The Crimson Moon, also known as The Rise of Lornon, is a Platinum storyline that began in November of 2010 and is still active as of October 21, 2011. It is concerned with a group of five Lornon Arkati's attempts to take control of the world, and the efforts to resist them.

The Crimson Moon

Introduction

A prophecy has become known to the world, called the Dark Requiem. It dictates that five of the Lornon Arkati have chosen to come together to usurp Liabo's rule over the world. Led by Sheru, they are Luukos, V'tull, Mularos and Ivas. As the Lornon Arkati become more active, their adherents have likewise become bolder in practicing their faith. These cultists seek to bring the prophecy of the Dark Requiem into reality by recruiting converts, invading towns and cities, kidnapping people and enacting sacrifices at shrines erected around the world. Overseeing it all is the moon, stained crimson each night since the troubles began.

The Lornonites' activities are opposed by many different factions. Among them are Liaboites of many affiliations, joined by neutral parties seeking to restore the balance of the world as well as people seeking to protect the towns and people they care for. The opposition is aided by a gnomish seer and a human rumored to be a member of the Warders, a militant and often-reviled sect of the Order of Voln believed long dead.

Important People and Terms

Information partly supplied by Naionna

NPCs

Yuratlya - first appeared 11/2010 in WL, formerly blind gnomish seer, claims not to work for any side in the conflict Hanos - first appeared 03/2011 in SH, rumored to be a Warder Sedrygin - first appeared 03/2011 in SH, cleric of Koar, name unknown in game Aldrik - priest of Lorminstra, name unknown in game Pyali - priest of Lorminstra, name unknown in game Erim - NPC from previous storyline in 2008, father of Piperel Piperel - also called Pip, NPC from previous storyline in 2008, daughter of Erim, known as the "Herald," deceased Ydos - first appeared 05/2011 in TI, liaison for Scribners, name unknown in game Ningrint - first appeared 05/2011 in TI, Scribner, keeper of ancient artifacts and knowledge, lich, claims Ronanite sympathies, name unknown in game Carhn - Champion of V'Tull Naja - Champion of Luukos Azorlok - Avatar of Sheru Isium - Author of the Dark Requiem thousands of years ago Arcathis - Luukosian cultist Shezzaka - Sheruvian cultist, name unknown in game Abran - Luukosian cultist, name unknown in game Aibri - Luukosian cultist, name unknown in game Deirhge - Luukosian cultist, name unknown in game

Player Characters

Delcian - human priest of Ronan, named a Chosen of Ronan, torture victim Taeghan - Squire Legionnaire of Ta'Vaalor and paladin of Ronan, named a Chosen of Ronan, husband of Myriamie Myriamie - Nalfein with no known religious affiliation, wife of Taeghan, sacrificial victim Hubris - giantman knight of Ronan, named a Chosen of Ronan Nilandia - sylvan mentalist and telepath, named a Chosen of Lumnis and the Keeper of Knowledge Myke - giantman paladin of Voln, claims affiliation with the Warders, strongly urged by Hanos to become a leader of those opposing the Lornonites Jaired - Tehir, Lord Marshal of the Militia, close friend of Pip, currently missing Isanae - sylvan empath, sacrificial victim Caden - Dhe'nar sorcerer, ally of the Lornonites, released Azorlok from his imprisonment Terms Dark Requiem - prophecy written by Isium, zealot of Sheru, which contains a chain of events that results in the rule of Lornon, currently being translated Warders - militant sect of the Order of Voln, said by some to be heretical, believes in killing the people who use or create undead as well as releasing undead Elanthian Inquisitor - in-game newspaper, periodically publishes issues with information on the current events

An Invitation for a Moonlit Dance

06/28/2011 03:35 PM CDT

Strange winds blow this evening and all who have interest in the Rising of Lornon storyline are encouraged to be around this evening around 10:30 pm Eastern. This is a rough starting time so please keep that in mind if you accept our invitation to come dance with us in the blood-hued moonlight!

~Naionna

Another Sacrifice

06/29/2011 10:00 PM CDT

Last night after the crimson moon became active, Myriamie was patrolling the Vipershroud when she was kidnapped and taken to a Luukosian altar. As the rest of the people took up a search for her, Taeghan sensed the torture inflicted on her through his bond to her. Nilandia also attempted to make contact with her, only to be met by another entity forcibly and painfully silencing her efforts.

In time, Hanos located Myriamie's body and gave directions to finding the hidden temple in the area. He saw to her while the others fanned out and searched the temple. Two of the cultists who had participated in the torture were located. Myke attempted to kill them, but was instead killed by Naja. Taeghan would later kill the cultists.

The people in the temple soon left, only to be confronted by Naja leading various snakes. It was a quick skirmish, and everyone was brought back to the Keep. There, Hanos bristled at the barrage of questions and comments aimed at him, but still revealed some information he had.

- The gnomish seer, known OOCly as Yuratlya, has been poisoned with a rare snake venom. She is not dead, but is not doing very well. - Hanos searched for sign of the Scribners, who may provide crucial information in locating the Dark Requiem, a scripture believed by some to be the words of Sheru which contains the prophecy that may be coming to pass in the crimson moon. - Hanos set up a meeting this Friday night at midnight outside Ta'Illistim that may be a lead on the Scribners.

After what Hanos considered continued badgering, he left for the Voln monastery, possibly not having shared all he knows.

As always, copies of the report are being sent to various cities, the captain of the Sapphire Guard, Lord Urmeil, the city of Nydds, and any of her other regular contacts.

The Meeting

07/02/2011 10:08 AM CDT

Last night a group met with a "young" half-elf named Ydgo, who opened a portal that lead them to a meeting with a Scribner (the name escapes me at the moment) he agreed to give us the Dark Requiem if we give him something of value in return. He requires the lid of a destroyed urn. The group searched through out the catacombs and found nothing, after a long evening of searching Delcian grew tired and was starting to fall asleep while on his feet.

While in a sleepy haze Delcian began to see images that lead the group to a shrine where they found a shard of the urn and dust that had recently been disturbed by an orc, after searching the area it was decided that a bard was needed.

The bard sang to the shard and saw the event that lead to it's destruction, he also sang to the dust which revealed that an orc had recently been there and did in fact have the lid the group was looking for. The group gave chase but the trail went cold as they reached impassable terrain.

The group decided it was best to wait till morning when the trail might be easier to see in the light.

Recovering the First Shard

07/03/2011 12:43 PM CDT

To remind of recent events, the Liaboites are searching for a text called the Dark Requiem. They were led to a group known as the Scribners, and on Friday night they were finally able to meet with one. The Scribner, notable as being dead but also holding Ronanite proclivities, demanded the lid of a destroyed urn in exchange for receiving the text. Clues were uncovered to its location, but the trail became impassable from difficult terrain, halting progress.

The afternoon of July 2, the treasure hunter Khlat met with people at Hearthstone and revealed that he knew of a mountain climber that might help with getting around the obstacles.

Later that night, adventurers met with the mountain climber, who provided giant spiders with huts on their backs to help the climb. Exiting, they broke through a barrier of brambles before moving on. In an outcropping, a shard of what is assumed to be the urn lid was recovered. Jackals and serpents also attacked the group after the shard was located. With nothing else found, the group returned to the Landing.

During the climb, however, there was significant strife among those present. Jesphian attacked Jaired, only to be killed later during the chaos of the skirmish with the jackals and serpents. Shilarra also was noted to be quite waspish along the way.

Not long after the shard was recovered, the gnomish seer (known OOCly as Yuratlya though her name has not been given in game so far as I know) appeared in the park. She had been disturbed by the great distress she sensed from other people that night and ventured out of her bed, despite still suffering from the snake venom she had been poisoned with.

As people arrived, Yuratlya began to address some concerning their weaknesses that may be hindering them. She advised the people to take advantage of the resources they had at their disposal. She noted that the people had a Keeper though they did not use her. When pressed for the identity of this Keeper, she indicated Nilandia, whom she had earlier referred to as a Keeper of Knowledge, and said that she had only recently discovered her need after walking the path for months.

Yuratlya also told those gathered to trust those around them and work together, for they had until then continued to work as individuals rather than as members of a group. She told them to listen to their instincts, and not to be afraid to make a decision of the course to take, for no perfect path lay before them. She then departed with Fjalar, who sensed that she was in danger and acted to protect her.

Crimson Whispers

07/08/2011 12:26 AM CDT

Blood red eyes peer at you from the gnome as he glances your way. You could swear he bears fangs. A faint whisper reaches your ears, the voice deep and almost gutteral as it says, "You can't avoid your fate.. you will be broken soon enough. Talking to the Priest will not help, it is an excersise in futility." A shudder of cold washes over your skin. The voice continues, insistent and unwavering, "Look at how he mocks you. He does not understand, he is wrapped up in his own goals. A priest? A priest would sympathize, attempt to comfort you, not snap fingers at you as if you were a child. You can find comfort here with us.. give in." The voice comes again, this time low and with a lulling affect as it whispers, "Yes...." "He does not understand, none of them do. There is no help. Not even your precious Brinret has stayed for you. You are alone. We will comfort you. We will not bark at you when you fear, we will embrace your fears. Together.. " comes the voice. "See, he mocks you. Yet this is your friend. Consider it, Shilarra.. you know we are right.." and then it fades.

The Ritual

06/30/2011 10:51 AM CDT

You are slugged over the head hard and your surroundings blur as a bag is put over your eyes.

You think to yourself, "Taeghan!"

You sense that Taeghan is thinking about you and you feel the warmth of his affection.

You successfully command your resistant muscles to remove a silvery blue rolaren longsword from in your dupioni silk cloak.

Oddly, your surroundings grow blurry. You feel a tickle on the back of your neck, and without any warning, you suddenly feel extremely dizzy. Stars pass across your vision, which is shrouded in shadow. Then, a light appears ahead of you. Your vision clears, and you find that you are nowhere near where you were just moments ago.

[The Scales of Truth, Altar]
Centered on a semi-circular stone dais is an ebon marble altar, serpents crafted from gold seemingly slithering up the sides. Heat fills the room from a dozen stone braziers that are placed about, flames rising from their centers. Crafted into the back wall is a huge mosaic, its colorful tiles gleaming in the fire's glow. You also see a pile of offerings and a shadowed corridor.
Obvious exits: none

Aibri eyes you for a moment, circling you slowly.

Aibri says, "You will do nicely on that altar there.."

Aibri says, "But..tsk tsk with the longsword."

Myriamie tries to twitch her arm to swing her sword.

Aibri waves a hand at you and you feel better for a moment.

You growl ferociously!

Aibri says, "I'd rather have you coherent all things be told."

Aibri ties you down quickly to the altar and grins.

Aibri says, "Angry thing aren't you."

You ask, "What do you want with me?"

Aibri says, "Oh.."

Aibri chuckles.

Aibri asks, "What I want?"

Aibri says, "I want you to feel."

Aibri nods to you.

Aibri asks, "I want you to feel, and I want your bonded..yes the shield of Ronan is it?"

Aibri grins slowly.

You say, "...feel? I feel plenty. You can let me walk out now. Mission complete."

Aibri says, "I want him to feel very moment."

You nod slowly.

Aibri chuckles.

Aibri says, "Not quite so fast.."

Aibri mockingly says, "M'lady."

Aibri makes a contemptuous half-bow.

You frown at Aibri.

Aibri makes a snapping motion and several cultists begin to file in.

You say, "If you want someone to feel, it will be you. Feeling Taeghan's sword when he finds me."

Aibri says, "You see, your bond.. with the Shield.. is unique."

Aibri says, "And it provides special..pleasure to my Lord."

Aibri says, "To know that what you feel? He will feel too."

Aibri grins at you.

Aibri says, "And so here we are.."

Aibri says, "Really you should feel blessed."

(Myriamie's frown deepens.)

Aibri nods to you.

You uncertainly ask, "The bond?"

Aibri says, "Oh yes.. see you thought you'd get away with so much from that bond."

Aibri chuckles.

Aibri asks, "You thought we didn't know?"

Aibri touches your cheek with a cold, taloned finger.

Aibri grins slowly.

You furrow up your face and wince.

Aibri says, "Oh we knew.."

You say, "We did get away with it. It kept me safe from you."

Aibri says, "And though it perplexed us initially..sneaky sneaky girl that you are."

Aibri says, "It then made us aware of how very vulnerable you two are at this time."

Aibri chuckles.

A wavering blur suddenly appears, coming together into the cohesive form of Abran.

Abran hisses.

You glance at Abran.

>look abr
You see Abran the Luukosian Cultist.
He appears to be a Human.
He is shorter than average and appears to be wizened with age. He has sparkling pale grey eyes and olive skin. He has chin length, shiny grey-brown hair streaked with silver. He has a square-jawed face and a crooked nose.
He is in good shape.
He is wearing a gold-encased emerald medallion, some braided green leather sandals, some layered copper-hued linen robes edged with malachite scales around the deep cowl, and a polished golden-hued emerald ring.

>look ai
You see Aibri the Luukosian Priest.
He appears to be a Human.
He is average height and appears to be burdened with age. He has hooded ale-brown eyes and ashen skin. He has a bald head. He has a haggard face, a beak-like nose and a small goatee.
He is in good shape.
He is wearing a gold-encased emerald medallion, some cowled black damask robes edged with tiny copper scales about the hem, a polished golden-hued emerald ring, and some copper sinew sandals.

Aibri says, "Yes well.. you aren't safe from me now are you child."

Aibri chuckles.

You furrow your brow, probably adding a wrinkle or two in the process.

Abran slowly paces to his left, moving in a circle around you.

A wavering blur suddenly appears, coming together in the cohesive form of Deirhge.

Abran raspily says, "Now what do we have here..."

You say, "My mind is safe. Taeghan shields me as well."

Aibri flickers a forked tongue for a moment, and then nods.

Deirhge gazes in wonder at her surroundings.

Aibri says, "Oh its not your mind I want."

Aibri grins at you.

(Myriamie glances around as the room fills up.)

Abran raspily says, "Yesss, thisss will be good."

Aibri says, "But you'll see soon enough."

Abran nods slowly.

You think to yourself, "Taeghan... where are you?"

Abran bows to Aibri.

Deirhge shrilly says, "You have herss."

Deirhge cackles!

Abran raspily says, "Yess.. thiss will be pleassing."

Aibri grins.

Aibri says, "Yes and we will soon have him as well thorugh their..bond."

Aibri asks, "So are you ready dear?"

Aibri peers quizzically at you.

Abran laughs softly, trying to hide his amusement.

You furrow your brow, probably adding a wrinkle or two in the process.

Aibri says, "You are about to experience something wonderful."

You say, "...bring your best."

Aibri chuckles.

Speaking to Abran, Aibri says, "I like her. I really do."

Myriamie steels herself, uncertain what she's preparing for.

Speaking raspily to you, Abran says, "Oh we sshall. We sshall."

Abran nods slowly at Aibri.

Aibri calls to his brethren, directing them to encircle the sacrificial stone slab where the victim lies.

Deirhge shrilly says, "She is perfect."

Abran raspily says, "I like when they fight."

You squirm.

Abran snorts a derisive laugh, sneering in mockery.

You say, "You'll get a fight."

Abran glares at you.

You narrow your eyes.

Abran raspily says, "I hope sso."

Abran grins coldly, his eyes reflecting no emotion.

Aibri says, "Abran, do bring the smoking herbs so she is somewhat drugged for this. It helps if she doesn't squirm..so."

Aibri says, "She just needs to inhale a bit."

Abran nods slowly.

Aibri watches over Myriamie with an almost protective gaze, a slight smile curving his thin lips.

(Myriamie stares back at Aibri defiantly.)

Abran raspily says, "I ssshall obtain them."

Aibri grins, smoothing back Myriamie's hair.

You flinch.

Aibri winks.

As Abran softly chants a phrase, his form wavers slightly. Within seconds, he has completely disappeared.

Deirhge ponders.

You evenly say, "They will find me. Whatever you do to me, they'll find me. Alive or dead."

Aibri says, "Do tighten the bonds please."

You say, "And you will pay."

Aibri nods at Deirhge.

Aibri says, "Oh I'm sure they will find you."

Aibri chuckles.

Aibri says, "I don't mean to keep you from them forever."

Aibri winks.

A wavering blur suddenly appears, coming together into the cohesive form of Abran.

Aibri says, "Only long enough so that he.. your bonded that is.. feels it."

Aibri winks at you.

Aibri says, "Just long enough so that he understands."

You frown.

Aibri grins slowly.

Aibri says, "Ah here we are."

>think Taeghan?
You concentrate on projecting your thoughts but something seems to be blocking them.
You sense that Taeghan is thinking about you and you feel the warmth of his affection.

Aibri says, "Just wave them near her face."

Deirhge moves towards Myriamie and tightens the bonds holding her.

You glance away.

Deirhge shrilly says, "You will not leave here..."

You say, "I may not."

You say, "But your miserable life will be worth even less than it is after you do whatever you plan."

Abran walks over slowly towards Myriamie, a slow smile spreading across his lips. He lifts up a smoking basket of herbs and places it just below her nose as he says, "Breathe in deep.".

As the herbs are waved near your face, you cannot help but inhale for survival purposes and feel the effects almost instantly. Your vision blurs and your limbs become heavy, numbed. Everything seems to be in a haze suddenly.

Abran laughs softly, trying to hide his amusement.

Aibri says, "Yes...that's it."

Abran raspily says, "Yess... take it in."

Aibri gives an odd giggle, and his eyes flash with yellow flecks of amber.

You slowly say, "You'll be paid... well..."

Aibri absently says, "Yes.. yes.. just breath."

You hold your breath.

Abran raspily says, "It isss payment enough to ssserve him."

Aibri pinches Myriamie's nose and forces a gasp.

Deirhge shrilly says, "Paid? We will be paid for our service to him."

Abran nods at Aibri.

Abran agrees with Deirhge.

Aibri says, "Oh yes, the prophecy will come and then.."

Aibri says, "Well then you will all truly see."

You think to yourself, "Nilandia... do I hear your voice? Nil..."

Aibri says, "Lets get on with this."

Deirhge shrilly says, "Do it."

As Aibri calls to his brethren, they encircle your form while you lay upon the sacrificial stone slab, barely conscious. Try as you may, you are unable to break free of your drugged state of mind.

Abran grins coldly, his eyes reflecting no emotion.

You think to yourself, "...Taeghan..."

Abran says, "Yesss," as his eyes widen with delight.

Aibri gazes down into your face as he withdraws a pinch of viridian powder from his pouch, dusting your form with the fragrant granules. Your mind slips further into a drugged state as you inhale of the powder, and the sound of the cultists chanting remains dulled in your ears.

You think to yourself, "...Nilandia..."

Abran chants a short but reverent orison, asking for death and eternal servitude to come to his enemies.

Deirhge sways back and forth, her eyes gleaming with a feverish tint.

The shadows flicker with candlelight as the variety of candles lit about the chamber gutter in and out from the occasional breath of air. Smoke lingers along the walls, slithering against the darkened surface much like tiny snakes.

Myriamie tries to force her limbs to move, to drive the fog from her mind.

Aibri quietly murmurs, "Brethren, we gather this night in praise and worship of our Lord Luukos, the Great Deceiver, the Taker of Souls. We raise our voices in prayer to Him with each breath we are given this eve."

Abran chants a short but reverent orison, asking for death and eternal servitude to come to his enemies.

Abran bursts out in triumphant laughter!

An eerie whistle echoes outside as the wind pierces the entrance to the chamber, echoing against the walls and threatening to gutter the candles. Soft hissing sounds resound throughout the chamber as hot wax encounters moisture from the chilled wind.

Abran raises his hands in worship.

You shiver.

Your senses are heavily dulled from the effects of the drugs introduced into your system by the cultists. Your skin prickles nonetheless, chilled by the events happening around you as much as from the stirring of the wind in the ritual chamber. The sound of your heart beating in your chest is thunderous, and though you valiantly try, your eyelids will not raise for your command.

Deirhge cackles!

The cultists continue to chant in their symphony of prayer, the sounds mixing together until they sound much like a chorus of hissing serpents as their prayers rise throughout the chamber, resonating from its walls with an almost violent sensation.

Abran continues to chant, his eyes glazing over as his speech becomes more raspy with each word.

You think to yourself, "The locket... Taeghan"

You sense that Taeghan is thinking about you and you feel the warmth of his affection.

Deirhge joins her voice in worship, the words mixing with the chorus.

The hissing fills your mind, creating chaos and fear where nothing had been before due to the heavily drugged state of your body. Your heart races from anxiety, your nerves twitch and your inner voice screams for release from this torment as the chanting continues relentlessly. Suddenly, the voice of the Priest rises above the chanting and you feel your back arching of its own accord, offering your chest to the sacrifice!

Deirhge shrilly says, "Yess."

The Priest calls out to one of his brethren, beckoning him above the chaotic chanting of the cultists. The cultist moves forward, producing a slender black snake from within his robes to hand to the Priest. The Priest nods, letting the reptile curl over his fingertips as if walking a coin from knuckle to knuckle. He then murmurs beneath his breath and drops the snake to Myriamie's chest!

You think to yourself, "TAEGHAN!"

Aibri loudly shouts, "Lord of Lies, we offer this soul to You! We give of this being all that he is to Your command! We pray that You find Yourself pleased in this offering and take of it as You will!"

Aibri gazes heavenward.

Abran chants a short but reverent orison, asking for death and eternal servitude to come to his enemies.

You sense that Taeghan is thinking about you and you feel the warmth of his affection.

Abran raspily says, "Yesss... take it Masster, take it."

Deirhge shrilly says, "Take her, for your glory, use her as you must."

Abran hisses.

The cultists are joined by the Priest now as the chanting reaches a feverish pitch, echoing off of the walls of the small chamber with such force that it seems their very words may gutter the candles and render the area in complete darkness! Wind howls outside of the room, shaking the doorway and screaming as if in representation of the helpless victim laying beneath the snake.

Abran chants a short but reverent orison, asking for death and eternal servitude to come to his enemies.

Abran sways back and forth.

You think to yourself, "...the locket... Taeghan... off"

Deirhge moves in rhythm with the chanting, her body swaying from side to side.

>look dei
You see Deirhge the Luukosian Cultist.
She appears to be a Human.
She is average height and appears to be youthful. She has dark-rimmed vivid blue eyes and olive skin. She has long, curly bright red hair hanging in a tangled mass. She has an angular face, an aquiline nose and sunken cheeks.
She is in good shape.
She is wearing a gold-encased emerald medallion, some layered copper-hued linen robes edged with malachite scales around the deep cowl, a polished golden-hued emerald ring, and some braided green leather sandals.
Your fear triples into a state of complete chaos as you violently fight back with all of the mental power you possess against the invasion of your body by the serpent. Unfortunately, the drugs have rendered you helpless and you can only lie there in your arched state, experiencing every inch of terror as the snake slithers into your open mouth and down your throat. Its scaly form makes its way past your tightened throat muscles and into your chest as pain washes over your body until it feels almost unbearable!

Aibri cackles deep in his throat, his voice rising in chilling laughter.

Abran snorts a derisive laugh, sneering in mockery.

The Priest's eyes blacken and appear as liquid pools of smoke as he withdraws the ritual dagger and raises it high above the victim. The chanting abruptly stops and a deafening silence overcomes the chamber as the Priest brings down the dagger into the victim!

A driving pain shoots through your chest as the Priest brings his dagger down into your chest, carving through the flesh and into the cavity where the snake has stopped its journey. As you gurgle on your own blood, the light begins to fade and your senses are reduced to the rapidly fading sensations of tugging within your chest as the Priest rips into it and retrieves the serpent, covered in your thick blood but still alive. You vaguely recall the image of the serpent being handed carefully to a nearby cultist who licks at the scaly invader briefly, then takes it away from the ritual. Then there is darkness and nothing else.

Even in your state, you feel Taeghan's thoughts turn to concern as he realizes you are dead. You may even detect a note of alarm.

Deirhge cackles!

Abran snaps out of his trance and glares at the body before him, a smile slowly spreading across his face.

Hanos screams!

The snake is taken from the temple as Myriamie collapses upon the slab, lifeless.

You fearfully ask, "...what did you do to me?"

Hanos exclaims, "What is this MADNESS!"

Deirhge shrilly says, "Yes.."

Aibri glances at Hanos.

Aibri exclaims, "Go!"

Abran raspily says, "It isss done."

Aibri says, "Go my brethren! This deed is done."

Speaking amusedly to you, Aibri says, "And he felt all of it."

As Abran softly chants a phrase, his form wavers slightly. Within seconds, he has completely disappeared.

Deirhge shrilly says, "For him.. for his glory."

Aibri just went through a shadowed corridor.

Hanos reaches back and throws his fist in the air, energy crackling from his arm.

Hanos yells, "Leave this place!"

Hanos strides over to stand before Deirhge.

You softly say, "But he's strong..."

Deirhge reaches up and touches her emerald medallion, thumbing its surface briefly as a deep, sibilant hiss fills the air. The image of a slitted yellow eye appears before her, shimmering as several serpents of varied size rush forth from its depths and open up a pathway within. She steps into it and disappears.

Hanos growls ferociously!

Speaking quietly to Hanos, you ask, "...help me?"

Hanos glances at you.

Hanos says, "I will help you.."

Hanos strides over to stand before you.

You urgently ask, "Is he safe? Taeghan? Did you see him?"

Speaking sadly to you, Hanos says, "I did not..."

Hanos says, "You have been given to them."

Hanos exclaims, "I will claim you back!"

You say, "Please... please help."

Hanos kneels down.

Hanos touches you.

Hanos closes his eyes for a moment.

Hanos prays over Myriamie's body as the sense of evil begins to fade from the area.

Speaking to himself, Hanos says, "Blessed be, that the tyranny and evil be removed from this place. The passing of evil will be taken."

Hanos slowly empties his lungs.

Speaking weakly to you, Hanos says, "It took much of me to clear this place...I will return you as quickly as I can."

You quietly say, "...they drugged me. I don't really understand what happened."

Hanos puts Myriamie's hands over her chest in a pious pose.

Nilandia's group just came through a shadowed corridor.

Chapter 1 Summary

Provided by Naionna, covering November 2010 to August 2011

Locations: Wehnimers Landing, River's Rest, Solhaven, Icemule Trace, Teras, exteriors of Ta'Vaalor and Ta'Illistim

General Synopsis: Yuratlya, a blind seer, appeared to players in November of 2010 to convey the coming of a Sheruvian prophecy. In December, the Crimson Moon appeared as a normal phenomenon known to happen yearly during the end of the year, but did not end as usual. Beginning in January, several sacrifices started to occur, with the increasing agitation and fear growing amongst the populace of Elanthia due to the constant presence of the Crimson Moon and its effects. Invasions, kidnappings, appearances of altars and Lornon cultists become the normal occurrence.

February, a young girl named Piperel is kidnapped in Solhaven and several adventurers go to her rescue as they are familiar with the family. She is found the next day, but has been through something supernatural in nature and now has visions in the forms of nightmares every time she sleeps. She is deemed the 'Herald' of the prophecy by the seer and deteriorates rapidly due to the effects of her affliction. The seer spends a great deal of time with the child and her father, Erim, documenting her visions and speaking to her about her experiences. She concludes that the prophecy she spoke of in November has now started and is in progress fully.

In March, an attempt is made to release the child from her torment by a cleric of Koar, Sedrygin, in Solhaven at the arch of the Liabo. It fails, and the seer confides in those in attendance of the details she knows of the prophecy and an important tome named the Dark Requiem. She provides them with the information that the tome contains the steps to the prophecy, and is in fact considered by many to be the word of Sheru, written thousands of years ago by a half-elven zealot who claimed he was fed the text by the Lord of Nightmares Himself. Only one copy exists and must be found if those who oppose the prophecy would like to know more of what they face and get a foothold on stopping it. In the same meeting, a man called Hanos appears in the crowd to observe and is named by the seer as a Warder, though he has yet to confirm such a thing. His role is yet unknown other than his opposition to Luukos as a part of his vows being a Master of Voln. Several others, however, are revealed as "Chosen" of the Liabo - a priest by the name of Delcian, a Knight of Ronan and Vaalorian soldier by the name of Taeghan, and a Knight of Ronan by the name of Hubris. These three are named 'Chosen of Ronan' and are tasked with finding the "written word of Ronan" to aid in the process of locating the needed tome. In addition, a sylvan healer by the name of Nilandia is deemed a Keeper of Knowledge due to her devotions to Lumnis and is given an unsual map of the stars that is rumored to detail the numbers on each side of the conflict, ever changing as the roles do.

During an unusual disturbance in Darkstone Castle near Wehnimer's Landing, a phylactery is discovered in a shrine to Sheru within the castle itself. Several adventurers gathered and reported strange whisperings requesting a release of something or someone. One such adventurer, a sorcerer by the name of Caden, spoke the name given to him in said whisperings and released a being named Azorlok. Ancient and of enormous power, Azorlok is said to be the Avatar of Sheru and has come to begin the prophecy in earnest. Shortly afterwards, everyone was expelled from the shrine and the castle was overrun both inside and outside on the grounds by demons and other horrifying creatures. This lasted for several weeks until a way to weaken the magic creating them was found by heroic adventurers.

The months that followed found several attacks upon the cities of Elanthia, with continued sacrifices, kidnappings, and appearances by the Avatar of Sheru. Producing allies, the Avatar has been seen with Naja, Champion of Luukos, and Carhn, Champion of V'Tull. There are rumors of Ivasian influence as well as Mularosian influence with their champions to be seen at some point in the future should the prophecy not be stopped. Though the tome, the Dark Requiem, has now been located and is in the hands of the adventurer's who oppose the prophecy, they have yet to translate its ancient dialect and it is so far, of no use to them.

OOC Note: I'm sure I've left out things, and I don't mean to slight anyone or anything, so if you'd like to add in something please feel free! This was just a general overview of the storyline thusfar and the major parts of its plot movement.

Update: The copy of the Dark Requiem has been delivered to Yuratlya, who has begun working on translating it with the assistance of various adventurers. Pip, the Herald of the prophecy, has succumbed to her torments and died.

A Year Beneath the Crimson Moon - REPORT

9/13/2011 11:09 PM CDT

As time has passed beneath the watchful and ever-present eye of the Crimson Moon, Elanthia has fallen into a dark routine. Reports are flooding in from all over of the activity of Lornon followers in and around all major cities with things such as prayer vigils, study groups, meetings, and open recruiting to join their cause. Fliers can be found in many cities, tacked to the gate posts openly, speaking of social events and prayer meetings. Shop owners report an increase in patrons who openly bear their religious symbols and robings, and citizens have reported that even young teenagers and children have been spotted walking openly with their parents, all clad in their Lornon trappings. This begs the question - Has Lornon become the new majority?

While no temples have been defiled, no Liabo prayer meetings have been disrupted, and no attacks are openly made against Liabo followers, the account of disappearances and sacrifices rise. Several locations of makeshift altars and shrines have been reported as well, some within the city walls, and some in the wilds. Darker, more sinister reports have come in from various cities of Lornon followers being found slaughtered at their sites of worship in what is rumored to be some type of vigilante effort to quell the rising of Lornon followers. Bodies have been found in groups, such as at meetings in the wilds, and in singular or in pairs, such as those found in a Wehnimer's Landing alley recently by an actor leaving the local Bard guild. "I couldn't believe all the blood that was on the ground. It had soaked in some, but there was too much for it to all soak in and it was puddled. Odd, though, there wasn't much of the body itself left. Just a few scraps of emerald cloth, a medallion and some ripped and torn body parts." stated the actor, who wished to be left unnamed for safety.

"While we don't stand behind vigilante acts, we understand the anger and fear of our citizens. We here in Wehnimer's have been through a great deal and many of our people have lost loved ones - in some cases, entire families - to these horrible acts of evil and violence. I would encourage any and all citizens who feel they want to help to join in the rebuilding of the city instead. We have many ways to help and I'm sure that the families affected by these tragedies would be greatly appreciative of whatever can be offered." stated WL official, Izaar on behalf of the Mayor and local government authorities.

As we near the end of the year, when the Crimson Moon would normally rise for just a few weeks as part of the season, we can't help but recall that it was this same time last year when we first laid eyes on this unusual phenomenon, not knowing what it would mean to us just months later. Who knows what is to come as Elanthia continues to be bathed in the bloody light, as the saga of the Crimson Moon continues.

~Elanthian Inquisitor, Dateline Leyan, day 14 of the month Imaerasta in the year 5111

An Afternoon Storm

09/14/2011 06:09 PM CDT

Her back ached more today than before. She paused in her packing, glancing outside of her cottage window as the smell of ozone filtered into her nostrils. She had gained partial sight, but many things were still very blurred and so she still relied upon her other senses the most. She could feel the increased wind and the darkened skies as they prepared for a storm. "I hope it concludes before the moon rises.." she thought to herself, remembering the last time it rained at night and how the empaths said the droplets looked like blood as they plinked on the ground. An involuntary shudder coursed through her aged frame and she shook it off, steeling herself as she turned to finish her packing. "You cannot let your emotions get involved. You know this is the one rule. Do as the path tells you to, nothing more and nothing less. Anything different will cause chaos and destruction in ways that I cannot comprehend otherwise. Just. Follow. The. Path." Her resolve back in place, she closed her bag and tucked the note she'd received from a grubby little child a few days ago. She was glad that they understood her purpose finally, and would allow her to do her job. She expected some resistence, and would meet it with the same resolve of before. She could not do anything else, as it was their decisions that shaped the events unfolding.

A knock came at the door, and she pulled herself from her thoughts, walking over and squinting to make out the form of the driver. Once assured that was who it was, she opened the door and nodded as the driver said, "Seer, its time to go. A storm is coming." Reaching behind her to grab her bag, she cringed a little as her muscles protested weakly. "Here, let me get that. You're still recovering from the poison and we've a long ride ahead of us." Hoisting the bag into the back of the carriage, the driver helped the seer into her seat and climbed into his, cracking a whip to set the horses to moving. Ahead, a crack of lightning forked through the dark, rain-filled clouds and it began to rain lightly just as they took off. The driver glanced up at the late afternoon skies and murmured to himself, "I hope it ends before the moon rises.." as the carriage disappeared down the trail to Wehnimer's Landing.

A Night of Preparations

09/18/2011 10:48 PM CDT

A subtle glow filled the area deep in the heart of the forest, where the foliage of trees is so dense as to block most of the moonlight from touching the ground. The nature of the glow is only perceived by those heavily skilled in the arts of weaving mana. Several trips are made back and forth by stealth, quiet steps and care not to disrupt the quiet of the darkest part of night as stacks of books, supplies and furniture is carried down a faint trail. She stood quietly, a deep cowl shadowing her face as she waited for the end of the deliveries. She was enjoying the peaceful darkness, free of the crimson influence that she normally felt in the deepest part of her bones. She knew it was not entirely gone, as just outside of the boughs of the ancient trees framing the area, the moon's bloody eye continued to stare down upon them. But at least here, amongst not only the protective wards, but the clustering forest as well, it seemed to be a distant thing. She also hoped it would put her aides at ease as well, for they were very tense and it was seeping into her with each meeting she had with them. "Follow your path, that is all that you must do." she repeated to herself once more, one of the many times she'd reminded herself over the past few days.

"Seer, the rooms are ready for you to inspect." came the quiet words, bringing her from her thoughts with a nod and a murmured word of thanks. She was lead down the trail and into the clearing, where the location was set up for her and her aides to handle their translation work. "I'd like two of the chairs placed just outside of the door, please. Oh, and place a sidecart there also for refreshments. I'm sure they will appreciate them." she noted as she took a somewhat blurry stock of the area. Quickly, her requests were accomodated as she wove her fingers together in an intricate fashion, causing a dome of pale blue light to entertwine with the blinding white sparkles already surrounding the building. After a moment, she exhaled, obviously tired from the use of such magic, and she observed the wards to ensure she had taken correct precautions. Once satisfied, she entered and made herself familiar with the surroundings. "Please place the texts over there in the corner, and be careful as some are older than you! And I'll have the quills, parchment and ink set up on the shelves." she directed as she walked from corner to corner, ensuring everything went into its proper place. "Watch those solvents! Put them on the other shelves, away from the books!" "Those tables can be spread apart, please, there will be three of us working in here at once so give us some space please." "Oh don't put that tome with the other, they don't even remotely pertain to one another!" "Watch it, you'll spill the ink! Set it to the side, please! Oh be careful!" "Yes, right there, that's perfect, thank you."

As the last of the supplies were in place, she let out a long breath and nodded to the remaining guards who took their places outside and left her alone to her thoughts. Tiredly, she made her way to one of the three tables and settled down on a chair, taking quill and ink and writing a note with cramping fingers. After completion, she duplicated the letter and sealed them both, addressing them to two of her chosen aides. She then wrote another to her supplier, sealing it as well, and finally she wrote two more to her chosen guards, sealing them with the last of her wax. She gathered the parchments, tucking them into her arm as she wandered into the back area of the building, where the quarters were located. She noted with some satisfaction that two beds had been brought in so that if one of the aides should need rest, it was provided. Reaching over to the pitcher of water, she poured herself a glass and drank long from it, then set it to the side and tucked her letters beneath her pillow. Next came her body as she climbed into the soft bed, her aged frame creaking with protest and tiredness. A snap of her fingers doused the magical flames inside the nearest lamp and she was bathed in darkness as rest finally came.

Outside, the contention of guards stood silently and stoicly at attention, their eyes fixed upon the clearing and above as they kept watch for any signs of disturbance. As the snap of the old seer's fingers extinguished the lamp, the subtly glowing trail also shimmered into darkness, revealed no more to the passerby.

Dream a Little Dream

10/04/2011 07:38 PM CDT

Flickering light broke through the darkness, causing her eyes to tighten with the futility of blocking it. "Yuratlya." came the woman's voice, "Yuratlya." again - this time more firmly. "Yuratlya, do you hear me?" came the voice again, persistently invading the cocoon of her unconscious. An inner groan rumbled through her mind as her bones ached in the process of sitting up. "Yes, yes, I'm up.." she grumbled, and managed to squint against the brightness of day enough to see the outline of the empath. "How long have I been out?" "Two days, seer. We were very worried but the clerics have been praying over you vigilantly."

Two days. Her mind ached with the sudden influx of memories as she sat up fully. Nightmares. Visions of fire and flame, of smoke and destruction. Death. The screams of the damned filled her with fear as she remembered the sound and their agonized visages. A shiver ran through her and she felt weakened, almost toppling but for the attention of the empath. "Seer!" the girl exclaimed, and then called out for another to come and help the elderly woman. A guard stepped in, eyes falling upon the old gnome with a friendly and concerned expression. "Seer, you are awake. It is good to see. I will fetch the clerics." and then he was gone before Yuratlya could even bother to nod in response. She felt sick to her stomach and had to swallow down the bile before it rose up from within.

"The visions..." she murmured, and the voice of a cleric repeated her statement as he entered the room. "Yes, the visions. You have been out for two days, seer, plagued with nightmarish visions. We have worked hard over you while you slept, if that is even the right word to describe your torment." He walked over and placed a gentle hand on her frail shoulder, smiling finally as he said "You are very strong, you know. I am positive you are looked over and are meant to stay. But it was touch and go for a bit. That book.." he trailed off, glancing at a locked box guarded by two well-armed clerics in the corner of the room.

The book! She remembered now. The book had taken its toll on her and when she'd been moved to avoid the invasion of Luukosians, she had fallen to its curse. "I've been foolish." she scolded herself inwardly, angry that she had not taken the proper precautions in the effort to translate. She turned her attention to the cleric, who was holding out a pair of gloves to her and speaking quietly. "These have been worked over by all of the most powerful clerics in this area and we have faith it will help you when dealing with the text. You must take breaks, however, Yuratlya. You cannot work on this text as often as you have been and expect not to feel its wrath." She accepted the gloves, glancing at the way the fabric shimmered subtly as she turned them over in her hands. A frown crossed her face and she nodded. She did not want to wait to translate the text, it was so important for them to know of what they faced. Yet, she could not deny the truth in the cleric's words - she was falling to the curse and the only way to prevent it was to space out her time with the book.

"Very well, you have my word that I will take breaks." she acquiesced. "And.. you'l use the gloves." the cleric added, prompting a nod from Yuratlya once more. "Good. Now take a day to rest, and then you can travel back tomorrow once you are looked over." he continued, and then turned to give instructions to the empath as to Yuratlya's care for the remainder of the day. "I'll be back to see you tomorrow, seer. Rest please." he said as he exited the room, and she was ushered back to bed by the empath, who eased her head to the pillow and placed a cool rag on her brow. Yes..rest.. she thought to herself as her eyes fluttered shut, the gloves still clutched in her small hand.

The Crimson Runs Freely

11/09/2011 05:55 PM CST

After weeks of quiet, with only the occasional skirmish or disappearance to report, citizens all over Elanthia are now reporting concerns over an increase in creature activity. From various places about the continent, citizens are being attacked by packs of roaming creatures, many of which incidents have resulted in injuries and sometimes death. The attacks appear to be random in nature, happening in both daytime and nighttime hours, against young and old travellers alike. In many cases, the packs of creatures attack a group of two or less travelling outside of city limits, and then dissipate afterwards without further issue. Travellers are asked to be cautious while making their way in the wilds as the dangers continue to rise.

In other news, a breakout of what can only be described as mass mental disturbances has been reported from various cities as well. Several citizens report having seen visions of horrifying magnitude, both in the environment and in other people. These attacks of mental disturbance seem to happen only in the evening, and are also random in nature as they attack. Authorities are looking into what might be causing this and have considered the tainted water supply found in Wehnimer's Landing as a possible catalyst. Testing will be undergoing over the next few weeks in an effort to find a solution.

~Elanthian Inquisitor

Crops Diminishing, Supplies found Ransacked

11/12/2011 08:28 PM CST

Reports of vanquished crops, fallen to disease and victims of pests, are coming in from all over Elanthia. Many farmers are concerned about their ability to maintain throughout the cold winter season as their crops fall one by one to mysterious infestations and what appears to be poisoning of the roots. Local shops are unable to stock supplies for sale as before, and prices are rising rapidly, making it more difficult for the commoner to purchase the necessities. Some shop owners have resorted to using the adventurer's guilds around Elanith in order to replenish supplies with crops grown wild as the focus seems to be on the cultivated crops instead.

During this all, invasions of creatures are on the uprise and travelers continue to run into danger outside of city limits. The Empath's Guild is reporting an amassing of healers that are skilled in growing herbs so that help can be given to the wounded who would otherwise suffer without the much needed plants. The supply is stretched thin, however, as even the stores of the local militias are being found and vanquished by some unknown means, leaving everyone in great need of replenishments. Thankfully, the water supplies have not been reported as of yet as tainted, but this reporter believes it is only a matter of time given the trend of things over the last week.

More as it comes in.

~The Elanthian Inquisitor

Destruction to the Blood-seeker

01/29/2012 11:03 PM CST

Dateline ~ Restday, the 29th day of Lormesta, in the year 5112

Destruction swept across the outskirts of the elven nations recently as one known as the Avatar of V'tull, Carhn, fought violently against adventurers who were determined to put an end to the occupation of the wilds by vicious creatures who sought the blood of innocents. After several bloody battles, it is said that the Avatar was slain by a brave dwarven adventurer, who, backed by several other adventurers battling the invading creatures of the environs, was able to take the Minotaur-Avatar Carhn down to his final rest. Rumors have it that the very night of Carhn's demise, the volcano in Teras Isle known as the 'Eye of V'tull' trembled heavily in anger and several locals say the mournful wails of a creature in death were heard momentarily throughout the isle.

Since that fateful event, the occupations have died out around the outskirts of the elven nations, and though precautions are still being taken by local authorities and those who live in the vicinity, there has been no more reports of significant occupations since. Skirmishes upon travellers continue to occur, and all those travelling outside of the protection of city walls are still cautioned to maintain groups of more than three, but no significant invasions have occured. In addition, shrines to V'tull built into the wilds have suffered great losses as reported by those locally, as cultists who once walked the Shining City and its proud companion fortress city Ta'vaalor with heads held high quickly took flight and have been seen leaving the cities daily. Some reports have come in of citizens "helping" with this process in less than amicable ways, but authorities have not confirmed any such thing despite inquiries as to incidents spoken of.

Though it has been a month since the death of the V'tullian Avatar, it certainly has taken its toll upon the followers of the Crimson Moon as they continue to move from their cities in fear of reprisals by those who once tolerated their presence without choice. It will be interesting to see what unfolds in the future as the loss of V'tullian followers is felt by those who support the prophecy of the Crimson Moon and whether or not it will have an effect on the blight still felt so prominently in many towns across Elanthia.

Speaking of the blight, there is some progress being reported by various cities across Elanthia as samples of water, crops and animals are being examined by the most highly educated scholars and alchemists available, joined by adventurers who have risked themselves to provide more information to the cause. The discovery by said adventurers in Wehnimer's Landing of the healing powers of Voln's cleansing pools was a major starting point in the progress made and since then, several people previously afflicted by the blight have regained their health due to that event. There is work in progress regarding the use of the healing springs and how to further their powers, but it is not yet completed. Stockpiles of clean herbs, water, food and supplies continue to be donated by adventurers and are being used rapidly by those who are most in need at this time. Local authorities continue to encourage any and all donations in the wake of this tragic blight as work is being conducted in the background to put an end to the destruction.

~Elanthian Inquisitor

Credits

Special thanks to the following staff - GM Wyrom, GM Bravura, SGM Kaikala, GM Ovellia, GM Aulis, GM Marstreforn, GM Valyrka, GM Thandiwe, GM Nebhrail, GM Cirath, GM Itzel, SGM Izzea, GM Kenstrom, GM Quyorque, GM Gsyxer, and GM Zoet