the rains began. I keep the ribbon he gave me in my prayer book. It smells faintly of rosemary, even now.

4th day of Eoantos, 4830

Elenne asked me to begin clearing the small office beside the catacombs. She said it was time someone sorted through what remains. I believe she means for me to be occupied, as Calen has not returned. She does not ask after him directly, but she notices when I forget the dusting cloth or leave the lamp wick too low.

The office is colder than I remembered. The walls sweat even when the wind is dry. I found a bundle of records tied with frayed cord, and a shelf of ledgers warped from years of damp. None have dates newer than 4816.

I lit a taper and marveled that its flame didn't waver. The air is rather stale.

12th day of Eoantos, 4830

Stacks of papers have begun to soften and fall apart as I move them. Some pages peel away like onion skin. Others are stuck together with mildew at the corners. There is no order left in the ledgers.

Elenne gave me vinegar water to scrub the stone and showed me how to dry the parchments without tearing the ink. Her hands are steadier than mine, but she let me try alone today.

No one has asked about the office in years. I wonder if anyone will again once the new temple is complete.

Several blotches stretch across the center of the page, caused by ink pressed while wet. Words are smudged and fingerprints mar the lower half.

Only a few lines are clear:

"...wrote his name on the margin and folded it..."

"...did not want to ask him not to go..."

"...the sea calls more surely than words ever could..."

21st day of Eoantos, 4830

Word came that Calen has signed on with a deep-sea vessel. No one knows the name, only that it sails past the Shoals and will be gone past spring.

Elenne said nothing when I told her. She simply handed me another cloth and said, "Salt dries slower than tears." I think she meant it kindly.

The basin water felt colder today, though the air was still. When I poured it over the shell altar, I thought of the wives who stand at our threshold with wet sleeves and silent mouths.

I begin to understand why they come. Not for answers, but for nearness.

1st day of Eorgaen, 4830

The sound of hammers has quieted. Most of the scaffolding has come down. The stones above the chapel are now smooth and white, with carved lines I cannot name.

I finished dusting the office and folded what remained of the ledgers. Several were too damaged to save. Elenne said I may stack them in the catacombs for burning later, though I kept two that still held their shape.

Calen's ribbon rests between the pages of one. I did not mean to place it there. It simply felt right.

19th day of Eorgaen, 4830

We moved into the new quarters today. The walls are smooth, and the ceiling curves slightly like the hull of a ship turned over. My mat fits beneath the small window, though it does not face the sea.

Elenne set our candles on the narrow sill and arranged her ledgers in the cabinet with care. She has not said whether she likes the new space, but she wiped the sill twice before speaking.

I kept the basin cloth. It still smells faintly of rosemary and ink.

31st day of Eorgaen, 4830

Year-end bells rang before the harbor mist had cleared. The garden is smaller now, and the altar no longer sees the ocean, but the salt wind still finds its way between the stones.

I watched from the upper stairs as the tide turned. For a moment, I imagined Calen leaning over the rail of whatever vessel he's found. I do not know where he sailed, or what wind carried him out, only that the thought of him still returns like breath.

I folded a ribbon into the base of the old ledger. Some things are easier to keep when hidden.

1st day of Lormesta, 4831

The High Priestess arrived at midday. She wore fur-lined gloves and spoke briefly before entering the new sanctum. Her words were softer this time. She said the white stone caught light well and that the new foyer had "clean weight."

She did not linger. Elenne bowed but did not speak.

I spent the rest of the day sorting a box of old hymn fragments. Some were written in Kannalan, though I can only read the titles. I have set two aside in hopes that someone might help me translate them.

3rd day of Lormesta, 4831

Calen returned today.

He stood by the garden gate and waited until I saw him. He did not wave. Only smiled, the kind of smile that asks without needing an answer.

I brought him a cup of water, and we sat in the shadow of the old chapel. He said nothing of the voyage, and I did not ask. I watched his hands as he spoke of the harbor and the wind near the reefs. He has a sun mark on his left wrist now, just above the bone.

When he left, he pressed a shell into my palm. It was smooth and unbroken.

5th day of Lormesta, 4831

I do not know if he missed me. I do not know if he meant to see me or only came to the chapel as he once did.

Still, I thought of him each time the tide turned. I imagined the shape of his boat against the horizon, wondering if he looked for birds or counted the ways salt settles into cloth.

The shell he gave me rests beneath the old candle box. I did not tell Elenne.

I have finished copying the Kannalan refrain. The words feel older than stone, but they sing cleanly when read aloud.
|}

==== a faded off-white vellum ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Letter to Aralinna from Tagetes
!a faded off-white vellum
|-
|22 Fashanos 4839

Hi Aralinne,
You are going to sputter when you read this, but I found something I think might actually help. I've been haunting the lower rooms of the Rest's old archive, the one that smells like mushrooms and lamp oil, and you would not believe the number of ledgers that don't even belong there. Some trader scribbled a note in the margin of a shipping contract, and I have no idea why, about a Hermit of Charl. Not a priest. Not a sailor. A hermit.

The strange part is, he wasn't written about like some bedraggled man on a rock. He had followers. Or at least people who carried his words. The note said he held something powerful, something that could "turn back the tide and lay bare the seabed, if placed with care and faith at the high edge." That's what it actually said. The relic doesn't have a name, which is frustrating, but it is always connected to cliffs or high ridges.

I spent the last two days chasing the reference backward, and I think it's Kannalan. Most of the names line up with the way they spell things when they want to make them sound more official. The good stuff always hides behind fancy lettering.

Anyway, I asked around, and there's a guide here who knows the Karazja ruins. He's agreed to take me inland starting next week. I'll be careful. I promise. But if I'm right, that relic might still be out there.

Imagine what it would mean if we could part the sea.

More soon,
Tagetes

P.S. Tell Marris not to let the acolytes into the tide closet again. I know it was them. The shells were rearranged. Again.
|}
==== Seaborne Hymnal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a thread-edged faded parchment
|-
|Parchment the color of drifted sand bears faded blue script in a careful, even hand. The edges have frayed into soft waves, and the lower corner is discolored where dampness clings to the page. A watermark in the upper left shows a simple wave crest superimposed over a scallop shell. Salt has left faint flecks across the surface, and one line of ink has bled slightly with age. Despite wear, the script remains fully legible, framed by a border of pressed gull feathers and hand-tied seasilk thread.

In the Common language, it reads:

Instructions for the Seaborne Hymnal

To be spoken daily, often at morning tide or before the first sail departs.

The Seaborne Hymnal is a spoken blessing offered to all who live by the rhythm of the sea. It honors those who make their living from its bounty, those who voyage upon it, and those who wait at its edge. The ritual is led by a priestess and joined by those gathered, using a call and response pattern. It is not sung, but spoken clearly, with steadiness and intent.

There are no physical offerings required. However, each response is accompanied by a hand gesture to mark the tide's reach and the release of prayer.

The priestess stands facing the gathered. Congregants may form a semicircle or remain as they are, whether in chapel or along the shore. The ritual may be performed indoors or outdoors, provided the sea is visible or near.

At each response, the right hand is placed palm-down over the heart, then extended outward, fingers spread as if forming the crest of a wave. This gesture is slow and deliberate. At the final line, the gesture is held outward a moment longer before lowering the hand.

The hymnal is: 
'''Priestess:''' Who wakes with the wind and walks with the tide? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who casts the net and bears the storm? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who waits at the window and sings to the dark? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who names the stars and trusts the wave? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Bless those who leave and those who remain. 
Bless those who labor and those who pray. 
Bless those who remember. 
'''Congregation (final gesture):''' And those who return no more.

The rite is complete after the final line. There is no need for benediction. Let silence follow for a breath or two before the next act begins.
|}
==== Ribbon Vigil ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a watermarked pearly white parchment
|-
|Faint mildew spots darken the four corners of the parchment, which has a pearly white finish created by the waxy finished worked into its fibers. An azure watermark of a scallop shell superimposed over cresting waves can be seen beneath the indigo ink that spread across its surface.

In the Common language, it reads:

The Ribbon Vigil is a quiet, sacred tradition observed by sailors and their loved ones before voyages that lead them beyond the protection of the bay. It is deeply personal, often unspoken, and performed in silence atop the temple's Widow's Walk. The rite is not scheduled by the temple, nor does it require direct guidance, but all priestesses, acolytes, and attending staff should understand its nature and how to offer quiet support when needed.

The vigil begins when a sailor and a significant companion, whether spouse, sibling, friend, or beloved, ascending to the rooftop of the temple. Together, they bring a ribbon, which may be carried openly or hidden in the hand, sleeve, or pocket until the moment it is needed. Upon reaching the rail that faces the open sea, they tie the ribbon to the ironwork together. There is no formal color or material required. While many choose white, blue, or sea green, others may bring a scrap of sailcloth or a woven charm. The meaning lies in the bond, not the fiber. No spoken words are required, though some murmur names or prayers as the knot is tied. The act itself is the offering. It binds the hope of return between two people and entrusts that bond to the sea.

At times, when a ship is long overdue or the sea has turned cruel, the one who remained ashore may return to the Widow's Walk alone. There, they loosen the knot they once tied. The ribbon is not taken down but left slack in the wind. This act is a plea to Niima, asking her to seek the one who has not come home. It is believed that if the ribbon is taken by the wind and reaches the sea, Niima will find the sailor and guide them to safety. That safety may not bring them home to Solhaven, but it will bring them to a shore. If the ribbon tangles, falls, or clings to the stone, some believe it is a sign that the soul it represents has already passed from Niima's reach.

Temple staff must not disturb those who come to perform this rite. Acolytes may observe from a distance and quietly light a sea taper at the stairwell when a ribbon loosening is witnessed. The gesture is enough to mark the moment. Comfort should be offered gently, without promise or correction. Never assure a safe return. Instead, remind them that Niima knows every name whispered to the tide and that no soul is ever truly lost to her.

Ribbons left on the Widow's Walk should be observed weekly. Those that have clearly loosened and not flown may be carefully removed and burned in a salt-fire by the priestess or her assistant. This should be done with solemnity and without comment, allowing the sea to receive what it could not carry.

Priestesses may speak of the vigil during public blessings, particularly on days when many ships prepare to depart. However, no individual should be named or pointed to. Let the ribbon be a silent prayer, seen by the sea and felt by those who wait.
|}
==== Song of Return ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a worn and faded scrap of vellum
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:

Song of Return 
A blessing for safe voyage and reunion

Go forth with the tide and return with the swell, 
Let the waves bear you gently, where ever you dwell. 
May your sails know the whisper, not the wail of the sea, 
And the stars hold your course where your heart longs to be.

Let the wind be your witness, the foam be your guide, 
Let the deep pass beneath you and never divide. 
By the light of Niima, by the calm of her grace, 
May your path find the harbor, your soul find its place.

Those who love you will wait with the shore in their eyes, 
Watching dawn rise in silence and dusk fill the skies. 
So go forth with the tide and return with the swell, 
You are known to the sea, and she knows you well.
|}
==== Saltwater Blessing ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a an azure-tinted and waxed ivory vellum
|-
|The Saltwater Blessing
To be performed at the start of each day and before any service that opens the temple doors to those in need. 
Begin the Saltwater Blessing before the tide bells. The basin must be clean, dry, and still. Saltwater is to be drawn at dawn, and it must come from a living source. Water taken from a canal or well is not suitable. If the sea cannot be reached due to weather or flood, postpone the ritual. Light a sea taper in its place and record the reason with care. 
The acolyte assisting you should stand to the left of the basin. Instruct her to place both hands on the rim and begin to turn it slowly in a clockwise motion. This movement must remain steady and deliberate. The spiral that forms at the center of the water represents the cycle we serve: cleansing, healing, prayer, and return.
You will pour the saltwater into the basin as it turns. Keep the vessel low and the stream even. Pour as the tide pours, without haste and without pause. Do not speak until the water touches the basin. As the water flows, recite the blessing aloud: 
Salt drawn from tide, gift of the sea, 
Wash clean these hands, this heart, this hour. 
Heal what is broken, quiet what clings, 
Let all who pass find peace in thee. 
In Niima's name, let the water remember mercy, 
and the sea cradle what we cannot carry. 
When the blessing is complete, step back and allow the basin to settle. Do not stir the water again unless it has been fouled. 
Each person who enters the chapel should approach the basin. Some will speak, others will not. It is not your task to correct their silence. If they ask what to say, teach them this: 
Salt and sea, carry this from me. 
At day's end, empty the basin unless the tide is near enough to reclaim it directly. Never let water stand overnight. Do not allow the salt to cloud or crust. If the sea cannot receive it, return it to the earth with reverence. 
The blessing is working when even the restless linger at the threshold.
|}

==== Elenne's (?) Papers ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a pale slip of vellum bearing a rust-tinged watermark
|-
|Rust-toned watermarks bloom across the lower half of the parchment, forming uneven, organic shapes. The ink has faded but remains legible throughout. The surface is rough to the touch, with several shallow indentations along the right margin, as if pressed against the corner of a writing board. Mild mildew spotting is visible near the top, and the parchment carries a faint metallic scent.

In the Common language, it reads: 
15th day of Fashanos, 4830 
Master Vartrien of the Mercantile Guild visited the chapel before midday service. He spoke of expanding the grounds and building a larger temple to better serve Solhaven's growing population. I reminded him that the chapel predates the coastal road and holds its own rhythm. He seemed unconcerned but polite. Left a coin marked with the Guild's seal in the basin. I placed it with the others and marked his visit in the side register.
|-
!a raw-edged and water-spotted page
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads: 
17th day of Lumnea, 4830 
Widow Carlan returned today, still unable to bear the final words. Her husband was taken last autumn in the reef churn near a southern cay. It has been added to our charts. I gave her the ledger entry of his loss to hold and read aloud as part of the Benediction for Final Rest. She left a net of white knotted cord, said it was the last he made, but did not stay. I've placed it on the altar before the midday rites. As a note, fog rolled in not long after service, and only three stayed for evening psalms.
|-
!a salt-ringed scrap of curled parchment
|-
|In the Common language, it reads: 
2nd day of Ivastaen, 4831 
Three fisher wives from the southern quay came before the early bells. Their husbands sail north this season, past Glaoveln's reach. Each requested prayer and sat quietly through the morning hymn. I gave silver ribbons to bind with their kerchiefs and lit the sea taper for calm waters. The chapel was nearly full by midmorning, though many arrived late, likely due to the spring fog that clung to the harbor paths.
|-
!a ink-streaked torn vellum sheet
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads: 
29th day of Koaratos, 4832 
Two merchant wives came bearing cloth bundles for the shrine. Each held swaddled sea stones tied with bits of silk, blue and pale. They asked no questions, gave no names. I placed the stones in the vessel below the sanctum basin and poured saltwater as they requested. Both stayed for the midday chant, though neither sang. After, they left through the garden gate without speaking further. I noted no marking on the silk. I hope they found comfort.
|-
!a mold-speckled soft parchment note
|-
|Softened by age and wear, the edges of the parchment curl inward, and pale mold speckling appears across the lower third of the sheet. A faint line suggests it was once folded and tucked into a ledger or personal book. The ink remains legible but has lightened near the corners. Moisture warping has created a slight upward curl in the body, and the parchment carries the scent of aged paper and damp wool.

In the Common language, it reads: 
3rd day of Eorgaen, 4832 
Widow Ellin came before the first bell and asked to sit in the quiet. She brought a folded scrap of ribbon from her husband's net bag and said she'd found it behind a dresser while cleaning for winter. I lit the sea taper and left her undisturbed while preparing the outer basin. She stayed through first prayers, then rose and placed the ribbon beneath the shell altar. She asked for no words today, but returned a missing bench cushion before leaving.
|-
!a smudged and warped journal page
|-
|Uneven ripples in the parchment surface indicate long exposure to moisture. Several pale smudges appear along the right margin, likely left by ink-stained fingers. Fading is most visible at the top, though the handwriting remains legible throughout. A faint scent of old wool and oil clings to the fibers. Abrasions across the back suggest the page rested for some time against a coarse surface.

In the Common language, it reads: 
7th day of Charlatos, 4833 
Three girls from Marshtown arrived just after first bell. None had formal instruction, but all carried the tunes well enough to follow the second line. We worked them through the basin hymn and the low chorus of the coastal prayer. They were assigned tunics from the eldest priestess, who sent them to scrub before vespers. We will continue twice weekly with them. If they remain steady, they may be ready for the Midyear Blessing. We've noted their names in the side book.
|-
!a creased parchment page
|-
|Creases stretch diagonally across the page, likely from folding while still damp. Several ink lines have run downward from the upper half, creating faint trails along the grain. Edges have darkened with age, and water damage has left a soft waviness across the surface. Handwriting remains legible, though uneven in places. The scent of mildew is stronger here, with a faint trace of fish oil soaked into one corner.

In the Common language, it reads: 
23rd day of Imaerasta, 4834 
Fleets pushed off beneath a red sky this evening. Wind held warm along the rise, and I watched from the upper path as the sails moved out past the bay mouth. I counted twenty-seven before I lost the line. I wrote their names as I remembered them, though some are just family names passed around. We did not ring the bell, but kept the flame lit through dusk. Sunset lingered long enough to finish the basin cleaning by natural light.
|-
!an ink-blotched paper fragment
|-
|Near the lower edge, signs of delamination are evident where prolonged exposure to moisture has lifted the parchment fibers. Ink blotches cover the upper left corner, though the writing beneath remains legible. Faint blue guidelines run horizontally across the surface, now nearly faded from view. All corners are softened from repeated handling, while the light scent of damp plaster and crushed chalk clings to the page.

In the Common language, it reads: 
18th day of Ivastaen, 4835 
Workers paused their efforts near the east colonnade due to a broken pulley. Several wandered into the chapel while the foreman spoke with a guild agent outside. One left a handful of copper on the basin rim. I noted no offering ribbon, but took it with the rest before lighting the salt lamp. Held afternoon prayers with two elders and one child. No hymn today. Breezes through the north wall joints have grown stronger since the scaffolding went up.
|}

==== a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Necklace Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 100 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
==== a discolored albatross feather quill ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Quill Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a discolored albatross feather quill
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 30,000 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
[[Category:The Shadowy Abyss]]

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Found items

2025-06-14T23:20:25Z

RAFFELS2: /* Song of Return */ Added Saltwater Blessing

__ToC__
== Shadowy Abyss Found Items ==
=== 06.06.2025 ===
==== an antique Vornavian silk cloth ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key's Sleeve
!an antique Vornavian silk cloth
|-
|Smooth with a soft finish, the Vornavian silk cloth has hints of its original deep blue hue at its edges though largely it has faded to a watered azure hue. Faint seashell patterns decorate the edge, the silver and white embroidery creating scallop shells that overlap. Rolled silk cords aid the bundle in staying closed as needed, their ends capped in silver dolphin periapts.
|}

===== a blue-tinted white vellum parchment =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Letter to Tagetes from Aralinne
!a blue-tinted white vellum parchment
|-
|Slightly warped in shape and displaying clear signs of damage from humidity, the fine parchment is tinted with a subtle blue hue that is almost white and yet distinctly not. Crisp folds create precise lines in the top and bottom third of the piece, while the corners display fray signs where moisture has separated the layers.
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:
the seventeenth day of Olaesta in the year 4839

Tagetes,

Hopefully, we will return at the same time and all of this preparation will be for naught.

The temple will have no attendants as I have figured out the missing piece to get us to Pearl. It lies in an old Kannalan Temple to Charl. I believe I've tracked down its former location. I've hidden the plans in the old office at the end of the catacombs and sealed the entry.

So few people know of its existence that it should be safe to travel there. I do not think I will be gone more than a handful of days.

However, as I do not trust the Mercantile Guild, with their recent decisions to create gardens and shrines to the dark pantheon, I have sealed the doorway up and hidden it. Since you know where it is, you should have no issue finding it.

There are seven keys for entry. I've left the Empress key here, but you can easily obtain the other six by seeking the blessings of the Lover, the Mistress, the Sister, the Mother, the Daughter, and the High Priestess. I'm sure you'll remember who these are from our past talks. I dare not say more for fear this is found by others.

Please know that some wish to see the curse spread. Others are working hard to stop it. Young Bristena had the idea to buy back all the jewelry from the women whose husband, lovers, and brothers searched the North Beach to obtain them. I gave her enough coin to buy them all back.

Once she has every last piece, she'll have a sailor take her out to the spot we believe the "Pearl" to be waiting in and drop them back into the water. That should give us time to get the pieces together to free her. I used the last of the coffers to pay a crew to start the lighthouse.

If I don't return... Please let my husband and son know the depths of which I love them.

By my hand,

Aralinne Wynedowne
|}
===== a carved golden amber acorn =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key
!a carved golden amber acorn
|-
|Roughly oval in shape, a carved golden amber acorn is broad and flat, providing an excellent view of its transparent interior portion. Trapped within the golden yellow fossilized pine tree sap are several small flying insects and a dried flower.
|}
==== an aged grey stone tile ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+The Tile
!an aged grey stone tile
|-
|Your song touches the tile, and the memory begins with stillness, then the faint scrape of wood across stone. Gentle hands press close, fitting the tile snugly into place. A murmur of approval hums nearby, muffled by fabric and breath. Cool grout slides into the seams, and the air shifts. Salt lingers in the room, carried on a current scented with blossoms. Lilac and sea daisy rise together, soft and clean. A hush settles across the surface, and the tile recognizes it as belonging. Beneath the faintest sigh of sandals against stone, a woman's voice murmurs, "There. That's better." The sounds and sensations fade along with the last syllables of your song.

As your song continues to caress the tile, it stirs with echoes of passing time. Soft footsteps come and go, punctuated by the rhythmic sweep of bristles and the clatter of buckets. Voices rise and fall nearby, sometimes low with grief, sometimes bright with ritual. One speaks of a sister's safe return, another offers blessings over a sailor's name. A different voice complains about a cracked basin and the need for fresh oil. Each moment blends into the next, seasons marked only by the changing cadence of heels, the weight of silence, and the gentle creak of wood in damp air. Slowly, the sensation and sounds fade, one by one, until they fall as silent as your song.

Your melody draws forth a hush, and the tile remembers the scent first. Bitter and resinous, the thick smoke of funerary incense curls low to the ground. Voices follow in soft procession, cloaked in sorrow. Some weep openly, others murmur prayers with trembling breath. The weight of grief presses against the stone, heavy as tide against jetty. A name is spoken again and again, reverent and broken, until it becomes a lullaby of mourning. Between each word, silence holds vigil. The tile feels a deep stillness in the air, as if even the sea has paused to listen. A final name tumbles across your ears as your song slips into silence, "Elenne."

Your song stirs the memory of disturbance. The tile feels the grit of its seams loosened, the edge of a tool scraping carefully through old grout. Pressure lifts it from the floor, just briefly, and something small is slid beneath. When the tile returns to its place, the surface meets the subfloor with an unfamiliar firmness. A hand lingers upon it, smooth and warm, resting for a long moment before giving a gentle pat. Whispered words ride the still air, close enough to touch, "Keep this safe until Tagetes finds you." An absence of warmth is the last sensation the tile imparts before your song stills.

Your voice brushes the tile, and the past answers with hushed urgency. There is the soft shuffle of feet, the creak of worn boots on stone, and a sharp intake of breath. Mournful whispers crowd the silence. A voice, cracked with worry and soft with distance, murmurs, "I don't know where you are, Aralinne. I can't get into the catacombs to check on you as the Brisker's Cove bowl was broken in the latest Krolvin raids... Please come home to us. Please. Your plan for Bristena worked; she told me of it when I returned. The girls are free, but where are you? I'm going to hide my piece until it can unite with yours. Please be safe, be careful." A soft sigh blends with the ending resonance of your song.

Your voice draws forth only silence at first. Time passes, measured in distant echoes. Footsteps sound too far to name, and faint shifts in the air come and go with no purpose. Old wood creaks softly where it meets damp stone. Dust settles in the seams, and salt from the sea clings to the surface. Years drift by without notice. Then, without warning, fingers press along your edges. There is a pause, a breath held just beyond hearing, and the tile feels the careful pry of something firm beneath it. A clamor of voices overlaps with each other until they blend into the fading sound of your song.
|}

=== 06.13.2025 ===
==== a salt-stained blue leather ledger ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Ledger from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a salt-stained blue leather ledger
|-
|Bound in navy blue leather, the ledger bears clear signs of repair. Patches of mismatched hide reinforce the spine and corners, and thin linen cords hold the bindings tight. Though worn smooth with age, the cover still holds the faint imprint of Niima's shell crest, long faded by handling. The pages inside are slightly bowed from moisture, but the ink has held well. Each year occupies a single page, the writing steady and small.
|-
|4816

Tidy dates and notations for each month in 4816 are aligned neatly along the inner margin. Notes reference standard morning and mid-tide services, with modest attendance throughout the year. Several deaths at sea are marked during Phoenatos and Imaerasta. There are mentions of a small fishing vessel lost in late Charlatos, and a new lantern donated by a widow named Hessa. The last quarter shows increased visits near Solstice.

4817

Entries for 4817 remain even and uneventful. Most notes concern basin cleaning, donation handling, and ribbon replenishment. Storms in Lumnea and Koaratos disrupted service for several days. A merchant's wife is mentioned repeatedly for leaving folded prayers in the offering box. One record notes an unusual number of gulls gathered at the altar during a fogbound service, marked simply with, "observed by three."

4818

Standard service records dominate the page, with annotations in blue ink appearing during spring. One comment in the margin reads, "New basin stone fitted. Shell inlay cracked but held." Three names repeat throughout the year: a retired sailor, a midwife from Marshtown, and a girl recorded only as "A.M." Several deaths at sea appear again in Eorgaen. Coastal offerings increase during the fall months.

4819

The 4819 entries continue in a narrow hand, with an unusual number of weddings noted between Charlatos and Ivastaen. Ribbons tied at the altar outnumber funerary entries this year. A brief note in Phoenatos mentions a fisherman's body returned after fifteen tides. Repairs to the vestibule door are recorded in Koaratos. A delivery of hymnals is documented without name, signed only with "N.L."

4820

Attendance patterns remain steady throughout 4820. Notations of storm disruptions in Fashanos and Koaratos are followed by increased evening services during those months. One brief note in Charlatos mentions a girl from the lower quarter beginning "training for vow," though no name is listed. Seasonal surges continue, with quiet months between. A salt-caked page corner suggests the ledger was left open during a sea spray.

4821

Small, precise entries for 4821 follow the pattern of prior years. Services remained regular, with additional rites held after a coastal storm in Charlatos. A recurring visitor is listed only as "shell-bearer" during spring months. Repairs to the west garden wall are noted in Lumnea. One entry in Eorgaen records, "child left driftwood figure at basin, no adult nearby." The handwriting becomes slightly sharper near the year's end.

4822

The year opened with colder winds and reduced attendance through Lormesta. One note in Fashanos records an elderly priestess slipping on the altar steps, resulting in no injury. Minor construction is logged in Ivastaen: "stone bench repositioned, foundation settled uneven." Gulls are again noted during a fog-heavy morning service. No deaths at sea are marked for Koaratos, which is noted as rare by the author. Extra hymn practice is recorded for Imaerasta.

4823

Faint ink along the top edge shows early signs of moisture, but the page remains legible. Most entries follow the standard pattern. A sailor's wedding in Phoenatos brought increased attendance for several days. Someone left a carved shell token in the basin and returned each week through Jastatos. No name was ever recorded. One funeral in Eoantos references burial in the lower catacomb row, name lost to smudging. Elenne's name begins to appear more frequently.

4824

Ledger entries remain orderly. Elenne is noted as presiding over full services during three major seasonal observances. A short entry in Imaerasta reads, "saltwater damaged two hymnals, copies made by hand." Several deaths at sea were recorded across Phoenatos and Jastatos. A recurring note of "candles late" appears without clarification. Winter quarter shows an increased number of widows seeking individual prayer times, as marked by initials only.

4825

The writing becomes slightly more compact along this page, possibly due to a change in hand. Services are held regularly with minor disruptions caused by harbor traffic. One early Charlatos entry reads, "path blocked by hauling rig, services delayed." Garden growth noted as "vigorous" in Lumnea. An unnamed girl from Marshtown began regular cleaning duties in midyear. Entries suggest her presence became routine, though her name is not yet recorded. Several pages show signs of ash smudging near the bottom corner.

4826

Ledger entries remain narrow and consistent. Regular service records dominate the page, with a note in Ivastaen reading, "two hymnals lost to mildew, one copied by hand." The girl from Marshtown is noted more frequently, assisting with basin preparation and entry sweeping. Elenne is recorded as leading nearly all rites this year. In Koaratos, a sailor's wife donated wax and twine following her husband's return from the reefs.

4827

A colder year, with notations of light frost in Charlatos and a decline in visitors during the first quarter. The Marshtown girl is listed by initials for the first time: "A.L.". She appears often in notes tied to daily upkeep and chant transcription. Elenne requested additional salt deliveries from the quay, suggesting higher ritual use. A short record in Imaerasta reads, "boy returned with offering candle for sister." His name is not recorded, but the action repeats in later months.

4828

Ink across this page is slightly lighter but consistent. Notes describe steady attendance and quiet observances throughout the year. "A.L." continues to serve regularly and is mentioned copying seasonal verses. A new basin cloth was donated by a widow in Phoenatos. Calen Wynedowne is noted briefly in Koaratos as assisting with deliveries. In Eorgaen, a child is recorded as tying sea glass to the offering pole, noted without comment.

4829

The handwriting tightens slightly, with some changes in wording structure. "A.L." is listed as leading chants during two minor observances. A service disruption is recorded in Charlatos: "work crew halted access to west path." Garden repairs resumed in Ivastaen, with the stone bench noted as "settled, but now cracking." Calen Wynedowne is marked present on three service dates. Elenne's name appears as usual, though one note mentions "shortness of breath in colder months."

4830

Entries shift slightly in tone this year, with more detailed notations. "A.L." is no longer referenced only by initials. Her name appears as Aralinne, recorded assisting with vespers and receiving permission to copy the coastal prayers. Elenne continues to lead services throughout. In Fashanos, a marked entry reads: "Calen Wynedowne departed aboard the Drowned Boar." A note in Imaerasta logs the visit of the High Priestess from Selanthia. Garden notes cease after Koaratos, likely due to early construction of the new temple.

4831

Entries are steady, with services held regularly in the newly expanded chapel. The original altar remains in partial use during evening observances. Aralinne is recorded as leading chants and maintaining basin duties throughout the year. A note in Charlatos reads, "Calen returned, left shell at east bench." Additional visitors marked in Phoenatos. Several Kannalan hymn fragments reviewed in Jastatos, with Aralinne listed as transcriber. No disruptions recorded.

4832

Observances continue without interruption. Aralinne is noted frequently in preparation tasks, seasonal cleanings, and the transcription of coastal rites. One record in Koaratos reads, "private service held for three widows." Increased taper use recorded in Imaerasta. No name given, but a new assistant is mentioned briefly in Lumnea. Aralinne's duties expand across multiple entries. The final note of the year: "attendance steady; records filed."

4833

Standard notations occupy most of the year. Aralinne continues in her role, listed alongside Elenne for all major observances. Her name appears independently in entries for dusk services and catacomb visits. One summer note mentions, "garden basin cleared and refilled under Aralinne's guidance." No major incidents. Early signs of leadership transition appear in Eoantos, though no formal statement is recorded. The garden bench is listed as worn, but stable.

4834

Charlatos begins with a formal entry: "Calen Wynedowne and Aralinne joined in marriage, witnessed before first bell at east altar." Both continue in regular attendance. Aralinne is recorded as leading evening services and overseeing hymn preservation efforts. Her handwriting begins to appear in later entries. Koaratos notes her inclusion in guild correspondence. The final entry in Eorgaen lists: "preparations for early solstice rites under Aralinne."

4835

Year begins quietly. Aralinne is now noted as officiating several services in early Fashanos. In Jastatos, a central entry reads: "Elenne passed peacefully in the night, fifth day of Jastatos." Her name does not appear again. Subsequent entries mark Aralinne presiding over full rites. One note reads, "transition marked with coastal hymn, basin blessing unchanged." Calen continues to appear sporadically. The final entry of the year reads: "chapel remains steady under Aralinne's care."
|}
==== a small salt-stained journal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Aralinne's Journal from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a small salt-stained journal
|-
|Bound in salt-stained suede, the small journal shows signs of frequent handling. The edges of the cover have curled slightly, and faint salt residue clings to the seams. Interior pages are swollen from moisture, and many are warped or stuck together. Ink bleeds across several leaves, though a few entries remain legible. The faint scent of mildew and brine lingers between the covers.
|-
|1st day of Lormesta, 4830

The new year began in silence. No sun showed at dawn, only a pale mist rolling over the port that settled in the alleys and gutters. We opened the chapel doors late this morning. A thin crust of salt had gathered again on the threshold.

Mother Elenne asked me to polish the lamp basin and check our remaining wax. She said that if the year is to bring anything, let it be steadiness. I scrubbed the copper too hard and bent the rim along one edge. She noticed but said nothing.

After the evening bell, I stayed to copy the coastal prayer. My ink bled in the cold, and my fingers would not hold the quill straight. The letters blurred near the bottom of the page. I will try again tomorrow.

The gulls have returned early this year. Their cries sound sharper than I remember.

Faint ink marks show a date in the top right corner, though the precise date is difficult to decipher. There is an impression of repeated script beneath the date, but the parchment is too warped to decipher much of its contents. Only a few words remain distinguishable near the bottom:

"...salt left from the..."

"...sleeves wet from the basin..."

"...ribbon placed before bell..."

16th day of Fashanos, 4830

A merchant visited the chapel yesterday. He introduced himself as Vartrien and said he represented the Mercantile Guild. His boots were polished, but they slipped on the chapel stones. He smelled faintly of tallow and wine.

He spoke with Elenne behind the altar rail. I only heard part of what was said... something about extending the outer walls, adding a foyer and foyer, and pulling stone from the cliff quarry. He did not ask about the altar or the basin.

Before leaving, he placed a coin in the offering basin. It was heavier than most and bore the Guild's seal. Elenne closed the doors earlier than usual and asked me to boil the cloth and clean the entry stone. She did not speak again until morning prayers.

After the bell, I copied half of the sea-born hymn. I still mix the second and third lines. The gulls circled loudly over the garden. They did not land.

Humidity has irrevocably damaged this page of the journal. The faint impression of a coastal flower leaves a colored stain in the center of the page. Ink bleeds across the fibers, blending so completely that all writing is beyond recognition.

3rd day of Charlatos, 4830

Rain began early and found its way in through the northern window joint again. A track of droplets marked the covers of three hymnals before I noticed. I dried them the best I could and set them near the basin to air.

Mother Elenne told me I might be ready to take the vesper reading next month. I said I would do my best, though my voice still shakes when the wind comes hard off the bay.

A boy from the shipyard arrived just before first bell. He brought a candle for his sister and did not speak. He nodded once and placed it on the old bench near the shell altar. It burned quickly and left a streak of wax on the wood.

After evening prayers, I copied the saltwater blessing again. I continue to forget the fourth line. I will practice it aloud tomorrow when the chapel is empty.

12th day of Olaesta, 4830

The salted fog held all morning. The bells could barely be heard from the quay, and the floor stayed damp long after I wiped it. The gulls were quiet today, though I saw them gather on the breakwall at dusk.

Mother Elenne allowed me to lead the midday verses. I stumbled on the refrain but kept pace. She gave no correction afterward, which I think was kindness. I will ask her to let me try again next week.

The Guildman has not returned, but I saw carts from the upper quarry moving past the garden path. One of the workers spat too close to the basin. I scrubbed the stone clean before closing the gate.

27th day of Ivastaen, 4830

The High Priestess arrived again, as expected. She comes every five months, though she avoids Charlatos and Lormesta because she does not like to travel in cold weather. This time, she brought only one attendant and a thick letter sealed in white wax.

She asked after the basin and walked the outer path twice before speaking. I do not know why she finds our grounds so peculiar. She always looks longer at the walls than at the altar.

She complimented the order of the garden, though I had not yet swept. Her words are even and pleasant, but her eyes are always searching. I do not think she comes only for worship.

Moisture has warped the page outward from the center, and a small flower is pressed into the parchment. Once white, its petals have turned a pale yellow. The edges have melted into the fibers over time, leaving a faint outline and a darker stain beneath. Ink has bled into the margins, but a few lines remain legible:

"He brought it with both hands."

"Said it grew from the rocks near the basin."

"It smelled faintly of salt and rosemary."

Written near the bottom corner, in a careful hand: Calen

9th day of Lumnea, 4830

Calen came again just after midday. He did not knock, only waited near the side path until I saw him. He brought a bloom, he said he found growing from a crack in the harbor wall. I told him it would not last, but he said that was fine.

He stayed long enough to watch me refill the basin, then left without saying more. I placed the flower in the back of the book, where I thought it would keep. It did not.

Mother Elenne has begun sorting the storeroom shelves again. I do not know where she plans to move everything, but she said we may have to share with the masons soon. I do not think she approves.

2nd day of Koaratos, 4830

Rumors continue about the Guild's plans, but nothing official has been posted. One of the stone counters in the garden cracked under the weight of a builder's crate. They said it would be replaced, but no one has returned to measure.

The High Priestess's letter is still sealed. Elenne has not opened it, though she moved it twice. I think she is waiting for another message, or perhaps the Guildman himself.

A blue gull feather was left on the altar after the second bell. No one saw who brought it.

I placed it in the ribbon box, away from the salt.

13th day of Koaratos, 4830

The stone bench in the garden has been replaced. I was not told it would happen, but when I stepped out to light the sea taper this morning, it was there. Rosewood, newly finished and still carrying the scent of cut shavings. The legs are slightly uneven, but the surface is smooth.

Elenne said one of the sailors had it made for his wife. She is the one who always sits near the roses and watches the harbor light. She wept when the bench cracked beneath the masons' crate. I am glad it was rebuilt.

Ink has lifted across most of the page, leaving behind only faint strokes and a few recognizable shapes. The top third is nearly blank, and the lower margin is warped from long exposure to damp air. Visible along the center fold, in pale ink, are snatches of the original message.

"...asked if it would still be the same chapel..."

"...carried the basin water out into the garden..."

"...song lines lost in the stone dust..."

5th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Construction has begun. Dust rises even before the first bell. The builders come early and eat beside the garden wall. I do not know how they leave the crumbs behind, but the gulls are clearly happy about it.

Mother Elenne and I have moved our sleeping mats into the chapel itself. There is no space left in the quarters, not since the back wall was taken down. She said it is temporary, but we must keep everything folded and out of sight during services.

She reminded me that we are not bound by silence or separation, only by devotion and clarity of intent. Then she looked at me and said, "Even your Calen would agree." I nearly dropped the basin ladle.

16th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Calen returned with an oilskin pouch and handed it to me without speaking. Inside was a cloth wrapped around several dry biscuits and a folded slip of sea-blue ribbon. He said he heard the workers had overrun our stores and that I was likely too polite to complain.

I thanked him, but could not find the right words. Elenne watched from the entryway. Later, she only asked if I had shared them.

The builders left stone dust across the floor again. I swept until my arms ached, but it returned before the evening bell. It finds every crack.

28th day of Phoenatos, 4830

The High Priestess will return in Jastatos. Elenne received a note today. No seal this time, only a clean fold and pressed script. She read it twice, then tucked it into the ledger without comment.

I asked if she thought the Guildman would be here as well. She said most likely, and that the two had likely been speaking for longer than we realized. She did not sound surprised or pleased.

The rosewood bench has already dulled to a greyish tone. I tried wiping it with a damp cloth, but the color does not return. Still, the sailor's wife came today and stayed for the whole of the afternoon light. She did not speak. Only watched the water and smiled.

7th day of Imaerasta, 4830

The scaffolding now reaches above the garden wall. Boards cast a grid of shadow over the roses during morning light. One of the masons said that the new walls will block the ocean view. I had not thought of that until now.

If the wall rises the way they say it will, the garden will face stone, not sea. Elenne was not surprised when I told her. She only said, "It's easier to worship what you can see than what you must remember."

I wonder if the sound of the tide will carry once the last wall is raised.

18th day of Imaerasta, 4830

Mist held long into the afternoon. We lit the lamps early and brought the linens in before the sea air reached them. The dust hangs longer in the stillness.

Word came that Yenterreth of the Marshtown passed in her sleep. She was one of the spirit women, always with a ribbon in her sleeve and saltwater on her boots. I remember her from before I came to live with Elenne. She called me bird girl and once gave me a braid of kelp twine.

She will be interred below with the others. I carried the notice down to the stone chamber myself.

Much of the page has faded due to moisture, but several phrases remain readable:

"...could see the harbor lantern from the bench..."

"...ribbons tied to the low branches removed..."

"...the sound of chisel work does not pause for prayer..."

Smudged ink across the lower edge shows where the page was touched before drying.

3rd day of Jastatos, 4830

The High Priestess arrived just after midday. She wore a dove-colored cloak and had her hair in three loops at her crown. Guildman Vartrien stood beside her beneath the scaffolding. They did not speak during the service, but both stayed until the end.

Afterward, they walked the garden with Elenne. I followed at a distance, gathering petals. I overheard them speak of creating a fresco in Niima's likeness upon the foyer wall. The High Priestess said the space would command presence.

No one mentioned the old altar. I swept around it that night, as a kind of apology.

15th day of Jastatos, 4830

A whisper has spread through the workers. One of the cart drivers said the Krolvin have been seen in Brisker's Cove. No one knows if it's true, but another said the harbor patrol was doubled this week.

Elenne said we cannot shape our prayers to rumors. Still, she lit the tall tapers during evening service and left them burning until the last shadow faded from the stones.

Calen has not returned since the rains began. I keep the ribbon he gave me in my prayer book. It smells faintly of rosemary, even now.

4th day of Eoantos, 4830

Elenne asked me to begin clearing the small office beside the catacombs. She said it was time someone sorted through what remains. I believe she means for me to be occupied, as Calen has not returned. She does not ask after him directly, but she notices when I forget the dusting cloth or leave the lamp wick too low.

The office is colder than I remembered. The walls sweat even when the wind is dry. I found a bundle of records tied with frayed cord, and a shelf of ledgers warped from years of damp. None have dates newer than 4816.

I lit a taper and marveled that its flame didn't waver. The air is rather stale.

12th day of Eoantos, 4830

Stacks of papers have begun to soften and fall apart as I move them. Some pages peel away like onion skin. Others are stuck together with mildew at the corners. There is no order left in the ledgers.

Elenne gave me vinegar water to scrub the stone and showed me how to dry the parchments without tearing the ink. Her hands are steadier than mine, but she let me try alone today.

No one has asked about the office in years. I wonder if anyone will again once the new temple is complete.

Several blotches stretch across the center of the page, caused by ink pressed while wet. Words are smudged and fingerprints mar the lower half.

Only a few lines are clear:

"...wrote his name on the margin and folded it..."

"...did not want to ask him not to go..."

"...the sea calls more surely than words ever could..."

21st day of Eoantos, 4830

Word came that Calen has signed on with a deep-sea vessel. No one knows the name, only that it sails past the Shoals and will be gone past spring.

Elenne said nothing when I told her. She simply handed me another cloth and said, "Salt dries slower than tears." I think she meant it kindly.

The basin water felt colder today, though the air was still. When I poured it over the shell altar, I thought of the wives who stand at our threshold with wet sleeves and silent mouths.

I begin to understand why they come. Not for answers, but for nearness.

1st day of Eorgaen, 4830

The sound of hammers has quieted. Most of the scaffolding has come down. The stones above the chapel are now smooth and white, with carved lines I cannot name.

I finished dusting the office and folded what remained of the ledgers. Several were too damaged to save. Elenne said I may stack them in the catacombs for burning later, though I kept two that still held their shape.

Calen's ribbon rests between the pages of one. I did not mean to place it there. It simply felt right.

19th day of Eorgaen, 4830

We moved into the new quarters today. The walls are smooth, and the ceiling curves slightly like the hull of a ship turned over. My mat fits beneath the small window, though it does not face the sea.

Elenne set our candles on the narrow sill and arranged her ledgers in the cabinet with care. She has not said whether she likes the new space, but she wiped the sill twice before speaking.

I kept the basin cloth. It still smells faintly of rosemary and ink.

31st day of Eorgaen, 4830

Year-end bells rang before the harbor mist had cleared. The garden is smaller now, and the altar no longer sees the ocean, but the salt wind still finds its way between the stones.

I watched from the upper stairs as the tide turned. For a moment, I imagined Calen leaning over the rail of whatever vessel he's found. I do not know where he sailed, or what wind carried him out, only that the thought of him still returns like breath.

I folded a ribbon into the base of the old ledger. Some things are easier to keep when hidden.

1st day of Lormesta, 4831

The High Priestess arrived at midday. She wore fur-lined gloves and spoke briefly before entering the new sanctum. Her words were softer this time. She said the white stone caught light well and that the new foyer had "clean weight."

She did not linger. Elenne bowed but did not speak.

I spent the rest of the day sorting a box of old hymn fragments. Some were written in Kannalan, though I can only read the titles. I have set two aside in hopes that someone might help me translate them.

3rd day of Lormesta, 4831

Calen returned today.

He stood by the garden gate and waited until I saw him. He did not wave. Only smiled, the kind of smile that asks without needing an answer.

I brought him a cup of water, and we sat in the shadow of the old chapel. He said nothing of the voyage, and I did not ask. I watched his hands as he spoke of the harbor and the wind near the reefs. He has a sun mark on his left wrist now, just above the bone.

When he left, he pressed a shell into my palm. It was smooth and unbroken.

5th day of Lormesta, 4831

I do not know if he missed me. I do not know if he meant to see me or only came to the chapel as he once did.

Still, I thought of him each time the tide turned. I imagined the shape of his boat against the horizon, wondering if he looked for birds or counted the ways salt settles into cloth.

The shell he gave me rests beneath the old candle box. I did not tell Elenne.

I have finished copying the Kannalan refrain. The words feel older than stone, but they sing cleanly when read aloud.
|}

==== a faded off-white vellum ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Letter to Aralinna from Tagetes
!a faded off-white vellum
|-
|22 Fashanos 4839

Hi Aralinne,
You are going to sputter when you read this, but I found something I think might actually help. I've been haunting the lower rooms of the Rest's old archive, the one that smells like mushrooms and lamp oil, and you would not believe the number of ledgers that don't even belong there. Some trader scribbled a note in the margin of a shipping contract, and I have no idea why, about a Hermit of Charl. Not a priest. Not a sailor. A hermit.

The strange part is, he wasn't written about like some bedraggled man on a rock. He had followers. Or at least people who carried his words. The note said he held something powerful, something that could "turn back the tide and lay bare the seabed, if placed with care and faith at the high edge." That's what it actually said. The relic doesn't have a name, which is frustrating, but it is always connected to cliffs or high ridges.

I spent the last two days chasing the reference backward, and I think it's Kannalan. Most of the names line up with the way they spell things when they want to make them sound more official. The good stuff always hides behind fancy lettering.

Anyway, I asked around, and there's a guide here who knows the Karazja ruins. He's agreed to take me inland starting next week. I'll be careful. I promise. But if I'm right, that relic might still be out there.

Imagine what it would mean if we could part the sea.

More soon,
Tagetes

P.S. Tell Marris not to let the acolytes into the tide closet again. I know it was them. The shells were rearranged. Again.
|}
==== Seaborne Hymnal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a thread-edged faded parchment
|-
|Parchment the color of drifted sand bears faded blue script in a careful, even hand. The edges have frayed into soft waves, and the lower corner is discolored where dampness clings to the page. A watermark in the upper left shows a simple wave crest superimposed over a scallop shell. Salt has left faint flecks across the surface, and one line of ink has bled slightly with age. Despite wear, the script remains fully legible, framed by a border of pressed gull feathers and hand-tied seasilk thread.

In the Common language, it reads:

Instructions for the Seaborne Hymnal

To be spoken daily, often at morning tide or before the first sail departs.

The Seaborne Hymnal is a spoken blessing offered to all who live by the rhythm of the sea. It honors those who make their living from its bounty, those who voyage upon it, and those who wait at its edge. The ritual is led by a priestess and joined by those gathered, using a call and response pattern. It is not sung, but spoken clearly, with steadiness and intent.

There are no physical offerings required. However, each response is accompanied by a hand gesture to mark the tide's reach and the release of prayer.

The priestess stands facing the gathered. Congregants may form a semicircle or remain as they are, whether in chapel or along the shore. The ritual may be performed indoors or outdoors, provided the sea is visible or near.

At each response, the right hand is placed palm-down over the heart, then extended outward, fingers spread as if forming the crest of a wave. This gesture is slow and deliberate. At the final line, the gesture is held outward a moment longer before lowering the hand.

The hymnal is: 
'''Priestess:''' Who wakes with the wind and walks with the tide? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who casts the net and bears the storm? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who waits at the window and sings to the dark? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who names the stars and trusts the wave? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Bless those who leave and those who remain. 
Bless those who labor and those who pray. 
Bless those who remember. 
'''Congregation (final gesture):''' And those who return no more.

The rite is complete after the final line. There is no need for benediction. Let silence follow for a breath or two before the next act begins.
|}
==== Ribbon Vigil ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a watermarked pearly white parchment
|-
|Faint mildew spots darken the four corners of the parchment, which has a pearly white finish created by the waxy finished worked into its fibers. An azure watermark of a scallop shell superimposed over cresting waves can be seen beneath the indigo ink that spread across its surface.

In the Common language, it reads:

The Ribbon Vigil is a quiet, sacred tradition observed by sailors and their loved ones before voyages that lead them beyond the protection of the bay. It is deeply personal, often unspoken, and performed in silence atop the temple's Widow's Walk. The rite is not scheduled by the temple, nor does it require direct guidance, but all priestesses, acolytes, and attending staff should understand its nature and how to offer quiet support when needed.

The vigil begins when a sailor and a significant companion, whether spouse, sibling, friend, or beloved, ascending to the rooftop of the temple. Together, they bring a ribbon, which may be carried openly or hidden in the hand, sleeve, or pocket until the moment it is needed. Upon reaching the rail that faces the open sea, they tie the ribbon to the ironwork together. There is no formal color or material required. While many choose white, blue, or sea green, others may bring a scrap of sailcloth or a woven charm. The meaning lies in the bond, not the fiber. No spoken words are required, though some murmur names or prayers as the knot is tied. The act itself is the offering. It binds the hope of return between two people and entrusts that bond to the sea.

At times, when a ship is long overdue or the sea has turned cruel, the one who remained ashore may return to the Widow's Walk alone. There, they loosen the knot they once tied. The ribbon is not taken down but left slack in the wind. This act is a plea to Niima, asking her to seek the one who has not come home. It is believed that if the ribbon is taken by the wind and reaches the sea, Niima will find the sailor and guide them to safety. That safety may not bring them home to Solhaven, but it will bring them to a shore. If the ribbon tangles, falls, or clings to the stone, some believe it is a sign that the soul it represents has already passed from Niima's reach.

Temple staff must not disturb those who come to perform this rite. Acolytes may observe from a distance and quietly light a sea taper at the stairwell when a ribbon loosening is witnessed. The gesture is enough to mark the moment. Comfort should be offered gently, without promise or correction. Never assure a safe return. Instead, remind them that Niima knows every name whispered to the tide and that no soul is ever truly lost to her.

Ribbons left on the Widow's Walk should be observed weekly. Those that have clearly loosened and not flown may be carefully removed and burned in a salt-fire by the priestess or her assistant. This should be done with solemnity and without comment, allowing the sea to receive what it could not carry.

Priestesses may speak of the vigil during public blessings, particularly on days when many ships prepare to depart. However, no individual should be named or pointed to. Let the ribbon be a silent prayer, seen by the sea and felt by those who wait.
|}
==== Song of Return ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a worn and faded scrap of vellum
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:

Song of Return 
A blessing for safe voyage and reunion

Go forth with the tide and return with the swell, 
Let the waves bear you gently, where ever you dwell. 
May your sails know the whisper, not the wail of the sea, 
And the stars hold your course where your heart longs to be.

Let the wind be your witness, the foam be your guide, 
Let the deep pass beneath you and never divide. 
By the light of Niima, by the calm of her grace, 
May your path find the harbor, your soul find its place.

Those who love you will wait with the shore in their eyes, 
Watching dawn rise in silence and dusk fill the skies. 
So go forth with the tide and return with the swell, 
You are known to the sea, and she knows you well.
|}
==== Saltwater Blessing ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a an azure-tinted and waxed ivory vellum
|-
|The Saltwater Blessing
To be performed at the start of each day and before any service that opens the temple doors to those in need. 
Begin the Saltwater Blessing before the tide bells. The basin must be clean, dry, and still. Saltwater is to be drawn at dawn, and it must come from a living source. Water taken from a canal or well is not suitable. If the sea cannot be reached due to weather or flood, postpone the ritual. Light a sea taper in its place and record the reason with care. 
The acolyte assisting you should stand to the left of the basin. Instruct her to place both hands on the rim and begin to turn it slowly in a clockwise motion. This movement must remain steady and deliberate. The spiral that forms at the center of the water represents the cycle we serve: cleansing, healing, prayer, and return.
You will pour the saltwater into the basin as it turns. Keep the vessel low and the stream even. Pour as the tide pours, without haste and without pause. Do not speak until the water touches the basin. As the water flows, recite the blessing aloud: 
Salt drawn from tide, gift of the sea, 
Wash clean these hands, this heart, this hour. 
Heal what is broken, quiet what clings, 
Let all who pass find peace in thee. 
In Niima's name, let the water remember mercy, 
and the sea cradle what we cannot carry. 
When the blessing is complete, step back and allow the basin to settle. Do not stir the water again unless it has been fouled. 
Each person who enters the chapel should approach the basin. Some will speak, others will not. It is not your task to correct their silence. If they ask what to say, teach them this: 
Salt and sea, carry this from me. 
At day's end, empty the basin unless the tide is near enough to reclaim it directly. Never let water stand overnight. Do not allow the salt to cloud or crust. If the sea cannot receive it, return it to the earth with reverence. 
The blessing is working when even the restless linger at the threshold.
|}

==== Elenne's (?) Papers ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a pale slip of vellum bearing a rust-tinged watermark
|-
|Rust-toned watermarks bloom across the lower half of the parchment, forming uneven, organic shapes. The ink has faded but remains legible throughout. The surface is rough to the touch, with several shallow indentations along the right margin, as if pressed against the corner of a writing board. Mild mildew spotting is visible near the top, and the parchment carries a faint metallic scent.

In the Common language, it reads: 
15th day of Fashanos, 4830 
Master Vartrien of the Mercantile Guild visited the chapel before midday service. He spoke of expanding the grounds and building a larger temple to better serve Solhaven's growing population. I reminded him that the chapel predates the coastal road and holds its own rhythm. He seemed unconcerned but polite. Left a coin marked with the Guild's seal in the basin. I placed it with the others and marked his visit in the side register.
|-
!a raw-edged and water-spotted page
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads: 
17th day of Lumnea, 4830 
Widow Carlan returned today, still unable to bear the final words. Her husband was taken last autumn in the reef churn near a southern cay. It has been added to our charts. I gave her the ledger entry of his loss to hold and read aloud as part of the Benediction for Final Rest. She left a net of white knotted cord, said it was the last he made, but did not stay. I've placed it on the altar before the midday rites. As a note, fog rolled in not long after service, and only three stayed for evening psalms.
|-
!a salt-ringed scrap of curled parchment
|-
|In the Common language, it reads: 
2nd day of Ivastaen, 4831 
Three fisher wives from the southern quay came before the early bells. Their husbands sail north this season, past Glaoveln's reach. Each requested prayer and sat quietly through the morning hymn. I gave silver ribbons to bind with their kerchiefs and lit the sea taper for calm waters. The chapel was nearly full by midmorning, though many arrived late, likely due to the spring fog that clung to the harbor paths.
|-
!a ink-streaked torn vellum sheet
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads: 
29th day of Koaratos, 4832 
Two merchant wives came bearing cloth bundles for the shrine. Each held swaddled sea stones tied with bits of silk, blue and pale. They asked no questions, gave no names. I placed the stones in the vessel below the sanctum basin and poured saltwater as they requested. Both stayed for the midday chant, though neither sang. After, they left through the garden gate without speaking further. I noted no marking on the silk. I hope they found comfort.
|-
!a mold-speckled soft parchment note
|-
|Softened by age and wear, the edges of the parchment curl inward, and pale mold speckling appears across the lower third of the sheet. A faint line suggests it was once folded and tucked into a ledger or personal book. The ink remains legible but has lightened near the corners. Moisture warping has created a slight upward curl in the body, and the parchment carries the scent of aged paper and damp wool.

In the Common language, it reads: 
3rd day of Eorgaen, 4832 
Widow Ellin came before the first bell and asked to sit in the quiet. She brought a folded scrap of ribbon from her husband's net bag and said she'd found it behind a dresser while cleaning for winter. I lit the sea taper and left her undisturbed while preparing the outer basin. She stayed through first prayers, then rose and placed the ribbon beneath the shell altar. She asked for no words today, but returned a missing bench cushion before leaving.
|-
!a smudged and warped journal page
|-
|Uneven ripples in the parchment surface indicate long exposure to moisture. Several pale smudges appear along the right margin, likely left by ink-stained fingers. Fading is most visible at the top, though the handwriting remains legible throughout. A faint scent of old wool and oil clings to the fibers. Abrasions across the back suggest the page rested for some time against a coarse surface.

In the Common language, it reads: 
7th day of Charlatos, 4833 
Three girls from Marshtown arrived just after first bell. None had formal instruction, but all carried the tunes well enough to follow the second line. We worked them through the basin hymn and the low chorus of the coastal prayer. They were assigned tunics from the eldest priestess, who sent them to scrub before vespers. We will continue twice weekly with them. If they remain steady, they may be ready for the Midyear Blessing. We've noted their names in the side book.
|-
!a creased parchment page
|-
|Creases stretch diagonally across the page, likely from folding while still damp. Several ink lines have run downward from the upper half, creating faint trails along the grain. Edges have darkened with age, and water damage has left a soft waviness across the surface. Handwriting remains legible, though uneven in places. The scent of mildew is stronger here, with a faint trace of fish oil soaked into one corner.

In the Common language, it reads: 
23rd day of Imaerasta, 4834 
Fleets pushed off beneath a red sky this evening. Wind held warm along the rise, and I watched from the upper path as the sails moved out past the bay mouth. I counted twenty-seven before I lost the line. I wrote their names as I remembered them, though some are just family names passed around. We did not ring the bell, but kept the flame lit through dusk. Sunset lingered long enough to finish the basin cleaning by natural light.
|-
!an ink-blotched paper fragment
|-
|Near the lower edge, signs of delamination are evident where prolonged exposure to moisture has lifted the parchment fibers. Ink blotches cover the upper left corner, though the writing beneath remains legible. Faint blue guidelines run horizontally across the surface, now nearly faded from view. All corners are softened from repeated handling, while the light scent of damp plaster and crushed chalk clings to the page.

In the Common language, it reads: 
18th day of Ivastaen, 4835 
Workers paused their efforts near the east colonnade due to a broken pulley. Several wandered into the chapel while the foreman spoke with a guild agent outside. One left a handful of copper on the basin rim. I noted no offering ribbon, but took it with the rest before lighting the salt lamp. Held afternoon prayers with two elders and one child. No hymn today. Breezes through the north wall joints have grown stronger since the scaffolding went up.
|}

==== a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Necklace Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 100 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
==== a discolored albatross feather quill ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Quill Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a discolored albatross feather quill
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 30,000 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
[[Category:The Shadowy Abyss]]

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Found items

2025-06-14T23:14:58Z

RAFFELS2: /* Elenne's (?) Papers */ Added 1 letter

__ToC__
== Shadowy Abyss Found Items ==
=== 06.06.2025 ===
==== an antique Vornavian silk cloth ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key's Sleeve
!an antique Vornavian silk cloth
|-
|Smooth with a soft finish, the Vornavian silk cloth has hints of its original deep blue hue at its edges though largely it has faded to a watered azure hue. Faint seashell patterns decorate the edge, the silver and white embroidery creating scallop shells that overlap. Rolled silk cords aid the bundle in staying closed as needed, their ends capped in silver dolphin periapts.
|}

===== a blue-tinted white vellum parchment =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Letter to Tagetes from Aralinne
!a blue-tinted white vellum parchment
|-
|Slightly warped in shape and displaying clear signs of damage from humidity, the fine parchment is tinted with a subtle blue hue that is almost white and yet distinctly not. Crisp folds create precise lines in the top and bottom third of the piece, while the corners display fray signs where moisture has separated the layers.
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:
the seventeenth day of Olaesta in the year 4839

Tagetes,

Hopefully, we will return at the same time and all of this preparation will be for naught.

The temple will have no attendants as I have figured out the missing piece to get us to Pearl. It lies in an old Kannalan Temple to Charl. I believe I've tracked down its former location. I've hidden the plans in the old office at the end of the catacombs and sealed the entry.

So few people know of its existence that it should be safe to travel there. I do not think I will be gone more than a handful of days.

However, as I do not trust the Mercantile Guild, with their recent decisions to create gardens and shrines to the dark pantheon, I have sealed the doorway up and hidden it. Since you know where it is, you should have no issue finding it.

There are seven keys for entry. I've left the Empress key here, but you can easily obtain the other six by seeking the blessings of the Lover, the Mistress, the Sister, the Mother, the Daughter, and the High Priestess. I'm sure you'll remember who these are from our past talks. I dare not say more for fear this is found by others.

Please know that some wish to see the curse spread. Others are working hard to stop it. Young Bristena had the idea to buy back all the jewelry from the women whose husband, lovers, and brothers searched the North Beach to obtain them. I gave her enough coin to buy them all back.

Once she has every last piece, she'll have a sailor take her out to the spot we believe the "Pearl" to be waiting in and drop them back into the water. That should give us time to get the pieces together to free her. I used the last of the coffers to pay a crew to start the lighthouse.

If I don't return... Please let my husband and son know the depths of which I love them.

By my hand,

Aralinne Wynedowne
|}
===== a carved golden amber acorn =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key
!a carved golden amber acorn
|-
|Roughly oval in shape, a carved golden amber acorn is broad and flat, providing an excellent view of its transparent interior portion. Trapped within the golden yellow fossilized pine tree sap are several small flying insects and a dried flower.
|}
==== an aged grey stone tile ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+The Tile
!an aged grey stone tile
|-
|Your song touches the tile, and the memory begins with stillness, then the faint scrape of wood across stone. Gentle hands press close, fitting the tile snugly into place. A murmur of approval hums nearby, muffled by fabric and breath. Cool grout slides into the seams, and the air shifts. Salt lingers in the room, carried on a current scented with blossoms. Lilac and sea daisy rise together, soft and clean. A hush settles across the surface, and the tile recognizes it as belonging. Beneath the faintest sigh of sandals against stone, a woman's voice murmurs, "There. That's better." The sounds and sensations fade along with the last syllables of your song.

As your song continues to caress the tile, it stirs with echoes of passing time. Soft footsteps come and go, punctuated by the rhythmic sweep of bristles and the clatter of buckets. Voices rise and fall nearby, sometimes low with grief, sometimes bright with ritual. One speaks of a sister's safe return, another offers blessings over a sailor's name. A different voice complains about a cracked basin and the need for fresh oil. Each moment blends into the next, seasons marked only by the changing cadence of heels, the weight of silence, and the gentle creak of wood in damp air. Slowly, the sensation and sounds fade, one by one, until they fall as silent as your song.

Your melody draws forth a hush, and the tile remembers the scent first. Bitter and resinous, the thick smoke of funerary incense curls low to the ground. Voices follow in soft procession, cloaked in sorrow. Some weep openly, others murmur prayers with trembling breath. The weight of grief presses against the stone, heavy as tide against jetty. A name is spoken again and again, reverent and broken, until it becomes a lullaby of mourning. Between each word, silence holds vigil. The tile feels a deep stillness in the air, as if even the sea has paused to listen. A final name tumbles across your ears as your song slips into silence, "Elenne."

Your song stirs the memory of disturbance. The tile feels the grit of its seams loosened, the edge of a tool scraping carefully through old grout. Pressure lifts it from the floor, just briefly, and something small is slid beneath. When the tile returns to its place, the surface meets the subfloor with an unfamiliar firmness. A hand lingers upon it, smooth and warm, resting for a long moment before giving a gentle pat. Whispered words ride the still air, close enough to touch, "Keep this safe until Tagetes finds you." An absence of warmth is the last sensation the tile imparts before your song stills.

Your voice brushes the tile, and the past answers with hushed urgency. There is the soft shuffle of feet, the creak of worn boots on stone, and a sharp intake of breath. Mournful whispers crowd the silence. A voice, cracked with worry and soft with distance, murmurs, "I don't know where you are, Aralinne. I can't get into the catacombs to check on you as the Brisker's Cove bowl was broken in the latest Krolvin raids... Please come home to us. Please. Your plan for Bristena worked; she told me of it when I returned. The girls are free, but where are you? I'm going to hide my piece until it can unite with yours. Please be safe, be careful." A soft sigh blends with the ending resonance of your song.

Your voice draws forth only silence at first. Time passes, measured in distant echoes. Footsteps sound too far to name, and faint shifts in the air come and go with no purpose. Old wood creaks softly where it meets damp stone. Dust settles in the seams, and salt from the sea clings to the surface. Years drift by without notice. Then, without warning, fingers press along your edges. There is a pause, a breath held just beyond hearing, and the tile feels the careful pry of something firm beneath it. A clamor of voices overlaps with each other until they blend into the fading sound of your song.
|}

=== 06.13.2025 ===
==== a salt-stained blue leather ledger ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Ledger from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a salt-stained blue leather ledger
|-
|Bound in navy blue leather, the ledger bears clear signs of repair. Patches of mismatched hide reinforce the spine and corners, and thin linen cords hold the bindings tight. Though worn smooth with age, the cover still holds the faint imprint of Niima's shell crest, long faded by handling. The pages inside are slightly bowed from moisture, but the ink has held well. Each year occupies a single page, the writing steady and small.
|-
|4816

Tidy dates and notations for each month in 4816 are aligned neatly along the inner margin. Notes reference standard morning and mid-tide services, with modest attendance throughout the year. Several deaths at sea are marked during Phoenatos and Imaerasta. There are mentions of a small fishing vessel lost in late Charlatos, and a new lantern donated by a widow named Hessa. The last quarter shows increased visits near Solstice.

4817

Entries for 4817 remain even and uneventful. Most notes concern basin cleaning, donation handling, and ribbon replenishment. Storms in Lumnea and Koaratos disrupted service for several days. A merchant's wife is mentioned repeatedly for leaving folded prayers in the offering box. One record notes an unusual number of gulls gathered at the altar during a fogbound service, marked simply with, "observed by three."

4818

Standard service records dominate the page, with annotations in blue ink appearing during spring. One comment in the margin reads, "New basin stone fitted. Shell inlay cracked but held." Three names repeat throughout the year: a retired sailor, a midwife from Marshtown, and a girl recorded only as "A.M." Several deaths at sea appear again in Eorgaen. Coastal offerings increase during the fall months.

4819

The 4819 entries continue in a narrow hand, with an unusual number of weddings noted between Charlatos and Ivastaen. Ribbons tied at the altar outnumber funerary entries this year. A brief note in Phoenatos mentions a fisherman's body returned after fifteen tides. Repairs to the vestibule door are recorded in Koaratos. A delivery of hymnals is documented without name, signed only with "N.L."

4820

Attendance patterns remain steady throughout 4820. Notations of storm disruptions in Fashanos and Koaratos are followed by increased evening services during those months. One brief note in Charlatos mentions a girl from the lower quarter beginning "training for vow," though no name is listed. Seasonal surges continue, with quiet months between. A salt-caked page corner suggests the ledger was left open during a sea spray.

4821

Small, precise entries for 4821 follow the pattern of prior years. Services remained regular, with additional rites held after a coastal storm in Charlatos. A recurring visitor is listed only as "shell-bearer" during spring months. Repairs to the west garden wall are noted in Lumnea. One entry in Eorgaen records, "child left driftwood figure at basin, no adult nearby." The handwriting becomes slightly sharper near the year's end.

4822

The year opened with colder winds and reduced attendance through Lormesta. One note in Fashanos records an elderly priestess slipping on the altar steps, resulting in no injury. Minor construction is logged in Ivastaen: "stone bench repositioned, foundation settled uneven." Gulls are again noted during a fog-heavy morning service. No deaths at sea are marked for Koaratos, which is noted as rare by the author. Extra hymn practice is recorded for Imaerasta.

4823

Faint ink along the top edge shows early signs of moisture, but the page remains legible. Most entries follow the standard pattern. A sailor's wedding in Phoenatos brought increased attendance for several days. Someone left a carved shell token in the basin and returned each week through Jastatos. No name was ever recorded. One funeral in Eoantos references burial in the lower catacomb row, name lost to smudging. Elenne's name begins to appear more frequently.

4824

Ledger entries remain orderly. Elenne is noted as presiding over full services during three major seasonal observances. A short entry in Imaerasta reads, "saltwater damaged two hymnals, copies made by hand." Several deaths at sea were recorded across Phoenatos and Jastatos. A recurring note of "candles late" appears without clarification. Winter quarter shows an increased number of widows seeking individual prayer times, as marked by initials only.

4825

The writing becomes slightly more compact along this page, possibly due to a change in hand. Services are held regularly with minor disruptions caused by harbor traffic. One early Charlatos entry reads, "path blocked by hauling rig, services delayed." Garden growth noted as "vigorous" in Lumnea. An unnamed girl from Marshtown began regular cleaning duties in midyear. Entries suggest her presence became routine, though her name is not yet recorded. Several pages show signs of ash smudging near the bottom corner.

4826

Ledger entries remain narrow and consistent. Regular service records dominate the page, with a note in Ivastaen reading, "two hymnals lost to mildew, one copied by hand." The girl from Marshtown is noted more frequently, assisting with basin preparation and entry sweeping. Elenne is recorded as leading nearly all rites this year. In Koaratos, a sailor's wife donated wax and twine following her husband's return from the reefs.

4827

A colder year, with notations of light frost in Charlatos and a decline in visitors during the first quarter. The Marshtown girl is listed by initials for the first time: "A.L.". She appears often in notes tied to daily upkeep and chant transcription. Elenne requested additional salt deliveries from the quay, suggesting higher ritual use. A short record in Imaerasta reads, "boy returned with offering candle for sister." His name is not recorded, but the action repeats in later months.

4828

Ink across this page is slightly lighter but consistent. Notes describe steady attendance and quiet observances throughout the year. "A.L." continues to serve regularly and is mentioned copying seasonal verses. A new basin cloth was donated by a widow in Phoenatos. Calen Wynedowne is noted briefly in Koaratos as assisting with deliveries. In Eorgaen, a child is recorded as tying sea glass to the offering pole, noted without comment.

4829

The handwriting tightens slightly, with some changes in wording structure. "A.L." is listed as leading chants during two minor observances. A service disruption is recorded in Charlatos: "work crew halted access to west path." Garden repairs resumed in Ivastaen, with the stone bench noted as "settled, but now cracking." Calen Wynedowne is marked present on three service dates. Elenne's name appears as usual, though one note mentions "shortness of breath in colder months."

4830

Entries shift slightly in tone this year, with more detailed notations. "A.L." is no longer referenced only by initials. Her name appears as Aralinne, recorded assisting with vespers and receiving permission to copy the coastal prayers. Elenne continues to lead services throughout. In Fashanos, a marked entry reads: "Calen Wynedowne departed aboard the Drowned Boar." A note in Imaerasta logs the visit of the High Priestess from Selanthia. Garden notes cease after Koaratos, likely due to early construction of the new temple.

4831

Entries are steady, with services held regularly in the newly expanded chapel. The original altar remains in partial use during evening observances. Aralinne is recorded as leading chants and maintaining basin duties throughout the year. A note in Charlatos reads, "Calen returned, left shell at east bench." Additional visitors marked in Phoenatos. Several Kannalan hymn fragments reviewed in Jastatos, with Aralinne listed as transcriber. No disruptions recorded.

4832

Observances continue without interruption. Aralinne is noted frequently in preparation tasks, seasonal cleanings, and the transcription of coastal rites. One record in Koaratos reads, "private service held for three widows." Increased taper use recorded in Imaerasta. No name given, but a new assistant is mentioned briefly in Lumnea. Aralinne's duties expand across multiple entries. The final note of the year: "attendance steady; records filed."

4833

Standard notations occupy most of the year. Aralinne continues in her role, listed alongside Elenne for all major observances. Her name appears independently in entries for dusk services and catacomb visits. One summer note mentions, "garden basin cleared and refilled under Aralinne's guidance." No major incidents. Early signs of leadership transition appear in Eoantos, though no formal statement is recorded. The garden bench is listed as worn, but stable.

4834

Charlatos begins with a formal entry: "Calen Wynedowne and Aralinne joined in marriage, witnessed before first bell at east altar." Both continue in regular attendance. Aralinne is recorded as leading evening services and overseeing hymn preservation efforts. Her handwriting begins to appear in later entries. Koaratos notes her inclusion in guild correspondence. The final entry in Eorgaen lists: "preparations for early solstice rites under Aralinne."

4835

Year begins quietly. Aralinne is now noted as officiating several services in early Fashanos. In Jastatos, a central entry reads: "Elenne passed peacefully in the night, fifth day of Jastatos." Her name does not appear again. Subsequent entries mark Aralinne presiding over full rites. One note reads, "transition marked with coastal hymn, basin blessing unchanged." Calen continues to appear sporadically. The final entry of the year reads: "chapel remains steady under Aralinne's care."
|}
==== a small salt-stained journal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Aralinne's Journal from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a small salt-stained journal
|-
|Bound in salt-stained suede, the small journal shows signs of frequent handling. The edges of the cover have curled slightly, and faint salt residue clings to the seams. Interior pages are swollen from moisture, and many are warped or stuck together. Ink bleeds across several leaves, though a few entries remain legible. The faint scent of mildew and brine lingers between the covers.
|-
|1st day of Lormesta, 4830

The new year began in silence. No sun showed at dawn, only a pale mist rolling over the port that settled in the alleys and gutters. We opened the chapel doors late this morning. A thin crust of salt had gathered again on the threshold.

Mother Elenne asked me to polish the lamp basin and check our remaining wax. She said that if the year is to bring anything, let it be steadiness. I scrubbed the copper too hard and bent the rim along one edge. She noticed but said nothing.

After the evening bell, I stayed to copy the coastal prayer. My ink bled in the cold, and my fingers would not hold the quill straight. The letters blurred near the bottom of the page. I will try again tomorrow.

The gulls have returned early this year. Their cries sound sharper than I remember.

Faint ink marks show a date in the top right corner, though the precise date is difficult to decipher. There is an impression of repeated script beneath the date, but the parchment is too warped to decipher much of its contents. Only a few words remain distinguishable near the bottom:

"...salt left from the..."

"...sleeves wet from the basin..."

"...ribbon placed before bell..."

16th day of Fashanos, 4830

A merchant visited the chapel yesterday. He introduced himself as Vartrien and said he represented the Mercantile Guild. His boots were polished, but they slipped on the chapel stones. He smelled faintly of tallow and wine.

He spoke with Elenne behind the altar rail. I only heard part of what was said... something about extending the outer walls, adding a foyer and foyer, and pulling stone from the cliff quarry. He did not ask about the altar or the basin.

Before leaving, he placed a coin in the offering basin. It was heavier than most and bore the Guild's seal. Elenne closed the doors earlier than usual and asked me to boil the cloth and clean the entry stone. She did not speak again until morning prayers.

After the bell, I copied half of the sea-born hymn. I still mix the second and third lines. The gulls circled loudly over the garden. They did not land.

Humidity has irrevocably damaged this page of the journal. The faint impression of a coastal flower leaves a colored stain in the center of the page. Ink bleeds across the fibers, blending so completely that all writing is beyond recognition.

3rd day of Charlatos, 4830

Rain began early and found its way in through the northern window joint again. A track of droplets marked the covers of three hymnals before I noticed. I dried them the best I could and set them near the basin to air.

Mother Elenne told me I might be ready to take the vesper reading next month. I said I would do my best, though my voice still shakes when the wind comes hard off the bay.

A boy from the shipyard arrived just before first bell. He brought a candle for his sister and did not speak. He nodded once and placed it on the old bench near the shell altar. It burned quickly and left a streak of wax on the wood.

After evening prayers, I copied the saltwater blessing again. I continue to forget the fourth line. I will practice it aloud tomorrow when the chapel is empty.

12th day of Olaesta, 4830

The salted fog held all morning. The bells could barely be heard from the quay, and the floor stayed damp long after I wiped it. The gulls were quiet today, though I saw them gather on the breakwall at dusk.

Mother Elenne allowed me to lead the midday verses. I stumbled on the refrain but kept pace. She gave no correction afterward, which I think was kindness. I will ask her to let me try again next week.

The Guildman has not returned, but I saw carts from the upper quarry moving past the garden path. One of the workers spat too close to the basin. I scrubbed the stone clean before closing the gate.

27th day of Ivastaen, 4830

The High Priestess arrived again, as expected. She comes every five months, though she avoids Charlatos and Lormesta because she does not like to travel in cold weather. This time, she brought only one attendant and a thick letter sealed in white wax.

She asked after the basin and walked the outer path twice before speaking. I do not know why she finds our grounds so peculiar. She always looks longer at the walls than at the altar.

She complimented the order of the garden, though I had not yet swept. Her words are even and pleasant, but her eyes are always searching. I do not think she comes only for worship.

Moisture has warped the page outward from the center, and a small flower is pressed into the parchment. Once white, its petals have turned a pale yellow. The edges have melted into the fibers over time, leaving a faint outline and a darker stain beneath. Ink has bled into the margins, but a few lines remain legible:

"He brought it with both hands."

"Said it grew from the rocks near the basin."

"It smelled faintly of salt and rosemary."

Written near the bottom corner, in a careful hand: Calen

9th day of Lumnea, 4830

Calen came again just after midday. He did not knock, only waited near the side path until I saw him. He brought a bloom, he said he found growing from a crack in the harbor wall. I told him it would not last, but he said that was fine.

He stayed long enough to watch me refill the basin, then left without saying more. I placed the flower in the back of the book, where I thought it would keep. It did not.

Mother Elenne has begun sorting the storeroom shelves again. I do not know where she plans to move everything, but she said we may have to share with the masons soon. I do not think she approves.

2nd day of Koaratos, 4830

Rumors continue about the Guild's plans, but nothing official has been posted. One of the stone counters in the garden cracked under the weight of a builder's crate. They said it would be replaced, but no one has returned to measure.

The High Priestess's letter is still sealed. Elenne has not opened it, though she moved it twice. I think she is waiting for another message, or perhaps the Guildman himself.

A blue gull feather was left on the altar after the second bell. No one saw who brought it.

I placed it in the ribbon box, away from the salt.

13th day of Koaratos, 4830

The stone bench in the garden has been replaced. I was not told it would happen, but when I stepped out to light the sea taper this morning, it was there. Rosewood, newly finished and still carrying the scent of cut shavings. The legs are slightly uneven, but the surface is smooth.

Elenne said one of the sailors had it made for his wife. She is the one who always sits near the roses and watches the harbor light. She wept when the bench cracked beneath the masons' crate. I am glad it was rebuilt.

Ink has lifted across most of the page, leaving behind only faint strokes and a few recognizable shapes. The top third is nearly blank, and the lower margin is warped from long exposure to damp air. Visible along the center fold, in pale ink, are snatches of the original message.

"...asked if it would still be the same chapel..."

"...carried the basin water out into the garden..."

"...song lines lost in the stone dust..."

5th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Construction has begun. Dust rises even before the first bell. The builders come early and eat beside the garden wall. I do not know how they leave the crumbs behind, but the gulls are clearly happy about it.

Mother Elenne and I have moved our sleeping mats into the chapel itself. There is no space left in the quarters, not since the back wall was taken down. She said it is temporary, but we must keep everything folded and out of sight during services.

She reminded me that we are not bound by silence or separation, only by devotion and clarity of intent. Then she looked at me and said, "Even your Calen would agree." I nearly dropped the basin ladle.

16th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Calen returned with an oilskin pouch and handed it to me without speaking. Inside was a cloth wrapped around several dry biscuits and a folded slip of sea-blue ribbon. He said he heard the workers had overrun our stores and that I was likely too polite to complain.

I thanked him, but could not find the right words. Elenne watched from the entryway. Later, she only asked if I had shared them.

The builders left stone dust across the floor again. I swept until my arms ached, but it returned before the evening bell. It finds every crack.

28th day of Phoenatos, 4830

The High Priestess will return in Jastatos. Elenne received a note today. No seal this time, only a clean fold and pressed script. She read it twice, then tucked it into the ledger without comment.

I asked if she thought the Guildman would be here as well. She said most likely, and that the two had likely been speaking for longer than we realized. She did not sound surprised or pleased.

The rosewood bench has already dulled to a greyish tone. I tried wiping it with a damp cloth, but the color does not return. Still, the sailor's wife came today and stayed for the whole of the afternoon light. She did not speak. Only watched the water and smiled.

7th day of Imaerasta, 4830

The scaffolding now reaches above the garden wall. Boards cast a grid of shadow over the roses during morning light. One of the masons said that the new walls will block the ocean view. I had not thought of that until now.

If the wall rises the way they say it will, the garden will face stone, not sea. Elenne was not surprised when I told her. She only said, "It's easier to worship what you can see than what you must remember."

I wonder if the sound of the tide will carry once the last wall is raised.

18th day of Imaerasta, 4830

Mist held long into the afternoon. We lit the lamps early and brought the linens in before the sea air reached them. The dust hangs longer in the stillness.

Word came that Yenterreth of the Marshtown passed in her sleep. She was one of the spirit women, always with a ribbon in her sleeve and saltwater on her boots. I remember her from before I came to live with Elenne. She called me bird girl and once gave me a braid of kelp twine.

She will be interred below with the others. I carried the notice down to the stone chamber myself.

Much of the page has faded due to moisture, but several phrases remain readable:

"...could see the harbor lantern from the bench..."

"...ribbons tied to the low branches removed..."

"...the sound of chisel work does not pause for prayer..."

Smudged ink across the lower edge shows where the page was touched before drying.

3rd day of Jastatos, 4830

The High Priestess arrived just after midday. She wore a dove-colored cloak and had her hair in three loops at her crown. Guildman Vartrien stood beside her beneath the scaffolding. They did not speak during the service, but both stayed until the end.

Afterward, they walked the garden with Elenne. I followed at a distance, gathering petals. I overheard them speak of creating a fresco in Niima's likeness upon the foyer wall. The High Priestess said the space would command presence.

No one mentioned the old altar. I swept around it that night, as a kind of apology.

15th day of Jastatos, 4830

A whisper has spread through the workers. One of the cart drivers said the Krolvin have been seen in Brisker's Cove. No one knows if it's true, but another said the harbor patrol was doubled this week.

Elenne said we cannot shape our prayers to rumors. Still, she lit the tall tapers during evening service and left them burning until the last shadow faded from the stones.

Calen has not returned since the rains began. I keep the ribbon he gave me in my prayer book. It smells faintly of rosemary, even now.

4th day of Eoantos, 4830

Elenne asked me to begin clearing the small office beside the catacombs. She said it was time someone sorted through what remains. I believe she means for me to be occupied, as Calen has not returned. She does not ask after him directly, but she notices when I forget the dusting cloth or leave the lamp wick too low.

The office is colder than I remembered. The walls sweat even when the wind is dry. I found a bundle of records tied with frayed cord, and a shelf of ledgers warped from years of damp. None have dates newer than 4816.

I lit a taper and marveled that its flame didn't waver. The air is rather stale.

12th day of Eoantos, 4830

Stacks of papers have begun to soften and fall apart as I move them. Some pages peel away like onion skin. Others are stuck together with mildew at the corners. There is no order left in the ledgers.

Elenne gave me vinegar water to scrub the stone and showed me how to dry the parchments without tearing the ink. Her hands are steadier than mine, but she let me try alone today.

No one has asked about the office in years. I wonder if anyone will again once the new temple is complete.

Several blotches stretch across the center of the page, caused by ink pressed while wet. Words are smudged and fingerprints mar the lower half.

Only a few lines are clear:

"...wrote his name on the margin and folded it..."

"...did not want to ask him not to go..."

"...the sea calls more surely than words ever could..."

21st day of Eoantos, 4830

Word came that Calen has signed on with a deep-sea vessel. No one knows the name, only that it sails past the Shoals and will be gone past spring.

Elenne said nothing when I told her. She simply handed me another cloth and said, "Salt dries slower than tears." I think she meant it kindly.

The basin water felt colder today, though the air was still. When I poured it over the shell altar, I thought of the wives who stand at our threshold with wet sleeves and silent mouths.

I begin to understand why they come. Not for answers, but for nearness.

1st day of Eorgaen, 4830

The sound of hammers has quieted. Most of the scaffolding has come down. The stones above the chapel are now smooth and white, with carved lines I cannot name.

I finished dusting the office and folded what remained of the ledgers. Several were too damaged to save. Elenne said I may stack them in the catacombs for burning later, though I kept two that still held their shape.

Calen's ribbon rests between the pages of one. I did not mean to place it there. It simply felt right.

19th day of Eorgaen, 4830

We moved into the new quarters today. The walls are smooth, and the ceiling curves slightly like the hull of a ship turned over. My mat fits beneath the small window, though it does not face the sea.

Elenne set our candles on the narrow sill and arranged her ledgers in the cabinet with care. She has not said whether she likes the new space, but she wiped the sill twice before speaking.

I kept the basin cloth. It still smells faintly of rosemary and ink.

31st day of Eorgaen, 4830

Year-end bells rang before the harbor mist had cleared. The garden is smaller now, and the altar no longer sees the ocean, but the salt wind still finds its way between the stones.

I watched from the upper stairs as the tide turned. For a moment, I imagined Calen leaning over the rail of whatever vessel he's found. I do not know where he sailed, or what wind carried him out, only that the thought of him still returns like breath.

I folded a ribbon into the base of the old ledger. Some things are easier to keep when hidden.

1st day of Lormesta, 4831

The High Priestess arrived at midday. She wore fur-lined gloves and spoke briefly before entering the new sanctum. Her words were softer this time. She said the white stone caught light well and that the new foyer had "clean weight."

She did not linger. Elenne bowed but did not speak.

I spent the rest of the day sorting a box of old hymn fragments. Some were written in Kannalan, though I can only read the titles. I have set two aside in hopes that someone might help me translate them.

3rd day of Lormesta, 4831

Calen returned today.

He stood by the garden gate and waited until I saw him. He did not wave. Only smiled, the kind of smile that asks without needing an answer.

I brought him a cup of water, and we sat in the shadow of the old chapel. He said nothing of the voyage, and I did not ask. I watched his hands as he spoke of the harbor and the wind near the reefs. He has a sun mark on his left wrist now, just above the bone.

When he left, he pressed a shell into my palm. It was smooth and unbroken.

5th day of Lormesta, 4831

I do not know if he missed me. I do not know if he meant to see me or only came to the chapel as he once did.

Still, I thought of him each time the tide turned. I imagined the shape of his boat against the horizon, wondering if he looked for birds or counted the ways salt settles into cloth.

The shell he gave me rests beneath the old candle box. I did not tell Elenne.

I have finished copying the Kannalan refrain. The words feel older than stone, but they sing cleanly when read aloud.
|}

==== a faded off-white vellum ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Letter to Aralinna from Tagetes
!a faded off-white vellum
|-
|22 Fashanos 4839

Hi Aralinne,
You are going to sputter when you read this, but I found something I think might actually help. I've been haunting the lower rooms of the Rest's old archive, the one that smells like mushrooms and lamp oil, and you would not believe the number of ledgers that don't even belong there. Some trader scribbled a note in the margin of a shipping contract, and I have no idea why, about a Hermit of Charl. Not a priest. Not a sailor. A hermit.

The strange part is, he wasn't written about like some bedraggled man on a rock. He had followers. Or at least people who carried his words. The note said he held something powerful, something that could "turn back the tide and lay bare the seabed, if placed with care and faith at the high edge." That's what it actually said. The relic doesn't have a name, which is frustrating, but it is always connected to cliffs or high ridges.

I spent the last two days chasing the reference backward, and I think it's Kannalan. Most of the names line up with the way they spell things when they want to make them sound more official. The good stuff always hides behind fancy lettering.

Anyway, I asked around, and there's a guide here who knows the Karazja ruins. He's agreed to take me inland starting next week. I'll be careful. I promise. But if I'm right, that relic might still be out there.

Imagine what it would mean if we could part the sea.

More soon,
Tagetes

P.S. Tell Marris not to let the acolytes into the tide closet again. I know it was them. The shells were rearranged. Again.
|}
==== Seaborne Hymnal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a thread-edged faded parchment
|-
|Parchment the color of drifted sand bears faded blue script in a careful, even hand. The edges have frayed into soft waves, and the lower corner is discolored where dampness clings to the page. A watermark in the upper left shows a simple wave crest superimposed over a scallop shell. Salt has left faint flecks across the surface, and one line of ink has bled slightly with age. Despite wear, the script remains fully legible, framed by a border of pressed gull feathers and hand-tied seasilk thread.

In the Common language, it reads:

Instructions for the Seaborne Hymnal

To be spoken daily, often at morning tide or before the first sail departs.

The Seaborne Hymnal is a spoken blessing offered to all who live by the rhythm of the sea. It honors those who make their living from its bounty, those who voyage upon it, and those who wait at its edge. The ritual is led by a priestess and joined by those gathered, using a call and response pattern. It is not sung, but spoken clearly, with steadiness and intent.

There are no physical offerings required. However, each response is accompanied by a hand gesture to mark the tide's reach and the release of prayer.

The priestess stands facing the gathered. Congregants may form a semicircle or remain as they are, whether in chapel or along the shore. The ritual may be performed indoors or outdoors, provided the sea is visible or near.

At each response, the right hand is placed palm-down over the heart, then extended outward, fingers spread as if forming the crest of a wave. This gesture is slow and deliberate. At the final line, the gesture is held outward a moment longer before lowering the hand.

The hymnal is: 
'''Priestess:''' Who wakes with the wind and walks with the tide? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who casts the net and bears the storm? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who waits at the window and sings to the dark? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who names the stars and trusts the wave? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Bless those who leave and those who remain. 
Bless those who labor and those who pray. 
Bless those who remember. 
'''Congregation (final gesture):''' And those who return no more.

The rite is complete after the final line. There is no need for benediction. Let silence follow for a breath or two before the next act begins.
|}
==== Ribbon Vigil ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a watermarked pearly white parchment
|-
|Faint mildew spots darken the four corners of the parchment, which has a pearly white finish created by the waxy finished worked into its fibers. An azure watermark of a scallop shell superimposed over cresting waves can be seen beneath the indigo ink that spread across its surface.

In the Common language, it reads:

The Ribbon Vigil is a quiet, sacred tradition observed by sailors and their loved ones before voyages that lead them beyond the protection of the bay. It is deeply personal, often unspoken, and performed in silence atop the temple's Widow's Walk. The rite is not scheduled by the temple, nor does it require direct guidance, but all priestesses, acolytes, and attending staff should understand its nature and how to offer quiet support when needed.

The vigil begins when a sailor and a significant companion, whether spouse, sibling, friend, or beloved, ascending to the rooftop of the temple. Together, they bring a ribbon, which may be carried openly or hidden in the hand, sleeve, or pocket until the moment it is needed. Upon reaching the rail that faces the open sea, they tie the ribbon to the ironwork together. There is no formal color or material required. While many choose white, blue, or sea green, others may bring a scrap of sailcloth or a woven charm. The meaning lies in the bond, not the fiber. No spoken words are required, though some murmur names or prayers as the knot is tied. The act itself is the offering. It binds the hope of return between two people and entrusts that bond to the sea.

At times, when a ship is long overdue or the sea has turned cruel, the one who remained ashore may return to the Widow's Walk alone. There, they loosen the knot they once tied. The ribbon is not taken down but left slack in the wind. This act is a plea to Niima, asking her to seek the one who has not come home. It is believed that if the ribbon is taken by the wind and reaches the sea, Niima will find the sailor and guide them to safety. That safety may not bring them home to Solhaven, but it will bring them to a shore. If the ribbon tangles, falls, or clings to the stone, some believe it is a sign that the soul it represents has already passed from Niima's reach.

Temple staff must not disturb those who come to perform this rite. Acolytes may observe from a distance and quietly light a sea taper at the stairwell when a ribbon loosening is witnessed. The gesture is enough to mark the moment. Comfort should be offered gently, without promise or correction. Never assure a safe return. Instead, remind them that Niima knows every name whispered to the tide and that no soul is ever truly lost to her.

Ribbons left on the Widow's Walk should be observed weekly. Those that have clearly loosened and not flown may be carefully removed and burned in a salt-fire by the priestess or her assistant. This should be done with solemnity and without comment, allowing the sea to receive what it could not carry.

Priestesses may speak of the vigil during public blessings, particularly on days when many ships prepare to depart. However, no individual should be named or pointed to. Let the ribbon be a silent prayer, seen by the sea and felt by those who wait.
|}
==== Song of Return ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a worn and faded scrap of vellum
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:

Song of Return 
A blessing for safe voyage and reunion

Go forth with the tide and return with the swell, 
Let the waves bear you gently, where ever you dwell. 
May your sails know the whisper, not the wail of the sea, 
And the stars hold your course where your heart longs to be.

Let the wind be your witness, the foam be your guide, 
Let the deep pass beneath you and never divide. 
By the light of Niima, by the calm of her grace, 
May your path find the harbor, your soul find its place.

Those who love you will wait with the shore in their eyes, 
Watching dawn rise in silence and dusk fill the skies. 
So go forth with the tide and return with the swell, 
You are known to the sea, and she knows you well.
|}

==== Elenne's (?) Papers ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a pale slip of vellum bearing a rust-tinged watermark
|-
|Rust-toned watermarks bloom across the lower half of the parchment, forming uneven, organic shapes. The ink has faded but remains legible throughout. The surface is rough to the touch, with several shallow indentations along the right margin, as if pressed against the corner of a writing board. Mild mildew spotting is visible near the top, and the parchment carries a faint metallic scent.

In the Common language, it reads: 
15th day of Fashanos, 4830 
Master Vartrien of the Mercantile Guild visited the chapel before midday service. He spoke of expanding the grounds and building a larger temple to better serve Solhaven's growing population. I reminded him that the chapel predates the coastal road and holds its own rhythm. He seemed unconcerned but polite. Left a coin marked with the Guild's seal in the basin. I placed it with the others and marked his visit in the side register.
|-
!a raw-edged and water-spotted page
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads: 
17th day of Lumnea, 4830 
Widow Carlan returned today, still unable to bear the final words. Her husband was taken last autumn in the reef churn near a southern cay. It has been added to our charts. I gave her the ledger entry of his loss to hold and read aloud as part of the Benediction for Final Rest. She left a net of white knotted cord, said it was the last he made, but did not stay. I've placed it on the altar before the midday rites. As a note, fog rolled in not long after service, and only three stayed for evening psalms.
|-
!a salt-ringed scrap of curled parchment
|-
|In the Common language, it reads: 
2nd day of Ivastaen, 4831 
Three fisher wives from the southern quay came before the early bells. Their husbands sail north this season, past Glaoveln's reach. Each requested prayer and sat quietly through the morning hymn. I gave silver ribbons to bind with their kerchiefs and lit the sea taper for calm waters. The chapel was nearly full by midmorning, though many arrived late, likely due to the spring fog that clung to the harbor paths.
|-
!a ink-streaked torn vellum sheet
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads: 
29th day of Koaratos, 4832 
Two merchant wives came bearing cloth bundles for the shrine. Each held swaddled sea stones tied with bits of silk, blue and pale. They asked no questions, gave no names. I placed the stones in the vessel below the sanctum basin and poured saltwater as they requested. Both stayed for the midday chant, though neither sang. After, they left through the garden gate without speaking further. I noted no marking on the silk. I hope they found comfort.
|-
!a mold-speckled soft parchment note
|-
|Softened by age and wear, the edges of the parchment curl inward, and pale mold speckling appears across the lower third of the sheet. A faint line suggests it was once folded and tucked into a ledger or personal book. The ink remains legible but has lightened near the corners. Moisture warping has created a slight upward curl in the body, and the parchment carries the scent of aged paper and damp wool.

In the Common language, it reads: 
3rd day of Eorgaen, 4832 
Widow Ellin came before the first bell and asked to sit in the quiet. She brought a folded scrap of ribbon from her husband's net bag and said she'd found it behind a dresser while cleaning for winter. I lit the sea taper and left her undisturbed while preparing the outer basin. She stayed through first prayers, then rose and placed the ribbon beneath the shell altar. She asked for no words today, but returned a missing bench cushion before leaving.
|-
!a smudged and warped journal page
|-
|Uneven ripples in the parchment surface indicate long exposure to moisture. Several pale smudges appear along the right margin, likely left by ink-stained fingers. Fading is most visible at the top, though the handwriting remains legible throughout. A faint scent of old wool and oil clings to the fibers. Abrasions across the back suggest the page rested for some time against a coarse surface.

In the Common language, it reads: 
7th day of Charlatos, 4833 
Three girls from Marshtown arrived just after first bell. None had formal instruction, but all carried the tunes well enough to follow the second line. We worked them through the basin hymn and the low chorus of the coastal prayer. They were assigned tunics from the eldest priestess, who sent them to scrub before vespers. We will continue twice weekly with them. If they remain steady, they may be ready for the Midyear Blessing. We've noted their names in the side book.
|-
!a creased parchment page
|-
|Creases stretch diagonally across the page, likely from folding while still damp. Several ink lines have run downward from the upper half, creating faint trails along the grain. Edges have darkened with age, and water damage has left a soft waviness across the surface. Handwriting remains legible, though uneven in places. The scent of mildew is stronger here, with a faint trace of fish oil soaked into one corner.

In the Common language, it reads: 
23rd day of Imaerasta, 4834 
Fleets pushed off beneath a red sky this evening. Wind held warm along the rise, and I watched from the upper path as the sails moved out past the bay mouth. I counted twenty-seven before I lost the line. I wrote their names as I remembered them, though some are just family names passed around. We did not ring the bell, but kept the flame lit through dusk. Sunset lingered long enough to finish the basin cleaning by natural light.
|-
!an ink-blotched paper fragment
|-
|Near the lower edge, signs of delamination are evident where prolonged exposure to moisture has lifted the parchment fibers. Ink blotches cover the upper left corner, though the writing beneath remains legible. Faint blue guidelines run horizontally across the surface, now nearly faded from view. All corners are softened from repeated handling, while the light scent of damp plaster and crushed chalk clings to the page.

In the Common language, it reads: 
18th day of Ivastaen, 4835 
Workers paused their efforts near the east colonnade due to a broken pulley. Several wandered into the chapel while the foreman spoke with a guild agent outside. One left a handful of copper on the basin rim. I noted no offering ribbon, but took it with the rest before lighting the salt lamp. Held afternoon prayers with two elders and one child. No hymn today. Breezes through the north wall joints have grown stronger since the scaffolding went up.
|}

==== a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Necklace Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 100 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
==== a discolored albatross feather quill ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Quill Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a discolored albatross feather quill
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 30,000 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
[[Category:The Shadowy Abyss]]

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Found items

2025-06-14T22:27:58Z

RAFFELS2: /* a small salt-stained journal */

__ToC__
== Shadowy Abyss Found Items ==
=== 06.06.2025 ===
==== an antique Vornavian silk cloth ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key's Sleeve
!an antique Vornavian silk cloth
|-
|Smooth with a soft finish, the Vornavian silk cloth has hints of its original deep blue hue at its edges though largely it has faded to a watered azure hue. Faint seashell patterns decorate the edge, the silver and white embroidery creating scallop shells that overlap. Rolled silk cords aid the bundle in staying closed as needed, their ends capped in silver dolphin periapts.
|}

===== a blue-tinted white vellum parchment =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Letter to Tagetes from Aralinne
!a blue-tinted white vellum parchment
|-
|Slightly warped in shape and displaying clear signs of damage from humidity, the fine parchment is tinted with a subtle blue hue that is almost white and yet distinctly not. Crisp folds create precise lines in the top and bottom third of the piece, while the corners display fray signs where moisture has separated the layers.
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:
the seventeenth day of Olaesta in the year 4839

Tagetes,

Hopefully, we will return at the same time and all of this preparation will be for naught.

The temple will have no attendants as I have figured out the missing piece to get us to Pearl. It lies in an old Kannalan Temple to Charl. I believe I've tracked down its former location. I've hidden the plans in the old office at the end of the catacombs and sealed the entry.

So few people know of its existence that it should be safe to travel there. I do not think I will be gone more than a handful of days.

However, as I do not trust the Mercantile Guild, with their recent decisions to create gardens and shrines to the dark pantheon, I have sealed the doorway up and hidden it. Since you know where it is, you should have no issue finding it.

There are seven keys for entry. I've left the Empress key here, but you can easily obtain the other six by seeking the blessings of the Lover, the Mistress, the Sister, the Mother, the Daughter, and the High Priestess. I'm sure you'll remember who these are from our past talks. I dare not say more for fear this is found by others.

Please know that some wish to see the curse spread. Others are working hard to stop it. Young Bristena had the idea to buy back all the jewelry from the women whose husband, lovers, and brothers searched the North Beach to obtain them. I gave her enough coin to buy them all back.

Once she has every last piece, she'll have a sailor take her out to the spot we believe the "Pearl" to be waiting in and drop them back into the water. That should give us time to get the pieces together to free her. I used the last of the coffers to pay a crew to start the lighthouse.

If I don't return... Please let my husband and son know the depths of which I love them.

By my hand,

Aralinne Wynedowne
|}
===== a carved golden amber acorn =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key
!a carved golden amber acorn
|-
|Roughly oval in shape, a carved golden amber acorn is broad and flat, providing an excellent view of its transparent interior portion. Trapped within the golden yellow fossilized pine tree sap are several small flying insects and a dried flower.
|}
==== an aged grey stone tile ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+The Tile
!an aged grey stone tile
|-
|Your song touches the tile, and the memory begins with stillness, then the faint scrape of wood across stone. Gentle hands press close, fitting the tile snugly into place. A murmur of approval hums nearby, muffled by fabric and breath. Cool grout slides into the seams, and the air shifts. Salt lingers in the room, carried on a current scented with blossoms. Lilac and sea daisy rise together, soft and clean. A hush settles across the surface, and the tile recognizes it as belonging. Beneath the faintest sigh of sandals against stone, a woman's voice murmurs, "There. That's better." The sounds and sensations fade along with the last syllables of your song.

As your song continues to caress the tile, it stirs with echoes of passing time. Soft footsteps come and go, punctuated by the rhythmic sweep of bristles and the clatter of buckets. Voices rise and fall nearby, sometimes low with grief, sometimes bright with ritual. One speaks of a sister's safe return, another offers blessings over a sailor's name. A different voice complains about a cracked basin and the need for fresh oil. Each moment blends into the next, seasons marked only by the changing cadence of heels, the weight of silence, and the gentle creak of wood in damp air. Slowly, the sensation and sounds fade, one by one, until they fall as silent as your song.

Your melody draws forth a hush, and the tile remembers the scent first. Bitter and resinous, the thick smoke of funerary incense curls low to the ground. Voices follow in soft procession, cloaked in sorrow. Some weep openly, others murmur prayers with trembling breath. The weight of grief presses against the stone, heavy as tide against jetty. A name is spoken again and again, reverent and broken, until it becomes a lullaby of mourning. Between each word, silence holds vigil. The tile feels a deep stillness in the air, as if even the sea has paused to listen. A final name tumbles across your ears as your song slips into silence, "Elenne."

Your song stirs the memory of disturbance. The tile feels the grit of its seams loosened, the edge of a tool scraping carefully through old grout. Pressure lifts it from the floor, just briefly, and something small is slid beneath. When the tile returns to its place, the surface meets the subfloor with an unfamiliar firmness. A hand lingers upon it, smooth and warm, resting for a long moment before giving a gentle pat. Whispered words ride the still air, close enough to touch, "Keep this safe until Tagetes finds you." An absence of warmth is the last sensation the tile imparts before your song stills.

Your voice brushes the tile, and the past answers with hushed urgency. There is the soft shuffle of feet, the creak of worn boots on stone, and a sharp intake of breath. Mournful whispers crowd the silence. A voice, cracked with worry and soft with distance, murmurs, "I don't know where you are, Aralinne. I can't get into the catacombs to check on you as the Brisker's Cove bowl was broken in the latest Krolvin raids... Please come home to us. Please. Your plan for Bristena worked; she told me of it when I returned. The girls are free, but where are you? I'm going to hide my piece until it can unite with yours. Please be safe, be careful." A soft sigh blends with the ending resonance of your song.

Your voice draws forth only silence at first. Time passes, measured in distant echoes. Footsteps sound too far to name, and faint shifts in the air come and go with no purpose. Old wood creaks softly where it meets damp stone. Dust settles in the seams, and salt from the sea clings to the surface. Years drift by without notice. Then, without warning, fingers press along your edges. There is a pause, a breath held just beyond hearing, and the tile feels the careful pry of something firm beneath it. A clamor of voices overlaps with each other until they blend into the fading sound of your song.
|}

=== 06.13.2025 ===
==== a salt-stained blue leather ledger ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Ledger from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a salt-stained blue leather ledger
|-
|Bound in navy blue leather, the ledger bears clear signs of repair. Patches of mismatched hide reinforce the spine and corners, and thin linen cords hold the bindings tight. Though worn smooth with age, the cover still holds the faint imprint of Niima's shell crest, long faded by handling. The pages inside are slightly bowed from moisture, but the ink has held well. Each year occupies a single page, the writing steady and small.
|-
|4816

Tidy dates and notations for each month in 4816 are aligned neatly along the inner margin. Notes reference standard morning and mid-tide services, with modest attendance throughout the year. Several deaths at sea are marked during Phoenatos and Imaerasta. There are mentions of a small fishing vessel lost in late Charlatos, and a new lantern donated by a widow named Hessa. The last quarter shows increased visits near Solstice.

4817

Entries for 4817 remain even and uneventful. Most notes concern basin cleaning, donation handling, and ribbon replenishment. Storms in Lumnea and Koaratos disrupted service for several days. A merchant's wife is mentioned repeatedly for leaving folded prayers in the offering box. One record notes an unusual number of gulls gathered at the altar during a fogbound service, marked simply with, "observed by three."

4818

Standard service records dominate the page, with annotations in blue ink appearing during spring. One comment in the margin reads, "New basin stone fitted. Shell inlay cracked but held." Three names repeat throughout the year: a retired sailor, a midwife from Marshtown, and a girl recorded only as "A.M." Several deaths at sea appear again in Eorgaen. Coastal offerings increase during the fall months.

4819

The 4819 entries continue in a narrow hand, with an unusual number of weddings noted between Charlatos and Ivastaen. Ribbons tied at the altar outnumber funerary entries this year. A brief note in Phoenatos mentions a fisherman's body returned after fifteen tides. Repairs to the vestibule door are recorded in Koaratos. A delivery of hymnals is documented without name, signed only with "N.L."

4820

Attendance patterns remain steady throughout 4820. Notations of storm disruptions in Fashanos and Koaratos are followed by increased evening services during those months. One brief note in Charlatos mentions a girl from the lower quarter beginning "training for vow," though no name is listed. Seasonal surges continue, with quiet months between. A salt-caked page corner suggests the ledger was left open during a sea spray.

4821

Small, precise entries for 4821 follow the pattern of prior years. Services remained regular, with additional rites held after a coastal storm in Charlatos. A recurring visitor is listed only as "shell-bearer" during spring months. Repairs to the west garden wall are noted in Lumnea. One entry in Eorgaen records, "child left driftwood figure at basin, no adult nearby." The handwriting becomes slightly sharper near the year's end.

4822

The year opened with colder winds and reduced attendance through Lormesta. One note in Fashanos records an elderly priestess slipping on the altar steps, resulting in no injury. Minor construction is logged in Ivastaen: "stone bench repositioned, foundation settled uneven." Gulls are again noted during a fog-heavy morning service. No deaths at sea are marked for Koaratos, which is noted as rare by the author. Extra hymn practice is recorded for Imaerasta.

4823

Faint ink along the top edge shows early signs of moisture, but the page remains legible. Most entries follow the standard pattern. A sailor's wedding in Phoenatos brought increased attendance for several days. Someone left a carved shell token in the basin and returned each week through Jastatos. No name was ever recorded. One funeral in Eoantos references burial in the lower catacomb row, name lost to smudging. Elenne's name begins to appear more frequently.

4824

Ledger entries remain orderly. Elenne is noted as presiding over full services during three major seasonal observances. A short entry in Imaerasta reads, "saltwater damaged two hymnals, copies made by hand." Several deaths at sea were recorded across Phoenatos and Jastatos. A recurring note of "candles late" appears without clarification. Winter quarter shows an increased number of widows seeking individual prayer times, as marked by initials only.

4825

The writing becomes slightly more compact along this page, possibly due to a change in hand. Services are held regularly with minor disruptions caused by harbor traffic. One early Charlatos entry reads, "path blocked by hauling rig, services delayed." Garden growth noted as "vigorous" in Lumnea. An unnamed girl from Marshtown began regular cleaning duties in midyear. Entries suggest her presence became routine, though her name is not yet recorded. Several pages show signs of ash smudging near the bottom corner.

4826

Ledger entries remain narrow and consistent. Regular service records dominate the page, with a note in Ivastaen reading, "two hymnals lost to mildew, one copied by hand." The girl from Marshtown is noted more frequently, assisting with basin preparation and entry sweeping. Elenne is recorded as leading nearly all rites this year. In Koaratos, a sailor's wife donated wax and twine following her husband's return from the reefs.

4827

A colder year, with notations of light frost in Charlatos and a decline in visitors during the first quarter. The Marshtown girl is listed by initials for the first time: "A.L.". She appears often in notes tied to daily upkeep and chant transcription. Elenne requested additional salt deliveries from the quay, suggesting higher ritual use. A short record in Imaerasta reads, "boy returned with offering candle for sister." His name is not recorded, but the action repeats in later months.

4828

Ink across this page is slightly lighter but consistent. Notes describe steady attendance and quiet observances throughout the year. "A.L." continues to serve regularly and is mentioned copying seasonal verses. A new basin cloth was donated by a widow in Phoenatos. Calen Wynedowne is noted briefly in Koaratos as assisting with deliveries. In Eorgaen, a child is recorded as tying sea glass to the offering pole, noted without comment.

4829

The handwriting tightens slightly, with some changes in wording structure. "A.L." is listed as leading chants during two minor observances. A service disruption is recorded in Charlatos: "work crew halted access to west path." Garden repairs resumed in Ivastaen, with the stone bench noted as "settled, but now cracking." Calen Wynedowne is marked present on three service dates. Elenne's name appears as usual, though one note mentions "shortness of breath in colder months."

4830

Entries shift slightly in tone this year, with more detailed notations. "A.L." is no longer referenced only by initials. Her name appears as Aralinne, recorded assisting with vespers and receiving permission to copy the coastal prayers. Elenne continues to lead services throughout. In Fashanos, a marked entry reads: "Calen Wynedowne departed aboard the Drowned Boar." A note in Imaerasta logs the visit of the High Priestess from Selanthia. Garden notes cease after Koaratos, likely due to early construction of the new temple.

4831

Entries are steady, with services held regularly in the newly expanded chapel. The original altar remains in partial use during evening observances. Aralinne is recorded as leading chants and maintaining basin duties throughout the year. A note in Charlatos reads, "Calen returned, left shell at east bench." Additional visitors marked in Phoenatos. Several Kannalan hymn fragments reviewed in Jastatos, with Aralinne listed as transcriber. No disruptions recorded.

4832

Observances continue without interruption. Aralinne is noted frequently in preparation tasks, seasonal cleanings, and the transcription of coastal rites. One record in Koaratos reads, "private service held for three widows." Increased taper use recorded in Imaerasta. No name given, but a new assistant is mentioned briefly in Lumnea. Aralinne's duties expand across multiple entries. The final note of the year: "attendance steady; records filed."

4833

Standard notations occupy most of the year. Aralinne continues in her role, listed alongside Elenne for all major observances. Her name appears independently in entries for dusk services and catacomb visits. One summer note mentions, "garden basin cleared and refilled under Aralinne's guidance." No major incidents. Early signs of leadership transition appear in Eoantos, though no formal statement is recorded. The garden bench is listed as worn, but stable.

4834

Charlatos begins with a formal entry: "Calen Wynedowne and Aralinne joined in marriage, witnessed before first bell at east altar." Both continue in regular attendance. Aralinne is recorded as leading evening services and overseeing hymn preservation efforts. Her handwriting begins to appear in later entries. Koaratos notes her inclusion in guild correspondence. The final entry in Eorgaen lists: "preparations for early solstice rites under Aralinne."

4835

Year begins quietly. Aralinne is now noted as officiating several services in early Fashanos. In Jastatos, a central entry reads: "Elenne passed peacefully in the night, fifth day of Jastatos." Her name does not appear again. Subsequent entries mark Aralinne presiding over full rites. One note reads, "transition marked with coastal hymn, basin blessing unchanged." Calen continues to appear sporadically. The final entry of the year reads: "chapel remains steady under Aralinne's care."
|}
==== a small salt-stained journal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Aralinne's Journal from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a small salt-stained journal
|-
|Bound in salt-stained suede, the small journal shows signs of frequent handling. The edges of the cover have curled slightly, and faint salt residue clings to the seams. Interior pages are swollen from moisture, and many are warped or stuck together. Ink bleeds across several leaves, though a few entries remain legible. The faint scent of mildew and brine lingers between the covers.
|-
|1st day of Lormesta, 4830

The new year began in silence. No sun showed at dawn, only a pale mist rolling over the port that settled in the alleys and gutters. We opened the chapel doors late this morning. A thin crust of salt had gathered again on the threshold.

Mother Elenne asked me to polish the lamp basin and check our remaining wax. She said that if the year is to bring anything, let it be steadiness. I scrubbed the copper too hard and bent the rim along one edge. She noticed but said nothing.

After the evening bell, I stayed to copy the coastal prayer. My ink bled in the cold, and my fingers would not hold the quill straight. The letters blurred near the bottom of the page. I will try again tomorrow.

The gulls have returned early this year. Their cries sound sharper than I remember.

Faint ink marks show a date in the top right corner, though the precise date is difficult to decipher. There is an impression of repeated script beneath the date, but the parchment is too warped to decipher much of its contents. Only a few words remain distinguishable near the bottom:

"...salt left from the..."

"...sleeves wet from the basin..."

"...ribbon placed before bell..."

16th day of Fashanos, 4830

A merchant visited the chapel yesterday. He introduced himself as Vartrien and said he represented the Mercantile Guild. His boots were polished, but they slipped on the chapel stones. He smelled faintly of tallow and wine.

He spoke with Elenne behind the altar rail. I only heard part of what was said... something about extending the outer walls, adding a foyer and foyer, and pulling stone from the cliff quarry. He did not ask about the altar or the basin.

Before leaving, he placed a coin in the offering basin. It was heavier than most and bore the Guild's seal. Elenne closed the doors earlier than usual and asked me to boil the cloth and clean the entry stone. She did not speak again until morning prayers.

After the bell, I copied half of the sea-born hymn. I still mix the second and third lines. The gulls circled loudly over the garden. They did not land.

Humidity has irrevocably damaged this page of the journal. The faint impression of a coastal flower leaves a colored stain in the center of the page. Ink bleeds across the fibers, blending so completely that all writing is beyond recognition.

3rd day of Charlatos, 4830

Rain began early and found its way in through the northern window joint again. A track of droplets marked the covers of three hymnals before I noticed. I dried them the best I could and set them near the basin to air.

Mother Elenne told me I might be ready to take the vesper reading next month. I said I would do my best, though my voice still shakes when the wind comes hard off the bay.

A boy from the shipyard arrived just before first bell. He brought a candle for his sister and did not speak. He nodded once and placed it on the old bench near the shell altar. It burned quickly and left a streak of wax on the wood.

After evening prayers, I copied the saltwater blessing again. I continue to forget the fourth line. I will practice it aloud tomorrow when the chapel is empty.

12th day of Olaesta, 4830

The salted fog held all morning. The bells could barely be heard from the quay, and the floor stayed damp long after I wiped it. The gulls were quiet today, though I saw them gather on the breakwall at dusk.

Mother Elenne allowed me to lead the midday verses. I stumbled on the refrain but kept pace. She gave no correction afterward, which I think was kindness. I will ask her to let me try again next week.

The Guildman has not returned, but I saw carts from the upper quarry moving past the garden path. One of the workers spat too close to the basin. I scrubbed the stone clean before closing the gate.

27th day of Ivastaen, 4830

The High Priestess arrived again, as expected. She comes every five months, though she avoids Charlatos and Lormesta because she does not like to travel in cold weather. This time, she brought only one attendant and a thick letter sealed in white wax.

She asked after the basin and walked the outer path twice before speaking. I do not know why she finds our grounds so peculiar. She always looks longer at the walls than at the altar.

She complimented the order of the garden, though I had not yet swept. Her words are even and pleasant, but her eyes are always searching. I do not think she comes only for worship.

Moisture has warped the page outward from the center, and a small flower is pressed into the parchment. Once white, its petals have turned a pale yellow. The edges have melted into the fibers over time, leaving a faint outline and a darker stain beneath. Ink has bled into the margins, but a few lines remain legible:

"He brought it with both hands."

"Said it grew from the rocks near the basin."

"It smelled faintly of salt and rosemary."

Written near the bottom corner, in a careful hand: Calen

9th day of Lumnea, 4830

Calen came again just after midday. He did not knock, only waited near the side path until I saw him. He brought a bloom, he said he found growing from a crack in the harbor wall. I told him it would not last, but he said that was fine.

He stayed long enough to watch me refill the basin, then left without saying more. I placed the flower in the back of the book, where I thought it would keep. It did not.

Mother Elenne has begun sorting the storeroom shelves again. I do not know where she plans to move everything, but she said we may have to share with the masons soon. I do not think she approves.

2nd day of Koaratos, 4830

Rumors continue about the Guild's plans, but nothing official has been posted. One of the stone counters in the garden cracked under the weight of a builder's crate. They said it would be replaced, but no one has returned to measure.

The High Priestess's letter is still sealed. Elenne has not opened it, though she moved it twice. I think she is waiting for another message, or perhaps the Guildman himself.

A blue gull feather was left on the altar after the second bell. No one saw who brought it.

I placed it in the ribbon box, away from the salt.

13th day of Koaratos, 4830

The stone bench in the garden has been replaced. I was not told it would happen, but when I stepped out to light the sea taper this morning, it was there. Rosewood, newly finished and still carrying the scent of cut shavings. The legs are slightly uneven, but the surface is smooth.

Elenne said one of the sailors had it made for his wife. She is the one who always sits near the roses and watches the harbor light. She wept when the bench cracked beneath the masons' crate. I am glad it was rebuilt.

Ink has lifted across most of the page, leaving behind only faint strokes and a few recognizable shapes. The top third is nearly blank, and the lower margin is warped from long exposure to damp air. Visible along the center fold, in pale ink, are snatches of the original message.

"...asked if it would still be the same chapel..."

"...carried the basin water out into the garden..."

"...song lines lost in the stone dust..."

5th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Construction has begun. Dust rises even before the first bell. The builders come early and eat beside the garden wall. I do not know how they leave the crumbs behind, but the gulls are clearly happy about it.

Mother Elenne and I have moved our sleeping mats into the chapel itself. There is no space left in the quarters, not since the back wall was taken down. She said it is temporary, but we must keep everything folded and out of sight during services.

She reminded me that we are not bound by silence or separation, only by devotion and clarity of intent. Then she looked at me and said, "Even your Calen would agree." I nearly dropped the basin ladle.

16th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Calen returned with an oilskin pouch and handed it to me without speaking. Inside was a cloth wrapped around several dry biscuits and a folded slip of sea-blue ribbon. He said he heard the workers had overrun our stores and that I was likely too polite to complain.

I thanked him, but could not find the right words. Elenne watched from the entryway. Later, she only asked if I had shared them.

The builders left stone dust across the floor again. I swept until my arms ached, but it returned before the evening bell. It finds every crack.

28th day of Phoenatos, 4830

The High Priestess will return in Jastatos. Elenne received a note today. No seal this time, only a clean fold and pressed script. She read it twice, then tucked it into the ledger without comment.

I asked if she thought the Guildman would be here as well. She said most likely, and that the two had likely been speaking for longer than we realized. She did not sound surprised or pleased.

The rosewood bench has already dulled to a greyish tone. I tried wiping it with a damp cloth, but the color does not return. Still, the sailor's wife came today and stayed for the whole of the afternoon light. She did not speak. Only watched the water and smiled.

7th day of Imaerasta, 4830

The scaffolding now reaches above the garden wall. Boards cast a grid of shadow over the roses during morning light. One of the masons said that the new walls will block the ocean view. I had not thought of that until now.

If the wall rises the way they say it will, the garden will face stone, not sea. Elenne was not surprised when I told her. She only said, "It's easier to worship what you can see than what you must remember."

I wonder if the sound of the tide will carry once the last wall is raised.

18th day of Imaerasta, 4830

Mist held long into the afternoon. We lit the lamps early and brought the linens in before the sea air reached them. The dust hangs longer in the stillness.

Word came that Yenterreth of the Marshtown passed in her sleep. She was one of the spirit women, always with a ribbon in her sleeve and saltwater on her boots. I remember her from before I came to live with Elenne. She called me bird girl and once gave me a braid of kelp twine.

She will be interred below with the others. I carried the notice down to the stone chamber myself.

Much of the page has faded due to moisture, but several phrases remain readable:

"...could see the harbor lantern from the bench..."

"...ribbons tied to the low branches removed..."

"...the sound of chisel work does not pause for prayer..."

Smudged ink across the lower edge shows where the page was touched before drying.

3rd day of Jastatos, 4830

The High Priestess arrived just after midday. She wore a dove-colored cloak and had her hair in three loops at her crown. Guildman Vartrien stood beside her beneath the scaffolding. They did not speak during the service, but both stayed until the end.

Afterward, they walked the garden with Elenne. I followed at a distance, gathering petals. I overheard them speak of creating a fresco in Niima's likeness upon the foyer wall. The High Priestess said the space would command presence.

No one mentioned the old altar. I swept around it that night, as a kind of apology.

15th day of Jastatos, 4830

A whisper has spread through the workers. One of the cart drivers said the Krolvin have been seen in Brisker's Cove. No one knows if it's true, but another said the harbor patrol was doubled this week.

Elenne said we cannot shape our prayers to rumors. Still, she lit the tall tapers during evening service and left them burning until the last shadow faded from the stones.

Calen has not returned since the rains began. I keep the ribbon he gave me in my prayer book. It smells faintly of rosemary, even now.

4th day of Eoantos, 4830

Elenne asked me to begin clearing the small office beside the catacombs. She said it was time someone sorted through what remains. I believe she means for me to be occupied, as Calen has not returned. She does not ask after him directly, but she notices when I forget the dusting cloth or leave the lamp wick too low.

The office is colder than I remembered. The walls sweat even when the wind is dry. I found a bundle of records tied with frayed cord, and a shelf of ledgers warped from years of damp. None have dates newer than 4816.

I lit a taper and marveled that its flame didn't waver. The air is rather stale.

12th day of Eoantos, 4830

Stacks of papers have begun to soften and fall apart as I move them. Some pages peel away like onion skin. Others are stuck together with mildew at the corners. There is no order left in the ledgers.

Elenne gave me vinegar water to scrub the stone and showed me how to dry the parchments without tearing the ink. Her hands are steadier than mine, but she let me try alone today.

No one has asked about the office in years. I wonder if anyone will again once the new temple is complete.

Several blotches stretch across the center of the page, caused by ink pressed while wet. Words are smudged and fingerprints mar the lower half.

Only a few lines are clear:

"...wrote his name on the margin and folded it..."

"...did not want to ask him not to go..."

"...the sea calls more surely than words ever could..."

21st day of Eoantos, 4830

Word came that Calen has signed on with a deep-sea vessel. No one knows the name, only that it sails past the Shoals and will be gone past spring.

Elenne said nothing when I told her. She simply handed me another cloth and said, "Salt dries slower than tears." I think she meant it kindly.

The basin water felt colder today, though the air was still. When I poured it over the shell altar, I thought of the wives who stand at our threshold with wet sleeves and silent mouths.

I begin to understand why they come. Not for answers, but for nearness.

1st day of Eorgaen, 4830

The sound of hammers has quieted. Most of the scaffolding has come down. The stones above the chapel are now smooth and white, with carved lines I cannot name.

I finished dusting the office and folded what remained of the ledgers. Several were too damaged to save. Elenne said I may stack them in the catacombs for burning later, though I kept two that still held their shape.

Calen's ribbon rests between the pages of one. I did not mean to place it there. It simply felt right.

19th day of Eorgaen, 4830

We moved into the new quarters today. The walls are smooth, and the ceiling curves slightly like the hull of a ship turned over. My mat fits beneath the small window, though it does not face the sea.

Elenne set our candles on the narrow sill and arranged her ledgers in the cabinet with care. She has not said whether she likes the new space, but she wiped the sill twice before speaking.

I kept the basin cloth. It still smells faintly of rosemary and ink.

31st day of Eorgaen, 4830

Year-end bells rang before the harbor mist had cleared. The garden is smaller now, and the altar no longer sees the ocean, but the salt wind still finds its way between the stones.

I watched from the upper stairs as the tide turned. For a moment, I imagined Calen leaning over the rail of whatever vessel he's found. I do not know where he sailed, or what wind carried him out, only that the thought of him still returns like breath.

I folded a ribbon into the base of the old ledger. Some things are easier to keep when hidden.

1st day of Lormesta, 4831

The High Priestess arrived at midday. She wore fur-lined gloves and spoke briefly before entering the new sanctum. Her words were softer this time. She said the white stone caught light well and that the new foyer had "clean weight."

She did not linger. Elenne bowed but did not speak.

I spent the rest of the day sorting a box of old hymn fragments. Some were written in Kannalan, though I can only read the titles. I have set two aside in hopes that someone might help me translate them.

3rd day of Lormesta, 4831

Calen returned today.

He stood by the garden gate and waited until I saw him. He did not wave. Only smiled, the kind of smile that asks without needing an answer.

I brought him a cup of water, and we sat in the shadow of the old chapel. He said nothing of the voyage, and I did not ask. I watched his hands as he spoke of the harbor and the wind near the reefs. He has a sun mark on his left wrist now, just above the bone.

When he left, he pressed a shell into my palm. It was smooth and unbroken.

5th day of Lormesta, 4831

I do not know if he missed me. I do not know if he meant to see me or only came to the chapel as he once did.

Still, I thought of him each time the tide turned. I imagined the shape of his boat against the horizon, wondering if he looked for birds or counted the ways salt settles into cloth.

The shell he gave me rests beneath the old candle box. I did not tell Elenne.

I have finished copying the Kannalan refrain. The words feel older than stone, but they sing cleanly when read aloud.
|}

==== a faded off-white vellum ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Letter to Aralinna from Tagetes
!a faded off-white vellum
|-
|22 Fashanos 4839

Hi Aralinne,
You are going to sputter when you read this, but I found something I think might actually help. I've been haunting the lower rooms of the Rest's old archive, the one that smells like mushrooms and lamp oil, and you would not believe the number of ledgers that don't even belong there. Some trader scribbled a note in the margin of a shipping contract, and I have no idea why, about a Hermit of Charl. Not a priest. Not a sailor. A hermit.

The strange part is, he wasn't written about like some bedraggled man on a rock. He had followers. Or at least people who carried his words. The note said he held something powerful, something that could "turn back the tide and lay bare the seabed, if placed with care and faith at the high edge." That's what it actually said. The relic doesn't have a name, which is frustrating, but it is always connected to cliffs or high ridges.

I spent the last two days chasing the reference backward, and I think it's Kannalan. Most of the names line up with the way they spell things when they want to make them sound more official. The good stuff always hides behind fancy lettering.

Anyway, I asked around, and there's a guide here who knows the Karazja ruins. He's agreed to take me inland starting next week. I'll be careful. I promise. But if I'm right, that relic might still be out there.

Imagine what it would mean if we could part the sea.

More soon,
Tagetes

P.S. Tell Marris not to let the acolytes into the tide closet again. I know it was them. The shells were rearranged. Again.
|}
==== Seaborne Hymnal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a thread-edged faded parchment
|-
|Parchment the color of drifted sand bears faded blue script in a careful, even hand. The edges have frayed into soft waves, and the lower corner is discolored where dampness clings to the page. A watermark in the upper left shows a simple wave crest superimposed over a scallop shell. Salt has left faint flecks across the surface, and one line of ink has bled slightly with age. Despite wear, the script remains fully legible, framed by a border of pressed gull feathers and hand-tied seasilk thread.

In the Common language, it reads:

Instructions for the Seaborne Hymnal

To be spoken daily, often at morning tide or before the first sail departs.

The Seaborne Hymnal is a spoken blessing offered to all who live by the rhythm of the sea. It honors those who make their living from its bounty, those who voyage upon it, and those who wait at its edge. The ritual is led by a priestess and joined by those gathered, using a call and response pattern. It is not sung, but spoken clearly, with steadiness and intent.

There are no physical offerings required. However, each response is accompanied by a hand gesture to mark the tide's reach and the release of prayer.

The priestess stands facing the gathered. Congregants may form a semicircle or remain as they are, whether in chapel or along the shore. The ritual may be performed indoors or outdoors, provided the sea is visible or near.

At each response, the right hand is placed palm-down over the heart, then extended outward, fingers spread as if forming the crest of a wave. This gesture is slow and deliberate. At the final line, the gesture is held outward a moment longer before lowering the hand.

The hymnal is: 
'''Priestess:''' Who wakes with the wind and walks with the tide? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who casts the net and bears the storm? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who waits at the window and sings to the dark? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who names the stars and trusts the wave? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Bless those who leave and those who remain. 
Bless those who labor and those who pray. 
Bless those who remember. 
'''Congregation (final gesture):''' And those who return no more.

The rite is complete after the final line. There is no need for benediction. Let silence follow for a breath or two before the next act begins.
|}
==== Ribbon Vigil ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a watermarked pearly white parchment
|-
|Faint mildew spots darken the four corners of the parchment, which has a pearly white finish created by the waxy finished worked into its fibers. An azure watermark of a scallop shell superimposed over cresting waves can be seen beneath the indigo ink that spread across its surface.

In the Common language, it reads:

The Ribbon Vigil is a quiet, sacred tradition observed by sailors and their loved ones before voyages that lead them beyond the protection of the bay. It is deeply personal, often unspoken, and performed in silence atop the temple's Widow's Walk. The rite is not scheduled by the temple, nor does it require direct guidance, but all priestesses, acolytes, and attending staff should understand its nature and how to offer quiet support when needed.

The vigil begins when a sailor and a significant companion, whether spouse, sibling, friend, or beloved, ascending to the rooftop of the temple. Together, they bring a ribbon, which may be carried openly or hidden in the hand, sleeve, or pocket until the moment it is needed. Upon reaching the rail that faces the open sea, they tie the ribbon to the ironwork together. There is no formal color or material required. While many choose white, blue, or sea green, others may bring a scrap of sailcloth or a woven charm. The meaning lies in the bond, not the fiber. No spoken words are required, though some murmur names or prayers as the knot is tied. The act itself is the offering. It binds the hope of return between two people and entrusts that bond to the sea.

At times, when a ship is long overdue or the sea has turned cruel, the one who remained ashore may return to the Widow's Walk alone. There, they loosen the knot they once tied. The ribbon is not taken down but left slack in the wind. This act is a plea to Niima, asking her to seek the one who has not come home. It is believed that if the ribbon is taken by the wind and reaches the sea, Niima will find the sailor and guide them to safety. That safety may not bring them home to Solhaven, but it will bring them to a shore. If the ribbon tangles, falls, or clings to the stone, some believe it is a sign that the soul it represents has already passed from Niima's reach.

Temple staff must not disturb those who come to perform this rite. Acolytes may observe from a distance and quietly light a sea taper at the stairwell when a ribbon loosening is witnessed. The gesture is enough to mark the moment. Comfort should be offered gently, without promise or correction. Never assure a safe return. Instead, remind them that Niima knows every name whispered to the tide and that no soul is ever truly lost to her.

Ribbons left on the Widow's Walk should be observed weekly. Those that have clearly loosened and not flown may be carefully removed and burned in a salt-fire by the priestess or her assistant. This should be done with solemnity and without comment, allowing the sea to receive what it could not carry.

Priestesses may speak of the vigil during public blessings, particularly on days when many ships prepare to depart. However, no individual should be named or pointed to. Let the ribbon be a silent prayer, seen by the sea and felt by those who wait.
|}
==== Song of Return ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a worn and faded scrap of vellum
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:

Song of Return 
A blessing for safe voyage and reunion

Go forth with the tide and return with the swell, 
Let the waves bear you gently, where ever you dwell. 
May your sails know the whisper, not the wail of the sea, 
And the stars hold your course where your heart longs to be.

Let the wind be your witness, the foam be your guide, 
Let the deep pass beneath you and never divide. 
By the light of Niima, by the calm of her grace, 
May your path find the harbor, your soul find its place.

Those who love you will wait with the shore in their eyes, 
Watching dawn rise in silence and dusk fill the skies. 
So go forth with the tide and return with the swell, 
You are known to the sea, and she knows you well.
|}

==== Elenne's (?) Papers ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a pale slip of vellum bearing a rust-tinged watermark
|-
|Rust-toned watermarks bloom across the lower half of the parchment, forming uneven, organic shapes. The ink has faded but remains legible throughout. The surface is rough to the touch, with several shallow indentations along the right margin, as if pressed against the corner of a writing board. Mild mildew spotting is visible near the top, and the parchment carries a faint metallic scent.

In the Common language, it reads: 
15th day of Fashanos, 4830 
Master Vartrien of the Mercantile Guild visited the chapel before midday service. He spoke of expanding the grounds and building a larger temple to better serve Solhaven's growing population. I reminded him that the chapel predates the coastal road and holds its own rhythm. He seemed unconcerned but polite. Left a coin marked with the Guild's seal in the basin. I placed it with the others and marked his visit in the side register.
|-
!a raw-edged and water-spotted page
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads: 
17th day of Lumnea, 4830 
Widow Carlan returned today, still unable to bear the final words. Her husband was taken last autumn in the reef churn near a southern cay. It has been added to our charts. I gave her the ledger entry of his loss to hold and read aloud as part of the Benediction for Final Rest. She left a net of white knotted cord, said it was the last he made, but did not stay. I've placed it on the altar before the midday rites. As a note, fog rolled in not long after service, and only three stayed for evening psalms.
|-
!a ink-streaked torn vellum sheet
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads: 
29th day of Koaratos, 4832 
Two merchant wives came bearing cloth bundles for the shrine. Each held swaddled sea stones tied with bits of silk, blue and pale. They asked no questions, gave no names. I placed the stones in the vessel below the sanctum basin and poured saltwater as they requested. Both stayed for the midday chant, though neither sang. After, they left through the garden gate without speaking further. I noted no marking on the silk. I hope they found comfort.
|-
!a mold-speckled soft parchment note
|-
|Softened by age and wear, the edges of the parchment curl inward, and pale mold speckling appears across the lower third of the sheet. A faint line suggests it was once folded and tucked into a ledger or personal book. The ink remains legible but has lightened near the corners. Moisture warping has created a slight upward curl in the body, and the parchment carries the scent of aged paper and damp wool.

In the Common language, it reads: 
3rd day of Eorgaen, 4832 
Widow Ellin came before the first bell and asked to sit in the quiet. She brought a folded scrap of ribbon from her husband's net bag and said she'd found it behind a dresser while cleaning for winter. I lit the sea taper and left her undisturbed while preparing the outer basin. She stayed through first prayers, then rose and placed the ribbon beneath the shell altar. She asked for no words today, but returned a missing bench cushion before leaving.
|-
!a smudged and warped journal page
|-
|Uneven ripples in the parchment surface indicate long exposure to moisture. Several pale smudges appear along the right margin, likely left by ink-stained fingers. Fading is most visible at the top, though the handwriting remains legible throughout. A faint scent of old wool and oil clings to the fibers. Abrasions across the back suggest the page rested for some time against a coarse surface.

In the Common language, it reads: 
7th day of Charlatos, 4833 
Three girls from Marshtown arrived just after first bell. None had formal instruction, but all carried the tunes well enough to follow the second line. We worked them through the basin hymn and the low chorus of the coastal prayer. They were assigned tunics from the eldest priestess, who sent them to scrub before vespers. We will continue twice weekly with them. If they remain steady, they may be ready for the Midyear Blessing. We've noted their names in the side book.
|-
!a creased parchment page
|-
|Creases stretch diagonally across the page, likely from folding while still damp. Several ink lines have run downward from the upper half, creating faint trails along the grain. Edges have darkened with age, and water damage has left a soft waviness across the surface. Handwriting remains legible, though uneven in places. The scent of mildew is stronger here, with a faint trace of fish oil soaked into one corner.

In the Common language, it reads: 
23rd day of Imaerasta, 4834 
Fleets pushed off beneath a red sky this evening. Wind held warm along the rise, and I watched from the upper path as the sails moved out past the bay mouth. I counted twenty-seven before I lost the line. I wrote their names as I remembered them, though some are just family names passed around. We did not ring the bell, but kept the flame lit through dusk. Sunset lingered long enough to finish the basin cleaning by natural light.
|-
!an ink-blotched paper fragment
|-
|Near the lower edge, signs of delamination are evident where prolonged exposure to moisture has lifted the parchment fibers. Ink blotches cover the upper left corner, though the writing beneath remains legible. Faint blue guidelines run horizontally across the surface, now nearly faded from view. All corners are softened from repeated handling, while the light scent of damp plaster and crushed chalk clings to the page.

In the Common language, it reads: 
18th day of Ivastaen, 4835 
Workers paused their efforts near the east colonnade due to a broken pulley. Several wandered into the chapel while the foreman spoke with a guild agent outside. One left a handful of copper on the basin rim. I noted no offering ribbon, but took it with the rest before lighting the salt lamp. Held afternoon prayers with two elders and one child. No hymn today. Breezes through the north wall joints have grown stronger since the scaffolding went up.
|}

==== a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Necklace Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 100 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
==== a discolored albatross feather quill ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Quill Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a discolored albatross feather quill
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 30,000 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
[[Category:The Shadowy Abyss]]

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Found items

2025-06-14T22:23:25Z

RAFFELS2: /* Elenne's (?) Papers */ Added 1 letter

__ToC__
== Shadowy Abyss Found Items ==
=== 06.06.2025 ===
==== an antique Vornavian silk cloth ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key's Sleeve
!an antique Vornavian silk cloth
|-
|Smooth with a soft finish, the Vornavian silk cloth has hints of its original deep blue hue at its edges though largely it has faded to a watered azure hue. Faint seashell patterns decorate the edge, the silver and white embroidery creating scallop shells that overlap. Rolled silk cords aid the bundle in staying closed as needed, their ends capped in silver dolphin periapts.
|}

===== a blue-tinted white vellum parchment =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Letter to Tagetes from Aralinne
!a blue-tinted white vellum parchment
|-
|Slightly warped in shape and displaying clear signs of damage from humidity, the fine parchment is tinted with a subtle blue hue that is almost white and yet distinctly not. Crisp folds create precise lines in the top and bottom third of the piece, while the corners display fray signs where moisture has separated the layers.
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:
the seventeenth day of Olaesta in the year 4839

Tagetes,

Hopefully, we will return at the same time and all of this preparation will be for naught.

The temple will have no attendants as I have figured out the missing piece to get us to Pearl. It lies in an old Kannalan Temple to Charl. I believe I've tracked down its former location. I've hidden the plans in the old office at the end of the catacombs and sealed the entry.

So few people know of its existence that it should be safe to travel there. I do not think I will be gone more than a handful of days.

However, as I do not trust the Mercantile Guild, with their recent decisions to create gardens and shrines to the dark pantheon, I have sealed the doorway up and hidden it. Since you know where it is, you should have no issue finding it.

There are seven keys for entry. I've left the Empress key here, but you can easily obtain the other six by seeking the blessings of the Lover, the Mistress, the Sister, the Mother, the Daughter, and the High Priestess. I'm sure you'll remember who these are from our past talks. I dare not say more for fear this is found by others.

Please know that some wish to see the curse spread. Others are working hard to stop it. Young Bristena had the idea to buy back all the jewelry from the women whose husband, lovers, and brothers searched the North Beach to obtain them. I gave her enough coin to buy them all back.

Once she has every last piece, she'll have a sailor take her out to the spot we believe the "Pearl" to be waiting in and drop them back into the water. That should give us time to get the pieces together to free her. I used the last of the coffers to pay a crew to start the lighthouse.

If I don't return... Please let my husband and son know the depths of which I love them.

By my hand,

Aralinne Wynedowne
|}
===== a carved golden amber acorn =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key
!a carved golden amber acorn
|-
|Roughly oval in shape, a carved golden amber acorn is broad and flat, providing an excellent view of its transparent interior portion. Trapped within the golden yellow fossilized pine tree sap are several small flying insects and a dried flower.
|}
==== an aged grey stone tile ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+The Tile
!an aged grey stone tile
|-
|Your song touches the tile, and the memory begins with stillness, then the faint scrape of wood across stone. Gentle hands press close, fitting the tile snugly into place. A murmur of approval hums nearby, muffled by fabric and breath. Cool grout slides into the seams, and the air shifts. Salt lingers in the room, carried on a current scented with blossoms. Lilac and sea daisy rise together, soft and clean. A hush settles across the surface, and the tile recognizes it as belonging. Beneath the faintest sigh of sandals against stone, a woman's voice murmurs, "There. That's better." The sounds and sensations fade along with the last syllables of your song.

As your song continues to caress the tile, it stirs with echoes of passing time. Soft footsteps come and go, punctuated by the rhythmic sweep of bristles and the clatter of buckets. Voices rise and fall nearby, sometimes low with grief, sometimes bright with ritual. One speaks of a sister's safe return, another offers blessings over a sailor's name. A different voice complains about a cracked basin and the need for fresh oil. Each moment blends into the next, seasons marked only by the changing cadence of heels, the weight of silence, and the gentle creak of wood in damp air. Slowly, the sensation and sounds fade, one by one, until they fall as silent as your song.

Your melody draws forth a hush, and the tile remembers the scent first. Bitter and resinous, the thick smoke of funerary incense curls low to the ground. Voices follow in soft procession, cloaked in sorrow. Some weep openly, others murmur prayers with trembling breath. The weight of grief presses against the stone, heavy as tide against jetty. A name is spoken again and again, reverent and broken, until it becomes a lullaby of mourning. Between each word, silence holds vigil. The tile feels a deep stillness in the air, as if even the sea has paused to listen. A final name tumbles across your ears as your song slips into silence, "Elenne."

Your song stirs the memory of disturbance. The tile feels the grit of its seams loosened, the edge of a tool scraping carefully through old grout. Pressure lifts it from the floor, just briefly, and something small is slid beneath. When the tile returns to its place, the surface meets the subfloor with an unfamiliar firmness. A hand lingers upon it, smooth and warm, resting for a long moment before giving a gentle pat. Whispered words ride the still air, close enough to touch, "Keep this safe until Tagetes finds you." An absence of warmth is the last sensation the tile imparts before your song stills.

Your voice brushes the tile, and the past answers with hushed urgency. There is the soft shuffle of feet, the creak of worn boots on stone, and a sharp intake of breath. Mournful whispers crowd the silence. A voice, cracked with worry and soft with distance, murmurs, "I don't know where you are, Aralinne. I can't get into the catacombs to check on you as the Brisker's Cove bowl was broken in the latest Krolvin raids... Please come home to us. Please. Your plan for Bristena worked; she told me of it when I returned. The girls are free, but where are you? I'm going to hide my piece until it can unite with yours. Please be safe, be careful." A soft sigh blends with the ending resonance of your song.

Your voice draws forth only silence at first. Time passes, measured in distant echoes. Footsteps sound too far to name, and faint shifts in the air come and go with no purpose. Old wood creaks softly where it meets damp stone. Dust settles in the seams, and salt from the sea clings to the surface. Years drift by without notice. Then, without warning, fingers press along your edges. There is a pause, a breath held just beyond hearing, and the tile feels the careful pry of something firm beneath it. A clamor of voices overlaps with each other until they blend into the fading sound of your song.
|}

=== 06.13.2025 ===
==== a salt-stained blue leather ledger ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Ledger from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a salt-stained blue leather ledger
|-
|Bound in navy blue leather, the ledger bears clear signs of repair. Patches of mismatched hide reinforce the spine and corners, and thin linen cords hold the bindings tight. Though worn smooth with age, the cover still holds the faint imprint of Niima's shell crest, long faded by handling. The pages inside are slightly bowed from moisture, but the ink has held well. Each year occupies a single page, the writing steady and small.
|-
|4816

Tidy dates and notations for each month in 4816 are aligned neatly along the inner margin. Notes reference standard morning and mid-tide services, with modest attendance throughout the year. Several deaths at sea are marked during Phoenatos and Imaerasta. There are mentions of a small fishing vessel lost in late Charlatos, and a new lantern donated by a widow named Hessa. The last quarter shows increased visits near Solstice.

4817

Entries for 4817 remain even and uneventful. Most notes concern basin cleaning, donation handling, and ribbon replenishment. Storms in Lumnea and Koaratos disrupted service for several days. A merchant's wife is mentioned repeatedly for leaving folded prayers in the offering box. One record notes an unusual number of gulls gathered at the altar during a fogbound service, marked simply with, "observed by three."

4818

Standard service records dominate the page, with annotations in blue ink appearing during spring. One comment in the margin reads, "New basin stone fitted. Shell inlay cracked but held." Three names repeat throughout the year: a retired sailor, a midwife from Marshtown, and a girl recorded only as "A.M." Several deaths at sea appear again in Eorgaen. Coastal offerings increase during the fall months.

4819

The 4819 entries continue in a narrow hand, with an unusual number of weddings noted between Charlatos and Ivastaen. Ribbons tied at the altar outnumber funerary entries this year. A brief note in Phoenatos mentions a fisherman's body returned after fifteen tides. Repairs to the vestibule door are recorded in Koaratos. A delivery of hymnals is documented without name, signed only with "N.L."

4820

Attendance patterns remain steady throughout 4820. Notations of storm disruptions in Fashanos and Koaratos are followed by increased evening services during those months. One brief note in Charlatos mentions a girl from the lower quarter beginning "training for vow," though no name is listed. Seasonal surges continue, with quiet months between. A salt-caked page corner suggests the ledger was left open during a sea spray.

4821

Small, precise entries for 4821 follow the pattern of prior years. Services remained regular, with additional rites held after a coastal storm in Charlatos. A recurring visitor is listed only as "shell-bearer" during spring months. Repairs to the west garden wall are noted in Lumnea. One entry in Eorgaen records, "child left driftwood figure at basin, no adult nearby." The handwriting becomes slightly sharper near the year's end.

4822

The year opened with colder winds and reduced attendance through Lormesta. One note in Fashanos records an elderly priestess slipping on the altar steps, resulting in no injury. Minor construction is logged in Ivastaen: "stone bench repositioned, foundation settled uneven." Gulls are again noted during a fog-heavy morning service. No deaths at sea are marked for Koaratos, which is noted as rare by the author. Extra hymn practice is recorded for Imaerasta.

4823

Faint ink along the top edge shows early signs of moisture, but the page remains legible. Most entries follow the standard pattern. A sailor's wedding in Phoenatos brought increased attendance for several days. Someone left a carved shell token in the basin and returned each week through Jastatos. No name was ever recorded. One funeral in Eoantos references burial in the lower catacomb row, name lost to smudging. Elenne's name begins to appear more frequently.

4824

Ledger entries remain orderly. Elenne is noted as presiding over full services during three major seasonal observances. A short entry in Imaerasta reads, "saltwater damaged two hymnals, copies made by hand." Several deaths at sea were recorded across Phoenatos and Jastatos. A recurring note of "candles late" appears without clarification. Winter quarter shows an increased number of widows seeking individual prayer times, as marked by initials only.

4825

The writing becomes slightly more compact along this page, possibly due to a change in hand. Services are held regularly with minor disruptions caused by harbor traffic. One early Charlatos entry reads, "path blocked by hauling rig, services delayed." Garden growth noted as "vigorous" in Lumnea. An unnamed girl from Marshtown began regular cleaning duties in midyear. Entries suggest her presence became routine, though her name is not yet recorded. Several pages show signs of ash smudging near the bottom corner.

4826

Ledger entries remain narrow and consistent. Regular service records dominate the page, with a note in Ivastaen reading, "two hymnals lost to mildew, one copied by hand." The girl from Marshtown is noted more frequently, assisting with basin preparation and entry sweeping. Elenne is recorded as leading nearly all rites this year. In Koaratos, a sailor's wife donated wax and twine following her husband's return from the reefs.

4827

A colder year, with notations of light frost in Charlatos and a decline in visitors during the first quarter. The Marshtown girl is listed by initials for the first time: "A.L.". She appears often in notes tied to daily upkeep and chant transcription. Elenne requested additional salt deliveries from the quay, suggesting higher ritual use. A short record in Imaerasta reads, "boy returned with offering candle for sister." His name is not recorded, but the action repeats in later months.

4828

Ink across this page is slightly lighter but consistent. Notes describe steady attendance and quiet observances throughout the year. "A.L." continues to serve regularly and is mentioned copying seasonal verses. A new basin cloth was donated by a widow in Phoenatos. Calen Wynedowne is noted briefly in Koaratos as assisting with deliveries. In Eorgaen, a child is recorded as tying sea glass to the offering pole, noted without comment.

4829

The handwriting tightens slightly, with some changes in wording structure. "A.L." is listed as leading chants during two minor observances. A service disruption is recorded in Charlatos: "work crew halted access to west path." Garden repairs resumed in Ivastaen, with the stone bench noted as "settled, but now cracking." Calen Wynedowne is marked present on three service dates. Elenne's name appears as usual, though one note mentions "shortness of breath in colder months."

4830

Entries shift slightly in tone this year, with more detailed notations. "A.L." is no longer referenced only by initials. Her name appears as Aralinne, recorded assisting with vespers and receiving permission to copy the coastal prayers. Elenne continues to lead services throughout. In Fashanos, a marked entry reads: "Calen Wynedowne departed aboard the Drowned Boar." A note in Imaerasta logs the visit of the High Priestess from Selanthia. Garden notes cease after Koaratos, likely due to early construction of the new temple.

4831

Entries are steady, with services held regularly in the newly expanded chapel. The original altar remains in partial use during evening observances. Aralinne is recorded as leading chants and maintaining basin duties throughout the year. A note in Charlatos reads, "Calen returned, left shell at east bench." Additional visitors marked in Phoenatos. Several Kannalan hymn fragments reviewed in Jastatos, with Aralinne listed as transcriber. No disruptions recorded.

4832

Observances continue without interruption. Aralinne is noted frequently in preparation tasks, seasonal cleanings, and the transcription of coastal rites. One record in Koaratos reads, "private service held for three widows." Increased taper use recorded in Imaerasta. No name given, but a new assistant is mentioned briefly in Lumnea. Aralinne's duties expand across multiple entries. The final note of the year: "attendance steady; records filed."

4833

Standard notations occupy most of the year. Aralinne continues in her role, listed alongside Elenne for all major observances. Her name appears independently in entries for dusk services and catacomb visits. One summer note mentions, "garden basin cleared and refilled under Aralinne's guidance." No major incidents. Early signs of leadership transition appear in Eoantos, though no formal statement is recorded. The garden bench is listed as worn, but stable.

4834

Charlatos begins with a formal entry: "Calen Wynedowne and Aralinne joined in marriage, witnessed before first bell at east altar." Both continue in regular attendance. Aralinne is recorded as leading evening services and overseeing hymn preservation efforts. Her handwriting begins to appear in later entries. Koaratos notes her inclusion in guild correspondence. The final entry in Eorgaen lists: "preparations for early solstice rites under Aralinne."

4835

Year begins quietly. Aralinne is now noted as officiating several services in early Fashanos. In Jastatos, a central entry reads: "Elenne passed peacefully in the night, fifth day of Jastatos." Her name does not appear again. Subsequent entries mark Aralinne presiding over full rites. One note reads, "transition marked with coastal hymn, basin blessing unchanged." Calen continues to appear sporadically. The final entry of the year reads: "chapel remains steady under Aralinne's care."
|}
==== a small salt-stained journal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Journal from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a small salt-stained journal
|-
|Bound in salt-stained suede, the small journal shows signs of frequent handling. The edges of the cover have curled slightly, and faint salt residue clings to the seams. Interior pages are swollen from moisture, and many are warped or stuck together. Ink bleeds across several leaves, though a few entries remain legible. The faint scent of mildew and brine lingers between the covers.
|-
|1st day of Lormesta, 4830

The new year began in silence. No sun showed at dawn, only a pale mist rolling over the port that settled in the alleys and gutters. We opened the chapel doors late this morning. A thin crust of salt had gathered again on the threshold.

Mother Elenne asked me to polish the lamp basin and check our remaining wax. She said that if the year is to bring anything, let it be steadiness. I scrubbed the copper too hard and bent the rim along one edge. She noticed but said nothing.

After the evening bell, I stayed to copy the coastal prayer. My ink bled in the cold, and my fingers would not hold the quill straight. The letters blurred near the bottom of the page. I will try again tomorrow.

The gulls have returned early this year. Their cries sound sharper than I remember.

Faint ink marks show a date in the top right corner, though the precise date is difficult to decipher. There is an impression of repeated script beneath the date, but the parchment is too warped to decipher much of its contents. Only a few words remain distinguishable near the bottom:

"...salt left from the..."

"...sleeves wet from the basin..."

"...ribbon placed before bell..."

16th day of Fashanos, 4830

A merchant visited the chapel yesterday. He introduced himself as Vartrien and said he represented the Mercantile Guild. His boots were polished, but they slipped on the chapel stones. He smelled faintly of tallow and wine.

He spoke with Elenne behind the altar rail. I only heard part of what was said... something about extending the outer walls, adding a foyer and foyer, and pulling stone from the cliff quarry. He did not ask about the altar or the basin.

Before leaving, he placed a coin in the offering basin. It was heavier than most and bore the Guild's seal. Elenne closed the doors earlier than usual and asked me to boil the cloth and clean the entry stone. She did not speak again until morning prayers.

After the bell, I copied half of the sea-born hymn. I still mix the second and third lines. The gulls circled loudly over the garden. They did not land.

Humidity has irrevocably damaged this page of the journal. The faint impression of a coastal flower leaves a colored stain in the center of the page. Ink bleeds across the fibers, blending so completely that all writing is beyond recognition.

3rd day of Charlatos, 4830

Rain began early and found its way in through the northern window joint again. A track of droplets marked the covers of three hymnals before I noticed. I dried them the best I could and set them near the basin to air.

Mother Elenne told me I might be ready to take the vesper reading next month. I said I would do my best, though my voice still shakes when the wind comes hard off the bay.

A boy from the shipyard arrived just before first bell. He brought a candle for his sister and did not speak. He nodded once and placed it on the old bench near the shell altar. It burned quickly and left a streak of wax on the wood.

After evening prayers, I copied the saltwater blessing again. I continue to forget the fourth line. I will practice it aloud tomorrow when the chapel is empty.

12th day of Olaesta, 4830

The salted fog held all morning. The bells could barely be heard from the quay, and the floor stayed damp long after I wiped it. The gulls were quiet today, though I saw them gather on the breakwall at dusk.

Mother Elenne allowed me to lead the midday verses. I stumbled on the refrain but kept pace. She gave no correction afterward, which I think was kindness. I will ask her to let me try again next week.

The Guildman has not returned, but I saw carts from the upper quarry moving past the garden path. One of the workers spat too close to the basin. I scrubbed the stone clean before closing the gate.

27th day of Ivastaen, 4830

The High Priestess arrived again, as expected. She comes every five months, though she avoids Charlatos and Lormesta because she does not like to travel in cold weather. This time, she brought only one attendant and a thick letter sealed in white wax.

She asked after the basin and walked the outer path twice before speaking. I do not know why she finds our grounds so peculiar. She always looks longer at the walls than at the altar.

She complimented the order of the garden, though I had not yet swept. Her words are even and pleasant, but her eyes are always searching. I do not think she comes only for worship.

Moisture has warped the page outward from the center, and a small flower is pressed into the parchment. Once white, its petals have turned a pale yellow. The edges have melted into the fibers over time, leaving a faint outline and a darker stain beneath. Ink has bled into the margins, but a few lines remain legible:

"He brought it with both hands."

"Said it grew from the rocks near the basin."

"It smelled faintly of salt and rosemary."

Written near the bottom corner, in a careful hand: Calen

9th day of Lumnea, 4830

Calen came again just after midday. He did not knock, only waited near the side path until I saw him. He brought a bloom, he said he found growing from a crack in the harbor wall. I told him it would not last, but he said that was fine.

He stayed long enough to watch me refill the basin, then left without saying more. I placed the flower in the back of the book, where I thought it would keep. It did not.

Mother Elenne has begun sorting the storeroom shelves again. I do not know where she plans to move everything, but she said we may have to share with the masons soon. I do not think she approves.

2nd day of Koaratos, 4830

Rumors continue about the Guild's plans, but nothing official has been posted. One of the stone counters in the garden cracked under the weight of a builder's crate. They said it would be replaced, but no one has returned to measure.

The High Priestess's letter is still sealed. Elenne has not opened it, though she moved it twice. I think she is waiting for another message, or perhaps the Guildman himself.

A blue gull feather was left on the altar after the second bell. No one saw who brought it.

I placed it in the ribbon box, away from the salt.

13th day of Koaratos, 4830

The stone bench in the garden has been replaced. I was not told it would happen, but when I stepped out to light the sea taper this morning, it was there. Rosewood, newly finished and still carrying the scent of cut shavings. The legs are slightly uneven, but the surface is smooth.

Elenne said one of the sailors had it made for his wife. She is the one who always sits near the roses and watches the harbor light. She wept when the bench cracked beneath the masons' crate. I am glad it was rebuilt.

Ink has lifted across most of the page, leaving behind only faint strokes and a few recognizable shapes. The top third is nearly blank, and the lower margin is warped from long exposure to damp air. Visible along the center fold, in pale ink, are snatches of the original message.

"...asked if it would still be the same chapel..."

"...carried the basin water out into the garden..."

"...song lines lost in the stone dust..."

5th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Construction has begun. Dust rises even before the first bell. The builders come early and eat beside the garden wall. I do not know how they leave the crumbs behind, but the gulls are clearly happy about it.

Mother Elenne and I have moved our sleeping mats into the chapel itself. There is no space left in the quarters, not since the back wall was taken down. She said it is temporary, but we must keep everything folded and out of sight during services.

She reminded me that we are not bound by silence or separation, only by devotion and clarity of intent. Then she looked at me and said, "Even your Calen would agree." I nearly dropped the basin ladle.

16th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Calen returned with an oilskin pouch and handed it to me without speaking. Inside was a cloth wrapped around several dry biscuits and a folded slip of sea-blue ribbon. He said he heard the workers had overrun our stores and that I was likely too polite to complain.

I thanked him, but could not find the right words. Elenne watched from the entryway. Later, she only asked if I had shared them.

The builders left stone dust across the floor again. I swept until my arms ached, but it returned before the evening bell. It finds every crack.

28th day of Phoenatos, 4830

The High Priestess will return in Jastatos. Elenne received a note today. No seal this time, only a clean fold and pressed script. She read it twice, then tucked it into the ledger without comment.

I asked if she thought the Guildman would be here as well. She said most likely, and that the two had likely been speaking for longer than we realized. She did not sound surprised or pleased.

The rosewood bench has already dulled to a greyish tone. I tried wiping it with a damp cloth, but the color does not return. Still, the sailor's wife came today and stayed for the whole of the afternoon light. She did not speak. Only watched the water and smiled.

7th day of Imaerasta, 4830

The scaffolding now reaches above the garden wall. Boards cast a grid of shadow over the roses during morning light. One of the masons said that the new walls will block the ocean view. I had not thought of that until now.

If the wall rises the way they say it will, the garden will face stone, not sea. Elenne was not surprised when I told her. She only said, "It's easier to worship what you can see than what you must remember."

I wonder if the sound of the tide will carry once the last wall is raised.

18th day of Imaerasta, 4830

Mist held long into the afternoon. We lit the lamps early and brought the linens in before the sea air reached them. The dust hangs longer in the stillness.

Word came that Yenterreth of the Marshtown passed in her sleep. She was one of the spirit women, always with a ribbon in her sleeve and saltwater on her boots. I remember her from before I came to live with Elenne. She called me bird girl and once gave me a braid of kelp twine.

She will be interred below with the others. I carried the notice down to the stone chamber myself.

Much of the page has faded due to moisture, but several phrases remain readable:

"...could see the harbor lantern from the bench..."

"...ribbons tied to the low branches removed..."

"...the sound of chisel work does not pause for prayer..."

Smudged ink across the lower edge shows where the page was touched before drying.

3rd day of Jastatos, 4830

The High Priestess arrived just after midday. She wore a dove-colored cloak and had her hair in three loops at her crown. Guildman Vartrien stood beside her beneath the scaffolding. They did not speak during the service, but both stayed until the end.

Afterward, they walked the garden with Elenne. I followed at a distance, gathering petals. I overheard them speak of creating a fresco in Niima's likeness upon the foyer wall. The High Priestess said the space would command presence.

No one mentioned the old altar. I swept around it that night, as a kind of apology.

15th day of Jastatos, 4830

A whisper has spread through the workers. One of the cart drivers said the Krolvin have been seen in Brisker's Cove. No one knows if it's true, but another said the harbor patrol was doubled this week.

Elenne said we cannot shape our prayers to rumors. Still, she lit the tall tapers during evening service and left them burning until the last shadow faded from the stones.

Calen has not returned since the rains began. I keep the ribbon he gave me in my prayer book. It smells faintly of rosemary, even now.

4th day of Eoantos, 4830

Elenne asked me to begin clearing the small office beside the catacombs. She said it was time someone sorted through what remains. I believe she means for me to be occupied, as Calen has not returned. She does not ask after him directly, but she notices when I forget the dusting cloth or leave the lamp wick too low.

The office is colder than I remembered. The walls sweat even when the wind is dry. I found a bundle of records tied with frayed cord, and a shelf of ledgers warped from years of damp. None have dates newer than 4816.

I lit a taper and marveled that its flame didn't waver. The air is rather stale.

12th day of Eoantos, 4830

Stacks of papers have begun to soften and fall apart as I move them. Some pages peel away like onion skin. Others are stuck together with mildew at the corners. There is no order left in the ledgers.

Elenne gave me vinegar water to scrub the stone and showed me how to dry the parchments without tearing the ink. Her hands are steadier than mine, but she let me try alone today.

No one has asked about the office in years. I wonder if anyone will again once the new temple is complete.

Several blotches stretch across the center of the page, caused by ink pressed while wet. Words are smudged and fingerprints mar the lower half.

Only a few lines are clear:

"...wrote his name on the margin and folded it..."

"...did not want to ask him not to go..."

"...the sea calls more surely than words ever could..."

21st day of Eoantos, 4830

Word came that Calen has signed on with a deep-sea vessel. No one knows the name, only that it sails past the Shoals and will be gone past spring.

Elenne said nothing when I told her. She simply handed me another cloth and said, "Salt dries slower than tears." I think she meant it kindly.

The basin water felt colder today, though the air was still. When I poured it over the shell altar, I thought of the wives who stand at our threshold with wet sleeves and silent mouths.

I begin to understand why they come. Not for answers, but for nearness.

1st day of Eorgaen, 4830

The sound of hammers has quieted. Most of the scaffolding has come down. The stones above the chapel are now smooth and white, with carved lines I cannot name.

I finished dusting the office and folded what remained of the ledgers. Several were too damaged to save. Elenne said I may stack them in the catacombs for burning later, though I kept two that still held their shape.

Calen's ribbon rests between the pages of one. I did not mean to place it there. It simply felt right.

19th day of Eorgaen, 4830

We moved into the new quarters today. The walls are smooth, and the ceiling curves slightly like the hull of a ship turned over. My mat fits beneath the small window, though it does not face the sea.

Elenne set our candles on the narrow sill and arranged her ledgers in the cabinet with care. She has not said whether she likes the new space, but she wiped the sill twice before speaking.

I kept the basin cloth. It still smells faintly of rosemary and ink.

31st day of Eorgaen, 4830

Year-end bells rang before the harbor mist had cleared. The garden is smaller now, and the altar no longer sees the ocean, but the salt wind still finds its way between the stones.

I watched from the upper stairs as the tide turned. For a moment, I imagined Calen leaning over the rail of whatever vessel he's found. I do not know where he sailed, or what wind carried him out, only that the thought of him still returns like breath.

I folded a ribbon into the base of the old ledger. Some things are easier to keep when hidden.

1st day of Lormesta, 4831

The High Priestess arrived at midday. She wore fur-lined gloves and spoke briefly before entering the new sanctum. Her words were softer this time. She said the white stone caught light well and that the new foyer had "clean weight."

She did not linger. Elenne bowed but did not speak.

I spent the rest of the day sorting a box of old hymn fragments. Some were written in Kannalan, though I can only read the titles. I have set two aside in hopes that someone might help me translate them.

3rd day of Lormesta, 4831

Calen returned today.

He stood by the garden gate and waited until I saw him. He did not wave. Only smiled, the kind of smile that asks without needing an answer.

I brought him a cup of water, and we sat in the shadow of the old chapel. He said nothing of the voyage, and I did not ask. I watched his hands as he spoke of the harbor and the wind near the reefs. He has a sun mark on his left wrist now, just above the bone.

When he left, he pressed a shell into my palm. It was smooth and unbroken.

5th day of Lormesta, 4831

I do not know if he missed me. I do not know if he meant to see me or only came to the chapel as he once did.

Still, I thought of him each time the tide turned. I imagined the shape of his boat against the horizon, wondering if he looked for birds or counted the ways salt settles into cloth.

The shell he gave me rests beneath the old candle box. I did not tell Elenne.

I have finished copying the Kannalan refrain. The words feel older than stone, but they sing cleanly when read aloud.
|}
==== a faded off-white vellum ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Letter to Aralinna from Tagetes
!a faded off-white vellum
|-
|22 Fashanos 4839

Hi Aralinne,
You are going to sputter when you read this, but I found something I think might actually help. I've been haunting the lower rooms of the Rest's old archive, the one that smells like mushrooms and lamp oil, and you would not believe the number of ledgers that don't even belong there. Some trader scribbled a note in the margin of a shipping contract, and I have no idea why, about a Hermit of Charl. Not a priest. Not a sailor. A hermit.

The strange part is, he wasn't written about like some bedraggled man on a rock. He had followers. Or at least people who carried his words. The note said he held something powerful, something that could "turn back the tide and lay bare the seabed, if placed with care and faith at the high edge." That's what it actually said. The relic doesn't have a name, which is frustrating, but it is always connected to cliffs or high ridges.

I spent the last two days chasing the reference backward, and I think it's Kannalan. Most of the names line up with the way they spell things when they want to make them sound more official. The good stuff always hides behind fancy lettering.

Anyway, I asked around, and there's a guide here who knows the Karazja ruins. He's agreed to take me inland starting next week. I'll be careful. I promise. But if I'm right, that relic might still be out there.

Imagine what it would mean if we could part the sea.

More soon,
Tagetes

P.S. Tell Marris not to let the acolytes into the tide closet again. I know it was them. The shells were rearranged. Again.
|}
==== Seaborne Hymnal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a thread-edged faded parchment
|-
|Parchment the color of drifted sand bears faded blue script in a careful, even hand. The edges have frayed into soft waves, and the lower corner is discolored where dampness clings to the page. A watermark in the upper left shows a simple wave crest superimposed over a scallop shell. Salt has left faint flecks across the surface, and one line of ink has bled slightly with age. Despite wear, the script remains fully legible, framed by a border of pressed gull feathers and hand-tied seasilk thread.

In the Common language, it reads:

Instructions for the Seaborne Hymnal

To be spoken daily, often at morning tide or before the first sail departs.

The Seaborne Hymnal is a spoken blessing offered to all who live by the rhythm of the sea. It honors those who make their living from its bounty, those who voyage upon it, and those who wait at its edge. The ritual is led by a priestess and joined by those gathered, using a call and response pattern. It is not sung, but spoken clearly, with steadiness and intent.

There are no physical offerings required. However, each response is accompanied by a hand gesture to mark the tide's reach and the release of prayer.

The priestess stands facing the gathered. Congregants may form a semicircle or remain as they are, whether in chapel or along the shore. The ritual may be performed indoors or outdoors, provided the sea is visible or near.

At each response, the right hand is placed palm-down over the heart, then extended outward, fingers spread as if forming the crest of a wave. This gesture is slow and deliberate. At the final line, the gesture is held outward a moment longer before lowering the hand.

The hymnal is: 
'''Priestess:''' Who wakes with the wind and walks with the tide? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who casts the net and bears the storm? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who waits at the window and sings to the dark? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who names the stars and trusts the wave? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Bless those who leave and those who remain. 
Bless those who labor and those who pray. 
Bless those who remember. 
'''Congregation (final gesture):''' And those who return no more.

The rite is complete after the final line. There is no need for benediction. Let silence follow for a breath or two before the next act begins.
|}
==== Ribbon Vigil ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a watermarked pearly white parchment
|-
|Faint mildew spots darken the four corners of the parchment, which has a pearly white finish created by the waxy finished worked into its fibers. An azure watermark of a scallop shell superimposed over cresting waves can be seen beneath the indigo ink that spread across its surface.

In the Common language, it reads:

The Ribbon Vigil is a quiet, sacred tradition observed by sailors and their loved ones before voyages that lead them beyond the protection of the bay. It is deeply personal, often unspoken, and performed in silence atop the temple's Widow's Walk. The rite is not scheduled by the temple, nor does it require direct guidance, but all priestesses, acolytes, and attending staff should understand its nature and how to offer quiet support when needed.

The vigil begins when a sailor and a significant companion, whether spouse, sibling, friend, or beloved, ascending to the rooftop of the temple. Together, they bring a ribbon, which may be carried openly or hidden in the hand, sleeve, or pocket until the moment it is needed. Upon reaching the rail that faces the open sea, they tie the ribbon to the ironwork together. There is no formal color or material required. While many choose white, blue, or sea green, others may bring a scrap of sailcloth or a woven charm. The meaning lies in the bond, not the fiber. No spoken words are required, though some murmur names or prayers as the knot is tied. The act itself is the offering. It binds the hope of return between two people and entrusts that bond to the sea.

At times, when a ship is long overdue or the sea has turned cruel, the one who remained ashore may return to the Widow's Walk alone. There, they loosen the knot they once tied. The ribbon is not taken down but left slack in the wind. This act is a plea to Niima, asking her to seek the one who has not come home. It is believed that if the ribbon is taken by the wind and reaches the sea, Niima will find the sailor and guide them to safety. That safety may not bring them home to Solhaven, but it will bring them to a shore. If the ribbon tangles, falls, or clings to the stone, some believe it is a sign that the soul it represents has already passed from Niima's reach.

Temple staff must not disturb those who come to perform this rite. Acolytes may observe from a distance and quietly light a sea taper at the stairwell when a ribbon loosening is witnessed. The gesture is enough to mark the moment. Comfort should be offered gently, without promise or correction. Never assure a safe return. Instead, remind them that Niima knows every name whispered to the tide and that no soul is ever truly lost to her.

Ribbons left on the Widow's Walk should be observed weekly. Those that have clearly loosened and not flown may be carefully removed and burned in a salt-fire by the priestess or her assistant. This should be done with solemnity and without comment, allowing the sea to receive what it could not carry.

Priestesses may speak of the vigil during public blessings, particularly on days when many ships prepare to depart. However, no individual should be named or pointed to. Let the ribbon be a silent prayer, seen by the sea and felt by those who wait.
|}
==== Song of Return ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a worn and faded scrap of vellum
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:

Song of Return 
A blessing for safe voyage and reunion

Go forth with the tide and return with the swell, 
Let the waves bear you gently, where ever you dwell. 
May your sails know the whisper, not the wail of the sea, 
And the stars hold your course where your heart longs to be.

Let the wind be your witness, the foam be your guide, 
Let the deep pass beneath you and never divide. 
By the light of Niima, by the calm of her grace, 
May your path find the harbor, your soul find its place.

Those who love you will wait with the shore in their eyes, 
Watching dawn rise in silence and dusk fill the skies. 
So go forth with the tide and return with the swell, 
You are known to the sea, and she knows you well.
|}

==== Elenne's (?) Papers ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a pale slip of vellum bearing a rust-tinged watermark
|-
|Rust-toned watermarks bloom across the lower half of the parchment, forming uneven, organic shapes. The ink has faded but remains legible throughout. The surface is rough to the touch, with several shallow indentations along the right margin, as if pressed against the corner of a writing board. Mild mildew spotting is visible near the top, and the parchment carries a faint metallic scent.

In the Common language, it reads: 
15th day of Fashanos, 4830 
Master Vartrien of the Mercantile Guild visited the chapel before midday service. He spoke of expanding the grounds and building a larger temple to better serve Solhaven's growing population. I reminded him that the chapel predates the coastal road and holds its own rhythm. He seemed unconcerned but polite. Left a coin marked with the Guild's seal in the basin. I placed it with the others and marked his visit in the side register.
|-
!a raw-edged and water-spotted page
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads: 
17th day of Lumnea, 4830 
Widow Carlan returned today, still unable to bear the final words. Her husband was taken last autumn in the reef churn near a southern cay. It has been added to our charts. I gave her the ledger entry of his loss to hold and read aloud as part of the Benediction for Final Rest. She left a net of white knotted cord, said it was the last he made, but did not stay. I've placed it on the altar before the midday rites. As a note, fog rolled in not long after service, and only three stayed for evening psalms.
|-
!a ink-streaked torn vellum sheet
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads: 
29th day of Koaratos, 4832 
Two merchant wives came bearing cloth bundles for the shrine. Each held swaddled sea stones tied with bits of silk, blue and pale. They asked no questions, gave no names. I placed the stones in the vessel below the sanctum basin and poured saltwater as they requested. Both stayed for the midday chant, though neither sang. After, they left through the garden gate without speaking further. I noted no marking on the silk. I hope they found comfort.
|-
!a mold-speckled soft parchment note
|-
|Softened by age and wear, the edges of the parchment curl inward, and pale mold speckling appears across the lower third of the sheet. A faint line suggests it was once folded and tucked into a ledger or personal book. The ink remains legible but has lightened near the corners. Moisture warping has created a slight upward curl in the body, and the parchment carries the scent of aged paper and damp wool.

In the Common language, it reads: 
3rd day of Eorgaen, 4832 
Widow Ellin came before the first bell and asked to sit in the quiet. She brought a folded scrap of ribbon from her husband's net bag and said she'd found it behind a dresser while cleaning for winter. I lit the sea taper and left her undisturbed while preparing the outer basin. She stayed through first prayers, then rose and placed the ribbon beneath the shell altar. She asked for no words today, but returned a missing bench cushion before leaving.
|-
!a smudged and warped journal page
|-
|Uneven ripples in the parchment surface indicate long exposure to moisture. Several pale smudges appear along the right margin, likely left by ink-stained fingers. Fading is most visible at the top, though the handwriting remains legible throughout. A faint scent of old wool and oil clings to the fibers. Abrasions across the back suggest the page rested for some time against a coarse surface.

In the Common language, it reads: 
7th day of Charlatos, 4833 
Three girls from Marshtown arrived just after first bell. None had formal instruction, but all carried the tunes well enough to follow the second line. We worked them through the basin hymn and the low chorus of the coastal prayer. They were assigned tunics from the eldest priestess, who sent them to scrub before vespers. We will continue twice weekly with them. If they remain steady, they may be ready for the Midyear Blessing. We've noted their names in the side book.
|-
!a creased parchment page
|-
|Creases stretch diagonally across the page, likely from folding while still damp. Several ink lines have run downward from the upper half, creating faint trails along the grain. Edges have darkened with age, and water damage has left a soft waviness across the surface. Handwriting remains legible, though uneven in places. The scent of mildew is stronger here, with a faint trace of fish oil soaked into one corner.

In the Common language, it reads: 
23rd day of Imaerasta, 4834 
Fleets pushed off beneath a red sky this evening. Wind held warm along the rise, and I watched from the upper path as the sails moved out past the bay mouth. I counted twenty-seven before I lost the line. I wrote their names as I remembered them, though some are just family names passed around. We did not ring the bell, but kept the flame lit through dusk. Sunset lingered long enough to finish the basin cleaning by natural light.
|-
!an ink-blotched paper fragment
|-
|Near the lower edge, signs of delamination are evident where prolonged exposure to moisture has lifted the parchment fibers. Ink blotches cover the upper left corner, though the writing beneath remains legible. Faint blue guidelines run horizontally across the surface, now nearly faded from view. All corners are softened from repeated handling, while the light scent of damp plaster and crushed chalk clings to the page.

In the Common language, it reads: 
18th day of Ivastaen, 4835 
Workers paused their efforts near the east colonnade due to a broken pulley. Several wandered into the chapel while the foreman spoke with a guild agent outside. One left a handful of copper on the basin rim. I noted no offering ribbon, but took it with the rest before lighting the salt lamp. Held afternoon prayers with two elders and one child. No hymn today. Breezes through the north wall joints have grown stronger since the scaffolding went up.
|}

==== a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Necklace Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 100 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
==== a discolored albatross feather quill ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Quill Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a discolored albatross feather quill
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 30,000 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
[[Category:The Shadowy Abyss]]

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Found items

2025-06-14T22:20:30Z

RAFFELS2: /* Elenne's (?) Papers */ Added 1 letter

__ToC__
== Shadowy Abyss Found Items ==
=== 06.06.2025 ===
==== an antique Vornavian silk cloth ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key's Sleeve
!an antique Vornavian silk cloth
|-
|Smooth with a soft finish, the Vornavian silk cloth has hints of its original deep blue hue at its edges though largely it has faded to a watered azure hue. Faint seashell patterns decorate the edge, the silver and white embroidery creating scallop shells that overlap. Rolled silk cords aid the bundle in staying closed as needed, their ends capped in silver dolphin periapts.
|}

===== a blue-tinted white vellum parchment =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Letter to Tagetes from Aralinne
!a blue-tinted white vellum parchment
|-
|Slightly warped in shape and displaying clear signs of damage from humidity, the fine parchment is tinted with a subtle blue hue that is almost white and yet distinctly not. Crisp folds create precise lines in the top and bottom third of the piece, while the corners display fray signs where moisture has separated the layers.
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:
the seventeenth day of Olaesta in the year 4839

Tagetes,

Hopefully, we will return at the same time and all of this preparation will be for naught.

The temple will have no attendants as I have figured out the missing piece to get us to Pearl. It lies in an old Kannalan Temple to Charl. I believe I've tracked down its former location. I've hidden the plans in the old office at the end of the catacombs and sealed the entry.

So few people know of its existence that it should be safe to travel there. I do not think I will be gone more than a handful of days.

However, as I do not trust the Mercantile Guild, with their recent decisions to create gardens and shrines to the dark pantheon, I have sealed the doorway up and hidden it. Since you know where it is, you should have no issue finding it.

There are seven keys for entry. I've left the Empress key here, but you can easily obtain the other six by seeking the blessings of the Lover, the Mistress, the Sister, the Mother, the Daughter, and the High Priestess. I'm sure you'll remember who these are from our past talks. I dare not say more for fear this is found by others.

Please know that some wish to see the curse spread. Others are working hard to stop it. Young Bristena had the idea to buy back all the jewelry from the women whose husband, lovers, and brothers searched the North Beach to obtain them. I gave her enough coin to buy them all back.

Once she has every last piece, she'll have a sailor take her out to the spot we believe the "Pearl" to be waiting in and drop them back into the water. That should give us time to get the pieces together to free her. I used the last of the coffers to pay a crew to start the lighthouse.

If I don't return... Please let my husband and son know the depths of which I love them.

By my hand,

Aralinne Wynedowne
|}
===== a carved golden amber acorn =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key
!a carved golden amber acorn
|-
|Roughly oval in shape, a carved golden amber acorn is broad and flat, providing an excellent view of its transparent interior portion. Trapped within the golden yellow fossilized pine tree sap are several small flying insects and a dried flower.
|}
==== an aged grey stone tile ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+The Tile
!an aged grey stone tile
|-
|Your song touches the tile, and the memory begins with stillness, then the faint scrape of wood across stone. Gentle hands press close, fitting the tile snugly into place. A murmur of approval hums nearby, muffled by fabric and breath. Cool grout slides into the seams, and the air shifts. Salt lingers in the room, carried on a current scented with blossoms. Lilac and sea daisy rise together, soft and clean. A hush settles across the surface, and the tile recognizes it as belonging. Beneath the faintest sigh of sandals against stone, a woman's voice murmurs, "There. That's better." The sounds and sensations fade along with the last syllables of your song.

As your song continues to caress the tile, it stirs with echoes of passing time. Soft footsteps come and go, punctuated by the rhythmic sweep of bristles and the clatter of buckets. Voices rise and fall nearby, sometimes low with grief, sometimes bright with ritual. One speaks of a sister's safe return, another offers blessings over a sailor's name. A different voice complains about a cracked basin and the need for fresh oil. Each moment blends into the next, seasons marked only by the changing cadence of heels, the weight of silence, and the gentle creak of wood in damp air. Slowly, the sensation and sounds fade, one by one, until they fall as silent as your song.

Your melody draws forth a hush, and the tile remembers the scent first. Bitter and resinous, the thick smoke of funerary incense curls low to the ground. Voices follow in soft procession, cloaked in sorrow. Some weep openly, others murmur prayers with trembling breath. The weight of grief presses against the stone, heavy as tide against jetty. A name is spoken again and again, reverent and broken, until it becomes a lullaby of mourning. Between each word, silence holds vigil. The tile feels a deep stillness in the air, as if even the sea has paused to listen. A final name tumbles across your ears as your song slips into silence, "Elenne."

Your song stirs the memory of disturbance. The tile feels the grit of its seams loosened, the edge of a tool scraping carefully through old grout. Pressure lifts it from the floor, just briefly, and something small is slid beneath. When the tile returns to its place, the surface meets the subfloor with an unfamiliar firmness. A hand lingers upon it, smooth and warm, resting for a long moment before giving a gentle pat. Whispered words ride the still air, close enough to touch, "Keep this safe until Tagetes finds you." An absence of warmth is the last sensation the tile imparts before your song stills.

Your voice brushes the tile, and the past answers with hushed urgency. There is the soft shuffle of feet, the creak of worn boots on stone, and a sharp intake of breath. Mournful whispers crowd the silence. A voice, cracked with worry and soft with distance, murmurs, "I don't know where you are, Aralinne. I can't get into the catacombs to check on you as the Brisker's Cove bowl was broken in the latest Krolvin raids... Please come home to us. Please. Your plan for Bristena worked; she told me of it when I returned. The girls are free, but where are you? I'm going to hide my piece until it can unite with yours. Please be safe, be careful." A soft sigh blends with the ending resonance of your song.

Your voice draws forth only silence at first. Time passes, measured in distant echoes. Footsteps sound too far to name, and faint shifts in the air come and go with no purpose. Old wood creaks softly where it meets damp stone. Dust settles in the seams, and salt from the sea clings to the surface. Years drift by without notice. Then, without warning, fingers press along your edges. There is a pause, a breath held just beyond hearing, and the tile feels the careful pry of something firm beneath it. A clamor of voices overlaps with each other until they blend into the fading sound of your song.
|}

=== 06.13.2025 ===
==== a salt-stained blue leather ledger ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Ledger from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a salt-stained blue leather ledger
|-
|Bound in navy blue leather, the ledger bears clear signs of repair. Patches of mismatched hide reinforce the spine and corners, and thin linen cords hold the bindings tight. Though worn smooth with age, the cover still holds the faint imprint of Niima's shell crest, long faded by handling. The pages inside are slightly bowed from moisture, but the ink has held well. Each year occupies a single page, the writing steady and small.
|-
|4816

Tidy dates and notations for each month in 4816 are aligned neatly along the inner margin. Notes reference standard morning and mid-tide services, with modest attendance throughout the year. Several deaths at sea are marked during Phoenatos and Imaerasta. There are mentions of a small fishing vessel lost in late Charlatos, and a new lantern donated by a widow named Hessa. The last quarter shows increased visits near Solstice.

4817

Entries for 4817 remain even and uneventful. Most notes concern basin cleaning, donation handling, and ribbon replenishment. Storms in Lumnea and Koaratos disrupted service for several days. A merchant's wife is mentioned repeatedly for leaving folded prayers in the offering box. One record notes an unusual number of gulls gathered at the altar during a fogbound service, marked simply with, "observed by three."

4818

Standard service records dominate the page, with annotations in blue ink appearing during spring. One comment in the margin reads, "New basin stone fitted. Shell inlay cracked but held." Three names repeat throughout the year: a retired sailor, a midwife from Marshtown, and a girl recorded only as "A.M." Several deaths at sea appear again in Eorgaen. Coastal offerings increase during the fall months.

4819

The 4819 entries continue in a narrow hand, with an unusual number of weddings noted between Charlatos and Ivastaen. Ribbons tied at the altar outnumber funerary entries this year. A brief note in Phoenatos mentions a fisherman's body returned after fifteen tides. Repairs to the vestibule door are recorded in Koaratos. A delivery of hymnals is documented without name, signed only with "N.L."

4820

Attendance patterns remain steady throughout 4820. Notations of storm disruptions in Fashanos and Koaratos are followed by increased evening services during those months. One brief note in Charlatos mentions a girl from the lower quarter beginning "training for vow," though no name is listed. Seasonal surges continue, with quiet months between. A salt-caked page corner suggests the ledger was left open during a sea spray.

4821

Small, precise entries for 4821 follow the pattern of prior years. Services remained regular, with additional rites held after a coastal storm in Charlatos. A recurring visitor is listed only as "shell-bearer" during spring months. Repairs to the west garden wall are noted in Lumnea. One entry in Eorgaen records, "child left driftwood figure at basin, no adult nearby." The handwriting becomes slightly sharper near the year's end.

4822

The year opened with colder winds and reduced attendance through Lormesta. One note in Fashanos records an elderly priestess slipping on the altar steps, resulting in no injury. Minor construction is logged in Ivastaen: "stone bench repositioned, foundation settled uneven." Gulls are again noted during a fog-heavy morning service. No deaths at sea are marked for Koaratos, which is noted as rare by the author. Extra hymn practice is recorded for Imaerasta.

4823

Faint ink along the top edge shows early signs of moisture, but the page remains legible. Most entries follow the standard pattern. A sailor's wedding in Phoenatos brought increased attendance for several days. Someone left a carved shell token in the basin and returned each week through Jastatos. No name was ever recorded. One funeral in Eoantos references burial in the lower catacomb row, name lost to smudging. Elenne's name begins to appear more frequently.

4824

Ledger entries remain orderly. Elenne is noted as presiding over full services during three major seasonal observances. A short entry in Imaerasta reads, "saltwater damaged two hymnals, copies made by hand." Several deaths at sea were recorded across Phoenatos and Jastatos. A recurring note of "candles late" appears without clarification. Winter quarter shows an increased number of widows seeking individual prayer times, as marked by initials only.

4825

The writing becomes slightly more compact along this page, possibly due to a change in hand. Services are held regularly with minor disruptions caused by harbor traffic. One early Charlatos entry reads, "path blocked by hauling rig, services delayed." Garden growth noted as "vigorous" in Lumnea. An unnamed girl from Marshtown began regular cleaning duties in midyear. Entries suggest her presence became routine, though her name is not yet recorded. Several pages show signs of ash smudging near the bottom corner.

4826

Ledger entries remain narrow and consistent. Regular service records dominate the page, with a note in Ivastaen reading, "two hymnals lost to mildew, one copied by hand." The girl from Marshtown is noted more frequently, assisting with basin preparation and entry sweeping. Elenne is recorded as leading nearly all rites this year. In Koaratos, a sailor's wife donated wax and twine following her husband's return from the reefs.

4827

A colder year, with notations of light frost in Charlatos and a decline in visitors during the first quarter. The Marshtown girl is listed by initials for the first time: "A.L.". She appears often in notes tied to daily upkeep and chant transcription. Elenne requested additional salt deliveries from the quay, suggesting higher ritual use. A short record in Imaerasta reads, "boy returned with offering candle for sister." His name is not recorded, but the action repeats in later months.

4828

Ink across this page is slightly lighter but consistent. Notes describe steady attendance and quiet observances throughout the year. "A.L." continues to serve regularly and is mentioned copying seasonal verses. A new basin cloth was donated by a widow in Phoenatos. Calen Wynedowne is noted briefly in Koaratos as assisting with deliveries. In Eorgaen, a child is recorded as tying sea glass to the offering pole, noted without comment.

4829

The handwriting tightens slightly, with some changes in wording structure. "A.L." is listed as leading chants during two minor observances. A service disruption is recorded in Charlatos: "work crew halted access to west path." Garden repairs resumed in Ivastaen, with the stone bench noted as "settled, but now cracking." Calen Wynedowne is marked present on three service dates. Elenne's name appears as usual, though one note mentions "shortness of breath in colder months."

4830

Entries shift slightly in tone this year, with more detailed notations. "A.L." is no longer referenced only by initials. Her name appears as Aralinne, recorded assisting with vespers and receiving permission to copy the coastal prayers. Elenne continues to lead services throughout. In Fashanos, a marked entry reads: "Calen Wynedowne departed aboard the Drowned Boar." A note in Imaerasta logs the visit of the High Priestess from Selanthia. Garden notes cease after Koaratos, likely due to early construction of the new temple.

4831

Entries are steady, with services held regularly in the newly expanded chapel. The original altar remains in partial use during evening observances. Aralinne is recorded as leading chants and maintaining basin duties throughout the year. A note in Charlatos reads, "Calen returned, left shell at east bench." Additional visitors marked in Phoenatos. Several Kannalan hymn fragments reviewed in Jastatos, with Aralinne listed as transcriber. No disruptions recorded.

4832

Observances continue without interruption. Aralinne is noted frequently in preparation tasks, seasonal cleanings, and the transcription of coastal rites. One record in Koaratos reads, "private service held for three widows." Increased taper use recorded in Imaerasta. No name given, but a new assistant is mentioned briefly in Lumnea. Aralinne's duties expand across multiple entries. The final note of the year: "attendance steady; records filed."

4833

Standard notations occupy most of the year. Aralinne continues in her role, listed alongside Elenne for all major observances. Her name appears independently in entries for dusk services and catacomb visits. One summer note mentions, "garden basin cleared and refilled under Aralinne's guidance." No major incidents. Early signs of leadership transition appear in Eoantos, though no formal statement is recorded. The garden bench is listed as worn, but stable.

4834

Charlatos begins with a formal entry: "Calen Wynedowne and Aralinne joined in marriage, witnessed before first bell at east altar." Both continue in regular attendance. Aralinne is recorded as leading evening services and overseeing hymn preservation efforts. Her handwriting begins to appear in later entries. Koaratos notes her inclusion in guild correspondence. The final entry in Eorgaen lists: "preparations for early solstice rites under Aralinne."

4835

Year begins quietly. Aralinne is now noted as officiating several services in early Fashanos. In Jastatos, a central entry reads: "Elenne passed peacefully in the night, fifth day of Jastatos." Her name does not appear again. Subsequent entries mark Aralinne presiding over full rites. One note reads, "transition marked with coastal hymn, basin blessing unchanged." Calen continues to appear sporadically. The final entry of the year reads: "chapel remains steady under Aralinne's care."
|}
==== a small salt-stained journal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Journal from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a small salt-stained journal
|-
|Bound in salt-stained suede, the small journal shows signs of frequent handling. The edges of the cover have curled slightly, and faint salt residue clings to the seams. Interior pages are swollen from moisture, and many are warped or stuck together. Ink bleeds across several leaves, though a few entries remain legible. The faint scent of mildew and brine lingers between the covers.
|-
|1st day of Lormesta, 4830

The new year began in silence. No sun showed at dawn, only a pale mist rolling over the port that settled in the alleys and gutters. We opened the chapel doors late this morning. A thin crust of salt had gathered again on the threshold.

Mother Elenne asked me to polish the lamp basin and check our remaining wax. She said that if the year is to bring anything, let it be steadiness. I scrubbed the copper too hard and bent the rim along one edge. She noticed but said nothing.

After the evening bell, I stayed to copy the coastal prayer. My ink bled in the cold, and my fingers would not hold the quill straight. The letters blurred near the bottom of the page. I will try again tomorrow.

The gulls have returned early this year. Their cries sound sharper than I remember.

Faint ink marks show a date in the top right corner, though the precise date is difficult to decipher. There is an impression of repeated script beneath the date, but the parchment is too warped to decipher much of its contents. Only a few words remain distinguishable near the bottom:

"...salt left from the..."

"...sleeves wet from the basin..."

"...ribbon placed before bell..."

16th day of Fashanos, 4830

A merchant visited the chapel yesterday. He introduced himself as Vartrien and said he represented the Mercantile Guild. His boots were polished, but they slipped on the chapel stones. He smelled faintly of tallow and wine.

He spoke with Elenne behind the altar rail. I only heard part of what was said... something about extending the outer walls, adding a foyer and foyer, and pulling stone from the cliff quarry. He did not ask about the altar or the basin.

Before leaving, he placed a coin in the offering basin. It was heavier than most and bore the Guild's seal. Elenne closed the doors earlier than usual and asked me to boil the cloth and clean the entry stone. She did not speak again until morning prayers.

After the bell, I copied half of the sea-born hymn. I still mix the second and third lines. The gulls circled loudly over the garden. They did not land.

Humidity has irrevocably damaged this page of the journal. The faint impression of a coastal flower leaves a colored stain in the center of the page. Ink bleeds across the fibers, blending so completely that all writing is beyond recognition.

3rd day of Charlatos, 4830

Rain began early and found its way in through the northern window joint again. A track of droplets marked the covers of three hymnals before I noticed. I dried them the best I could and set them near the basin to air.

Mother Elenne told me I might be ready to take the vesper reading next month. I said I would do my best, though my voice still shakes when the wind comes hard off the bay.

A boy from the shipyard arrived just before first bell. He brought a candle for his sister and did not speak. He nodded once and placed it on the old bench near the shell altar. It burned quickly and left a streak of wax on the wood.

After evening prayers, I copied the saltwater blessing again. I continue to forget the fourth line. I will practice it aloud tomorrow when the chapel is empty.

12th day of Olaesta, 4830

The salted fog held all morning. The bells could barely be heard from the quay, and the floor stayed damp long after I wiped it. The gulls were quiet today, though I saw them gather on the breakwall at dusk.

Mother Elenne allowed me to lead the midday verses. I stumbled on the refrain but kept pace. She gave no correction afterward, which I think was kindness. I will ask her to let me try again next week.

The Guildman has not returned, but I saw carts from the upper quarry moving past the garden path. One of the workers spat too close to the basin. I scrubbed the stone clean before closing the gate.

27th day of Ivastaen, 4830

The High Priestess arrived again, as expected. She comes every five months, though she avoids Charlatos and Lormesta because she does not like to travel in cold weather. This time, she brought only one attendant and a thick letter sealed in white wax.

She asked after the basin and walked the outer path twice before speaking. I do not know why she finds our grounds so peculiar. She always looks longer at the walls than at the altar.

She complimented the order of the garden, though I had not yet swept. Her words are even and pleasant, but her eyes are always searching. I do not think she comes only for worship.

Moisture has warped the page outward from the center, and a small flower is pressed into the parchment. Once white, its petals have turned a pale yellow. The edges have melted into the fibers over time, leaving a faint outline and a darker stain beneath. Ink has bled into the margins, but a few lines remain legible:

"He brought it with both hands."

"Said it grew from the rocks near the basin."

"It smelled faintly of salt and rosemary."

Written near the bottom corner, in a careful hand: Calen

9th day of Lumnea, 4830

Calen came again just after midday. He did not knock, only waited near the side path until I saw him. He brought a bloom, he said he found growing from a crack in the harbor wall. I told him it would not last, but he said that was fine.

He stayed long enough to watch me refill the basin, then left without saying more. I placed the flower in the back of the book, where I thought it would keep. It did not.

Mother Elenne has begun sorting the storeroom shelves again. I do not know where she plans to move everything, but she said we may have to share with the masons soon. I do not think she approves.

2nd day of Koaratos, 4830

Rumors continue about the Guild's plans, but nothing official has been posted. One of the stone counters in the garden cracked under the weight of a builder's crate. They said it would be replaced, but no one has returned to measure.

The High Priestess's letter is still sealed. Elenne has not opened it, though she moved it twice. I think she is waiting for another message, or perhaps the Guildman himself.

A blue gull feather was left on the altar after the second bell. No one saw who brought it.

I placed it in the ribbon box, away from the salt.

13th day of Koaratos, 4830

The stone bench in the garden has been replaced. I was not told it would happen, but when I stepped out to light the sea taper this morning, it was there. Rosewood, newly finished and still carrying the scent of cut shavings. The legs are slightly uneven, but the surface is smooth.

Elenne said one of the sailors had it made for his wife. She is the one who always sits near the roses and watches the harbor light. She wept when the bench cracked beneath the masons' crate. I am glad it was rebuilt.

Ink has lifted across most of the page, leaving behind only faint strokes and a few recognizable shapes. The top third is nearly blank, and the lower margin is warped from long exposure to damp air. Visible along the center fold, in pale ink, are snatches of the original message.

"...asked if it would still be the same chapel..."

"...carried the basin water out into the garden..."

"...song lines lost in the stone dust..."

5th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Construction has begun. Dust rises even before the first bell. The builders come early and eat beside the garden wall. I do not know how they leave the crumbs behind, but the gulls are clearly happy about it.

Mother Elenne and I have moved our sleeping mats into the chapel itself. There is no space left in the quarters, not since the back wall was taken down. She said it is temporary, but we must keep everything folded and out of sight during services.

She reminded me that we are not bound by silence or separation, only by devotion and clarity of intent. Then she looked at me and said, "Even your Calen would agree." I nearly dropped the basin ladle.

16th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Calen returned with an oilskin pouch and handed it to me without speaking. Inside was a cloth wrapped around several dry biscuits and a folded slip of sea-blue ribbon. He said he heard the workers had overrun our stores and that I was likely too polite to complain.

I thanked him, but could not find the right words. Elenne watched from the entryway. Later, she only asked if I had shared them.

The builders left stone dust across the floor again. I swept until my arms ached, but it returned before the evening bell. It finds every crack.

28th day of Phoenatos, 4830

The High Priestess will return in Jastatos. Elenne received a note today. No seal this time, only a clean fold and pressed script. She read it twice, then tucked it into the ledger without comment.

I asked if she thought the Guildman would be here as well. She said most likely, and that the two had likely been speaking for longer than we realized. She did not sound surprised or pleased.

The rosewood bench has already dulled to a greyish tone. I tried wiping it with a damp cloth, but the color does not return. Still, the sailor's wife came today and stayed for the whole of the afternoon light. She did not speak. Only watched the water and smiled.

7th day of Imaerasta, 4830

The scaffolding now reaches above the garden wall. Boards cast a grid of shadow over the roses during morning light. One of the masons said that the new walls will block the ocean view. I had not thought of that until now.

If the wall rises the way they say it will, the garden will face stone, not sea. Elenne was not surprised when I told her. She only said, "It's easier to worship what you can see than what you must remember."

I wonder if the sound of the tide will carry once the last wall is raised.

18th day of Imaerasta, 4830

Mist held long into the afternoon. We lit the lamps early and brought the linens in before the sea air reached them. The dust hangs longer in the stillness.

Word came that Yenterreth of the Marshtown passed in her sleep. She was one of the spirit women, always with a ribbon in her sleeve and saltwater on her boots. I remember her from before I came to live with Elenne. She called me bird girl and once gave me a braid of kelp twine.

She will be interred below with the others. I carried the notice down to the stone chamber myself.

Much of the page has faded due to moisture, but several phrases remain readable:

"...could see the harbor lantern from the bench..."

"...ribbons tied to the low branches removed..."

"...the sound of chisel work does not pause for prayer..."

Smudged ink across the lower edge shows where the page was touched before drying.

3rd day of Jastatos, 4830

The High Priestess arrived just after midday. She wore a dove-colored cloak and had her hair in three loops at her crown. Guildman Vartrien stood beside her beneath the scaffolding. They did not speak during the service, but both stayed until the end.

Afterward, they walked the garden with Elenne. I followed at a distance, gathering petals. I overheard them speak of creating a fresco in Niima's likeness upon the foyer wall. The High Priestess said the space would command presence.

No one mentioned the old altar. I swept around it that night, as a kind of apology.

15th day of Jastatos, 4830

A whisper has spread through the workers. One of the cart drivers said the Krolvin have been seen in Brisker's Cove. No one knows if it's true, but another said the harbor patrol was doubled this week.

Elenne said we cannot shape our prayers to rumors. Still, she lit the tall tapers during evening service and left them burning until the last shadow faded from the stones.

Calen has not returned since the rains began. I keep the ribbon he gave me in my prayer book. It smells faintly of rosemary, even now.

4th day of Eoantos, 4830

Elenne asked me to begin clearing the small office beside the catacombs. She said it was time someone sorted through what remains. I believe she means for me to be occupied, as Calen has not returned. She does not ask after him directly, but she notices when I forget the dusting cloth or leave the lamp wick too low.

The office is colder than I remembered. The walls sweat even when the wind is dry. I found a bundle of records tied with frayed cord, and a shelf of ledgers warped from years of damp. None have dates newer than 4816.

I lit a taper and marveled that its flame didn't waver. The air is rather stale.

12th day of Eoantos, 4830

Stacks of papers have begun to soften and fall apart as I move them. Some pages peel away like onion skin. Others are stuck together with mildew at the corners. There is no order left in the ledgers.

Elenne gave me vinegar water to scrub the stone and showed me how to dry the parchments without tearing the ink. Her hands are steadier than mine, but she let me try alone today.

No one has asked about the office in years. I wonder if anyone will again once the new temple is complete.

Several blotches stretch across the center of the page, caused by ink pressed while wet. Words are smudged and fingerprints mar the lower half.

Only a few lines are clear:

"...wrote his name on the margin and folded it..."

"...did not want to ask him not to go..."

"...the sea calls more surely than words ever could..."

21st day of Eoantos, 4830

Word came that Calen has signed on with a deep-sea vessel. No one knows the name, only that it sails past the Shoals and will be gone past spring.

Elenne said nothing when I told her. She simply handed me another cloth and said, "Salt dries slower than tears." I think she meant it kindly.

The basin water felt colder today, though the air was still. When I poured it over the shell altar, I thought of the wives who stand at our threshold with wet sleeves and silent mouths.

I begin to understand why they come. Not for answers, but for nearness.

1st day of Eorgaen, 4830

The sound of hammers has quieted. Most of the scaffolding has come down. The stones above the chapel are now smooth and white, with carved lines I cannot name.

I finished dusting the office and folded what remained of the ledgers. Several were too damaged to save. Elenne said I may stack them in the catacombs for burning later, though I kept two that still held their shape.

Calen's ribbon rests between the pages of one. I did not mean to place it there. It simply felt right.

19th day of Eorgaen, 4830

We moved into the new quarters today. The walls are smooth, and the ceiling curves slightly like the hull of a ship turned over. My mat fits beneath the small window, though it does not face the sea.

Elenne set our candles on the narrow sill and arranged her ledgers in the cabinet with care. She has not said whether she likes the new space, but she wiped the sill twice before speaking.

I kept the basin cloth. It still smells faintly of rosemary and ink.

31st day of Eorgaen, 4830

Year-end bells rang before the harbor mist had cleared. The garden is smaller now, and the altar no longer sees the ocean, but the salt wind still finds its way between the stones.

I watched from the upper stairs as the tide turned. For a moment, I imagined Calen leaning over the rail of whatever vessel he's found. I do not know where he sailed, or what wind carried him out, only that the thought of him still returns like breath.

I folded a ribbon into the base of the old ledger. Some things are easier to keep when hidden.

1st day of Lormesta, 4831

The High Priestess arrived at midday. She wore fur-lined gloves and spoke briefly before entering the new sanctum. Her words were softer this time. She said the white stone caught light well and that the new foyer had "clean weight."

She did not linger. Elenne bowed but did not speak.

I spent the rest of the day sorting a box of old hymn fragments. Some were written in Kannalan, though I can only read the titles. I have set two aside in hopes that someone might help me translate them.

3rd day of Lormesta, 4831

Calen returned today.

He stood by the garden gate and waited until I saw him. He did not wave. Only smiled, the kind of smile that asks without needing an answer.

I brought him a cup of water, and we sat in the shadow of the old chapel. He said nothing of the voyage, and I did not ask. I watched his hands as he spoke of the harbor and the wind near the reefs. He has a sun mark on his left wrist now, just above the bone.

When he left, he pressed a shell into my palm. It was smooth and unbroken.

5th day of Lormesta, 4831

I do not know if he missed me. I do not know if he meant to see me or only came to the chapel as he once did.

Still, I thought of him each time the tide turned. I imagined the shape of his boat against the horizon, wondering if he looked for birds or counted the ways salt settles into cloth.

The shell he gave me rests beneath the old candle box. I did not tell Elenne.

I have finished copying the Kannalan refrain. The words feel older than stone, but they sing cleanly when read aloud.
|}
==== a faded off-white vellum ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Letter to Aralinna from Tagetes
!a faded off-white vellum
|-
|22 Fashanos 4839

Hi Aralinne,
You are going to sputter when you read this, but I found something I think might actually help. I've been haunting the lower rooms of the Rest's old archive, the one that smells like mushrooms and lamp oil, and you would not believe the number of ledgers that don't even belong there. Some trader scribbled a note in the margin of a shipping contract, and I have no idea why, about a Hermit of Charl. Not a priest. Not a sailor. A hermit.

The strange part is, he wasn't written about like some bedraggled man on a rock. He had followers. Or at least people who carried his words. The note said he held something powerful, something that could "turn back the tide and lay bare the seabed, if placed with care and faith at the high edge." That's what it actually said. The relic doesn't have a name, which is frustrating, but it is always connected to cliffs or high ridges.

I spent the last two days chasing the reference backward, and I think it's Kannalan. Most of the names line up with the way they spell things when they want to make them sound more official. The good stuff always hides behind fancy lettering.

Anyway, I asked around, and there's a guide here who knows the Karazja ruins. He's agreed to take me inland starting next week. I'll be careful. I promise. But if I'm right, that relic might still be out there.

Imagine what it would mean if we could part the sea.

More soon,
Tagetes

P.S. Tell Marris not to let the acolytes into the tide closet again. I know it was them. The shells were rearranged. Again.
|}
==== Seaborne Hymnal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a thread-edged faded parchment
|-
|Parchment the color of drifted sand bears faded blue script in a careful, even hand. The edges have frayed into soft waves, and the lower corner is discolored where dampness clings to the page. A watermark in the upper left shows a simple wave crest superimposed over a scallop shell. Salt has left faint flecks across the surface, and one line of ink has bled slightly with age. Despite wear, the script remains fully legible, framed by a border of pressed gull feathers and hand-tied seasilk thread.

In the Common language, it reads:

Instructions for the Seaborne Hymnal

To be spoken daily, often at morning tide or before the first sail departs.

The Seaborne Hymnal is a spoken blessing offered to all who live by the rhythm of the sea. It honors those who make their living from its bounty, those who voyage upon it, and those who wait at its edge. The ritual is led by a priestess and joined by those gathered, using a call and response pattern. It is not sung, but spoken clearly, with steadiness and intent.

There are no physical offerings required. However, each response is accompanied by a hand gesture to mark the tide's reach and the release of prayer.

The priestess stands facing the gathered. Congregants may form a semicircle or remain as they are, whether in chapel or along the shore. The ritual may be performed indoors or outdoors, provided the sea is visible or near.

At each response, the right hand is placed palm-down over the heart, then extended outward, fingers spread as if forming the crest of a wave. This gesture is slow and deliberate. At the final line, the gesture is held outward a moment longer before lowering the hand.

The hymnal is: 
'''Priestess:''' Who wakes with the wind and walks with the tide? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who casts the net and bears the storm? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who waits at the window and sings to the dark? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who names the stars and trusts the wave? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Bless those who leave and those who remain. 
Bless those who labor and those who pray. 
Bless those who remember. 
'''Congregation (final gesture):''' And those who return no more.

The rite is complete after the final line. There is no need for benediction. Let silence follow for a breath or two before the next act begins.
|}
==== Ribbon Vigil ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a watermarked pearly white parchment
|-
|Faint mildew spots darken the four corners of the parchment, which has a pearly white finish created by the waxy finished worked into its fibers. An azure watermark of a scallop shell superimposed over cresting waves can be seen beneath the indigo ink that spread across its surface.

In the Common language, it reads:

The Ribbon Vigil is a quiet, sacred tradition observed by sailors and their loved ones before voyages that lead them beyond the protection of the bay. It is deeply personal, often unspoken, and performed in silence atop the temple's Widow's Walk. The rite is not scheduled by the temple, nor does it require direct guidance, but all priestesses, acolytes, and attending staff should understand its nature and how to offer quiet support when needed.

The vigil begins when a sailor and a significant companion, whether spouse, sibling, friend, or beloved, ascending to the rooftop of the temple. Together, they bring a ribbon, which may be carried openly or hidden in the hand, sleeve, or pocket until the moment it is needed. Upon reaching the rail that faces the open sea, they tie the ribbon to the ironwork together. There is no formal color or material required. While many choose white, blue, or sea green, others may bring a scrap of sailcloth or a woven charm. The meaning lies in the bond, not the fiber. No spoken words are required, though some murmur names or prayers as the knot is tied. The act itself is the offering. It binds the hope of return between two people and entrusts that bond to the sea.

At times, when a ship is long overdue or the sea has turned cruel, the one who remained ashore may return to the Widow's Walk alone. There, they loosen the knot they once tied. The ribbon is not taken down but left slack in the wind. This act is a plea to Niima, asking her to seek the one who has not come home. It is believed that if the ribbon is taken by the wind and reaches the sea, Niima will find the sailor and guide them to safety. That safety may not bring them home to Solhaven, but it will bring them to a shore. If the ribbon tangles, falls, or clings to the stone, some believe it is a sign that the soul it represents has already passed from Niima's reach.

Temple staff must not disturb those who come to perform this rite. Acolytes may observe from a distance and quietly light a sea taper at the stairwell when a ribbon loosening is witnessed. The gesture is enough to mark the moment. Comfort should be offered gently, without promise or correction. Never assure a safe return. Instead, remind them that Niima knows every name whispered to the tide and that no soul is ever truly lost to her.

Ribbons left on the Widow's Walk should be observed weekly. Those that have clearly loosened and not flown may be carefully removed and burned in a salt-fire by the priestess or her assistant. This should be done with solemnity and without comment, allowing the sea to receive what it could not carry.

Priestesses may speak of the vigil during public blessings, particularly on days when many ships prepare to depart. However, no individual should be named or pointed to. Let the ribbon be a silent prayer, seen by the sea and felt by those who wait.
|}
==== Song of Return ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a worn and faded scrap of vellum
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:

Song of Return 
A blessing for safe voyage and reunion

Go forth with the tide and return with the swell, 
Let the waves bear you gently, where ever you dwell. 
May your sails know the whisper, not the wail of the sea, 
And the stars hold your course where your heart longs to be.

Let the wind be your witness, the foam be your guide, 
Let the deep pass beneath you and never divide. 
By the light of Niima, by the calm of her grace, 
May your path find the harbor, your soul find its place.

Those who love you will wait with the shore in their eyes, 
Watching dawn rise in silence and dusk fill the skies. 
So go forth with the tide and return with the swell, 
You are known to the sea, and she knows you well.
|}

==== Elenne's (?) Papers ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a pale slip of vellum bearing a rust-tinged watermark
|-
|Rust-toned watermarks bloom across the lower half of the parchment, forming uneven, organic shapes. The ink has faded but remains legible throughout. The surface is rough to the touch, with several shallow indentations along the right margin, as if pressed against the corner of a writing board. Mild mildew spotting is visible near the top, and the parchment carries a faint metallic scent.

In the Common language, it reads: 
15th day of Fashanos, 4830 
Master Vartrien of the Mercantile Guild visited the chapel before midday service. He spoke of expanding the grounds and building a larger temple to better serve Solhaven's growing population. I reminded him that the chapel predates the coastal road and holds its own rhythm. He seemed unconcerned but polite. Left a coin marked with the Guild's seal in the basin. I placed it with the others and marked his visit in the side register.
|-
!a raw-edged and water-spotted page
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads:

17th day of Lumnea, 4830
Widow Carlan returned today, still unable to bear the final words. Her husband was taken last autumn in the reef churn near a southern cay. It has been added to our charts. I gave her the ledger entry of his loss to hold and read aloud as part of the Benediction for Final Rest. She left a net of white knotted cord, said it was the last he made, but did not stay. I've placed it on the altar before the midday rites. As a note, fog rolled in not long after service, and only three stayed for evening psalms.
|-
!a ink-streaked torn vellum sheet
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads: 
29th day of Koaratos, 4832 
Two merchant wives came bearing cloth bundles for the shrine. Each held swaddled sea stones tied with bits of silk, blue and pale. They asked no questions, gave no names. I placed the stones in the vessel below the sanctum basin and poured saltwater as they requested. Both stayed for the midday chant, though neither sang. After, they left through the garden gate without speaking further. I noted no marking on the silk. I hope they found comfort.
|-
!a mold-speckled soft parchment note
|-
|Softened by age and wear, the edges of the parchment curl inward, and pale mold speckling appears across the lower third of the sheet. A faint line suggests it was once folded and tucked into a ledger or personal book. The ink remains legible but has lightened near the corners. Moisture warping has created a slight upward curl in the body, and the parchment carries the scent of aged paper and damp wool.

In the Common language, it reads: 
3rd day of Eorgaen, 4832 
Widow Ellin came before the first bell and asked to sit in the quiet. She brought a folded scrap of ribbon from her husband's net bag and said she'd found it behind a dresser while cleaning for winter. I lit the sea taper and left her undisturbed while preparing the outer basin. She stayed through first prayers, then rose and placed the ribbon beneath the shell altar. She asked for no words today, but returned a missing bench cushion before leaving.
|-
!a smudged and warped journal page
|-
|Uneven ripples in the parchment surface indicate long exposure to moisture. Several pale smudges appear along the right margin, likely left by ink-stained fingers. Fading is most visible at the top, though the handwriting remains legible throughout. A faint scent of old wool and oil clings to the fibers. Abrasions across the back suggest the page rested for some time against a coarse surface.

In the Common language, it reads: 
7th day of Charlatos, 4833 
Three girls from Marshtown arrived just after first bell. None had formal instruction, but all carried the tunes well enough to follow the second line. We worked them through the basin hymn and the low chorus of the coastal prayer. They were assigned tunics from the eldest priestess, who sent them to scrub before vespers. We will continue twice weekly with them. If they remain steady, they may be ready for the Midyear Blessing. We've noted their names in the side book.
|-
!an ink-blotched paper fragment
|-
|Near the lower edge, signs of delamination are evident where prolonged exposure to moisture has lifted the parchment fibers. Ink blotches cover the upper left corner, though the writing beneath remains legible. Faint blue guidelines run horizontally across the surface, now nearly faded from view. All corners are softened from repeated handling, while the light scent of damp plaster and crushed chalk clings to the page.

In the Common language, it reads: 
18th day of Ivastaen, 4835 
Workers paused their efforts near the east colonnade due to a broken pulley. Several wandered into the chapel while the foreman spoke with a guild agent outside. One left a handful of copper on the basin rim. I noted no offering ribbon, but took it with the rest before lighting the salt lamp. Held afternoon prayers with two elders and one child. No hymn today. Breezes through the north wall joints have grown stronger since the scaffolding went up.
|}

==== a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Necklace Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 100 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
==== a discolored albatross feather quill ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Quill Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a discolored albatross feather quill
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 30,000 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
[[Category:The Shadowy Abyss]]

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Found items

2025-06-14T22:15:23Z

RAFFELS2: /* Elenne's (?) Papers */ Added 1 letter

__ToC__
== Shadowy Abyss Found Items ==
=== 06.06.2025 ===
==== an antique Vornavian silk cloth ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key's Sleeve
!an antique Vornavian silk cloth
|-
|Smooth with a soft finish, the Vornavian silk cloth has hints of its original deep blue hue at its edges though largely it has faded to a watered azure hue. Faint seashell patterns decorate the edge, the silver and white embroidery creating scallop shells that overlap. Rolled silk cords aid the bundle in staying closed as needed, their ends capped in silver dolphin periapts.
|}

===== a blue-tinted white vellum parchment =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Letter to Tagetes from Aralinne
!a blue-tinted white vellum parchment
|-
|Slightly warped in shape and displaying clear signs of damage from humidity, the fine parchment is tinted with a subtle blue hue that is almost white and yet distinctly not. Crisp folds create precise lines in the top and bottom third of the piece, while the corners display fray signs where moisture has separated the layers.
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:
the seventeenth day of Olaesta in the year 4839

Tagetes,

Hopefully, we will return at the same time and all of this preparation will be for naught.

The temple will have no attendants as I have figured out the missing piece to get us to Pearl. It lies in an old Kannalan Temple to Charl. I believe I've tracked down its former location. I've hidden the plans in the old office at the end of the catacombs and sealed the entry.

So few people know of its existence that it should be safe to travel there. I do not think I will be gone more than a handful of days.

However, as I do not trust the Mercantile Guild, with their recent decisions to create gardens and shrines to the dark pantheon, I have sealed the doorway up and hidden it. Since you know where it is, you should have no issue finding it.

There are seven keys for entry. I've left the Empress key here, but you can easily obtain the other six by seeking the blessings of the Lover, the Mistress, the Sister, the Mother, the Daughter, and the High Priestess. I'm sure you'll remember who these are from our past talks. I dare not say more for fear this is found by others.

Please know that some wish to see the curse spread. Others are working hard to stop it. Young Bristena had the idea to buy back all the jewelry from the women whose husband, lovers, and brothers searched the North Beach to obtain them. I gave her enough coin to buy them all back.

Once she has every last piece, she'll have a sailor take her out to the spot we believe the "Pearl" to be waiting in and drop them back into the water. That should give us time to get the pieces together to free her. I used the last of the coffers to pay a crew to start the lighthouse.

If I don't return... Please let my husband and son know the depths of which I love them.

By my hand,

Aralinne Wynedowne
|}
===== a carved golden amber acorn =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key
!a carved golden amber acorn
|-
|Roughly oval in shape, a carved golden amber acorn is broad and flat, providing an excellent view of its transparent interior portion. Trapped within the golden yellow fossilized pine tree sap are several small flying insects and a dried flower.
|}
==== an aged grey stone tile ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+The Tile
!an aged grey stone tile
|-
|Your song touches the tile, and the memory begins with stillness, then the faint scrape of wood across stone. Gentle hands press close, fitting the tile snugly into place. A murmur of approval hums nearby, muffled by fabric and breath. Cool grout slides into the seams, and the air shifts. Salt lingers in the room, carried on a current scented with blossoms. Lilac and sea daisy rise together, soft and clean. A hush settles across the surface, and the tile recognizes it as belonging. Beneath the faintest sigh of sandals against stone, a woman's voice murmurs, "There. That's better." The sounds and sensations fade along with the last syllables of your song.

As your song continues to caress the tile, it stirs with echoes of passing time. Soft footsteps come and go, punctuated by the rhythmic sweep of bristles and the clatter of buckets. Voices rise and fall nearby, sometimes low with grief, sometimes bright with ritual. One speaks of a sister's safe return, another offers blessings over a sailor's name. A different voice complains about a cracked basin and the need for fresh oil. Each moment blends into the next, seasons marked only by the changing cadence of heels, the weight of silence, and the gentle creak of wood in damp air. Slowly, the sensation and sounds fade, one by one, until they fall as silent as your song.

Your melody draws forth a hush, and the tile remembers the scent first. Bitter and resinous, the thick smoke of funerary incense curls low to the ground. Voices follow in soft procession, cloaked in sorrow. Some weep openly, others murmur prayers with trembling breath. The weight of grief presses against the stone, heavy as tide against jetty. A name is spoken again and again, reverent and broken, until it becomes a lullaby of mourning. Between each word, silence holds vigil. The tile feels a deep stillness in the air, as if even the sea has paused to listen. A final name tumbles across your ears as your song slips into silence, "Elenne."

Your song stirs the memory of disturbance. The tile feels the grit of its seams loosened, the edge of a tool scraping carefully through old grout. Pressure lifts it from the floor, just briefly, and something small is slid beneath. When the tile returns to its place, the surface meets the subfloor with an unfamiliar firmness. A hand lingers upon it, smooth and warm, resting for a long moment before giving a gentle pat. Whispered words ride the still air, close enough to touch, "Keep this safe until Tagetes finds you." An absence of warmth is the last sensation the tile imparts before your song stills.

Your voice brushes the tile, and the past answers with hushed urgency. There is the soft shuffle of feet, the creak of worn boots on stone, and a sharp intake of breath. Mournful whispers crowd the silence. A voice, cracked with worry and soft with distance, murmurs, "I don't know where you are, Aralinne. I can't get into the catacombs to check on you as the Brisker's Cove bowl was broken in the latest Krolvin raids... Please come home to us. Please. Your plan for Bristena worked; she told me of it when I returned. The girls are free, but where are you? I'm going to hide my piece until it can unite with yours. Please be safe, be careful." A soft sigh blends with the ending resonance of your song.

Your voice draws forth only silence at first. Time passes, measured in distant echoes. Footsteps sound too far to name, and faint shifts in the air come and go with no purpose. Old wood creaks softly where it meets damp stone. Dust settles in the seams, and salt from the sea clings to the surface. Years drift by without notice. Then, without warning, fingers press along your edges. There is a pause, a breath held just beyond hearing, and the tile feels the careful pry of something firm beneath it. A clamor of voices overlaps with each other until they blend into the fading sound of your song.
|}

=== 06.13.2025 ===
==== a salt-stained blue leather ledger ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Ledger from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a salt-stained blue leather ledger
|-
|Bound in navy blue leather, the ledger bears clear signs of repair. Patches of mismatched hide reinforce the spine and corners, and thin linen cords hold the bindings tight. Though worn smooth with age, the cover still holds the faint imprint of Niima's shell crest, long faded by handling. The pages inside are slightly bowed from moisture, but the ink has held well. Each year occupies a single page, the writing steady and small.
|-
|4816

Tidy dates and notations for each month in 4816 are aligned neatly along the inner margin. Notes reference standard morning and mid-tide services, with modest attendance throughout the year. Several deaths at sea are marked during Phoenatos and Imaerasta. There are mentions of a small fishing vessel lost in late Charlatos, and a new lantern donated by a widow named Hessa. The last quarter shows increased visits near Solstice.

4817

Entries for 4817 remain even and uneventful. Most notes concern basin cleaning, donation handling, and ribbon replenishment. Storms in Lumnea and Koaratos disrupted service for several days. A merchant's wife is mentioned repeatedly for leaving folded prayers in the offering box. One record notes an unusual number of gulls gathered at the altar during a fogbound service, marked simply with, "observed by three."

4818

Standard service records dominate the page, with annotations in blue ink appearing during spring. One comment in the margin reads, "New basin stone fitted. Shell inlay cracked but held." Three names repeat throughout the year: a retired sailor, a midwife from Marshtown, and a girl recorded only as "A.M." Several deaths at sea appear again in Eorgaen. Coastal offerings increase during the fall months.

4819

The 4819 entries continue in a narrow hand, with an unusual number of weddings noted between Charlatos and Ivastaen. Ribbons tied at the altar outnumber funerary entries this year. A brief note in Phoenatos mentions a fisherman's body returned after fifteen tides. Repairs to the vestibule door are recorded in Koaratos. A delivery of hymnals is documented without name, signed only with "N.L."

4820

Attendance patterns remain steady throughout 4820. Notations of storm disruptions in Fashanos and Koaratos are followed by increased evening services during those months. One brief note in Charlatos mentions a girl from the lower quarter beginning "training for vow," though no name is listed. Seasonal surges continue, with quiet months between. A salt-caked page corner suggests the ledger was left open during a sea spray.

4821

Small, precise entries for 4821 follow the pattern of prior years. Services remained regular, with additional rites held after a coastal storm in Charlatos. A recurring visitor is listed only as "shell-bearer" during spring months. Repairs to the west garden wall are noted in Lumnea. One entry in Eorgaen records, "child left driftwood figure at basin, no adult nearby." The handwriting becomes slightly sharper near the year's end.

4822

The year opened with colder winds and reduced attendance through Lormesta. One note in Fashanos records an elderly priestess slipping on the altar steps, resulting in no injury. Minor construction is logged in Ivastaen: "stone bench repositioned, foundation settled uneven." Gulls are again noted during a fog-heavy morning service. No deaths at sea are marked for Koaratos, which is noted as rare by the author. Extra hymn practice is recorded for Imaerasta.

4823

Faint ink along the top edge shows early signs of moisture, but the page remains legible. Most entries follow the standard pattern. A sailor's wedding in Phoenatos brought increased attendance for several days. Someone left a carved shell token in the basin and returned each week through Jastatos. No name was ever recorded. One funeral in Eoantos references burial in the lower catacomb row, name lost to smudging. Elenne's name begins to appear more frequently.

4824

Ledger entries remain orderly. Elenne is noted as presiding over full services during three major seasonal observances. A short entry in Imaerasta reads, "saltwater damaged two hymnals, copies made by hand." Several deaths at sea were recorded across Phoenatos and Jastatos. A recurring note of "candles late" appears without clarification. Winter quarter shows an increased number of widows seeking individual prayer times, as marked by initials only.

4825

The writing becomes slightly more compact along this page, possibly due to a change in hand. Services are held regularly with minor disruptions caused by harbor traffic. One early Charlatos entry reads, "path blocked by hauling rig, services delayed." Garden growth noted as "vigorous" in Lumnea. An unnamed girl from Marshtown began regular cleaning duties in midyear. Entries suggest her presence became routine, though her name is not yet recorded. Several pages show signs of ash smudging near the bottom corner.

4826

Ledger entries remain narrow and consistent. Regular service records dominate the page, with a note in Ivastaen reading, "two hymnals lost to mildew, one copied by hand." The girl from Marshtown is noted more frequently, assisting with basin preparation and entry sweeping. Elenne is recorded as leading nearly all rites this year. In Koaratos, a sailor's wife donated wax and twine following her husband's return from the reefs.

4827

A colder year, with notations of light frost in Charlatos and a decline in visitors during the first quarter. The Marshtown girl is listed by initials for the first time: "A.L.". She appears often in notes tied to daily upkeep and chant transcription. Elenne requested additional salt deliveries from the quay, suggesting higher ritual use. A short record in Imaerasta reads, "boy returned with offering candle for sister." His name is not recorded, but the action repeats in later months.

4828

Ink across this page is slightly lighter but consistent. Notes describe steady attendance and quiet observances throughout the year. "A.L." continues to serve regularly and is mentioned copying seasonal verses. A new basin cloth was donated by a widow in Phoenatos. Calen Wynedowne is noted briefly in Koaratos as assisting with deliveries. In Eorgaen, a child is recorded as tying sea glass to the offering pole, noted without comment.

4829

The handwriting tightens slightly, with some changes in wording structure. "A.L." is listed as leading chants during two minor observances. A service disruption is recorded in Charlatos: "work crew halted access to west path." Garden repairs resumed in Ivastaen, with the stone bench noted as "settled, but now cracking." Calen Wynedowne is marked present on three service dates. Elenne's name appears as usual, though one note mentions "shortness of breath in colder months."

4830

Entries shift slightly in tone this year, with more detailed notations. "A.L." is no longer referenced only by initials. Her name appears as Aralinne, recorded assisting with vespers and receiving permission to copy the coastal prayers. Elenne continues to lead services throughout. In Fashanos, a marked entry reads: "Calen Wynedowne departed aboard the Drowned Boar." A note in Imaerasta logs the visit of the High Priestess from Selanthia. Garden notes cease after Koaratos, likely due to early construction of the new temple.

4831

Entries are steady, with services held regularly in the newly expanded chapel. The original altar remains in partial use during evening observances. Aralinne is recorded as leading chants and maintaining basin duties throughout the year. A note in Charlatos reads, "Calen returned, left shell at east bench." Additional visitors marked in Phoenatos. Several Kannalan hymn fragments reviewed in Jastatos, with Aralinne listed as transcriber. No disruptions recorded.

4832

Observances continue without interruption. Aralinne is noted frequently in preparation tasks, seasonal cleanings, and the transcription of coastal rites. One record in Koaratos reads, "private service held for three widows." Increased taper use recorded in Imaerasta. No name given, but a new assistant is mentioned briefly in Lumnea. Aralinne's duties expand across multiple entries. The final note of the year: "attendance steady; records filed."

4833

Standard notations occupy most of the year. Aralinne continues in her role, listed alongside Elenne for all major observances. Her name appears independently in entries for dusk services and catacomb visits. One summer note mentions, "garden basin cleared and refilled under Aralinne's guidance." No major incidents. Early signs of leadership transition appear in Eoantos, though no formal statement is recorded. The garden bench is listed as worn, but stable.

4834

Charlatos begins with a formal entry: "Calen Wynedowne and Aralinne joined in marriage, witnessed before first bell at east altar." Both continue in regular attendance. Aralinne is recorded as leading evening services and overseeing hymn preservation efforts. Her handwriting begins to appear in later entries. Koaratos notes her inclusion in guild correspondence. The final entry in Eorgaen lists: "preparations for early solstice rites under Aralinne."

4835

Year begins quietly. Aralinne is now noted as officiating several services in early Fashanos. In Jastatos, a central entry reads: "Elenne passed peacefully in the night, fifth day of Jastatos." Her name does not appear again. Subsequent entries mark Aralinne presiding over full rites. One note reads, "transition marked with coastal hymn, basin blessing unchanged." Calen continues to appear sporadically. The final entry of the year reads: "chapel remains steady under Aralinne's care."
|}
==== a small salt-stained journal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Journal from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a small salt-stained journal
|-
|Bound in salt-stained suede, the small journal shows signs of frequent handling. The edges of the cover have curled slightly, and faint salt residue clings to the seams. Interior pages are swollen from moisture, and many are warped or stuck together. Ink bleeds across several leaves, though a few entries remain legible. The faint scent of mildew and brine lingers between the covers.
|-
|1st day of Lormesta, 4830

The new year began in silence. No sun showed at dawn, only a pale mist rolling over the port that settled in the alleys and gutters. We opened the chapel doors late this morning. A thin crust of salt had gathered again on the threshold.

Mother Elenne asked me to polish the lamp basin and check our remaining wax. She said that if the year is to bring anything, let it be steadiness. I scrubbed the copper too hard and bent the rim along one edge. She noticed but said nothing.

After the evening bell, I stayed to copy the coastal prayer. My ink bled in the cold, and my fingers would not hold the quill straight. The letters blurred near the bottom of the page. I will try again tomorrow.

The gulls have returned early this year. Their cries sound sharper than I remember.

Faint ink marks show a date in the top right corner, though the precise date is difficult to decipher. There is an impression of repeated script beneath the date, but the parchment is too warped to decipher much of its contents. Only a few words remain distinguishable near the bottom:

"...salt left from the..."

"...sleeves wet from the basin..."

"...ribbon placed before bell..."

16th day of Fashanos, 4830

A merchant visited the chapel yesterday. He introduced himself as Vartrien and said he represented the Mercantile Guild. His boots were polished, but they slipped on the chapel stones. He smelled faintly of tallow and wine.

He spoke with Elenne behind the altar rail. I only heard part of what was said... something about extending the outer walls, adding a foyer and foyer, and pulling stone from the cliff quarry. He did not ask about the altar or the basin.

Before leaving, he placed a coin in the offering basin. It was heavier than most and bore the Guild's seal. Elenne closed the doors earlier than usual and asked me to boil the cloth and clean the entry stone. She did not speak again until morning prayers.

After the bell, I copied half of the sea-born hymn. I still mix the second and third lines. The gulls circled loudly over the garden. They did not land.

Humidity has irrevocably damaged this page of the journal. The faint impression of a coastal flower leaves a colored stain in the center of the page. Ink bleeds across the fibers, blending so completely that all writing is beyond recognition.

3rd day of Charlatos, 4830

Rain began early and found its way in through the northern window joint again. A track of droplets marked the covers of three hymnals before I noticed. I dried them the best I could and set them near the basin to air.

Mother Elenne told me I might be ready to take the vesper reading next month. I said I would do my best, though my voice still shakes when the wind comes hard off the bay.

A boy from the shipyard arrived just before first bell. He brought a candle for his sister and did not speak. He nodded once and placed it on the old bench near the shell altar. It burned quickly and left a streak of wax on the wood.

After evening prayers, I copied the saltwater blessing again. I continue to forget the fourth line. I will practice it aloud tomorrow when the chapel is empty.

12th day of Olaesta, 4830

The salted fog held all morning. The bells could barely be heard from the quay, and the floor stayed damp long after I wiped it. The gulls were quiet today, though I saw them gather on the breakwall at dusk.

Mother Elenne allowed me to lead the midday verses. I stumbled on the refrain but kept pace. She gave no correction afterward, which I think was kindness. I will ask her to let me try again next week.

The Guildman has not returned, but I saw carts from the upper quarry moving past the garden path. One of the workers spat too close to the basin. I scrubbed the stone clean before closing the gate.

27th day of Ivastaen, 4830

The High Priestess arrived again, as expected. She comes every five months, though she avoids Charlatos and Lormesta because she does not like to travel in cold weather. This time, she brought only one attendant and a thick letter sealed in white wax.

She asked after the basin and walked the outer path twice before speaking. I do not know why she finds our grounds so peculiar. She always looks longer at the walls than at the altar.

She complimented the order of the garden, though I had not yet swept. Her words are even and pleasant, but her eyes are always searching. I do not think she comes only for worship.

Moisture has warped the page outward from the center, and a small flower is pressed into the parchment. Once white, its petals have turned a pale yellow. The edges have melted into the fibers over time, leaving a faint outline and a darker stain beneath. Ink has bled into the margins, but a few lines remain legible:

"He brought it with both hands."

"Said it grew from the rocks near the basin."

"It smelled faintly of salt and rosemary."

Written near the bottom corner, in a careful hand: Calen

9th day of Lumnea, 4830

Calen came again just after midday. He did not knock, only waited near the side path until I saw him. He brought a bloom, he said he found growing from a crack in the harbor wall. I told him it would not last, but he said that was fine.

He stayed long enough to watch me refill the basin, then left without saying more. I placed the flower in the back of the book, where I thought it would keep. It did not.

Mother Elenne has begun sorting the storeroom shelves again. I do not know where she plans to move everything, but she said we may have to share with the masons soon. I do not think she approves.

2nd day of Koaratos, 4830

Rumors continue about the Guild's plans, but nothing official has been posted. One of the stone counters in the garden cracked under the weight of a builder's crate. They said it would be replaced, but no one has returned to measure.

The High Priestess's letter is still sealed. Elenne has not opened it, though she moved it twice. I think she is waiting for another message, or perhaps the Guildman himself.

A blue gull feather was left on the altar after the second bell. No one saw who brought it.

I placed it in the ribbon box, away from the salt.

13th day of Koaratos, 4830

The stone bench in the garden has been replaced. I was not told it would happen, but when I stepped out to light the sea taper this morning, it was there. Rosewood, newly finished and still carrying the scent of cut shavings. The legs are slightly uneven, but the surface is smooth.

Elenne said one of the sailors had it made for his wife. She is the one who always sits near the roses and watches the harbor light. She wept when the bench cracked beneath the masons' crate. I am glad it was rebuilt.

Ink has lifted across most of the page, leaving behind only faint strokes and a few recognizable shapes. The top third is nearly blank, and the lower margin is warped from long exposure to damp air. Visible along the center fold, in pale ink, are snatches of the original message.

"...asked if it would still be the same chapel..."

"...carried the basin water out into the garden..."

"...song lines lost in the stone dust..."

5th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Construction has begun. Dust rises even before the first bell. The builders come early and eat beside the garden wall. I do not know how they leave the crumbs behind, but the gulls are clearly happy about it.

Mother Elenne and I have moved our sleeping mats into the chapel itself. There is no space left in the quarters, not since the back wall was taken down. She said it is temporary, but we must keep everything folded and out of sight during services.

She reminded me that we are not bound by silence or separation, only by devotion and clarity of intent. Then she looked at me and said, "Even your Calen would agree." I nearly dropped the basin ladle.

16th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Calen returned with an oilskin pouch and handed it to me without speaking. Inside was a cloth wrapped around several dry biscuits and a folded slip of sea-blue ribbon. He said he heard the workers had overrun our stores and that I was likely too polite to complain.

I thanked him, but could not find the right words. Elenne watched from the entryway. Later, she only asked if I had shared them.

The builders left stone dust across the floor again. I swept until my arms ached, but it returned before the evening bell. It finds every crack.

28th day of Phoenatos, 4830

The High Priestess will return in Jastatos. Elenne received a note today. No seal this time, only a clean fold and pressed script. She read it twice, then tucked it into the ledger without comment.

I asked if she thought the Guildman would be here as well. She said most likely, and that the two had likely been speaking for longer than we realized. She did not sound surprised or pleased.

The rosewood bench has already dulled to a greyish tone. I tried wiping it with a damp cloth, but the color does not return. Still, the sailor's wife came today and stayed for the whole of the afternoon light. She did not speak. Only watched the water and smiled.

7th day of Imaerasta, 4830

The scaffolding now reaches above the garden wall. Boards cast a grid of shadow over the roses during morning light. One of the masons said that the new walls will block the ocean view. I had not thought of that until now.

If the wall rises the way they say it will, the garden will face stone, not sea. Elenne was not surprised when I told her. She only said, "It's easier to worship what you can see than what you must remember."

I wonder if the sound of the tide will carry once the last wall is raised.

18th day of Imaerasta, 4830

Mist held long into the afternoon. We lit the lamps early and brought the linens in before the sea air reached them. The dust hangs longer in the stillness.

Word came that Yenterreth of the Marshtown passed in her sleep. She was one of the spirit women, always with a ribbon in her sleeve and saltwater on her boots. I remember her from before I came to live with Elenne. She called me bird girl and once gave me a braid of kelp twine.

She will be interred below with the others. I carried the notice down to the stone chamber myself.

Much of the page has faded due to moisture, but several phrases remain readable:

"...could see the harbor lantern from the bench..."

"...ribbons tied to the low branches removed..."

"...the sound of chisel work does not pause for prayer..."

Smudged ink across the lower edge shows where the page was touched before drying.

3rd day of Jastatos, 4830

The High Priestess arrived just after midday. She wore a dove-colored cloak and had her hair in three loops at her crown. Guildman Vartrien stood beside her beneath the scaffolding. They did not speak during the service, but both stayed until the end.

Afterward, they walked the garden with Elenne. I followed at a distance, gathering petals. I overheard them speak of creating a fresco in Niima's likeness upon the foyer wall. The High Priestess said the space would command presence.

No one mentioned the old altar. I swept around it that night, as a kind of apology.

15th day of Jastatos, 4830

A whisper has spread through the workers. One of the cart drivers said the Krolvin have been seen in Brisker's Cove. No one knows if it's true, but another said the harbor patrol was doubled this week.

Elenne said we cannot shape our prayers to rumors. Still, she lit the tall tapers during evening service and left them burning until the last shadow faded from the stones.

Calen has not returned since the rains began. I keep the ribbon he gave me in my prayer book. It smells faintly of rosemary, even now.

4th day of Eoantos, 4830

Elenne asked me to begin clearing the small office beside the catacombs. She said it was time someone sorted through what remains. I believe she means for me to be occupied, as Calen has not returned. She does not ask after him directly, but she notices when I forget the dusting cloth or leave the lamp wick too low.

The office is colder than I remembered. The walls sweat even when the wind is dry. I found a bundle of records tied with frayed cord, and a shelf of ledgers warped from years of damp. None have dates newer than 4816.

I lit a taper and marveled that its flame didn't waver. The air is rather stale.

12th day of Eoantos, 4830

Stacks of papers have begun to soften and fall apart as I move them. Some pages peel away like onion skin. Others are stuck together with mildew at the corners. There is no order left in the ledgers.

Elenne gave me vinegar water to scrub the stone and showed me how to dry the parchments without tearing the ink. Her hands are steadier than mine, but she let me try alone today.

No one has asked about the office in years. I wonder if anyone will again once the new temple is complete.

Several blotches stretch across the center of the page, caused by ink pressed while wet. Words are smudged and fingerprints mar the lower half.

Only a few lines are clear:

"...wrote his name on the margin and folded it..."

"...did not want to ask him not to go..."

"...the sea calls more surely than words ever could..."

21st day of Eoantos, 4830

Word came that Calen has signed on with a deep-sea vessel. No one knows the name, only that it sails past the Shoals and will be gone past spring.

Elenne said nothing when I told her. She simply handed me another cloth and said, "Salt dries slower than tears." I think she meant it kindly.

The basin water felt colder today, though the air was still. When I poured it over the shell altar, I thought of the wives who stand at our threshold with wet sleeves and silent mouths.

I begin to understand why they come. Not for answers, but for nearness.

1st day of Eorgaen, 4830

The sound of hammers has quieted. Most of the scaffolding has come down. The stones above the chapel are now smooth and white, with carved lines I cannot name.

I finished dusting the office and folded what remained of the ledgers. Several were too damaged to save. Elenne said I may stack them in the catacombs for burning later, though I kept two that still held their shape.

Calen's ribbon rests between the pages of one. I did not mean to place it there. It simply felt right.

19th day of Eorgaen, 4830

We moved into the new quarters today. The walls are smooth, and the ceiling curves slightly like the hull of a ship turned over. My mat fits beneath the small window, though it does not face the sea.

Elenne set our candles on the narrow sill and arranged her ledgers in the cabinet with care. She has not said whether she likes the new space, but she wiped the sill twice before speaking.

I kept the basin cloth. It still smells faintly of rosemary and ink.

31st day of Eorgaen, 4830

Year-end bells rang before the harbor mist had cleared. The garden is smaller now, and the altar no longer sees the ocean, but the salt wind still finds its way between the stones.

I watched from the upper stairs as the tide turned. For a moment, I imagined Calen leaning over the rail of whatever vessel he's found. I do not know where he sailed, or what wind carried him out, only that the thought of him still returns like breath.

I folded a ribbon into the base of the old ledger. Some things are easier to keep when hidden.

1st day of Lormesta, 4831

The High Priestess arrived at midday. She wore fur-lined gloves and spoke briefly before entering the new sanctum. Her words were softer this time. She said the white stone caught light well and that the new foyer had "clean weight."

She did not linger. Elenne bowed but did not speak.

I spent the rest of the day sorting a box of old hymn fragments. Some were written in Kannalan, though I can only read the titles. I have set two aside in hopes that someone might help me translate them.

3rd day of Lormesta, 4831

Calen returned today.

He stood by the garden gate and waited until I saw him. He did not wave. Only smiled, the kind of smile that asks without needing an answer.

I brought him a cup of water, and we sat in the shadow of the old chapel. He said nothing of the voyage, and I did not ask. I watched his hands as he spoke of the harbor and the wind near the reefs. He has a sun mark on his left wrist now, just above the bone.

When he left, he pressed a shell into my palm. It was smooth and unbroken.

5th day of Lormesta, 4831

I do not know if he missed me. I do not know if he meant to see me or only came to the chapel as he once did.

Still, I thought of him each time the tide turned. I imagined the shape of his boat against the horizon, wondering if he looked for birds or counted the ways salt settles into cloth.

The shell he gave me rests beneath the old candle box. I did not tell Elenne.

I have finished copying the Kannalan refrain. The words feel older than stone, but they sing cleanly when read aloud.
|}
==== a faded off-white vellum ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Letter to Aralinna from Tagetes
!a faded off-white vellum
|-
|22 Fashanos 4839

Hi Aralinne,
You are going to sputter when you read this, but I found something I think might actually help. I've been haunting the lower rooms of the Rest's old archive, the one that smells like mushrooms and lamp oil, and you would not believe the number of ledgers that don't even belong there. Some trader scribbled a note in the margin of a shipping contract, and I have no idea why, about a Hermit of Charl. Not a priest. Not a sailor. A hermit.

The strange part is, he wasn't written about like some bedraggled man on a rock. He had followers. Or at least people who carried his words. The note said he held something powerful, something that could "turn back the tide and lay bare the seabed, if placed with care and faith at the high edge." That's what it actually said. The relic doesn't have a name, which is frustrating, but it is always connected to cliffs or high ridges.

I spent the last two days chasing the reference backward, and I think it's Kannalan. Most of the names line up with the way they spell things when they want to make them sound more official. The good stuff always hides behind fancy lettering.

Anyway, I asked around, and there's a guide here who knows the Karazja ruins. He's agreed to take me inland starting next week. I'll be careful. I promise. But if I'm right, that relic might still be out there.

Imagine what it would mean if we could part the sea.

More soon,
Tagetes

P.S. Tell Marris not to let the acolytes into the tide closet again. I know it was them. The shells were rearranged. Again.
|}
==== Seaborne Hymnal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a thread-edged faded parchment
|-
|Parchment the color of drifted sand bears faded blue script in a careful, even hand. The edges have frayed into soft waves, and the lower corner is discolored where dampness clings to the page. A watermark in the upper left shows a simple wave crest superimposed over a scallop shell. Salt has left faint flecks across the surface, and one line of ink has bled slightly with age. Despite wear, the script remains fully legible, framed by a border of pressed gull feathers and hand-tied seasilk thread.

In the Common language, it reads:

Instructions for the Seaborne Hymnal

To be spoken daily, often at morning tide or before the first sail departs.

The Seaborne Hymnal is a spoken blessing offered to all who live by the rhythm of the sea. It honors those who make their living from its bounty, those who voyage upon it, and those who wait at its edge. The ritual is led by a priestess and joined by those gathered, using a call and response pattern. It is not sung, but spoken clearly, with steadiness and intent.

There are no physical offerings required. However, each response is accompanied by a hand gesture to mark the tide's reach and the release of prayer.

The priestess stands facing the gathered. Congregants may form a semicircle or remain as they are, whether in chapel or along the shore. The ritual may be performed indoors or outdoors, provided the sea is visible or near.

At each response, the right hand is placed palm-down over the heart, then extended outward, fingers spread as if forming the crest of a wave. This gesture is slow and deliberate. At the final line, the gesture is held outward a moment longer before lowering the hand.

The hymnal is: 
'''Priestess:''' Who wakes with the wind and walks with the tide? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who casts the net and bears the storm? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who waits at the window and sings to the dark? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who names the stars and trusts the wave? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Bless those who leave and those who remain. 
Bless those who labor and those who pray. 
Bless those who remember. 
'''Congregation (final gesture):''' And those who return no more.

The rite is complete after the final line. There is no need for benediction. Let silence follow for a breath or two before the next act begins.
|}
==== Ribbon Vigil ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a watermarked pearly white parchment
|-
|Faint mildew spots darken the four corners of the parchment, which has a pearly white finish created by the waxy finished worked into its fibers. An azure watermark of a scallop shell superimposed over cresting waves can be seen beneath the indigo ink that spread across its surface.

In the Common language, it reads:

The Ribbon Vigil is a quiet, sacred tradition observed by sailors and their loved ones before voyages that lead them beyond the protection of the bay. It is deeply personal, often unspoken, and performed in silence atop the temple's Widow's Walk. The rite is not scheduled by the temple, nor does it require direct guidance, but all priestesses, acolytes, and attending staff should understand its nature and how to offer quiet support when needed.

The vigil begins when a sailor and a significant companion, whether spouse, sibling, friend, or beloved, ascending to the rooftop of the temple. Together, they bring a ribbon, which may be carried openly or hidden in the hand, sleeve, or pocket until the moment it is needed. Upon reaching the rail that faces the open sea, they tie the ribbon to the ironwork together. There is no formal color or material required. While many choose white, blue, or sea green, others may bring a scrap of sailcloth or a woven charm. The meaning lies in the bond, not the fiber. No spoken words are required, though some murmur names or prayers as the knot is tied. The act itself is the offering. It binds the hope of return between two people and entrusts that bond to the sea.

At times, when a ship is long overdue or the sea has turned cruel, the one who remained ashore may return to the Widow's Walk alone. There, they loosen the knot they once tied. The ribbon is not taken down but left slack in the wind. This act is a plea to Niima, asking her to seek the one who has not come home. It is believed that if the ribbon is taken by the wind and reaches the sea, Niima will find the sailor and guide them to safety. That safety may not bring them home to Solhaven, but it will bring them to a shore. If the ribbon tangles, falls, or clings to the stone, some believe it is a sign that the soul it represents has already passed from Niima's reach.

Temple staff must not disturb those who come to perform this rite. Acolytes may observe from a distance and quietly light a sea taper at the stairwell when a ribbon loosening is witnessed. The gesture is enough to mark the moment. Comfort should be offered gently, without promise or correction. Never assure a safe return. Instead, remind them that Niima knows every name whispered to the tide and that no soul is ever truly lost to her.

Ribbons left on the Widow's Walk should be observed weekly. Those that have clearly loosened and not flown may be carefully removed and burned in a salt-fire by the priestess or her assistant. This should be done with solemnity and without comment, allowing the sea to receive what it could not carry.

Priestesses may speak of the vigil during public blessings, particularly on days when many ships prepare to depart. However, no individual should be named or pointed to. Let the ribbon be a silent prayer, seen by the sea and felt by those who wait.
|}
==== Song of Return ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a worn and faded scrap of vellum
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:

Song of Return 
A blessing for safe voyage and reunion

Go forth with the tide and return with the swell, 
Let the waves bear you gently, where ever you dwell. 
May your sails know the whisper, not the wail of the sea, 
And the stars hold your course where your heart longs to be.

Let the wind be your witness, the foam be your guide, 
Let the deep pass beneath you and never divide. 
By the light of Niima, by the calm of her grace, 
May your path find the harbor, your soul find its place.

Those who love you will wait with the shore in their eyes, 
Watching dawn rise in silence and dusk fill the skies. 
So go forth with the tide and return with the swell, 
You are known to the sea, and she knows you well.
|}

==== Elenne's (?) Papers ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a pale slip of vellum bearing a rust-tinged watermark
|-
|Rust-toned watermarks bloom across the lower half of the parchment, forming uneven, organic shapes. The ink has faded but remains legible throughout. The surface is rough to the touch, with several shallow indentations along the right margin, as if pressed against the corner of a writing board. Mild mildew spotting is visible near the top, and the parchment carries a faint metallic scent.

In the Common language, it reads: 
15th day of Fashanos, 4830 
Master Vartrien of the Mercantile Guild visited the chapel before midday service. He spoke of expanding the grounds and building a larger temple to better serve Solhaven's growing population. I reminded him that the chapel predates the coastal road and holds its own rhythm. He seemed unconcerned but polite. Left a coin marked with the Guild's seal in the basin. I placed it with the others and marked his visit in the side register.
|-
!a raw-edged and water-spotted page
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads:

17th day of Lumnea, 4830
Widow Carlan returned today, still unable to bear the final words. Her husband was taken last autumn in the reef churn near a southern cay. It has been added to our charts. I gave her the ledger entry of his loss to hold and read aloud as part of the Benediction for Final Rest. She left a net of white knotted cord, said it was the last he made, but did not stay. I've placed it on the altar before the midday rites. As a note, fog rolled in not long after service, and only three stayed for evening psalms.
|-
!a ink-streaked torn vellum sheet
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads: 
29th day of Koaratos, 4832 
Two merchant wives came bearing cloth bundles for the shrine. Each held swaddled sea stones tied with bits of silk, blue and pale. They asked no questions, gave no names. I placed the stones in the vessel below the sanctum basin and poured saltwater as they requested. Both stayed for the midday chant, though neither sang. After, they left through the garden gate without speaking further. I noted no marking on the silk. I hope they found comfort.
|-
!a smudged and warped journal page
|-
|Uneven ripples in the parchment surface indicate long exposure to moisture. Several pale smudges appear along the right margin, likely left by ink-stained fingers. Fading is most visible at the top, though the handwriting remains legible throughout. A faint scent of old wool and oil clings to the fibers. Abrasions across the back suggest the page rested for some time against a coarse surface.

In the Common language, it reads:
7th day of Charlatos, 4833
Three girls from Marshtown arrived just after first bell. None had formal instruction, but all carried the tunes well enough to follow the second line. We worked them through the basin hymn and the low chorus of the coastal prayer. They were assigned tunics from the eldest priestess, who sent them to scrub before vespers. We will continue twice weekly with them. If they remain steady, they may be ready for the Midyear Blessing. We've noted their names in the side book.
|-
!an ink-blotched paper fragment
|-
|Near the lower edge, signs of delamination are evident where prolonged exposure to moisture has lifted the parchment fibers. Ink blotches cover the upper left corner, though the writing beneath remains legible. Faint blue guidelines run horizontally across the surface, now nearly faded from view. All corners are softened from repeated handling, while the light scent of damp plaster and crushed chalk clings to the page.

In the Common language, it reads: 
18th day of Ivastaen, 4835 
Workers paused their efforts near the east colonnade due to a broken pulley. Several wandered into the chapel while the foreman spoke with a guild agent outside. One left a handful of copper on the basin rim. I noted no offering ribbon, but took it with the rest before lighting the salt lamp. Held afternoon prayers with two elders and one child. No hymn today. Breezes through the north wall joints have grown stronger since the scaffolding went up.
|}

==== a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Necklace Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 100 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
==== a discolored albatross feather quill ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Quill Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a discolored albatross feather quill
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 30,000 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
[[Category:The Shadowy Abyss]]

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Found items

2025-06-14T22:00:40Z

RAFFELS2: /* Elenne's (?) Papers */ Added one page

__ToC__
== Shadowy Abyss Found Items ==
=== 06.06.2025 ===
==== an antique Vornavian silk cloth ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key's Sleeve
!an antique Vornavian silk cloth
|-
|Smooth with a soft finish, the Vornavian silk cloth has hints of its original deep blue hue at its edges though largely it has faded to a watered azure hue. Faint seashell patterns decorate the edge, the silver and white embroidery creating scallop shells that overlap. Rolled silk cords aid the bundle in staying closed as needed, their ends capped in silver dolphin periapts.
|}

===== a blue-tinted white vellum parchment =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Letter to Tagetes from Aralinne
!a blue-tinted white vellum parchment
|-
|Slightly warped in shape and displaying clear signs of damage from humidity, the fine parchment is tinted with a subtle blue hue that is almost white and yet distinctly not. Crisp folds create precise lines in the top and bottom third of the piece, while the corners display fray signs where moisture has separated the layers.
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:
the seventeenth day of Olaesta in the year 4839

Tagetes,

Hopefully, we will return at the same time and all of this preparation will be for naught.

The temple will have no attendants as I have figured out the missing piece to get us to Pearl. It lies in an old Kannalan Temple to Charl. I believe I've tracked down its former location. I've hidden the plans in the old office at the end of the catacombs and sealed the entry.

So few people know of its existence that it should be safe to travel there. I do not think I will be gone more than a handful of days.

However, as I do not trust the Mercantile Guild, with their recent decisions to create gardens and shrines to the dark pantheon, I have sealed the doorway up and hidden it. Since you know where it is, you should have no issue finding it.

There are seven keys for entry. I've left the Empress key here, but you can easily obtain the other six by seeking the blessings of the Lover, the Mistress, the Sister, the Mother, the Daughter, and the High Priestess. I'm sure you'll remember who these are from our past talks. I dare not say more for fear this is found by others.

Please know that some wish to see the curse spread. Others are working hard to stop it. Young Bristena had the idea to buy back all the jewelry from the women whose husband, lovers, and brothers searched the North Beach to obtain them. I gave her enough coin to buy them all back.

Once she has every last piece, she'll have a sailor take her out to the spot we believe the "Pearl" to be waiting in and drop them back into the water. That should give us time to get the pieces together to free her. I used the last of the coffers to pay a crew to start the lighthouse.

If I don't return... Please let my husband and son know the depths of which I love them.

By my hand,

Aralinne Wynedowne
|}
===== a carved golden amber acorn =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key
!a carved golden amber acorn
|-
|Roughly oval in shape, a carved golden amber acorn is broad and flat, providing an excellent view of its transparent interior portion. Trapped within the golden yellow fossilized pine tree sap are several small flying insects and a dried flower.
|}
==== an aged grey stone tile ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+The Tile
!an aged grey stone tile
|-
|Your song touches the tile, and the memory begins with stillness, then the faint scrape of wood across stone. Gentle hands press close, fitting the tile snugly into place. A murmur of approval hums nearby, muffled by fabric and breath. Cool grout slides into the seams, and the air shifts. Salt lingers in the room, carried on a current scented with blossoms. Lilac and sea daisy rise together, soft and clean. A hush settles across the surface, and the tile recognizes it as belonging. Beneath the faintest sigh of sandals against stone, a woman's voice murmurs, "There. That's better." The sounds and sensations fade along with the last syllables of your song.

As your song continues to caress the tile, it stirs with echoes of passing time. Soft footsteps come and go, punctuated by the rhythmic sweep of bristles and the clatter of buckets. Voices rise and fall nearby, sometimes low with grief, sometimes bright with ritual. One speaks of a sister's safe return, another offers blessings over a sailor's name. A different voice complains about a cracked basin and the need for fresh oil. Each moment blends into the next, seasons marked only by the changing cadence of heels, the weight of silence, and the gentle creak of wood in damp air. Slowly, the sensation and sounds fade, one by one, until they fall as silent as your song.

Your melody draws forth a hush, and the tile remembers the scent first. Bitter and resinous, the thick smoke of funerary incense curls low to the ground. Voices follow in soft procession, cloaked in sorrow. Some weep openly, others murmur prayers with trembling breath. The weight of grief presses against the stone, heavy as tide against jetty. A name is spoken again and again, reverent and broken, until it becomes a lullaby of mourning. Between each word, silence holds vigil. The tile feels a deep stillness in the air, as if even the sea has paused to listen. A final name tumbles across your ears as your song slips into silence, "Elenne."

Your song stirs the memory of disturbance. The tile feels the grit of its seams loosened, the edge of a tool scraping carefully through old grout. Pressure lifts it from the floor, just briefly, and something small is slid beneath. When the tile returns to its place, the surface meets the subfloor with an unfamiliar firmness. A hand lingers upon it, smooth and warm, resting for a long moment before giving a gentle pat. Whispered words ride the still air, close enough to touch, "Keep this safe until Tagetes finds you." An absence of warmth is the last sensation the tile imparts before your song stills.

Your voice brushes the tile, and the past answers with hushed urgency. There is the soft shuffle of feet, the creak of worn boots on stone, and a sharp intake of breath. Mournful whispers crowd the silence. A voice, cracked with worry and soft with distance, murmurs, "I don't know where you are, Aralinne. I can't get into the catacombs to check on you as the Brisker's Cove bowl was broken in the latest Krolvin raids... Please come home to us. Please. Your plan for Bristena worked; she told me of it when I returned. The girls are free, but where are you? I'm going to hide my piece until it can unite with yours. Please be safe, be careful." A soft sigh blends with the ending resonance of your song.

Your voice draws forth only silence at first. Time passes, measured in distant echoes. Footsteps sound too far to name, and faint shifts in the air come and go with no purpose. Old wood creaks softly where it meets damp stone. Dust settles in the seams, and salt from the sea clings to the surface. Years drift by without notice. Then, without warning, fingers press along your edges. There is a pause, a breath held just beyond hearing, and the tile feels the careful pry of something firm beneath it. A clamor of voices overlaps with each other until they blend into the fading sound of your song.
|}

=== 06.13.2025 ===
==== a salt-stained blue leather ledger ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Ledger from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a salt-stained blue leather ledger
|-
|Bound in navy blue leather, the ledger bears clear signs of repair. Patches of mismatched hide reinforce the spine and corners, and thin linen cords hold the bindings tight. Though worn smooth with age, the cover still holds the faint imprint of Niima's shell crest, long faded by handling. The pages inside are slightly bowed from moisture, but the ink has held well. Each year occupies a single page, the writing steady and small.
|-
|4816

Tidy dates and notations for each month in 4816 are aligned neatly along the inner margin. Notes reference standard morning and mid-tide services, with modest attendance throughout the year. Several deaths at sea are marked during Phoenatos and Imaerasta. There are mentions of a small fishing vessel lost in late Charlatos, and a new lantern donated by a widow named Hessa. The last quarter shows increased visits near Solstice.

4817

Entries for 4817 remain even and uneventful. Most notes concern basin cleaning, donation handling, and ribbon replenishment. Storms in Lumnea and Koaratos disrupted service for several days. A merchant's wife is mentioned repeatedly for leaving folded prayers in the offering box. One record notes an unusual number of gulls gathered at the altar during a fogbound service, marked simply with, "observed by three."

4818

Standard service records dominate the page, with annotations in blue ink appearing during spring. One comment in the margin reads, "New basin stone fitted. Shell inlay cracked but held." Three names repeat throughout the year: a retired sailor, a midwife from Marshtown, and a girl recorded only as "A.M." Several deaths at sea appear again in Eorgaen. Coastal offerings increase during the fall months.

4819

The 4819 entries continue in a narrow hand, with an unusual number of weddings noted between Charlatos and Ivastaen. Ribbons tied at the altar outnumber funerary entries this year. A brief note in Phoenatos mentions a fisherman's body returned after fifteen tides. Repairs to the vestibule door are recorded in Koaratos. A delivery of hymnals is documented without name, signed only with "N.L."

4820

Attendance patterns remain steady throughout 4820. Notations of storm disruptions in Fashanos and Koaratos are followed by increased evening services during those months. One brief note in Charlatos mentions a girl from the lower quarter beginning "training for vow," though no name is listed. Seasonal surges continue, with quiet months between. A salt-caked page corner suggests the ledger was left open during a sea spray.

4821

Small, precise entries for 4821 follow the pattern of prior years. Services remained regular, with additional rites held after a coastal storm in Charlatos. A recurring visitor is listed only as "shell-bearer" during spring months. Repairs to the west garden wall are noted in Lumnea. One entry in Eorgaen records, "child left driftwood figure at basin, no adult nearby." The handwriting becomes slightly sharper near the year's end.

4822

The year opened with colder winds and reduced attendance through Lormesta. One note in Fashanos records an elderly priestess slipping on the altar steps, resulting in no injury. Minor construction is logged in Ivastaen: "stone bench repositioned, foundation settled uneven." Gulls are again noted during a fog-heavy morning service. No deaths at sea are marked for Koaratos, which is noted as rare by the author. Extra hymn practice is recorded for Imaerasta.

4823

Faint ink along the top edge shows early signs of moisture, but the page remains legible. Most entries follow the standard pattern. A sailor's wedding in Phoenatos brought increased attendance for several days. Someone left a carved shell token in the basin and returned each week through Jastatos. No name was ever recorded. One funeral in Eoantos references burial in the lower catacomb row, name lost to smudging. Elenne's name begins to appear more frequently.

4824

Ledger entries remain orderly. Elenne is noted as presiding over full services during three major seasonal observances. A short entry in Imaerasta reads, "saltwater damaged two hymnals, copies made by hand." Several deaths at sea were recorded across Phoenatos and Jastatos. A recurring note of "candles late" appears without clarification. Winter quarter shows an increased number of widows seeking individual prayer times, as marked by initials only.

4825

The writing becomes slightly more compact along this page, possibly due to a change in hand. Services are held regularly with minor disruptions caused by harbor traffic. One early Charlatos entry reads, "path blocked by hauling rig, services delayed." Garden growth noted as "vigorous" in Lumnea. An unnamed girl from Marshtown began regular cleaning duties in midyear. Entries suggest her presence became routine, though her name is not yet recorded. Several pages show signs of ash smudging near the bottom corner.

4826

Ledger entries remain narrow and consistent. Regular service records dominate the page, with a note in Ivastaen reading, "two hymnals lost to mildew, one copied by hand." The girl from Marshtown is noted more frequently, assisting with basin preparation and entry sweeping. Elenne is recorded as leading nearly all rites this year. In Koaratos, a sailor's wife donated wax and twine following her husband's return from the reefs.

4827

A colder year, with notations of light frost in Charlatos and a decline in visitors during the first quarter. The Marshtown girl is listed by initials for the first time: "A.L.". She appears often in notes tied to daily upkeep and chant transcription. Elenne requested additional salt deliveries from the quay, suggesting higher ritual use. A short record in Imaerasta reads, "boy returned with offering candle for sister." His name is not recorded, but the action repeats in later months.

4828

Ink across this page is slightly lighter but consistent. Notes describe steady attendance and quiet observances throughout the year. "A.L." continues to serve regularly and is mentioned copying seasonal verses. A new basin cloth was donated by a widow in Phoenatos. Calen Wynedowne is noted briefly in Koaratos as assisting with deliveries. In Eorgaen, a child is recorded as tying sea glass to the offering pole, noted without comment.

4829

The handwriting tightens slightly, with some changes in wording structure. "A.L." is listed as leading chants during two minor observances. A service disruption is recorded in Charlatos: "work crew halted access to west path." Garden repairs resumed in Ivastaen, with the stone bench noted as "settled, but now cracking." Calen Wynedowne is marked present on three service dates. Elenne's name appears as usual, though one note mentions "shortness of breath in colder months."

4830

Entries shift slightly in tone this year, with more detailed notations. "A.L." is no longer referenced only by initials. Her name appears as Aralinne, recorded assisting with vespers and receiving permission to copy the coastal prayers. Elenne continues to lead services throughout. In Fashanos, a marked entry reads: "Calen Wynedowne departed aboard the Drowned Boar." A note in Imaerasta logs the visit of the High Priestess from Selanthia. Garden notes cease after Koaratos, likely due to early construction of the new temple.

4831

Entries are steady, with services held regularly in the newly expanded chapel. The original altar remains in partial use during evening observances. Aralinne is recorded as leading chants and maintaining basin duties throughout the year. A note in Charlatos reads, "Calen returned, left shell at east bench." Additional visitors marked in Phoenatos. Several Kannalan hymn fragments reviewed in Jastatos, with Aralinne listed as transcriber. No disruptions recorded.

4832

Observances continue without interruption. Aralinne is noted frequently in preparation tasks, seasonal cleanings, and the transcription of coastal rites. One record in Koaratos reads, "private service held for three widows." Increased taper use recorded in Imaerasta. No name given, but a new assistant is mentioned briefly in Lumnea. Aralinne's duties expand across multiple entries. The final note of the year: "attendance steady; records filed."

4833

Standard notations occupy most of the year. Aralinne continues in her role, listed alongside Elenne for all major observances. Her name appears independently in entries for dusk services and catacomb visits. One summer note mentions, "garden basin cleared and refilled under Aralinne's guidance." No major incidents. Early signs of leadership transition appear in Eoantos, though no formal statement is recorded. The garden bench is listed as worn, but stable.

4834

Charlatos begins with a formal entry: "Calen Wynedowne and Aralinne joined in marriage, witnessed before first bell at east altar." Both continue in regular attendance. Aralinne is recorded as leading evening services and overseeing hymn preservation efforts. Her handwriting begins to appear in later entries. Koaratos notes her inclusion in guild correspondence. The final entry in Eorgaen lists: "preparations for early solstice rites under Aralinne."

4835

Year begins quietly. Aralinne is now noted as officiating several services in early Fashanos. In Jastatos, a central entry reads: "Elenne passed peacefully in the night, fifth day of Jastatos." Her name does not appear again. Subsequent entries mark Aralinne presiding over full rites. One note reads, "transition marked with coastal hymn, basin blessing unchanged." Calen continues to appear sporadically. The final entry of the year reads: "chapel remains steady under Aralinne's care."
|}
==== a small salt-stained journal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Journal from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a small salt-stained journal
|-
|Bound in salt-stained suede, the small journal shows signs of frequent handling. The edges of the cover have curled slightly, and faint salt residue clings to the seams. Interior pages are swollen from moisture, and many are warped or stuck together. Ink bleeds across several leaves, though a few entries remain legible. The faint scent of mildew and brine lingers between the covers.
|-
|1st day of Lormesta, 4830

The new year began in silence. No sun showed at dawn, only a pale mist rolling over the port that settled in the alleys and gutters. We opened the chapel doors late this morning. A thin crust of salt had gathered again on the threshold.

Mother Elenne asked me to polish the lamp basin and check our remaining wax. She said that if the year is to bring anything, let it be steadiness. I scrubbed the copper too hard and bent the rim along one edge. She noticed but said nothing.

After the evening bell, I stayed to copy the coastal prayer. My ink bled in the cold, and my fingers would not hold the quill straight. The letters blurred near the bottom of the page. I will try again tomorrow.

The gulls have returned early this year. Their cries sound sharper than I remember.

Faint ink marks show a date in the top right corner, though the precise date is difficult to decipher. There is an impression of repeated script beneath the date, but the parchment is too warped to decipher much of its contents. Only a few words remain distinguishable near the bottom:

"...salt left from the..."

"...sleeves wet from the basin..."

"...ribbon placed before bell..."

16th day of Fashanos, 4830

A merchant visited the chapel yesterday. He introduced himself as Vartrien and said he represented the Mercantile Guild. His boots were polished, but they slipped on the chapel stones. He smelled faintly of tallow and wine.

He spoke with Elenne behind the altar rail. I only heard part of what was said... something about extending the outer walls, adding a foyer and foyer, and pulling stone from the cliff quarry. He did not ask about the altar or the basin.

Before leaving, he placed a coin in the offering basin. It was heavier than most and bore the Guild's seal. Elenne closed the doors earlier than usual and asked me to boil the cloth and clean the entry stone. She did not speak again until morning prayers.

After the bell, I copied half of the sea-born hymn. I still mix the second and third lines. The gulls circled loudly over the garden. They did not land.

Humidity has irrevocably damaged this page of the journal. The faint impression of a coastal flower leaves a colored stain in the center of the page. Ink bleeds across the fibers, blending so completely that all writing is beyond recognition.

3rd day of Charlatos, 4830

Rain began early and found its way in through the northern window joint again. A track of droplets marked the covers of three hymnals before I noticed. I dried them the best I could and set them near the basin to air.

Mother Elenne told me I might be ready to take the vesper reading next month. I said I would do my best, though my voice still shakes when the wind comes hard off the bay.

A boy from the shipyard arrived just before first bell. He brought a candle for his sister and did not speak. He nodded once and placed it on the old bench near the shell altar. It burned quickly and left a streak of wax on the wood.

After evening prayers, I copied the saltwater blessing again. I continue to forget the fourth line. I will practice it aloud tomorrow when the chapel is empty.

12th day of Olaesta, 4830

The salted fog held all morning. The bells could barely be heard from the quay, and the floor stayed damp long after I wiped it. The gulls were quiet today, though I saw them gather on the breakwall at dusk.

Mother Elenne allowed me to lead the midday verses. I stumbled on the refrain but kept pace. She gave no correction afterward, which I think was kindness. I will ask her to let me try again next week.

The Guildman has not returned, but I saw carts from the upper quarry moving past the garden path. One of the workers spat too close to the basin. I scrubbed the stone clean before closing the gate.

27th day of Ivastaen, 4830

The High Priestess arrived again, as expected. She comes every five months, though she avoids Charlatos and Lormesta because she does not like to travel in cold weather. This time, she brought only one attendant and a thick letter sealed in white wax.

She asked after the basin and walked the outer path twice before speaking. I do not know why she finds our grounds so peculiar. She always looks longer at the walls than at the altar.

She complimented the order of the garden, though I had not yet swept. Her words are even and pleasant, but her eyes are always searching. I do not think she comes only for worship.

Moisture has warped the page outward from the center, and a small flower is pressed into the parchment. Once white, its petals have turned a pale yellow. The edges have melted into the fibers over time, leaving a faint outline and a darker stain beneath. Ink has bled into the margins, but a few lines remain legible:

"He brought it with both hands."

"Said it grew from the rocks near the basin."

"It smelled faintly of salt and rosemary."

Written near the bottom corner, in a careful hand: Calen

9th day of Lumnea, 4830

Calen came again just after midday. He did not knock, only waited near the side path until I saw him. He brought a bloom, he said he found growing from a crack in the harbor wall. I told him it would not last, but he said that was fine.

He stayed long enough to watch me refill the basin, then left without saying more. I placed the flower in the back of the book, where I thought it would keep. It did not.

Mother Elenne has begun sorting the storeroom shelves again. I do not know where she plans to move everything, but she said we may have to share with the masons soon. I do not think she approves.

2nd day of Koaratos, 4830

Rumors continue about the Guild's plans, but nothing official has been posted. One of the stone counters in the garden cracked under the weight of a builder's crate. They said it would be replaced, but no one has returned to measure.

The High Priestess's letter is still sealed. Elenne has not opened it, though she moved it twice. I think she is waiting for another message, or perhaps the Guildman himself.

A blue gull feather was left on the altar after the second bell. No one saw who brought it.

I placed it in the ribbon box, away from the salt.

13th day of Koaratos, 4830

The stone bench in the garden has been replaced. I was not told it would happen, but when I stepped out to light the sea taper this morning, it was there. Rosewood, newly finished and still carrying the scent of cut shavings. The legs are slightly uneven, but the surface is smooth.

Elenne said one of the sailors had it made for his wife. She is the one who always sits near the roses and watches the harbor light. She wept when the bench cracked beneath the masons' crate. I am glad it was rebuilt.

Ink has lifted across most of the page, leaving behind only faint strokes and a few recognizable shapes. The top third is nearly blank, and the lower margin is warped from long exposure to damp air. Visible along the center fold, in pale ink, are snatches of the original message.

"...asked if it would still be the same chapel..."

"...carried the basin water out into the garden..."

"...song lines lost in the stone dust..."

5th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Construction has begun. Dust rises even before the first bell. The builders come early and eat beside the garden wall. I do not know how they leave the crumbs behind, but the gulls are clearly happy about it.

Mother Elenne and I have moved our sleeping mats into the chapel itself. There is no space left in the quarters, not since the back wall was taken down. She said it is temporary, but we must keep everything folded and out of sight during services.

She reminded me that we are not bound by silence or separation, only by devotion and clarity of intent. Then she looked at me and said, "Even your Calen would agree." I nearly dropped the basin ladle.

16th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Calen returned with an oilskin pouch and handed it to me without speaking. Inside was a cloth wrapped around several dry biscuits and a folded slip of sea-blue ribbon. He said he heard the workers had overrun our stores and that I was likely too polite to complain.

I thanked him, but could not find the right words. Elenne watched from the entryway. Later, she only asked if I had shared them.

The builders left stone dust across the floor again. I swept until my arms ached, but it returned before the evening bell. It finds every crack.

28th day of Phoenatos, 4830

The High Priestess will return in Jastatos. Elenne received a note today. No seal this time, only a clean fold and pressed script. She read it twice, then tucked it into the ledger without comment.

I asked if she thought the Guildman would be here as well. She said most likely, and that the two had likely been speaking for longer than we realized. She did not sound surprised or pleased.

The rosewood bench has already dulled to a greyish tone. I tried wiping it with a damp cloth, but the color does not return. Still, the sailor's wife came today and stayed for the whole of the afternoon light. She did not speak. Only watched the water and smiled.

7th day of Imaerasta, 4830

The scaffolding now reaches above the garden wall. Boards cast a grid of shadow over the roses during morning light. One of the masons said that the new walls will block the ocean view. I had not thought of that until now.

If the wall rises the way they say it will, the garden will face stone, not sea. Elenne was not surprised when I told her. She only said, "It's easier to worship what you can see than what you must remember."

I wonder if the sound of the tide will carry once the last wall is raised.

18th day of Imaerasta, 4830

Mist held long into the afternoon. We lit the lamps early and brought the linens in before the sea air reached them. The dust hangs longer in the stillness.

Word came that Yenterreth of the Marshtown passed in her sleep. She was one of the spirit women, always with a ribbon in her sleeve and saltwater on her boots. I remember her from before I came to live with Elenne. She called me bird girl and once gave me a braid of kelp twine.

She will be interred below with the others. I carried the notice down to the stone chamber myself.

Much of the page has faded due to moisture, but several phrases remain readable:

"...could see the harbor lantern from the bench..."

"...ribbons tied to the low branches removed..."

"...the sound of chisel work does not pause for prayer..."

Smudged ink across the lower edge shows where the page was touched before drying.

3rd day of Jastatos, 4830

The High Priestess arrived just after midday. She wore a dove-colored cloak and had her hair in three loops at her crown. Guildman Vartrien stood beside her beneath the scaffolding. They did not speak during the service, but both stayed until the end.

Afterward, they walked the garden with Elenne. I followed at a distance, gathering petals. I overheard them speak of creating a fresco in Niima's likeness upon the foyer wall. The High Priestess said the space would command presence.

No one mentioned the old altar. I swept around it that night, as a kind of apology.

15th day of Jastatos, 4830

A whisper has spread through the workers. One of the cart drivers said the Krolvin have been seen in Brisker's Cove. No one knows if it's true, but another said the harbor patrol was doubled this week.

Elenne said we cannot shape our prayers to rumors. Still, she lit the tall tapers during evening service and left them burning until the last shadow faded from the stones.

Calen has not returned since the rains began. I keep the ribbon he gave me in my prayer book. It smells faintly of rosemary, even now.

4th day of Eoantos, 4830

Elenne asked me to begin clearing the small office beside the catacombs. She said it was time someone sorted through what remains. I believe she means for me to be occupied, as Calen has not returned. She does not ask after him directly, but she notices when I forget the dusting cloth or leave the lamp wick too low.

The office is colder than I remembered. The walls sweat even when the wind is dry. I found a bundle of records tied with frayed cord, and a shelf of ledgers warped from years of damp. None have dates newer than 4816.

I lit a taper and marveled that its flame didn't waver. The air is rather stale.

12th day of Eoantos, 4830

Stacks of papers have begun to soften and fall apart as I move them. Some pages peel away like onion skin. Others are stuck together with mildew at the corners. There is no order left in the ledgers.

Elenne gave me vinegar water to scrub the stone and showed me how to dry the parchments without tearing the ink. Her hands are steadier than mine, but she let me try alone today.

No one has asked about the office in years. I wonder if anyone will again once the new temple is complete.

Several blotches stretch across the center of the page, caused by ink pressed while wet. Words are smudged and fingerprints mar the lower half.

Only a few lines are clear:

"...wrote his name on the margin and folded it..."

"...did not want to ask him not to go..."

"...the sea calls more surely than words ever could..."

21st day of Eoantos, 4830

Word came that Calen has signed on with a deep-sea vessel. No one knows the name, only that it sails past the Shoals and will be gone past spring.

Elenne said nothing when I told her. She simply handed me another cloth and said, "Salt dries slower than tears." I think she meant it kindly.

The basin water felt colder today, though the air was still. When I poured it over the shell altar, I thought of the wives who stand at our threshold with wet sleeves and silent mouths.

I begin to understand why they come. Not for answers, but for nearness.

1st day of Eorgaen, 4830

The sound of hammers has quieted. Most of the scaffolding has come down. The stones above the chapel are now smooth and white, with carved lines I cannot name.

I finished dusting the office and folded what remained of the ledgers. Several were too damaged to save. Elenne said I may stack them in the catacombs for burning later, though I kept two that still held their shape.

Calen's ribbon rests between the pages of one. I did not mean to place it there. It simply felt right.

19th day of Eorgaen, 4830

We moved into the new quarters today. The walls are smooth, and the ceiling curves slightly like the hull of a ship turned over. My mat fits beneath the small window, though it does not face the sea.

Elenne set our candles on the narrow sill and arranged her ledgers in the cabinet with care. She has not said whether she likes the new space, but she wiped the sill twice before speaking.

I kept the basin cloth. It still smells faintly of rosemary and ink.

31st day of Eorgaen, 4830

Year-end bells rang before the harbor mist had cleared. The garden is smaller now, and the altar no longer sees the ocean, but the salt wind still finds its way between the stones.

I watched from the upper stairs as the tide turned. For a moment, I imagined Calen leaning over the rail of whatever vessel he's found. I do not know where he sailed, or what wind carried him out, only that the thought of him still returns like breath.

I folded a ribbon into the base of the old ledger. Some things are easier to keep when hidden.

1st day of Lormesta, 4831

The High Priestess arrived at midday. She wore fur-lined gloves and spoke briefly before entering the new sanctum. Her words were softer this time. She said the white stone caught light well and that the new foyer had "clean weight."

She did not linger. Elenne bowed but did not speak.

I spent the rest of the day sorting a box of old hymn fragments. Some were written in Kannalan, though I can only read the titles. I have set two aside in hopes that someone might help me translate them.

3rd day of Lormesta, 4831

Calen returned today.

He stood by the garden gate and waited until I saw him. He did not wave. Only smiled, the kind of smile that asks without needing an answer.

I brought him a cup of water, and we sat in the shadow of the old chapel. He said nothing of the voyage, and I did not ask. I watched his hands as he spoke of the harbor and the wind near the reefs. He has a sun mark on his left wrist now, just above the bone.

When he left, he pressed a shell into my palm. It was smooth and unbroken.

5th day of Lormesta, 4831

I do not know if he missed me. I do not know if he meant to see me or only came to the chapel as he once did.

Still, I thought of him each time the tide turned. I imagined the shape of his boat against the horizon, wondering if he looked for birds or counted the ways salt settles into cloth.

The shell he gave me rests beneath the old candle box. I did not tell Elenne.

I have finished copying the Kannalan refrain. The words feel older than stone, but they sing cleanly when read aloud.
|}
==== a faded off-white vellum ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Letter to Aralinna from Tagetes
!a faded off-white vellum
|-
|22 Fashanos 4839

Hi Aralinne,
You are going to sputter when you read this, but I found something I think might actually help. I've been haunting the lower rooms of the Rest's old archive, the one that smells like mushrooms and lamp oil, and you would not believe the number of ledgers that don't even belong there. Some trader scribbled a note in the margin of a shipping contract, and I have no idea why, about a Hermit of Charl. Not a priest. Not a sailor. A hermit.

The strange part is, he wasn't written about like some bedraggled man on a rock. He had followers. Or at least people who carried his words. The note said he held something powerful, something that could "turn back the tide and lay bare the seabed, if placed with care and faith at the high edge." That's what it actually said. The relic doesn't have a name, which is frustrating, but it is always connected to cliffs or high ridges.

I spent the last two days chasing the reference backward, and I think it's Kannalan. Most of the names line up with the way they spell things when they want to make them sound more official. The good stuff always hides behind fancy lettering.

Anyway, I asked around, and there's a guide here who knows the Karazja ruins. He's agreed to take me inland starting next week. I'll be careful. I promise. But if I'm right, that relic might still be out there.

Imagine what it would mean if we could part the sea.

More soon,
Tagetes

P.S. Tell Marris not to let the acolytes into the tide closet again. I know it was them. The shells were rearranged. Again.
|}
==== Seaborne Hymnal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a thread-edged faded parchment
|-
|Parchment the color of drifted sand bears faded blue script in a careful, even hand. The edges have frayed into soft waves, and the lower corner is discolored where dampness clings to the page. A watermark in the upper left shows a simple wave crest superimposed over a scallop shell. Salt has left faint flecks across the surface, and one line of ink has bled slightly with age. Despite wear, the script remains fully legible, framed by a border of pressed gull feathers and hand-tied seasilk thread.

In the Common language, it reads:

Instructions for the Seaborne Hymnal

To be spoken daily, often at morning tide or before the first sail departs.

The Seaborne Hymnal is a spoken blessing offered to all who live by the rhythm of the sea. It honors those who make their living from its bounty, those who voyage upon it, and those who wait at its edge. The ritual is led by a priestess and joined by those gathered, using a call and response pattern. It is not sung, but spoken clearly, with steadiness and intent.

There are no physical offerings required. However, each response is accompanied by a hand gesture to mark the tide's reach and the release of prayer.

The priestess stands facing the gathered. Congregants may form a semicircle or remain as they are, whether in chapel or along the shore. The ritual may be performed indoors or outdoors, provided the sea is visible or near.

At each response, the right hand is placed palm-down over the heart, then extended outward, fingers spread as if forming the crest of a wave. This gesture is slow and deliberate. At the final line, the gesture is held outward a moment longer before lowering the hand.

The hymnal is: 
'''Priestess:''' Who wakes with the wind and walks with the tide? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who casts the net and bears the storm? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who waits at the window and sings to the dark? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who names the stars and trusts the wave? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Bless those who leave and those who remain. 
Bless those who labor and those who pray. 
Bless those who remember. 
'''Congregation (final gesture):''' And those who return no more.

The rite is complete after the final line. There is no need for benediction. Let silence follow for a breath or two before the next act begins.
|}
==== Ribbon Vigil ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a watermarked pearly white parchment
|-
|Faint mildew spots darken the four corners of the parchment, which has a pearly white finish created by the waxy finished worked into its fibers. An azure watermark of a scallop shell superimposed over cresting waves can be seen beneath the indigo ink that spread across its surface.

In the Common language, it reads:

The Ribbon Vigil is a quiet, sacred tradition observed by sailors and their loved ones before voyages that lead them beyond the protection of the bay. It is deeply personal, often unspoken, and performed in silence atop the temple's Widow's Walk. The rite is not scheduled by the temple, nor does it require direct guidance, but all priestesses, acolytes, and attending staff should understand its nature and how to offer quiet support when needed.

The vigil begins when a sailor and a significant companion, whether spouse, sibling, friend, or beloved, ascending to the rooftop of the temple. Together, they bring a ribbon, which may be carried openly or hidden in the hand, sleeve, or pocket until the moment it is needed. Upon reaching the rail that faces the open sea, they tie the ribbon to the ironwork together. There is no formal color or material required. While many choose white, blue, or sea green, others may bring a scrap of sailcloth or a woven charm. The meaning lies in the bond, not the fiber. No spoken words are required, though some murmur names or prayers as the knot is tied. The act itself is the offering. It binds the hope of return between two people and entrusts that bond to the sea.

At times, when a ship is long overdue or the sea has turned cruel, the one who remained ashore may return to the Widow's Walk alone. There, they loosen the knot they once tied. The ribbon is not taken down but left slack in the wind. This act is a plea to Niima, asking her to seek the one who has not come home. It is believed that if the ribbon is taken by the wind and reaches the sea, Niima will find the sailor and guide them to safety. That safety may not bring them home to Solhaven, but it will bring them to a shore. If the ribbon tangles, falls, or clings to the stone, some believe it is a sign that the soul it represents has already passed from Niima's reach.

Temple staff must not disturb those who come to perform this rite. Acolytes may observe from a distance and quietly light a sea taper at the stairwell when a ribbon loosening is witnessed. The gesture is enough to mark the moment. Comfort should be offered gently, without promise or correction. Never assure a safe return. Instead, remind them that Niima knows every name whispered to the tide and that no soul is ever truly lost to her.

Ribbons left on the Widow's Walk should be observed weekly. Those that have clearly loosened and not flown may be carefully removed and burned in a salt-fire by the priestess or her assistant. This should be done with solemnity and without comment, allowing the sea to receive what it could not carry.

Priestesses may speak of the vigil during public blessings, particularly on days when many ships prepare to depart. However, no individual should be named or pointed to. Let the ribbon be a silent prayer, seen by the sea and felt by those who wait.
|}
==== Song of Return ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a worn and faded scrap of vellum
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:

Song of Return 
A blessing for safe voyage and reunion

Go forth with the tide and return with the swell, 
Let the waves bear you gently, where ever you dwell. 
May your sails know the whisper, not the wail of the sea, 
And the stars hold your course where your heart longs to be.

Let the wind be your witness, the foam be your guide, 
Let the deep pass beneath you and never divide. 
By the light of Niima, by the calm of her grace, 
May your path find the harbor, your soul find its place.

Those who love you will wait with the shore in their eyes, 
Watching dawn rise in silence and dusk fill the skies. 
So go forth with the tide and return with the swell, 
You are known to the sea, and she knows you well.
|}

==== Elenne's (?) Papers ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a pale slip of vellum bearing a rust-tinged watermark
|-
|Rust-toned watermarks bloom across the lower half of the parchment, forming uneven, organic shapes. The ink has faded but remains legible throughout. The surface is rough to the touch, with several shallow indentations along the right margin, as if pressed against the corner of a writing board. Mild mildew spotting is visible near the top, and the parchment carries a faint metallic scent.

In the Common language, it reads: 
15th day of Fashanos, 4830 
Master Vartrien of the Mercantile Guild visited the chapel before midday service. He spoke of expanding the grounds and building a larger temple to better serve Solhaven's growing population. I reminded him that the chapel predates the coastal road and holds its own rhythm. He seemed unconcerned but polite. Left a coin marked with the Guild's seal in the basin. I placed it with the others and marked his visit in the side register.
|-
!a raw-edged and water-spotted page
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads:

17th day of Lumnea, 4830
Widow Carlan returned today, still unable to bear the final words. Her husband was taken last autumn in the reef churn near a southern cay. It has been added to our charts. I gave her the ledger entry of his loss to hold and read aloud as part of the Benediction for Final Rest. She left a net of white knotted cord, said it was the last he made, but did not stay. I've placed it on the altar before the midday rites. As a note, fog rolled in not long after service, and only three stayed for evening psalms.
|-
!a ink-streaked torn vellum sheet
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads: 
29th day of Koaratos, 4832 
Two merchant wives came bearing cloth bundles for the shrine. Each held swaddled sea stones tied with bits of silk, blue and pale. They asked no questions, gave no names. I placed the stones in the vessel below the sanctum basin and poured saltwater as they requested. Both stayed for the midday chant, though neither sang. After, they left through the garden gate without speaking further. I noted no marking on the silk. I hope they found comfort.
|-
!an ink-blotched paper fragment
|-
|Near the lower edge, signs of delamination are evident where prolonged exposure to moisture has lifted the parchment fibers. Ink blotches cover the upper left corner, though the writing beneath remains legible. Faint blue guidelines run horizontally across the surface, now nearly faded from view. All corners are softened from repeated handling, while the light scent of damp plaster and crushed chalk clings to the page.

In the Common language, it reads: 
18th day of Ivastaen, 4835 
Workers paused their efforts near the east colonnade due to a broken pulley. Several wandered into the chapel while the foreman spoke with a guild agent outside. One left a handful of copper on the basin rim. I noted no offering ribbon, but took it with the rest before lighting the salt lamp. Held afternoon prayers with two elders and one child. No hymn today. Breezes through the north wall joints have grown stronger since the scaffolding went up.
|}

==== a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Necklace Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 100 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
==== a discolored albatross feather quill ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Quill Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a discolored albatross feather quill
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 30,000 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
[[Category:The Shadowy Abyss]]

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Found items

2025-06-14T21:56:40Z

RAFFELS2: /* Song of Return */

__ToC__
== Shadowy Abyss Found Items ==
=== 06.06.2025 ===
==== an antique Vornavian silk cloth ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key's Sleeve
!an antique Vornavian silk cloth
|-
|Smooth with a soft finish, the Vornavian silk cloth has hints of its original deep blue hue at its edges though largely it has faded to a watered azure hue. Faint seashell patterns decorate the edge, the silver and white embroidery creating scallop shells that overlap. Rolled silk cords aid the bundle in staying closed as needed, their ends capped in silver dolphin periapts.
|}

===== a blue-tinted white vellum parchment =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Letter to Tagetes from Aralinne
!a blue-tinted white vellum parchment
|-
|Slightly warped in shape and displaying clear signs of damage from humidity, the fine parchment is tinted with a subtle blue hue that is almost white and yet distinctly not. Crisp folds create precise lines in the top and bottom third of the piece, while the corners display fray signs where moisture has separated the layers.
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:
the seventeenth day of Olaesta in the year 4839

Tagetes,

Hopefully, we will return at the same time and all of this preparation will be for naught.

The temple will have no attendants as I have figured out the missing piece to get us to Pearl. It lies in an old Kannalan Temple to Charl. I believe I've tracked down its former location. I've hidden the plans in the old office at the end of the catacombs and sealed the entry.

So few people know of its existence that it should be safe to travel there. I do not think I will be gone more than a handful of days.

However, as I do not trust the Mercantile Guild, with their recent decisions to create gardens and shrines to the dark pantheon, I have sealed the doorway up and hidden it. Since you know where it is, you should have no issue finding it.

There are seven keys for entry. I've left the Empress key here, but you can easily obtain the other six by seeking the blessings of the Lover, the Mistress, the Sister, the Mother, the Daughter, and the High Priestess. I'm sure you'll remember who these are from our past talks. I dare not say more for fear this is found by others.

Please know that some wish to see the curse spread. Others are working hard to stop it. Young Bristena had the idea to buy back all the jewelry from the women whose husband, lovers, and brothers searched the North Beach to obtain them. I gave her enough coin to buy them all back.

Once she has every last piece, she'll have a sailor take her out to the spot we believe the "Pearl" to be waiting in and drop them back into the water. That should give us time to get the pieces together to free her. I used the last of the coffers to pay a crew to start the lighthouse.

If I don't return... Please let my husband and son know the depths of which I love them.

By my hand,

Aralinne Wynedowne
|}
===== a carved golden amber acorn =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key
!a carved golden amber acorn
|-
|Roughly oval in shape, a carved golden amber acorn is broad and flat, providing an excellent view of its transparent interior portion. Trapped within the golden yellow fossilized pine tree sap are several small flying insects and a dried flower.
|}
==== an aged grey stone tile ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+The Tile
!an aged grey stone tile
|-
|Your song touches the tile, and the memory begins with stillness, then the faint scrape of wood across stone. Gentle hands press close, fitting the tile snugly into place. A murmur of approval hums nearby, muffled by fabric and breath. Cool grout slides into the seams, and the air shifts. Salt lingers in the room, carried on a current scented with blossoms. Lilac and sea daisy rise together, soft and clean. A hush settles across the surface, and the tile recognizes it as belonging. Beneath the faintest sigh of sandals against stone, a woman's voice murmurs, "There. That's better." The sounds and sensations fade along with the last syllables of your song.

As your song continues to caress the tile, it stirs with echoes of passing time. Soft footsteps come and go, punctuated by the rhythmic sweep of bristles and the clatter of buckets. Voices rise and fall nearby, sometimes low with grief, sometimes bright with ritual. One speaks of a sister's safe return, another offers blessings over a sailor's name. A different voice complains about a cracked basin and the need for fresh oil. Each moment blends into the next, seasons marked only by the changing cadence of heels, the weight of silence, and the gentle creak of wood in damp air. Slowly, the sensation and sounds fade, one by one, until they fall as silent as your song.

Your melody draws forth a hush, and the tile remembers the scent first. Bitter and resinous, the thick smoke of funerary incense curls low to the ground. Voices follow in soft procession, cloaked in sorrow. Some weep openly, others murmur prayers with trembling breath. The weight of grief presses against the stone, heavy as tide against jetty. A name is spoken again and again, reverent and broken, until it becomes a lullaby of mourning. Between each word, silence holds vigil. The tile feels a deep stillness in the air, as if even the sea has paused to listen. A final name tumbles across your ears as your song slips into silence, "Elenne."

Your song stirs the memory of disturbance. The tile feels the grit of its seams loosened, the edge of a tool scraping carefully through old grout. Pressure lifts it from the floor, just briefly, and something small is slid beneath. When the tile returns to its place, the surface meets the subfloor with an unfamiliar firmness. A hand lingers upon it, smooth and warm, resting for a long moment before giving a gentle pat. Whispered words ride the still air, close enough to touch, "Keep this safe until Tagetes finds you." An absence of warmth is the last sensation the tile imparts before your song stills.

Your voice brushes the tile, and the past answers with hushed urgency. There is the soft shuffle of feet, the creak of worn boots on stone, and a sharp intake of breath. Mournful whispers crowd the silence. A voice, cracked with worry and soft with distance, murmurs, "I don't know where you are, Aralinne. I can't get into the catacombs to check on you as the Brisker's Cove bowl was broken in the latest Krolvin raids... Please come home to us. Please. Your plan for Bristena worked; she told me of it when I returned. The girls are free, but where are you? I'm going to hide my piece until it can unite with yours. Please be safe, be careful." A soft sigh blends with the ending resonance of your song.

Your voice draws forth only silence at first. Time passes, measured in distant echoes. Footsteps sound too far to name, and faint shifts in the air come and go with no purpose. Old wood creaks softly where it meets damp stone. Dust settles in the seams, and salt from the sea clings to the surface. Years drift by without notice. Then, without warning, fingers press along your edges. There is a pause, a breath held just beyond hearing, and the tile feels the careful pry of something firm beneath it. A clamor of voices overlaps with each other until they blend into the fading sound of your song.
|}

=== 06.13.2025 ===
==== a salt-stained blue leather ledger ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Ledger from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a salt-stained blue leather ledger
|-
|Bound in navy blue leather, the ledger bears clear signs of repair. Patches of mismatched hide reinforce the spine and corners, and thin linen cords hold the bindings tight. Though worn smooth with age, the cover still holds the faint imprint of Niima's shell crest, long faded by handling. The pages inside are slightly bowed from moisture, but the ink has held well. Each year occupies a single page, the writing steady and small.
|-
|4816

Tidy dates and notations for each month in 4816 are aligned neatly along the inner margin. Notes reference standard morning and mid-tide services, with modest attendance throughout the year. Several deaths at sea are marked during Phoenatos and Imaerasta. There are mentions of a small fishing vessel lost in late Charlatos, and a new lantern donated by a widow named Hessa. The last quarter shows increased visits near Solstice.

4817

Entries for 4817 remain even and uneventful. Most notes concern basin cleaning, donation handling, and ribbon replenishment. Storms in Lumnea and Koaratos disrupted service for several days. A merchant's wife is mentioned repeatedly for leaving folded prayers in the offering box. One record notes an unusual number of gulls gathered at the altar during a fogbound service, marked simply with, "observed by three."

4818

Standard service records dominate the page, with annotations in blue ink appearing during spring. One comment in the margin reads, "New basin stone fitted. Shell inlay cracked but held." Three names repeat throughout the year: a retired sailor, a midwife from Marshtown, and a girl recorded only as "A.M." Several deaths at sea appear again in Eorgaen. Coastal offerings increase during the fall months.

4819

The 4819 entries continue in a narrow hand, with an unusual number of weddings noted between Charlatos and Ivastaen. Ribbons tied at the altar outnumber funerary entries this year. A brief note in Phoenatos mentions a fisherman's body returned after fifteen tides. Repairs to the vestibule door are recorded in Koaratos. A delivery of hymnals is documented without name, signed only with "N.L."

4820

Attendance patterns remain steady throughout 4820. Notations of storm disruptions in Fashanos and Koaratos are followed by increased evening services during those months. One brief note in Charlatos mentions a girl from the lower quarter beginning "training for vow," though no name is listed. Seasonal surges continue, with quiet months between. A salt-caked page corner suggests the ledger was left open during a sea spray.

4821

Small, precise entries for 4821 follow the pattern of prior years. Services remained regular, with additional rites held after a coastal storm in Charlatos. A recurring visitor is listed only as "shell-bearer" during spring months. Repairs to the west garden wall are noted in Lumnea. One entry in Eorgaen records, "child left driftwood figure at basin, no adult nearby." The handwriting becomes slightly sharper near the year's end.

4822

The year opened with colder winds and reduced attendance through Lormesta. One note in Fashanos records an elderly priestess slipping on the altar steps, resulting in no injury. Minor construction is logged in Ivastaen: "stone bench repositioned, foundation settled uneven." Gulls are again noted during a fog-heavy morning service. No deaths at sea are marked for Koaratos, which is noted as rare by the author. Extra hymn practice is recorded for Imaerasta.

4823

Faint ink along the top edge shows early signs of moisture, but the page remains legible. Most entries follow the standard pattern. A sailor's wedding in Phoenatos brought increased attendance for several days. Someone left a carved shell token in the basin and returned each week through Jastatos. No name was ever recorded. One funeral in Eoantos references burial in the lower catacomb row, name lost to smudging. Elenne's name begins to appear more frequently.

4824

Ledger entries remain orderly. Elenne is noted as presiding over full services during three major seasonal observances. A short entry in Imaerasta reads, "saltwater damaged two hymnals, copies made by hand." Several deaths at sea were recorded across Phoenatos and Jastatos. A recurring note of "candles late" appears without clarification. Winter quarter shows an increased number of widows seeking individual prayer times, as marked by initials only.

4825

The writing becomes slightly more compact along this page, possibly due to a change in hand. Services are held regularly with minor disruptions caused by harbor traffic. One early Charlatos entry reads, "path blocked by hauling rig, services delayed." Garden growth noted as "vigorous" in Lumnea. An unnamed girl from Marshtown began regular cleaning duties in midyear. Entries suggest her presence became routine, though her name is not yet recorded. Several pages show signs of ash smudging near the bottom corner.

4826

Ledger entries remain narrow and consistent. Regular service records dominate the page, with a note in Ivastaen reading, "two hymnals lost to mildew, one copied by hand." The girl from Marshtown is noted more frequently, assisting with basin preparation and entry sweeping. Elenne is recorded as leading nearly all rites this year. In Koaratos, a sailor's wife donated wax and twine following her husband's return from the reefs.

4827

A colder year, with notations of light frost in Charlatos and a decline in visitors during the first quarter. The Marshtown girl is listed by initials for the first time: "A.L.". She appears often in notes tied to daily upkeep and chant transcription. Elenne requested additional salt deliveries from the quay, suggesting higher ritual use. A short record in Imaerasta reads, "boy returned with offering candle for sister." His name is not recorded, but the action repeats in later months.

4828

Ink across this page is slightly lighter but consistent. Notes describe steady attendance and quiet observances throughout the year. "A.L." continues to serve regularly and is mentioned copying seasonal verses. A new basin cloth was donated by a widow in Phoenatos. Calen Wynedowne is noted briefly in Koaratos as assisting with deliveries. In Eorgaen, a child is recorded as tying sea glass to the offering pole, noted without comment.

4829

The handwriting tightens slightly, with some changes in wording structure. "A.L." is listed as leading chants during two minor observances. A service disruption is recorded in Charlatos: "work crew halted access to west path." Garden repairs resumed in Ivastaen, with the stone bench noted as "settled, but now cracking." Calen Wynedowne is marked present on three service dates. Elenne's name appears as usual, though one note mentions "shortness of breath in colder months."

4830

Entries shift slightly in tone this year, with more detailed notations. "A.L." is no longer referenced only by initials. Her name appears as Aralinne, recorded assisting with vespers and receiving permission to copy the coastal prayers. Elenne continues to lead services throughout. In Fashanos, a marked entry reads: "Calen Wynedowne departed aboard the Drowned Boar." A note in Imaerasta logs the visit of the High Priestess from Selanthia. Garden notes cease after Koaratos, likely due to early construction of the new temple.

4831

Entries are steady, with services held regularly in the newly expanded chapel. The original altar remains in partial use during evening observances. Aralinne is recorded as leading chants and maintaining basin duties throughout the year. A note in Charlatos reads, "Calen returned, left shell at east bench." Additional visitors marked in Phoenatos. Several Kannalan hymn fragments reviewed in Jastatos, with Aralinne listed as transcriber. No disruptions recorded.

4832

Observances continue without interruption. Aralinne is noted frequently in preparation tasks, seasonal cleanings, and the transcription of coastal rites. One record in Koaratos reads, "private service held for three widows." Increased taper use recorded in Imaerasta. No name given, but a new assistant is mentioned briefly in Lumnea. Aralinne's duties expand across multiple entries. The final note of the year: "attendance steady; records filed."

4833

Standard notations occupy most of the year. Aralinne continues in her role, listed alongside Elenne for all major observances. Her name appears independently in entries for dusk services and catacomb visits. One summer note mentions, "garden basin cleared and refilled under Aralinne's guidance." No major incidents. Early signs of leadership transition appear in Eoantos, though no formal statement is recorded. The garden bench is listed as worn, but stable.

4834

Charlatos begins with a formal entry: "Calen Wynedowne and Aralinne joined in marriage, witnessed before first bell at east altar." Both continue in regular attendance. Aralinne is recorded as leading evening services and overseeing hymn preservation efforts. Her handwriting begins to appear in later entries. Koaratos notes her inclusion in guild correspondence. The final entry in Eorgaen lists: "preparations for early solstice rites under Aralinne."

4835

Year begins quietly. Aralinne is now noted as officiating several services in early Fashanos. In Jastatos, a central entry reads: "Elenne passed peacefully in the night, fifth day of Jastatos." Her name does not appear again. Subsequent entries mark Aralinne presiding over full rites. One note reads, "transition marked with coastal hymn, basin blessing unchanged." Calen continues to appear sporadically. The final entry of the year reads: "chapel remains steady under Aralinne's care."
|}
==== a small salt-stained journal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Journal from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a small salt-stained journal
|-
|Bound in salt-stained suede, the small journal shows signs of frequent handling. The edges of the cover have curled slightly, and faint salt residue clings to the seams. Interior pages are swollen from moisture, and many are warped or stuck together. Ink bleeds across several leaves, though a few entries remain legible. The faint scent of mildew and brine lingers between the covers.
|-
|1st day of Lormesta, 4830

The new year began in silence. No sun showed at dawn, only a pale mist rolling over the port that settled in the alleys and gutters. We opened the chapel doors late this morning. A thin crust of salt had gathered again on the threshold.

Mother Elenne asked me to polish the lamp basin and check our remaining wax. She said that if the year is to bring anything, let it be steadiness. I scrubbed the copper too hard and bent the rim along one edge. She noticed but said nothing.

After the evening bell, I stayed to copy the coastal prayer. My ink bled in the cold, and my fingers would not hold the quill straight. The letters blurred near the bottom of the page. I will try again tomorrow.

The gulls have returned early this year. Their cries sound sharper than I remember.

Faint ink marks show a date in the top right corner, though the precise date is difficult to decipher. There is an impression of repeated script beneath the date, but the parchment is too warped to decipher much of its contents. Only a few words remain distinguishable near the bottom:

"...salt left from the..."

"...sleeves wet from the basin..."

"...ribbon placed before bell..."

16th day of Fashanos, 4830

A merchant visited the chapel yesterday. He introduced himself as Vartrien and said he represented the Mercantile Guild. His boots were polished, but they slipped on the chapel stones. He smelled faintly of tallow and wine.

He spoke with Elenne behind the altar rail. I only heard part of what was said... something about extending the outer walls, adding a foyer and foyer, and pulling stone from the cliff quarry. He did not ask about the altar or the basin.

Before leaving, he placed a coin in the offering basin. It was heavier than most and bore the Guild's seal. Elenne closed the doors earlier than usual and asked me to boil the cloth and clean the entry stone. She did not speak again until morning prayers.

After the bell, I copied half of the sea-born hymn. I still mix the second and third lines. The gulls circled loudly over the garden. They did not land.

Humidity has irrevocably damaged this page of the journal. The faint impression of a coastal flower leaves a colored stain in the center of the page. Ink bleeds across the fibers, blending so completely that all writing is beyond recognition.

3rd day of Charlatos, 4830

Rain began early and found its way in through the northern window joint again. A track of droplets marked the covers of three hymnals before I noticed. I dried them the best I could and set them near the basin to air.

Mother Elenne told me I might be ready to take the vesper reading next month. I said I would do my best, though my voice still shakes when the wind comes hard off the bay.

A boy from the shipyard arrived just before first bell. He brought a candle for his sister and did not speak. He nodded once and placed it on the old bench near the shell altar. It burned quickly and left a streak of wax on the wood.

After evening prayers, I copied the saltwater blessing again. I continue to forget the fourth line. I will practice it aloud tomorrow when the chapel is empty.

12th day of Olaesta, 4830

The salted fog held all morning. The bells could barely be heard from the quay, and the floor stayed damp long after I wiped it. The gulls were quiet today, though I saw them gather on the breakwall at dusk.

Mother Elenne allowed me to lead the midday verses. I stumbled on the refrain but kept pace. She gave no correction afterward, which I think was kindness. I will ask her to let me try again next week.

The Guildman has not returned, but I saw carts from the upper quarry moving past the garden path. One of the workers spat too close to the basin. I scrubbed the stone clean before closing the gate.

27th day of Ivastaen, 4830

The High Priestess arrived again, as expected. She comes every five months, though she avoids Charlatos and Lormesta because she does not like to travel in cold weather. This time, she brought only one attendant and a thick letter sealed in white wax.

She asked after the basin and walked the outer path twice before speaking. I do not know why she finds our grounds so peculiar. She always looks longer at the walls than at the altar.

She complimented the order of the garden, though I had not yet swept. Her words are even and pleasant, but her eyes are always searching. I do not think she comes only for worship.

Moisture has warped the page outward from the center, and a small flower is pressed into the parchment. Once white, its petals have turned a pale yellow. The edges have melted into the fibers over time, leaving a faint outline and a darker stain beneath. Ink has bled into the margins, but a few lines remain legible:

"He brought it with both hands."

"Said it grew from the rocks near the basin."

"It smelled faintly of salt and rosemary."

Written near the bottom corner, in a careful hand: Calen

9th day of Lumnea, 4830

Calen came again just after midday. He did not knock, only waited near the side path until I saw him. He brought a bloom, he said he found growing from a crack in the harbor wall. I told him it would not last, but he said that was fine.

He stayed long enough to watch me refill the basin, then left without saying more. I placed the flower in the back of the book, where I thought it would keep. It did not.

Mother Elenne has begun sorting the storeroom shelves again. I do not know where she plans to move everything, but she said we may have to share with the masons soon. I do not think she approves.

2nd day of Koaratos, 4830

Rumors continue about the Guild's plans, but nothing official has been posted. One of the stone counters in the garden cracked under the weight of a builder's crate. They said it would be replaced, but no one has returned to measure.

The High Priestess's letter is still sealed. Elenne has not opened it, though she moved it twice. I think she is waiting for another message, or perhaps the Guildman himself.

A blue gull feather was left on the altar after the second bell. No one saw who brought it.

I placed it in the ribbon box, away from the salt.

13th day of Koaratos, 4830

The stone bench in the garden has been replaced. I was not told it would happen, but when I stepped out to light the sea taper this morning, it was there. Rosewood, newly finished and still carrying the scent of cut shavings. The legs are slightly uneven, but the surface is smooth.

Elenne said one of the sailors had it made for his wife. She is the one who always sits near the roses and watches the harbor light. She wept when the bench cracked beneath the masons' crate. I am glad it was rebuilt.

Ink has lifted across most of the page, leaving behind only faint strokes and a few recognizable shapes. The top third is nearly blank, and the lower margin is warped from long exposure to damp air. Visible along the center fold, in pale ink, are snatches of the original message.

"...asked if it would still be the same chapel..."

"...carried the basin water out into the garden..."

"...song lines lost in the stone dust..."

5th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Construction has begun. Dust rises even before the first bell. The builders come early and eat beside the garden wall. I do not know how they leave the crumbs behind, but the gulls are clearly happy about it.

Mother Elenne and I have moved our sleeping mats into the chapel itself. There is no space left in the quarters, not since the back wall was taken down. She said it is temporary, but we must keep everything folded and out of sight during services.

She reminded me that we are not bound by silence or separation, only by devotion and clarity of intent. Then she looked at me and said, "Even your Calen would agree." I nearly dropped the basin ladle.

16th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Calen returned with an oilskin pouch and handed it to me without speaking. Inside was a cloth wrapped around several dry biscuits and a folded slip of sea-blue ribbon. He said he heard the workers had overrun our stores and that I was likely too polite to complain.

I thanked him, but could not find the right words. Elenne watched from the entryway. Later, she only asked if I had shared them.

The builders left stone dust across the floor again. I swept until my arms ached, but it returned before the evening bell. It finds every crack.

28th day of Phoenatos, 4830

The High Priestess will return in Jastatos. Elenne received a note today. No seal this time, only a clean fold and pressed script. She read it twice, then tucked it into the ledger without comment.

I asked if she thought the Guildman would be here as well. She said most likely, and that the two had likely been speaking for longer than we realized. She did not sound surprised or pleased.

The rosewood bench has already dulled to a greyish tone. I tried wiping it with a damp cloth, but the color does not return. Still, the sailor's wife came today and stayed for the whole of the afternoon light. She did not speak. Only watched the water and smiled.

7th day of Imaerasta, 4830

The scaffolding now reaches above the garden wall. Boards cast a grid of shadow over the roses during morning light. One of the masons said that the new walls will block the ocean view. I had not thought of that until now.

If the wall rises the way they say it will, the garden will face stone, not sea. Elenne was not surprised when I told her. She only said, "It's easier to worship what you can see than what you must remember."

I wonder if the sound of the tide will carry once the last wall is raised.

18th day of Imaerasta, 4830

Mist held long into the afternoon. We lit the lamps early and brought the linens in before the sea air reached them. The dust hangs longer in the stillness.

Word came that Yenterreth of the Marshtown passed in her sleep. She was one of the spirit women, always with a ribbon in her sleeve and saltwater on her boots. I remember her from before I came to live with Elenne. She called me bird girl and once gave me a braid of kelp twine.

She will be interred below with the others. I carried the notice down to the stone chamber myself.

Much of the page has faded due to moisture, but several phrases remain readable:

"...could see the harbor lantern from the bench..."

"...ribbons tied to the low branches removed..."

"...the sound of chisel work does not pause for prayer..."

Smudged ink across the lower edge shows where the page was touched before drying.

3rd day of Jastatos, 4830

The High Priestess arrived just after midday. She wore a dove-colored cloak and had her hair in three loops at her crown. Guildman Vartrien stood beside her beneath the scaffolding. They did not speak during the service, but both stayed until the end.

Afterward, they walked the garden with Elenne. I followed at a distance, gathering petals. I overheard them speak of creating a fresco in Niima's likeness upon the foyer wall. The High Priestess said the space would command presence.

No one mentioned the old altar. I swept around it that night, as a kind of apology.

15th day of Jastatos, 4830

A whisper has spread through the workers. One of the cart drivers said the Krolvin have been seen in Brisker's Cove. No one knows if it's true, but another said the harbor patrol was doubled this week.

Elenne said we cannot shape our prayers to rumors. Still, she lit the tall tapers during evening service and left them burning until the last shadow faded from the stones.

Calen has not returned since the rains began. I keep the ribbon he gave me in my prayer book. It smells faintly of rosemary, even now.

4th day of Eoantos, 4830

Elenne asked me to begin clearing the small office beside the catacombs. She said it was time someone sorted through what remains. I believe she means for me to be occupied, as Calen has not returned. She does not ask after him directly, but she notices when I forget the dusting cloth or leave the lamp wick too low.

The office is colder than I remembered. The walls sweat even when the wind is dry. I found a bundle of records tied with frayed cord, and a shelf of ledgers warped from years of damp. None have dates newer than 4816.

I lit a taper and marveled that its flame didn't waver. The air is rather stale.

12th day of Eoantos, 4830

Stacks of papers have begun to soften and fall apart as I move them. Some pages peel away like onion skin. Others are stuck together with mildew at the corners. There is no order left in the ledgers.

Elenne gave me vinegar water to scrub the stone and showed me how to dry the parchments without tearing the ink. Her hands are steadier than mine, but she let me try alone today.

No one has asked about the office in years. I wonder if anyone will again once the new temple is complete.

Several blotches stretch across the center of the page, caused by ink pressed while wet. Words are smudged and fingerprints mar the lower half.

Only a few lines are clear:

"...wrote his name on the margin and folded it..."

"...did not want to ask him not to go..."

"...the sea calls more surely than words ever could..."

21st day of Eoantos, 4830

Word came that Calen has signed on with a deep-sea vessel. No one knows the name, only that it sails past the Shoals and will be gone past spring.

Elenne said nothing when I told her. She simply handed me another cloth and said, "Salt dries slower than tears." I think she meant it kindly.

The basin water felt colder today, though the air was still. When I poured it over the shell altar, I thought of the wives who stand at our threshold with wet sleeves and silent mouths.

I begin to understand why they come. Not for answers, but for nearness.

1st day of Eorgaen, 4830

The sound of hammers has quieted. Most of the scaffolding has come down. The stones above the chapel are now smooth and white, with carved lines I cannot name.

I finished dusting the office and folded what remained of the ledgers. Several were too damaged to save. Elenne said I may stack them in the catacombs for burning later, though I kept two that still held their shape.

Calen's ribbon rests between the pages of one. I did not mean to place it there. It simply felt right.

19th day of Eorgaen, 4830

We moved into the new quarters today. The walls are smooth, and the ceiling curves slightly like the hull of a ship turned over. My mat fits beneath the small window, though it does not face the sea.

Elenne set our candles on the narrow sill and arranged her ledgers in the cabinet with care. She has not said whether she likes the new space, but she wiped the sill twice before speaking.

I kept the basin cloth. It still smells faintly of rosemary and ink.

31st day of Eorgaen, 4830

Year-end bells rang before the harbor mist had cleared. The garden is smaller now, and the altar no longer sees the ocean, but the salt wind still finds its way between the stones.

I watched from the upper stairs as the tide turned. For a moment, I imagined Calen leaning over the rail of whatever vessel he's found. I do not know where he sailed, or what wind carried him out, only that the thought of him still returns like breath.

I folded a ribbon into the base of the old ledger. Some things are easier to keep when hidden.

1st day of Lormesta, 4831

The High Priestess arrived at midday. She wore fur-lined gloves and spoke briefly before entering the new sanctum. Her words were softer this time. She said the white stone caught light well and that the new foyer had "clean weight."

She did not linger. Elenne bowed but did not speak.

I spent the rest of the day sorting a box of old hymn fragments. Some were written in Kannalan, though I can only read the titles. I have set two aside in hopes that someone might help me translate them.

3rd day of Lormesta, 4831

Calen returned today.

He stood by the garden gate and waited until I saw him. He did not wave. Only smiled, the kind of smile that asks without needing an answer.

I brought him a cup of water, and we sat in the shadow of the old chapel. He said nothing of the voyage, and I did not ask. I watched his hands as he spoke of the harbor and the wind near the reefs. He has a sun mark on his left wrist now, just above the bone.

When he left, he pressed a shell into my palm. It was smooth and unbroken.

5th day of Lormesta, 4831

I do not know if he missed me. I do not know if he meant to see me or only came to the chapel as he once did.

Still, I thought of him each time the tide turned. I imagined the shape of his boat against the horizon, wondering if he looked for birds or counted the ways salt settles into cloth.

The shell he gave me rests beneath the old candle box. I did not tell Elenne.

I have finished copying the Kannalan refrain. The words feel older than stone, but they sing cleanly when read aloud.
|}
==== a faded off-white vellum ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Letter to Aralinna from Tagetes
!a faded off-white vellum
|-
|22 Fashanos 4839

Hi Aralinne,
You are going to sputter when you read this, but I found something I think might actually help. I've been haunting the lower rooms of the Rest's old archive, the one that smells like mushrooms and lamp oil, and you would not believe the number of ledgers that don't even belong there. Some trader scribbled a note in the margin of a shipping contract, and I have no idea why, about a Hermit of Charl. Not a priest. Not a sailor. A hermit.

The strange part is, he wasn't written about like some bedraggled man on a rock. He had followers. Or at least people who carried his words. The note said he held something powerful, something that could "turn back the tide and lay bare the seabed, if placed with care and faith at the high edge." That's what it actually said. The relic doesn't have a name, which is frustrating, but it is always connected to cliffs or high ridges.

I spent the last two days chasing the reference backward, and I think it's Kannalan. Most of the names line up with the way they spell things when they want to make them sound more official. The good stuff always hides behind fancy lettering.

Anyway, I asked around, and there's a guide here who knows the Karazja ruins. He's agreed to take me inland starting next week. I'll be careful. I promise. But if I'm right, that relic might still be out there.

Imagine what it would mean if we could part the sea.

More soon,
Tagetes

P.S. Tell Marris not to let the acolytes into the tide closet again. I know it was them. The shells were rearranged. Again.
|}
==== Seaborne Hymnal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a thread-edged faded parchment
|-
|Parchment the color of drifted sand bears faded blue script in a careful, even hand. The edges have frayed into soft waves, and the lower corner is discolored where dampness clings to the page. A watermark in the upper left shows a simple wave crest superimposed over a scallop shell. Salt has left faint flecks across the surface, and one line of ink has bled slightly with age. Despite wear, the script remains fully legible, framed by a border of pressed gull feathers and hand-tied seasilk thread.

In the Common language, it reads:

Instructions for the Seaborne Hymnal

To be spoken daily, often at morning tide or before the first sail departs.

The Seaborne Hymnal is a spoken blessing offered to all who live by the rhythm of the sea. It honors those who make their living from its bounty, those who voyage upon it, and those who wait at its edge. The ritual is led by a priestess and joined by those gathered, using a call and response pattern. It is not sung, but spoken clearly, with steadiness and intent.

There are no physical offerings required. However, each response is accompanied by a hand gesture to mark the tide's reach and the release of prayer.

The priestess stands facing the gathered. Congregants may form a semicircle or remain as they are, whether in chapel or along the shore. The ritual may be performed indoors or outdoors, provided the sea is visible or near.

At each response, the right hand is placed palm-down over the heart, then extended outward, fingers spread as if forming the crest of a wave. This gesture is slow and deliberate. At the final line, the gesture is held outward a moment longer before lowering the hand.

The hymnal is: 
'''Priestess:''' Who wakes with the wind and walks with the tide? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who casts the net and bears the storm? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who waits at the window and sings to the dark? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who names the stars and trusts the wave? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Bless those who leave and those who remain. 
Bless those who labor and those who pray. 
Bless those who remember. 
'''Congregation (final gesture):''' And those who return no more.

The rite is complete after the final line. There is no need for benediction. Let silence follow for a breath or two before the next act begins.
|}
==== Ribbon Vigil ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a watermarked pearly white parchment
|-
|Faint mildew spots darken the four corners of the parchment, which has a pearly white finish created by the waxy finished worked into its fibers. An azure watermark of a scallop shell superimposed over cresting waves can be seen beneath the indigo ink that spread across its surface.

In the Common language, it reads:

The Ribbon Vigil is a quiet, sacred tradition observed by sailors and their loved ones before voyages that lead them beyond the protection of the bay. It is deeply personal, often unspoken, and performed in silence atop the temple's Widow's Walk. The rite is not scheduled by the temple, nor does it require direct guidance, but all priestesses, acolytes, and attending staff should understand its nature and how to offer quiet support when needed.

The vigil begins when a sailor and a significant companion, whether spouse, sibling, friend, or beloved, ascending to the rooftop of the temple. Together, they bring a ribbon, which may be carried openly or hidden in the hand, sleeve, or pocket until the moment it is needed. Upon reaching the rail that faces the open sea, they tie the ribbon to the ironwork together. There is no formal color or material required. While many choose white, blue, or sea green, others may bring a scrap of sailcloth or a woven charm. The meaning lies in the bond, not the fiber. No spoken words are required, though some murmur names or prayers as the knot is tied. The act itself is the offering. It binds the hope of return between two people and entrusts that bond to the sea.

At times, when a ship is long overdue or the sea has turned cruel, the one who remained ashore may return to the Widow's Walk alone. There, they loosen the knot they once tied. The ribbon is not taken down but left slack in the wind. This act is a plea to Niima, asking her to seek the one who has not come home. It is believed that if the ribbon is taken by the wind and reaches the sea, Niima will find the sailor and guide them to safety. That safety may not bring them home to Solhaven, but it will bring them to a shore. If the ribbon tangles, falls, or clings to the stone, some believe it is a sign that the soul it represents has already passed from Niima's reach.

Temple staff must not disturb those who come to perform this rite. Acolytes may observe from a distance and quietly light a sea taper at the stairwell when a ribbon loosening is witnessed. The gesture is enough to mark the moment. Comfort should be offered gently, without promise or correction. Never assure a safe return. Instead, remind them that Niima knows every name whispered to the tide and that no soul is ever truly lost to her.

Ribbons left on the Widow's Walk should be observed weekly. Those that have clearly loosened and not flown may be carefully removed and burned in a salt-fire by the priestess or her assistant. This should be done with solemnity and without comment, allowing the sea to receive what it could not carry.

Priestesses may speak of the vigil during public blessings, particularly on days when many ships prepare to depart. However, no individual should be named or pointed to. Let the ribbon be a silent prayer, seen by the sea and felt by those who wait.
|}
==== Song of Return ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a worn and faded scrap of vellum
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:

Song of Return 
A blessing for safe voyage and reunion

Go forth with the tide and return with the swell, 
Let the waves bear you gently, where ever you dwell. 
May your sails know the whisper, not the wail of the sea, 
And the stars hold your course where your heart longs to be.

Let the wind be your witness, the foam be your guide, 
Let the deep pass beneath you and never divide. 
By the light of Niima, by the calm of her grace, 
May your path find the harbor, your soul find its place.

Those who love you will wait with the shore in their eyes, 
Watching dawn rise in silence and dusk fill the skies. 
So go forth with the tide and return with the swell, 
You are known to the sea, and she knows you well.
|}

==== Elenne's (?) Papers ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a pale slip of vellum bearing a rust-tinged watermark
|-
|Rust-toned watermarks bloom across the lower half of the parchment, forming uneven, organic shapes. The ink has faded but remains legible throughout. The surface is rough to the touch, with several shallow indentations along the right margin, as if pressed against the corner of a writing board. Mild mildew spotting is visible near the top, and the parchment carries a faint metallic scent.

In the Common language, it reads: 
15th day of Fashanos, 4830 
Master Vartrien of the Mercantile Guild visited the chapel before midday service. He spoke of expanding the grounds and building a larger temple to better serve Solhaven's growing population. I reminded him that the chapel predates the coastal road and holds its own rhythm. He seemed unconcerned but polite. Left a coin marked with the Guild's seal in the basin. I placed it with the others and marked his visit in the side register.
|-
!a ink-streaked torn vellum sheet
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads: 
29th day of Koaratos, 4832 
Two merchant wives came bearing cloth bundles for the shrine. Each held swaddled sea stones tied with bits of silk, blue and pale. They asked no questions, gave no names. I placed the stones in the vessel below the sanctum basin and poured saltwater as they requested. Both stayed for the midday chant, though neither sang. After, they left through the garden gate without speaking further. I noted no marking on the silk. I hope they found comfort.
|-
!an ink-blotched paper fragment
|-
|Near the lower edge, signs of delamination are evident where prolonged exposure to moisture has lifted the parchment fibers. Ink blotches cover the upper left corner, though the writing beneath remains legible. Faint blue guidelines run horizontally across the surface, now nearly faded from view. All corners are softened from repeated handling, while the light scent of damp plaster and crushed chalk clings to the page.

In the Common language, it reads: 
18th day of Ivastaen, 4835 
Workers paused their efforts near the east colonnade due to a broken pulley. Several wandered into the chapel while the foreman spoke with a guild agent outside. One left a handful of copper on the basin rim. I noted no offering ribbon, but took it with the rest before lighting the salt lamp. Held afternoon prayers with two elders and one child. No hymn today. Breezes through the north wall joints have grown stronger since the scaffolding went up.
|}

==== a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Necklace Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 100 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
==== a discolored albatross feather quill ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Quill Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a discolored albatross feather quill
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 30,000 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
[[Category:The Shadowy Abyss]]

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Found items

2025-06-14T21:54:25Z

RAFFELS2: /* Ribbon Vigil */ Added Song of Return

__ToC__
== Shadowy Abyss Found Items ==
=== 06.06.2025 ===
==== an antique Vornavian silk cloth ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key's Sleeve
!an antique Vornavian silk cloth
|-
|Smooth with a soft finish, the Vornavian silk cloth has hints of its original deep blue hue at its edges though largely it has faded to a watered azure hue. Faint seashell patterns decorate the edge, the silver and white embroidery creating scallop shells that overlap. Rolled silk cords aid the bundle in staying closed as needed, their ends capped in silver dolphin periapts.
|}

===== a blue-tinted white vellum parchment =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Letter to Tagetes from Aralinne
!a blue-tinted white vellum parchment
|-
|Slightly warped in shape and displaying clear signs of damage from humidity, the fine parchment is tinted with a subtle blue hue that is almost white and yet distinctly not. Crisp folds create precise lines in the top and bottom third of the piece, while the corners display fray signs where moisture has separated the layers.
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:
the seventeenth day of Olaesta in the year 4839

Tagetes,

Hopefully, we will return at the same time and all of this preparation will be for naught.

The temple will have no attendants as I have figured out the missing piece to get us to Pearl. It lies in an old Kannalan Temple to Charl. I believe I've tracked down its former location. I've hidden the plans in the old office at the end of the catacombs and sealed the entry.

So few people know of its existence that it should be safe to travel there. I do not think I will be gone more than a handful of days.

However, as I do not trust the Mercantile Guild, with their recent decisions to create gardens and shrines to the dark pantheon, I have sealed the doorway up and hidden it. Since you know where it is, you should have no issue finding it.

There are seven keys for entry. I've left the Empress key here, but you can easily obtain the other six by seeking the blessings of the Lover, the Mistress, the Sister, the Mother, the Daughter, and the High Priestess. I'm sure you'll remember who these are from our past talks. I dare not say more for fear this is found by others.

Please know that some wish to see the curse spread. Others are working hard to stop it. Young Bristena had the idea to buy back all the jewelry from the women whose husband, lovers, and brothers searched the North Beach to obtain them. I gave her enough coin to buy them all back.

Once she has every last piece, she'll have a sailor take her out to the spot we believe the "Pearl" to be waiting in and drop them back into the water. That should give us time to get the pieces together to free her. I used the last of the coffers to pay a crew to start the lighthouse.

If I don't return... Please let my husband and son know the depths of which I love them.

By my hand,

Aralinne Wynedowne
|}
===== a carved golden amber acorn =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key
!a carved golden amber acorn
|-
|Roughly oval in shape, a carved golden amber acorn is broad and flat, providing an excellent view of its transparent interior portion. Trapped within the golden yellow fossilized pine tree sap are several small flying insects and a dried flower.
|}
==== an aged grey stone tile ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+The Tile
!an aged grey stone tile
|-
|Your song touches the tile, and the memory begins with stillness, then the faint scrape of wood across stone. Gentle hands press close, fitting the tile snugly into place. A murmur of approval hums nearby, muffled by fabric and breath. Cool grout slides into the seams, and the air shifts. Salt lingers in the room, carried on a current scented with blossoms. Lilac and sea daisy rise together, soft and clean. A hush settles across the surface, and the tile recognizes it as belonging. Beneath the faintest sigh of sandals against stone, a woman's voice murmurs, "There. That's better." The sounds and sensations fade along with the last syllables of your song.

As your song continues to caress the tile, it stirs with echoes of passing time. Soft footsteps come and go, punctuated by the rhythmic sweep of bristles and the clatter of buckets. Voices rise and fall nearby, sometimes low with grief, sometimes bright with ritual. One speaks of a sister's safe return, another offers blessings over a sailor's name. A different voice complains about a cracked basin and the need for fresh oil. Each moment blends into the next, seasons marked only by the changing cadence of heels, the weight of silence, and the gentle creak of wood in damp air. Slowly, the sensation and sounds fade, one by one, until they fall as silent as your song.

Your melody draws forth a hush, and the tile remembers the scent first. Bitter and resinous, the thick smoke of funerary incense curls low to the ground. Voices follow in soft procession, cloaked in sorrow. Some weep openly, others murmur prayers with trembling breath. The weight of grief presses against the stone, heavy as tide against jetty. A name is spoken again and again, reverent and broken, until it becomes a lullaby of mourning. Between each word, silence holds vigil. The tile feels a deep stillness in the air, as if even the sea has paused to listen. A final name tumbles across your ears as your song slips into silence, "Elenne."

Your song stirs the memory of disturbance. The tile feels the grit of its seams loosened, the edge of a tool scraping carefully through old grout. Pressure lifts it from the floor, just briefly, and something small is slid beneath. When the tile returns to its place, the surface meets the subfloor with an unfamiliar firmness. A hand lingers upon it, smooth and warm, resting for a long moment before giving a gentle pat. Whispered words ride the still air, close enough to touch, "Keep this safe until Tagetes finds you." An absence of warmth is the last sensation the tile imparts before your song stills.

Your voice brushes the tile, and the past answers with hushed urgency. There is the soft shuffle of feet, the creak of worn boots on stone, and a sharp intake of breath. Mournful whispers crowd the silence. A voice, cracked with worry and soft with distance, murmurs, "I don't know where you are, Aralinne. I can't get into the catacombs to check on you as the Brisker's Cove bowl was broken in the latest Krolvin raids... Please come home to us. Please. Your plan for Bristena worked; she told me of it when I returned. The girls are free, but where are you? I'm going to hide my piece until it can unite with yours. Please be safe, be careful." A soft sigh blends with the ending resonance of your song.

Your voice draws forth only silence at first. Time passes, measured in distant echoes. Footsteps sound too far to name, and faint shifts in the air come and go with no purpose. Old wood creaks softly where it meets damp stone. Dust settles in the seams, and salt from the sea clings to the surface. Years drift by without notice. Then, without warning, fingers press along your edges. There is a pause, a breath held just beyond hearing, and the tile feels the careful pry of something firm beneath it. A clamor of voices overlaps with each other until they blend into the fading sound of your song.
|}

=== 06.13.2025 ===
==== a salt-stained blue leather ledger ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Ledger from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a salt-stained blue leather ledger
|-
|Bound in navy blue leather, the ledger bears clear signs of repair. Patches of mismatched hide reinforce the spine and corners, and thin linen cords hold the bindings tight. Though worn smooth with age, the cover still holds the faint imprint of Niima's shell crest, long faded by handling. The pages inside are slightly bowed from moisture, but the ink has held well. Each year occupies a single page, the writing steady and small.
|-
|4816

Tidy dates and notations for each month in 4816 are aligned neatly along the inner margin. Notes reference standard morning and mid-tide services, with modest attendance throughout the year. Several deaths at sea are marked during Phoenatos and Imaerasta. There are mentions of a small fishing vessel lost in late Charlatos, and a new lantern donated by a widow named Hessa. The last quarter shows increased visits near Solstice.

4817

Entries for 4817 remain even and uneventful. Most notes concern basin cleaning, donation handling, and ribbon replenishment. Storms in Lumnea and Koaratos disrupted service for several days. A merchant's wife is mentioned repeatedly for leaving folded prayers in the offering box. One record notes an unusual number of gulls gathered at the altar during a fogbound service, marked simply with, "observed by three."

4818

Standard service records dominate the page, with annotations in blue ink appearing during spring. One comment in the margin reads, "New basin stone fitted. Shell inlay cracked but held." Three names repeat throughout the year: a retired sailor, a midwife from Marshtown, and a girl recorded only as "A.M." Several deaths at sea appear again in Eorgaen. Coastal offerings increase during the fall months.

4819

The 4819 entries continue in a narrow hand, with an unusual number of weddings noted between Charlatos and Ivastaen. Ribbons tied at the altar outnumber funerary entries this year. A brief note in Phoenatos mentions a fisherman's body returned after fifteen tides. Repairs to the vestibule door are recorded in Koaratos. A delivery of hymnals is documented without name, signed only with "N.L."

4820

Attendance patterns remain steady throughout 4820. Notations of storm disruptions in Fashanos and Koaratos are followed by increased evening services during those months. One brief note in Charlatos mentions a girl from the lower quarter beginning "training for vow," though no name is listed. Seasonal surges continue, with quiet months between. A salt-caked page corner suggests the ledger was left open during a sea spray.

4821

Small, precise entries for 4821 follow the pattern of prior years. Services remained regular, with additional rites held after a coastal storm in Charlatos. A recurring visitor is listed only as "shell-bearer" during spring months. Repairs to the west garden wall are noted in Lumnea. One entry in Eorgaen records, "child left driftwood figure at basin, no adult nearby." The handwriting becomes slightly sharper near the year's end.

4822

The year opened with colder winds and reduced attendance through Lormesta. One note in Fashanos records an elderly priestess slipping on the altar steps, resulting in no injury. Minor construction is logged in Ivastaen: "stone bench repositioned, foundation settled uneven." Gulls are again noted during a fog-heavy morning service. No deaths at sea are marked for Koaratos, which is noted as rare by the author. Extra hymn practice is recorded for Imaerasta.

4823

Faint ink along the top edge shows early signs of moisture, but the page remains legible. Most entries follow the standard pattern. A sailor's wedding in Phoenatos brought increased attendance for several days. Someone left a carved shell token in the basin and returned each week through Jastatos. No name was ever recorded. One funeral in Eoantos references burial in the lower catacomb row, name lost to smudging. Elenne's name begins to appear more frequently.

4824

Ledger entries remain orderly. Elenne is noted as presiding over full services during three major seasonal observances. A short entry in Imaerasta reads, "saltwater damaged two hymnals, copies made by hand." Several deaths at sea were recorded across Phoenatos and Jastatos. A recurring note of "candles late" appears without clarification. Winter quarter shows an increased number of widows seeking individual prayer times, as marked by initials only.

4825

The writing becomes slightly more compact along this page, possibly due to a change in hand. Services are held regularly with minor disruptions caused by harbor traffic. One early Charlatos entry reads, "path blocked by hauling rig, services delayed." Garden growth noted as "vigorous" in Lumnea. An unnamed girl from Marshtown began regular cleaning duties in midyear. Entries suggest her presence became routine, though her name is not yet recorded. Several pages show signs of ash smudging near the bottom corner.

4826

Ledger entries remain narrow and consistent. Regular service records dominate the page, with a note in Ivastaen reading, "two hymnals lost to mildew, one copied by hand." The girl from Marshtown is noted more frequently, assisting with basin preparation and entry sweeping. Elenne is recorded as leading nearly all rites this year. In Koaratos, a sailor's wife donated wax and twine following her husband's return from the reefs.

4827

A colder year, with notations of light frost in Charlatos and a decline in visitors during the first quarter. The Marshtown girl is listed by initials for the first time: "A.L.". She appears often in notes tied to daily upkeep and chant transcription. Elenne requested additional salt deliveries from the quay, suggesting higher ritual use. A short record in Imaerasta reads, "boy returned with offering candle for sister." His name is not recorded, but the action repeats in later months.

4828

Ink across this page is slightly lighter but consistent. Notes describe steady attendance and quiet observances throughout the year. "A.L." continues to serve regularly and is mentioned copying seasonal verses. A new basin cloth was donated by a widow in Phoenatos. Calen Wynedowne is noted briefly in Koaratos as assisting with deliveries. In Eorgaen, a child is recorded as tying sea glass to the offering pole, noted without comment.

4829

The handwriting tightens slightly, with some changes in wording structure. "A.L." is listed as leading chants during two minor observances. A service disruption is recorded in Charlatos: "work crew halted access to west path." Garden repairs resumed in Ivastaen, with the stone bench noted as "settled, but now cracking." Calen Wynedowne is marked present on three service dates. Elenne's name appears as usual, though one note mentions "shortness of breath in colder months."

4830

Entries shift slightly in tone this year, with more detailed notations. "A.L." is no longer referenced only by initials. Her name appears as Aralinne, recorded assisting with vespers and receiving permission to copy the coastal prayers. Elenne continues to lead services throughout. In Fashanos, a marked entry reads: "Calen Wynedowne departed aboard the Drowned Boar." A note in Imaerasta logs the visit of the High Priestess from Selanthia. Garden notes cease after Koaratos, likely due to early construction of the new temple.

4831

Entries are steady, with services held regularly in the newly expanded chapel. The original altar remains in partial use during evening observances. Aralinne is recorded as leading chants and maintaining basin duties throughout the year. A note in Charlatos reads, "Calen returned, left shell at east bench." Additional visitors marked in Phoenatos. Several Kannalan hymn fragments reviewed in Jastatos, with Aralinne listed as transcriber. No disruptions recorded.

4832

Observances continue without interruption. Aralinne is noted frequently in preparation tasks, seasonal cleanings, and the transcription of coastal rites. One record in Koaratos reads, "private service held for three widows." Increased taper use recorded in Imaerasta. No name given, but a new assistant is mentioned briefly in Lumnea. Aralinne's duties expand across multiple entries. The final note of the year: "attendance steady; records filed."

4833

Standard notations occupy most of the year. Aralinne continues in her role, listed alongside Elenne for all major observances. Her name appears independently in entries for dusk services and catacomb visits. One summer note mentions, "garden basin cleared and refilled under Aralinne's guidance." No major incidents. Early signs of leadership transition appear in Eoantos, though no formal statement is recorded. The garden bench is listed as worn, but stable.

4834

Charlatos begins with a formal entry: "Calen Wynedowne and Aralinne joined in marriage, witnessed before first bell at east altar." Both continue in regular attendance. Aralinne is recorded as leading evening services and overseeing hymn preservation efforts. Her handwriting begins to appear in later entries. Koaratos notes her inclusion in guild correspondence. The final entry in Eorgaen lists: "preparations for early solstice rites under Aralinne."

4835

Year begins quietly. Aralinne is now noted as officiating several services in early Fashanos. In Jastatos, a central entry reads: "Elenne passed peacefully in the night, fifth day of Jastatos." Her name does not appear again. Subsequent entries mark Aralinne presiding over full rites. One note reads, "transition marked with coastal hymn, basin blessing unchanged." Calen continues to appear sporadically. The final entry of the year reads: "chapel remains steady under Aralinne's care."
|}
==== a small salt-stained journal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Journal from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a small salt-stained journal
|-
|Bound in salt-stained suede, the small journal shows signs of frequent handling. The edges of the cover have curled slightly, and faint salt residue clings to the seams. Interior pages are swollen from moisture, and many are warped or stuck together. Ink bleeds across several leaves, though a few entries remain legible. The faint scent of mildew and brine lingers between the covers.
|-
|1st day of Lormesta, 4830

The new year began in silence. No sun showed at dawn, only a pale mist rolling over the port that settled in the alleys and gutters. We opened the chapel doors late this morning. A thin crust of salt had gathered again on the threshold.

Mother Elenne asked me to polish the lamp basin and check our remaining wax. She said that if the year is to bring anything, let it be steadiness. I scrubbed the copper too hard and bent the rim along one edge. She noticed but said nothing.

After the evening bell, I stayed to copy the coastal prayer. My ink bled in the cold, and my fingers would not hold the quill straight. The letters blurred near the bottom of the page. I will try again tomorrow.

The gulls have returned early this year. Their cries sound sharper than I remember.

Faint ink marks show a date in the top right corner, though the precise date is difficult to decipher. There is an impression of repeated script beneath the date, but the parchment is too warped to decipher much of its contents. Only a few words remain distinguishable near the bottom:

"...salt left from the..."

"...sleeves wet from the basin..."

"...ribbon placed before bell..."

16th day of Fashanos, 4830

A merchant visited the chapel yesterday. He introduced himself as Vartrien and said he represented the Mercantile Guild. His boots were polished, but they slipped on the chapel stones. He smelled faintly of tallow and wine.

He spoke with Elenne behind the altar rail. I only heard part of what was said... something about extending the outer walls, adding a foyer and foyer, and pulling stone from the cliff quarry. He did not ask about the altar or the basin.

Before leaving, he placed a coin in the offering basin. It was heavier than most and bore the Guild's seal. Elenne closed the doors earlier than usual and asked me to boil the cloth and clean the entry stone. She did not speak again until morning prayers.

After the bell, I copied half of the sea-born hymn. I still mix the second and third lines. The gulls circled loudly over the garden. They did not land.

Humidity has irrevocably damaged this page of the journal. The faint impression of a coastal flower leaves a colored stain in the center of the page. Ink bleeds across the fibers, blending so completely that all writing is beyond recognition.

3rd day of Charlatos, 4830

Rain began early and found its way in through the northern window joint again. A track of droplets marked the covers of three hymnals before I noticed. I dried them the best I could and set them near the basin to air.

Mother Elenne told me I might be ready to take the vesper reading next month. I said I would do my best, though my voice still shakes when the wind comes hard off the bay.

A boy from the shipyard arrived just before first bell. He brought a candle for his sister and did not speak. He nodded once and placed it on the old bench near the shell altar. It burned quickly and left a streak of wax on the wood.

After evening prayers, I copied the saltwater blessing again. I continue to forget the fourth line. I will practice it aloud tomorrow when the chapel is empty.

12th day of Olaesta, 4830

The salted fog held all morning. The bells could barely be heard from the quay, and the floor stayed damp long after I wiped it. The gulls were quiet today, though I saw them gather on the breakwall at dusk.

Mother Elenne allowed me to lead the midday verses. I stumbled on the refrain but kept pace. She gave no correction afterward, which I think was kindness. I will ask her to let me try again next week.

The Guildman has not returned, but I saw carts from the upper quarry moving past the garden path. One of the workers spat too close to the basin. I scrubbed the stone clean before closing the gate.

27th day of Ivastaen, 4830

The High Priestess arrived again, as expected. She comes every five months, though she avoids Charlatos and Lormesta because she does not like to travel in cold weather. This time, she brought only one attendant and a thick letter sealed in white wax.

She asked after the basin and walked the outer path twice before speaking. I do not know why she finds our grounds so peculiar. She always looks longer at the walls than at the altar.

She complimented the order of the garden, though I had not yet swept. Her words are even and pleasant, but her eyes are always searching. I do not think she comes only for worship.

Moisture has warped the page outward from the center, and a small flower is pressed into the parchment. Once white, its petals have turned a pale yellow. The edges have melted into the fibers over time, leaving a faint outline and a darker stain beneath. Ink has bled into the margins, but a few lines remain legible:

"He brought it with both hands."

"Said it grew from the rocks near the basin."

"It smelled faintly of salt and rosemary."

Written near the bottom corner, in a careful hand: Calen

9th day of Lumnea, 4830

Calen came again just after midday. He did not knock, only waited near the side path until I saw him. He brought a bloom, he said he found growing from a crack in the harbor wall. I told him it would not last, but he said that was fine.

He stayed long enough to watch me refill the basin, then left without saying more. I placed the flower in the back of the book, where I thought it would keep. It did not.

Mother Elenne has begun sorting the storeroom shelves again. I do not know where she plans to move everything, but she said we may have to share with the masons soon. I do not think she approves.

2nd day of Koaratos, 4830

Rumors continue about the Guild's plans, but nothing official has been posted. One of the stone counters in the garden cracked under the weight of a builder's crate. They said it would be replaced, but no one has returned to measure.

The High Priestess's letter is still sealed. Elenne has not opened it, though she moved it twice. I think she is waiting for another message, or perhaps the Guildman himself.

A blue gull feather was left on the altar after the second bell. No one saw who brought it.

I placed it in the ribbon box, away from the salt.

13th day of Koaratos, 4830

The stone bench in the garden has been replaced. I was not told it would happen, but when I stepped out to light the sea taper this morning, it was there. Rosewood, newly finished and still carrying the scent of cut shavings. The legs are slightly uneven, but the surface is smooth.

Elenne said one of the sailors had it made for his wife. She is the one who always sits near the roses and watches the harbor light. She wept when the bench cracked beneath the masons' crate. I am glad it was rebuilt.

Ink has lifted across most of the page, leaving behind only faint strokes and a few recognizable shapes. The top third is nearly blank, and the lower margin is warped from long exposure to damp air. Visible along the center fold, in pale ink, are snatches of the original message.

"...asked if it would still be the same chapel..."

"...carried the basin water out into the garden..."

"...song lines lost in the stone dust..."

5th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Construction has begun. Dust rises even before the first bell. The builders come early and eat beside the garden wall. I do not know how they leave the crumbs behind, but the gulls are clearly happy about it.

Mother Elenne and I have moved our sleeping mats into the chapel itself. There is no space left in the quarters, not since the back wall was taken down. She said it is temporary, but we must keep everything folded and out of sight during services.

She reminded me that we are not bound by silence or separation, only by devotion and clarity of intent. Then she looked at me and said, "Even your Calen would agree." I nearly dropped the basin ladle.

16th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Calen returned with an oilskin pouch and handed it to me without speaking. Inside was a cloth wrapped around several dry biscuits and a folded slip of sea-blue ribbon. He said he heard the workers had overrun our stores and that I was likely too polite to complain.

I thanked him, but could not find the right words. Elenne watched from the entryway. Later, she only asked if I had shared them.

The builders left stone dust across the floor again. I swept until my arms ached, but it returned before the evening bell. It finds every crack.

28th day of Phoenatos, 4830

The High Priestess will return in Jastatos. Elenne received a note today. No seal this time, only a clean fold and pressed script. She read it twice, then tucked it into the ledger without comment.

I asked if she thought the Guildman would be here as well. She said most likely, and that the two had likely been speaking for longer than we realized. She did not sound surprised or pleased.

The rosewood bench has already dulled to a greyish tone. I tried wiping it with a damp cloth, but the color does not return. Still, the sailor's wife came today and stayed for the whole of the afternoon light. She did not speak. Only watched the water and smiled.

7th day of Imaerasta, 4830

The scaffolding now reaches above the garden wall. Boards cast a grid of shadow over the roses during morning light. One of the masons said that the new walls will block the ocean view. I had not thought of that until now.

If the wall rises the way they say it will, the garden will face stone, not sea. Elenne was not surprised when I told her. She only said, "It's easier to worship what you can see than what you must remember."

I wonder if the sound of the tide will carry once the last wall is raised.

18th day of Imaerasta, 4830

Mist held long into the afternoon. We lit the lamps early and brought the linens in before the sea air reached them. The dust hangs longer in the stillness.

Word came that Yenterreth of the Marshtown passed in her sleep. She was one of the spirit women, always with a ribbon in her sleeve and saltwater on her boots. I remember her from before I came to live with Elenne. She called me bird girl and once gave me a braid of kelp twine.

She will be interred below with the others. I carried the notice down to the stone chamber myself.

Much of the page has faded due to moisture, but several phrases remain readable:

"...could see the harbor lantern from the bench..."

"...ribbons tied to the low branches removed..."

"...the sound of chisel work does not pause for prayer..."

Smudged ink across the lower edge shows where the page was touched before drying.

3rd day of Jastatos, 4830

The High Priestess arrived just after midday. She wore a dove-colored cloak and had her hair in three loops at her crown. Guildman Vartrien stood beside her beneath the scaffolding. They did not speak during the service, but both stayed until the end.

Afterward, they walked the garden with Elenne. I followed at a distance, gathering petals. I overheard them speak of creating a fresco in Niima's likeness upon the foyer wall. The High Priestess said the space would command presence.

No one mentioned the old altar. I swept around it that night, as a kind of apology.

15th day of Jastatos, 4830

A whisper has spread through the workers. One of the cart drivers said the Krolvin have been seen in Brisker's Cove. No one knows if it's true, but another said the harbor patrol was doubled this week.

Elenne said we cannot shape our prayers to rumors. Still, she lit the tall tapers during evening service and left them burning until the last shadow faded from the stones.

Calen has not returned since the rains began. I keep the ribbon he gave me in my prayer book. It smells faintly of rosemary, even now.

4th day of Eoantos, 4830

Elenne asked me to begin clearing the small office beside the catacombs. She said it was time someone sorted through what remains. I believe she means for me to be occupied, as Calen has not returned. She does not ask after him directly, but she notices when I forget the dusting cloth or leave the lamp wick too low.

The office is colder than I remembered. The walls sweat even when the wind is dry. I found a bundle of records tied with frayed cord, and a shelf of ledgers warped from years of damp. None have dates newer than 4816.

I lit a taper and marveled that its flame didn't waver. The air is rather stale.

12th day of Eoantos, 4830

Stacks of papers have begun to soften and fall apart as I move them. Some pages peel away like onion skin. Others are stuck together with mildew at the corners. There is no order left in the ledgers.

Elenne gave me vinegar water to scrub the stone and showed me how to dry the parchments without tearing the ink. Her hands are steadier than mine, but she let me try alone today.

No one has asked about the office in years. I wonder if anyone will again once the new temple is complete.

Several blotches stretch across the center of the page, caused by ink pressed while wet. Words are smudged and fingerprints mar the lower half.

Only a few lines are clear:

"...wrote his name on the margin and folded it..."

"...did not want to ask him not to go..."

"...the sea calls more surely than words ever could..."

21st day of Eoantos, 4830

Word came that Calen has signed on with a deep-sea vessel. No one knows the name, only that it sails past the Shoals and will be gone past spring.

Elenne said nothing when I told her. She simply handed me another cloth and said, "Salt dries slower than tears." I think she meant it kindly.

The basin water felt colder today, though the air was still. When I poured it over the shell altar, I thought of the wives who stand at our threshold with wet sleeves and silent mouths.

I begin to understand why they come. Not for answers, but for nearness.

1st day of Eorgaen, 4830

The sound of hammers has quieted. Most of the scaffolding has come down. The stones above the chapel are now smooth and white, with carved lines I cannot name.

I finished dusting the office and folded what remained of the ledgers. Several were too damaged to save. Elenne said I may stack them in the catacombs for burning later, though I kept two that still held their shape.

Calen's ribbon rests between the pages of one. I did not mean to place it there. It simply felt right.

19th day of Eorgaen, 4830

We moved into the new quarters today. The walls are smooth, and the ceiling curves slightly like the hull of a ship turned over. My mat fits beneath the small window, though it does not face the sea.

Elenne set our candles on the narrow sill and arranged her ledgers in the cabinet with care. She has not said whether she likes the new space, but she wiped the sill twice before speaking.

I kept the basin cloth. It still smells faintly of rosemary and ink.

31st day of Eorgaen, 4830

Year-end bells rang before the harbor mist had cleared. The garden is smaller now, and the altar no longer sees the ocean, but the salt wind still finds its way between the stones.

I watched from the upper stairs as the tide turned. For a moment, I imagined Calen leaning over the rail of whatever vessel he's found. I do not know where he sailed, or what wind carried him out, only that the thought of him still returns like breath.

I folded a ribbon into the base of the old ledger. Some things are easier to keep when hidden.

1st day of Lormesta, 4831

The High Priestess arrived at midday. She wore fur-lined gloves and spoke briefly before entering the new sanctum. Her words were softer this time. She said the white stone caught light well and that the new foyer had "clean weight."

She did not linger. Elenne bowed but did not speak.

I spent the rest of the day sorting a box of old hymn fragments. Some were written in Kannalan, though I can only read the titles. I have set two aside in hopes that someone might help me translate them.

3rd day of Lormesta, 4831

Calen returned today.

He stood by the garden gate and waited until I saw him. He did not wave. Only smiled, the kind of smile that asks without needing an answer.

I brought him a cup of water, and we sat in the shadow of the old chapel. He said nothing of the voyage, and I did not ask. I watched his hands as he spoke of the harbor and the wind near the reefs. He has a sun mark on his left wrist now, just above the bone.

When he left, he pressed a shell into my palm. It was smooth and unbroken.

5th day of Lormesta, 4831

I do not know if he missed me. I do not know if he meant to see me or only came to the chapel as he once did.

Still, I thought of him each time the tide turned. I imagined the shape of his boat against the horizon, wondering if he looked for birds or counted the ways salt settles into cloth.

The shell he gave me rests beneath the old candle box. I did not tell Elenne.

I have finished copying the Kannalan refrain. The words feel older than stone, but they sing cleanly when read aloud.
|}
==== a faded off-white vellum ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Letter to Aralinna from Tagetes
!a faded off-white vellum
|-
|22 Fashanos 4839

Hi Aralinne,
You are going to sputter when you read this, but I found something I think might actually help. I've been haunting the lower rooms of the Rest's old archive, the one that smells like mushrooms and lamp oil, and you would not believe the number of ledgers that don't even belong there. Some trader scribbled a note in the margin of a shipping contract, and I have no idea why, about a Hermit of Charl. Not a priest. Not a sailor. A hermit.

The strange part is, he wasn't written about like some bedraggled man on a rock. He had followers. Or at least people who carried his words. The note said he held something powerful, something that could "turn back the tide and lay bare the seabed, if placed with care and faith at the high edge." That's what it actually said. The relic doesn't have a name, which is frustrating, but it is always connected to cliffs or high ridges.

I spent the last two days chasing the reference backward, and I think it's Kannalan. Most of the names line up with the way they spell things when they want to make them sound more official. The good stuff always hides behind fancy lettering.

Anyway, I asked around, and there's a guide here who knows the Karazja ruins. He's agreed to take me inland starting next week. I'll be careful. I promise. But if I'm right, that relic might still be out there.

Imagine what it would mean if we could part the sea.

More soon,
Tagetes

P.S. Tell Marris not to let the acolytes into the tide closet again. I know it was them. The shells were rearranged. Again.
|}
==== Seaborne Hymnal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a thread-edged faded parchment
|-
|Parchment the color of drifted sand bears faded blue script in a careful, even hand. The edges have frayed into soft waves, and the lower corner is discolored where dampness clings to the page. A watermark in the upper left shows a simple wave crest superimposed over a scallop shell. Salt has left faint flecks across the surface, and one line of ink has bled slightly with age. Despite wear, the script remains fully legible, framed by a border of pressed gull feathers and hand-tied seasilk thread.

In the Common language, it reads:

Instructions for the Seaborne Hymnal

To be spoken daily, often at morning tide or before the first sail departs.

The Seaborne Hymnal is a spoken blessing offered to all who live by the rhythm of the sea. It honors those who make their living from its bounty, those who voyage upon it, and those who wait at its edge. The ritual is led by a priestess and joined by those gathered, using a call and response pattern. It is not sung, but spoken clearly, with steadiness and intent.

There are no physical offerings required. However, each response is accompanied by a hand gesture to mark the tide's reach and the release of prayer.

The priestess stands facing the gathered. Congregants may form a semicircle or remain as they are, whether in chapel or along the shore. The ritual may be performed indoors or outdoors, provided the sea is visible or near.

At each response, the right hand is placed palm-down over the heart, then extended outward, fingers spread as if forming the crest of a wave. This gesture is slow and deliberate. At the final line, the gesture is held outward a moment longer before lowering the hand.

The hymnal is: 
'''Priestess:''' Who wakes with the wind and walks with the tide? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who casts the net and bears the storm? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who waits at the window and sings to the dark? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who names the stars and trusts the wave? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Bless those who leave and those who remain. 
Bless those who labor and those who pray. 
Bless those who remember. 
'''Congregation (final gesture):''' And those who return no more.

The rite is complete after the final line. There is no need for benediction. Let silence follow for a breath or two before the next act begins.
|}
==== Ribbon Vigil ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a watermarked pearly white parchment
|-
|Faint mildew spots darken the four corners of the parchment, which has a pearly white finish created by the waxy finished worked into its fibers. An azure watermark of a scallop shell superimposed over cresting waves can be seen beneath the indigo ink that spread across its surface.

In the Common language, it reads:

The Ribbon Vigil is a quiet, sacred tradition observed by sailors and their loved ones before voyages that lead them beyond the protection of the bay. It is deeply personal, often unspoken, and performed in silence atop the temple's Widow's Walk. The rite is not scheduled by the temple, nor does it require direct guidance, but all priestesses, acolytes, and attending staff should understand its nature and how to offer quiet support when needed.

The vigil begins when a sailor and a significant companion, whether spouse, sibling, friend, or beloved, ascending to the rooftop of the temple. Together, they bring a ribbon, which may be carried openly or hidden in the hand, sleeve, or pocket until the moment it is needed. Upon reaching the rail that faces the open sea, they tie the ribbon to the ironwork together. There is no formal color or material required. While many choose white, blue, or sea green, others may bring a scrap of sailcloth or a woven charm. The meaning lies in the bond, not the fiber. No spoken words are required, though some murmur names or prayers as the knot is tied. The act itself is the offering. It binds the hope of return between two people and entrusts that bond to the sea.

At times, when a ship is long overdue or the sea has turned cruel, the one who remained ashore may return to the Widow's Walk alone. There, they loosen the knot they once tied. The ribbon is not taken down but left slack in the wind. This act is a plea to Niima, asking her to seek the one who has not come home. It is believed that if the ribbon is taken by the wind and reaches the sea, Niima will find the sailor and guide them to safety. That safety may not bring them home to Solhaven, but it will bring them to a shore. If the ribbon tangles, falls, or clings to the stone, some believe it is a sign that the soul it represents has already passed from Niima's reach.

Temple staff must not disturb those who come to perform this rite. Acolytes may observe from a distance and quietly light a sea taper at the stairwell when a ribbon loosening is witnessed. The gesture is enough to mark the moment. Comfort should be offered gently, without promise or correction. Never assure a safe return. Instead, remind them that Niima knows every name whispered to the tide and that no soul is ever truly lost to her.

Ribbons left on the Widow's Walk should be observed weekly. Those that have clearly loosened and not flown may be carefully removed and burned in a salt-fire by the priestess or her assistant. This should be done with solemnity and without comment, allowing the sea to receive what it could not carry.

Priestesses may speak of the vigil during public blessings, particularly on days when many ships prepare to depart. However, no individual should be named or pointed to. Let the ribbon be a silent prayer, seen by the sea and felt by those who wait.
|}
==== Song of Return ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a worn and faded scrap of vellum
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:

Song of Return
A blessing for safe voyage and reunion

Go forth with the tide and return with the swell,
Let the waves bear you gently, where ever you dwell.
May your sails know the whisper, not the wail of the sea,
And the stars hold your course where your heart longs to be.

Let the wind be your witness, the foam be your guide,
Let the deep pass beneath you and never divide.
By the light of Niima, by the calm of her grace,
May your path find the harbor, your soul find its place.

Those who love you will wait with the shore in their eyes,
Watching dawn rise in silence and dusk fill the skies.
So go forth with the tide and return with the swell,
You are known to the sea, and she knows you well.
|}

==== Elenne's (?) Papers ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a pale slip of vellum bearing a rust-tinged watermark
|-
|Rust-toned watermarks bloom across the lower half of the parchment, forming uneven, organic shapes. The ink has faded but remains legible throughout. The surface is rough to the touch, with several shallow indentations along the right margin, as if pressed against the corner of a writing board. Mild mildew spotting is visible near the top, and the parchment carries a faint metallic scent.

In the Common language, it reads: 
15th day of Fashanos, 4830 
Master Vartrien of the Mercantile Guild visited the chapel before midday service. He spoke of expanding the grounds and building a larger temple to better serve Solhaven's growing population. I reminded him that the chapel predates the coastal road and holds its own rhythm. He seemed unconcerned but polite. Left a coin marked with the Guild's seal in the basin. I placed it with the others and marked his visit in the side register.
|-
!a ink-streaked torn vellum sheet
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads: 
29th day of Koaratos, 4832 
Two merchant wives came bearing cloth bundles for the shrine. Each held swaddled sea stones tied with bits of silk, blue and pale. They asked no questions, gave no names. I placed the stones in the vessel below the sanctum basin and poured saltwater as they requested. Both stayed for the midday chant, though neither sang. After, they left through the garden gate without speaking further. I noted no marking on the silk. I hope they found comfort.
|-
!an ink-blotched paper fragment
|-
|Near the lower edge, signs of delamination are evident where prolonged exposure to moisture has lifted the parchment fibers. Ink blotches cover the upper left corner, though the writing beneath remains legible. Faint blue guidelines run horizontally across the surface, now nearly faded from view. All corners are softened from repeated handling, while the light scent of damp plaster and crushed chalk clings to the page.

In the Common language, it reads: 
18th day of Ivastaen, 4835 
Workers paused their efforts near the east colonnade due to a broken pulley. Several wandered into the chapel while the foreman spoke with a guild agent outside. One left a handful of copper on the basin rim. I noted no offering ribbon, but took it with the rest before lighting the salt lamp. Held afternoon prayers with two elders and one child. No hymn today. Breezes through the north wall joints have grown stronger since the scaffolding went up.
|}

==== a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Necklace Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 100 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
==== a discolored albatross feather quill ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Quill Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a discolored albatross feather quill
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 30,000 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
[[Category:The Shadowy Abyss]]

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Found items

2025-06-14T21:52:04Z

RAFFELS2: /* a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin */ Added quill

__ToC__
== Shadowy Abyss Found Items ==
=== 06.06.2025 ===
==== an antique Vornavian silk cloth ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key's Sleeve
!an antique Vornavian silk cloth
|-
|Smooth with a soft finish, the Vornavian silk cloth has hints of its original deep blue hue at its edges though largely it has faded to a watered azure hue. Faint seashell patterns decorate the edge, the silver and white embroidery creating scallop shells that overlap. Rolled silk cords aid the bundle in staying closed as needed, their ends capped in silver dolphin periapts.
|}

===== a blue-tinted white vellum parchment =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Letter to Tagetes from Aralinne
!a blue-tinted white vellum parchment
|-
|Slightly warped in shape and displaying clear signs of damage from humidity, the fine parchment is tinted with a subtle blue hue that is almost white and yet distinctly not. Crisp folds create precise lines in the top and bottom third of the piece, while the corners display fray signs where moisture has separated the layers.
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:
the seventeenth day of Olaesta in the year 4839

Tagetes,

Hopefully, we will return at the same time and all of this preparation will be for naught.

The temple will have no attendants as I have figured out the missing piece to get us to Pearl. It lies in an old Kannalan Temple to Charl. I believe I've tracked down its former location. I've hidden the plans in the old office at the end of the catacombs and sealed the entry.

So few people know of its existence that it should be safe to travel there. I do not think I will be gone more than a handful of days.

However, as I do not trust the Mercantile Guild, with their recent decisions to create gardens and shrines to the dark pantheon, I have sealed the doorway up and hidden it. Since you know where it is, you should have no issue finding it.

There are seven keys for entry. I've left the Empress key here, but you can easily obtain the other six by seeking the blessings of the Lover, the Mistress, the Sister, the Mother, the Daughter, and the High Priestess. I'm sure you'll remember who these are from our past talks. I dare not say more for fear this is found by others.

Please know that some wish to see the curse spread. Others are working hard to stop it. Young Bristena had the idea to buy back all the jewelry from the women whose husband, lovers, and brothers searched the North Beach to obtain them. I gave her enough coin to buy them all back.

Once she has every last piece, she'll have a sailor take her out to the spot we believe the "Pearl" to be waiting in and drop them back into the water. That should give us time to get the pieces together to free her. I used the last of the coffers to pay a crew to start the lighthouse.

If I don't return... Please let my husband and son know the depths of which I love them.

By my hand,

Aralinne Wynedowne
|}
===== a carved golden amber acorn =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key
!a carved golden amber acorn
|-
|Roughly oval in shape, a carved golden amber acorn is broad and flat, providing an excellent view of its transparent interior portion. Trapped within the golden yellow fossilized pine tree sap are several small flying insects and a dried flower.
|}
==== an aged grey stone tile ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+The Tile
!an aged grey stone tile
|-
|Your song touches the tile, and the memory begins with stillness, then the faint scrape of wood across stone. Gentle hands press close, fitting the tile snugly into place. A murmur of approval hums nearby, muffled by fabric and breath. Cool grout slides into the seams, and the air shifts. Salt lingers in the room, carried on a current scented with blossoms. Lilac and sea daisy rise together, soft and clean. A hush settles across the surface, and the tile recognizes it as belonging. Beneath the faintest sigh of sandals against stone, a woman's voice murmurs, "There. That's better." The sounds and sensations fade along with the last syllables of your song.

As your song continues to caress the tile, it stirs with echoes of passing time. Soft footsteps come and go, punctuated by the rhythmic sweep of bristles and the clatter of buckets. Voices rise and fall nearby, sometimes low with grief, sometimes bright with ritual. One speaks of a sister's safe return, another offers blessings over a sailor's name. A different voice complains about a cracked basin and the need for fresh oil. Each moment blends into the next, seasons marked only by the changing cadence of heels, the weight of silence, and the gentle creak of wood in damp air. Slowly, the sensation and sounds fade, one by one, until they fall as silent as your song.

Your melody draws forth a hush, and the tile remembers the scent first. Bitter and resinous, the thick smoke of funerary incense curls low to the ground. Voices follow in soft procession, cloaked in sorrow. Some weep openly, others murmur prayers with trembling breath. The weight of grief presses against the stone, heavy as tide against jetty. A name is spoken again and again, reverent and broken, until it becomes a lullaby of mourning. Between each word, silence holds vigil. The tile feels a deep stillness in the air, as if even the sea has paused to listen. A final name tumbles across your ears as your song slips into silence, "Elenne."

Your song stirs the memory of disturbance. The tile feels the grit of its seams loosened, the edge of a tool scraping carefully through old grout. Pressure lifts it from the floor, just briefly, and something small is slid beneath. When the tile returns to its place, the surface meets the subfloor with an unfamiliar firmness. A hand lingers upon it, smooth and warm, resting for a long moment before giving a gentle pat. Whispered words ride the still air, close enough to touch, "Keep this safe until Tagetes finds you." An absence of warmth is the last sensation the tile imparts before your song stills.

Your voice brushes the tile, and the past answers with hushed urgency. There is the soft shuffle of feet, the creak of worn boots on stone, and a sharp intake of breath. Mournful whispers crowd the silence. A voice, cracked with worry and soft with distance, murmurs, "I don't know where you are, Aralinne. I can't get into the catacombs to check on you as the Brisker's Cove bowl was broken in the latest Krolvin raids... Please come home to us. Please. Your plan for Bristena worked; she told me of it when I returned. The girls are free, but where are you? I'm going to hide my piece until it can unite with yours. Please be safe, be careful." A soft sigh blends with the ending resonance of your song.

Your voice draws forth only silence at first. Time passes, measured in distant echoes. Footsteps sound too far to name, and faint shifts in the air come and go with no purpose. Old wood creaks softly where it meets damp stone. Dust settles in the seams, and salt from the sea clings to the surface. Years drift by without notice. Then, without warning, fingers press along your edges. There is a pause, a breath held just beyond hearing, and the tile feels the careful pry of something firm beneath it. A clamor of voices overlaps with each other until they blend into the fading sound of your song.
|}

=== 06.13.2025 ===
==== a salt-stained blue leather ledger ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Ledger from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a salt-stained blue leather ledger
|-
|Bound in navy blue leather, the ledger bears clear signs of repair. Patches of mismatched hide reinforce the spine and corners, and thin linen cords hold the bindings tight. Though worn smooth with age, the cover still holds the faint imprint of Niima's shell crest, long faded by handling. The pages inside are slightly bowed from moisture, but the ink has held well. Each year occupies a single page, the writing steady and small.
|-
|4816

Tidy dates and notations for each month in 4816 are aligned neatly along the inner margin. Notes reference standard morning and mid-tide services, with modest attendance throughout the year. Several deaths at sea are marked during Phoenatos and Imaerasta. There are mentions of a small fishing vessel lost in late Charlatos, and a new lantern donated by a widow named Hessa. The last quarter shows increased visits near Solstice.

4817

Entries for 4817 remain even and uneventful. Most notes concern basin cleaning, donation handling, and ribbon replenishment. Storms in Lumnea and Koaratos disrupted service for several days. A merchant's wife is mentioned repeatedly for leaving folded prayers in the offering box. One record notes an unusual number of gulls gathered at the altar during a fogbound service, marked simply with, "observed by three."

4818

Standard service records dominate the page, with annotations in blue ink appearing during spring. One comment in the margin reads, "New basin stone fitted. Shell inlay cracked but held." Three names repeat throughout the year: a retired sailor, a midwife from Marshtown, and a girl recorded only as "A.M." Several deaths at sea appear again in Eorgaen. Coastal offerings increase during the fall months.

4819

The 4819 entries continue in a narrow hand, with an unusual number of weddings noted between Charlatos and Ivastaen. Ribbons tied at the altar outnumber funerary entries this year. A brief note in Phoenatos mentions a fisherman's body returned after fifteen tides. Repairs to the vestibule door are recorded in Koaratos. A delivery of hymnals is documented without name, signed only with "N.L."

4820

Attendance patterns remain steady throughout 4820. Notations of storm disruptions in Fashanos and Koaratos are followed by increased evening services during those months. One brief note in Charlatos mentions a girl from the lower quarter beginning "training for vow," though no name is listed. Seasonal surges continue, with quiet months between. A salt-caked page corner suggests the ledger was left open during a sea spray.

4821

Small, precise entries for 4821 follow the pattern of prior years. Services remained regular, with additional rites held after a coastal storm in Charlatos. A recurring visitor is listed only as "shell-bearer" during spring months. Repairs to the west garden wall are noted in Lumnea. One entry in Eorgaen records, "child left driftwood figure at basin, no adult nearby." The handwriting becomes slightly sharper near the year's end.

4822

The year opened with colder winds and reduced attendance through Lormesta. One note in Fashanos records an elderly priestess slipping on the altar steps, resulting in no injury. Minor construction is logged in Ivastaen: "stone bench repositioned, foundation settled uneven." Gulls are again noted during a fog-heavy morning service. No deaths at sea are marked for Koaratos, which is noted as rare by the author. Extra hymn practice is recorded for Imaerasta.

4823

Faint ink along the top edge shows early signs of moisture, but the page remains legible. Most entries follow the standard pattern. A sailor's wedding in Phoenatos brought increased attendance for several days. Someone left a carved shell token in the basin and returned each week through Jastatos. No name was ever recorded. One funeral in Eoantos references burial in the lower catacomb row, name lost to smudging. Elenne's name begins to appear more frequently.

4824

Ledger entries remain orderly. Elenne is noted as presiding over full services during three major seasonal observances. A short entry in Imaerasta reads, "saltwater damaged two hymnals, copies made by hand." Several deaths at sea were recorded across Phoenatos and Jastatos. A recurring note of "candles late" appears without clarification. Winter quarter shows an increased number of widows seeking individual prayer times, as marked by initials only.

4825

The writing becomes slightly more compact along this page, possibly due to a change in hand. Services are held regularly with minor disruptions caused by harbor traffic. One early Charlatos entry reads, "path blocked by hauling rig, services delayed." Garden growth noted as "vigorous" in Lumnea. An unnamed girl from Marshtown began regular cleaning duties in midyear. Entries suggest her presence became routine, though her name is not yet recorded. Several pages show signs of ash smudging near the bottom corner.

4826

Ledger entries remain narrow and consistent. Regular service records dominate the page, with a note in Ivastaen reading, "two hymnals lost to mildew, one copied by hand." The girl from Marshtown is noted more frequently, assisting with basin preparation and entry sweeping. Elenne is recorded as leading nearly all rites this year. In Koaratos, a sailor's wife donated wax and twine following her husband's return from the reefs.

4827

A colder year, with notations of light frost in Charlatos and a decline in visitors during the first quarter. The Marshtown girl is listed by initials for the first time: "A.L.". She appears often in notes tied to daily upkeep and chant transcription. Elenne requested additional salt deliveries from the quay, suggesting higher ritual use. A short record in Imaerasta reads, "boy returned with offering candle for sister." His name is not recorded, but the action repeats in later months.

4828

Ink across this page is slightly lighter but consistent. Notes describe steady attendance and quiet observances throughout the year. "A.L." continues to serve regularly and is mentioned copying seasonal verses. A new basin cloth was donated by a widow in Phoenatos. Calen Wynedowne is noted briefly in Koaratos as assisting with deliveries. In Eorgaen, a child is recorded as tying sea glass to the offering pole, noted without comment.

4829

The handwriting tightens slightly, with some changes in wording structure. "A.L." is listed as leading chants during two minor observances. A service disruption is recorded in Charlatos: "work crew halted access to west path." Garden repairs resumed in Ivastaen, with the stone bench noted as "settled, but now cracking." Calen Wynedowne is marked present on three service dates. Elenne's name appears as usual, though one note mentions "shortness of breath in colder months."

4830

Entries shift slightly in tone this year, with more detailed notations. "A.L." is no longer referenced only by initials. Her name appears as Aralinne, recorded assisting with vespers and receiving permission to copy the coastal prayers. Elenne continues to lead services throughout. In Fashanos, a marked entry reads: "Calen Wynedowne departed aboard the Drowned Boar." A note in Imaerasta logs the visit of the High Priestess from Selanthia. Garden notes cease after Koaratos, likely due to early construction of the new temple.

4831

Entries are steady, with services held regularly in the newly expanded chapel. The original altar remains in partial use during evening observances. Aralinne is recorded as leading chants and maintaining basin duties throughout the year. A note in Charlatos reads, "Calen returned, left shell at east bench." Additional visitors marked in Phoenatos. Several Kannalan hymn fragments reviewed in Jastatos, with Aralinne listed as transcriber. No disruptions recorded.

4832

Observances continue without interruption. Aralinne is noted frequently in preparation tasks, seasonal cleanings, and the transcription of coastal rites. One record in Koaratos reads, "private service held for three widows." Increased taper use recorded in Imaerasta. No name given, but a new assistant is mentioned briefly in Lumnea. Aralinne's duties expand across multiple entries. The final note of the year: "attendance steady; records filed."

4833

Standard notations occupy most of the year. Aralinne continues in her role, listed alongside Elenne for all major observances. Her name appears independently in entries for dusk services and catacomb visits. One summer note mentions, "garden basin cleared and refilled under Aralinne's guidance." No major incidents. Early signs of leadership transition appear in Eoantos, though no formal statement is recorded. The garden bench is listed as worn, but stable.

4834

Charlatos begins with a formal entry: "Calen Wynedowne and Aralinne joined in marriage, witnessed before first bell at east altar." Both continue in regular attendance. Aralinne is recorded as leading evening services and overseeing hymn preservation efforts. Her handwriting begins to appear in later entries. Koaratos notes her inclusion in guild correspondence. The final entry in Eorgaen lists: "preparations for early solstice rites under Aralinne."

4835

Year begins quietly. Aralinne is now noted as officiating several services in early Fashanos. In Jastatos, a central entry reads: "Elenne passed peacefully in the night, fifth day of Jastatos." Her name does not appear again. Subsequent entries mark Aralinne presiding over full rites. One note reads, "transition marked with coastal hymn, basin blessing unchanged." Calen continues to appear sporadically. The final entry of the year reads: "chapel remains steady under Aralinne's care."
|}
==== a small salt-stained journal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Journal from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a small salt-stained journal
|-
|Bound in salt-stained suede, the small journal shows signs of frequent handling. The edges of the cover have curled slightly, and faint salt residue clings to the seams. Interior pages are swollen from moisture, and many are warped or stuck together. Ink bleeds across several leaves, though a few entries remain legible. The faint scent of mildew and brine lingers between the covers.
|-
|1st day of Lormesta, 4830

The new year began in silence. No sun showed at dawn, only a pale mist rolling over the port that settled in the alleys and gutters. We opened the chapel doors late this morning. A thin crust of salt had gathered again on the threshold.

Mother Elenne asked me to polish the lamp basin and check our remaining wax. She said that if the year is to bring anything, let it be steadiness. I scrubbed the copper too hard and bent the rim along one edge. She noticed but said nothing.

After the evening bell, I stayed to copy the coastal prayer. My ink bled in the cold, and my fingers would not hold the quill straight. The letters blurred near the bottom of the page. I will try again tomorrow.

The gulls have returned early this year. Their cries sound sharper than I remember.

Faint ink marks show a date in the top right corner, though the precise date is difficult to decipher. There is an impression of repeated script beneath the date, but the parchment is too warped to decipher much of its contents. Only a few words remain distinguishable near the bottom:

"...salt left from the..."

"...sleeves wet from the basin..."

"...ribbon placed before bell..."

16th day of Fashanos, 4830

A merchant visited the chapel yesterday. He introduced himself as Vartrien and said he represented the Mercantile Guild. His boots were polished, but they slipped on the chapel stones. He smelled faintly of tallow and wine.

He spoke with Elenne behind the altar rail. I only heard part of what was said... something about extending the outer walls, adding a foyer and foyer, and pulling stone from the cliff quarry. He did not ask about the altar or the basin.

Before leaving, he placed a coin in the offering basin. It was heavier than most and bore the Guild's seal. Elenne closed the doors earlier than usual and asked me to boil the cloth and clean the entry stone. She did not speak again until morning prayers.

After the bell, I copied half of the sea-born hymn. I still mix the second and third lines. The gulls circled loudly over the garden. They did not land.

Humidity has irrevocably damaged this page of the journal. The faint impression of a coastal flower leaves a colored stain in the center of the page. Ink bleeds across the fibers, blending so completely that all writing is beyond recognition.

3rd day of Charlatos, 4830

Rain began early and found its way in through the northern window joint again. A track of droplets marked the covers of three hymnals before I noticed. I dried them the best I could and set them near the basin to air.

Mother Elenne told me I might be ready to take the vesper reading next month. I said I would do my best, though my voice still shakes when the wind comes hard off the bay.

A boy from the shipyard arrived just before first bell. He brought a candle for his sister and did not speak. He nodded once and placed it on the old bench near the shell altar. It burned quickly and left a streak of wax on the wood.

After evening prayers, I copied the saltwater blessing again. I continue to forget the fourth line. I will practice it aloud tomorrow when the chapel is empty.

12th day of Olaesta, 4830

The salted fog held all morning. The bells could barely be heard from the quay, and the floor stayed damp long after I wiped it. The gulls were quiet today, though I saw them gather on the breakwall at dusk.

Mother Elenne allowed me to lead the midday verses. I stumbled on the refrain but kept pace. She gave no correction afterward, which I think was kindness. I will ask her to let me try again next week.

The Guildman has not returned, but I saw carts from the upper quarry moving past the garden path. One of the workers spat too close to the basin. I scrubbed the stone clean before closing the gate.

27th day of Ivastaen, 4830

The High Priestess arrived again, as expected. She comes every five months, though she avoids Charlatos and Lormesta because she does not like to travel in cold weather. This time, she brought only one attendant and a thick letter sealed in white wax.

She asked after the basin and walked the outer path twice before speaking. I do not know why she finds our grounds so peculiar. She always looks longer at the walls than at the altar.

She complimented the order of the garden, though I had not yet swept. Her words are even and pleasant, but her eyes are always searching. I do not think she comes only for worship.

Moisture has warped the page outward from the center, and a small flower is pressed into the parchment. Once white, its petals have turned a pale yellow. The edges have melted into the fibers over time, leaving a faint outline and a darker stain beneath. Ink has bled into the margins, but a few lines remain legible:

"He brought it with both hands."

"Said it grew from the rocks near the basin."

"It smelled faintly of salt and rosemary."

Written near the bottom corner, in a careful hand: Calen

9th day of Lumnea, 4830

Calen came again just after midday. He did not knock, only waited near the side path until I saw him. He brought a bloom, he said he found growing from a crack in the harbor wall. I told him it would not last, but he said that was fine.

He stayed long enough to watch me refill the basin, then left without saying more. I placed the flower in the back of the book, where I thought it would keep. It did not.

Mother Elenne has begun sorting the storeroom shelves again. I do not know where she plans to move everything, but she said we may have to share with the masons soon. I do not think she approves.

2nd day of Koaratos, 4830

Rumors continue about the Guild's plans, but nothing official has been posted. One of the stone counters in the garden cracked under the weight of a builder's crate. They said it would be replaced, but no one has returned to measure.

The High Priestess's letter is still sealed. Elenne has not opened it, though she moved it twice. I think she is waiting for another message, or perhaps the Guildman himself.

A blue gull feather was left on the altar after the second bell. No one saw who brought it.

I placed it in the ribbon box, away from the salt.

13th day of Koaratos, 4830

The stone bench in the garden has been replaced. I was not told it would happen, but when I stepped out to light the sea taper this morning, it was there. Rosewood, newly finished and still carrying the scent of cut shavings. The legs are slightly uneven, but the surface is smooth.

Elenne said one of the sailors had it made for his wife. She is the one who always sits near the roses and watches the harbor light. She wept when the bench cracked beneath the masons' crate. I am glad it was rebuilt.

Ink has lifted across most of the page, leaving behind only faint strokes and a few recognizable shapes. The top third is nearly blank, and the lower margin is warped from long exposure to damp air. Visible along the center fold, in pale ink, are snatches of the original message.

"...asked if it would still be the same chapel..."

"...carried the basin water out into the garden..."

"...song lines lost in the stone dust..."

5th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Construction has begun. Dust rises even before the first bell. The builders come early and eat beside the garden wall. I do not know how they leave the crumbs behind, but the gulls are clearly happy about it.

Mother Elenne and I have moved our sleeping mats into the chapel itself. There is no space left in the quarters, not since the back wall was taken down. She said it is temporary, but we must keep everything folded and out of sight during services.

She reminded me that we are not bound by silence or separation, only by devotion and clarity of intent. Then she looked at me and said, "Even your Calen would agree." I nearly dropped the basin ladle.

16th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Calen returned with an oilskin pouch and handed it to me without speaking. Inside was a cloth wrapped around several dry biscuits and a folded slip of sea-blue ribbon. He said he heard the workers had overrun our stores and that I was likely too polite to complain.

I thanked him, but could not find the right words. Elenne watched from the entryway. Later, she only asked if I had shared them.

The builders left stone dust across the floor again. I swept until my arms ached, but it returned before the evening bell. It finds every crack.

28th day of Phoenatos, 4830

The High Priestess will return in Jastatos. Elenne received a note today. No seal this time, only a clean fold and pressed script. She read it twice, then tucked it into the ledger without comment.

I asked if she thought the Guildman would be here as well. She said most likely, and that the two had likely been speaking for longer than we realized. She did not sound surprised or pleased.

The rosewood bench has already dulled to a greyish tone. I tried wiping it with a damp cloth, but the color does not return. Still, the sailor's wife came today and stayed for the whole of the afternoon light. She did not speak. Only watched the water and smiled.

7th day of Imaerasta, 4830

The scaffolding now reaches above the garden wall. Boards cast a grid of shadow over the roses during morning light. One of the masons said that the new walls will block the ocean view. I had not thought of that until now.

If the wall rises the way they say it will, the garden will face stone, not sea. Elenne was not surprised when I told her. She only said, "It's easier to worship what you can see than what you must remember."

I wonder if the sound of the tide will carry once the last wall is raised.

18th day of Imaerasta, 4830

Mist held long into the afternoon. We lit the lamps early and brought the linens in before the sea air reached them. The dust hangs longer in the stillness.

Word came that Yenterreth of the Marshtown passed in her sleep. She was one of the spirit women, always with a ribbon in her sleeve and saltwater on her boots. I remember her from before I came to live with Elenne. She called me bird girl and once gave me a braid of kelp twine.

She will be interred below with the others. I carried the notice down to the stone chamber myself.

Much of the page has faded due to moisture, but several phrases remain readable:

"...could see the harbor lantern from the bench..."

"...ribbons tied to the low branches removed..."

"...the sound of chisel work does not pause for prayer..."

Smudged ink across the lower edge shows where the page was touched before drying.

3rd day of Jastatos, 4830

The High Priestess arrived just after midday. She wore a dove-colored cloak and had her hair in three loops at her crown. Guildman Vartrien stood beside her beneath the scaffolding. They did not speak during the service, but both stayed until the end.

Afterward, they walked the garden with Elenne. I followed at a distance, gathering petals. I overheard them speak of creating a fresco in Niima's likeness upon the foyer wall. The High Priestess said the space would command presence.

No one mentioned the old altar. I swept around it that night, as a kind of apology.

15th day of Jastatos, 4830

A whisper has spread through the workers. One of the cart drivers said the Krolvin have been seen in Brisker's Cove. No one knows if it's true, but another said the harbor patrol was doubled this week.

Elenne said we cannot shape our prayers to rumors. Still, she lit the tall tapers during evening service and left them burning until the last shadow faded from the stones.

Calen has not returned since the rains began. I keep the ribbon he gave me in my prayer book. It smells faintly of rosemary, even now.

4th day of Eoantos, 4830

Elenne asked me to begin clearing the small office beside the catacombs. She said it was time someone sorted through what remains. I believe she means for me to be occupied, as Calen has not returned. She does not ask after him directly, but she notices when I forget the dusting cloth or leave the lamp wick too low.

The office is colder than I remembered. The walls sweat even when the wind is dry. I found a bundle of records tied with frayed cord, and a shelf of ledgers warped from years of damp. None have dates newer than 4816.

I lit a taper and marveled that its flame didn't waver. The air is rather stale.

12th day of Eoantos, 4830

Stacks of papers have begun to soften and fall apart as I move them. Some pages peel away like onion skin. Others are stuck together with mildew at the corners. There is no order left in the ledgers.

Elenne gave me vinegar water to scrub the stone and showed me how to dry the parchments without tearing the ink. Her hands are steadier than mine, but she let me try alone today.

No one has asked about the office in years. I wonder if anyone will again once the new temple is complete.

Several blotches stretch across the center of the page, caused by ink pressed while wet. Words are smudged and fingerprints mar the lower half.

Only a few lines are clear:

"...wrote his name on the margin and folded it..."

"...did not want to ask him not to go..."

"...the sea calls more surely than words ever could..."

21st day of Eoantos, 4830

Word came that Calen has signed on with a deep-sea vessel. No one knows the name, only that it sails past the Shoals and will be gone past spring.

Elenne said nothing when I told her. She simply handed me another cloth and said, "Salt dries slower than tears." I think she meant it kindly.

The basin water felt colder today, though the air was still. When I poured it over the shell altar, I thought of the wives who stand at our threshold with wet sleeves and silent mouths.

I begin to understand why they come. Not for answers, but for nearness.

1st day of Eorgaen, 4830

The sound of hammers has quieted. Most of the scaffolding has come down. The stones above the chapel are now smooth and white, with carved lines I cannot name.

I finished dusting the office and folded what remained of the ledgers. Several were too damaged to save. Elenne said I may stack them in the catacombs for burning later, though I kept two that still held their shape.

Calen's ribbon rests between the pages of one. I did not mean to place it there. It simply felt right.

19th day of Eorgaen, 4830

We moved into the new quarters today. The walls are smooth, and the ceiling curves slightly like the hull of a ship turned over. My mat fits beneath the small window, though it does not face the sea.

Elenne set our candles on the narrow sill and arranged her ledgers in the cabinet with care. She has not said whether she likes the new space, but she wiped the sill twice before speaking.

I kept the basin cloth. It still smells faintly of rosemary and ink.

31st day of Eorgaen, 4830

Year-end bells rang before the harbor mist had cleared. The garden is smaller now, and the altar no longer sees the ocean, but the salt wind still finds its way between the stones.

I watched from the upper stairs as the tide turned. For a moment, I imagined Calen leaning over the rail of whatever vessel he's found. I do not know where he sailed, or what wind carried him out, only that the thought of him still returns like breath.

I folded a ribbon into the base of the old ledger. Some things are easier to keep when hidden.

1st day of Lormesta, 4831

The High Priestess arrived at midday. She wore fur-lined gloves and spoke briefly before entering the new sanctum. Her words were softer this time. She said the white stone caught light well and that the new foyer had "clean weight."

She did not linger. Elenne bowed but did not speak.

I spent the rest of the day sorting a box of old hymn fragments. Some were written in Kannalan, though I can only read the titles. I have set two aside in hopes that someone might help me translate them.

3rd day of Lormesta, 4831

Calen returned today.

He stood by the garden gate and waited until I saw him. He did not wave. Only smiled, the kind of smile that asks without needing an answer.

I brought him a cup of water, and we sat in the shadow of the old chapel. He said nothing of the voyage, and I did not ask. I watched his hands as he spoke of the harbor and the wind near the reefs. He has a sun mark on his left wrist now, just above the bone.

When he left, he pressed a shell into my palm. It was smooth and unbroken.

5th day of Lormesta, 4831

I do not know if he missed me. I do not know if he meant to see me or only came to the chapel as he once did.

Still, I thought of him each time the tide turned. I imagined the shape of his boat against the horizon, wondering if he looked for birds or counted the ways salt settles into cloth.

The shell he gave me rests beneath the old candle box. I did not tell Elenne.

I have finished copying the Kannalan refrain. The words feel older than stone, but they sing cleanly when read aloud.
|}
==== a faded off-white vellum ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Letter to Aralinna from Tagetes
!a faded off-white vellum
|-
|22 Fashanos 4839

Hi Aralinne,
You are going to sputter when you read this, but I found something I think might actually help. I've been haunting the lower rooms of the Rest's old archive, the one that smells like mushrooms and lamp oil, and you would not believe the number of ledgers that don't even belong there. Some trader scribbled a note in the margin of a shipping contract, and I have no idea why, about a Hermit of Charl. Not a priest. Not a sailor. A hermit.

The strange part is, he wasn't written about like some bedraggled man on a rock. He had followers. Or at least people who carried his words. The note said he held something powerful, something that could "turn back the tide and lay bare the seabed, if placed with care and faith at the high edge." That's what it actually said. The relic doesn't have a name, which is frustrating, but it is always connected to cliffs or high ridges.

I spent the last two days chasing the reference backward, and I think it's Kannalan. Most of the names line up with the way they spell things when they want to make them sound more official. The good stuff always hides behind fancy lettering.

Anyway, I asked around, and there's a guide here who knows the Karazja ruins. He's agreed to take me inland starting next week. I'll be careful. I promise. But if I'm right, that relic might still be out there.

Imagine what it would mean if we could part the sea.

More soon,
Tagetes

P.S. Tell Marris not to let the acolytes into the tide closet again. I know it was them. The shells were rearranged. Again.
|}
==== Seaborne Hymnal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a thread-edged faded parchment
|-
|Parchment the color of drifted sand bears faded blue script in a careful, even hand. The edges have frayed into soft waves, and the lower corner is discolored where dampness clings to the page. A watermark in the upper left shows a simple wave crest superimposed over a scallop shell. Salt has left faint flecks across the surface, and one line of ink has bled slightly with age. Despite wear, the script remains fully legible, framed by a border of pressed gull feathers and hand-tied seasilk thread.

In the Common language, it reads:

Instructions for the Seaborne Hymnal

To be spoken daily, often at morning tide or before the first sail departs.

The Seaborne Hymnal is a spoken blessing offered to all who live by the rhythm of the sea. It honors those who make their living from its bounty, those who voyage upon it, and those who wait at its edge. The ritual is led by a priestess and joined by those gathered, using a call and response pattern. It is not sung, but spoken clearly, with steadiness and intent.

There are no physical offerings required. However, each response is accompanied by a hand gesture to mark the tide's reach and the release of prayer.

The priestess stands facing the gathered. Congregants may form a semicircle or remain as they are, whether in chapel or along the shore. The ritual may be performed indoors or outdoors, provided the sea is visible or near.

At each response, the right hand is placed palm-down over the heart, then extended outward, fingers spread as if forming the crest of a wave. This gesture is slow and deliberate. At the final line, the gesture is held outward a moment longer before lowering the hand.

The hymnal is: 
'''Priestess:''' Who wakes with the wind and walks with the tide? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who casts the net and bears the storm? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who waits at the window and sings to the dark? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who names the stars and trusts the wave? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Bless those who leave and those who remain. 
Bless those who labor and those who pray. 
Bless those who remember. 
'''Congregation (final gesture):''' And those who return no more.

The rite is complete after the final line. There is no need for benediction. Let silence follow for a breath or two before the next act begins.
|}
==== Ribbon Vigil ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a watermarked pearly white parchment
|-
|Faint mildew spots darken the four corners of the parchment, which has a pearly white finish created by the waxy finished worked into its fibers. An azure watermark of a scallop shell superimposed over cresting waves can be seen beneath the indigo ink that spread across its surface.

In the Common language, it reads:

The Ribbon Vigil is a quiet, sacred tradition observed by sailors and their loved ones before voyages that lead them beyond the protection of the bay. It is deeply personal, often unspoken, and performed in silence atop the temple's Widow's Walk. The rite is not scheduled by the temple, nor does it require direct guidance, but all priestesses, acolytes, and attending staff should understand its nature and how to offer quiet support when needed.

The vigil begins when a sailor and a significant companion, whether spouse, sibling, friend, or beloved, ascending to the rooftop of the temple. Together, they bring a ribbon, which may be carried openly or hidden in the hand, sleeve, or pocket until the moment it is needed. Upon reaching the rail that faces the open sea, they tie the ribbon to the ironwork together. There is no formal color or material required. While many choose white, blue, or sea green, others may bring a scrap of sailcloth or a woven charm. The meaning lies in the bond, not the fiber. No spoken words are required, though some murmur names or prayers as the knot is tied. The act itself is the offering. It binds the hope of return between two people and entrusts that bond to the sea.

At times, when a ship is long overdue or the sea has turned cruel, the one who remained ashore may return to the Widow's Walk alone. There, they loosen the knot they once tied. The ribbon is not taken down but left slack in the wind. This act is a plea to Niima, asking her to seek the one who has not come home. It is believed that if the ribbon is taken by the wind and reaches the sea, Niima will find the sailor and guide them to safety. That safety may not bring them home to Solhaven, but it will bring them to a shore. If the ribbon tangles, falls, or clings to the stone, some believe it is a sign that the soul it represents has already passed from Niima's reach.

Temple staff must not disturb those who come to perform this rite. Acolytes may observe from a distance and quietly light a sea taper at the stairwell when a ribbon loosening is witnessed. The gesture is enough to mark the moment. Comfort should be offered gently, without promise or correction. Never assure a safe return. Instead, remind them that Niima knows every name whispered to the tide and that no soul is ever truly lost to her.

Ribbons left on the Widow's Walk should be observed weekly. Those that have clearly loosened and not flown may be carefully removed and burned in a salt-fire by the priestess or her assistant. This should be done with solemnity and without comment, allowing the sea to receive what it could not carry.

Priestesses may speak of the vigil during public blessings, particularly on days when many ships prepare to depart. However, no individual should be named or pointed to. Let the ribbon be a silent prayer, seen by the sea and felt by those who wait.
|}

==== Elenne's (?) Papers ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a pale slip of vellum bearing a rust-tinged watermark
|-
|Rust-toned watermarks bloom across the lower half of the parchment, forming uneven, organic shapes. The ink has faded but remains legible throughout. The surface is rough to the touch, with several shallow indentations along the right margin, as if pressed against the corner of a writing board. Mild mildew spotting is visible near the top, and the parchment carries a faint metallic scent.

In the Common language, it reads: 
15th day of Fashanos, 4830 
Master Vartrien of the Mercantile Guild visited the chapel before midday service. He spoke of expanding the grounds and building a larger temple to better serve Solhaven's growing population. I reminded him that the chapel predates the coastal road and holds its own rhythm. He seemed unconcerned but polite. Left a coin marked with the Guild's seal in the basin. I placed it with the others and marked his visit in the side register.
|-
!a ink-streaked torn vellum sheet
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads: 
29th day of Koaratos, 4832 
Two merchant wives came bearing cloth bundles for the shrine. Each held swaddled sea stones tied with bits of silk, blue and pale. They asked no questions, gave no names. I placed the stones in the vessel below the sanctum basin and poured saltwater as they requested. Both stayed for the midday chant, though neither sang. After, they left through the garden gate without speaking further. I noted no marking on the silk. I hope they found comfort.
|-
!an ink-blotched paper fragment
|-
|Near the lower edge, signs of delamination are evident where prolonged exposure to moisture has lifted the parchment fibers. Ink blotches cover the upper left corner, though the writing beneath remains legible. Faint blue guidelines run horizontally across the surface, now nearly faded from view. All corners are softened from repeated handling, while the light scent of damp plaster and crushed chalk clings to the page.

In the Common language, it reads: 
18th day of Ivastaen, 4835 
Workers paused their efforts near the east colonnade due to a broken pulley. Several wandered into the chapel while the foreman spoke with a guild agent outside. One left a handful of copper on the basin rim. I noted no offering ribbon, but took it with the rest before lighting the salt lamp. Held afternoon prayers with two elders and one child. No hymn today. Breezes through the north wall joints have grown stronger since the scaffolding went up.
|}

==== a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Necklace Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 100 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
==== a discolored albatross feather quill ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Quill Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a discolored albatross feather quill
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 30,000 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
[[Category:The Shadowy Abyss]]

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Found items

2025-06-14T21:50:08Z

RAFFELS2: /* Seaborne Hymnal */ added Ribbon Vigil

__ToC__
== Shadowy Abyss Found Items ==
=== 06.06.2025 ===
==== an antique Vornavian silk cloth ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key's Sleeve
!an antique Vornavian silk cloth
|-
|Smooth with a soft finish, the Vornavian silk cloth has hints of its original deep blue hue at its edges though largely it has faded to a watered azure hue. Faint seashell patterns decorate the edge, the silver and white embroidery creating scallop shells that overlap. Rolled silk cords aid the bundle in staying closed as needed, their ends capped in silver dolphin periapts.
|}

===== a blue-tinted white vellum parchment =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Letter to Tagetes from Aralinne
!a blue-tinted white vellum parchment
|-
|Slightly warped in shape and displaying clear signs of damage from humidity, the fine parchment is tinted with a subtle blue hue that is almost white and yet distinctly not. Crisp folds create precise lines in the top and bottom third of the piece, while the corners display fray signs where moisture has separated the layers.
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:
the seventeenth day of Olaesta in the year 4839

Tagetes,

Hopefully, we will return at the same time and all of this preparation will be for naught.

The temple will have no attendants as I have figured out the missing piece to get us to Pearl. It lies in an old Kannalan Temple to Charl. I believe I've tracked down its former location. I've hidden the plans in the old office at the end of the catacombs and sealed the entry.

So few people know of its existence that it should be safe to travel there. I do not think I will be gone more than a handful of days.

However, as I do not trust the Mercantile Guild, with their recent decisions to create gardens and shrines to the dark pantheon, I have sealed the doorway up and hidden it. Since you know where it is, you should have no issue finding it.

There are seven keys for entry. I've left the Empress key here, but you can easily obtain the other six by seeking the blessings of the Lover, the Mistress, the Sister, the Mother, the Daughter, and the High Priestess. I'm sure you'll remember who these are from our past talks. I dare not say more for fear this is found by others.

Please know that some wish to see the curse spread. Others are working hard to stop it. Young Bristena had the idea to buy back all the jewelry from the women whose husband, lovers, and brothers searched the North Beach to obtain them. I gave her enough coin to buy them all back.

Once she has every last piece, she'll have a sailor take her out to the spot we believe the "Pearl" to be waiting in and drop them back into the water. That should give us time to get the pieces together to free her. I used the last of the coffers to pay a crew to start the lighthouse.

If I don't return... Please let my husband and son know the depths of which I love them.

By my hand,

Aralinne Wynedowne
|}
===== a carved golden amber acorn =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key
!a carved golden amber acorn
|-
|Roughly oval in shape, a carved golden amber acorn is broad and flat, providing an excellent view of its transparent interior portion. Trapped within the golden yellow fossilized pine tree sap are several small flying insects and a dried flower.
|}
==== an aged grey stone tile ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+The Tile
!an aged grey stone tile
|-
|Your song touches the tile, and the memory begins with stillness, then the faint scrape of wood across stone. Gentle hands press close, fitting the tile snugly into place. A murmur of approval hums nearby, muffled by fabric and breath. Cool grout slides into the seams, and the air shifts. Salt lingers in the room, carried on a current scented with blossoms. Lilac and sea daisy rise together, soft and clean. A hush settles across the surface, and the tile recognizes it as belonging. Beneath the faintest sigh of sandals against stone, a woman's voice murmurs, "There. That's better." The sounds and sensations fade along with the last syllables of your song.

As your song continues to caress the tile, it stirs with echoes of passing time. Soft footsteps come and go, punctuated by the rhythmic sweep of bristles and the clatter of buckets. Voices rise and fall nearby, sometimes low with grief, sometimes bright with ritual. One speaks of a sister's safe return, another offers blessings over a sailor's name. A different voice complains about a cracked basin and the need for fresh oil. Each moment blends into the next, seasons marked only by the changing cadence of heels, the weight of silence, and the gentle creak of wood in damp air. Slowly, the sensation and sounds fade, one by one, until they fall as silent as your song.

Your melody draws forth a hush, and the tile remembers the scent first. Bitter and resinous, the thick smoke of funerary incense curls low to the ground. Voices follow in soft procession, cloaked in sorrow. Some weep openly, others murmur prayers with trembling breath. The weight of grief presses against the stone, heavy as tide against jetty. A name is spoken again and again, reverent and broken, until it becomes a lullaby of mourning. Between each word, silence holds vigil. The tile feels a deep stillness in the air, as if even the sea has paused to listen. A final name tumbles across your ears as your song slips into silence, "Elenne."

Your song stirs the memory of disturbance. The tile feels the grit of its seams loosened, the edge of a tool scraping carefully through old grout. Pressure lifts it from the floor, just briefly, and something small is slid beneath. When the tile returns to its place, the surface meets the subfloor with an unfamiliar firmness. A hand lingers upon it, smooth and warm, resting for a long moment before giving a gentle pat. Whispered words ride the still air, close enough to touch, "Keep this safe until Tagetes finds you." An absence of warmth is the last sensation the tile imparts before your song stills.

Your voice brushes the tile, and the past answers with hushed urgency. There is the soft shuffle of feet, the creak of worn boots on stone, and a sharp intake of breath. Mournful whispers crowd the silence. A voice, cracked with worry and soft with distance, murmurs, "I don't know where you are, Aralinne. I can't get into the catacombs to check on you as the Brisker's Cove bowl was broken in the latest Krolvin raids... Please come home to us. Please. Your plan for Bristena worked; she told me of it when I returned. The girls are free, but where are you? I'm going to hide my piece until it can unite with yours. Please be safe, be careful." A soft sigh blends with the ending resonance of your song.

Your voice draws forth only silence at first. Time passes, measured in distant echoes. Footsteps sound too far to name, and faint shifts in the air come and go with no purpose. Old wood creaks softly where it meets damp stone. Dust settles in the seams, and salt from the sea clings to the surface. Years drift by without notice. Then, without warning, fingers press along your edges. There is a pause, a breath held just beyond hearing, and the tile feels the careful pry of something firm beneath it. A clamor of voices overlaps with each other until they blend into the fading sound of your song.
|}

=== 06.13.2025 ===
==== a salt-stained blue leather ledger ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Ledger from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a salt-stained blue leather ledger
|-
|Bound in navy blue leather, the ledger bears clear signs of repair. Patches of mismatched hide reinforce the spine and corners, and thin linen cords hold the bindings tight. Though worn smooth with age, the cover still holds the faint imprint of Niima's shell crest, long faded by handling. The pages inside are slightly bowed from moisture, but the ink has held well. Each year occupies a single page, the writing steady and small.
|-
|4816

Tidy dates and notations for each month in 4816 are aligned neatly along the inner margin. Notes reference standard morning and mid-tide services, with modest attendance throughout the year. Several deaths at sea are marked during Phoenatos and Imaerasta. There are mentions of a small fishing vessel lost in late Charlatos, and a new lantern donated by a widow named Hessa. The last quarter shows increased visits near Solstice.

4817

Entries for 4817 remain even and uneventful. Most notes concern basin cleaning, donation handling, and ribbon replenishment. Storms in Lumnea and Koaratos disrupted service for several days. A merchant's wife is mentioned repeatedly for leaving folded prayers in the offering box. One record notes an unusual number of gulls gathered at the altar during a fogbound service, marked simply with, "observed by three."

4818

Standard service records dominate the page, with annotations in blue ink appearing during spring. One comment in the margin reads, "New basin stone fitted. Shell inlay cracked but held." Three names repeat throughout the year: a retired sailor, a midwife from Marshtown, and a girl recorded only as "A.M." Several deaths at sea appear again in Eorgaen. Coastal offerings increase during the fall months.

4819

The 4819 entries continue in a narrow hand, with an unusual number of weddings noted between Charlatos and Ivastaen. Ribbons tied at the altar outnumber funerary entries this year. A brief note in Phoenatos mentions a fisherman's body returned after fifteen tides. Repairs to the vestibule door are recorded in Koaratos. A delivery of hymnals is documented without name, signed only with "N.L."

4820

Attendance patterns remain steady throughout 4820. Notations of storm disruptions in Fashanos and Koaratos are followed by increased evening services during those months. One brief note in Charlatos mentions a girl from the lower quarter beginning "training for vow," though no name is listed. Seasonal surges continue, with quiet months between. A salt-caked page corner suggests the ledger was left open during a sea spray.

4821

Small, precise entries for 4821 follow the pattern of prior years. Services remained regular, with additional rites held after a coastal storm in Charlatos. A recurring visitor is listed only as "shell-bearer" during spring months. Repairs to the west garden wall are noted in Lumnea. One entry in Eorgaen records, "child left driftwood figure at basin, no adult nearby." The handwriting becomes slightly sharper near the year's end.

4822

The year opened with colder winds and reduced attendance through Lormesta. One note in Fashanos records an elderly priestess slipping on the altar steps, resulting in no injury. Minor construction is logged in Ivastaen: "stone bench repositioned, foundation settled uneven." Gulls are again noted during a fog-heavy morning service. No deaths at sea are marked for Koaratos, which is noted as rare by the author. Extra hymn practice is recorded for Imaerasta.

4823

Faint ink along the top edge shows early signs of moisture, but the page remains legible. Most entries follow the standard pattern. A sailor's wedding in Phoenatos brought increased attendance for several days. Someone left a carved shell token in the basin and returned each week through Jastatos. No name was ever recorded. One funeral in Eoantos references burial in the lower catacomb row, name lost to smudging. Elenne's name begins to appear more frequently.

4824

Ledger entries remain orderly. Elenne is noted as presiding over full services during three major seasonal observances. A short entry in Imaerasta reads, "saltwater damaged two hymnals, copies made by hand." Several deaths at sea were recorded across Phoenatos and Jastatos. A recurring note of "candles late" appears without clarification. Winter quarter shows an increased number of widows seeking individual prayer times, as marked by initials only.

4825

The writing becomes slightly more compact along this page, possibly due to a change in hand. Services are held regularly with minor disruptions caused by harbor traffic. One early Charlatos entry reads, "path blocked by hauling rig, services delayed." Garden growth noted as "vigorous" in Lumnea. An unnamed girl from Marshtown began regular cleaning duties in midyear. Entries suggest her presence became routine, though her name is not yet recorded. Several pages show signs of ash smudging near the bottom corner.

4826

Ledger entries remain narrow and consistent. Regular service records dominate the page, with a note in Ivastaen reading, "two hymnals lost to mildew, one copied by hand." The girl from Marshtown is noted more frequently, assisting with basin preparation and entry sweeping. Elenne is recorded as leading nearly all rites this year. In Koaratos, a sailor's wife donated wax and twine following her husband's return from the reefs.

4827

A colder year, with notations of light frost in Charlatos and a decline in visitors during the first quarter. The Marshtown girl is listed by initials for the first time: "A.L.". She appears often in notes tied to daily upkeep and chant transcription. Elenne requested additional salt deliveries from the quay, suggesting higher ritual use. A short record in Imaerasta reads, "boy returned with offering candle for sister." His name is not recorded, but the action repeats in later months.

4828

Ink across this page is slightly lighter but consistent. Notes describe steady attendance and quiet observances throughout the year. "A.L." continues to serve regularly and is mentioned copying seasonal verses. A new basin cloth was donated by a widow in Phoenatos. Calen Wynedowne is noted briefly in Koaratos as assisting with deliveries. In Eorgaen, a child is recorded as tying sea glass to the offering pole, noted without comment.

4829

The handwriting tightens slightly, with some changes in wording structure. "A.L." is listed as leading chants during two minor observances. A service disruption is recorded in Charlatos: "work crew halted access to west path." Garden repairs resumed in Ivastaen, with the stone bench noted as "settled, but now cracking." Calen Wynedowne is marked present on three service dates. Elenne's name appears as usual, though one note mentions "shortness of breath in colder months."

4830

Entries shift slightly in tone this year, with more detailed notations. "A.L." is no longer referenced only by initials. Her name appears as Aralinne, recorded assisting with vespers and receiving permission to copy the coastal prayers. Elenne continues to lead services throughout. In Fashanos, a marked entry reads: "Calen Wynedowne departed aboard the Drowned Boar." A note in Imaerasta logs the visit of the High Priestess from Selanthia. Garden notes cease after Koaratos, likely due to early construction of the new temple.

4831

Entries are steady, with services held regularly in the newly expanded chapel. The original altar remains in partial use during evening observances. Aralinne is recorded as leading chants and maintaining basin duties throughout the year. A note in Charlatos reads, "Calen returned, left shell at east bench." Additional visitors marked in Phoenatos. Several Kannalan hymn fragments reviewed in Jastatos, with Aralinne listed as transcriber. No disruptions recorded.

4832

Observances continue without interruption. Aralinne is noted frequently in preparation tasks, seasonal cleanings, and the transcription of coastal rites. One record in Koaratos reads, "private service held for three widows." Increased taper use recorded in Imaerasta. No name given, but a new assistant is mentioned briefly in Lumnea. Aralinne's duties expand across multiple entries. The final note of the year: "attendance steady; records filed."

4833

Standard notations occupy most of the year. Aralinne continues in her role, listed alongside Elenne for all major observances. Her name appears independently in entries for dusk services and catacomb visits. One summer note mentions, "garden basin cleared and refilled under Aralinne's guidance." No major incidents. Early signs of leadership transition appear in Eoantos, though no formal statement is recorded. The garden bench is listed as worn, but stable.

4834

Charlatos begins with a formal entry: "Calen Wynedowne and Aralinne joined in marriage, witnessed before first bell at east altar." Both continue in regular attendance. Aralinne is recorded as leading evening services and overseeing hymn preservation efforts. Her handwriting begins to appear in later entries. Koaratos notes her inclusion in guild correspondence. The final entry in Eorgaen lists: "preparations for early solstice rites under Aralinne."

4835

Year begins quietly. Aralinne is now noted as officiating several services in early Fashanos. In Jastatos, a central entry reads: "Elenne passed peacefully in the night, fifth day of Jastatos." Her name does not appear again. Subsequent entries mark Aralinne presiding over full rites. One note reads, "transition marked with coastal hymn, basin blessing unchanged." Calen continues to appear sporadically. The final entry of the year reads: "chapel remains steady under Aralinne's care."
|}
==== a small salt-stained journal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Journal from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a small salt-stained journal
|-
|Bound in salt-stained suede, the small journal shows signs of frequent handling. The edges of the cover have curled slightly, and faint salt residue clings to the seams. Interior pages are swollen from moisture, and many are warped or stuck together. Ink bleeds across several leaves, though a few entries remain legible. The faint scent of mildew and brine lingers between the covers.
|-
|1st day of Lormesta, 4830

The new year began in silence. No sun showed at dawn, only a pale mist rolling over the port that settled in the alleys and gutters. We opened the chapel doors late this morning. A thin crust of salt had gathered again on the threshold.

Mother Elenne asked me to polish the lamp basin and check our remaining wax. She said that if the year is to bring anything, let it be steadiness. I scrubbed the copper too hard and bent the rim along one edge. She noticed but said nothing.

After the evening bell, I stayed to copy the coastal prayer. My ink bled in the cold, and my fingers would not hold the quill straight. The letters blurred near the bottom of the page. I will try again tomorrow.

The gulls have returned early this year. Their cries sound sharper than I remember.

Faint ink marks show a date in the top right corner, though the precise date is difficult to decipher. There is an impression of repeated script beneath the date, but the parchment is too warped to decipher much of its contents. Only a few words remain distinguishable near the bottom:

"...salt left from the..."

"...sleeves wet from the basin..."

"...ribbon placed before bell..."

16th day of Fashanos, 4830

A merchant visited the chapel yesterday. He introduced himself as Vartrien and said he represented the Mercantile Guild. His boots were polished, but they slipped on the chapel stones. He smelled faintly of tallow and wine.

He spoke with Elenne behind the altar rail. I only heard part of what was said... something about extending the outer walls, adding a foyer and foyer, and pulling stone from the cliff quarry. He did not ask about the altar or the basin.

Before leaving, he placed a coin in the offering basin. It was heavier than most and bore the Guild's seal. Elenne closed the doors earlier than usual and asked me to boil the cloth and clean the entry stone. She did not speak again until morning prayers.

After the bell, I copied half of the sea-born hymn. I still mix the second and third lines. The gulls circled loudly over the garden. They did not land.

Humidity has irrevocably damaged this page of the journal. The faint impression of a coastal flower leaves a colored stain in the center of the page. Ink bleeds across the fibers, blending so completely that all writing is beyond recognition.

3rd day of Charlatos, 4830

Rain began early and found its way in through the northern window joint again. A track of droplets marked the covers of three hymnals before I noticed. I dried them the best I could and set them near the basin to air.

Mother Elenne told me I might be ready to take the vesper reading next month. I said I would do my best, though my voice still shakes when the wind comes hard off the bay.

A boy from the shipyard arrived just before first bell. He brought a candle for his sister and did not speak. He nodded once and placed it on the old bench near the shell altar. It burned quickly and left a streak of wax on the wood.

After evening prayers, I copied the saltwater blessing again. I continue to forget the fourth line. I will practice it aloud tomorrow when the chapel is empty.

12th day of Olaesta, 4830

The salted fog held all morning. The bells could barely be heard from the quay, and the floor stayed damp long after I wiped it. The gulls were quiet today, though I saw them gather on the breakwall at dusk.

Mother Elenne allowed me to lead the midday verses. I stumbled on the refrain but kept pace. She gave no correction afterward, which I think was kindness. I will ask her to let me try again next week.

The Guildman has not returned, but I saw carts from the upper quarry moving past the garden path. One of the workers spat too close to the basin. I scrubbed the stone clean before closing the gate.

27th day of Ivastaen, 4830

The High Priestess arrived again, as expected. She comes every five months, though she avoids Charlatos and Lormesta because she does not like to travel in cold weather. This time, she brought only one attendant and a thick letter sealed in white wax.

She asked after the basin and walked the outer path twice before speaking. I do not know why she finds our grounds so peculiar. She always looks longer at the walls than at the altar.

She complimented the order of the garden, though I had not yet swept. Her words are even and pleasant, but her eyes are always searching. I do not think she comes only for worship.

Moisture has warped the page outward from the center, and a small flower is pressed into the parchment. Once white, its petals have turned a pale yellow. The edges have melted into the fibers over time, leaving a faint outline and a darker stain beneath. Ink has bled into the margins, but a few lines remain legible:

"He brought it with both hands."

"Said it grew from the rocks near the basin."

"It smelled faintly of salt and rosemary."

Written near the bottom corner, in a careful hand: Calen

9th day of Lumnea, 4830

Calen came again just after midday. He did not knock, only waited near the side path until I saw him. He brought a bloom, he said he found growing from a crack in the harbor wall. I told him it would not last, but he said that was fine.

He stayed long enough to watch me refill the basin, then left without saying more. I placed the flower in the back of the book, where I thought it would keep. It did not.

Mother Elenne has begun sorting the storeroom shelves again. I do not know where she plans to move everything, but she said we may have to share with the masons soon. I do not think she approves.

2nd day of Koaratos, 4830

Rumors continue about the Guild's plans, but nothing official has been posted. One of the stone counters in the garden cracked under the weight of a builder's crate. They said it would be replaced, but no one has returned to measure.

The High Priestess's letter is still sealed. Elenne has not opened it, though she moved it twice. I think she is waiting for another message, or perhaps the Guildman himself.

A blue gull feather was left on the altar after the second bell. No one saw who brought it.

I placed it in the ribbon box, away from the salt.

13th day of Koaratos, 4830

The stone bench in the garden has been replaced. I was not told it would happen, but when I stepped out to light the sea taper this morning, it was there. Rosewood, newly finished and still carrying the scent of cut shavings. The legs are slightly uneven, but the surface is smooth.

Elenne said one of the sailors had it made for his wife. She is the one who always sits near the roses and watches the harbor light. She wept when the bench cracked beneath the masons' crate. I am glad it was rebuilt.

Ink has lifted across most of the page, leaving behind only faint strokes and a few recognizable shapes. The top third is nearly blank, and the lower margin is warped from long exposure to damp air. Visible along the center fold, in pale ink, are snatches of the original message.

"...asked if it would still be the same chapel..."

"...carried the basin water out into the garden..."

"...song lines lost in the stone dust..."

5th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Construction has begun. Dust rises even before the first bell. The builders come early and eat beside the garden wall. I do not know how they leave the crumbs behind, but the gulls are clearly happy about it.

Mother Elenne and I have moved our sleeping mats into the chapel itself. There is no space left in the quarters, not since the back wall was taken down. She said it is temporary, but we must keep everything folded and out of sight during services.

She reminded me that we are not bound by silence or separation, only by devotion and clarity of intent. Then she looked at me and said, "Even your Calen would agree." I nearly dropped the basin ladle.

16th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Calen returned with an oilskin pouch and handed it to me without speaking. Inside was a cloth wrapped around several dry biscuits and a folded slip of sea-blue ribbon. He said he heard the workers had overrun our stores and that I was likely too polite to complain.

I thanked him, but could not find the right words. Elenne watched from the entryway. Later, she only asked if I had shared them.

The builders left stone dust across the floor again. I swept until my arms ached, but it returned before the evening bell. It finds every crack.

28th day of Phoenatos, 4830

The High Priestess will return in Jastatos. Elenne received a note today. No seal this time, only a clean fold and pressed script. She read it twice, then tucked it into the ledger without comment.

I asked if she thought the Guildman would be here as well. She said most likely, and that the two had likely been speaking for longer than we realized. She did not sound surprised or pleased.

The rosewood bench has already dulled to a greyish tone. I tried wiping it with a damp cloth, but the color does not return. Still, the sailor's wife came today and stayed for the whole of the afternoon light. She did not speak. Only watched the water and smiled.

7th day of Imaerasta, 4830

The scaffolding now reaches above the garden wall. Boards cast a grid of shadow over the roses during morning light. One of the masons said that the new walls will block the ocean view. I had not thought of that until now.

If the wall rises the way they say it will, the garden will face stone, not sea. Elenne was not surprised when I told her. She only said, "It's easier to worship what you can see than what you must remember."

I wonder if the sound of the tide will carry once the last wall is raised.

18th day of Imaerasta, 4830

Mist held long into the afternoon. We lit the lamps early and brought the linens in before the sea air reached them. The dust hangs longer in the stillness.

Word came that Yenterreth of the Marshtown passed in her sleep. She was one of the spirit women, always with a ribbon in her sleeve and saltwater on her boots. I remember her from before I came to live with Elenne. She called me bird girl and once gave me a braid of kelp twine.

She will be interred below with the others. I carried the notice down to the stone chamber myself.

Much of the page has faded due to moisture, but several phrases remain readable:

"...could see the harbor lantern from the bench..."

"...ribbons tied to the low branches removed..."

"...the sound of chisel work does not pause for prayer..."

Smudged ink across the lower edge shows where the page was touched before drying.

3rd day of Jastatos, 4830

The High Priestess arrived just after midday. She wore a dove-colored cloak and had her hair in three loops at her crown. Guildman Vartrien stood beside her beneath the scaffolding. They did not speak during the service, but both stayed until the end.

Afterward, they walked the garden with Elenne. I followed at a distance, gathering petals. I overheard them speak of creating a fresco in Niima's likeness upon the foyer wall. The High Priestess said the space would command presence.

No one mentioned the old altar. I swept around it that night, as a kind of apology.

15th day of Jastatos, 4830

A whisper has spread through the workers. One of the cart drivers said the Krolvin have been seen in Brisker's Cove. No one knows if it's true, but another said the harbor patrol was doubled this week.

Elenne said we cannot shape our prayers to rumors. Still, she lit the tall tapers during evening service and left them burning until the last shadow faded from the stones.

Calen has not returned since the rains began. I keep the ribbon he gave me in my prayer book. It smells faintly of rosemary, even now.

4th day of Eoantos, 4830

Elenne asked me to begin clearing the small office beside the catacombs. She said it was time someone sorted through what remains. I believe she means for me to be occupied, as Calen has not returned. She does not ask after him directly, but she notices when I forget the dusting cloth or leave the lamp wick too low.

The office is colder than I remembered. The walls sweat even when the wind is dry. I found a bundle of records tied with frayed cord, and a shelf of ledgers warped from years of damp. None have dates newer than 4816.

I lit a taper and marveled that its flame didn't waver. The air is rather stale.

12th day of Eoantos, 4830

Stacks of papers have begun to soften and fall apart as I move them. Some pages peel away like onion skin. Others are stuck together with mildew at the corners. There is no order left in the ledgers.

Elenne gave me vinegar water to scrub the stone and showed me how to dry the parchments without tearing the ink. Her hands are steadier than mine, but she let me try alone today.

No one has asked about the office in years. I wonder if anyone will again once the new temple is complete.

Several blotches stretch across the center of the page, caused by ink pressed while wet. Words are smudged and fingerprints mar the lower half.

Only a few lines are clear:

"...wrote his name on the margin and folded it..."

"...did not want to ask him not to go..."

"...the sea calls more surely than words ever could..."

21st day of Eoantos, 4830

Word came that Calen has signed on with a deep-sea vessel. No one knows the name, only that it sails past the Shoals and will be gone past spring.

Elenne said nothing when I told her. She simply handed me another cloth and said, "Salt dries slower than tears." I think she meant it kindly.

The basin water felt colder today, though the air was still. When I poured it over the shell altar, I thought of the wives who stand at our threshold with wet sleeves and silent mouths.

I begin to understand why they come. Not for answers, but for nearness.

1st day of Eorgaen, 4830

The sound of hammers has quieted. Most of the scaffolding has come down. The stones above the chapel are now smooth and white, with carved lines I cannot name.

I finished dusting the office and folded what remained of the ledgers. Several were too damaged to save. Elenne said I may stack them in the catacombs for burning later, though I kept two that still held their shape.

Calen's ribbon rests between the pages of one. I did not mean to place it there. It simply felt right.

19th day of Eorgaen, 4830

We moved into the new quarters today. The walls are smooth, and the ceiling curves slightly like the hull of a ship turned over. My mat fits beneath the small window, though it does not face the sea.

Elenne set our candles on the narrow sill and arranged her ledgers in the cabinet with care. She has not said whether she likes the new space, but she wiped the sill twice before speaking.

I kept the basin cloth. It still smells faintly of rosemary and ink.

31st day of Eorgaen, 4830

Year-end bells rang before the harbor mist had cleared. The garden is smaller now, and the altar no longer sees the ocean, but the salt wind still finds its way between the stones.

I watched from the upper stairs as the tide turned. For a moment, I imagined Calen leaning over the rail of whatever vessel he's found. I do not know where he sailed, or what wind carried him out, only that the thought of him still returns like breath.

I folded a ribbon into the base of the old ledger. Some things are easier to keep when hidden.

1st day of Lormesta, 4831

The High Priestess arrived at midday. She wore fur-lined gloves and spoke briefly before entering the new sanctum. Her words were softer this time. She said the white stone caught light well and that the new foyer had "clean weight."

She did not linger. Elenne bowed but did not speak.

I spent the rest of the day sorting a box of old hymn fragments. Some were written in Kannalan, though I can only read the titles. I have set two aside in hopes that someone might help me translate them.

3rd day of Lormesta, 4831

Calen returned today.

He stood by the garden gate and waited until I saw him. He did not wave. Only smiled, the kind of smile that asks without needing an answer.

I brought him a cup of water, and we sat in the shadow of the old chapel. He said nothing of the voyage, and I did not ask. I watched his hands as he spoke of the harbor and the wind near the reefs. He has a sun mark on his left wrist now, just above the bone.

When he left, he pressed a shell into my palm. It was smooth and unbroken.

5th day of Lormesta, 4831

I do not know if he missed me. I do not know if he meant to see me or only came to the chapel as he once did.

Still, I thought of him each time the tide turned. I imagined the shape of his boat against the horizon, wondering if he looked for birds or counted the ways salt settles into cloth.

The shell he gave me rests beneath the old candle box. I did not tell Elenne.

I have finished copying the Kannalan refrain. The words feel older than stone, but they sing cleanly when read aloud.
|}
==== a faded off-white vellum ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Letter to Aralinna from Tagetes
!a faded off-white vellum
|-
|22 Fashanos 4839

Hi Aralinne,
You are going to sputter when you read this, but I found something I think might actually help. I've been haunting the lower rooms of the Rest's old archive, the one that smells like mushrooms and lamp oil, and you would not believe the number of ledgers that don't even belong there. Some trader scribbled a note in the margin of a shipping contract, and I have no idea why, about a Hermit of Charl. Not a priest. Not a sailor. A hermit.

The strange part is, he wasn't written about like some bedraggled man on a rock. He had followers. Or at least people who carried his words. The note said he held something powerful, something that could "turn back the tide and lay bare the seabed, if placed with care and faith at the high edge." That's what it actually said. The relic doesn't have a name, which is frustrating, but it is always connected to cliffs or high ridges.

I spent the last two days chasing the reference backward, and I think it's Kannalan. Most of the names line up with the way they spell things when they want to make them sound more official. The good stuff always hides behind fancy lettering.

Anyway, I asked around, and there's a guide here who knows the Karazja ruins. He's agreed to take me inland starting next week. I'll be careful. I promise. But if I'm right, that relic might still be out there.

Imagine what it would mean if we could part the sea.

More soon,
Tagetes

P.S. Tell Marris not to let the acolytes into the tide closet again. I know it was them. The shells were rearranged. Again.
|}
==== Seaborne Hymnal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a thread-edged faded parchment
|-
|Parchment the color of drifted sand bears faded blue script in a careful, even hand. The edges have frayed into soft waves, and the lower corner is discolored where dampness clings to the page. A watermark in the upper left shows a simple wave crest superimposed over a scallop shell. Salt has left faint flecks across the surface, and one line of ink has bled slightly with age. Despite wear, the script remains fully legible, framed by a border of pressed gull feathers and hand-tied seasilk thread.

In the Common language, it reads:

Instructions for the Seaborne Hymnal

To be spoken daily, often at morning tide or before the first sail departs.

The Seaborne Hymnal is a spoken blessing offered to all who live by the rhythm of the sea. It honors those who make their living from its bounty, those who voyage upon it, and those who wait at its edge. The ritual is led by a priestess and joined by those gathered, using a call and response pattern. It is not sung, but spoken clearly, with steadiness and intent.

There are no physical offerings required. However, each response is accompanied by a hand gesture to mark the tide's reach and the release of prayer.

The priestess stands facing the gathered. Congregants may form a semicircle or remain as they are, whether in chapel or along the shore. The ritual may be performed indoors or outdoors, provided the sea is visible or near.

At each response, the right hand is placed palm-down over the heart, then extended outward, fingers spread as if forming the crest of a wave. This gesture is slow and deliberate. At the final line, the gesture is held outward a moment longer before lowering the hand.

The hymnal is: 
'''Priestess:''' Who wakes with the wind and walks with the tide? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who casts the net and bears the storm? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who waits at the window and sings to the dark? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Who names the stars and trusts the wave? 
'''Congregation (with gesture):''' Those with the sea in their soul. 
'''Priestess:''' Bless those who leave and those who remain. 
Bless those who labor and those who pray. 
Bless those who remember. 
'''Congregation (final gesture):''' And those who return no more.

The rite is complete after the final line. There is no need for benediction. Let silence follow for a breath or two before the next act begins.
|}
==== Ribbon Vigil ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
! a watermarked pearly white parchment
|-
|Faint mildew spots darken the four corners of the parchment, which has a pearly white finish created by the waxy finished worked into its fibers. An azure watermark of a scallop shell superimposed over cresting waves can be seen beneath the indigo ink that spread across its surface.

In the Common language, it reads:

The Ribbon Vigil is a quiet, sacred tradition observed by sailors and their loved ones before voyages that lead them beyond the protection of the bay. It is deeply personal, often unspoken, and performed in silence atop the temple's Widow's Walk. The rite is not scheduled by the temple, nor does it require direct guidance, but all priestesses, acolytes, and attending staff should understand its nature and how to offer quiet support when needed.

The vigil begins when a sailor and a significant companion, whether spouse, sibling, friend, or beloved, ascending to the rooftop of the temple. Together, they bring a ribbon, which may be carried openly or hidden in the hand, sleeve, or pocket until the moment it is needed. Upon reaching the rail that faces the open sea, they tie the ribbon to the ironwork together. There is no formal color or material required. While many choose white, blue, or sea green, others may bring a scrap of sailcloth or a woven charm. The meaning lies in the bond, not the fiber. No spoken words are required, though some murmur names or prayers as the knot is tied. The act itself is the offering. It binds the hope of return between two people and entrusts that bond to the sea.

At times, when a ship is long overdue or the sea has turned cruel, the one who remained ashore may return to the Widow's Walk alone. There, they loosen the knot they once tied. The ribbon is not taken down but left slack in the wind. This act is a plea to Niima, asking her to seek the one who has not come home. It is believed that if the ribbon is taken by the wind and reaches the sea, Niima will find the sailor and guide them to safety. That safety may not bring them home to Solhaven, but it will bring them to a shore. If the ribbon tangles, falls, or clings to the stone, some believe it is a sign that the soul it represents has already passed from Niima's reach.

Temple staff must not disturb those who come to perform this rite. Acolytes may observe from a distance and quietly light a sea taper at the stairwell when a ribbon loosening is witnessed. The gesture is enough to mark the moment. Comfort should be offered gently, without promise or correction. Never assure a safe return. Instead, remind them that Niima knows every name whispered to the tide and that no soul is ever truly lost to her.

Ribbons left on the Widow's Walk should be observed weekly. Those that have clearly loosened and not flown may be carefully removed and burned in a salt-fire by the priestess or her assistant. This should be done with solemnity and without comment, allowing the sea to receive what it could not carry.

Priestesses may speak of the vigil during public blessings, particularly on days when many ships prepare to depart. However, no individual should be named or pointed to. Let the ribbon be a silent prayer, seen by the sea and felt by those who wait.
|}

==== Elenne's (?) Papers ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a pale slip of vellum bearing a rust-tinged watermark
|-
|Rust-toned watermarks bloom across the lower half of the parchment, forming uneven, organic shapes. The ink has faded but remains legible throughout. The surface is rough to the touch, with several shallow indentations along the right margin, as if pressed against the corner of a writing board. Mild mildew spotting is visible near the top, and the parchment carries a faint metallic scent.

In the Common language, it reads: 
15th day of Fashanos, 4830 
Master Vartrien of the Mercantile Guild visited the chapel before midday service. He spoke of expanding the grounds and building a larger temple to better serve Solhaven's growing population. I reminded him that the chapel predates the coastal road and holds its own rhythm. He seemed unconcerned but polite. Left a coin marked with the Guild's seal in the basin. I placed it with the others and marked his visit in the side register.
|-
!a ink-streaked torn vellum sheet
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads: 
29th day of Koaratos, 4832 
Two merchant wives came bearing cloth bundles for the shrine. Each held swaddled sea stones tied with bits of silk, blue and pale. They asked no questions, gave no names. I placed the stones in the vessel below the sanctum basin and poured saltwater as they requested. Both stayed for the midday chant, though neither sang. After, they left through the garden gate without speaking further. I noted no marking on the silk. I hope they found comfort.
|-
!an ink-blotched paper fragment
|-
|Near the lower edge, signs of delamination are evident where prolonged exposure to moisture has lifted the parchment fibers. Ink blotches cover the upper left corner, though the writing beneath remains legible. Faint blue guidelines run horizontally across the surface, now nearly faded from view. All corners are softened from repeated handling, while the light scent of damp plaster and crushed chalk clings to the page.

In the Common language, it reads: 
18th day of Ivastaen, 4835 
Workers paused their efforts near the east colonnade due to a broken pulley. Several wandered into the chapel while the foreman spoke with a guild agent outside. One left a handful of copper on the basin rim. I noted no offering ribbon, but took it with the rest before lighting the salt lamp. Held afternoon prayers with two elders and one child. No hymn today. Breezes through the north wall joints have grown stronger since the scaffolding went up.
|}

==== a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Necklace Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 100 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
[[Category:The Shadowy Abyss]]

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Found items

2025-06-14T16:19:03Z

RAFFELS2: /* Elenne's (?) Papers */ added necklace

__ToC__
== Shadowy Abyss Found Items ==
=== 06.06.2025 ===
==== an antique Vornavian silk cloth ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key's Sleeve
!an antique Vornavian silk cloth
|-
|Smooth with a soft finish, the Vornavian silk cloth has hints of its original deep blue hue at its edges though largely it has faded to a watered azure hue. Faint seashell patterns decorate the edge, the silver and white embroidery creating scallop shells that overlap. Rolled silk cords aid the bundle in staying closed as needed, their ends capped in silver dolphin periapts.
|}

===== a blue-tinted white vellum parchment =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Letter to Tagetes from Aralinne
!a blue-tinted white vellum parchment
|-
|Slightly warped in shape and displaying clear signs of damage from humidity, the fine parchment is tinted with a subtle blue hue that is almost white and yet distinctly not. Crisp folds create precise lines in the top and bottom third of the piece, while the corners display fray signs where moisture has separated the layers.
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:
the seventeenth day of Olaesta in the year 4839

Tagetes,

Hopefully, we will return at the same time and all of this preparation will be for naught.

The temple will have no attendants as I have figured out the missing piece to get us to Pearl. It lies in an old Kannalan Temple to Charl. I believe I've tracked down its former location. I've hidden the plans in the old office at the end of the catacombs and sealed the entry.

So few people know of its existence that it should be safe to travel there. I do not think I will be gone more than a handful of days.

However, as I do not trust the Mercantile Guild, with their recent decisions to create gardens and shrines to the dark pantheon, I have sealed the doorway up and hidden it. Since you know where it is, you should have no issue finding it.

There are seven keys for entry. I've left the Empress key here, but you can easily obtain the other six by seeking the blessings of the Lover, the Mistress, the Sister, the Mother, the Daughter, and the High Priestess. I'm sure you'll remember who these are from our past talks. I dare not say more for fear this is found by others.

Please know that some wish to see the curse spread. Others are working hard to stop it. Young Bristena had the idea to buy back all the jewelry from the women whose husband, lovers, and brothers searched the North Beach to obtain them. I gave her enough coin to buy them all back.

Once she has every last piece, she'll have a sailor take her out to the spot we believe the "Pearl" to be waiting in and drop them back into the water. That should give us time to get the pieces together to free her. I used the last of the coffers to pay a crew to start the lighthouse.

If I don't return... Please let my husband and son know the depths of which I love them.

By my hand,

Aralinne Wynedowne
|}
===== a carved golden amber acorn =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key
!a carved golden amber acorn
|-
|Roughly oval in shape, a carved golden amber acorn is broad and flat, providing an excellent view of its transparent interior portion. Trapped within the golden yellow fossilized pine tree sap are several small flying insects and a dried flower.
|}

{| class="wikitable"
|+The Tile
!an aged grey stone tile
|-
|
|-
|Your song touches the tile, and the memory begins with stillness, then the faint scrape of wood across stone. Gentle hands press close, fitting the tile snugly into place. A murmur of approval hums nearby, muffled by fabric and breath. Cool grout slides into the seams, and the air shifts. Salt lingers in the room, carried on a current scented with blossoms. Lilac and sea daisy rise together, soft and clean. A hush settles across the surface, and the tile recognizes it as belonging. Beneath the faintest sigh of sandals against stone, a woman's voice murmurs, "There. That's better." The sounds and sensations fade along with the last syllables of your song.

As your song continues to caress the tile, it stirs with echoes of passing time. Soft footsteps come and go, punctuated by the rhythmic sweep of bristles and the clatter of buckets. Voices rise and fall nearby, sometimes low with grief, sometimes bright with ritual. One speaks of a sister's safe return, another offers blessings over a sailor's name. A different voice complains about a cracked basin and the need for fresh oil. Each moment blends into the next, seasons marked only by the changing cadence of heels, the weight of silence, and the gentle creak of wood in damp air. Slowly, the sensation and sounds fade, one by one, until they fall as silent as your song.

Your melody draws forth a hush, and the tile remembers the scent first. Bitter and resinous, the thick smoke of funerary incense curls low to the ground. Voices follow in soft procession, cloaked in sorrow. Some weep openly, others murmur prayers with trembling breath. The weight of grief presses against the stone, heavy as tide against jetty. A name is spoken again and again, reverent and broken, until it becomes a lullaby of mourning. Between each word, silence holds vigil. The tile feels a deep stillness in the air, as if even the sea has paused to listen. A final name tumbles across your ears as your song slips into silence, "Elenne."

Your song stirs the memory of disturbance. The tile feels the grit of its seams loosened, the edge of a tool scraping carefully through old grout. Pressure lifts it from the floor, just briefly, and something small is slid beneath. When the tile returns to its place, the surface meets the subfloor with an unfamiliar firmness. A hand lingers upon it, smooth and warm, resting for a long moment before giving a gentle pat. Whispered words ride the still air, close enough to touch, "Keep this safe until Tagetes finds you." An absence of warmth is the last sensation the tile imparts before your song stills.

Your voice brushes the tile, and the past answers with hushed urgency. There is the soft shuffle of feet, the creak of worn boots on stone, and a sharp intake of breath. Mournful whispers crowd the silence. A voice, cracked with worry and soft with distance, murmurs, "I don't know where you are, Aralinne. I can't get into the catacombs to check on you as the Brisker's Cove bowl was broken in the latest Krolvin raids... Please come home to us. Please. Your plan for Bristena worked; she told me of it when I returned. The girls are free, but where are you? I'm going to hide my piece until it can unite with yours. Please be safe, be careful." A soft sigh blends with the ending resonance of your song.

Your voice draws forth only silence at first. Time passes, measured in distant echoes. Footsteps sound too far to name, and faint shifts in the air come and go with no purpose. Old wood creaks softly where it meets damp stone. Dust settles in the seams, and salt from the sea clings to the surface. Years drift by without notice. Then, without warning, fingers press along your edges. There is a pause, a breath held just beyond hearing, and the tile feels the careful pry of something firm beneath it. A clamor of voices overlaps with each other until they blend into the fading sound of your song.
|}
=== 06.13.2025 ===
==== a salt-stained blue leather ledger ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Ledger from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a salt-stained blue leather ledger
|-
|Bound in navy blue leather, the ledger bears clear signs of repair. Patches of mismatched hide reinforce the spine and corners, and thin linen cords hold the bindings tight. Though worn smooth with age, the cover still holds the faint imprint of Niima's shell crest, long faded by handling. The pages inside are slightly bowed from moisture, but the ink has held well. Each year occupies a single page, the writing steady and small.
|-
|4816

Tidy dates and notations for each month in 4816 are aligned neatly along the inner margin. Notes reference standard morning and mid-tide services, with modest attendance throughout the year. Several deaths at sea are marked during Phoenatos and Imaerasta. There are mentions of a small fishing vessel lost in late Charlatos, and a new lantern donated by a widow named Hessa. The last quarter shows increased visits near Solstice.

4817

Entries for 4817 remain even and uneventful. Most notes concern basin cleaning, donation handling, and ribbon replenishment. Storms in Lumnea and Koaratos disrupted service for several days. A merchant's wife is mentioned repeatedly for leaving folded prayers in the offering box. One record notes an unusual number of gulls gathered at the altar during a fogbound service, marked simply with, "observed by three."

4818

Standard service records dominate the page, with annotations in blue ink appearing during spring. One comment in the margin reads, "New basin stone fitted. Shell inlay cracked but held." Three names repeat throughout the year: a retired sailor, a midwife from Marshtown, and a girl recorded only as "A.M." Several deaths at sea appear again in Eorgaen. Coastal offerings increase during the fall months.

4819

The 4819 entries continue in a narrow hand, with an unusual number of weddings noted between Charlatos and Ivastaen. Ribbons tied at the altar outnumber funerary entries this year. A brief note in Phoenatos mentions a fisherman's body returned after fifteen tides. Repairs to the vestibule door are recorded in Koaratos. A delivery of hymnals is documented without name, signed only with "N.L."

4820

Attendance patterns remain steady throughout 4820. Notations of storm disruptions in Fashanos and Koaratos are followed by increased evening services during those months. One brief note in Charlatos mentions a girl from the lower quarter beginning "training for vow," though no name is listed. Seasonal surges continue, with quiet months between. A salt-caked page corner suggests the ledger was left open during a sea spray.

4821

Small, precise entries for 4821 follow the pattern of prior years. Services remained regular, with additional rites held after a coastal storm in Charlatos. A recurring visitor is listed only as "shell-bearer" during spring months. Repairs to the west garden wall are noted in Lumnea. One entry in Eorgaen records, "child left driftwood figure at basin, no adult nearby." The handwriting becomes slightly sharper near the year's end.

4822

The year opened with colder winds and reduced attendance through Lormesta. One note in Fashanos records an elderly priestess slipping on the altar steps, resulting in no injury. Minor construction is logged in Ivastaen: "stone bench repositioned, foundation settled uneven." Gulls are again noted during a fog-heavy morning service. No deaths at sea are marked for Koaratos, which is noted as rare by the author. Extra hymn practice is recorded for Imaerasta.

4823

Faint ink along the top edge shows early signs of moisture, but the page remains legible. Most entries follow the standard pattern. A sailor's wedding in Phoenatos brought increased attendance for several days. Someone left a carved shell token in the basin and returned each week through Jastatos. No name was ever recorded. One funeral in Eoantos references burial in the lower catacomb row, name lost to smudging. Elenne's name begins to appear more frequently.

4824

Ledger entries remain orderly. Elenne is noted as presiding over full services during three major seasonal observances. A short entry in Imaerasta reads, "saltwater damaged two hymnals, copies made by hand." Several deaths at sea were recorded across Phoenatos and Jastatos. A recurring note of "candles late" appears without clarification. Winter quarter shows an increased number of widows seeking individual prayer times, as marked by initials only.

4825

The writing becomes slightly more compact along this page, possibly due to a change in hand. Services are held regularly with minor disruptions caused by harbor traffic. One early Charlatos entry reads, "path blocked by hauling rig, services delayed." Garden growth noted as "vigorous" in Lumnea. An unnamed girl from Marshtown began regular cleaning duties in midyear. Entries suggest her presence became routine, though her name is not yet recorded. Several pages show signs of ash smudging near the bottom corner.

4826

Ledger entries remain narrow and consistent. Regular service records dominate the page, with a note in Ivastaen reading, "two hymnals lost to mildew, one copied by hand." The girl from Marshtown is noted more frequently, assisting with basin preparation and entry sweeping. Elenne is recorded as leading nearly all rites this year. In Koaratos, a sailor's wife donated wax and twine following her husband's return from the reefs.

4827

A colder year, with notations of light frost in Charlatos and a decline in visitors during the first quarter. The Marshtown girl is listed by initials for the first time: "A.L.". She appears often in notes tied to daily upkeep and chant transcription. Elenne requested additional salt deliveries from the quay, suggesting higher ritual use. A short record in Imaerasta reads, "boy returned with offering candle for sister." His name is not recorded, but the action repeats in later months.

4828

Ink across this page is slightly lighter but consistent. Notes describe steady attendance and quiet observances throughout the year. "A.L." continues to serve regularly and is mentioned copying seasonal verses. A new basin cloth was donated by a widow in Phoenatos. Calen Wynedowne is noted briefly in Koaratos as assisting with deliveries. In Eorgaen, a child is recorded as tying sea glass to the offering pole, noted without comment.

4829

The handwriting tightens slightly, with some changes in wording structure. "A.L." is listed as leading chants during two minor observances. A service disruption is recorded in Charlatos: "work crew halted access to west path." Garden repairs resumed in Ivastaen, with the stone bench noted as "settled, but now cracking." Calen Wynedowne is marked present on three service dates. Elenne's name appears as usual, though one note mentions "shortness of breath in colder months."

4830

Entries shift slightly in tone this year, with more detailed notations. "A.L." is no longer referenced only by initials. Her name appears as Aralinne, recorded assisting with vespers and receiving permission to copy the coastal prayers. Elenne continues to lead services throughout. In Fashanos, a marked entry reads: "Calen Wynedowne departed aboard the Drowned Boar." A note in Imaerasta logs the visit of the High Priestess from Selanthia. Garden notes cease after Koaratos, likely due to early construction of the new temple.

4831

Entries are steady, with services held regularly in the newly expanded chapel. The original altar remains in partial use during evening observances. Aralinne is recorded as leading chants and maintaining basin duties throughout the year. A note in Charlatos reads, "Calen returned, left shell at east bench." Additional visitors marked in Phoenatos. Several Kannalan hymn fragments reviewed in Jastatos, with Aralinne listed as transcriber. No disruptions recorded.

4832

Observances continue without interruption. Aralinne is noted frequently in preparation tasks, seasonal cleanings, and the transcription of coastal rites. One record in Koaratos reads, "private service held for three widows." Increased taper use recorded in Imaerasta. No name given, but a new assistant is mentioned briefly in Lumnea. Aralinne's duties expand across multiple entries. The final note of the year: "attendance steady; records filed."

4833

Standard notations occupy most of the year. Aralinne continues in her role, listed alongside Elenne for all major observances. Her name appears independently in entries for dusk services and catacomb visits. One summer note mentions, "garden basin cleared and refilled under Aralinne's guidance." No major incidents. Early signs of leadership transition appear in Eoantos, though no formal statement is recorded. The garden bench is listed as worn, but stable.

4834

Charlatos begins with a formal entry: "Calen Wynedowne and Aralinne joined in marriage, witnessed before first bell at east altar." Both continue in regular attendance. Aralinne is recorded as leading evening services and overseeing hymn preservation efforts. Her handwriting begins to appear in later entries. Koaratos notes her inclusion in guild correspondence. The final entry in Eorgaen lists: "preparations for early solstice rites under Aralinne."

4835

Year begins quietly. Aralinne is now noted as officiating several services in early Fashanos. In Jastatos, a central entry reads: "Elenne passed peacefully in the night, fifth day of Jastatos." Her name does not appear again. Subsequent entries mark Aralinne presiding over full rites. One note reads, "transition marked with coastal hymn, basin blessing unchanged." Calen continues to appear sporadically. The final entry of the year reads: "chapel remains steady under Aralinne's care."
|}
==== a small salt-stained journal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Journal from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a small salt-stained journal
|-
|Bound in salt-stained suede, the small journal shows signs of frequent handling. The edges of the cover have curled slightly, and faint salt residue clings to the seams. Interior pages are swollen from moisture, and many are warped or stuck together. Ink bleeds across several leaves, though a few entries remain legible. The faint scent of mildew and brine lingers between the covers.
|-
|1st day of Lormesta, 4830

The new year began in silence. No sun showed at dawn, only a pale mist rolling over the port that settled in the alleys and gutters. We opened the chapel doors late this morning. A thin crust of salt had gathered again on the threshold.

Mother Elenne asked me to polish the lamp basin and check our remaining wax. She said that if the year is to bring anything, let it be steadiness. I scrubbed the copper too hard and bent the rim along one edge. She noticed but said nothing.

After the evening bell, I stayed to copy the coastal prayer. My ink bled in the cold, and my fingers would not hold the quill straight. The letters blurred near the bottom of the page. I will try again tomorrow.

The gulls have returned early this year. Their cries sound sharper than I remember.

Faint ink marks show a date in the top right corner, though the precise date is difficult to decipher. There is an impression of repeated script beneath the date, but the parchment is too warped to decipher much of its contents. Only a few words remain distinguishable near the bottom:

"...salt left from the..."

"...sleeves wet from the basin..."

"...ribbon placed before bell..."

16th day of Fashanos, 4830

A merchant visited the chapel yesterday. He introduced himself as Vartrien and said he represented the Mercantile Guild. His boots were polished, but they slipped on the chapel stones. He smelled faintly of tallow and wine.

He spoke with Elenne behind the altar rail. I only heard part of what was said... something about extending the outer walls, adding a foyer and foyer, and pulling stone from the cliff quarry. He did not ask about the altar or the basin.

Before leaving, he placed a coin in the offering basin. It was heavier than most and bore the Guild's seal. Elenne closed the doors earlier than usual and asked me to boil the cloth and clean the entry stone. She did not speak again until morning prayers.

After the bell, I copied half of the sea-born hymn. I still mix the second and third lines. The gulls circled loudly over the garden. They did not land.

Humidity has irrevocably damaged this page of the journal. The faint impression of a coastal flower leaves a colored stain in the center of the page. Ink bleeds across the fibers, blending so completely that all writing is beyond recognition.

3rd day of Charlatos, 4830

Rain began early and found its way in through the northern window joint again. A track of droplets marked the covers of three hymnals before I noticed. I dried them the best I could and set them near the basin to air.

Mother Elenne told me I might be ready to take the vesper reading next month. I said I would do my best, though my voice still shakes when the wind comes hard off the bay.

A boy from the shipyard arrived just before first bell. He brought a candle for his sister and did not speak. He nodded once and placed it on the old bench near the shell altar. It burned quickly and left a streak of wax on the wood.

After evening prayers, I copied the saltwater blessing again. I continue to forget the fourth line. I will practice it aloud tomorrow when the chapel is empty.

12th day of Olaesta, 4830

The salted fog held all morning. The bells could barely be heard from the quay, and the floor stayed damp long after I wiped it. The gulls were quiet today, though I saw them gather on the breakwall at dusk.

Mother Elenne allowed me to lead the midday verses. I stumbled on the refrain but kept pace. She gave no correction afterward, which I think was kindness. I will ask her to let me try again next week.

The Guildman has not returned, but I saw carts from the upper quarry moving past the garden path. One of the workers spat too close to the basin. I scrubbed the stone clean before closing the gate.

27th day of Ivastaen, 4830

The High Priestess arrived again, as expected. She comes every five months, though she avoids Charlatos and Lormesta because she does not like to travel in cold weather. This time, she brought only one attendant and a thick letter sealed in white wax.

She asked after the basin and walked the outer path twice before speaking. I do not know why she finds our grounds so peculiar. She always looks longer at the walls than at the altar.

She complimented the order of the garden, though I had not yet swept. Her words are even and pleasant, but her eyes are always searching. I do not think she comes only for worship.

Moisture has warped the page outward from the center, and a small flower is pressed into the parchment. Once white, its petals have turned a pale yellow. The edges have melted into the fibers over time, leaving a faint outline and a darker stain beneath. Ink has bled into the margins, but a few lines remain legible:

"He brought it with both hands."

"Said it grew from the rocks near the basin."

"It smelled faintly of salt and rosemary."

Written near the bottom corner, in a careful hand: Calen

9th day of Lumnea, 4830

Calen came again just after midday. He did not knock, only waited near the side path until I saw him. He brought a bloom, he said he found growing from a crack in the harbor wall. I told him it would not last, but he said that was fine.

He stayed long enough to watch me refill the basin, then left without saying more. I placed the flower in the back of the book, where I thought it would keep. It did not.

Mother Elenne has begun sorting the storeroom shelves again. I do not know where she plans to move everything, but she said we may have to share with the masons soon. I do not think she approves.

2nd day of Koaratos, 4830

Rumors continue about the Guild's plans, but nothing official has been posted. One of the stone counters in the garden cracked under the weight of a builder's crate. They said it would be replaced, but no one has returned to measure.

The High Priestess's letter is still sealed. Elenne has not opened it, though she moved it twice. I think she is waiting for another message, or perhaps the Guildman himself.

A blue gull feather was left on the altar after the second bell. No one saw who brought it.

I placed it in the ribbon box, away from the salt.

13th day of Koaratos, 4830

The stone bench in the garden has been replaced. I was not told it would happen, but when I stepped out to light the sea taper this morning, it was there. Rosewood, newly finished and still carrying the scent of cut shavings. The legs are slightly uneven, but the surface is smooth.

Elenne said one of the sailors had it made for his wife. She is the one who always sits near the roses and watches the harbor light. She wept when the bench cracked beneath the masons' crate. I am glad it was rebuilt.

Ink has lifted across most of the page, leaving behind only faint strokes and a few recognizable shapes. The top third is nearly blank, and the lower margin is warped from long exposure to damp air. Visible along the center fold, in pale ink, are snatches of the original message.

"...asked if it would still be the same chapel..."

"...carried the basin water out into the garden..."

"...song lines lost in the stone dust..."

5th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Construction has begun. Dust rises even before the first bell. The builders come early and eat beside the garden wall. I do not know how they leave the crumbs behind, but the gulls are clearly happy about it.

Mother Elenne and I have moved our sleeping mats into the chapel itself. There is no space left in the quarters, not since the back wall was taken down. She said it is temporary, but we must keep everything folded and out of sight during services.

She reminded me that we are not bound by silence or separation, only by devotion and clarity of intent. Then she looked at me and said, "Even your Calen would agree." I nearly dropped the basin ladle.

16th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Calen returned with an oilskin pouch and handed it to me without speaking. Inside was a cloth wrapped around several dry biscuits and a folded slip of sea-blue ribbon. He said he heard the workers had overrun our stores and that I was likely too polite to complain.

I thanked him, but could not find the right words. Elenne watched from the entryway. Later, she only asked if I had shared them.

The builders left stone dust across the floor again. I swept until my arms ached, but it returned before the evening bell. It finds every crack.

28th day of Phoenatos, 4830

The High Priestess will return in Jastatos. Elenne received a note today. No seal this time, only a clean fold and pressed script. She read it twice, then tucked it into the ledger without comment.

I asked if she thought the Guildman would be here as well. She said most likely, and that the two had likely been speaking for longer than we realized. She did not sound surprised or pleased.

The rosewood bench has already dulled to a greyish tone. I tried wiping it with a damp cloth, but the color does not return. Still, the sailor's wife came today and stayed for the whole of the afternoon light. She did not speak. Only watched the water and smiled.

7th day of Imaerasta, 4830

The scaffolding now reaches above the garden wall. Boards cast a grid of shadow over the roses during morning light. One of the masons said that the new walls will block the ocean view. I had not thought of that until now.

If the wall rises the way they say it will, the garden will face stone, not sea. Elenne was not surprised when I told her. She only said, "It's easier to worship what you can see than what you must remember."

I wonder if the sound of the tide will carry once the last wall is raised.

18th day of Imaerasta, 4830

Mist held long into the afternoon. We lit the lamps early and brought the linens in before the sea air reached them. The dust hangs longer in the stillness.

Word came that Yenterreth of the Marshtown passed in her sleep. She was one of the spirit women, always with a ribbon in her sleeve and saltwater on her boots. I remember her from before I came to live with Elenne. She called me bird girl and once gave me a braid of kelp twine.

She will be interred below with the others. I carried the notice down to the stone chamber myself.

Much of the page has faded due to moisture, but several phrases remain readable:

"...could see the harbor lantern from the bench..."

"...ribbons tied to the low branches removed..."

"...the sound of chisel work does not pause for prayer..."

Smudged ink across the lower edge shows where the page was touched before drying.

3rd day of Jastatos, 4830

The High Priestess arrived just after midday. She wore a dove-colored cloak and had her hair in three loops at her crown. Guildman Vartrien stood beside her beneath the scaffolding. They did not speak during the service, but both stayed until the end.

Afterward, they walked the garden with Elenne. I followed at a distance, gathering petals. I overheard them speak of creating a fresco in Niima's likeness upon the foyer wall. The High Priestess said the space would command presence.

No one mentioned the old altar. I swept around it that night, as a kind of apology.

15th day of Jastatos, 4830

A whisper has spread through the workers. One of the cart drivers said the Krolvin have been seen in Brisker's Cove. No one knows if it's true, but another said the harbor patrol was doubled this week.

Elenne said we cannot shape our prayers to rumors. Still, she lit the tall tapers during evening service and left them burning until the last shadow faded from the stones.

Calen has not returned since the rains began. I keep the ribbon he gave me in my prayer book. It smells faintly of rosemary, even now.

4th day of Eoantos, 4830

Elenne asked me to begin clearing the small office beside the catacombs. She said it was time someone sorted through what remains. I believe she means for me to be occupied, as Calen has not returned. She does not ask after him directly, but she notices when I forget the dusting cloth or leave the lamp wick too low.

The office is colder than I remembered. The walls sweat even when the wind is dry. I found a bundle of records tied with frayed cord, and a shelf of ledgers warped from years of damp. None have dates newer than 4816.

I lit a taper and marveled that its flame didn't waver. The air is rather stale.

12th day of Eoantos, 4830

Stacks of papers have begun to soften and fall apart as I move them. Some pages peel away like onion skin. Others are stuck together with mildew at the corners. There is no order left in the ledgers.

Elenne gave me vinegar water to scrub the stone and showed me how to dry the parchments without tearing the ink. Her hands are steadier than mine, but she let me try alone today.

No one has asked about the office in years. I wonder if anyone will again once the new temple is complete.

Several blotches stretch across the center of the page, caused by ink pressed while wet. Words are smudged and fingerprints mar the lower half.

Only a few lines are clear:

"...wrote his name on the margin and folded it..."

"...did not want to ask him not to go..."

"...the sea calls more surely than words ever could..."

21st day of Eoantos, 4830

Word came that Calen has signed on with a deep-sea vessel. No one knows the name, only that it sails past the Shoals and will be gone past spring.

Elenne said nothing when I told her. She simply handed me another cloth and said, "Salt dries slower than tears." I think she meant it kindly.

The basin water felt colder today, though the air was still. When I poured it over the shell altar, I thought of the wives who stand at our threshold with wet sleeves and silent mouths.

I begin to understand why they come. Not for answers, but for nearness.

1st day of Eorgaen, 4830

The sound of hammers has quieted. Most of the scaffolding has come down. The stones above the chapel are now smooth and white, with carved lines I cannot name.

I finished dusting the office and folded what remained of the ledgers. Several were too damaged to save. Elenne said I may stack them in the catacombs for burning later, though I kept two that still held their shape.

Calen's ribbon rests between the pages of one. I did not mean to place it there. It simply felt right.

19th day of Eorgaen, 4830

We moved into the new quarters today. The walls are smooth, and the ceiling curves slightly like the hull of a ship turned over. My mat fits beneath the small window, though it does not face the sea.

Elenne set our candles on the narrow sill and arranged her ledgers in the cabinet with care. She has not said whether she likes the new space, but she wiped the sill twice before speaking.

I kept the basin cloth. It still smells faintly of rosemary and ink.

31st day of Eorgaen, 4830

Year-end bells rang before the harbor mist had cleared. The garden is smaller now, and the altar no longer sees the ocean, but the salt wind still finds its way between the stones.

I watched from the upper stairs as the tide turned. For a moment, I imagined Calen leaning over the rail of whatever vessel he's found. I do not know where he sailed, or what wind carried him out, only that the thought of him still returns like breath.

I folded a ribbon into the base of the old ledger. Some things are easier to keep when hidden.

1st day of Lormesta, 4831

The High Priestess arrived at midday. She wore fur-lined gloves and spoke briefly before entering the new sanctum. Her words were softer this time. She said the white stone caught light well and that the new foyer had "clean weight."

She did not linger. Elenne bowed but did not speak.

I spent the rest of the day sorting a box of old hymn fragments. Some were written in Kannalan, though I can only read the titles. I have set two aside in hopes that someone might help me translate them.

3rd day of Lormesta, 4831

Calen returned today.

He stood by the garden gate and waited until I saw him. He did not wave. Only smiled, the kind of smile that asks without needing an answer.

I brought him a cup of water, and we sat in the shadow of the old chapel. He said nothing of the voyage, and I did not ask. I watched his hands as he spoke of the harbor and the wind near the reefs. He has a sun mark on his left wrist now, just above the bone.

When he left, he pressed a shell into my palm. It was smooth and unbroken.

5th day of Lormesta, 4831

I do not know if he missed me. I do not know if he meant to see me or only came to the chapel as he once did.

Still, I thought of him each time the tide turned. I imagined the shape of his boat against the horizon, wondering if he looked for birds or counted the ways salt settles into cloth.

The shell he gave me rests beneath the old candle box. I did not tell Elenne.

I have finished copying the Kannalan refrain. The words feel older than stone, but they sing cleanly when read aloud.
|}
==== a faded off-white vellum ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Letter to Aralinna from Tagetes
!a faded off-white vellum
|-
|22 Fashanos 4839

Hi Aralinne,
You are going to sputter when you read this, but I found something I think might actually help. I've been haunting the lower rooms of the Rest's old archive, the one that smells like mushrooms and lamp oil, and you would not believe the number of ledgers that don't even belong there. Some trader scribbled a note in the margin of a shipping contract, and I have no idea why, about a Hermit of Charl. Not a priest. Not a sailor. A hermit.

The strange part is, he wasn't written about like some bedraggled man on a rock. He had followers. Or at least people who carried his words. The note said he held something powerful, something that could "turn back the tide and lay bare the seabed, if placed with care and faith at the high edge." That's what it actually said. The relic doesn't have a name, which is frustrating, but it is always connected to cliffs or high ridges.

I spent the last two days chasing the reference backward, and I think it's Kannalan. Most of the names line up with the way they spell things when they want to make them sound more official. The good stuff always hides behind fancy lettering.

Anyway, I asked around, and there's a guide here who knows the Karazja ruins. He's agreed to take me inland starting next week. I'll be careful. I promise. But if I'm right, that relic might still be out there.

Imagine what it would mean if we could part the sea.

More soon,
Tagetes

P.S. Tell Marris not to let the acolytes into the tide closet again. I know it was them. The shells were rearranged. Again.
|}
==== Seaborne Hymal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a thread-edged faded parchment
|-
|Parchment the color of drifted sand bears faded blue script in a careful, even hand. The edges have frayed into soft waves, and the lower corner is discolored where dampness clings to the page. A watermark in the upper left shows a simple wave crest superimposed over a scallop shell. Salt has left faint flecks across the surface, and one line of ink has bled slightly with age. Despite wear, the script remains fully legible, framed by a border of pressed gull feathers and hand-tied seasilk thread.

In the Common language, it reads:

Instructions for the Seaborne Hymnal

To be spoken daily, often at morning tide or before the first sail departs.

The Seaborne Hymnal is a spoken blessing offered to all who live by the rhythm of the sea. It honors those who make their living from its bounty, those who voyage upon it, and those who wait at its edge. The ritual is led by a priestess and joined by those gathered, using a call and response pattern. It is not sung, but spoken clearly, with steadiness and intent.

There are no physical offerings required. However, each response is accompanied by a hand gesture to mark the tide's reach and the release of prayer.

The priestess stands facing the gathered. Congregants may form a semicircle or remain as they are, whether in chapel or along the shore. The ritual may be performed indoors or outdoors, provided the sea is visible or near.

At each response, the right hand is placed palm-down over the heart, then extended outward, fingers spread as if forming the crest of a wave. This gesture is slow and deliberate. At the final line, the gesture is held outward a moment longer before lowering the hand.

The hymnal is:
Priestess: Who wakes with the wind and walks with the tide?
Congregation (with gesture): Those with the sea in their soul.
Priestess: Who casts the net and bears the storm?
Congregation (with gesture): Those with the sea in their soul.
Priestess: Who waits at the window and sings to the dark?
Congregation (with gesture): Those with the sea in their soul.
Priestess: Who names the stars and trusts the wave?
Congregation (with gesture): Those with the sea in their soul.
Priestess: Bless those who leave and those who remain.
Bless those who labor and those who pray.
Bless those who remember.
Congregation (final gesture): And those who return no more.

The rite is complete after the final line. There is no need for benediction. Let silence follow for a breath or two before the next act begins.
|}

==== Elenne's (?) Papers ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a pale slip of vellum bearing a rust-tinged watermark
|-
|Rust-toned watermarks bloom across the lower half of the parchment, forming uneven, organic shapes. The ink has faded but remains legible throughout. The surface is rough to the touch, with several shallow indentations along the right margin, as if pressed against the corner of a writing board. Mild mildew spotting is visible near the top, and the parchment carries a faint metallic scent.

In the Common language, it reads:
15th day of Fashanos, 4830
Master Vartrien of the Mercantile Guild visited the chapel before midday service. He spoke of expanding the grounds and building a larger temple to better serve Solhaven's growing population. I reminded him that the chapel predates the coastal road and holds its own rhythm. He seemed unconcerned but polite. Left a coin marked with the Guild's seal in the basin. I placed it with the others and marked his visit in the side register.
|-
!a ink-streaked torn vellum sheet
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads:
29th day of Koaratos, 4832
Two merchant wives came bearing cloth bundles for the shrine. Each held swaddled sea stones tied with bits of silk, blue and pale. They asked no questions, gave no names. I placed the stones in the vessel below the sanctum basin and poured saltwater as they requested. Both stayed for the midday chant, though neither sang. After, they left through the garden gate without speaking further. I noted no marking on the silk. I hope they found comfort.
|-
!an ink-blotched paper fragment
|-
|Near the lower edge, signs of delamination are evident where prolonged exposure to moisture has lifted the parchment fibers. Ink blotches cover the upper left corner, though the writing beneath remains legible. Faint blue guidelines run horizontally across the surface, now nearly faded from view. All corners are softened from repeated handling, while the light scent of damp plaster and crushed chalk clings to the page.

In the Common language, it reads:
18th day of Ivastaen, 4835
Workers paused their efforts near the east colonnade due to a broken pulley. Several wandered into the chapel while the foreman spoke with a guild agent outside. One left a handful of copper on the basin rim. I noted no offering ribbon, but took it with the rest before lighting the salt lamp. Held afternoon prayers with two elders and one child. No hymn today. Breezes through the north wall joints have grown stronger since the scaffolding went up.
|}
==== a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Necklace Found in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a jute-strung seashell necklace suspending a sapphire dolphin
|-
|It is a small item, under a pound.
It is estimated to be worth about 100 silvers.
It is predominantly crafted of organic material.
|}
[[Category:The Shadowy Abyss]]

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Found items

2025-06-14T16:13:19Z

RAFFELS2: /* a faded off-white vellum */ added Seaborne Hymnal

__ToC__
== Shadowy Abyss Found Items ==
=== 06.06.2025 ===
==== an antique Vornavian silk cloth ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key's Sleeve
!an antique Vornavian silk cloth
|-
|Smooth with a soft finish, the Vornavian silk cloth has hints of its original deep blue hue at its edges though largely it has faded to a watered azure hue. Faint seashell patterns decorate the edge, the silver and white embroidery creating scallop shells that overlap. Rolled silk cords aid the bundle in staying closed as needed, their ends capped in silver dolphin periapts.
|}

===== a blue-tinted white vellum parchment =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Letter to Tagetes from Aralinne
!a blue-tinted white vellum parchment
|-
|Slightly warped in shape and displaying clear signs of damage from humidity, the fine parchment is tinted with a subtle blue hue that is almost white and yet distinctly not. Crisp folds create precise lines in the top and bottom third of the piece, while the corners display fray signs where moisture has separated the layers.
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:
the seventeenth day of Olaesta in the year 4839

Tagetes,

Hopefully, we will return at the same time and all of this preparation will be for naught.

The temple will have no attendants as I have figured out the missing piece to get us to Pearl. It lies in an old Kannalan Temple to Charl. I believe I've tracked down its former location. I've hidden the plans in the old office at the end of the catacombs and sealed the entry.

So few people know of its existence that it should be safe to travel there. I do not think I will be gone more than a handful of days.

However, as I do not trust the Mercantile Guild, with their recent decisions to create gardens and shrines to the dark pantheon, I have sealed the doorway up and hidden it. Since you know where it is, you should have no issue finding it.

There are seven keys for entry. I've left the Empress key here, but you can easily obtain the other six by seeking the blessings of the Lover, the Mistress, the Sister, the Mother, the Daughter, and the High Priestess. I'm sure you'll remember who these are from our past talks. I dare not say more for fear this is found by others.

Please know that some wish to see the curse spread. Others are working hard to stop it. Young Bristena had the idea to buy back all the jewelry from the women whose husband, lovers, and brothers searched the North Beach to obtain them. I gave her enough coin to buy them all back.

Once she has every last piece, she'll have a sailor take her out to the spot we believe the "Pearl" to be waiting in and drop them back into the water. That should give us time to get the pieces together to free her. I used the last of the coffers to pay a crew to start the lighthouse.

If I don't return... Please let my husband and son know the depths of which I love them.

By my hand,

Aralinne Wynedowne
|}
===== a carved golden amber acorn =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key
!a carved golden amber acorn
|-
|Roughly oval in shape, a carved golden amber acorn is broad and flat, providing an excellent view of its transparent interior portion. Trapped within the golden yellow fossilized pine tree sap are several small flying insects and a dried flower.
|}

{| class="wikitable"
|+The Tile
!an aged grey stone tile
|-
|
|-
|Your song touches the tile, and the memory begins with stillness, then the faint scrape of wood across stone. Gentle hands press close, fitting the tile snugly into place. A murmur of approval hums nearby, muffled by fabric and breath. Cool grout slides into the seams, and the air shifts. Salt lingers in the room, carried on a current scented with blossoms. Lilac and sea daisy rise together, soft and clean. A hush settles across the surface, and the tile recognizes it as belonging. Beneath the faintest sigh of sandals against stone, a woman's voice murmurs, "There. That's better." The sounds and sensations fade along with the last syllables of your song.

As your song continues to caress the tile, it stirs with echoes of passing time. Soft footsteps come and go, punctuated by the rhythmic sweep of bristles and the clatter of buckets. Voices rise and fall nearby, sometimes low with grief, sometimes bright with ritual. One speaks of a sister's safe return, another offers blessings over a sailor's name. A different voice complains about a cracked basin and the need for fresh oil. Each moment blends into the next, seasons marked only by the changing cadence of heels, the weight of silence, and the gentle creak of wood in damp air. Slowly, the sensation and sounds fade, one by one, until they fall as silent as your song.

Your melody draws forth a hush, and the tile remembers the scent first. Bitter and resinous, the thick smoke of funerary incense curls low to the ground. Voices follow in soft procession, cloaked in sorrow. Some weep openly, others murmur prayers with trembling breath. The weight of grief presses against the stone, heavy as tide against jetty. A name is spoken again and again, reverent and broken, until it becomes a lullaby of mourning. Between each word, silence holds vigil. The tile feels a deep stillness in the air, as if even the sea has paused to listen. A final name tumbles across your ears as your song slips into silence, "Elenne."

Your song stirs the memory of disturbance. The tile feels the grit of its seams loosened, the edge of a tool scraping carefully through old grout. Pressure lifts it from the floor, just briefly, and something small is slid beneath. When the tile returns to its place, the surface meets the subfloor with an unfamiliar firmness. A hand lingers upon it, smooth and warm, resting for a long moment before giving a gentle pat. Whispered words ride the still air, close enough to touch, "Keep this safe until Tagetes finds you." An absence of warmth is the last sensation the tile imparts before your song stills.

Your voice brushes the tile, and the past answers with hushed urgency. There is the soft shuffle of feet, the creak of worn boots on stone, and a sharp intake of breath. Mournful whispers crowd the silence. A voice, cracked with worry and soft with distance, murmurs, "I don't know where you are, Aralinne. I can't get into the catacombs to check on you as the Brisker's Cove bowl was broken in the latest Krolvin raids... Please come home to us. Please. Your plan for Bristena worked; she told me of it when I returned. The girls are free, but where are you? I'm going to hide my piece until it can unite with yours. Please be safe, be careful." A soft sigh blends with the ending resonance of your song.

Your voice draws forth only silence at first. Time passes, measured in distant echoes. Footsteps sound too far to name, and faint shifts in the air come and go with no purpose. Old wood creaks softly where it meets damp stone. Dust settles in the seams, and salt from the sea clings to the surface. Years drift by without notice. Then, without warning, fingers press along your edges. There is a pause, a breath held just beyond hearing, and the tile feels the careful pry of something firm beneath it. A clamor of voices overlaps with each other until they blend into the fading sound of your song.
|}
=== 06.13.2025 ===
==== a salt-stained blue leather ledger ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Ledger from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a salt-stained blue leather ledger
|-
|Bound in navy blue leather, the ledger bears clear signs of repair. Patches of mismatched hide reinforce the spine and corners, and thin linen cords hold the bindings tight. Though worn smooth with age, the cover still holds the faint imprint of Niima's shell crest, long faded by handling. The pages inside are slightly bowed from moisture, but the ink has held well. Each year occupies a single page, the writing steady and small.
|-
|4816

Tidy dates and notations for each month in 4816 are aligned neatly along the inner margin. Notes reference standard morning and mid-tide services, with modest attendance throughout the year. Several deaths at sea are marked during Phoenatos and Imaerasta. There are mentions of a small fishing vessel lost in late Charlatos, and a new lantern donated by a widow named Hessa. The last quarter shows increased visits near Solstice.

4817

Entries for 4817 remain even and uneventful. Most notes concern basin cleaning, donation handling, and ribbon replenishment. Storms in Lumnea and Koaratos disrupted service for several days. A merchant's wife is mentioned repeatedly for leaving folded prayers in the offering box. One record notes an unusual number of gulls gathered at the altar during a fogbound service, marked simply with, "observed by three."

4818

Standard service records dominate the page, with annotations in blue ink appearing during spring. One comment in the margin reads, "New basin stone fitted. Shell inlay cracked but held." Three names repeat throughout the year: a retired sailor, a midwife from Marshtown, and a girl recorded only as "A.M." Several deaths at sea appear again in Eorgaen. Coastal offerings increase during the fall months.

4819

The 4819 entries continue in a narrow hand, with an unusual number of weddings noted between Charlatos and Ivastaen. Ribbons tied at the altar outnumber funerary entries this year. A brief note in Phoenatos mentions a fisherman's body returned after fifteen tides. Repairs to the vestibule door are recorded in Koaratos. A delivery of hymnals is documented without name, signed only with "N.L."

4820

Attendance patterns remain steady throughout 4820. Notations of storm disruptions in Fashanos and Koaratos are followed by increased evening services during those months. One brief note in Charlatos mentions a girl from the lower quarter beginning "training for vow," though no name is listed. Seasonal surges continue, with quiet months between. A salt-caked page corner suggests the ledger was left open during a sea spray.

4821

Small, precise entries for 4821 follow the pattern of prior years. Services remained regular, with additional rites held after a coastal storm in Charlatos. A recurring visitor is listed only as "shell-bearer" during spring months. Repairs to the west garden wall are noted in Lumnea. One entry in Eorgaen records, "child left driftwood figure at basin, no adult nearby." The handwriting becomes slightly sharper near the year's end.

4822

The year opened with colder winds and reduced attendance through Lormesta. One note in Fashanos records an elderly priestess slipping on the altar steps, resulting in no injury. Minor construction is logged in Ivastaen: "stone bench repositioned, foundation settled uneven." Gulls are again noted during a fog-heavy morning service. No deaths at sea are marked for Koaratos, which is noted as rare by the author. Extra hymn practice is recorded for Imaerasta.

4823

Faint ink along the top edge shows early signs of moisture, but the page remains legible. Most entries follow the standard pattern. A sailor's wedding in Phoenatos brought increased attendance for several days. Someone left a carved shell token in the basin and returned each week through Jastatos. No name was ever recorded. One funeral in Eoantos references burial in the lower catacomb row, name lost to smudging. Elenne's name begins to appear more frequently.

4824

Ledger entries remain orderly. Elenne is noted as presiding over full services during three major seasonal observances. A short entry in Imaerasta reads, "saltwater damaged two hymnals, copies made by hand." Several deaths at sea were recorded across Phoenatos and Jastatos. A recurring note of "candles late" appears without clarification. Winter quarter shows an increased number of widows seeking individual prayer times, as marked by initials only.

4825

The writing becomes slightly more compact along this page, possibly due to a change in hand. Services are held regularly with minor disruptions caused by harbor traffic. One early Charlatos entry reads, "path blocked by hauling rig, services delayed." Garden growth noted as "vigorous" in Lumnea. An unnamed girl from Marshtown began regular cleaning duties in midyear. Entries suggest her presence became routine, though her name is not yet recorded. Several pages show signs of ash smudging near the bottom corner.

4826

Ledger entries remain narrow and consistent. Regular service records dominate the page, with a note in Ivastaen reading, "two hymnals lost to mildew, one copied by hand." The girl from Marshtown is noted more frequently, assisting with basin preparation and entry sweeping. Elenne is recorded as leading nearly all rites this year. In Koaratos, a sailor's wife donated wax and twine following her husband's return from the reefs.

4827

A colder year, with notations of light frost in Charlatos and a decline in visitors during the first quarter. The Marshtown girl is listed by initials for the first time: "A.L.". She appears often in notes tied to daily upkeep and chant transcription. Elenne requested additional salt deliveries from the quay, suggesting higher ritual use. A short record in Imaerasta reads, "boy returned with offering candle for sister." His name is not recorded, but the action repeats in later months.

4828

Ink across this page is slightly lighter but consistent. Notes describe steady attendance and quiet observances throughout the year. "A.L." continues to serve regularly and is mentioned copying seasonal verses. A new basin cloth was donated by a widow in Phoenatos. Calen Wynedowne is noted briefly in Koaratos as assisting with deliveries. In Eorgaen, a child is recorded as tying sea glass to the offering pole, noted without comment.

4829

The handwriting tightens slightly, with some changes in wording structure. "A.L." is listed as leading chants during two minor observances. A service disruption is recorded in Charlatos: "work crew halted access to west path." Garden repairs resumed in Ivastaen, with the stone bench noted as "settled, but now cracking." Calen Wynedowne is marked present on three service dates. Elenne's name appears as usual, though one note mentions "shortness of breath in colder months."

4830

Entries shift slightly in tone this year, with more detailed notations. "A.L." is no longer referenced only by initials. Her name appears as Aralinne, recorded assisting with vespers and receiving permission to copy the coastal prayers. Elenne continues to lead services throughout. In Fashanos, a marked entry reads: "Calen Wynedowne departed aboard the Drowned Boar." A note in Imaerasta logs the visit of the High Priestess from Selanthia. Garden notes cease after Koaratos, likely due to early construction of the new temple.

4831

Entries are steady, with services held regularly in the newly expanded chapel. The original altar remains in partial use during evening observances. Aralinne is recorded as leading chants and maintaining basin duties throughout the year. A note in Charlatos reads, "Calen returned, left shell at east bench." Additional visitors marked in Phoenatos. Several Kannalan hymn fragments reviewed in Jastatos, with Aralinne listed as transcriber. No disruptions recorded.

4832

Observances continue without interruption. Aralinne is noted frequently in preparation tasks, seasonal cleanings, and the transcription of coastal rites. One record in Koaratos reads, "private service held for three widows." Increased taper use recorded in Imaerasta. No name given, but a new assistant is mentioned briefly in Lumnea. Aralinne's duties expand across multiple entries. The final note of the year: "attendance steady; records filed."

4833

Standard notations occupy most of the year. Aralinne continues in her role, listed alongside Elenne for all major observances. Her name appears independently in entries for dusk services and catacomb visits. One summer note mentions, "garden basin cleared and refilled under Aralinne's guidance." No major incidents. Early signs of leadership transition appear in Eoantos, though no formal statement is recorded. The garden bench is listed as worn, but stable.

4834

Charlatos begins with a formal entry: "Calen Wynedowne and Aralinne joined in marriage, witnessed before first bell at east altar." Both continue in regular attendance. Aralinne is recorded as leading evening services and overseeing hymn preservation efforts. Her handwriting begins to appear in later entries. Koaratos notes her inclusion in guild correspondence. The final entry in Eorgaen lists: "preparations for early solstice rites under Aralinne."

4835

Year begins quietly. Aralinne is now noted as officiating several services in early Fashanos. In Jastatos, a central entry reads: "Elenne passed peacefully in the night, fifth day of Jastatos." Her name does not appear again. Subsequent entries mark Aralinne presiding over full rites. One note reads, "transition marked with coastal hymn, basin blessing unchanged." Calen continues to appear sporadically. The final entry of the year reads: "chapel remains steady under Aralinne's care."
|}
==== a small salt-stained journal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Journal from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a small salt-stained journal
|-
|Bound in salt-stained suede, the small journal shows signs of frequent handling. The edges of the cover have curled slightly, and faint salt residue clings to the seams. Interior pages are swollen from moisture, and many are warped or stuck together. Ink bleeds across several leaves, though a few entries remain legible. The faint scent of mildew and brine lingers between the covers.
|-
|1st day of Lormesta, 4830

The new year began in silence. No sun showed at dawn, only a pale mist rolling over the port that settled in the alleys and gutters. We opened the chapel doors late this morning. A thin crust of salt had gathered again on the threshold.

Mother Elenne asked me to polish the lamp basin and check our remaining wax. She said that if the year is to bring anything, let it be steadiness. I scrubbed the copper too hard and bent the rim along one edge. She noticed but said nothing.

After the evening bell, I stayed to copy the coastal prayer. My ink bled in the cold, and my fingers would not hold the quill straight. The letters blurred near the bottom of the page. I will try again tomorrow.

The gulls have returned early this year. Their cries sound sharper than I remember.

Faint ink marks show a date in the top right corner, though the precise date is difficult to decipher. There is an impression of repeated script beneath the date, but the parchment is too warped to decipher much of its contents. Only a few words remain distinguishable near the bottom:

"...salt left from the..."

"...sleeves wet from the basin..."

"...ribbon placed before bell..."

16th day of Fashanos, 4830

A merchant visited the chapel yesterday. He introduced himself as Vartrien and said he represented the Mercantile Guild. His boots were polished, but they slipped on the chapel stones. He smelled faintly of tallow and wine.

He spoke with Elenne behind the altar rail. I only heard part of what was said... something about extending the outer walls, adding a foyer and foyer, and pulling stone from the cliff quarry. He did not ask about the altar or the basin.

Before leaving, he placed a coin in the offering basin. It was heavier than most and bore the Guild's seal. Elenne closed the doors earlier than usual and asked me to boil the cloth and clean the entry stone. She did not speak again until morning prayers.

After the bell, I copied half of the sea-born hymn. I still mix the second and third lines. The gulls circled loudly over the garden. They did not land.

Humidity has irrevocably damaged this page of the journal. The faint impression of a coastal flower leaves a colored stain in the center of the page. Ink bleeds across the fibers, blending so completely that all writing is beyond recognition.

3rd day of Charlatos, 4830

Rain began early and found its way in through the northern window joint again. A track of droplets marked the covers of three hymnals before I noticed. I dried them the best I could and set them near the basin to air.

Mother Elenne told me I might be ready to take the vesper reading next month. I said I would do my best, though my voice still shakes when the wind comes hard off the bay.

A boy from the shipyard arrived just before first bell. He brought a candle for his sister and did not speak. He nodded once and placed it on the old bench near the shell altar. It burned quickly and left a streak of wax on the wood.

After evening prayers, I copied the saltwater blessing again. I continue to forget the fourth line. I will practice it aloud tomorrow when the chapel is empty.

12th day of Olaesta, 4830

The salted fog held all morning. The bells could barely be heard from the quay, and the floor stayed damp long after I wiped it. The gulls were quiet today, though I saw them gather on the breakwall at dusk.

Mother Elenne allowed me to lead the midday verses. I stumbled on the refrain but kept pace. She gave no correction afterward, which I think was kindness. I will ask her to let me try again next week.

The Guildman has not returned, but I saw carts from the upper quarry moving past the garden path. One of the workers spat too close to the basin. I scrubbed the stone clean before closing the gate.

27th day of Ivastaen, 4830

The High Priestess arrived again, as expected. She comes every five months, though she avoids Charlatos and Lormesta because she does not like to travel in cold weather. This time, she brought only one attendant and a thick letter sealed in white wax.

She asked after the basin and walked the outer path twice before speaking. I do not know why she finds our grounds so peculiar. She always looks longer at the walls than at the altar.

She complimented the order of the garden, though I had not yet swept. Her words are even and pleasant, but her eyes are always searching. I do not think she comes only for worship.

Moisture has warped the page outward from the center, and a small flower is pressed into the parchment. Once white, its petals have turned a pale yellow. The edges have melted into the fibers over time, leaving a faint outline and a darker stain beneath. Ink has bled into the margins, but a few lines remain legible:

"He brought it with both hands."

"Said it grew from the rocks near the basin."

"It smelled faintly of salt and rosemary."

Written near the bottom corner, in a careful hand: Calen

9th day of Lumnea, 4830

Calen came again just after midday. He did not knock, only waited near the side path until I saw him. He brought a bloom, he said he found growing from a crack in the harbor wall. I told him it would not last, but he said that was fine.

He stayed long enough to watch me refill the basin, then left without saying more. I placed the flower in the back of the book, where I thought it would keep. It did not.

Mother Elenne has begun sorting the storeroom shelves again. I do not know where she plans to move everything, but she said we may have to share with the masons soon. I do not think she approves.

2nd day of Koaratos, 4830

Rumors continue about the Guild's plans, but nothing official has been posted. One of the stone counters in the garden cracked under the weight of a builder's crate. They said it would be replaced, but no one has returned to measure.

The High Priestess's letter is still sealed. Elenne has not opened it, though she moved it twice. I think she is waiting for another message, or perhaps the Guildman himself.

A blue gull feather was left on the altar after the second bell. No one saw who brought it.

I placed it in the ribbon box, away from the salt.

13th day of Koaratos, 4830

The stone bench in the garden has been replaced. I was not told it would happen, but when I stepped out to light the sea taper this morning, it was there. Rosewood, newly finished and still carrying the scent of cut shavings. The legs are slightly uneven, but the surface is smooth.

Elenne said one of the sailors had it made for his wife. She is the one who always sits near the roses and watches the harbor light. She wept when the bench cracked beneath the masons' crate. I am glad it was rebuilt.

Ink has lifted across most of the page, leaving behind only faint strokes and a few recognizable shapes. The top third is nearly blank, and the lower margin is warped from long exposure to damp air. Visible along the center fold, in pale ink, are snatches of the original message.

"...asked if it would still be the same chapel..."

"...carried the basin water out into the garden..."

"...song lines lost in the stone dust..."

5th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Construction has begun. Dust rises even before the first bell. The builders come early and eat beside the garden wall. I do not know how they leave the crumbs behind, but the gulls are clearly happy about it.

Mother Elenne and I have moved our sleeping mats into the chapel itself. There is no space left in the quarters, not since the back wall was taken down. She said it is temporary, but we must keep everything folded and out of sight during services.

She reminded me that we are not bound by silence or separation, only by devotion and clarity of intent. Then she looked at me and said, "Even your Calen would agree." I nearly dropped the basin ladle.

16th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Calen returned with an oilskin pouch and handed it to me without speaking. Inside was a cloth wrapped around several dry biscuits and a folded slip of sea-blue ribbon. He said he heard the workers had overrun our stores and that I was likely too polite to complain.

I thanked him, but could not find the right words. Elenne watched from the entryway. Later, she only asked if I had shared them.

The builders left stone dust across the floor again. I swept until my arms ached, but it returned before the evening bell. It finds every crack.

28th day of Phoenatos, 4830

The High Priestess will return in Jastatos. Elenne received a note today. No seal this time, only a clean fold and pressed script. She read it twice, then tucked it into the ledger without comment.

I asked if she thought the Guildman would be here as well. She said most likely, and that the two had likely been speaking for longer than we realized. She did not sound surprised or pleased.

The rosewood bench has already dulled to a greyish tone. I tried wiping it with a damp cloth, but the color does not return. Still, the sailor's wife came today and stayed for the whole of the afternoon light. She did not speak. Only watched the water and smiled.

7th day of Imaerasta, 4830

The scaffolding now reaches above the garden wall. Boards cast a grid of shadow over the roses during morning light. One of the masons said that the new walls will block the ocean view. I had not thought of that until now.

If the wall rises the way they say it will, the garden will face stone, not sea. Elenne was not surprised when I told her. She only said, "It's easier to worship what you can see than what you must remember."

I wonder if the sound of the tide will carry once the last wall is raised.

18th day of Imaerasta, 4830

Mist held long into the afternoon. We lit the lamps early and brought the linens in before the sea air reached them. The dust hangs longer in the stillness.

Word came that Yenterreth of the Marshtown passed in her sleep. She was one of the spirit women, always with a ribbon in her sleeve and saltwater on her boots. I remember her from before I came to live with Elenne. She called me bird girl and once gave me a braid of kelp twine.

She will be interred below with the others. I carried the notice down to the stone chamber myself.

Much of the page has faded due to moisture, but several phrases remain readable:

"...could see the harbor lantern from the bench..."

"...ribbons tied to the low branches removed..."

"...the sound of chisel work does not pause for prayer..."

Smudged ink across the lower edge shows where the page was touched before drying.

3rd day of Jastatos, 4830

The High Priestess arrived just after midday. She wore a dove-colored cloak and had her hair in three loops at her crown. Guildman Vartrien stood beside her beneath the scaffolding. They did not speak during the service, but both stayed until the end.

Afterward, they walked the garden with Elenne. I followed at a distance, gathering petals. I overheard them speak of creating a fresco in Niima's likeness upon the foyer wall. The High Priestess said the space would command presence.

No one mentioned the old altar. I swept around it that night, as a kind of apology.

15th day of Jastatos, 4830

A whisper has spread through the workers. One of the cart drivers said the Krolvin have been seen in Brisker's Cove. No one knows if it's true, but another said the harbor patrol was doubled this week.

Elenne said we cannot shape our prayers to rumors. Still, she lit the tall tapers during evening service and left them burning until the last shadow faded from the stones.

Calen has not returned since the rains began. I keep the ribbon he gave me in my prayer book. It smells faintly of rosemary, even now.

4th day of Eoantos, 4830

Elenne asked me to begin clearing the small office beside the catacombs. She said it was time someone sorted through what remains. I believe she means for me to be occupied, as Calen has not returned. She does not ask after him directly, but she notices when I forget the dusting cloth or leave the lamp wick too low.

The office is colder than I remembered. The walls sweat even when the wind is dry. I found a bundle of records tied with frayed cord, and a shelf of ledgers warped from years of damp. None have dates newer than 4816.

I lit a taper and marveled that its flame didn't waver. The air is rather stale.

12th day of Eoantos, 4830

Stacks of papers have begun to soften and fall apart as I move them. Some pages peel away like onion skin. Others are stuck together with mildew at the corners. There is no order left in the ledgers.

Elenne gave me vinegar water to scrub the stone and showed me how to dry the parchments without tearing the ink. Her hands are steadier than mine, but she let me try alone today.

No one has asked about the office in years. I wonder if anyone will again once the new temple is complete.

Several blotches stretch across the center of the page, caused by ink pressed while wet. Words are smudged and fingerprints mar the lower half.

Only a few lines are clear:

"...wrote his name on the margin and folded it..."

"...did not want to ask him not to go..."

"...the sea calls more surely than words ever could..."

21st day of Eoantos, 4830

Word came that Calen has signed on with a deep-sea vessel. No one knows the name, only that it sails past the Shoals and will be gone past spring.

Elenne said nothing when I told her. She simply handed me another cloth and said, "Salt dries slower than tears." I think she meant it kindly.

The basin water felt colder today, though the air was still. When I poured it over the shell altar, I thought of the wives who stand at our threshold with wet sleeves and silent mouths.

I begin to understand why they come. Not for answers, but for nearness.

1st day of Eorgaen, 4830

The sound of hammers has quieted. Most of the scaffolding has come down. The stones above the chapel are now smooth and white, with carved lines I cannot name.

I finished dusting the office and folded what remained of the ledgers. Several were too damaged to save. Elenne said I may stack them in the catacombs for burning later, though I kept two that still held their shape.

Calen's ribbon rests between the pages of one. I did not mean to place it there. It simply felt right.

19th day of Eorgaen, 4830

We moved into the new quarters today. The walls are smooth, and the ceiling curves slightly like the hull of a ship turned over. My mat fits beneath the small window, though it does not face the sea.

Elenne set our candles on the narrow sill and arranged her ledgers in the cabinet with care. She has not said whether she likes the new space, but she wiped the sill twice before speaking.

I kept the basin cloth. It still smells faintly of rosemary and ink.

31st day of Eorgaen, 4830

Year-end bells rang before the harbor mist had cleared. The garden is smaller now, and the altar no longer sees the ocean, but the salt wind still finds its way between the stones.

I watched from the upper stairs as the tide turned. For a moment, I imagined Calen leaning over the rail of whatever vessel he's found. I do not know where he sailed, or what wind carried him out, only that the thought of him still returns like breath.

I folded a ribbon into the base of the old ledger. Some things are easier to keep when hidden.

1st day of Lormesta, 4831

The High Priestess arrived at midday. She wore fur-lined gloves and spoke briefly before entering the new sanctum. Her words were softer this time. She said the white stone caught light well and that the new foyer had "clean weight."

She did not linger. Elenne bowed but did not speak.

I spent the rest of the day sorting a box of old hymn fragments. Some were written in Kannalan, though I can only read the titles. I have set two aside in hopes that someone might help me translate them.

3rd day of Lormesta, 4831

Calen returned today.

He stood by the garden gate and waited until I saw him. He did not wave. Only smiled, the kind of smile that asks without needing an answer.

I brought him a cup of water, and we sat in the shadow of the old chapel. He said nothing of the voyage, and I did not ask. I watched his hands as he spoke of the harbor and the wind near the reefs. He has a sun mark on his left wrist now, just above the bone.

When he left, he pressed a shell into my palm. It was smooth and unbroken.

5th day of Lormesta, 4831

I do not know if he missed me. I do not know if he meant to see me or only came to the chapel as he once did.

Still, I thought of him each time the tide turned. I imagined the shape of his boat against the horizon, wondering if he looked for birds or counted the ways salt settles into cloth.

The shell he gave me rests beneath the old candle box. I did not tell Elenne.

I have finished copying the Kannalan refrain. The words feel older than stone, but they sing cleanly when read aloud.
|}
==== a faded off-white vellum ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Letter to Aralinna from Tagetes
!a faded off-white vellum
|-
|22 Fashanos 4839

Hi Aralinne,
You are going to sputter when you read this, but I found something I think might actually help. I've been haunting the lower rooms of the Rest's old archive, the one that smells like mushrooms and lamp oil, and you would not believe the number of ledgers that don't even belong there. Some trader scribbled a note in the margin of a shipping contract, and I have no idea why, about a Hermit of Charl. Not a priest. Not a sailor. A hermit.

The strange part is, he wasn't written about like some bedraggled man on a rock. He had followers. Or at least people who carried his words. The note said he held something powerful, something that could "turn back the tide and lay bare the seabed, if placed with care and faith at the high edge." That's what it actually said. The relic doesn't have a name, which is frustrating, but it is always connected to cliffs or high ridges.

I spent the last two days chasing the reference backward, and I think it's Kannalan. Most of the names line up with the way they spell things when they want to make them sound more official. The good stuff always hides behind fancy lettering.

Anyway, I asked around, and there's a guide here who knows the Karazja ruins. He's agreed to take me inland starting next week. I'll be careful. I promise. But if I'm right, that relic might still be out there.

Imagine what it would mean if we could part the sea.

More soon,
Tagetes

P.S. Tell Marris not to let the acolytes into the tide closet again. I know it was them. The shells were rearranged. Again.
|}
==== Seaborne Hymal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a thread-edged faded parchment
|-
|Parchment the color of drifted sand bears faded blue script in a careful, even hand. The edges have frayed into soft waves, and the lower corner is discolored where dampness clings to the page. A watermark in the upper left shows a simple wave crest superimposed over a scallop shell. Salt has left faint flecks across the surface, and one line of ink has bled slightly with age. Despite wear, the script remains fully legible, framed by a border of pressed gull feathers and hand-tied seasilk thread.

In the Common language, it reads:

Instructions for the Seaborne Hymnal

To be spoken daily, often at morning tide or before the first sail departs.

The Seaborne Hymnal is a spoken blessing offered to all who live by the rhythm of the sea. It honors those who make their living from its bounty, those who voyage upon it, and those who wait at its edge. The ritual is led by a priestess and joined by those gathered, using a call and response pattern. It is not sung, but spoken clearly, with steadiness and intent.

There are no physical offerings required. However, each response is accompanied by a hand gesture to mark the tide's reach and the release of prayer.

The priestess stands facing the gathered. Congregants may form a semicircle or remain as they are, whether in chapel or along the shore. The ritual may be performed indoors or outdoors, provided the sea is visible or near.

At each response, the right hand is placed palm-down over the heart, then extended outward, fingers spread as if forming the crest of a wave. This gesture is slow and deliberate. At the final line, the gesture is held outward a moment longer before lowering the hand.

The hymnal is:
Priestess: Who wakes with the wind and walks with the tide?
Congregation (with gesture): Those with the sea in their soul.
Priestess: Who casts the net and bears the storm?
Congregation (with gesture): Those with the sea in their soul.
Priestess: Who waits at the window and sings to the dark?
Congregation (with gesture): Those with the sea in their soul.
Priestess: Who names the stars and trusts the wave?
Congregation (with gesture): Those with the sea in their soul.
Priestess: Bless those who leave and those who remain.
Bless those who labor and those who pray.
Bless those who remember.
Congregation (final gesture): And those who return no more.

The rite is complete after the final line. There is no need for benediction. Let silence follow for a breath or two before the next act begins.
|}

==== Elenne's (?) Papers ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a pale slip of vellum bearing a rust-tinged watermark
|-
|Rust-toned watermarks bloom across the lower half of the parchment, forming uneven, organic shapes. The ink has faded but remains legible throughout. The surface is rough to the touch, with several shallow indentations along the right margin, as if pressed against the corner of a writing board. Mild mildew spotting is visible near the top, and the parchment carries a faint metallic scent.

In the Common language, it reads:
15th day of Fashanos, 4830
Master Vartrien of the Mercantile Guild visited the chapel before midday service. He spoke of expanding the grounds and building a larger temple to better serve Solhaven's growing population. I reminded him that the chapel predates the coastal road and holds its own rhythm. He seemed unconcerned but polite. Left a coin marked with the Guild's seal in the basin. I placed it with the others and marked his visit in the side register.
|-
!a ink-streaked torn vellum sheet
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads:
29th day of Koaratos, 4832
Two merchant wives came bearing cloth bundles for the shrine. Each held swaddled sea stones tied with bits of silk, blue and pale. They asked no questions, gave no names. I placed the stones in the vessel below the sanctum basin and poured saltwater as they requested. Both stayed for the midday chant, though neither sang. After, they left through the garden gate without speaking further. I noted no marking on the silk. I hope they found comfort.
|-
!an ink-blotched paper fragment
|-
|Near the lower edge, signs of delamination are evident where prolonged exposure to moisture has lifted the parchment fibers. Ink blotches cover the upper left corner, though the writing beneath remains legible. Faint blue guidelines run horizontally across the surface, now nearly faded from view. All corners are softened from repeated handling, while the light scent of damp plaster and crushed chalk clings to the page.

In the Common language, it reads:
18th day of Ivastaen, 4835
Workers paused their efforts near the east colonnade due to a broken pulley. Several wandered into the chapel while the foreman spoke with a guild agent outside. One left a handful of copper on the basin rim. I noted no offering ribbon, but took it with the rest before lighting the salt lamp. Held afternoon prayers with two elders and one child. No hymn today. Breezes through the north wall joints have grown stronger since the scaffolding went up.
|}
[[Category:The Shadowy Abyss]]

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Found items

2025-06-14T16:09:46Z

RAFFELS2: /* a faded off-white vellum */ added papers, journal, letter

__ToC__
== Shadowy Abyss Found Items ==
=== 06.06.2025 ===
==== an antique Vornavian silk cloth ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key's Sleeve
!an antique Vornavian silk cloth
|-
|Smooth with a soft finish, the Vornavian silk cloth has hints of its original deep blue hue at its edges though largely it has faded to a watered azure hue. Faint seashell patterns decorate the edge, the silver and white embroidery creating scallop shells that overlap. Rolled silk cords aid the bundle in staying closed as needed, their ends capped in silver dolphin periapts.
|}

===== a blue-tinted white vellum parchment =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Letter to Tagetes from Aralinne
!a blue-tinted white vellum parchment
|-
|Slightly warped in shape and displaying clear signs of damage from humidity, the fine parchment is tinted with a subtle blue hue that is almost white and yet distinctly not. Crisp folds create precise lines in the top and bottom third of the piece, while the corners display fray signs where moisture has separated the layers.
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:
the seventeenth day of Olaesta in the year 4839

Tagetes,

Hopefully, we will return at the same time and all of this preparation will be for naught.

The temple will have no attendants as I have figured out the missing piece to get us to Pearl. It lies in an old Kannalan Temple to Charl. I believe I've tracked down its former location. I've hidden the plans in the old office at the end of the catacombs and sealed the entry.

So few people know of its existence that it should be safe to travel there. I do not think I will be gone more than a handful of days.

However, as I do not trust the Mercantile Guild, with their recent decisions to create gardens and shrines to the dark pantheon, I have sealed the doorway up and hidden it. Since you know where it is, you should have no issue finding it.

There are seven keys for entry. I've left the Empress key here, but you can easily obtain the other six by seeking the blessings of the Lover, the Mistress, the Sister, the Mother, the Daughter, and the High Priestess. I'm sure you'll remember who these are from our past talks. I dare not say more for fear this is found by others.

Please know that some wish to see the curse spread. Others are working hard to stop it. Young Bristena had the idea to buy back all the jewelry from the women whose husband, lovers, and brothers searched the North Beach to obtain them. I gave her enough coin to buy them all back.

Once she has every last piece, she'll have a sailor take her out to the spot we believe the "Pearl" to be waiting in and drop them back into the water. That should give us time to get the pieces together to free her. I used the last of the coffers to pay a crew to start the lighthouse.

If I don't return... Please let my husband and son know the depths of which I love them.

By my hand,

Aralinne Wynedowne
|}
===== a carved golden amber acorn =====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key
!a carved golden amber acorn
|-
|Roughly oval in shape, a carved golden amber acorn is broad and flat, providing an excellent view of its transparent interior portion. Trapped within the golden yellow fossilized pine tree sap are several small flying insects and a dried flower.
|}

{| class="wikitable"
|+The Tile
!an aged grey stone tile
|-
|
|-
|Your song touches the tile, and the memory begins with stillness, then the faint scrape of wood across stone. Gentle hands press close, fitting the tile snugly into place. A murmur of approval hums nearby, muffled by fabric and breath. Cool grout slides into the seams, and the air shifts. Salt lingers in the room, carried on a current scented with blossoms. Lilac and sea daisy rise together, soft and clean. A hush settles across the surface, and the tile recognizes it as belonging. Beneath the faintest sigh of sandals against stone, a woman's voice murmurs, "There. That's better." The sounds and sensations fade along with the last syllables of your song.

As your song continues to caress the tile, it stirs with echoes of passing time. Soft footsteps come and go, punctuated by the rhythmic sweep of bristles and the clatter of buckets. Voices rise and fall nearby, sometimes low with grief, sometimes bright with ritual. One speaks of a sister's safe return, another offers blessings over a sailor's name. A different voice complains about a cracked basin and the need for fresh oil. Each moment blends into the next, seasons marked only by the changing cadence of heels, the weight of silence, and the gentle creak of wood in damp air. Slowly, the sensation and sounds fade, one by one, until they fall as silent as your song.

Your melody draws forth a hush, and the tile remembers the scent first. Bitter and resinous, the thick smoke of funerary incense curls low to the ground. Voices follow in soft procession, cloaked in sorrow. Some weep openly, others murmur prayers with trembling breath. The weight of grief presses against the stone, heavy as tide against jetty. A name is spoken again and again, reverent and broken, until it becomes a lullaby of mourning. Between each word, silence holds vigil. The tile feels a deep stillness in the air, as if even the sea has paused to listen. A final name tumbles across your ears as your song slips into silence, "Elenne."

Your song stirs the memory of disturbance. The tile feels the grit of its seams loosened, the edge of a tool scraping carefully through old grout. Pressure lifts it from the floor, just briefly, and something small is slid beneath. When the tile returns to its place, the surface meets the subfloor with an unfamiliar firmness. A hand lingers upon it, smooth and warm, resting for a long moment before giving a gentle pat. Whispered words ride the still air, close enough to touch, "Keep this safe until Tagetes finds you." An absence of warmth is the last sensation the tile imparts before your song stills.

Your voice brushes the tile, and the past answers with hushed urgency. There is the soft shuffle of feet, the creak of worn boots on stone, and a sharp intake of breath. Mournful whispers crowd the silence. A voice, cracked with worry and soft with distance, murmurs, "I don't know where you are, Aralinne. I can't get into the catacombs to check on you as the Brisker's Cove bowl was broken in the latest Krolvin raids... Please come home to us. Please. Your plan for Bristena worked; she told me of it when I returned. The girls are free, but where are you? I'm going to hide my piece until it can unite with yours. Please be safe, be careful." A soft sigh blends with the ending resonance of your song.

Your voice draws forth only silence at first. Time passes, measured in distant echoes. Footsteps sound too far to name, and faint shifts in the air come and go with no purpose. Old wood creaks softly where it meets damp stone. Dust settles in the seams, and salt from the sea clings to the surface. Years drift by without notice. Then, without warning, fingers press along your edges. There is a pause, a breath held just beyond hearing, and the tile feels the careful pry of something firm beneath it. A clamor of voices overlaps with each other until they blend into the fading sound of your song.
|}
=== 06.13.2025 ===
==== a salt-stained blue leather ledger ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Ledger from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a salt-stained blue leather ledger
|-
|Bound in navy blue leather, the ledger bears clear signs of repair. Patches of mismatched hide reinforce the spine and corners, and thin linen cords hold the bindings tight. Though worn smooth with age, the cover still holds the faint imprint of Niima's shell crest, long faded by handling. The pages inside are slightly bowed from moisture, but the ink has held well. Each year occupies a single page, the writing steady and small.
|-
|4816

Tidy dates and notations for each month in 4816 are aligned neatly along the inner margin. Notes reference standard morning and mid-tide services, with modest attendance throughout the year. Several deaths at sea are marked during Phoenatos and Imaerasta. There are mentions of a small fishing vessel lost in late Charlatos, and a new lantern donated by a widow named Hessa. The last quarter shows increased visits near Solstice.

4817

Entries for 4817 remain even and uneventful. Most notes concern basin cleaning, donation handling, and ribbon replenishment. Storms in Lumnea and Koaratos disrupted service for several days. A merchant's wife is mentioned repeatedly for leaving folded prayers in the offering box. One record notes an unusual number of gulls gathered at the altar during a fogbound service, marked simply with, "observed by three."

4818

Standard service records dominate the page, with annotations in blue ink appearing during spring. One comment in the margin reads, "New basin stone fitted. Shell inlay cracked but held." Three names repeat throughout the year: a retired sailor, a midwife from Marshtown, and a girl recorded only as "A.M." Several deaths at sea appear again in Eorgaen. Coastal offerings increase during the fall months.

4819

The 4819 entries continue in a narrow hand, with an unusual number of weddings noted between Charlatos and Ivastaen. Ribbons tied at the altar outnumber funerary entries this year. A brief note in Phoenatos mentions a fisherman's body returned after fifteen tides. Repairs to the vestibule door are recorded in Koaratos. A delivery of hymnals is documented without name, signed only with "N.L."

4820

Attendance patterns remain steady throughout 4820. Notations of storm disruptions in Fashanos and Koaratos are followed by increased evening services during those months. One brief note in Charlatos mentions a girl from the lower quarter beginning "training for vow," though no name is listed. Seasonal surges continue, with quiet months between. A salt-caked page corner suggests the ledger was left open during a sea spray.

4821

Small, precise entries for 4821 follow the pattern of prior years. Services remained regular, with additional rites held after a coastal storm in Charlatos. A recurring visitor is listed only as "shell-bearer" during spring months. Repairs to the west garden wall are noted in Lumnea. One entry in Eorgaen records, "child left driftwood figure at basin, no adult nearby." The handwriting becomes slightly sharper near the year's end.

4822

The year opened with colder winds and reduced attendance through Lormesta. One note in Fashanos records an elderly priestess slipping on the altar steps, resulting in no injury. Minor construction is logged in Ivastaen: "stone bench repositioned, foundation settled uneven." Gulls are again noted during a fog-heavy morning service. No deaths at sea are marked for Koaratos, which is noted as rare by the author. Extra hymn practice is recorded for Imaerasta.

4823

Faint ink along the top edge shows early signs of moisture, but the page remains legible. Most entries follow the standard pattern. A sailor's wedding in Phoenatos brought increased attendance for several days. Someone left a carved shell token in the basin and returned each week through Jastatos. No name was ever recorded. One funeral in Eoantos references burial in the lower catacomb row, name lost to smudging. Elenne's name begins to appear more frequently.

4824

Ledger entries remain orderly. Elenne is noted as presiding over full services during three major seasonal observances. A short entry in Imaerasta reads, "saltwater damaged two hymnals, copies made by hand." Several deaths at sea were recorded across Phoenatos and Jastatos. A recurring note of "candles late" appears without clarification. Winter quarter shows an increased number of widows seeking individual prayer times, as marked by initials only.

4825

The writing becomes slightly more compact along this page, possibly due to a change in hand. Services are held regularly with minor disruptions caused by harbor traffic. One early Charlatos entry reads, "path blocked by hauling rig, services delayed." Garden growth noted as "vigorous" in Lumnea. An unnamed girl from Marshtown began regular cleaning duties in midyear. Entries suggest her presence became routine, though her name is not yet recorded. Several pages show signs of ash smudging near the bottom corner.

4826

Ledger entries remain narrow and consistent. Regular service records dominate the page, with a note in Ivastaen reading, "two hymnals lost to mildew, one copied by hand." The girl from Marshtown is noted more frequently, assisting with basin preparation and entry sweeping. Elenne is recorded as leading nearly all rites this year. In Koaratos, a sailor's wife donated wax and twine following her husband's return from the reefs.

4827

A colder year, with notations of light frost in Charlatos and a decline in visitors during the first quarter. The Marshtown girl is listed by initials for the first time: "A.L.". She appears often in notes tied to daily upkeep and chant transcription. Elenne requested additional salt deliveries from the quay, suggesting higher ritual use. A short record in Imaerasta reads, "boy returned with offering candle for sister." His name is not recorded, but the action repeats in later months.

4828

Ink across this page is slightly lighter but consistent. Notes describe steady attendance and quiet observances throughout the year. "A.L." continues to serve regularly and is mentioned copying seasonal verses. A new basin cloth was donated by a widow in Phoenatos. Calen Wynedowne is noted briefly in Koaratos as assisting with deliveries. In Eorgaen, a child is recorded as tying sea glass to the offering pole, noted without comment.

4829

The handwriting tightens slightly, with some changes in wording structure. "A.L." is listed as leading chants during two minor observances. A service disruption is recorded in Charlatos: "work crew halted access to west path." Garden repairs resumed in Ivastaen, with the stone bench noted as "settled, but now cracking." Calen Wynedowne is marked present on three service dates. Elenne's name appears as usual, though one note mentions "shortness of breath in colder months."

4830

Entries shift slightly in tone this year, with more detailed notations. "A.L." is no longer referenced only by initials. Her name appears as Aralinne, recorded assisting with vespers and receiving permission to copy the coastal prayers. Elenne continues to lead services throughout. In Fashanos, a marked entry reads: "Calen Wynedowne departed aboard the Drowned Boar." A note in Imaerasta logs the visit of the High Priestess from Selanthia. Garden notes cease after Koaratos, likely due to early construction of the new temple.

4831

Entries are steady, with services held regularly in the newly expanded chapel. The original altar remains in partial use during evening observances. Aralinne is recorded as leading chants and maintaining basin duties throughout the year. A note in Charlatos reads, "Calen returned, left shell at east bench." Additional visitors marked in Phoenatos. Several Kannalan hymn fragments reviewed in Jastatos, with Aralinne listed as transcriber. No disruptions recorded.

4832

Observances continue without interruption. Aralinne is noted frequently in preparation tasks, seasonal cleanings, and the transcription of coastal rites. One record in Koaratos reads, "private service held for three widows." Increased taper use recorded in Imaerasta. No name given, but a new assistant is mentioned briefly in Lumnea. Aralinne's duties expand across multiple entries. The final note of the year: "attendance steady; records filed."

4833

Standard notations occupy most of the year. Aralinne continues in her role, listed alongside Elenne for all major observances. Her name appears independently in entries for dusk services and catacomb visits. One summer note mentions, "garden basin cleared and refilled under Aralinne's guidance." No major incidents. Early signs of leadership transition appear in Eoantos, though no formal statement is recorded. The garden bench is listed as worn, but stable.

4834

Charlatos begins with a formal entry: "Calen Wynedowne and Aralinne joined in marriage, witnessed before first bell at east altar." Both continue in regular attendance. Aralinne is recorded as leading evening services and overseeing hymn preservation efforts. Her handwriting begins to appear in later entries. Koaratos notes her inclusion in guild correspondence. The final entry in Eorgaen lists: "preparations for early solstice rites under Aralinne."

4835

Year begins quietly. Aralinne is now noted as officiating several services in early Fashanos. In Jastatos, a central entry reads: "Elenne passed peacefully in the night, fifth day of Jastatos." Her name does not appear again. Subsequent entries mark Aralinne presiding over full rites. One note reads, "transition marked with coastal hymn, basin blessing unchanged." Calen continues to appear sporadically. The final entry of the year reads: "chapel remains steady under Aralinne's care."
|}
==== a small salt-stained journal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Journal from Niima's Temple Catacombs
!a small salt-stained journal
|-
|Bound in salt-stained suede, the small journal shows signs of frequent handling. The edges of the cover have curled slightly, and faint salt residue clings to the seams. Interior pages are swollen from moisture, and many are warped or stuck together. Ink bleeds across several leaves, though a few entries remain legible. The faint scent of mildew and brine lingers between the covers.
|-
|1st day of Lormesta, 4830

The new year began in silence. No sun showed at dawn, only a pale mist rolling over the port that settled in the alleys and gutters. We opened the chapel doors late this morning. A thin crust of salt had gathered again on the threshold.

Mother Elenne asked me to polish the lamp basin and check our remaining wax. She said that if the year is to bring anything, let it be steadiness. I scrubbed the copper too hard and bent the rim along one edge. She noticed but said nothing.

After the evening bell, I stayed to copy the coastal prayer. My ink bled in the cold, and my fingers would not hold the quill straight. The letters blurred near the bottom of the page. I will try again tomorrow.

The gulls have returned early this year. Their cries sound sharper than I remember.

Faint ink marks show a date in the top right corner, though the precise date is difficult to decipher. There is an impression of repeated script beneath the date, but the parchment is too warped to decipher much of its contents. Only a few words remain distinguishable near the bottom:

"...salt left from the..."

"...sleeves wet from the basin..."

"...ribbon placed before bell..."

16th day of Fashanos, 4830

A merchant visited the chapel yesterday. He introduced himself as Vartrien and said he represented the Mercantile Guild. His boots were polished, but they slipped on the chapel stones. He smelled faintly of tallow and wine.

He spoke with Elenne behind the altar rail. I only heard part of what was said... something about extending the outer walls, adding a foyer and foyer, and pulling stone from the cliff quarry. He did not ask about the altar or the basin.

Before leaving, he placed a coin in the offering basin. It was heavier than most and bore the Guild's seal. Elenne closed the doors earlier than usual and asked me to boil the cloth and clean the entry stone. She did not speak again until morning prayers.

After the bell, I copied half of the sea-born hymn. I still mix the second and third lines. The gulls circled loudly over the garden. They did not land.

Humidity has irrevocably damaged this page of the journal. The faint impression of a coastal flower leaves a colored stain in the center of the page. Ink bleeds across the fibers, blending so completely that all writing is beyond recognition.

3rd day of Charlatos, 4830

Rain began early and found its way in through the northern window joint again. A track of droplets marked the covers of three hymnals before I noticed. I dried them the best I could and set them near the basin to air.

Mother Elenne told me I might be ready to take the vesper reading next month. I said I would do my best, though my voice still shakes when the wind comes hard off the bay.

A boy from the shipyard arrived just before first bell. He brought a candle for his sister and did not speak. He nodded once and placed it on the old bench near the shell altar. It burned quickly and left a streak of wax on the wood.

After evening prayers, I copied the saltwater blessing again. I continue to forget the fourth line. I will practice it aloud tomorrow when the chapel is empty.

12th day of Olaesta, 4830

The salted fog held all morning. The bells could barely be heard from the quay, and the floor stayed damp long after I wiped it. The gulls were quiet today, though I saw them gather on the breakwall at dusk.

Mother Elenne allowed me to lead the midday verses. I stumbled on the refrain but kept pace. She gave no correction afterward, which I think was kindness. I will ask her to let me try again next week.

The Guildman has not returned, but I saw carts from the upper quarry moving past the garden path. One of the workers spat too close to the basin. I scrubbed the stone clean before closing the gate.

27th day of Ivastaen, 4830

The High Priestess arrived again, as expected. She comes every five months, though she avoids Charlatos and Lormesta because she does not like to travel in cold weather. This time, she brought only one attendant and a thick letter sealed in white wax.

She asked after the basin and walked the outer path twice before speaking. I do not know why she finds our grounds so peculiar. She always looks longer at the walls than at the altar.

She complimented the order of the garden, though I had not yet swept. Her words are even and pleasant, but her eyes are always searching. I do not think she comes only for worship.

Moisture has warped the page outward from the center, and a small flower is pressed into the parchment. Once white, its petals have turned a pale yellow. The edges have melted into the fibers over time, leaving a faint outline and a darker stain beneath. Ink has bled into the margins, but a few lines remain legible:

"He brought it with both hands."

"Said it grew from the rocks near the basin."

"It smelled faintly of salt and rosemary."

Written near the bottom corner, in a careful hand: Calen

9th day of Lumnea, 4830

Calen came again just after midday. He did not knock, only waited near the side path until I saw him. He brought a bloom, he said he found growing from a crack in the harbor wall. I told him it would not last, but he said that was fine.

He stayed long enough to watch me refill the basin, then left without saying more. I placed the flower in the back of the book, where I thought it would keep. It did not.

Mother Elenne has begun sorting the storeroom shelves again. I do not know where she plans to move everything, but she said we may have to share with the masons soon. I do not think she approves.

2nd day of Koaratos, 4830

Rumors continue about the Guild's plans, but nothing official has been posted. One of the stone counters in the garden cracked under the weight of a builder's crate. They said it would be replaced, but no one has returned to measure.

The High Priestess's letter is still sealed. Elenne has not opened it, though she moved it twice. I think she is waiting for another message, or perhaps the Guildman himself.

A blue gull feather was left on the altar after the second bell. No one saw who brought it.

I placed it in the ribbon box, away from the salt.

13th day of Koaratos, 4830

The stone bench in the garden has been replaced. I was not told it would happen, but when I stepped out to light the sea taper this morning, it was there. Rosewood, newly finished and still carrying the scent of cut shavings. The legs are slightly uneven, but the surface is smooth.

Elenne said one of the sailors had it made for his wife. She is the one who always sits near the roses and watches the harbor light. She wept when the bench cracked beneath the masons' crate. I am glad it was rebuilt.

Ink has lifted across most of the page, leaving behind only faint strokes and a few recognizable shapes. The top third is nearly blank, and the lower margin is warped from long exposure to damp air. Visible along the center fold, in pale ink, are snatches of the original message.

"...asked if it would still be the same chapel..."

"...carried the basin water out into the garden..."

"...song lines lost in the stone dust..."

5th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Construction has begun. Dust rises even before the first bell. The builders come early and eat beside the garden wall. I do not know how they leave the crumbs behind, but the gulls are clearly happy about it.

Mother Elenne and I have moved our sleeping mats into the chapel itself. There is no space left in the quarters, not since the back wall was taken down. She said it is temporary, but we must keep everything folded and out of sight during services.

She reminded me that we are not bound by silence or separation, only by devotion and clarity of intent. Then she looked at me and said, "Even your Calen would agree." I nearly dropped the basin ladle.

16th day of Phoenatos, 4830

Calen returned with an oilskin pouch and handed it to me without speaking. Inside was a cloth wrapped around several dry biscuits and a folded slip of sea-blue ribbon. He said he heard the workers had overrun our stores and that I was likely too polite to complain.

I thanked him, but could not find the right words. Elenne watched from the entryway. Later, she only asked if I had shared them.

The builders left stone dust across the floor again. I swept until my arms ached, but it returned before the evening bell. It finds every crack.

28th day of Phoenatos, 4830

The High Priestess will return in Jastatos. Elenne received a note today. No seal this time, only a clean fold and pressed script. She read it twice, then tucked it into the ledger without comment.

I asked if she thought the Guildman would be here as well. She said most likely, and that the two had likely been speaking for longer than we realized. She did not sound surprised or pleased.

The rosewood bench has already dulled to a greyish tone. I tried wiping it with a damp cloth, but the color does not return. Still, the sailor's wife came today and stayed for the whole of the afternoon light. She did not speak. Only watched the water and smiled.

7th day of Imaerasta, 4830

The scaffolding now reaches above the garden wall. Boards cast a grid of shadow over the roses during morning light. One of the masons said that the new walls will block the ocean view. I had not thought of that until now.

If the wall rises the way they say it will, the garden will face stone, not sea. Elenne was not surprised when I told her. She only said, "It's easier to worship what you can see than what you must remember."

I wonder if the sound of the tide will carry once the last wall is raised.

18th day of Imaerasta, 4830

Mist held long into the afternoon. We lit the lamps early and brought the linens in before the sea air reached them. The dust hangs longer in the stillness.

Word came that Yenterreth of the Marshtown passed in her sleep. She was one of the spirit women, always with a ribbon in her sleeve and saltwater on her boots. I remember her from before I came to live with Elenne. She called me bird girl and once gave me a braid of kelp twine.

She will be interred below with the others. I carried the notice down to the stone chamber myself.

Much of the page has faded due to moisture, but several phrases remain readable:

"...could see the harbor lantern from the bench..."

"...ribbons tied to the low branches removed..."

"...the sound of chisel work does not pause for prayer..."

Smudged ink across the lower edge shows where the page was touched before drying.

3rd day of Jastatos, 4830

The High Priestess arrived just after midday. She wore a dove-colored cloak and had her hair in three loops at her crown. Guildman Vartrien stood beside her beneath the scaffolding. They did not speak during the service, but both stayed until the end.

Afterward, they walked the garden with Elenne. I followed at a distance, gathering petals. I overheard them speak of creating a fresco in Niima's likeness upon the foyer wall. The High Priestess said the space would command presence.

No one mentioned the old altar. I swept around it that night, as a kind of apology.

15th day of Jastatos, 4830

A whisper has spread through the workers. One of the cart drivers said the Krolvin have been seen in Brisker's Cove. No one knows if it's true, but another said the harbor patrol was doubled this week.

Elenne said we cannot shape our prayers to rumors. Still, she lit the tall tapers during evening service and left them burning until the last shadow faded from the stones.

Calen has not returned since the rains began. I keep the ribbon he gave me in my prayer book. It smells faintly of rosemary, even now.

4th day of Eoantos, 4830

Elenne asked me to begin clearing the small office beside the catacombs. She said it was time someone sorted through what remains. I believe she means for me to be occupied, as Calen has not returned. She does not ask after him directly, but she notices when I forget the dusting cloth or leave the lamp wick too low.

The office is colder than I remembered. The walls sweat even when the wind is dry. I found a bundle of records tied with frayed cord, and a shelf of ledgers warped from years of damp. None have dates newer than 4816.

I lit a taper and marveled that its flame didn't waver. The air is rather stale.

12th day of Eoantos, 4830

Stacks of papers have begun to soften and fall apart as I move them. Some pages peel away like onion skin. Others are stuck together with mildew at the corners. There is no order left in the ledgers.

Elenne gave me vinegar water to scrub the stone and showed me how to dry the parchments without tearing the ink. Her hands are steadier than mine, but she let me try alone today.

No one has asked about the office in years. I wonder if anyone will again once the new temple is complete.

Several blotches stretch across the center of the page, caused by ink pressed while wet. Words are smudged and fingerprints mar the lower half.

Only a few lines are clear:

"...wrote his name on the margin and folded it..."

"...did not want to ask him not to go..."

"...the sea calls more surely than words ever could..."

21st day of Eoantos, 4830

Word came that Calen has signed on with a deep-sea vessel. No one knows the name, only that it sails past the Shoals and will be gone past spring.

Elenne said nothing when I told her. She simply handed me another cloth and said, "Salt dries slower than tears." I think she meant it kindly.

The basin water felt colder today, though the air was still. When I poured it over the shell altar, I thought of the wives who stand at our threshold with wet sleeves and silent mouths.

I begin to understand why they come. Not for answers, but for nearness.

1st day of Eorgaen, 4830

The sound of hammers has quieted. Most of the scaffolding has come down. The stones above the chapel are now smooth and white, with carved lines I cannot name.

I finished dusting the office and folded what remained of the ledgers. Several were too damaged to save. Elenne said I may stack them in the catacombs for burning later, though I kept two that still held their shape.

Calen's ribbon rests between the pages of one. I did not mean to place it there. It simply felt right.

19th day of Eorgaen, 4830

We moved into the new quarters today. The walls are smooth, and the ceiling curves slightly like the hull of a ship turned over. My mat fits beneath the small window, though it does not face the sea.

Elenne set our candles on the narrow sill and arranged her ledgers in the cabinet with care. She has not said whether she likes the new space, but she wiped the sill twice before speaking.

I kept the basin cloth. It still smells faintly of rosemary and ink.

31st day of Eorgaen, 4830

Year-end bells rang before the harbor mist had cleared. The garden is smaller now, and the altar no longer sees the ocean, but the salt wind still finds its way between the stones.

I watched from the upper stairs as the tide turned. For a moment, I imagined Calen leaning over the rail of whatever vessel he's found. I do not know where he sailed, or what wind carried him out, only that the thought of him still returns like breath.

I folded a ribbon into the base of the old ledger. Some things are easier to keep when hidden.

1st day of Lormesta, 4831

The High Priestess arrived at midday. She wore fur-lined gloves and spoke briefly before entering the new sanctum. Her words were softer this time. She said the white stone caught light well and that the new foyer had "clean weight."

She did not linger. Elenne bowed but did not speak.

I spent the rest of the day sorting a box of old hymn fragments. Some were written in Kannalan, though I can only read the titles. I have set two aside in hopes that someone might help me translate them.

3rd day of Lormesta, 4831

Calen returned today.

He stood by the garden gate and waited until I saw him. He did not wave. Only smiled, the kind of smile that asks without needing an answer.

I brought him a cup of water, and we sat in the shadow of the old chapel. He said nothing of the voyage, and I did not ask. I watched his hands as he spoke of the harbor and the wind near the reefs. He has a sun mark on his left wrist now, just above the bone.

When he left, he pressed a shell into my palm. It was smooth and unbroken.

5th day of Lormesta, 4831

I do not know if he missed me. I do not know if he meant to see me or only came to the chapel as he once did.

Still, I thought of him each time the tide turned. I imagined the shape of his boat against the horizon, wondering if he looked for birds or counted the ways salt settles into cloth.

The shell he gave me rests beneath the old candle box. I did not tell Elenne.

I have finished copying the Kannalan refrain. The words feel older than stone, but they sing cleanly when read aloud.
|}
==== a faded off-white vellum ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Letter to Aralinna from Tagetes
!a faded off-white vellum
|-
|22 Fashanos 4839

Hi Aralinne,
You are going to sputter when you read this, but I found something I think might actually help. I've been haunting the lower rooms of the Rest's old archive, the one that smells like mushrooms and lamp oil, and you would not believe the number of ledgers that don't even belong there. Some trader scribbled a note in the margin of a shipping contract, and I have no idea why, about a Hermit of Charl. Not a priest. Not a sailor. A hermit.

The strange part is, he wasn't written about like some bedraggled man on a rock. He had followers. Or at least people who carried his words. The note said he held something powerful, something that could "turn back the tide and lay bare the seabed, if placed with care and faith at the high edge." That's what it actually said. The relic doesn't have a name, which is frustrating, but it is always connected to cliffs or high ridges.

I spent the last two days chasing the reference backward, and I think it's Kannalan. Most of the names line up with the way they spell things when they want to make them sound more official. The good stuff always hides behind fancy lettering.

Anyway, I asked around, and there's a guide here who knows the Karazja ruins. He's agreed to take me inland starting next week. I'll be careful. I promise. But if I'm right, that relic might still be out there.

Imagine what it would mean if we could part the sea.

More soon,
Tagetes

P.S. Tell Marris not to let the acolytes into the tide closet again. I know it was them. The shells were rearranged. Again.
|}
==== Elenne's (?) Papers ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Loose Papers from the Office in Nima's Temple Catacombs
!a pale slip of vellum bearing a rust-tinged watermark
|-
|Rust-toned watermarks bloom across the lower half of the parchment, forming uneven, organic shapes. The ink has faded but remains legible throughout. The surface is rough to the touch, with several shallow indentations along the right margin, as if pressed against the corner of a writing board. Mild mildew spotting is visible near the top, and the parchment carries a faint metallic scent.

In the Common language, it reads:
15th day of Fashanos, 4830
Master Vartrien of the Mercantile Guild visited the chapel before midday service. He spoke of expanding the grounds and building a larger temple to better serve Solhaven's growing population. I reminded him that the chapel predates the coastal road and holds its own rhythm. He seemed unconcerned but polite. Left a coin marked with the Guild's seal in the basin. I placed it with the others and marked his visit in the side register.
|-
!a ink-streaked torn vellum sheet
|-
|Uneven edges suggest this piece was torn hastily from a larger sheet. Faint ruling marks hint at its origin in a ledger or bound volume. A diagonal streak of indigo ink mars the surface, likely transferred from damp contact with another page. Most letters remain legible, though a few near the top right have blurred. Mildew traces the lower edge, and the parchment carries the scent of damp stone and old wax.

In the Common language, it reads:
29th day of Koaratos, 4832
Two merchant wives came bearing cloth bundles for the shrine. Each held swaddled sea stones tied with bits of silk, blue and pale. They asked no questions, gave no names. I placed the stones in the vessel below the sanctum basin and poured saltwater as they requested. Both stayed for the midday chant, though neither sang. After, they left through the garden gate without speaking further. I noted no marking on the silk. I hope they found comfort.
|-
!an ink-blotched paper fragment
|-
|Near the lower edge, signs of delamination are evident where prolonged exposure to moisture has lifted the parchment fibers. Ink blotches cover the upper left corner, though the writing beneath remains legible. Faint blue guidelines run horizontally across the surface, now nearly faded from view. All corners are softened from repeated handling, while the light scent of damp plaster and crushed chalk clings to the page.

In the Common language, it reads:
18th day of Ivastaen, 4835
Workers paused their efforts near the east colonnade due to a broken pulley. Several wandered into the chapel while the foreman spoke with a guild agent outside. One left a handful of copper on the basin rim. I noted no offering ribbon, but took it with the rest before lighting the salt lamp. Held afternoon prayers with two elders and one child. No hymn today. Breezes through the north wall joints have grown stronger since the scaffolding went up.
|}
[[Category:The Shadowy Abyss]]

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Found items

2025-06-14T16:04:57Z

RAFFELS2: /* a small salt-stained journal */

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Found items

2025-06-14T15:48:56Z

RAFFELS2: /* 06.13.2025 */ added journal

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Found items

2025-06-13T14:05:30Z

RAFFELS2: /* The Tile */ Added tile loresong.

== Shadowy Abyss Found Items ==
=== 06.06.2025 ===
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key's Sleeve
!an antique Vornavian silk cloth
|-
|Smooth with a soft finish, the Vornavian silk cloth has hints of its original deep blue hue at its edges though largely it has faded to a watered azure hue. Faint seashell patterns decorate the edge, the silver and white embroidery creating scallop shells that overlap. Rolled silk cords aid the bundle in staying closed as needed, their ends capped in silver dolphin periapts.
|}
{| class="wikitable"
|+Letter to Tagetes from Aralinne
!a blue-tinted white vellum parchment
|-
|Slightly warped in shape and displaying clear signs of damage from humidity, the fine parchment is tinted with a subtle blue hue that is almost white and yet distinctly not. Crisp folds create precise lines in the top and bottom third of the piece, while the corners display fray signs where moisture has separated the layers.
|-
|In the Common language, it reads:
the seventeenth day of Olaesta in the year 4839

Tagetes,

Hopefully, we will return at the same time and all of this preparation will be for naught.

The temple will have no attendants as I have figured out the missing piece to get us to Pearl. It lies in an old Kannalan Temple to Charl. I believe I've tracked down its former location. I've hidden the plans in the old office at the end of the catacombs and sealed the entry.

So few people know of its existence that it should be safe to travel there. I do not think I will be gone more than a handful of days.

However, as I do not trust the Mercantile Guild, with their recent decisions to create gardens and shrines to the dark pantheon, I have sealed the doorway up and hidden it. Since you know where it is, you should have no issue finding it.

There are seven keys for entry. I've left the Empress key here, but you can easily obtain the other six by seeking the blessings of the Lover, the Mistress, the Sister, the Mother, the Daughter, and the High Priestess. I'm sure you'll remember who these are from our past talks. I dare not say more for fear this is found by others.

Please know that some wish to see the curse spread. Others are working hard to stop it. Young Bristena had the idea to buy back all the jewelry from the women whose husband, lovers, and brothers searched the North Beach to obtain them. I gave her enough coin to buy them all back.

Once she has every last piece, she'll have a sailor take her out to the spot we believe the "Pearl" to be waiting in and drop them back into the water. That should give us time to get the pieces together to free her. I used the last of the coffers to pay a crew to start the lighthouse.

If I don't return... Please let my husband and son know the depths of which I love them.

By my hand,

Aralinne Wynedowne
|}
{| class="wikitable"
|+Empress Key
!a carved golden amber acorn
|-
|Roughly oval in shape, a carved golden amber acorn is broad and flat, providing an excellent view of its transparent interior portion. Trapped within the golden yellow fossilized pine tree sap are several small flying insects and a dried flower.
|}

{| class="wikitable"
|+The Tile
!an aged grey stone tile
|-
|
|-
|Your song touches the tile, and the memory begins with stillness, then the faint scrape of wood across stone. Gentle hands press close, fitting the tile snugly into place. A murmur of approval hums nearby, muffled by fabric and breath. Cool grout slides into the seams, and the air shifts. Salt lingers in the room, carried on a current scented with blossoms. Lilac and sea daisy rise together, soft and clean. A hush settles across the surface, and the tile recognizes it as belonging. Beneath the faintest sigh of sandals against stone, a woman's voice murmurs, "There. That's better." The sounds and sensations fade along with the last syllables of your song.

As your song continues to caress the tile, it stirs with echoes of passing time. Soft footsteps come and go, punctuated by the rhythmic sweep of bristles and the clatter of buckets. Voices rise and fall nearby, sometimes low with grief, sometimes bright with ritual. One speaks of a sister's safe return, another offers blessings over a sailor's name. A different voice complains about a cracked basin and the need for fresh oil. Each moment blends into the next, seasons marked only by the changing cadence of heels, the weight of silence, and the gentle creak of wood in damp air. Slowly, the sensation and sounds fade, one by one, until they fall as silent as your song.

Your melody draws forth a hush, and the tile remembers the scent first. Bitter and resinous, the thick smoke of funerary incense curls low to the ground. Voices follow in soft procession, cloaked in sorrow. Some weep openly, others murmur prayers with trembling breath. The weight of grief presses against the stone, heavy as tide against jetty. A name is spoken again and again, reverent and broken, until it becomes a lullaby of mourning. Between each word, silence holds vigil. The tile feels a deep stillness in the air, as if even the sea has paused to listen. A final name tumbles across your ears as your song slips into silence, "Elenne."

Your song stirs the memory of disturbance. The tile feels the grit of its seams loosened, the edge of a tool scraping carefully through old grout. Pressure lifts it from the floor, just briefly, and something small is slid beneath. When the tile returns to its place, the surface meets the subfloor with an unfamiliar firmness. A hand lingers upon it, smooth and warm, resting for a long moment before giving a gentle pat. Whispered words ride the still air, close enough to touch, "Keep this safe until Tagetes finds you." An absence of warmth is the last sensation the tile imparts before your song stills.

Your voice brushes the tile, and the past answers with hushed urgency. There is the soft shuffle of feet, the creak of worn boots on stone, and a sharp intake of breath. Mournful whispers crowd the silence. A voice, cracked with worry and soft with distance, murmurs, "I don't know where you are, Aralinne. I can't get into the catacombs to check on you as the Brisker's Cove bowl was broken in the latest Krolvin raids... Please come home to us. Please. Your plan for Bristena worked; she told me of it when I returned. The girls are free, but where are you? I'm going to hide my piece until it can unite with yours. Please be safe, be careful." A soft sigh blends with the ending resonance of your song.

Your voice draws forth only silence at first. Time passes, measured in distant echoes. Footsteps sound too far to name, and faint shifts in the air come and go with no purpose. Old wood creaks softly where it meets damp stone. Dust settles in the seams, and salt from the sea clings to the surface. Years drift by without notice. Then, without warning, fingers press along your edges. There is a pause, a breath held just beyond hearing, and the tile feels the careful pry of something firm beneath it. A clamor of voices overlaps with each other until they blend into the fading sound of your song.
|}
[[Category:The Shadowy Abyss]]

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Rhymes and visions

2025-06-12T17:34:56Z

RAFFELS2: /* Visions */

== The Shadowy Abyss ==

Randomly, adventurers appear to be overcome by either visions or they spontaneously recite lines of poetry.

* 06/03/2025 - Thus far, there doesn't seem to be a theory or connection on who sees the visions or recites the poems.

=== Rhymes ===
Individuals who recite the poems seem to see a vision of a scroll or document announcing the title of the poem.
<pre{{log2}}>
Hollybear's expression grows distant as she murmurs a quiet verse:

"One of us still walks the tide,
Though flesh is gone and tears have dried.
Her comb was taken from the sea,
Now she dreams of being free."
</pre>
<pre{{log2}}>
Aesom's expression grows distant as he murmurs a quiet verse:

"Who dares disturb the salt-kissed dead,
Who sleep where no sun has ever tread?"
</pre>
<pre{{log2}}>
Raelee's expression grows distant as she murmurs a quiet verse:

"The captain lies in a watery keep,
Still gripping the comb that binds her to sleep."
</pre>
<pre{{log2}}>
Delindra's expression grows distant as she murmurs a quiet verse:

"Her sisters sing from reef and foam,
We beg you, send her comb back home.
Or watch the mist crawl up the quay,
And feel her sorrow fill the sea."
</pre>
<pre{{log2}}>
Anferis's expression grows distant as he murmurs a quiet verse:

"She once swam proud through Charl's wide blue,
Now chained to planks, her song struck through.
The price of love turned cold and cruel,
The comb now keeps her bound by rule."
</pre>
<pre{{log2}}>
Missoni's expression grows distant as she murmurs a quiet verse:

"Eyes in the sky and mist turned green,
He sees all who touch what should not be seen."
</pre>
<pre{{log2}}>
Jisandra's expression grows distant as she murmurs a quiet verse:

"The sea will not rest, nor the storm be still,
'Til her comb is returned to the deep against will."
</pre>
<pre{{log2}}>
Aleko's expression grows distant as he murmurs a quiet verse:

"He held her with a sailor's knot,
Now ghosts drift where they once fought.
The shell that once her fingers knew,
Is cursed for all who keep it too."
</pre>
<pre{{log2}}>
Your own voice fills your ears as you recite:

"She once swam proud through Charl's wide blue,
Now chained to planks, her song struck through.
The price of love turned cold and cruel,
The comb now keeps her bound by rule."
</pre>
<pre{{log2}}>
Riend's expression grows distant as she murmurs a quiet verse:

"Bring back the gift or drown in regret,
For the pearl's price is not paid yet."
</pre>
<pre{{log2}}>
Your own voice fills your ears as you recite:

"Eyes in the sky and mist turned green,
He sees all who touch what should not be seen."
</pre>
<pre{{log2}}>
Your own voice fills your ears as you recite:

"Bound by love, betrayed by keep,
A pearl was lashed where anchors sleep.
Her voice was stolen, her soul confined,
Return what's hers, or be entwined."
</pre>
<pre{{log2}}>
Your own voice fills your ears as you recite:

"She sang once sweetly, now silence remains,
Her voice held fast by salt-forged chains."
</pre>
<pre{{log2}}>
Missoni's expression grows distant as she murmurs a quiet verse:

"She dreams in coral and broken shells,
And wakes when a greedy hand dwells."
</pre>
=== Visions ===
Some adventurers report slipping into a trance and seeing something obscure.
<pre{{log2}}>
A strange pressure wells behind your eyes, and the sound of the sea floods your ears. Your vision dims as your eyes cloud with a silvery blue cast. You feel weightless, drifting, and before you realize it, you begin to murmur in a voice not quite your own.

Coming unbidden into your mind's eye, your vision swims and fills with fish swimming backward as the ocean breathes out. You are no longer breathing in. Then the sea exhales again, and the natural rhythm of your body returns.

Slowly, you feel yourself returning to your body, and you feel a prickling of pins and needles upon your limp limbs. You blink several times and feel as if you are struggling through thick layers of cobwebs before your vision finally returns to normal
</pre>
<pre{{log2}}>
A strange pressure wells behind your eyes, and the sound of the sea floods your ears. Your vision dims as your eyes cloud with a silvery blue cast. You feel weightless, drifting, and before you realize it, you begin to murmur in a voice not quite your own.

Coming unbidden into your mind's eye, your vision swims and fills with hands made of salt holding you still as a shadow in the shape of a woman turns her back. Her hair floats like kelp. You cannot follow. She dissolves into the dark, and the water drains away.

Slowly, you feel yourself returning to your body, and you feel a prickling of pins and needles upon your limp limbs. You blink several times and feel as if you are struggling through thick layers of cobwebs before your vision finally returns to normal.
</pre>
<pre{{log2}}>
A strange pressure wells behind your eyes, and the sound of the sea floods your ears. Your vision dims as your eyes cloud with a silvery blue cast. You feel weightless, drifting, and before you realize it, you begin to murmur in a voice not quite your own.

Coming unbidden into your mind's eye, your vision swims and fills with glass pearls scattered across the seafloor. One cracks open. There is an eye inside. It blinks once, and everything goes black.

Slowly, you feel yourself returning to your body, and you feel a prickling of pins and needles upon your limp limbs. You blink several times and feel as if you are struggling through thick layers of cobwebs before your vision finally returns to normal.
</pre>
<pre{{log2}}>
A strange pressure wells behind your eyes, and the sound of the sea floods your ears. Your vision dims as your eyes cloud with a silvery blue cast. You feel weightless, drifting, and before you realize it, you begin to murmur in a voice not quite your own.

Coming unbidden into your mind's eye, your vision swims and fills with a conch shell pulsing like a heart. You lift it to your ear. It speaks your name, but it is not your voice that answers. The shell crumbles in your hand, and silence returns.

Slowly, you feel yourself returning to your body, and you feel a prickling of pins and needles upon your limp limbs. You blink several times and feel as if you are struggling through thick layers of cobwebs before your vision finally returns to normal.
</pre>
<pre{{log2}}>
A strange pressure wells behind your eyes, and the sound of the sea floods your ears. Your vision dims as your eyes cloud with a silvery blue cast. You feel weightless, drifting, and before you realize it, you begin to murmur in a voice not quite your own.

Coming unbidden into your mind's eye, your vision swims and fills with dark water flowing upward like smoke, curling around a rusted chain. A single comb drifts just out of reach, its teeth tangled with seaweed that bleeds light. The water clouds and thickens, and the vision slips from your grasp like a forgotten name.

Slowly, you feel yourself returning to your body, and you feel a prickling of pins and needles upon your limp limbs. You blink several times and feel as if you are struggling through thick layers of cobwebs before your vision finally returns to normal.
</pre>
<pre{{log2}}>
A strange pressure wells behind your eyes, and the sound of the sea floods your ears. Your vision dims as your eyes cloud with a silvery blue cast. You feel weightless, drifting, and before you realize it, you begin to murmur in a voice not quite your own.

Coming unbidden into your mind's eye, your vision swims and fills with dozens of eyes opening beneath the waves, each reflecting a stormy sky. None blink. One closes. You forget which. A wave passes overhead, and when it clears, they are gone.

Slowly, you feel yourself returning to your body, and you feel a prickling of pins and needles upon your limp limbs. You blink several times and feel as if you are struggling through thick layers of cobwebs before your vision finally returns to normal.
</pre>
[[Category: The Shadowy Abyss]]

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Rhymes and visions

2025-06-12T17:18:25Z

RAFFELS2: /* Visions */

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Rhymes and visions

2025-06-12T17:12:14Z

RAFFELS2: added more visions

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Rhymes and visions

2025-06-12T16:18:27Z

RAFFELS2:

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Rhymes and visions

2025-06-12T16:15:07Z

RAFFELS2: added vision

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Found items

2025-06-12T16:10:57Z

RAFFELS2: added description and read of letter, base descriptions for cloth and key

== Shadowy Abyss Found Items
=== 06.06.2025 ===
==== cloth ====
an antique Vornavian silk cloth

==== letter ====
a blue-tinted white vellum parchment

Slightly warped in shape and displaying clear signs of damage from humidity, the fine parchment is tinted with a subtle blue hue that is almost white and yet distinctly not. Crisp folds create precise lines in the top and bottom third of the piece, while the corners display fray signs where moisture has separated the layers.

In the Common language, it reads:

the seventeenth day of Olaesta in the year 4839

Tagetes,

Hopefully, we will return at the same time and all of this preparation will be for naught.

The temple will have no attendants as I have figured out the missing piece to get us to Pearl. It lies in an old Kannalan Temple to Charl. I believe I've tracked down its former location. I've hidden the plans in the old office at the end of the catacombs and sealed the entry.

So few people know of its existence that it should be safe to travel there. I do not think I will be gone more than a handful of days.

However, as I do not trust the Mercantile Guild, with their recent decisions to create gardens and shrines to the dark pantheon, I have sealed the doorway up and hidden it. Since you know where it is, you should have no issue finding it.

There are seven keys for entry. I've left the Empress key here, but you can easily obtain the other six by seeking the blessings of the Lover, the Mistress, the Sister, the Mother, the Daughter, and the High Priestess. I'm sure you'll remember who these are from our past talks. I dare not say more for fear this is found by others.

Please know that some wish to see the curse spread. Others are working hard to stop it. Young Bristena had the idea to buy back all the jewelry from the women whose husband, lovers, and brothers searched the North Beach to obtain them. I gave her enough coin to buy them all back.

Once she has every last piece, she'll have a sailor take her out to the spot we believe the "Pearl" to be waiting in and drop them back into the water. That should give us time to get the pieces together to free her. I used the last of the coffers to pay a crew to start the lighthouse.

If I don't return... Please let my husband and son know the depths of which I love them.

By my hand,

Aralinne Wynedowne

==== Empress Key ====
a carved golden amber acorn

[[Category:The Shadowy Abyss]]

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Recaps (summary)

2025-06-11T16:53:08Z

RAFFELS2:

=== 03/22/2024 ===
'''Crossover with [[:Category:The Lion, the Artist, and the Mural|The Lion, The Artist, and The Mural]]'''

[[Akinir Scallabrini]] was found there by the adventurers. She was sad and looking at the ancient artwork for a connection to her feelings. Offering encouragement, the adventurers assured her that they would help Lady Ba'Thira's petition and it seemed to perk the child up, though she greatly missed her father.

While the adventurers were with the child some unusual trolls appeared on the scene. Concerned for her safety, they whisked her away and reunited her with Lady Ba'Thira. Who was grateful and promised Akinir that they would discuss everything that had happened over her favorite warm drink and little cakes. The two departed.

Shortly after, a warrior moved through the market complaining that the trolls that were currently in the cave were much stronger than usual and clearly agitated.

Adventurers returned to the cave to find several things:

* Agitated trolls enmass in the caves, some quite powerful though all cave trolls as can usually be found there.
* An odd oceanic spectre
* A gurgling, hissing voice demanding that a thief return what was lost.
* Shortly after, another coastal storm flooded the area and the caves started to flood.

After a time, the trolls were put to rest but the spectres grew in number. The last that was heard that night, before the spectres faded away, was:

Issuing into the unnatural silence immediately following a recent thunderclap, a soft, hissing voice fills the air. "We will find you, little thief. We will find you, and you will pay."

Chill winds ripple through the air, the scent of salt and brine heavy in their wake. A watery voice calls out amid the raging storm, "You have been warned."

=== 03/31/2024 ===

=== 04/01/2024 ===

=== 04/11/2024 ===

Storms hovered over Solhaven for most of the day, thundering, lightning, and raining. At some point, phosphorescent green eyes appeared in the storm clouds, searching the ground below though it was difficult to determine what. As they focused westward, adventurers followed.

Watery spectres and barnacle-covered skeletons roamed the area around the lake, focusing on the old decrepit house and attempting to gain entry. All the while, the eyes were watching the lake, and a booming voice was calling for a thief to return what it had stolen.

The invasion went on for a time, while the storm grew more intense. Several lightning strikes hit the ground and the air grew chill. Heavy mist blanketed the area and was also tinged in the same green as the eyes in the clouds.
The bell of Niima's Temple issued a single peal, drawing the attention of the eyes in the storm. Upon the second chime, the eyes withdrew completely from the wilds, leaving its minions to die.

Upon reaching Niima's Temple adventurers felt the cold above them and journeyed to the widow's walk, which was covered in a heavy fog that obscured everything. Growls and voices could be heard in the fog. A low chant eventually parted the fog to reveal [[Dieudonnee]], the faith healer of Marshtown. Telling those to help her, she moved about the widow's walk admonishing others to help her pray. Eventually, the eyes receded, and she predicted that the storms would end soon.

She spoke briefly of being alerted to the situation by Twyllah, who had been practicing her songs in the temple. She knew nothing of what was stolen, though said she would look amid her predecessors' belongings.

She shared that Twyllah is [[Jillou]]'s half-sister, a much more timid child than Jillou. She is from Oonree's first marriage, though she was not clear on who Oonree was.

When questioned, she said that the air felt old and of the sea to her but could offer nothing more.

=== 05/03/2024 ===
[[Odelgarde Brindlestraffe]] passed adventurers at the Ellipses in the [[Summit Academy]], pausing to speak briefly with them there before moving on to the Mirror of the Sky to observe the glacier there.

When asked how her research was going, the Magister admitted that it was a bit of a mixed bag. While she had a bit of a source, based on inquiries at the college's library, the answers seemed to garner more questions than anything.

After explaining to the college's librarian about the happenings in Solhaven, the woman suggested that Vornavis might be dealing with one of the [[The Unfathomable Nereids: Unveiling the Mysteries of Niima's Daughters|Nereid Mythos]]. When pressed further, the woman said that unfortunately she couldn't verify the theory because all research on Nereids had been moved to Ta'Illistim as there was a scholar there working on a thesis.

Continued conversation took place regarding Nereids, since Odelgarde had never heard of them before, but as with the conversation with the librarian, it only produced more questions.

Who or what is the pearl? Could the pearl be a person or an item? Could the Nereid be the pearl or is she bound to one? Could the pearl be tied to [[Caligos Isle]]? Who is the captain? How does it tie to Solhaven? What does it have to do with the caves?

It was suggested that perhaps a visit to the Tower of the Sea Princess to speak to the priestess there would be a good place to start. Another suggestion was to inquire of local fishermen/wives/marshfolk as they tend to hold onto the old legends that don't always get written down. Others suggested trying to get familiars into the caverns under the old house on the Lake to see if there is something there that could be connected to what is happening.

=== 05/09/2024 ===
It started raining early in the day. Definitely thunderstorms.

Thick green mist invaded a storm cloud above the town, coalescing into a set of eyes that began searching the ground. It roamed for a bit, slipped past Marshtown, and then suddenly darted west. Lightning strikes became heavy at the lagoon.

When adventurers arrived, there were skeletons and spectres and (something I'm forgetting). Cloud-eyes were angry, yelling about getting its items back.

When people got sassy with it, they were knocked over by the wind or struck by lightning.

The lightning control wasn't all that great as it struck indiscriminately… People, spirit servants, skeletons, shamblers, and it even struck a shield once, which caused the lightning to ricochet back into the clouds…. It stopped throwing lightning for a bit after that.

The eyes made some threats.

Then the bells of Niima's shrine started to echo through the area, the cloud-eyes flinched and defiantly rallied against it only to eventually be overwhelmed by them.

The Spirit Caller of Marshtown was seen later in the Market, she commented that the Niima priestess and acolytes were all too timid as they refused to get up onto the roof and ring the bells. She basically said they needed to figure it out cause her old knees were not liking having to come out of the marsh, into the city, up to the temple, and then back down.

She was asked if she knew of any maritime tales surrounding a pearl, but she said she didn't and would ask some of the gaffers.

=== 05/15/2024 ===
Magister [[Odelgarde Brindlestraffe]] visited the [[Library Aies]] in Ta'Illistim tonight as she was guided there by researches from the Summit Academy. She was in search of particular information regarding nereids. Those at Summit Academy said that the research had been moved to Ta'Illistim as there was a Loremaster there doing research on the topic.

Librarian Aiwin greeted her in the courtyard and then they went into the library. Unfortunately, according to both Aiwin and the local Circulation Desk Clerk, Lady [[Soriana]] was the loremaster that they were looking for but she'd left hours before. She had booked rare passage to the [[Isle of Ornath]] as she was due to get her thesis added to the [[Library of Biblia]] later that month. She took all of her research with her. The captain of the ship was Kolvar.

Some discussion happened, a visit with Lady [[Sayilla Javilerre|Sayilla]] took place, and then Odelgarde was given a tour of [[Veythorne Manor]].

Oldegarde's plans are to return to Vornavis, as she has to assemble some court documents by the weekend as part of her duties as the Vornavian Court Magister, and then she's going to attempt to book passage to Ornath.

=== 11/29/2024 ===
(Summary provided by [[Delindra (prime)|Delindra]].)

Freeport Friday at Paw's Eatery in Marshtown had some visitors. [[Tallulah]] came in to chat with us for a bit. She let us know that [[Jillou]] has been visiting her cousins in Aldora for a while. Paw sent her there for safe keeping, concerned that she'd stray into trouble with the unrest that happened with the undead a few months back. Now that things have quieted down, it may be safe for her to return. She seems eager to do so, as she's been talking to her cousins about missing the crayfish and her friend Rey.

After Tallulah returned to work, [[Sargassa]] also stopped by. She was checking in with Tallulah to get an update on Jillou's condition. It appears Jillou was actually sent to Aldora because she was sick with a strange illness that seemed related to the sea. Her lungs would keep randomly filling up with water, and her skin would be translucent as if she'd been in the water for hours, even though she had not. Aldora was in a dry season, so it seemed safer for her there. Her condition apparently improved immediately after leaving for Aldora.

We discussed the possibility it could all be related to the eyes in the sky from earlier in the year, and the pearl that could possibly be missing. Akinir seems to be healthy and not implicated. Jillou has insisted she didn't do anything differently than usual that would expose her to such an illness. Sargassa indicated she'd follow up with Magister Odelgarde and the research she did on the ancient water, just to see if things might be related. Sargassa is also going to suggest that Jillou stay in Aldora while she follows up on these things, just to ensure her safety in case they are actually related.

=== 06/05/2025===
Rumors abound in Solhaven! Ask Mabel (a stooped old woman) about News!

[OOC Note: Mabel has been updated as have some others.]

'''[[Stooped old woman|Mabel]]''' - Wandering North Haven - to read her rumors, click '''here.'''
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" id="mw-customcollapsible-Mabel">
To be updated after a few days, and folks have a chance to hear the rumors.
</div>

'''Bristena''' - An old woman in North Haven - to read her rumors, click '''here.'''
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" id="mw-customcollapsible-Bristena">
To be updated after a few days, and folks have a chance to hear the rumors.
</div>

'''Tallulah''' - A young freckled woman in Marshtown - to read her rumors, click '''here.'''
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" id="mw-customcollapsible-Tallulah">
To be updated after a few days, and folks have a chance to hear the rumors.
</div>

'''Ol' Solt''' - Sailor in North Haven - to read her rumors, click '''here.'''
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" id="mw-customcollapsible-Solt">
To be updated after a few days, and folks have a chance to hear the rumors.
</div>

'''[[Walsor Gryhm]]''' - Pawnshop Owner in North Haven - to read her rumors, click '''here.'''
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" id="mw-customcollapsible-Walsor">
To be updated after a few days, and folks have a chance to hear the rumors.
</div>

'''[[Peddler Gertie|Gertie]]''' - Icee merchant in North Haven - to read her rumors, click '''here.'''
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" id="mw-customcollapsible-Gertie">
To be updated after a few days, and folks have a chance to hear the rumors.
</div>

'''[[Merchant Kelph|Kelph]]''' - Herbalist Merchant in North Haven - to read her rumors, click '''here.'''
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" id="mw-customcollapsible-Kelph">
Sit around to watch her ambients, she gives you clues on who Bristena is...</div>

=== 06/09/2025 ===
Eyes were once again seen in the sky above Solhaven, and continued demands were made for the location of the "little thief." An invasion of water-logged corpses began on the West Road, and the invading forces made their way through Marshtown and into Solhaven before they were pushed back by defenders. Toward the end of the battle, lightning struck on Triton Road near the post office, heralding the arrival of a strong wind wraith. After it was dispatched, the battle seemed to die down, but locals continued to have visions and recite verses of the Nereid's Lament.
[[Category:The Shadowy Abyss]]

The Shadowy Abyss (storyline)/Recaps (summary)

2025-06-11T16:51:46Z

RAFFELS2: Added 6/9/2025 summary

=== 03/22/2024 ===
'''Crossover with [[:Category:The Lion, the Artist, and the Mural|The Lion, The Artist, and The Mural]]'''

[[Akinir Scallabrini]] was found there by the adventurers. She was sad and looking at the ancient artwork for a connection to her feelings. Offering encouragement, the adventurers assured her that they would help Lady Ba'Thira's petition and it seemed to perk the child up, though she greatly missed her father.

While the adventurers were with the child some unusual trolls appeared on the scene. Concerned for her safety, they whisked her away and reunited her with Lady Ba'Thira. Who was grateful and promised Akinir that they would discuss everything that had happened over her favorite warm drink and little cakes. The two departed.

Shortly after, a warrior moved through the market complaining that the trolls that were currently in the cave were much stronger than usual and clearly agitated.

Adventurers returned to the cave to find several things:

* Agitated trolls enmass in the caves, some quite powerful though all cave trolls as can usually be found there.
* An odd oceanic spectre
* A gurgling, hissing voice demanding that a thief return what was lost.
* Shortly after, another coastal storm flooded the area and the caves started to flood.

After a time, the trolls were put to rest but the spectres grew in number. The last that was heard that night, before the spectres faded away, was:

Issuing into the unnatural silence immediately following a recent thunderclap, a soft, hissing voice fills the air. "We will find you, little thief. We will find you, and you will pay."

Chill winds ripple through the air, the scent of salt and brine heavy in their wake. A watery voice calls out amid the raging storm, "You have been warned."

=== 03/31/2024 ===

=== 04/01/2024 ===

=== 04/11/2024 ===

Storms hovered over Solhaven for most of the day, thundering, lightning, and raining. At some point, phosphorescent green eyes appeared in the storm clouds, searching the ground below though it was difficult to determine what. As they focused westward, adventurers followed.

Watery spectres and barnacle-covered skeletons roamed the area around the lake, focusing on the old decrepit house and attempting to gain entry. All the while, the eyes were watching the lake, and a booming voice was calling for a thief to return what it had stolen.

The invasion went on for a time, while the storm grew more intense. Several lightning strikes hit the ground and the air grew chill. Heavy mist blanketed the area and was also tinged in the same green as the eyes in the clouds.
The bell of Niima's Temple issued a single peal, drawing the attention of the eyes in the storm. Upon the second chime, the eyes withdrew completely from the wilds, leaving its minions to die.

Upon reaching Niima's Temple adventurers felt the cold above them and journeyed to the widow's walk, which was covered in a heavy fog that obscured everything. Growls and voices could be heard in the fog. A low chant eventually parted the fog to reveal [[Dieudonnee]], the faith healer of Marshtown. Telling those to help her, she moved about the widow's walk admonishing others to help her pray. Eventually, the eyes receded, and she predicted that the storms would end soon.

She spoke briefly of being alerted to the situation by Twyllah, who had been practicing her songs in the temple. She knew nothing of what was stolen, though said she would look amid her predecessors' belongings.

She shared that Twyllah is [[Jillou]]'s half-sister, a much more timid child than Jillou. She is from Oonree's first marriage, though she was not clear on who Oonree was.

When questioned, she said that the air felt old and of the sea to her but could offer nothing more.

=== 05/03/2024 ===
[[Odelgarde Brindlestraffe]] passed adventurers at the Ellipses in the [[Summit Academy]], pausing to speak briefly with them there before moving on to the Mirror of the Sky to observe the glacier there.

When asked how her research was going, the Magister admitted that it was a bit of a mixed bag. While she had a bit of a source, based on inquiries at the college's library, the answers seemed to garner more questions than anything.

After explaining to the college's librarian about the happenings in Solhaven, the woman suggested that Vornavis might be dealing with one of the [[The Unfathomable Nereids: Unveiling the Mysteries of Niima's Daughters|Nereid Mythos]]. When pressed further, the woman said that unfortunately she couldn't verify the theory because all research on Nereids had been moved to Ta'Illistim as there was a scholar there working on a thesis.

Continued conversation took place regarding Nereids, since Odelgarde had never heard of them before, but as with the conversation with the librarian, it only produced more questions.

Who or what is the pearl? Could the pearl be a person or an item? Could the Nereid be the pearl or is she bound to one? Could the pearl be tied to [[Caligos Isle]]? Who is the captain? How does it tie to Solhaven? What does it have to do with the caves?

It was suggested that perhaps a visit to the Tower of the Sea Princess to speak to the priestess there would be a good place to start. Another suggestion was to inquire of local fishermen/wives/marshfolk as they tend to hold onto the old legends that don't always get written down. Others suggested trying to get familiars into the caverns under the old house on the Lake to see if there is something there that could be connected to what is happening.

=== 05/09/2024 ===
It started raining early in the day. Definitely thunderstorms.

Thick green mist invaded a storm cloud above the town, coalescing into a set of eyes that began searching the ground. It roamed for a bit, slipped past Marshtown, and then suddenly darted west. Lightning strikes became heavy at the lagoon.

When adventurers arrived, there were skeletons and spectres and (something I'm forgetting). Cloud-eyes were angry, yelling about getting its items back.

When people got sassy with it, they were knocked over by the wind or struck by lightning.

The lightning control wasn't all that great as it struck indiscriminately… People, spirit servants, skeletons, shamblers, and it even struck a shield once, which caused the lightning to ricochet back into the clouds…. It stopped throwing lightning for a bit after that.

The eyes made some threats.

Then the bells of Niima's shrine started to echo through the area, the cloud-eyes flinched and defiantly rallied against it only to eventually be overwhelmed by them.

The Spirit Caller of Marshtown was seen later in the Market, she commented that the Niima priestess and acolytes were all too timid as they refused to get up onto the roof and ring the bells. She basically said they needed to figure it out cause her old knees were not liking having to come out of the marsh, into the city, up to the temple, and then back down.

She was asked if she knew of any maritime tales surrounding a pearl, but she said she didn't and would ask some of the gaffers.

=== 05/15/2024 ===
Magister [[Odelgarde Brindlestraffe]] visited the [[Library Aies]] in Ta'Illistim tonight as she was guided there by researches from the Summit Academy. She was in search of particular information regarding nereids. Those at Summit Academy said that the research had been moved to Ta'Illistim as there was a Loremaster there doing research on the topic.

Librarian Aiwin greeted her in the courtyard and then they went into the library. Unfortunately, according to both Aiwin and the local Circulation Desk Clerk, Lady [[Soriana]] was the loremaster that they were looking for but she'd left hours before. She had booked rare passage to the [[Isle of Ornath]] as she was due to get her thesis added to the [[Library of Biblia]] later that month. She took all of her research with her. The captain of the ship was Kolvar.

Some discussion happened, a visit with Lady [[Sayilla Javilerre|Sayilla]] took place, and then Odelgarde was given a tour of [[Veythorne Manor]].

Oldegarde's plans are to return to Vornavis, as she has to assemble some court documents by the weekend as part of her duties as the Vornavian Court Magister, and then she's going to attempt to book passage to Ornath.

=== 11/29/2024 ===
(Summary provided by [[Delindra (prime)|Delindra]].)

Freeport Friday at Paw's Eatery in Marshtown had some visitors. [[Tallulah]] came in to chat with us for a bit. She let us know that [[Jillou]] has been visiting her cousins in Aldora for a while. Paw sent her there for safe keeping, concerned that she'd stray into trouble with the unrest that happened with the undead a few months back. Now that things have quieted down, it may be safe for her to return. She seems eager to do so, as she's been talking to her cousins about missing the crayfish and her friend Rey.

After Tallulah returned to work, [[Sargassa]] also stopped by. She was checking in with Tallulah to get an update on Jillou's condition. It appears Jillou was actually sent to Aldora because she was sick with a strange illness that seemed related to the sea. Her lungs would keep randomly filling up with water, and her skin would be translucent as if she'd been in the water for hours, even though she had not. Aldora was in a dry season, so it seemed safer for her there. Her condition apparently improved immediately after leaving for Aldora.

We discussed the possibility it could all be related to the eyes in the sky from earlier in the year, and the pearl that could possibly be missing. Akinir seems to be healthy and not implicated. Jillou has insisted she didn't do anything differently than usual that would expose her to such an illness. Sargassa indicated she'd follow up with Magister Odelgarde and the research she did on the ancient water, just to see if things might be related. Sargassa is also going to suggest that Jillou stay in Aldora while she follows up on these things, just to ensure her safety in case they are actually related.

=== 06/05/2025===
Rumors abound in Solhaven! Ask Mabel (a stooped old woman) about News!

[OOC Note: Mabel has been updated as have some others.]

'''[[Stooped old woman|Mabel]]''' - Wandering North Haven - to read her rumors, click '''here.'''
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" id="mw-customcollapsible-Mabel">
To be updated after a few days, and folks have a chance to hear the rumors.
</div>

'''Bristena''' - An old woman in North Haven - to read her rumors, click '''here.'''
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" id="mw-customcollapsible-Bristena">
To be updated after a few days, and folks have a chance to hear the rumors.
</div>

'''Tallulah''' - A young freckled woman in Marshtown - to read her rumors, click '''here.'''
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" id="mw-customcollapsible-Tallulah">
To be updated after a few days, and folks have a chance to hear the rumors.
</div>

'''Ol' Solt''' - Sailor in North Haven - to read her rumors, click '''here.'''
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" id="mw-customcollapsible-Solt">
To be updated after a few days, and folks have a chance to hear the rumors.
</div>

'''[[Walsor Gryhm]]''' - Pawnshop Owner in North Haven - to read her rumors, click '''here.'''
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" id="mw-customcollapsible-Walsor">
To be updated after a few days, and folks have a chance to hear the rumors.
</div>

'''[[Peddler Gertie|Gertie]]''' - Icee merchant in North Haven - to read her rumors, click '''here.'''
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" id="mw-customcollapsible-Gertie">
To be updated after a few days, and folks have a chance to hear the rumors.
</div>

'''[[Merchant Kelph|Kelph]]''' - Herbalist Merchant in North Haven - to read her rumors, click '''here.'''
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" id="mw-customcollapsible-Kelph">
Sit around to watch her ambients, she gives you clues on who Bristena is...

=== 06/09/2025 ===
</div>Eyes were once again seen in the sky above Solhaven, and continued demands were made for the location of the "little thief." An invasion of water-logged corpses began on the West Road, and the invading forces made their way through Marshtown and into Solhaven before they were pushed back by defenders. Toward the end of the battle, lightning struck on Triton Road near the post office, heralding the arrival of a strong wind wraith. After it was dispatched, the battle seemed to die down, but locals continued to have visions and recite verses of the Nereid's Lament.
[[Category:The Shadowy Abyss]]

Cavalcade of Mounts

2025-04-20T14:42:51Z

RAFFELS2: Updated prizes.

== Event Information ==
Date: April 27, 2025

Time: 9:00 p.m. Eastern

Location: Beginning at the western end of the Jousting Fields at Rumor Woods and parading to the Cysaelotar Bonfire.

Description: The Orders of the Silver Gryphon and Azure Sun invite you to join in the second Cavalcade of Mounts on April 27th at 9 P.M. EST! Unfurl your standards, display your crests and coat-of-arms and join our parade starting at the Rumor Woods Jousting Fields to bivouac at the Cysaelotar Bonfire where those who wish may join a competition demonstrating their riding and handling skills alongside their faithful steeds! Judges will declare the top three winners with prizes based on aesthetics of the rider, their mount, and the creativity of their up to three-minute performance.

== Schedule ==
9 P.M. The event will begin with a parade from the Jousting Fields to the Bonfire. Paraders are encouraged to bring their banners, crests, and such to display their coat of arms and celebrate those they represent.

9:10 P.M. At the keep the rules will be quickly gone over as we set the order of entrants for the demonstration competitions.

9:15 P.M. We will begin with the first entry of the demonstration with a 3-minute time limit, continuing through until we have completed the list of entrants' demonstrations.

9:45-9:50 P.M. The panel of judges will render their decision as to the top three demonstrations judging the entrants for their performance creativity, the aesthetic of the entrant and the aesthetic of the entrant's animal in how they complement each other.

9:55 P.M. Prizes are awarded for the top three entrants, and the first place winner gets to lead the cavalcade around the grounds, ending with fireworks and refreshments.

10:15 P.M. Event closing.

== Judging Criteria ==
Entrants will be scored based on the below criteria.

* Aesthetics of mount and rider/handler: how the character and mount are outfitted for the event. Does the outfit match the presentation's theme?
* Creativity: use of varied types of messaging for delivery (ACT, SMILE, etc.) as well as props and RP verbs.
* Content: adherence to an overall theme. Does the performance have a narrative, and is it engaging to watch?
* Time: presentations should be no longer than three minutes

== Prizes ==
The top three entrants (with first place choosing first) will receive a rare, uncommon, or common mount.

All attendees will be eligible for door prizes, such as a pair of Tier 5 Lucky Socks.

== Judges ==

* Sir Guarrin Hjeldin, Knight Reagent of the Order of the Silver Gryphon
* Sir Bristenn Mires, Knight Reagent of the Order of the Azure Sun
* Dame Jarnsaixa Vargrdoittr, Imperial Blade of the Turamzzyrian Empire

Cavalcade of Mounts

2025-04-18T03:08:44Z

RAFFELS2: Expanded judging criteria

== Event Information ==
Date: April 27, 2025

Time: 9:00 p.m. Eastern

Location: Beginning at the western end of the Jousting Fields at Rumor Woods and parading to the Cysaelotar Bonfire.

Description: The Orders of the Silver Gryphon and Azure Sun invite you to join in the second Cavalcade of Mounts on April 27th at 9 P.M. EST! Unfurl your standards, display your crests and coat-of-arms and join our parade starting at the Rumor Woods Jousting Fields to bivouac at the Cysaelotar Bonfire where those who wish may join a competition demonstrating their riding and handling skills alongside their faithful steeds! Judges will declare the top three winners with prizes based on aesthetics of the rider, their mount, and the creativity of their up to three-minute performance.

== Schedule ==
9 P.M. The event will begin with a parade from the Jousting Fields to the Bonfire. Paraders are encouraged to bring their banners, crests, and such to display their coat of arms and celebrate those they represent.

9:10 P.M. At the keep the rules will be quickly gone over as we set the order of entrants for the demonstration competitions.

9:15 P.M. We will begin with the first entry of the demonstration with a 3-minute time limit, continuing through until we have completed the list of entrants' demonstrations.

9:45-9:50 P.M. The panel of judges will render their decision as to the top three demonstrations judging the entrants for their performance creativity, the aesthetic of the entrant and the aesthetic of the entrant's animal in how they complement each other.

9:55 P.M. Prizes are awarded for the top three entrants, and the first place winner gets to lead the cavalcade around the grounds, ending with fireworks and refreshments.

10:15 P.M. Event closing.

== Judging Criteria ==
Entrants will be scored based on the below criteria.

* Aesthetics of mount and rider/handler: how the character and mount are outfitted for the event. Does the outfit match the presentation's theme?
* Creativity: use of varied types of messaging for delivery (ACT, SMILE, etc.) as well as props and RP verbs.
* Content: adherence to an overall theme. Does the performance have a narrative, and is it engaging to watch?
* Time: presentations should be no longer than three minutes

== Prizes ==
The top three entrants (with first place choosing first) will receive prizes to be determined.

== Judges ==

* Sir Guarrin Hjeldin, Knight Reagent of the Order of the Silver Gryphon
* Sir Bristenn Mires, Knight Reagent of the Order of the Azure Sun
* Dame Jarnsaixa Vargrdoittr, Imperial Blade of the Turamzzyrian Empire

Cavalcade of Mounts

2025-04-04T19:26:20Z

RAFFELS2: Updated for 2025

== Event Information ==
Date: April 27, 2025

Time: 9:00 p.m. Eastern

Location: Beginning at the western end of the Jousting Fields at Rumor Woods and parading to the Cysaelotar Bonfire.

Description: The Orders of the Silver Gryphon and Azure Sun invite you to join in the second Cavalcade of Mounts on April 27th at 9 P.M. EST! Unfurl your standards, display your crests and coat-of-arms and join our parade starting at the Rumor Woods Jousting Fields to bivouac at the Cysaelotar Bonfire where those who wish may join a competition demonstrating their riding and handling skills alongside their faithful steeds! Judges will declare the top three winners with prizes based on aesthetics of the rider, their mount, and the creativity of their up to three-minute performance.

== Schedule ==
9 P.M. The event will begin with a parade from the Jousting Fields to the Bonfire. Paraders are encouraged to bring their banners, crests, and such to display their coat of arms and celebrate those they represent.

9:10 P.M. At the keep the rules will be quickly gone over as we set the order of entrants for the demonstration competitions.

9:15 P.M. We will begin with the first entry of the demonstration with a 3-minute time limit, continuing through until we have completed the list of entrants' demonstrations.

9:45-9:50 P.M. The panel of judges will render their decision as to the top three demonstrations judging the entrants for their performance creativity, the aesthetic of the entrant and the aesthetic of the entrant's animal in how they complement each other.

9:55 P.M. Prizes are awarded for the top three entrants, and the first place winner gets to lead the cavalcade around the grounds, ending with fireworksand refreshments.

10:15 P.M. Event closing.

== Judging Criteria ==
Entrants will be scored based on the below criteria.

* Time: presentations should be no longer than three minutes
* Aesthetics of mount: how the companion is outfitted for the event
* Aesthetics of rider/handler: how the presenter is outfitted for the event
* Performance: creativity of the performance itself

== Prizes ==
The top three entrants (with first place choosing first) will receive prizes to be determined.

== Judges ==

* Sir Guarrin Hjeldin, Knight Reagent of the Order of the Silver Gryphon
* Sir Bristenn Mires, Knight Reagent of the Order of the Azure Sun
* Dame Jarnsaixa Vargrdoittr, Imperial Blade of the Turamzzyrian Empire

Alchemy formula book

2025-04-03T15:27:49Z

RAFFELS2: Updated FLIP TOC and FLIP table verb traps because they don't work when the noun of the alchemy book is included in the syntax (using the book noun will just flip back a page)

A '''recipe book''' is used by [[alchemy|alchemists]] to record recipes for later perusal. This can be purchased in the relevant profession guild stores as a leather tome. In order to record a recipe, the alchemist should hold the tome and {{boldmono|WRITE TOME}} immediately after learning or completing a recipe.

==Locations Sold==
{|{{prettytable}}
!Profession Guild
!Location Name
|-
|Sorcerer Guild
|Pantry
|-
|}

==Usage==
{| {{verbtable}} 
|- {{verbtableheader}}
! scope="col" style="width:5em;"|Verb
! scope="col" style="width:10em;"|Style
! scope="col" |Use
! scope="col"|First
! scope="col"|Third
|-
! scope="rowgroup" role="rowheader" rowspan="3"|FLIP
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|FLIP TOME
|Turns back a page
| You turn your leather tome backwards to the opening at pages 43 and 44.
| XXX turns her leather tome to the previous page.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|FLIP TOME <#>
|Flips to the chosen page number
| You turn your leather tome to the opening at pages 1 and 2.
| N/A
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| FLIP TOC or FLIP TABLE (with book in hand)
|Flips to table of contents
| You flip back to the table of contents.
| XXX turns her leather tome to the first page.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|TEAR
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|TEAR TOME AT <#>
| Tears out the chosen page number
| {{addmetext}}
| {{addmetext}}
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|TURN
! TURN TOME
| Flips back to the first page
| You turn your leather tome to the first page.
| XXX turns her leather tome to the first page.
|-
! scope="rowgroup" role="rowheader" rowspan="2"|WRITE
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|WRITE TOME
| Adds researched/completed recipe
| {{addmetext}}
| {{addmetext}}
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|WRITE TOME COPY <recipe name>
| Copies <recipe name> to the tome
| {{addmetext}}
| {{addmetext}}
|}
Please note that by tearing out a page from a tome, any recipe on the other side of that page is also removed. Additionally, pages that have been torn out of a tome can not be added back in.

==See Also==
* [[List of alchemy formulas]]

[[Category:Alchemy]]

Mana-Infused Armor

2025-02-16T01:52:55Z

RAFFELS2:

<table><tr valign="top"><td>
'''Mana-Infused Armor''' was released at [[Duskruin Arena]] in February 2020 at [[BVShop:Sigil Shop | Sigil Shop]] by [[User:GS4-ESTILD|GameMaster Estild]]. Mana-Infused Armor is part of the 3-piece Sigil Set, along with the [[Sigil Staff]] and [[Dramatic Drapery]].
{{TOC limit|2}}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 0/OTS 
|itemsummary= At this tier, it is standard armor with some special messaging verbs. As with [[Sigil Staff|Sigil Staves]], these special verbs make use of settings that are customizable via a willing [[GALD]] merchant and can be viewed in the armor's {{boldmono|[[ANALYZE (verb)|ANALYZE]]}}.
|analyze= 
This is tier 0 Mana-Infused Armor.

Tier
0: a standard hunts with some special messaging

Unlocked verbs: bow, clean cover, fidget, infuse, knock, touch, turn, wave

The hunts can have the color and adjective of its energy/light customized with a descriptive word or phrase. Various messaging will include these custom settings.

The current setting is:
'''color: (Unset, will default to albino pink - your eye color.)'''
'''adjective: (Unset, will default to a value based upon your magical lore training)'''
''' phrase: (Unset, will default to a value based upon your magical lore training)'''
The phrase should also be prefixed with the adjective.

Customization should remain simple, nothing so complex as to require a comma.
Examples of functional customization choices:
colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet
adjective: crackling, nebulous, wraithlike, translucent
phrase: crackling tendrils of elemental, nebulous tendrils of spiritual, wraithlike tendrils of sorcerous, translucent tendrils of psychic
In each case, these words/phrases will be placed in front of words like "energy" and "light". Try to keep it to five words or less.
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable=Yes 
}}
{| {{verbtable}} 
|- {{verbtableheader|90}}
! scope="col" style="width:5em;"|Verb
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|First
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|Third
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| BOW
| ''<Set color, defaults to eye color>'' light blooms from your leather hunts's core as you cross your forearm over your chest and execute a short bow.
| ''<Set color, defaults to eye color>'' light blooms from XXX's leather hunts's core as he/she crosses his/her forearm over his/her chest and executes a short bow.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| CLEAN
| With slow, measured strokes, you run your palms over the surface of your leather hunts. ''<Set color, defaults to eye color>'' energy gathers in your wake, dissolving the detritus of combat.
| With slow, measured strokes, XXX runs his/her palms over the surface of his/her leather hunts. ''<Set color, defaults to eye color>'' energy gathers in her wake, dissolving the detritus of combat.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| COVER
| You rest your hand over the ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' core centered in the chest of your leather hunts and bask in its radiant warmth.
| XXX rests a hand over his/her heart. Bold ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' light flickers around the silhouette of his/her fingers.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| FIDGET
| You spend a moment fiddling with your leather hunts. Tiny glimmers of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' luminescence, hardly pinpricks, rise to meet your touch.
| As XXX spends a moment fiddling with his/her leather hunts, tiny glimmers of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' luminescence rise to her touch.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| KNOCK
| You pound your clenched fist twice against your shoulder, sending luminous ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' waves rolling across the surface of your leather hunts.
| XXX pounds his/her clenched fist twice against his/her shoulder, sending luminous ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' waves rolling across the surface of his/her leather hunts.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| TOUCH
| You drum your fingers on your leather hunts. With every strike of your fingertips, a ripple of muted ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' light wells up from its surface.
| XXX drums his/her fingers on his/her leather hunts. With every strike of his/her fingertips, a ripple of muted ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' light wells up from its surface.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| TURN
| You turn sharply on your heel. Faint tendrils of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' light curl around you in the wake of your movement.
| XXX turns sharply on his/her heel. Faint tendrils of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' light curl around his/her in the wake of his/her movement.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| WAVE
| You sweep an arm through the air, and a diffuse ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' haze colors the air in the wake of your movement.
| XXX sweeps an arm through the air, and a diffuse ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' haze colors the air in the wake of his/her movement.
|}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 1 
|itemsummary= At this tier, up to 300 mana can be {{boldmono|INFUSED}} into the leather in advance of a hunt, with training in [[:Category:Mana Controls|Mana Control]]. This can be done while wearing the armor if currently in a sanctified area; in the field, the armor must be removed and then infused while being held. When attacked, there is a standard flare chance to receive 1d5 mana. The mana gained by the wearer is lost by the armor.
|analyze= 
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable=Yes 
}}
{| {{verbtable}} 
|- {{verbtableheader|90}}
! scope="col" style="width:5em;"|Verb
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|First
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|Third
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| INFUSE
| You concentrate and channel your mana into your leather hunts. Tendrils of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' energy pulse outward from its core with the power of your infusion. You sense it has a total of [N] mana.
| XXX concentrates, focusing on his/her leather hunts. Tendrils of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' energy pulse outward from its core.
|}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 2 
|itemsummary= At this tier, up to 350 mana can be {{boldmono|INFUSED}} into the leather in advance of a hunt. In addition to the above unlocks, the user gains the '''Mana Shield''' effect with a 25% chance to activate when receiving damage. Grants 2d20 damage padding for that instance of damage received. For every point of damage absorbed by the shield, 1 point of mana is lost from the armor.
|analyze= 
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable= 
}}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 3 
|itemsummary= At this tier, up to 400 mana can be {{boldmono|INFUSED}} into the leather in advance of a hunt. In addition to the above unlocks, the user gains the '''Arcane Aegis''' ability - a manually triggered (via {{boldmono|[[RUB (verb)|RUB]]}}) and more powerful version of '''Mana Shield''' that also provides critical padding equal to half of the damage padding. Lasts for 120 seconds, has a 60 minute cooldown, and costs 25 mana from the armor plus the ongoing cost for the damage absorbed.
|analyze= 
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable=Yes 
}}
{| {{verbtable}} 
|- {{verbtableheader|90}}
! scope="col" style="width:5em;"|Verb
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|First
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|Third
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|RUB
| Diffuse bands of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' luminescence spread outward from your leather hunts in response to your will, buttressing the air around you.
| Diffuse bands of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' luminescence spread outward from XXX's leather hunts.
|}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 4 
|itemsummary= At this tier, up to 450 mana can be '''INFUSED''' into the leather in advance of a hunt. In addition to the above unlocks, the user gains the '''Mana Tap''' ability - manually triggered (via {{boldmono|[[TAP (verb)|TAP]]}}) to drain 50 mana from the armor and adds it to the wearer's mana while also energizing the wearer to grant +25 AS/+15 CS for 3 minutes. 15 minute cooldown. Ambient messaging can be toggled on and off ({{boldmono|[[PROD (verb)|PROD]]}}).
|analyze= 
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable=Yes 
}}
{| {{verbtable}} 
|- {{verbtableheader|90}}
! scope="col" style="width:5em;"|Verb
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|First
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|Third
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| PROD
| With a moment's concentration, you bid the mana infused within your <armor> to settle. ''(This command pauses ambient messages).'' With a moment's concentration, you stir the mana infused within your <armor> into motion, bidding it to flow as its nature dictates. ''(This command restores ambient messages).''
|
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| TAP
| As you draw upon the mana infused within your leather hunts, ''<set phrase>'' energy courses along the leathers and sinks below its surface. Your eyes glow brightly for a moment as you feel an upwelling of magical energy. You gain 50 mana! Cast Roundtime 3 seconds.
| ''<Set phrase>'' energy courses along XXX's leather hunts and sinks below its surface. His/Her eyes glow brightly for a moment and he/she appears energized!
|}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 5 
|itemsummary= At this tier, up to 500 mana can be '''INFUSED''' into the leather in advance of a hunt. In addition to the above unlocks, the user gains the '''Arcane Expulsion''' ability. Manually triggered (via {{boldmono|[[SIGIL (verb)|SIGIL]]}}), it can be activated when incapacitated (stunned, webbed, bound, in roundtime) but not while unconscious. It attempts to forcibly move all creatures out of the room (into a random adjacent room) and subjects them to 20 seconds of roundtime upon success of an [[Standard maneuver roll#SMR v2|SMRv2]] attack using the wearer's [[Magic Item Use]] ranks to calculate the strength of the attack. It can be used 2x a day, resets at midnight, and costs 50 mana from the armor.
|analyze= 
This is tier 5 Mana-Infused Armor.

Tier
0: a standard leathers with some special messaging
1: Reactive Mana Flares - when attacked, there is a standard flare chance for the wearer to gain 1d5 mana. The mana gained by the wearer is lost from the armor.
2: Mana Shield - 25% chance to activate when receiving damage. Grants 2d20 damage padding for that instance of damage received. For every point of damage absorbed by the shield, 1 point of mana is lost from the armor.
3: Arcane Aegis - A manually triggered (RUB) and more powerful version of Mana Shield that also provides critical padding equal to half of the damage padding. Lasts for 120 seconds, has a 60 minute cooldown, and costs 25 mana from the armor plus the ongoing cost for the damage absorbed.
4: Mana Tap - A manually triggered ability (TAP) to drain 50 mana from the armor and adds it to the wearer's mana while also energizing the wearer to grant +25 AS/+15 CS for 3 minutes. 15 minute cooldown. Ambient messaging can be toggled on and off (PROD).
5: Arcane Expulsion - A manually triggered ability (SIGIL) that can be activated when incapacitated (but not while unconscious). Attempts to forcibly move all creatures out of the room (into a random adjacent room) and subjects them to 20 seconds of roundtime. A SMRv2 attack using the wearer's Magic Item Use ranks to calculate the strength of the attack. Can be used 2x a day, resets at midnight, and costs 50 mana from the armor.

Unlocked verbs: bow, clean cover, fidget, infuse, knock, touch, turn, wave, rub, prod, tap, sigil

The leathers can have the color and adjective of its energy/light customized with a descriptive word or phrase. Various messaging will include these custom settings.

The current setting is:
'''color: (Unset, will default to albino pink - your eye color.)'''
'''adjective: (Unset, will default to a value based upon your magical lore training)'''
''' phrase: (Unset, will default to a value based upon your magical lore training)'''
The phrase should also be prefixed with the adjective.

Customization should remain simple, nothing so complex as to require a comma.
Examples of functional customization choices:
colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet
adjective: crackling, nebulous, wraithlike, translucent
phrase: crackling tendrils of elemental, nebulous tendrils of spiritual, wraithlike tendrils of sorcerous, translucent tendrils of psychic
In each case, these words/phrases will be placed in front of words like "energy" and "light". Try to keep it to five words or less.

You can tell that the leathers is as light as it can get.
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable=Yes 
}}
{| {{verbtable}} 
|- {{verbtableheader|90}}
! scope="col" style="width:5em;"|Verb
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|First
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|Third
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| SIGIL
| You strain and reach for the energies coursing through your leather hunts, and they surge outward in a rippling wave of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' force to aid you! Cast Roundtime 3 Seconds.
| Suddenly, a rippling wave of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' force surges outward from XXX!
|}
==Tier Benefit Breakdown==
{| class="wikitable" {{prettytable}} style="width: 20%;" aria-label="In"; style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="1" | Tier Benefit
! colspan="1" | Details
|-
|0: || standard leathers with some special messaging
|-
|1: Reactive Mana Flares || when attacked, there is a standard flare chance for the wearer to gain 1d5 mana. The mana gained by the wearer is lost from the armor.
|-
|2: Mana Shield || 25% chance to activate when receiving damage. Grants 2d20 damage padding for that instance of damage received. For every point of damage absorbed by the shield, 1 point of mana is lost from the armor.
|-
|3: Arcane Aegis || A manually triggered (RUB) and more powerful version of Mana Shield that also provides critical padding equal to half of the damage padding. Lasts for 120 seconds, has a 60 minute cooldown, and costs 25 mana from the armor plus the ongoing cost for the damage absorbed.
|-
|4: Mana Tap || A manually triggered ability (TAP) to drain 50 mana from the armor and adds it to the wearer's mana while also energizing the wearer to grant +25 AS/+15 CS for 3 minutes. 15 minute cooldown. Ambient messaging can be toggled on and off (PROD).
|-
|5: Arcane Expulsion || A manually triggered ability (SIGIL) that can be activated when incapacitated (but not while unconscious). Attempts to forcibly move all creatures out of the room (into a random adjacent room) and subjects them to 20 seconds of roundtime. A SMRv2 attack using the wearer's Magic Item Use ranks to calculate the strength of the attack. Can be used 2x a day, resets at midnight, and costs 50 mana from the armor.
|}

==Additional Information==
===Set Bonus with Sigil Staves and Dramatic Draperies===
If at least one other item in the Sigil Set are used in combat, the user gains the ability to flare a '''Sigil of Binding''' effect via an [[Standard_maneuver_roll#SMR_v2|SMRv2]] attack that roots your opponents and prevents them from using combat maneuvers. Each unlocked tier of the Sigil Set worn by the user increases the odds of a flare by 1% (up to 15%, if Tier 5 of all 3 items are used). T0 contributes 0% towards this chance but can still count as one of the two items needed to activate the flare.

A rooted target is unable to move away from the room but can still perform combat actions. Rooted targets receive a penalty of -50 AS to melee attacks, -25 AS to ranged attacks, and -25 DS, but this does not stack with some other status conditions. In addition, rooted creatures cannot perform maneuvers.

===WPS Surcharge from Premium points===
Tiers 0-1 are considered simple functional combat scripts and have a 600 [[Premium_Point_costs|premium point cost surcharge]], while tiers 2-5 have a 1200 premium point cost surchage as they count as complex functional combat scripts.

===Ambient Messaging===
Ambient messaging is random and is based on the wearer's lore knowledge.
The echo of a remembered ritual chant teases at the edge of your hearing.

Elemental Lore - Air: The mana within your [armor] swirls. In response, the air around you begins to spiral as well, stirring up a short-lived breeze that ruffles your hair.

Elemental Lore - Fire: A wayward prismatic spark rolls off your shoulder and drifts to the ground.

==See Also==
* [[Mana-Infused_Armor/saved_posts|Saved posts]]
* [[Sigil Staff]]
* [[Dramatic Drapery]]

</td><td>
{{iteminfo
|type=Mechanical 
|itemclass=Armor 
|itemtype=Armor 
|alter=Yes 
|ld=Yes 
|feature= 
|customize=Yes 
|custom=Color 
|custom2=Adjective
|custom3=Phrase
|origmerch= 
|releasevenue=Duskruin 
|releaseyear=2020 
|questitem= 
|tiered=Yes 
|tiersnumber=6 
|unlock=Certificate 
|legendary= 
|demeanor= 
|loresong= 
|corrscript=Sigil Staff 
|corrscript2=Dramatic Drapery
|attune= 
|attunement= 
|affinity= 
|spell= 
|enhancive= 
|swap= 
|add= 
|restrictions= No commas in customizations. Five words or less for phrases.
}}
{{itemverb
|verb= BOW 
|verb2= CLEAN
|verb3= COVER
|verb4= FIDGET
|verb5= INFUSE
|verb6= KNOCK
|verb7= PROD
|verb8= RUB
|verb9= SIGIL
|verb10= TAP
|verb11= TOUCH
|verb12= TURN
|verb13= WAVE
}}
</td></tr></table>

Mana-Infused Armor

2025-02-16T01:40:17Z

RAFFELS2:

<table><tr valign="top"><td>
'''Mana-Infused Armor''' was released at [[Duskruin Arena]] in February 2020 at [[BVShop:Sigil Shop | Sigil Shop]] by [[User:GS4-ESTILD|GameMaster Estild]]. Mana-Infused Armor is part of the 3-piece Sigil Set, along with the [[Sigil Staff]] and [[Dramatic Drapery]].
{{TOC limit|2}}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 0/OTS 
|itemsummary= At this tier, it is standard armor with some special messaging verbs. As with [[Sigil Staff|Sigil Staves]], these special verbs make use of settings that are customizable via a willing [[GALD]] merchant and can be viewed in the armor's {{boldmono|[[ANALYZE (verb)|ANALYZE]]}}.
|analyze= 
This is tier 0 Mana-Infused Armor.

Tier
0: a standard hunts with some special messaging

Unlocked verbs: bow, clean cover, fidget, infuse, knock, touch, turn, wave

The hunts can have the color and adjective of its energy/light customized with a descriptive word or phrase. Various messaging will include these custom settings.

The current setting is:
'''color: (Unset, will default to albino pink - your eye color.)'''
'''adjective: (Unset, will default to a value based upon your magical lore training)'''
''' phrase: (Unset, will default to a value based upon your magical lore training)'''
The phrase should also be prefixed with the adjective.

Customization should remain simple, nothing so complex as to require a comma.
Examples of functional customization choices:
colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet
adjective: crackling, nebulous, wraithlike, translucent
phrase: crackling tendrils of elemental, nebulous tendrils of spiritual, wraithlike tendrils of sorcerous, translucent tendrils of psychic
In each case, these words/phrases will be placed in front of words like "energy" and "light". Try to keep it to five words or less.
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable=Yes 
}}
{| {{verbtable}} 
|- {{verbtableheader|90}}
! scope="col" style="width:5em;"|Verb
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|First
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|Third
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| BOW
| ''<Set color, defaults to eye color>'' light blooms from your leather hunts's core as you cross your forearm over your chest and execute a short bow.
| ''<Set color, defaults to eye color>'' light blooms from XXX's leather hunts's core as he/she crosses his/her forearm over his/her chest and executes a short bow.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| CLEAN
| With slow, measured strokes, you run your palms over the surface of your leather hunts. ''<Set color, defaults to eye color>'' energy gathers in your wake, dissolving the detritus of combat.
| With slow, measured strokes, XXX runs his/her palms over the surface of his/her leather hunts. ''<Set color, defaults to eye color>'' energy gathers in her wake, dissolving the detritus of combat.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| COVER
| You rest your hand over the ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' core centered in the chest of your leather hunts and bask in its radiant warmth.
| XXX rests a hand over his/her heart. Bold ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' light flickers around the silhouette of his/her fingers.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| FIDGET
| You spend a moment fiddling with your leather hunts. Tiny glimmers of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' luminescence, hardly pinpricks, rise to meet your touch.
| As XXX spends a moment fiddling with his/her leather hunts, tiny glimmers of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' luminescence rise to her touch.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| KNOCK
| You pound your clenched fist twice against your shoulder, sending luminous ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' waves rolling across the surface of your leather hunts.
| XXX pounds his/her clenched fist twice against his/her shoulder, sending luminous ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' waves rolling across the surface of his/her leather hunts.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| TOUCH
| You drum your fingers on your leather hunts. With every strike of your fingertips, a ripple of muted ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' light wells up from its surface.
| XXX drums his/her fingers on his/her leather hunts. With every strike of his/her fingertips, a ripple of muted ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' light wells up from its surface.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| TURN
| You turn sharply on your heel. Faint tendrils of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' light curl around you in the wake of your movement.
| XXX turns sharply on his/her heel. Faint tendrils of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' light curl around his/her in the wake of his/her movement.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| WAVE
| You sweep an arm through the air, and a diffuse ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' haze colors the air in the wake of your movement.
| XXX sweeps an arm through the air, and a diffuse ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' haze colors the air in the wake of his/her movement.
|}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 1 
|itemsummary= At this tier, up to 300 mana can be {{boldmono|INFUSED}} into the leather in advance of a hunt, with training in [[:Category:Mana Controls|Mana Control]]. This can be done while wearing the armor if currently in a sanctified area; in the field, the armor must be removed and then infused while being held. When attacked, there is a standard flare chance to receive 1d5 mana. The mana gained by the wearer is lost by the armor.
|analyze= 
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable=Yes 
}}
{| {{verbtable}} 
|- {{verbtableheader|90}}
! scope="col" style="width:5em;"|Verb
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|First
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|Third
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| INFUSE
| You concentrate and channel your mana into your leather hunts. Tendrils of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' energy pulse outward from its core with the power of your infusion. You sense it has a total of [N] mana.
| XXX concentrates, focusing on his/her leather hunts. Tendrils of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' energy pulse outward from its core.
|}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 2 
|itemsummary= At this tier, up to 350 mana can be {{boldmono|INFUSED}} into the leather in advance of a hunt. In addition to the above unlocks, the user gains the '''Mana Shield''' effect with a 25% chance to activate when receiving damage. Grants 2d20 damage padding for that instance of damage received. For every point of damage absorbed by the shield, 1 point of mana is lost from the armor.
|analyze= 
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable= 
}}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 3 
|itemsummary= At this tier, up to 400 mana can be {{boldmono|INFUSED}} into the leather in advance of a hunt. In addition to the above unlocks, the user gains the '''Arcane Aegis''' ability - a manually triggered (via {{boldmono|[[RUB (verb)|RUB]]}}) and more powerful version of '''Mana Shield''' that also provides critical padding equal to half of the damage padding. Lasts for 120 seconds, has a 60 minute cooldown, and costs 25 mana from the armor plus the ongoing cost for the damage absorbed.
|analyze= 
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable=Yes 
}}
{| {{verbtable}} 
|- {{verbtableheader|90}}
! scope="col" style="width:5em;"|Verb
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|First
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|Third
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|RUB
| Diffuse bands of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' luminescence spread outward from your leather hunts in response to your will, buttressing the air around you.
| Diffuse bands of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' luminescence spread outward from XXX's leather hunts.
|}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 4 
|itemsummary= At this tier, up to 450 mana can be '''INFUSED''' into the leather in advance of a hunt. In addition to the above unlocks, the user gains the '''Mana Tap''' ability - manually triggered (via {{boldmono|[[TAP (verb)|TAP]]}}) to drain 50 mana from the armor and adds it to the wearer's mana while also energizing the wearer to grant +25 AS/+15 CS for 3 minutes. 15 minute cooldown. Ambient messaging can be toggled on and off ({{boldmono|[[PROD (verb)|PROD]]}}).
|analyze= 
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable=Yes 
}}
{| {{verbtable}} 
|- {{verbtableheader|90}}
! scope="col" style="width:5em;"|Verb
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|First
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|Third
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| PROD
| With a moment's concentration, you bid the mana infused within your <armor> to settle. ''(This command pauses ambient messages).'' With a moment's concentration, you stir the mana infused within your <armor> into motion, bidding it to flow as its nature dictates. ''(This command restores ambient messages).''
|
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| TAP
| As you draw upon the mana infused within your leather hunts, ''<set phrase>'' energy courses along the leathers and sinks below its surface. Your eyes glow brightly for a moment as you feel an upwelling of magical energy. You gain 50 mana! Cast Roundtime 3 seconds.
| ''<Set phrase>'' energy courses along XXX's leather hunts and sinks below its surface. His/Her eyes glow brightly for a moment and he/she appears energized!
|}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 5 
|itemsummary= At this tier, up to 500 mana can be '''INFUSED''' into the leather in advance of a hunt. In addition to the above unlocks, the user gains the '''Arcane Expulsion''' ability. Manually triggered (via {{boldmono|[[SIGIL (verb)|SIGIL]]}}), it can be activated when incapacitated (stunned, webbed, bound, in roundtime) but not while unconscious. It attempts to forcibly move all creatures out of the room (into a random adjacent room) and subjects them to 20 seconds of roundtime upon success of an [[Standard maneuver roll#SMR v2|SMRv2]] attack using the wearer's [[Magic Item Use]] ranks to calculate the strength of the attack. It can be used 2x a day, resets at midnight, and costs 50 mana from the armor.
|analyze= 
This is tier 5 Mana-Infused Armor.

Tier
0: a standard leathers with some special messaging
1: Reactive Mana Flares - when attacked, there is a standard flare chance for the wearer to gain 1d5 mana. The mana gained by the wearer is lost from the armor.
2: Mana Shield - 25% chance to activate when receiving damage. Grants 2d20 damage padding for that instance of damage received. For every point of damage absorbed by the shield, 1 point of mana is lost from the armor.
3: Arcane Aegis - A manually triggered (RUB) and more powerful version of Mana Shield that also provides critical padding equal to half of the damage padding. Lasts for 120 seconds, has a 60 minute cooldown, and costs 25 mana from the armor plus the ongoing cost for the damage absorbed.
4: Mana Tap - A manually triggered ability (TAP) to drain 50 mana from the armor and adds it to the wearer's mana while also energizing the wearer to grant +25 AS/+15 CS for 3 minutes. 15 minute cooldown. Ambient messaging can be toggled on and off (PROD).
5: Arcane Expulsion - A manually triggered ability (SIGIL) that can be activated when incapacitated (but not while unconscious). Attempts to forcibly move all creatures out of the room (into a random adjacent room) and subjects them to 20 seconds of roundtime. A SMRv2 attack using the wearer's Magic Item Use ranks to calculate the strength of the attack. Can be used 2x a day, resets at midnight, and costs 50 mana from the armor.

Unlocked verbs: bow, clean cover, fidget, infuse, knock, touch, turn, wave, rub, prod, tap, sigil

The leathers can have the color and adjective of its energy/light customized with a descriptive word or phrase. Various messaging will include these custom settings.

The current setting is:
'''color: (Unset, will default to albino pink - your eye color.)'''
'''adjective: (Unset, will default to a value based upon your magical lore training)'''
''' phrase: (Unset, will default to a value based upon your magical lore training)'''
The phrase should also be prefixed with the adjective.

Customization should remain simple, nothing so complex as to require a comma.
Examples of functional customization choices:
colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet
adjective: crackling, nebulous, wraithlike, translucent
phrase: crackling tendrils of elemental, nebulous tendrils of spiritual, wraithlike tendrils of sorcerous, translucent tendrils of psychic
In each case, these words/phrases will be placed in front of words like "energy" and "light". Try to keep it to five words or less.

You can tell that the leathers is as light as it can get.
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable=Yes 
}}
{| {{verbtable}} 
|- {{verbtableheader|90}}
! scope="col" style="width:5em;"|Verb
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|First
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|Third
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| SIGIL
| You strain and reach for the energies coursing through your leather hunts, and they surge outward in a rippling wave of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' force to aid you! Cast Roundtime 3 Seconds.
| Suddenly, a rippling wave of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' force surges outward from XXX!
|}
==Tier Benefit Breakdown==
{| class="wikitable" {{prettytable}} style="width: 20%;" aria-label="In"; style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="1" | Tier Benefit
! colspan="1" | Details
|-
|0: || standard leathers with some special messaging
|-
|1: Reactive Mana Flares || when attacked, there is a standard flare chance for the wearer to gain 1d5 mana. The mana gained by the wearer is lost from the armor.
|-
|2: Mana Shield || 25% chance to activate when receiving damage. Grants 2d20 damage padding for that instance of damage received. For every point of damage absorbed by the shield, 1 point of mana is lost from the armor.
|-
|3: Arcane Aegis || A manually triggered (RUB) and more powerful version of Mana Shield that also provides critical padding equal to half of the damage padding. Lasts for 120 seconds, has a 60 minute cooldown, and costs 25 mana from the armor plus the ongoing cost for the damage absorbed.
|-
|4: Mana Tap || A manually triggered ability (TAP) to drain 50 mana from the armor and adds it to the wearer's mana while also energizing the wearer to grant +25 AS/+15 CS for 3 minutes. 15 minute cooldown. Ambient messaging can be toggled on and off (PROD).
|-
|5: Arcane Expulsion || A manually triggered ability (SIGIL) that can be activated when incapacitated (but not while unconscious). Attempts to forcibly move all creatures out of the room (into a random adjacent room) and subjects them to 20 seconds of roundtime. A SMRv2 attack using the wearer's Magic Item Use ranks to calculate the strength of the attack. Can be used 2x a day, resets at midnight, and costs 50 mana from the armor.
|}

==Additional Information==
===Set Bonus with Sigil Staves and Dramatic Draperies===
If at least one other item in the Sigil Set are used in combat, the user gains the ability to flare a '''Sigil of Binding''' effect via an [[Standard_maneuver_roll#SMR_v2|SMRv2]] attack that roots your opponents and prevents them from using combat maneuvers. Each unlocked tier of the Sigil Set worn by the user increases the odds of a flare by 1% (up to 15%, if Tier 5 of all 3 items are used). T0 contributes 0% towards this chance but can still count as one of the two items needed to activate the flare.

A rooted target is unable to move away from the room but can still perform combat actions. Rooted targets receive a penalty of -50 AS to melee attacks, -25 AS to ranged attacks, and -25 DS, but this does not stack with some other status conditions. In addition, rooted creatures cannot perform maneuvers.

===WPS Surcharge from Premium points===
Tiers 0-1 are considered simple functional combat scripts and have a 600 [[Premium_Point_costs|premium point cost surcharge]], while tiers 2-5 have a 1200 premium point cost surchage as they count as complex functional combat scripts.

===Ambient Messaging===
Ambient messaging is random and is based on the wearer's lore knowledge.
The echo of a remembered ritual chant teases at the edge of your hearing.

Elemental Lore - Fire: A wayward prismatic spark rolls off your shoulder and drifts to the ground.

==See Also==
* [[Mana-Infused_Armor/saved_posts|Saved posts]]
* [[Sigil Staff]]
* [[Dramatic Drapery]]

</td><td>
{{iteminfo
|type=Mechanical 
|itemclass=Armor 
|itemtype=Armor 
|alter=Yes 
|ld=Yes 
|feature= 
|customize=Yes 
|custom=Color 
|custom2=Adjective
|custom3=Phrase
|origmerch= 
|releasevenue=Duskruin 
|releaseyear=2020 
|questitem= 
|tiered=Yes 
|tiersnumber=6 
|unlock=Certificate 
|legendary= 
|demeanor= 
|loresong= 
|corrscript=Sigil Staff 
|corrscript2=Dramatic Drapery
|attune= 
|attunement= 
|affinity= 
|spell= 
|enhancive= 
|swap= 
|add= 
|restrictions= No commas in customizations. Five words or less for phrases.
}}
{{itemverb
|verb= BOW 
|verb2= CLEAN
|verb3= COVER
|verb4= FIDGET
|verb5= INFUSE
|verb6= KNOCK
|verb7= PROD
|verb8= RUB
|verb9= SIGIL
|verb10= TAP
|verb11= TOUCH
|verb12= TURN
|verb13= WAVE
}}
</td></tr></table>

Mana-Infused Armor

2025-02-16T01:38:10Z

RAFFELS2: Added ambient messaging.

<table><tr valign="top"><td>
'''Mana-Infused Armor''' was released at [[Duskruin Arena]] in February 2020 at [[BVShop:Sigil Shop | Sigil Shop]] by [[User:GS4-ESTILD|GameMaster Estild]]. Mana-Infused Armor is part of the 3-piece Sigil Set, along with the [[Sigil Staff]] and [[Dramatic Drapery]].
{{TOC limit|2}}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 0/OTS 
|itemsummary= At this tier, it is standard armor with some special messaging verbs. As with [[Sigil Staff|Sigil Staves]], these special verbs make use of settings that are customizable via a willing [[GALD]] merchant and can be viewed in the armor's {{boldmono|[[ANALYZE (verb)|ANALYZE]]}}.
|analyze= 
This is tier 0 Mana-Infused Armor.

Tier
0: a standard hunts with some special messaging

Unlocked verbs: bow, clean cover, fidget, infuse, knock, touch, turn, wave

The hunts can have the color and adjective of its energy/light customized with a descriptive word or phrase. Various messaging will include these custom settings.

The current setting is:
'''color: (Unset, will default to albino pink - your eye color.)'''
'''adjective: (Unset, will default to a value based upon your magical lore training)'''
''' phrase: (Unset, will default to a value based upon your magical lore training)'''
The phrase should also be prefixed with the adjective.

Customization should remain simple, nothing so complex as to require a comma.
Examples of functional customization choices:
colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet
adjective: crackling, nebulous, wraithlike, translucent
phrase: crackling tendrils of elemental, nebulous tendrils of spiritual, wraithlike tendrils of sorcerous, translucent tendrils of psychic
In each case, these words/phrases will be placed in front of words like "energy" and "light". Try to keep it to five words or less.
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable=Yes 
}}
{| {{verbtable}} 
|- {{verbtableheader|90}}
! scope="col" style="width:5em;"|Verb
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|First
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|Third
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| BOW
| ''<Set color, defaults to eye color>'' light blooms from your leather hunts's core as you cross your forearm over your chest and execute a short bow.
| ''<Set color, defaults to eye color>'' light blooms from XXX's leather hunts's core as he/she crosses his/her forearm over his/her chest and executes a short bow.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| CLEAN
| With slow, measured strokes, you run your palms over the surface of your leather hunts. ''<Set color, defaults to eye color>'' energy gathers in your wake, dissolving the detritus of combat.
| With slow, measured strokes, XXX runs his/her palms over the surface of his/her leather hunts. ''<Set color, defaults to eye color>'' energy gathers in her wake, dissolving the detritus of combat.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| COVER
| You rest your hand over the ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' core centered in the chest of your leather hunts and bask in its radiant warmth.
| XXX rests a hand over his/her heart. Bold ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' light flickers around the silhouette of his/her fingers.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| FIDGET
| You spend a moment fiddling with your leather hunts. Tiny glimmers of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' luminescence, hardly pinpricks, rise to meet your touch.
| As XXX spends a moment fiddling with his/her leather hunts, tiny glimmers of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' luminescence rise to her touch.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| KNOCK
| You pound your clenched fist twice against your shoulder, sending luminous ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' waves rolling across the surface of your leather hunts.
| XXX pounds his/her clenched fist twice against his/her shoulder, sending luminous ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' waves rolling across the surface of his/her leather hunts.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| TOUCH
| You drum your fingers on your leather hunts. With every strike of your fingertips, a ripple of muted ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' light wells up from its surface.
| XXX drums his/her fingers on his/her leather hunts. With every strike of his/her fingertips, a ripple of muted ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' light wells up from its surface.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| TURN
| You turn sharply on your heel. Faint tendrils of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' light curl around you in the wake of your movement.
| XXX turns sharply on his/her heel. Faint tendrils of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' light curl around his/her in the wake of his/her movement.
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| WAVE
| You sweep an arm through the air, and a diffuse ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' haze colors the air in the wake of your movement.
| XXX sweeps an arm through the air, and a diffuse ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' haze colors the air in the wake of his/her movement.
|}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 1 
|itemsummary= At this tier, up to 300 mana can be {{boldmono|INFUSED}} into the leather in advance of a hunt, with training in [[:Category:Mana Controls|Mana Control]]. This can be done while wearing the armor if currently in a sanctified area; in the field, the armor must be removed and then infused while being held. When attacked, there is a standard flare chance to receive 1d5 mana. The mana gained by the wearer is lost by the armor.
|analyze= 
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable=Yes 
}}
{| {{verbtable}} 
|- {{verbtableheader|90}}
! scope="col" style="width:5em;"|Verb
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|First
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|Third
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| INFUSE
| You concentrate and channel your mana into your leather hunts. Tendrils of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' energy pulse outward from its core with the power of your infusion. You sense it has a total of [N] mana.
| XXX concentrates, focusing on his/her leather hunts. Tendrils of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' energy pulse outward from its core.
|}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 2 
|itemsummary= At this tier, up to 350 mana can be {{boldmono|INFUSED}} into the leather in advance of a hunt. In addition to the above unlocks, the user gains the '''Mana Shield''' effect with a 25% chance to activate when receiving damage. Grants 2d20 damage padding for that instance of damage received. For every point of damage absorbed by the shield, 1 point of mana is lost from the armor.
|analyze= 
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable= 
}}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 3 
|itemsummary= At this tier, up to 400 mana can be {{boldmono|INFUSED}} into the leather in advance of a hunt. In addition to the above unlocks, the user gains the '''Arcane Aegis''' ability - a manually triggered (via {{boldmono|[[RUB (verb)|RUB]]}}) and more powerful version of '''Mana Shield''' that also provides critical padding equal to half of the damage padding. Lasts for 120 seconds, has a 60 minute cooldown, and costs 25 mana from the armor plus the ongoing cost for the damage absorbed.
|analyze= 
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable=Yes 
}}
{| {{verbtable}} 
|- {{verbtableheader|90}}
! scope="col" style="width:5em;"|Verb
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|First
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|Third
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"|RUB
| Diffuse bands of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' luminescence spread outward from your leather hunts in response to your will, buttressing the air around you.
| Diffuse bands of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' luminescence spread outward from XXX's leather hunts.
|}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 4 
|itemsummary= At this tier, up to 450 mana can be '''INFUSED''' into the leather in advance of a hunt. In addition to the above unlocks, the user gains the '''Mana Tap''' ability - manually triggered (via {{boldmono|[[TAP (verb)|TAP]]}}) to drain 50 mana from the armor and adds it to the wearer's mana while also energizing the wearer to grant +25 AS/+15 CS for 3 minutes. 15 minute cooldown. Ambient messaging can be toggled on and off ({{boldmono|[[PROD (verb)|PROD]]}}).
|analyze= 
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable=Yes 
}}
{| {{verbtable}} 
|- {{verbtableheader|90}}
! scope="col" style="width:5em;"|Verb
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|First
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|Third
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| PROD
| With a moment's concentration, you bid the mana infused within your <armor> to settle. ''(This command pauses ambient messages).'' With a moment's concentration, you stir the mana infused within your <armor> into motion, bidding it to flow as its nature dictates. ''(This command restores ambient messages).''
|
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| TAP
| As you draw upon the mana infused within your leather hunts, ''<set phrase>'' energy courses along the leathers and sinks below its surface. Your eyes glow brightly for a moment as you feel an upwelling of magical energy. You gain 50 mana! Cast Roundtime 3 seconds.
| ''<Set phrase>'' energy courses along XXX's leather hunts and sinks below its surface. His/Her eyes glow brightly for a moment and he/she appears energized!
|}
{{itemtier 
|tier=Tier 5 
|itemsummary= At this tier, up to 500 mana can be '''INFUSED''' into the leather in advance of a hunt. In addition to the above unlocks, the user gains the '''Arcane Expulsion''' ability. Manually triggered (via {{boldmono|[[SIGIL (verb)|SIGIL]]}}), it can be activated when incapacitated (stunned, webbed, bound, in roundtime) but not while unconscious. It attempts to forcibly move all creatures out of the room (into a random adjacent room) and subjects them to 20 seconds of roundtime upon success of an [[Standard maneuver roll#SMR v2|SMRv2]] attack using the wearer's [[Magic Item Use]] ranks to calculate the strength of the attack. It can be used 2x a day, resets at midnight, and costs 50 mana from the armor.
|analyze= 
This is tier 5 Mana-Infused Armor.

Tier
0: a standard leathers with some special messaging
1: Reactive Mana Flares - when attacked, there is a standard flare chance for the wearer to gain 1d5 mana. The mana gained by the wearer is lost from the armor.
2: Mana Shield - 25% chance to activate when receiving damage. Grants 2d20 damage padding for that instance of damage received. For every point of damage absorbed by the shield, 1 point of mana is lost from the armor.
3: Arcane Aegis - A manually triggered (RUB) and more powerful version of Mana Shield that also provides critical padding equal to half of the damage padding. Lasts for 120 seconds, has a 60 minute cooldown, and costs 25 mana from the armor plus the ongoing cost for the damage absorbed.
4: Mana Tap - A manually triggered ability (TAP) to drain 50 mana from the armor and adds it to the wearer's mana while also energizing the wearer to grant +25 AS/+15 CS for 3 minutes. 15 minute cooldown. Ambient messaging can be toggled on and off (PROD).
5: Arcane Expulsion - A manually triggered ability (SIGIL) that can be activated when incapacitated (but not while unconscious). Attempts to forcibly move all creatures out of the room (into a random adjacent room) and subjects them to 20 seconds of roundtime. A SMRv2 attack using the wearer's Magic Item Use ranks to calculate the strength of the attack. Can be used 2x a day, resets at midnight, and costs 50 mana from the armor.

Unlocked verbs: bow, clean cover, fidget, infuse, knock, touch, turn, wave, rub, prod, tap, sigil

The leathers can have the color and adjective of its energy/light customized with a descriptive word or phrase. Various messaging will include these custom settings.

The current setting is:
'''color: (Unset, will default to albino pink - your eye color.)'''
'''adjective: (Unset, will default to a value based upon your magical lore training)'''
''' phrase: (Unset, will default to a value based upon your magical lore training)'''
The phrase should also be prefixed with the adjective.

Customization should remain simple, nothing so complex as to require a comma.
Examples of functional customization choices:
colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet
adjective: crackling, nebulous, wraithlike, translucent
phrase: crackling tendrils of elemental, nebulous tendrils of spiritual, wraithlike tendrils of sorcerous, translucent tendrils of psychic
In each case, these words/phrases will be placed in front of words like "energy" and "light". Try to keep it to five words or less.

You can tell that the leathers is as light as it can get.
|affinity= 
|itemverbtable=Yes 
}}
{| {{verbtable}} 
|- {{verbtableheader|90}}
! scope="col" style="width:5em;"|Verb
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|First
! scope="col" style="width: 45%"|Third
|-
! scope="row" role="rowheader"| SIGIL
| You strain and reach for the energies coursing through your leather hunts, and they surge outward in a rippling wave of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' force to aid you! Cast Roundtime 3 Seconds.
| Suddenly, a rippling wave of ''<set color, defaults to eye color>'' force surges outward from XXX!
|}
==Tier Benefit Breakdown==
{| class="wikitable" {{prettytable}} style="width: 20%;" aria-label="In"; style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="1" | Tier Benefit
! colspan="1" | Details
|-
|0: || standard leathers with some special messaging
|-
|1: Reactive Mana Flares || when attacked, there is a standard flare chance for the wearer to gain 1d5 mana. The mana gained by the wearer is lost from the armor.
|-
|2: Mana Shield || 25% chance to activate when receiving damage. Grants 2d20 damage padding for that instance of damage received. For every point of damage absorbed by the shield, 1 point of mana is lost from the armor.
|-
|3: Arcane Aegis || A manually triggered (RUB) and more powerful version of Mana Shield that also provides critical padding equal to half of the damage padding. Lasts for 120 seconds, has a 60 minute cooldown, and costs 25 mana from the armor plus the ongoing cost for the damage absorbed.
|-
|4: Mana Tap || A manually triggered ability (TAP) to drain 50 mana from the armor and adds it to the wearer's mana while also energizing the wearer to grant +25 AS/+15 CS for 3 minutes. 15 minute cooldown. Ambient messaging can be toggled on and off (PROD).
|-
|5: Arcane Expulsion || A manually triggered ability (SIGIL) that can be activated when incapacitated (but not while unconscious). Attempts to forcibly move all creatures out of the room (into a random adjacent room) and subjects them to 20 seconds of roundtime. A SMRv2 attack using the wearer's Magic Item Use ranks to calculate the strength of the attack. Can be used 2x a day, resets at midnight, and costs 50 mana from the armor.
|}

==Additional Information==
===Set Bonus with Sigil Staves and Dramatic Draperies===
If at least one other item in the Sigil Set are used in combat, the user gains the ability to flare a '''Sigil of Binding''' effect via an [[Standard_maneuver_roll#SMR_v2|SMRv2]] attack that roots your opponents and prevents them from using combat maneuvers. Each unlocked tier of the Sigil Set worn by the user increases the odds of a flare by 1% (up to 15%, if Tier 5 of all 3 items are used). T0 contributes 0% towards this chance but can still count as one of the two items needed to activate the flare.

A rooted target is unable to move away from the room but can still perform combat actions. Rooted targets receive a penalty of -50 AS to melee attacks, -25 AS to ranged attacks, and -25 DS, but this does not stack with some other status conditions. In addition, rooted creatures cannot perform maneuvers.

===WPS Surcharge from Premium points===
Tiers 0-1 are considered simple functional combat scripts and have a 600 [[Premium_Point_costs|premium point cost surcharge]], while tiers 2-5 have a 1200 premium point cost surchage as they count as complex functional combat scripts.

===Ambient Messaging===
Ambient messaging is random and is based on the wearer's lore knowledge.

<pre{{log2}}>
The echo of a remembered ritual chant teases at the edge of your hearing.

Elemental Lore - Fire: <pre{{log2}}>
A wayward prismatic spark rolls off your shoulder and drifts to the ground.

==See Also==
* [[Mana-Infused_Armor/saved_posts|Saved posts]]
* [[Sigil Staff]]
* [[Dramatic Drapery]]

</td><td>
{{iteminfo
|type=Mechanical 
|itemclass=Armor 
|itemtype=Armor 
|alter=Yes 
|ld=Yes 
|feature= 
|customize=Yes 
|custom=Color 
|custom2=Adjective
|custom3=Phrase
|origmerch= 
|releasevenue=Duskruin 
|releaseyear=2020 
|questitem= 
|tiered=Yes 
|tiersnumber=6 
|unlock=Certificate 
|legendary= 
|demeanor= 
|loresong= 
|corrscript=Sigil Staff 
|corrscript2=Dramatic Drapery
|attune= 
|attunement= 
|affinity= 
|spell= 
|enhancive= 
|swap= 
|add= 
|restrictions= No commas in customizations. Five words or less for phrases.
}}
{{itemverb
|verb= BOW 
|verb2= CLEAN
|verb3= COVER
|verb4= FIDGET
|verb5= INFUSE
|verb6= KNOCK
|verb7= PROD
|verb8= RUB
|verb9= SIGIL
|verb10= TAP
|verb11= TOUCH
|verb12= TURN
|verb13= WAVE
}}
</td></tr></table>

Faendryl Enclave

2024-08-11T21:05:50Z

RAFFELS2: /* Current Events */

'''The Faendryl Enclave''' is a [[Meeting Hall Organization]] located in the environs of [[Wehnimer's Landing]] in Aillidh Brae. It is an organization formed for the following goals:
#Provide a refuge for [[Faendryl]]
#Promote Faendryl culture & history
#Provide training for typical Faendryl skills (OOC, provide a platform for RP-related interactions)
#Act as an outreach to local governments to foster improved relations
__NOTOC__

==Current Events==

We host recurring "Faendryl Rules of Engagement" nights on the fourth Friday of each month or as listed on the official calendar and on TownCriers channels. The games change, but regular offerings include Killer Darts and a Werewolf-style game called "Nalfein Infiltrators."

Our major calendar events include the annual [[Faendryl Symposium]], which typically takes place in the late summer or early fall; our annual carnival masquerade ball, which usually falls in late February or early March; and multi-MHO events such as [[Revelia Carnivale]], which may also include the Enclave.

Our major calendar events include the annual Faendryl Symposium, which is coming up September 27 - 29, 2024; our annual carnival masquerade ball, which usually falls in late February or early March; and multi-MHO events such as Revelia Carnivale, which may also include the Enclave.

The 2024 Faendryl Symposium calendar is under construction! Look for more events and venues to be added in the weeks to come. Times and dates are subject to change.

{| {{prettytable}}

{| {{prettytable|background:##F6DDCC;height:15px;}}

|- style="background:#82011D; vertical-align: top; font-size: larger; color:white;"

! Time !!Event !!Host(s) !!Location !!Description

|- The Faendryl Enclave

! style="background:#808080; color:white;" colspan="5"|Friday, September 27

|- style="text-align:center"

! 9:30PM

| Seven Years of Faendryl Symposia

| [[Lylia]]

| [[Alabaster Spire]], Courtyard

| style="text-align:left"|Join us as we celebrate seven years of the Enclave's annual Faendryl Symposium!

|- style="text-align:center"

! 10:00PM

| Seven-Course Feast

| [[]]

| [[Alabaster Spire]], Dining Hall

| style="text-align:left"|To commemorate our seventh year, we invite our friends to the Alabaster Spire for a feast following our commencement address in the front courtyard.

|- style="text-align:center"

! 11:00PM

| Nalfein Infiltrators

| [[Ysharra]]

| [[Alabaster Spire]], Lounge

| style="text-align:left"| In this sleepy little Ashrim fishing village, not all is well; there are infiltrators among the townsfolk, and you can help save them -- unless you are one of the murderers! Ysharra leads players through a lighthearted game of intrigue and drama when the Faendryl Enclave hosts 'Nalfein Infiltrators.'

|-

! style="background:#808080; color:white;" colspan="5"|Saturday, September 28

|- style="text-align:center"

! 8:00PM

| TBA

| TBA

| TBA

| style="text-align:left"| TBA

|- style="text-align:center"

! 9:00PM

| "Kypheia," A Faendryl Play

| Various Performers

| [[House Brigatta]], Amphitheater

| style="text-align:left"| Join the cast and crew for an encore showing of selected scenes from "Kypheia," originally performed at this year's [[Revelia Carnivale]]! See spectacle and intrigue on the stage, presented in Common after translation from the original Faendryl.

|- style="text-align:center"

! 10:00PM

| ''TBA''

| TBA

| TBA

| style="text-align:left"| To Be Announced

|- style="text-align:center"

! 11:00PM

| Symposium Gala

| The Faendryl Enclave

| [[Alabaster Spire]], Great Hall

| style="text-align:left"|

After the play, join us for our seventh annual gala. This year's theme is in keeping with the season: Autumn. Wear your favorite fall hues or choose an elegant autumnal print to showcase your style. See and be seen at one of the Landing's most elegant events of the season!

|-

! style="background:#808080; color:white;" colspan="5"|Sunday, September 29

|- style="text-align:center"

! 2:00PM

| ''TBA''

| [[]]

| [[]]

| style="text-align:left"| To Be Announced

|- style="text-align:center"

! 3:00PM

| Faendryl Art and Textiles

| [[Missoni_(prime)|Missoni]]

| [[Alabaster Spire]], Garden

| style="text-align:left"| To be announced

|- style="text-align:center"

! 4:00PM

| ''TBA''

| TBA

| TBA

| style="text-align:left"| To be announced

|-

|- style="text-align:center"

! 5:00PM

| ''TBA''

| TBA

| TBA

| style="text-align:left"| To be announced

|-

|}

==Officers==
{|{{prettytable}}
|Japhrimel
|Co-Founder
|-
|Lylia
|Sorceress Supreme
|-
|Ysharra
|Dame of Thorns
|-
|Eiliriel
|Professional Organizer
|-
|Melikor
|Necromancer Extraordinaire
|-
|Zolis
|Diplomat
|-
|Xorus
|Vice Chancellor
|}

==Information==
The Faendryl Enclave was founded in the month of Fashanos/February, 2010 and remains one of the more active organizations in the Wehnimer's Landing regon, both socially and politically. The Enclave was created with the intention of filling a need in the Faendryl community. Previously the only organized group of Faendryl were the Ta'Mori and generally associated with Eorgina, Evil, and/or generally undesirable to the public in general. To provide an alternative and to combat an overall negative view of the culture by others, the group was founded by Japhrimel and Queleri, soon joined by others, some to stay and some to leave us.

===Meetings===
The Faendryl Enclave has a monthly meeting set on the first Monday of each month at 9:30pm Eastern. Meetings are held at our structure, [[The Alabaster Spire]] (;go2 23520). Meetings are open to the public, particularly interested Faendryl and Half-Faendryl, unless otherwise specified.

===The Alabaster Spire===
[[The Alabaster Spire]] is the seat of the Faendryl Enclave. It is located outside of Wehnimer's Landing at Aillidh Brae, Vale, to ensure privacy and safety. The Spire's courtyard, garden, and ground floor are open to the public. Upstairs levels are typically reserved for members, although during the annual Symposium, much of the grounds are open to visitors. This is so that any Faendryl may come make use of the grounds if they so desire. Members and other Faendryl are welcome and encouraged to use the grounds as much as they wish to. If anyone would like to organize an event or have something occur on the grounds, please let an Officer know if you require any assistance in doing so, such as a food cart or drinks.

===Membership===
Enclave membership is open to Faendryl and Half-Faendryl, though there is a single token Halfling member (No one expected a non-Faendryl to actually try to join, so there weren't set rules against it). To join the Enclave, those interested should attempt to attend meetings and/or events when possible. Please inform any Officers you meet that you would like to join. In order to join you must get the approval of at least two Officers, usually in the form of a semi-formal interview. The best way to know if you would like to be a member is to get to know our members, so we welcome you to attend events and learn more about who we are.

<div class="toccolors mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
To see a list of our active members, expand this section.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content"><div style="column-count:5;-moz-column-count:5;-webkit-column-count:5">
*Aetammel
*Alanisse
*Asylum
*Aymar
*Azryen
*Berkana
*Calvix
*Cheska
*Corsine
*Deciette
*Drakkler
*Drakkonn
*Dsaine
*Durakar
*Edanthiel
*Eiliriel
*Emperia
*Erynien
*Evastrok
*Eyona
*Faylith
*Gannorlac
*Gavrien
*Japhrimel
*Kaeldorien
*Kaldonis
*Ketsimney
*Kioya
*Kunley
*Laelithonel
*Lafali
*Liskey
*Logeerkamer
*Loirya
*Lylia
*Malicir
*Malikaen
*Malkave
*Malosa
*Marijka
*Melikor
*Missoni
*Mourne
*Murharzarm
*Nacari
*Nakaira
*Natorianya
*Nazarr
*Noira
*Ondreian
*Picler
*Queleri
*Raethir
*Ravinder
*Sezo
*Shilaohra
*Silvius
*Simulacra
*Sionyl
*Sparegris
*Svatahor
*Taelarn
*Thrassus
*Tolida
*Toxyrox
*Vaeldrys
*Vailwyn
*Varethnar
*Veni
*Xanthium
*Xinza
*Xorus
*Xylador
*Yardie
*Ysharra
*Zaigh
*Zolis
</div>
</div>
</div>

===Assistance===
The Enclave exists, in part, to provide assistance to Faendryl in need. One way we seek to do this is to help younger/newer Faendryl with equipment. If you are or know of a Faendryl or Half-Faendryl in need of decent 4x gear, please let an Officer know.

===Events===
We have had numerous events over the years. Some events are annual or have repeated, some have not. Event descriptions and logs, as available, will be added to this section.
*[[World Wide Siegery Championship]]
*[[Faendryl Roulette]]
*[[Faendryl Enclave Art Night]]
*[[Lylia_and_Aeavenne%27s_Faendryl_divination_lecture_and_demonstration|Faendryl Divination]]
*[[Faendryl_fashion_and_cobbling_(log)|Faendryl Fashion and Cobbling]]
*[https://sites.google.com/view/alabasterspire/home/events/symposium-5118 Faendryl Symposium 2018]
*[https://sites.google.com/view/alabasterspire/home/events/symposium-5119 Faendryl Symposium 2019]
*[https://sites.google.com/view/alabasterspire/home/events/symposium-5120 Faendryl Symposium 2020]
*[https://sites.google.com/view/alabasterspire/home/events/symposium-5121 Faendryl Symposium 2021]
*[https://sites.google.com/view/alabasterspire/home/events/symposium-5122 Faendryl Symposium 2022]
*[https://sites.google.com/view/alabasterspire/home/events/symposium-5123 Faendryl Symposium 2023]

==Resources==
*[[The Theory of Governance and Social Order]]
*[https://sites.google.com/view/alabasterspire/home The Faendryl Enclave's website]
*[http://forums.play.net/forums/GemStone%20IV/Meeting%20Hall%20Organizations%20(MHOs)/The%20Faendryl%20Enclave/view Official GS4 Subforum] - Link to Faendryl Enclave's subforum on the officals.
*[http://forum.gsplayers.com/group.php?groupid=1 Player Corner Group] - The Faendryl Enclave Player's Corner group
*[https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/gsiv-faendryl-enclave Enclave's Google Group]
*[[Faendryl Enclave News and Criers]]
*[[The Alabaster Spire]]

[[Category: Meeting Hall Organizations]]

Missoni (prime)

2024-07-08T03:14:25Z

RAFFELS2:

{{characterprofile
|name=Missoni Sabretache Faendryl
|image= 
|caption=
|race=Dark Elf
|culture=Faendryl
|culture2= 
|hometown=New Ta'Faendryl
|class=Sorcerer
|profession=Extraplanar Scholar, Baleglazier
|religion=Aeia and The Huntress
|affiliations=Rone Academy, Elanthian Elegance, Order of the Silver Gryphon
|word=
|disposition=
|demeanor=Neutral
|ptrait=
|strait=
|flaw=
|strength=
|weakness=
|habits=
|hobbies=Cobbling
|soft=
|likes=Fishcakes
|dislikes=
|fears=
|loyalties=
|friend=
|spouse=Perigourd
|loved=
|children=
|instance=Prime
|town=Solhaven
|town2= 
}}
'''Missoni Sabretache Faendryl''' is a [[dark elf]] [[sorcerer]] from New Ta'Faendryl. She resides in Vornavis, where she is the curator of the Twilight Gallery, and maintains a laboratory in Wehnimer's Landing, where she studies demonology.

== History ==

Missoni was born in New Ta'Faendryl to Alkaios Nisanur Faendryl and Vaishnavi Illaityn Faendryl.

== In Character Essays ==
- [[Fashion and Textiles of Rhoska-Tor and New Ta’Faendryl|'''Fashion and Textiles of Rhoska-Tor and New Ta’Faendryl''']] (5124)

== Storyline Vignettes and Letters ==

'''- [[/Echoed Whispers|Echoed Whispers]]:''' Nations on the Brink (5123)

'''- [[/A Special Order|A Special Order]]:''' Of Rooks and Reivers (5123)

'''- [[/A Letter to Dikirk|A Letter to Dikirk]]:''' Of Rooks and Reivers (5123)

'''- [[/Desperately Seeking Talon|Desperately Seeking Talon]]:''' Nations on the Brink (5123)

'''- [[/Loose Ends|Loose Ends]]:''' Nations on the Brink (5123)

'''- [[/2024-05-19 - A Commissioned Repair|A Commissioned Repair]]:''' Tales of Ta'Vaalor (5124)

== In Character Lectures and Interviews ==

'''- [[Mist Harbor Library Lectures - 2022-08-14 - Missoni on Faendryl Glasswork (log) | Faendryl Glasswork]]:''' Mist Harbor Library Lecture (5122)

'''- [[Elanthian Vogue: Autumn 5122 | The Beauty of Baleglass]]:''' Elanthian Vogue (5122)

Missoni (prime)/A Commissioned Repair

2024-07-08T03:13:28Z

RAFFELS2: RAFFELS2 moved page Missoni (prime)/A Commissioned Repair to Missoni (prime)/2024-05-19 - A Commissioned Repair: To comply with log formatting guidelines

#REDIRECT [[Missoni (prime)/2024-05-19 - A Commissioned Repair]]

Missoni (prime)/2024-05-19 - A Commissioned Repair

2024-07-08T03:13:28Z

RAFFELS2: RAFFELS2 moved page Missoni (prime)/A Commissioned Repair to Missoni (prime)/2024-05-19 - A Commissioned Repair: To comply with log formatting guidelines

This log is from the Tales of Ta'Vaalor storyline on May 19, 2024 from the viewpoint of Missoni.
<pre{{log2|border=none|font=arial}}>
Retrieving your steel key from your person, you unlock and open a keyhole-shaped door.
You and your group flounce through a keyhole-shaped door amidst a diffuse cloud of prismatic glitter.
[Twilight Gallery, Studio]
Cramped yet tidy, the studio has a solid mahogany floor and slate walls. Honeycomb cubbies are built between the floor and underside of an ascending spiral staircase, the octagonal compartments filled with all manner of supplies, half-finished projects, cups, bowls, and other bric-a-brac associated with the art of creation. A long paint-marred table provides ample room for new creations and has a tall metal-fortified stool set before it. You also see an A-frame lor scaffold constructed around a cauldron of emerald-hued flame and a keyhole-shaped door.
Obvious exits: none
Wylnar followed.
You pull a keyhole-shaped door closed behind you and lock it, then tuck your key back into its place.
A lazy wild blood red dog arrives.
Wylnar glances at a keyhole-shaped door.
You nod approvingly.
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar asks, "This the part where you murder me?"
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you offer, "There are refreshments on the table if you would like."
You gaze in amusement at Wylnar.
The dog paws at the ground, and its fur twitches and quivers for a moment.
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you exclaim, "Surely you do not think I would do that!"
Wylnar pours himself a honeycomb-etched glass of peated whiskey.
Wylnar shrugs.
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar says, "Plenty of people want to."
Wylnar leans against a keyhole-shaped door.
You ponder the meaning of Wylnar's existence.
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you say, "That seems drastic."
Wylnar offers you a cracked night-dark sphere wound in thread-thin mithril strands. Click ACCEPT to accept the offer or DECLINE to decline it. The offer will expire in 30 seconds.
You nod appreciatively at Wylnar.
Wylnar shrugs slightly.
You accept Wylnar's offer and are now holding a cracked night-dark sphere wound in thread-thin mithril strands.
You tilt your night-dark sphere side to side, making the light play off it.
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar indifferently says, "People are dramatic."
Like a cage of finespun sugar, threads of mithril envelope the sphere, making it difficult to trace the hairline fractures running throughout, from which a shadowed energy slowly seeps. The lustrous white metal contrasts the intense darkness of the glass, though the brightness is occasionally dimmed by a smoky haze prowling over the orb's surface.
Wylnar sniffs at his peated whiskey.
Speaking in Elven, you murmur, "Just as I remember."
Wylnar takes a drink from his peated whiskey.
Wylnar looks rather relaxed.
You remove some waxy translucent chalk from in your alligator skin case.
A sense of dread creeps over you as steadily as the haze seeping from the sphere.
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you say, "I will just--"
You glance at the night-dark sphere in your hand.
Speaking in Elven, you carefully say, "I will just refresh the wards a bit."
Using some waxy translucent chalk, you outline the shape of a summoning circle upon the floor.
Wylnar gazes with interest at the peated whiskey in his hand.
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar mutters, "Good whiskey."
Wylnar takes a drink from his peated whiskey.
Wylnar looks rather relaxed.
Speaking in Elven, you cheerfully say, "Thank you."
You put some waxy translucent chalk in your alligator skin case.
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar asks, "Won't make you nervous having an audience, right?"
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you advise, "I suggest standing within the circle."
You move inside the inner confines of your summoning circle.
Wylnar attempts to move towards a summoning circle, but is stopped in his tracks by some unseen force.
Wylnar squints.
Wylnar carefully steps over the bounds of the circle.
(Missoni helps Wylnar pass the barrier.)
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar asks, "Don't cross the circle, blah, blah?"
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you say, "An audience is no problem. I have led demonstrations before."
Speaking in Elven, you agree, "Do not disrupt the circle."
You breathe in slightly.
You snap your fingers, and the dog moves to your side obediently.
You give your night-dark sphere to a lazy wild blood red dog. It grudgingly accepts.
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you introduce, "My assistant, Winston."
You glance at the dog and incline your head slightly. The dog licks its lips, causing a small bit of drool pooling in its mouth to spill onto the ground. The dog begins panting heavily.
Wylnar glances at a lazy wild blood red dog.
Speaking in Elven, you muse, "Now then..."
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar asks, "...Really?"
Cupping your fingers before you, the tips suddenly darkening to an inky black, you murmur a prayer to the dead, enticing them to aid you in casting Balefire.
Wylnar makes a bit of a face as the slobber from the dog slips between the fine mithril threads.
(Missoni redirects green energy to the scaffold, where it feeds the flame of bright vert laced with black. The fire begins to overflow the cauldron centered beneath the scaffold, bathing the surrounding studio in lurid viridian light.)
Wylnar glances at an A-frame lor scaffold constructed around a cauldron of emerald-hued flame.
The haze seems contained here in the circle, only barely creeping along the surface of the sphere.
Speaking in Elven, you distractedly say, "His saliva is only a bit poisonous."
Speaking in Elven, you say, "I am sure it will burn off."
You casually observe your surroundings.
(Missoni gestures to the blood red dog, calling it over. It approaches the cauldron without hesitation, its jaws still holding the sphere. The blood red dog rests its head upon the edge of the cauldron. Essence briefly melts from the creatures's muzzle, revealing more rows of teeth than a canine would find strictly necessary. When the sphere touches the edge of the flame, the demon stops, standing perfectly still.)
You nod slightly.
Wylnar holds his breath.
(Missoni steps toward the scaffold, her gaze focused in concentration on the balefire and the demon above it. The flames climb higher until the sphere is engulfed. The fire bends around the glass orb rather than touching it directly. Still, the glass begins to melt, small rivulets forming at the edges as it liquifies, yet the dog does not flinch.)
You hold out your hand, palm facing up, and concentrate on its central point. Slowly, particles begin to coalesce with a unified will in your hand. One by one, petals dark as twilight begin to blossom up, taking the shape of a rosebud. Specks of colorless pollen appear within the flower as the rest of the details are filled in. After a moment, a perfectly-shaped black essence rose lies across your hand.
Wylnar takes a step back away from the heat, though he's careful to not let the heels of his boots cross the circle.
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you note, "I do not like how it is... leaking. I am going to mend it with a bit of essence."
Wylnar nods to you.
(Missoni sends a few tendrils of essence from the rose toward the glass sphere, where they seeps into the thin cracks marring the glass' surface. The glass appears to mend around the small fissures, and the mithril filaments appear untouched but slightly blackened.)
You quickly throw the black essence rose towards a lazy wild blood red dog and focus upon its exterior. As the black essence rose travels through the air, it quickly begins to shift and reform into a slender essence stiletto that moves even faster through the air. The essence stiletto strikes a lazy wild blood red dog over its heart where it shatters into thin tendrils of darkness upon impact.
Wylnar nearly stumbles over the circle during his complete unprepared dodge of the rose.
(Missoni motions to the blood red dog, who takes a few steps backward. The flame dies to a low flicker. Missoni extends her hand to the dog, waiting for the glass to cool before she lets it drop into her waiting hand. Cracks no longer mar the surface. Rather, it appears smooth and whole, but webbed internally by the faint, silvery lines of essence that mended it together.)
The dog paws at the ground, and its fur twitches and quivers for a moment.
Wylnar licks some spilled whiskey off the heel of his palm.
A lazy wild blood red dog gives a cracked night-dark sphere wound in thread-thin mithril strands to you.
The dog paws at the ground, and its fur twitches and quivers for a moment.
You surreptitiously glance at Wylnar.
Notably, the sense of dread does not return as you hold the mended sphere.
Wylnar looks thoughtfully at you.
The dog cocks its head to one side and raises its muzzle up into the air, sniffing anxiously. After a moment, the fur of its ruff bristles, and it begins to growl at the shadows.
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you say, "Quite simple, really. I think it will hold easily, so long as you do not go throwing it around again."
You gaze thoughtfully at your night-dark sphere.
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar notes, "I didn't throw it in the first place."
You glance skeptically at Wylnar.
Speaking in Elven, you say, "Well, whomever did."
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar says, "Overeager Vaalorians decided to attack first, ask questions later."
You furrow your brow, probably adding a wrinkle or two in the process.
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar says, "Caused the original... holder to drop it when they inevitably died to a bunch of stab wounds."
Wylnar gazes heavenward.
You grimace.
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar says, "Then nobody could find it... There were snakes everywhere..."
Wylnar waves his hand in a dismissive gesture.
Wylnar takes a drink from his peated whiskey.
Speaking in Elven, you say, "There should be no more snakes, at least..."
Speaking in Elven to you, Wylnar asks, "Typical Vaalorians, really, right?"
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you say, "I have known them to be quite disciplined, really."
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar says, "To be fair, they'd been being attacked by pirates left and right the whole trip through the bog."
Wylnar ponders.
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar says, "Probably seemed wise to swing first. I guess they didn't see what they were holding."
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar says, "Was kind of dark and crowded down there."
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you say, "Or they thought it was some sort of weapon."
You realize there are some important matters you should tend to . . . later.
Wylnar takes a drink from his peated whiskey.
Wylnar shrugs.
Speaking in Elven, you say, "I have seen such things explode."
Speaking in Elven to you, Wylnar asks, "How does it look?"
Like a cage of finespun sugar, threads of mithril envelope the sphere, making it difficult to trace the vaelfyren veins running throughout. The blackened mithril pales in comparison to the intense darkness of the glass, beneath which a smoky haze roils.
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar says, "Well, grateful it didn't do that."
(Missoni holds the night-dark sphere up in the light.)
Wylnar leans in to study the sphere.
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you say, "It looks quite good, really."
Wylnar nods approvingly.
Speaking in Elven, you say, "Much better."
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you say, "And it has lost that sense of foreboding."
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar says, "I suppose that essence worked, then."
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you muse, "What is to be its fate next?"
Speaking in Elven to you, Wylnar says, "Well, one of my buyers fell through..."
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar asks, "So, auction perhaps?"
Speaking in Elven, you surprisedly say, "Auction."
Speaking in Elven to you, Wylnar says, "Exclusive guest list."
Speaking interestedly in Elven to Wylnar, you ask, "How much were you hoping to fetch for it?"
Speaking in Elven to you, Wylnar says, "Just trying to fetch Gasen, honestly."
Wylnar rummages through a vivid pink linen cape with arabesque-stitched edging searching with intent, but it quickly becomes apparent he's not got a clue where to look.
Speaking skeptically in Elven to Wylnar, you ask, "You are so fond of the boy?"
Speaking in Elven to you, Wylnar says, "Bounty."
Wylnar removes a Vornavis promissory note from in his pink linen cape.
You nod slowly.
Wylnar offers you a Vornavis promissory note. Click ACCEPT to accept the offer or DECLINE to decline it. The offer will expire in 30 seconds.
Speaking in Elven, you say, "Have you any--"
You accept Wylnar's offer and are now holding a Vornavis promissory note.
You nod appreciatively at Wylnar.
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you say, "I will see that this is given to our local orphans."
Wylnar takes a drink from his peated whiskey.
Speaking in Elven to you, Wylnar asks, "Not keeping it?"
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar asks, "Heart of gold, hm?"
Speaking lightly in Elven to Wylnar, you say, "I engage in a bit of philanthropy."
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you say, "But I am curious as to what the pirates might want with this."
You brush your fingers lightly against your night-dark sphere.
Wylnar lets out a barking laugh.
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar says, "Quiet your mouth. Philanthropy is a four-letter word."
You gaze in amusement at Wylnar.
Speaking in Elven to you, Wylnar says, "It's not what they think it is."
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you ask, "What is it, then?"
Wylnar shrugs at you.
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar says, "Not sure, but it's not what they're looking for."
Speaking in Elven, you amusedly ask, "What do they *think* it is?"
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar vaguely says, "Something else."
You furrow your brow, probably adding a wrinkle or two in the process.
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar says, "All that matters is they think it's what they were looking for long enough to set up a trade for Gasen."
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar wryly asks, "Do I get it back?"
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you say, "I am discreet, of course, but--"
Speaking in Elven, you exclaim, "Oh, do not be so nervous!"
You offer your night-dark sphere to Wylnar, who has 30 seconds to accept the offer. Click CANCEL to prematurely cancel the offer.
Wylnar has accepted your offer and is now holding a vaelfyren-veined night-dark sphere wound in thread-thin mithril strands.
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar says, "A healthy dose of paranoia keeps me alive."
Wylnar carefully inspects his night-dark sphere.
Wylnar nods approvingly.
Wylnar put a vaelfyren-veined night-dark sphere wound in thread-thin mithril strands in his pink linen cape.
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you say, "I only want to ensure that they will not be able to do harm with it."
Speaking in Elven, you say, "But I suppose if it was broken for so long... I imagine it would take more skilled sorcerer than they have to coax anything else from it."
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar says, "S'what I was thinking."
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you note, "If you do decide to auction it, I hope you will let me know."
Speaking in Elven to you, Wylnar says, "Of course."
Speaking in Elven, you say, "It would make a nice showpiece, if nothing else."
Speaking in Elven to you, Wylnar says, "Your help has been invaluable. I'll be sure to tell the Inquisitors."
You nod appreciatively at Wylnar.
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar says, "Reputation matters."
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar wryly adds, "Doesn't always have to be a good reputation."
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you say, "Mine is, I hope."
You grin wryly.
Speaking in Elven to Wylnar, you ask, "Would you like any more whiskey before I show you out?"
Wylnar glances at a honeycomb-etched glass of peated whiskey on a long paint-marred table.
Wylnar nods to you.
Wylnar pours himself a honeycomb-etched glass of peated whiskey.
You nod slightly.
Retrieving your steel key from your person, you unlock and open a keyhole-shaped door.
You and your group flounce into a keyhole-shaped door amidst a diffuse cloud of prismatic glitter.

[Vornavis, Dondraek Lane]
Following the curvature of the city's walls, the cobblestone street travels in a gentle incline to the north. Columnar lampposts glow with a steady, bright light that dispels the shadows of night that linger this close to the city's walls. Brownstone homes rise in tidy rows down the lane, their faces illuminated by smaller globes that dot the pathways leading through their small yards to their doors.
Obvious paths: north, southeast
Wylnar followed.
A lazy wild blood red dog arrives.
Wylnar takes a drink from his peated whiskey.
Wylnar looks rather relaxed.
Wylnar nods to the blood red dog.
Speaking in Elven to a lazy wild blood red dog, Wylnar says, "Excellent work to you, too."
You smile.
Speaking in Elven, you cheerfully say, "He is a good boy."
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar says, "I'll be on my way, before Jaranzair randomly hobbles in or something."
Wylnar smirks.
Speaking in Elven, Wylnar says, "Thank you, again."
You gaze in amusement at Wylnar.
You notice your companion Wylnar slip away into hiding.
Speaking in Elven, you say, "And thank you."
You turn around.
Speaking in Elven, the voice of Wylnar says, "Not that he could catch up."
Speaking in Elven, you wish, "Safe travels."
Speaking in Elven, you say, "I am sure he moves quicker than one might thing."
Speaking in Elven, you say, "Think, rather."
</pre>
[[Category: Logs]]

2024-04-26T20:25:24Z

RAFFELS2: Created page.